CULTIVATING GLOBAL AWARENESS: EXPLORING THE BENEFITS AND CHALLENGES OF GLOBAL LEARNING

 

By Norshimah Abdul Rahman and Marjan Mohd Noor, Faculty of Accountancy, Universiti Teknologi MARA Cawangan Perlis

 

In today's world, education is no longer confined to classrooms within our neighborhoods. Global learning opens doors to new perspectives, connecting us with people from different corners of the globe. Global learning (GL), also known as global education or global citizenship education, is an educational approach that aims to foster a deeper understanding of the interconnectedness of the world and to prepare individuals to be active and responsible global citizens. It is the process of diverse people collaboratively analyzing and addressing complex problems (Hartman et. al., 2023). The GL education is much more than just learning about global and development issues. It aims to support teachers to develop their knowledge, skills and values base, in order to provide a quality learning experience to students and young people about how they relate to a globalised world (Bourn, 2014). It can also pose challenges to existing approaches to teaching and learning since it goes beyond traditional academic subjects and emphasizes developing knowledge, skills, and attitudes that enable individuals to engage with global issues and challenges.

As the world becomes increasingly interconnected, the traditional boundaries of education are dissolving, making room for the concept of global learning to flourish. GL a dynamic and multifaceted approach to education, offers individuals the opportunity to expand their horizons beyond their local contexts (Kahn & Agnew, 2017). This article explores the positive outcomes or benefits and consequences of global experiences. By examining its positive outcomes and considering potential implications, we gain insights into how global learning shapes individuals, societies, and the global landscape as a whole.

 

Key benefits of Global Learning

GL offers a range of benefits that contribute to personal growth, professional development, and broader societal progress. Some of the key benefits of GL include:

·      Cultural awareness and sensitivity:

Global learning exposes individuals to different cultures, customs, and traditions. This fosters cultural awareness, sensitivity, and a deeper understanding of the diversity that enriches our world. Cultural understanding plays a vital role in preventing misunderstandings and conflicts by promoting effective communication, empathy, and mutual respect. For example: Engaging in discussions about politics or historical events without understanding cultural sensitivities might lead to unintended offense or conflicts (Lusha, 2023). Cultural awareness helps navigate such topics respectfully.

·      Broadened perspectives

Global learning exposes individuals to diverse viewpoints and perspectives by immersing them in environments where they interact with people from various cultural, social, economic, and ideological backgrounds (Alam et al., 2013; Diem et al., 2023). This exposure goes beyond theoretical knowledge, providing firsthand experiences that challenge preconceived notions and broaden one's understanding of the world.

Exposure to new perspectives encourages open-mindedness and the ability to embrace viewpoints that differ from one's own, promoting tolerance and reducing prejudice (Cotter et al., 2022).

·      Enhanced communication skills

Engaging with people from various backgrounds enhances communication skills, as individuals learn to navigate language differences, nonverbal cues, and diverse communication styles (Diem et al., 2023). It will sharpen your ability to adapt, interpret, and convey messages effectively in a variety of settings. This enhanced communication proficiency not only enriches your personal interactions but also prepares you to succeed in multicultural professional environments.

·      Global citizenship and responsibility

Global learning cultivates a sense of global citizenship, encouraging individuals to take responsibility for addressing worldwide challenges like climate change, poverty, and inequality. This exposure increases awareness of the pressing issues that affect societies worldwide. Moreover, global learning instills a sense of responsibility for the welfare of others, beyond one's immediate community. Individuals begin to perceive themselves as members of a global community, sharing responsibility for its well-being.

By fostering a sense of global citizenship and responsibility, global learning equips individuals to engage actively in shaping a more just, equitable, and sustainable world (Diem et al., 2023). This mindset transcends geographic borders and encourages individuals to think and act beyond their immediate surroundings.

·      Personal growth and resilience

Global learning pushes individuals out of their comfort zones, leading to personal growth, increased self-confidence, and a broader sense of identity. Interacting with people from various backgrounds creates a global network that can prove valuable for future collaborations, both personally and professionally (Diem et al., 2023). Understanding cultural nuances improves conflict resolution skills by promoting effective communication and negotiation across cultural differences. Global Learning provides insights into diverse markets, enabling more informed decision-making and successful international ventures.

 

Challenges

Embarking on a global learning adventure opens doors to new horizons, yet within these horizons lie challenges that demand resilience, adaptability, and a willingness to navigate the unfamiliar. Individuals are confronted with both opportunities and obstacles, as they venture beyond their comfort zones to engage with cultures and perspectives vastly different from their own (Majewska 2023). Among the noticeable challenges are:

·      Cultural shock and adjustment:

Adapting to a new cultural environment can be overwhelming, leading to cultural shock, homesickness, and a sense of isolation (Alam et al., 2013). Misunderstanding cultural cues, customs, and nonverbal communication can lead to unintentional offense or confusion.

·      Language and social barriers:

Communicating in a foreign language can be challenging, leading to misunderstandings and difficulties in expressing thoughts effectively. Building relationships with locals and peers from different backgrounds can be struggling due to differences in social norms and communication styles (Majewska 2023).

·      Different education systems and academic expectation

Navigating unfamiliar educational methods, grading systems, and teaching styles can be confusing and impact academic performance. Meeting the academic expectations and workload of a foreign institution can be demanding and require strong time management skills (Che, 2023). Furthermore, collaborating with peers, professors, or colleagues across different time zones can lead to difficulties in scheduling and communication.

·      Navigating bureaucracy and financial pressures

Dealing with visa applications, legal requirements, and administrative processes in a foreign country can be complex and time-consuming (Liao et al., 2019). Managing finances, including currency exchange rates and unexpected costs, can add stress to the  experience (Diem et al., 2023).

·      Balancing cultural immersion with academic goals

Finding the right balance between fully immersing oneself in the culture and focusing on academic responsibilities can be challenging. Unintentional cultural insensitivities or misunderstandings can strain relationships and hinder effective communication (Bakhtiari & Shajar, 2011).

 

Conclusion

Bakhtiari & Shajar (2011) believes that education is one of key local factors that can be used to moderate some impacts of globalization from negative to positive and convert threats into opportunities for the development of individuals and local community in the inevitable process of globalization. Understanding and anticipating these challenges can help individuals or students prepare for a rewarding global learning experience (Diem et al., 2023). Institutions and program coordinators should provide adequate support, resources, and guidance to help students overcome these challenges and maximize their international student exchange experience. By proactively addressing these challenges, students can overcome barriers, improve cross-cultural competencies, and grow personally and academically abroad. Individuals or global learners should study or research the host country's culture, customs, and norms to anticipate potential challenges and adapt accordingly.

 

References

Alam, F., Alam, Q., Chowdhury, H., & Steiner, T. (2013). Transnational education: Benefits, threats and challenges. Procedia Engineering, 56, 870–874. https://doi.org/10.1016/j.proeng.2013.03.209

Bakhtiari, S., & Shajar, H. (2011). Globalization and education: Challenges and opportunities. International Business & Economics Research Journal (IBER), 5(2), 95–102. https://doi.org/10.19030/iber.v5i2.3461

Bourn, D. (2014). The theory and practice of global learning,  Research Paper No. 11, Development Education Research Centre, Institute of Education, London

Che, A. M. (2023). Benefits and challenges of transnational education: Reflections from a sino-British joint venture university. International Journal of Chinese Education, 12(1). https://doi.org/10.1177/2212585X221144903

Cotter, G., Bonenfant, Y., Butler, J., Caulfield, M., Prestwich, B. D., Griffin, R., Khabbar, S., Mishra, N., Hally, R., Murphy, M., Murphy, O., O’Sullivan, M., Phelan, M., Reidy, D., Schneider, J. C., Isaloo, A. S., Turner, B., Usher, R., & Sinalo, C. W. (2022). Creating a community of praxis: integrating global citizenship and development education across campus at University College Cork. International Journal of Development Education and Global Learning, 14(2), 1–12. https://doi.org/10.14324/ijdegl.14.2.01

Diem, H. T. T., Thinh, M. P., & Mung, T. T. (2023). An Investigation into the benefits and challenges of international student exchange programs: Perspectives from student teachers. International Journal of Learning, Teaching and Educational Research, 22(7), 258–280. https://doi.org/10.26803/ijlter.22.7.14

Hartman, E., Kiely, R. C., Friedrichs, J., & Boettcher, C. (2023). Community-based global learning: The theory and practice of ethical engagement at home and abroad. Taylor & Francis.

Kahn, H. E., & Agnew, M. (2017). Global learning through difference: Considerations for teaching, learning, and the internationalization of higher education. Journal of Studies in International Education, 21(1), 52–64. https://doi.org/10.1177/1028315315622022

Liao, W., Kilcoyne, M., Parker, C., Perez-Mira, B., Jones, C., & Woods, L. (2019). Engaging students globally without leaving the comforts of home. Journal of Global Education and Research, 3(1), 22–36. https://doi.org/10.5038/2577-509x.3.1.1073

Lusha, E. (2023). Human rights in the face of global challenges. Interdisciplinary Journal of Research and Development, 10(1 S1), 118. https://doi.org/10.56345/ijrdv10n1s117

Majewska, I. A. (2023). Teaching global competence: Challenges and opportunities. College Teaching, 71(2), 112-124.

UNVEILING THE PERILS AND CATASTROPHIC VULNERABILITIES OF CYBER SECURITY ATTACKS IN ACCOUNTING

 

 

 

By Marjan Mohd Noor and Norshimah Abdul Rahman, Faculty of Accountancy, Universiti Teknologi MARA, Cawangan Perlis.

 

The field of cyber security is indeed constantly evolving, with new challenges and threats every year. It is crucial in the cyber realm, which is an entity made up of bits, to both protecting and enabling the defence of secret data and information. Using cutting-edge digital technology and their extraordinary, interconnected capabilities, cyber threat attacks become a reality. As a result, the term "cyber security" can be used to refer as a body of knowledge about the technologies, procedures, and practises used to safeguard computer systems, networks, or programmes as well as data stored in cyberspace against assault, damage, or unauthorized access (Li & Liu, 2021).

According to the Canadian Centre for Cyber Security (2022), the various kinds of cyber threats are becoming more sophisticated and threat actors are using various techniques that are difficult to detect. Survey conducted by the Office for National Statistics (ONS) for the year ending March 2022, compared to other crimes, people in England and Wales are most affected by fraud or cyber offences (ONS, 2022). Compared to the year ending March 2020, the number of fraud offences increased by 25% (to 4.5 million offences), mainly due to a significant increase in "advance fee fraud" and "consumer and retail fraud". Computer misuse has increased by 89% (to 1.6 million offences) compared to the fiscal year ending March 2020, due to a sharp increase in offences related to unauthorized access to personal data (hacking) (ONS, 2022).

However, data is increasingly becoming a target for cybercriminals across the region, and Malaysia is no exception. With nearly four thousand reports of cyber threat incidents reported to the Cyber Security Malaysia through the Malaysia Computer Emergency Response Team (MyCERT) in 2022, online frauds were the most commonly reported cyber threats, followed by malicious codes (Statista Research Department, 2023). When analysing the impact of the adoption of cutting-edge digital technologies on the changes taking place in today’s business organizations, it is important to consider the intrinsic complexity of all the systems, devices, and networks used to perform the relevant tasks as well as other professional practices. As the rate of cyber threats increases and may affect many areas of business of all sizes, there is no doubt the threat actors are looking at the accounting profession as their potential target (Salman, 2020). According to Gary Salman (2020), a CEO of Black Talon Security (specializing in business cyber security) reports that since the start of the COVID -19 pandemic, cyber-attacks on accounting firms have increased by 300%. This is because this professional sector is already vulnerable to cybercrime and is struggling to cope with the difficulties of remote working (Salman, 2020). Due to the increasing threats and risks to which accounting systems and financial data are exposed, accounting cyber security must be a top priority (Prince, 2022).

Cybersecurity Automation Team (2023) defines an accounting cyber security as a collection of procedures, controls, and tools aimed at preventing unauthorised access, cyberthreats, data breaches, and other potential risks to accounting systems, financial data, and related information. In order to secure the confidentiality, integrity, and accessibility of accounting data, security controls, protocols, and policies must be put into place (Tierney, 2021). Accounting cyber security aims to safeguard financial data, uphold the privacy of sensitive information, adhere to legal obligations, reduce risks, and prevent unauthorized activities that could compromise the accuracy and reliability of accounting procedures and financial reports. Hackers are aware that businesses with insecure systems that contain sensitive financial data and expose the data to cyber criminals can be an easy target as cyber-attacks increase. Thus, the cyber security in accounting is vital as its practices ensure the protection of company’s sensitive financial data, not just for the sake of compliance but also for the safety of company’s clients who have put their trust on the company with their financial, personal, and professional information (Lehenchuck et al., 2022).

However, accounting faces a variety of challenges as it deals with the most valuable financial data that is highly likely to be breached (Vasilesky, 2023). The potential perils and the corresponding vulnerabilities posed by cyber security attacks on accounting firms can be catastrophic (Yap, 2023; Politzer, 2020). The cyber security breaches targeting accounting firms can undoubtedly result in calamitous outcomes, as these firms handle extremely sensitive financial and personal data. Even though the topic of cyber security in accounting is evolving, with new threats and risks emerging every day, familiarizing ourselves with several conceivable hazards and the corresponding vulnerabilities of accounting cyber security attacks including rising of data breaches, ransomware, phishing attacks, and legal consequences is a good place to start (Alawida et al., 2022).

Professional service accounting and auditing firms retain vast amounts of financial information, including tax records, payroll data and financial statements. They are often seen as attractive targets for hackers. This is mainly because they have a wealth of confidential data, and their data security measures are considered less advanced compared to financial services and healthcare sectors (Peacock, 2019). There are several factors have played a role in data breaches. These include cases such as an employee may click dubious Uniform Resource Locator (URL) links provided in unsolicited text messages or unwittingly providing security information during a phishing attack, introducing malware through a third-party system, or neglecting to update software, allowing vulnerabilities to be exploited (De Groot, 2023). Vulnerabilities encompass weak and inadequate passwords, unpatched software, and insufficient encryption may lead to identity theft, financial fraud, and reputational damage for both the firms and their clients.

Ransomware is a type of malicious software or also known as malware that encrypts files and data, rendering them inaccessible until a ransom is paid to unlock and decrypt them (Gillis & Lutkevich, 2021). Accounting firms can be extremely targets for ransomware attacks due to their significant potential impact. Ransomware is developed with the intention of gaining control over computers, networks, files, and sensitive data by encrypting files and preventing the owners access to them. Afterwards, usually the attacker demands payment, often in anonymous cryptocurrencies such as Bitcoin, to restore access to these files. This situation probably disrupts company’s business operations and lead to significant financial losses. Unsecured remote desktop services are one of the vulnerabilities of ransomware. Basically, remote desktop services allow users to access a computer or network from a remote location. If these services are not properly secured, they can become a gateway for cybercriminals as the attackers can exploit weak or default passwords, open ports or known vulnerabilities in the service’s software.

America Cyber Security and Infrastructure Security Agency (2021) defines phishing as a form of social engineering attack. Phishing is a common method used by cybercriminals to trick people into divulging confidential information or downloading malware. Accounting firms are an attractive target because they handle valuable financial data. Attackers send fraudulent emails that appear legitimate, often posing as trusted institutions such as banks, tax authorities or customers. Employees may be tricked into clicking on malicious links or downloading malicious attachments. In some cases, attackers specifically tailor their phishing attempts to employees of accounting firms. They conduct research to gather information about the target, such as their role, duties and contacts. This allows them to create highly convincing emails that are more likely to be opened. Accounting firms have to deal with a high volume of emails and messages every day. This sheer volume can make it difficult for staff to thoroughly review each message, increasing the likelihood of inadvertently interacting with malicious content. Although companies implement security measures and provide cyber security training, human error remains a major factor in security breaches. Even trained employees occasionally make mistakes and click on malicious links or unintentionally download harmful attachments.

The Professional Concepts Insurance Agency (2022) highlighted that accounting firms may face significant legal consequences such as client lawsuits and reputational damage if they fail to adequately protect sensitive data. These legal consequences can arise from a variety of sources, including clients and regulators. When accounting firm works with a client, there is often a contractual agreement that sets out the firm’s obligations to protect sensitive data. If the firm does not comply with these obligations, it may be in breach of contract, which makes it liable for damages under the contract. While clients can also bring claims for negligence on the part of the accounting firm. They may argue that the firm failed to take reasonable steps to protect their financial data, resulting in a data breach. If negligence is proven, the firm can be held for the client’s financial losses. In the case of significant data breaches affecting multiple clients, affected parties may join together and bring to file class-action lawsuits against the accounting firm. These lawsuits can lead to significant financial liabilities for the firm. The legal consequences go beyond financial damage. A data breach can damage the reputation of an accounting firm. Clients may lose confidence in the firm’s ability to protect their data, leading to loss of business and difficulty in attracting new clients.

In summary, the potential perils of cyber security attacks on accounting firms are multifaceted, ranging from financial loss and reputational damage to legal and regulatory consequences. It is critical for accounting firms to prioritize cyber security to protect their clients, operations and reputation. Investments in cyber security should be viewed as a proactive strategy that accounting firms must prioritise especially in cyber security measures including robust data encryption, employee training, and compliance with relevant data protection regulations. While these investments may come at a cost, they are an essential part of modern business operations, especially for accounting firms that deal with sensitive financial data. This investment strategy is to ensure the firm’s long-term resilience and success in an increasingly digital and connected world. In accounting, where trust and accuracy are paramount, cyber security is the foundation on which that trust is built and maintained.

 

References:

Alawida, M., Omolara, A. E., Abiodun, O. I., & Al-Rajab, M. (2022). A deeper look into cybersecurity issues in the wake of Covid-19: A survey, Journal of King Saud University – Computer and Information Sciences, 34(10), 8176 – 8206.

America Cyber Security and Infrastructure Security Agency. (2021, February 1). Avoiding social engineering and phishing attacks. https://www.cisa.gov/news-events/news/avoiding-social-engineering-and-phishing-attacks

Canadian Centre for Cybersecurity. (2022, October 28). An introduction to the cyber threat environment. https://www.cyber.gc.ca/en/guidance/introduction-cyber-threat-environment

Cybersecurity Automation Team (2023). What is cybersecurity in accounting. https://www.cybersecurity-automation.com/what-is-cybersecurity-in-accounting/ 

De Groot, J. (2023, May 5). 4 steps to prevent phishing attacks (According to 33 experts). Fortra. https://www.digitalguardian.com/blog/phishing-attack-prevention-how-identify-prevent-phishing-attacks

Gillis, A. S., & Lutkevich, B. (2021, December). Ransomware. https://www.techtarget.com/searchsecurity/definition/ransomware

Lehenchuck, S., Vygivska, I., & Haryhorevska, O.O. (2022). Protection of accounting information in the conditions of cyber security. Problems of Theory and Methodology of Accounting Control and Analysis, 2(52), 40 – 46.

Li, Q., & Liu, Q. (2021). A comprehensive review study of cyber-attacks and cyber security: Emerging trends and recent developments. Energy Reports, 7, 8176 – 8186.

Office for National Statistics (ONS). (2022, September 26). Nature of fraud and computer misuse in England and Wales: year ending March 2022.  https://www.ons.gov.uk/peoplepopulationandcommunity/crimeandjustice/articles/natureoffraudandcomputermisuseinenglandandwales/yearendingmarch2022

Peacock, I. (July, 2019). How can your practice defend itself against a possible cyber incident? ACCA Think Ahead. https://www.accaglobal.com/gb/en/technical-activities/technical-resources-search/2019/july/Cyber-risks-accountancy-firms-exposure.html

Politzer, M. (2020, March 16). Top cyberthreats targeting accounting firms. Journal of Accountancy. https://www.journalofaccountancy.com/newsletters/2020/mar/top-cyberthreats-accounting-firms.html

Prince, S. (2022, November 17). 5 Cybersecurity challenges in the accounting industry and how to overcome them. Tech Rockstars. https://www.techrockstars.com/security/5-cybersecurity-challenges-in-the-accounting-industry-and-how-to-overcome-them/ 

Professional Concepts Insurance Agency. (2022). Accounting firms biggest risks. https://www.pciaonline.com/news/accounting-firms-biggest-risks

Salman, G. (2020, August 24). The rise of cybercrime in the accounting profession continues. Accounting Today. https://www.accountingtoday.com/opinion/the-rise-of-cybercrime-in-the-accounting-profession-continues

Statista Research Department. (2023, February 27). Number of cyber threat incidents reported to cyber security Malaysia 2022, by type of crime. https://www.statista.com/statistics/1043272/malaysia-cyber-crime-incidents/

Tierney, M. (2021, July 26). Data security explained: Challenges and solutions. https://blog.netwrix.com/2021/07/26/data-security/ 

Vasilevsky, H. (2023, February 23). Accounting cybersecurity: Common cyber threats for accountants and how to avoid them. Synder. https://synder.com/blog/cybersecurity-for-accountants-the-most-common-threats-and-solutions/

Yap, V. (2023, March 29). Cybersecurity for accounting firms: What are the biggest concerns? Access. https://www.theaccessgroup.com/en-my/blog/act-cybersecurity-concerns-accounting-my/