Archives of Business Research

A Comparison of Three English Textbooks in Japan by Correspondence Analysis

2025-04-05T12:47:20+01:00

This paper explores the differences of the English textbooks for the seventh graders in Japan. Specifically, the seventh graders’ textbooks were analyzed using a readability tool and Correspondence Analysis (hereafter, CA). An analysis of the data suggests that, in terms of readability and content, there were both similarities and differences between the three textbooks. More precisely, regarding readability, the English textbook, New Crown is closer to the level of English textbook, New Horizon, and the level of textbook, Sunshine is lower than the other two textbooks. Also, concerning the content including vocabulary, CA shows that basically the three textbooks are different from each other.

Agentic AI and the Future of Fashion: Autonomous Creativity and Intelligent Systems

2025-04-04T03:00:27+01:00

The fashion industry is undergoing a profound transformation driven by rapid advancements in artificial intelligence (AI). While generative AI has demonstrated its capabilities in content creation and design ideation, the emergence of agentic AI heralds a paradigm shift towards autonomous systems capable of sophisticated perception, decision-making, and action within complex and dynamic environments. Unlike traditional AI tools that require specific inputs and human oversight for each step, agentic AI possesses the capacity for continuous learning, goal-driven behavior, and intricate decision-making with minimal direct human intervention. This paper delves into the transformative potential of agentic AI across the fashion ecosystem, encompassing design innovation, on-demand and automated manufacturing processes, personalized retail experiences, and the optimization of sustainable supply chain management. Drawing upon state-of-the-art research, empirical data, and critical analyses of industry applications, we examine how agentic AI is poised to redefine creative processes, enhance operational efficiency, and contribute to environmental responsibility within the fashion sector. Furthermore, this study addresses critical ethical, practical, and socio-cultural considerations arising from the integration of agentic AI, such as algorithmic bias, explainability, intellectual property rights, and the evolving role of human designers in this evolving landscape. By synthesizing technological, operational, and socio-cultural perspectives, this research aims to provide a comprehensive and forward-looking framework for understanding the multifaceted impact of agentic AI and its potential to disrupt and fundamentally reimagine the future trajectory of the fashion industry.

What is Driving Income Inequality? Differences between Japan and the United States

2025-03-25T12:19:29+00:00

It is said that income inequality in Japan has increased. In fact, the Gini coefficient reflects this situation, although not as much as in the United States. The ultra-low, zero, or negative interest rate policy that has been implemented for more than 30 years to avoid deflation has been cited as the reason for the increase in income inequality. The prevailing view is that low interest rates have led to an increase in stock and real estate prices, driving a gap between high-income earners and low-income earners. It has also been suggested that the depreciation of the yen caused by low interest rates has led to an increase in exports from exporting firms, many of which are large firms in Japan, and has exacerbated the inequality. This study examines the causes of income inequality using empirical methods. The estimation results indicate that low interest rates and soaring asset prices are not the cause of income inequality. On the other hand, it is confirmed that the increase in university enrollment has led to income inequality. In order to correct this inequality, it is necessary to combine fiscal policy appropriately with monetary policy, rather than relying too much on monetary policy.

Employee Motivation and Job Performance of Registry Staff of Universities in Nigeria

2025-03-25T23:06:52+00:00

It has been observed that registry staff of universities in Nigeria have a lot of challenges in proper keeping and maintenance of students and staff records. Previous studies had been carried out on employees’ motivation and job performance in business organizations while there is dearth of literature on this area of study in higher educational institutions. This study therefore, reviewed the activities of registry staff in higher institutions of learning with respect to the employee motivation and job performance of registry staff in universities using Ogun State as case study. Survey research design was adopted for the study. The population of the study comprised of 1311 registry staff of universities in Ogun State and the sample size was determined firstly by purposive selection of five (5) universities based on years of establishment and population, which gave a target samples total number of 1021. Taro Yamane sample size computation formula was applied for appropriate selection of 399 out of 1021 sample size of registry staff. Data were collected with a validated questionnaire. The Cronbach’s alpha reliability coefficients for each of the constructs ranged from 0.70 to 0.91. The overall response rate of 0.88 was obtained. The collected copies of the questionnaire were analysed, using multiple regression analysis at 0.05 level of significance. Findings revealed that employee motivation was a significant predictor of job performance (β =0.153, p<0.05) therefore employee motivation has a significant influenced on job performance of registry staff (R² = 0.106). The study concluded that employee motivation influenced the job performance of registry staff in universities in Ogun State, Nigeria. The study recommended that the university management ensure conducive environment for employee, make sure staff are paid well and have a robust reward package to retain and motivate staff.

Measuring the Effectiveness of Online Learning: Experience, Achievement, and Absorption of Students in Higher Education

2025-03-20T15:32:58+00:00

This study aims to explore and understand the dynamics of responses and experiences of students and lecturers related to engagement behavior in the online learning process. Using qualitative methods and descriptive approaches, this study collected data through structured in-depth interviews with six participants. The findings of the study indicate positive and negative experiences influenced by various factors, such as student and lecturer personality, technology, and the environment. Negative experiences were more common in participants who had negative attitudes towards online learning and low emotional intelligence, which were often exacerbated by a lack of technical support, such as unstable networks, and limited interaction between lecturers and students. Difficulty in understanding the material and uninteresting content delivery were also obstacles. Conversely, positive experiences were found in participants who showed positive attitudes towards change, had good emotional intelligence, and received adequate support. This group tended to show high achievement, good understanding, and more positive experiences in online learning.

Credit Risk Management and Capital Adequacy of Deposit Money Banks Listed in Nigeria

2025-03-31T21:41:31+01:00

Capital adequacy is central to the effective functioning of financial institutions. The vulnerability of deposit money banks in Nigeria has increased due to rising risk assets and capital deficits. These challenges constrain the banks' competitiveness in the global market. Studies have suggested that optimizing credit risk management is crucial for mitigating capital adequacy challenges in Nigeria. This study examined the effect of credit risk management on the capital adequacy of deposit money banks listed in Nigeria. Data were extracted from audited annual reports and accounts for a period of 11-year period (2012 to 2022). Data reliability was premised on the certification of statutory audit. The study population comprised 14 deposit money banks listed on the Nigerian Exchange Limited as of December 31, 2022. The study employed inferential statistics, using panel data fixed-effects regression with Driscoll-Kraay standard errors. The findings revealed that credit risk management had a significant joint effect on the capital adequacy ratio. Based on these findings, the study recommended that bank managers prioritize credit risk management. Additionally, financial regulators and policy makers should strengthen the enforcement of credit risk policies to reduce the prevalence of non-performing loans among deposit money banks in Nigeria.