Strategic communication to overcome challenges in digital literacy policy implementation in Japan Schools

Background: The Japanese government has initiated a national policy to improve digital literacy in elementary schools, but its implementation still faces various challenges, such as disparities between regions, limited infrastructure, and the readiness of educators to teach digital literacy effectively. Purpose: This study aims to analyze communication strategies in the implementation of digital literacy policies in elementary schools in Japan. Methods:  The research used a qualitative case study approach in several elementary schools in the Tokyo metropolitan area. Data were collected through in-depth interviews with key informants using a purposive approach. Result: The results show that the implementation of digital literacy policies has not been uniform across elementary schools in Japan. The main barriers found include a lack of teacher training, limited digital infrastructure and a lack of systematic communication strategies. Schools in urban areas of Japan are more advanced in implementing the policy compared to schools in rural areas of Japan. However, some schools managed to overcome these challenges through strategic communication and collaboration with parents, communities, and the technology sector, as well as utilizing social media and digital platforms.  Conclusion: This study emphasizes the importance of more systematic and inclusive communication strategies in the implementation of digital literacy policies. Effective communication between the government, schools, teachers, and parents plays a role in increasing understanding and participation in this policy. Implications: This study opens up opportunities for further exploration of the effectiveness of different communication methods, such as digital platforms, social media, and face-to-face approaches.

Netizens’ comments on “Ice Cold” murder documentary: A thematic analysis of Corbuzier’s podcast

Background: The cyanide coffee case resurfaces public attention after the release of the documentary film “Ice Cold: Murder, Coffee and Jessica Wongso” by Netflix. The famous Indonesian podcaster, Deddy Corbuzier, raises this issue in his content. This leads to reactions and debate among netizens. Netizens expressed their opinions through the comments column on Deddy Corbuzier’s YouTube account. Purpose: This research aimed to explore the diversity of netizens’ comments on Deddy Corbuzier’s YouTube podcast videos through thematic analysis. Methods: This research used a qualitative approach with an interpretive research type. The data analysis technique used was Virginia and Clarke’s thematic analysis. This research discussed Quiring and Schweiger’s interactivity and Robert Plutchik’s theory of emotion. Results: The research results describe netizens’ responses to Deddy Corbuzier’s YouTube video on the issue of suspect Jessica for the murder of Mirna. The results were divided into two: initial thematic and final thematic. Conclusion: The findings on the final theme were grouped into four sub-themes, divided into two categories for Jessica’s innocence by misunderstanding the judge’s decision and supporting the reopening of the case. The second category is guilty based on netizens’ perceptions of Jessica’s supporters and agreeing with the judge’s decision. Implications: This research examines messages and interactions among netizens towards Jessica from the influence of the Documentary Film “Ice Cold: Murder, Coffee and Jessica Wongso” by Netflix on Deddy Corbuzier’s podcast. It reflects the perspectives and preferences in society towards the film

Instagram as CSR bridge: Comparing hotel strategies in Indonesia-France

Background: This study compares the practice of CSR communication by French hotels operating in Jakarta (Indonesia) and Paris (France). It explores what CSR themes the hotels communicate and which of them lead to consumer engagement in the form of likes, comments, and shares. Purpose: The purpose of this study is to investigate the CSR communication strategies of French hotels operating in Jakarta and Paris and determine the relationship between CSR communication and consumer engagement. Methods: The samples, seven (7) Accor hotels operating in Jakarta and six (6) Accor hotels operating in Paris, were purposively selected. The content analysis method was used, and data were collected from the hotels’ Instagram accounts. The data were then examined using descriptive statistical analysis and multiple regression techniques. Results: The data analysis shows differences in the CSR communication strategy applied by the two sampled hotels. Both French hotels in Jakarta and Paris use Instagram to publish information about their CSR programs, but French hotels in Jakarta publish more CSR posts on Instagram than those in Paris. French hotels in Jakarta focus on environment, society, and economic prosperity, while French hotels in Paris focus on environment, diversity, and society. Customers of French hotels in Jakarta show more engagement, particularly through likes and comments, compared to those in Paris, where engagement is limited to likes. Neither group showed engagement in the form of shares. Implications: Hotels should be more selective in communicating CSR via Instagram, considering the CSR themes that customers care about. It could help improve customer engagement and create a more effective CSR communication strategy

Understanding communication patterns in coping with stress in Indonesia’s gig economy

Background: Despite the rise of the gig economy, the mental health of Indonesia’s gig workers has received little attention. To cope with work-related stress and a limited interaction between drivers and app firms, many ride-hailing drivers have formed shared experience-based communities, such as Indriver Bandung Bersatu (IBB). Purpose: This study aimed to investigate the perspectives and motives of five drivers in a natural setting, with an emphasis on their lived experiences and interpretations of stress coping mechanisms. Method: To better understand how drivers deal with mental health difficulties at work, a qualitative phenomenological approach was applied. From November to December 2022, data were collected through in-depth interviews and observations. Triangulation and member checking confirmed data validity. Result: Although ride-hailing employment have several advantages, drivers are stressed because of monopolistic policies, fluctuating pay, negative customer behavior, and rapid system modifications. To cope, people rely on personal strength and mutual support from a community that shares experiences and alleviates emotional pressures. Conclusion: Capitalist structures, aided by uneven and unfriendly policies, disadvantaged drivers. Mutual-aid communities, on the other hand, enable them to support one another and work together to find common answers. Implications: Facing shared workplace issues together, sharing experiences, and developing peer-based support all promote motivation and self-determination, allowing drivers to become more resilient

Community engagement in digital banking: Insights from Jakarta and Perth

Background: In the digital era, community engagement plays a pivotal role in driving market share expansion in the banking sector, yet the impact of such initiatives across diverse regulatory and cultural contexts remains underexplored. Purpose: This study examines the influence of community engagement on the digital bank market share in Jakarta, Indonesia, and Perth, Australia, while addressing disparities in digital access and customer experience. Methods: Employing a quantitative methodology, the study analyzed structured surveys from 300 respondents (150 each from Jakarta and Perth) to uncover relationships between community engagement and market expansion. Results: Findings reveal that robust community engagement significantly enhances customer loyalty and market share in Jakarta, with digital literacy and infrastructure playing a critical role. In Perth, the effect is moderated by regulatory environments emphasizing innovation and consumer trust. These outcomes are inferred through improvements in technical capability, information/media literacy, and user experience, which serve as foundational mediators fostering customer trust, loyalty, and ultimately market expansion. Conclusion: Community engagement is a vital strategy for expanding digital banking market share, yet its effectiveness is contingent on contextual factors such as digital literacy, regulatory frameworks, and customer preferences. Implications: Practically, banks should tailor engagement strategies to local needs, focusing on building trust and addressing digital divides. Theoretically, this research extends the application of Digital Divide Theory in understanding digital banking adoption across contrasting contexts

Enhancing community consensus in Oman tourism: A communication approach

Background: As the world pays increasing attention to innovations in the tourism sector, this study will examine how local communities respond to such innovations, particularly in Oman, which is diversifying its economy through tourism. This study highlights several factors influencing stakeholders’ acceptance of innovative tourism, including local communities, businesses, and tourism students. Purpose: This study aimed to identify the determinants of whether tourism enterprises adopt innovative practices and effective communication strategies to diffuse information and create awareness regarding creative tourism. Methods: The current study employed a quantitative methodological approach based on data gathered from 533 respondents representing a cross-section of tourism industry stakeholders. Results: The findings illustrate significant considerations regarding the acceptability of Oman’s new tourism development, with a great emphasis on communication strategies. Equally, the research outlines real implications for countries interested in developing innovative tourism by highlighting a pronounced active community approach. This study was conducted in specific geographic regions, which limits the generalizability of the findings. Therefore, future studies can be performed with a broader selection of locations and stakeholder perspectives to increase the validation of the Diffusion of Innovation model for tourism contexts. Conclusion: This study emphasizes the need for community participation in tourism innovation processes. A sense of ownership creates more enthusiasm and cohesion among local stakeholders and encourages them to accept new tourism practices socially. Implications: This research strengthens community dialogue regarding tourism. This study adds to the literature on the diffusion of innovation in the tourism industry by providing empirical evidence on the adoption of innovative tourism practices

Prophetic communication for strengthening religious life among female inmates in Paledang prison

Background: Women in prisoners endure ongoing prejudice and objectification, issues that are intensified by the absence of a substantial religious life. At the Class II Correctional Institution in Paledang, Bogor, prophetic communication transcends mere imitation of the prophet’s communicative methods, ‘dawah,’ or ‘Islamic communication’; it encompasses efforts to emulate prophetic objectives, particularly in the context of shaping religious practices among female inmates, which remains inadequately explored. Comprehending its impact is crucial for fulfilling convicts’ spiritual and therapeutic requirements. Purpose: This study aimed to analyze the application of prophetic communication within the religious practices of female inmates in the Class II Paledang prison in Bogor. Methods: A phenomenological method was utilized to investigate the informants’ subjective awareness and interpretive experiences. The data collection was comprised of in-depth interviews, observations, and document analysis to thoroughly comprehend inmates’ religious experiences. Results: The results underscore three facets of prophetic communication: The humanistic aspect features structured religious programs; however, insufficient facilities impede optimal worship, and religious communication is restricted to communal prayers and spiritual visits; In the liberation aspect, initiatives promoting prophetic values like love and tolerance exist, yet numerous inmates remain disengaged; In the transcendence aspect, inmates are urged to cultivate Islamic spirituality. Conclusion: Prophetic communication can confront the spiritual issues inmates face, yet infrastructural limitations, inconsistency, and individual crises of faith hinder its efficacy. Implications: This study theoretically contributes to the discourse on prophetic communication in correctional environments and practically underscores the significance of structured religious guidance to improve inmates’ spiritual well-being and rehabilitation. This research is crucial for communication studies since it can provide new insights, particularly in critical theory for inmates, cross-cultural communication, spiritual communication, and gender communication

Creative economy development strategy through communication in the alternative tourism of concert

Background: As COVID-19 subsides, the government is working to rebuild the collapsed economic foundations. One area of focus is the development of the music industry in Indonesia. In 2023, concerts in Indonesia began to reemerge at the national and international levels. The Dewa 19 concert at the Jakarta International Stadium (JIS) and the Blackpink concert at the Gelora Bung Karno Main Stadium attracted a lot of attention. These concerts boosted the economy in several sectors, including alternative tourism. This study aims to explore the supporting components of alternative tourism through concerts and the strategic role of communication in developing the creative economy. Method: This study used a quantitative descriptive method. Results: The music industry in Indonesia has experienced a resurgence, with events such as The 90s Festival and international concerts, the Blackpink’s Born Pink World Tour. These music festivals increase tourism, providing economic opportunities for businesses and local communities. Blackpink’s concert in Jakarta is a prime example of how concerts can create economic value and social excitement. In addition, international concerts enhance Indonesia’s global image and reputation, and demonstrate the country’s ability to organize large-scale events. Conclusion: The rise of the Indonesian music industry and the impact of international concerts demonstrate the diverse cultural and economic dimensions of music in Indonesia and its ability to adapt, evolve, and thrive in the modern era

Enhancing digital engagement: The importance of media literacy in social media

Background: The rapid growth of social media platforms has fundamentally changed how individuals access, create, and share information. These platforms now serve as key sources of news, entertainment, and social engagement, presenting advantages and challenges to people and communities. As social media influences public discussions and the dissemination of information, the importance of media literacy in effectively navigating the intricate digital media environment has become increasingly clear. Purpose: This study investigates the relationship between social media dynamics and media literacy, focusing on how users engage with content, develop their viewpoints, and participate in online dialogues. Methods: This research employs a multidisciplinary approach, drawing insights from communication studies, psychology, and information science to thoroughly examine the changing media landscape and its implications for democratic participation. Results: The results showed that the majority of respondents used social media daily, mainly for entertainment, while only a minority felt comfortable openly voicing opinions. Social media influences democratic engagement, affecting political and social participation, although opinion change is still variable. Media literacy awareness is low, with most relying on the credibility of sources or seeking supporting information to verify content. Conclusion: Media literacy is essential for countering disinformation, promoting critical thinking, and encouraging responsible digital citizenship. Implications: This research emphasises the importance of media literacy education to improve critical thinking, counteract disinformation, and encourage responsible digital citizenship to create a more aware and participatory democratic society

Integrative communication model in intercultural communication on independent student exchange

Background: This research is motivated by the problems faced by exchange students, one of the problems is carrying out the adaptation process of cultural differences, culture, language, adaptation to the environment and communication barriers. Purpose: The aim of the research is to explain the integrative communication model in intercultural communication in the aspects of personal communication, social communication, environment, personal condition tendencies, and intercultural transformation. Methods: The research method used was descriptive method with a qualitative approach. The data collection techniques used were observation, interviews, literature study and documentation. The research subjects were determined by using a purposive sampling technique, consisting of nine informants who were independent student exchange participants from Garut University and two students from Garut Indonesian Institute of Education. Results: The results of the research show that intercultural communication in the aspect of personal communication shows attitudes and behavior of tolerance towards cultural differences, even though from a cognitive perspective they do not know yet about Garut culture. In the experience of social communication, interaction is carried out in formal and informal activities, and there are barriers due to differences in dialect and language. On the environmental side, Garut residents welcomed and accepted it well. Environmental barriers include information confusion and language difficulties. In the aspect of personal conditions, they tend not to prepare themselves by getting to know the culture in Garut, and building closeness in the process referring to personal conditions, as well as aspects of cultural transformation, the psychological conditions of independent student exchange participants. Implications: In intercultural transformation, independent student exchange participants can get used to existing cultural differences and minimize the culture shock that occurs when migrating, namely with a positive mindset. The assimilation experienced should not result in the complete loss of one’s cultural identity