FEU Institute of Technology

Educational Innovation and Technology Hub

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Manuel B. Garcia

124 Publications
The Paradox of Artificial Creativity: Challenges and Opportunities of Generative AI Artistry

Creativity Research Journal, (2024), pp. 1-14

Journal Article | Published: January 1, 2024

Abstract
Creativity has long been viewed as the bastion of human expression. With the advent of generative artificial intelligence (AI), there is an emerging notion of artificial creativity that contests traditional perspectives of artistic exploration. This paper explores the complex dynamics of this evolution by examining how generative AI intertwines with and transforms the art world. It presents a comprehensive analysis of the challenges posed by generative AI in art, from questions of authenticity and intellectual property to ethical dilemmas and impacts on conventional art practices. Simultaneously, it investigates the revolutionary opportunities generative AI offers, including the democratization of art creation, the expansion of creative boundaries, and the development of new collaborative and economic models. The paper posits that the integration of generative AI in art is not just a technological advancement but a significant cultural shift, which necessitates a reevaluation of our understanding of art and the artist. It concludes with a forward-looking perspective, advocating for a collaborative approach to harness the potential of this technology in enriching human creativity and ensuring the vibrant evolution of the art world in the era of AI-driven generation.
Factors Affecting Adoption Intention of Productivity Software Applications Among Teachers: A Structural Equation Modeling Investigation

International Journal of Human–Computer Interaction, (2024), Vol. 40, No. 10, pp. 2546-2559

Journal Article | Published: January 1, 2024

Abstract
Teachers play a central role in achieving the mission, vision, and goals of educational institutions. However, the multitude of responsibilities and obligations they must fulfill demands a high level of productivity. Consequently, productivity software is increasingly becoming a necessity for teachers to lessen their day-to-day work pressure and instead focus on offering quality education. Despite their popularity, the key antecedents and precursors affecting the intention to use productivity software have yet to be investigated. Therefore, the goal of this study was to determine what factors contribute to the adoption of productivity software by applying the theoretical lens of the Technology Acceptance Model (TAM). A total of 947 responses from basic and higher education teachers were analyzed using a structural equation modeling approach. Results show that the usefulness and ease of use of productivity software are key in predicting behavioral intention. It is also indirectly affected by external variables such as subjective norms, professional reputation, job relevance, and output quality through perceived usefulness as well as facilitating conditions and self-efficacy through perceived ease of use. Overall, the findings of this study support the applicability of the specific TAM version as well as its employment in the context of productivity software.
Open AI and Computational Intelligence for Society 5.0

Advances in Computational Intelligence and Robotics, (2024), pp. 1-600

Rajiv Pandey, Nidhi Srivastava, ... Manuel B. Garcia Manuel B. Garcia

Book | Published: January 1, 2024

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Abstract
As technology rapidly advances, the complexity of societal challenges grows, necessitating intelligent solutions that can adapt and evolve. However, developing such solutions requires a deep understanding of computational intelligence (CI) and its application in addressing real-world problems. Moreover, ethical considerations surrounding AI, such as bias and accountability, are crucial to ensure responsible development and deployment of intelligent systems. Open AI and Computational Intelligence for Society 5.0 offers a comprehensive exploration of CI, providing insights into intelligent systems' theory, design, and application. This book is a practical guide for scientists, engineers, and researchers seeking to develop thoughtful solutions for complex societal issues. Integrating disruptive technologies and frameworks illuminates the path toward creating intelligent machines collaborating with humans to enhance problem-solving and improve quality of life.
Business Sustainability Performance through Augmented Reality: A Literature Review on Applications, Benefits and Challenges

2024 IEEE 16th International Conference on Humanoid, Nanotechnology, Information Technology, Communication and Control, Environment, and Management (HNICEM), (2024), pp. 1-7

Amitav M. Swapnil, Inna Sosunova, ... Ari Happonen

Conference Paper | Published: January 1, 2024

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Abstract
The study investigates the role of Augmented Reality (AR) for business operations enhancement, overcoming technological challenges, and advancing industrial sustainability. A systematic literature review was conducted, analyzing AR applications across sectors such as healthcare, education, e-commerce, manufacturing, maintenance, libraries, and museums. Academic databases like Google Scholar, IEEE Xplore, and Scopus were used. AR's effectiveness was assessed based on its ability to improve workflows, reduce errors, and enhance user engagement. Findings indicate that AR facilitates immersive training, reduces product return rates through virtual previews, and personalizes user interactions, leading to increased operational agility and innovation. Also, AR supports sustainability by promoting eco-friendly behaviors, optimizing resource usage, and enabling lean production practices. However, widespread adoption remains limited due to high implementation costs, technical complexity, and a shortage of skilled professionals. We offer a set of targeted recommendations to mitigate growth barriers: investing in scalable, cost-effective AR solutions, improving technical infrastructure, developing industry-specific AR applications, and offering specialized training to build AR expertise within the workforce. These strategies are essential for full AR's potential realization to drive sustainable and transformative business practices across industries. By addressing these current limitations, organizations can leverage AR not only as a tool for operational improvement but also as a strategic asset for advancing sustainability and long-term innovation.
Social Relationship Development in the Metaverse: The Roles of Embodiment, Immersion, and the Moderating Effect of Copresence

TENCON 2024 - 2024 IEEE Region 10 Conference (TENCON), (2024), pp. 1533-1536

Conference Paper | Published: January 1, 2024

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Abstract
Social relationships are important to human well-being and interaction. Recently, there has been growing interest in how they are formed in various digital media, including social media and video games. Amid the rise of digital engagement, the metaverse has emerged as an essential virtual environment for social interaction. Unfortunately, there is limited understanding of how social relationships are developed and maintained within the metaverse. In this study, we explored the dynamics of social relationship development in a metaverse world. Using a one-shot case study, we assessed the roles of immersion and embodiment, as well as the moderating effect of copresence, in building social relationships through multiple regression analysis. Our findings show that with higher levels of immersion and embodiment, the formation of social relationships in the metaverse is significantly improved. Copresence further intensifies these effects, which is indicative of its crucial role in virtual social interactions. These results indicate that enhancing the immersion, embodiment, and copresence elements in metaverse environments can encourage stronger social bonds among users. Overall, this study advances our understanding of online social relationship formation in the metaverse environments and its design and development.
The Manifesto for Teaching and Learning in a Time of Generative AI: A Critical Collective Stance to Better Navigate the Future

Open Praxis, (2024), Vol. 16, No. 4, pp. 487-513

Aras Bozkurt, Junhong Xiao, ... Tutaleni Iita Asino

Journal Article | Published: January 1, 2024

Abstract
This manifesto critically examines the unfolding integration of Generative AI (GenAI), chatbots, and algorithms into higher education, using a collective and thoughtful approach to navigate the future of teaching and learning. GenAI, while celebrated for its potential to personalize learning, enhance efficiency, and expand educational accessibility, is far from a neutral tool. Algorithms now shape human interaction, communication, and content creation, raising profound questions about human agency and biases and values embedded in their designs. As GenAI continues to evolve, we face critical challenges in maintaining human oversight, safeguarding equity, and facilitating meaningful, authentic learning experiences. This manifesto emphasizes that GenAI is not ideologically and culturally neutral. Instead, it reflects worldviews that can reinforce existing biases and marginalize diverse voices. Furthermore, as the use of GenAI reshapes education, it risks eroding essential human elements— creativity, critical thinking, and empathy—and could displace meaningful human interactions with algorithmic solutions. This manifesto calls for robust, evidence-based research and conscious decision-making to ensure that GenAI enhances, rather than diminishes, human agency and ethical responsibility in education.
Determinants of Teachers' Intentions to Integrate Education for Sustainable Development (ESD) Into Physical Education and Health Curricula

Global Innovations in Physical Education and Health, (2024), pp. 439-472

Dharel P. Acut, Joseph T. Lobo, ... Manuel B. Garcia Manuel B. Garcia

Book Chapter | Published: January 1, 2024

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Abstract
Education for Sustainable Development (ESD) is essential for promoting sustainability and environmental stewardship among students. However, the intent of Filipino teachers to incorporate ESD principles into Physical Education and Health remains underexplored. This study examines the relationships between attitudes towards ESD, subjective norms, perceived behavioral control, behavioral intentions, self-reported behavior, subjective task value, ESD knowledge, and ESD integration beliefs among 363 educators. Utilizing PLS-SEM, the study finds perceived behavioral control as the strongest predictor of both behavioral intentions and self-reported behaviors, underscoring its role in enabling educators to implement ESD practices. ESD knowledge significantly influences perceived behavioral control, suggesting that enhancing knowledge could boost educators' confidence in ESD integration. Additionally, ESD integration beliefs impact attitudes and behavioral intentions. These findings offer insights for targeted interventions to support ESD integration within PE and Health curricula.
"We're going on a virtual trip!": a switching-replications experiment of 360-degree videos as a physical field trip alternative in primary education

International Journal of Child Care and Education Policy, (2023), Vol. 17, No. 1

Manuel B. Garcia Manuel B. Garcia , Louis S. Nadelson, ... Andy Yeh

Journal Article | Published: December 1, 2023

Abstract
Field trips are steadily declining due to limited funding, time constraints, safety concerns, and other logistical issues. Many schools are resorting to a virtual field trip (VFT), especially when education is disrupted due to public health concerns, natural disasters, or other unforeseen significant events. Virtual reality as a common form of VFT is likely not an option for many schools due to cost and other barriers. The purpose of our study was to explore the potential of going in a VFT using 360-degree (360°) videos as an alternative to a physical field trip in primary education. We recruited third-grade pupils (aged 8–9) from two private elementary schools to experience VFTs using 360° videos (360V) and regular videos (REGV). Using a switching-replications experimental design, we compared their content recall (assessment tests) and VFT experience (attitude, perceived usefulness, involvement, inquiry, video engagement, and virtual guide) across four-time points. Our results show that the increase in content recall scores of 360V groups after VFTs was consistently higher compared to REGV groups at all time points, although it was only significant in one quarter. We also found pupils’ video engagement, involvement, and attitude as significant factors in their VFT experience. These results call attention to a possible implementation of VFTs and continue the long-standing tradition that has been acknowledged as a student-centered, interactive instructional method.
Facilitating Group Learning Using an Apprenticeship Model: Which Master is More Effective in Programming Instruction?

Journal of Educational Computing Research, (2023), Vol. 61, No. 6, pp. 1207-1231

Journal Article | Published: October 1, 2023

Abstract
Computer programming is a difficult course for many students. Prior works advocated for group learning pedagogies in pursuit of higher-level reasoning and conceptual understanding. However, the methodological gaps in existing implementations warrant further research. This study conducted a three-armed cluster-randomized controlled trial to comparatively evaluate the social and cognitive effects of group learning pedagogies in computer programming. Following an apprenticeship model, each group has a designated master: drivers in pair programming (PP), peer leaders in peer-led team learning (PLTL), and practitioners in practitioner-assisted group learning (PAGL). In all course deliverables, the PP group received the lowest mean scores. Meanwhile, no significant difference was found between the PLTL and PAGL groups. Except for psychological safety, social factors such as task cohesion, interdependence, and group potency were significantly different between the groups. Both PLTL and PAGL groups reported a significant increase in social factors after 14 weeks of intervention. These findings provide a rationale for educational leaders and teachers to formulate curricular plans that integrate PLTL and PAGL in computer programming education. Overall, this study contributes to the literature on group learning, expands the pedagogies in computer programming, and serves as additional empirical evidence on cognitive apprenticeship and sociocultural perspectives of learning.
ChatGPT as a Virtual Dietitian: Exploring Its Potential as a Tool for Improving Nutrition Knowledge

Applied System Innovation, (2023), Vol. 6, No. 5, pp. 1-18

Journal Article | Published: October 1, 2023

Abstract
The field of health and medical sciences has witnessed a surge of published research exploring the applications of ChatGPT. However, there remains a dearth of knowledge regarding its specific potential and limitations within the domain of nutrition. Given the increasing prevalence of nutrition-related diseases, there is a critical need to prioritize the promotion of a comprehensive understanding of nutrition. This paper examines the potential utility of ChatGPT as a tool for improving nutrition knowledge. Specifically, it scrutinizes its characteristics in relation to personalized meal planning, dietary advice and guidance, food intake tracking, educational materials, and other commonly found features in nutrition applications. Additionally, it explores the potential of ChatGPT to support each stage of the Nutrition Care Process. Addressing the prevailing question of whether ChatGPT can replace healthcare professionals, this paper elucidates its substantial limitations within the context of nutrition practice and education. These limitations encompass factors such as incorrect responses, coordinated nutrition services, hands-on demonstration, physical examination, verbal and non-verbal cues, emotional and psychological aspects, real-time monitoring and feedback, wearable device integration, and ethical and privacy concerns have been highlighted. In summary, ChatGPT holds promise as a valuable tool for enhancing nutrition knowledge, but further research and development are needed to optimize its capabilities in this domain.

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