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Promoting Flourishing in the Digital Age: The Interplay of Well-Being, Lifelong Learning, and Success
The digital era has changed learning, communication, and success. This chapter examines the complex link between thriving, lifelong learning, and success in the digital era, emphasizing flourishing's significance. Wellness is the cornerstone of digital life in many ways. In an age of continual technological change and unpredictable job markets, lifelong learning empowers people to adapt, flourish, and find fulfilment. Educational institutions and organizations pursuing digital well-being projects are given a set of digital success tips. Personal development requires a growth attitude and lifelong learning with digital technologies. Responsible digital citizenship and honest online connections foster a pleasant online environment. Mindfulness, digital detox, and digital or non-digital activity limits are crucial to well-being. This holistic approach helps individuals, educational institutions, and businesses thrive digitally while retaining their well-being and values by recognizing the complicated relationship between technology and personal growth. Copyright 2026, IGI Global Scientific Publishing. Copying or distributing in print or electronic forms without written permission of IGI Global Scientific Publishing is prohibited. Use of this chapter to train generative artificial intelligence (AI) technologies is expressly prohibited. The publisher reserves all rights to license its use for generative AI training and machine learning model development. -
Influence of Fiber Hybridization on the Mechanical Behavior of Kenaf-Sisal Epoxy Composites
The natural composites are widely preferred nowadays in versatile application due to easily degradable and moderate mechanical properties when compare to polymer matrix composites. The kenaf fiber are used as reinforcement in composites wherever high flexural strength and modulus is required whereas sisal fiber is preferred for tensile strength, impact and wear resistance. In our work hybrid composite comprising kenaf and sisal as reinforcement and epoxy as matrix is fabricated and its mechanical properties are explored and compared with the conventional composite fabricated using only kenaf or sisal as reinforcement. The hybrid composite shows excellent flexural strength but inferior tensile strength when compare to conventional composite. The failure of the specimens are investigated using scanning electron microscopy (SEM). In this chapter detailed insight is presented for emphasizing the need for tailored fiber selection and processing to achieve optimal mechanical properties. 2026 by IGI Global Scientific Publishing. -
Perceived Usability, Usefulness, and Satisfaction of Educational Virtual Assistant Chatbots: Teachers' and Students' Perception Study
Artificial Intelligence (Al) is changing education with tools like chatbots and virtual assistants. These tools provide personalized support and make academic tasks easier. This study examines how teachers and students view chatbot usability, usefulness, and satisfaction in different educational settings. The researcher used a quantitative survey design and collected data from 238 participants across various institutions and fields. The results are promising. About 59.2% of participants found chatbots easy to use. Additionally, 78.2% said these tools helped them work more efficiently, and 79% reported having positive experiences. ChatGPT and Grammarly were the most commonly used platforms. While the overall opinions were positive, the study highlights the need for organized integration, ethical guidelines, and training to improve engagement and learning results. These findings indicate that educational chatbots are not just trends; they are becoming vital parts of modern teaching, suggesting ways to create more inclusive and adaptable learning environments. 2026 by IGI Global Scientific Publishing. All rights reserved. -
Stablecoins Unveiled echnical Definitions, Economic Taxonomy, and Comparative Analysis of Fiat-Backed, Crypto-Collateralised, lgorithmic, and CBDC
Stablecoins are a foundational innovation in digital finance engineered to maintain price stability by linking their value to reference assets such as fiat currencies. This chapter provides a technical and economic definition of stablecoins, classifying them into fiat-backed, crypto-collateralised, algorithmic, and hybrid categories. Through comparative analysis of USD Coin (USDC), Tether (USDT), DAI, and TerraUSD (UST), alongside recent hybrid and CBDC implementations, it examines stability mechanisms such as 1:1 reserve backing, smart contract-based collateral management, and protocol-defined supply adjustments. Evidence shows fiat-backed stablecoins maintain stronger pegs and market dominance, while crypto-collateralised and algorithmic models face volatility, capital inefficiency, and systemic risk exemplified by UST's collapse. Hybrid models like DJED and JANUS propose innovative stabilisation techniques though largely theoretical. Drawing on market data and case studies, the chapter highlights regulatory, technical, and policy distinctions between private stablecoins and CBDCs. 2026 by IGI Global Scientific Publishing. All rights reserved. -
Autonomous Systems in Agriculture: An Innovation-Based Framework
The emergence of autonomous systems in agriculture signifies a transformative change in global food production, propelled by developments in artificial intelligence, robotics, and data analytics. This chapter suggests a thorough innovation framework that brings together technological, organizational, institutional, economic, social, and environmental aspects to steer the sustainable development and implementation of autonomous agricultural technologies. The chapter examines essential facilitators and obstacles to innovation, such as infrastructure deficiencies, digital literacy, and regulatory challenges, by analyzing historical trends, case studies, and policy landscapes. It stresses ethical and inclusive innovation to guarantee the involvement of smallholders and ecological resilience. This framework acts as a strategic resource for researchers, practitioners, and policymakers who seek to connect digital transformation in agriculture with sustainability objectives, especially those outlined by the UN Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs). 2026 by IGI Global Scientific Publishing. -
Digitalizing Sustainable Trade Corridors: A Multi-Layered Big Data Analytics Framework for Green Trade Reform
The contemporary period of rapid digital transformation has resulted in global trading routes changing from using physical means to intelligent ecosystems. One of the main ideas of this chapter is the conceptual framework that combines the power of the Internet of Things (IoT) and Big Data Analytics (BDA) to totally change the customs procedures as well as the supply chain management. However, the use of technology has only been applied in some parts of the cross- border trade sector which has created information silos and caused slow operations. This research is dedicated to showing the advantages of coupling the instantaneous IoT sensor data with powerful BDA workflows in risk reduction, and- increased transparency, and even promoting regional integration. The chapter offers a practical guide for policymakers and logistics professionals who want to connect the technical aspect of digital customs reforms with the ethical and sustainable implementation. 2026 by IGI Global Scientific Publishing. -
Hybrid EconometricMachine Learning Models for High- Dimensional Data: Robust Approaches to Anomaly Detection and Inference
This chapter, according to the authors, looks at making modeling robust and interpretable when faced with complex, irregular, and contaminated data environments. As empirical research continues to move towards larger datasets having numerous variables and high dependency among variables, along with instances of irregular data, traditional models of analysis can no longer be very effective. The chapter looks at the possibility of having a comprehensive modeling approach by integrating concepts of robustness like bounded sensitivity and stability analysis, along with flexible modeling at the analytical and computational levels. A major focus is on finding influential data points, rare observations, and structural breaks during the modeling process and not after the process is complete. 2026 by IGI Global Scientific Publishing. All rights reserved. -
Industry 5.0: HumanAI Symbiosis in Motion-Controlled Logistics and Management
Industry 5.0 is a paradigm shift in favors of resiliency, personalization, and sustainability in the logistics and management industry based on automation-driven efficiency and human-AI symbiosis. Beyond the Abstract: Human and Machine Performance with Motion Control Systems and Collaborative Interactive Spaces Based on resources that facilitate decision-making through predictive understanding to automation of movement control to coordinate transport and warehouse robots to be more versatile, AI does not only increase robot functions, but also far more efficiently increases the productivity of the warehouse. Together they are re-inventing logistics as smart and people FIRST ecosystems that can respond to volatility and disruption. The chapter highlights the conceptual foundations, theoretical foundations, empirical research and case studies as well as presents Industry 5.0 as a roadmap to next-generation and people-centred logistics and management systems. 2026 by IGI Global Scientific Publishing. All rights reserved. -
E-Mentoring PhD Scholars for Successful Research and Publication: A Qualitative Study
With advancements in digital communication, e-mentoring has become an essential tool in higher education, bridging geographical gaps and facilitating real-time interactions between mentors and scholars. The study attempts to examine the merits of e-mentoring for PhD scholars in their research and publication journey. The present study employed qualitative phenomenological approach and collected data through in-depth semi structured interviews. Through word-of-mouth approach researchers reached out to 8 PhD scholars, who used more tele and video conferencing platform to reach out to their supervisors and other resource persons. A valid interview guide has been used to collect the data. Study employed narrative thematic analysis technique to interpret the data. Findings revealed that, e-mentoring positively supported the research scholars in successfully completing their research and publication work and found it saved time, travel cost, and reduced anxiety. Future researchers may focus on application of e-mentoring in distance education.. 2026 by IGI Global Scientific Publishing. All rights reserved. -
From Credentials to Careers: Evaluating Micro-Credentials Role in Placement Outcomes
The labor market complicates career entry, making alternative credentials crucial for employability. Micro-credentials help learners gain skills recognized for hiring and promotions, bridging the skills gap. Digital badges, Coursera certificates, and industry-backed credentials are common, but do they foster micro-skills (sub-skills of major competencies) that enhance job placement? This study examines whether micro-credentials create micro-skills and improve undergraduate placements in. 2026 by IGI Global Scientific Publishing. All rights reserved. -
Predictive Analytics as a Catalyst for Disruption in the Fashion Ecosystem
The fashion industry is one of the most dynamic industries, with trends that change constantly being moulded by the changing preferences of consumers. In this dynamic environment it is crucial for companies to adjust to the current market demand, failing which companies might plunge into losses and even face shutdowns. Predictive analytics plays an important role in trend prediction, demand forecasting, optimizing the supply chain and inventory management, personalization, dynamic pricing, waste minimization and prediction of sustainable materials. This, of course, is not without challenges. Data privacy concerns and over reliance on AI algorithms leading to inhibition of human creativity stand out as the most concerning challenges that need to be addressed to ensure that predictive analytics is utilised to its fullest potential in the fashion industry. Predictive analytics and AI can ensure that the fashion industry is not just profitable but also consumer centric and sustainable in its operations thus ensuring long term growth and sustenance of businesses in this industry. 2026 by IGI Global Scientific Publishing. All rights reserved. -
Exploring Factors Influencing Digital Inclusion Within Modern Pedagogical Practices Prevalent Amongst Schoolteachers: Smart Students, Smarter Teachers?
Teachers serve as torchbearers to the vast expanse of knowledge, leaving a lasting impact on the minds of their students through their teaching styles and pedagogical practices. With the advancement of technology, the integration of digital technologies has increasingly been observed in pedagogical approaches. The current study seeks to explore various subjective factors related to teachers, such as their teaching styles, age, classes taught, educational qualifications, and years of experience, in relation to their individual digital competencies and the extent of digital inclusivity in their pedagogies. Three psychometric scales were employed for data collection (TSI-Q, DiPeCoS, and TDiCoS). Data were gathered from 215 school teachers in the United Arab Emirates (UAE) and subsequently analysed. The results revealed a significant influence of teaching styles (p = 0.045), classes taught (p = 0.001), age (p = 0.006), and years of teaching experience (p = 0.016) on the digital inclusivity of the teachers' pedagogical practices. 2026 by IGI Global Scientific Publishing. All rights reserved. -
Investigating Educators Behavioural Intentions Towards Smart Tools in Education
This study explores pre-service and in-service teachers behavioral intention to adopt smart tools by examining their perceptions of usefulness, ease of use, enjoyment, and contextual readiness. Using a quantitative survey design, data was collected from 42 participants across the Delhi-NCR region through purposive sampling. A composite score of 15 Likert-scale items was used to measure behavioural intention, followed by quartile-based analysis, independent samples t-tests (for gender), and one-way ANOVA (for age groups). While results revealed no statistically significant differences across gender and age, the quartile distribution indicated a varied spectrum of intention, with participants broadly categorised into low, moderate, and high-intention groups. The study highlights the need for teacher training programs to go beyond technical instruction. It advocates for a more nuanced, context-aware approach to technology readiness in teacher education that bridges the gap between vision and practice in the evolving ecosystem of Education 5.0. 2026 by IGI Global Scientific Publishing. All rights reserved. -
Antecedents of Farmers' Intentions to Adopt Drone Technology: Integrating TAM and TPB Models in Agriculture
This study examines farmers' behavioral intentions toward adopting drone technology in agriculture using a quantitative approach. Data will be collected from farmers familiar with Agri-based technologies through purposive sampling, with esponses analyzed via structural equation modeling (IBM SPSS AMOS V21). The study integrates the Technology Acceptance Model (TAM) and the Theory of Planned Behavior (TPB) to understand key factors influencing adoption. Findings highlight that farmers' knowledge of drone operations and economic factors impact their acceptance, while regulations and perceived behavioral control contribute to reluctance. Although the study focuses on farmers, future research can explore perspectives of agricultural specialists, AgriTech start-ups, and policymakers. The insights will help stakeholders enhance the adoption, quality, and flexibility of agricultural technologies. Uniquely, this study addresses the gap in research by examining the role of regulations and behavioral control in farmers' decisions on drone adoption. 2026 by IGI Global Scientific Publishing. All rights reserved. -
Enhancing Educational Engagement Among Kattunayakan Tribal Children Through Culturally Tailored Educational Activity Centres
The deep forests of the Western Ghats are home to the aboriginal tribes Kattunayakans, Categorized under the Particularly Vulnerable Tribal Groups (PVTGs) in India. Despite various government schemes to improve their economic status, the literacy rates remain very low due to geographical isolation and traditional lifestyle. The main objective is to look into designing educational activity centres that exclusively cater to the needs of the Kattunayakan children, integrating indigenous knowledge and methods with teaching-learning sessions to promote lifelong learning. Technological progress and AI can be game changers for accessing quality education, including visual learning, language translation, and personalized methods while preserving cultural heritage. The research is based on a systematic narrative review, critically examining scholarly articles, policy and government reports. The outcome shows that these programs help improve academic skills while keeping them closer to their culture and identity. 2026 by IGI Global Scientific Publishing. All rights reserved. -
Leveraging Business Intelligence to Explore AI-Driven Transformation in the VUCA and BANI World
Artificial Intelligence (AI)-driven technological advancements often create competitive business models especially in the unpredictable BANI and VUCA environments. This chapter focuses on the role AI in transforming Business Intelligence (BI) while allowing efficient decision-making and strategic planning. The AI can transform a business using predictive analytics for volatility, automation to address complexity, decision support in non-linear scenarios, personalized user experiences, reliance on adaptive systems, improving employee productivity, and promoting sustainability. A detailed plan is implemented including resource allocation and timeline for the tasks. Using a mixed class agile methodology, a case study is developed for managing the pandemic crisis in the future for the BANI world. The BI-driven insights regarding mortality rates, infection spread, and economic impact help policymakers form informed and effective decisions. The results demonstrate that AI-driven BI offers improved efficiency, accuracy, scalability, and cost reduction in the BANI world. 2026 by IGI Global Scientific Publishing. All rights reserved. -
Breaking the Bias: Assessing Nudge Effectiveness in Overcoming Decision-Making Prejudices
Influencing consumer decision-making processes in the digital age is vital as E-commerce continues dominating the market. This research work explores the application of nudging to e-commerce or any digital environment involving consumer choices, investigating its efficacy in mitigating cognitive biases that affect online purchasing decisions. We employed a 2 x 2 within-group experimental design to examine how different nudges influence e-commerce choices. Data collected from 88 participants reveal that status-quo nudges can influence decision-making more than social proof nudges or salience nudges in online shopping. These results significantly impact digital marketing strategies, suggesting that carefully designed nudges can guide consumer choices by overcoming ingrained prejudices. This research also provides practical insights into consumer behaviour through subtle interventions in e-commerce settings. While nudging has been studied in offline contexts, applying it to e-commerce and digital consumer choices represents a growing area of study. 2026 by IGI Global Scientific Publishing. All rights reserved. -
Smart and Digital Wellbeing Initiatives in Healthcare: The Way Forward
Smart and digital wellbeing initiatives play a significant role in modern healthcare. This chapter explores current initiatives, their use and effectiveness, as well as their challenges and future directions, with a special focus on mental health. It explores digital wellbeing, the growing need for initiatives, and the tools available in India and the world. These initiatives enhance accessibility, reduce stigma, offer personalized interventions, and improve psychological and workplace wellbeing. However, current technology, especially AI-based chatbots, have limited user interaction and authentic therapeutic support. Additionally, biased datasets can lead to flawed responses and issues with inclusive support. Current initiatives face privacy concerns due to a lack of regulatory bodies, emphasizing the need for robust regulation and oversight. Collaborative development, appropriate marketing and improved security are key to improving existing initiatives. Future research needs to address and explore these concerns to ensure the development of effective and ethical initiatives. 2026 by IGI Global Scientific Publishing. All rights reserved. -
Trade vis-vis Human Rights of Farmers Under TRIPS
The Agreement on Trade-Related Aspects of Intellectual Property Rights (TRIPS) plays a crucial role in shaping the global intellectual property system that significantly impacts farmers' rights. In agriculture, TRIPS grants intellectual property protection in the form of patents and plant variety protection. Such protection conflicts with the farmer's rights to save, sow and exchange the seeds. This raises human rights concerns related to farmers such as access to genetic resources and their cultural rights, food security, livelihood that are enshrined under various international human rights instruments such as International Covenant on Economic, Social and Cultural Rights (ICESCR) and Universal Declaration on Human Rights (UDHR). This intersection between TRIPS and the human rights of farmers requires a more inclusive approach that balances human rights with innovation. In light of the above perspective, this chapter analyzes farmers' human rights integration under the domain of intellectual property rights protected under TRIPS. 2026 by IGI Global Scientific Publishing. All rights reserved. -
Transforming Teacher Education: Leveraging Smart University Technologies to Foster Equity, Innovation, and Inclusive Learning
This chapter critically examines how emerging technologies are transforming teacher education within the evolving model of the Smart University, with a focus on aligning innovation with the universal values of educational equality and justice. Through a multidisciplinary lens, it explores how tools such as artificial intelligence, learning analytics, digital classrooms, and institutional digital infrastructures can be strategically adopted to modernize education and foster inclusive and human-centered learning environments. The Smart University is positioned as a space of both technological and ethical transformation, requiring a rethinking of pedagogical goals and responsibilities in teacher preparation. Central to this vision is the integration of Universal Design for Learning (UDL), a framework that anticipates learner diversity by offering flexible pathways for engagement, knowledge acquisition, and expression. When embedded in smart systems, UDL enables teacher education to move beyond standardized approaches, promoting accessibility, personalization, and learner agency. The chapter also addresses critical challenges associated with smart technologies, including digital inequities, data privacy concerns, algorithmic bias, and the risk of depersonalized learning. It argues that technological progress without ethical grounding can exacerbate educational disparities rather than resolve them. To counter this, the chapter calls for a values-driven approach to technology integration-one that centres inclusion, justice, and equity. In doing so, it reimagines the Smart University as a high-tech institution and as a transformative environment that equips future educators to navigate diverse, digitally enriched, and socially responsible classrooms. 2026, IGI Global Scientific Publishing. All rights reserved.