Pertanika Journal of Social Science & Humanities

Includes bibliographical references.

The willingness to generate positive word of mouth marketing: The case of students in private universities in Jordan -- Second language learner's access to parameters of universal grammar: A syntactic perspective -- Acceptance of Kuala Lumpur Malay's Residents towards Rukyah (Incantation) -- Virtual teenage talk in game play: the nuances and variants in interactive written discourse -- PBL Project Reflection: Challenges in Communicating Change -- Shariah and Legal Issues in House Buying in Malaysia: The Legality of Bay' Bithaman-Al-Ajil ('BBA') with Special Reference to Abandoned Housing Projects -- Potential Challenges in a Witness Protection Programme in Malaysia -- Impact of Selected Organizational Characteristics on Psychological and Behavioural Outcomes of Hotel Frontline Employees -- Sex and Class of Secondary School Students in Experiencing Emotional Abuse by Teachers in Edo State, Nigeria -- Linguistic Representation of English Vocabulary Attrition -- Consumers' Perceptions on the Service Quality in the Motor Vehicle Repair and Service Industry: An Exploratory Study in Klang Valley, Malaysia -- The effects of shoulder flexibility on the golfers' performance -- Malay students' entrepreneurial attitude and entrepreneurial efficacy in vocational and technical secondary schools of Malaysia -- Manhood in Crisis: Powerlessness, Homophobia and Violence in Chuck Palahniuk's "Fight Club" -- Students' Attributions for Success and Failure in the Learning of English as a Second Language: A Comparison of Undergraduates -- Improving ESL Learners' Academic Text Construction through a Collaborative Task -- Understanding Path Dependence Management in Indonesian Automotive Industry: Narrative from Toyota Case.

[Article Title : The willingness to generate positive word of mouth marketing: The case of students in private universities in Jordan / Hamza Salim Khraim, p. 273-289] Abstract : Word-of-mouth marketing is highly recognized as one of the most prominent and powerful tools affecting consumer decision making. This study attempts to examine the willingness of students in private universities to generate positive WOM marketing where inadequate research and literature in Arab countries about such issue is a major concern. The model for this study contends that satisfaction, incentives, experience, and the source has a significant influence on students' willingness to use WOM. These propositions are investigated using data collected from three private universities in Amman-Jordan. Empirical support was found for three of our hypotheses. A key finding is that satisfaction, experience, and the source have significant influence on students' willingness to use positive WOM. Thus, it is concluded that with a discussion of how to use those variables in fostering interpersonal relationships between the university and the students in order to increase the likelihood of students' positive WOM behaviour.;[Article Title : Second language learner's access to parameters of universal grammar: A syntactic perspective / Neda Saeipoor, G. Mustapha, Ismi Arif Ismail and Steven Krauss, p. 291-304] Abstract : In Universal Grammar, syntax is explained through X-bar theory. X-bar theory is the component of Universal Grammar which specifies the hierarchical structure of the heads of phrases, their specifiers and complements. Investigating the availability of this component in adults learning a second language can provide a better insight into the process of second language learning. This study attempted to find out if the X-bar theory is accessible to Malay speaking adults learning English as a second language and to investigate the possible developmental stages of syntactic knowledge, with regards to Malay adult second language learners writing in English. The data show that the learners can apply the word-order parameter and the null-subject parameter in their spontaneous writing at earlier stages. This implies the availability of the VP-related nodes of the X-bar tree at the first stage of learning grammar. The IP-related agreement parameter and the CP-related auxiliary movement emerge later as the learners become more and more proficient in the second language.;[Article Title : Acceptance of Kuala Lumpur Malay's Residents towards Rukyah (Incantation) / Siti Nor Azhani Mohd Tohar, Nurdeng Deuraseh, Amaluddin Ab. Rahman and Zarina Muhammad, p. 305-318] Abstract : The aim of this study was to describe the acceptance of Kuala Lumpur Malay residents towards: i) treatment through rukyah (incantation), ii) traditional Malay healer (bomoh), and iii) learning of rukyah (incantation). For this purpose, 343 respondents from various backgrounds were identified using a convenient sampling technique. Taman Segambut SPPK and PPR Kg. Baru, Air Panas were randomly selected as research locations. Data were collected using a questionnaire and analyzed as a descriptive statistic. Findings indicated that the level of acceptance towards the treatment through rukyah (incantation) and the Malay traditional healer (bomoh) was moderate.;[Article Title : Virtual teenage talk in game play: the nuances and variants in interactive written discourse / Chan Swee Heng and Yong Pui Li, p. 319-334] Abstract : In recent years, research in computer-mediated communication (CMC) via the internet has revealed the fostering of a sense of community in which special, close, and intimate interactions can be traced.;[Article Title : PBL Project Reflection: Challenges in Communicating Change / Y. Norhafezah, A.H. Rosna, N. Hasniza, A.R. Fauziah, S.A. Sarimah and Wan Zalina, p. 335-348] Abstract : The objective of this paper is to discuss challenges of implementing a Project Based Learning (PBL) approach at three selected schools in one of the northern states in Malaysia. For this purpose, semi-structured interviewing and observation methods were employed. The data were analyzed based on the Five Sentiments Approach (Armenakis, Harris, Cole, Lawrence & Self, 2007a). The findings revealed that there was a high resistance from the teachers and students towards change due to the blatant exam-oriented culture which was still practiced in Malaysian educational institutions.;[Article Title : Shariah and Legal Issues in House Buying in Malaysia: The Legality of Bay' Bithaman-Al-Ajil ('BBA') with Special Reference to Abandoned Housing Projects / Sharifah Zubaidah Syed Abdul Kader and Nuarrual Hilal Md Dahlan, p. 349-362] Abstract : The primary duties of Islamic banks and financial institutions in Malaysia are to carry out Islamic banking and financial activities and to offer products that are in accordance with the Islamic teachings. These products are subject to the scrutiny and approval of Bank Negara's Shariah Advisory Council (SAC) and the internal Shariah Advisory Bodies (SAB) or the Shariah Committees of the respective financial institutions. Despite having been in existence for more than 25 years, in the authors' view, it is still questionable whether or not the Islamic banks and financial institutions in Malaysia have been satisfactorily carrying out these duties. One area worth examining is the transaction involving house buying, particularly the one that falls under the purview of the Housing Development (Control and Licensing) Act 1966 (Act 118) and transactions involving houses pending completion. Potential Challenges in a Witness Protection Programme in Malaysia;[Article Title : Potential Challenges in a Witness Protection Programme in Malaysia / Sarvinder Kaur, p. 363-368] Abstract : Witness protection is a programme which protects crucial witnesses whose testimony may put them or their family members in jeopardy. Many countries including Malaysia have included the witness protection programme into the federal legislation. The United States, which has implemented witness protection programme since the 1970s, has reported a high rate of convictions as compared to countries without such a programme. Malaysia has recently passed the Witness Protection Act and therefore it is relatively new in matters pertaining to witness protection programmes. Lessons can be learnt from countries which have long implemented such programmes.;[Article Title : Impact of Selected Organizational Characteristics on Psychological and Behavioural Outcomes of Hotel Frontline Employees / Nik Rozana Nik Mohd Masdek, Yuhanis Abdul Aziz and Khairil Wahidin Awang, p. 369-384] Abstract : This paper explores a model of the effects of empowerment, training, and reward on frontline employees' service recovery performance, job satisfaction, and turnover intentions. Data were collected using questionnaires. The hotel industry was chosen as the platform being surveyed due to the boundary spanning roles of its employees who were underpinned by frequent contacts with customers during their day to day activities. As such, it is most likely that employees, particularly the front-liners, would be individuals who address service failures. Hypotheses were formulated from previous conceptual and empirical studies. In this study, eleven hypotheses were posed to test the inter-linkages between six identified variables. Spearman Correlation was used as the method of analysis, whereby empowerment and training were found to be correlated with service recovery performance, job satisfaction, and turnover intentions. Meanwhile, reward was found to be correlated with only service recovery performance and job satisfaction. Conclusion, limitations and future research direction were also discussed.;[Article Title : Sex and Class of Secondary School Students in Experiencing Emotional Abuse by Teachers in Edo State, Nigeria / Jolly Okoza, Oyaziwo Aluede and Austin Ojugo, p. 385-392] Abstract : This study examined the influence of sex and class of secondary school students in experiencing emotional abuse. For this purpose, a survey designed was adopted in the study. A total of 1537 students, drawn through multistage proportionate sampling technique from all secondary school students in Edo state, participated in the study.

The instrument, a questionnaire entitled, "Classroom Emotional Abuse Scale" was used to collect the data for this study.;[Article Title : Linguistic Representation of English Vocabulary Attrition / Yu, Zhonggen, Chan Swee Heng and Ain Nadzimah Abdullah, p. 393-408] Abstract : This study aimed to identify vocabulary attrition and the linguistic representation of English vocabulary attrition. One hundred and twenty-one participants were randomly selected to participate in the vocabulary tests. The results of vocabulary attrition tests were measured through non-parametric 2-related samples tests and linguistic analyses in terms of phonology, morphology, and semantics.;[Article Title : Consumers' Perceptions on the Service Quality in the Motor Vehicle Repair and Service Industry: An Exploratory Study in Klang Valley, Malaysia / A. B. Elistina and A. Naemah, p. 409-422] Abstract : Motor vehicle repair and service are common and regular services used by consumers in Malaysia. The high demand for these services is contributed by the continued increase in the number of registered vehicles and the number of driving licences issued annually. There are also many complaints reported in the Tribunal for Consumer Claims (TCC) in relation to this industry. Thus, this study aimed to identify the perceptions of consumers towards the quality of the services provided by motor vehicle garages. A total of 400 respondents participated in the study through simple random sampling and data were collected using a self-administered questionnaire. The results of this study indicated that most of the respondents generally had low and moderate perceptions of the service quality. Meanwhile, among the matters that need to be given more considerations are to ensure that the written consent from the consumers is given before undertaking any repair work, and to provide written statements describing the services and the estimated labour fees incurred. Thus, it is recommended that the enforcement bodies enforce the laws strictly and more attention be given to small garages. This study highlighted the seriousness of the problems and it also showed the importance of enacting a specific statute governing this industry in order to achieve a higher standard of services as well as to provide comprehensive consumer protection.;[Article Title : The effects of shoulder flexibility on the golfers' performance / A.A. Kamal and F.W. Yunus, p. 423-431] Abstract : The effects of sports are important because it will help the players to perform their best in games and events. The purpose of this study was to examine the effectiveness of shoulder flexibility on the golfers' performance. The participants of this study were 30 golfers; these were the people who got their handicap cut or license to play golf at the golf course. The researchers employed the experimental method to gather relevant data. The test performed included shoulder rotation test and driving range test. The data were analyzed using descriptive and inference statistics to investigate the relationship between shoulder flexibility and the golfers' performance. The findings of the study revealed that there are strong relationships between shoulder flexibility and golfers' performance. Apart from that, shoulder flexibility was found to be not affected by the age of the golfers and that the performance of the golfers would only be known by their handicap. It is hoped that this new knowledge will be beneficial to all golfers and instructors. It is also suggested that future studies include respondents' motivation and cooperation so as to attract their interest in the study. The subjects also need to be clarified of the objectives and the purpose of the study in relation to their performance.;[Article Title : Malay students' entrepreneurial attitude and entrepreneurial efficacy in vocational and technical secondary schools of Malaysia / Zaidatol akmaliah lope pihie and Afsaneh Bagheri, p. 433-447] Abstract : Entrepreneurial attitude and entrepreneurial self-efficacy are considered as important factors affecting the intention to step into the process of entrepreneurship. However, there is limited information on students' entrepreneurial attitude and entrepreneurial self-efficacy, particularly for technical school students who have acquired the technical knowledge to become entrepreneurs. This study has surveyed entrepreneurial attitude and entrepreneurial self-efficacy among secondary school students in Malaysia. A total of 2,574 students undertaking technical subjects were randomly selected as the participants. A set of questionnaire was employed to measure students' attitudes toward and efficacy in entrepreneurship. Findings of the study indicate that the student scored high on entrepreneurial attitude components including self-esteem cognition, achievement cognition, and achievement affect. However, the students' mean score for entrepreneurial self-efficacy was between moderate to high level. This paper discusses the importance of intervention programmes and proper teaching and learning strategies to improve technical students' entrepreneurial attitude and entrepreneurial self-efficacy.;[Article Title : Manhood in Crisis: Powerlessness, Homophobia and Violence in Chuck Palahniuk's "Fight Club" / Amirhossein VafaAmirhossein Vafa, p. 449 - 457] Abstract : The following study will explicate how in Palahniuk's Fight Club, the narrator is in a certain crisis of manhood as a result of his contradictory experiences of power under the impositions of hegemonic masculinity, also aggravated due to a sense of disparity between his lived experiences and his inherited language of masculinity. As a response, the narrator sets out a nostalgic backlash to grapple with the outlets of the crisis-buried feelings, homophobia and aggression. While the backlashes materialize as transgressive assertions of manhood, the narrator becomes eventually disillusioned with his struggles and opts, instead, to come to terms with the crisis of manhood by forming an affectionate bond with Marla Singer, the only female character in the novel.;[Article Title : Students' Attributions for Success and Failure in the Learning of English as a Second Language: A Comparison of Undergraduates / Siew Ming Thang, Peter Gobel, Nor Fariza and Vijaya Latshmi Suppiah, p. 459-474] Abstract : The present study was undertaken on six Malaysian public universities. It attempts to examine the relationship between performance attributions and different university settings in the English as a Second Language (ESL) context. Investigation into types of causal attributions people make to explain successes and failures in a variety of settings, and how these attributions affect expectations for future success or failure are in line with the primary goals of motivation models and hence of relevance to language teaching and learning. A quantitative approach, through the use of a questionnaire, was used to measure students' responses to authentic tasks undertaken in the ESL context. The findings clearly show that "getting a good grade" and "teacher influence" are the most endorsed attributes for success across all six universities in Malaysia, so we can say that external factors play a vital role in moulding attributions and this is particularly apparent in the case of one particular university. In conclusion, it can be said that high respect for teachers and self-critical tendency are communal characteristics in the Malaysian context. Findings of previous studies by Gobel and associates reveal similar trends in two other Asian countries.;[Article Title : Improving ESL Learners' Academic Text Construction through a Collaborative Task / Yong Mei Fung, p. 475-486] Abstract : Many ESL writing instructors incorporate some form of pair or group work at some stage of the writing process to provide their students the opportunity to brainstorm ideas, plan, and co-construct knowledge with their peers. Another reason is to encourage students to work independently from the teacher with the intention that they will be more autonomous. This paper reports on a qualitative study which examines how one group of tertiary ESL learners in an academic writing course jointly produce an academic essay during one collaborative task.

This study highlights some critical incidents pertaining to the students' roles, their behaviours, and instances that contribute to knowledge and text construction during the group work. The findings showed that cumulative talk and use of questions moved the group discussion forward while negotiation helped the learners to test ideas at a deeper level. The learners also shared their expertise during text construction. The affective conflict which the group encountered during the collaboration also helped them to deal with differing viewpoints and maintaining coherence in the group.;[Article Title : Understanding Path Dependence Management in Indonesian Automotive Industry: Narrative from Toyota Case / Dessy Irawati, p. 487] Abstract : Learning path dependence of managerial and manufacturing technology from a parent company is significant in understanding the technological and managerial trajectory of its automotive subsidiaries elsewhere. This paper discusses the path dependence management of Toyota Indonesia by focussing on the knowledge transfer process. Using a qualitative case study approach by highlighting TPS (Toyota Production System) for lean production management, this paper contributes to managerial production in the automotive industry.