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Samira Daniali, Amir Hossein Seddighi,
Volume 9, Issue 2 (9-2022)
Volume 9, Issue 2 (9-2022)
Abstract
Background and Aim: Data as a strategic asset in any organization requires proper and effective management in order to provide transformative opportunities for the organization. In addition, the increase in the volume of data has forced organizations to move towards collecting, classifying and analyzing data so that they can identify the customer's needs and respond to them at the right time and in the right way. On the one hand, to manage such a volume of data and on the other hand, to maximize the business value resulting from the analyses based on these data, a concept called data governance has been introduced. Data governance is a system for determining the responsibilities, policies and standards used in connection with data-driven processes at the organization level, which tries to take steps to transform organization's data into business values while maintaining and increasing the quality of data. From this point of view, data governance is considered as a strategic program that aims to guide and monitor the various data dimensions of the organization in order to solve internal problems around data, and to improve collaboration between business and information technology departments. It will lead to increase productivity in data management and use, and help generate value by pushing the organization towards data-driven decisions. Considering the importance and role of data governance, organizations need to have a clear picture of their situation in this field. Therefore, the need for an approach that can evaluate data governance in organizations is strongly felt. For this purpose, this research tries to find an answer to this need by developing a model for evaluating data governance.
Method: In this research, first, a set of criteria for evaluating data governance is extracted from the literature, and according to the structure of the problem and the opinion of experts, a hierarchical structure is developed for evaluating data governance. Then the evaluation method is established using the proposed structure and a hybrid approach based on Analytic Hierarchy Process (AHP) and Technique for Order of Preference by Similarity to Ideal Solution (TOPSIS). In the following, the proposed approach is used in a case study in the food industry.
In the evaluation method, first, the weight of each criterion is calculated with the help of AHP. In this regard, the following steps are taken.
Method: In this research, first, a set of criteria for evaluating data governance is extracted from the literature, and according to the structure of the problem and the opinion of experts, a hierarchical structure is developed for evaluating data governance. Then the evaluation method is established using the proposed structure and a hybrid approach based on Analytic Hierarchy Process (AHP) and Technique for Order of Preference by Similarity to Ideal Solution (TOPSIS). In the following, the proposed approach is used in a case study in the food industry.
In the evaluation method, first, the weight of each criterion is calculated with the help of AHP. In this regard, the following steps are taken.
- Form a hierarchy
- For the elements of each level of the hierarchy, perform pairwise comparisons according to the expert opinion.
- Calculate the inconsistency rate for each matrix of pairwise comparisons.
- If the inconsistency rate for the matrix was more than 0.1, review the values of the paired comparisons of that matrix.
- Calculate the relative weight of the elements corresponding to each matrix of pairwise comparisons.
- The product of the relative weight of each criterion and the relative weight of all elements related to it, at all higher levels of the hierarchy, gives the final weight of that criterion.
- Now, with the help of the weights calculated for each criterion and using the TOPSIS method, the alternatives will be ranked. The TOPSIS method is based on choosing the alternative that has the smallest distance from the positive ideal solution and the largest distance from the negative ideal solution. In this method, it is assumed that there are m alternatives (organizations) that must be evaluated based on n criteria. The steps of this method are as follows.
- Evaluate the alternatives with respect to each criterion according to the expert opinion.
- Normalize the decision matrix so that the data are on the same scale.
- Obtain the normalized weighted decision matrix by multiplying each component of the normal matrix by the weight of similar criteria.
- Calculate positive ideal and negative ideal solutions.
- Calculate the distance of each alternative from the ideal positive and ideal negative solutions.
- Obtain the closeness coefficient of the alternatives.
- Rank the alternatives in decreasing order of the closeness coefficient.
- Finally, the proposed evaluation method is used to evaluate data governance in five organizations active in the food industry.
Findings: According to the results of this research, data governance can be evaluated at the first level from three different dimensions, which are data quality, internal organizational effects, and external organizational effects. Then, at the second level, different criteria are considered for each dimension of data governance. Data quality evaluation criteria include data accuracy, data completeness, data consistency, data availability, data timeliness, and data uniqueness. The data accuracy measure refers to issues such as the percentage of incorrect information, the percentage of the need for manual corrective actions on the data, and the percentage of change in the retrieval of incorrect information after the implementation of data governance. The data completeness criterion seeks to ensure the completeness of various dimensions of information that the organization must use in its business line, and is related to issues such as the percentage of information filled in the required fields, the percentage of usable information, and the percentage of incomplete information. Data consistency refers to ensuring that the data is consistent and aligned with the policies, rules and values set for the data in the business. Data availability seeks to assess the time the business group has access to critical information and data elements.
Data timeliness refers to the degree to which the data represents reality at a particular point in time.
Data uniqueness means that no information item is recorded more than once in the data set.
The second dimension of data governance evaluation focuses on its internal organizational effects,andthe main criteria in this dimension are data governance efficiency, data governance productivity, and business cost savings. These criteria seek to evaluate the level of involvement, participation and impact of data governance in the organization. Among the important things in evaluating the efficiency of data governance are the number of business lines, functional areas, system areas, project teams, and other parts of the organization that have come together to support monitoring and providing resources for data governance, and in addition, categorizing and tracking the status of all issues that fall within the scope of data governance tasks. The data governance productivity considers the impact of data governance in relation to the amount of support and investment in this area, and includes issues such as the amount of reduction in resources required to coordinate members, products and other entities in data systems, the amount of reduction in work required to solve existing data problems, the percentage of projects or initiatives within the organization that have been identified and eliminated as redundant by the data governance program, and the number of redundant systems eliminated in order to create a single definition of customer, product, or other master data. Finally, the cost savings measure reflects the business value of data governance in terms of internal organizational impacts.
The third dimension of data governance evaluation considers the effects that go beyond the internal boundaries of the organization and affect the entire business of the organization. The criteria considered in this dimension include obtaining and improving customer satisfaction, complying with laws and creating business opportunities, which express the main motivations and drivers of the organization to adopt data governance in the current competitive environment. The customer satisfaction criterion measures the fruit of the efforts made to govern and manage data and turn it into a real business value. On the other hand, there are laws and regulations that are defined in relation to data and depending on the type of business at different national, regional and international levels, and failure to comply with them, in addition to monetary fines, will sometimes result in the suspension or even termination of the organization's business. Therefore, the level of compliance with laws is one of the key criteria in the evaluation of data governance from the perspective of external organizational effects. Finally, it is expected that high-quality data along with analysis and reporting systems will lead to informed decisions and data-driven insights and provide new business opportunities for the organization, which is the subject of the last criterion in this dimension.
Finally, five organizations active in the food industry were examined from the perspective of data governance. According to the information collected from these organizations and using expert opinion, pairwise comparisons were made at different levels of the proposed hierarchy. Then, using AHP, the weight of each dimension and criteria was calculated. According to the results, it can be seen that the external organizational effects is the most important dimension of data governance evaluation in organizations. In addition, customer satisfaction was chosen as the most important evaluation criterion, and compliance with laws and productivity were placed in the next positions. Then, the solutions and the distance of each organization from these solutions were calculated. studied organizations were scored based on the data governance criteria on a scale between zero and ten, and using the TOPSIS method, ideal positive and ideal negative Afterwards, the closeness coefficient and accordingly the rank of each organization was obtained.The results show that the third organization has the best performance in the field of data governance among other organizations, and
the second and fourth or ganizations are placed in the next places with a slight difference from each other.
The fifth organization has a much weaker performance and the first organization is in the last place by a large margin. These results emphasize the applicability of the proposed approach for evaluating data governance and show the steps to perform such an evaluation in a case study in the field of food industry. Such an evaluation in the target organizations can be used as a measure to determine the current state of data governance on the one hand, and on the other hand, it can be used to set goals to reach the desired state in data governance. Moreover, considering the comprehensive and general nature of the proposed approach, it enables its application in other organizations, regardless of their size and type, which is one of the advantages of this approach.
Conclusion: The volume of data is exploding in the last decade and its complexity is continuously increasing. Moreover, organizations have become more adept at using data, which has created new demands that require different methods to combine, change, store and present information. Leading organizations are finding that traditional solutions for data management are becoming more expensive and unable to truly manage the business. Therefore, organizations need to solve these data problems in another way and by implementing an effective data governance. Data governance, by monitoring data quality and aligning it with business goals, is one of the causes of internal organizational changes, such as increased productivity. It has external impacts like increasing customer satisfaction and creating new business opportunities. Therefore, organizations need to use, implement, and evaluate data governance in their business to maintain competitive advantage and comply with laws and regulations. The present study tried to provide an applicable approach to evaluate data governance in organizations. For this purpose, the dimensions of data governance and different criteria for their evaluation were determined using the literature review and the opinion of experts. Then, a hierarchical structure was proposed to evaluate data governance. This structure considers data governance from the three dimensions of data quality, internal organizational effects and external organizational effects of data governance. In the following, for each of these dimensions and depending on their nature, different criteria were introduced and explained. Then the evaluation method was developed based on the obtained structure and using a hybrid AHP and TOPSIS approach. In the next step, the proposed approach was used in a case study to evaluate data governance in five organizations active in the food industry. This study, while showing the implementation steps of the proposed approach, specifies its applicability and generalizability in other organizations. In addition, the results of this evaluation can help organizations to improve the state of data governance and while ensuring customer satisfaction and compliance with laws in the field of data, provide a platform for organizational excellence and new business opportunities.
Dr Zivar Sabaghinejad, Mr Abdolreza Khalaf-Kabomeiri, Dr Ahmad Fakhri,
Volume 9, Issue 2 (9-2022)
Volume 9, Issue 2 (9-2022)
Abstract
Introduction: Study evaluated the internal structure of Ellis information seeking model in the student community with the aim of presenting the Persian norm.
Methods: This is a descriptive-analytical study conducted by cross-sectional survey method in the second semester of the academic year 1399-1400. Population comprise of 280 graduate students at Ahvaz Jundishapur University of Medical Sciences. Data collection tool is a questionnaire based on Ellis information seeking behavior pattern with 41 questions. Findings were analyzed using SPSS software and Amos.
Results: Results of exploratory factor analysis by principal component method with Varimax cycle led to identify five factors of identification, confirmation and organization; Monitoring, conservation and extraction; Relevance; Availability and up-to-datedness and credit factor. The extracted five-factor pattern explains more than 66% of the changes in information seeking behavior. The results of confirmatory factor analysis indicate the optimal fit of the extracted pattern. All factors had good consistency and Cronbach's total alpha of the instrument was 0.97.
Conclusion: The five-factor pattern of web-based information retrieval behavior is a new self-report tool for assessing the nature of academic user retrieval behavior on the Web. This pattern is based on Ellis's information pattern in terms of content and items used, but it differs from it in terms of subscale.
Nosrat Riahinia, Farzaneh Shadanpour, Keyvan Borna, Gholam Ali Montazer,
Volume 9, Issue 3 (10-2022)
Volume 9, Issue 3 (10-2022)
Abstract
Purpose: This study investigates the automatic keyword extraction from the table of contents of Persian e-books in the field of science using LDA topic modeling, evaluating their similarity with the golden standard, and users' viewpoints of the model keywords.
Methodology: This is mixed text-mining research in which LDA topic modeling is used to extract keywords from the table of contents of scientific e-books. The evaluation of the used approach has been done by two methods of cosine similarity computing and qualitative evaluation by users.
Findings: Table of contents are medium-length texts with a trimmed mean of 260.02 words, about 20% of which are stop-words. The cosine similarity between the golden standard keywords and the output keywords is 0.0932 thus very low. The full agreement of users showed that the extracted keywords with the LDA topic model represent the subject field of the whole corpus, but the golden standard keywords, the keywords extracted using the LDA topic model in sub-domains of the corpus, and the keywords extracted from the whole corpus were respectively successful in subject describing of each document.
Conclusion: The keywords extracted using the LDA topic model can be used in unspecified and unknown collections to extract hidden thematic content of the whole collection, but not to accurately relate each topic to each document in large and heterogeneous themes. In collections of texts in one subject field, such as mathematics or physics, etc., with less diversity and more uniformity in terms of the words used in them, more coherent and relevant keywords are obtained, but in these cases, the control of the relevance of keywords to each document is required. In formal subject analysis procedures and processes of individual documents, this approach can be used as a keyword suggestion system for indexing and analytical workforce.
Mrs Khatoon Vakili,
Volume 9, Issue 3 (10-2022)
Volume 9, Issue 3 (10-2022)
Abstract
Purpose: The purpose of this research is to investigate the effect of increasing positive mood and academic-emotional, behavioral and cognitive enthusiasm on the decision-making power in interacting with information in technical engineering male students of Noushirani University.
Methodology: The research method is descriptive and correlational. The statistical sample in this study is 70 available samples from Noushirani technical engineering male students in the academic year 2019-1400. The sampling method in this research is simple random. To determine the sample size in this research, the Kargesi Morgan table was used. To collect data, the questionnaire of effective factors in increasing positive mood and the academic enthusiasm scale - behavioral, emotional, and cognitive enthusiasm and the decision-making power questionnaire were used. Data analysis was done using software (PLS).
Findings: The results indicated that the effect of positive mood on decision-making power had a significant value of 7.743, which is significant at the 95% confidence level. The effect of academic enthusiasm on decision-making power has a significant value of 8.579, which is significant at the 95% confidence level, so the researcher's claim is confirmed with a probability of 95%. Also, all three components of this variable, including behavioral passion-emotional passion, and cognitive passion, have had a positive and significant impact on decision-making power at the 95% confidence level. Based on this, it can be said that the two variables of academic enthusiasm and positive mood together affect decision-making power by 86.9%.
Conclusion: All three components of academic enthusiasm, including behavioral enthusiasm, emotional enthusiasm, and cognitive enthusiasm, had an impact on decision-making power. Also, a positive mood has a positive effect on decision-making power.
Masoud Samadzadeh, Hassan Givarian, Mohammadreza Rabiee Mondjin, Gholamreza Hashemzadeh Khorasgani,
Volume 9, Issue 3 (10-2022)
Volume 9, Issue 3 (10-2022)
Abstract
Purpose: This research has been done to investigate relationships in information technology outsourcing in strategic policy with an interactive approach at Islamic Azad University.
Methodology: The present research is in terms of the library-field environment, in terms of practical purpose, in terms of the time of cross-sectional data collection, in terms of the descriptive-survey research implementation method, and is correlational and causal. The statistical community of the research in the qualitative part includes 16 professors, managers, and senior experts in the field of information technology as well as professors, managers, and senior experts in the field of investment and development of Islamic Azad University and the quantitative part it includes all employees, managers and senior experts in the field of information technology and The Vice President of Development and Investment of the Islamic Azad University of Tehran was 260 people, which was calculated based on the Cochran formula, the sample size was 155 people. A simple random method was used to select the samples. Structured interview tools and a researcher-made questionnaire were used to collect data. The reliability of the questionnaire was calculated based on Cronbach's alpha coefficient of 0.733.
Findings: The research findings showed that There is a positive and meaningful relationship between IT system performance, system support services, information technology, information technology application gap, strategic importance, organization and project characteristics, and supplier and project characteristics.
Conclusion: According to the results of this study, it can be said that IT outsourcing can increase organizational effectiveness, provide better services and reduce costs.
Methodology: The present research is in terms of the library-field environment, in terms of practical purpose, in terms of the time of cross-sectional data collection, in terms of the descriptive-survey research implementation method, and is correlational and causal. The statistical community of the research in the qualitative part includes 16 professors, managers, and senior experts in the field of information technology as well as professors, managers, and senior experts in the field of investment and development of Islamic Azad University and the quantitative part it includes all employees, managers and senior experts in the field of information technology and The Vice President of Development and Investment of the Islamic Azad University of Tehran was 260 people, which was calculated based on the Cochran formula, the sample size was 155 people. A simple random method was used to select the samples. Structured interview tools and a researcher-made questionnaire were used to collect data. The reliability of the questionnaire was calculated based on Cronbach's alpha coefficient of 0.733.
Findings: The research findings showed that There is a positive and meaningful relationship between IT system performance, system support services, information technology, information technology application gap, strategic importance, organization and project characteristics, and supplier and project characteristics.
Conclusion: According to the results of this study, it can be said that IT outsourcing can increase organizational effectiveness, provide better services and reduce costs.
Fereshteh Kamran Toroghy, Dr Azam Sanatjoo, Dr Masoumeh Tajfari,
Volume 9, Issue 3 (10-2022)
Volume 9, Issue 3 (10-2022)
Abstract
Purpose: The purpose of the current study is to create and validate the information literacy experience questionnaire in the workplace with an emphasis on activity theory.
Methodology: This study is a functional approach and a survey method was used. The current research is quantitative research that was conducted with the tool design approach. In this research, to investigate the psychometric characteristics of the questionnaire, the stratified random sample method of 86 employees of different educational groups of Ferdowsi University of Mashhad In 2020-2021 was used. Also, questionnaire construction methods such as content and face validity and confirmatory factor analysis were used to check to construct validity. To check internal consistency, Cronbach's alpha was used. In this research, smart pls and SPSS statistical software were used to analyze the data.
Findings: The content and face validity index of the scale obtained the desired value. Also, the value of statistics in all cases is greater than 1.96, and in the factor loading, all factors were confirmed with a suitable level of explanation in the factor analysis (greater than 0.4). Cronbach's alpha for all factors was an acceptable value of 0.7 to 0.9.
Conclusion: The results indicate the influence of information literacy experience factors according to activity theory. The scale designed to study the experience of information literacy in the workplace according to the factors of activity theory is considered appropriate. It is recommended to measure the new concept of information literacy, that is, the experience of information literacy that deals with activity theory.
Zahra Alimoradi, Mohammad Zerehsaz, Ali Azimi,
Volume 9, Issue 3 (10-2022)
Volume 9, Issue 3 (10-2022)
Abstract
Purpose: Information counselors have different tasks depending on the different roles they can take on in libraries or other organizations. These tasks are based on the needs of the organization and, of course, current developments, especially in the field of emerging technologies. The first task of an information consultant in an organization can be to help determine the policies and information needs of that organization. The purpose of this study is to determine the model of desirable job competencies for holding an information consulting job in Iran.
Methodology: This research was applied in the fall and winter of 2019 using thematic analysis and Delphi analysis methods. The research community in the first part includes texts in the field of information consulting and two parts of Delphi include experts and experienced people in the field of information consulting. In this research, a coding list and two questionnaires for Delphi panels have been used as data collection tools. SPSS software was also used for data analysis.
Findings: Findings showed an increase in the score of all types of individual competencies, knowledge, and skills at the advanced level compared to the basic level. Moreover, the average merit scores in both levels were higher than the average level. This finding indicates that despite the high importance of all competencies at both professional levels, the importance of many competencies is higher at the advanced level, where more complex responsibilities are envisaged for IT consultants.
Conclusion: In the research model, the types of individual competencies, knowledge, and skills required at both the basic and advanced professional levels are introduced. It should be noted that providing specialized training to job applicants such as information counseling can strengthen their desirable job competencies. Therefore, when starting to work in professions such as intelligence consulting, applicants should have an acceptable level of competence and experience the additional training, knowledge, and skills needed to take on higher and more complex levels of responsibilities
Conclusion: In the research model, the types of individual competencies, knowledge, and skills required at both the basic and advanced professional levels are introduced. It should be noted that providing specialized training to job applicants such as information counseling can strengthen their desirable job competencies. Therefore, when starting to work in professions such as intelligence consulting, applicants should have an acceptable level of competence and experience the additional training, knowledge, and skills needed to take on higher and more complex levels of responsibilities
Mazhar Babaee, Hedyeh Azagh, Shima Yazdanpanah,
Volume 9, Issue 4 (1-2023)
Volume 9, Issue 4 (1-2023)
Abstract
Introduction: Information literacy is the ability to identify and critically evaluate information to solve problems in a specific field. The use of this procedure in the environment of universities and for students depends on their awareness of the many angles of information measurement in this field.
Methods: this study was to investigate the information literacy status of students and teachers of the Farhangian University of Kurdistan Province From six perspectives: information review, information source recognition, information dissemination, information recognition, flexibility, and information search. This research is practical and of a survey type and was carried out between January and March 2022. The study population consisted of all students of Farhangian University of Kurdistan Province in the academic year 2021-2022, which numbered over 1500 people. Using random sampling, 350 student-teachers were selected as a statistical sample. The data collection tool was a researcher-made 66-item information literacy questionnaire based on a 3-point Likert scale. The reliability of the questionnaire was 86% using Cronbach's alpha method. And for its validity, the views of university professors were used. Multivariate analysis of variance, one-way analysis of variance, and Pearson torque correlation coefficient test was used to analyze the data using SPSS software.
Results: The results showed that there is a significant relationship between the components of information literacy of male and female student teachers (P = 0.0001). Therefore, in this study, gender has a small effect on the components of information literacy. Also, there is no significant difference between information literacy in its 6 components and the different educational disciplines of Farhangian University (P> 0.05). Finally, there is no significant relationship between information literacy in its 6 components and the age of Farhangian University students and teachers. Therefore, the information literacy situation of the students of the Farhangian University of Kurdistan is at an Intermediate level.
Conclusion: Information literacy is the set of skills and qualifications needed in the information society for teachers, therefore, by considering factors such as review, knowledge of sources, dissemination, recognition, flexibility, and search for information, it can be enriched. Building information literacy skills.
Dr Mohammad Reza Shekari, Dr Mohammad Hassan Zadeh,
Volume 9, Issue 4 (1-2023)
Volume 9, Issue 4 (1-2023)
Abstract
Introduction: A thorough understanding of the drivers and inhabitants to the study can provide the basis for effective planning to improve the study. The aim of this study was to investigate the driving and inhibitory factors affecting the tendency of Iranian knowledge and information science PhD students towards study.
Methods: This research was conducted with a qualitative approach and using content analysis method. The data collection tool was an in-depth semi-structured interview. The interviews were conducted through face-to-face visits, telephone calls, e-mails, sending and receiving audio files and conversations on social media. PhD students in knowledge and information science at state universities, Payame-Nour Universities, and Islamic Azad Universities form the research community, and 33 people were selected as the research sample using targeted sampling.
Results: The results show that four factors of "professor", "compulsion", "personal promotion" and "interest" were the driving factors among doctoral students and seven factors were "professor", "family". "Access problems", "ambiguous future", "problems and weaknesses of the educational system", "growth of the spirit of need to study" and "non-participation in teaching" have been identified as deterrents factors.
Conclusion: The drivers and inhabitants of the study are very intertwined and interrelated. Some of these factors affect others and are in some way the cause and effect of each other. To strengthen effective factors and reduce barriers to study, it requires more effort from professors and programmers at the macro level, libraries and librarians, politicians, and more effort and planning from doctoral students themselves. It is necessary for the education system and the education system in universities to get out of the monolithic system and to be the speaker of unity. In this way, students are less likely to study and research until there are fundamental changes in teaching methods and curriculum content in the education system. For the first time, this study examines the most important factors and barriers to the advancement of PhD students in information science, and the results provide qualitative factors for the context of the research community. And it can be used in planning and policy making for the doctoral program of the field. Since no research has been done in this field so far, the present study can be considered as a new research in this field.
Dr Zivar Sabaghinejad, Mr Reza Poorsavari, Dr Amin Koraei,
Volume 9, Issue 4 (1-2023)
Volume 9, Issue 4 (1-2023)
Abstract
Introduction: The present study was conducted by explaining the internal norm of Davis's technology acceptance model in online health information search among Iranian students to provide a local model.
Methods: The current research is descriptive and was carried out using a survey method. The research community is the students of Ahvaz Jundishapur University of Medical Sciences at all levels of study. A sample of 358 people voluntarily participated in the research by stratified random sampling. The research tool was a researcher-made questionnaire with 20 questions, which after validation, Cronbach's alpha was 0/933 Obtained. The findings were analyzed with SPSS and AMOS software and using descriptive statistical tests, exploratory factor analysis, and other related tests.
Results: The findings of the exploratory factor analysis led to a four-factor model regarding students' online search for health information. The first factor: is the user's intention to search for health information online, the second factor: is the usefulness of using the Internet to receive health information, the third factor: is the ease of using the Internet to receive health information, and the fourth factor is the user's attitude towards the online search for health information. These four factors explain 66.983% of the changes related to the online search of health information among students.
Conclusion: The findings of the research indicate the approval of the Davis technology acceptance model for use in research in the field of health information among Iranian students. Therefore, it can be used in other research in this field among students with the assurance of confirming the internal norm.
Methods: The current research is descriptive and was carried out using a survey method. The research community is the students of Ahvaz Jundishapur University of Medical Sciences at all levels of study. A sample of 358 people voluntarily participated in the research by stratified random sampling. The research tool was a researcher-made questionnaire with 20 questions, which after validation, Cronbach's alpha was 0/933 Obtained. The findings were analyzed with SPSS and AMOS software and using descriptive statistical tests, exploratory factor analysis, and other related tests.
Results: The findings of the exploratory factor analysis led to a four-factor model regarding students' online search for health information. The first factor: is the user's intention to search for health information online, the second factor: is the usefulness of using the Internet to receive health information, the third factor: is the ease of using the Internet to receive health information, and the fourth factor is the user's attitude towards the online search for health information. These four factors explain 66.983% of the changes related to the online search of health information among students.
Conclusion: The findings of the research indicate the approval of the Davis technology acceptance model for use in research in the field of health information among Iranian students. Therefore, it can be used in other research in this field among students with the assurance of confirming the internal norm.
Mojtaba Mazoochi, Dr Leila Rabiei, Dr Mohammad Moradi,
Volume 9, Issue 4 (1-2023)
Volume 9, Issue 4 (1-2023)
Abstract
Introduction: Errors in data collection and failure to pay attention to data that is noisy in the collection process for any reason cause problems in data-based analysis and, as a result, wrong decision-making. Therefore, solving the problem of missing or noisy data before processing and analysis is of vital importance in analytical systems. The purpose of this paper is to provide a method to identify noisy data, outliers, and missing data and provide a suitable solution for these data.
Methods: This study is applied research. Data mining techniques including binning smoothing and regression models have been used to identify and replace outlier and noisy data.
Results: The results of the tests performed in the real environment related to the data of social networks show the proper performance of the proposed method. It has also been shown that the proposed method has higher accuracy compared to the methods of binning smoothing, average and linear regression. So that for the data related to the tweet section, the mean squared error obtained for the proposed method was equal to 0.04, the binning smoothing method was equal to 0.38, the linear regression method was equal to 0.05 and the average method was equal to 0.06.
Conclusion: The method presented in this article can initially identify outlier data through one-third and two-thirds normal, and then replace the outlier data with a linear regression model, which results in improving the performance of using and processing information and improving human-information interaction
Methods: This study is applied research. Data mining techniques including binning smoothing and regression models have been used to identify and replace outlier and noisy data.
Results: The results of the tests performed in the real environment related to the data of social networks show the proper performance of the proposed method. It has also been shown that the proposed method has higher accuracy compared to the methods of binning smoothing, average and linear regression. So that for the data related to the tweet section, the mean squared error obtained for the proposed method was equal to 0.04, the binning smoothing method was equal to 0.38, the linear regression method was equal to 0.05 and the average method was equal to 0.06.
Conclusion: The method presented in this article can initially identify outlier data through one-third and two-thirds normal, and then replace the outlier data with a linear regression model, which results in improving the performance of using and processing information and improving human-information interaction
Dr. Amir Hossein Seddighi,
Volume 9, Issue 4 (1-2023)
Volume 9, Issue 4 (1-2023)
Abstract
Purpose: As mission-oriented organizations, research institutes have the task of answering community questions in specialized areas, and should therefore be able to effectively present their outputs to their target users. Achieving such a goal requires the proper use of information architecture principles to properly organize the information platform in which the research institutes interact with their audiences. Therefore, reviewing and evaluating the information architecture of Research Institutes’ websites as their main communication platform with their users is of particular importance. The purpose of this study is to evaluate the Iranian Research Institute for Information Science and Technology’s website based on information architecture.
Methodology: The research method is based on content analysis and case evaluation and is done using direct observations and checklists in March 2022. In this regard, first the components of the information environment, ie the context, content, and user of the website are identified. Then, we check the information architecture subsystems of the website using checklists based on the components of the information environment. The organization system checklist contains 14 main questions, the labeling system checklist contains 32 main questions, the navigation system checklist contains 20 main questions, and finally, the search system checklist contains 41 main questions. The checklists were prepared using the library research method and approved by an expert panel. Excel software is used to collect and analyze data.
Findings: Users of the Iranian Research Institute for Information Science and Technology’s website can be categorized into four groups: researchers and students, science and technology policymakers, librarians and informants, and educational and research institutions. The main content of this website includes reports, books, articles, research projects, information systems, scientific events, training courses, laboratories, and collaborative services. The context of the website is based on service development and delivery in the areas of knowledge management, scientific and technological information management, dissemination of information science and technology, supporting science and technology policymakers, Publicizing the use of information technology, cooperating with universities and research institutes, and supporting research in the field of information science and technology. The results of the checklists indicate the score of this website for the organization system, the labeling system, the navigation system, and the search system as 67.6%, 68.4%, 65.4%, and 34.8%, respectively.
Conclusion: The status of the Iranian Research Institute for Information Science and Technology’s website is assessed as good in terms of the organization system, the labeling system, and the navigation system, and poor in terms of the search system. The use of an audience-oriented organization plan in the website organization system, the use of index labels in the form of unique entities in the website labeling system, and the use of a main navigation bar with an integrated and similar design in the website navigation system are among the strengths of the website information architecture design. On the other hand, according to the research findings, to improve the search system, it is necessary to pay attention to features such as “correcting spelling errors in the input query”, “highlighting the input query in the retrieved results”, “adding logical operators to the search system”, “searching metadata”, “sorting results in alphabetical and chronological order”, and “adding search filters such as subject and year”.
Methodology: The research method is based on content analysis and case evaluation and is done using direct observations and checklists in March 2022. In this regard, first the components of the information environment, ie the context, content, and user of the website are identified. Then, we check the information architecture subsystems of the website using checklists based on the components of the information environment. The organization system checklist contains 14 main questions, the labeling system checklist contains 32 main questions, the navigation system checklist contains 20 main questions, and finally, the search system checklist contains 41 main questions. The checklists were prepared using the library research method and approved by an expert panel. Excel software is used to collect and analyze data.
Findings: Users of the Iranian Research Institute for Information Science and Technology’s website can be categorized into four groups: researchers and students, science and technology policymakers, librarians and informants, and educational and research institutions. The main content of this website includes reports, books, articles, research projects, information systems, scientific events, training courses, laboratories, and collaborative services. The context of the website is based on service development and delivery in the areas of knowledge management, scientific and technological information management, dissemination of information science and technology, supporting science and technology policymakers, Publicizing the use of information technology, cooperating with universities and research institutes, and supporting research in the field of information science and technology. The results of the checklists indicate the score of this website for the organization system, the labeling system, the navigation system, and the search system as 67.6%, 68.4%, 65.4%, and 34.8%, respectively.
Conclusion: The status of the Iranian Research Institute for Information Science and Technology’s website is assessed as good in terms of the organization system, the labeling system, and the navigation system, and poor in terms of the search system. The use of an audience-oriented organization plan in the website organization system, the use of index labels in the form of unique entities in the website labeling system, and the use of a main navigation bar with an integrated and similar design in the website navigation system are among the strengths of the website information architecture design. On the other hand, according to the research findings, to improve the search system, it is necessary to pay attention to features such as “correcting spelling errors in the input query”, “highlighting the input query in the retrieved results”, “adding logical operators to the search system”, “searching metadata”, “sorting results in alphabetical and chronological order”, and “adding search filters such as subject and year”.
Mansour Torkiantabar,
Volume 10, Issue 1 (6-2023)
Volume 10, Issue 1 (6-2023)
Abstract
Purpose: This study was conducted to evaluate the organizational learning process of university library librarians based on the Marquardt model.
Methodology: This research is applied in terms of purpose and descriptive-survey method. The statistical population includes 552 librarians at the libraries of the Islamic Azad University. The sample size was estimated to be 227 people using the Krejcie Morgan table. To collect the required data for the research, a researcher-made questionnaire was used to assess the five components of learning organization based on the Marquardt model (learning dynamics, organizational transformation, empowerment of individuals, knowledge management, and application of technology). The collected data were analyzed using SPSS26 statistical software and statistical formulas of Kolmogorov-Smirnov, Cronbach's alpha, and t-test.
Findings: The results showed that organizational learning in the libraries of Islamic Azad University has a favorable situation and this situation for all five components (learning dynamics, organizational change, empowerment, knowledge management, and technology application) Was also approved.
Conclusion: Although the results of this study indicate the favorable situation of organizational learning in the libraries of Islamic Azad University, the continuation of this type of learning due to the many changes and developments that we see in the world today for all organizations, especially types Libraries are a basic necessity.
Methodology: This research is applied in terms of purpose and descriptive-survey method. The statistical population includes 552 librarians at the libraries of the Islamic Azad University. The sample size was estimated to be 227 people using the Krejcie Morgan table. To collect the required data for the research, a researcher-made questionnaire was used to assess the five components of learning organization based on the Marquardt model (learning dynamics, organizational transformation, empowerment of individuals, knowledge management, and application of technology). The collected data were analyzed using SPSS26 statistical software and statistical formulas of Kolmogorov-Smirnov, Cronbach's alpha, and t-test.
Findings: The results showed that organizational learning in the libraries of Islamic Azad University has a favorable situation and this situation for all five components (learning dynamics, organizational change, empowerment, knowledge management, and technology application) Was also approved.
Conclusion: Although the results of this study indicate the favorable situation of organizational learning in the libraries of Islamic Azad University, the continuation of this type of learning due to the many changes and developments that we see in the world today for all organizations, especially types Libraries are a basic necessity.
Mahmmoud Ahmadisharif,
Volume 10, Issue 1 (6-2023)
Volume 10, Issue 1 (6-2023)
Abstract
Purpose: This study was conducted to know the relationship between monitoring the relationship between information literacy components of marketing experts in manufacturing industries with their success rate in marketing and their success rate in marketing.
Methodology: The research method is a descriptive survey of correlation type. The statistical population of the study is all marketing experts of food production industries in Tehran, due to the size of the statistical population, 384 of them were selected as a sample. Katz and McLean's (2007) ICT questionnaire was used to collect information related to information literacy and a researcher-made questionnaire was used to measure the success of experts in marketing. Overall reliability of the Information Literacy Questionnaire based on Cronbach's alpha coefficient formula / 78. And the reliability of the researcher-made questionnaire was estimated to be 0.72.
Findings: Pearson's formula was used to analyze the data in the inferential statistics section on the correlation coefficient and Kolmogorov-Smirnov test was used to determine the normality of the data.
Conclusion: The results of the study showed that there is a relationship between ICT literacy and each of its dimensions (describing, achieving, evaluating, managing, combining, creating, and communicating) with the success of experts in marketing. has it.
Methodology: The research method is a descriptive survey of correlation type. The statistical population of the study is all marketing experts of food production industries in Tehran, due to the size of the statistical population, 384 of them were selected as a sample. Katz and McLean's (2007) ICT questionnaire was used to collect information related to information literacy and a researcher-made questionnaire was used to measure the success of experts in marketing. Overall reliability of the Information Literacy Questionnaire based on Cronbach's alpha coefficient formula / 78. And the reliability of the researcher-made questionnaire was estimated to be 0.72.
Findings: Pearson's formula was used to analyze the data in the inferential statistics section on the correlation coefficient and Kolmogorov-Smirnov test was used to determine the normality of the data.
Conclusion: The results of the study showed that there is a relationship between ICT literacy and each of its dimensions (describing, achieving, evaluating, managing, combining, creating, and communicating) with the success of experts in marketing. has it.
The Role of Communication Apprehension and expression of the true self in Using Instagram and Selfie
Mahmoud Pouyanfar, Dr Mohammadreza Kiani, Dr Mohammadjavad Hashemzadeh,
Volume 10, Issue 1 (6-2023)
Volume 10, Issue 1 (6-2023)
Abstract
purpose: The main purpose of this study is to investigate the role of the Expression of the True Self in the use of Instagram and selfies.
Methodology: This correlational study used 4 questionnaires "Communication Apprehension", "Authenticity Inventory Scales", "Instagram Use" and "Taking a Selfie" (online) in a random sample of undergraduate students at the University of Birjand (357 participants).
Findings: Communication Apprehension and selfie use were higher in women than men, but the age of the participants had no role in the variables. Instagram Use was above average and sending selfies and edited selfies was below average. With the increase of most of the studied psychological variables, the use of Instagram, selfies, and edited selfies increased. However, with the increase in communication Apprehension, the Expression of the True Self on Instagram decreased.
Conclusion: In our study population, most people have a greater tendency to introvert and do not want to show themselves. Using Instagram may help reduce communication fears. People with high communication phobia experience more fear or anxiety in their relationships than others, so these people are more likely to avoid experiencing fear or anxiety in their relationships with others. Expression of the True Self in selfies is directly related to one's characteristics, but the expression of the True Self on Instagram is not necessarily related to one's characteristics.
Methodology: This correlational study used 4 questionnaires "Communication Apprehension", "Authenticity Inventory Scales", "Instagram Use" and "Taking a Selfie" (online) in a random sample of undergraduate students at the University of Birjand (357 participants).
Findings: Communication Apprehension and selfie use were higher in women than men, but the age of the participants had no role in the variables. Instagram Use was above average and sending selfies and edited selfies was below average. With the increase of most of the studied psychological variables, the use of Instagram, selfies, and edited selfies increased. However, with the increase in communication Apprehension, the Expression of the True Self on Instagram decreased.
Conclusion: In our study population, most people have a greater tendency to introvert and do not want to show themselves. Using Instagram may help reduce communication fears. People with high communication phobia experience more fear or anxiety in their relationships than others, so these people are more likely to avoid experiencing fear or anxiety in their relationships with others. Expression of the True Self in selfies is directly related to one's characteristics, but the expression of the True Self on Instagram is not necessarily related to one's characteristics.
Yaghoub Norouzi, Nayereh Jafarifar, Zahra Bighlari,
Volume 10, Issue 1 (6-2023)
Volume 10, Issue 1 (6-2023)
Abstract
purpose: The article aims to identify and prioritize indicators for evaluating the accessibility capabilities of the user interface in virtual education systems.
Methodology: In step 1, to identify the evaluation indicators from the indicators listed in ISO 9241, a localized checklist was prepared by the virtual education systems inside the country. Then, using the Fuzzy Delphi method and the opinions of experts from the higher education system of Iran in the field of accessibility of education and e-learning systems, the identified indicators were modified and finalized. In the next step, these indicators were prioritized using the BWM method from the point of view of experts, and their importance was determined.
Findings: The final framework of indicators for evaluating the accessibility capabilities of the interaction environment (user interface) of virtual education systems was compiled and prioritized in four general indicators (general guidelines and requirements, inputs, outputs, support services, help, and online documentation) and 24 sub-indices. For this purpose, LINGO software was used. Based on the findings of the research, the component "Compatibility with accessible technologies" won the first rank among all sub-indices. The component "online documentation" was ranked second and "setting accessibility levels" was ranked third. The last rank (rank 24) was awarded to "Camera".
Conclusion: There is no consensus on the standard framework for evaluating the accessibility of virtual education systems. The review of the conducted research showed that there is a research gap in the field of not comprehensively identifying and presenting a comprehensive and coherent picture to evaluate the accessibility of the interaction environment in virtual education systems and it was concluded that to improve the use of virtual education systems, identifying and prioritizing the factors It is necessary to evaluate the accessibility of virtual education systems. The innovation of this article is to provide a comprehensive framework for identifying and prioritizing the accessibility evaluation indicators of the interactive environment in virtual education systems localized for the country. The internet speed in Iran is not high and turning on the camera during virtual classes due to the high volume of the internet it consumes causes disconnection and communication between them. The statistical community of the research was aware of this fact, therefore, according to the existing conditions, they assigned the least weight to this index.
Methodology: In step 1, to identify the evaluation indicators from the indicators listed in ISO 9241, a localized checklist was prepared by the virtual education systems inside the country. Then, using the Fuzzy Delphi method and the opinions of experts from the higher education system of Iran in the field of accessibility of education and e-learning systems, the identified indicators were modified and finalized. In the next step, these indicators were prioritized using the BWM method from the point of view of experts, and their importance was determined.
Findings: The final framework of indicators for evaluating the accessibility capabilities of the interaction environment (user interface) of virtual education systems was compiled and prioritized in four general indicators (general guidelines and requirements, inputs, outputs, support services, help, and online documentation) and 24 sub-indices. For this purpose, LINGO software was used. Based on the findings of the research, the component "Compatibility with accessible technologies" won the first rank among all sub-indices. The component "online documentation" was ranked second and "setting accessibility levels" was ranked third. The last rank (rank 24) was awarded to "Camera".
Conclusion: There is no consensus on the standard framework for evaluating the accessibility of virtual education systems. The review of the conducted research showed that there is a research gap in the field of not comprehensively identifying and presenting a comprehensive and coherent picture to evaluate the accessibility of the interaction environment in virtual education systems and it was concluded that to improve the use of virtual education systems, identifying and prioritizing the factors It is necessary to evaluate the accessibility of virtual education systems. The innovation of this article is to provide a comprehensive framework for identifying and prioritizing the accessibility evaluation indicators of the interactive environment in virtual education systems localized for the country. The internet speed in Iran is not high and turning on the camera during virtual classes due to the high volume of the internet it consumes causes disconnection and communication between them. The statistical community of the research was aware of this fact, therefore, according to the existing conditions, they assigned the least weight to this index.
Mohammad Mehdi Davali, Miss Sara Poorahmadzadeh,
Volume 10, Issue 1 (6-2023)
Volume 10, Issue 1 (6-2023)
Abstract
Purpose: The purpose of this research is to identify and prioritize the effective factors in the
implementation of the electronic document management system and its effect on client satisfaction.
Methodology: This research is of a descriptive-correlation type and with an applied nature, and considering that the identification of factors affecting the implementation of the electronic document management system was part of the research work, it can be considered as an exploratory type. The statistical sample of the research for the first questionnaire, which was selected to prioritize the dimensions and components and to use the hierarchical process analysis, was 10 people from the directors of the Hormozgan province registry. Expert choice software was used to analyze this section. The second questionnaire was designed based on a quantitative method and a five-point Likert scale and was distributed among 384 clients who referred to the civil registry of Hormozgan province. Smart PLS software was also used to analyze this section. To check the validity of the questionnaire, the method of content validity and reliability of Cronbach's alpha criterion and composite reliability were used.
Results: Based on the findings of this study, 44 factors were identified that were effective on the electronic document management system, based on content validity (CVR), 21 factors were finally approved, and these factors were included in the four main variables of performance expectation, effort expectation, social influence, and Facilitating conditions were classified. The findings related to the ranking of the main criteria show that performance expectation with a weight of 0.380 won the first rank. Then, social influence with a weight of 0.280 has taken the second place, the conditions for facilitating work with a weight of 0.220 have taken the third place, and the expectation of effort has taken the fourth place with a weight of 0.120. And finally, the effect of 3 factors of performance expectation, social influence, and facilitating conditions on client satisfaction was confirmed.
Conclusion: According to the results obtained from this study, it can be concluded that by identifying the effective factors of the electronic document management system, we will be able to provide the best foundation for the implementation of the electronic document management system in the administrative system of the country and through this Let's take an effective step in creating client satisfaction.
Soheila Shakouri Yadegari, Mirza Hassan Hosseini, Seyed Musa Khademi, Lotfollah Forouzandeh,
Volume 10, Issue 1 (6-2023)
Volume 10, Issue 1 (6-2023)
Abstract
purpose: consumer behavior in the field of e-commerce and web-based services has different dimensions, including psychological, cultural, economic, personality, etc. components. Since the e-commerce market is constantly growing, it creates a good development opportunity for businesses, so business opportunities should be more adapted to the characteristics and behavioral characteristics of consumers to better meet customer needs. fulfill and facilitate business success. The current research was conducted with the aim of presenting the pattern of consumer behavior in electronic commerce with an exploratory approach.
Methodology: In terms of its fundamental purpose, this research is a survey descriptive research that was conducted in a mixed exploratory manner.
Findings: The results showed that the model of consumer behavior in e-commerce includes: causal conditions, categories, platforms, intervening factors, strategies and consequences. Also, in the quantitative part, the results of the research indicated the approval of most of the components of the qualitative part of the research by the experts.
Conclusion: Examining patterns and models of consumer behavior in e-commerce is necessary for institutions, and in this regard, the results of this research model and other models presented in the field of study should be used in order to create fields for predicting consumer behavior.
Methodology: In terms of its fundamental purpose, this research is a survey descriptive research that was conducted in a mixed exploratory manner.
Findings: The results showed that the model of consumer behavior in e-commerce includes: causal conditions, categories, platforms, intervening factors, strategies and consequences. Also, in the quantitative part, the results of the research indicated the approval of most of the components of the qualitative part of the research by the experts.
Conclusion: Examining patterns and models of consumer behavior in e-commerce is necessary for institutions, and in this regard, the results of this research model and other models presented in the field of study should be used in order to create fields for predicting consumer behavior.
Zahra Poorpir, Mohammadreza Kiyani, Mohammad Ali Rostaminegad, Seyyed Ebrahim Hosseini Zargaz,
Volume 10, Issue 2 (9-2023)
Volume 10, Issue 2 (9-2023)
Abstract
Introduction and Objective: Covid-19 is an infectious respiratory disease that, like other infectious diseases, has affected people's health. As an important source for obtaining health information, social media have made a major contribution in meeting the need for information about Covid-19. The role of people's health information-seeking behavior is important in disease management and control, and it has an impact on the health of the society in the future.
Methodology: This research was practical and survey type. Statistical population, all students were studying at Birjand University at the time of the study. Sampling was done based on proportional classification random sampling (370 people). The research tool was a researcher-made questionnaire. The validity of the questionnaire was measured by using the opinions of experts and experts in information science, epistemology and medical sciences, and its reliability was measured using Cronbach's alpha (0.897).
Findings: The findings of the research showed that students used more search engines, foreign social networks and news media to get information about Covid-19 than reliable sources such as official specialized medical websites. Telegram and Instagram were the most used. They paid more attention to news related to covid-19 and preventive behaviors than getting information about treatment methods. The amount of negative and positive consequences of obtaining information about this disease on students was less than expected and among the components of information-seeking behavior, they paid the least attention to information sharing. In the field of aspects related to Covid-19, they paid the most attention to the educational aspect and the least attention to the political aspect.
Conclusion: Information and realizing its value and importance in human life today, leads to the concern of how to access the required information from among the multitude of available information. Information-seeking behavior follows the need for information, which includes activities such as information search, search tools, the type of information sought, search problems, and factors affecting it. Since the need for health information due to the spread of the Covid-19 disease creates concerns. Therefore, it leads to health information-seeking behavior, which includes actions related to searching and finding health-related problems, information about diseases, risk factors, and health promotion (Jalilian et al., 2021). In the course of searching for information, a person may use a manual information system or a computer-based system (Wilson, 2000).
Social media, as a platform that provides a lot of information, including health-related information, has been distinguished from other information systems due to components such as quick and easy access, interactive and comprehensible, and convenience. In the process of health information seeking behavior, the role of social media as a tool for searching for information and its effect on people's behavior is important (Liu, 2020). The types of information about which the search helps to meet the need for information and curiosities in the midst of this pandemic, information such as news related to Covid-19 (the number of patients and deaths), preventive behaviors (washing hands regularly, wearing masks) , vaccination, etc.) and various medical methods and related drugs.
Covid-19 is a respiratory disease caused by the corona virus and spread in late 2019. The Corona pandemic was declared by the World Health Organization as a public health emergency (Jalilian et al., 2021). This epidemic prompted scientists in different disciplines to investigate various issues arising from this phenomenon (Shehata, 2020). Access to health information is essential for any country and this is more important in developing countries where health challenges are more (Ankama et al., 2021). Progress in the prevention of Covid-19 is partially dependent on understanding the process of health information seeking behavior and its tools. To promote effective health knowledge, behavior change must be done at the individual level, and health messages must be accurate, transparent, and comprehensible. Also, be available and appropriate to the cultural environment of the society (Jalilian et al., 2021). Due to the epidemic nature of this disease and its unexpected consequences, the role of people and their information behaviors in fighting and controlling this disease is very important (Ostadi, 2019).
The main variables of the research included: the amount of use of each type of social media, the amount of use of each type of social network, the types of information obtained, the amount of negative and positive consequences of obtaining information about Covid-19, the amount of each From health information seeking behaviors and aspects related to covid 19.
To carry out the research, the researcher-made questionnaire was used as a data collection tool. This questionnaire was compiled in two parts based on the objectives and questions of the research. The first part includes questions related to the objectives of the research, and in the second part, three questions are asked about the personal characteristics of the respondents.
This questionnaire had 42 items and was measured in 7 variables, which are: social media (items 1-9), social networks (items 10-16), types of information obtained (item 17-21), negative consequences of information acquisition (items 22-26), positive consequences of information acquisition (items 27-33), types of health information-seeking behavior (items 34-37) and related dimensions with covid 19 (items 42-38). The mentioned questionnaire was distributed among the statistical population after checking and testing the validity and reliability. In this research, in order to measure the content validity of the questionnaire, the questions of the questionnaire were prepared by studying and reviewing related study sources, and then using the opinions of experts and experts in information science, philology, and medical sciences, they were reviewed and modified.
Out of a total of 224 respondents, that is, 58% of the people were women and 162 of them, equal to 42%, were men. Students in the study field of humanities with 167 people (43%) have the highest frequency among the respondents. After that, engineering science group with 112 people (29 percent), basic science group with 63 people (16 percent) and agricultural science group with 44 people (12 percent) respectively.
The number of respondents in the undergraduate level was the highest with 319 people (83 percent), as well as 47 people (12 percent) in the master's degree and 20 people (5 percent) in the doctoral level.
In the social media variable, the results showed that the average amount of social media use was generally lower than average. In the components of official medical websites, doctors' websites, unofficial websites, internal social networks, Wikipedia and encyclopedias, discussion groups and forums are also less than It was average. According to Zhang and Zhao (2017) and Haider et al. (2009), concern about the quality of information reduces the amount of social media use and consumer participation.
In the variable of social networks, the findings show that the average amount of use of the variable of social networks was generally lower than the average. Due to the filtering of YouTube, Twitter, and Clubhouse platforms, their use was quite logically lower than average. In the components of the Telegram and Instagram platforms, the average amount of use was more than average. The researchers' field observations of the users' use of these networks are consistent with the obtained results, as a result, the use of social networks due to their accessibility and the widely used role of mobile phone technology today is a source of information dissemination and information acquisition. Since the specialized information on websites and official sources is valuable, it is necessary to pay attention to the reason why they are not given much attention, and it should be carefully rooted and investigated.
The search rate of Birjand University students regarding each type of health information about Covid-19, the research indicates that, in general, the search rate in the variable of types of information about Covid-19 was equal to the average. But in the components of news related to Covid-19, preventive behaviors were more than average. Since the purpose of searching users during the Covid-19 pandemic was to deal with the said disease; Therefore, the results refer to the consumption of health information related to the news of Covid-19 and various preventive behaviors, because obtaining health information about each of the information related to Covid-19 is important in the process of managing and controlling this disease.
The rate of negative consequences of acquiring information about Covid-19 was below average. Also, in all components of worry, anxiety, lack of trust in information, confusion and confusion, and cognitive avoidance were also below the average level. What causes worry and anxiety in people is often lack of awareness and lack of ability to manage a crisis. In Nakheizadeh's new research (2019), the level of anxiety caused by covid-19 was high, as Nakheizadeh's study shows, his research is related to the early period of the corona epidemic. What is remarkable at the beginning of the matter, with the indiscriminate spread and the lack of sufficient and correct information about this disease, as well as the lack of a related vaccine, the influx of this amount of anxiety and worry among people can be considered normal. Moreover, the data of the current research was collected after about two years of the corona virus, when the students were in the approximate routine of life before the corona virus, right at the same time as face-to-face education in the university, and this change in the results can be completely logically explained. Justified. Also, the study of Bigdali et al. (2013) also expressed the positive view of users towards health information on the web. Montsi (2020) also stated that even receiving fake information does not affect people's physical or mental health, and its results are completely intangible, which can be roughly generalized to the results of this research and considered consistent.
In the variable of positive outcomes of acquiring information about Covid-19, it was below average. Also, in the components of the ability to recognize the need for information, search skills, the spirit of cooperation and information sharing, and the promotion of critical thinking, it was also below average. Also, in the components of knowledge of information sources and ability to evaluate information sources, it was equal to the average level. As a result, considering that in some components of the skill of recognizing the need for information and the ability to evaluate information sources, their average score was equal to the average level, which indicates that their health literacy is average; Because the results are consistent with the acquisition of their health information sources (social networks), so it is in line with the results of Apok and Ellis.
The average rate of performing various types of information-seeking behavior about Covid-19 was higher than average. Also, in the components of information search, identifying the need for information and changing health and treatment behavior, seeking more information was more than average. In the information sharing component, the average score of this component was equal to the average; Considering that the sources of obtaining health information about this disease are basically the media and social networks. What emerges from the evidence is that following a crisis or problem related to health and feeling the need for related information, people start searching for related sources and if it is noticeable, their health information seeking behavior is an increasing trend. has it. Therefore, the present study is consistent with all previous studies.
The results of the present study show that the average of information acquisition in the variable of information dimensions related to Covid-19 was higher than the average and also in all components, including dimensions related to health, economic, political, social and educational, the average score was higher. It was average. In other words, the findings show the students' concerns about each of the dimensions related to economy, health, politics, social justice, and especially about education and concerns about holding classes, not having the necessary infrastructure in an optimal way. In some people, lack of concentration and anxiety is caused by the situation.
The findings showed that the most sources of obtaining health information for students of Birjand University are search engines, foreign social networks and news media, and they paid less attention to reliable media such as official specialized medical websites. Also, the results point to the important and prominent role of Telegram and Instagram platforms. In addition, what the studied community sought to obtain information about covid-19 was mostly preventive behaviors and news related to covid-19 rather than its treatment methods. Also, the results showed that the health information-seeking behavior of Birjand University students has generally increased during this pandemic; But they have done the behavior of sharing information related to Covid less. Meanwhile, the role of dimensions related to Covid-19, including dimensions related to health, economic, political, social and educational, and obtaining information about each of these dimensions was of great importance for students, and the most important aspect for them was the educational dimension. .
The results showed that women used reliable sources such as official specialized medical websites and news media compared to men, and men used social networks (Telegram, Instagram, Twitter and YouTube) and search engines to get information about Covid. 19 have used. The influence of the role of gender showed that women are more interested in obtaining all kinds of information about this disease, and also paid more attention to the negative consequences of women; After creating negative consequences in women, they sought to obtain information about preventive behaviors. Because a significant relationship has been established between negative consequences and preventive behaviors in past studies. In addition, the role of gender had no effect on the positive outcomes and dimensions related to Covid-19, except for the economic dimension component. The field of study and level of study did not make a significant difference in the research variables. Based on this, it is suggested to hold training courses to improve the quality and awareness of health information literacy in social networks and news media for students of different levels. Also, policy makers and decision makers should pay more attention to providing authentic information on social media for the audience. Social networks and internal messengers should be adapted in the field of providing health information. Future researches can examine the subject of study in other societies and use different research methods to collect data or analyze findings.
Methodology: This research was practical and survey type. Statistical population, all students were studying at Birjand University at the time of the study. Sampling was done based on proportional classification random sampling (370 people). The research tool was a researcher-made questionnaire. The validity of the questionnaire was measured by using the opinions of experts and experts in information science, epistemology and medical sciences, and its reliability was measured using Cronbach's alpha (0.897).
Findings: The findings of the research showed that students used more search engines, foreign social networks and news media to get information about Covid-19 than reliable sources such as official specialized medical websites. Telegram and Instagram were the most used. They paid more attention to news related to covid-19 and preventive behaviors than getting information about treatment methods. The amount of negative and positive consequences of obtaining information about this disease on students was less than expected and among the components of information-seeking behavior, they paid the least attention to information sharing. In the field of aspects related to Covid-19, they paid the most attention to the educational aspect and the least attention to the political aspect.
Conclusion: Information and realizing its value and importance in human life today, leads to the concern of how to access the required information from among the multitude of available information. Information-seeking behavior follows the need for information, which includes activities such as information search, search tools, the type of information sought, search problems, and factors affecting it. Since the need for health information due to the spread of the Covid-19 disease creates concerns. Therefore, it leads to health information-seeking behavior, which includes actions related to searching and finding health-related problems, information about diseases, risk factors, and health promotion (Jalilian et al., 2021). In the course of searching for information, a person may use a manual information system or a computer-based system (Wilson, 2000).
Social media, as a platform that provides a lot of information, including health-related information, has been distinguished from other information systems due to components such as quick and easy access, interactive and comprehensible, and convenience. In the process of health information seeking behavior, the role of social media as a tool for searching for information and its effect on people's behavior is important (Liu, 2020). The types of information about which the search helps to meet the need for information and curiosities in the midst of this pandemic, information such as news related to Covid-19 (the number of patients and deaths), preventive behaviors (washing hands regularly, wearing masks) , vaccination, etc.) and various medical methods and related drugs.
Covid-19 is a respiratory disease caused by the corona virus and spread in late 2019. The Corona pandemic was declared by the World Health Organization as a public health emergency (Jalilian et al., 2021). This epidemic prompted scientists in different disciplines to investigate various issues arising from this phenomenon (Shehata, 2020). Access to health information is essential for any country and this is more important in developing countries where health challenges are more (Ankama et al., 2021). Progress in the prevention of Covid-19 is partially dependent on understanding the process of health information seeking behavior and its tools. To promote effective health knowledge, behavior change must be done at the individual level, and health messages must be accurate, transparent, and comprehensible. Also, be available and appropriate to the cultural environment of the society (Jalilian et al., 2021). Due to the epidemic nature of this disease and its unexpected consequences, the role of people and their information behaviors in fighting and controlling this disease is very important (Ostadi, 2019).
The main variables of the research included: the amount of use of each type of social media, the amount of use of each type of social network, the types of information obtained, the amount of negative and positive consequences of obtaining information about Covid-19, the amount of each From health information seeking behaviors and aspects related to covid 19.
To carry out the research, the researcher-made questionnaire was used as a data collection tool. This questionnaire was compiled in two parts based on the objectives and questions of the research. The first part includes questions related to the objectives of the research, and in the second part, three questions are asked about the personal characteristics of the respondents.
This questionnaire had 42 items and was measured in 7 variables, which are: social media (items 1-9), social networks (items 10-16), types of information obtained (item 17-21), negative consequences of information acquisition (items 22-26), positive consequences of information acquisition (items 27-33), types of health information-seeking behavior (items 34-37) and related dimensions with covid 19 (items 42-38). The mentioned questionnaire was distributed among the statistical population after checking and testing the validity and reliability. In this research, in order to measure the content validity of the questionnaire, the questions of the questionnaire were prepared by studying and reviewing related study sources, and then using the opinions of experts and experts in information science, philology, and medical sciences, they were reviewed and modified.
Out of a total of 224 respondents, that is, 58% of the people were women and 162 of them, equal to 42%, were men. Students in the study field of humanities with 167 people (43%) have the highest frequency among the respondents. After that, engineering science group with 112 people (29 percent), basic science group with 63 people (16 percent) and agricultural science group with 44 people (12 percent) respectively.
The number of respondents in the undergraduate level was the highest with 319 people (83 percent), as well as 47 people (12 percent) in the master's degree and 20 people (5 percent) in the doctoral level.
In the social media variable, the results showed that the average amount of social media use was generally lower than average. In the components of official medical websites, doctors' websites, unofficial websites, internal social networks, Wikipedia and encyclopedias, discussion groups and forums are also less than It was average. According to Zhang and Zhao (2017) and Haider et al. (2009), concern about the quality of information reduces the amount of social media use and consumer participation.
In the variable of social networks, the findings show that the average amount of use of the variable of social networks was generally lower than the average. Due to the filtering of YouTube, Twitter, and Clubhouse platforms, their use was quite logically lower than average. In the components of the Telegram and Instagram platforms, the average amount of use was more than average. The researchers' field observations of the users' use of these networks are consistent with the obtained results, as a result, the use of social networks due to their accessibility and the widely used role of mobile phone technology today is a source of information dissemination and information acquisition. Since the specialized information on websites and official sources is valuable, it is necessary to pay attention to the reason why they are not given much attention, and it should be carefully rooted and investigated.
The search rate of Birjand University students regarding each type of health information about Covid-19, the research indicates that, in general, the search rate in the variable of types of information about Covid-19 was equal to the average. But in the components of news related to Covid-19, preventive behaviors were more than average. Since the purpose of searching users during the Covid-19 pandemic was to deal with the said disease; Therefore, the results refer to the consumption of health information related to the news of Covid-19 and various preventive behaviors, because obtaining health information about each of the information related to Covid-19 is important in the process of managing and controlling this disease.
The rate of negative consequences of acquiring information about Covid-19 was below average. Also, in all components of worry, anxiety, lack of trust in information, confusion and confusion, and cognitive avoidance were also below the average level. What causes worry and anxiety in people is often lack of awareness and lack of ability to manage a crisis. In Nakheizadeh's new research (2019), the level of anxiety caused by covid-19 was high, as Nakheizadeh's study shows, his research is related to the early period of the corona epidemic. What is remarkable at the beginning of the matter, with the indiscriminate spread and the lack of sufficient and correct information about this disease, as well as the lack of a related vaccine, the influx of this amount of anxiety and worry among people can be considered normal. Moreover, the data of the current research was collected after about two years of the corona virus, when the students were in the approximate routine of life before the corona virus, right at the same time as face-to-face education in the university, and this change in the results can be completely logically explained. Justified. Also, the study of Bigdali et al. (2013) also expressed the positive view of users towards health information on the web. Montsi (2020) also stated that even receiving fake information does not affect people's physical or mental health, and its results are completely intangible, which can be roughly generalized to the results of this research and considered consistent.
In the variable of positive outcomes of acquiring information about Covid-19, it was below average. Also, in the components of the ability to recognize the need for information, search skills, the spirit of cooperation and information sharing, and the promotion of critical thinking, it was also below average. Also, in the components of knowledge of information sources and ability to evaluate information sources, it was equal to the average level. As a result, considering that in some components of the skill of recognizing the need for information and the ability to evaluate information sources, their average score was equal to the average level, which indicates that their health literacy is average; Because the results are consistent with the acquisition of their health information sources (social networks), so it is in line with the results of Apok and Ellis.
The average rate of performing various types of information-seeking behavior about Covid-19 was higher than average. Also, in the components of information search, identifying the need for information and changing health and treatment behavior, seeking more information was more than average. In the information sharing component, the average score of this component was equal to the average; Considering that the sources of obtaining health information about this disease are basically the media and social networks. What emerges from the evidence is that following a crisis or problem related to health and feeling the need for related information, people start searching for related sources and if it is noticeable, their health information seeking behavior is an increasing trend. has it. Therefore, the present study is consistent with all previous studies.
The results of the present study show that the average of information acquisition in the variable of information dimensions related to Covid-19 was higher than the average and also in all components, including dimensions related to health, economic, political, social and educational, the average score was higher. It was average. In other words, the findings show the students' concerns about each of the dimensions related to economy, health, politics, social justice, and especially about education and concerns about holding classes, not having the necessary infrastructure in an optimal way. In some people, lack of concentration and anxiety is caused by the situation.
The findings showed that the most sources of obtaining health information for students of Birjand University are search engines, foreign social networks and news media, and they paid less attention to reliable media such as official specialized medical websites. Also, the results point to the important and prominent role of Telegram and Instagram platforms. In addition, what the studied community sought to obtain information about covid-19 was mostly preventive behaviors and news related to covid-19 rather than its treatment methods. Also, the results showed that the health information-seeking behavior of Birjand University students has generally increased during this pandemic; But they have done the behavior of sharing information related to Covid less. Meanwhile, the role of dimensions related to Covid-19, including dimensions related to health, economic, political, social and educational, and obtaining information about each of these dimensions was of great importance for students, and the most important aspect for them was the educational dimension. .
The results showed that women used reliable sources such as official specialized medical websites and news media compared to men, and men used social networks (Telegram, Instagram, Twitter and YouTube) and search engines to get information about Covid. 19 have used. The influence of the role of gender showed that women are more interested in obtaining all kinds of information about this disease, and also paid more attention to the negative consequences of women; After creating negative consequences in women, they sought to obtain information about preventive behaviors. Because a significant relationship has been established between negative consequences and preventive behaviors in past studies. In addition, the role of gender had no effect on the positive outcomes and dimensions related to Covid-19, except for the economic dimension component. The field of study and level of study did not make a significant difference in the research variables. Based on this, it is suggested to hold training courses to improve the quality and awareness of health information literacy in social networks and news media for students of different levels. Also, policy makers and decision makers should pay more attention to providing authentic information on social media for the audience. Social networks and internal messengers should be adapted in the field of providing health information. Future researches can examine the subject of study in other societies and use different research methods to collect data or analyze findings.
Ebrahim Khalil Abbasi, Alireza Badeleh,
Volume 10, Issue 2 (9-2023)
Volume 10, Issue 2 (9-2023)
Abstract
Objectives: Nowadays, the learning management system is one of the key tools of university education systems. This system increases the efficiency and learning power of students because it activates the students' mind and facilitates the understanding of knowledge. In addition, the use of learning management systems increases students' motivation for active learning and improves their self-confidence in academic exams. Also, these systems reduce the duration of teaching and the workload of teachers and are effective on students' visual literacy.
The design of learning management systems is the result of the collaboration of educational experts and software engineers, who identify the required capabilities and the expected service quality by considering various psychological, social, cultural, educational, and technical aspects. These capabilities and qualities are the basis of the software design of the system that is ultimately used by students and teachers, and the success and failure of the system largely depends on their satisfaction. Therefore, knowing the expectations of students, teachers, and other users using learning management systems and then implementing these expectations in the design and development of these systems is of key importance.
In Farhangian University, education is based on physical and online education, and some university courses have been always held online. Therefore, designing and implementing effective online education software is a high priority for Farhangian University. In addition, the use of information and communication technologies in education is one of the values highly highlighted in the document of Fundamental Evolution of Education.
We identified only a few research that has been conducted to study the expectations of Farhangian University teachers from learning management systems. To fill this gap, in this article we aim at understanding the expectations of teachers of Farhangian University from the learning management systems. Our main objectives are to find out to what extent the teachers feel satisfied with using these systems, what software features of these systems are highly requested by the teachers, what are the main defects the teachers have observed in these systems, and what are the main values of using these systems for education.
Methodology: The research method of this research is based on the qualitative research method of content analysis with comparative categorisation approach to identify and represent the experiences and expectations of Farhangian University teachers from the university's learning management system. For more interaction with the teachers, the interview method was used to gather their expectations, in which they answered the questions of a pre-designed interview. The interview questions were finalized after applying the opinions of some experts in software, educational sciences, and educational technology. The statistical population of the research was all teachers and lecturers of Farhangian University in the academic year 1402-1401. In this research, teachers who had practical and useful experiences in organizing online classes as well as who were experts in this field were invited for an interview, and 12 colleagues declared their presence for the interview. The authors conducted the interview process in parallel and then jointly completed the data forms. Qualitative interviews were conducted in accordance with its standards in a time between 30 to 60 minutes, physically on site or online on the platform of social networks. First, the aim of the interview and its topic were explained to each interviewee and then the interview was conducted. Considering the semi-structured nature of the interview, in addition to the pre-designed questions, other related questions were also asked to clarify the meaning of the answers during the interview. Also, the authors used some examples when there were ambiguities between the interviewer and the participated teachers.In this research, to analyze the data obtained from the interviews, three types of coding including open coding, axial coding, and selective coding were used. In the open coding, the main sentences related to the topic of the research were extracted from the data forms and recorded as primary codes. Then, the created codes were placed in a category based on the similarities. In the stage of axial coding, the primary codes and categories that were created in the open coding were compared with each other and similar items were merged and finally the axial categories were extracted. Then, for similar codes that were placed in the same category, by doing this process, several main topics were obtained that show the main basis of the interviews. If there is an equivalent standard or term for a subject in the field of education or software engineering, that equivalent and definition has been used in the article. Selective coding, based on the results of open coding and axial coding, defines the final framework of categories. The synthesised results then are reported in this article.
Findings: The results show that half of the teachers are satisfied with the learning management systems, three teachers are with relative satisfaction, and the remaining three are unsatisfied. Regarding the expected software features from these systems, we categorised the identified features into two main categories namely generic and user-interface-specific features. Because the participants in the interview do not have specialized knowledge of software engineering, in responding to their expectations from the systems, they expressed a combination of capabilities, quality attributes, and other requirements. Therefore, capability in this research means the general requirements of the participants, which can be a functional requirement, non-functional requirement (quality attributes), software capability restrictions, or a combination of them.Assisting teachers during the online class, learnability, usability, adaptability, error detection and prevention, facilitating the interaction between teachers and students are examples of the generic software features expected by the teachers. The participants also expect that the system provides them information of any events and tasks being progressed. In addition, they expect the system should be flexible and extendable enough so that they can add new tasks and generate new reports.In terms of the user-interface-specific features, the teachers expect the systems provide hedonic, simple, and customisable user interface. They also expect easy access to the system features. In addition, better content representation is another requirement the teacher expressed. The defects observed by the teachers are also categorised in generic and user-interface-specific defects. As for the generic defects, the teachers reported that it is not easy to learn the learning management systems. They also complained about the audio and video latency during the online classes. Another defect reported is that performing some tasks is time consuming which requires going through several steps. Poor and busy user interfaces are main defects reported by most of the teachers regarding the interface of the learning management systems. Inconsistent representation of the application in the mobile devices is another user interface defect. We have also understood that better time management, improved social interaction, and decreased stress of using information and communication technologies for education are the main values indicated by the teachers as the consequences of using the learning management systems. Being respectful and self-disciplined are other values reported by the teachers.
Conclusion: It can be concluded that despite the good features of learning management systems and the teachers’ relative satisfaction with them, there is a need for these systems to be flexible according to the needs of users and give the teachers more control on the education process. Also, interaction with students and features that improve people's participation in the education process are among the most important expectations of teachers from these systems. Moreover, the user interface of learning management systems is very important for teachers because it provides their interaction with students. Teachers expect to be able to adapt the system and especially their user interface according to their needs and add new features at the lowest cost.
We also synthesized several design guidelines for the system developers. The system should provide support for both expert and novice teachers. Expert teachers expect more customization capabilities and novice teachers expect more advice and automatic error handling. Moreover, the system should help the novice teacher to be experienced in using the system continuously. As each teacher has his/her own teaching strategy, another guideline is to design the system so that each teacher takes control on the education and teaching process individually.
Since an online learning system is an interactive application, its user interface design is very important. User-friendly and customisable user interface which nicely represented in different devices with different resolutions is a high priority guideline. This design guideline becomes even more important when we know that most of the students use their mobile phones for participating in online classes. We finally highlighted the importance of considering values in the design and development of learning management systems. In these systems, capabilities such as speaking in turn, the need to obtain permission to speak, remaining silent when others are speaking, and being neat during online presentation are aspects of respect. Their accomplishment, therefore, requires relevant software features. Moreover, the interaction between teachers and students necessitates establishment of ethical rules and standards to be respected by the users and the software. The privacy and security are two important subjects that requires more attention in learning management systems.
The design of learning management systems is the result of the collaboration of educational experts and software engineers, who identify the required capabilities and the expected service quality by considering various psychological, social, cultural, educational, and technical aspects. These capabilities and qualities are the basis of the software design of the system that is ultimately used by students and teachers, and the success and failure of the system largely depends on their satisfaction. Therefore, knowing the expectations of students, teachers, and other users using learning management systems and then implementing these expectations in the design and development of these systems is of key importance.
In Farhangian University, education is based on physical and online education, and some university courses have been always held online. Therefore, designing and implementing effective online education software is a high priority for Farhangian University. In addition, the use of information and communication technologies in education is one of the values highly highlighted in the document of Fundamental Evolution of Education.
We identified only a few research that has been conducted to study the expectations of Farhangian University teachers from learning management systems. To fill this gap, in this article we aim at understanding the expectations of teachers of Farhangian University from the learning management systems. Our main objectives are to find out to what extent the teachers feel satisfied with using these systems, what software features of these systems are highly requested by the teachers, what are the main defects the teachers have observed in these systems, and what are the main values of using these systems for education.
Methodology: The research method of this research is based on the qualitative research method of content analysis with comparative categorisation approach to identify and represent the experiences and expectations of Farhangian University teachers from the university's learning management system. For more interaction with the teachers, the interview method was used to gather their expectations, in which they answered the questions of a pre-designed interview. The interview questions were finalized after applying the opinions of some experts in software, educational sciences, and educational technology. The statistical population of the research was all teachers and lecturers of Farhangian University in the academic year 1402-1401. In this research, teachers who had practical and useful experiences in organizing online classes as well as who were experts in this field were invited for an interview, and 12 colleagues declared their presence for the interview. The authors conducted the interview process in parallel and then jointly completed the data forms. Qualitative interviews were conducted in accordance with its standards in a time between 30 to 60 minutes, physically on site or online on the platform of social networks. First, the aim of the interview and its topic were explained to each interviewee and then the interview was conducted. Considering the semi-structured nature of the interview, in addition to the pre-designed questions, other related questions were also asked to clarify the meaning of the answers during the interview. Also, the authors used some examples when there were ambiguities between the interviewer and the participated teachers.In this research, to analyze the data obtained from the interviews, three types of coding including open coding, axial coding, and selective coding were used. In the open coding, the main sentences related to the topic of the research were extracted from the data forms and recorded as primary codes. Then, the created codes were placed in a category based on the similarities. In the stage of axial coding, the primary codes and categories that were created in the open coding were compared with each other and similar items were merged and finally the axial categories were extracted. Then, for similar codes that were placed in the same category, by doing this process, several main topics were obtained that show the main basis of the interviews. If there is an equivalent standard or term for a subject in the field of education or software engineering, that equivalent and definition has been used in the article. Selective coding, based on the results of open coding and axial coding, defines the final framework of categories. The synthesised results then are reported in this article.
Findings: The results show that half of the teachers are satisfied with the learning management systems, three teachers are with relative satisfaction, and the remaining three are unsatisfied. Regarding the expected software features from these systems, we categorised the identified features into two main categories namely generic and user-interface-specific features. Because the participants in the interview do not have specialized knowledge of software engineering, in responding to their expectations from the systems, they expressed a combination of capabilities, quality attributes, and other requirements. Therefore, capability in this research means the general requirements of the participants, which can be a functional requirement, non-functional requirement (quality attributes), software capability restrictions, or a combination of them.Assisting teachers during the online class, learnability, usability, adaptability, error detection and prevention, facilitating the interaction between teachers and students are examples of the generic software features expected by the teachers. The participants also expect that the system provides them information of any events and tasks being progressed. In addition, they expect the system should be flexible and extendable enough so that they can add new tasks and generate new reports.In terms of the user-interface-specific features, the teachers expect the systems provide hedonic, simple, and customisable user interface. They also expect easy access to the system features. In addition, better content representation is another requirement the teacher expressed. The defects observed by the teachers are also categorised in generic and user-interface-specific defects. As for the generic defects, the teachers reported that it is not easy to learn the learning management systems. They also complained about the audio and video latency during the online classes. Another defect reported is that performing some tasks is time consuming which requires going through several steps. Poor and busy user interfaces are main defects reported by most of the teachers regarding the interface of the learning management systems. Inconsistent representation of the application in the mobile devices is another user interface defect. We have also understood that better time management, improved social interaction, and decreased stress of using information and communication technologies for education are the main values indicated by the teachers as the consequences of using the learning management systems. Being respectful and self-disciplined are other values reported by the teachers.
Conclusion: It can be concluded that despite the good features of learning management systems and the teachers’ relative satisfaction with them, there is a need for these systems to be flexible according to the needs of users and give the teachers more control on the education process. Also, interaction with students and features that improve people's participation in the education process are among the most important expectations of teachers from these systems. Moreover, the user interface of learning management systems is very important for teachers because it provides their interaction with students. Teachers expect to be able to adapt the system and especially their user interface according to their needs and add new features at the lowest cost.
We also synthesized several design guidelines for the system developers. The system should provide support for both expert and novice teachers. Expert teachers expect more customization capabilities and novice teachers expect more advice and automatic error handling. Moreover, the system should help the novice teacher to be experienced in using the system continuously. As each teacher has his/her own teaching strategy, another guideline is to design the system so that each teacher takes control on the education and teaching process individually.
Since an online learning system is an interactive application, its user interface design is very important. User-friendly and customisable user interface which nicely represented in different devices with different resolutions is a high priority guideline. This design guideline becomes even more important when we know that most of the students use their mobile phones for participating in online classes. We finally highlighted the importance of considering values in the design and development of learning management systems. In these systems, capabilities such as speaking in turn, the need to obtain permission to speak, remaining silent when others are speaking, and being neat during online presentation are aspects of respect. Their accomplishment, therefore, requires relevant software features. Moreover, the interaction between teachers and students necessitates establishment of ethical rules and standards to be respected by the users and the software. The privacy and security are two important subjects that requires more attention in learning management systems.
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