Journal of Humanities and Social Sciences Studies
Journal of Humanities and Social Sciences Studies (ISSN: 2663-7197) is a double-blind peer-reviewed, monthly, open-access monthly journal published by Al-Kindi Center for Research and Development. It publishes high-quality articles across the breadth of humanities and social sciences research. With its uniquely broad coverage, all articles are free to access across the globe, allowing authors to share their research and maximise its impact. The journal is led by expert international editorial board members who take an objective approach to peer review, ensuring each research paper is reviewed and evaluated on its own scholarly merits and research integrity. Publishing your work in the Journal of Humanities and Social Sciences Studies means you will receive prompt and reliable publishing and a global platform for your research to reach its full potential.
Al-Kindi Center for Research and Development
The predictive ability of national belonging to future anxiety among Syrians returning to their homeland
The study aimed to examine the predictive power of national belonging in reducing future anxiety among Syrians returning to their homeland. It employed a descriptive correlational approach, and the sample consisted of )250( Syrians returning to their homeland, selected using purposive random sampling. To achieve the study’s objectives, a Future Anxiety Scale was developed, consisting of )40( items and covering four dimensions: cognitive, affective, social, and economic. A National Identity Scale was also developed, consisting of )40( items and covering four dimensions: historical, security, loyalty to the homeland, and protection of the homeland, sacrifice for it, and defense of it. The results showed that the level of national belonging was moderate, with the historical dimension ranking highest, while the level of future anxiety was also moderate, with cognitive anxiety ranking first compared to the other dimensions. The validity of both instruments was verified through inter-rater reliability, and their reliability using Cronbach’s alpha. The results showed that the level of national belonging among Syrians returning to their homeland was moderate, and the level of future anxiety was moderate, tending toward high. The results also revealed a statistically significant positive correlation between national belonging and future anxiety.The results of the linear regression analysis showed that future anxiety explains )12.2%( of the variance in national belonging, indicating a statistically significant predictive role for these two variables in explaining an aspect of individuals’ psychological and social well-being, within the limits of the model used. In light of these results, the study recommended the need to strengthen national belonging and provide psychological and social support that contributes to reducing anxiety about the future, thereby supporting the process of integration and stability.
national belonging, anxiety about the future, returning Syrians
Copyright (c) 2026 https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/4.0/ https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/4.0
On the "Heaven-Man Oneness" Worldview and the System of Cosmological Metaphors in Traditional Chinese Musical Thought
Chinese philosophy holds the worldview that "Heaven and Man Are United as One", which is also the deep cognitive gene underlying traditional Chinese musical thought. From the perspective of cognitive linguistics, this paper examines how this "Heaven-Man Oneness" worldview constructs a tripartite cosmic cognitive framework —uniting Heaven, Earth, and Humanity—through metaphorical mechanisms. The study reveals that the "Heaven-Man Oneness" worldview shapes the cognitive mode of Chinese musical discourse by virtue of its three fundamental features: holistic thinking, dynamic generativity, and relational priority. Within this framework, Chinese musical discourse develops a four-dimensional metaphorical system: in its ontological dimension, music is conceived as an auditory mapping of cosmic order, with qi (vital force) permeating the connection between Heaven and Humanity, and he (harmony) integrating the four domains of nature, art, society, and the human mind; in its generative dimension, music is understood as the product of the flow of cosmic qi; in its functional dimension, music serves as a medium for communication between Heaven and Humanity; in its axiological dimension, the highest value of music lies in its attunement to cosmic order. This metaphorical system, with its interwoven ontological, generative, functional, and axiological dimensions, constitutes an Idealized Cognitive Model (ICM) of the cosmic worldview in Chinese musical discourse. This cognitive framework not only shapes the conceptual system and value standards of traditional Chinese music but also deeply permeates its aesthetic judgment and spiritual aspirations, thereby offering a new approach to understanding the distinctive cognitive logic of Chinese musical discourse.
Traditional Chinese Musical Thought; Heaven-Man Oneness; Cosmological Metaphors in Music; Systemic Construction
Analysis on effects of prosodic features in the oral reading performance of IEP Students
This study aimed to determine the effects of prosodic features such as word stress, intonation, and pausing on the oral reading performance of Intensive English Program (IEP) students at Thanarat Wittaya School. Specifically, the study sought to determine the level of prosodic accuracy in terms of word stress, intonation, and pausing, the level of oral reading performance of the students, and the significant relationship between prosodic features and oral reading performance. The study utilized a quantitative descriptive-correlational research design with 23 IEP students as respondents. Data were gathered through one-on-one oral reading activities using selected words, phrases, and sentences taken from the students’ English books. The oral reading performances were recorded and evaluated using a rubric focusing on word stress, intonation, and pausing. Statistical tools such as frequency, percentage, mean, standard deviation, and Pearson r were used to analyze the data. Findings revealed that the respondents demonstrated high accuracy in word stress and very high competence in pausing, while intonation appeared to be the most challenging prosodic feature among the students. The overall prosodic scores showed that majority of the respondents had very high prosodic accuracy. In terms of oral reading performance, most of the respondents demonstrated an advanced level of oral reading ability. However, the correlation analysis revealed that there was no significant relationship between prosodic features and oral reading performance (r = .236, p = .278). The findings suggest that although prosodic features contribute to oral reading fluency and pronunciation, other factors may also influence the oral reading performance of IEP students.
prosody, word stress, intonation, pausing, oral reading, performance, IEP, students
The Predictive Power of Positive Psychological Traits in Life Satisfaction and Academic Achievement among Tenth-Grade Students
This study aimed to examine the predictive ability of positive psychological traits in explaining life satisfaction among tenth-grade students. The study employed a descriptive-analytical research design. The study population consisted of all tenth-grade students enrolled in public schools affiliated with the Amman Kasbah Directorate in the Central Region, totaling 6,739 students aged between 15 and 16 years. A convenience purposive sample of 364 students was selected. To achieve the study objectives, the Positive Psychological Traits Scale was used, comprising the dimensions of optimism, academic self-efficacy, psychological resilience, and hope. The Life Satisfaction Scale was also administered, covering the dimensions of self-satisfaction, family satisfaction, school satisfaction, and satisfaction with social relationships. Data were analyzed using means, standard deviations, Pearson's correlation coefficient, and simple and multiple regression analyses. The findings revealed that tenth-grade students demonstrated a high level of positive psychological traits, as well as a high level of life satisfaction. The results also indicated a statistically significant positive correlation between positive psychological traits and life satisfaction. Furthermore, positive psychological traits showed a statistically significant predictive effect on life satisfaction, accounting for 44.8% of the variance in students' life satisfaction. In addition, all dimensions of positive psychological traits—optimism, academic self-efficacy, psychological resilience, and hope—made statistically significant contributions to predicting life satisfaction.
Positive psychological traits; Life satisfaction; Tenth-grade students
The Legality of AI-Enabled Weapons in Light of the Principles of International Humanitarian Law
The rapid development of artificial intelligence technologies has led to the emergence of new categories of AI-powered weapons and autonomous systems, raising profound legal and ethical concerns regarding their compatibility with International Humanitarian Law (IHL). The central issue lies in balancing military necessity with humanitarian protection during armed conflicts. This study examines the legal nature of AI weapons and analyzes their compliance with the fundamental principles of IHL, particularly distinction, proportionality, and precaution. It further explores the legal responsibility arising from their use. The research adopts descriptive, analytical, and comparative legal methodologies through the examination of relevant international treaties and contemporary international practices. The study concludes that although existing IHL provides a general legal framework governing such weapons, the unique characteristics of autonomous systems necessitate the development of more specific international legal rules to ensure accountability and civilian protection. The study recommends strengthening international oversight and preserving meaningful human control over the use of lethal force.
Artificial Intelligence Weapons, Autonomous Weapons Systems, Military Necessity, Humanitarian Protection, International Humanitarian Law
Translation Errors in Localization of pharma-companies websites
Website localization from English to Arabic entails linguistic, cultural, technical, and physical considerations. This current study aims to examine only the translation errors considerations when localizing English medical websites into Arabic. This study makes the argument that, in order to achieve a consistent and appropriate translation of medical words into Arabic, medical localization calls for a multidisciplinary approach comprising linguists, medical experts, and software engineers. Additionally, it emphasizes how crucial it is to grasp the linguistic aspects of the target language in order to properly comprehend medical terminology. The research emphasizes the importance of careful preparation, coordination, and stakeholder collaboration to successfully localize medical websites from English to Arabic. Examining the linguistic aspects proposed by Olvera Lobo & Castillo-Rodríguez (2019) will be the focus of the methods section of this study. This study finds many translation issues in all of the examined websites when localizing the preface pages from English into Arabic.
Localization, Pharma-companies, websites, linguistic errors, health information
The crime of sexual exploitation of children via electronic means and the provisions of criminal liability for it in Jordanian legislation
This study aims to examine one of the most critical emerging cybercrimes: the sexual exploitation of children over the Internet. It provides an in-depth analysis of its legal nature, procedural characteristics, and the behavioral patterns of its perpetrators. The research explores the criminological concept of sexual exploiters and the specialized roles within this illicit system—ranging from consumers and promoters to producers and groomers. It highlights how these acts have evolved from isolated individual offenses into organized, transnational criminal enterprises driven by unlawful financial gain. Additionally, the study addresses the psychological and legal dimensions associated with pedophilia, examining how perpetrators utilize encrypted and closed online networks to exchange materials and techniques. It emphasizes the key technical characteristics of cybercrimes targeting children, including anonymity, ease of execution, and reliance on psychological grooming rather than direct physical force. The study concludes with key findings underscoring the inadequacy of traditional legal frameworks in confronting digital exploitation, offering practical and legislative recommendations to close statutory loopholes, enhance digital forensics, and strengthen international judicial and security cooperation to safeguard children's rights and human dignity.
Child Sexual Exploitation, Cybercrime, Pedophilia, Digital Evidence, Legal Protection of Children, Darknet Networks
The Principle of Distinction and Autonomous Weapon Systems: A Legal Study under International Humanitarian Law
The rules of International Humanitarian Law (IHL), in light of the rapid advancement of artificial intelligence technologies and their increasing use in military operations. It aims to identify the nature of autonomous weapon systems and the levels of human involvement in their operation, analyze the requirements of the principle of distinction, and assess the ability of autonomous weapon systems to implement the requirements of this principle in distinguishing between combatants and civilians, as well as in the selection and engagement of military targets. The study further discusses the principal legal and technical challenges associated with applying the principle of distinction to autonomous weapon systems and reviews the prevailing scholarly approaches concerning their compatibility with International Humanitarian Law. It concludes that the applicability of the principle of distinction to the use of autonomous weapon systems is influenced by the degree of their autonomy and the level of human involvement in their operation. The study further finds that the principle of distinction is not based solely on the technical identification of targets but rather on a human assessment of the lawfulness of the use of force. Accordingly, ensuring compliance with International Humanitarian Law requires maintaining effective legal and technical safeguards capable of preserving respect for its fundamental rules.
Autonomous Weapon Systems, Artificial Intelligence, Principle of Distinction, International Humanitarian Law, Armed Conflicts
From Desks to Soaring Skies: Reconfiguring “Studious Korea” through Technological Participation
South Korea is widely associated with intensive academic study, educational competition, and strong aspirations for educational achievement. However, the educational subject associated with this ethos has not remained static. This study examines how a historically constructed educational ethos has been rearticulated through competency-based, digital, and technology-oriented reforms. It further considers how national education policy has reshaped the educational subject and how meso-level institutions have mediated emerging opportunities for technological participation. It employs qualitative historical and policy discourse analysis of major Korean education policy documents from 1895 to 2023, supplemented by official records on contemporary drone education, competitions, and public programs. The findings suggest that the transformation of Korea’s educational subject is better understood as reconfiguration rather than replacement. Earlier ideals of self-cultivation, effort, ability, and national development remain visible, but are increasingly expressed through creativity, information processing, experimentation, problem solving, and technological practice. The drone cases illustrate how meso-level institutions organize participation infrastructures that extend educational activity beyond conventional classroom spaces. The study therefore conceptualizes technological education as an institutional reconfiguration of an existing educational ethos and highlights participation infrastructure as a meso-level mechanism connecting policy priorities with technological practice.
Copyright (c) 2026 Seri Yoon https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/4.0
The Legal Framework for Digital Service Providers
This research addresses the legal framework governing digital service providers, recognized as a rapidly evolving and dynamic legal subject inherently linked to one of the world's most critical contemporary environments: the modern digital environment. The research aims to elucidate the legal nature of digital service providers by clarifying their legal statuses, as well as outlining the prominent legal and technical obligations imposed upon them pursuant to international conventions and comparative legislation regulating this vital category. Collectively, these frameworks demonstrate that this category possesses a distinct legal status that entails consequential legal obligations, the breach of which invokes legal liability. The research concludes that despite the variance in approaches adopted by international conventions and comparative legislation—from which the Jordanian legislator was not isolated—in defining the legal nature of digital service providers through their legal statuses, there exists a global legal consensus recognizing the legal statuses of this category. Consequently, these statuses entail obligations, the non-fulfillment of which necessitates legal recourse and accountability.
Digital Service Providers, Legal Status, Legal Obligations, Legal Liability, Digital Environmeny, Cybercrimes
The Effect of the Multisensory Strategy on Developing Spatial Thinking among Fifth-Grade Female Students in Jordan
This study aimed to identify the effect of the multisensory strategy on developing spatial thinking skills among fifth-grade female students in Jordan. To achieve this, a quasi-experimental design was used. A teacher's guide was developed to teach the material according to the multisensory strategy, and a spatial thinking skills test was created. The test items measured three sub-skills among the students: spatial perception, mental rotation, and spatial visualization. The test's validity and reliability were verified. The study sample consisted of 57 fifth-grade female students during the second semester of the 2025/2026 academic year. The students were divided into two sections: one was randomly assigned as the experimental group (29 students) and the other as the control group (28 students). The results showed statistically significant differences at the significance level (α=0.05) between the mean performance scores of the experimental and control groups in all dimensions of the spatial thinking skills test, favoring the experimental group that studied using the multisensory strategy.
Multisensory strategy, spatial thinking, fifth grade students, Jordan
The Use of Protocol Addresses in Proving Digital Deception Crimes
A protocol address is one of the digital traces that can be utilized in proving and detecting digital deception crimes by tracing the source of the electronic activity through which the crime was committed. The research problem lies in determining the effectiveness of the protocol address in the field of criminal evidence and the extent to which it can be relied upon as digital evidence. It also examines whether a protocol address alone is sufficient to attribute a crime to a particular person and how a protocol address can be utilized in detecting digital deception crimes. The study reached a number of findings and recommendations, including that protocol addresses can be utilized in detecting phishing, identity theft, and electronic fraud crimes, despite the technical challenges associated with their use, such as identity concealment, the use of spoofed addresses, and Virtual Private Networks (VPNs). Accordingly, the study recommends strengthening technical cooperation between investigative authorities and Internet Service Providers (ISPs), in addition to enhancing the capabilities of competent authorities in analyzing digital evidence and tracing protocol addresses.
Protocol Address, Digital Deception Crimes, Digital Evidence, Cybercrimes, Criminal Evidence
Copyright (c) 2026 Aya Alanizat https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/4.0
The effectiveness of a counseling program based on play therapy in reducing shyness among fifth-grade students
The present study aimed to investigate the effectiveness of a counseling program based on play therapy in reducing shyness among fifth-grade students. To achieve the objectives of the study, the researcher adopted a quasi-experimental design with two groups: an experimental group and a control group. The study sample consisted of (30) fifth-grade female students from Amouriya Basic Second School affiliated with the Directorate of Education of Marka District in Amman. The participants were selected using purposive sampling and were divided into two groups: an experimental group consisting of (15) students and a control group consisting of (15) students. The researcher developed a counseling program based on play therapy consisting of (12) counseling sessions, with each session lasting (45) minutes. A shyness scale was used as a data collection instrument and was administered before and after the program, in addition to a follow-up measurement to examine the continuity of the program’s effect. The results revealed statistically significant differences between the mean scores of the experimental and control groups on the post-test of the shyness scale in favor of the experimental group, indicating the effectiveness of the counseling program based on play therapy in reducing shyness. Furthermore, the results showed no statistically significant differences between the post-test and follow-up measurements among the experimental group, indicating the continuity of the program’s effect after its implementation. The study recommended integrating counseling programs based on play therapy into school counseling programs to reduce shyness and enhance social interaction among basic-stage students.
Play therapy, shyness, counseling program, fifth-grade students
The Criterion for Knowledge of the Sold Item According to the Shafi‘i School and Its Impact on E-Commerce
The study, titled "The Criterion for Knowledge of the Sold Item According to the Shafi‘i School and Its Impact on E-Commerce," aims to elucidate the Shafi‘i criterion for knowledge of the sold item—specifically the standards regarding visual inspection and description—and to examine its implications for e-commerce. The researcher employed the following methodologies: - A documentary approach to gather and trace jurisprudential issues related to the criterion for knowledge of the sold item, as well as the views of Shafi‘i jurists on the matter. - An analytical approach to analyze and provide the rationale for these issues, with the aim of deriving the specific criterion for the sold item. - An applied approach to examine the Shafi‘i criterion for knowledge of the sold item within the context of sales conducted via electronic media. The researcher reached the following conclusions: The criterion for *ru’yah* (visual inspection) is that the contracting parties view the entire item being sold in a manner consistent with customary practice—either at the time of the contract or prior to it, provided the item is not prone to significant change. Alternatively, this requirement is met by viewing a portion of the item if its parts are uniform, or by viewing its outer shell if that shell serves as a protective casing. The criterion for *wasf* (description) is that the subject matter constitutes a known liability that can be delivered, with the place of delivery specified, and that there is knowledge of those attributes which materially affect the intended purpose (where the absence of such attributes is not the default assumption). Sales conducted via electronic media are valid if they satisfy either the criterion of visual inspection or the criterion of description; if neither criterion is met, the sale is void and invalid.
Criterion, sold item, inspection, description, e-commerce
Copyright (c) 2026 Emran "Mohammad Tawfeeq" Al-Shareef https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/4.0
The Authority of the Judicial Police to Arrest Persons under the Jordanian Criminal Procedure Law in Light of Human Rights Standards
This research aims to analyze the legal framework regulating the judicial of police`s power of arrest individuals under the Jordanian Code of Criminal Procedure authority to determine the extent to which those legal provisions comply with human rights standards and propose amendments to strengthen the legal safeguards governing the exercising of this authority. The research adopted the descriptive method to identify the legal provisions governing the judicial police`s authority to arrest individuals under the Jordanian Code of Criminal Procedure. It also adopted the analytical approach to examine the legal provisions governing the judicial police’s authority to arrest persons and assess their adequacy and propose legislative amendments to ensure a balance between exercising arrest powers and protecting human rights. Additionally, the comparative method was adopted in some parts, by comparing certain legal provisions governing arrest with comparative legislation, as well as with international human rights instruments and agreements. The research identified several important findings, with the principal finding being that the Jordanian Code of Criminal Procedure includes several procedural safeguards regulating the judicial police`s authority in arresting individuals, which has contributed to achieving a degree of balance between the exercise of this authority and protection human rights. However, it does not provide certain procedural safeguards for individuals arrested by the judicial police, including the right to be informed of the grounds for the arrest, obtaining legal assistance, the right to remain silent, and the right to receive medical assistance. The research concluded that amendments to the Jordanian Code of Criminal Procedure are necessary and explicitly stipulate some procedural safeguards for the persons arrested by the judicial police during the execution of arrest.
Code of Criminal Procedure, arrest, judicial police, human rights
Green Chemistry and Organic Solvent Safety Awareness among Chemistry Students
This study investigated chemistry and chemistry-related students' self-reported awareness about green chemistry principles, hazards of organic solvents, safe laboratory practices, management of chemical waste, and the students' perception of barriers in practicing green chemistry in educational laboratory settings. A descriptive cross-sectional survey design was used, and data were collected using a structured Arabic questionnaire that was sent electronically through Google Forms. A total of 182 valid responses were received from undergraduate students enrolled in a chemistry or related scientific program. The questionnaire consisted of demographic and academic questions, 31 Likert-scale questions and one open-ended question. Responses were scored on a 5-point Likert scale (1 = Strongly Agree; 5 = Strongly Disagree), with lower mean scores reflecting higher levels of agreement. For the awareness domains, lower mean scores reflected higher self-reported awareness. The barriers and challenges domain was understood separately, with lower scores reflecting greater perceived barriers and challenges. Descriptive statistics, Cronbach's alpha, independent-samples t-test, one-way ANOVA, Pearson correlation and thematic summary of open-ended responses were used. The Cronbach's alpha coefficients of the questionnaire were in the range of 0.858–0.934 for the awareness domains, and 0.963 for the overall awareness scale, excluding barriers. The overall awareness scale showed strong self-reported agreement, with a mean score of 1.494. Safe laboratory practices showed the strongest self-reported awareness, while green chemistry awareness was comparatively weaker. Students' self-reported capability in differentiating between relatively safer solvents and highly hazardous solvents was the weakest item-level result. However, students who had completed an organic chemistry course, an organic chemistry laboratory, or three or more chemistry laboratories reported significantly greater self-reported awareness. The overall awareness score was comparable between gender and academic level and not significantly associated with gender or academic level. Students also perceived several barriers, including the lack of chemical waste containers, limited practical training, and the need for additional workshops. These findings should be interpreted as students' perceived awareness rather than direct evidence of actual knowledge or observed laboratory practice. The results indicate that students reported high perceived awareness of laboratory safety and green chemistry; however, emphasis is needed in practice on safer solvents, using SDS/MSDS, how to interpret the labels on the chemicals used and what to do with chemical waste.
Green chemistry education; awareness of safety in organic solvents; laboratory safety awareness; self-reported awareness; chemistry students; chemical waste management
International Legal Frameworks for the Protection of the Human Mind and Neural Activity in Light of the Provisions of the International Covenant on Civil and Political Rights
This research examines neurorights within the framework of international human rights law as one of the contemporary legal issues resulting from the rapid development of neuroscience, neurotechnology, and artificial intelligence. The study aims to clarify the concept of neurorights and identify the legal foundations for their protection under international human rights law, while analyzing the major legal and ethical challenges associated with modern neurotechnologies. The research also discusses the adequacy of existing international legal rules in protecting mental privacy, free will, and cognitive autonomy in light of the growing ability of neurotechnologies to collect brain data, analyze neural activity, and influence human cognition and behavior. The study concludes that the current international legal protection remains insufficient to address emerging neurotechnological risks, which necessitates the development of a specialized international legal framework explicitly recognizing neurorights and establishing legal and ethical safeguards governing the use of neurotechnology in a manner that protects human dignity and fundamental rights.
Neurorights, International Human Rights Law, Mental Privacy, Neurotechnology, Free Will, Human Dignity, Neural Data
The Legal Regulation of the Right of Access to Environmental Information under the Aarhus Convention: A Legal Study
The Aarhus Convention constitutes a pioneering legal framework in the field of environmental rights protection, as it represents a practical embodiment of Principle 10 of the 1992 Rio Declaration on Environment and Development. It establishes a legal system based on strengthening environmental democracy and linking environmental protection with human rights guarantees. This study examines the role played by the Convention in consolidating individuals’ right of access to environmental information, considering it one of the fundamental pillars of sound environmental governance, alongside the right to participate in environmental decision-making and the right to access justice in environmental disputes. The main research problem lies in examining the extent to which the legal provisions established by the Aarhus Convention are sufficient to ensure the effective exercise of the right of access to environmental information, and their ability to achieve a balance between transparency requirements and the protection of other legally recognized interests. To address this issue, the study adopts an analytical approach by examining the legal provisions contained in the Convention and analyzing their substance, while assessing their effectiveness in strengthening the protection of this right at both the legal and practical levels. The study concludes that the Aarhus Convention has contributed to establishing advanced legal standards that enhance the principles of transparency, accountability, and environmental governance. It has also reinforced the role of the public as an essential partner in environmental management and in decision-making processes related to environmental matters, thereby contributing positively to the achievement of sustainable development goals and the promotion of environmental justice. Furthermore, the study demonstrates that the effectiveness of these guarantees remains dependent on the extent to which States Parties seriously implement the provisions of the Convention and provide the necessary mechanisms to facilitate access to environmental information. The study recommends strengthening States’ commitments to ensuring that environmental information is made available to the public in an accurate, clear, and timely manner, while developing institutional and procedural frameworks that facilitate access to such information. This would contribute to promoting informed and effective public participation in environmental decision-making and enhancing the legal protection of environmental rights.
Environmental information, public participation, Aarhus Convention, Environment, Environmental justice
A Hybrid Pentahelix Communication Model for Ujung Kulon Geopark Governance
Effective governance of Ujung Kulon National Geopark requires coordination among public institutions, local communities, academic institutions, businesses, and the media to reconcile conservation priorities with community welfare. This study examines stakeholder mapping, communication across the five helices, and the mechanisms required to move from formal representation to operational collaboration. A constructivist qualitative approach was adopted through a single-case study conducted in Ujung Kulon National Geopark, Pandeglang Regency, Banten Province. Thirteen participants were selected purposively. They represented government and the geopark management body (n = 4), communities and local organizations (n = 6), academia (n = 1), business (n = 1), and the media (n = 1). Semi-structured interviews were conducted between 29 September and 5 December 2025. Participant observation and document analysis provided additional evidence. The data were organized through condensation, display, and verification. Thematic analysis involved initial coding, category development, identification of core themes, and comparison across the five helices. Credibility was strengthened through source and method triangulation, member checking, peer debriefing, and an audit trail. The findings indicate that stakeholder mapping remains largely administrative, institutional roles have yet to become operational, and communication is predominantly episodic, one-way, and fragmented. Communication failures create institutional uncertainty and may also threaten geosite protection. This risk was evident when project contractors damaged a geosite because they were unaware of its conservation significance. Communities were not involved from the planning stage, despite the local capacity generated through educational initiatives and mangrove and marine conservation activities. Academic, business, and media actors also lacked clear follow-up mechanisms, a shared roadmap, and common communication guidelines. The study proposes a Hybrid Pentahelix Collaborative Communication Model that combines an actor network with a four-stage convergence cycle: structured information exchange, dialogue and clarification, alignment of meaning and trust, and shared commitment and collective action. The model connects conservation integrity with local benefits through communication that is iterative, documented, and open to evaluation.
collaborative communication; pentahelix; communication convergence; geopark governance; community participation; conservation
The Impact of Cybercrime on Public Utilities: A Comparative Study between Jordanian and Saudi Legislation
The tools of crime have evolved in recent years as a result of the state's development in providing services through public utilities. Public utilities have begun offering electronic services due to the radical transformation they have undergone. This has led to the transformation of the public utility into an electronic public utility, sometimes providing far more electronic services than those offered through physical documents and tangible, sensory services. This is an extension of traditional public utilities, and it has led to the emergence of broad legal challenges and material acts that threaten the operation of electronic public utilities. This is due to the emergence of invisible cybercrimes that differ from traditional criminal acts. Cybercrime poses a real threat to the regular and continuous operation of electronic public utilities and affects the efficiency of their functional activities and services. Therefore, this researcher addresses the nature of electronic public utilities, the impact of cybercrime on them, the governing principles of electronic public utilities, and applications of some cybercrimes and cyberattacks targeting electronic public utilities, official public departments, government facilities, and infrastructure, in accordance with the Jordanian Cybercrime Law, the Law on the Protection of State Documents and Secrets, and relevant Saudi laws. This research is a comparative study.
Cybercrime, electronic public services, cyberattacks
Copyright (c) 2026 Hasan Abdallah Hasan Awais awais https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/4.0
The Effectiveness of the Generative Model Supported by Visual Representations in Developing Visual Intelligence Skills among Third-Grade Students
This study aimed to investigate the effectiveness of the generative model supported by visual representations in developing visual intelligence skills in science among third-grade students. To achieve this, a quasi-experimental design was used. A teacher's guide was developed to teach the material according to the generative model supported by visual representations, and a scale for visual intelligence skills was created. The scale items measured four sub-dimensions in the students: visual reading, visual discrimination, information analysis, and relationship perception. The validity and reliability of the scale were verified. The study sample consisted of (71) male and female third-grade students from Tamadher Bint Amr Basic Mixed School, affiliated with the Directorate of Education for the Ruseifa District, during the second semester of the 2025/2026 academic year. The students were divided into two sections, one of which was randomly assigned as the experimental group (35 students) and the other as the control group (36) students. The results showed statistically significant differences at the significance level (α=0.05) between the mean scores of the students in the experimental and control groups on the visual intelligence skills scale and in all its skills, in favor of the experimental group that studied using the generative model supported by visual representations.
generative model, visual representations, visual intelligence skills, third-grade students
Street children often face immense challenges, including social isolation, neglect, and lack of access to recreational opportunities. These hardships hinder their emotional and psychological growth, leaving them vulnerable to further exploitation. This study explores the impact of engaging street children in art activities specifically, colour work, and clay manipulation at Safe-Child Advocacy, Catholic Archdiocese of Kumasi in Roman Hill, Ghana. The goal was to introduce them to creative outlets that they had not previously experienced, fostering self-awareness and social connections. The study employed an arts-based research method to assess the psychological and social benefits of art engagement. Findings indicate that art activities offer a transformative experience for street children, promoting personal development and emotional well-being.
Street children; emotional well-being; psychological growth; self-awareness; social connections; colour work; clay manipulation; arts-based research
Copyright (c) 2025 https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/4.0/ https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/4.0
Use Me! The Manipulation of Clay by Persons with Special Abilities
Creative expression is increasingly recognized as a vital medium for communication and inclusion among individuals with intellectual disabilities, particularly within contexts where verbal articulation is limited. This study examines the expressive potential of clay manipulation among individuals with intellectual disabilities, challenging long-standing societal perceptions that frame such individuals as lacking functional and creative capacities. Drawing on a qualitative research design and an art-based intervention, the study integrates case study methodology and participant observation involving selected students from Garden City Special School. Participants engaged in guided clay manipulation exercises conducted within the school environment, with the process systematically observed and analyzed. Findings indicate that, despite limitations in motor coordination and difficulties in processing complex instructions, participants were able to produce basic forms, including spheres, cylinders, trapezoids, and rudimentary humanoid figures when provided with simplified guidance and structured support. The tactile and adaptable nature of clay, combined with incremental instruction, enabled participants to engage meaningfully in the creative process. The study demonstrates that, with minimal but targeted assistance, individuals with intellectual disabilities can utilize clay as a medium for self-expression, thereby fostering a sense of agency and personal fulfilment. These findings underscore the importance of inclusive creative practices and suggest that art-based interventions can serve as valuable tools for enhancing the well-being and social integration of persons with intellectual disabilities.
Clay, Intellectual Disability, Motor Skills
Copyright (c) 2026 https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/4.0
Unravelling the Work Stories of Incident Commanders in Disaster and Risk Reduction Management
This study explored the lived experiences of incident commanders in implementing the incident management system during disasters. By using descriptive-phenomenological design, 10 informants were selected using purposive sampling meeting the inclusion criteria. One-on-one interview was conducted and the qualitative data with use of Colaizzi’s method generated 8 emergent themes: Knowledge and Leadership Skills Lead to Success, Planning and Supporting Well is Winning Half the Battle, Skill Personnel Inventory Leads to Efficient Services, Interpersonal Skills Radiate Systematic Procedures, Quality Service Equates to Self-Satisfaction, Capacitating Personnel and Partners Through Training and Involvement, Amplifying Services through Adequate Resources, and Bridging Individual Differences Through Professional Development. As highlighted, the effectiveness of disaster management is fundamentally dependent on the competence and leadership of incident commanders operating within a well-established Incident Management System (IMS). Beyond technical knowledge and operational expertise, successful incident management requires transformational leadership, strategic decision-making, effective communication, inter-agency coordination, and organizational resilience. Competent incident commanders serve as the cornerstone of effective disaster governance. Their leadership not only determines operational success during emergencies but also contributes to reducing disaster risks, protecting lives and property, and strengthening community resilience. Future research should continue to investigate the competencies, leadership behaviors, and organizational factors that influence incident commander performance across diverse disaster contexts. Such evidence can inform the development of evidence-based policies, competency frameworks, and training programs that further enhance disaster preparedness and response capabilities in increasingly complex and uncertain environments.
Incident management system, lived experience, descriptive phenomenology, Philippines, Cebu
Does Gamification Deliver? A PRISMA-Guided Systematic Review of the Learning Experience
According to the definition, gamification is the inclusion of elements from game design in a non-game educational environment. It can be claimed that gamification is one of the most popular pedagogical tools among researchers over the last decade; however, information on it is presented across different publications and is often scattered across disciplines, school levels, and geographical areas. The article presents a systematic literature review that is based on the PRISMA 2020 checklist. In total, 54 records were screened in accordance with the eligibility criteria, which required that gamification be the main intervention in the study and influence aspects such as engagement, motivation, satisfaction, cognitive engagement, or academic achievement; 42 studies met these criteria. The studies reviewed encompassed sectors such as basic education, universities, teacher training, special education, and business/technical education across 19 nations, with many studies from the Philippines and Southeast Asia. Gamification was regularly related to better interest and motivation of students, and when conditions were organized wisely, also good results in learning performance and cognitive engagement were shown; meanwhile, the impact of gamification on motivation and behavior of students was not as stable as the impact on cognition, with some studies showing any unwanted output in the shape of demotivation in students with low score when they come across leaderboards that are competitive. Elements used frequently include scores, badges, leaderboards, tests, and quizzes (Kahoot! Quizizz), with most materials grounded in self-determination theory. The article pinpoints issues related to the lack of a longitudinal approach and standardized measurement in research conducted in unfamiliar locations and offers practical suggestions for use when creating gamified studies.
gamification, learning experience, student engagement, motivation, systematic literature review, PRISMA
A study on digital-intelligence integration on synergy of pollution and carbon reduction in Fuzhou’s Private Enterprises
Against the backdrop of the “dual carbon” goals and the rapid development of the digital economy, promoting synergies between pollution control and carbon emission reduction has become a key pathway to achieving green, high-quality development. Digital-intelligent integration, through the deep convergence of digital and intelligent technologies, provides new technical support for corporate green transformation and environmental governance.This paper takes private enterprises in Fuzhou as its research subjects. Based on the theoretical logic of digital-intelligent convergence and the synergistic effects of pollution control and carbon reduction, it analyzes the characteristics of digital-intelligent convergence in Fuzhou as well as changes in pollutant and carbon emission levels, and systematically explores the mechanism through which digital-intelligent convergence drives these synergistic effects.The study found that from 2011 to 2023, the level of digital-intelligent integration in Fuzhou showed an overall trend of continuous improvement, while pollutant and CO₂ emission levels generally declined, indicating a solid foundation for the integration of digital transformation and green development.Further analysis indicates that the integration of digital and intelligent technologies primarily drives synergistic benefits in pollution reduction and carbon emission reduction through pathways such as optimized resource allocation, green technological innovation, intelligent production processes, and coordinated environmental governance. Based on these findings, this paper proposes policy recommendations, including strengthening the construction of digital-intelligent infrastructure, improving the green technological innovation system, advancing digital environmental governance, and guiding private enterprises toward differentiated transformation, with the aim of providing a theoretical reference for the green and low-carbon development of local enterprises.
Copyright (c) 2026 Linjie Feng https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/4.0
Immigration Policy, International Talent and the Future of U.S. Higher Education: Potential and Existential Threats Analysis
The U.S. has gained many benefits over the years through partnerships in higher education and immigration, including the recruitment of talent and international students who contribute to innovation and research within the system and the economy. The latest changes to immigration policies by the U.S. federal government pose a threat to this relationship. This research investigates the relationship between immigration policy and the sustainability of U.S. higher education, focusing on the academic years 2020 to 2025. The study reviews immigration policies, economy, immigration data, and research to ascertain the implications of changes in the U.S.'s immigration policy and the flow of international students into the U.S., resulting in a loss of $43 billion/yearly and a competitive disadvantage in the global economy. Findings indicate that international students at U.S. institutions are approximately 6% of total enrollments, and 57% of them study in fields like STEM that are critical to U.S. innovation. The study examined the impact of policy shifts, such as visa revocations, travel bans, and deportations, which would cause international enrollments in higher education to fall by 17% in the academic year that begins this fall of 2025. The research has policy implications for full-scale reforms by the U.S. federal government that provide trade-offs between national security concerns and strategic talent-retention priorities.
Copyright (c) 2026 Feroz Ahmed https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/4.0
The Sale of Carrion in Islamic Jurisprudence
In Islamic jurisprudence, transactions and commercial exchanges are among the most important means of fulfilling material needs and organizing economic relationships within society. Islam emphasizes lawful earnings and regards legitimate trade as a means of promoting cooperation and social welfare. However, Islamic law prohibits the sale and purchase of certain forbidden objects and unlawful commodities in order to preserve public interests and prevent corruption. This prohibition is based on religious texts and established juristic principles aimed at safeguarding religion, intellect, life, and public morality. The study of the sale of carrion (maytah) demonstrates that the legitimacy of transactions in Islam depends upon the lawfulness of the subject matter, the existence of a permissible benefit, and the avoidance of harm and corruption. Therefore, understanding the limits and regulations governing such transactions plays a significant role in explaining the Islamic economic system and guiding Muslims toward lawful business practices while avoiding invalid and prohibited transactions.
Islam, Sale of Carrion, Islamic Jurisprudence, Fiqh, Maytah
The Role of Judicial Oversight in Adjudicating the Preparatory Phase of the Parliamentary Election Process Related to the Preparation of Voter Lists: A Comparative Study
The Jordanian legislator seeks through laws and regulations to create a general and democratic atmosphere, in which the citizen participates in political decision-making and through parliamentary representation, and the parliamentary elections are considered the highest form of democracy, and the electoral process passes through several stages, starting from the stages of preparation, represented by the stage of preparing voters' lists, the stage of submitting candidacy applications, through the stage of electoral advertising, and up to the final and decisive stages represented by the stage of voting, counting, and announcing the final results of the parliamentary elections. All stages of the electoral process depend on the integrity and accuracy of the voters' rolls, which is the basic building block and starting point of the electoral process, and accordingly, this study aimed to identify the role exercised by judicial control in adjudicating electoral crimes related to the preparatory stage of the electoral process, represented by the stage of preparing the registration of voters' rolls, which limits the integrity and transparency of the electoral process, and to compare the legislation and texts related to how judicial control deals with electoral crimes according to the French and Egyptian legislators The study relied on descriptive and comparative methods to reach the results of the study and several recommendations, including: not increasing the penalties against those who tamper with the voters' rolls due to the fact that this type of crime affects the integrity and transparency of the electoral process, and applying full judicial supervision over all procedures and stages of the electoral process, which ensures the safety of the outputs of the electoral process and provides legal protection to voters.
Judicial Control, Electoral Crimes, Voter Rolls
The Impact of Toxic Leadership on Internal Audit Effectiveness: The Moderating Role of Organizational Silence
The study aims to examine the Impact of Toxic Leadership on Internal Audit Effectiveness and the moderating role of Employee Silence. To achieve the study objectives, a descriptive-analytical approach was adopted and used. The study population comprised managers, heads, and employees of internal audit departments in companies listed on the Amman Stock Exchange. For data collection, a questionnaire was developed and distributed electronically; 180 questionnaires were distributed to the sample members. After the collection process, 150 questionnaires were retrieved for analysis, following the exclusion of 30 questionnaires that were either not returned or incomplete. The statistical package for social sciences (SPSS) was used for data analysis. Descriptive statistical methods such as arithmetic means and standard deviations, were employed, alongside simple and multiple regression analysis to examine and test the study’s hypotheses. The results revealed existence of statistically significant impact of toxic leadership with its dimensions (narcissism, authoritarian leadership, self-promotion, poor supervision, and unpredictability) on internal audit effectiveness in the presence of employee silence as a moderating variable. This indicate that the prevalence of a culture of employee silence contributes to exacerbating the negative impact of toxic leadership on internal audit effectiveness. In the light of findings, the study recommends that companies should work to promote a culture of psychological safety within the internal audit function, ensuring that auditors feel secure in raising concerns without fear of retaliation.
Toxic Leadership, Internal Audit Effectiveness, Employee Silence, Amman Stock Exchange
Copyright (c) 2026 Ala Almatarneh https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/4.0