February 2024
INNOVATION &DIGITAL TRANSFORMATION
ETHOS MAGAZINE ISSUE #19
ENGLISH & TRANSLATION DEPARTMENT EFFAT COLLEGE OF HUMANITIES EFFAT UNIVERSITY
EDITORIAL BOARD SUPERVISOR DR. LINDA F. MALOUL
EDITOR-IN-CHIEF MADEHA M. ISLAM
VICE EDITOR M. ALI MALIK
CONTENTS A PIECE OF WRITING A PIECE OF POETRY REVIEWS A PIECE OF FUN THE HALL OF ACHIEVEMENTS
A MESSAGE FROM THE DEAN Dear Ethos Readers, It gives me great pleasure to introduce issue 19 of Ethos Magazine. Ethos has been the voice of the students for many years. It has showcased Effat talents in different ways and stood the test of time. As our President, Dr. Haifa Reda Jamal Al Lail, hoped in her message in issue 4 of 2011, “this magazine continues to positively represent Effat University and its aspirations to achieve.” The University embarked on its new strategic plan last year with the theme of “Innovation and Digital Transformation,” students reflected on what this theme means to them through opinion articles, reviews and poetry. I hope you will enjoy reading this issue. Finally, I would like to thank all the students who contributed to EThos issues throughout the years and those who took the challenge of working on this interesting issue. Dr. Linda Maloul Dean of Effat College of Humanities
A MESSAGE FROM THE EDITOR-IN-CHIEF Dear Ethos Readers, As I sit down to write this message, a wave of nostalgia washes over me, for it is with mixed emotions that I pen down my final words as the Editor-in-Chief of Ethos magazine. It's hard to believe that my journey with this remarkable publication began back in 2019, during my early days at Effat University. Over the years, Ethos has not just been a magazine for me, but a canvas where I painted my dreams, ideas, and beliefs. It has been a space for creativity, expression, and, above all, a platform to champion important causes. I want to take this moment to extend my heartfelt gratitude to Effat University for giving us the stage to raise our voices on matters close to our hearts. Women empowerment, cultural diversity, and more. It's been a platform where we celebrated the achievements of strong women, challenged stereotypes, and promoted understanding and unity among all. As I step down from this role, I do so with the knowledge that Ethos will continue to thrive and evolve under new leadership. The future is bright, and I have no doubt that the magazine will continue to be a powerful voice for positive change and a source of inspiration for all. In conclusion, I want to thank every reader, contributor, and supporter who has been a part of this incredible journey. Thank you, Effat University, for giving me this platform - here's to Ethos, here's to the future, and here's to all of you.
MADEHA M. ISLAM
WRITING WRITING WRITING
In the digital age, words become the keystones of innovation, shaping a brave new world through the power of storytelling
I
SHAPING THE FUTURE OF LEARNING AZWA ZAIGHAM
n our rapidly evolving digital age, higher education has been fundamentally
reshaped offering students dynamic, accessible, and personalized learning experiences. Enhanced Accessibility: Digital transformation has dismantled geographical barriers, granting students the freedom to learn on their terms, erasing traditional limitations to education. Personalized Learning: With data analytics and artificial intelligence, institutions now provide tailored educational experiences, ensuring that each student receives the support and resources they need to excel. Collaborative Tools: Virtual classrooms, discussion forums, and collaborative software foster engagement and teamwork, preparing students for real-world challenges. Rich Resources: The digital realm offers a wealth of academic resources, from digital libraries to open educational materials, empowering students to explore diverse perspectives. Environmental Impact: Beyond education, digital transformation promotes sustainability, reducing paper usage and minimizing the carbon footprint of educational institutions. Evolving Pedagogy: Professors have become facilitators and guides, employing innovative teaching methods, flipped classrooms, and digital assessments that encourage critical thinking and creativity. In conclusion, higher education's digital transformation empowers students, eliminates geographical constraints, and paves the way for a promising future in a rapidly changing world.
COMMUNITY AND DIGITAL TRANSFORMATION
C
ANONYMOUS
ommunity plays a pivotal role in the realm of digital transformation. It
serves as the foundation for creating a shared vision and understanding of how digital technology can be harnessed. Communities may revolve around specific technologies, use cases, or initiatives, providing a space for members to exchange best practices, address challenges, and stay informed about the latest developments. Furthermore, these communities bridge the gap between the business and technical aspects of an organization, fostering connections across different departments and teams. Such networks offer a collaborative platform for the exchange of ideas, which is indispensable for a triumphant digital transformation. On the flip side, it's worth noting that not everyone readily embraces the concept of digital transformation. Resistance to change or hesitancy toward adopting new technologies can be encountered. Some individuals or groups might be reluctant, while others are more open to innovation. Resistance can manifest in various forms, ranging from passive disengagement to active opposition. People may avoid using new technology, question its value, or even disrupt its implementation. Consequently, organizations must remain vigilant about potential resistance, dedicating time to educate and build trust among all stakeholders before initiating a digital transformation endeavor. In summary, fostering a sense of community is a cornerstone in the journey of digital transformation. It unites individuals, provides a common vision, and encourages the exchange of knowledge and ideas, all of which are critical for success. However, recognizing and addressing resistance to change is equally vital to ensure a smooth and productive transformation process.
A LOOK INTO EVERYTHING DIGITAL
D
ARWA
igital transformation involves leveraging digital technologies to adapt or create
new business processes, culture, and customer experiences to meet evolving market needs. It represents a fundamental shift in how organizations employ technology to deliver value to customers and stakeholders. In my view, digital transformation revolves around utilizing technology to generate fresh opportunities for both businesses and individuals. This transformation is intricately tied to Saudi Arabia's 2030 Vision, which aims to establish the nation as a global innovation and creativity hub, with a strong emphasis on digitalization. The Vision focuses on nurturing a knowledge-based economy, driven by technologies like AI, machine learning, big data analytics, cloud computing, robotics, and IoT. These tools enhance business efficiency and customer service. Moreover, digital transformation significantly alters educational experiences by introducing interactive and engaging learning methods. AI-powered virtual tutors offer personalized instruction, while online courses complement or replace traditional classroom teaching. This approach grants students access to a wealth of global knowledge through online resources such as e-books and videos. In the business, economic, and cultural spheres, digital transformation creates novel opportunities for innovative customer engagement. Businesses can employ AI chatbots for real-time customer interaction, utilize ML to understand preferences, and streamline marketing campaigns, effectively reducing costs. Additionally, it fosters job creation in specialized fields like software development and data science. However, the concept of digital transformation faces skepticism within certain communities due to privacy and security concerns. Some individuals may perceive these technologies as complex and intimidating. It is crucial for communities to acknowledge the potential benefits of digital transformation when used responsibly and securely. Education on the safe and appropriate use of these technologies ensures that everyone can access these advantages without compromising privacy or security.
DIGITAL TRANSFORMATION AND SOCIAL MEDIA
I
ANONYMOUS
n the digital age, transformation isn't a concept; it's a wave we ride. Let's dive
into the world of digital transformation and its seamless integration with social media, a landscape university students like us know well. Imagine the digital realm as an ever-expanding playground. Social media platforms connect us globally, allowing us to share our adventures on Instagram and voice our thoughts on Twitter. These platforms are at the heart of digital transformation. Now, shift your focus to the online celebrities – influencers. They shape our views and introduce us to new ideas. Influencer marketing is an offspring of digital transformation. These individuals connect with us personally, creating a sense of community. Remember following a fitness influencer and starting your health journey? That's the power of influencers. Digital transformation constantly reinvents itself. It drives the evolution of social media and the rise of influencers. Apps we adore are shaped by this transformation, leading to features like Instagram's shopping and TikTok's popularity. The future promises AI-driven personalization, virtual reality, and blockchain technology to secure content authenticity. As university students, we are pioneers in this transformative era. We live, breathe, and thrive in this digital landscape. Every like, share, or purchase is part of ongoing digital transformation. Digital transformation offers endless possibilities, with social media and influencers as vibrant canvases. We stand on the precipice of a new world where innovation reigns. Dive in, explore, and make your mark – the digital transformation journey awaits you.
POETRY POETRY
POETRY IN BITS AND BYTES, WHERE VERSES AND ALGORITHMS DANCE TOGETHER, PAINTING THE CANVAS OF THE DIGITAL REALM
WHISPERS OF THE DIGITAL DREAM Madeha M. Islam
In the realm of innovation, we explore, Where the digital waves in their brilliance roar. Reality's tapestry, a canvas unseen, Where worlds intertwine, in a mystical dream. Bits and bytes, a symphony they weave, In the boundless space where concepts conceive. Infinite data streams, electrons take flight, Mapping the edges of day and night. But within this matrix of binary code, A question arises, a puzzle bestowed. What is real in this digital dance? As we venture deep, do we stand a chance? Are we but avatars, lines of code, In an endless tale where minds erode? Or are we the authors, creating anew, A world where reality and dream are not two? Innovation's promise, it's both delight and strife, Unveiling the secrets of our digital life. As we tread these pathways, minds intertwined, The boundaries of reality continue to unwind. In the digital transformation, we seek to define, What's real, what's illusion, in this complex design. A journey profound, where questions arise, In the boundless realm where the future lies. So, let us ponder, explore, and inquire, As we journey through this digital mire. In the dance of electrons, the pixels that gleam, What's the essence of reality, in this digital dream?
SHE TOLD ME
Zulaikha Umar El-Yakub
She told me wait my love, Wait till you understand yourself but remember Time would still run. She told me keep your head high, High enough to stand your ground but Low enough to understand your people. She told me sit up straight, Straight enough to secure your safety but not To instill fear in hearts. She told me listen, Listen enough to be able to understand the Unspoken words shared through eyes. She told me speak, Speak loud enough for people to hear you but Quite enough to respect your silence. She told me write, Write enough to escape the world But never to dismiss reality. She told me live, Live enough to enjoy every memory And cherish every smile But live enough to know peace. She told me care, Care enough to compromise But never enough to lose yourself. Her last words were………. Love my baby Love me enough to let me go.
R
EVIEWS EVIEWS EVIEWS
IN THE WORLD OF DIGITAL STORYTELLING, REVIEWS ARE THE GUIDING STARS, ILLUMINATING THE PATHS TO CINEMATIC AND LITERARY TREASURES
"THE LEAN STARTUP" BY ERIC RIES (2011) Eric Ries' "The Lean Startup" is a foundational guide for anyone looking to navigate the ever-evolving landscape of business innovation. Ries introduces the concept of validated learning and provides invaluable insights into how to build a startup that's both innovative and sustainable. By emphasizing a continuous cycle of buildmeasure-learn, this book serves as a roadmap for those looking to create products and services that truly meet customer needs. "The Lean Startup" is a must-read for entrepreneurs, intrapreneurs, and anyone interested in harnessing the power of lean thinking to drive innovation and digital transformation. ANONYMOUS
"THE SOCIAL NETWORK" (2010) "The Social Network," directed by David Fincher, offers a captivating and dramatic portrayal of the birth of the world's most influential social media platform, Facebook. The film delves into the complexities of innovation, entrepreneurship, and the digital transformation of social interactions.
With
Jesse
Eisenberg's
compelling
performance as Mark Zuckerberg and an engaging screenplay by Aaron Sorkin, the movie not only entertains but also provides insight into the cutthroat world of tech startups. "The Social Network" is a gripping tale of ambition, betrayal, and the transformative power of digital innovation. ANONYMOUS
"SAPIENS: A BRIEF HISTORY OF HUMANKIND" BY YUVAL NOAH HARARI (2011)
Yuval Noah Harari's "Sapiens" takes readers on a sweeping journey through the history of humankind, tracing the evolution of our species from ancient times to the digital age. Harari's insightful exploration of the cognitive and cultural revolutions that shaped human history provides a broader
context
for
understanding
the
digital
transformation we are experiencing today. The book challenges readers to consider the implications of technology and innovation on society, making it a thoughtprovoking read for those interested in the intersection of history, technology, and human evolution. ANONYMOUS
"HER" (2013)
Spike Jonze's "Her" is a beautifully crafted science-fiction film that explores the relationship between humans and technology in a near-future world. Joaquin Phoenix plays a lonely man who falls in love with an operating system with artificial intelligence, voiced by Scarlett Johansson. The movie offers a profound meditation on the impact of digital transformation on human emotions and relationships. "Her" raises thought-provoking questions about the nature of connection in our increasingly digitalized world and is a visually stunning and emotionally resonant film that will linger in your mind long after the credits roll.
ANONYMOUS
LET’S
HAVE
FUN
EMBRACE THE LIGHTER SIDE OF INNOVATION, WHERE HUMOR AND CREATIVITY COLLIDE, SPARKING NEW IDEAS, AND REMINDING US NOT TO TAKE LIFE TOO SERIOUSLY.
TECH TRIVIA I 1. What does the acronym "AI" stand for? a) Advanced Internet b) Artificial Intelligence c) Advanced Invention d) Automated Interface 2. Who is known as the co-founder of Microsoft Corporation? a) Bill Gates b) Steve Jobs c) Mark Zuckerberg d) Jeff Bezos 3. Which programming language is often used for web development and is known for its simplicity and readability? a) Java b) C++ c) Python d) Ruby 4. Which company developed the first commercially successful computer mouse? a) Apple b) IBM c) Xerox d) Microsoft 5. What does the acronym "URL" stand for in the context of web addresses? a) Uniform Resource Locator b) Universal Remote Link c) Uniform Resource Language d) Ultimate Resource List
TECH TRIVIA II 6. Which technology is primarily used for wireless communication between devices over short distances? a) NFC (Near Field Communication) b) GPS (Global Positioning System) c) DSL (Digital Subscriber Line) d) LAN (Local Area Network) 7. What is the term for a distributed ledger technology behind cryptocurrencies like Bitcoin? a) Digital Signature b) Smart Contract c) Blockchain d) Hash Function 8. What was the first commercially successful video game, released in 1972? a) Pong b) Super Mario Bros. c) Space Invaders d) Pac-Man 9. Which famous computer scientist and mathematician is considered the father of theoretical computer science and artificial intelligence? a) Alan Turing b) Isaac Newton c) Albert Einstein d) Charles Babbage 10. Which operating system is known for its open-source nature and penguin mascot? a) Windows b) macOS c) Linux d) Android
RIDDLE MANIA 1. I am a 7-letter word, and I am related to computers. What am I? 2. What comes once in a minute, twice in a moment, but never in a thousand years? 3. I have keys but open no locks. I have space but no room. You can enter, but you can't go inside. What am I? 4. I am a programming language named after a snake. What am I? 5. I'm a type of tree, but I'm never found in a forest. What am I? 6. I'm something you see on a screen but not in reality. What am I? 7. I'm used to store information, but I'm not a book or a computer. What am I? 8. I'm a number that, when turned upside down, still looks the same. What am I? 9. I'm a form of communication that consists of 140 characters or less. What am I? 10. I'm a device that allows you to talk to your computer without using a keyboard or mouse. What am I?
INNOVATION BRAIN TEASER 1. The Mysterious Innovation: You discover a groundbreaking innovation that can change the world but can't be seen, touched, or heard. What is it? 2. The Innovation Sequence: Arrange the following innovations in chronological order, from earliest to most recent: the printing press, the internet, the steam engine, and the smartphone. 3. The Missing Element: A brilliant innovator has created a machine that can transform water into any material or substance. It can turn water into gold, food, or even medicine. What is the missing element that makes this innovation possible? 4. The Innovator's Dilemma: You're in charge of a company that's been a pioneer in its industry for years, but a disruptive innovation is threatening to render your products obsolete. How do you approach this innovation to ensure your company's survival? 5. The Innovation Puzzle: A jigsaw puzzle manufacturer wants to create the most challenging and innovative puzzle ever. How can they achieve this without making the puzzle larger or using smaller puzzle pieces?
TECH TRIVIA ANSWER KEY 1. b) Artificial Intelligence 2. a) Bill Gates 3. c) Python 4. c) Xerox 5. a) Uniform Resource Locator 6. a) NFC (Near Field Communication) 7. c) Blockchain 8. a) Pong 9. a) Alan Turing 10. c) Linux
RIDDLE MANIA ANSWER KEY 1. The 7-letter word related to computers is "Keyboard." 2. The letter "M." 3. A keyboard. 4. Python. 5. A family tree. 6. A screensaver. 7. A notebook. 8. The number "0." 9. A tweet (on Twitter). 10. A microphone.
2023