The development of critical thinking (CT) enhances academic and professional opportunities. A review of literature reveals the use of fragmented analysis techniques, such as descriptive and correlational methods, among others, which hinder a deeper understanding of CT levels. This research aims to develop a methodology for analyzing Critical Thinking test scores, integrating five phases: exploratory, item analysis, scoring, gap analysis, and correlational. Using a quantitative approach, CT skills were analyzed with the Halpern Critical Thinking Assessment, which includes both open- and closed-ended questions to measure five skills: Verbal Reasoning (VR), Argument Analysis (AA), Hypothesis Testing (HT), Probability Use (PU), and Problem Solving (PS). The sample consisted of 214 students aged 18 and older. The item analysis phase categorized the items into quadrants: satisfactory, for review, or for elimination, based on difficulty and discrimination indices. The gap analysis revealed that Verbal Reasoning and open-ended formats were less satisfactory. The correlational phase, using heat maps, showed a stronger association between Verbal Reasoning and Probability Use. The methodological contributions include a variety of strategies that provide recommended procedures for analyzing tests or questionnaires in general. In today’s digital age, the development of critical thinking is not only a desirable skill but an essential necessity for the higher education system.
During property renovations, sustainability is increasingly playing a crucial role in reducing environmental impacts, utilizing resources efficiently, and improving the quality of living environments. In our research, we examined the environmentally conscious thinking of potential clients for sustainable renovations, including their requirements for materials, which encompass enhancing energy efficiency, the importance of waste reduction, the significance of using alternative energy, and the application of eco-friendly, durable, and local materials. According to the results of our quantitative survey, respondents recognized the importance of sustainability considerations and expressed their commitment towards energy-efficient and eco-friendly solutions, although costs and payback periods continued to be decisive factors. We found that advocates of sustainable property renovations in our sample displayed environmentally conscious characteristics, and environmentally conscious consumers are willing to spend more for significant and long-term results. As part of our research, we conducted in-depth interviews with real estate agents and general contractors to understand sustainability considerations in the decision-making process of property renovations. The key lesson from the interviews was that buyers can be segmented into different groups, with those prioritizing environmental awareness being of significant importance. Based on the findings, sustainability is increasingly coming to the forefront in property renovations. Thus, our publication offers a detailed insight into market trends and practices.
This study aims to identify the risk factors causing the delay in the completion schedule and to determine an optimization strategy for more accurate completion schedule prediction. A validated questionnaire has been used to calculate a risk rating using the analytical hierarchy process (AHP) method, and a Monte Carlo simulation on @RISK 8.2 software was employed to obtain a more accurate prediction of project completion schedules. The study revealed that the dominant risk factors causing project delays are coordination with stakeholders and changes in the scope of work/design review. In addition, the project completion date was determined with a confidence level of 95%. All data used in this study were obtained directly from the case study of the Double-Double Track Development Project (Package A). The key result of this study is the optimization of a risk-based schedule forecast with a 95% confidence level, applicable directly to the scheduling of the Double-Double Track Development Project (Package A). This paper demonstrates the application of Monte Carlo Simulation using @RISK 8.2 software as a project management tool for predicting risk-based-project completion schedules.
The food and beverage sector played a big part in contributing to the economic growth in Malaysia hence there was a major increase in the numbers of restaurants opening up for businesses. This study therefore examines factors with the aims of ensuring a sustainable development in full-service restaurants in West Malaysia. The results of this study have made a substantial contribution to restaurant owner’s’ comprehension of the fundamental components that underlie customer satisfaction and loyalty. By examining the moderating effect of the customer’s gender in full-service restaurants in West Malaysia, the objective of this study was to ascertain the relationships between the three variables (quality of the food served at the restaurant, service quality, and environment), as well as the degree to which each attribute was able to relate to diner satisfaction. The underpinning theory for this study was the Theory of Planned Behavior (TPB). Quantitative methods according to descriptive research and convenience sample strategy were utilized in this cross-sectional study. Questionnaires were distributed to 264 respondents through various online platforms such as WhatsApp, Telegram, Facebook, and email. Data collection was evaluated using the Statistical Program for Social Sciences (SPSS) version 27. In order to examine the connection between the three factors and diner’s satisfaction, various tests such as the multiple regression analysis, One-way ANOVA and Beta Coefficient test were carried out. The findings gave current restaurant owners and potential restaurant owners an overview of the different attributes influencing diner’s satisfaction at full-service restaurants in West Malaysia and also the extent of the moderating effect of diner’s gender had on each attribute. The outcome of this paper is expected to provide a sustainable growth in this industry.
The improper disposal of litter by tourists poses a significant threat to tourism destinations worldwide, including in Indonesia. To mitigate marine litter, promoting eco-friendly behavior (EFB) among tourists is essential. This study applies the extended Theory of Planned Behavior (TPB), which posits that an individual’s behavior is driven by their attitudes, subjective norms, and perceived behavioral control, to better understand the factors influencing eco-friendly behavioral intentions. In this research, ecological consciousness and ecological knowledge were added to the traditional TPB framework to gain deeper insights into tourist behavior. Data were collected through a structured questionnaire from 876 visitors to Lake Singkarak, Indonesia. The findings demonstrate that the inclusion of ecological consciousness and ecological knowledge significantly enhances the predictive power of the TPB model in explaining eco-friendly behavioral intentions. Based on these results, raising public awareness, improving government management, and enhancing the quality of lake attractions are recommended to encourage responsible tourism. These measures can reduce litter and conserve lake habitats, ultimately contributing to the sustainability of tourism in the region.
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