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The crypto assets market is growing rapidly, exposing investors to new risks. As a result, finding viable candidates to hedge and diversify crypto portfolios is a critical and timely topic. In this paper, we explore the potential of gold-backed cryptocurrencies as safe haven assets in the context of building a diversified digital assets portfolio. Empirically, we investigate the financial properties (diversification, safe haven, and hedging capabilities) of two gold-backed cryptocurrencies against the three main digital assets categories, i.e. traditional cryptocurrencies, Non-Fungible Tokens (NFTs), and Decentralized Finance (DeFi) tokens, considering major external and internal crises. We also estimate the hedge ratios and the hedging effectiveness of the considered pairs. Overall, our findings indicate that the examined gold-backed cryptocurrencies are good diversifiers, with varying hedging, and safe haven properties depending on the nature of the crises, such as the COVID-19 pandemic and the Russia–Ukraine War, as well as the digital asset category considered. Several financial implications for investors and policymakers are proposed and discussed. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

With the recent rapid technological advance, second language (L2) educators have increasingly incorporated technologies into writing pedagogy. Two of the major technologies to promote L2 writing are e-portfolios and automated written corrective feedback (AWCF). Notably, feedback-rich portfolios facilitate L2 learners' self-regulation and writing development. In addition, AWCF itself can help them notice the gap between their interlanguage and the target language (i.e., the AWCF) in the writing process and incorporate the noticed language features. However, fewer technologies have been developed to maximize the combined use of e-portfolios and AWCF. This review proposes that the use of Notion as an e-portfolio platform and its embedded artificial intelligence (AI) (i.e., Notion AI) as an AWCF generator has significant potential to address such issues uniquely and seamlessly. Notion is a freemium application where users can manage their tasks on one platform individually and collaboratively, while Notion AI is an AI-powered writing assistant that edits users' texts in terms of lexico-grammar, cohesion and structure. This technology review reports an overview of the complementary use of Notion and Notion AI and discusses their affordances and limitations for L2 writing pedagogy. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The emergence of Generative Artificial Intelligence (GenAI) raises critical questions about learner autonomy and agency. This exploratory case study examines how four university-level German language learners with diverse backgrounds developed autonomy in their learning process through engagement with AI tools. The study was conducted in early 2023 when most learners were first discovering ChatGPT's potential for language learning. Data were collected through reflective journals, digital portfolios, and interviews during a semester-long course that scaffolded self-directed learning with AI integration. The findings reveal emerging patterns of shared agency between learners and AI tools. Learners developed distinct strategies for AI integration based on their language learning backgrounds, with heritage speakers focusing on accuracy improvement while classroom learners emphasized communication practice. Cross-case analyses identified key dimensions of autonomy development: a critical evaluation of AI output, evolving learner–AI relationships, maintaining and developing a second language (L2) voice, and the strategic integration of AI tools while preserving learner agency. These patterns suggest that autonomy in AI-mediated environments manifests through learners' capacity to engage productively with AI while maintaining critical awareness and personal agency in their learning process. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This study aims to develop e-modules for kindergarten that adhere to a valid thematic learning model and include learning conditions that emphasize online learning concepts. This product was created with the aid of Publisher 2007 and Kvisolf Flip Maker Pro. and utilized the analysis, design, development, implementation, and evaluation (ADDIE) framework for the development research. Two media experts and content experts assess the viability of the thematic learning-based e-modules after the design and development stages are completed. The effectiveness and reception of e-modules as resources for remote learning from the comfort of one's own home are assessed by participants through the revision and validation processes. Considering the analysis results of experts and participants evaluation response, the initial modules were finally ready for further use. The participants assess the developed e-modules was compliant with certain criteria and its validity by examining the outcomes of material and design validation. Around 92 percent of the respondents consider the results obtained from data analysis to be exceedingly practical. Furthermore, the e-modules that are integrated with the thematic learning model demonstrate an average effectiveness of 83 percent and are thus classified as "effective." The findings of this research demonstrate that the implementation of electronic modules that are customized for early childhood development and that employ the thematic learning model yields remarkable advantages. It is highly recommended that educators, learners, and supervisors make extensive use of electronic modules that have been created within the thematic learning framework. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The advent of digital platforms that allow creatives to showcase their portfolios in public has resulted in the transformation of these platforms into communication spaces that transcend the original model. There has been a shift in approach from mere exposure to a more commodified, but also more interactive, model that allows any creative to sell their brand and establish diverse links, just as they would on any other social network. The objective of this article is to identify the key elements and causes of this transformation, to explain their position in relation to other fields, and to draw out the implications or pending questions on which reflection is required in light of their rapid evolution. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

In Taiwan, traditional student assessments, covering academic and extracurricular achievements, have shifted from paper to electronic portfolios (e-portfolios). However, limited trust among institutions restricts students from freely sharing and using their educational data. This paper introduces a self-sovereign identity-based infrastructure aimed at enhancing personal data security within the e-portfolio ecosystem. The proposed system includes two core components: (1) a decentralized identity chain, aligning user identities across platforms and granting users full self-sovereign control; and (2) an e-portfolio application chain to manage user interactions and access permissions within the ecosystem. A trusted educational authority also audits data sources, ensuring data integrity and reliability. This infrastructure empowers users to control who can access their data, safeguarding their security, with the identity chain preventing unauthorized access and the application chain recording authorization statuses to restrict data visibility to approved parties only. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The information resources of the Students' Scientific Society (SSS) at the University of Library Studies and Information Technologies (ULSIT) in Bulgaria are presented in the current article as an example of reference-information mapping. The retrospective channel of this modeling, structured in 29 e-libraries (2005–), designed for universities, libraries and civil society, was defined as an interdisciplinary cluster of the informatization in Bulgaria with wide international resonance. The methodology of development of the e-libraries and the used terminology define them as a secondary-documental resources. The semantic aspects of the е-libraries are shown as a unified system that is rooted in the universal humanitarian studies and virtually organized around the model of theoretical and practical methodological directions for organization of reference information retrieval databases. The perspectives of the development of similar information resources in the future are revealed. The creation of these e-libraries was part of a pedagogical practice through which students of Library Studies and Information Technologies learned information modeling in an open laboratory environment. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Due to increasing digitalization, most companies have added online retail as a new business model (BM) separate from their initial physical BM, requiring them to manage a portfolio of BMs. The literature points out that companies choose between a separation or integration strategy to manage their multiple BMs. However, business cases show that companies adopting a separation strategy may then plan for a possible integration strategy. Despite the growing knowledge in the BM portfolio literature, scholars and practitioners still lack a comprehensive understanding of the integration process of two BMs that were initially managed separately. This qualitative research draws on a cumulative multiple case study of five retailers to analyze how incumbent firms with different BMs manage their integration. We show that these firms pivoted the management of their BM portfolio. The notion of pivoting has been studied from the perspective of a single BM. In this research, we demonstrate that the process of pivoting also applies to the management of several BMs. Our results provide a generic model of the BM integration process that underlines barriers and enabling pivoting factors. Finally, by considering pivoting at this corporate level, our research adds to the ongoing discussion in strategic management regarding the way companies manage the dynamics of their BM portfolio. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Purpose: This study aimed to investigate the difference in satisfaction and learning benefits between e-portfolios compared to paper portfolios during clinical practice in medical schools. Methods: Utilization of and satisfaction with e-portfolios among 40 third-year medical students in the medicine department of Ajou University School of Medicine was collected using an online survey in December 2020. The collected data were analyzed using descriptive statistics and an analysis of variance. Results: Students perceived that e-portfolios were highly beneficial for consistently documenting activities during clinical practice, when compared to paper-based portfolios (mean±standard deviation [SD]=2.60±1.22). However, the least rated aspect was that e-portfolios require less time than paper-based portfolios (mean±SD=1.80±1.14). Additionally, among the various clinical practice courses using e-portfolios, the highest satisfaction was observed with the fewest content items in the e-portfolio. Conclusion: To maximize the potential benefits of e-portfolios, improvements in implementation and usability are essential. Additionally, for effective utilization of e-portfolios in clinical practice, it is necessary to clearly define students’ required competencies and ultimate goals, and structure content accordingly [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The article explores how QTLS accreditation can enhance evidence-informed practice in further education (FE) settings. QTLS, awarded by the Society for Education and Training (SET), validates teachers' expertise in FE and encourages the integration of research evidence with practitioner knowledge. Teachers seeking QTLS accreditation must demonstrate their competence in delivering high-quality teaching and learning through a portfolio that showcases their ability to engage with evidence-informed practice. The article emphasizes the role of QTLS in promoting evidence-informed leadership and driving positive outcomes in FE, while acknowledging the challenges and opportunities associated with the accreditation process. It discusses the challenges faced by teachers pursuing QTLS accreditation, such as the need for mentorship programs, access to resources and workshops, and financial barriers. The article suggests addressing these challenges on an institutional level to ensure equitable access to professional development opportunities and promote evidence-informed practices within FE institutions. [Extracted from the article]

This paper presents one project on integrating digital innovation in faculty development by creating academic portfolios. Academic portfolios document the multifaceted achievements of faculty members and help them in their professional progress and self-evaluation. This initiative adopted a systematic approach following the TU guidelines, incorporating lectures, mentoring, and collaborative sessions, and guiding educators to create portfolios that integrate teaching, research, and service activities. The project's use of digital tools enabled time efficiency, accessibility, and iterative improvement and improved the transparency and scope of faculty performance. The digital platform also facilitated real-time feedback and integration of the portfolio with a wider digital repository, which aligns with environmentally sustainable practices. Participant feedback highlighted increased motivation and a deeper understanding of the interaction between teaching and research. The project demonstrated that the digital portfolio powerfully aligned teachers' activities with their professional ethos and promoted continuous development and personal growth goals. This approach suggests the potential for transforming faculty development in the academic community. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Objective: To develop and validate e-portfolios for undergraduate medical students in the subject of Pediatrics. Methods: A descriptive study was conducted among the second year medical undergraduate students. A core committee validated the e-portfolio created on the Google platform. The students were sensitized, trained on the platform, and encouraged to innovate by designing the e-portfolios themselves, and record their clinical experiences under the mentorship of faculty. The feedback was collected using a validated student and faculty questionnaire with closed and open ended questions. Satisfaction index was calculated based on the responses to closed ended questions using Likert scale. Open ended questions were analyzed using thematic approach. Results: The study enrolled 34 students and 12 faculty members. Students recorded a high satisfaction index on their experience to be interesting (97%), well structured (85%), user-friendly (82%), and on being able to archive their clinical experiences (100%). Faculty members recorded a high satisfaction index (100%) in students' ability to record their clinical knowledge and reflect on their learning and innovation; all were motivated to use e-portfolios in their specialty. The thematic analysis highlighted student satisfaction with accessibility and organized record-keeping, while faculty praised e-portfolios for nurturing creativity and aiding memory retention. Concerns included resource intensiveness, design prioritization, and privacy issues. Conclusion: E-portfolios are rated as promising tools to record comprehensive clinical experience in pediatric by undergraduate students and faculty. Addressing identified challenges will further optimize their adoption in medical curricula, facilitating informed integration decisions. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: Electronic portfolios (e-portfolios) are valuable tools to scaffold workplace learning. Feedback is an essential element of the learning process, but it often lacks quality when incorporated in ePortfolios, while research on how to incorporate feedback into an ePortfolio design is scarce. Objectives: To compare the ease of use, usefulness and attitude among three feedback formats integrated in an ePortfolio: open-text feedback, structured-text feedback and speech-to-text feedback. Methods: In a mixed method designed experiment, we tested with 85 participants from different healthcare disciplines, three feedback formats in an ePortfolio prototype. Participants provided feedback on students' behaviour after observing video-recorded simulation scenarios. After this, participants completed a questionnaire derived from the Technology Acceptance Model (TAM). The experiment ended with a semi-structured interview. Results: Structured-text feedback received highest scores on perceived ease of use, usefulness, and attitude. This type of feedback was preferred above open-text feedback (currently the standard), and speech-to-text feedback. However, qualitative research results indicated that speech-to-text feedback is potentially valuable for feedback input on-premise. Respondents would use it to record short feedback immediately after an incident as a reminder for more expanded written feedback later or to record oral feedback to a student. Implications: Structured-text feedback was recommended over open-text feedback. The quality of the speech-to-text technology used in this experiment, was insufficient to use in a professional ePortfolio but holds the potential to improve the feedback process and should be considered when designing new versions of ePortfolios for healthcare education. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

In the quest for educational innovation, this study examines the strategic role of digital portfolios in language education, which is crucial for fostering autonomy and enhancing achievements. Within the learning-oriented assessment (LOA) framework, the integration of digital portfolios is found to align summative and formative assessments, providing a comprehensive view of linguistic and pedagogical development. Despite challenges, the transformative potential of these tools is evident, suggesting that with careful refinement, they can significantly advance language education. The study advocates for nuanced evaluative frameworks and pedagogical feedback mechanisms to optimize their utility. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

We consider an optimal liquidation problem with instantaneous price impact and stochastic resilience for small instantaneous impact factors. Within our modelling framework, the optimal portfolio process converges to the solution of an optimal liquidation problem with general semimartingale controls when the instantaneous impact factor converges to zero. Our results provide a unified framework within which to embed the two most commonly used modelling frameworks in the liquidation literature and provide a foundation for the use of semimartingale liquidation strategies and the use of portfolio processes of unbounded variation. Our convergence results are based on novel convergence results for BSDEs with singular terminal conditions and novel representation results of BSDEs in terms of uniformly continuous functions of forward processes. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

"Preserving Useful Knowledge: A History of Collections Care at the APS Library" is a book that explores the history of collections care at the American Philosophical Society (APS) Library in Philadelphia. The author, Renée Wolcott, argues for the preservation of historic conservation practices and emphasizes the importance of considering the multilayered histories of collection items and the stewards of those items. The book provides a comprehensive overview of the evolution of conservation as a profession and highlights notable conservators and their contributions throughout history. Wolcott also advocates for improved documentation of conservation treatments to better understand their impact on objects and make informed treatment decisions. This book is valuable for conservators, curators, librarians, and anyone interested in the history of collections care and preservation. [Extracted from the article]

Background and Objectives: Mentoring has been introduced in medical professions; nonetheless, formal mentoring for medical students did not develop until the late 1990s. The present study sought to assess the impact of mentoring alone and along with a portfolio on the improvement of students' academic performance. Materials and Methods: In this case-control research, the case group consisted of first-semester students of general medicine in the course of skeletal-muscular anatomy. They received the mentoring program and electronic portfolio. The control group in this study encompassed 2021 incoming general medicine students who were not administered the mentoring program. Mentors in this research were third-semester students. The program was implemented for students during one semester, and the results were analyzed using SPSS software (version 20). Results: The results demonstrated that mentoring was effective in end-ofsemester scores; therefore, there was a significant difference between the endof-semester grades of the two control groups and the case group (P=0.013). There was no significant difference in midterm scores (P=0.157). In addition, the results indicated no significant difference among the six groups of mentee students. Three groups benefited from the mentor alone, and three groups benefited from the mentor plus the electronic portfolio (P=0.323). Conclusion: The findings of the present research confirmed that the use of mentoring increased scores in the case group. Using the mentorship method improves students' knowledge. This method is based on student-centered education. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This study presents a proposal for a method that uses a digital portfolio for developing self-regulated learning among engineering students with two main objectives: 1) to design a method for the self-regulated development of a digital portfolio and 2) to propose an instrument that allows measuring self-regulated development using a digital portfolio. The design-based research approach is applied with a case study having a sample of 137 students. Data are gathered at the beginning and at the end of a semester. As a result, seven workshops, the measurement instrument, and the case study are described. It is observed that there is an increase in medians from the beginning to the end of the semester, showing the teaching of concepts and processes necessary for self-regulated learning. In conclusion, the self-regulated method for developing a digital portfolio is a solution that allows fomenting self-regulation among students by applying planning, learning strategies, and reflective thinking. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

e-Government Maturity Models are essential tools for governments to assess and improve their e-government capabilities, performance, and impact. This article offers a pioneering systematic mapping study and comparative analysis of e-Government Maturity Models proposed between 2010 and 2022, marking a significant stride in the realm of e-government research. The review focuses on these recent models and compares their approaches, frameworks, and dimensions. Previous comparison research studies conducted before 2010 are also reviewed to provide an inclusive context for understanding the evolution and advancement of e-government maturity models. The study is the first to systematically map and compare e-Government Maturity Models proposed in recent years, also comparing with the previous decade. Employing a mixed-methods approach, this article meticulously dissects and contrasts various models, shedding light on the evolution, strengths, and weaknesses of e-government maturity frameworks over more than a decade. The research contributes to the literature by revealing underlying discrepancies in current models and proposing a synthesized perspective that integrates technological advancements and administrative strategies, providing insights into opportunities for future research and practice. The findings of the study can be used to develop a new generation of e-government maturity models that are more comprehensive and relevant to the current needs of governments. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Blockchain technology has captured the attention of various industries due to its potential to revolutionize traditional systems through decentralization, transparency and immutability. This paper examines the emerging trend of integrating blockchain-based decentralized applications (DApps) into the education sector. With blockchain's distributed ledger system, educational institutions can achieve safe, secure and transparent management of student achievements, certifications and credentials. The paper presents the architecture of a system that enables students to build verifiable digital portfolios of educational achievements stored and shared securely using smart contracts and digital tokens. By harnessing the benefits and addressing the challenges of blockchain DAppps in education, we can pave the way for a truly transformative era in the learning experience of tomorrow. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

We examine firm value and performance implications of the growing trend of nontechnology companies engaging in activities relating to digital technologies. We measure digital activities in firms based on the disclosure of digital words in the business description section of 10-Ks. Digital activities are associated with a market-to-book ratio 8%–26% higher than industry peers, and only 25% of the differences in market-to-book is explained by accounting capitalization restrictions. To control for selection bias, we implement lagged dependent variable and IV regressions, and our market-to-book findings are robust to these specifications. Portfolios formed on digital activity disclosure earn a Daniel et al. The Journal of Finance 52 (3): 1035–1058 (1997)-adjusted return of 30% over a three-year horizon and a monthly alpha of 44-basis-points. On the other hand, we find weak evidence of near-term, positive improvements in fundamental performance, as we find some evidence of interim productivity increases but declines in sales growth conditional on digital activities. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The text discusses Taiwan Bar Studio, a media company in Taiwan that creates animated videos on YouTube. The studio aims to educate Taiwanese people, particularly the younger generation, by providing e-learning content on various topics. Their animated short film, "Taiwan for Sale?" offers an alternative narrative to the school curriculum by discussing Taiwan's colonial history from the perspective of the Japanese colonizer. The text also explores the use of cute and healing characters in the studio's animated series "Taiwan Bar" to explore Taiwanese history and identity. The series promotes indigenous identity and opens a dialogue about Taiwan's colonial history. The text also discusses the challenges of translation and subtitling in a multilingual environment and provides references for further research on the history of Taiwan and media translation. [Extracted from the article]

In recent years, digital platforms in agriculture went through a phase of acquisitions and consolidation, where big players like agrochemical companies (Agrichems) and agricultural equipment manufacturers (OEMs) worked on expanding their technology stacks to build strategic portfolios of digital service offerings. To operate farm equipment efficiently, a combination of platforms and technologies is often needed, leading to the emergence of digital Agri-ecosystems. With the rising implementation of IoT technology, digital Agri-ecosystems enable multi-layer digital services and break down established categories (cloud-based and embedded). Content providers and developers creating those digital services face three options: aggregated cloud APIs (application programming interfaces), engineering service providers with proprietary technology stacks, and dedicated IoT ecosystems offering agnostic end-to-end workflows for development and deployment (first known example: NEVONEX). It is not yet fully understood how using an end-to-end IoT ecosystem changes developer requirements in comparison to existing solutions. Therefore, in this study, an example of a multi-layer digital service is developed and tested. Expert interviews (n = 21) explore relevant developer experiences and requirements. A consecutive survey (n = 30; NEVONEX developer conference) validates the findings. Results show that IoT- ecosystems speed up development and deployment cycles, save resources, and improve interoperability in operations. Engineering service providers remain very important players. Partner management, communication, abstraction of interfaces, testing infrastructure, and early end-user input are required by developers. In conclusion, IoT- ecosystems are beneficial for multi-layer digital service development; however, to fully satisfy developers and content providers, adjustments to platform functionalities and better testing opportunities on real farms are needed. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This paper investigates sectoral diversification within Borsa Istanbul, aiming to elucidate its impact on portfolio risk and return dynamics. Spanning the timeframe from 2020 to 2022, the study meticulously analyzes stocks from pivotal sectors, including banking, energy, and iron and steel. Employing a robust methodology, the research harnesses Monte Carlo simulations to generate many hypothetical portfolios, subsequently evaluating them on the Efficient Frontier to identify optimal risk-return tradeoffs. Key performance metrics, such as the Sharpe Ratio, Sortino Ratio, and Maximum Drawdown, further enrich the analysis, providing a granular view of portfolio behaviors. The significance of this study lies in its bridging of theoretical constructs of diversification with the tangible realities of an emerging market like Borsa Istanbul. Our main findings underscore the potential benefits of sectoral diversification while highlighting the complexities inherent in portfolio construction. The insights gleaned offer valuable guidance for investors, emphasizing the delicate balance between risk mitigation and return optimization in a diversified portfolio. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Adapting engineering education to a sustainable ESP (English for Special Purposes) training and competence-based education requires dedicated effort. Although active learning methodologies are commonly utilised in Higher Education institutions, there remains a need for enhanced curricular coordination and coherence. To address this, we are investigating the latest syllabus updates by introducing and verifying a valuable and student-friendly tool – an electronic portfolio in English. We view the ePortfolio as a comprehensive platform to facilitate students' academic and professional growth, as well as their development of competences. This quasi-experimental study utilised a pre-/post-training trial design and nonrandomised control group to investigate the implementation of ePortfolios. During the diagnostic assessment, the first questionnaire allowed students to express their ideas regarding their competences, portfolio understanding, ESP and professional growth. The second was used to determine the undergraduates' learning outcomes and perceptions after three months of training. There was a significant increase in learners' support of several types of transversal competences, whereas some other competences appeared to be declining. This indicates that the ePortfolio tool stimulated a fresh process of self-reflection among the students. Our research focuses on examining the creation of the ePortfolio in the context of an ESP course to integrate technical students' reflections on capacity building and advanced professional development in English. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

PURPOSE Work Integrated Learning (WIL) supports learners to acquire transferable skills and graduate attributes for employability through placements in settings aligned with their future profession. The purpose of this paper is to explore, student reflections on the attainment of transferable skills and university graduate attributes on health service management (HSM) work integrated learning placements in one Australian University. DESIGN/METHODOLOGY/APPROACH The study used data collected from e-portfolios from two cohorts of students who completed placements in the health industry. Structured e-portfolios recorded student reflections, these were analysed both quantitatively and qualitatively. To analyse the reflections, content analysis and mapping of narratives to transferable skills and University graduate attributes was used to evidence their attainment by learners on placement. FINDINGS The data demonstrated that students attained transferable skills and university attributes and reflected upon them in their e-portfolios. However, not all transferable skills and attributes were evidenced in student portfolios. Ethical thoughts and actions, respect and capability with First Peoples, citizenship and social responsibility, negotiation and conflict resolution, research and organizational membership were not comprehensively demonstrated. Reflective skills and learning how to reflect could be further emphasised and practiced within the curricula. The outcomes of the study can be used to strengthen the focus of reflective e-portfolios, inform the development of HSM curricula and support academics teaching in WIL programs to further clarify expectations on reflection. ORIGINALITY This paper is of interest to universities aiming to equip graduates with transferable skills and the attributes to thrive in complex and rapidly changing work environments. The study identified further research opportunities that could inform the design and content of e-portfolios to demonstrate the skills attained on placement. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: Bank profitability is more than just a financial indicator; it is a reflection of the health and vitality of the banking sector and the economy as a whole. Profitable banks help to maintain financial stability by increasing resilience, facilitating capital formation and intermediation, promoting innovation and adaptability, and instilling confidence and trust. Hence, profitability is critical in the banking sector since it directly influences policymakers, regulators, and bank management. Therefore, the study will estimate the influence of specific bank and economic-legal determinants on return on assets in the Republic of North Macedonia. Thus, the study aims to estimate the influence of specific bank and economic-legal determinants on return on assets in the Republic of Northern Macedonia. Methods: The study employs the methodology of the Vector Error Correction Model (VECM) and covers quarterly data from 2007 to 2022. To conduct the empirical analysis required to identify and assess the factors of bank profitability, quantitative data were gathered primarily from the National Bank of the Republic of North Macedonia, the International Monetary Fund (IMF), and the World Bank. Return on Assets was used as a dependent variable. The set of factors is composed into two groups: the first includes bank-specific (controlled) factors such as the sectors’ size, credit risk, capital adequacy, liquidity, income diversification, efficiency of operations, and non-performing loans. The second group includes macroeconomic (uncontrolled) factors such as economic growth, inflation, and interest rates. Results and Conclusions: Results reveal that the size of the banking sector, the risk of the credit, liquidity, income diversification and non-performing loans have a meaningful but negative influence on the response variable. However, capital adequacy, operational efficiency, GDP and interest rate have an important positive impact. Hence, based on the empirical analyses, to boost profitability, the Macedonian banking system should prioritise asset management as a size indication, raising the non-income ratio to diversify revenue, reducing credit risk and non-performing loans, and maintaining a good liquidity ratio. Furthermore, there is clear evidence that second-level banks should extend beyond national borders. Better loan portfolio management, greater technology with database processing and communication improvements, and expanded technology with database processing and communication improvements can strengthen the ability to deal with the next crisis. Additionally, banks should increase non-interest revenue by employing it as a risk outlet in banking and distributing it across many income-generating enterprises, enhancing profitability. These findings offer insights for bank executives and regulators interested in increasing bank profitability and stability. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The disruption caused by the Covid pandemic to expectations of and assumptions surrounding already disputed concepts, such as engagement and participation within the student journey throughout tertiary education, remains wicked in its unruliness. As such, our ability as practitioners to anticipate and manage students' (and our own) expectations in both physical and virtual learning spaces is dynamic and fragile. However, the in-between space created by the tension of the desire to nurture a new normal and avoid The Snapback (Bryant, 2021), gives rise not only to uncertainty, but scope to innovate for enhancement. This case study will share reflections on using an e-portfolio assessment to address and consolidate the mooted four foundations of belonging in HE (Blake et al., 2022); connection, inclusion, support, and autonomy. The paper will consider the implications of facilitating and promoting these dimensions in the context of supporting an ever-more heterogeneous student population within tertiary education, for whom recent experiences of formal, post-compulsory education may have been disjointed or interrupted. The e-portfolio (using Pebblepad) supports engagement within the case study university's embedded Academic, Professional and Personal Development curriculum framework, which has been designed to support learners with diverse and rich prior experiences of learning and, using an academic literacies (Lea & Street, 2006) based ethos, facilitate the extrapolation of existing competences and confidence to the academic domain. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The COVID-19 pandemic emphasized the need for improving teachers' online teaching skills. One skill was using electronic portfolio assessment. Electronic portfolio assessment as an alternative assessment does not only focus on cognitive aspects but also is in line with the regulations of the Ministry of Education regarding the assessment of learning outcomes that focus not only on cognitive aspects but also on aspects of skills and attitudes. This study aimed to develop a framework for electronic portfolio assessment to improve students' habits of mind and mastery of chemical studies concepts. We conducted a literature review to identify, categorize, synthesize and develop a framwork. This offers chemistry teachers a model for systematically designing and implementing an electronic portfolio of assessments and provides them with the instruments to conduct further research on assessment techniques. This framework guides chemistry teachers through important technical decisions, such as setting goals, identifying clear goals and establishing meaningful criteria for electronic portfolio assessment. Other issues discussed include defining the content of the electronic portfolio, managing the electronic portfolio, and monitoring and evaluating processes. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Brett Christophers' book "Our Lives in Their Portfolios. Why Asset Managers Own the World" is a dense and challenging read that requires a deep understanding of the subject matter. The author presents a detailed analysis of the network of interrelationships in today's advanced forms of capitalism, focusing on the rise of rentier capitalism and the power of oligarchs. Christophers argues that asset managers are playing a significant role in the enclosure of public goods and the decline of tax revenues, leading to a redistribution of wealth from the public sector to the financial elite. The book provides empirical evidence to support these claims and highlights the urgent need for public intervention to protect society from the negative consequences of these practices. [Extracted from the article]

This research sought to examine the impact of electronic portfolio-based writing instruction on the second language writing performance and writing self-efficacy of Chinese English as a foreign language (EFL) learners. A total of 64 participants were divided into two groups, an experimental group (n = 31) and a control group (n = 33). The experimental group was given electronic portfolio-based instruction via Edmodo platform, while the control group received only traditional in-class writing instruction without the use of Edmodo. Two sample IELTS tasks and Writing Self-efficacy scale were administered to collect the quantitative data. Further, semi-structured interviews were carried out with participants in the experimental group to gather qualitative data on their perceptions and experiences with electronic portfolio-based writing instruction. The results of paired samples t-tests and ANCOVAs indicated that electronic portfolio-based writing instruction significantly improved global writing performance and its underlying components, namely content, organization, language use, vocabulary, and mechanics, as well as the writing self-efficacy of Chinese EFL learners. Qualitative results revealed several themes, including increased motivation, improved feedback, enhanced collaboration, improved writing skills, and increased writing self-efficacy. Overall, the study demonstrates that electronic portfolio can be a valuable tool for EFL writing instruction and has a positive impact on writing performance and writing self-efficacy for Chinese EFL learners. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The article discusses a book titled "Governing Climate Change in Southeast Asia: Critical Perspectives," which provides an in-depth analysis of climate change governance in Southeast Asia. The book examines the challenges faced by countries in the region, including diverse political systems and vulnerability to climate change impacts. It includes chapters written by regional experts from various institutions and covers topics such as climate change impacts, governance at the national and local levels, and stakeholder involvement. The book also highlights the different approaches to climate governance in countries like Indonesia, Malaysia, and Singapore, which have made significant commitments to reduce emissions. This text provides an overview of climate change policies and governance in Southeast Asian countries, specifically Indonesia, Malaysia, and Singapore. It highlights the challenges and obstacles faced in integrating climate change into national development plans and the different approaches taken by each country. The text emphasizes the need for multi-level governance and social transformation to achieve climate change mitigation targets and sustainable development goals. Overall, the book offers critical perspectives on climate governance in Southeast Asia and is recommended for students, academics, and policymakers interested in the topic. [Extracted from the article]

Although e-Portfolio is acknowledged as one of the powerful pedagogical practices that enhance learning in higher education (HE), not much is known about the types of social media (SM) utilized as e-Portfolios and the benefits for students. This literature analysis, using directed content analysis, aims to explore the above vacuum. The research questions in this study are: (1) In what ways do the SM as e-Portfolios benefit students in HE? (2) To what extent are the benefits of SM as e-Portfolios comparable to those of conventional e-Portfolios? and (3) What are the drawbacks that practitioners and researchers need to be concerned with? Findings indicate that blogs are the most popular SM used as e-Portfolios to support learning, followed by social networking sites and collaborative projects. The study yields 13 advantages and 12 drawbacks when SM is manipulated as e-Portfolios. These findings conclude that the use of SM as e-Portfolios has a great potential in supporting students' learning and development by providing an environment for them to learn meaningfully from their experiences and engage in critical reflections and dialogues that allow them to gain new knowledge and valuable insights and thus, improve their skills. A pedagogical framework for the planning and implementation of SM as e-Portfolios is suggested based on the findings and aims of the papers that were reviewed. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This study was based on the experiences and attitudes of the preschool teachers in the application of digital technologies when teaching environmental contents. 180 preschool teachers from preschool institutions in the Republic of Serbia, with different work experience and different digital skills, participated in the research. The obtained results demonstrated that the preschool teachers’competencies decrease with the increase in the number of years of work experience, indicating that competencies for the application of digital tools were more developed in the preschool teachers with modest work experience. They also exhibited a greater level of experience in using digital technologies regarding environmental education. The results also showed that there was a significant connection between the application of digital technologies in different domains of the preschool teacher’s work (such as: ideas search, research on the grounds and topics that initiate the project, project development, a portfolio design and evidence of one’s own practice, publication of activities in digital format - in scientific publications, at congresses, on a personal blog and/or preschool institution’s website). Thus in the mentioned domains of work, preschool teachers with significant work experience, applied digital technologies less often when compared to the colleagues with shorter employment history. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This research study considers third-level student experiences of electronic portfolio (ePortfolio) implementation during their education that occurred during the Covid-19 lockdowns. Adopting a mixed-methods approach, the purpose of this study was to identify the main challenges students face and document their experiences at an Irish higher education institution (HEI). The main challenges identified by students were a lack of time, lack of technical support, a lack of feedback received, and a dislike of information technology (IT). The key findings will provide insight about how ePortfolios can be better supported and implemented. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

In the rapidly evolving financial industry landscape, the convergence of digital and physical realms, known as the 'phygital era', presents novel challenges for boards that aim to build digital trust and strengthen their financial resilience while fostering responsible innovation and maintaining their competitive edge in the global business arena. These encompass people management, processes and their digital technology portfolio. Building a new phygital culture, upskilling and reskilling the workforce, deploying a mix of intelligent automation and hybrid augmented workflows and deploying frontier technologies responsibly are now on the agenda for forward-thinking boards. The latest deep tech innovation trends in financial services offer exponential pathways for innovative solutions yet increase cybersecurity threats, create new ethical dilemmas and demand a new risk tolerance from board executives. Novel risk management styles, the value of harmonising cyber and ethics programmes, and leadership traits are potentially viable solutions for risk management at the board level in this phygital era. This paper proposes a trifecta that financial industry boards can embrace to adapt their risk governance to the demands of this phygital era: zero trust cybersecurity, ethics by design and risk management by design. By deploying this combination of strategies, boards within the finance industry can successfully navigate the complexities of the phygital era and steer their organisations towards a more secure, trustworthy and sustainable future. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Peter Coates's book, "Squirrel Nation: Reds, Greys and the Meaning of Home," examines the complex relationship between humans and squirrel populations in the UK. It explores the decline of red squirrels and the rise of grey squirrels, considering factors like habitat loss, disease, and human intervention. Coates challenges the perception of red squirrels as beloved and grey squirrels as unloved, emphasizing their similarities. The book also touches on national identity, conservation, and changing attitudes towards grey squirrels. While the book could benefit from more critical engagement and diverse perspectives, it is a valuable resource for those interested in the topic. The article discusses the strengths and weaknesses of the book, acknowledging its lack of critical distance but also recognizing its value for passionate squirrel enthusiasts. It also mentions other works that explore the relationship between humans and non-human beings. [Extracted from the article]

This article provides a collection of interviews and articles on innovation and technology, featuring insights from experts in the field. Topics discussed include generative AI, blockchain, talent development, digital transformation, ethics, and business model innovation. The importance of understanding and engaging with these technologies and concepts is emphasized for shaping a better future. The document also includes summaries and resources on topics such as role definition in innovation, human-centered organizations, ambidexterity in managing innovation, and effective portfolio management. [Extracted from the article]

This study involved 51 Chinese universities from the Quacquarelli Symonds (QS) World University Ranking 2021. With based the resource-based view (RBV) as a framework, it aimed to identify the determinants of human resource capital that were related to universities' production of MOOCs. Three determinants were detected--size, lifelong learning, and proximity to the political centre. Both size and proximity to the political centre proved to be significant. The findings provide timely implications for university managers and suggest that the variety of management spaces be expanded to increase the portfolio of high-quality Chinese universities that facilitate the production of MOOCs. In addition, universities should increase their proximity awareness to remedy the disadvantages of uneven resource allocation due to geographical proximity. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]