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1 – 10 of 12Hanan Alsharah and Hasan Ghura
This study aims to review the literature on online based learning in business education published in Development and Learning in Organizations between 2019 and 2022. The results…
Abstract
Purpose
This study aims to review the literature on online based learning in business education published in Development and Learning in Organizations between 2019 and 2022. The results of this study can present a better understanding of work-based business learning and offers new insights for future studies.
Design/methodology/approach
Recently the COVID-19 crisis has accelerated online learning. The pandemic’s pace and scale have led many universities and business schools to adopt popular e-learning tools such as Microsoft Teams, Zoom, or other online platforms. As a result, faculty and students needed new skills and resources in business education. Hence, the design and execution of online content were under scrutiny (Singh, 2022). After several months (almost two years) of operating in a highly virtual state during the COVID-19 crisis, there is little understanding of online learning in business education. In addition, asking about online teaching quality and student satisfaction is vital, as unsolved concerns may have long-term implications for future business programs (Szopiński and Bachnik, 2022). Therefore, this study aims to critically discuss the current literature to investigate the effects of online learning in business education during the COVID-19 pandemic. The results could present a better understanding of business learning and offers new insights for future research.
Findings
The results from reviewing the selected articles showed several methodologies adopted in the field of business education. In this regard, universities must adopt an attendance policy for students with unreasonable excuses and those who cannot attend for technical issues. In this regard, facial recognition technologies and in-class tests that require attendance could assist. In addition, to encourage participation, business schools should build algorithms to measure student engagement and link it to the grading system. Finally, universities and business schools should have continuous assessment measures to ensure quality online learning matches higher education institutions in a specific country (Szopiński and Bachnik, 2022).
Originality/value
Along with the benefits of online learning, business schools must be aware of the risks of extending their online courses. First, digital platforms must be introduced to support all online teaching and learning courses and allow information sharing. This demands institutional reforms and resources, which may be unavailable if a university lacks facilities, administrative support, or a training coordination program. The second challenge is the faculty’s attitude toward online learning and the IT support needed to provide an online environment. While distance learning must offer the same knowledge and skills as traditional learning, faculty should embrace technology as a teaching instrument. Therefore, perceived usefulness is a significant determinant of faculty approval of online education. A post-2020 pandemic study is needed to assess faculty opinions in future studies (Szopiński and Bachnik, 2022).
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Arezou Harraf, Hasan Ghura, Allam Hamdan and Xiaoqing Li
The paper aims to analyse the interplay between formal and informal institutions' and their impact on entrepreneurship rates in emerging economies.
Abstract
Purpose
The paper aims to analyse the interplay between formal and informal institutions' and their impact on entrepreneurship rates in emerging economies.
Design/methodology/approach
This study expands previous research in examining the moderating effect of control of corruption on the relationship between formal institutions and the development of the entrepreneurial activity. The study utilizes longitudinal analyses of a dataset from 41 emerging economies over 11 years (2006–2016).
Findings
Findings provided robust support for the study's hypotheses. The results suggested lower levels of corruption positively moderate the effects of a country's number of procedures and education and training on the rates of entrepreneurial activity, while negatively moderating the effects of firm-level technology absorption on the rates of entrepreneurial activity.
Research limitations/implications
The study has considered only one particular aspect of high-growth entrepreneurship, which is newly registered firms with limited liability. Although newly registered firms are recognized as one of the critical drivers of entrepreneurial activity. Future research should seek to examine other aspects of growth-oriented entrepreneurship such as activities involving a high level of innovation, corporate entrepreneurship or technology developments.
Practical implications
This study advanced the existing theories in the field of entrepreneurship and institutional economics as it merged the two theories as a driving framework in the design of the study in the context of emerging economies.
Social implications
The study tested a theoretical model by expanding the number of emerging economies in the study and found comparable findings that explain factors that may influence the likelihood of individuals entering entrepreneurship.
Originality/value
This article adds to the current literature as it highlights the importance of the interplay of formal and informal institutions in determining their impact on entrepreneurship rates in emerging economies. This is of particular importance to policy-makers, and the business world as the empirical results of this study show the benefits of control of corruption in boosting entrepreneurial rates in these economies, which strive for economic diversification in their developmental endeavours.
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Hasan Al Wael, Wael Abdallah, Hasan Ghura and Amina Buallay
This study aims to investigate the organizational and individual factors that influence the adoption of artificial intelligence (AI) in Kuwait's public accounting sector.
Abstract
Purpose
This study aims to investigate the organizational and individual factors that influence the adoption of artificial intelligence (AI) in Kuwait's public accounting sector.
Design/methodology/approach
The methodology of this study is a cross-sectional survey of 393 experienced accounting professionals, using partial least square structural equation modeling to analyze the data.
Findings
The findings show that organizational culture, regulatory support, perceived usefulness and ease of use have a direct positive effect on AI adoption, while perceived usefulness and ease of use also have an indirect positive effect through accounting profit and behavioral intention. However, the availability of resources, effective communication channels and competition pressure have an insignificant impact on AI adoption.
Originality/value
This study pioneers a structural framework to elucidate the perceived enhancement of accounting quality through AI system integration. Further, this research adds to the literature on AI adoption in accounting. This study also offers empirical evidence regarding how organizations in Kuwait's public accounting sector view AI systems in accounting.
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Hasan Ghura, Arezou Harraf, Xiaoqing Li and Allam Hamdan
Corruption has been shown to discourage entrepreneurship in both developed and developing countries. However, it is less clear to what extent corruption affects the development of…
Abstract
Purpose
Corruption has been shown to discourage entrepreneurship in both developed and developing countries. However, it is less clear to what extent corruption affects the development of institutions’ impact on entrepreneurial activity in the context of emerging economies, such as those in the post-communist countries. The purpose of this study is to use institutional economics as a conceptual framework to analyse the moderating effect of control of corruption (informal institution) on the relationship between formal institutions (such as the number of procedures, education and training [TEDU], access to finance and technology absorption) and entrepreneurial activity.
Design/methodology/approach
The study used panel data of 14 post-communist countries and different secondary databases from the years 2006-2016.
Findings
The main findings showed the importance of the institutional environment (formal and informal) on encouraging the rates of entrepreneurial activity. Overall, corruption showed that it behaves as a moderator between formal institutions and entrepreneurship. In particular, the evidence from this study showed that formal institutions, such as the number of procedures and TEDU, are more likely to encourage individual’s choice to become an entrepreneur and start a new business activity in post-communist economies that have a perception of lower levels of corruption.
Originality/value
This study has several implications from both theoretical perspectives (advancing the application of institutional economics for the study of entrepreneurship) and from the practical point of view (providing insights for governmental policies interested in fostering higher levels of entrepreneurial activity).
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Hasan Ghura, Xiaoqing Li and Arezou Harraf
The purpose of this paper is to develop a conceptual framework that illustrates how resource-based countries, such as those in the Gulf Cooperation Council, can move their…
Abstract
Purpose
The purpose of this paper is to develop a conceptual framework that illustrates how resource-based countries, such as those in the Gulf Cooperation Council, can move their economies towards a more sustainable diversified model, through creating and fostering institutions that are conducive for opportunity entrepreneurship.
Design/methodology/approach
Several key variables pertaining to formal and informal institutions which impact opportunity entrepreneurship are presented in a conceptual framework based on a comprehensive, non-systematic literature review.
Findings
Findings from the comprehensive literature review suggest that institutions play a moderating role between opportunity entrepreneurship and economic development. Institutions can stimulate entrepreneur’s behaviour leading to economic growth and subsequently development. Proposals worth pursuing in empirical studies in the future are presented based on the review of the literature.
Practical implications
This framework offers a model for oil-based countries in resolving structural problems in fostering entrepreneurship when responding to economic challenges.
Originality/value
The proposed framework in this study takes into consideration a comprehensive set of formal and informal institutional factors, rarely discussed in the existing literature, that link opportunity entrepreneurship and economic growth and development. Insights offered by this study have implications for government policy changes in developing effective institutions.
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Wael Abdallah, Arezou Harraf, Hasan Ghura and Maryam Abrar
The current study examines the relationship between financial literacy and small and the performance of medium enterprises (SMEs), focusing on the moderating role of financial…
Abstract
Purpose
The current study examines the relationship between financial literacy and small and the performance of medium enterprises (SMEs), focusing on the moderating role of financial access.
Design/methodology/approach
The population of this study consists of present SMEs in Kuwait, from whom a sample of 155 businesses was chosen. This study adopted a cross-sectional time frame and analyzed the collected data using partial least square structural equation modeling, and Smart-pls 4 software was applied for calculation.
Findings
This research reveals that financial literacy significantly influences SME performance, consistent with previous studies, showing that higher financial literacy promotes entrepreneurs' financial management capabilities and enhances business outcomes. Also, the study supports that financial access significantly moderates this relationship, pointing out that adequate access to financial services boosts the benefits of financial literacy.
Research limitations/implications
Major implications of this study compromise the urgent need for customized financial literacy programs and policies promoting financial thoroughness, particularly in enhancing economies. The study recognizes limitations such as its cross-sectional design, small sample size and reliance on self-reported measures, suggesting further research use longitudinal approaches, a larger sample and objective measures.
Practical implications
The authors’ recommendations contain comprehensive financial literacy training, development of targeted financial education initiatives, promotion of sound financial management practices and policies to enhance financial access and inclusion, all aimed at boosting SME performance and contributing to economic growth.
Originality/value
To the best of the authors’ knowledge, this study is Kuwait’s first of its sort. Thus, the research is even more critical in Kuwait, where social and corporate values differ significantly. Therefore, this study aimed to investigate the relationship between financial literacy and the performance of Kuwait’s SMEs moderated by financial access.
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Ammar Kassab, Rosmini Omar and Hasan Ghura
Governments can influence entrepreneurial growth through public policy. This paper aims to present critical aspects of entrepreneurship policy design for Syrian refugees in Turkey…
Abstract
Purpose
Governments can influence entrepreneurial growth through public policy. This paper aims to present critical aspects of entrepreneurship policy design for Syrian refugees in Turkey and evaluate if current policies are effective for Syrian refugees in Istanbul.
Design/methodology/approach
The study adopts an explorative phenomenological approach, contextualized within the entrepreneurial behavior literature. The data was collected through semi-structured interviews with fifteen Syrian entrepreneurs residing in Istanbul.
Findings
The results show that Syrian refugees were “pushed” to start new companies. Moreover, the findings suggest that Syrian entrepreneurs could exploit better business opportunities such as targeting international markets or finding competent partners.
Research limitations/implications
The article offers several practical and social contributions by highlighting how the entrepreneurial behavior of Syrian refugees is driven by their migration or business experiences.
Practical implications
Policymakers in Turkey need to acknowledge how their entrepreneurial policies regarding innovation and internationalization affect the business success rate among Syrian refugees. In this regard, the Turkish government should adopt new measures that provide Syrian refugees more business flexibility. These policies may include easy access to the Turkish financial system or fewer regulations to obtain work permits. This will encourage refugees to join the formal economy and contribute to the Turkish labor market.
Originality/value
This article adds to the expanding body of knowledge on refugee entrepreneurship by emphasizing the link between refugees' personal experiences and starting new ventures. It also highlights how government policy can be strategically utilized to increase entrepreneurship among Syrian refugees in Turkey.
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Emmanuel Mensah, Joshua Abor, A.Q.Q. Aboagye and Charles K.D. Adjasi
Purpose – The purpose of this paper is to examine the relationship between banking sector efficiency and economic growth in Africa.Methodology/approach – The paper used the…
Abstract
Purpose – The purpose of this paper is to examine the relationship between banking sector efficiency and economic growth in Africa.
Methodology/approach – The paper used the stochastic frontier approach stating the banking sector cost function as a Fourier flexible to estimate bank efficiency. We then used the Arellano–Bond GMM estimator to investigate the relationship between banking sector efficiency and economic growth. Annual data for banking sector financial statements were used in estimating efficiency scores.
Findings – The study found banking sector efficiency in the sample to be 69%. We also found a positive relationship between banking sector efficiency and economic growth, confirming the critical role banks play in the economy.
Practical implications – Banking sector efficiency score of 69% implies banks in Africa could save up to 31% of their total cost if they were to operate efficiently. Policy direction should therefore focus on policies and incentives that will improve the efficiency of the banking sector and hence economic growth. The study brings to the fore the importance of the qualitative aspect of the banking sector in allocating financial resources in the real economy. Focus in the real economy should not be only on the size of the banking system but also on the quality with which resources are allocated.
Originality/value of paper – This study is among the first dedicated solely to African countries. It does set the pace for future research in the area and also confirms in Africa the Schumpeterian hypothesis that the banking sector is key in allocating resources in the real economy.
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Latika Sharma, Himanshu Bagdi, Hemantkumar P. Bulsara and Ruchita Lodaliya
Entrepreneurial intention is crucial in both entrepreneurship literature and practice. However, limited information exists regarding entrepreneurs’ intentions in the realm of…
Abstract
Purpose
Entrepreneurial intention is crucial in both entrepreneurship literature and practice. However, limited information exists regarding entrepreneurs’ intentions in the realm of social enterprise creation. This study aims to determine the social entrepreneurial intentions of Generation Z students within the Indian environment by utilising the theory of planned behaviour (TPB) and its applicability using personality factors like risk-taking ability, proactivity, empathy and emotional intelligence.
Design/methodology/approach
A survey method was used, and data was collected by Generation Z individuals at three public universities in India using a self-administered questionnaire. The study used a purposive sampling technique, and further, the model was tested using the partial least square-structural equation modelling technique.
Findings
The study findings supported the proposed model of extended TPB, demonstrating that factors such as emotional intelligence, risk-taking ability and proactiveness are found prominent in Indian students. Furthermore, the role of gender as a control variable reflected no effect on social entrepreneurial intentions.
Originality/value
This research enhances the literature on social entrepreneurship by offering novel insights into social entrepreneurial intention. It is among the pioneers of its type to examine social entrepreneurial intent concerning personality factors among students of higher education institutions. This study provides interesting insights for universities and policymakers since they play a crucial role in promoting these antecedents through education and stimulation by enhancing entrepreneurial culture in developing countries.
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Is globalization instrumental in fighting corruption? Do wealth effects matter in this fight? Are findings valid when linearity assumptions are dropped? The purpose of this paper…
Abstract
Purpose
Is globalization instrumental in fighting corruption? Do wealth effects matter in this fight? Are findings valid when linearity assumptions are dropped? The purpose of this paper is to assess the Lalountas et al. (2011) hypotheses (conclusions) in the African context.
Design/methodology/approach
Though not form, yet in substance the intuition and motivation are compatible with those of Lalountas et al. (2011). Four hypotheses are tested from different methodological and contextual standpoints. In the analysis, while the economic and social dimensions of globalization are reflected in the human development index, the political dimension is captured by good governance indicators. A two-stage least squares-instrumental variable (TSLS-IV) estimation technique is applied where-in globalization instruments of trade and financial liberalization are instrumented on human development and government quality to account for corruption (corruption-control) effects. Thus the intuition is assessing how globalization is instrumental in the fight against corruption through human development (economic and social dimensions) and government quality (political dimension).
Findings
H1: globalization is a powerful tool in fighting corruption (True). H2: globalization is an important tool in fighting corruption only in middle- and high-income countries (partially true). H3: for low-income countries globalization has no significant impact on corruption (true). H4: H1 and H2 are valid only under linearity (false).
Social implications
In countries with high levels of per capita, emphasis is placed on the political and social dimensions of globalization and as a result the effects of this phenomenon on corruption-control are significant. Conversely, in nations with low levels of per capita income, emphasis is given to the economic dimension of international integration and as a result the effect of globalization on corruption is limited. As a policy implication, persistent globalization as an effective means to reduce corruption in developing countries might lead to inappropriate policies in low-income countries.
Originality/value
This paper has tested the Lalountas et al. (2011) hypotheses in the continent where concerns of globalization, human development and corruption are most acute.
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