This study investigates the impact of transformational leadership and the work environment on teacher performance, with a particular focus on how the work environment moderates this relationship within crisis-affected educational settings. A quantitative, survey-based approach was adopted, utilizing a random sample of 509 teachers from various schools across Lebanon. Data analysis was conducted using Smart PLS 4 to assess direct and moderating relationships. The results reveal that while the work environment has a strong and significant positive effect on teacher performance, transformational leadership does not exhibit a statistically significant direct impact. This contrasts with prior studies conducted in stable educational settings, where transformational leadership has consistently been linked to improved teacher performance. The findings suggest that prolonged socio-economic and political crises shift teachers’ reliance more toward a supportive work environment, as basic stability and resource availability become more critical determinants of performance. In such conditions, leadership effectiveness appears contingent on the presence of a positive work environment. This study contributes to the literature by highlighting the fundamental role of the work environment in shaping leadership effectiveness and teacher performance in crisis contexts. It offers empirical insights to inform leadership practices and policy interventions in fragile educational systems.

Purpose: This study tends to examine the influence of transformational leadership on project project and team performance specifically employee empowerment, employee stimulation, and project efficiency and effectiveness. Design/methodology/approach: The study is underpinned by a quantitative methodology and deductive reasoning. A questionnaire was employed. Purposive sampling was used and a sample of 288 individuals was obtained. Findings: Transformational leadership has a positive impact on project management and team performance. Implications: Fostering a nurturing environment led by managers is crucial, enabling employees to freely express themselves, exhibit proactivity, and experience respect. Encouraging transparent communication concerning individual objectives and responsibilities is highly recommended. Practical implications: From a pragmatic standpoint, the study was structured around the validation of three hypotheses. The results have substantiated a favorable association between leadership and the empowerment of employees, the stimulation of employees, as well as the efficiency and effectiveness of projects. Originality/value: The synthesis of existing literature implies that effective team management significantly shapes project performance and, by extension, the holistic performance of organizations. This shift is underscored by a transition from traditional hierarchical frameworks to team-centric structures that foster performance-friendly settings. Within this context, the pivotal roles of leadership and employee empowerment have emerged as indispensable drivers. To put it succinctly, while evaluating project success, managers should prioritize quantifiable metrics like costs, schedules, and scope. Concurrently, they should cultivate a profound comprehension of the multifaceted influences that intricately intersect with project endeavors.

Purpose: This research aims to investigate the use of conversational artificial intelligence (CAI) in academic practice through the lens of activity theory, which emphasises the mediation of human actions by tools within a social context. Additionally, it seeks to determine if and how the results of qualitative analysis differ when using traditional qualitative analysis software tools compared to using artificial intelligence tools. Design/methodology/approach: A pragmatic approach to the research design was used. The data collection phase included a survey, with open- and closed-ended questions and was distributed to academics in four countries (South Africa, Hungary, Lebanon and Wales). The data analysis phase included a mixed-methods approach integrating and interpreting both types of data to leverage the strengths of both qualitative and quantitative insights. Furthermore, traditional qualitative analysis methods and artificial intelligence tools were used for the analysis phase, allowing for a comprehensive understanding of the interactions between academics and these tools. Findings: Younger academics used CAI more for research than teaching, with academics from the science faculty using it more for teaching, and business management lecturers using it more for research. While viewed positively, concerns arose about ethics and educational alignment. This research shows how CAI supports qualitative analysis by saving time and suggesting new directions. Originality/value: Using an “activity theory” theoretical lens, with a pragmatic approach, the research explores how CAI tools impact academic practices. The study enriches theoretical discourse and offers practical recommendations for education.

Purpose: This study investigates the influence of leadership skills on virtual team performance within multinational corporations in Lebanon. Drawing upon established literature, the research examines four key leadership dimensions: motivation, coaching, appreciation, and empowerment, exploring their respective impacts on virtual team effectiveness. Design/methodology/approach: The study, conducted in Lebanon, aimed to explore the influence of leadership skills on virtual team performance through a positivist, deductive approach using a survey method and mono-quantitative methodology. Analyzing 148 individuals across various global Lebanese enterprises, the research employed descriptive statistics, correlation, and regression analyses in SPSS to investigate the relationship between leadership abilities and virtual team effectiveness in the context of businesses utilizing remote collaboration due to globalization and technological advancements. Findings: The study aligns with prior research attributing positive correlations between leadership skills and enhanced team performance. Findings support the hypothesis that leadership motivation skills significantly enhance virtual team performance. Transformational leadership qualities, characterized by strong motivational capabilities, correlate positively with virtual team effectiveness. Implications: The findings underscore the pivotal role of specific leadership competencies in driving virtual team performance within multinational corporate structures. These insights contribute to a deeper understanding of how leadership motivational skills can be leveraged to optimize virtual team dynamics, ultimately improving organizational outcomes in diverse, multinational contexts.

Purpose: This paper investigates the potential of remote work platforms and digital entrepreneurship for the employment inclusion of People with Disabilities (PwD) in Oman. PwD face challenges in the labor market due to social stigma and a lack of awareness about remote work options. This study aims to assess the general digital and digital marketing skills of PwD in Oman, identify the gap between their skills and the requirements of virtual platforms for remote work, and recommend online training programs to bridge the gap. Method: The study will use a mixed-methods approach with questionnaires and real-life scenarios to assess skills and competencies. This study will employ a mixed-methods approach, combining quantitative (questionnaire) and qualitative (real-life scenarios) data collection methods. Results and conclusion: This study will use structural equation modelling, Linear probability and multiple response regression models to validate and identify predictors of skill levels and potential gaps between self-assessment and performance. This guides in the development of appropriate online training which improves the employment prospects of PwDs. Research Implication: PwDs can apply knowledge, understanding, and practical abilities gained through competency development initiatives in the business work process. With freedom and autonomy, they can make judgments and decisions that will improve their psychological state of mind and confidence. This also ensures access to equal opportunity, independence, and protection against discrimination. Originality/Value: The study contributes to Oman Vision 2040 and aligns with national priorities of promoting economic development and empowering vulnerable groups like PwD. This research aims to empower PwD in Oman through skills development and access to remote work opportunities, contributing to their social and economic inclusion.