Template-Type: ReDIF-Paper 1.0 Author-Name: Liezel Alsemgeest Author-Name-First: Liezel Author-Name-Last: Alsemgeest Author-Email: alsemgeestl@ufs.ac.za Author-Workplace-Name: University of the Free State Title: Financial Discourse on Social Media: A Topic Modelling Analysis of Personal Finance on X (Twitter) Abstract: The rise of social media as a platform for personal finance discussions has transformed how individuals access, share, and engage with financial knowledge. This shift is particularly evident on X (Twitter), where users increasingly turn to microblogs for advice and discussions on saving, cryptocurrency, investing, and managing debt. Despite the growing influence of these platforms, there remains a significant gap in understanding the thematic structure and emotional tone of personal finance conversations online. This study addresses this gap by analysing 37,466 personal finance-related posts from X, offering insights into the key topics and sentiment patterns of finance-related micro-blogs.Building on methodological frameworks from recent machine learning research, Latent Dirichlet Allocation (LDA) topic modelling, augmented by VADER sentiment analysis were implemented to address the core research question: What dominant themes emerge in crowdsourced financial conversations?The analysis identified five dominant themes: cryptocurrency speculation (35.66% prevalence), debt management (15.84%), budgeting (20.63%), making money online (17.38%), and better money spending (10.49%).This research underscores the need for interdisciplinary studies that bridge personal finance, behavioural economics, and digital communication to better understand how social media influences financial decision-making. The findings have practical implications for policymakers, educators, and financial institutions aiming to enhance financial literacy, while also addressing risks associated with unverified advice and promotional content lacking proper disclosure. By mapping the thematic and emotional landscape of personal finance discourse on X, this study provides a foundation for future research into the evolving role of social media in shaping consumer financial behaviour.The growing reliance on social media for financial guidance necessitates further exploration into its impact on individual decision-making processes and broader market behaviours. This study contributes to this emerging field by offering a replicable framework for analysing large-scale social media datasets, highlighting opportunities for improving financial literacy and risks that demand regulatory attention. Length: 1 page Creation-Date: 0000-00 Publication-Status: Published in Proceedings of the Proceedings of the 68th International Academic Conference, Prague, Nov -0001, pages 1-1 File-URL: https://iises.net/proceedings/iises-international-academic-conference-prague-156/table-of-content/detail?cid=156&iid=001&rid=16667 File-Function: First version, 0000 Number: 15616667 Classification-JEL: D14, A20, G02 Keywords: Topic modelling, X, personal finance, social media, micro-blogs Handle: RePEc:sek:iacpro:15616667 Template-Type: ReDIF-Paper 1.0 Author-Name: Carl J. Case Author-Name-First: Carl J. Author-Name-Last: Case Author-Email: ccase@sbu.edu Author-Workplace-Name: St. Bonaventure University Author-Name: Darwin L. King Author-Name-First: Darwin L. Author-Name-Last: King Author-Email: dking@sbu.edu Author-Workplace-Name: St. Bonaventure University Title: Undergraduate Business Student Social Media Behavior: An Analysis of Academic Class Abstract: Nearly two-thirds of the world population participate in social media. Because undergraduate business students will be the future users and managers of social media, this longidutinal study was undertaken to empirically examine social media participation by academic class, in particular, with regard to the Covid-19 pandemic and its aftermath. Results demonstrate that undergraduates primarily utilize six sites with total social media time increasing slightly after the end of the pandemic. Usage minutes varied by class, by year, and, within class, varied by social media site. A correlation analysis found that total minutes on social media was negatively correlated to academic class. These results suggest a new normal with increasing time spent on social media but less dependence on social media as the student?s academic years pass. Length: 15 pages Creation-Date: 0000-00 Publication-Status: Published in Proceedings of the Proceedings of the 68th International Academic Conference, Prague, Nov -0001, pages 2-16 File-URL: https://iises.net/proceedings/iises-international-academic-conference-prague-156/table-of-content/detail?cid=156&iid=002&rid=16881 File-Function: First version, 0000 Number: 15616881 Classification-JEL: M15 Keywords: Social Media Usage, Empirical Study, Online Behavior, Business Students, Academic Class Handle: RePEc:sek:iacpro:15616881 Template-Type: ReDIF-Paper 1.0 Author-Name: Tsoghik Grigoryan Author-Name-First: Tsoghik Author-Name-Last: Grigoryan Author-Email: tga54@sfu.ca Author-Workplace-Name: Simon Fraser University Author-Name: Anna Hakobyan Author-Name-First: Anna Author-Name-Last: Hakobyan Author-Email: anna.hakobyan18@gmail.com Author-Workplace-Name: British Columbia Institute of Technology Title: Becoming an Ethnographer in a Digital World: Assemblages, Ethics & Rhizomatic Practices Abstract: As digital technologies and algorithmic systems reshape everyday life, ethnographic methods must adapt to new, fluid terrains. This paper explores the ethical and methodological challenges of conducting ethnography in digitally mediated environments, where boundaries between the real and virtual, human and non-human, are increasingly blurred. Drawing on Deleuze and Guattari?s concepts of rhizome, becoming, and assemblage, the paper proposes a reconceptualization of ethnographic practice as non-linear, relational, and responsive to complexity. These ideas offer a framework for engaging with the shifting identities, structures, and ethical concerns of the digital age. By embracing rhizomatic thinking, this work invites ethnographers to reimagine the field as a dynamic assemblage of connections. It offers new pathways for reflexive, ethical, and theoretically grounded inquiry in networked spaces. Length: 13 pages Creation-Date: 0000-00 Publication-Status: Published in Proceedings of the Proceedings of the 68th International Academic Conference, Prague, Nov -0001, pages 17-29 File-URL: https://iises.net/proceedings/iises-international-academic-conference-prague-156/table-of-content/detail?cid=156&iid=003&rid=16758 File-Function: First version, 0000 Number: 15616758 Classification-JEL: Keywords: Algorithms, Assemblage theory, Becoming, Deleuze and Guattari, Digital ethnography, Ethics, Methodology, Rhizome, Sociomateriality, Virtual environments Handle: RePEc:sek:iacpro:15616758 Template-Type: ReDIF-Paper 1.0 Author-Name: Hafdís Björg Hjálmarsdóttir Author-Name-First: Hafdís Björg Author-Name-Last: Hjálmarsdóttir Author-Email: hafdisb@unak.is Author-Workplace-Name: University of Akureyri Title: Navigating Growth and Sustainability: Analysing the Economic Impact of Tourism in Iceland Abstract: This paper explores the economic role of tourism in Iceland, focusing on its contributions to GDP, job creation, and foreign exchange earnings. Using descriptive and comparative analysis of secondary data?relying on official statistics and a comprehensive body of literature?the study assesses the industry?s growth, resilience, and sustainability in both national and global contexts. The findings show that tourism has become a key part of Iceland?s economy, surpassing traditional export sectors in value and providing significant employment. However, the COVID-19 pandemic revealed the industry?s volatility and strong dependence on international markets, exposing structural weaknesses that threaten its long-term sustainability. Alongside economic aspects, the research also addresses critical issues such as over-tourism, seasonality, and environmental pressures, especially in fragile ecosystems. Recent academic research and shifting policy frameworks highlight the importance of sustainability measures, fair taxation, and participatory governance as guiding principles for the sector?s future. Overall, the study emphasizes that balancing economic growth with environmental limits and community well-being is essential to developing a more resilient and forward-looking tourism model. These insights serve as valuable guidance for policymakers, practitioners, and scholars working towards sustainable and diverse tourism Length: 1 page Creation-Date: 0000-00 Publication-Status: Published in Proceedings of the Proceedings of the 68th International Academic Conference, Prague, Nov -0001, pages 30-30 File-URL: https://iises.net/proceedings/iises-international-academic-conference-prague-156/table-of-content/detail?cid=156&iid=004&rid=16972 File-Function: First version, 0000 Number: 15616972 Classification-JEL: Keywords: Tourism; Iceland; Economic impact; Sustainability; Over-tourism; Resilience; Policy Handle: RePEc:sek:iacpro:15616972 Template-Type: ReDIF-Paper 1.0 Author-Name: Hafdís Björg Hjálmarsdóttir Author-Name-First: Hafdís Björg Author-Name-Last: Hjálmarsdóttir Author-Email: hafdisb@unak.is Author-Workplace-Name: University of Akureyri Title: Pitched and Defended ? Redesigning Assessment in the Age of Artificial Intelligence Abstract: The rapid integration of artificial intelligence (AI) in higher education has created both challenges and opportunities, prompting a need to rethink traditional approaches to assessment. This presentation explores the redesign of assessment methods in the undergraduate course Marketing Communications, with a focus on fostering genuine skill development rather than over-reliance on AI tools.The redesigned assessment strategy includes a diverse set of components: multiple-choice tests, analytical case assignments, reports, and video submissions. Students also participate in oral defenses and develop an elevator pitch in place of a traditional slide-based presentation. Emphasis is placed on strengthening students? ability to justify and defend their approaches, enhancing soft skills, and engaging with marketing communication in a dynamic, practice-oriented manner.Findings from a student survey conducted at the end of the course are presented, demonstrating how this approach supports active participation, deepens conceptual understanding, and promotes independent thinking in a learning environment increasingly influenced by AI. The study contributes to the ongoing discussion of how assessment design can evolve to ensure meaningful learning outcomes in the age of intelligent technologies. Length: 1 page Creation-Date: 0000-00 Publication-Status: Published in Proceedings of the Proceedings of the 68th International Academic Conference, Prague, Nov -0001, pages 31-31 File-URL: https://iises.net/proceedings/iises-international-academic-conference-prague-156/table-of-content/detail?cid=156&iid=005&rid=16981 File-Function: First version, 0000 Number: 15616981 Classification-JEL: Keywords: Artificial Intelligence, Higher Education, Flexible learning Handle: RePEc:sek:iacpro:15616981 Template-Type: ReDIF-Paper 1.0 Author-Name: Yuriko Isada Author-Name-First: Yuriko Author-Name-Last: Isada Author-Email: yuriko@kwansei.ac.jp Author-Workplace-Name: Kwansei Gakuin University Title: Multi-wave Survey on Psychosocial Conditions Enhancing Generativity:A three-Year Survey of Japanese Adults Abstract: Generativity, as conceptualised by Erikson, has traditionally been emphasised in midlife; however, recent studies highlight its importance across the lifespan. This study examined psychosocial factors associated with generativity across three annual waves (2022?2024). Survey data were collected each year from 1,000 Japanese adults aged 35 and above. Using multiple regression analyses, I assessed whether social consideration, self-affirmation, and attitudes towards life and death predicted generativity. The results indicated that both self-affirmation and social consideration were consistently and positively associated with generativity across all years, while stronger preoccupation with life and death was negatively associated. Older adults (65+) scored higher than younger adults in generativity, social consideration, and self-affirmation, suggesting possible contributions of life-course maturity. However, the effects of self-affirmation and social consideration on generativity did not differ by age. This pattern suggests that although older adults possess richer psychosocial resources, these strengths are not fully translated into generativity, indicating that their potential contributions may remain underutilised in intergenerational contexts. Length: 1 page Creation-Date: 0000-00 Publication-Status: Published in Proceedings of the Proceedings of the 68th International Academic Conference, Prague, Nov -0001, pages 32-32 File-URL: https://iises.net/proceedings/iises-international-academic-conference-prague-156/table-of-content/detail?cid=156&iid=006&rid=16964 File-Function: First version, 0000 Number: 15616964 Classification-JEL: I31, J14, Z13 Keywords: generativity, self-affirmation, social consideration, life-course, Multi-wave study Handle: RePEc:sek:iacpro:15616964 Template-Type: ReDIF-Paper 1.0 Author-Name: Christine Janse van Rensburg Author-Name-First: Christine Author-Name-Last: Janse van Rensburg Author-Email: christinevr@vut.ac.za Author-Workplace-Name: Human Resource Management, Vaal University of Technology Author-Name: Palesa Selina Thekiso Author-Name-First: Palesa Selina Author-Name-Last: Thekiso Author-Email: pthekiso26@gmail.com Author-Workplace-Name: Vaal University of Technology Title: Thriving on the Frontlines: Unveiling the Post-COVID Realities of South Africa's Private Sector Paramedics Abstract: This phenomenological study delves into the unique lived realities of private-sector paramedics thriving in a post-COVID work context in South Africa. As the world grapples with the aftermath of the pandemic, paramedics stand at the forefront, navigating the evolving landscape of healthcare delivery. This research is a unique opportunity to explore the lived experiences of these professionals through their first-person accounts, offering a nuanced understanding of their perceptions and encounters.The study focuses on capturing the essence of the paramedics' experiences by examining both the content and the way these experiences were lived. A non-probability purposive sample of 15 private sector paramedics was selected for in-depth interviews using semi-structured, open-ended questions. This approach allowed for rich, detailed discussions and the opportunity for participants to elaborate on their experiences.Data were analysed using MAXQDA, with thematic analysis employed to identify recurring patterns, emergent themes, and unique perspectives. The findings reveal that private sector paramedics experienced a range of meaningful connections that support their ability to thrive in high-pressure environments. Relationships with family and friends, as well as with colleagues and management, offered vital emotional stability, resilience, and a sense of camaraderie. Furthermore, broader organisational connections, both internal and external, fostered a sense of inclusion and collective support.The study concludes that, despite the challenges, private-sector paramedics thrive due to comprehensive support mechanisms and targeted interventions. These findings underscore the importance of such holistic support systems in promoting the well-being of healthcare professionals in the wake of global health crises. The practical implications of these findings are significant, as they can guide the development of future support systems for healthcare professionals. Length: 11 pages Creation-Date: 0000-00 Publication-Status: Published in Proceedings of the Proceedings of the 68th International Academic Conference, Prague, Nov -0001, pages 33-43 File-URL: https://iises.net/proceedings/iises-international-academic-conference-prague-156/table-of-content/detail?cid=156&iid=007&rid=16708 File-Function: First version, 0000 Number: 15616708 Classification-JEL: Y90, Y90, I19 Keywords: Thriving, Private Sector Paramedics, Post-COVID work context, Phenomenology, Healthcare, Employee Well-being Handle: RePEc:sek:iacpro:15616708 Template-Type: ReDIF-Paper 1.0 Author-Name: Zdena Kralova Author-Name-First: Zdena Author-Name-Last: Kralova Author-Email: zkralova@ukf.sk Author-Workplace-Name: Constantine the Philosopher University in Nitra Author-Name: Teo Burcl Author-Name-First: Teo Author-Name-Last: Burcl Author-Email: zkralova@ukf.sk Author-Workplace-Name: Constantine the Philosopher University in Nitra Title: Pronunciation Analysis Software in Teaching English as a Foreign Language Abstract: The article examines three pronunciation analysis software tools ? FLOW Speak, PRAAT, and ELSA Speak ? to determine their effectiveness in teaching pronunciation of English as a foreign language. The primary objective is to compare the selected pronunciation analysis software tools addressing the key research question: Which of the selected pronunciation analysis software applications is the most suitable for teaching pronunciation of English as a foreign language? The analysis utilizes Hubbard?s (2019) General Courseware Evaluation Framework as a basis for comparative analysis. Length: 11 pages Creation-Date: 0000-00 Publication-Status: Published in Proceedings of the Proceedings of the 68th International Academic Conference, Prague, Nov -0001, pages 44-54 File-URL: https://iises.net/proceedings/iises-international-academic-conference-prague-156/table-of-content/detail?cid=156&iid=008&rid=16853 File-Function: First version, 0000 Number: 15616853 Classification-JEL: I21, L86, Z00 Keywords: Analysis of Education, Higher Education, English, Computer Software, Analysis Handle: RePEc:sek:iacpro:15616853 Template-Type: ReDIF-Paper 1.0 Author-Name: Brunela Kullolli Author-Name-First: Brunela Author-Name-Last: Kullolli Author-Email: brunela.kullolli@gmail.com Author-Workplace-Name: Faculty of Political Sciences and Law, ?Aleksander Moisiu? University of Durres Title: THE STANDARD OF PROOF IN CIVIL PROCEEDINGS: A COMPARATIVE PERSPECTIVE BETWEEN EUROPEAN COUNTRIES AND THE ECHR PRACTICE Abstract: This article explores the standards of evidence in civil proceedings from a comparative perspective between the civil law system (with a focus on Albania) and the common law system (with a focus on the United Kingdom). Combining theoretical and practical approaches, the study examines the core principles governing the administration and evaluation of evidence, the role of the judge and the parties, and the rules on admissibility and exclusion of evidence. The analysis is grounded in relevant national legislation, leading jurisprudence, and key judgments of the European Court of Human Rights. The article concludes by identifying structural weaknesses in the Albanian system and offers concrete recommendations for aligning it with European standards and ensuring a fair and effective civil trial. Length: 14 pages Creation-Date: 0000-00 Publication-Status: Published in Proceedings of the Proceedings of the 68th International Academic Conference, Prague, Nov -0001, pages 55-68 File-URL: https://iises.net/proceedings/iises-international-academic-conference-prague-156/table-of-content/detail?cid=156&iid=009&rid=16937 File-Function: First version, 0000 Number: 15616937 Classification-JEL: K49 Keywords: Standard of proof, Civil procedure, ECHR, Comparative law, Germany, France, Italy, Albania, Balance of probabilities, Comfortable satisfaction Handle: RePEc:sek:iacpro:15616937 Template-Type: ReDIF-Paper 1.0 Author-Name: Christel Marais Author-Name-First: Christel Author-Name-Last: Marais Author-Email: christel@vut.ac.za Author-Workplace-Name: Vaal University of Technology Author-Name: Themba John Zwane Author-Name-First: Themba John Author-Name-Last: Zwane Author-Email: christel@vut.ac.za Author-Workplace-Name: Vaal University of Technology Title: Unpacking Decent Work: A Work-in-Progress Exploration of the Lived Realities of Employed Persons with Disabilities in a South African Township Abstract: Employment is a fundamental right and a crucial driver of individual and societal well-being. The United Nations' Sustainable Development Goal 8 emphasises inclusive economic growth, full and productive employment, and decent work for everyone. Despite South Africa's progress in legislation aimed at addressing inequalities, individuals with disabilities still face persistent challenges, including workplace discrimination, insufficient physical accessibility, and limited chances for career progression. This paper reports on an ongoing study of the lived realities of employed individuals with disabilities in a South African township, examined through the lens of the International Labour Organisation?s Decent Work Agenda. Guided by the Psychology of Working Theory, this qualitative, interpretivist investigation adopts a phenomenological approach to explore the subjective experiences of individuals with disabilities. Using purposive snowball sampling, life history interviews capture participants' narratives. Data will be analysed using thematic content analysis, supported by Tesch?s eight-step framework, to ensure rigorous interpretation. Key objectives include understanding how individuals navigate employment, social welfare, and communication within their community while interpreting the stated Decent Work Agenda?s relevance to their lived experiences. Ethical considerations such as informed consent, participant confidentiality, and compliance with the Protection of Personal Information Act guide every aspect of this engagement. The findings aim to inform policy reforms, enhance workplace accessibility, and raise awareness about this marginalised group's socioeconomic and psychological challenges. Fundamentally, the study proposes contributing to a more inclusionary employment landscape and promoting understanding of the SDG 2030 vision of equitable and sustainable development within South Africa?s labour force. Length: 9 pages Creation-Date: 0000-00 Publication-Status: Published in Proceedings of the Proceedings of the 68th International Academic Conference, Prague, Nov -0001, pages 69-77 File-URL: https://iises.net/proceedings/iises-international-academic-conference-prague-156/table-of-content/detail?cid=156&iid=010&rid=16588 File-Function: First version, 0000 Number: 15616588 Classification-JEL: I30, I15, J21 Keywords: ILO Decent Work Agenda, Sustainable Development Goal (SDG) 8, Social Welfare, Workplace Accessibility, Disability in the Workplace. Handle: RePEc:sek:iacpro:15616588 Template-Type: ReDIF-Paper 1.0 Author-Name: Shinsuke Ohchi Author-Name-First: Shinsuke Author-Name-Last: Ohchi Author-Email: ohchi@hiroshima-u.ac.jp Author-Workplace-Name: Hiroshima University Title: Beyond the Marketplace: Economic Marginality and Literary Value in Cormac McCarthy?s Outer Dark Abstract: Cormac McCarthy?s Outer Dark (1968) serves as a powerful case study of how a literary work can possess profound cultural value even if it fails to achieve commercial success in its initial stages. The novel is a classic example of market failure; its artistic depth was largely overlooked by the literary marketplace at the time of publication. When writing the novel, McCarthy was living in extreme poverty and relied on minimal financial support to sustain his creative work. As a result, he was able to construct an experimental work with imaginative freedom, unbound by commercial expectations. The novel also explores economic marginality as one of its central themes. Set in the desolate Appalachian region after the Civil War, it portrays characters excluded from capitalist labor structures. These depictions bring to light broader issues such as economic exclusion and social alienation. Although Outer Dark received limited recognition upon its initial release, it eventually secured a place in the literary canon as McCarthy?s reputation grew over time. This trajectory demonstrates that the value of a literary work is not always recognized by the market in real time and underscores the vital role played by non-market mechanisms of evaluation, such as academic institutions and literary criticism. Furthermore, literature like Outer Dark generates positive cultural externalities?contributing to literary heritage, providing creative inspiration to subsequent writers, and enriching public discourse on morality and the human condition. However, such cultural benefits tend to be undervalued by the market, making it difficult to attract sufficient private investment. Thus, public and philanthropic support for literature is also justifiable from an economic standpoint. In short, Outer Dark exemplifies how a work situated on the economic margins can possess enduring cultural significance, highlighting the essential role of non-market forces in sustaining literary excellence. Length: 1 page Creation-Date: 0000-00 Publication-Status: Published in Proceedings of the Proceedings of the 68th International Academic Conference, Prague, Nov -0001, pages 78-78 File-URL: https://iises.net/proceedings/iises-international-academic-conference-prague-156/table-of-content/detail?cid=156&iid=011&rid=16895 File-Function: First version, 0000 Number: 15616895 Classification-JEL: Z00, Z11 Keywords: Cormac McCarthyEconomic marginalityLiterary value Handle: RePEc:sek:iacpro:15616895 Template-Type: ReDIF-Paper 1.0 Author-Name: Andrea Rey-Martí Author-Name-First: Andrea Author-Name-Last: Rey-Martí Author-Email: andrea.rey@uv.es Author-Workplace-Name: University of Valencia Author-Name: Maria Orero-Blat Author-Name-First: Maria Author-Name-Last: Orero-Blat Author-Email: maria.orero-blat@uv.es Author-Workplace-Name: University of Valencia Author-Name: Rytha Picado-Arroyo Author-Name-First: Rytha Author-Name-Last: Picado-Arroyo Author-Email: rpicado@itcr.ac.cr Author-Workplace-Name: Tecnológico de Costa Rica Author-Name: Alicia Mas-Tur Author-Name-First: Alicia Author-Name-Last: Mas-Tur Author-Email: alicia.mas@uv.es Author-Workplace-Name: University of Valencia Title: Empowering Women Entrepreneurs in Vulnerable Contexts: Outcomes of a Capacity-Building and Advisory Intervention in Costa Rica Abstract: Women entrepreneurs in vulnerable contexts face a range of structural, economic, and socio-cultural barriers that limit the sustainability of their businesses and their personal empowerment. This paper presents the results of a comprehensive intervention?designed under the project ?Virtual Platform and Strengthening of Women?s Social Economy Initiatives??that targeted 29 women entrepreneurs across various regions of Costa Rica. The program included training workshops, individualized mentoring, and strategic business advisory.Using a mixed-method approach, this study assesses the effectiveness of the intervention through a comparative technical evaluation of pre- and post-intervention outcomes. Improvements were observed in areas such as financial management, business planning, product pricing, and technological adoption. However, persistent challenges were also identified, including formalization hurdles and digital literacy gaps. Drawing on Empowerment Theory, the paper explores how tailored support programs can foster transformative learning, agency, and economic inclusion among marginalized women. Policy implications for scaling inclusive entrepreneurial ecosystems are also discussed. Length: 1 page Creation-Date: 0000-00 Publication-Status: Published in Proceedings of the Proceedings of the 68th International Academic Conference, Prague, Nov -0001, pages 79-79 File-URL: https://iises.net/proceedings/iises-international-academic-conference-prague-156/table-of-content/detail?cid=156&iid=012&rid=16907 File-Function: First version, 0000 Number: 15616907 Classification-JEL: A10, A13 Keywords: Women entrepreneurship, empowerment, social vulnerability, business training, Costa Rica Handle: RePEc:sek:iacpro:15616907 Template-Type: ReDIF-Paper 1.0 Author-Name: Branko Savic Author-Name-First: Branko Author-Name-Last: Savic Author-Email: savic@vtsns.edu.rs Author-Workplace-Name: The Higher Education Technical School of Professional Studies in Novi Sad Author-Name: Ranko Antunovic Author-Name-First: Ranko Author-Name-Last: Antunovic Author-Email: savic1@vtsns.edu.rs Author-Workplace-Name: The Higher Education Technical School of Professional Studies in Novi Sad Author-Name: Ninoslava Tihi Author-Name-First: Ninoslava Author-Name-Last: Tihi Author-Email: savic2@vtsns.edu.rs Author-Workplace-Name: The Higher Education Technical School of Professional Studies in Novi Sad Author-Name: Nenad Janjic Author-Name-First: Nenad Author-Name-Last: Janjic Author-Email: savic3@vtsns.edu.rs Author-Workplace-Name: The Higher Education Technical School of Professional Studies in Novi Sad Title: Vision for the Development of Higher Education by 2035 Abstract: In light of global changes, higher education institutions must prepare for the challenges ahead. Population migration will lead to changes in the labor market. Digitalization and automation are inevitably replacing human labor with machines, while at the same time creating demand for new types of jobs. It is assumed that by 2035, many professions will be replaced by computers, i.e., automated. On the other hand, qualified workers will be needed to program and manage these systems. Climate change, financial crises, and other factors are causing hunger, regional conflicts, and migration. All of this clearly shows that the labor market will not remain the same, and that higher education must take responsibility for educating the needed workforce. To avoid a shortage of qualified staff, preparation must begin now.Competencies that were once among the top ten most desired are changing. Hence, a new vision, mission, and strategy for higher education is necessary.The paper will deal with the analysis global changes in the world market. It will examine which jobs are likely to be automated and which will be in demand by 2035. It will also explore how students are currently being educated and what competencies they acquire. Based on this, the mission, vision, and strategy of higher education up to 2035 will be proposed. Quality assurance will also be presented as an important element of the education process, along with a new approach to quality in that context.The paper will include diagrams and tables that provide visual support and empirical context for the key topics discussed in each chapter. Length: 1 page Creation-Date: 0000-00 Publication-Status: Published in Proceedings of the Proceedings of the 68th International Academic Conference, Prague, Nov -0001, pages 80-80 File-URL: https://iises.net/proceedings/iises-international-academic-conference-prague-156/table-of-content/detail?cid=156&iid=013&rid=16901 File-Function: First version, 0000 Number: 15616901 Classification-JEL: I23 Keywords: Higher Education, Competencies, Quality assurance Handle: RePEc:sek:iacpro:15616901 Template-Type: ReDIF-Paper 1.0 Author-Name: Jannik Schumann Author-Name-First: Jannik Author-Name-Last: Schumann Author-Email: mr.jannikschumann@gmail.com Author-Workplace-Name: University of Finance and Administration (V?FS) Title: The Impact of Inflation on Household Savings and Investment Behavior in Germany (2015?2022) Abstract: This paper examines how rising inflation affected household saving behavior in Germany between 2015 and 2022. Using longitudinal microdata from the Socio-Economic Panel (SOEP) and a two-way fixed-effects design, we estimate the impact of monthly year-over-year inflation on different types of saving rates?retirement-specific, wealth-building, and overall savings?while controlling for household heterogeneity and common macro shocks. The results indicate that moderate inflation fluctuations before 2020 had negligible effects on savings. During the 2021?22 inflation surge, however, saving rates declined as households used savings to buffer higher living costs. Heterogeneity is notable: younger households slightly increased retirement contributions when inflation rose, whereas older households showed no adjustment. No significant effect was found for wealth-building savings. Regional analysis reveals that the modest positive response among young households was driven by West Germans, while East German households?facing lower incomes?experienced a sharper decline in overall saving. These findings highlight that inflation primarily erodes saving capacity rather than triggering major portfolio shifts. Policy implications include strengthening financial literacy, ensuring adequate pension indexation, and targeting relief to vulnerable groups, particularly in East Germany, to prevent long-term financial insecurity. Length: 20 pages Creation-Date: 0000-00 Publication-Status: Published in Proceedings of the Proceedings of the 68th International Academic Conference, Prague, Nov -0001, pages 81-100 File-URL: https://iises.net/proceedings/iises-international-academic-conference-prague-156/table-of-content/detail?cid=156&iid=014&rid=16506 File-Function: First version, 0000 Number: 15116506 Classification-JEL: E31, D14, E21 Keywords: Inflation; Young adults; Household finance; Saving behavior; Retirement saving; Wealth accumulation; Panel data; Germany; SOEP Handle: RePEc:sek:iacpro:15116506