Articles

Technology Management Approach and Semiotic Theory in The Works of Shahnon Ahmad

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This study aims to analyse the management approach portrayed by the author Shahnon Ahmad in his selected novels, namely Sampah, Tivi and Kemelut. Specifically, it focuses on the management of technology as constructed in these novels as a contribution to the field of literary studies. The novel functions as a medium reflecting society and is regarded as a platform through which the author expresses views, opinions, criticisms, and even satire concerning issues perceived as falling short of humanitarian values, while simultaneously offering moral lessons. The study seeks to raise awareness among all levels of society to be more attentive and cautious in embracing the rhetoric of progress and modernity brought about by technology. The narratives presented in Shahnon Ahmad’s novels depict human life exposed to issues and conflicts arising from the ineffective management of technology. The implications of these conflicts reveal managerial shortcomings through characters, dialogues, and the background of events portrayed. Accordingly, management aspects and semiotic theory are introduced to examine and discuss the narrative of technology management. The objectives of this study are twofold: first, to identify the narrative of technology in the selected novels through the application of semiotic theory; and second, to employ a management approach in evaluating the implications of technology use that is poorly managed, based on core management principles namely planning, organizing, leadership, staffing, and control.

Verbal Expression and Mother’s Desperation about Their Children with Attention Deficit/Hyperactivity Disorder

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Parents who have children with Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD) are challenging because these children are special and need special treatment. Because they are challenging, parents need support from their inner or outer circle. One of the strategies to get a support is by expressing what they feel. Feelings can be expressed in various ways, verbal and non-verbal. It can be in a non-formal situation like having a conversation in a community or a home environment. Thus, this research aims to describe the verbal expressions and desperation of the mothers to raise their children with Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD). This research uses phenomenological method called Interpretative Phenomenological Analysis (IPA) because this study focuses on interpretive processes in understanding participants’ experiences ideographically. 25 participants are observed and interviewed in-depth regarding their experiences in raising their children with Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD). The participants’ verbal expression of desperation are classified into seven themes: Repeating the same instruction or warning over and over, Being different and isolated, Mess things up in the house, Could not stay still and unpredictable, Aggressiveness, irritation and tantrums, Extra effort for visual learner, Child lacks of motivation. The results show that the feeling of desperation persistently happened because it is difficult to understand the characteristics of a child with Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD). The also admit that it is difficult to make normal children and mothers to accept their circumstances. Meanwhile, other participants state that they seek more information and knowledge about ADHD by joining a community to get help or support psychologically and medically, practice and more practice at home in order to help their children grow better.