Educator & researcher a lifelong learner with a focus on the media-education-security nexus;exploring digital diplomacy and media literacy, re-invigorating Environment and Sustainability Education (ESE), and the Fourth Industrial Revolution (4IR) policies. Realizing the challenges of misuse of cyber-based information and communication exchanges and the spread of digital media platforms, her published articles focus on mapping digital and media trends, providing social media analysis to counter the decay of truth, misinformation and false narratives, terrorism and propaganda, the new digital political movements, digital cultures and subcultures. She has developed media strategies and cybersecurity guidance and training programs. Master's in Leadership, Management, and Policy Making from The British University in Dubai. Address: UAE-Dubai
Forecasting in an Uncertain World: Navigating the Grand Strategy Chessboard, 2024
To deal with the future we have to deal with possibilities. Analysis will only tell us 'What is'.... more To deal with the future we have to deal with possibilities. Analysis will only tell us 'What is'. Edward de Bono, Parallel Thinking Preface Edward de Bono emphasizes the necessity of exploring possibilities to navigate the future, highlighting that mere analysis confines us to the present reality. Scenario development, enriched with trend analysis and horizon scanning, stands out as a leading method for forecasting future landscapes. Although it doesn't guarantee precise predictions, it crafts a framework of potential futures, blending probable, possible, and desirable outcomes based on current and historical knowledge. The terminology used in discussing these future scenarios transcends specific disciplines, gaining traction across cultural, military, political, and business domains globally. These metaphors, drawn from varied sources such as popular culture and strategic studies, facilitate a broader understanding of complex future dynamics. They encapsulate intricate scenarios in relatable terms, aiding in their dissemination across diverse platforms, from academic discussions to mainstream media. The influence of scenario planning and its associated vocabulary permeates global discourse, with its concepts echoing through social media, academic literature, and beyond. Whether through articles, visual content, or social posts, these ideas foster dialogue across political, economic, and cultural spheres. This cross-pollination enriches the collective imagination, encouraging a multifaceted approach to envisioning and preparing for the uncertainties of the future.
While it is too early to form a clear and comprehensive picture of the impact of COVID-19 on the ... more While it is too early to form a clear and comprehensive picture of the impact of COVID-19 on the higher education (HE) landscape, there can be no doubt that the scale is unprecedented. Its impact will likely continue to unfold for years to come. Hit by the disruptive pandemic, and the ensuing economic stagnation, financial survival for many higher education institutions (HEIs) will be seriously tested. Many economists predict serious recession which foretells a bleak future.
Teachers’ Empowerment and the Self-Study Process: An Interpretative Phenomenological Study of Teachers’ Perceptions and Lived Experiences of New England Association of Schools and Colleges Self-study within US-Curricula School in Dubai , 2019
The research investigates whether NEASC self-study as part of the accreditation process empowers ... more The research investigates whether NEASC self-study as part of the accreditation process empowers teachers, contributes to improving self-efficacy, and encourages reflective deliberation. The study explores the lived experience of teachers in a US-curricula school in Dubai during NEASC self-study by employing a phenomenological approach in a postmodern framework of complexity theory and interpretivism to present teachers’ perceptions and accentuate their voices. Interviews of structured and semi-structured nature were conducted and coded. An online survey, to collect responses of a larger population in relation to the self-study process and teachers’ involvement, was crafted to make important inferences once compared with the coded interview.
Findings are teachers appreciate guided learning. Self-study is an influencing evaluation instrument which encourages instructional improvement. Self-efficacy is shown while reflective deliberation occurs but does not lead to the next steps: decision-making and empowerment. The research will be significance to accrediting bodies, policymakers and school management, among many, to look at the role of teachers during such initiatives that are part of the standards and accountability wave, especially in the field of capacity development which is the central purpose of education in the UAE and is highly related to economic growth.
In media and information-rich communities; technology-saturated societies; knowledge-based econom... more In media and information-rich communities; technology-saturated societies; knowledge-based economies; developing communities, citizens need constant support to improve active civic participation. Ethical creation and critical consumption of contents, necessitates the collaborative efforts of diverse experts in sociology, literature and humanities, education, public health, human development and psychology, cultural studies, information science, journalism and communication. National initiatives, systematic planning and a spiral of empowering, guidance and support strategies are needed.
Artificial Intelligence: A Dual-Edged Sword for Democracy and the Digital Information Landscape, 2024
AI and democracy: a mix of opportunities and risks. From spreading misinformation to balancing le... more AI and democracy: a mix of opportunities and risks. From spreading misinformation to balancing legal and harmful content, AI’s impact on our digital landscape is crucial for preserving democratic integrity.
Forecasting in an Uncertain World: Middle East Trends and Horizons, 2024
As one endeavours to forecast farther into the future, the effectiveness of forecasting technique... more As one endeavours to forecast farther into the future, the effectiveness of forecasting techniques diminishes. Forecasting entails estimating future events or conditions through a meticulous analysis of present data. Yet, envisioning the distant future transcends mere prediction of isolated occurrences; it necessitates grasping the intricate interplay between change and continuity. This complexity often leads future trajectories to deviate from current trends. Moreover, the rapid evolution of information volume, diversity, and speed, coupled with swift technological advancements, climate change, and the growing interconnectedness of global regions, exacerbates the inherent unpredictability of future outcomes.
Scenario planning is a strategic method for navigating long-term horizons, emphasizing the creation of resilient, adaptable, and innovative strategies. By envisioning multiple future scenarios and analysing their potential impacts, this approach facilitates the exploration of various outcomes, typically two to five trajectories. It is essential for evaluating existing plans and policies, indicating which strategies may be more appropriate under different future conditions. Additionally, scenario planning aids in the development of new policies and strategic visions, while also identifying early warning signals of potential shifts towards specific scenarios.
The wellbeing and nurture of children is a paramount concern for every country, culture, and comm... more The wellbeing and nurture of children is a paramount concern for every country, culture, and community. Internationally, notable numbers of children undergo maltreatment, leading to significant lifelong implications (WHO 2016). In UAE, child welfare, safety, and protection have been evidently intensifying in many spheres - political, social and cultural. Legalism, bureaucracy, and procedures are recognized as key drivers of child protection systems. Governments at both federal and local levels have developed policy frameworks for child protection and safety as part of community-based change initiatives. Knowledge and Human Development Authority (KHDA)has been closely monitoring the safety and well-being of children as part of its evaluation of the schools. However, policy and research on child maltreatment are under-researched and under-conceptualized remains in its infancy.
Continued Professional Development to Empower Teachers: A Phenomenological Study on the Perceptions and Experiences of Primary School Teachers in a Private School in Dubai, 2017
Societal prospect relay upon the effective running of the education system. Effectiveness lies in... more Societal prospect relay upon the effective running of the education system. Effectiveness lies in the ability of the educational organizations to produce individuals who are characterized as constant learners and able to work in a diverse local and global context (Fullan 2001). This heavily depends upon the involvement, effort, and the contribution of the academic staff and their professional capabilities (Noordin & Jusoff 2009). In accordance with UAE Vision 2021, educational organizations perceive teacher CPD as a cornerstone to sustain the educational reform particularly that teachers are the key enabler in the country's efforts to establish a knowledge-based economy. Such immense changes require considerable professional learning on the part of teachers and carefully designed programs and supportive guidance (Ball & Cohen 1999; Wilson & Berne 1999). The essence of Continuing Professional Development (CPD) in schools is the belief that knowledge and learning are embedded in the social contexts and experiences, and are promoted through formal and informal interactive connections aiming at building teachers’ professional identity, transforming their pedagogies and enhancing student learning. Therefore, CPD becomes an integral component in the transformational change. Consequently, the relationship between CPD and teachers empowerment structures itself strongly. Teacher empowerment becomes focal in any educational reform.
Teaching is a complex work that demands highly specialized skills and knowledge to impact student... more Teaching is a complex work that demands highly specialized skills and knowledge to impact students’ learning. The well-being of society depends upon students who will carry the responsibility for the future growth. In achieving this goal, UAE vision 2021 prioritizes education and the development of human capital, in the form of teachers, particularly as they are the key agents in the country's efforts to establish the knowledge-based economy. During educational reform, the quality, the contribution, and the satisfaction of the academic staff become determinant factors for the reform sustainability. As a complex phenomenon, job satisfaction (JS) factors itself prominently in the development of any educational organizations as it can lead to both positive and negative results (Spector 1997). Work productivity and performance, students’ attainment, organizational commitment and the overall productivity of the organization are influenced by JS. While there is a plethora of Western research to validate the impact of external and internal factors on teacher’s job satisfaction and organizational commitment, studies exploring job satisfaction from teachers’ perspectives and with employing phenomenological research are still emerging in UAE.
Teaching is a complex work that demands highly specialized skills and knowledge to impact student... more Teaching is a complex work that demands highly specialized skills and knowledge to impact students’ learning. The well-being of society depends upon students who will carry the responsibility for the future growth. In achieving this goal, UAE vision 2021 prioritizes education and the development of human capital, in the form of teachers, particularly as they are the key agents in the country's efforts to establish the knowledge-based economy. During educational reform, the quality, the contribution, and the satisfaction of the academic staff become determinant factors for the reform sustainability.
As a complex phenomenon, job satisfaction (JS) factors itself prominently in the development of any educational organizations as it can lead to both positive and negative results (Spector 1997). Work productivity and performance, students’ attainment, organizational commitment and the overall productivity of the organization are influenced by JS.
While there is a plethora of Western research to validate the impact of external and internal factors on teacher’s job satisfaction and organizational commitment, studies exploring job satisfaction from teachers’ perspectives and with employing phenomenological research are still emerging in UAE.
The wellbeing and nurture of children is a paramount concern for every country, culture, and com... more The wellbeing and nurture of children is a paramount concern for every country, culture, and community. Internationally, notable numbers of children undergo maltreatment, leading to significant lifelong implications (WHO 2016).
In UAE, child welfare, safety, and protection have been evidently intensifying in many spheres - political, social and cultural. Legalism, bureaucracy, and procedures are recognized as key drivers of child protection systems. Governments at both federal and local levels have developed policy frameworks for child protection and safety as part of community-based change initiatives.
Knowledge and Human Development Authority (KHDA) has been closely monitoring the safety and well-being of children as part of its evaluation of the schools. However, policy and research on child maltreatment are under-researched and under-conceptualized remains in its infancy.
A Critical review of Al-Taneiji’s “Professional Development in the New School Model in the United Arab Emirates: Expectations and Realities”., 2018
A Critical review of Al-Taneiji’s “Professional Development in the New School Model in the United... more A Critical review of Al-Taneiji’s “Professional Development in the New School Model in the United Arab Emirates: Expectations and Realities”., 2017 With interest in professional development for teachers increasing on the educational scene, Al-Taneiji’s study seeks to recognize and assess the effectiveness of Professional Development (PD) initiatives on teacher's performance and learning community in the elementary and secondary levels in UAE schools. For that, the researcher probes into their experiences, professional and personal values, conventions, and opinions in relation to the PD initiatives directed by Tamkeen as part of Abu Dhabi Educational Council (ADEC) strategic educational transformation.
Forecasting in an Uncertain World: Navigating the Grand Strategy Chessboard, 2024
To deal with the future we have to deal with possibilities. Analysis will only tell us 'What is'.... more To deal with the future we have to deal with possibilities. Analysis will only tell us 'What is'. Edward de Bono, Parallel Thinking Preface Edward de Bono emphasizes the necessity of exploring possibilities to navigate the future, highlighting that mere analysis confines us to the present reality. Scenario development, enriched with trend analysis and horizon scanning, stands out as a leading method for forecasting future landscapes. Although it doesn't guarantee precise predictions, it crafts a framework of potential futures, blending probable, possible, and desirable outcomes based on current and historical knowledge. The terminology used in discussing these future scenarios transcends specific disciplines, gaining traction across cultural, military, political, and business domains globally. These metaphors, drawn from varied sources such as popular culture and strategic studies, facilitate a broader understanding of complex future dynamics. They encapsulate intricate scenarios in relatable terms, aiding in their dissemination across diverse platforms, from academic discussions to mainstream media. The influence of scenario planning and its associated vocabulary permeates global discourse, with its concepts echoing through social media, academic literature, and beyond. Whether through articles, visual content, or social posts, these ideas foster dialogue across political, economic, and cultural spheres. This cross-pollination enriches the collective imagination, encouraging a multifaceted approach to envisioning and preparing for the uncertainties of the future.
While it is too early to form a clear and comprehensive picture of the impact of COVID-19 on the ... more While it is too early to form a clear and comprehensive picture of the impact of COVID-19 on the higher education (HE) landscape, there can be no doubt that the scale is unprecedented. Its impact will likely continue to unfold for years to come. Hit by the disruptive pandemic, and the ensuing economic stagnation, financial survival for many higher education institutions (HEIs) will be seriously tested. Many economists predict serious recession which foretells a bleak future.
Teachers’ Empowerment and the Self-Study Process: An Interpretative Phenomenological Study of Teachers’ Perceptions and Lived Experiences of New England Association of Schools and Colleges Self-study within US-Curricula School in Dubai , 2019
The research investigates whether NEASC self-study as part of the accreditation process empowers ... more The research investigates whether NEASC self-study as part of the accreditation process empowers teachers, contributes to improving self-efficacy, and encourages reflective deliberation. The study explores the lived experience of teachers in a US-curricula school in Dubai during NEASC self-study by employing a phenomenological approach in a postmodern framework of complexity theory and interpretivism to present teachers’ perceptions and accentuate their voices. Interviews of structured and semi-structured nature were conducted and coded. An online survey, to collect responses of a larger population in relation to the self-study process and teachers’ involvement, was crafted to make important inferences once compared with the coded interview.
Findings are teachers appreciate guided learning. Self-study is an influencing evaluation instrument which encourages instructional improvement. Self-efficacy is shown while reflective deliberation occurs but does not lead to the next steps: decision-making and empowerment. The research will be significance to accrediting bodies, policymakers and school management, among many, to look at the role of teachers during such initiatives that are part of the standards and accountability wave, especially in the field of capacity development which is the central purpose of education in the UAE and is highly related to economic growth.
In media and information-rich communities; technology-saturated societies; knowledge-based econom... more In media and information-rich communities; technology-saturated societies; knowledge-based economies; developing communities, citizens need constant support to improve active civic participation. Ethical creation and critical consumption of contents, necessitates the collaborative efforts of diverse experts in sociology, literature and humanities, education, public health, human development and psychology, cultural studies, information science, journalism and communication. National initiatives, systematic planning and a spiral of empowering, guidance and support strategies are needed.
Artificial Intelligence: A Dual-Edged Sword for Democracy and the Digital Information Landscape, 2024
AI and democracy: a mix of opportunities and risks. From spreading misinformation to balancing le... more AI and democracy: a mix of opportunities and risks. From spreading misinformation to balancing legal and harmful content, AI’s impact on our digital landscape is crucial for preserving democratic integrity.
Forecasting in an Uncertain World: Middle East Trends and Horizons, 2024
As one endeavours to forecast farther into the future, the effectiveness of forecasting technique... more As one endeavours to forecast farther into the future, the effectiveness of forecasting techniques diminishes. Forecasting entails estimating future events or conditions through a meticulous analysis of present data. Yet, envisioning the distant future transcends mere prediction of isolated occurrences; it necessitates grasping the intricate interplay between change and continuity. This complexity often leads future trajectories to deviate from current trends. Moreover, the rapid evolution of information volume, diversity, and speed, coupled with swift technological advancements, climate change, and the growing interconnectedness of global regions, exacerbates the inherent unpredictability of future outcomes.
Scenario planning is a strategic method for navigating long-term horizons, emphasizing the creation of resilient, adaptable, and innovative strategies. By envisioning multiple future scenarios and analysing their potential impacts, this approach facilitates the exploration of various outcomes, typically two to five trajectories. It is essential for evaluating existing plans and policies, indicating which strategies may be more appropriate under different future conditions. Additionally, scenario planning aids in the development of new policies and strategic visions, while also identifying early warning signals of potential shifts towards specific scenarios.
The wellbeing and nurture of children is a paramount concern for every country, culture, and comm... more The wellbeing and nurture of children is a paramount concern for every country, culture, and community. Internationally, notable numbers of children undergo maltreatment, leading to significant lifelong implications (WHO 2016). In UAE, child welfare, safety, and protection have been evidently intensifying in many spheres - political, social and cultural. Legalism, bureaucracy, and procedures are recognized as key drivers of child protection systems. Governments at both federal and local levels have developed policy frameworks for child protection and safety as part of community-based change initiatives. Knowledge and Human Development Authority (KHDA)has been closely monitoring the safety and well-being of children as part of its evaluation of the schools. However, policy and research on child maltreatment are under-researched and under-conceptualized remains in its infancy.
Continued Professional Development to Empower Teachers: A Phenomenological Study on the Perceptions and Experiences of Primary School Teachers in a Private School in Dubai, 2017
Societal prospect relay upon the effective running of the education system. Effectiveness lies in... more Societal prospect relay upon the effective running of the education system. Effectiveness lies in the ability of the educational organizations to produce individuals who are characterized as constant learners and able to work in a diverse local and global context (Fullan 2001). This heavily depends upon the involvement, effort, and the contribution of the academic staff and their professional capabilities (Noordin & Jusoff 2009). In accordance with UAE Vision 2021, educational organizations perceive teacher CPD as a cornerstone to sustain the educational reform particularly that teachers are the key enabler in the country's efforts to establish a knowledge-based economy. Such immense changes require considerable professional learning on the part of teachers and carefully designed programs and supportive guidance (Ball & Cohen 1999; Wilson & Berne 1999). The essence of Continuing Professional Development (CPD) in schools is the belief that knowledge and learning are embedded in the social contexts and experiences, and are promoted through formal and informal interactive connections aiming at building teachers’ professional identity, transforming their pedagogies and enhancing student learning. Therefore, CPD becomes an integral component in the transformational change. Consequently, the relationship between CPD and teachers empowerment structures itself strongly. Teacher empowerment becomes focal in any educational reform.
Teaching is a complex work that demands highly specialized skills and knowledge to impact student... more Teaching is a complex work that demands highly specialized skills and knowledge to impact students’ learning. The well-being of society depends upon students who will carry the responsibility for the future growth. In achieving this goal, UAE vision 2021 prioritizes education and the development of human capital, in the form of teachers, particularly as they are the key agents in the country's efforts to establish the knowledge-based economy. During educational reform, the quality, the contribution, and the satisfaction of the academic staff become determinant factors for the reform sustainability. As a complex phenomenon, job satisfaction (JS) factors itself prominently in the development of any educational organizations as it can lead to both positive and negative results (Spector 1997). Work productivity and performance, students’ attainment, organizational commitment and the overall productivity of the organization are influenced by JS. While there is a plethora of Western research to validate the impact of external and internal factors on teacher’s job satisfaction and organizational commitment, studies exploring job satisfaction from teachers’ perspectives and with employing phenomenological research are still emerging in UAE.
Teaching is a complex work that demands highly specialized skills and knowledge to impact student... more Teaching is a complex work that demands highly specialized skills and knowledge to impact students’ learning. The well-being of society depends upon students who will carry the responsibility for the future growth. In achieving this goal, UAE vision 2021 prioritizes education and the development of human capital, in the form of teachers, particularly as they are the key agents in the country's efforts to establish the knowledge-based economy. During educational reform, the quality, the contribution, and the satisfaction of the academic staff become determinant factors for the reform sustainability.
As a complex phenomenon, job satisfaction (JS) factors itself prominently in the development of any educational organizations as it can lead to both positive and negative results (Spector 1997). Work productivity and performance, students’ attainment, organizational commitment and the overall productivity of the organization are influenced by JS.
While there is a plethora of Western research to validate the impact of external and internal factors on teacher’s job satisfaction and organizational commitment, studies exploring job satisfaction from teachers’ perspectives and with employing phenomenological research are still emerging in UAE.
The wellbeing and nurture of children is a paramount concern for every country, culture, and com... more The wellbeing and nurture of children is a paramount concern for every country, culture, and community. Internationally, notable numbers of children undergo maltreatment, leading to significant lifelong implications (WHO 2016).
In UAE, child welfare, safety, and protection have been evidently intensifying in many spheres - political, social and cultural. Legalism, bureaucracy, and procedures are recognized as key drivers of child protection systems. Governments at both federal and local levels have developed policy frameworks for child protection and safety as part of community-based change initiatives.
Knowledge and Human Development Authority (KHDA) has been closely monitoring the safety and well-being of children as part of its evaluation of the schools. However, policy and research on child maltreatment are under-researched and under-conceptualized remains in its infancy.
A Critical review of Al-Taneiji’s “Professional Development in the New School Model in the United Arab Emirates: Expectations and Realities”., 2018
A Critical review of Al-Taneiji’s “Professional Development in the New School Model in the United... more A Critical review of Al-Taneiji’s “Professional Development in the New School Model in the United Arab Emirates: Expectations and Realities”., 2017 With interest in professional development for teachers increasing on the educational scene, Al-Taneiji’s study seeks to recognize and assess the effectiveness of Professional Development (PD) initiatives on teacher's performance and learning community in the elementary and secondary levels in UAE schools. For that, the researcher probes into their experiences, professional and personal values, conventions, and opinions in relation to the PD initiatives directed by Tamkeen as part of Abu Dhabi Educational Council (ADEC) strategic educational transformation.
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Findings are teachers appreciate guided learning. Self-study is an influencing evaluation instrument which encourages instructional improvement. Self-efficacy is shown while reflective deliberation occurs but does not lead to the next steps: decision-making and empowerment. The research will be significance to accrediting bodies, policymakers and school management, among many, to look at the role of teachers during such initiatives that are part of the standards and accountability wave, especially in the field of capacity development which is the central purpose of education in the UAE and is highly related to economic growth.
https://www.jordantimes.com/opinion/razan-b-nweiran-and-dr-christopher-hill/developing-better-digital-citizenry
Scenario planning is a strategic method for navigating long-term horizons, emphasizing the creation of resilient, adaptable, and innovative strategies. By envisioning multiple future scenarios and analysing their potential impacts, this approach facilitates the exploration of various outcomes, typically two to five trajectories. It is essential for evaluating existing plans and policies, indicating which strategies may be more appropriate under different future conditions. Additionally, scenario planning aids in the development of new policies and strategic visions, while also identifying early warning signals of potential shifts towards specific scenarios.
In accordance with UAE Vision 2021, educational organizations perceive teacher CPD as a cornerstone to sustain the educational reform particularly that teachers are the key enabler in the country's efforts to establish a knowledge-based economy. Such immense changes require considerable professional learning on the part of teachers and carefully designed programs and supportive guidance (Ball & Cohen 1999; Wilson & Berne 1999). The essence of Continuing Professional Development (CPD) in schools is the belief that knowledge and learning are embedded in the social contexts and experiences, and are promoted through formal and informal interactive connections aiming at building teachers’ professional identity, transforming their pedagogies and enhancing student learning.
Therefore, CPD becomes an integral component in the transformational change. Consequently, the relationship between CPD and teachers empowerment structures itself strongly. Teacher empowerment becomes focal in any educational reform.
As a complex phenomenon, job satisfaction (JS) factors itself prominently in the development of any educational organizations as it can lead to both positive and negative results (Spector 1997). Work productivity and performance, students’ attainment, organizational commitment and the overall productivity of the organization are influenced by JS.
While there is a plethora of Western research to validate the impact of external and internal factors on teacher’s job satisfaction and organizational commitment, studies exploring job satisfaction from teachers’ perspectives and with employing phenomenological research are still emerging in UAE.
In UAE, child welfare, safety, and protection have been evidently intensifying in many spheres - political, social and cultural. Legalism, bureaucracy, and procedures are recognized as key drivers of child protection systems. Governments at both federal and local levels have developed policy frameworks for child protection and safety as part of community-based change initiatives.
Knowledge and Human Development Authority (KHDA) has been closely monitoring the safety and well-being of children as part of its evaluation of the schools. However, policy and research on child maltreatment are under-researched and under-conceptualized remains in its infancy.
With interest in professional development for teachers increasing on the educational scene, Al-Taneiji’s study seeks to recognize and assess the effectiveness of Professional Development (PD) initiatives on teacher's performance and learning community in the elementary and secondary levels in UAE schools. For that, the researcher probes into their experiences, professional and personal values, conventions, and opinions in relation to the PD initiatives directed by Tamkeen as part of Abu Dhabi Educational Council (ADEC) strategic educational transformation.
Findings are teachers appreciate guided learning. Self-study is an influencing evaluation instrument which encourages instructional improvement. Self-efficacy is shown while reflective deliberation occurs but does not lead to the next steps: decision-making and empowerment. The research will be significance to accrediting bodies, policymakers and school management, among many, to look at the role of teachers during such initiatives that are part of the standards and accountability wave, especially in the field of capacity development which is the central purpose of education in the UAE and is highly related to economic growth.
https://www.jordantimes.com/opinion/razan-b-nweiran-and-dr-christopher-hill/developing-better-digital-citizenry
Scenario planning is a strategic method for navigating long-term horizons, emphasizing the creation of resilient, adaptable, and innovative strategies. By envisioning multiple future scenarios and analysing their potential impacts, this approach facilitates the exploration of various outcomes, typically two to five trajectories. It is essential for evaluating existing plans and policies, indicating which strategies may be more appropriate under different future conditions. Additionally, scenario planning aids in the development of new policies and strategic visions, while also identifying early warning signals of potential shifts towards specific scenarios.
In accordance with UAE Vision 2021, educational organizations perceive teacher CPD as a cornerstone to sustain the educational reform particularly that teachers are the key enabler in the country's efforts to establish a knowledge-based economy. Such immense changes require considerable professional learning on the part of teachers and carefully designed programs and supportive guidance (Ball & Cohen 1999; Wilson & Berne 1999). The essence of Continuing Professional Development (CPD) in schools is the belief that knowledge and learning are embedded in the social contexts and experiences, and are promoted through formal and informal interactive connections aiming at building teachers’ professional identity, transforming their pedagogies and enhancing student learning.
Therefore, CPD becomes an integral component in the transformational change. Consequently, the relationship between CPD and teachers empowerment structures itself strongly. Teacher empowerment becomes focal in any educational reform.
As a complex phenomenon, job satisfaction (JS) factors itself prominently in the development of any educational organizations as it can lead to both positive and negative results (Spector 1997). Work productivity and performance, students’ attainment, organizational commitment and the overall productivity of the organization are influenced by JS.
While there is a plethora of Western research to validate the impact of external and internal factors on teacher’s job satisfaction and organizational commitment, studies exploring job satisfaction from teachers’ perspectives and with employing phenomenological research are still emerging in UAE.
In UAE, child welfare, safety, and protection have been evidently intensifying in many spheres - political, social and cultural. Legalism, bureaucracy, and procedures are recognized as key drivers of child protection systems. Governments at both federal and local levels have developed policy frameworks for child protection and safety as part of community-based change initiatives.
Knowledge and Human Development Authority (KHDA) has been closely monitoring the safety and well-being of children as part of its evaluation of the schools. However, policy and research on child maltreatment are under-researched and under-conceptualized remains in its infancy.
With interest in professional development for teachers increasing on the educational scene, Al-Taneiji’s study seeks to recognize and assess the effectiveness of Professional Development (PD) initiatives on teacher's performance and learning community in the elementary and secondary levels in UAE schools. For that, the researcher probes into their experiences, professional and personal values, conventions, and opinions in relation to the PD initiatives directed by Tamkeen as part of Abu Dhabi Educational Council (ADEC) strategic educational transformation.