The Voice Academia (VOA) (ISSN: 1985-5079; e-ISSN: 2682-7840) is a peer-reviewed journal published biannually in January and June. The journal welcomes original research articles and review papers in the field of social sciences. Publication is free of charge, with no article processing fees imposed on authors. VOA is indexed in MyCite and MySitasi. CLICK HERE TO SUBMIT MANUSCRIPT
DIGITAL AMNESIA IN THE DIGITAL CLASSROOM: A REVIEW OF MEMORY RETENTION CHALLENGES AMONG COMPUTER SCIENCE STUDENTS
Digital learning environments expose computer science students to repositories, coding platforms, automated assessment, and AI tools that may encourage cognitive offloading and weaken durable learning. This scoping evidence-mapping review examined how digital amnesia affects retention in computer science education and identified pedagogical responses. Guided by PRISMA-ScR and PRISMA-S, the review used Scopus AI to analyze expanded summaries, concept maps, topic experts, and emerging themes, with claims checked against Scopus records. Findings link digital amnesia to unregulated tool use, information overload, limited retrieval practice, emotional strain, and unequal access rather than technology itself. Effective responses include spaced retrieval, interleaving, spiral sequencing, retrieval-first activities, delayed hints, and controlled tool use. AI-supported personalization may adapt practice and feedback. Future research should test these approaches through longitudinal, cross-cultural studies using delayed-retention and knowledge-transfer measures.
Copyright (c) 2026 Jasmin Ilyani Ahmad, Noor Hasnita Abdul Talib, Intan Radina Ahmad, Siti Nurbaya Ismail, Nor Hafizah Abdul Razak, Zanariah Idrus https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by-nc/4.0
GENERATIVE AI AS A LEARNING COMPANION: OPPORTUNITIES AND CHALLENGES FOR NOVICE PROGRAMMERS
Generative artificial intelligence (GenAI) is increasingly utilized to support programming education, yet its educational value for novice programmers remains uncertain because existing research is fragmented across pedagogical, technical, and ethical domains. This study aimed to synthesize current evidence on the opportunities and challenges of using GenAI as a learning companion in novice programming education and to derive implications for responsible instructional integration. A structured literature review was conducted using peer-reviewed records indexed in Scopus and published between 2023 and 2025. A Boolean search combined terms related to GenAI, learning-support functions, novice learners, and programming contexts. Scopus AI outputs, including summaries, a concept map, topic-author mapping, and emerging themes, were used as discovery and clustering aids, while the final analysis traced claims to the cited publications and compared convergent and conflicting findings. The review found that GenAI can provide personalized explanations, adaptive scaffolding, immediate feedback, coding examples, and scalable support, particularly in large classes or settings with limited instructor availability. However, the literature also identified substantial risks, including inaccurate or biased outputs, academic dishonesty, privacy concerns, unequal access, and over-reliance that may weaken debugging, problem solving, and independent reasoning. The findings therefore indicate that GenAI is most defensible as a mediated support tool rather than an autonomous tutor. Its educational value depends on explicit usage boundaries, AI literacy, source verification, transparent disclosure, and assessment designs that make student reasoning visible. The study implies that institutions should adopt pedagogy-led governance, provide educator development, and sequence AI support so that scaffolding can be withdrawn as competence develops. Because the review used one database and did not include classroom experiments, interviews, or control groups, future research should use multi-database, longitudinal, and controlled designs to test whether GenAI support produces durable independent programming competence.
Copyright (c) 2026 Noor Hasnita Abdul Talib, Jasmin Ilyani Ahmad, Zanariah Idrus, Nor Hafizah Abdul Razak, Intan Radina Ahmad6 https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by-nc/4.0
A CRITICAL REASSESSMENT OF INTELLECTUAL CAPITAL MANAGEMENT IN THE AGE OF ALGORITHMIC MANAGEMENT
Traditional Intellectual Capital Management (ICM) is founded on a possession-oriented perspective that assumes organizations achieve sustainable competitive advantage through the accumulation, protection, and management of knowledge assets. However, the emergence of artificial intelligence (AI), distributed intelligence, and digital platform ecosystems has introduced organizational conditions that challenge several of the assumptions underpinning traditional ICM. Existing frameworks provide limited explanation of how intellectual advantage is created within increasingly AI-mediated organizational environments, where organizational intelligence is generated through interactions among human expertise, AI technologies, and interconnected digital ecosystems. Addressing this conceptual gap, this paper critically reassesses the theoretical foundations of traditional ICM through a conceptual research design employing abductive reasoning and a critical narrative review of the literature. The analysis identifies five foundational assumptions underpinning traditional ICM and evaluates their continuing relevance in AI-mediated organizational environments. Based on this analysis, the paper proposes knowledge Orchestration as an alternative conceptual perspective that reconceptualises intellectual advantage as the organizational capability to coordinate, integrate, and govern distributed intelligence across human, technological, and relational domains. The study further reconceptualises the traditional three-capital architecture by positioning human capital as an intelligence coordination capability, structural capital as an intelligence infrastructure, and relational capital as an intelligence ecosystem. By extending traditional Intellectual Capital Management theory, the proposed framework provides a conceptual foundation for understanding intellectual advantage in the age of artificial intelligence and offers directions for future research on knowledge orchestration and human–AI collaboration.
Copyright (c) 2026 Kardina Kamaruddin, Noor Malinjasari Ali https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by-nc/4.0
ALGORITHM DESIGN PATTERNS: A CONCEPTUAL FRAMEWORK FOR SIMPLIFYING COMPLEX PROBLEMS IN BEGINNER COMPUTER SCIENCE EDUCATION
Teaching algorithmic problem-solving remains a major challenge in beginner computer science education because novice programmers often struggle to identify appropriate solution strategies beyond programming syntax. Existing instructional approaches generally present algorithm paradigms as isolated topics, making it difficult for learners to recognise problem characteristics and transfer knowledge across different computational tasks. This study proposes the Algorithm Design Patterns (ADP) framework, a conceptual instructional model that organises five fundamental algorithm paradigms into reusable learning patterns for beginner computer science education. A conceptual research approach was adopted by synthesising literature on algorithmic thinking, programming pedagogy, instructional scaffolding, and algorithm design. The proposed framework integrates Divide and Conquer, Greedy Algorithms, Dynamic Programming, Backtracking, and Recursive Patterns into a progressive instructional structure supported by representative algorithms, classroom activities, and common learning pitfalls. By emphasising problem analysis before algorithm selection, the framework aims to strengthen algorithmic thinking and support more systematic learning. The proposed framework offers a structured pedagogical reference for introductory algorithm instruction and provides a foundation for future empirical validation in computer science education.
Copyright (c) 2026 Lenny Yusrina Bujang Khedif, Sulastri Putit https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by-nc/4.0
PLASTIC CONSUMPTION IN THE DIGITAL ERA: A BIBLIOMETRIC ANALYSIS BASED ON AUTHOR AND INDEX KEYWORDS
Although plastic is widely used for its affordability and durability, excessive consumption and improper disposal pose serious environmental risks. Digital technologies and ICT offer potential solutions, but bibliometric studies examining plastic consumption through digital innovation remain scarce. Subsequently, this study employs bibliometric analysis to examine publication trends on digital-age plastic consumption in Social Sciences, Economics, and Business fields, highlighting integrated research themes through analysis of author and index keywords. The findings suggest that the growth in published documents and citations highlights the increasing academic recognition of research on plastic consumption in the digital era. Moreover, Blanco I., Schettini E., and Vox G. emerge as key contributors. The leading publishing outlets and most frequently cited sources are Sustainability (Switzerland), Resources, Conservation and Recycling, and the Journal of Cleaner Production. The integrated research themes derived from the author and index keywords indicate that research on plastic consumption starts with a foundational basis, progresses through tools and strategies, and culminates in outcomes and challenges. The findings suggest that policies on plastic consumption in the digital era should establish a solid knowledge foundation, utilise digital tools for sustainable strategies, and implement regulations that align digital transformation with environmental objectives.
Copyright (c) 2026 Che Faridah Che Mahmood, Nor Zubaidah Nor Albashri, Mazlina Ismail, Nur Adilah Saud, Suhaili Mohd Yusof, Yan-Ling Tan https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by-nc/4.0
BEYOND TECHNICAL COMPETENCE: ALIGNING OBE AND VBE FOR FUTURE-READY ENGINEERING TECHNOLOGY EDUCATION
The development of holistic, future-ready graduates remains a key priority in higher education, particularly in engineering and technology, where technical proficiency alone is insufficient. This study examines the alignment of Outcome-Based Education (OBE) and Value-Based Education (VBE) at the University as a practical pathway for integrating cognitive, technical, ethical and humanistic dimensions within existing curricula. OBE serves as the structural driver for learning outcomes, teaching strategies and assessment, while VBE provides the ethical overlay through values such as dignity, justice, integrity, gratitude, resilience and altruism. Four Civil Engineering Technology courses encompassing field-related work scope, were reviewed based on their alignment with Programme Learning Outcomes. Findings show that values can be embedded explicitly through structured activities and reflection, and implicitly through institutional culture, mentorship and learning environments. This alignment strengthens technical competence with ethical reasoning, social responsibility and professional accountability. The OBE-VBE framework offers a replicable model for nurturing technically skilled, employable, morally grounded and socially aware graduates.
Copyright (c) 2026 Chee-Ming Chan, Azeanita Suratkon, Alina Shamsuddin https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by-nc/4.0
THE ROLES OF LOCAL COMMUNITY IN SUSTAINABLE MARINE RESOURCES MANAGEMENT: A CASE STUDY OF TUN MUSTAPHA PARK, SABAH
This study focuses on the local community's roles in maintaining marine resource management, particularly at Tun Mustapha Park (TMP) in Sabah, Malaysia. This qualitative study is a systematic literature review, where key information was gathered and synthesised from secondary sources, including academic publications, non-governmental organisation papers, and official documents. Over 80,000 coastal residents and a wide variety of species call TMP, one of Southeast Asia's largest marine protected areas, home. However, overfishing, climate change, and unsustainable development pose threats to the area. The research also utilises the Three Basic Pillars Model as a community contribution. The results demonstrate how local actions, such as the restoration of 2,152 square meters of coral reef and the monitoring of turtle nests, where there has been a 50% decrease in poaching, have significantly improved ecological resilience. While economic alternatives like eco-tourism and sustainable livelihoods decreased dependency on damaging activities, social programs like photovoice and comic book campaigns increased awareness and empowered marginalised groups. Budget constraints and enforcement gaps are obstacles, highlighting the significance of inclusive policies and multi-stakeholder cooperation. According to the study, integrating traditional knowledge with contemporary techniques balances ecological health and community well-being while fostering long-term conservation success.
Copyright (c) 2026 Erica Joanne Reuben, Haijon Gunggut, Haidy Henry Dusim https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by-nc/4.0
PERCEPTION AND ADOPTION INTENTION OF ONLINE MARKETING AND SEARCH ENGINE OPTIMIZATION (SEO) AMONG SME ENTREPRENEURS IN ANJUNG KINABALU: AN APPLICATION OF THE THEORY OF PLANNED BEHAVIOR
The rapid advancement of digital technologies has transformed business operations, making online marketing and Search Engine Optimization (SEO) essential for enhancing business visibility and competitiveness. Despite these benefits, the adoption of online marketing and SEO among Small and Medium Enterprises (SMEs) in Sabah remains limited. This study aims to examine SMEs’ awareness of online marketing and SEO and investigate the influence of attitude, subjective norms, and Perceived Behavioral Control (PBC) on their intention to adopt these digital marketing strategies based on the Theory of Planned Behavior (TPB). A quantitative cross-sectional survey was conducted among 100 SME entrepreneurs operating in Anjung Kinabalu, Kota Kinabalu, Sabah, using purposive sampling. Data were collected through structured questionnaires and analyzed using descriptive statistics and Multiple Linear Regression (MLR). The findings indicate that SME entrepreneurs generally possess moderate to high awareness of online marketing, although knowledge of SEO remains limited. Regression analysis revealed that attitude, subjective norms, and PBC significantly and positively influence SMEs’ intention to adopt online marketing and SEO, with PBC emerging as the strongest predictor. The model explained 93.1% of the variance in behavioral intention (R² = 0.931). The findings support the applicability of the TPB in explaining digital marketing adoption among SMEs. This study contributes to the literature on SME digital transformation in Sabah. It provides policymakers and SME support agencies with practical insights for designing targeted digital capacity-building programs to enhance online marketing and SEO adoption
Copyright (c) 2026 Joshua Alfred, Viduriati Binti Sumin https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by-nc/4.0
DETERMINANTS OF CUSTOMER SATISFACTION TOWARDS ROBOTIC WAITERS AMONG GEN Z CUSTOMERS IN MALAYSIA: A CONCEPTUAL PAPER
This purpose of the study is to investigate the customer satisfaction among Generation Z towards robotic waiters in restaurants. There are four predictors including Speed of Service, Perceived Usefulness (PU), Service Efficiency and Perceived Ease of Use (PEOU). The Gen Z customer is preferred in the study as they are the group that can use and accept high technological products and always looks for uniqueness especially related to robotic waiters. The underpinning theory of this research is Technology Acceptance Model (TAM) which explains how users accept and adopt new technology. The quantitative research is employed and a questionnaire which covers five constructs, namely Customer Satisfaction, Speed of Service, Perceived Usefulness (PU), Service Efficiency and Perceived Ease of Use (PEOU). A minimum total of 200 respondents from Gen Z customers in a survey for their acceptance of robotic waiters in restaurants. The correlation analysis is applied to examine the relationship between all variables, and the multiple regression analysis to analyse the impact of all independent variables on Customer Satisfaction towards robotic waiters. The results will provide an insight towards the application of robotic waiters and the ways to improve the customer satisfactions whenever being served by the robotic waiters. It might create a trend to encourage more restaurants to invest in a technological product which might be able to solve the manpower shortage and employee turnover problem in the industry.
Copyright (c) 2026 Law Kuan Kheng https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by-nc/4.0
REINTERPRETING MALAY TRADITION: HYBRID AESTHETIC FRAMEWORKS IN CONTEMPORARY VISUAL ART PRACTICES
This study addresses the challenge of adapting traditional Malay art forms to modern artistic practices in a rapidly changing cultural landscape. As contemporary Malay artists increasingly incorporate global influences and modern technologies, there is a need to explore how traditional Malay visual culture is being hybridized in the process. The aim of this study is to examine the transformation of conventional Malay art into contemporary practices through hybrid aesthetic frameworks. Utilizing a theory-driven, non-empirical methodology, the study synthesizes existing literature on hybrid aesthetics, Malay art, and postcolonial theory. Findings indicate that hybrid art practices allow for the preservation of cultural heritage while embracing modern media and interdisciplinary techniques, creating new forms of cultural expression. The study contributes to the theoretical understanding of hybridization in Southeast Asian art, offering insights for artists, curators, and policymakers. Implications suggest the importance of hybrid art in preserving cultural identity while engaging with global art discourse.
Copyright (c) 2026 Mohamat Najib Mat Noor https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by-nc/4.0
ELEMEN KETIDAKSANTUNAN DALAM RUANGAN KOMEN MEDIA SOSIAL BERKAITAN LANTIKAN HAKIM MAHKAMAH PERSEKUTUAN
Komunikasi merupakan elemen penting dalam sesebuah peristiwa bahasa sama ada komunikasi secara lisan mahupun tulisan. Elemen komunikasi juga mengalami perubahan gaya penyampaian yang berbeza-beza antara individu ketika berhubung mahupun berinteraksi sehingga mendorong kepada kepelbagaian penggunaan corak atau gaya bahasa. Antara perubahan paling ketara apabila penggunaan bahasa kesat, bahasa kasar dan cacian mendominasi dalam sesuatu isu yang tular. Justeru, kajian ini dijalankan untuk mengenal pasti dan menganalisis penggunaan bahasa kesat dan cacian dalam ruangan komen Facebook berkaitan isu lantikan hakim Mahkamah Persekutuan berasaskan Strategi Ketidaksantunan Culpeper (1996) dan disokong oleh Formula Ketidaksantunan Konvensional Culpeper (2011). Hasil analisis kajian mendedahkan kewujudan empat daripada lima Strategi Ketidaksantunan yang dikemukakan oleh Culpeper (1996), iaitu ketidaksantunan secara langsung, ketidaksantunan positif, ketidaksantunan negatif, dan sarkastik atau sindiran, manakala strategi kelima, iaitu menahan kesantunan tidak ditemukan dalam dapatan kajian. Hasil daripada penelitian mendapati ketidaksantunan bahasa penggunaan bahasa kesat dan cacian menerusi ruangan komen media Facebook adalah satu bentuk tindak balas daripada pencetus yang mendorong sesuatu ujaran. Pengguna media sosial tidak lagi berselindung di sebalik akaun palsu untuk memberi pendapat atau pandangan tentang sesuatu isu malah, semakin berani mengeluarkan kata-kata kesat mahupun cacian demi kepuasan dan kepentingan peribadi. Justeru, dengan adanya kajian ini dapat meningkatkan kesedaean masyarakat terutamanya pengguna media sosial dalam menjaga tutur kata dan peka dengan keperluan menjaga kesantunan bahasa dalam komunikasi.
Copyright (c) 2026 Mohamad Nik Mat Pelet, Adib Zakwan Alqayyum Shahbuddin, Nurul Nadia Samud, Norita Harijaman, Nor Hani Suhaimi https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by-nc/4.0
METACOGNITIVE LISTENING STRATEGIES AND LANGUAGE PROFICIENCY AMONG MALAYSIAN ESL PRE-UNIVERSITY STUDENTS
Metacognitive listening strategies have recently been highlighted for the many positive learning outcomes associated with them. In Malaysian ESL listening context, research in this area is still relatively new and growing. Thus, this study investigates the awareness and perceived use of metacognitive listening strategies among 171 Malaysian ESL pre-university students at a local post-secondary institution. It specifically identifies the students' level of metacognitive listening awareness, their perceived use of the most and least types of strategies during listening comprehension, and the relationship between students' perceived strategy-use and language proficiency. Using an adapted Metacognitive Awareness Listening Questionnaire (MALQ), findings indicate moderate metacognitive listening awareness among the ESL pre-university students at the post-secondary institution, with problem-solving and person-knowledge strategies perceived as the most and the least frequently used during listening respectively. The findings further reveal a statistically significant but practically weak relationship between perceived metacognitive listening strategy use and language proficiency, suggesting that proficiency differences do not translate into substantively different strategy use among the students. Given the limitations in using self-report data, a gross measure of proficiency categorisation and samples drawn from a single-institution context that tend to limit the generalisability of the findings, future studies may consider employing other observational measures to better capture strategy-use during authentic listening tasks, and utilising specific language proficiency tests for more precise proficiency categorisation among samples across different institutions to further illuminate the contextual factors mediating metacognitive awareness and strategy-use among Malaysian ESL pre-university students.
Copyright (c) 2026 Suzie Wong@Rahman, Mohammad Radzi Manap, Nor Fazlin Mohd Ramli, Zachariah Aidin Druckman https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by-nc/4.0
DISCLOSURE OF CORPORATE RISK INFORMATION: EVIDENCE FROM AWARD-WINNING ORGANIZATIONS IN MALAYSIA
Global crises heighten information asymmetry and intensify stakeholders’ demand for decision-useful corporate risk disclosures. This study examines how Malaysian award-winning firms communicate corporate risk information by analysing the annual reports of publicly listed companies that won the 2021 National Annual Corporate Report Awards (NACRA). Using content analysis, we apply a 134-item Modified Corporate Risk Disclosure Index (MoCorDi), developed by integrating prior risk-disclosure indices with NACRA reporting criteria and grounded in the resource-based view. The results indicate that, on average, the sample discloses 83 of the 134 risk items (62%), suggesting that even firms recognised for reporting excellence provide only moderate coverage of risk information. The findings provide a benchmark for boards and preparers to strengthen the completeness and consistency of risk reporting, and offer evidence that can assist regulators and policymakers (e.g., the Securities Commission Malaysia) in refining guidance aimed at improving corporate preparedness for future pandemics and other systemic disruptions. MoCorDi also offers a practical tool for monitoring risk-disclosure practices across firms, sectors, and over time.
Copyright (c) 2026 Nur Syahira Rashadan, Corina Joseph, Muhammad Hariz Hamid, Sharifah Norzehan Syed Yusuf https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by-nc/4.0
ASSESSING THE RELATIONSHIP BETWEEN COERCIVE FACTORS AND E-SERVICE CONTENT ON MALAYSIAN LOCAL GOVERNMENT WEBSITES
With the ongoing influence of digital technologies on contemporary governance, local governments are increasingly adopting e-government initiatives to improve the quality, accessibility, and efficiency of public service delivery. This conceptual paper applies Institutional Theory to examine the relationship between coercive factors and the e-service content disclosed on Malaysian local government websites. The assessment focusses on coercive isomorphism, proposing that jurisdictional influence, innovation initiatives, and integrity infrastructure constitute organizational responses to formal and informal pressures from higher governing authorities. The Internal Audit Function is introduced as a governance-based moderating mechanism that may enhance the translation of institutional pressures into comprehensive, consistent, and reliable e-service content. To support future empirical research, the study proposes a quantitative content analysis of 151 Malaysian local government websites using the E-Service Assessment Index (ESAI), adapted from the Local Online Service Index (LOSI). The paper details procedures for operationalization, coding, reliability assessment, and moderation testing. The study contributes by extending Institutional Theory to digitalization and internal assurance of local government, enhancing a content-based assessment of e-service maturity, and providing a framework to support and improve local digital governance, not only at the local level, but also at the global stage.
Copyright (c) 2026 Sabariah Abd Samad, Corina Joseph, Leong Siow Hoo https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by-nc/4.0
ARTIFICIAL INTELLIGENCE IN HIGHER EDUCATION MATHEMATICS: A SYSTEMATIC REVIEW OF AI-BASED PLATFORMS, CHALLENGES, AND TEACHING TRANSFORMATION
This study presents a systematic review of artificial intelligence (AI) applications in higher education mathematics, focusing on AI tools, associated challenges, and their implications for teaching transformation. Guided by PRISMA methodology, 16 studies published between 2021 and 2025 were selected from Scopus and Google Scholar. This review identifies generative AI tools, particularly ChatGPT, along with adaptive learning platforms such as ALEKS and KnowRe Math, as the most widely examined technologies. These tools support personalised and self-paced learning, enhance conceptual understanding through interactive features, and provide timely feedback. However, their key challenges include over-reliance on AI, data privacy concerns, and the need to preserve the critical role of educators in fostering deep and meaningful learning. Findings suggest that AI has the potential to transform teaching practices by enabling more adaptive, student-centred learning environments. However, its effectiveness depends on responsible and pedagogically informed integration. This review contributes to the field by synthesising current evidence and highlighting key considerations for effective implementation of AI in higher education mathematics.
Copyright (c) 2026 Yee Ming Chew, Set Foong Ng, Kok Shien Ng https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by-nc/4.0
MAPPING THE INTELLECTUAL LANDSCAPE OF TEAM PERFORMANCE RESEARCH IN EMERGENCY AND LAW ENFORCEMENT CONTEXTS: A BIBLIOMETRIC ANALYSIS (2000–2025)
This bibliometric study maps the intellectual landscape of team performance research in emergency and law enforcement contexts from 2000 to 2025. Drawing on 863 publications indexed in Scopus, the study aims to (1) examine the evolution of research on team performance in emergency and law enforcement settings, (2) identify publication and institutional contribution patterns within the field, and (3) determine the countries, journals, and subject areas that have most influenced the development of this research domain. Using bibliometric tools, including VOSviewer, Bibliometrix, and Harzing’s Publish or Perish, the analysis examines publication trends, citation patterns, disciplinary contributions, publication outlets, institutional productivity, and geographic distribution. The findings indicate a substantial increase in research output over the past two decades, with publication activity accelerating significantly after 2020 and reaching its highest level in 2024. Social Sciences emerged as the dominant subject area, followed by Business, Management and Accounting, Computer Science, Engineering, Environmental Science, and Medicine. Journals such as Sustainability Switzerland and the International Journal of Disaster Risk Reduction served as major publication platforms, while the United States, United Kingdom, and Canada were the leading contributors to the field. The findings also reveal that research on team performance in emergency and law enforcement contexts has developed into a highly interdisciplinary area that integrates organizational, technological, operational, and healthcare perspectives. Despite the growth of the field, law enforcement teams remain comparatively underrepresented in the literature compared to emergency and healthcare teams. This study highlights the need for broader geographic representation, greater attention to law enforcement contexts, and more empirical investigations of teamwork in high-risk environments. By providing a comprehensive overview of publication trends, influential contributors, and disciplinary foundations, this study contributes to a better understanding of the development of team performance research and offers directions for future scholarship.
Copyright (c) 2026 Norsyazwani Ab Halim, Azlyn Ahmad Zawawi, Nur Zafifa Kamarunzaman https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by-nc/4.0
FACTORS THAT INFLUENCE PURCHASE INTENTION OF SECOND-HAND PRODUCTS
Product reuse is one of the strategies in reducing the consumption of fresh resources in the production industries. Reuse plays a significant role in the minimization of waste as envisioned by waste prevention and zero waste strategies. However, for reuse to occur, there needs to be both a supply of used items and a demand for these goods. Therefore, this study was conducted to investigate the factors which influence college students and their families’ purchase intention of second-hand products. The quantitative study utilised an online survey for data collection and its research instrument was an online questionnaire. The questionnaire was distributed using snowball sampling among university students to determine the factors influencing their decision in buying second-hand products. The study hopes to address two research questions. a) What are the factors which influence purchase intention of second-hand products? b) What are the factors which deter the consumers from purchasing second-hand products? Based on the data analysis it was found that the main deciding factors for the respondents’ purchase intention was the condition of the second-hand items followed by the price and finally the brand. The respondents who have never bought second-hand products stated that the main factor that deter them from purchasing secondhand products is, they are considered unhygienic.
Copyright (c) 2024 https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by-nc/4.0
VOCABULARY ENHANCEMENT THROUGH POETRY WRITING IN ESL CLASSROOM
Literature is deemed as a contrivance for promoting language acquisition. It can be used to motivate learners to achieve the desired language that may improve their academic performance. Poetry, being contemplated as a component of literature, has proven to place a significant impact on the development of students' literacy competence. Hence, the goal of this study is to investigate the efficacy of adopting poetry in teaching vocabulary in the ESL classroom. It seeks to answer two research questions, (1) what is the level of student vocabulary according to the British National Corpus (BNC)? And (2) what is the frequency of partof-speech (POS) in the poetry written by the student? This paper also discusses some of the advantages and pedagogical approaches of using poetry in the ESL classroom. The findings suggested that the highest frequency of POS is nouns and the pronouns You and I dominate the list. Based on these findings, the present research demonstrates that it is possible to employ poetry-based vocabulary teaching activities to improve teacher's instructional practices and enhance students' language learning outcomes. By incorporating poetry into their lesson plans, teachers can create a more engaging and meaningful learning experience for their students.
LEARNING STYLES OF DIPLOMA STUDENTS AT A PUBLIC UNIVERSITY IN MALAYSIA POST COVID-19 PANDEMIC
The education system worldwide underwent a drastic change during the Covid-19 pandemic. Online distance learning or ODL was adopted to limit face-to-face interactions and minimize the spread of the contagious diseases. Educators and students had to adapt their teaching methods and learning styles respectively, during the pandemic. However, now that the world is already in the endemic phase and online classes have been replaced by face-to-face classes, the question has been raised on whether the situation has changed the way the students are learning. This study aims to investigate the learning styles of diploma students at a public university in Malaysia to determine whether their learning styles are different during and after the COVID-19 pandemic. The participants in the study are 100 diploma students at UiTM Perak. The data were collected through the distribution of questionnaire adapted from VAK (Chislett & Chapman, 2005). It was found that most of the participants are visual learners and preferred VISUAL learning style. In addition, most of the students (76%) felt that they have adapted to the changes of the learning environment during and after the Covid-19 pandemic and have changed their learning styles accordingly. To the question whether they prefer Online Distance Learning (ODL) or face-to-face learning environment, only ten (10%) of the students stated that they prefer ODL while the rest Voice of Academia Vol. 20, Issue (1) 2024 prefer face-to-face learning environment. The findings of the research will contribute valuable insights for educators, policy makers and the learning institutions to enhance learning and teaching quality and to support the diverse learning needs of diploma students.
ENHANCING LITERACY ENGAGEMENT WITH CULTURALLY RELEVANT READING MATERIALS FOR FOREIGN LANGUAGE LEARNERS
This concept paper delves into the critical realm of literacy engagement among foreign language English learners and its transformative potential when coupled with culturally relevant reading materials. As the global landscape continues to diversify, educational systems are witnessing an increasing presence of linguistically and culturally diverse student populations. Addressing the unique needs of these learners is paramount, particularly in the realm of literacy development. This paper proposes an innovative approach to enhancing literacy engagement by leveraging culturally relevant reading materials that resonate with the lived experiences and backgrounds of second language English learners. Drawing on a multidisciplinary foundation that integrates theories of language acquisition, cultural psychology, and educational pedagogy, this concept paper seeks to underscore the intrinsic connection between cultural identity and literacy engagement. By intertwining culturally resonant narratives, themes, and characters within reading materials, educators can bridge linguistic and cultural gaps, cultivating an enriched learning environment that empowers learners to engage more deeply with the English Language and its literary expressions. Additionally, the concept paper addresses practical considerations for educators, curriculum designers, and policymakers. It delves into the process of selecting and integrating culturally relevant reading materials, suggesting strategies to ensure authenticity, sensitivity, and alignment with educational objectives. Through an exploration of existing research, this paper highlights the positive impact of culturally relevant reading materials on third language learners’ motivation, comprehension, and overall language proficiency. It also delves into the socioemotional dimensions of such engagement, elucidating how culturally imbued content can provide a sense of belonging, thereby fostering a positive attitude towards language learning.
COMPETITION-BASED LEARNING AND PROJECT-BASED LEARNING TO PROMOTE UNDERGRADUATE STUDENTS’ MOTIVATION AND PERFORMANCE IN MATHEMATICS
A combination of two well-known learning models, projectbased learning (PBL) and competition-based learning (CBL) maximises the advantages while avoiding the disadvantages of competition in Mathematics instruction. Thus, this study aims to improve the teaching and learning quality and enhance the learning outcomes of Mathematics instruction. To that end, the research hypotheses investigate the influence of the CBL-PBL approach on students’ learning based on their engagement and educators’ perspectives of the approach. A questionnaire was employed and distributed to 36 students and 2 lecturers who were using and implementing the CBL-PBL approach to achieve the research objectives. Non-parametric statistics tests were used to analyse the results. A significant relationship was found between the CBL-PBL approach and students’ learning outcome based on their learning engagement, collaboration, authentic learning, disciplinary subject learning, and interactiveness. The results suggest that the CBL-PBL approach can maximise the students’ learning outcomes by bridging academic theories and real-world practices through competition. Thus, the CBL-PBL approach is recommended for educational use with proper planning.
IN-SERVICE ENGLISH TEACHERS’ BELIEFS OF GRAMMAR TEACHING AT PRIMARY SCHOOLS IN SELANGOR, MALAYSIA.
The study of English teachers’ beliefs about grammar teaching has been subjected to many discussions and empirical research in second language education. The issue of whether grammar should be taught or otherwise is not the only concern, but also some teachers encounter the issue of the best way to teach grammar, either teaching grammar explicitly or implicitly. This paper reports on a study which investigated the beliefs of in-service English teachers at primary schools in Selangor, Malaysia about the importance of the grammar component in learning English and its roles in teaching English as a Second Language (ESL) as well as the approaches to grammar teaching either explicit or implicit. For this study, the researcher employed a quantitative approach and randomly selected 50 in-service English teachers to obtain information regarding teachers’ views of grammar teaching and classroom. The findings revealed that most of the in-service English teachers believed that the grammar component is significant in learning the English language and it should be taught at primary schools. In addition, the study found that most of them preferred to employ the implicit approach compared to the explicit approach in grammar teaching. Hence, it can be concluded that the teachers in the study had their own set of beliefs about grammar teaching. The involvement of various stakeholders such as ESL teachers, curriculum designers in ESL, and the Malaysia Ministry of Education plays essential roles to enhance the English education system and support pupils’ achievement, especially at the primary school level.
ENHANCING GRAMMAR LEARNING MOTIVATION: A PRELIMINARY STUDY ON A MOBILE-ASSISTED INSTRUCTION TOOL
In the emerging field of language learning research, technology has played a significant role. However, recent empirical studies have highlighted a lack of attention to grammar learning, particularly in designing instructional materials and motivational frameworks for efficient mobile-assisted grammar learning tools. This paper presents the results of a preliminary study that aimed to investigate learner motivation when using a mobile-assisted tool for learning the Subject-Verb Agreement (SVA) rule in English language grammar and to examine the differences between male and female students in terms of their motivation when experiencing the tool. The study applied the Attention-RelevanceConfidence-Satisfaction (ARCS) model in the instructional design under the name, SVATHLON 2.0. It was a mobile-friendly Google site page that was developed to teach students SVA in a more engaged and gamified environment. The research employed a descriptive quantitative design, involving a questionnaire that was distributed to 111 undergraduate students who enrolled in a compulsory English language course for the semester 1 programme at a public university. The findings demonstrated that most students showed positive motivation after using SVATHLON 2.0 while learning SVA. The results of this preliminary study suggest that SVATHLON 2.0 could be an effective tool to enhance learner motivation, with positive responses from both male and female students. This study underscores the potential of gamified instructional materials to address the need for innovative and engaging approaches to grammar learning, particularly in the context of technology-assisted language education.
THE IMPLEMENTATION OF TASK BASED LANGUAGE TEACHING (TBLT) TO IMPROVE ESL STUDENTS’ FLUENCY
Of the speaking skills, fluency can be one of the most difficult to improve. However, it is often the main goal of almost every second language learner since the communicative approach is the primary focus of language learning. The Malaysian teaching context has witnessed a gradual shift from the traditional grammar-translation approach to a more communicative one, thereby making it necessary to discover new strategies to develop students’ speaking skills. This action research was conducted to explore the usage of TBLT by Malaysian ESL students to increase speaking fluency. A quasi-experimental research method was applied in the study to monitor the students' progress in speaking fluency and accuracy. The choice of respondents for the study involves selection using the Simple Random Sampling technique which involved 50 students enrolled in the first semester of classes at the Higher Learning Institution in Perak, Malaysia. Pre-tests at the start of the semester and post-tests at the end of the semester were used to gather data on the students' speaking abilities. The data was analysed quantitatively using descriptive and inferential statistics involving, mean score analysis, t-value and presented in the form of tables for univariate analysis . The result of the study indicates that the self conversation recording by the students can improve the fluency with grammatical accuracy; and the achievement in the fluency of the students from the experimental group was considerably higher than the control group. The average N-gain score from the experimental group students was better than the control group students (.0424>0.205). However, the mean score achieved in the pre-test in the experimental class and control class was (52.14 <59>67.40). The paired sample t-test indicates a significant improvement with t-value of -14.237 and p. value = .000<0.005. Therefore, it was concluded that the use of TBLT applications could generate good results in the development of speech fluency in students. In the future, lecturers can use the innovation project with students during class time to improve their students’ speaking fluency.
LEARNERS' LANGUAGE ANXIETY AND ENGLISH LANGUAGE LEARNING MOTIVATION: AN EXPLORATORY ANALYSIS
Language anxiety is an ongoing concern for ESL instructors and educators, impacting students' performance in English language classrooms. Despite years of discussion, learners still grapple with language anxiety. Simultaneously, motivation has emerged as a pivotal factor in English language learning success. This research examines how diverse types of learning anxiety, such as fear of negative evaluation, apprehension of speech and fear of assessments have a bearing on learners’ motivation. Employing a quantitative approach, this exploratory study gathered data through questionnaires distributed to 74 undergraduate students, chosen purposively. A 5-point Likert-scale questionnaire was used, incorporating demographic details, the English Language Classroom Anxiety Scale, and the English Language Motivation Scale. The results spotlight a significant correlation between learners' anxiety levels and their language learning motivation, with fear of negative evaluation as the main predictor impacting motivation. Motivation and language learning anxiety level were also found to be moderately low among the respondents, with the relationship being weak, positive in nature. These findings illuminate how motivation could potentially alleviate anxiety's impact, thus enhancing language learning effectiveness.
DEVELOPING TRANSFORMATION MODULES FOR YOUNG INMATES IN MALAYSIAN PRISON SCHOOLS
Education is a pivotal aspect of correctional programs in prison institutions, aiming to equip inmates with the essential skills and knowledge needed for successful reintegration into society post-release. However, concerns arise regarding the educational experiences of young inmates serving short-term sentences, typically less than one year. This case study addresses these concerns by developing supplementary modules specifically designed for young inmates in a selected prison school. Following the ADDIE framework, the study progressed through three phases. The needs analysis phase, conducted from July 2021 to August 2021, identified the specific requirements of six teachers working in the prison school. This ensured that the modules aligned with the educators' and young inmates' needs and challenges. During the design and development phase, from January 2022 to March 2022, experts provided feedback on the overall module design, content, and activities, refining them for effectiveness. The implementation phase occurred from April 2022 to September 2022, involving 57 students and 4 teachers in the selected prison school. Interviews and observations were conducted to gather data on the students' experiences with the modules. The analysis revealed positive outcomes: students expressed enjoyment, indicating their engagement and interest in the modules. This study has significant implications for the pedagogical approach in prison schools. By showcasing the success and effectiveness of the supplementary modules, it provides insights and guidance for planning fluid and organic teaching and learning activities in similar settings. The findings contribute to ongoing efforts to enhance educational opportunities for young inmates, promoting their successful reintegration into society upon release.
FACTORS IMPACTING THE COMPANY’S PROFITABILITY IN FARMING AND AGRICULTURE SECTORS
Agriculture, forestry, and fishing have been the main sectors contributing to the Malaysian Gross Domestic Product since independent day. Eventually, the manufacturing sector has been booming since the ‘80s which boosted the Malaysian economy. Demand in the manufacturing sector creates a shift in job filling from agriculture to manufacturing. Since then, the agriculture sector faced a huge gap in worker and the sector seem to have lost popularity in gaining new employee. This study focuses on finding impacting sources to the profitability faced by farming and agriculture-listed companies in Malaysia. The timeline for this study of profitability determination in the agriculture sectors in Malaysia is from 2017 to 2021. There are 50 companies listed in Bursa Malaysia that were selected mostly based in the farming industry. The findings show that return on asset, operating margin and asset turnover have a positive relationship with profitability. Return on asset has the highest impact towards profitability followed by operating margin and asset turnover. The results will give an idea for agriculture sector management to make a decisive decision for future planning. Ultimately, it will give a guideline for the companies to avoid wastage, implement new policies, sustain productivity, and guarantee profits.
EXPLORING THE LEGAL FRAMEWORK AND POLICIES OF CLIMATE CHANGE ACROSS BORDERS: LOCAL GOVERNMENT RESPONSE TO CLIMATE CHANGE IN SELECTED ASEAN COUNTRIES
Climate change is an urgent and pressing issue with farreaching implications for all nations worldwide. Indonesia, in particular, has emerged as a significant contributor of carbon dioxide (CO2) emissions in Southeast Asia, with a staggering 619 metric tons in 2021, placing it among the top five CO2 emitters in the Asia-Pacific region. Japan, too, is a notable contributor to carbon emissions, ranking fifth globally. Given these alarming statistics, various local governments have taken proactive steps and measures to reduce emissions and foster low-carbon growth within their respective jurisdictions. This paper focuses on the top CO2 emitters in ASEAN: Malaysia, Indonesia, and Japan. Through a doctrinal legal research analysis, the paper examines the international legal framework, national laws, and climate change policies these countries implemented. Additionally, the study highlights several noteworthy projects initiated to combat climate change. Policymakers, governments, and local governments can leverage the research findings and insights to formulate and implement effective strategies to address the issue of climate change in their respective regions.
A COMPARISON OF MOTIF DESIGNS BETWEEN TENUN PAHANG DIRAJA AND TERENGGANU SONGKET
The songket weaving art has been passed down through Malay society for hundreds of years. The origins of this fabric can be traced back to the 13th century, during a period of trade between the Malays and the rest of the world, including India, China, Egypt, and the West. The trade relationship developed as a result of the Malay World's strategic location, which led to its status as the world's main trading route. Among the Malays, textile is known as the most desired merchandise, and it remains so to this day. Notably, silk and songket weaving are important local activities in Pahang, Terengganu, and Kelantan, where weavers incorporate local cultural values and identities in their motif pattern designs. The motif's design is prominent to emphasise the weaving's uniqueness in addition to incorporating the elements of daily life such as cultural, religious, aesthetic, and symbolic values. Many of the terms and designs that are used in weaving and songket motifs are similar. This textile design and aesthetic aspiration can be found in the fabrics of Tenun Pahang Diraja and Terengganu Songket. Songket weaving motifs are inspired by nature, such as flowers, plants, and animals. Despite their apparent similarities, the motif's touches on both fabrics displayed unique distinctiveness. Therefore, the objective of this study is to identify the least visible differences in the motif Voice of Academia Vol. 20, Issue (1) 2024 designs of Tenun Pahang Diraja and Terengganu songket. This comparison also seeks to highlight how the overall traditional motif design is developed to create a work that stands out in its own right. The tangible articulation demonstrates that the local heritage textiles possess elements of the nation's cultural art tradition as well as the inventive ability to establish a detail on the production of a perfect look through product statement.
MEDICAL STUDENTS’ ATTITUDES TOWARDS MUSIC EDUCATION: AN EXPLORATORY RESEARCH IN NINGXIA
Music education is useful for medical students especially in meeting their psychological needs and reducing stress amidst their busy medical training. A medical studentoriented music education system, as one part of arts, most probably could help to develop an entire medical knowledgeable system, which is strongly associated with education, medicine and life. Hence, the medical students’ knowledge of music and attitudes towards music education need to be understood for strategic and more balanced medical education development. This research aims to explore the medical students’ perception of music and music education, and understand the importance of the integration of music into medical education. Besides, it also hopes to provide a basis for high-quality development of education and its realization. An online questionnaire was done in Ningxia. A total of 1,232 medical students participated in the online survey consisted of more than 20 questions. The findings indicated that the medical students had a positive perceptions of music education. Recommendations are provided for music education in medical universities to benefit the students and the universities.