ISPEC International Journal of Social Sciences & Humanities

Development and Validation of a Performance-Based Semiotic Analysis Tool (AGAF) for Visual Literacy and Values Education

Zekai DEMİRDELEN — 2026-06-20

The primary objective of this research is to develop the Emblem Semiotic Analysis Form (AGAF)—a performance-based assessment tool designed to evaluate the multidimensional visual analysis skills of middle school students—and to establish its psychometric properties (validity and reliability). Methodologically, the study is structured as mixed-methods instrument development research employing an exploratory sequential design. In the initial phase of development, a 15-item draft structure—synthesized from the literature on visual literacy, semiotics, and values education—was revised into a 12-item analytic rubric based on expert panel feedback. The content validity of the instrument was analyzed using the Davis technique, yielding an overall Content Validity Index (CVI) of 0.91. To rigorously test the psychometric properties of the tool, a cross-validation process was conducted utilizing two independent study groups. An Exploratory Factor Analysis (EFA) conducted on the first group (n = 112) revealed the three-dimensional structure of the instrument (Descriptive, Symbolic, and Values); subsequently, a Confirmatory Factor Analysis (CFA) performed on the second independent group (n = 214) statistically verified the model-data fit of this established structure. Furthermore, the criterion-related validity of the tool was established via correlations with students' Visual Arts and Turkish course academic achievement scores. Reliability was strongly confirmed through Cronbach's Alpha (.89) and McDonald's Omega (.91) coefficients, along with high stability demonstrated through the test-retest method (r = .85). Finally, the developed tool serves as an original assessment framework that supports students not merely in describing visual elements at a taxonomic level, but also in interpreting them within a transdisciplinary context of cultural codes, symbolic meanings, and universal values.

Sectarian Polemics in Ibadi Theology in the Context of Abu Hafs Amrûs b. Fath al-Nafusi’s Work Usul al-Daynuna

Kadri ÖNEMLİ — 2026-06-20

This study examines the extant treatise of Amrus b. al-Fath, one of the prominent Ibadi jurists and theologians of the 3rd/9th century, within the framework of the sect's identity construction and faith parameters. The primary objective of the study extends beyond providing a mere translation; it aims to conduct a philological examination of the original Arabic text, a conceptual translation, and a profound theological-legal analysis. The article deciphers the institutional identity of Ibadism, particularly as it was forged during the Rustamid period in the Maghreb, and its ontological divergence from mainstream sects through the author’s unique terminology. In the intellectual world of Amrus b. al-Fath, the "faith-works" (iman-amal) integrity is not merely a theoretical claim but a legal norm that determines social statuses. Against the Murji'ite approach that excludes works and the rigid Takfiri stance of the Sufriyya, the author constructs a "middle ground" (Ahl al-Adl) through the concepts of "ingratitude" (kufr al-ni'ma) and "hypocrisy" (nifaq). Within this framework, the status of those who commit grave sins (murtakib al-kabira) is formulated as Muslims in terms of worldly rulings, yet subject to eternal punishment in the hereafter. Another noteworthy element in the text is the central role of technical terms such as "idgal" (corruption in faith) and "tamadi" (persistence in sin) in the school's theory of excuse and understanding of religious obligation (mukallafiyya). The methodological originality of the study lies in its critique of rival sects such as the Mu'tazila, Murji'a, and Shi'a through the lens of "logical consistency." Amrus b. al-Fath prioritizes methodological discipline in Islamic law by arguing that conflicting rulings (such as inheritance and booty) cannot be applied simultaneously to the same person or property. Furthermore, he strengthens the legitimacy of the Ibadi theory of imamate by reinterpreting the "Arbitration" (Tahkim) issue as the superiority of divine decree over human will. Consequently, this research reveals that the ideal of "pure religion" (al-dinat al-safiya) advocated by Amrus b. al-Fath is a rational and justice-centered system established amidst the chaotic atmosphere of the period.

The Aesthetics of Truth: Manifestations of Allah’s Beauty and Majesty

Halise BAYSUĞ — 2026-06-20

The concept of Truth (Haqiqah), the heart of Islamic thought and Sufism, is not merely rational knowledge but an aesthetic experience of existence's essence. This experience centers on two poles of divine manifestation: Jamāl and Jalāl. While Jamāl represents God’s absolute grace and mercy, Jalāl symbolizes His infinite power and grandeur. This article argues that these attributes are not conflicting opposites but an inseparable unity converging at the level of “Kamāl”. This aesthetic perspective is most evident in the soul's journey. Sufis believe maturity comes from correctly interpreting these bipolar manifestations: life’s hardship discipline the soul, while blessings soften the heart. The ultimate goal is realizing that both flow from the same source, revealing a hidden harmony. Thus, Islamic aesthetics seeks more than outward beauty; it aims to transform the human self into a work of art aligned with divine balance. By tracing this perspective, the article seeks to reinterpret the modern approach to beauty through a Sufi lens, guiding the individual from fragmentation to a holistic understanding of reality and inner peace.

Development and Sensory Evaluation of Natural Chewing Gum Formulations Based on Menengiç (Pistacia terebinthus L.) Resin and Essential Oil

Tuğba ÖZCAN — 2026-06-20

This study aimed to develop natural, additive-free, and environmentally sustainable chewing gum formulations using menengiç (Pistacia terebinthus L.) resin and essential oil. Menengiç fruits and resin collected from mountainous areas of Fakıuşağı neighborhood in Osmaniye Province and from the Bahçe and Hasanbeyli districts were used as plant materials. Essential oil was obtained from the fruits by hydrodistillation using a Clevenger-type apparatus. The resin was softened by the bain-marie method, dried under laboratory conditions, and combined with different amounts of essential oil to prepare R1 (0.2 mL), R2 (0.3 mL), and R3 (0.4 mL) formulations. A sugar-free and flavor-free commercial chewing gum was used as the control. Samples were evaluated on a 1-5 scale for shape integrity, aromatic odor, density, and elasticity; no taste test was performed for safety reasons. The findings showed that increasing essential oil improved aromatic odor and elasticity but reduced density. R3 showed the highest performance among natural formulations in terms of aroma and elasticity. Overall, menengiç resin and essential oil appear to be promising raw materials for natural chewing gum development. Further studies are required on microbiological safety, shelf life, volatile compound stability, consumer acceptance, and formulation optimization.