Saudi Cultural Missions Theses & Dissertations
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Item Restricted PHD THESIS(Saudi Digital Library, 2025) ALSHAMMARI, BADER MOHAMMED; Tracey, CostleyAbstract The purpose of the present study was to address the phenomenon of English anxiety and writing anxiety in Saudi undergraduate students in their first year and second year of studying English language at university level. The level of foreign language anxiety and the factors leading to English writing anxiety among English undergraduate students were explored using a sequential mixed method design with a survey and semi-structured interviews. Data were collected quantitatively via an online self-reported survey to determine the level of foreign language anxiety and anxiety in English writing classrooms among EFL undergraduate students. The semi-structured interviews were used to learn about students' and teachers' strategies in dealing with English writing anxiety, as well as provide additional information about factors associated with the writing anxiety of undergraduate students. The questionnaire and the interview questions were adapted from Horwitz et al.’s (1986) Foreign Language Classroom Anxiety Scale (FLCAS) and Cheng (2004) Second Language Writing Anxiety Inventory (SLWAI). The most common factors emerged from the interviews associated with the writing anxiety of EFL undergraduate students were “time limit”, “fear of negative evaluation”, “lack of students’ understanding”, “classroom environment”, “exam”, “lack of xii preparation”, “work team in writing class”, “previous writing experiences”, and “lack of motivation in writing classroom”. Furthermore, the most common coping strategies used by undergraduate students were positive thinking, relaxation techniques, working in groups, preparation, motivation, and peer seeking. The study discusses practical and instructional implications and suggested several strategies based on pedagogically sound approaches to help reduce writing anxiety in apprehensive language learners19 0Item Restricted The Impact of Supply Chain Integration on the Performance of Industrial Facilities – An Applied Study on Al-Khumra Logistics District in the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia(Saudi Digital Library, 2025) Alghamdi, Abdulrahman; Mohammed, Ali WajdiThis study examines the impact of supply chain integration—internal, external, and strategic—on the operational performance of industrial facilities in Al-Khumrah, Saudi Arabia. Using a descriptive-analytical approach and data from 195 respondents via electronic surveys, the results show a strong positive correlation (r = 0.655) between supply chain integration and performance. Internal integration had the most significant effect, highlighting the importance of coordination across departments. The study recommends fostering long-term partnerships, enhancing internal collaboration, and conducting further research with market orientation as a mediating variable.18 0Item Restricted A Cross-National Examination of Weaning Parameter Usage: Comparing Respiratory Therapists’ Perceptions in Saudi Arabia and the United States(Saudi Digital Library, 2025) Katib, Rahaf; Gardenhire, DouglasBackground: Weaning from mechanical ventilation is a critical goal following patient intubation in intensive care settings. Effective weaning from mechanical ventilation is essential for reducing morbidity and mortality among ICU patients. Weaning parameters play a significant role in determining the success of the weaning process. However, their usage differs across healthcare settings. Purpose: This study aims to compare the perceptions of respiratory therapists in Saudi Arabia and the United States regarding the frequency of use and the prioritization of various mechanical ventilation weaning parameters in intensive care units, as well as how patient-specific factors are considered in the weaning process. Methods: A cross-sectional study was conducted using an online survey distributed to RTs in both countries. The survey included demographic questions and questions to evaluate the perceived frequency of use of weaning parameters and the influence of patient-specific factors on the success of weaning from mechanical ventilation. Descriptive statistics, independent samples t-tests, and effect size calculations were conducted to analyze the data. Results: A total of 99 respiratory therapists participated in the survey (Saudi Arabia: n=63; United States: n=36). The study findings revealed that among patient-specific factors, only age showed a statistically significant difference between countries, with a higher mean rating in Saudi Arabia (M = 3.27, SD = 1.12) compared to the United States (M = 2.53, SD = 1.50), p = .006. Furthermore, regarding the perceived frequency of use of 18 various weaning parameters, only the Glasgow Coma Scale (GCS) showed a statistically significant difference between countries, with higher perceived importance among Saudi RTs (M = 13.98, SD = 4.59) compared to U.S. RTs (M = 7.67, SD = 5.47), p < .001. Moreover, the most frequently used parameters rated by RTs in Saudi Arabia are Glasgow Coma Scale (GCS), SBT trials, pH, respiratory rate (RR), and partial pressure of carbon dioxide (PCO2). On the other hand, the five most commonly used parameters in the United States are SBT trials, PCO2, following commands, pH, and minute ventilation (VE). Conclusion: Overall, only a few significant differences were observed, which indicates consistency in the perceived use of weaning parameters between Saudi Arabia and the United States, suggesting a shared foundation in clinical practice. These insights may serve as a reference for other countries aiming to evaluate or systematize their weaning strategies and could also inform educational programs for respiratory therapy students by highlighting the key parameters emphasized in clinical decision-making.32 0Item Restricted Analysing Cybersecurity Risk Assessment Model for Healthcare Systems in Saudi Arabia(Saudi Digital Library, 2025-05) Alghamdi, Abdulmonem; Vasileios, AdamosThis study analyses the Saudi Arabian's cybersecurity issues in healthcare systems and assesses the usefulness of international risk assessment models in some frameworks such as ISO/IEC 27001 and NIST. It identifies major threats like ransomware, phishing, data breaches, and insider risks based on survey responses from medical professionals like medical staff, cybersecurity specialists and administrative managers. Variety of medical institutions members with difference in beds capability, number of branches and financial situation that guarantees the national-wide needs study. Findings point to critical weaknesses in the current models, especially their incompatibility with local regulations and organisational cultures and special needs. Consequently, the study emphasises the necessity of a tailored cybersecurity risk assessment model that is particular to the Saudi healthcare environment. The research highlights key elements and offers suggestions to improve cybersecurity resilience in accordance with national policies and Vision 2030 objectives, even though it does not fully implement a model.23 0Item Restricted Sustainable Wildlife Tourism in Saudi Arabia(Saudi Digital Library, 2024) Aldughaishem, Abdulrhman; Philip, RylandThis study explores the opportunities and challenges of developing sustainable wildlife tourism in Saudi Arabia, a country known for its rich biodiversity and unique ecosystems. The research underscores the importance of economic benefits such as job creation and revenue generation in enhancing tourist satisfaction, aligning with Saudi Arabia's Vision 2030 objectives of economic diversification. However, the study also highlights significant environmental concerns, including habitat disruption and pollution, which pose challenges to the long-term sustainability of wildlife tourism. The effectiveness of current regulatory frameworks is questioned, suggesting a need for stronger enforcement and policy refinement. Community involvement emerges as a crucial factor, positively influencing both economic and social benefits. The study concludes with recommendations for enhancing environmental regulations, promoting community-based tourism, and fostering public-private partnerships. Additionally, it calls for future research to focus on the long-term impacts of tourism, broader geographic studies, and the effects of climate change on wildlife tourism in Saudi Arabia. These insights aim to guide policymakers, industry stakeholders, and researchers in developing a sustainable wildlife tourism sector that supports economic growth while preserving natural resources and enhancing community well-being.20 0Item Restricted The Influence of TikTok Food-Related Content on the Eating Behaviour of Young Adults in Al-Jouf, Saudi Arabia(Saudi Digital Library, 2025) Alsharari, Khalid Hail S; Feng, JuanThis research set out to explore how food-related content on TikTok influences the eating behaviours of young adults in Al-Jouf, Saudi Arabia. Grounded in Social Cognitive Theory and informed by a structured review of global and regional literature, the study employed a quantitative design to examine behavioural trends, digital media engagement, and dietary motivations among a sample of 215 participants. Data were analysed using descriptive statistics and one-way ANOVA. The findings revealed that frequent TikTok users were significantly more likely to try new foods, discover unfamiliar cuisines, and follow diet-related content creators. For example, participants who used TikTok for more than three hours daily reported higher motivation to explore new diets (p = .0003) and greater confidence in changing their eating habits (p = .0011) but also showed stronger appeal toward unhealthy food content (p < .001). These results highlight TikTok’s dual role in shaping both health-promoting and indulgent dietary behaviours. By focusing on an underrepresented region, the study offers contextual insights into how algorithm-driven content influences food choices among Saudi youth and provides a basis for more targeted health communication strategies. By situating this investigation within the underrepresented context of Al-Jouf, the study offers region-specific insights into how global platforms like TikTok are reshaping dietary perceptions even in semi-urban environments. Through its thematic analysis and theoretical framing, the research affirms key constructs of Social Cognitive Theory—namely observational learning, reinforcement, and self-efficacy—as relevant mechanisms in digital food culture. Furthermore, it identifies areas where health communication strategies could engage more effectively with youth through culturally relevant and visually persuasive content. While the study acknowledges its limitations, including the use of a non-random sample and reliance on self-reported data, its contributions are clear. It provides a foundation for future research on algorithm-driven health messaging in the Gulf region and highlights the growing need to understand how young people interact with food content in digital spaces. Ultimately, this research underscores the importance of aligning public health efforts with the evolving media environments that shape the everyday lives of young adults in Saudi Arabia and beyond.31 0Item Restricted The Impact of Job Burnout on the Performance of Non-Academic Staff(Saudi Digital Library, 2025) Alzahrani, Ahmed; O’Loughlin, TimJob burnout has emerged as a critical issue affecting employee well-being and organisational performance, particularly within the higher education sector. Despite substantial international research, limited studies have explored the relationship between burnout and performance among non-academic staff in Saudi Arabian universities. This study addresses this gap by investigating how job burnout influences the performance of non-academic employees at the public universities in Riyadh. The research aims to examine the extent and nature of burnout experienced by staff, identify its main causes, and assess its impact on individual performance outcomes. A quantitative research design was employed, using a structured survey distributed to a sample of non-academic staff across various administrative departments at the public universities. The survey collected information on demographic characteristics, burnout experiences (across emotional exhaustion, depersonalisation, reduced personal accomplishment, job stress, work-life balance, and social support at work), and self-perceptions of job performance. Data analysis involved descriptive statistics, correlation analysis, and regression modelling to examine the relationships between burnout dimensions and performance outcomes. The findings revealed a moderate level of overall job burnout among participants, with a weighted mean of 57.6%, alongside a moderate level of job performance effectiveness, with a weighted mean of 56.8%. Statistical analysis confirmed a significant negative impact of overall job burnout on job performance (R² = 0.756, p < 0.05). Among the burnout dimensions, job stress demonstrated the strongest negative association with job performance (correlation coefficient = 0.797, p < 0.05). These results highlight the critical need for organisational strategies to address job burnout, particularly by managing work-related stress and enhancing support systems for non-academic staff. Implementing initiatives such as workload management, employee engagement programs, and professional development opportunities may contribute to improved staff well-being and greater institutional effectiveness. Future research could benefit from longitudinal studies and broader cross-institutional comparisons within the Saudi higher education sector.26 0Item Restricted Sustainable Waste Management of Date Palm Fronds in Saudi Arabia: Pyrolysis-Derived Biochar Integration into Construction Materials for Carbon Sequestration(Saudi Digital Library, 2024-09) Shaiban, Saad; Scott, BanksThis study focuses on integrating biochar derived from date palm fronds into cement production in Riyadh, Saudi Arabia (KSA), to optimise carbon sequestration (CCS) and reduce carbon emissions. Employing a mixed-method approach, the research combines quantitative Life Cycle Assessment (LCA) using SimaPro software with qualitative sustainability analysis through the Bioeconomy Sustainability Indicator Model (BSIM) and Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) indicators. Phase 1 compares the environmental impact of traditional open combustion versus pyrolysis for biochar production, revealing that pyrolysis significantly reduces carbon emissions from 3.5 tons CO₂-equivalent per ton of waste to 646 kg CO₂-equivalent. This substantial reduction supports Riyadh's climate goals and aligns with KSA’s Vision 2030 sustainability objectives. Phase 2 evaluates the integration of biochar into cement mortar, showing that a 20% substitution of cement with biochar reduces emissions by 24.81 kg CO₂-equivalent per ton of mortar, potentially saving up to 1,796 million tons of CO₂-equivalent annually based on current cement production levels. The sustainability analysis using BSIM highlights benefits such as job creation and economic growth while identifying transportation logistics risks and production efficiency risks. Additionally, the study assesses contributions to SDGs, particularly in climate action, sustainable cities, and responsible consumption and production. The study recommends optimising the supply chain, investing in advanced pyrolysis technology, and supporting market development through policy incentives. Future research should focus on the long-term performance of biochar, explore additional applications in agriculture and water treatment, and further integrate biochar into sustainable construction practices. This research provides valuable insights for advancing sustainable waste management and construction practices in Riyadh, contributing to climate action and supporting regional and global sustainability efforts.23 0Item Restricted A systematic Review of the Consequences of Parents’ Divorce and Challenges of Raising Children between Saudi Arabia and the United Kingdom(Bangor University, 2024) Qahtani, Wasmmih Nayef; Margiad, WilliamsAbstract Purpose: The objective of this study is to assess the emotional, psychological, and social effects of parental divorce on children in the United Kingdom and Saudi Arabia as well as the challenges parents face in parenting after divorce in the two cultures. Methodology: A pragmatic research paradigm was adopted for conducting a systematic review. Literature relevant to the project was then identified, screened, and assessed in line with the PRISMA framework. The approach was a mixed-methods one, using qualitative findings, and supported with quantitative data. The assessment of key themes was conducted through narrative analysis. Results: The children in the UK brought up in an emotionally expressive climate have significant emotional and behavioural issues post-divorce. Saudi children, especially girls, however, are taught to suppress emotions as a cultural norm. Co-parenting challenges are different, with UK laws favouring shared custody but lacking emotional safeguards, and Saudi laws favouring paternal custody and limiting involvement. Conclusion: The experiences children have after a divorce are shaped by cultural values and legal systems and therefore need context specific support strategies. Keywords: Divorce, children, co-parenting, UK, Saudi Arabia, culture, emotional impact11 0Item Restricted The Moderating Role of Organizational Environment Effectiveness on the Relationship Between Saudi Arabian Nurse Managers' Delegation Abilities and Leadership Practices(Zarqa University, 2025-05) Faranti, Amani Mohammed Omer; Alhusban, Raya YousefBackground: Effective leadership and delegation are critical competencies for nurse managers, particularly in healthcare systems characterized by hierarchical structures and resource limitations. In Saudi Arabia, limited evidence exists on how organizational environment factors influence the relationship between nurse managers’ delegation abilities and leadership practices. Aim: This study aims to examine the moderating role of organizational environment effectiveness on the relationship between delegation abilities and leadership practices among nurse managers in Saudi Arabian governmental hospitals. Methods: A descriptive cross-sectional correlational study was conducted with a convenience sample of 183 nurse managers from three governmental hospitals in Saudi Arabia. Data were collected using three validated instruments: the Delegation of Authority Scale (DoAS), the Leadership Practices Inventory (LPI), and the Organizational Environment Assessment (OEA). Descriptive statistics, multiple linear regression, and moderation analysis were performed using SPSS version 26. Results: The mean delegation score was low (M = 1.74, SD = 0.18), with 78.7% of participants classified in the low delegation category. Leadership practices were moderate (M = 127.98, SD = 12.55), with “Modeling the Way” scoring highest (M = 40.23, SD = 5.08). Organizational environment effectiveness was perceived as poor (M = 10.54, SD = 2.13). Moderation analysis revealed that the organizational environment significantly influenced the delegation–leadership relationship (interaction term B = -1.170, p = 0.006), weakening the effect of delegation in unsupportive settings. The number of units managed negatively predicted leadership (B = -1.965, p = 0.040). Conclusion: Organizational environment plays a critical moderating role in the effectiveness of delegation on leadership practices. Targeted interventions to enhance organizational support, resource availability, and manageable workloads are essential to foster effective nursing leadership.5 0