Research Title: Digital transformation and the challenges associated with applying digital technologies in achieving strategic flexibility in public administration: a case study in Jordan

Author: Abdallah Jamil Abu Salma, Published Year: 2024

International Journal of Data and Network Science, 8

Faculty: Business

Abstract: The study aimed to identify the impact of digital transformation and analyze the obstacles and complexities facing the integration of digital technologies into Jordanian Customs and their subsequent impact on achieving strategic flexibility. The study aims to uncover challenges, evaluate their effects, and suggest recommendations to enhance adaptive strategies within Jordanian Customs considering digital transformations. The study included employees in Jordanian General Customs, including customs officials, IT staff, and administrative staff working on digital initiatives. A population of 670 individuals was identified, from whom a purposive sample of (465) directly involved in digital transformation efforts was selected to participate in the study. The study used the descriptive analytical approach to comprehensively investigate the challenges of digital transformation within Jordanian Customs. Surveys, interviews, analysis of regulatory documents formed data collection methods. Quantitative data were subjected to descriptive analysis and regression modeling, while qualitative insights were thematically analyzed to provide a comprehensive understanding of the challenges faced. The analysis revealed the results, the most important of which is that digital transformation has a positive, statistically significant impact in its four dimensions (strategy, organizational culture, transformational leadership, and human resources) in achieving strategic agility in Jordanian Customs, and reveals multi-faceted challenges prevailing within Jordanian Customs, including structural constraints. Infrastructure, resistance to change, cyber security vulnerabilities, and skills gaps among the workforces. The regression analysis highlighted the significant impact of these challenges in hindering the achievement of strategic flexibility within the Customs Department. Based on the results of the study, Jordanian Customs is recommended to take proactive measures to confront the challenges identified. This includes investing in a robust technology infrastructure, implementing targeted training programs to improve employee skills, promoting a culture of innovation, and establishing cross-departmental collaboration to enhance adaptability and strategic flexibility. The study recommended increasing attention to training workers and raising their capabilities to deal with digital transformation positively and improve services.

Keywords: Digital, transformation,challenges, technologies

Research Title: Examining the relationship between business intelligence adoption and marketing effectiveness: The mediating role of customer satisfaction

Author: Abdallah Jamil Abu Salma, Published Year: 2024

Faculty: Business

Abstract: This study investigates the relationship between business intelligence adoption (Business Intelligence (BI), Data Analysis and Reporting (DAR), Business Process Integration (BPI), and Continuous Improvement and Innovation (CII)) and marketing effectiveness in the Jordanian telecom industry. It specifically examines the mediating role of customer satisfaction in this relationship. A survey design method using the cross-sectional survey was utilized during the research process, involving quantification. The data was collected from 285 employees across the Jordanian telecom sector via electronic response forms. As the analysis's method, the partial least squares structural equation modeling (PLS-SEM) was utilized. The results, which showed BI, DAR and CII to have a positive direct effect on marketing effectiveness, whilst BPI displayed a negative direct impact, were compelling. But clear signs of positive influence on CS by the four dimensions of BI (BI, DAR, BPI, and CII) have also been observed, and this result has been proved to be a mediator between them and business effectiveness. The above study is a source of invaluable learning for the managers of telecom companies in Jordan is a tool that managers in the Jordanian telecom industry will greatly benefit from in the sense that it brings out all the importance of integrating BI, DAR, BPI, and CII practices that emphasize high quality customer service. By properly utilizing these assets and up-to-the-market, companies can improve the effectiveness of marketing and the whole organizational efficiency. The study enhances the existing theory of the interrelationships between the adoption of business intelligence, customer satisfaction, and marketing power which can be viewed from both resource-based view (RBV) theory and expectationbased theory (EDT). It affirms an idea that the RBV was rooted in that when organizational assets are valuable, firms have a competitive advantage and better performance. Also, an EDT states that customer satisfaction increases if the expectations of customers are met. Innovation - The essay is innovative and takes an original angle to explore the multifaceted interconnectivity among business intelligence adoption, customer satisfaction, and marketing effectiveness in the framework of the Jordanian telecom industry. It highlights the steps to customer satisfaction problem solutions and the caution comes with process integration efforts, hence, helping to arrive at a full comprehension of the aspirations for organizational performance in the field.

Keywords: Examining, relationship,intelligence

Research Title: Household food insecurity and nutritional status of pre-school children following relaxation of corona virus disease-2019 (COVID-19) restrictions

Author: Mohammad Abdel Qaedr Al-Maani, Published Year: 2025

Clinical Nutrition ESPEN, 66

Faculty: Nursing

Abstract: Background & aims: Studies found a high prevalence of household food insecurity (HFI) and malnutrition and an association between them during the movement restriction period of the corona virus disease- 2019 (COVID-19) pandemic. This nutritional status should have improved by now as movement restrictions, including quarantine, have been lifted. Therefore, the goal of this cross-sectional study was to determine the current prevalence of HFI and malnutrition and their associations and contributing factors among pre-school children (i.e., children under the age of 5 years) following relaxation of the COVID-19 restrictions in Jordan. Methods: A sample of 386 children (197 boys and 189 girls) in Irbid, Jordan, were recruited in this study following the simple random sampling method. The levels of HFI and malnutrition were assessed using the Food Insecurity Experience Scale (FIES) and the World Health Organization (WHO) growth reference values, respectively. Relevant information were managed and measurements made and employed to calculate four major anthropometric indicators for the sample children (weight for height (WHZ), height for age z-score (HAZ), weight for age z-score (WAZ) and body mass index (BMI)-for-age z-score. Results: The results of analysis pointed out that prevalence of food security among the sample children was 58.2 %, where 19.9 % of the kids were experiencing moderate food insecurity and 38.3 % were suffering from severe food insecurity. On the other hand, prevalence of malnutrition among those children was 1.81 %, where 1.55 % of the kids were emaciated and 1.26 % were severely emaciated. The results also indicated that mother's age, number of children in the family, income of the family, monthly expenses on food and beverages and the energy expenses contributed significantly (p < 0.05) to food insecurity. Moreover, the study found that HFI had negative correlations with WHZ (r ¼ 0.272, p ¼ 0.000), WAZ (r ¼ 0.193, p ¼ 0.000) and BMI-for-age z-score (r ¼ 0.263, p ¼ 0.000) and a positive correlation with HAZ (r ¼ 0.041, p ¼ 0.00). Conclusions: The study reports high prevalence of HFI among children under the age of 5 years in Jordan, even after relaxation of the COVID-19 restrictions on mobility. However, prevalence of malnutrition among this group of the population is low. These results spotlight the continued impact of the COVID-19 crisis on the financial statuses of households.

Keywords: Food insecurity; COVID-19; Nutritional status; Child; Preschool; Cross-sectional studies; Jordan

Research Title: The effect of an emotional support training program on weight self-stigma and body image among women with polycystic ovary syndrome

Author: Mohammad Abdel Qaedr Al-Maani, Published Year: 2024

Nutrition & Food Science,

Faculty: Nursing

Abstract: Purpose – This study aims to investigate the impact of an emotional support training program on weight selfstigma and body image among women with polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS). Design/methodology/approach – A randomized controlled trial was conducted with 200 women diagnosed with PCOS employing a pretest-posttest design. The experimental group, consisting of 100 women, participated in an emotional support training program and received an informational booklet, while the control group (100 women) received only the booklet. Pre- and post-intervention assessments were conducted using weight self-esteem and body shape questionnaires. Findings – The results demonstrated a statistically significant difference in weight self-stigma and body shape scores between the experimental and control groups following the intervention. For both the immediate post-intervention test [t(198) = 31.1, p = 0.01] [t(198) = 31.1, p = 0.01] [t(198) = 31.1, p = 0.01] and [t(198) = 60.7, p = 0.01] [t(198) = 60.7, p = 0.01] [t(198) = 60.7, p =0.01], as well as the delayed post-intervention test [t(198) = 32.3, p = 0.01] [t(198) = 32.3, p = 0.01] [t(198) = 32.3, p = 0.01] and [t(198) = 70.9, p = 0.01] [t(198) = 70.9, p = 0.01] [t(198) = 70.9, p = 0.01], the experimental group exhibited lower mean scores. Specifically, the experimental group scored 20.3 ± 9.2 for immediate and 20.4 ± 9.3 for delayed assessments on weight self-stigma, and 101.2 ± 7.2 for immediate and 86.5 ± 7.6 for delayed assessments on body shape. In contrast, the control group scored 159.8 ± 6.3 for immediate and 157.6 ± 6.4 for delayed assessments, respectively. Practical implications – Nurses should be aware of the adverse effects of PCOS and associated obesity on weight self-stigma and body image. They are encouraged to develop targeted emotional support training programs specifically designed to address weight self-stigma and body image concerns in women with PCOS.

Keywords: Training program, Stigma, PCOS,Weight, Body image

Research Title: Determinants of Disaster Competencies Among Jordanian Nurses in Public Hospitals

Author: Mohammad Abdel Qaedr Al-Maani, Published Year: 2024

SAGE Open Nursing, 10

Faculty: Nursing

Abstract: Introduction: In the last decade, disasters increased by 60% worldwide. These occurrences have resulted in approximately two million deaths and 4.2 million injuries and left 33 million people homeless. Nurses are part of the front-line response team and should be critical during disasters. For nurses to respond competently, they must have the knowledge and skills to provide comprehensive and holistic care to the populations affected by disasters. Objectives: This study aims to assess the level of competencies among nurses providing disaster care and identify their predictors. Method: A descriptive correlation design was utilized to measure and predict nursing competencies in providing care to individuals amid disasters. An electronic form of disaster response competencies assessment survey was distributed to 400 nurses working at three public hospitals in the central region of Jordan. Results: Jordanian nurses reported a moderate level of competencies in providing care for individuals. Furthermore, multiple regression analysis revealed that disaster training, disaster education, sex, and real disaster experience significantly predict nurses’ competencies. Conclusion: With the increasing frequency of disasters, nurses should be adequately prepared to respond to disasters competently to relieve the negative consequences of these events on the affected individuals.

Keywords: disaster, nurses, Jordan, determinants, care, competencies

Research Title: Institutionalization of Inclusive Education: An Analytical Survey on Inclusive Schools in Jordan. Higher Council for the Rights of Persons with Disabilities

Author: Amani Ghazi Jarrar, Published Year: 2024

مجلة جامعة ابن رشد - هولندا, 55

Faculty: Arts

Abstract: This study aimed at exploring the way for institutionalization of inclusive education in Jordan. The study is an analytical survey using the quantitative analysis methodology; by adopting the descriptive analytical methodology through the use of (SPSS) program for statistical analysis. The study used closed questions for the purposes of quantitative analysis, in addition to using the five-point Likert scale. The study tool was a questionnaire for male and female school principals, male and female teachers, and school administrators. The questionnaire was divided into the following parts: demographic data, the comprehensive concepts of educating people with disabilities, Jordan’s ability to successfully implement inclusive education programs, measuring the inclusive education experience, and justifications for inclusive education. The questionnaire was distributed electronically via email and WhatsApp to measure inclusivity of schools in Jordan. And until the number of complete responses was (704). Results showed a high percentage of support for (the inclusive education model) which indicates the necessity of adopting and developing the inclusive education model. In contrast a percentage of (2.8%) of the total (male and female school principals, male and female teachers, and male and female administrators of inclusive schools in Jordan) who support the exclusion model is considered a percentage Journal of Averroes University in Holland,55 (2024) 5 that negatively affects the success of the inclusive education model. The study recommended conducting other studies to find out the best strategy to promote inclusive schools in Jordan support the exclusion model..

Keywords: Inclusive education, institutionalization, schools, rights of persons with disabilities, Jordan

Research Title: المرأة أحد مفاتيح تحقيق التنمية المستدامة

Author: Amani Ghazi Jarrar, Published Year: 2024

Faculty: Arts

Abstract: تحاول الدكتورة أماني جرار، أستاذ الفلسفة بجامعة فيلادلفيا، تحليل عدد من القضايا التربوية المهمة، على رأسها كيف يمكن طرح منظومة فكرية تربوية شاملة، تضمن إرساء قواعد وأُصول التربية الوطنية؛ وأيضاً تناقش مسألة الأدوات التي تساعد في قياس مستوى الوعي بجملة القيم الإنسانية، وتقول إن البداية من إقرار المبدأ بأهميتها، وتوجيهها من خلال المنظومة التربوية.. وتتطرق كذلك إلى الحديث عن النسوية ورؤيتها لها وأهميتها، مشيرة إلى أنها تضع في اعتبارها ضرورة السعي لتحرير المرأة ومساواتها بالرجل.

Keywords: مرأة ،تنمية مستدامة

Research Title: العقل النقدي ضرورة لمواجهة التدفق المعلوماتي

Author: Amani Ghazi Jarrar, Published Year: 2024

Faculty: Arts

Abstract: يستكمل مركز "حوار الثقافات" حواره مع الأكاديمية الأردنية الدكتورة أماني جرار، أستاذ الفلسفة بجامعة فيلادلفيا، وفي الجزء الثاني، من حوارها، تتحدث عن كيفية بناء إنسان سوي بعيد عن التطرف، موضحة أن التطرف مفهوم قديم ولا علاقة له بدين محدد أو أيديولوجيا معينة، مضيفة أنه يجب البحث بصورة تحليلية ناقدة في أسباب فشل التعليم في إنتاج الشعور بالمسؤولية الأخلاقية، وغيرها من المسائل المهمة.

Keywords: عقل ،نقد،معلومات

Research Title: Rethinking the Future of Syrian Refugees in Jordan: Challenges, Support, and Strategic Choices

Author: Amani Ghazi Jarrar, Published Year: 2025

Faculty: Arts

Abstract: Jordan, throughout its modern history, has dealt with large waves of refugees, making it one of the countries hosting the highest percentage of refugees relative to its population. The kingdom hosts around 1.3 million Syrian citizens, including more than 671,000 registered refugees with the United Nations. Only about 10% of these refugees live in refugee camps, while the rest are spread across local communities, leading to increasing negative repercussions amid the ongoing Syrian crisis. Jordan, under its Hashemite leadership, provided assistance to refugees based on deep-rooted humanitarian, moral, and national values. However, the kingdom emphasizes the necessity for the international community to play its role in addressing this unprecedented humanitarian crisis. Jordan has faced significant challenges since the onset of the Syrian crisis in 2011, with its economy and social services under strain from the influx of refugees. As of 2024, nearly 3.5 billion euros in aid from the European Union has been directed toward Jordan, aiming to address immediate humanitarian needs and long-term developmental goals. Despite this support, Jordan is confronted with increasing pressure as the refugee population grows, and the international community’s commitment wanes. The future of Syrian refugees in Jordan has become a pressing concern, and while the official stance of Jordan, as expressed by King Abdullah II in 2023, stresses that the country cannot accommodate further refugees and that their return to Syria is essential, the reality of that return remains uncertain. Most refugees, with 97% expressing no intention to return, present a key obstacle to Jordan's policy goals. The complexities of this situation go beyond a simple refugee return and require an examination of the broader governance framework, the European Union's role, and the evolving dynamics within the region. Key Issues in Managing the Syrian Refugee Crisis One of the central difficulties faced by the Jordanian government is reconciling the conflicting figures on the refugee population, with discrepancies between government estimates and those from the United Nations. Additionally, Jordan’s limited resources have been further strained by a significant decrease in international funding, which was only 29.2% of the required amount in 2023. This shortfall, alongside the difficulty in securing refugee returns, creates a challenging landscape for decision-makers. Jordan's governance approach, encapsulated in its 1998 memorandum with the United Nations High Commissioner for Refugees, places responsibility for refugee management squarely within international frameworks. However, as the refugee population persists, there are mounting questions over whether these frameworks are sufficient to address the complex and evolving needs. King Abdullah II’s statement that Jordan cannot continue hosting refugees indefinitely underscores the growing frustration with an ongoing crisis that has not only strained public services but also hindered economic recovery, especially after the added burdens of the COVID-19 pandemic. The Role of European Support in Shaping Jordan's Approach The European Union’s continued aid remains a cornerstone of Jordan’s efforts, but it is also clear that this external support is increasingly tied to the geopolitical and regional context. In 2024, the EU allocated 14 million euros to support refugee health, education, and protection, yet the EU’s aid cannot fully mitigate the economic and social costs imposed on Jordanian society. With international funding shrinking, it is evident that a more comprehensive and sustainable solution must be found. This includes not only considering the return of refugees but also developing mechanisms for their reintegration within Syria and ensuring that the region remains stable enough to facilitate these returns. Shaping Strategic Decisions: The Need for a Comprehensive Framework What is clear from this analysis is that Jordan’s decision-making on the refugee issue must be informed by a more cohesive and nuanced strategy, integrating political, economic, social, technological, environmental, and legal considerations. The PESTEL framework, often used in policy analysis, provides a structured approach to understanding these dimensions. While it is uncertain if the Jordanian government explicitly uses PESTEL in its current decision-making, it is clear that these factors are central to any effective resolution. A strategic shift is needed, one that includes not just immediate humanitarian support but also long-term planning for the reintegration of refugees into Syria, as well as strengthening Jordan’s own resilience. This will require closer coordination with international partners, including the EU, and a more significant investment in Jordan's infrastructure, labor market, and social services to accommodate both refugees and Jordanian citizens. https://www.returnmigration.eu/gapsblog/rethinking-the-future-of-syrian-refugees-in-jordan

Keywords: Rethinking the Future , Syrian Refugees, Jordan

Research Title: فِرْقَة الرُّهْبَانِ الدَّاوِيَّة فِي مَمْلَكةِ بَيتِ الْمَقْدسِ اللاّتِينِيَّةِ وَدَوْرِهَا فِي حِمَايَةِ الْحُجَّاجِ الْمَسِيحِيِيّنَ اَلَّلاتِين إلَى الْمَشْرِقِ الْإِسْلَاميِّ (493- 583 هـ / 1100- 1187م)

Author: Manar Ahmad Ibrahim, Published Year: 2024

دراسات: العلوم الاجتماعية والانسانية ,

Faculty: Arts

Abstract: اَلْمُلَخَّص . تَتَناوَل هَذِه الدِّراسة فُرْسان الدَّاويَّة فِي مَمْلَكة بَيْت اَلمقْدِس اللَّاتينيَّة مِن حَيْث مَاهِية الفرْقة، والظُّروف اَلتِي أحاطتْ بِنشْأتهَا ومراحل تَطورِها وَبَيان دوْرهَا السِّياسيِّ والْعسْكريِّ فِي الممْلكة؛ وقد ظَهرَت فِرْقَة الرُّهْبان الدَّاويَّة إِلى حَيِّز اَلوُجود فِي العقْد الأوَّل مِن القرْن السَّادس اَلهجْرِي الثَّاني عشر مِيلادي وَذلِك اِسْتجابة لِمقْتضيات حِماية اَلحُجاج اللَّاتين القادمين لِزيارة الأماكن المقدَّسة فِي الممْلكة ، بِالْإضافة لِحراسة طُرُق اَلحَج لَا سِيَّما طريق اَلحُجاج بَيْن مدينَتيْ يَافَا والْقدْس لِتشكِّل بَعْد ذَلِك أَقوَى سند عَسكَرِي فِي مَمْلَكة بَيْت اَلمقْدِس اللَّاتينيَّة ، وتسْتجْلي الدِّراسة نَشأَة الفرْقة وميثَاق تأْسيسهَا، والرُّتب العسْكريَّة ومواردهَا الماليَّة إِضافة إِلى بيان مَوقفِها مِن الخلافات دَاخِل مَمْلَكة بَيْت اَلمقْدِس، فضْلا عن دوْرهَا السِّياسيِّ وَدورِها العسْكريِّ فِي المعارك اَلتِي خاضتْهَا مَمْلَكة بَيْت اَلمقْدِس ضِد المسْلمين .

Keywords: اَلدَّاوِيَّة ، اَلْهَيْكَلُ ، اَلْحُرُوبُ اَلصَّلِيبِيَّةُ ، بَيْتُ اَلْمَقْدِسِ.