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Article
Publication date: 22 November 2011

Mustafizur Rahman, S.M. Ferdous, Syed Ishtiaque Ahmed and Anika Anwar

Speech disorder is one of the most common problems found with autistic children. The purpose of this paper is to investigate the introduction of computer‐based interactive games…

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Abstract

Purpose

Speech disorder is one of the most common problems found with autistic children. The purpose of this paper is to investigate the introduction of computer‐based interactive games along with the traditional therapies in order to help improve the speech of autistic children.

Design/methodology/approach

From analysis of the works of Ivar Lovaas, it is already known that there are several disadvantages to the “applied behavior analysis” approach to solve the problems of autistic children; so the authors' methodologies were to encourage children with Autism Spectrum Disorders (ASD) to “play,” where playing is mediated through technology. By creating technological methods of interaction (visual displays and physical robots), play and comfortable interactions can be garnered from children with autism. There is a feeling of “safety” in having the main form of interaction occur with non‐humans. Further, these devices allow the child, rather than a third party, to be in control of the interactions.

Findings

From the observations, it could found that the problems of autistic children have a wide range and it is almost impossible to design a single game for a group of children. Instead, each child needs to be treated individually. Hence, the authors are suggesting different types of games for different problems.

Research limitations/implications

The authors have proposed some computer game‐based therapies for two types of autism that are discussed in the paper. Interactive games can be built for other types too. After having a group of these games it can be an experimental topic to determine the order of execution of these therapies. However, the proposed games heavily depend on the instructors. Research should be conducted to minimize the duties of instructor.

Social implications

The autism spectral disorders are defined by the qualitative impairments in social communication. Although the actual reason for autism is still unknown to the medical sciences, it has been proved to be the result of abnormal and irregular growth of cerebral neurons of human brains. People suffering from autism very often demonstrate a poor performance in social interactions and hence find it difficult to communicate with other people. So if vocalization can be encouraged at the age of 3, a pivotal age for children with ASD, this could lead to an increased communicative ability, which makes not only the child's life easier, but also increases their chances of functioning in the world around them.

Originality/value

This paper offers a hierarchy of speaking skills and suggests corresponding games for each stage to achieve a necessary level of efficiency.

Details

Interactive Technology and Smart Education, vol. 8 no. 4
Type: Research Article
ISSN: 1741-5659

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Article
Publication date: 2 June 2022

Md. Abdul Alim, Kim-Lim Tan, Teck Weng Jee, Boo Ho Voon, Md. Julhaz Hossain and Md. Uzzal Mia

This paper focuses on the factors that affect entrepreneurs' performance in small and medium enterprises (SMEs) in the context of a developing nation. Despite the advances in this…

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Abstract

Purpose

This paper focuses on the factors that affect entrepreneurs' performance in small and medium enterprises (SMEs) in the context of a developing nation. Despite the advances in this literature, examination of opportunity recognition in the same model with personal factors and environmental factors on entrepreneurs' performance is lacking.

Design/methodology/approach

A quantitative survey was carried out and the data sample of 198 SMEs entrepreneurs in Bangladesh was collected using quota sampling technique. Partial least squares-based structural equation modeling (PLS-SEM) was employed to test the hypothesized relationships.

Findings

The study found that the direct effect of personal and environmental factors significantly influences entrepreneurs' performance and opportunity recognition, and opportunity recognition significantly influences entrepreneurs' performance. The results further indicated that opportunity recognition mediates the relationships between environmental factors and entrepreneurs' performance, but not on the relationships between personal factors and entrepreneurs' performance.

Practical implications

The findings from the study guide SMEs entrepreneurs' performance by utilizing the opportunity recognition more efficiently and effectively. The study further enhances practitioners' understanding of the drivers and motivations of entrepreneurs within a developing nation context.

Originality/value

Although some previous studies already exist that discuss SMEs entrepreneurs' performance, there have been few studies focusing on opportunity recognition and mediation role of opportunity recognition, and far lesser in the context of a developing nation.

Details

Asia-Pacific Journal of Business Administration, vol. 15 no. 5
Type: Research Article
ISSN: 1757-4323

Keywords

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Article
Publication date: 9 December 2020

Bahadur Ali Soomro, Maqsood Memon and Naimatullah Shah

The present study predicts attitude towards entrepreneurship among the students of Thailand through the entrepreneurial attitude orientation (EAO) model.

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Abstract

Purpose

The present study predicts attitude towards entrepreneurship among the students of Thailand through the entrepreneurial attitude orientation (EAO) model.

Design/methodology/approach

A quantitative approach is used, based on cross-sectional data from public sector universities of Thailand. The respondents are bachelor's and master's students who are acquiring entrepreneurship education. A random sampling technique was used to approach students to participate in the survey. A total of 392 useable questionnaires were returned, providing data for analysis.

Findings

Using structural equation modeling, the results show a positive and significant impact of achievement, personal control and innovation on attitudes towards entrepreneurship. Self-esteem, however, has a non-significant impact on attitudes towards entrepreneurship.

Practical implications

This study may be helpful for university policymakers wishing to know more about students' entrepreneurial attitudes, as there is a strong need to divert more students towards entrepreneurship. This study may contribute to the entrepreneurship literature and the EAO scale, particularly in developing and Asian contexts.

Originality/value

This study offers evidence of the development of entrepreneurial attitudes among the students of Thailand, which ensures the further validation of the EAO scale in a developing country.

Details

Education + Training, vol. 63 no. 2
Type: Research Article
ISSN: 0040-0912

Keywords

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Article
Publication date: 10 September 2024

Naimatullah Shah, Safia Bano, Ummi Naiemah Saraih, Nadia A. Abdelmegeed Abdelwahed and Bahadur Ali Soomro

In this study, we aim to investigate entrepreneurial intention (EI) among potential entrepreneurs who were students at Pakistan’s higher education institutes (HEIs) of technical…

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Abstract

Purpose

In this study, we aim to investigate entrepreneurial intention (EI) among potential entrepreneurs who were students at Pakistan’s higher education institutes (HEIs) of technical and vocational education and training (TVET).

Design/methodology/approach

We used a quantitative and correlational method in this study, and we based its theoretical framework on the theory of planned behavior (TPB) and the entrepreneurial event model (EEM). We based this study’s findings on 367 samples collected from Pakistan’s HEI TVET students who were potential entrepreneurs.

Findings

By employing path analysis, the findings reveal that TPB constructs, such as personal attitudes (PA), subjective norms (SN) and perceived behavioral control (PBC), have a positive and significant effect on EI. The findings show, also, that EEM constructs, such as perceived desirability (PD), perceived feasibility (PF) and propensity to act (PT) are positive and significant predictors of EI. Moreover, self-efficacy (SE) and the quality of TVET (QTT) positively and significantly affect EI.

Practical implications

This study’s findings support the improvement of Pakistan’s HEIs in developing TVET to enhance individuals’ skills and, ultimately, to create employment and socioeconomic circumstances. They also assist Pakistan’s HEIs in developing EI among their TVET potential entrepreneurs to ensure that they are sufficiently equipped for the job markets.

Originality/value

This study’s findings empirically confirm that TPB, EEM, SE and the QTT provide an integrated path for Pakistan’s entrepreneurs.

Details

Education + Training, vol. 66 no. 7
Type: Research Article
ISSN: 0040-0912

Keywords

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