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Purpose: Following the rapid shift to online learning due to COVID-19, this paper aims to compare the relative efficacy of face-to-face and online university teaching methods. Design/methodology/approach: A scoping review was conducted to examine the learning outcomes within and between online and face-to-face (F2F) university teaching programmes. Findings: Although previous research has supported a "no significant difference" position, the review of 91 comparative studies during 2000-2020 identified 37 (41%) which found online teaching was associated with better learning outcomes, 17 (18%) which favoured F2F and 37 (41%) reporting no significant difference. Purpose-developed online content which supports "student-led" enquiry and cognitive challenge were cited as factors supporting better learning outcomes. Research limitations/implications: This study adopts a pre-defined methodology in reviewing literature which ensures rigour in identifying relevant studies. The large sample of studies (n = 91) supported the comparison of discrete learning modes although high variability in key concepts and outcome variables made it difficult to directly compare some studies. A lack of methodological rigour was observed in some studies. Originality/value: As a result of COVID-19, online university teaching has become the "new normal" but also re-focussed questions regarding its efficacy. The weight of evidence from this review is that online learning is at least as effective and often better than, F2F modalities in supporting learning outcomes, albeit these differences are often modest. The findings raise questions about the presumed benefits of F2F learning and complicate the case for a return to physical classrooms during the pandemic and beyond.

Background and Objectives Australia's population is growing, aging, and becoming more ethnically diverse, resulting in barriers and challenges around social inclusion for non-English-speaking migrants and refugees. This scoping review investigates the experiences of aging within Australia among older adults from culturally and linguistically diverse (CALD) migrant and refugee backgrounds to identify barriers to social integration. Research Design and Methods A scoping review of English language literature and gray literature on the experiences of aging among CALD migrants and refugees living in Australia was conducted from January 2000 to January 2021, according to Arksey and O'Malley's review process. A total of 34 studies were identified for analysis. Results Three primary themes were identified: (a) sociocultural similarities in settlement experiences, (b) engagement with technology for social connection, and (c) engagement with family and community networks. Discussion and Implications Aging, language, sociocultural, and technology contexts shape attitudes to belonging, as well as access to sociomedical services. We argue a cultural well-being framework may assist in developing policy for improved social integration of older CALD adults. As the focus is on social and cultural experiences, all studies with a primary focus on medical and other chronic conditions were excluded. Future studies could include health-related articles to present a more comprehensive approach regarding older CALD adult needs. Follow-up research could focus on the impact of the coronavirus disease 2019 pandemic on the experiences of older adults in Australia, in particular those of CALD backgrounds. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The need for reliable energy is an ongoing challenge. Poor energy access, particularly in off-grid areas, constrains socioeconomic development and reduces resilience against natural hazards. With water-based disasters becoming more frequent and intense, it is important that holistic insights are applied to the assessment of community vulnerabilities and capabilities. Humanitarian engineering interventions that combine renewable energy and flood early warning at the local level offer comprehensive solutions, have long-term potential, and promote synergies between community and professional stakeholders. This study examines a community-centered approach to localised hydropower and flood response within a framework of sustainable development. Using a systems approach, we develop strategies that potentially address multiple needs, including the intersecting needs of key stakeholder groups. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Human and wildlife well-being are linked to riparian and deltaic ecosystems. Human impacts and climate changes affect their environmental sustainability. To secure their protection, various national laws and international agreements have been established. Ecotourism can assist in promoting conservation for sustainability and economic improvement. This study reviews work bearing on these matters, especially with regard to the unique region of Eastern Macedonia and Thrace in Greece. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]