Transforming English Language Classrooms: Empowering Future-Ready Learners through Critical Thinking and Creativity in Oman

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In a rapidly evolving world driven by technological advancement and knowledge creation, the ability to think critically and act creatively is no longer optional, it is essential. This article explores how fostering critical thinking and creativity can transform English language classrooms into spaces of inquiry, innovation and learner agency. It examines the concept of future-ready learners, outlines powerful classroom strategies for developing critical and creative capacities and highlights how the ‘Team Together Oman’ curriculum embeds these competencies systematically. The paper positions teachers as catalysts for pedagogical change and aligns these practices with international frameworks and Oman Vision 2040, emphasizing the strategic role of English language education in shaping globally competent, future-ready learners.

The Impact of New-Generation Free Trade Agreements on the Sustainable Export of Vietnam’s Key Agricultural Products: Evidence from a Gravity Model

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Vietnam has participated in an extensive network of Free Trade Agreements (FTAs), including new-generation ones such as the CPTPP, EVFTA, and RCEP. These agreements expand market access but also introduce complex regulatory standards. This study examines the effects of major FTAs on Vietnam’s key agricultural exports – rice, pangasius fish, mango, lemon, and star apple – during 2005–2024. A gravity model estimated with the Poisson Pseudo-Maximum Likelihood (PPML) method is used to address data heteroskedasticity and zero-trade values. The analysis combines product-level export data with partner-country economic indicators and the timing of FTA enforcement. Results show that FTA impacts differ markedly across agreements and commodities. Regional frameworks such as the ASEAN Economic Community (AEC) and the RCEP are associated with statistically significant positive effects on some products, particularly pangasius and mango. In contrast, high-standard FTAs such as the EVFTA and CPTPP show negative or insignificant coefficients for rice and pangasius exports. Overall, the findings indicate that tariff preferences alone do not ensure export growth. The realized effects depend on product characteristics and the ability to meet technical and quality standards. The study adds empirical evidence to understanding how Vietnam’s agricultural trade responds to new-generation FTAs.

The Effectiveness of Pet-Friendly Guidelines on Customer Satisfaction of Red Lotus Restaurant in Bonifacio Global City

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With many people now considering pets as integral family members, pet owners prefer to keep them close for comfort and companionship during their travels. In response, business establishments are increasingly implementing pet-friendly guidelines allowing pets in designated areas and ensuring that both the owner and their furry companion can enjoy a comfortable and welcoming environment. However, while some establishments claim to be pet-friendly, the actual experience can differ significantly. The objective of this study was to explore how the implementation of pet-friendly guidelines affects customer satisfaction. Data were gathered through a structured survey distributed to customers who dined at the establishment. The findings revealed that the pet-friendly guidelines significantly influenced customer satisfaction. Pet owners expressed higher satisfaction due to the availability of designated pet-friendly amenities and accommodating staff. In addition, non-pet owners also acknowledged the establishment’s effort to maintain cleanliness and comfort for all guests. Statistical analysis confirmed a positive correlation between the perceived effectiveness of the guidelines and overall customer satisfaction, indicating that the guidelines contributed to a more enjoyable dining experience. The results provided valuable insights for establishments aiming to implement or refine pet-friendly guidelines such as introducing food options for pets, further enhancement of communication to customers with regards to the guidelines, which demonstrates the potential of such initiatives to improve customer satisfaction which leads to loyalty. By addressing the needs of both pet and non-pet owners, pet-friendly establishments can create an inclusive and satisfying environment for all.

Implementation of the Kemp Model in the Development of Islamic Religious Education Teaching Materials

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he main issue in Islamic Religious Education (PAI) learning lies in the predominance of conventional teaching materials that are not aligned with students’ characteristics. This condition hinders the development of active, meaningful, and contextual learning processes. This study aims to examine the application of the Kemp model in the development of Islamic Religious Education (PAI) teaching materials through a literature review approach. The findings indicate that the Kemp model is effective in designing Islamic Religious Education (PAI) materials due to its flexible, comprehensive, and systematic nature. The model includes needs analysis, goal setting, instructional strategies, and evaluation processes that can be adjusted to various learning contexts. Previous studies also reveal that the implementation of the Kemp model enhances students’ participation, understanding, and engagement in Islamic Religious Education (PAI) learning. Therefore, the Kemp model is considered a strategic alternative for developing Islamic Religious Education (PAI) materials that are relevant to curriculum demands and students’ developmental needs.

Representation of Ecoteological Ideas in the Collection of Poetry After the Sixth Day by Ahmad Nurullah

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This study aims to examine the ecotheological dimension in Ahmad Nurullah’s poetry collection Setelah Hari Keenam by the Sixth Day, focusing on a reading that integrates ecocritical approaches and theological reflection. The research method used is qualitative analysis with an ecocritical approach based on an ecotheological perspective. The research data consist of poetic texts in Setelah Hari Keenam, which were purposively selected based on the relevance of their ecological and theological themes. The analysis was conducted by interpreting symbols, metaphors, and poetic structures to identify representations of nature, ecological submission, and spiritual reflections contained therein. The conclusion of this study is that Ahmad Nurullah’s work functions not only as an aesthetic expression, but also as a theological-ecological text that encourages reconciliation between humans and the earth. An ecotheological reading of this work demonstrates the potential of literature in mediating spiritual relationships with nature and fostering collective awareness of the importance of environmental sustainability. This research is expected to expand the repertoire of Indonesian literary studies based on ecocriticism and become a reference for interdisciplinary research that connects literature, theology, and environmental studies.