RESUMO: O ensino de anatomia vem se modificando ao longo dos anos, introduzindo métodos tecnológicos, principalmente após o período pandêmico. Questiona-se o uso exclusivo da tecnologia em comparação aos métodos tradicionais de dissecação e aulas teóricas presenciais no que diz respeito à aquisição de conhecimento. Este artigo analisou a percepção de conhecimento de alunos de diversos semestres do curso de Medicina Veterinária, comparando alunos que tiveram aulas apenas online com aqueles que tiveram aulas presenciais de Anatomia Descritiva dos Animais Domésticos. Para tanto, questões foram enviadas por meio de formulário, com preenchimento voluntário e anônimo, e posteriormente analisadas estatisticamente. Os resultados indicam que 11,5% dos alunos que cursaram a disciplina remotamente falharam na aplicação dos conhecimentos em outras disciplinas, enquanto nenhum aluno do ensino presencial relatou o mesmo. A maioria dos alunos, tanto dos grupos remotos quanto dos presenciais, lembram-se do assunto, mas revisam o conteúdo com frequência. Em relação ao conhecimento teórico, o grupo online (80,8%) compreendeu melhor à medida que o curso avançava, comparado a 59,6% do grupo presencial. A ligação entre Anatomia e outras disciplinas foi mais destacada pelo grupo presencial (30,8%) em comparação ao online (15,4%). Ambos os grupos concordam que o contacto físico com peças anatômicas é essencial, mas alguns consideram possível ter um primeiro contacto com imagens ou fotografias 3D. Baseado nesse estudo preliminar, conclui-se que as interações iniciais com a área de Anatomia devem incluir técnicas pedagógicas diversificadas com comunicação empática. A utilização de recursos tecnológicos modernos é um aliado do processo de ensino-aprendizagem, e após a abstração dos conteúdos é possível o uso singular da tecnologia na manutenção e atualização do conhecimento anatômico. RESUMO anos pandêmico Questionase Questiona Veterinária Domésticos formulário anônimo estatisticamente 115 11 5 11,5 mesmo lembramse lembram assunto frequência teórico 80,8% 808 80 8 (80,8% avançava 596 59 6 59,6 30,8% 308 30 (30,8% 15,4%. 154 15,4% . 15 4 (15,4%) essencial 3D D preliminar concluise conclui empática ensinoaprendizagem, ensinoaprendizagem aprendizagem, aprendizagem ensino-aprendizagem anatômico 1 11, 80,8 (80,8 59, 30,8 3 (30,8 15,4 (15,4% 80, (80, 30, (30, 15, (15,4 (80 (30 (15, (8 (3 (15 ( (1

ABSTRACT: Anatomy teaching has been changing over the years, introducing technological methods especially after the pandemic period. An ongoing debate revolves around whether exclusive reliance on technology for anatomy classes, as opposed to traditional methods and face-to-face instruction, enhances knowledge acquisition. This study analyzed the knowledge perception of students from various semesters throughout the Veterinary Medicine course, comparing students who only had online classes with those who had face-to-face classes in Gross Anatomy of Domestic Animals. For this purpose, a questionnaire was distributed for voluntary and anonymous completion, and the responses were subsequently analyzed statistically. The results indicated that 11.5% of the students who took Anatomy remotely failed to apply the knowledge in other subjects, while no face-to-face learning student reported the same. Most students, both remote and face-to-face groups, remember the subject but review the content frequently. Regarding theoretical knowledge, the online group (80.8%) understood better as the course progressed, compared to 59.6% of the face-to-face group. The connection between Anatomy and other subjects was more highlighted by the face-to-face group (30.8%) compared to the online group (15.4%). Both groups agree that physical contact with anatomical specimens is essential; however, some believe that initial exposure through 3D images or photographs is feasible. We concluded based on this preliminary study that the initial interactions with the Anatomy field should include diversified pedagogical techniques with empathetic communication. The use of modern technological resources are allies in the teaching-learning process. Furthermore, after abstracting the contents, technology alone can effectively maintain and update anatomical knowledge. ABSTRACT years period facetoface face instruction acquisition Animals purpose completion statistically 115 11 5 11.5 same frequently 80.8% 808 80 8 (80.8% progressed 596 59 6 59.6 30.8% 308 30 (30.8% 15.4%. 154 15.4% . 15 4 (15.4%) essential however D feasible communication teachinglearning process Furthermore contents 1 11. 80.8 (80.8 59. 30.8 3 (30.8 15.4 (15.4% 80. (80. 30. (30. 15. (15.4 (80 (30 (15. (8 (3 (15 ( (1

This study investigated the convergence between acts of writing and game-based learning in the context of health research in a public university. While writing is traditionally used to transmit scientific knowledge and research, game-based learning emerges as an alternative interactive and engaging approach. We examined the strengths and challenges of integrating this approach into the post-graduation course. Strengths include improved understanding of complex concepts, increased student engagement and promotion of creativity, while challenges include finding the right balance between academic rigidity and game-based learning, guaranteeing scientific precision in a game-based learning context and overcoming potential institutional resistance. Our findings highlight the importance of exploring innovative teaching and communication strategies on post-graduation health courses aimed at enhancing student training and promoting broader dissemination of scientific knowledge.

Este artigo investiga a convergência entre os atos de escrever e jogar no contexto da pesquisa em saúde em uma universidade pública. Enquanto a escrita é tradicionalmente utilizada para transmitir conhecimentos científicos e pesquisas, o jogo emerge como uma abordagem alternativa, interativa e engajadora. Essa pesquisa examina as potencialidades e os desafios de integração entre essas práticas na Pós-Graduação. As potencialidades incluem a melhoria da compreensão de conceitos complexos, o aumento do engajamento dos estudantes e a promoção da criatividade. No entanto, os desafios incluem encontrar o equilíbrio entre a rigidez acadêmica e a ludicidade, garantir a precisão científica no contexto lúdico e superar possíveis resistências institucionais. Este estudo destaca a importância de explorar estratégias inovadoras de ensino e comunicação na Pós-Graduação em Saúde, visando aprimorar a formação dos estudantes e promover maior disseminação do conhecimento científico.

Este artículo investiga la convergencia entre los actos de escribir y jugar en el contexto de la investigación en salud en una universidad pública. Mientras que la escritura se utiliza tradicionalmente para transmitir conocimientos científicos e investigaciones, el juego surge como un abordaje alternativo, interactivo y comprometedor. Esta investigación examina las potencialidades y los desafíos de integración entre esas prácticas en el postgrado. Las potencialidades incluyen la mejora de la comprensión de conceptos complejos, el aumento del compromiso de los estudiantes y la promoción de la creatividad. No obstante, los desafíos incluyen encontrar el equilibrio entre la rigidez académica y lo lúdico, asegurar la precisión científica en el contexto lúdico y superar posibles resistencias institucionales. Este estudio subraya la importancia de explorar estrategias innovadoras de enseñanza y comunicación en el postgrado en salud, con el objetivo de perfeccionar la formación de los estudiantes y promover una mayor difusión del conocimiento científico.

Abstract By acknowledging the pervasive effects of New Information and Communication Technologies (NICTs) in contemporary life, this paper reports on the experience and dilemmas of a reflection group on the following question: does the overwhelming and pervasive use of technologies in everyday life, and consequently in health, deserve its own concept for analytical and socio-political prominence? Using Holliday’s systematization, the group proposed the concept of Digital Determinants of Health (DDH) due to the need to strongly highlight the action of NICTs in health - both from an epistemological and socio-political point of view. With the suggestion of the concept of DDH, we urge the academic community to engage in a specific debate on the consequences of NICTs in everyday life in order to guide actions capable of mitigating the negative effects and enhancing the benefits of new technologies in health.

Reconhecendo os efeitos pervasivos das Novas Tecnologias de Informação e Comunicação (NTICs) em todas as esferas da contemporaneidade, este trabalho relata a experiência e os dilemas de um grupo de reflexão sobre a seguinte pergunta: A utilização de tecnologias de modo massivo e pervasivo no cotidiano e, consequentemente, na Saúde, merece conceito próprio para destaque analítico e sociopolítico? Por meio da sistematização de Holliday, o grupo propõe o conceito de Determinantes Digitais da Saúde (DDS) pela necessidade de evidenciar com força a ação das NTICs na Saúde — tanto do ponto de vista epistemológico quanto do sociopolítico. Com a sugestão do conceito de DDS, exortamos a comunidade acadêmica a um debate específico sobre as consequências das NTICs na existência cotidiana para a orientação de ações capazes de mitigar os efeitos negativos e potencializar os benefícios das novas tecnologias na Saúde.

Reconociendo los efectos penetrantes de las Nuevas Tecnologías de Información y Comunicación (NTICs) en todas las esferas de la contemporaneidad, este trabajo relata la experiencia y los dilemas de un grupo de reflexión sobre la siguiente pregunta: la utilización de tecnologías de modo masivo y penetrante en el cotidiano y consecuentemente, en la salud, ¿merece un concepto propio para un destaque analítico y sociopolítico? Por medio de la sistematización de Holliday, el grupo propone el concepto de Determinantes Digitales de la Salud (DDS) por la necesidad de poner en evidencia con fuerza la acción de la NTICs en la salud, tanto desde el punto de vista epistemológico, como del sociopolítico. Con la sugerencia del concepto de DDS, exhortamos a la comunidad académica para realizar un debate específico sobre las consecuencias de las NTICs en la existencia cotidiana para la orientación de acciones capaces de mitigar los efectos negativos y potenciar los beneficios de las nuevas tecnologías en la salud.

Abstract The research analyzes the variables that influence the strengthening of business and tax culture through knowledge management. Methodologically, it is a study with a qualitative and analytical approach. The study highlights the importance of knowledge management as a catalyst for improving organizational culture and tax compliance in companies. Variables such as effective communication allow the organization to improve tax and administrative management through the individual knowledge of each employee. The acquisition of skills and knowledge through training and education strengthens the resilience of individuals to regulatory changes. Technology, used as a management and process optimization tool, reduces error variability while increasing efficiency and performance. Teamwork in the execution of tasks facilitates more efficient planning and optimal allocation of individual responsibilities. Finally, by implementing a risk management approach, it is possible to exercise greater diligence in the early detection of errors and minimize their impact on the ongoing business development context.

Resumen La investigación analiza las variables que influyen en el fortalecimiento de la cultura empresarial y tributaria a través de la gestión del conocimiento. A nivel metodológico es un estudio con enfoque cualitativo y analítico. El estudio destaca la importancia de la gestión del conocimiento como un catalizador para mejorar la cultura organizacional y el cumplimiento tributario en las empresas. Variables como la comunicación efectiva, permite en la organización el mejoramiento en la gestión tributaria y administrativa por medio del conocimiento individual de cada trabajador; la adquisición de habilidades y conocimientos a través de la formación y capacitación fortalece la resiliencia de los individuos ante las modificaciones regulatorias; la tecnología, utilizada como un instrumento para la gestión y optimización de los procesos, reduce la variabilidad de errores, al tiempo que aumenta la eficiencia y el rendimiento; el trabajo en equipo en la ejecución de tareas facilita una planificación más eficiente y una asignación óptima de las responsabilidades individuales; y finalmente, mediante la implementación de un enfoque de gestión de riesgos, es posible ejercer una mayor diligencia en la detección temprana de fallos y en la minimización de su impacto en el contexto del desarrollo del negocio en marcha.

Resumo: Objetivo: determinar habilidades e conhecimentos sobre as tecnologias da informação e comunicação (TIC) dos calouros no curso de bacharelado em enfermagem em uma instituição pública de ensino superior na cidade de Bahía Blanca, província de Buenos Aires, Argentina. Metodologia: estudo observacional, descritivo, transversal e quantitativo. Foi utilizado um instrumento composto por 59 perguntas com opções de resposta fechada para avaliar as competências digitais dos calouros do curso. Resultados: Participaram 386 estudantes, em sua maioria do gênero feminino (85,49 %), do primeiro ciclo estudantil (74,35 %) e com idade igual ou inferior a 20 anos (47,15 %). 98,19 % tinham acesso à internet, 79,27 % tinham computador e mais de 80 % usavam amplamente as redes sociais (WhatsApp, Instagram) e o e-mail. Os calouros se auto-avaliaram competentes no programa MS Word, enquanto no MS Excel se declararam menos competentes. Há desconhecimento e baixo desenvolvimento de habilidades para gerar conteúdo e uma ampla demonstração de habilidades para pesquisar e baixar informações da web. A idade, o gênero, o tempo diário de uso da Internet e o ciclo de ingresso estudantil mostraram relação com o domínio das ferramentas digitais aplicadas à educação. Conclusões: Foi identificado um desenvolvimento intermediário de competências digitais aplicadas à educação, o que poderia demandar a concepção de programas que nivelem essas competências durante o processo de admissão ou durante a formação.

Abstract: Objective: To determine the skills and knowledge about information and communication technologies (ICT) of entrants to the Bachelor’s Degree in Nursing at a public higher institution in Bahía Blanca, Province of Buenos Aires, Argentina. Methodology: Observational, descriptive, transversal and quantitative study. An instrument was implemented consisting of 59 questions with closed response options aimed at assessing digital competencies in those entering the career. Results: 386 entrants participated, mostly female (85.49 %), from the first cycle (74.35 %) and 20 years old or younger (47.15%). 98.19 % had access to the internet, 79.27 % have a computer and more than 80 % have extensive use of social networks (WhatsApp, Instagram) and email. The entrants evaluated themselves as competent in the MS Word program, while in MS Excel they declared themselves less competent. There is a lack of knowledge and low development of skills to generate content and a wide range of skills to search and download information from the web. Age, gender, daily time of Internet use and entry cycle showed a relationship with the mastery of digital tools applied to education. Conclusions: An intermediate development of digital competencies applied to education was identified, and a high one for the use of social networks. The variables age, gender, daily time of Internet use and entry cycle were related to the knowledge and skills for using ICT applied to education.

Resumen: Objetivo: Determinar las habilidades y conocimientos sobre las tecnologías de la información y la comunicación (TIC) de los ingresantes a la carrera de Licenciatura en Enfermería de una institución superior pública de Bahía Blanca, Provincia de Buenos Aires, Argentina. Metodología: Estudio observacional, descriptivo, transversal y cuantitativo. Se implementó un instrumento conformado por 59 preguntas con opciones de respuesta cerrada orientado a valorar las competencias digitales en los ingresantes a la carrera. Resultados: Participaron 386 ingresantes, mayormente de género femenino (85.49 %), del primer ciclo (74.35 %) y con 20 años o menos de edad (47.15 %). El 98.19 % tenía acceso a internet, el 79.27 % tiene computadora y más del 80 % tiene un amplio uso de redes sociales (WhatsApp, Instagram) y correo electrónico. Los ingresantes se autoevaluaron competentes en el programa MS Word, mientras que en MS Excel se declararon menos competentes. Hay desconocimiento y bajo desarrollo de habilidades para generar contenido, y un amplio despliegue de habilidades para buscar y descargar información de la web. La edad, el género, el tiempo diario de uso de internet y el ciclo de ingreso mostraron relación con el dominio de las herramientas digitales aplicadas a la educación. Conclusiones: Se identificó un desarrollo intermedio de competencias digitales aplicadas a la educación, lo que podría ameritar el diseño de programas que nivelen estas habilidades durante el proceso de ingreso o durante la formación.

Scientific press releases are reaching the public directly through press reproduction or institutional dissemination. Science News Agencies (SNAs) mediate this process, distributing texts to thousands of journalists while also "leaking" them on their websites and social media. This comparative case study examines four SNAs — BORI, SMC UK, AlphaGalileo, and EurekAlert! — regarding their role in circulating public scientific information. Through literature review and principles such as openness and inclusion in science, we converted scholars' concerns into a preliminary index potentially capable of assessing SNAs' public suitability. The SNAPI (Science News Agencies Public Index) suggests a shift from purely public relations content towards serving the public interest, highlighting areas needing attention in SNAs' social function, to be refined in future research. Clear guidelines, links to open scientific articles, and explicit notices on press releases’ purposes are simple yet effective ways to address issues concerning science public relations' pervasiveness in the public sphere.

BACKGROUND: Multimodal or online learning is the use of electronic technology to deliver, support and enhance both learning and teaching. It involves communication between learner nurses and lecturers using online content. The study aims to contribute to achieving Sustainable Development Goal 4 on quality education by promoting inclusive education at tertiary institutions. The use of multimodal teaching and learning (MTL) in higher education institutions (HEI) has increased over the last decade, particularly during the COVID-19 pandemic OBJECTIVES: To explore and describe the perspectives of the undergraduate learner nurses regarding MTL challenges at the HEI, Limpopo Province, South Africa METHODS: A qualitative, explorative, descriptive and contextual research design was used to explore and describe the perspectives of the undergraduate nurses at a HEI in Limpopo Province, South Africa. A non-probability purposive sampling method was employed to select participants. Data were collected through five focus group interviews (FGI) and analysed using Tesch's open coding data analysis method. Measures to ensure trustworthiness and ethical considerations were adhered to throughout the study RESULTS: Study findings revealed the perspectives of the undergraduate nurses during MTL. The challenges related to connectivity issues, technological difficulties during online teaching, learning and assessment as well as the unapproved platforms used by module facilitators for online teaching CONCLUSION: Undergraduate learner nurses expressed their perspectives regarding the challenges they experience when using MTL. Our study findings could influence educational institutions and policymakers to improve the quality of online teaching, learning and assessment by embracing innovative instructional techniques and providing teachers with ongoing training

Abstract Introduction The World Health Organization (WHO) estimates that ~ 32 million children worldwide are affected by hearing loss (HL). Cochlear implant is the first-line treatment for severe to profound sensorineural HL. It is considered one of the most successful prostheses developed to date. Objective To evaluate the oral language development of pediatric patients with prelingual deafness implanted in a reference hospital for the treatment of HL in southern Brazil. Methods We conducted a retrospective cohort study with a review of medical records of patients undergoing cochlear implant surgery between January 2009 and December 2018. Language development was assessed by reviewing consultations with speech therapy professionals from the cochlear implant group. Results A total of 152 children were included in the study. The mean age at cochlear implant surgery was of 41 months (standard deviation [SD]: ± 15). The patients were divided into six groups considering the type of language most used in their daily lives. We found that 36% of children use oral language as their primary form of communication. In a subanalysis, we observed that patients with developed or developing oral language had undergone cochlear implant surgery earlier than patients using Brazilian Sign Language (Língua Brasileira de Sinais, LIBRAS, in Portuguese) or those without developed language. Conclusion The cochlear implant is a state-of-the-art technology that enables the re-establishment of the sense of hearing and the development of oral language. However, language development is a complex process known to present a critical period to properly occur. We still see many patients receiving late diagnosis and treatment, which implies a delay and, often, the impossibility of developing oral communication. Level of Evidence Level 3 (cohort study). WHO (WHO . (HL) firstline first line date Brazil 200 2018 group 15 4 standard SD [SD] 15. 15) lives 36 communication subanalysis Língua Sinais LIBRAS Portuguese stateoftheart state art reestablishment re establishment However occur often study) (HL 20 201 1 [SD 2

Hierdie sewe-jaar longitudinale opvoedingstudie evalueer drie akademiese afleweringsmodusse vir deeltydse MBA-studente in hul Bemarkingsbestuursmodule, naamlik vol kontak (20172019), vol aanlyn tydens COVID-19 se harde inperking (2020-2021 en die daaropvolgende gemengde modus (2022-2023). Die studie het ten doel om te bepaal of die afleweringsmodus studente se akademiese prestasie beduidend beïnvloed. Die eenrigting-variansie-analise (EVA) het beduidende verskille tussen die afleweringsmodusse vir individuele opdragte (normatiewe assessering) en groepgevallestudies (summatiewe assessering) geïdentifiseer. Daar was ook betekenisvolle verskille tussen die akademiese prestasie ten opsigte van die finale saamgestelde portefeulje van kennis (wat as eksamen dien). Hierdie portefeulje bestaan uit 'n prakties-toegepaste bemarkingsplan. Die post-hoc toetse het getoon dat studente aansienlik beter gevaar het tydens die gemengde afleweringsmodus in individuele opdragte, terwyl die volledige aanlyn modus laer punte vir die groepgevallestudies gehad het. Beide die gemengde en volledige kontakmodusse het beduidende opeenvolgende verbetering vir die groepgevallestudies getoon, wat in elke gevallestudie verbetering getoon het namate die semester gevorder het. Dit verskil van volledige aanlyn onderrig. Die gemengde modus het ook aansienlik beter gevaar in die eksamen- en finale modulepunte en het selfs beter gevaar as volkontakklasse.

The COVID-19 pandemic significantly transformed the tertiary education landscape. Traditional contact universities were forced abruptly to adopt a full-distance education mode, a situation neither the students nor lecturers were prepared for. Many lectures and teaching activities were developed on the fly as universities struggled to roll out the needed support in double-time for lecturers and students. This new normal for education required integrating technology, advanced communication software, revised assessment techniques, and recognising the need for flexible and adaptable approaches to teaching and learning. Students also evolved and gained technological proficiency, adaptability, time management, soft skills, social media proficiency, and an awareness of health and well-being. Albeit uncertain in redefining the new normal, universities continue to provide quality education. However, exactly how university education should be delivered to a new breed of students in a new business environment is a challenge. This is even more so in the case of executive MBA students. After the hard lockdown and restrictions were lifted on 21 September 2020, the North-West University Business School started to explore other modes of academic content delivery. Reinstating a full contact delivery mode was not an option because of remaining restrictions. High technological investment, online-educated lecturers and students, and benefits and developments during online learning now form a new normal for the Business School. Which teaching method, or rather, which mode of delivery, is the most relevant and adequate? Should the MBA lectures return to the historic full-contact delivery mode, stick with the newly established full online mode, or attempt to integrate the benefits of both into a hybrid mode of delivering business education to a new breed of technology-savvy students? This study, therefore, examines the academic performance of the different delivery modes by comparing data of Executive MBA Marketing management students at the NWU Business School in South Africa. The study examines the academic performance of these students from 2017 up to 2023. The panel database consists of Executive MBA students'marks for the module in Marketing Management from 2017 up to 2023. The database contains marks for individual assignments, groupwork case studies, final individual- and groupwork marks, exam marks and the final module mark. The final assessment is a portfolio of evidence comprising a detailed marketing plan for a product, service, or organisation of choice. The mode of delivery served as the dependent variable, while the independent variables comprised the marks for each assignment (groupwork, individual and portfolio of evidence). Three delivery modes were compared, namely full-contact (2017-2019), full-online (2020-2021), and the post-pandemic hybrid mode currently in effect (2022-2023). The data comprised 630 cases. However, the analysis of variance (ANOVA) used 532 cases to compare the different groupwork assignments (230 full-contact students, 159 full-online students, and 143 hybrid students). Cronbach's alpha coefficient measured the data's reliability, and one-way ANOVA determined significant differences (p<.05) between the academic performance of the three delivery modes. The analysis confirmed that significant differences exist between the modes of delivery for individual assignments, group case studies and exams (p<.05). The Tukey ab post-hoc tests showed that students performed significantly better during the hybrid delivery mode in individual assignments (69.2%) than full contact (63.8%). Regarding the individual assignment, the full online (63.8%) and full contact (63.7%) delivery modes perform significantly worse than the hybrid (69.2%) delivery mode. Regarding the first group case study (Group Assignment 1), full online performs (67.3%) significantly worse than hybrid (71.1%) and full contact (73.6%) delivery modes. There is no significant difference between the hybrid and full contact delivery modes. In the second, third, and fourth group case studies (Group Assignments 2, 3 & 4), the hybrid delivery mode (82.37%, 75.4%, 82.7%) outperforms the full contact (75.4, 80.1%, 86.6%) and full-online (71.4%, 71.4%, 67.8%) modes. The hybrid delivery mode, therefore, proves to be more conducive towards academic performance in group work. Finally, in considering the final module mark, the hybrid delivery mode (71.0%) is significantly higher than the other two delivery modes. However, there is no significant difference between full online (67.5%) and full-contact (67.2%) delivery modes regarding the final module mark. Nevertheless, it is noteworthy that the better performance in the final module marks is a function of the groupwork where the students analysed case studies together. There are no significant differences in the exam marks between the delivery modes, so better academic performance in the hybrid mode of delivery where groupwork is concerned culminates in the better module mark. Based on the findings, it is evident that the hybrid mode of delivery results in the best academic performance. This observation is based on three reasons, namely 1) students performed better in both the normative and summative assessments during hybrid tuition; 2) there is continuous progressive learning throughout the semester regarding the group case studies (summative assessment). They learn to improve and hone their skills to analyse better and apply business solutions to real-life problems experienced by organisations. This is based on students' improving marks in the group case studies as they become more proficient in analysing and answering the applied case studies because they learn from each case study; and 3) the students perform better academically in their normative assessments and earn higher final module marks (partially due to reason 2). It is concluded that the hybrid delivery mode facilitates the academic performance of post-pandemic executive MBA Marketing management students. JEL KODES: I23, I21, M30

Pakhanate-state of state waar pakhanate-tendense voorkom, is histories 'n bekende verskynsel. Klassieke voorbeelde van state waar pakhanate-tendense voorgekom het, was Rusland en Japan. Tans word talle state, waaronder Venezuela, Sirië, Montenegro en Mexiko as pakhanate geïdentifiseer, of prominente tendense word in hierdie verband daar waargeneem. Teen die agtergrond van uitgebreide endemiese korrupsie, staatskaping en gepaardgaande ondersoeke kan met reg gevra word of Suid-Afrika behoort tot die kategorie van state wat losweg as pakhanate beskryf kan word? Hierdie artikel konseptualiseer en kontekstualiseer die konsep en beoordeel die Suid-Afrikaanse konteks daarvan aan die hand van geïdentifiseerde kriteria.

Pakhanate states or states reflecting tendencies of pakhanate, are a historically well-known phenomenon. These states are also referred to as Mafia states. Classic examples of states where tendencies of pakhanate occurred, were Russia and Japan. Currently many states are identified as pakhanate states, examples of which are Venezuela, Columbia, Kosovo, Syria, Bulgaria, Montenegro, Myanmar, Transnistria and Mexico, as prominent pakhanate tendencies are being observed there. Pakhanate states (or related tendencies) can be identified because of a lack of clear differentiation between the political and criminal elite in a particular state and their related decisions. This, according to Naim (2012:1), is referred to as "a fusing of government and criminal groups" in a world that is experiencing "a revolution of crime". Pakhanate tendencies, although unique within their own context, are developing throughout the world against the backdrop of a combination offactors, including a history of crime and the existence of established criminal syndicates; states that experienced fundamental change and where low levels of political institutionalisation and power vacuums occur; existing historical trends of patrimonialism and neo-patrimonial tendencies within states; non-democratic tendencies in general, and sometimes an environment where neo-liberal values and a free trade environment provide the space for criminally orientated organisations to grow and establish their authority. Access to sophisticated technology, for example weapons, communication logistics and infrastructure, seems to be of critical importance in the development and growth of pakhanate tendencies. By making use of theoretical principles emphasising the Weberian "strong state" and "constitutional government" and related underlying principles and norms, this article critically assesses pakhanate states and related tendencies. Criteria related to the so-called Weberian strong state have been identified and qualified with normative criteria (democratic in nature), emphasising aspects such as constitutionalism, the public good, and the notion of responsible government and sound principles related to good governance. In a world that is currently experiencing fundamental change, weakening states, escalating conflicts and war, the prominence of non-state actors operating in an environment of freedom, and limited control, with access to modern and sophisticated technology, pakhanate tendencies seem to be on the increase. Against the background of extensive endemic corruption, state capture and concomitant investigations, it can be asked with good cause if South Africa belongs to this category of states. Several authors and writers such as Africa, Vegter and others have reflected on Mafia tendencies within the South African state and society. These perspectives are related to several recent works discussing endemic corruption and state capture within the South African context. This is related to the investigation of the Zondo Commission and its report linking influential politicians and the ruling ANC to endemic corruption and state capture. To support this perspective, the Global Organised Crime Index (2023) positions South Africa at number 7 within the category referred to as "mafia states". This is just below the Democratic Republic of the Congo (DRC) and Nigeria. This article conceptualises and contextualises the concept pakhanate state (or related tendencies) and evaluates the South African context with reference to theoretical criteria identified in the discussion. Focus points of the article include: • characteristics and functions of the traditional nation state; • normative criteria referring to the concept of a strong and constitutional state; • a conceptualisation and operationalisation of the pakhanate phenomenon; • the identification of the pakhanate phenomenon as a worldwide tendency; • application and assessment of the application of the pakhanate phenomenon within the Sout African context; and • concluding perspectives. From a methodological perspective, this study is qualitative and deductive in nature, with an application with reference to identified case studies - particularly South African. An assessment of the South African context will be made by using the criteria associated with pakhanate states and the related phenomena.

Resumo Este artigo baseado em uma pesquisa bibliográfica e documental, tem por objeto de estudo a análise crítica da reestruturação modernizante do Instituto Nacional de Seguro Social (INSS), autarquia federal que operacionaliza a política previdenciária e cuja modernização, a partir de 2017, impactou o acesso aos direitos previdenciários da população atendida. A análise, numa perspectiva de totalidade, tem como categorias: o conceito de tecnologia na sociedade, a constituição estrutural do Estado brasileiro e sua modernização, o INSS-Digital e o impacto das mudanças tecnológicas para a população atendida. Contextualizado a partir da década de 1990, quando se iniciam as contrarreformas neoliberais, é particularizado no período de 2016 a 2019, no acirramento das contrarreformas e ajustes de austeridades, orientados pelo ultraneoliberalismo. Deduz-se que o INSS-Digital, em substituição ao atendimento presencial, tem restringido o acesso aos direitos previdenciários e assistenciais da população, que com baixo nível de renda e escolaridade não dispõe de recursos para aquisição dos equipamentos tecnológicos e compreensão da linguagem informatizada, constatado pelos altos índices de indeferimentos dos pedidos de benefícios e a judicialização dos processos. Conclui-se que o INSS-Digital, ao concretizar-se no estreitamento ao acesso dos direitos previdenciários e assistenciais, configura-se como estratégia “competente” na redução da política previdenciária, materializada em suas contrarreformas. Espera-se contribuir para reflexão crítica dos direitos sociais brasileiros e instrumentalizar os movimentos sociais e sindicais na luta e resistência em prol de uma previdência pública, igualitária e universal.

Abstract This article, based on bibliographical and documentary research, has as its object of study the critical analysis of the modernizing restructuring of the National Social Security Institute (INSS, for its Spanish acronym), a federal agency that operates social security policy and whose modernization, as of 2017, impacted the access to social security rights of the population it serves. The analysis, from a totality perspective, has the following categories: the concept of technology in society, the structural constitution of the Brazilian State and its modernization, the INSS-Digital, and the impact of technological changes on the population served. The analysis is contextualized from the 1990s, when neoliberal counter-reforms began, and is particularized to the period between 2016 and 2019, during which time there was an intensification of counter-reforms and austerity adjustments, guided by ultra-neoliberalism. It is deduced that the INSS-Digital, replacing face-to-face service, has restricted access to social security rights for the population, which, with a low level of income and education, does not have the resources to acquire technological equipment and understand computerized language, as confirmed by senior rates of rejection of benefit requests and the judicialization of processes. It can be concluded that the INSS-Digital, when implemented in the narrowing of access to social security rights, is configured as a "competent" strategy in the reduction of social security policy, as evidenced by its counter-reforms. It is expected to contribute to critical reflection on Brazilian social security rights and to equip social and trade union movements in the struggle and resistance in favor of a public, egalitarian, and universal pension.

Resumen: Este artículo, basado en una investigación bibliográfica y documental, tiene como objeto de estudio el análisis crítico de la reestructuración modernizadora del Instituto Nacional de Seguridad Social (INSS), agencia federal que opera la política de seguridad social y cuya modernización, a partir de 2017, impactó el acceso a los derechos de seguridad social de la población atendida. El análisis, desde una perspectiva de totalidad, tiene las siguientes categorías: el concepto de tecnología en la sociedad, la constitución estructural del Estado brasileño y su modernización, el INSS-Digital y el impacto de los cambios tecnológicos en la población atendida. Contextualizado a partir de los años 1990, cuando comenzaron las contrarreformas neoliberales, se particulariza en el período desde 2016 hasta 2019, en la intensificación de las contrarreformas y de los ajustes de austeridad, guiados por el ultraneoliberalismo. Se deduce que el INSS-Digital, en sustitución del servicio presencial, ha restringido el acceso a los derechos de seguridad social de la población, que, con un bajo nivel de ingresos y educación, no cuenta con recursos para adquirir equipos tecnológicos y comprender lenguaje informatizado, como lo confirman los altos índices de rechazo de solicitudes de beneficios y de judicialización de procesos. Se concluye que el INSS-Digital, cuando se implementa en la reducción del acceso a los derechos de seguridad social, se configura como una estrategia “competente” en la reducción de la política de seguridad social, materializada en sus contrarreformas. Se espera que contribuya a la reflexión crítica sobre los derechos de seguridad social brasileños y prepare a los movimientos sociales y sindicales en la lucha y la resistencia a favor de una pensión pública, igualitaria y universal.

ABSTRACT Professionals in careers related to Information and Communication Technologies (ICT) are among the most in demand worldwide, but various media and studies have reported that the demand for them far exceeds the current supply. Paraguay does not escape this reality, so this paper seeks to analyze the academic offer of this type of career and the number of graduates who graduate from them through the quantitative analysis of open data provided by the Ministry of Education and Sciences. For this purpose, the Excel tool was used, importing the source data in csv format and using mainly dynamic tables and some functions described in the work. It is observed that both the academic offer and the percentage of graduates of the total are very low, in both cases not exceeding 2% of the total, data that coincides with the few previous studies on the subject. However, some aspects that affect this result are mentioned in the work, specifically referring to the cleaning and standardization of the data used for the study.

RESUMEN Los profesionales de las carreras relacionadas a las Tecnologías de la Información y Comunicación (TIC) son de los más demandados a nivel mundial, pero varios medios y estudios han informado que la demanda de estos supera por mucho la oferta actual. Paraguay no escapa de esta realidad por lo que el presente trabajo busca analizar la oferta académica de este tipo de carreras y la cantidad de egresados que se titulan en las mismas a través del análisis cuantitativo de los datos abiertos provistos por el Ministerio de Educación y Ciencias. Para el efecto se utilizó la herramienta Excel importando los datos de origen en formato csv y utilizando principalmente tablas dinámicas y algunas funciones descriptas en el trabajo. Se observa que tanto la oferta académica como el porcentaje de egresados del total son muy bajos no superando en ambos casos el 2% del total, dato que coincide con los pocos estudios anteriores sobre el tema. No obstante, se mencionan en el trabajo algunos aspectos que inciden en este resultado, referidos específicamente a la limpieza y estandarización de los datos utilizados para el estudio.

ABSTRACT Communication is one of those fields that must be counted on to promote development policies at all levels in Cuba. Although it is about positioning science, it must be used to make appropriate use of the various channels and resources through which the message circulates; but we must also have society, the journalist, communication manager, scientist or person responsible for communicating the scientific fact capable of developing a message aimed at a public that is sensitive or not aware of the science issue, and at the same time we must resort to technology to make the communicative product more credible, understandable, immediate and accessible. In this conglomerate subfields persist such as the professional, educational and investigative fields of a communicator. Communication and innovation in the professional practices of social communicators are a key combination to influence the different substantive processes of the university in the various areas: institutional, community, governmental, political, academic in tune with the infocommunication policies that are promoted in the current Cuban context.

RESUMEN La comunicación resulta uno de esos campos con los que hay que contar para impulsar políticas de desarrollo en todos los niveles en Cuba. Si bien se trata de posicionar la ciencia hay que recurrir a ella para hacer uso adecuado de los diversos canales y recursos por los que circula el mensaje; pero además hay que contar con la sociedad, el periodista, gestor de la comunicación, científico o persona responsable de comunicar el hecho científico capaz de elaborar un mensaje dirigido a un público sensibilizado o no con la cuestión ciencia, y a la vez hay que recurrir a la tecnología para hacer más creíble, entendible, inmediato y cercano el producto comunicativo. En este conglomerado persisten subcampos como el profesional, educativo e investigativo de un comunicador. Comunicación e innovación en las prácticas profesionales de los comunicadores sociales resultan un binomio clave para incidir desde los distintos procesos sustantivos de la universidad en los diversos ámbitos: institucional, comunitario, gubernamental, político, académico a tono con las políticas infocomunicacionales que se promueven en el contexto cubano actual.

ABSTRACT The evolution towards Industry 4.0 starts from previous industrial revolutions and culminates in the convergence of advanced technologies today. Industry 4.0 uses technologies such as the internet of things, big data analysis, artificial intelligence, augmented reality, among others, to improve the efficiency and adaptability of companies; organizational productivity is focused on the modernization of processes with emerging technologies. In this context, the accounting profession is undergoing significant changes such as the automation of routine tasks allowing accountants to focus on strategic analysis. Technology impacts accounting by improving efficiency, accuracy, and data security. Accountants must acquire technological competencies, such as proficiency in accounting software and skills in data analytics, cybersecurity, and digital communication. In terms of accounting ethics, the importance of confidentiality, integrity and transparency in the digital age is highlighted. Accountants must maintain high ethical standards and adapt to technological evolution. The research concludes that the accounting profession has transformed into a more strategic role, demanding technological skills and ethics adapted to the digital era. The connection between education, industry and technology skills is essential to prepare accountants for today's challenges.

RESUMEN La evolución hacia la Industria 4.0 parte de las revoluciones industriales anteriores y culmina en la convergencia de tecnologías avanzadas en la actualidad. La Industria 4.0 emplea tecnologías como el internet de las cosas, el análisis de grandes volúmenes de datos (big data), la inteligencia artificial, la realidad aumentada, entre otras, para mejorar la eficiencia y la adaptabilidad de las empresas, la productividad organizacional se centra en la modernización de procesos con tecnologías emergentes.En este contexto, la profesión contable experimenta cambios significativos como son en la automatización de tareas rutinarias, permite a los contadores enfocarse en análisis estratégicos. La tecnología impacta la contabilidad al mejorar la eficiencia, la precisión y la seguridad de los datos. Los contadores deben adquirir competencias tecnológicas, como el dominio de software contable y habilidades en análisis de datos, ciberseguridad y comunicación digital.En cuanto a la ética contable, se destaca la importancia de la confidencialidad, integridad y transparencia en la era digital. Los contadores deben mantener altos estándares éticos y adaptarse a la evolución tecnológica. La investigación concluye que la profesión contable se ha transformado en un papel más estratégico, exigiendo habilidades tecnológicas y una ética adaptada a la era digital. La conexión entre la educación, la industria y las competencias tecnológicas es esencial para preparar a los contadores para los desafíos actuales.

Resumen La experiencia narrada en este artículo intenta contribuir a una mayor inclusión educativa en instituciones de la ciudad de Santa Fe mediante la utilización de las Tecnologías de la Información y la Comunicación como herramientas útiles para el aprendizaje significativo de contenidos estructurantes de ciencias naturales en el nivel medio. Se trabaja junto al personal docente de instituciones socias del proyecto, que no disponen de materiales de laboratorio ni de una infraestructura edilicia adecuada, en el desarrollo de actividades experimentales simples mediadas por tecnologías digitales, que contribuyan a la enseñanza de temáticas relacionadas con la Química propuestas en el diseño curricular provincial. El trabajo sinérgico del equipo extensionista y del profesorado socio del proyecto facilitó la implementación de estrategias didácticas relevantes en contextos signados por la falta de recursos y en donde resulta dificultoso garantizar una educación de calidad para los y las estudiantes de sectores vulnerables.

Abstract The experience narrated in this article attempts to contribute to greater educational inclusion in certain educational sectors of the city of Santa Fe, through the use of Information and Communication Technologies as useful tools for meaningful learning of structuring content of natural sciences in the secondary level. We work together with the teaching staff of project partner institutions, which do not have laboratory materials or adequate building infrastructure, in the development of simple experimental activities mediated by digital technologies, which contribute to the teaching of proposed topics related to Chemistry in provincial curricular design. The synergistic work of the extension team and the project partner teachers facilitated the implementation of significant teaching strategies, in contexts marked by a lack of resources and where it is difficult to guarantee quality education for students from vulnerable sectors.

Resumo A experiência narrada neste artigo busca contribuir para uma maior inclusão educacional em instituições da cidade de Santa Fé através do uso das Tecnologias da Informação e Comunicação como ferramentas úteis para a aprendizagem significativa de conteúdos estruturantes de ciências naturais no ensino médio. Trabalhamos em conjunto com o corpo docente das instituições parceiras do projeto, que não dispõem de materiais laboratoriais ou infraestruturas prediais adequadas, no desenvolvimento de atividades experimentais simples mediadas por tecnologias digitais, que contribuam para o ensino dos temas relacionados com a Química propostos no plano curricular provincial. O trabalho sinérgico da equipe de extensão e dos professores parceiros do projeto facilitou a execução de estratégias didáticas relevantes em contextos marcados pela falta de recursos e onde é difícil garantir uma educação de qualidade para estudantes de setores vulneráveis.