The Journal of Academic Social Science/Uluslararası Sosyal Bilimler Dergisi, Year 2025 Issue 163

RESEARCH ON THE VALIDITY AND RELIABILITY OF THE WORLD HEALTH ORGANİZATION'S QUALITY OF LIFE MODULE IN ELDERLY INDIVIDUALS

Nilgun SARP Şebnem YÜCEL ,Demet AKARÇAY ULUTAŞ ,Recep YUCEL — 2026-01-30

Career development, socialization, and the nature of work are universally acknowledged as vital components of human life. In our modern era, even those who are not employed continue to experience maturation and the aging process. Moreover, groundbreaking medical advancements emphasize the significance of enhancing quality of life and extending the aging phase for individuals. This research focuses on evaluating the validity and reliability of a scale that measures cultural differences and quality of life in older adults, while also exploring socio-demographic variations in overall scores and their sub-dimensions. We conducted an in-depth analysis of the quality of life among 148 elderly individuals, taking into account various socio-demographic factors. The findings highlighted notable differences in quality of life at both overall and sub-dimensional levels. Key factors such as education level, marital status, smoking habits, consistent medication use, and parental status played crucial roles. Importantly, our study demonstrates that education, marital status, and lifestyle choices, including medication and smoking, significantly influence the quality of life for the elderly. These insights underscore the need for targeted interventions to enhance life satisfaction among older adults.

MANIPULATIVE DESIGNS IN CHILDREN'S FASHION USING HEMP FABRIC

Nazan AVCIOĞLU KALEBEKŞefika KANKAYA — 2026-01-30

With the negative change in ecological balance, sustainable fabrics have become more preferred today. To produce sustainable products, natural fibers are used, functional products are designed, and existing products are repaired or replaced. In this study, children's clothes were designed from single jersey fabric produced with hemp, a sustainable fiber. In designs; Manipulation techniques such as ruffles, gathers, quilting, ribbing, beading, encrustation, embroidery and printing were used. The aim of the applications presented in the study is to change the surface appearance of the garment with the textile techniques used in manipulation. The prepared designs are presented as a capsule collection. As a result, it has contributed to children's fashion trends by adding value to clothing in the fast-consuming fashion industry.

A RESEARCH ON FACTORS AFFECTING INVESTMENT DECISIONS: THE CASE OF EASTERN BLACK SEA REGION

Adem ÖZBEK — 2026-01-30

It is possible to talk about many behavioral bias factors that affect the economic decisions of individuals, both controllable and uncontrollable. While the basis of controllable factors is concrete information, the basis of uncontrollable factors is abstract subconscious factors. Every investment, regardless of its size, carries an economic value and an economic risk. The important factor that will increase the value of the investment and reduce the risk is information. However, the lack of information in individual financial decisions has revealed the need to examine behavioral factors under financial science. This study aims to identify behavioral bias factors that are thought to be effective on individuals' investment decisions and to present a comprehensive review of the existing literature. The study population consists of the provinces of Artvin, Rize, Trabzon, Giresun, Ordu, Samsun, Gümüşhane and Bayburt located in the Eastern Black Sea Region. Data were obtained through surveys conducted on 898 people living in these cities. Data were analyzed using Jamovi 2.3 28 software. Multiple linear regression analysis results show that financial literacy, savings and risk propensity factors have a significant effect on individuals' investment decisions.

AN ANALYSIS OF TURKEY CENTURY EDUCATION MODEL BIOLOGY CURRICULUM IN TERMS OF SOFT SKILLS

Murat HEVEDANLIHüseyin Hakan İNCE — 2026-01-30

This study aimed to examine the secondary school biology curriculum developed within the framework of the Turkish Century Maarif Education Model, which was implemented in the 2024–2025 academic year, in terms of soft skills. The research employed a qualitative research design, specifically the document analysis method. The Biology Course Curriculum (BCC) was used as the primary data source, and the relevant documents were obtained through the official website of the Turkish National Ministry of Education. The documents were analyzed in detail, and the data obtained were evaluated using descriptive content analysis based on a classification of soft skills under four main categories: personal, social, methodological, and literacy skills. The findings revealed that, in general, soft skills were included in the curriculum. However, time management, teamwork, leadership, entrepreneurship, and art literacy were not addressed. Based on these findings, several recommendations have been proposed for curriculum development, future research, and instructional practices.

NOTES ON CERAMICS OF GOLDEN HORDE AND FRITWARE PRODUCTION CENTERS

İrem PALA ÇALIŞICI — 2026-01-30

It is known that the field of Traditional Turkish Arts is related to the tangible and intangible cultural heritage produced by Turks, regardless of raw materials, geography and history. The aim of this study is to exemplify the ceramics of the Golden Horde State, one of the Turkish States that lived in a geography other than Anatolia, from the available publications. In addition, it is to convey a way that can be followed to access the ceramics of Turkish States outside the territory of Türkiye online. In addition to the aim of creating a lecture note on the ceramics of the Golden Horde State, it is aimed to increase the ability of those working in the field of fritware in Türkiye to compare and develop their researches such as chemical analyzes in cini art by expanding the known production places such as Iznik, Kubadabad, Tabriz, Iran, Kashan. Since the Golden Horde State is a Turkish-Islamic State that was the last of the Anatolian Seljuks and the beginning of the Ottomans, the interactions and relations should be known, researched and evaluated by those who produce Turkish tile art. The technique known as fritli çamur, fritware, stoneware, taş çini, çini, faience, Iznik çamuru, kuvarz çini, glazed mud, Iznik çamuru, kuvarslı bünye in Türkiye, is referred to as kashin, kashi-cashine pottery, kachine ceramic by researchers who published the Golden Horde ceramics. Local and export productions in the Golden Horde State, which seems to have become stronger thanks to its ability to ensure the security of the Northern Silk Road, have been sampled from the available publications.

FORMAL PERCEPTION IN GESTALT THEORY IN TERMS OF CONCEPTUAL ABSTRACTION

Süleyman ÖZDERİN — 2026-01-30

The sociocultural elements that bring about the process of abstraction in contem- porary art transform the formation of the abstract into a ‘visual’ perception as well as a ‘conceptual’ perception. With this relation structure, an epistemological com- munication is established between the visual form of the abstract and its conceptual content. The ability to construct the thoughts that can correspond to the visual possibilities that enable the formation of abstraction at adequate levels in terms of language and meaning reveals the basic solution area of the problem between ‘visual’ and ‘intellectual’ phenomena, and the way the problem is related is tried to be solved on this ground. The ways in which all visual formalisations representing the possibilities of abstraction relate to all conceptual significations representing the possibilities of thinking constitute the main subject of this article. From this point of view, the ultimate aim of the article is to reveal what the cognitive rela- tions between the methods of abstract art's ‘conceptual formation’ in the visual field in terms of perceptual science and Gestalt theory are, how they are established and what kind of connections they create. The fact that the similarities between Gestalt theory and the tendencies towards abstraction in art are based on ‘prin- cipled elements’ that sometimes become so close that both elements are ‘almost interchangeable’ is of particular importance for the theory of abstract art to produce deeper thoughts. In this context, the relations that Gestalt theory estab- lishes with conceptual abstraction within the ontological structure of abstract art and the reasons for supporting it require both elements to be specifically researched in terms of literature and explained by comparing the common denominator areas in which they relate to each other. In this context, the reasons that create the pheno- menon of abstraction in art, according to the Gestalt theory, should be handled at the same time with the behaviour patterns caused by the brain structure and psychological structure of the human being, and it should be expressed from artistic and scientific perspectives that more common points can come together in this relationship. Because Gestalt theory, as much as it moves from the experi- mental data of psychological science, it also moves from the intellectuality of artistic creativity based on philosophical dimensions. Therefore, when evaluated in terms of the conclusion of the article, the ‘comparative’ consideration of all the elements expressed herein, together with the Gestalt theory of the phenomenon of shaping in contemporary abstract artworks, provides much stronger contributions to the intensification of the interactions within both fields ‘within the scope of content and form relations based on creativity’.

EVALUATION OF THESES WRITTEN ON BIOLOGY EDUCATION (2020- 2024)

Yağmur Suzan SÖNMEZ — 2026-01-30

In recent years, biotechnology has entered a new era with the emergence of genetic engineering. Therefore, the need for biology education is increasing day by day (Oghcncvwede, 2022). The aim of this study is to examine the master's and doctoral theses of the last four years in the field of secondary science and mathematics education (biology education), to determine which topics are emphasized, which study methods are used, to discuss their contributions to the field, and to guide new researchers by providing information about the study status of the field. This study is a descriptive (screening) research conducted to determine the situation. In this study, document analysis method was used. In order to conduct this study, access to the database was provided by entering the YÖK TEZ system over the internet. The study covers 50 theses approved between 2020 and 2024. The thesis review form prepared by the researcher was used to evaluate the theses. All information about the 50 theses obtained at the end of the search on the YÖK TEZ page was entered one by one into the EXEL office program. After the information was entered, the analysis phase started. The current situation was tried to be revealed by analyzing the content of the theses, which were accessed with the prepared form, regarding the language of writing, institute, number of population and sample, population and sample selection method, year of writing, university, department, subject, study method.When a research on theses is conducted, it is seen that the theses related to the content of the theses are generally related to science education. The number of theses examining the theses related to biology education is quite low. It is seen that all the theses examined are the ones that are open to access. 47 of the authors of the theses are female and 3 of them are male. It was determined that the highest number of theses was 23 at Gazi University and the lowest number of theses was 1 at Atatürk University. When the thesis topics are examined, it is seen that 2 of them are related to plastic, microplastic and microplastic pollution, 8 of them are related to the environment, and 3 of them are related to biology teaching programs. It is seen that the remaining 37 theses include different topics such as misconceptions, cancer, gamification, plastination, etc. When the theses were examined, it was determined that they were not supported by TÜBİTAK or any other institution. Considering the scarcity of studies in this field, more studies can be recommended

SAVAŞLARIN HAVACILIK SEKTÖRÜNDE ÇALIŞMA İSTEKLİLİĞİNE ETKİSİ: İSRAİL-FİLİSTİN SAVAŞI ÖRNEĞİ

Selvi VURAL — 2026-01-30

This study aims to determine the effect of students' attitudes towards war on their willingness to work in the sector. In this context, the attitudes of aviation management students were examined in terms of the sector through the example of the Israeli-Palestinian war. The aviation sector is one of the main sectors affected by wars due to its dynamics and functioning. Accordingly, since one of the most important elements of the sector is its employees, it is important to reveal the effect of wars on them. In this context, the current research was carried out with the participation of candidate aviation management students who are important actors of the sector. Quantitative method was used in the research and data was obtained through scale forms. The "Attitude Scale Towards War (SYT-24)" was used to measure students' attitudes towards war and the "Willingness to Work Scale (WWW-12)" was used to measure their willingness to work in the sector. The findings show that wars are decisive on students' willingness to work. Ultimately, students' negative attitudes towards war have a significant and negative effect on their willingness to work in the sector (nature of work, physical environmental conditions, wages). The current study draws attention to the negative effect of wars on the willingness of aviation management students to work in the sector. Students' willingness to work in the aviation sector is significantly negatively affected by the wars.

COMMON POST-EARTHQUAKE PSYCHOSOCIAL PROBLEMS FACED BY CHILDREN, AND NURSING APPROACH TOWARDS THEM

Mehtap GENÇSultan KÖSE — 2026-01-30

One of the traumatic events that deeply affect children's mental health is earthquakes. Traumatic experiences cause children to suffer from psychosocial problems such as Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD), anxiety, depression, sleep disorders and social development problems. In this review, it was aimed to investigate the psychosocial problems commonly observed in children after an earthquake and the role of nurses in this process. As indicated in several studies, after an earthquake, children react with intense shock, fear and anxiety, all of which manifest themselves in different symptoms depending on children’s developmental stage. While PTSD and anxiety disorders negatively affect children's academic performance and social relationships, sleep disorders and depression can lead to long-term psychological problems. As if these were not enough, lack of social support and disruption of family dynamics delay children’s recovery. Early diagnosis, psychological interventions and social support mechanisms are of vital importance in supporting children’s mental health after an earthquake. School-based support programs and provision of emotional support within the family are among the effective intervention strategies. It is recommended that studies aimed at raising society’s awareness and developing children's skills to cope with trauma should be conducted.

A DISCOURSE ANALYSIS EXAMPLE BASED ON THE CONCEPTUALIZATION OF “US” AND “THE OTHER”: IDENTITY CONSTRUCTION OF SYRIAN REFUGEES IN THE TURKISH PRINT MEDIA

Murat BİROLZeynep Nihan BAKIR — 2026-01-30

Since 2011, Syrian refugees have remained a significant topic in media discourse. News coverage concerning Syrian refugees spans various domains, including health, education, social life, and culture, and is disseminated through both print and audiovisual media. Within this coverage, the language and discourse employed often rely on the binary opposition of “us” versus “them”, reinforcing distinctions between national and ethnic identities. This study aims to analyze the discourse practices of three newspapers -Sözcü, Hürriyet, and Sabah- which exhibit differing editorial perspectives, in the context of migration following the 2011 Syrian civil war. Methodologically, the study categorizes news headlines into two thematic areas, education and citizenship, and examines them through the macro and micro-structural dimensions of van Dijk’s discourse analysis framework. The findings indicate that six news articles, selected from the three newspapers (one from each category), engage in ideological reproduction, demonstrating that discourse is shaped more by contextual influences than by the subjects themselves.

IN THE FOOTSTEPS OF AFRICAN IMMIGRANT WOMEN IN PROSTITUTION IN ISTANBUL

Amara KEİTAVıldane ÖZKAN — 2026-01-30

While there is much international concern about the waves of immigration on the Mediterranean, the situation of immigrants is far more worrying in destination countries, especially for young girls arriving from the African continent and living there illegally. The phenomenon of young girls living illegally increases their vulnerability to certain practices, such as prostitution, and all the corollary effects that can compromise their harmonious integration into society. Prostitution has been a problem in Turkey since the current “Islamo-conservative“ government came to power and took drastic measures to curb the phenomenon, but there has been no real change. Prostitution has been a problem in Turkey since the current 'Islamo-conservative' government came to power and took drastic measures to curb the phenomenon, but there has been no real change. In addition, some ‘nests of prostitutes’ have visibly disappeared, but the phenomenon remains under another guise, where only ‘proselytes’ can easily make their way into the few places of prostitution that continue to resist the manoeuvres of the authorities. It is in this context that the present study aims to analyse the prostitution practices of African immigrant women in Istanbul, Turkey's economic capital. Based on action research, we have created a data collection strategy designed to encourage African immigrant women in prostitution to speak freely, while guaranteeing them confidentiality. As African culture is influenced by the ideology of communitarianism, the collection of data on the phenomenon of prostitution by African immigrant women was initiated by a behavioural strategy on the part of the interviewer, whose main data collection technique was the life story. The analysis of discourse and the results of interviews conducted with African immigrant women involved in prostitution has enabled us to discover that the cultural ideology of sexuality, the use of information and communication technologies and the tasks performed on a daily basis reinforce the prostitution practices of African immigrant women in Istanbul.

THE PAST AND PRESENT OF SUPERVISION: A GLOBAL EVALUATION IN THE FIELD OF SOCIAL WORK

Merve KARAMANTaner ARTAN — 2026-01-30

This study aims to provide a global evaluation by addressing the historical development, functions, and practices of social work supervision in different countries. Within the scope of the study, the role of supervision in professional practice was examined, and its development throughout various historical periods, as well as its current state, was analyzed comparatively. Social work supervision has held an important place in social work practice since the Charity Organization Societies of the 19th century and has gradually become more systematic during the process of professionalization. In the following period, supervision models were developed, academic studies increased, and supervision standards began to be established. Today, in many countries, supervision is recognized as a fundamental necessity in the field of social work, and different supervision models are implemented in social work institutions and organizations. However, it is observed that in countries where the supervision system is either unstructured or inadequate, serious issues with service quality arise. In conclusion, social work supervision is a critical process that supports the professional development of practitioners, enhances service quality, and strengthens ethical standards. Strengthening the supervision system on a global level is of great importance for making social work practices more effective and sustainable.

BOOK REVIEW: IMPERIAL BORDERLANDS – INSTITUTIONS AND LEGACIES OF THE HABSBURG MILITARY FRONTIER

Cengiz ERGÜN — 2026-01-30

This study aims to introduce the book Imperial Borderlands: Institutions and Legacies of the Habsburg Military Frontier by Bogdan G. Popescu. The first and only edition of the work under review was published in 2024 and consists of 317 pages. The book consists of seven chapters, excluding the Appendices and Bibliography sections. The language of the book is English. The book contains the following chapters, respectively: “1. Historical States, Imperialism, and Development”, “2. Imperialism and Extractive Institutions: A Theoretical Framework”, “3. The Habsburg Military Frontier”, “4. Military Colonialism and Economic Development”, “5. Colonial Institutions and Social Norms”, “6. Lasting Legacies Political Attitudes and Social Capital”, and “7. Beyond the Habsburgs”. Each chapter is divided into subheadings according to its subject, and the topics include a detailed explanation and academic narrative. As a result, the work is considered suitable for university students, researchers and academics who have basic knowledge of the subjects discussed by the author.

INTERNAL CONTROL SYSTEM AND MINISTRY OF HEALTH APPLICATION EXAMPLE

Rukiye KAYADuygu CELAYİR — 2026-01-30

The internal control system is a monitoring and control mechanism designed to increase efficiency in public financial management and ensure the correct and efficient use of public resources. In Turkey, the foundations of the internal control system were established by the Public Financial Management and Control Law No. 5018, and its integration and implementation within public institutions have become mandatory. The Ministry of Health has developed various regulations and strategies to implement internal control principles in the delivery and management of public health services. This study examines the implementation examples of the internal control system within the Ministry of Health, aiming to ensure that healthcare services are provided more transparently and efficiently. Additionally, the benefits of internal control and the challenges encountered are discussed, along with successful aspects and areas requiring improvement within the Ministry's practices. As a result, the importance of the internal control system in the health sector is emphasized, and it is suggested that it should contribute to the establishment of a sustainable quality and efficiency approach in public services.

TYPES OF CHALLENGES FACED BY ENGLISH PREPARATORY CLASS STUDENTS AND THEIR INDIVIDUAL DIFFERENCES

Sevda ÇİMEN — 2026-01-30

This study aims to examine the relationship between the challenges faced by students in their English learning processes and their individual characteristics within a compulsory English preparatory program at a university. Data for the study were collected from 221 students enrolled in the English preparatory classes at the School of Foreign Languages of a state university. The data were gathered using the "Individual Status Form" and the "English Learning Opinion Scale," developed by Ergüder (2005). The findings of the research revealed that gender is an influential factor in the challenges encountered during English learning. It was observed that female students experienced more problems stemming from themselves and their teachers compared to male students. Furthermore, the educational level of mothers was found to negatively impact students' self-related difficulties. The type of faculty the students were enrolled in was significantly associated with problems arising from teachers and the education system. It was also noted that students who did not communicate with non-Turkish speakers on social media experienced more issues related to their environment and the education system compared to those who did. In terms of motivation for learning English, a significant difference was found between students who aimed to continue part of their education abroad or excel in their courses and those who learned English solely due to obligation. Specifically, students learning English out of obligation were observed to face more challenges.

EXAMINING THE PERCEPTION OF ARTIFICIAL INTELLIGENCE USAGE THROUGH INSURANCE COMPANIES

Kaan ULUSOY — 2026-01-30

It is seen that, especially recently, as the concept of Artificial Intelligence (AI) has been integrated into business processes in internal company systems, there have been changes in routine workflows and as a result, employee performance and perception have been affected. Within the scope of the research, the perception created by the use of artificial intelligence among insurance company employees was examined through in-depth interview research conducted with insurance company employees. It has been tried to examine how the concept of artificial intelligence will be more integrated into business processes in the future and what the changes in employee perception will be as a result and how they will be shaped. It predicts that the presence of Artificial Intelligence (AI) will cause change in the insurance industry in the future. This change will also have repercussions on threads and job performance. Reflections of the Artificial Intelligence perception of the sector employees within the scope of the research in the threads. It appears that the research is a preliminary study addressing the reflections of the use of Artificial Intelligence on people. It is predicted that the concept of Artificial Intelligence (AI) will have significant impacts on employees in businesses in the future.

NEO-CLASSICISM MOVEMENT IN MUSIC AND THE ANALYSIS OF PIANO PIECES OF SERGEI PROKOFIEV

Zeynep UZBelir TECİMER — 2026-01-30

The musical movements that began to emerge in the second half of the nineteenth century and had and important impact on the Twentieth century music also determined the character of the music of this period. Expressionism, Impressionism, Folklorism, Pointillism, Electronic Music, Chance or Aleatoric Music, Postmodern Music, Neo-Classicism etc. were the main prominent movements of this period. Neo-Classicism aimed to revive tonal music, which was the cornerstone of the music of past ages, against the music that had lost its direction and become complex overtime. In accordance with this purpose, the important composers of the period such as Igor Stravinsky, Paul Hindemith and Sergei Prokofiev were inspired by the simple and clear style of the Baroque Period in their works and synthesized them with the music of the twentieth century and produced important works. Among these composers, Sergei Prokofiev stood out with his different musical style. His unconventional attitudes were reflected in his musical identity, and he became an important composer of the period by producing in many genres. With his D major “Classical” Symphony, Op. 25, composed in 1917, Prokofiev introduced one of the first examples of the Neo-classicism movement. In many of his piano works, he skillfully incorporated tonality, forms and harmonies from the past eras. During this period, the composer developed an original and distinctive style, establishing himself as a prominent representative of the Neo-classical movement. This study is a qualitative research utilizing document analysis. It aims to demonstrate how Prokofiev returned to the understanding of form, musicality, and tonality of the Baroque and Classical periods by providing examples in his piano works, and to identify the influence and function of the Neo-Classicism movement on the twentieth-century music. The selected works from the composer, including Piano Sonata No. 1, Op. 1, Toccata in D Minor, Op. 11, 10 Pieces for the Piano, Op. 12, Visions Fugitives, Op. 22, Piano Sonata No. 5, Op. 38/135, and Music for Children, Op.65 form the sample of this study. These piano pieces were analized in terms of tonality, form and texture of the themes. As a result of the study, it was revealed how there was a return to the norms of the Baroque and Classical periods. It was also recommended that Prokofiev's piano works be played more frequently as the examples of Neo-Classicism in the music institutions of Turkiye.

THE RELATIONSHIP BETWEEN CULTURE, MIGRATION AND ARABESQUE MUSIC

Armağan Tevfik CANSU — 2026-01-30

Music has been used as an important means of cultural expression in almost every aspect of life, from religious rituals to ordinary entertainment, for thousands of years in all geographies, from primitive societies to the present day. Therefore, music has directly influenced the cultural lives of societies and enabled them to undergo great changes. In the 19th century, the world, which started to globalize with the industrial revolution, entered into a great change and development with the effect of technology. In parallel with this, many reasons, such as the differentiation of people's income levels, consumption habits, wants and needs have brought class differences, and class differences have brought cultural conflicts. The reflection of the global and cultural change that started all over the world on our country started to be seen in the 1950’s. The unplanned industrialization initiatives taken by the government of that period in Turkey accelerated migration from rural to urban areas and caused many problems such as unemployment, economic problems, squatting and difficulty in adapting to the urban environment. This economic and social change created a new subcultural class in the country, and as a result, the phenomenon of arabesque culture emerged. Arabesque, which is literally defined as “Arabic style”, “something in Arabic style”, appears in a dominant form in artistic expressions of the period, especially in cinema and music. In this research, which deals with the cultural changes that societies have undergone from the first human beings to the present day, the socio-cultural effects of rural-urban migration as a result of economic developments in the industrialization process that started in our country after the 1950’s are examined. In the context of music culture, the reasons for the emergence of the phenomenon of arabesque music, which has reached large masses, its social effects and its sociological dimension reflected on society by leaving deep traces, are discussed.

EFFECTS OF CRYPTO CURRENCIES ON INVESTOR BEHAVIOR: A SURVEY STUDY IN ERZURUM PROVINCIAL CENTER

Ömür AKTAŞŞakir DIZMAN — 2026-01-30

Money and its types have been considered by many scientific circles and an explanation has been tried to be made in the most accurate, reasonable, logical, acceptable and consistent with its usage area. The definitions and explanations made have been about the changes in the historical course of money and its purposes of use. Cryptocurrencies, which are a type of money that takes different forms in the globalizing world, constitute the backbone of our study. With the digitalization of money in today's world, societies use cryptocurrencies for different purposes. When these different purposes are considered, it is seen that some people use cryptocurrencies for investment purposes, while others use them for daily needs and trade. In this study, the effects of cryptocurrencies on investor behavior were tried to be determined. Research; It has been tried to be determined by examining the tendencies of various professional groups(Academicians, Bankers and Teachers) in the city center of Erzurum to use crypto money. A face-to-face survey was conducted as a data collection tool. Of the individuals participating in the study, 222 were male and 178 were female. All respondents who participated in the survey are 100% familiar with cryptocurrency. This shows us that there is no difference in the awareness of cryptocurrencies. Investment in cryptocurrencies should be between 2019 and 2023 at most; It is seen that the COVID-19 Pandemic process, which has affected the world, and the fact that cryptocurrencies are seen as a new investment opportunity by investors, positively affect the trend towards cryptocurrencies. While the majority of men use cryptocurrencies for high returns, the majority of women use cryptocurrencies with the idea of becoming widespread in the future. Since the income levels of teachers and bankers are less than academics among the occupational groups for the purpose of using cryptocurrencies, it has been observed that bankers and teachers invest with the aim of obtaining high returns from cryptocurrencies. Academics, on the other hand, have stated that they have gone to the use of crypto money with the idea of becoming more widespread in the future.

AN EVALUATION ON THE RELATIONSHIP BETWEEN BULL SYMBOLISM AND AGRICULTURE IN THE LIGHT OF URARTIAN ILLUSTRATED ART WORKS

Rafet ÇAVUŞOĞLUÖzkan DENİZ — 2026-01-30

The bull has been a very important creature for humankind, both concretely and abstractly, since the Paleolithic Period. In the Paleolithic Period, the use of its skin, meat and marrow gave the bull an important position due to its nutritional value. The bull pictures on the cave walls can be seen as the symbolism of this period. With the changing living conditions in the Neolithic Period, the bull became an indispensable part of agricultural production. Its power was used to plough the fields. However, the bull symbol has been transformed into a character that fertilizes the soil with a masculine identity. Similarly, during the Chalcolithic Period, bulls continued to be revered for their strength and being a source of food. In the Bronze Age, this sanctification transformed into an identity identified with divine elements. So much so that in many societies, from the Sumerians to the Akkadians, who were among the powerful civilizations of Mesopotamia, the bull was the sacred animal or symbol of the gods. In fact, it was widely believed in these times that bulls were directly related to the Moon and Storm God. The societies of the 1st millennium BC similarly regarded the bull as sacred. Generally, in the Urartian Kingdom, the bull was identified with the God Teisheba. In Urartian sacred rituals, the bull was included in the sacrifice lists offered to many gods, especially the god Haldi. In the Urartian geography, where animal husbandry activities were frequently carried out, bulls were fed in herds and were seen as an important food source. At the same time, bulls were needed to plough the land in limited agricultural areas. All these concrete and abstract features increased the sacredness of the bull and made it a respected animal. In this study, the relationship between bull symbolism and agriculture in the Urartian Kingdom was examined. While examining this symbolism, the place of the bull in the Sumerian, Akkadian, Assyrian, Babylonian and Late Hittite cultures in Mesopotamia was examined. In this way, the similarities and differences between the bull symbolism in the Urartian Kingdom and the bull symbolism in Mesopotamian cultures were also mentioned. The bull has been both a physical and symbolic figure, an indispensable part of agricultural, economic and religious life throughout human history. This study tried to reveal the relationship between agriculture and the religion of the bull symbol in the light of the Urartian Kingdom with archaeological data.

THE EVOLUTION OF MILK CARTON PACKAGING IN THE CONTEXT OF GRAPHIC DESIGN

İrem DUMANAlper Raif İPEK — 2026-01-30

Pasteurization has been a turning point in the historical development of milk packaging. Pasteurization has led to lasting and comprehensive changes, extending the shelf life of dairy products and introducing new packaging methods. Compared to glass bottles, cardboard packaging is preferred for its lightness, practicality and durability. Sustainable and innovative packaging solutions for milk packaging are expected to gain more importance at both industry and consumer level. Environmentally friendly materials consisting of recyclable materials are gaining importance. Innovative designs are being developed for functionality and sustainability. Features such as resealable lids, ergonomic forms and lightweight materials aim to reduce waste and enhance the user experience. Iconic designs in packaging design not only increase brand awareness but also contribute to consumer loyalty, which in turn influences purchasing decisions. Biodegradable materials, smart packaging technologies and similar applications are set to reshape the industry by meeting the demands of both consumers and the environment. Milk packaging reflects the dynamic interplay between tradition and innovation and serves as a tangible expression of social values and technological progress. In these contexts, the study explores the significant evolutions in milk packaging over the years in line with technological developments, changing consumer preferences and environmental factors.

THE EFFECT OF MUSIC EDUCATION ON DIGITAL GAME ADDICTION AND SELF-CONFIDENCE LEVELS IN CHILDREN

Devrim GÜVENPınar SOMAKÇI , — 2026-01-30

The study compares digital game addiction and self-confidence levels in individuals aged 7 to 16 who receive music education versus those who do not. This descriptive study utilized quantitative methods, comparing digital game addiction and self-confidence across two groups: music education recipients (Group 1, n=60) and non-recipients (Group 2, n=43). A questionnaire was administered to 103 participants, gathering socio-demographic data and responses to the Digital Game Addiction (DGA) and General Self-Efficacy Scale (GSES). Statistical analysis was conducted using SPSS 25, featuring Mann-Whitney U, Kruskal Wallis H, and Chi-square tests at a 95% confidence interval (p<0.05). Significant differences were found between groups in GSES scores: Group 1 (69.98) outperformed Group 2 (26.92). Conversely, Group 2 (56.66) exhibited higher Digital Game Addiction levels than Group 1 (48.66). No gender differences impacted GSES and DGA levels in Group 1, while Group 2 showed gender differences in GSES scores, with males (27.55) outperforming females (17.17) (p=0.007). Both groups exhibited no differences in GSES scores or DGA levels based on education. In conclusion, findings suggest that music education may enhance self-esteem and self-efficacy, highlighting the need for interdisciplinary research on the psychological benefits of instrument training well-being.

EXAMINING THE OPINIONS OF SCHOOL PRINCIPALS ABOUT THE SCHOOL GUIDANCE SERVICE

Aylin DAĞEmine Tuğba KARAMAN ,Mahmut ÇOLAK ,Hakan CELEP — 2026-01-30

The aim of this research is to examine school principals' views on school counseling services using a qualitative approach. The study was conducted within the framework of a phenomenological design, and the study group consisted of 20 school principals selected using the maximum variation sampling method. Data were collected through a semi-structured interview form developed by the researcher and analyzed using content analysis. The data were categorized under themes and codes, then tabulated, and frequency and percentage distributions for each code were presented in tables. The findings indicate that counseling services contribute to students in various areas, such as supporting academic success, providing social and emotional development, career guidance, and preventive counseling activities. However, principals also have some criticisms regarding counseling services, particularly focusing on issues such as staff shortages, material deficiencies, and the visibility of counseling activities. The results of the study suggest that increasing the effectiveness of counseling services requires strengthening the support of principals and enhancing collaboration between counseling services and school management. The study concludes with significant recommendations, such as strengthening the cooperation between counseling services and school management, making counseling services more proactive, and increasing staff support, all of which are essential strategies to support school success and students' psychosocial development.

THE EFFECT OF ETWINNING PROJECTS ON THE MOTIVATION AND SOCIAL SKILLS OF 11/18 AGE GROUP STUDENTS: AN EXAMPLE OF ŞANLIURFA PROVINCE

Ayşe KAYAUğur KAYA ,Hale YANMADIK — 2026-01-30

The aim of this research is to observe the change in the active participation of secondary and high school students at different cognitive levels, their participation in the projects on the eTwinning application, their learning and use of Web 2.0 tools, and thus the effect on their attitudes/motivation towards the lessons and their contribution to their social skills. In order to achieve this aim, the eTwinning Student Motivation and Social Skills Scale was applied to a group of 82 people consisting of middle and high school students aged 11-18 in Şanlıurfa. In order to determine the internal consistency and reliability of the scale, the Cronbach Alpha (α) coefficient method was used, and the results were analyzed and tabulated with the SPSS program. As a result of this research, which was carried out using a non-experimental quantitative survey model, the motivation and social skill levels of the students participating in the survey were found to be high and very high, but it was seen that the students were behind in communication with their friends in the project and in making new friends compared to other social skills. Considering the overall result, no significant difference was observed between the data.

THE CONCEPT OF IDENTITY IN NEZAKET EKICI'S PERFORMANCES IN CONTEMPORARY ART

Şahin LATİFECİAyça TUFAN — 2026-01-30

In contemporary art, artists who use various artistic disciplines together express themselves through contemporary art. Nezaket Ekici, an international performance artist living in Berlin, often addresses the taboo concept of identity with an ironic narrative in her work. While questioning the complex relationships between body, social norms, and identity in her performances, Ekici also involves the audience in this inquiry. In this context, identity-focused performances in contemporary art have emerged as a response to confronting societal norms and the prevailing gender inequality. This study aims to analyze Nezaket Ekici's contemporary performances in Turkey through the lens of the concept of identity. It will focus on how the artist approaches the concept of identity and will address her impact on the contemporary art environment based on the research conducted. The performances carried out by Ekici in Turkey will be examined in situ, with examples drawn from her recent works in Antalya and Istanbul. Thus, through the analyzed works, the reflections of the concept of identity in art will be examined specifically in relation to Ekici's performances, identifying and discussing her identity-focused works.

AN EVALUATION OF E. GÜLAY SAYIN KARABIYIK'S BOOK HZ. HATICE IN TERMS OF THE USE OF SIRAH KNOWLEDGE

Sena HANBEYOĞLU — 2026-01-30

The novel genre, which developed in an environment where reason and science came to the fore with the Enlightenment in the West, is based on concrete reality. Over time, with postmodern influences, non-physical elements have also been included in the novel. In Turkish literature, while the novel developed with the Westernisation process, novels containing Islamic elements have emerged since the 1970s. The inclusion of Islamic elements in the novel has also found its reflections in the narration of sirah. This situation has brought up the problem of the distortion of narrations in texts dominated by fiction based on sirah information. This article aims to examine this problem based on the narrations used in E. Gülay Sayın Karabıyık's Hz. Hatice and to determine the author's method of using the narrations. While examining the narrations, a comparison method was used with the works that the author cited the most; the works of authors such as Ibn Kathir, Ibn Hisham, Tabari, Ibn Sa'd were used. As a result of our analyses, it has been concluded that the author sometimes took the narrations as they were, sometimes combined them or made a choice between them, and sometimes changed the narrations in his book, which he constructed in the dilemma of fiction and reality.

A NEW LITERARY GENRE: MANGA AND THE NEW MANGA MOVEMENT

Samet KIR — 2026-01-30

According to the researches, manga is known as Japanese comics consisting of science fiction, fantasy elements or themes of violence and sexuality. French New Manga (Nouvelle Manga) is the result of the efforts that emerged from the combination of bande dessinée, comics and manga. This study aims to make various interpretations of the culture industry and popular culture of our age. The subjects discussed explain what manga is and what the French New Manga movement is. The main goal is to deeply understand and interpret these movements with the pioneers of manga and the French New Manga movement. In addition, the works of the pioneers of the movement are examined. The place of manga in countries and why it is popular in which countries are tried to be understood, and its place in culture is stated. At the same time, the market analyses of manga and the French New Manga are examined, and a comparison is made with comics.

ANALYSIS OF VERBAL SUMMARIZATIONS OF B1 LEVEL TEXTS BY KAZAKH STUDENTS WITH PQRST TECHNIQUE

Adem ÖZKANCemal ÖZDEMİR — 2026-01-30

Summarization is one of the effective methods individuals use in various fields. Whether consciously or unconsciously, individuals summarize everything they learn. Summarization intersects directly or indirectly with the teaching techniques of Turkish. Summarization is also preferred by individuals as conveying the essence or simplifying things to their pure form. In the study, students were asked to verbally summarize 5 texts at the B1 level. Observations were recorded numerically based on an observation form prepared in accordance with expert opinions and later analyzed. Qualitative research methods were used in the study. In the analysis, a situational analysis was conducted and tables were interpreted. During the analysis of the data, there was no intervention for students to freely express their own ideas or thoughts. Participants effectively summarized the texts during verbal summaries by responding to verbal questions such as the difficulty of topics, main ideas of texts, restructuring, and re-titling the stories.

SOCIAL EXCLUSION OF WOMEN AND THEIR MARRIAGE STATUS

Pınar YAVUZ — 2026-01-30

Humans are social beings and desire to be in social relationships. However, some deficiencies that the individual has prevent her from integrating into society and strengthening her social characteristics. In this case, individuals face social exclusion. Social exclusion refers to the situation of individuals being deprived of social, economic, political, cultural etc. systems that ensure social integration. Social exclusion causes many negativities for individuals. When evaluated specifically for women, the extent of social exclusion is much worse. Women are exposed to many inequalities and discrimination in social life practices. In this study, women's social exclusion will be discussed through the marriage factor and differences in marital status. It will be evaluated how differences in women's marital status affect the dimensions of social exclusion. While marriage often provides a social status for women, unmarried women may face various obstacles in economic, social, psychological, cultural, etc. aspects. This study aims to understand how unmarried women experience social exclusion in their lives. For this purpose, in-depth interviews were conducted with thirty-two widowed, divorced, and never-married women residing in Muğla province. In the context of the interviews, the ways in which women whose marriages ended with divorce or death of their spouses and women who have never married are exposed to social exclusion and the problems they experience are discussed. Social exclusion is one of the important social problems and especially women are in the disadvantaged group in terms of social exclusion. In this context, it is very important to develop methods and policies to combat social exclusion within the field of social policy.

EVALUATION OF TEACHERS' INFORMATION LITERACY SKILLS IN THE CONTEXT OF DAILY LIFE ACTIVITIES

Başak KARAGÜLGülnur YILMAZ ,Nuran KARATOĞMA ,Yıldız TANRIVER — 2026-01-30

This study aims to evaluate teachers' information literacy levels in the context of various demographic characteristics and daily life activities. In this regard, the relationship between teachers' information literacy levels and variables such as gender, marital status, teaching experience, social media usage, time spent exercising, time spent reading books, online news consumption, time spent researching before shopping, and time spent researching before financial investments was examined. The research was conducted using the descriptive survey model, one of the quantitative research methods. The study group consisted of 84 teachers working in Ankara. As a data collection tool, the information literacy scale developed by Kalaycı and Eşgi (2024), which consists of two sub-dimensions, was used. Independent samples t-test and one-way analysis of variance (ANOVA) were applied for data analysis. The findings revealed that there was no significant difference in information literacy levels based on gender and marital status. In terms of teaching experience, teachers with 6-10 years of experience had significantly higher information literacy levels than those with 0-5 years of experience. Additionally, teachers who used social media less frequently, read books regularly, engaged in short-term news tracking, and conducted more extensive research before making financial decisions had higher information literacy levels. Based on the research findings, it is recommended that training programs be organized to improve teachers' information literacy skills and that efforts be made to raise awareness of digital literacy.