SCIENCE International Journal Vol. 5. Issue 2 / 2026 Indexed in ERIH + http://kanalregister.hkdir.no/publiseringskanaler/erihplus/periodical/info?id=505595 Distinguished teachers, scientists and researchers in the field of We are pleased to inform you that the procedure for applying for your scientific and research papers in the field of social sciences (sociology, economy, law, politics, demography, security, education, humanities) for the SCIENCE IJ Vol. 5 No.2. 2026, has started. The purpose of this publishing venture is to persevere the continuity and raise the quality of the work so far, in order for SCIENCE IJ to be included in the SCOPUS or WOS list as soon as possible. From now on we offer a new opportunity to do so in SCIENCE IJ, where papers will be published in English only. Important: One author can publish only 1 paper per issue The deadlines are as follows: - 30. 04. 2026- abstract submission deadline - 06. 05. 2026 till 12.00 AM- full paper submission deadline More info... Abstract template
INTELLIGENT FOREIGN LANGUAGE EDUCATION: PRACTICES AND MODELS IN THE ERA OF ARTIFICIAL INTELLIGENCE
The rapid advancement of artificial intelligence has accelerated the transition from adaptive technologies to more complex forms of intelligent language learning. This paper explores contemporary practices and emerging models in foreign language education shaped by AI-driven tools and systems. It examines how adaptive platforms, intelligent feedback mechanisms, and data-informed instructional strategies contribute to the development of more personalized and flexible learning environments. The analysis focuses on the shift from technology as a supplementary resource to its role as an integral component of pedagogical design. Special attention is given to the ways in which intelligent systems support individualized learning paths, enhance learner engagement, and enable continuous monitoring of progress. At the same time, the study highlights the importance of pedagogical mediation in ensuring that technological applications remain aligned with educational objectives and learner needs. The paper also considers the evolving structure of language learning models, where interaction between human and digital elements creates hybrid educational environments. These environments combine automation with pedagogical guidance, offering new opportunities for communicative competence development while preserving the central role of the teacher. The findings suggest that the effectiveness of intelligent language learning depends on a balanced integration of technological innovation and pedagogical expertise. Rather than replacing traditional teaching practices, artificial intelligence contributes to their transformation, supporting more adaptive, responsive, and learner-centered approaches in foreign language education.
Copyright (c) 2026 https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by-nc/4.0
ORGANIC FOOD PRODUCTION AS A FACTOR OF MACROECONOMIC DEVELOPMENT IN RURAL AREAS OF SERBIA: IMPACT ON GDP, EMPLOYMENT AND SUSTAINABLE GROWTH
This paper examines the role of organic food production as a significant factor of macroeconomic development in rural areas of Serbia, with a particular focus on its impact on gross domestic product, employment, and overall rural development. In the context of increasing global demand for sustainable agricultural practices and environmentally friendly production systems, organic agriculture has emerged as a strategic sector capable of generating both economic and social benefits. The primary objective of this research is to analyze the extent to which organic food production contributes to macroeconomic indicators and to evaluate its potential as a driver of balanced regional development. The study is based on a combination of quantitative and qualitative research methods, including analysis of secondary statistical data, comparative analysis of macroeconomic trends, and examination of policy instruments supporting organic agriculture, particularly within the framework of the IPARD III program. Special attention is given to the alignment of organic production with the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals, especially those related to zero hunger, decent work and economic growth, and life on land. The results indicate that organic agriculture has a positive and growing contribution to rural employment, particularly through small and medium-sized enterprises and family farms, while also enhancing value-added production and export potential. Furthermore, the development of organic production contributes to the diversification of rural economies, reduces regional disparities, and strengthens environmental sustainability through the preservation of biodiversity and soil quality. However, the findings also reveal structural challenges, including limited institutional support, insufficient access to financing, and a lack of education and technological advancement among producers. The discussion highlights the importance of targeted policy measures, financial incentives, and capacity-building initiatives in order to fully exploit the macroeconomic potential of organic agriculture. The paper concludes that organic food production represents a viable and sustainable development pathway for rural areas in Serbia, with significant implications for economic growth, employment generation, and long-term ecological stability, provided that systemic support mechanisms are effectively implemented and aligned with international development frameworks.
DEVELOPMENT PRESSURES AND SUSTAINABILITY: A LOCAL COMMUNITY PERSPECTIVE-EVIDENCE FROM KOTOR
The development of tourism in modern conditions, especially in destinations of exceptional cultural and historical value, is increasingly accompanied by a series of challenges arising from the growth in the number of visitors and their concentration in limited space and time. In addition to infrastructural pressures, an increasingly pronounced challenge is the preservation of resources and the spatial-cultural values of the destination. Cultural heritage cannot be viewed only through material resources, but also through intangible dimensions that shape the sense of belonging and social relations. Cultural identity and authenticity do not represent static categories, but are shaped through everyday practices and the experience of space, which is why intensive tourist flows can lead to their redefinition, but also their degradation. These processes are particularly evident in Kotor, a city under UNESCO protection, where the concentration of tourist flows in a spatially limited historical core generates pressures reflected in the cultural structure and the everyday functioning of the city. Within this context, the perception of the local population represents an important framework for understanding the actual effects of tourism development. This paper examines the perception of the local community regarding the impact of tourism development on cultural identity, authenticity, and the atmosphere of space, as well as on the use of cultural heritage. The research was conducted on a sample of 321 respondents using a structured questionnaire, while the data analysis was carried out using the chi-square test of independence. The results indicate that a higher intensity of tourism development is associated with a more pronounced perception of a threat to cultural identity, degradation of authenticity, and changes in the cultural atmosphere of the city. At the same time, the majority of respondents recognize the commercialization of cultural heritage as a pronounced process, indicating a shift in its function and meaning in contemporary tourism flows. Although certain dimensions (communal order and concern for the preservation of UNESCO status) are not statistically related to the intensity of tourism, they are recognized as problematic, pointing to broader and more complex patterns of perception within the local community. In addition, there is a perception that tourism pressures alter the function of cultural heritage and create a sense of insecurity regarding the future preservation of the city’s values. Overall, the findings indicate the need for balanced and strategically oriented management of tourism development. Such an approach implies the improvement of management mechanisms and the active involvement of the local community in decision-making processes. In this regard, tourism policies should be directed towards preserving cultural values, authenticity, and the long-term sustainability of the destination.
RECONFIGURING IDENTITY UNDER MIGRATION: THE CASE OF THE GAGAUZ COMMUNITY IN BESSARABIA
Migration is one of the defining social processes of the 21st century, profoundly transforming not only demographic structures but also the meanings of identity and belonging. This study examines the relationship between migration and national identity through the empirical case of the Gagauz community in Bessarabia. Building on contemporary sociological theories that conceptualize identity as a dynamic and socially constructed phenomenon, the research integrates theoretical perspectives with qualitative empirical data. The analysis is based on 22 in-depth interviews conducted with representatives of the Gagauz community and focuses on the mechanisms through which ethno cultural identity is constructed, maintained, and transformed in conditions of migration. The findings demonstrate that identity is not eroded by migration but reorganized through a set of interconnected practices, including collective memory, folklore, ritual life, music, and intergenerational transmission. Particular attention is given to the role of folklore as a framework of collective memory, which functions as a substitute for territorial continuity in migrant contexts. Cultural practices emerge as central mechanisms for reproducing a sense of belonging, while contemporary processes such as mobility, institutionalization of tradition, and media influence lead to adaptive transformations rather than cultural decline. The study confirms that migrant communities can sustain strong forms of identity through symbolic and practice-based mechanisms, supporting the concept of the “imagined community” and the role of collective memory in identity formation. It argues that migration should be understood not as a threat to identity, but as a condition that reveals its dynamic, processual, and socially constructed nature.
IMPACT OF ARTIFICIAL INTELLIGENCE ON MONITORING AND MANAGEMENT OF STOCK LEVELS
Inventory management is one of the main issues facing businesses in the current business environment because of the increased unpredictability, quick changes in the market, and increasing complexity of supply chains. Through the use of sophisticated analytical and predictive models, artificial intelligence (AI) becomes a crucial tool for enhancing inventory level monitoring and management. This paper's goal is to examine how artificial intelligence affects inventory management efficiency, with a particular emphasis on automating inventory monitoring, optimizing ordering, and cutting expenses associated with both excess and inadequate inventory. The theoretical examination of contemporary inventory management techniques and the identification of critical domains where the use of artificial intelligence enhances decision-making serve as the foundation for this work. The use of machine learning algorithms in demand forecasting, identifying obsolete and slow-moving goods, and enhancing supply chain coordination are all given particular attention. Along with possible dangers related to data quality and reliance on automated judgments, organizational and information conditions for the effective adoption of VI systems in inventory management are also covered. The study's conclusions show that artificial intelligence can greatly increase inventory level monitoring accuracy and help make better use of resources, but that its full impact requires integration with current information systems and sufficient management oversight.Managers, accountants, and researchers interested in the digital transformation of inventory management procedures may find the study interesting as it offers a foundation for more empirical research.
THE WAR IN IRAN AND THE NEGATIVE EXTERNALITIES FOR LIBERAL INTERVENTIONISM
The 2026 war between the USA and Israel, on the one hand, and Iran, on the other, has eluded the initial hopes of the Trump administration that a decisive victory could be achieved in a quick fashion and in addition to having wide-ranging impacts across many different spheres, including on the world economy as a whole, also appears likely to significantly reduce the prospects for European involvement in humanitarian interventions taking place beyond the borders of the continent, at least in the conceivable future. The paper employs qualitative methodology, which is reliant on the integrated analysis of a vast collection of primary and secondary sources that fall within the international relations, political science, and international security disciplines. Following a literature review, in which it examines the main assumptions that underpin the philosophy of liberal interventionism and some of the relevant trends, it advances a threefold argument. Firstly, it contends that military operations inspired by liberal interventionist principles, in order to be able to stake a claim for credibility, need to at least pay lip service to multilateralism. However, Trump’s embrace of unilateralism and frequent disregard for the opinions of European allies, as it occurred during the prelude to the Iranian crisis, makes it increasingly likely that US-led interventions would be associated with the pursuit of narrow Realpolitik interests, resulting in them being unpalatable for European politicians and the general public in European countries. Secondly, the strategic vulnerability of Europe due to the war in Ukraine not appearing to be winding down, with Trump widely perceived as having done less than the bare minimum in terms of putting pressure on the Russian side in order to negotiate in good faith and make concessions, coupled with the economic fallout for Europe courtesy of the Iran war, is quite likely to dampen European enthusiasm for the use of force in order to end human rights violations in Africa, Latin America or Asia, especially given that they would detract from or at least be perceived to be detracting from the support offered for the Ukrainian war effort or be viewed as economically unsustainable. Thirdly, the war in Iran may give a significant boost to nuclear proliferation around the world and in the long-term possibly increase the number of “rogue” states possessing some sort of nuclear capacity, which would further reduce the space for humanitarian interventions due to Western countries’ risk aversion and general unwillingness to test certain red lines pertaining to sovereignty in the case of nuclear powers.
THE IMPORTANCE OF DYNAMIC SECURITY FOR MAINTAINING ORDER, LEGITIMACY AND THE PREVENTION OF VIOLENCE IN PRISON
The paper examines the importance of dynamic security for maintaining order, legitimacy and the prevention of violence in the prison environment. It is based on the contemporary understanding that prison security cannot be founded exclusively on static measures, such as walls, locks, cameras, physical separation and formal supervision, but depends to a considerable extent on the quality of everyday relationships between prison officers and convicted persons. Dynamic security involves the constant professional presence of officers in prison life, communication with prisoners, observation of the prison atmosphere, knowledge of individual behaviour and the ability to identify risks at an early stage. The main aim of the paper is to show that dynamic security has an important preventive function. Violence in prison does not arise solely as a consequence of the individual characteristics of convicted persons, but also as a result of the prison regime, institutional culture, the quality of management, living conditions and relationships between staff and prisoners. For this reason, the role of prison officers is particularly significant, as through everyday contact they are able to recognise changes in behaviour, tensions among prisoners and situations that may develop into conflict. Timely intervention, conflict de-escalation and the adjustment of responses to the specific situation represent key elements of dynamic security. The paper also considers the relationship between dynamic security and the legitimacy of prison authority. When convicted persons perceive prison officers as professional, consistent, fair and capable of maintaining order without unnecessary repression, the likelihood of voluntary compliance with rules increases. In this way, dynamic security contributes to a more stable prison climate, the reduction of tensions and the strengthening of trust in the institution. The paper concludes that dynamic security is not a replacement for static security, but its necessary complement. Its value lies in the fact that it connects control, communication and prevention, thereby contributing to the maintenance of order, the reduction of violence and the creation of a more humane and safer prison environment.
THE APPLICATION OF DATA ANALYTICS IN THE OPTIMISATION OF DIGITAL MARKETING CAMPAIGNS
Digital marketing campaigns today are increasingly based on the collection, processing and interpretation of large volumes of data generated through user interactions with websites, social media, email campaigns, mobile applications and e-commerce platforms. The application of data analytics enables organisations to monitor campaign performance more accurately, understand consumer behaviour and make decisions based on measurable indicators, rather than solely on intuition or previous experience. Key performance indicators are particularly important, such as click-through rate, conversion rate, user engagement, website bounce rate, customer acquisition costs and return on investment, as they enable the continuous measurement of the effects of marketing activities and their alignment with business objectives. Data analytics contributes to the optimisation of digital campaigns through user segmentation, content personalisation, customer journey analysis and the prediction of future consumer behaviour. By using big data processing technologies, customer relationship management systems and data on purchasing patterns, companies can develop more detailed customer profiles, identify the most valuable segments and adapt marketing messages to the specific needs and interests of users. This increases the relevance of communication, improves the user experience and creates a greater likelihood of conversion. Advanced forms of analytics, including predictive analytics, machine learning and artificial intelligence, further improve campaign efficiency. These approaches enable the prediction of user engagement, the ranking of potential customers, and the optimisation of advertisements, budgets and communication channels in real time. However, the successful application of analytics depends on data quality, the integration of different sources, privacy protection and the ethical use of user information. It is concluded that data analytics represents a key instrument for optimising digital marketing campaigns, as it enables more precise advertisement targeting, greater personalisation, better cost control and the improvement of overall marketing results.
THE ISCR MODEL IN MUSIC THERAPY: AN INTEGRATIVE FRAMEWORK FOR PSYCHOPHYSIOLOGICAL REGULATION IN STRESS AND ANXIETY
This study presents the Integrative Synchronization–Change–Regulation (ISCR) model as an integrative conceptual framework for understanding psychophysiological regulation in the context of music therapy. The model conceptualizes music therapy as a multilevel process that integrates neuroscientific, psychophysiological, and cognitive–affective mechanisms, framing regulation as a dynamic coordination between brain networks, the autonomic nervous system, and interoceptive processes. The theoretical foundation of the model is based on the integration of key approaches, including neurovisceral integration, polyvagal theory, and rhythmic entrainment, which are synthesized into a coherent and sequential regulatory framework. In this context, music therapy is positioned as a structured bottom-up intervention that operates through sensory activation and physiological synchronization, leading to affective and cognitive modulation and ultimately resulting in sustained psychophysiological regulation. The ISCR model is structured into four interrelated stages: Input, Synchronization, Change, and Regulation, which describe the transition from sensory stimulation to stable regulatory outcomes. This process emphasizes the role of synchronization as a central mechanism linking physiological and psychological processes and enabling the coordination of internal rhythms and external stimuli. As a conceptual contribution, the model shifts the focus from symptom reduction toward the expansion of regulatory capacity, defined as the ability to maintain adaptive stability under varying internal and external conditions. In addition, the study outlines a quasi-experimental framework that may serve as a basis for future empirical validation of the model.
SYNERGY BETWEEN EMOTIONAL REGULATION AND PROBLEM-SOLVING SKILLS IN PRESCHOOL AGE
This paper analyses contemporary theoretical perspectives, empirical findings, and key concepts in pedagogical and psychological literature concerning early childhood development. It argues that three interrelated systems—motivation, emotional regulation, and problem-solving skills—function in a dynamic synergy that determines the quality of children’s behavior, social adaptation, and cognitive development. Preschool age is a critical developmental period in which the foundations of self-regulation, emotional competence, and cognitive flexibility are established. Research shows that children’s behavior is largely guided by situational emotions, while stable motivational structures gradually emerge. Emotional regulation and executive functions (working memory, cognitive flexibility, and inhibitory control) develop intensively between the ages of 3 and 7 and are essential for adaptive functioning. The paper emphasizes that problem situations in preschool education serve as pedagogical tools that stimulate cognitive, emotional, and social development. These situations require children to regulate emotions, sustain motivation, and apply problem-solving strategies in meaningful contexts. The role of the teacher is crucial in creating a supportive learning environment, facilitating reflection, and guiding children’s self-regulatory processes. Pedagogical approaches such as role play, problem-based learning, and guided interaction are highlighted as effective tools for fostering this synergy. The integration of motivational, emotional, and cognitive processes is presented as a foundation for successful early childhood development.
MODEL OF AUTOMATED TEST EVALUATION USING GENERATIVE AI TOOLS
This paper presents a model for automated test evaluation based on the application of generative AI tools. The proposed approach is structured as a sequential evaluation pipeline that uses predefined prompts to process student responses through clearly defined phases. The evaluation process includes defining the answer key, applying scoring rules, analyzing responses at the question level, generating individual reports, and aggregating results. A key contribution of the paper is the definition of a controlled prompt protocol that decomposes a complex evaluation task into smaller, verifiable steps, improving transparency and reliability. The model also supports human-in-the-loop interaction, allowing instructors to intervene at each stage of the evaluation process and maintain pedagogical control. Unlike traditional approaches where AI is used as a general-purpose assistant, the proposed model defines a structured workflow that ensures consistent and repeatable evaluation. This design reduces the risk of uncontrolled AI behavior and enables precise identification of potential errors within individual phases of the pipeline. The model was applied in a real educational setting, where test evaluation was performed using the proposed pipeline. The results indicate a significant improvement in efficiency, with an approximate 95% reduction in evaluation time compared to manual grading. Additionally, the system demonstrates a high level of consistency in applying grading criteria, reducing subjectivity in assessment. It was observed that system reliability depends on the quality of input data, particularly in cases involving manually entered student identification data. The findings suggest that limitations are not solely related to the AI model itself, but also to data acquisition and preprocessing. The proposed model shows strong potential for application in various educational contexts where efficient and transparent test evaluation is required.
EU AND NATO RESPONSES TO HYBRID THREATS: OPERATIONAL GAPS AND STRATEGIC MISALIGNMENT
This paper conducts a conceptual policy analysis of hybrid threats and the responses developed by the European Union (EU) and the North Atlantic Treaty Organization (NATO) since 2016. Hybrid threats are understood as coordinated and synchronized actions that deliberately target systemic vulnerabilities of democratic states and institutions, operating across multiple domains while exploiting the thresholds of detection and attribution (Hybrid CoE, 2024). In this context, Foreign Information Manipulation and Interference (FIMI) is examined as a central instrument of contemporary hybrid activity, defined as a coordinated pattern of behavior aimed at undermining political processes and democratic values (EEAS, 2025). The paper addresses two research questions: how the EU and NATO operationalize counter-hybrid efforts, and what structural gaps persist in their approaches. The analysis focuses on key institutional mechanisms, including the EU’s Hybrid Fusion Cell, FIMI analytical framework, and Hybrid Toolbox, as well as NATO’s counter-hybrid support teams and the ABCDE methodology. The findings indicate that both organizations have made significant progress in developing situational awareness and resilience-building capacities. However, their responses remain unevenly operationalized. While NATO demonstrates a higher degree of operational integration, particularly in intelligence and rapid response, the EU’s approach is primarily regulatory and coordination-driven. The analysis identifies two persistent challenges. First, the problem of attribution continues to limit the effectiveness of both political and strategic responses, as hybrid operations are designed to obscure responsibility. Second, insufficient coordination between the EU and NATO reduces the overall coherence of the Euro-Atlantic response framework. The paper argues that the commonly described complementarity between the EU and NATO remains only partially realized in practice. It concludes by proposing the development of a joint EU–NATO attribution protocol and shared analytical standards, particularly in the use of exposure matrices, as necessary steps toward more effective and synchronized responses to hybrid threats.
METHODS FOR EVALUATING PUBLIC ADMINISTRATION
The assessment on the state administration is among the key ones questions on the modern publicly management, so as from quality on administrative structures depend as performance on public policies , as well as trust in institutions , sustainability on management processes and ability on the state yes reacts on public challenges . In the conditions on growing expectations for efficiency, transparency, accountability and orientation to the results, the need from reliable methods for evaluation on the administration becomes everything more significant. In theory and practice are developed diverse approaches for measurement on administrative capacity and quality on management. Part from them is founded on matrices for assessment on the condition, others use key indicators for performance (KPI), and third you serve with proxy indicators for measurement on difficult observable phenomena, and fourth summarize multitude indicators in composite indexes. Each from these approaches there is own advantages, limitations and specifics areas on application. Therefore, the question it's not who method is universal best, and which one is most suitable for the specific research purpose and for the specific aspect on the public administration, which is evaluates. The goal on The current study is to do comparative review on the main ones methods for assessment on the state administration and yes show their analytical opportunities . For this one goal are considered four basic groups tools: dies for assessment on status, proxy indicators, KPIs and composites indexes. Except the theoretical review , included and attached to the study example through construction on approximate Bulgarian KPI Maturity Index, through which is illustrates the possibility for creation on own composite tool for assessment on specific characteristic on public governance . The results show that Bulgaria has a relatively good strategic and digital foundation, average quality of KPI construction, but weaker actual use of KPIs in governance and problematic accountability/transparency. The scientific contribution of the study lies in encouraging other researchers to apply similar methodology when assessing different aspects of public governance or other countries.
NOMEN EX INVENTORE: LATIN NOMENCLATURAL STRATEGIES IN NICOLAUS STENO’S OBSERVATIONES ANATOMICAE (1662)
This article analyzes the Latin nomenclatural strategies employed in Nicolaus Steno's Observationes anatomicae (1662) as a terminological text at a pivotal juncture in the history of anatomical naming. Through close textual analysis of the original Latin edition (Wellcome Library copy, 1662), the study examines the nomenclatural strategies in the main treatise, the epistemological framework articulated in the preface, and the polemic context of the work's composition. The analysis reveals a central paradox: in the preface, Steno is the first to explicitly articulate the epistemology of personal discovery that renders eponymous naming logically necessary, yet in the main treatise he consistently avoids eponymous nomenclature, describing the parotid duct through functional and topographic periphrases without fixing a proper name. The term ductus Stenonianus is shown to be a post factum act of the scientific community, resulting from a resolved priority dispute with Gerard Blasius, verified through the original text of the 1662 edition. A further significant finding concerns the systematic use of glandula as a central classificatory category (89 occurrences), which makes Observationes anatomicae a prototype of a new physiology of secretion rather than a mere report on a single discovery. The article situates Steno's contribution within the broader trajectory from Bauhin's descriptive systematization (1605) to the institutional codification of the Basel Nomenclature (1895) and the elimination of all eponyms in the Terminologia Anatomica (1998), arguing that Steno is not the initiator of the eponymic turn in anatomical nomenclature but its first philosophical articulator.
EXPERIMENTAL STUDY OF THE IMPACT OF INNOVATIVE TEACHING PREPARATION ON THE DEVELOPMENT OF CREATIVITY IN PRIMARY MATHEMATICS TEACHING
Teaching mathematics in the early grades with innovative and problem-based tasks stimulates students' creativity, motivation and interest in learning. The aim of this paper is to examine the impact of innovative teaching methods on the development of creativity in younger school-age students. The research was conducted in the third grade of primary school with 128 students during 30 experimental lessons. The experimental program fully followed the current mathematics curriculum and included 30 experimental lessons. The teaching areas used for the purposes of this research are: Addition and subtraction of numbers up to 100, Multiplication and division of numbers up to 100 and Measurement and measurement. The experimental program included teaching units, aligned with the current curriculum. The teaching units were designed to encourage the development of creativity and application of teaching content through a variety of problem-solving tasks. The tasks on the final tests were structured according to the content of the teaching units from the three teaching areas listed above. Each lesson was implemented by presenting an unusual contextual-research situation that was stimulating in the creative solution of complex mathematical problems (an interesting story with an interesting message), textually relevant scenes from children's films. Students independently solved prepared program-relevant complex mathematical problems. Students were systematically monitored and provided with teacher support when solving problems in conditions of increased curiosity and an emotionally pleasant atmosphere. The structure of the experimental program is based on theoretical foundations and experimental findings. When choosing and constructing a problem-based mathematical task in mathematics, the experimenter respected previous studies on problem-based and research-based teaching, and especially on the requirements that each such task has a hidden unknown that the student should discover through the inventive application of previous thematically relevant mathematical knowledge and through intensive cognitive and creative activity.The results show that the use of problem-based tasks in teaching significantly stimulates creativity, flexibility of thinking and motivation of students for learning mathematics. The results of the experimental program indicate its potential as a practical support for teachers in stimulating creative thinking in younger school-age students.
creative mathematical problem-solving test
PERCEPTION OF THE STATE OF THE ENVIRONMENT IN NIŠ AMONG MEMBERS OF GENERATION Z AND THE ROLE OF DIGITAL CHANNELS IN SHAPING THEIR ENVIRONMENTAL AWARENESS
Informing every person is one of the most important segments that contribute to the development and deepening of awareness of the importance of environmental protection. With adequate information, the process of developing environmental awareness is shaped to the extent that the individual sees himself as an active social factor in an organized social community. Consequently, the role of man in environmental processes is increasing, because the amount of information on environmental issues is growing every day. Every individual, especially young people, by receiving timely and accurate environmental information, develops environmental awareness, which further leads to the desired results in environmental conservation. Sustainable development is the basic development concept of almost all countries today. As such, it requires that future generations have at least the same quantity and quality of resources as current generations. In order for any country to develop sustainably, it is necessary for citizens to have a developed environmental awareness. What also characterizes modern society is the process of digitalization. Members of Generation Z are digitally literate. They receive information primarily digitally, including information about the need to preserve the environment, sustainable development, and environmental disasters, which can have a major impact on the development of their environmental awareness. The aim of this paper is to analyze the level of awareness of members of Generation Z about the state of the environment in the city of Niš, as well as to identify digital communication channels through which they receive useful messages related to the environment. The importance of identifying a specific channel or channels is reflected in the fact that public policy makers or brands that want to contribute to environmental protection through social marketing send their messages precisely through that/those channels. In order to achieve the aim of the paper, 102 members of Generation Z from the city of Niš were surveyed. The collected data was processed in the SPSS software package and the results obtained showed that in the eyes of members of this generation, the level of environmental quality is not at a satisfactory level, and that information related to the environment comes to them primarily through social networks.
TRANSFORMATION OF NEUTRALITY IN CONTEMPORARY INTERNATIONAL RELATIONS
The paper analyzes the transformation of neutrality in contemporary international relations with the aim of re-examining its traditional understanding as a fixed legal status and its theoretical reconceptualization as a process-based strategic construct manifested through foreign policy practice. Starting from the assumption that the erosion of the border between war and peace, the growth of hybrid threats and increased competition between great powers have fundamentally changed the security environment, the research seeks to explain how states adapt neutrality as a process of strategic positioning in order to preserve security, sovereignty and strategic space for maneuver. The methodological approach is based on qualitative analysis that combines conceptual analysis of theoretical approaches to neutrality, comparative reasoning and selected case studies of European and global examples. Special attention is paid to a comparative consideration of different models of neutrality, including examples of adaptation within formally defined legal neutrality, functional and active manifestations of process-based neutrality, and examples of its abandonment in conditions of increasing perceived threats. The research results show that contemporary neutrality no longer functions as a passive absence of positioning, but as a continuous process of strategic adaptation, that combines selective inclusion in international institutions, risk management and the preservation of political flexibility. The analysis indicates that the transformation of neutrality is shaped by three interrelated factors: structural changes in the international system after the Cold War, geopolitical shocks and the growing influence of internal political and social dynamics on foreign policy decisions. It is concluded that neutrality does not disappear as a relevant concept, but rather undergoes a process of strategic reconceptualization in the direction of functional and active manifestations of process-based neutrality. Based on the findings, the paper recommends that neutrality be viewed in scientific and political analyses as an instrument of uncertainty management and strategic flexibility of small and medium-sized states in a multipolar system. Additionally, the results point to the need to develop analytical frameworks that bridge legal, security, and strategic approaches, in order to better understand the behavior of states that seek to avoid exclusive security choices. The paper contributes to broader debates in the field of international relations and security studies by conceptualizing neutrality as a process of strategic adaptation in conditions of systemic uncertainty.
LEVEL OF DEVELOPMENT OF IMAGINATION IN PRESCHOOL CHILDREN
The study examines the level of imagination in preschool children using both quantitative indicators (mean values and standard deviations) and percentage distribution across levels. This approach enables a more comprehensive and objective presentation of the results by combining descriptive statistics with an analysis of sample distribution. The findings indicate that a medium level of imagination is the most prevalent, with nearly half of the children (47%) falling into this category (mean = 0.467, SD = 0.499). This suggests a relative homogeneity within the group, while also indicating variability in individual outcomes. A low level of imagination is observed in approximately 20% of the children (mean = 0.200, SD = 0.400), which may point to the need for additional pedagogical support and the stimulation of creative abilities. A high level is identified in 33% of the children (mean = 0.333, SD = 0.471), indicating that a substantial proportion of the sample demonstrates well-developed imaginative skills already in the preschool period. The gender-based analysis reveals both similarities and clear differences. The proportion of children with a medium level of imagination is identical for girls and boys (46.7%), suggesting a similar baseline distribution of imaginative development across genders. However, differences are observed at the extremes: a low level is more common among boys (26.7% compared to 13.3%), whereas a high level is more prevalent among girls (40% compared to 26.7%). These results may be interpreted as indicative of differences in the pace or patterns of creative development, influenced by both individual characteristics and socio-pedagogical factors. A comparison of four key indicators of imagination—productivity, originality, flexibility, and imagery—provides a more fine-grained differentiation of creative behaviour. The data show that girls outperform boys in productivity (4.8 vs. 4.2), flexibility (4.5 vs. 3.8), and imagery (4.9 vs. 3.5), which may be associated with richer internal representations and a greater ease in combining ideas. Boys, in turn, demonstrate a slight advantage in originality (3.9 vs. 3.7), which may indicate a tendency toward more atypical or unconventional solutions in certain tasks. In conclusion, the results highlight the importance of differentiated pedagogical approaches aimed at fostering imagination in the preschool years. Accounting for individual differences and gender-related characteristics enables more targeted planning of educational activities. This is a crucial factor in supporting children’s cognitive, emotional, and creative development from the earliest stages of education.
HUMAN RESOURCES IN THE MEDIA: CONTINUOUS EDUCATION AS A KEY TO CONTEMPORARY BUSINESS
The rapidly growing media industry operates under conditions of constant and dynamic change within a highly competitive environment, which constitutes a key prerequisite for its survival and further development. In this context, organizations are increasingly focusing on strategic human resource management, particularly in the areas of recruitment and retention of qualified personnel, as well as on enhancing overall employee productivity. Changes in the contemporary world of work, driven by the development of new technologies, tools, and methodologies, render continuous learning a necessity, as relevant skills quickly lose their currency. At the same time, the achievement of organizational goals requires a workforce capable of adapting to market changes, with human resources management playing a crucial role in anticipating competency gaps and planning training activities. Moreover, continuous education contributes to attracting and retaining talent, as modern employees increasingly value opportunities for professional development and career advancement. Primary research was conducted to examine the extent to which institutional practices of education and professional development in media organizations contribute to the development of employees’ professional competencies, their adaptability to contemporary professional demands, and their alignment with strategic objectives and professional standards. The research sample was based on purposive sampling and included employees of media organizations in the Republic of Serbia (n = 274). Data were collected between December 2025 and January 2026. The findings demonstrate that continuous education has a dual effect in the media sector: it increases employee motivation and strengthens the capacity of media organizations to adapt to market changes, which has significant implications for strategic human resource management in contemporary media.
THE PRO-ENVIRONMENTAL AWARENESS OF YOUNG PEOPLE IN SERBIA ABOUT CLIMATE CHANGE – A CASE STUDY
Although there is rising public awareness and discussion about climate change, which is primarily caused by human production and consumption habits, there is a noticeable lack of study on the attitudes and behaviors of young people toward climate change in the Serbian social environment. Despite the fact that young people are the future of every society and the carriers of progress, their understanding and opinions about climate change and pro-environmental conduct, such as minimizing the detrimental effects of humans on the environment, have not been clearly examined in detail. The focus of this study was on analyzing the correlation between young people's understanding of climate change and their conduct in Serbia, specifically in terms of reducing their detrimental effects on the environment. The survey, which was a component of the "Youth and Climate Change" initiative, served as the foundation for the research. With the intention of learning about the attitudes and opinions of students at the Faculty of Occupational Safety in Niš regarding climate change, we conducted a survey to determine the behaviors they are willing to take in order to help mitigate the effects of climate change on Serbian society.
THE REAL OF AGING AND THE “NOT-ALL” OF WOMAN: A LACANIAN READING OF BABA YAGA LAID AN EGG
This article offers a sustained Lacanian reading of Baba Yaga Laid an Egg (2009; Eng. trans. 2010) by Dubravka Ugrešić, arguing that the novel stages aging femininity as an encounter with the Real and reconfigures the Slavic myth of Baba Yaga as a figure of feminine jouissance beyond phallic signification. Drawing on the psychoanalytic theory of Jacques Lacan - particularly the mirror stage, the tripartite registers (Imaginary, Symbolic, Real), sexual difference, the “not-all” (pas-toute), and jouissance - this study demonstrates how Ugrešić’s tripartite narrative structure formally enacts the split subject. The novel’s representation of the aging female body, grotesque corporeality, and maternal ambivalence reveals the instability of identity and the failure of the Symbolic order to provide signifiers for elderly womanhood outside ridicule or invisibility. Engaging recent scholarship (2021–2026) on aging, gender, and Lacanian theory, this article situates Ugrešić within post-socialist literary discourse and contemporary feminist psychoanalysis. Ultimately, Baba Yaga Laid an Egg reclaims the monstrous feminine as a site of excess rather than lack, exposing the Real of female jouissance as that which resists symbolic domestication.
RESILIENCE OF CRITICAL INFRASTRUCTURE AS A NATIONAL SECURITY FACTOR: STUDENT PERCEPTIONS OF ITS PERFORMANCE IN A CURRENT HYBRID ENVIRONMENT
The contemporary hybrid security environment positions critical infrastructure as both a strategic asset and a potential vulnerability for national security. The growing interdependence among infrastructure sectors increases the risk of systemic disruptions with broad social and economic consequences. Evidence from recent armed conflicts, including the war in Ukraine, confirms the significance of infrastructure facilities as targets of combined and hybrid operations. The aim of the present study is to assess the level of awareness among students at the Rakovski National Defence College regarding the resilience of critical infrastructure and its impact on national security. The research employs a qualitative design based on semi-structured questionnaires administered to a sample of 23 participants. The analysis focuses on determining the level of knowledge, the assessment of the condition and functioning of national infrastructure systems, as well as perceived risks and vulnerabilities. The findings indicate a relatively high level of awareness concerning the strategic importance of infrastructure systems, while also identifying deficiencies related to resilience assessment and interinstitutional coordination. On this basis, recommendations are formulated to enhance education and professional training, and to strengthen the integrated civil-military approach to risk management. The resilience of critical infrastructure is conceptualized as a dynamic process requiring systematic prevention, protection, and recovery measures in the context of hybrid threats. The results of the study indicate that Bulgaria's national critical infrastructure has clear regulatory frameworks and certain protective mechanisms in place, but practical effectiveness remains limited. The main challenges are related to the human factor, inter-agency coordination, preparedness, and vulnerability to hybrid and multi-domain threats. The international environment and regional conflicts significantly increase these risks. An integrated approach is required, including updating regulatory documents, enhancing technical and cyber protection, conducting regular exercises, facilitating information sharing, and promoting cross-sector cooperation, in order to ensure the resilience of critical infrastructure and the security of the state.
TOWARDS ESTABLISHING THE AUXILIARY POLICE IN THE REPUBLIC OF SERBIA
Ensuring public safety is a fundamental task of the police. To carry out certain police duties, in addition to engaging the regular (professional) police force, it is often necessary to engage a larger (additional) number of personnel and resources. The nature and scale of contemporary security challenges, risks, and threats require that, alongside the police, other social actors — including citizens — take on a more active role in ensuring both their own safety and the safety of others. One of the mechanisms for achieving this is the establishment or existence of a reserve or auxiliary police force. The experiences of certain countries show that there are various models or forms of auxiliary police, which differ primarily in their purpose, role, and degree of integration within the overall police system. In the Republic of Serbia, in addition to the police, other actors also participate in maintaining public safety — such as the municipal police (a specialized body established within certain units of local self-government) and private security services. One possibility that includes the involvement of citizens in carrying out certain police tasks is their engagement through the auxiliary police, which may be formed in accordance with the Law on Police from 2016. The concept of auxiliary police is a kind of successor to the institution of the so-called reserve police force, which was regulated by the Law on Internal Affairs from 1991. After that law ceased to be in force, the formation of the auxiliary police was initially governed by the Law on Police from 2005, and later by the aforementioned 2016 Law. The detailed conditions for the formation of the auxiliary police were regulated by specific regulations adopted pursuant to these laws. Currently, within the legal framework of the Republic of Serbia, there is no regulation that would regulate in more detail the establishment of an auxiliary police force, and therefore, no such force exists at present. In this context, the paper will include a critical analysis of the aforementioned regulations, with the aim of proposing certain de lege ferenda solutions that would create the legal basis for the formation of an auxiliary police force.
POLAND IN THE CONCEPT OF EXTENDED DETERRENCE: FROM THE SOLIDARITY MOVEMENT TO THE UKRAINIAN CONFLICT
This paper examines Poland's experience with extended deterrence across two pivotal historical junctures: the Solidarity Movement crisis (1980 - 1981) and the ongoing Russo-Ukrainian conflict (2022 - present). The analysis applies a comparative historical method supported by primary sources including declassified CIA documents and Politburo transcripts, alongside secondary academic literature and quantitative defense data. Poland's geopolitical position, shaped by centuries of partition, Soviet domination, and the trauma of the Molotov - Ribbentrop Pact, has produced a security culture defined by acute vulnerability and deep-seated reliance on external guarantors. During the Solidarity crisis, the Carter and Reagan administrations pursued a proactive deterrence strategy through explicit threats of sanctions, material support for the opposition, coordination with NATO allies, and exploitation of the Sino-Soviet rivalry. While the strategy successfully prevented direct Soviet military intervention, it failed to prevent the imposition of martial law in December 1981. Nevertheless, Solidarity's underground survival, sustained by continued Western support, ultimately contributed to Poland's democratic transition and the broader collapse of the Eastern Bloc. In the context of the Ukrainian conflict, Poland has evolved from a passive object of geopolitical competition into an assertive security actor, dramatically increasing its defense budget to over 3% of GDP, providing substantial military assistance to Ukraine, deepening U.S. military presence on its territory, and actively pursuing NATO nuclear sharing arrangements. The paper identifies strong strategic continuity in Poland's transatlantic orientation across both periods, while also identifying key limitations: excessive dependence on an external guarantor creates moral hazard, and intensified militarization risks deepening the security dilemma with Russia.
MILITARY LOGISTICS, FISCAL CAPACITY AND INSTITUTIONAL EFFICIENCY: A COMPARATIVE ANALYSIS OF IMPERIAL DEFENCE BURDENS IN MACEDONIA (MACEDONIAN, ROMAN, BYZANTINE AND OTTOMAN EMPIRES)
This study examines the relationship between military logistics, fiscal capacity, and imperial defence burdens through a comparative analysis of four major empires that governed the territory of Macedonia: the Macedonian Empire under Philip II and Alexander III, the Roman Empire, the Byzantine Empire, and the Ottoman Empire. The research challenges the conventional assumption that a higher percentage of economic output allocated to military purposes necessarily corresponds to greater military power or long-term state stability. The central hypothesis advanced in this paper is that imperial military strength and political durability were not primarily determined by the proportion of GDP devoted to defence, but rather by the degree of institutional coordination, fiscal mobilization capacity, and logistical efficiency embedded within the governing structure of each empire. Given the absence of continuous and directly measurable GDP data for ancient and medieval societies, the study adopts a methodologically cautious framework that distinguishes between reconstructed economic output, documented state revenues, and military expenditure as a share of public budgets. The research relies on comparative historical analysis, secondary quantitative reconstructions from economic historians, fiscal documentation where available, and institutional-military literature. Particular attention is given to differentiating between military expenditure as a share of total state revenue and its estimated share of reconstructed GDP, thereby avoiding false statistical precision in premodern contexts. The analysis demonstrates that although the military sector constituted the dominant component of public expenditure in all four empires, their logistical architectures and fiscal integration mechanisms differed substantially. Macedonian military expansion relied on high mobility, minimal logistical encumbrance, and resource extraction through conquest. Roman defence was sustained through institutionalized provisioning systems (annona militaris), standardized infrastructure, and integrated fiscal administration. Byzantine military organization combined decentralized thematic land grants with centralized reserves and advanced communication networks. The Ottoman system initially achieved cost-efficient military mobilization through the timar structure before gradually shifting toward centralized and fiscally heavier models of modernization. The findings indicate that imperial sustainability correlated more strongly with institutional-logistical coherence and adaptive fiscal structures than with the absolute magnitude of military expenditure. Empires in which military systems exceeded the adaptive capacity of fiscal and administrative institutions experienced structural vulnerability, regardless of the percentage of economic output allocated to defence. The study contributes to fiscal-military state theory and imperial political economy by proposing an Institutional-Logistical Efficiency perspective for evaluating premodern defence burdens within a historically grounded analytical framework.
FACTORS INFLUENCING THE ATTRACTIVENESS OF JOB POSITIONS IN IT COMPANIES DURING THE RECRUITMENT PROCESS
In the context of accelerated technological development and digital transformation, the information technology sector faces increasing competition for highly qualified professionals. Attracting and retaining talent has become one of the key challenges for IT companies, which has led to growing interest in the factors influencing job attractiveness during the recruitment process. The aim of this study is to identify and systematise the main determinants of job attractiveness in the IT sector through a comprehensive review of contemporary academic literature. The paper is based on an analysis of relevant international studies published between 2020 and 2025, focusing on recruitment, employer branding, digitalisation of hiring processes, talent management, and employee satisfaction. A review-based methodological approach was applied to identify dominant research trends and methodological patterns. The results indicate that job attractiveness represents a multidimensional construct encompassing financial incentives, career development opportunities, working conditions, organisational culture, work flexibility, employer reputation, and work–life balance. The reviewed studies confirm that although salary and material benefits remain important motivational factors, modern job seekers increasingly value non-financial aspects of employment, such as working environment, professional growth, and interpersonal relationships. Employer branding plays a particularly significant role by integrating various dimensions of attractiveness and shaping organisational image in the labour market. The findings suggest that successful talent attraction in the IT sector requires a holistic approach to human resource management, integrating financial, organisational, and technological strategies. This study provides theoretical and practical insights that may support managers and HR professionals in improving recruitment practices and developing sustainable talent attraction and retention strategies.
TERMINOLOGICAL INNOVATION IN POST-VESALIAN ANATOMY: GABRIELE FALLOPPIO'S OBSERVATIONES ANATOMICAE (1561)
Gabriele Falloppio (1523–1562), a renowned anatomist of the post-Vesalius generation, played a key role in the formation and development of Latin anatomical terminology in the mid-16th century. This study focuses on G. Falloppio's contribution to terminology, based mainly on his major work Observationes anatomicae (1561), which is a kind of continuation of the process of standardization of terminology begun with Vesalius' Fabrica (1543). Through linguistic analysis of the original Latin text and a comparative methodological approach, the study describes specific terminological contributions in three main areas: the reproductive system (the uterine tube, tuba uterina), the anatomy of the ear (including the malleus and incus), and myology (extraocular muscles). The results clearly show that Fallopius not only corrected statements in Vesalius' descriptions, but also consistently supplemented and refined Vesalius' nomenclature, thus contributing to the stabilization of anatomical terminology in areas where there were gaps or inaccuracies in earlier descriptions. The study identifies three models of terminological contribution: (1) the introduction of new terms for previously undescribed structures (the uterine tube), (2) the conversion of Vesalius' descriptive metaphors into stable nomenclature (malleus, incus), and (3) the correction of anatomical inaccuracies through more precise classification (extraocular muscles). By standardizing descriptive metaphors into strict terms, Falloppio sought to show how precise nomenclature could function as a conceptual tool for clearer anatomical knowledge. His contribution is an example of the scientific thinking characteristic of that time: a critical but respectful building on earlier authorities, which marked a new stage in the development and refinement of anatomical Latin terminology after Vesalius' revolution.
IDENTIFICATION OF LEARNING MOTIVES IN PRESCHOOL CHILDREN
The formation of learning motives in preschool age is a key factor for children’s successful adaptation to school education. Learning motivation during this developmental period has a significant impact on the development of cognitive activity, self-regulation, and attitudes toward learning activities. The present study is aimed at analyzing the leading learning motives among preschool children and examining their specific characteristics with respect to gender differences. The study was conducted with a sample of 30 children aged 5–6 years, using M. Ginzburg’s methodology for diagnosing learning motivation. This diagnostic tool makes it possible to identify various types of learning motives—cognitive, social, positional, play-related, and external—as well as the degree of intrinsic and extrinsic motivation. The results indicate that the leading learning motive among the examined group of children is the cognitive motive (36.7%), which can be regarded as a significant and positive indicator of adequate school readiness. A predominance of mixed motivation (40%) was also identified, creating favorable conditions for the development of an active learning position, self-regulation, and a stable positive attitude toward learning activities. Gender-based analysis reveals that girls are characterized by more strongly expressed intrinsic and socially oriented learning motives, whereas boys more clearly exhibit positional, play-related, and external motives. The obtained results confirm the importance of cognitive motivation as a foundation for successful school readiness in preschool age. The predominance of intrinsic and mixed motivation may be considered a positive indicator of children’s future learning engagement. The observed differences between girls and boys in the structure of learning motives highlight the need for differentiated pedagogical approaches that take into account developmental characteristics and preferred forms of activity.
ECOLOGICAL RESILIENCE AS A FRAMEWORK FOR LONG-TERM ENVIRONMENTAL PROTECTION AND SUSTAINABLE WELL-BEING: A REVIEW
Ecological resilience has emerged as a central framework in contemporary environmental governance and sustainable development, particularly under accelerating climate change and increasing anthropogenic pressures. This review examines resilience as an emergent and multi-dimensional property of ecosystems and social–ecological systems, enabling the absorption of disturbances, adaptive responses, and the preservation of core functions essential for long-term environmental protection and human well-being. Drawing upon interdisciplinary literature, the paper synthesises key resilience mechanisms, including resistance, adaptability, recovery capacity, functional and genetic diversity, and the role of critical thresholds and hysteresis in system transformation. Particular attention is given to the interconnections between resilience, biodiversity conservation, ecosystem services, and climate adaptation strategies, including ecosystem-based approaches, green infrastructure, and local ecological knowledge. The review further evaluates methodological challenges in resilience assessment and discusses contemporary analytical frameworks, such as the Vigor–Organization–Resilience model and indicators of exposure, sensitivity, and adaptive capacity. The findings underscore the necessity of integrated, multi-scalar governance strategies that align ecological integrity with sustainable development pathways. Ecological resilience is thus positioned as both a conceptual foundation and an operational principle for safeguarding environmental stability and intergenerational quality of life.
LANGUAGE PROFICIENCY AS THE KEY TO UNLOCKING GLOBAL BUSINESS SUCCESS
In international trade, language proficiency has increasingly been recognised as an important asset that facilitates global business success. This article analyses the significance of linguistic competence across multiple dimensions of international business, including communication, negotiation, and the establishment of sustainable, trust-based relationships. In competitive, culturally diverse markets, fluency in foreign languages enables firms to reduce misunderstandings, increase clarity in complex interactions, and strengthen cooperation with international partners. The article focuses on the effect of language proficiency on international negotiations. Research demonstrates that negotiators with a strong command of their counterparts’ language are more likely to achieve advantageous outcomes, such as improved contractual terms, expedited agreements, and reduced conflict. Language fluency enhances the interpretation of subtle meanings, cultural nuances, and nonverbal signals, thereby increasing credibility and mutual understanding. These theoretical perspectives are supported by case studies that illustrate how linguistic competence contributes to advantageous deals, smoother negotiations, and robust long-term partnerships. The paper also presents findings from an empirical study involving 63 employees from 12 Serbian export-oriented companies across multiple sectors. The research examines the frequency and context of foreign-language use, the availability of corporate language training, and employees’ perceptions of how language skills affect international business performance. Findings show that foreign language proficiency, particularly in English, is critical for international communication, negotiation, and customer relationship management, while systematic investment in language training remains inconsistent. The study emphasises the strategic value of language proficiency in driving export success and international competitiveness, offering practical implications for managers, educators, and policymakers. By encouraging trust and cultural understanding, language proficiency supports business relationships that extend beyond transactional exchanges and underpin enduring international partnerships. Organizations that invest in employees' linguistic competence gain a competitive advantage by accessing new markets and leveraging emerging business opportunities.