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Copyright of articles that appear in Sains Humanika belongs exclusively to Penerbit Universiti Teknologi Malaysia (Penerbit UTM Press). This copyright covers the rights to reproduce the article, including reprints, electronic reproductions or any other reproductions of similar nature.
Evaluating the Usability of a Student-Centred Leadership Model for Islamic School Leaders in Malaysia/ Menilai Kebolehgunaan Model Kepimpinan Berpusatkan Murid untuk Pemimpin Sekolah Agama di Malaysia
An effective leadership model should be grounded in a strong theoretical foundation while also being usable and relevant in actual school practice. This study evaluates the usability of the Student-Centred Leadership Model (SCLeaM), which was specifically developed for leaders of Islamic schools in Malaysia, as Phase 3 of a Design and Development Research (DDR) approach. A quantitative survey was conducted involving 62 Islamic school leaders from Sekolah Menengah Kebangsaan Agama (SMKA) and Sekolah Agama Bantuan Kerajaan (SABK), using the USE Questionnaire (Lund, 2001), which comprises four domains: usefulness, ease of use, ease of learning, and satisfaction. Descriptive statistics were employed to determine usability scores and percentages. The findings indicate that the overall usability of the SCLeaM model was at a very high level (87.53%), with usefulness recording the highest percentage (89.62%), followed by satisfaction (87.55%), ease of learning (86.69%), and ease of use (86.02%). These results suggest that the SCLeaM model is positively received by the target users and is suitable for application within the context of Islamic school leadership. This study concludes that the SCLeaM model demonstrates strong practical validity and has the potential to serve as a systematic guideline to support student-centred leadership practices in Islamic schools in Malaysia.
Influence of Psychological Factors on Online Purchase Intention Among University Students
Online purchasing is one of the pivotal trading methods worldwide. Hence, it is vital to comprehend the impact of psychological factors on consumers’ online purchase intention. This study aims to determine the impact of psychological factors which are perceived of usefulness, perceived ease of use and trust on consumers’ online purchase intention among undergraduate students in higher learning institutions. This study also explores the level of psychological factors among undergraduate students. Quantitative research approach has been adapted in this study by distributing 102 sets of questionnaires to the respondents who have engaged in online purchasing before. The findings discovered that dimension trust does have a positive significant impact on consumers’ online purchase intention while perceived ease of use and perceived of usefulness is insignificant. The significance of the study is to develop understanding on the impact of psychological factors on consumers’ online purchase intention. It is also hoped that the findings of this study will contribute to government agencies, E-commerce retailers as well as researchers in the field.
Content Validity and Reliability Analysis of Instruments on Students’ Perceptions of Flipped STEM Learning
As the flipped classroom model continues to gain attention in secondary school STEM classrooms and educational quantitative research focusing on instrument development and validation, the need for a valid and reliable measurement instrument that is appropriate for the Malaysian secondary school context has become increasingly important. In STEM education, researchers seek to better understand students’ learning experiences within flipped classroom practices within STEM-specific learning environments. Thus, this study aimed to investigate validity and reliability of the student perception of flipped classroom (SPFC) instrument; which measures; (i) collaborative environment, (ii) self-directed learning, (iii) learning impact, (iv) motivation and enjoyment, and (v) technology integration. Content validity was evaluated by ten experts through the application of the item-level content validity index (I-CVI), scale-level content validity index (S-CVI), and Kappa analysis. The study findings showed that the SPFC instrument demonstrated strong content validity (S-CVI/Ave = 0.96; S-CVI/UA = 0.85). Seventeen (17) items achieved full agreement (I-CVI = 1.00), while three items with lower CVI values were retained after clarity-focused revisions. A pilot study involving 30 students was conducted to assess reliability using Cronbach’s alpha. The overall reliability was excellent (α = .927), with construct-level alphas ranging from acceptable to strong: collaborative environment (α = .866), self-directed learning (α = .685), learning impact (α = .873), motivation and enjoyment (α = .720), and technology integration (α = .884). In conclusion, the 20 items of SPFC questionnaire were accepted and retained to better understand students' perceptions of flipped classroom learning experiences in STEM context. Future research is recommended to further examine the instrument’s construct validity and applicability across different STEM subjects and educational levels.
A Culturally-Informed Family Role Model: A Conceptualising Family Influences in Children’s Cognitive, Emotional and Social Development
Children’s cognitive, emotional, and social development is fundamentally shaped by the family environment, which provides the primary context for early learning, emotional security, and socialisation. While existing developmental theories offer valuable insights into family influence, many are grounded in Western assumptions and give limited attention to cultural variation in family roles and practices. In multicultural societies such as Malaysia, children’s development is closely intertwined with diverse family structures, parenting practices, and culturally embedded values. This concept paper introduces the Culturally-Informed Family Role Model (CIFRM), a framework that reorganises established developmental theories around the culturally mediated enactment of family roles. Drawing on Bronfenbrenner’s ecological systems theory, Vygotsky’s sociocultural theory, and Bandura’s social cognitive theory, CIFRM conceptualises parents, siblings, and extended family members as interdependent agents whose roles operate within specific cultural, structural, and contextual conditions to shape children’s developmental outcomes. The model was developed through thematic and comparative analysis of existing literature, positioning cultural values as a central mechanism rather than a peripheral context in child development. Presented using a tree metaphor to illustrate interconnected developmental influences, CIFRM offers a holistic lens for understanding family influence across cognitive, emotional, and social domains. The paper outlines implications for family practices, education, policy, and future empirical research, contributing a culturally grounded framework for supporting children’s development in diverse social contexts.
The Life of Daily Boarding School Students: Challenges and Interventions/ Kehidupan Murid Asrama Harian: Cabaran dan Tindakan Mengatasinya
Life in daily boarding schools offers structured learning opportunities and residential facilities for students who live far from school. However, it also presents challenges that may affect students’ emotional, social and academic well-being. This study aims to explore the challenges faced by secondary school daily boarding students in Malaysia and the actions they take to address these challenges. This study used a qualitative approach involving a total of 87 students from a daily boarding school in Iskandar Puteri, Johor. Data were collected through open-ended questions and analysed thematically. Findings revealed four main areas of challenge faced by the students: restrictive hostel rules, inadequate facilities, self-management pressures and emotional strain caused by homesickness. Students reported various coping strategies including self-regulation, seeking social support, engaging in spiritual practices and managing emotions. The study highlights the need for school and hostel administrators to incorporate students’ perspectives into policy development and facility planning to foster a more supportive and conducive living environment.
Journey of Recovery: Challenges and Coping Resources of a Cancer Survivor and Caregiver
Living with cancer is challenging. The journey of treatment and recovery can be a daunting experience for individuals with cancer as well as caregivers. Studies have shown that cancer survivors’ coping strategies and the support received were keys to recovery. Hence, this research aims to explore the challenges faced by cancer survivor and caregiver, their unmet needs, coping strategies, support and changes they have discovered during the recovery journey. A qualitative research method was adopted where a cancer survivor and a caregiver were chosen purposively. Both of them were interviewed separately in order to understand their experience in an in-depth manner. The data was transcribed and analysed with thematic analysis aided by Nvivo 12. Data was triangulated through member checking, informants’ and experts’ validation. Informal observation, newspaper articles and social media communication were referred to ensure the trustworthiness of the data. The findings show that both cancer survivor and caregiver were overwhelmed with negative emotions. However, both parties entrusted their beliefs to God and combated the disease with perseverance and optimism. Their personality, coping strategies and support received from family, friends and communities were their main resources. This study suggests that forming supportive communities and involving mental health professionals enable both individual with cancer and caregiver to face the disease in a more proactive manner.
The Influence of Personality and Perfectionism on Depression among Undergraduate Students
The trend of depression among university students is at a worrying level. Proactive steps must be taken seriously to curb this issue before students resort to non-suicidal self-injury or develop suicide ideation. Therefore, this study aims to examine the influence of personality traits and perfectionism on depression among undergraduate students. Specifically, this study also examines the influence of five personality dimensions (Openness to experience, Conscientiousness, Extraversion, Agreeableness and Neuroticism) on depression, as well as the influence of perfectionism on depression among university students. A convenience sampling method was employed which involving 106 undergraduate students from a university in Malaysia. Standardized instruments used to collect the data were the Big-Five Inventory (BFI), Frost’s Multidimensional Perfectionism Scale (FMPS) and Beck’s Depression Inventory (BDI). The data were analyzed using descriptive statistics and multiple regression analysis. The findings revealed that respondents demonstrated moderate levels across all personality dimensions, a high level of perfectionism, and a low level of depression. Additionally, the results indicated that Openness to experience, Agreeableness and Neuroticism significantly influenced depression. Perfectionism was also found to influence depressive symptoms among university students. Implications, recommendations and study limitations are further discussed.
The Lived Experiences, Challenges, And Coping Strategies of Secondary School Guidance and Counseling Teachers in Johor Bahru/ Pengalaman, Cabaran dan Strategi Daya Tindak Guru Bimbingan dan Kaunseling Sekolah Menengah di Johor Bahru
Technological developments, social changes, and unforeseen circumstances have significantly transformed the landscape of school counseling services. Sudden shifts, particularly during the pandemic era, have exposed School Counselors (GBK) to new challenges such as handling technical issues, unstable internet connectivity, and the need to master digital skills. In this context, resilience is a critical element in ensuring the effectiveness of guidance and counseling services, safeguarding psychological well-being, and preventing the risk of work-related burnout. This exploratory qualitative study aims to examine the experiences, challenges faced, and coping strategies employed by GBK in public secondary schools in the district of Johor Bahru. Using purposive sampling, five participants with 15 to 20 years of professional experience were selected. Data were collected through structured interviews and analyzed using thematic analysis. The findings indicate that long-term career experience forms the foundation for building resilience. Seven key factors contributing to resilience were identified: financial stability, support systems, passion for the profession, spirituality, continuous learning, positive thinking, and a sense of responsibility. The study emphasizes that resilience not only influences GBK’s thoughts, emotions, and behaviors but also plays a role in supporting long-term career commitment and enhancing personal well-being. These findings highlight the importance of fostering resilience among educators to strengthen their professional effectiveness and personal well-being.
A Descriptive Study of Adolescents’ Problematic Social Media Use (PSMU) based on the Number of Actively Used Social Platforms
During the COVID-19 pandemic, social media platforms in Indonesia experienced a significant increase in total users, leading to a higher risk of addiction to social media and the internet compared to typical situations. Social media platforms also introduced new features that enabled novel ways of interacting during the pandemic. However, the use of various social media by adolescents remain underexplored. This study aims to provide a comprehensive overview of the problematic social media use in adolescents, comparing those based on the number of social platforms they actively use, such as Instagram, TikTok, and Twitter. We conducted an offline survey on a sample of 207 Indonesian junior and senior high school students (aged 10–19) from Jakarta, Bogor, Depok, Tangerang, and Bekasi. Data were collected using the Internet Addiction Test (IAT) and a demographic questionnaire. A one-way ANOVA revealed significant differences in PSMU among adolescents who actively use one, two, or three social media platforms. Adolescents who actively use three platforms tended to have higher PSMU levels. These findings highlight the need for targeted interventions that address adolescents’ social media usage patterns to reduce the risks associated with excessive use.
The Process of Transforming Meanings Regarding Traumatic Experiences in a Woman in Her 20s from a Narrative Approach
Sexual abuse is a profoundly traumatic experience that can have long-lasting psychological and emotional effects. This case study explores the counseling process with a woman in her 20s (hereafter referred to as Alice) who experienced sexual abuse and struggled with severe social withdrawal. Although the initial presenting issue involved difficulties related to employment, the counsellor’s attitude of valuing what was important to Alice led her to begin discussing her traumatic experiences of sexual abuse. By diving deeper into the recurring theme of frustration within her narrative regarding the sexual abuse, Alice was able to shift her focus towards how that very frustration had acted as an empowering force to better help her in her adversities. This shift in narrative from one of helplessness and avoidance to one of confronting challenges using the power of her frustration resulted in significant behavioral changes, including increased social engagement and motivation to seek employment. Subsequent counselling sessions also revealed that she was not only able to engage in greater self-reflection, but was also able to find the motivation to fill up paper works and secure a job position. In the current study, how the counsellor had focused on Alice’s dominant narrative through the discussions of her traumatic experiences, and how the meaning behind those experiences had transformed for Alice will be examined.
A Preliminary Study on the Challenges of Mothers Raising Children with Dyslexia in Pseudo-Single Parenting Families of Johor Bahru
The mental strain of the main caregivers (who are often the mothers) of children with special needs is well documented. However, the challenges of mothers who support a child with dyslexia when resources are scarce and the spouse’s presence is intermittent are less understood. Particularly, pseudo-single parenting is increasing in Johor Bahru, Malaysia due to its proximity to neighbouring Singapore and the attraction of the Singaporean currency. This phenomenon refers to families in which one parent assumes the primary role of parenting and caregiving, in the physical absence of the spouse. To understand the experiences of mothers who are left behind, a qualitative study was conducted to explore their challenges. Two mothers volunteered to share their stories, despite the stigma and sensitivity of this subject matter. The themes that emerged from the findings of the study have shown that the mothers’ emotional struggles are constantly confronted by the uncertainties in educational support and interventions; stigma due to cultural factors; low awareness and delayed intervention; the struggle of juggling multiple responsibilities; interruption in career progression and long waiting period to seek relevant expertise in the government hospitals. Although the findings have shed light on how the support system can perpetuate the struggles of these mothers, it cannot be generalized to all mothers. Particularly, variations among the mothers, according to educational levels, resources, geographical contexts, and cultural backgrounds, should be taken into consideration. Future research could further explore the experiences across various geographical locations in Malaysia to increase generalisability of the findings. The implication of this study has shown that support for families should be multipronged and multisystemic to address these struggles.
Grief Dreams in Traumatic Grief Counseling and Attachment Informed Grief Therapy
Bereavement and grief, particularly following natural disasters, can evoke a variety of painful emotions, including sadness and guilt. For some, particularly after a traumatic loss, the grieving process can become complicated, leading to significant distress. This paper explores the therapeutic function of grief dreams—dreams in which the deceased appears—as a tool for processing loss. Using a pragmatic case study approach, this article analyzes dream reports through Grief Counseling, and Attachment Informed Grief Therapy on 3 cases, five perspectives that allow us to sincerely mourn the death of the deceased and hold it in our mind, rather than stirring up anxiety, fear, and despair about our own death. 1. Dreams as a Venue for Symbolic Reunion. 2. Dreams as a Reflection of Acceptance 3. Dreams as a Means of Re-experiencing Trauma 4. The Resolution of Grief Dreams as a Marker of Progress 5. Sadness is a bond with the deceased.
Cognitive Flexibility Scale for Indonesian Adolescents: Reliability and Validity
Cognitive flexibility is the ability to perceive alternatives in various situations, facilitating adaptation and resilience. Given developmental challenges many groups of adolescents face, it is important to ensure the availability of practical, reliable, and valid assessments to measure cognitive flexibility in this population. This study aims to evaluate the psychometric properties of the self-report Cognitive Flexibility Scale (CFS) Indonesian Version for the Indonesian adolescent population. Through convenience sampling approach, 644 adolescents, aged 12 to 18, living in Jabodetabek, completed the Indonesian version of the CFS in a classroom setting. Confirmatory factor analysis tested both unidimensional and two-factor models, revealing superior fit for the two-factor structure. Internal reliability was evaluated using Cronbach's alpha and McDonald’s Omega, demonstrating adequate reliability (α = 0.72, ω = 0.70). In the second phase, criterion validity was assessed using Spearman’s correlation with the Difficulties in Emotion Regulation Scale - Short Form (DERS-SF) completed by a subsample of 151 adolescents, revealing a significant negative correlation between cognitive flexibility and emotional dysregulation. This correlation underscores the importance of cognitive flexibility in emotion regulation, highlighting its relevance in the context of providing psychological support. Overall, this study supports the CFS Indonesian version as a practical, reliable, and valid instrument for cognitive flexibility assessment among Indonesian adolescents. Future research should focus on more diverse samples to validate the scale further and explore its applicability across different subgroups within Indonesia, especially communities with high social vulnerability.
Does Nurturing "Zest for Life" Also Lead to Nurturing "Resilience"?
It has been revealed that "resilience" is involved in the ability to overcome adverse experiences in childhood. However, the school education curriculum does not clearly state how to foster resilience, and it cannot be said that there has been sufficient discussion about how to foster the resilience necessary for recovering after a disaster or adversity. The Ministry of Education, Culture, Sports, Science and Technology, which oversees school education in Japan, has set the educational philosophy as acquiring "the ability to live." The educational philosophy of each school is left to the principal, and the policy of educational activities is set by each school principal, which is shared and known to teachers and staff, and then put into practice. This study posed the research question of whether "resilience" can also be fostered by cultivating "the ability to live," and aimed to explore the daily educational activities of schools that correspond to cultivating "resilience." We interviewed eight principals. The elementary and junior high school principals with the aim of exploring the daily educational activities of schools that correspond to cultivating "resilience." The principals are working to cultivate "the ability to live" from both the perspectives of subject instruction and student guidance so that children can withstand the stress of adversity, and at the same time, they aim for the school to function as a safe and secure place that protects children, like a shield. It was shown that school practices are not only aimed at disaster prevention education, but also at improving everyday problem-solving skills and enriching humanity.
The Effectiveness of Anger Management Education in College Students Majoring in Sports
This study reports on the actual situation of stress coping among college students majoring in sports and the effectiveness of their educational approach. A performance may decrease for the anger that an athlete cannot control as a background of the problem. In addition, it is demanded that the member of society builds human relations without the harassment, and, as for the university student, a skill of the feelings control is demanded from the society. The subjects were 132 college students majoring in sports and psychosocial studies. Their ages ranged from 19 to 22 years old. The purpose of the study was to “recapture past anger experienced by the self and to build a foundation for improving the performance of that anger in the future. The educational intervention will be conducted a total of five times at 90 minutes per session. The results suggested that the university students' mental health was good, with many sports-related behaviors as stress coping. In order to compare the educational effects, the anger and aggression questionnaire was measured at the beginning of the second session and at the end of the fifth session, and a corresponding t-test was conducted. The results showed a significant increase in post physical aggression over pre (t=-2.40, p<.05, df=95) and a significant increase in “anger” scores (t=-2.79, p<.01, df=95). On the other hand, analysis of the participants' impressions after implementing the ABC column method showed that they were able to reflect on their own anger patterns, the health aspects of anger, and methods of control. When asked to rate the usefulness of the program on a 5-point scale, 79.0% of the participants selected 5 (GOOD) and 4. These results indicate that the educational program approach of this study was effective. Future work will require setting up exercises that can control behavioral aspects related to anger in the long term. The results also suggest that incorporating the exercises in a sports setting may help to link anger to improved sports performance.
Trends and Barriers to Seeking Counselling Help Among University Students in China: A Systematic Literature Review
Seeking counselling help is an essential strategy for addressing mental health issues, particularly among university students who face various academic and personal challenges. This research examines help-seeking behaviour for counselling among university students from China. A systematic search of electronic databases, including PubMed, PsycINFO, CNKI, and Google Scholar was conducted following the PRISMA guidelines. Search terms included "Chinese university students" AND "counselling" OR "mental health help" OR "mental health service" AND "mental health" AND "help-seeking" OR "seeking help" AND "barriers to seeking counselling" OR "challenges in seeking counselling." The research was limited to peer-reviewed articles published between 2010 and 2024. Quality assessment was performed on the identified studies. Based on the selection criteria, 32 articles, met the inclusion criteria. Of these, 23 studies employed quantitative methods; one used a cohort design, three used qualitative methods, one used mixed methods, and four used experimental designs. Drawing on data from 39,495 participants, the analysis revealed the prevalence of help-seeking, the barriers to help-seeking and the interventions implemented. Findings suggest that help-seeking for counselling among Chinese university students is relatively low. The decision to seek help is influenced by a complex interplay of barriers, including attitudes, stigma, mental health literacy, and other facilitators. Additionally, cultural factors play a significant role in shaping help-seeking behaviours. Future research should focus on experimental studies to better understand trends in help-seeking behaviour and to develop high-reliability and high-validity intervention programmes that account for cultural influences.
A Case Study in Supporting a Child with ADHD Experiencing Trauma and Adaptive Problems at School
Neurodevelopmental disorders, such as attention deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD), have been increasingly recognized in Japan in recent years. However, support for families who have migrated to Japan remains limited. The aim of this case study was to examine (1) the effectiveness of play therapy and family therapy for a child with a neurodevelopmental disorder who experienced trauma due to domestic violence, and (2) the role of the therapist as a facilitator in promoting collaboration among professionals supporting the child. Play therapy was conducted weekly over a 24-month period, while psychoeducation and family therapy were provided to the parents on a monthly basis. Additionally, the therapist implemented strategies to improve the family and school systems, and acted as a liaison to bridge communication gaps between the parents, doctor, teacher, and child services staff. Results demonstrated a significant reduction in the father’s tendency toward domestic violence and marked improvements in the child’s ability to communicate freely at home. Furthermore, the therapist’s role as a liaison successfully improved communication among professionals, although challenges remained in establishing effective coordination within the school system. These findings highlight the importance of play therapy in helping children express their experiences and the value of addressing family communication patterns and narratives. They also underscore the critical role of the therapist in fostering interprofessional collaboration to provide comprehensive support for children with trauma.
The Influence of Work-Life Balance on Perceived Stress Among Part-Time Students
Part-time students face stress from juggling work, family, and studies, limited campus involvement, extended graduation time, financial issues, and job stability. Meanwhile, work-life balance is critical for reducing stress. Therefore, this study investigated the relationship between work-life balance and perceived stress among part-time students. This study employed a quantitative and cross-sectional design. The results indicated that most students reported low levels of perceived stress, with a strong negative correlation between work-life balance and perceived stress. The results suggest that improving work-life balance can have a significant impact on reducing perceived stress. Furthermore, our regression analysis revealed that perceived stress explained approximately perceived stress, with a strong negative slope indicating that increasing perceived stress is associated with decreasing work-life balance. The findings highlight the importance of work-life balance in mitigating stress among part-time students. The study's implications suggest that educational institutions and employers can promote work-life balance to reduce perceived stress among students, ultimately improving overall well-being.
Body Image, Self-Esteem, and Physical Exercise as Determinants of Psychological Well-Being among University Students in Malaysia
The impact of physical exercise on psychological and health benefits has often been examined in both nonclinical and clinical contexts. Although physical exercise is widely recognized for its physical benefits, its psychological effects on well-being are less well understood. This study explored the relationships between physical exercise, body image, self-esteem, and psychological well-being among university students in Malaysia. Specifically, it examined how active participation in physical exercise influenced body image, self-esteem, and overall well-being. The findings highlighted that acceptance of body image contributes to self-esteem, which is further connected to self-confidence and the development of a realistic attitude towards life. Self-esteem emerged as an important safeguard for personal well-being and a strong indicator of subjective well-being. Data were collected via a self-administered questionnaire from 204 university students across Malaysia, using the International Physical Activity Questionnaire (IPAQ) for physical exercise, the Body Shape Questionnaire (BSQ) for body image, the Rosenberg Self-Esteem Scale, and the General Well-Being Schedule. The results indicated significant correlations between physical exercise and body image, as well as between physical exercise and self-esteem. However, physical exercise did not significantly influence psychological well-being. The findings are discussed with several theoretical and practical implications, alongside limitations and recommendations for future research.
The Effectiveness of Capital and Human Resources in Muslim Women Entrepreneurship: A Qualitative Analysis Based on the Success of Khadijah binti Khuwaylid R. A.
Islamic history records the remarkable entrepreneurial achievements of the great Muslim woman, Khadijah binti Khuwaylid (r.a). Her success can be understood as the result of two critical determining factors: capital and human resources. Accordingly, the purpose of this paper is to examine the impact of investment in capital and human resources on the success of Muslim women entrepreneurs in Malaysia’s health product industry, with reference to the factors that contributed to Khadijah’s accomplishments. This study employed a qualitative approach through interviews with ten successful Muslim women entrepreneurs in the industry. The data collected were analyzed using content analysis. The findings indicate that the success of Muslim women entrepreneurs in Malaysia’s health product sector is similarly influenced by human resources and capital.
Comparative Study on the Role of Curriculum Leaders in Managing Curriculum Change and Innovation for Accounting Information System in Higher Education Institutions
An effective curriculum would equip tertiary education students with relevant knowledge and skills so that they would be prepared for their future career. Students in the accounting field are expected to learn Accounting Information System course, which provides them with knowledge and skills in relation to the latest accounting or auditing technological tools. This qualitative study aimed to investigate how curriculum leaders in two higher education institutions in Malaysia managed and embraced curriculum changes for the Accounting Information System course. Lewin’s change model was utilised in this research study. This study also aimed to study any similarities or differences between the two academic leaders in managing and embracing curriculum changes. As there is a limited study conducted through the lens of Lewin’s change model on the curriculum change management in the accounting education in Malaysia, this study aimed to address this research gap. Semi-structured interviews were utilised for the data collection process. Thematic analysis approach was used to analyse the data. It was discovered from this research study that both academic leaders prioritised professional development efforts among their staff in relation to upgrading their knowledge and skills so that they could teach the course. Furthermore, both curriculum leaders preferred different methods in disseminating information to their academic teams. It is hoped that the research findings would provide some insights to the academic leaders of tertiary education institutions on how curriculum changes are managed by academic leaders in different institutions.
Invertible Octopus as a Tool to Promote Fast Thinking in Impromptu Speaking
Having students extemporize as a classroom activity to prepare them for impromptu speech may be daunting. Their reluctance to volunteer or to step forward may cost time, thus giving everyone the opportunity to practice impromptu speech may be hampered. An action research was conducted to view and understand students’ perspectives of a game called Invertible Octopus Game as an intervention to help them hone their fast-thinking skills based on Dual Process Theory Type 1. The game was designed with a closer look into Cognitive Load Theory, and 30 medical students were selected for the research. Data were gathered via a short questionnaire, interviews and classroom observations to gain insights into the effectiveness of the game in activating students’ fast thinking skills as a preparation for impromptu task. The students reported that this activity helped them prepare for the impromptu task and 96% of them agreed that the game invoked their fast-thinking skills. 92% of the students hoped to have such a game in the future for the speaking class. The study concluded that the game managed to work as a facilitating tool for the impromptu task and had the potential to develop students’ fast-thinking skills. Nevertheless, future and in-depth research is needed to further develop the framework and to gain empirical data for the effectiveness of the Invertible Octopus Game.
The Effect of Academic Motivation on Academic Procrastination Among Undergraduate Students in Malaysia
Academic procrastination is postponing academic tasks until feeling anxious to complete the tasks. It is believed that academic procrastination has been a common issue among students. Additionally, academic motivation is believed to be a crucial factor that determines the level of procrastination in academic matters. Therefore, this research aims to identify the effect of academic motivation on the academic procrastination in Malaysia Higher Educational Institutions. A total of 284 undergraduate students from Malaysia public and private universities were involved in this research. This research uses quantitative research design, which involves cross-sectional and correlational design. Academic Motivation Scale (AMS-C 28) and Procrastination Assessment Scale for Students (PASS) was used to measure academic motivation as independent variable and academic procrastination as dependent variable. Pearson correlation and multiple regression analysis were used to examine the relationship and effect. Findings from this research reveal that the undergraduate students have moderate level of academic procrastination. The findings also suggested that amotivation has a positive significant effect on academic procrastination. The research findings provide a reference to future researchers and implication to society that academic motivation is important to students. Overall, further investigation on this topic was encouraged.
The Impact of Transformational Leadership on Innovative Work Behaviour among Bank Employees
This study examines the influence of transformational leadership on innovative work behavior among bank employees in Johor. Specifically, it investigates how the dimensions of transformational leadership—idealized influence, intellectual stimulation, inspirational motivation, and individual consideration—affect innovative behavior. A quantitative method was employed using a structured questionnaire distributed to 145 employees across 15 branches of a bank. Results indicated that idealized influence, intellectual stimulation, and inspirational motivation positively and significantly impact innovative work behavior. However, individual consideration showed no significant influence. These findings underscore the importance of transformational leadership in fostering innovation within the banking sector, highlighting the need for leadership development programs that emphasize these critical dimensions. By adopting transformational leadership practices, organizations can enhance employee creativity and innovation, ultimately driving competitiveness and growth.
The Financial Stress and Job Performance: The Moderating Role of Perceived Organizational Support
Financial stress is a significant predictor on job performance and the need for managing financial stress has become the main focus of every employee in all organization. This study identifies the effect of financial stress on job performance among supporting employees in the manufacturing sector in the state of Johor. The sample was selected using the convenience sampling method and a total of 214 support workers from four construction companies were involved in this study. The quantitative data was collected through self-administered questionnaire to measure all the variables and the data was analyzed by using descriptive and inferential statistical methods. The research findings shows that there was a weak positive influence of financial stress on job performance. This study also found that perceived organizational support acted as a significant moderator in weakening the relationship between financial stress and work performance. In this respect, employees who perceived high organizational support are more likely than are employees who perceived low organizational support to be able to reduce the potential effects of financial stress on job performance. The results of this study clarify knowledge regarding the financial stress and thus, potentially improves and enhance the stress management practices among employees.
Adaptation and Psychometric Analysis of the Malay Version-Cultural Intelligence Scale (CQS) in Malaysia: The International Test Commission Approach/ Adaptasi dan Analisis Psikometrik Skala Kecerdasan Budaya (CQS) Versi Bahasa Melayu di Malaysia: Pendekatan Suruhanjaya Ujian Antarabangsa (ITC)
Cross-cultural interaction has become a necessity in the era of globalization, particularly in multicultural nations such as Malaysia. However, the absence of a valid and reliable psychometric instrument in the Malay language to measure cultural intelligence poses significant challenges for research and practical application. To address this gap, the present study aimed to translate, adapt, and evaluate the psychometric properties of the Malay version of the Cultural Intelligence Scale (CQS) in accordance with the ITC Guidelines (2017). The adaptation process employed a Sequential Translation Design, which included forward–backward translation, a committee approach, expert panel review, and empirical validation using survey data from N = 431 Malaysian respondents. Data was analyzed using Partial Least Squares Structural Equation Modeling (PLS-SEM) to assess factor structure, reliability, and construct validity. Findings revealed that the original four-factor structure of the CQS (metacognitive, cognitive, motivational, and behavioral) was retained. All reflective and formative measurement indicators met the standards of Confirmatory Composite Analysis (CCA). Furthermore, convergent validity was supported through significant positive correlations with the Tromsø Social Intelligence Scale, while discriminant validity was found through weak negative correlations with the Social Interaction Anxiety Scale. Overall, the results demonstrate that the Malay version-CQS is a valid and reliable instrument for assessing cultural intelligence in Malaysia. The study reinforces evidence that Cultural Intelligence is a higher-order construct which is stable across cultures. Practically, the instrument provides a strong foundation for applications in education, organizational training, and social integration policies, while strategically enhancing intercultural competence, social harmony, and national competitiveness.
Development of Song-Q_Education Teaching Aids Based on Music Using Artificial Intelligence (AI) in Teaching Mechanical Design in Design and Technology Form 2/ Pembangunan Bahan Bantu Mengajar Song-Q_Education Berasaskan Muzik Menggunakan Kecerdasan Buatan (AI) Dalam Pengajaran Reka Bentuk Mekanikal Di Reka Bentuk Dan Teknologi (RBT) Tingkatan 2
The use of teaching aids has now become a necessity in every teaching and learning (PdP) session. This is due to the national education policies introduced by the ministry, which aim to produce holistic individuals in all aspects. In addition, the rapid development of technology has impacted all sectors, including education. The capabilities of artificial intelligence (AI) technology in processing data, generating responses, and creating specific content in a short time can no longer be denied. Therefore, this study aims to focus on the development of teaching aids based on musical intelligence (as referred to in the multiple intelligences theory) with the assistance of AI technology. The teaching aids developed in this study is called Song-Q_Education, which integrates musical elements and AI technology (such as ChatGPT, WeSing), opening new opportunities for the development of music-based teaching aids. This study employs the ADDIE model as its main framework. A qualitative approach is used to collect data from informants and experts. A total of 6 teachers were involved in this study, with 3 informants (analysis phase) and 3 experts (evaluation phase) participating to address the objectives/research questions. The informants focused on identifying the essential elements needed for music-based teaching aids, while the experts focused on evaluating the usability of the Song-Q_Education teaching aids. The data collected were analyzed using thematic analysis, resulting in the identification of themes and sub-themes. In summary, five key elements were identified from the interviews conducted. Additionally, the experts’ responses regarding the usability of the Song-Q_Education teaching aids were positive. Finally, the researcher discusses recommendations for future studies, specifically for the development of auditory-based (listening) teaching aids.
Content Validity of Needs Analysis Questionnaire Instrumentation for the Development of EduComic Model/ Kesahan Kandungan Instrumen Soal Selidik Analisis Keperluan untuk Pembangunan Model EduComic
This study aims to evaluate the content validity of the needs analysis questionnaire instrument for the development of the EduComic Model, using the Content Validity Index (CVI) assessed based on the views of five experts. The assessment of content validity was conducted through the application of the Item-Level Content Validity Index (I-CVI) and the Scale-Level Content Validity Index (S-CVI). The study findings show that the overall S-CVI (average) score for the dimensions of teachers’ perceptions, teachers’ constraints in teaching and learning science, the need for EduComic Model development, and learning within the EduComic Model was 1.00. The S-CVI (UA) for each dimension in the needs analysis for the EduComic Model development was also at a score of 1.00, meeting the required criteria for the overall S-CVI value of the needs analysis questionnaire instrument for the EduComic Model development. In conclusion, the 60 items in the needs analysis questionnaire were accepted and retained to assess the needs analysis for the development of the EduComic Model in the pilot study for the purposes of construct validity and instrument reliability.
Instrument Development for Tactile Technology-Based Teaching Aids for Visually Impaired Students/ Pembangunan Instrumen Alat Bantu Mengajar Berasaskan Teknologi Taktil untuk Murid Berkeperluan Khas Ketidakupayaan Penglihatan (MBK-KKP)
Students with visual impairment (SVI) are among the minority groups in society who greatly require specialized assistive technologies to receive information from their surroundings. Therefore, the approach often used in schools is to develop teaching aids with specific features that can help them access information. Therefore, this study focuses on obtaining expert validation for the development of a specific instrument that addresses the needs of SVI in the creation of ABM—particularly in the use of 3D printing (3DP) technology as a component of tactile technology. In this study, the research approach used is Design and Development Research (DDR). The expert validation represents the initial phase of the second stage (design and development) to obtain consensus from experts in establishing content items that can measure the needs of these students. A total of three (3) experts were involved in this study. The developed instrument is a questionnaire consisting of four (4) main sections: language, curriculum, pedagogy, and design (design, color coding, audio, Braille writing). The content validity analysis was conducted using the Content Validity Index (CVI) method. The findings indicate that the developed instrument has a satisfactory validity value with a CVI score of 1.00—demonstrating that the items developed are accurate in evaluating teaching aids specifically for SVI. Therefore, the developed instrument is deemed suitable for assessing teaching aids that utilize tactile and audio technology specifically for SVI use.
The Impact of Work Stress Management on Organizational Learning among Female Police Officers: A Systematic Literature Review/ Kesan Pengurusan Tekanan Kerja Terhadap Pembelajaran Organisasi dalam Kalangan Pegawai Polis Wanita: Sorotan Literatur Sistematik
Work stress management has become an important factor in improving organizational learning, especially in high-stress professions such as police officers. This systematic literature review article explores the impact of managing work stress on organizational learning among female police officers, examining how gender-related stress affects their ability to engage in learning activities. Using Peter Senge's Learning Organization model as a theoretical basis, the paper discusses how effective stress management can create an environment conducive to continuous learning. This study also presents a framework for future research that integrates stress management and Senge's model to improve organizational resilience and learning outcomes. The methodology of this study uses a systematic literature review approach to analyze the highlights of the existing literature from 2017 to 2024. A total of 65 articles from Google Scholar, Scopus, Web of Science, PsycINFO, PubMed, ProQuest Dissertations and Theses Global databases have been analyzed to obtain a conceptual formulation for this study. Findings indicated that all of these articles focused specifically on job stress management strategies in the law enforcement context, including mental health interventions, peer support systems, and workplace wellness programs aimed at reducing occupational stress. The study concludes by recommending how stress management interventions have been used for female officers, with an emphasis on the unique challenges that female officers face in the profession.