The SMARTER model, an innovative educational framework, is designed for blended learning environments, seamlessly integrating both online and face-to-face instructional components. Employing a flipped classroom methodology, this model ensures an equitable division between online and traditional classroom interactions, aiming to cultivate a dynamic and collaborative learning atmosphere. This research focused on developing and rigorously evaluating the SMARTER model’s validity, practicality, and effectiveness. Adopting a research and development (R&D) approach informed by the methodologies of Borg, Gall, and Gall, this study utilized a mixed-methods strategy. This encompassed a robust validation process by experts in design, content, and media, alongside an empirical analysis of the model’s application in actual educational settings. The aim was to comprehensively assess its effectiveness and practicality. The findings from this study affirm the SMARTER model’s validity, practicality, and effectiveness in improving students’ information literacy skills. Comparative analysis between a control group, taught using a traditional expository approach, and an experimental group, educated under the SMARTER model, highlighted significant improvements in the latter group. This effectiveness underscores the model’s capacity not only to efficiently deliver content but also to actively engage students in a collaborative learning process. The results advocate for the model’s potential broader adoption and adaptation across similar educational contexts. They also establish a foundation for future research aimed at exploring the SMARTER model’s scalability and adaptability across diverse instructional environments.

This study investigates the application and effectiveness of modern teaching techniques in improving reading literacy among elementary school students in Kazakhstan. In the rapidly evolving educational landscape, the integration of innovative pedagogical strategies is essential to foster student reading skills and general literacy. This study aims to explore how these modern teaching techniques can be applied to improve reading literacy among elementary school students in Kazakhstan. The study sample includes 64 respondents to the research. The key modern teaching techniques explored in this study include the use of digital learning tools, interactive reading sessions, differentiated instruction, and collaborative learning activities. The findings reveal significant improvements in reading literacy among students exposed to these techniques, highlighting the potential of modern pedagogy to bridge literacy gaps and promote educational equity. Furthermore, the study discusses the challenges and opportunities to implement these techniques within the Kazakhstani educational system. The results provide valuable information for educators, policymakers, and stakeholders aiming to improve reading literacy through innovative teaching practices.

This research aims to analyze the relationship between financial literacy variables and financial inclusion, the relationship between financial literacy variables and financial technology, and the relationship between financial technology variables and financial inclusion. The analysis of this research is to learn more about how financial literacy and the use of financial technology influence financial inclusion. This type of research is associative quantitative. Next, the relationship between these variables is explained using statistical formulas. Consequently, the term for this research is “quantitative research”. The study population is the number of people who use financial services. For this sampling, the purposive random sampling method was used. The following criteria are determined in sampling: 1) Minimum age 17 years, this is intended to take the minimum age standard in sampling and is considered capable of understanding the contents of the questionnaire statements. 2) Have ever used financial services. In this study, 11 question items were used to measure 3 variables, so this study used the largest range, namely 231 respondents. The intervention variable will be used as a reference for the Partial Least Square (PLS) method to analyze this research data. This study uses a causal model (causal modelling, relationships, and influence) or path analysis. The hypothesis that will be discussed in this research is tested using the Structural Equation Model (SEM), which is operated with Smart PLS. The results of this research show that financial literacy has a positive and significant impact on financial inclusion in society. Financial literacy has a positive and significant impact on financial technology. financial technology has a positive and significant impact on financial inclusion, financial technology can offset the impact of financial literacy on financial inclusion. The results of this research are used as input for the community so that they pay more attention to their internal human resources related to financial products that can be used for investment. With knowledge of the right financial products, it is hoped that they can create good financial behaviour so that an awareness of the importance of carrying out good financial planning. For financial institutions, it is hoped that this can increase easy access to financial products and services, in particular credit for businesses as additional capital for the community.

This study examines the intricate interplay between the digital environment and the evolving communication dynamics of Generation Z, specifically focusing on the impact of social media on familial bonds. The research objective is to explore the ways in which Generation Z’s social media consumption patterns shape their relationships and lives, providing insights into the intricate interplay between technology and human connections. Adopting Hirschi and Wellman’s theoretical framework, this investigation employs a survey method, utilizing a questionnaire to gather data from 384 Iranian Generation Z social media users. The findings reveal a significant and negative correlation between family bonds and social media usage, dependency on the platform, and support received from it. Excessive use diminishes interaction and intimacy, highlighting social media’s potential consequences for family relationships, which are crucial for individual and societal well-being. The study underscores the significance of balanced social media usage and encourages initiatives promoting face-to-face interactions, empathy, and responsible digital citizenship. The findings hold significant implications for academics and policymakers in developing strategies that promote responsible digital habits, foster healthy relationships, and contribute to digital citizenship advancement. This may involve regulatory initiatives, guidelines for social media platforms, and public awareness campaigns emphasizing the importance of balanced digital habits.

This article aims to analyze the role of the Medan City Religious Harmony Forum (FKUB) in shaping harmony in digital literacy-based virtual communities. FKUB has a central role as an institution that ensures that the aspirations and interests of religious communities can be accommodated effectively. In addition to making real improvements, FKUB also initiated its moderating role through the digital realm. This research adopts a qualitative method using a phenomenological approach. Primary data was obtained through interactions with key informants, while secondary data sources involved articles, books, reportage related to the context of the research theme. Data collection was conducted through interview, observation, and documentation techniques. Data analysis used the Miles and Huberman analysis model with the steps of data coding, data presentation, and conclusion drawing. The results showed that FKUB initiated digital literacy-based religious moderation through two development communication models. The first model is a linear model where FKUB acts as a community educator. The second model is a participatory model that is usually uploaded on Instagram, FaceBook and Youtube social media. This model allows the community to comment and have two-way communication with the FKUB. Both models are oriented towards creating collective intelligence as an indicator of building virtual harmony. Through digital literacy-based development communication, FKUB can be a mediator in meeting the Sustainable Development Goals (SDG’s), namely: Peace, justice and strong institutions, as well as promoting equality and reducing inequality.