The Moderating Effect of Social Capital on Fiscal Policy Responses to COVID-19: Cross-Country Evidence

This study suggests that an adequate level of social capital with a robust health profile might be associated with positive policy outcomes in com-bating COVID-19. We investigate the effect of interaction between fiscal policy responses and social capital on the spreading of the pandemic, by considering the country health profile, demographic and economic factors, in a cross-section of 94 countries. Firstly, the results of the analysis indicate the moderating effect of social capital on keeping the pandemic under control through fiscal policy measures. In particular, strong bilateral and family ties as well as better coordi-nation and cooperation at the community level can facilitate the goal of fiscal policy measures. The results also reveal that the declining effect of fiscal policy on the pandemic mostly arises from the relatively high social capital levels, while it loses its effectiveness at low levels. Secondly, the findings emphasize the role of behavioural risk factors, care systems and preventative interventions as prom-inent determinants of surviving in pandemic. Thirdly, we conclude that taking specific measures for identified vulnerable and high-risk groups is quite im-portant in overcoming the disease. © 2023, Savez Ekonomista Vojvodine. All rights reserved.

Analysis Of Relationship Between Readiness And Attitude Levels Of Vocational School Students For Online Learning In Terms Of Several Variables In The Process Of Covid 19 Pandemic

The aim of this study is to determine the relationship between readiness and attitude levels of vocational school students for online learning in terms of several variables in the process of Covid 19 pandemic. Study group includes students enrolled at a vocational school of a university located in Central Anatolia Region in Turkey. ‘Online Learning Readiness Scale’ and ‘Attitude Scale for Online Learning’ were used to collect the data. The scales were administered on a total of 312. The study included 264 female and 48 male students. Kolmogorov-Smirnov normality test was used to see whether the data were normally distributed. Independent groups t test was used to determine the differences in terms of gender, grade level, technology use level and internet quota variables while One Way ANOVA was used to see the differences in terms of the variables of department nd technological device to connect the system. Pearson Correlation Coefficient test was used to measure the strength and the direction of relationship between readiness and attitude levels of vocational school students for online learning. Study results revealed a positive relationship between the readiness and attitude levels of the students for online learning. © 2020. All Rights Reserved.