Journal of Human Sciences At Hail University
© Journal of Humanities, University of Ha’il. Articles are published under the Creative Commons Attribution 4.0 International (CC BY 4.0) license, permitting use, distribution, and reproduction in any medium, provided the original work is properly cited with a link to the license and indication of changes.
Talent Development in Mathematics and Sports: Teacher’s Perceptions of the Importance of Educational and Learning Capital
Contemporary theories of giftedness increasingly adopt a developmental perspective, emphasizing the role of both internal individual factors and external environmental factors in nurturing giftedness and achieving excellence. Although many empirical studies have confirmed the importance of these factors, research examining how teachers— as central agents in the construction of learning environments—perceive these factors and their significance for developing students’ talents remains limited. Accordingly, this study adopted the Educational Capital approach (encompassing five types of external factors) and the Learning Capital approach (encompassing five types of internal factors) that facilitate the development of giftedness. The study aimed to examine teachers’ perceptions of the importance of these factors in developing students’ talents in the domains of mathematics and sports. It also it sought to examine whether teachers’ perceptions differ according to domain (mathematics vs. sport) and gender (male vs. female teachers). The study sample consisted of 632 pre-service male and female teachers at King Faisal University. The results showed that both male and female teachers perceived all types of educational capital and learning capital as important for the development of giftedness. Moreover, the results indicated that these factors were perceived as more critical for talent development in the domain of sport than mathematics, and that female teachers assigned greater importance to certain factors compared with their male.
Talent development, mathematical talent, athletic talent, internal and external resources, teachers’ perceptions.
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The Reality of Arabic Calligraphy Skills among Non-Native Arabic Speaking Students at the Institute of Teaching Arabic: A Descriptive Analytical Study
This study aimed to identify the current status of Arabic calligraphy skills among learners of Arabic for speakers of other languages at the Arabic Language Institute of the Islamic University of Madinah. It also sought to explore the extent to which learners practice Arabic calligraphy, their attitudes toward it, the obstacles that hinder its development, and their suggestions for improving it.The study adopted a descriptive analytical approach. The sample consisted of (88) learners of Arabic as a second/foreign language. Data were collected using a questionnaire developed by the researcher.The findings revealed that the Naskh script is the most commonly used script among learners (94.3%). The results also indicated generally positive attitudes toward learning Arabic calligraphy, with a mean score of (2.86). In addition, the results showed that academic workload represents one of the most significant obstacles to practicing Arabic calligraphy, with a mean score of (3.25).Based on these findings, the study recommends integrating specialized calligraphy training units into Arabic language programs for speakers of other languages and providing extracurricular activities that support the development of Arabic calligraphy skills.
Arabic calligraphy, Arabic for speakers of other languages, writing skills.
Tradition and the Construction of Symbolic Legitimacy "Ibn Ḥajar al-ʿAsqalānī’s Sīniyya in Praise of the ʿAbbāsid Caliph al-Mustaʿīn bi-llāh"
This study repositions the concept of tradition in Mamluk poetry beyond the binary of novelty and antiquity, treating it as a symbolic mechanism that produces meaning and regulates practices. It examines Ibn Ḥajar al-ʿAsqalānī’s panegyric of the Abbasid caliph al-Mustaʿīn bi-llāh III, composed in 815 AH after a violent crisis, as a text dense with inherited formulas and intertexts illuminating how tradition organizes meaning and symbolic fields. It argues that what appears as traditional repetition is a performative–ritual act reactivating models within cultural memory to contain violence and stabilize legitimacy at a fragile moment. Mediated through the poet’s symbolic capital in the field, this operation negotiates relations between the sultanic and scholarly fields while articulating symbolic legitimacy that reinscribes the Abbasid model within a Mamluk horizon. The study adopts a sociological, ritual, and performative approach drawing on the concepts of habitus, cultural memory, and rhetorical mediation of Bourdieu, Girard, Assmann, and others, while engaging analyses of Laclau and Austin on the production of meaning within discourse. It concludes that the poem, through strategic deployment of traditional forms, produces an interpretive narrative framing violence within a symbolic order and redistributing symbolic aura among figures of authority within the hierarchy.
Tradition, Intertextuality, Field, Memory, Ritual.
Knowledge Alienation Across Generations: An Exploratory Study of Members of Saudi Society in the City of Riyadh
This study aimed to identify the types of knowledge alienation across generations, to examine the principal causes of intergenerational knowledge alienation, to identify its manifestations and indicators, to explore the resulting effects, and finally to propose approaches for mitigation and for narrowing the gap between generations. The study adopted a descriptive survey methodology, utilizing a questionnaire administered to a random sample of 390 members of Saudi society in the city of Riyadh. The findings indicated a high level of agreement among respondents regarding the types of intergenerational knowledge alienation (85.63%). The results also revealed substantial agreement on the causes of knowledge alienation (84.64%), as well as on its manifestations and indicators (79.47%). Agreement concerning the consequences of knowledge alienation reached 78.28%. Notably, the highest level of agreement (88.06%) was recorded with respect to proposed mechanisms for treatment and for fostering rapprochement between generations. The study recommends the design of information literacy programs targeting the older generation to enhance their skills in engaging with modern technologies, alongside guiding the younger generation toward systematic and critical use of digital information sources. Furthermore, it emphasizes the need to transform libraries and information centers into active platforms for intergenerational knowledge dialogue by organizing knowledge-based discussion forums, workshops, and intergenerational reading programs, in addition to developing interactive digital services that ensure accessibility and usability for all generations.
Knowledge alienation, digital divide, knowledge disparity, generational differences, generational change
The Effectiveness of the Progressive Inquiry Model in Developing Grammatical Thinking Skills among Female Students of the College of Education at Imam Abdulrahman Bin Faisal University
The study aimed to identify the effectiveness of the Progressive Inquiry Model in developing grammatical thinking skills among undergraduate female students in the College of Education at Imam Abdulrahman bin Faisal University. The quasi-experimental paradigm was executed via two groups design: experimental and control. The study sample consists of 52 female students (first academic year) in the Kindergarten department. The distribution of the sample was 26 control students and 26 experimental. The research tools were a list of grammatical thinking skills suitable for undergraduate female students, a grammatical reasoning test, a student's guide and a faculty member's guide to be used in this model. There data was statistically securitized. The main findings revealed that there is a statistically significant difference at the level of (0.05) between the mean scores of the experimental and control groups in the post-test of grammatical thinking, favoring the experimental group. Additionally, the results demonstrated the practical significance of implementing the Progressive Inquiry Model; effect size testing confirmed a high impact of the model on the development of the targeted grammatical thinking skills among the experimental group. The study recommends that there is a need to consider the grammatical thinking skills and develop them through the innovative instructional models such as Progressive Inquiry Model.
Progressive Inquiry Model , Grammatical Thinking, Undergraduate female Students
This study explores the theological, legal, economic, and educational dimensions of livestock in Sūrat al-Anʿām through a thematic and contextual analysis of its verses, addressing how the Qur’anic discourse employs the concept of livestock to correct doctrinal misconceptions and regulate social and economic practices. The research adopts an inductive-analytical approach based on tracing relevant verses, examining their meanings in light of classical exegesis, and deriving their overarching objectives. The findings demonstrate that the sūrah presents livestock as a divinely bestowed blessing and a sign of God’s power, encompassing camels, cattle, and sheep and highlighting their benefits in transportation, carrying loads, nourishment, and clothing. The study also reveals pre-Islamic distortions in prohibiting and permitting certain livestock without legitimate authority and falsely attributing such practices to God. In response, the sūrah establishes a monotheistic framework that invalidates baseless prohibitions, affirms divine sovereignty in legislation, and promotes ethical and compassionate treatment of animals, presenting their subjugation as an invitation to reflection and gratitude and illustrating the integration of spiritual and economic dimensions within the Qur’anic worldview
Sūrat al-Anʿām; livestock in the Qur’an; monotheism; Qur’anic objectives; economic benefits
Dr. Hassan bin Rashid bin Hamdan Al-Fataiman
Enhancing Student Engagement in EFL Classrooms: Pedagogical Strategies and Learning Outcomes
Student engagement is a recognized determinant of learning success in English as a Foreign Language (EFL) classroom; however, many university learners remain reluctant to participate actively in classroom activities. This study examines factors contributing to low engagement among EFL undergraduates and evaluates pedagogical strategies that promote active participation and improved learning outcomes. Using a mixed-methods, quasi-experimental design, the study was conducted during the 2024–2025 academic year. Questionnaire data from 86 male EFL students addressed engagement perceptions and motivational factors, while 44 students completed the quasi-experimental phase across two consecutive semesters, including curriculum-based pre- and post-tests. Results indicated a statistically significant improvement in the experimental group’s post-test scores (M = 26.14) compared to their pre-test performance (M = 15.09), t(43) = 5.51, p < .001, with a moderate to large effect size (Cohen’s d = 0.65). By contrast, the control group showed only modest gains. Questionnaire findings indicated that 70.9% of students identified teacher encouragement as a primary motivational factor, and 76.7% preferred discussion-based classroom activities. Instructor responses (n = 34) similarly highlighted student-centered instruction (88.2%) and feedback practices (82.4%) as leading engagement strategies. The findings provide empirical evidence that sustained engagement-oriented pedagogical practices can reduce student reluctance, increase participation, and improve learning outcomes in EFL higher education contexts.
Active participation, EFL classrooms, Learning outcomes, Pedagogical strategies, Quasi-experimental design, Student engagement
The Impact of Basic Psychological Needs Frustration on L2 Achievement among Language Learners
Self-Determination Theory (SDT) asserts that fulfilling three basic psychological needs—autonomy, competence, and relatedness—is essential for individuals to thrive and achieve optimal performance. In educational contexts, including second-language learning, SDT research demonstrated that satisfying these needs is critical for enhancing motivation, personal growth, and well-being. However, existing studies indicated that need satisfaction alone does not fully explain students’ motivation and academic success. Therefore, investigating the impact of need frustration on language learning is necessary to clarify the relationships among psychological needs, motivation, learning outcomes, and achievement. This study employed quantitative methods to examine how frustration of basic psychological needs affects second-language learners at a public university in Saudi Arabia. The sample consisted of 222 male and female university students enrolled in English for Academic Purposes courses. The findings indicated that frustration of these basic psychological needs was a significant psychological factor in language learning for university students. The results highlighted the importance of competence and, to a lesser extent, autonomy in second-language learning. Furthermore, students who experienced greater need frustration tended to report slightly lower perceptions of their English abilities, and no meaningful gender-based differences in need frustration were found. This paper outlined educational implications and recommendations for future research.
Language Learning; Basic Psychological Needs Frustration; Self-Determination Theory; EFL.
The Relationship between University Leadership Orientation and Faculty Involvement: Empirical Evidence from Saudi Universities
This study examines the association between relationship-oriented university leadership and faculty involvement within the context of Saudi higher education. Drawing on psychological need satisfaction theory, the study tests whether faculty autonomy, competence, relatedness, and meaningfulness mediate this relationship. A quantitative cross-sectional survey design was employed, and data were collected from 316 full-time faculty members at universities in the Madinah region. Measurement validity and reliability were established prior to hypothesis testing. Structural equation modeling with bootstrapped confidence intervals was used to estimate direct and indirect effects. The results reveal that relationship-oriented university leadership is positively and significantly associated with faculty involvement. Psychological need satisfaction partially mediates this relationship, indicating that leadership influences involvement both directly and indirectly. However, the mediating variables do not fully explain the observed association, suggesting the presence of additional organizational mechanisms. These findings contribute to leadership and engagement scholarship by empirically validating a mediation framework within a non-Western higher education setting and by providing context-specific evidence relevant to institutional reform initiatives in Saudi Arabia.
Faculty Involvement; University Leadership; Autonomy; Competence; Relatedness; Meaning
Effectiveness of a proposed training program based on Practice-Based Learning in developing Academic Writing Skills among students of Arabic Language Curriculum and Teaching Methods at Taibah University in light of the Standards of Scientific Thesis Writi
This study aimed to investigate the effectiveness of a proposed training program based on learning by doing to develop academic writing skills among students of Arabic Language Curriculum and Teaching Methods at Taibah University, in light of the standards for writing academic papers. To achieve this, the descriptive and quasi-experimental approaches with a single group. The proposed training program based on learning by doing was designed, as well as an attitude scale and an academic writing skills test. Kirkpatrick's questionnaire was adopted to measure the quality of the training program. The sample consisted of (34) male and female students from Arabic Language Curriculum and Teaching Methods at Taibah University. The study concluded that the experimental group's attitude toward the proposed training program based on learning by doing for developing academic writing skills was positive. The study also found the program to be effective in developing the academic writing skills of students in the Arabic language curriculum and teaching methods program. Furthermore, the participants strongly agreed with the program's quality in developing their academic writing skills, based on the standards for writing academic papers. The study recommended that the proposed program be implemented and integrated into the curriculum.
Proposed training program, learning by doing, academic writing skills, standards for writing academic papers.
The Dialectics of Time in the Story of Al-Ṭāʾī with Al-Nuʿmān: An Analytical Study
This study examines the dialectics of time in a narrative from classical Arabic heritage, classified proverbial literature, centering on the figure of Ḥanẓalah al-Ṭāʾī and his encounter with al-Nuʿmān ibn al-Mundhir. It aims to investigate the role of temporality in shaping narrative structure and character transformation, and to explore the concept of synchronicity as an interpretive framework for the unexpected relationships within the text. The study employs a critical-analytical approach to interpret textual meanings and internal relations, complemented by psychological analysis to explain character behavior, and supported by historical contextualization to illuminate the cultural background of the narrative. The findings reveal a complex temporal structure characterized by layered paradoxes across time, language, characters, and events, generating a high density of meaning. These interwoven paradoxes converge toward the notion of synchronicity, which functions as a pivotal mechanism driving the narrative toward a decisive transformation, exemplified in al-Nuʿmān’s abandonment of his belief in ill omen and his subsequent change in religious orientation. The study further highlights the prominence of core ethical values deeply rooted in Arab culture, particularly generosity associated with loyalty, courage linked to benevolence, and forgiveness, as fundamental determinants of human conduct within the narrative.
Synchronicity, worldview, omen, rescue, collective consciousness.
Al-Qushayri's approach to presenting and guiding readings in his book Al-Taysir fi 'Ilm al-Tafsir: A foundational study
This research deals with Al-Qushayri’s approach to presenting and interpreting the various types of readings, through an applied study of a number of verses that mention Qur’anic readings, whether they are transmitted or anomalous, while explaining his approach to interpretation and his methods in that regard.This research seeks to examine the extent to which al-Qushayri paid attention to including and interpreting variant readings in his exegesis, and how he employed this interpretation, both linguistically and semantically.The research concluded with several key findings, most notably:That al-Qushayri took great care in mentioning, interpreting, and applying both the canonical and variant readings in his exegesis of the verse.His reliance on the readings of the Companions in explaining the meaning of the verse.Al-Qushayri employed various methods in explaining the readings, sometimes focusing on the script of the Quran, other times on the diversity of languages, and so forth.Al-Qushayri applied this explanation in his exegesis, supporting his interpretation with the consensus of the commentators or the majority opinion.Among the most important recommendations I made was to study the majority readings in al-Qushayri's work, especially since they appear in some instances where he explains the different readings, and undoubtedly in various other parts of his commentary.
Methodology, al-Qushayri, presentation, readings, explanation, foundational study.
Mechanisms for forming metafiction in Saud Alsanousi's trilogy " Asfar Madinat Altiyn "
The research was concerned with studying the mechanisms of forming metafiction in the " Asfar Madinat Altiyn" trilogy, identifying the critical issues and problematics it raised through it, and clarifying its narrative significance, based on a descriptive-analytical approach with an interpretive perspective, and accordingly, after the introduction which addressed the metafictional novel and the novelistic trilogy "Asfar of the City of Clay", the research was divided into three sections: the first on the metafiction of reception: recipient patterns and the problematic of stereotypical reception, the second on the metafiction of writing: sources of the tale and the creation of imagination, and the third on the metafiction of narrative structure, and the conclusion summarized the most prominent findings of the study, including: that the multiplicity of recipient patterns in the novel, which included the stereotypical recipient, the conscious reader, and the reader as a novelistic character, contributed to highlighting problematics and issues that deepen the critical dimension and reflect the novel's awareness of the cultural and intellectual dimensions in its reception, just as reviewing all possible sources of the novel and questioning them by rewriting, embellishing, and falsifying some of them contributed to shaking the reader's confidence in the authenticity of their transmission, and in addition, the narrative structure contributed to destabilizing the relationship with reality and reinforcing the fictional structure of the novel, through embedding a novel within a novel, character traits, the event of time travel, linguistic overlap, the typographical layout of the novel, and the paratexts that directed the text towards fictionalization, confirming the idea that the text is a constructed, fictional work.
Metafiction, Asfar madinat al-teen, Narration, Illusion, Imagination
Attitudes of Secondary School Principals in the General Directorate of Education in Jazan towards Adapting Leadership Practices to the Characteristics of Generation Alpha
The research aimed to identify the extent of secondary school principals’ attitudes in the General Administration of Education in Jazan towards adapting leadership practices to the characteristics of Generation Alpha, as well as to examine the effect of variables such as gender, academic qualification, and years of experience on these attitudes. The descriptive survey method was employed, and the research instrument consisted of an attitude scale developed to measure secondary school principals’ orientations in adapting leadership practices to the characteristics of Generation Alpha. The scale included 35 items distributed across seven dimensions and was administered to a randomly selected sample of 164 principals (male and female) from secondary schools affiliated with the General Administration of Education in Jazan. The findings revealed that the overall degree of principals’ attitudes towards adapting leadership practices to the characteristics of Generation Alpha was very high, with a mean score of (165.53). Similarly, the mean scores across the seven dimensions of the scale were all very high, reaching respectively (23.6; 23.75; 23.5; 24.05; 23.48; 23.68; 23.44). Moreover, no statistically significant differences at the (0.05) level were found that could be attributed to the variables of gender, academic qualification, or years of experience in relation to principals’ attitudes towards adapting leadership practices to the educational characteristics of Generation Alpha. In light of these findings, a set of recommendations and suggestions were proposed.
Attitude, Leadership Practices, Generation Alpha
The Relationship Between Personality Types (A and B) and Experiential Avoidance Among Patients with Irritable Bowel Syndrome (IBS)
This study examined the relationship between personality types (A and B) and experiential avoidance levels among individuals diagnosed with irritable bowel syndrome (IBS). Using a descriptive-analytical approach, the research was conducted with a purposive sample of 220 participants recruited from social media support groups. Two validated instruments were administered: one measuring personality types (A and B) and another assessing experiential avoidance. The findings revealed that Type A personality is most prevalent among individuals with IBS and that participants demonstrated high levels of experiential avoidance. Results indicated a statistically significant positive correlation between Type A personality and experiential avoidance, whereas no significant relationship emerged with Type B personality. Additionally, significant gender-based differences in experiential avoidance were identified, with females exhibiting higher levels, though no significant age-related differences were observed. The study found no statistically significant gender differences in Type A personality distribution within the IBS sample.
Type A and Type B Personality, Experiential Avoidance, Irritable Bowel Syndrome (IBS)
Associate Professor of Educational Foundations, Department of Educational Policies, College of Education, King Saud University, Kingdom of Saudi Arabia
Barriers to Publishing in Peer-Reviewed Saudi Journals from the Perspective of Faculty Members at the College of Education, King Saud University This study aimed to identify the administrative, human, and research-related barriers that hinder faculty members from publishing in peer-reviewed Saudi journals, from their perspective. It also sought to determine whether statistically significant differences exist in the perceived barriers based on the variables of academic rank and academic specialization. The researcher used a questionnaire as the primary data collection tool, which was administered to a sample of 250 faculty members from the College of Education at King Saud University. The study revealed several key findings, most notably that the administrative (3.95 out of 5.00), human (3.85 out of 5.00), and research-related (3.76 out of 5.00) barriers significantly impact the ability of faculty members to publish in Saudi peer-reviewed journals, as perceived by the participants. The findings also indicate strong agreement among participants regarding the proposed mechanisms for overcoming these barriers. Furthermore, the study found no statistically significant differences in participants’ perceptions of the identified barriers attributable to the variables of academic rank or specialization. The study recommended streamlining the processes and reducing the time required for the approval and acceptance of research papers in peer-reviewed Saudi journals. It also emphasized the need to alleviate the administrative and teaching burdens placed on faculty members to allow them more time and focus for academic publishing.
Administrative Barriers, Human Research.
Evaluating The Methodology of Self-Assessment and its Impact on Improving School Performance: A Case Study
This study aimed to evaluate the effectiveness of the self-assessment methodology and its relationship to improving school performance. To achieve this, the study adopted a qualitative approach using a case study design to diagnose the reality of a girls' secondary school in Riyadh. The sample included school staff and several documents. The study used multiple research tools to ensure the accuracy of the results (triangulation), including interviews, a questionnaire, and document analysis of program reports and external evaluation results issued by the Education and Training Evaluation Commission. The results revealed a fundamental deficiency in the current methodology, characterized by centralized planning and the isolation of the executive staff from strategic objectives. Furthermore, the implemented programs lacked precise performance indicators and mechanisms for measuring impact. This deficiency led to what the study described as a "measurement crisis" that obscures the true picture of performance. The analysis revealed a significant gap and contradiction between the results of the internal self-assessment and the results of the external evaluation, which revealed a decline in learning outcomes and the level of beneficiary satisfaction. Based on this, the study presented a practical development product: the "Procedural Guide to the School Program Lifecycle". This guide aims to shift school practices from individual initiatives and routine documentation to a structured, data-driven, and governance-based institutional approach. The study also recommended decentralizing planning, intensifying practical training in indicator development and impact measurement, and linking all school initiatives to improvement plans that address actual gaps in learning outcomes.
School evaluation, continuous improvement, impact measurement, quality of education, National School Evaluation Program, Self-assessment, School performance.
Awareness of the ethics of using artificial intelligence among female graduate students at the College of Education at King Saud University
This study aimed to investigate the level of awareness regarding the ethical use of artificial intelligence (AI) among post-graduate students at the College of Education, King Saud University. It also sought to identify the perceived obstacles to ethical AI usage and to determine whether statistically significant differences exist in students’ awareness based on the variables of academic department and level of study. A questionnaire was employed as the primary data collection instrument, and it was administered to a sample of 338 post-graduate students from the College of Education at King Saud University. The study yielded several key findings. Most notably, the students demonstrated a very high level of awareness of AI ethics, with a mean score of 4.36 out of 5.00. Meanwhile, the perceived impact of challenges related to the ethical use of AI was moderate, with a mean score of 3.03 out of 5.00. Furthermore, the analysis revealed no statistically significant differences in students’ awareness of AI ethics based on their academic department or level of study. Based on these findings, the study recommends encouraging post-graduate students to utilize AI applications in academic research in accordance with established ethical guidelines and legal frameworks that safeguard individual rights and privacy. Additionally, it emphasizes the importance of promoting ethical principles and values associated with AI use in educational contexts and enhancing positive and responsible AI practices.
Awareness, Ethics, Artificial Intelligence.
Investigating the Impact of Market Perceptions and Cultural Norms on Sustainable Food Consumption: Food Waste Avoidance as a Mediator in Saudi Arabia
The purpose of this study is to explore the connection between market stereotyping and cultural norms, with food waste avoidance acting as a mediator in sustainable food consumption. The objective of the current research is to recognize how culture and perceptions affect food habits in Saudi Arabia to avoid food waste sustainably. Data were gathered through questionnaire surveys and included 559 participants. Individuals' relationships according to various structures were viewed regarding mediation effects using the SEM. The analysis found that cultural values are determinants of food waste avoidance behaviors and have direct and positive correlations with green food consumption. In addition, quality marking contributes significantly to food waste avoidance and sustainable consumption growth. The findings of this study indicate that food waste avoidance and sustainability in food intake must be viewed in the context of food culture interventions. According to the current research findings, responsible behavior by individuals is better driven by clear and high-quality product markings. The current study contributes to the literature by combining culture, market perceptions, and food waste avoidance in one sustainable food intake structure in Saudi Arabia.
Cultural Values, Food Waste Avoidance, Sustainable Consumption, Quality Labelling.
The Social scourge of Wine Drinking in Andalusian Society during the Nasrid Era "635-897 AH / 1238-1492 AD"
This research examines the scourge of alcohol consumption in Andalusian society during the Nasrid era (635-897 AH / 1238-1492 AD). It comprises five main sections that address a central question: What drove certain segments of society to drink alcohol during that period? Who were these groups? What were the main regions of alcohol production and consumption? And how did the state combat this scourge? The study aims to document this scourge and related issues during the period under investigation, employing a historical research methodology that begins with defining the phenomenon, delving into its causes, gathering information from various sources and references, and interpreting it to arrive at conclusions and recommendations. The research is divided into five main sections, the first of which is "Alcohol: Linguistic and Technical Definitions," exploring its concept, types, and the reasons for its spread. The second section focuses on the "afflicted" class of elites—sultans, princes, ambassadors, judges, and scholars—who were plagued by the scourge of alcohol consumption. The third section examines "wine and the poets of the Kingdom of Granada," the fourth "wine-producing regions and places where it was consumed," and the fifth "efforts to combat the scourge of alcohol consumption." Through her study of this topic, the researcher arrived at several important conclusions, most notably the influence of political circumstances on some individuals' inclination towards drinking alcohol, as well as their being influenced by their Christian neighbors. She also found that wine-producing regions were the most common places for the consumption of alcohol, and that the state and its officials exerted considerable effort to combat the scourge of alcohol consumption.
Banu al-Ahmar; wine; jurists; Islamic society; Kingdom of Granada.
The structural model of the relationships between psychological stress and sports fanaticism: An applied study using structural equation modeling (SEM)
This study aimed to identify the structural model of the relationships between psychological distress and sports fanaticism among a sample of students at King Abdulaziz University. The researchers employed a descriptive-analytical approach using the structural equation model (SEM) to test the validity of the hypotheses concerning the relationships between the latent and observed variables. The study sample consisted of 466 students from King Abdulaziz University, including 215 male students and 251 female students, selected through a simple random sampling method. To measure the study variables, the researchers used the short version of the Sports Fanaticism Scale developed by Jouad and Harez (2014), as well as the short form of the DASS-21 by Lovibond and Lovibond (1995), translated by Abu Zaid and Abdel Hamid (2023), to assess psychological distress. The results provided empirical support for the first proposed structural model, which demonstrated acceptable goodness-of-fit indices. In this model, psychological distress was found to have a significant effect on sports fanaticism. The second proposed structural model, which also showed acceptable goodness-of-fit indices, examined the effect of sports fanaticism on psychological distress. Based on the study’s findings, the researchers proposed several recommendations aimed at reducing sports fanaticism and its associated psychological effects. These included developing therapeutic and preventive programs to address sports fanaticism and offering psychological counseling services grounded in the first structural model. Additionally, psychological intervention programs were recommended based on the second structural model, which indicated that sports fanaticism contributes to psychological distress. These recommendations aim to address the psychological consequences of fanatical behavior and promote both mental and physical well-being.
Sports fanaticism, Psychological stress, Structural equation model.
Imagining Dystopia in The “Raf al-yawm”: The Ordeal and the Gift as a Dialectical Framework
This study examines the duality of boon and ordeal in the novel Raf al-Yawm through an analytical reading that situates the text within the framework of contemporary dystopian literature. It explores how technological advancement and automated organization are initially represented as an apparent boon that promises stability and comfort, only to reveal themselves as an existential ordeal leading to human alienation and the erosion of individual identity. The study foregrounds the problem of identity under the dominance of the technological system, which imposes standardized modes of living and thinking, resulting in the dissolution of the individual within a closed, mechanized structure. It also addresses the existential conflict experienced by the protagonist between conformity to an orderly world devoid of human meaning and a longing for human values threatened with extinction. The study concludes that the novel offers a critical discourse on contemporary reality through the projection of an imagined future, reopening fundamental questions of freedom, identity, and existence in a world governed by the machine
Communication and Persuasion Foundations Between Children and Advertising Images: A Psycholinguistic Semiotic Study
This study examines children’s comprehension of the persuasive intent of advertising images and their perception of the visual cues of these images during their early childhood. It observes stimuli and factors which influence their interpretation of advertisements to identify guidelines for advertisements design while considering that children at this stage have not yet acquired reading skills of written discourse. The study investigates whether children can properly process and grasp the intended message of an advertisement through imagery, on what elements they rely in their comprehension, and what features of the advertisement image attract their attention the most. Thus, the research is organized into a theoretical section and an applied section employing a mixed approach descriptive-analytical and qualitative methodology. The findings indicate that 60% of young children can fully or partially comprehend the intent of advertising images, being mainly impacted in their comprehension by the characters and their bodily movements, while toys and cartoon figures constitute the most influential visual stimulus. Ultimately, the study recommends incorporating educational material into school curricula to teach children how to understand, interpret and critically engage with advertisements. It also emphasizes avoiding the exploitation of children’s exposure to advertising images for commercial profit-driven purposes devoid of meaningful content or beneficial awareness. Moreover, it recommends embedding noble goals within visual advertising content by conveying educational messages that reinforce Islamic values and virtuous ethical principles.
Child, Advertising, Image, Semiotics, Intentionality.
Employing the K-Means Algorithm to Detect Regular Rules in the Structures of Infinitives of Three-Letter Verbs
The study aimed to investigate the extent of regularity in the structures of infinitives of three-letter root verbs within consistent rules, utilizing the K-Means algorithm, a machine learning technique designed to cluster inputs into homogeneous groups. To achieve the study’s objective, a sample of 2,086 three-letter root verbs was collected, and their features were extracted from the “Dictionary of Three-Letter Verbs in Arabic”. The researcher adopted a descriptive-Inductive approach by describing and encoding the input features prior to processing, followed by an analysis of the results yielded by the algorithm. The study concluded with several findings, most notably: the identification of thirteen (23) consistent rules within the examined sample; the infinitive pattern "Fa'l" accounted for the largest share, comprising eleven (19) of these rules; and the demonstration of the significant influence of the Morphological Features on rule formulation. Based on these findings, the study offered key recommendations, including the necessity of separating feature values containing multiple possibilities to enhance rule regularity, and leveraging computational power to manage the multitude of detailed rules that exceed human cognitive capacity.
K-Means Algorithm, Three-letter root verbs, Infinitive structures
The Impact of Green Leadership Practices in Public Secondary Schools in Madinah on Enhancing Sustainable Environmental Practices
The study examined the relationship between green leadership practices in public secondary schools in Al-Madinah Al-Munawwarah and the promotion of sustainable environmental practices, in line with the national commitment to educational sustainability. A descriptive correlational design was employed, and a questionnaire was administered to a sample of 100 male and female school principals. The instrument measured five dimensions of green leadership: awareness, resource management, participation, professional development, and strategic leadership, alongside the level of sustainable environmental practices. The findings indicated that green leadership practices were implemented at a relatively high level. Sustainability awareness and the engagement of teachers and students were the most prominent dimensions, whereas resource management, professional development, and strategic leadership were applied at a moderate level. Sustainable environmental practices were also reported at a high level, particularly in energy conservation and awareness campaigns, while recycling and the use of green technologies were less evident. The results revealed a strong, statistically significant positive effect of green leadership on enhancing sustainable environmental practices. Significant differences were found in favor of principals of boys’ schools, those with longer administrative experience, and those holding advanced academic qualifications. The study recommends strengthening leadership preparation and training programs and providing adequate resources to support sustainability in schools.
Green Leadership, Sustainable Environmental Practices, Environmental Sustainability.
Saudi university faculty members' perceptions of integrating Metaverse-based virtual learning environments into their teaching practice
This study aimed to identify the perceptions of faculty members at Saudi universities regarding the integration of Metaverse-based virtual learning environments into their teaching practices. It explored the expected educational benefits, the challenges hindering their implementation, and the necessary proposals and solutions for their integration into university education. A descriptive quantitative approach was used, employing a questionnaire consisting of three sections (benefits, challenges, and proposals and solutions). The questionnaire was administered to a stratified random sample of (482) faculty members from five Saudi universities. The findings revealed positive attitudes toward integrating Metaverse environments; the most prominent "benefits" included enhancing the quality of teaching practices and increasing interaction and motivation, while the main "challenges" were related to limited technical expertise, insufficient awareness, and time constraints. The "proposed solutions" focused on providing ready-made digital resources and activating supportive partnerships, with priority given to practical and immediate solutions. The results showed no statistically significant differences in faculty members' evaluation of the integration of Metaverse into their teaching practices based on gender. However, statistically significant differences were found based on the variables of academic rank, academic specialization, university affiliation, English proficiency level, and years of experience. The study recommended enhancing training for faculty members in Saudi universities, providing them with digital resources, and considering the differences between faculty members' universities and academic specializations when developing strategies for integrating Metaverse environments into their teaching practices
Metaverse, teaching practices, university education, Virtual learning environments, immersive technology.
Future-Oriented Skills for International Students in Colleges of Education at Saudi Universities
The present study aimed to identify the future-oriented skills of international students in colleges of education at Saudi universities from the perspectives of experts, and to examine the contribution of graduate programs in the Department of Foundations of Education at the College of Education, Imam Muhammad ibn Saud Islamic University, to developing these skills from the students’ perspectives. The study adopted a futures research approach using the Delphi technique to identify the skills guiding the future of international students in colleges of education at Saudi universities. A qualitative approach was also employed through a case study design based on in-depth interviews with international students to explore the role of graduate programs in developing these skills. The study population consisted of two groups: (21) experts and (16) international students. The findings indicated that experts reached consensus on (48) future-oriented skills classified into six domains: personal and social, cultural, cognitive, leadership and administrative, educational and pedagogical, and digital skills. In addition, the results showed that graduate programs in the Department of Foundations of Education contribute to developing these skills through academic policies and regulations, curricula, university faculty members, the university environment, and student activities.
Scholarship Students, International Students, Future Skills, Qualitative Approach, College of Education
The effectiveness of using artificial intelligence to teach the research methods course in developing academic achievement and attitudes towards using AI in Learning among undergraduate students at the Islamic University.
This study aimed to reveal the effectiveness of using artificial intelligence to teach the research methods course in developing academic achievement and attitude towards using AI in Learning among undergraduate students at the Islamic University. The study relied on the quasi-experimental approach. The study tools were a cognitive achievement test and a scale of attitudes towards using AI in learning. The population consisted of third-level undergraduate students at the Islamic University. The sample was a random sample of (60) students, divided into two groups: (30) control group and (30) experimental group. The results revealed the effectiveness of using AI to teach the research methods course in developing academic achievement and attitudes towards AI among students. It also showed statistically significant differences at a significance level of 0.05 between the experimental and control groups in the post-test on the cognitive achievement test. It showed that the differences were in favor of the experimental group. The results indicated the presence of statistically significant differences at a significance level of 0.05 between the experimental and control groups in the post-test on the scale of attitudes towards using AI applications in learning in its dimensions (cognitive dimension, emotional dimension, behavioral dimension). The findings showed that the differences were in favor of the experimental group. In light of these results, the study recommended raising awareness among faculty members and students about the importance of using AI applications in teaching and learning, and providing a flexible and advanced infrastructure to encourage them to use AI applications.
Artificial intelligence, research methods, academic achievement.
Enabling Artificial Intelligence to Enhance Smart Governance and Improve the Efficiency of Higher Education Management
Abstract: This study examines the role of Artificial Intelligence (AI) as an enabler of smart governance and its contribution to improving the efficiency and innovation of higher education management in emerging Saudi universities, using Shaqra University as a case study. A descriptive survey design was employed. Data were collected from 371 academic and administrative staff through a validated questionnaire. The overall reliability of the instrument was acceptable (Cronbach’s alpha = 0.798).Findings indicate that the Smart Governance dimension scored a moderate level with an overall mean of 2.17/3 (72.33%). The highest-rated aspects were more accurate academic performance monitoring (2.44; 81.33%) and improved academic assessment (2.43; 81.00%), whereas the lowest-rated aspect was enhancing collaboration between faculty and administration (1.68; 56.00%). The AI Support for Smart Governance dimension also reflected a moderate level with an overall mean of 2.226/3 (74.20%), with stronger perceptions regarding data analytics for decision-making and student performance tracking with feedback (2.28; 76.00%), but relatively lower perceptions for monitoring academic development of students and teachers (2.15; 71.67%). The AI-Driven Innovation in Education Management dimension achieved a moderate level with an overall mean of 2.037/3 (67.90%): respondents rated developing innovative teaching strategies highly (2.56; 85.33%), while institutional adaptability to future changes was rated low (1.28; 42.67%).The study recommends moving from fragmented adoption to integrated institutional implementation by strengthening digital infrastructure and data governance, expanding professional training, and deploying learning analytics and interactive AI applications aligned with Saudi Vision 2030.
Artificial Intelligence, Smart Governance, Innovation, Higher Education.
Feminist Struggles and Identity in Rowaida Al-Haj’s Then You Turned to the Shade: A Thematic and Artistic Study
This study aims to examine the manifestations of conflict in feminist poetry through the Diwan Then I Turned to the Shade by the Sudanese poet Rawda Al-Haj, adopting a thematic and artistic approach that reveals the semantic and aesthetic structures of the poetic texts. The study traces the manifestations of conflict in both its external dimension—represented by confrontation with society and patriarchal authority—and its internal dimension, which reflects the self’s struggle with its constraints and aspirations. It also elucidates how language, symbolism, and myth contribute to shaping a distinctive feminine vision. Furthermore, the study focuses on the artistic structure of the poems, including rhythm and imagery, which enhances the intensity and depth of the poetic experience. The study concludes that Then I Turned to the Shade constitutes a poetic discourse imbued with feminist awareness of national and social issues, seeking to affirm women’s presence within the sphere of conflict, rejecting the marginalization of their role, and rearticulating their relationship with the Other through a rich poetic language charged with emotional tension. Accordingly, the Diwan sheds light on a significant aspect of the development of contemporary Arab feminist poetry and provides women with a creative space to articulate their identity and struggles within a refined artistic context.
Feminist poetry; national issues; conflict; Then I Turned to the Shade.