1. A novel off-chain channel model for blockchain-based solutions : doctoral dissertationBlaž Podgorelec, 2024, doctoral dissertation Abstract: This dissertation introduces a novel off-chain channel model aimed at enhancing existing solutions to address scalability challenges in blockchain technology. It begins with an overview of the problem statement, research objectives, methodology, and potential limitations before establishing a thesis and hypotheses. A comprehensive theoretical background on blockchain technology, scalability solutions, and the off-chain channel approach ensures a common understanding of the topic. To provide a thorough overview of existing off-chain channel solutions and identify and categorize their limitations, we conducted a systematic literature review, identifying 65 relevant studies. Through detailed analysis, six categories of solutions and six implemented off-chain channel solutions were identified. Five primary categories of limitations were also identified: routing, flexibility, privacy, network properties, and online assumptions, some with sub-limitations. To address these limitations, a new off-chain channel model, named ”Off-chain Channel as a Service,” is proposed, featuring four core design decisions: eliminating the need for an off-chain channel network, assuming blockchain properties by design, introducing a trustworthy service, and enabling flexibility by design. Validation and evaluation of the proposed model employ case-study and experiment research methods to confirm compliance with off-chain channel principles, validate it against identified limitations of existing solutions, analyze its impact on blockchain scalability, and assess its applicability across blockchain platforms. For this purpose, two off-chain payment channel prototype solutions have been implemented, each using a different underlying blockchain platform, namely Ethereum and Solana. Moreover, the proposed model’s security evaluation using risk-analysis methodology is also provided. Qualitative and quantitative analysis demonstrates that the proposed off-chain channel model adheres to off-chain channel principles, improves most identified limitations of existing solutions, positively impacts blockchain scalability, and can be applied to different blockchain platforms supported by smart contracts.
Keywords: blockchain, distributed ledger technology, smart contracts, scalability, off-chain channel, payment channel
Published in DKUM: 01.10.2024; Views: 0; Downloads: 3
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2. Interdisciplinary Research in Teaching and Learning : New Perspectives and Approaches2024 Abstract: The monograph titled "Interdisciplinary Research in Teaching and Learning: New Perspectives and Approaches," brings together 35 original scientific articles that explore the multifaceted dimensions of education. The contributions span a wide range of topics including innovative teaching methodologies, the integration of technology in learning, competency development, and educational psychology. Each article provides a unique perspective on how interdisciplinary approaches can enhance educational practices and outcomes. The collection aims to bridge theoretical insights with practical applications, offering valuable information for educators, policymakers, and researchers. By addressing contemporary challenges and proposing solutions, this monograph serves as a comprehensive resource for those seeking to understand and improve the complex landscape of modern education. The diverse viewpoints and rigorous research presented herein underscore the importance of collaborative efforts in advancing teaching and learning across various educational contexts.
Keywords: curriculum development, teaching strategies, educational technology, competency development, cognitive development
Published in DKUM: 18.09.2024; Views: 0; Downloads: 24
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3. A waste separation system based on sensor technology and deep learning: a simple approach applied to a case study of plastic packaging wasteRok Pučnik, Monika Dokl, Yee Van Fan, Annamaria Vujanović, Zorka Novak-Pintarič, Kathleen B. Aviso, Raymond R. Tan, Bojan Pahor, Zdravko Kravanja, Lidija Čuček, 2024, original scientific article Keywords: waste management, smart waste bin system, central post-sorting, sensor technology, deep learning, convolutional neural networks
Published in DKUM: 23.08.2024; Views: 51; Downloads: 2
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4. Acceptance of GIS within ERP system : research study in higher educationSimona Sternad Zabukovšek, Polona Tominc, Zdenko Deželak, Gaik Nalbandyan, Samo Bobek, 2022, original scientific article Abstract: GIS is often used in companies where employees already use enterprise information systems/enterprise resource planning (ERP) systems and where both systems are used simultaneously. This article is a research study of GIS acceptance by users using GIS, not as a stand-alone tool, but as an integrated tool into the ERP system. The research was conducted using the Technology Acceptance Model (TAM), one of the most often used research models for researching behavioral intention and actual use of information systems. For this research study, TAM has been modified and extended with external factors. The main research objective is to identify determinants of GIS acceptance and the attitude of individuals toward using GIS integrated with ERP systems. The structural equation model with partial least squares (PLS) method was used to analyze collected survey data. The study researched 12 external factors in the TAM model, out of which 10 were found significant. The most important factors that impact behavioral intention to use ERP-GIS systems are perceived usefulness of ERP-GIS systems and attitude toward using GIS, followed by education and training about ERP-GIS systems and perceived enjoyment using ERP-GIS systems.
Keywords: geographic information systems (GIS), enterprise resource planning (ERP), GIS and ERP integration, GIS acceptance, technology acceptance model (TAM)
Published in DKUM: 09.07.2024; Views: 103; Downloads: 9
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5. Performance-oriented UWB RTLS decision-making approachSimona Šinko, Enej Marinič, Blaž Poljanec, Matevž Obrecht, Brigita Gajšek, 2022, original scientific article Abstract: When introducing new technologies, companies are repeatedly faced with choosing between solutions from different providers. Regardless of all the good technical characteristics of the technology, if it is chosen inappropriately, it can prove to be a cost driver instead of something that brings added value to the system. Aware of this, we considered selecting a real-time location system (RTLS) based on Ultra-wideband technology in the indoor work environment. In practice and theory, it has been proven that the introduction of the RTLS can have highly positive effects on performance and business sustainability indicators. When reviewing the literature, it was noticed that authors solely focus on the technical properties of the systems and prices when giving guidelines on selecting the optimal RTLS. This article aims to provide advanced guidelines for UWB RTLS selection, proposing a phased selection process which is the main novelty proposed and investigated in this research. The guidelines are based on fragmented recommendations in the scientific literature that have been identified, gathered, considered, and reasonably allocated to the advanced performance-oriented phased selection process. In practice, this approach enables decision-makers to choose the most efficient and most appropriate UWB RTLS for specific logistics systems.
Keywords: decision-making, location data, RTLS, UWB, technology selection
Published in DKUM: 04.07.2024; Views: 148; Downloads: 12
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6. Investigating the influences of smart port practices and technology employment on port sustainable performance : the Egypt caseAlaa Othman, Sara El Gazzar, Matjaž Knez, 2022, original scientific article Abstract: In this digital age, sustainable development and competitive advantage of port businesses rely on their capacity to adapt to changing business requirements. Although many previous studies develop a relation between smart port, technology, and sustainable performance, there is an urgent need to address such issues practically among ports, especially in developing countries. Therefore, this research aims at investigating to what extent the Egyptian ports could apply the smart practices and employ technology to achieve and improve sustainable port performance. The Egyptian ports have been selected to serve as an empirical study in this research, assessing their current performance and evaluating their level of readiness and adaptability to smart practices and technology employment. Interviews have been conducted with a group of 10 different stakeholders from government, private sectors, and experts in the field of port management. The interview results showed the main challenges and obstacles that might face the adaptation of technology and sustainable practices in Egyptian ports. This was followed by a focus group with experts in the field to discuss and conclude some procedures that can be adapted to facilitate the implementation of smart practices and technology employment in the Egyptian ports in order to improve their sustainable performance from different perspectives (economic, social, and environmental), deal with the obstacles facing adaptation, and suggest solutions The research adopted ‘content analysis’ for both phases. The research showed the great potential of technology employment to achieve sustainable performance in Egyptian ports while highlighting the main obstacles and challenges that might face the adaptation with suggestions and recommendations to those obstacles in order to adopt the digital transformation towards a sustainable smart port performance. Nevertheless, there are some limitations that could be an open issue to future researchers and practitioners who can benefit from those suggestions to employ technology and adapt sustainable procedures in ports, foster new practical research initiatives to adapt the smart port practices in different countries, and test their impact on port sustainable performance.
Keywords: smart port practices, sustainable performance, technology, Egyptian ports
Published in DKUM: 28.06.2024; Views: 159; Downloads: 9
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7. The role of rhetoric in teacher virtual exchangesMaja Kerneža, Metka Kordigel Aberšek, 2024, original scientific article Abstract: Educators’ rhetorical skills are pivotal in virtual collaboration between teachers and parents, enhancing communication clarity and overcoming cultural barriers, thereby enriching educational experience and fostering intercultural understanding. A review of scientific databases such as Academic Search Complete, ERIC, SCOPUS, and Web of Science, was conducted to identify peer-reviewed articles from 2018 onwards that explore the role of rhetoric in teacher virtual exchanges. Articles were analysed for themes, findings, biases, and research gaps. A notable finding is the lack of research on rhetoric in virtual teacher exchanges, despite its potential to overcome cultural barriers and enhance collaboration. The study reveals that effective rhetorical techniques can improve clarity, persuasiveness, and intercultural understanding in virtual exchanges, indicating a need for more research and educational programs in this area. Furthermore, the study extends to virtual communication between teachers and parents, especially with non-native speakers or those with limited proficiency in the official language. This highlights the need for teachers to use sophisticated rhetorical strategies in diverse linguistic situations to improve understanding and involvement. In summary, the research underscores the significant impact of rhetorical skills in virtual teacher exchanges, with broader implications for global collaboration and intercultural understanding in the educational sphere.
Keywords: educational technology, intercultural communication, parent-teacher collaboration, rhetorical strategies, virtual exchange
Published in DKUM: 21.05.2024; Views: 140; Downloads: 7
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8. Small and medium-sized enterprises in the digital age : understanding characteristics and essential demandsBarbara Bradač Hojnik, Ivona Huđek, 2023, original scientific article Abstract: The article explores the implementation of digital technology in small and medium-sized Slovenian enterprises (SMEs), with a focus on understanding existing trends, obstacles, and necessary support measures during their digitalization progress. The surveyed companies mainly rely on conventional technologies like websites and teamwork platforms, emphasizing the significance of strong online communication and presence in the modern business world. The adoption of advanced technologies such as blockchain is limited due to the perceived complexity and relevance to specific sectors. This study uses variance analysis to identify potential differences in the digitalization challenges faced by companies of different sizes. The results indicate that small companies face different financial constraints and require more differentiated support mechanisms than their larger counterparts, with a particular focus on improving digital competencies among employees. Despite obtaining enhancements such as elevated operational standards and uninterrupted telecommuting via digitalization, companies still face challenges of differentiation and organizational culture change. The study emphasizes the importance of recognizing and addressing the different challenges and support needs of different-sized companies to promote comprehensive progress in digital transformation. Our findings provide important insights for policymakers, industry stakeholders, and SMEs to formulate comprehensive strategies and policies that effectively address the diverse needs and challenges of the digital transformation landscape.
Keywords: digital transformation, digital technology adoption, small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs), digitalization challenges, digitalization support
Published in DKUM: 11.04.2024; Views: 299; Downloads: 11
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9. Smart education systems supported by ICT and AIBoris Aberšek, Andrej Flogie, 2023, preface, editorial, afterword Keywords: teaching and learning, smart education systems, education and technology, ICT, artificial intelligence
Published in DKUM: 05.04.2024; Views: 307; Downloads: 17
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10. Blockchain technology adoption for improved environmental supply chain performance : the mediation effect of supply chain resilience, customer integration, and green customer information sharingSummer K. Mohamed, Sandra Haddad, Mahmoud Barakat, Bojan Rosi, 2023, original scientific article Abstract: Due to the complexity of building supply chain resilience (SCR) towards long-term environmental sustainability amendments, the use of emerging technologies such as Blockchain Technology (BCT) can be adopted as an innovative tool to enhance the sustainability and resilience of supply chains, especially in uncertain environments. Drawing on the Knowledge-Based View (KBV) and Dynamic Capability View (DCV), this research aims to demonstrate how the adoption of BCT can enhance the environmental supply chain performance (SCP). A total of 603 valid surveys were collected from respondents from manufacturing and service organizations in Egypt. The collected data were analyzed using structural equation modelling, and results revealed that BCT adoption alone had a negative direct impact on environmental SCP. However, when this relationship was mediated by SCR and sequentially mediated by customer integration and green customer information sharing, the results were positive. This research presents insights on how organizations can adapt to dynamic business environments, and, in addition, it extends the theories of KBV and DCV in an empirical contribution by filling the gap in understanding regarding how environmental SCP can be enhanced through the adoption of BCT.
Keywords: blockchain technology, environmental, supply chain, performance, resilience, customer integration, green, information sharing
Published in DKUM: 03.04.2024; Views: 235; Downloads: 8
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