Over several weeks, from late May to early June, the School of Business at the University of Jordan (UJ) conducted 14 informative training sessions and seminars. Honorary and adjunct professors were invited to share their expertise with faculty members.
The sessions covered a broad spectrum of topics within the business domain, reflecting the field's diverse and evolving nature. The primary goal was to enhance the faculty's research skills and knowledge, ensuring they remain at the forefront of academic and practical advancements in business.
One of the key sessions, titled: “Synergize: Exploring Research Collaboration Ideas & Opportunities”, delivered by the honorary professor Prof. Viswanath Venkatesh from Virginia Tech India, USA, focused on fostering collaborative research efforts and exploring new opportunities for joint studies. The Future of Work session with Prof. Venkatesh addressed emerging trends and challenges in the evolving workplace landscape. In his participation at the IBDE 2024 conference, Prof. Venkatesh delivered a session titled “Mix Your Methods for Increased Quality, Impact, And Publishability”, in which he stressed the importance of considering multiple data collection methods (both Qualitative and Quantitative methods) to conduct impactful research.
Another significant session, “Structural Equation Modeling using AMOS”, conducted by Adjunct Professor Mohammad Nural Allam from Tabuk University, KSA, provided attendees with advanced techniques in structural equation modelling.
A notable session on Hybrid Work Leadership, delivered by the honorary Prof. Karin Sanders from The University of New South Wales, Australia, explored balancing employees' and managers' hybrid work preferences. Another impactful session by Prof. Sanders, titled: “HRM Content and Process”, discussed the effects and antecedents of HRM system strength, offering deep insights into human resource management.
Faculty members also benefited from a lecture on “Publishing in ABS 3 & 4 Stars Journals”, a session led by Honorary Professor Jim Haslam from Durham University, UK, where they learned strategies for publishing in high-impact academic journals. The integration of advanced technology was highlighted in the “Integration of Gen AI Tools in HE Curriculum” seminar, delivered by Adjunct Professor Nisreen Ameen from Royal Holloway, University of London, UK, where participants explored how to incorporate generative AI tools into higher education curricula.
To further enhance their research capabilities, attendees were introduced to “New Developments in Quantitative Survey Research” in a session delivered by Honorary Prof. Ramayah Thurasamy from Universiti Sains Malaysia, covering cutting-edge techniques and methodologies in survey research. A session on “Writing for Reputable and Top-Tier Journals”, delivered by Prof. Garry Tan Han from University College Sedaya International, Malaysia and Prof. Ra’ed Masa’deh Bani Yaseen, the dean of the school, focused on the nuances of writing for and getting published in top-tier academic journals.
Practical training was provided in the session on “Structural Equation Modeling Using SmartPLS4: A Hands-on Approach”, delivered by Prof. Ramayah Thurasamy, where faculty members received hands-on experience with SmartPLS4 for structural equation modelling. Additionally, Dr. Nisreen Ameen's presentation, “Beyond Automation: AI's Real-World Impact on Marketing, Businesses, and Communities,” delved into AI's broader impacts beyond automation, emphasizing its role in marketing and community development.
Furthermore, the importance of teamwork and collaboration was emphasized in the “The Importance of Collaborative Research Groups” session led by Adjunct Prof. Allam Hamdan from Ahlia University, Bahrain. This session highlighted the benefits of collaborative research and encouraged networking among faculty members. Lastly, a session on “Best Practices of Book Editing and Journals Publishing”, also delivered by Prof. Allam, equipped faculty members with best practices in editing and publishing, ensuring high-quality academic outputs.
Dean of the School of Business, Prof. Ra’ed Masa’deh Bani Yaseen, highlighted the School's commitment to continuous development and excellence in education. He emphasized that these training sessions are part of an ongoing effort to ensure faculty members are well-prepared to educate the next generation of business leaders. These sessions also open up avenues for collaboration between honorary and adjunct professors and the school's faculty members.
Dr. Rima Al Hasan, Assistant Dean for Quality Assurance, explained that these sessions are part of the school’s annual seminar and webinar plan for 2023-2024. She noted that they contribute to achieving the University's strategic and executive plan and align with the school's focus on improving the quality of research and education.