Characteristics of Gen Z Dealing with the Issue of Knowledge Workers: Opportunities and Challenges

/0 Comments/in /by

This research aims to explore the opportunities and challenges faced by generation Z in the context of the knowledge worker phenomenon, as well as identify potential gaps in skills that may affect their readiness for knowledge-based work. While generation Z is recognised as digital natives with strong technological capabilities, there is a potential gap between their technical skills and the non-technical skills required in knowledge-based work. These gaps include interpersonal skills, effective communication, as well as problem-solving and strategic decision-making. This research is important to provide in-depth insights into how generation Z can capitalise on the opportunities available and overcome the challenges they face in the knowledge worker era.

This research uses a quantitative descriptive approach with literature studies and surveys. The sample consisted of 100 students of the Faculty of Economics and Business (FEB) of Yogyakarta State University (UNY) who were selected by purposive sampling. Data were collected through survey questionnaires and literature studies and analysed using descriptive statistics and synthesis of findings from the literature.

The research revealed that Generation Z has a competitive advantage in terms of technological skills and adaptability to change. However, there is a significant gap in non-technical skills such as communication and problem solving. Recommendations to address this gap include developing a more holistic education and training curriculum, which not only focuses on technical skills but also interpersonal and managerial skills that are essential in a knowledge-based work environment.

Investigating Kindergarten Teachers’ Knowledge, Attitude, Perceived Behavioural Control, And Behavioural Intention to Include Children with Autism Spectrum Disorder in a Small Town in China: Based on the Theory of Planned Behaviour

/0 Comments/in /by

Kindergarten is one of the first educational settings for human life. Kindergarten teachers’ behaviours affect not only the school experience of children with ASD themselves, but also the attitudes from their typical developing peers. Based on the theory of planned behaviour (TPB), this study investigated the general levels, inter-correlation, and influential personal characteristics of kindergarten teachers’ knowledge, attitude, and perceived behavioural control (PBC) for their behavioural intention of the inclusion of children with ASD. Discussion of the results will be provided for a comparison with relevant studies, possible explanation of the results, guidance for practice, and future study directions.

The order of the average scores from low to high is knowledge, attitude, PBC, and behavioural intention. Positive correlations were detected between attitude and PBC and between PBC and behavioural intention. Knowledge was influenced by participants’ kindergarten working years, whether having friends or relatives with family members with ASD, and previous relevant training experience. PBC was correlated with previous experience working with children with ASD. Behavioural intention was correlated with whether having friends and relatives who had family members with the condition.

Whether Chinese High School Graduates Have an Equal Opportunity to Enter a Same University? – Based on the Analysis of the Provincial Quotas Policy (PQP)

/0 Comments/in /by

This essay examines the impact of China’s Provincial Quotas Policy (PQP) on the equality of opportunity for high school students to enter the same university. It begins by introducing key definitions such as the National Higher Education Entrance Examination (Gaokao), the “985” and “211” Projects, batches of university admissions, and PQP. Subsequently, it presents the debates surrounding PQP. Opponents argue that it leads to an uneven distribution of enrollment quotas, regional inequities, and issues like “Gaokao migration.” Supporters contend that it has mitigated the widening gap in access opportunities and reduced the gender gap. Through an analysis of the Gaokao Enrollment Rate (GER) and case studies of the Beijing Institute of Technology (BIT) and Beijing Foreign Studies University (BFSU), it is found that the allocation of university enrollment slots in each province does not proportionally align with the number of applicants or the population. Using SPSS to analyze the factors influencing the formation of PQP, it is determined that factors such as GDP, population, the number of high school graduates, and the number of local high schools play significant roles. The significance of the data is discussed in relation to Gaokao and social mobility, as well as the connection between Gaokao and the Hukou policy. Finally, the complements to PQP, including special admission schemes and awarded points for minority candidates, are introduced. The conclusion is that while there are efforts to address the inequality, if the issue of geographic stratification remains unresolved, educational inequality in China may persist.

A Case Study of Trainee Teachers Integrating Moral Values and Principles in Malay Language Teaching

/0 Comments/in /by

This qualitative case study examines how trainee teachers apply moral ideals and principles when teaching the Malay language during their practicum. The study included three Malay language trainee teachers from the Institute of Teacher Education Malaysia Ilmu Khas Campus, who completed their practicum at schools in Kuala Lumpur. The participants included two Malay and one Chinese trainee teachers. Data were gathered using interviews, observations, and document analysis. The findings revealed that eleven moral values were applied by the trainee teachers, including rationality, responsibility, cooperation, tolerance and kindness. Additionally, the trainee teachers applied moral principles such as autonomy, justice, and altruism in their teaching. Teaching activities such as Q&A, simulations, group activities, and language arts were used to integrate moral values and principles both directly and indirectly with students. This application aims to shape students’ character, develop social skills, and enhance academic knowledge. The study suggests that a similar approach should be adopted at all teacher training institutes in Malaysia to strengthen the application of moral values at a national level.

Self-Efficacy and Attitude of The Senior High School Learners in the Specialized Subjects of Humanities and Social Sciences Strand in Tuao High School

/in /by

Students’ self-efficacy and attitudes are crucial in the field of Humanities and Social Sciences (HUMSS). When students approach these disciplines with optimism and a strong belief in their capabilities, they tend to find learning more accessible and enjoyable. This study evaluated the self-efficacy and attitude toward HUMSS-specialized subjects among the Senior High School students in Tuao High School for the school year 2023-2024. It employed the embedded design and assessed four sources of self-efficacy: mastery experience, social persuasion, vicarious experience, physiological and emotional states, and overall attitude levels. It also compared these factors across various student profiles and examined the correlation between self-efficacy and attitudes. Utilizing a modified questionnaire for self-efficacy and the Modified Fennema-Sherman Attitude Scales for attitudes, results showed high self-efficacy and moderately favorable attitudes toward specialized subjects. No significant differences were observed based on sex, birth order, or monthly family income. However, a significant relationship was noted between self-efficacy and attitudes towards these subjects. Further research into the long-term impact of self-efficacy and attitudes can inform educational practices, leading to targeted interventions, personalized teaching methods, and enhanced teacher training, promoting academic and career success.