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1 – 10 of 53Peter Dodzi Kwasi Agbaxode, Ehsan Saghatforoush, Sitsabo Dlamini and John Kwesi Korsah
The purpose of this study was to identify specific enablers intrinsic to integrated project delivery (IPD) that can be adapted into the conventional project delivery (CPD…
Abstract
Purpose
The purpose of this study was to identify specific enablers intrinsic to integrated project delivery (IPD) that can be adapted into the conventional project delivery (CPD) approach to enhance the quality of design documentation produced under the CPD within the Ghanaian construction industry.
Design/methodology/approach
The study employed questionnaires and semi-structured interviews for data collection. The sample size was 235 responses for questionnaires while 15 participants were interviewed. The survey instrument was piloted with industry professionals to ensure validity. IBM SPSS was used to analyze quantitative data by determining frequencies, percentages, correlation and regression, while content analysis was used on qualitative data with the aid of QSR Nvivo software.
Findings
Key findings include the need to adapt the early involvement of key participants for collaborative design input, tie individual success to overall project success with incentives and establish shared accountability for design errors and encourage open communication.
Practical implications
Adapting IPD enablers into the CPD approach would ensure higher-quality design documentation and more efficient project delivery. This has the potential to improve project outcomes, reduce errors, and foster better collaboration among stakeholders.
Originality/value
This study is the first of its kind to identify specific enablers inherent in IPD that can be adapted into the CPD approach to improve the quality of design documentation within the Ghanaian construction industry.
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Kathryn Moore, Alex Albans and Peter J. Larkham
This chapter outlines a selection of significant ideas emerging from research investigating the implications of the redefinition of theories of perception presented in the book…
Abstract
This chapter outlines a selection of significant ideas emerging from research investigating the implications of the redefinition of theories of perception presented in the book Overlooking the visual (Moore, 2010). This is based on a sequence of case studies beyond the academy, establishing a strategic landscape-led approach to placemaking at a regional scale that culminates in the West Midlands National Park, officially launched in 2018 at Birmingham City University. We argue that this is the perfect time to take stock, see the bigger picture, and take a new look at regional planning – not as it has been traditionally conceived, but from a landscape perspective. This is “landscape regional design.” This is essential if we want to create better, more resilient places.
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C. C. Wolhuter, Oscar Espinoza and Noel McGinn
This paper takes stock of developments in, and the state of, the field of comparative and international education at the beginning of the 21st century, using as data base articles…
Abstract
This paper takes stock of developments in, and the state of, the field of comparative and international education at the beginning of the 21st century, using as data base articles published in the journal Comparative Education Review during the second decade of the 21st century and to compare results with a content analysis done on the first 50 years of the existence of the Review and which was published in 2008. The 246 articles that were published in the Comparative Education Review during the decade 2010–2019 were analyzed under the following metrics: levels of analysis of articles; number of units covered by articles; research methods; narrative basis; phase of education articles cover; and mode of education articles deal with. Compared to the first 50 years of the existence of the Review, single-unit national-level studies still dominate the field, though less so. A case can be made out for a deconcentration to allow more space for research at geographic levels both larger and smaller than the nation-state. The most prominent narrative in which articles are framed is that of the social justice narrative. The neo-liberal economic narrative stands strong too, while the poor standing of the human rights narrative is disappointing. Turning to modes and phases of education is concerned, the shadow education system has registered on the comparative and international education research agenda, while there seems to be a modest upswing in interest in pre-primary education. Thoughts about the future trajectory of the field are suggested.
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Freda Quinlan, Sarah Donnelly and Deirdre O’Donnell
This study aims to synthesise published evidence relating to filial coercive control to generate an understanding of this under-explored concept. This paper identifies its…
Abstract
Purpose
This study aims to synthesise published evidence relating to filial coercive control to generate an understanding of this under-explored concept. This paper identifies its defining characteristics and explores the circumstances under which the phenomenon manifests in the lives of older adults.
Design/methodology/approach
A scoping review methodology was adopted to guide the literature review, while a concept analysis methodology guided data extraction and analysis. Drawing on Rodgers’s (1989) evolutionary concept analysis method, a co-constructed research methodology was developed for this study.
Findings
The concept of filial coercive control was understood in the context of the following antecedents: ageist norms, a parental relationship (both biological and non-biological), physical proximity and the controlling characteristics and tendencies of the abusive adult child. The defining attributes included the exercise of power through control, dependency and entrapment, isolation and confinement and fear and intimidation. Using the dominant themes, models and contrary cases were constructed to illustrate the findings.
Originality/value
Existing bodies of theory fail to adequately describe the phenomenon of filial coercive control adequately; as a consequence, a co-constructed concept analysis was conducted. A tentative operational definition and a conceptual model are proposed providing a starting point for future research and informing professional practice and education.
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Mary Clare Relihan and Richard O'Donovan
This conceptual paper explores the complex, and neglected, area of mentor development in initial teacher education (ITE) in Australia. It focuses on the emotionality of…
Abstract
Purpose
This conceptual paper explores the complex, and neglected, area of mentor development in initial teacher education (ITE) in Australia. It focuses on the emotionality of mentoring, drawing on concepts of emotional labour and emotional intelligence to develop a framework of effective mentoring that helps explain the essence of a mentor’s role in supporting preservice teachers.
Design/methodology/approach
This conceptual paper draws together mentor-support practice wisdom and research literature from several relevant areas. It draws on constructive developmental theories and complex stage theory to reaffirm the intricate nature of mentor learning and development. This paper critiques the current utilitarian emphasis on mentoring as a way to improve student outcomes without first having clarity on how to improve mentoring itself.
Findings
We introduce the mentoring as emotional labour framework as a way to better understand the nature of mentoring within ITE and as a tool for developing more effective mentor supports. We present “exemplar cases”, which are amalgamations of field observations to illustrate aspects of the framework – however, we do not claim they provide evidence of the utility or accuracy of the framework.
Originality/value
Previous research and policy have tended to gloss over the skills required for effective mentoring, whereas this paper places the emotional labour of mentoring front and centre, explicitly conceptualising and describing the personal and interpersonal skills required in a way that aims to support and empower mentors to recognise existing strengths and areas of potential growth.
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The Metaverse, a dynamic convergence of real and digital spaces powered by Augmented Reality (AR) and Virtual Reality (VR), presents a transformative frontier for businesses to…
Abstract
The Metaverse, a dynamic convergence of real and digital spaces powered by Augmented Reality (AR) and Virtual Reality (VR), presents a transformative frontier for businesses to expand consumer engagement. It offers a three-dimensional web-powered realm where users can immerse themselves in real-life scenarios and simulations from the convenience of their own devices, fostering real-time interaction and uninterrupted business operations. Integrating technologies like VR, AR, Cloud, Blockchain, and IoT, the Metaverse has already made significant strides across industries, providing consumers with unique digital experiences. Businesses can leverage this to enhance their brand awareness, establish stronger customer connections, and provide immersive shopping experiences, making traditional advertising appear antiquated. Major global companies have already embraced this technology, and the Metaverse represents an innovative digital platform with limitless possibilities, rapidly evolving with enabling technologies. This chapter delves into the potential of the Metaverse to bolster brand development and its recent growth, exploring the practical applications for businesses in the near future.
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Benedict Huruma Peter Mwakabungu and Melkamu Wondimu
A shortage of investment capital is one of the main issues facing most developing economies, including Tanzania. Policymakers, economists, and governments in these countries have…
Abstract
Purpose
A shortage of investment capital is one of the main issues facing most developing economies, including Tanzania. Policymakers, economists, and governments in these countries have been debating how to overcome this obstacle and improve economic growth through foreign direct investments (FDI). The present study endeavors to examine the relationship between FDI and economic growth in Tanzania during the period of 1991–2021. The analysis considers financial development, capital formation, and labor force involvement as intermediation variables.
Design/methodology/approach
The study uses time series data to estimate an autoregressive distributed lag (ARDL) model, as well as Granger causality tests to investigate the relationship between the variables under study.
Findings
The findings show a long-run co-integration between the studied variables. However, only FDI and labor input have a significant impact on gross domestic product (GDP) growth in both the short and long run. Bidirectional causality exists between FDI, labor input, and GDP growth in the short and long run.
Practical implications
This study contributes to an understanding of the relationship between inbound FDI, labor input, and economic growth in Tanzania, as well as updating the government to improve its financial system to gain more from FDI inflows and hence boost growth-enhancing effects.
Originality/value
This study provides insight into the relationship between inbound FDI and economic growth in Tanzania, which is a critical policy concern in developing economies. Extant studies’ results remain controversial, and this is the first study in Tanzania to investigate the FDI-growth nexus, by considering financial development, capital formation, and labor input simultaneously.
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Erin Meier, Andrew Nelson Brown, Barry Chovitz, Dominique Zwinkels, Michael Egharevba, Bridget McHenry, Joseph Kabatende and Ines K. Gege Buki
This practice forum paper aims to present a theoretical framework to better develop the required supply chain management (SCM) competencies and the workforce needed for managing…
Abstract
Purpose
This practice forum paper aims to present a theoretical framework to better develop the required supply chain management (SCM) competencies and the workforce needed for managing public health supply chains.
Design/methodology/approach
This framework is driven by iterative systems thinking, a deeper consideration of the SCM labor market and a comprehensive mapping of human resource system requirements. The framework centers around three tools. A labor market analysis assesses factors influencing supply of and demand for health SCM workers in a country context. To improve supply of and demand for workers, the SCM Professionalisation Framework provides reference documents to establish health SCM as a recognized profession. The human resources for SCM Theory of Change explains and assesses the conditions required to achieve optimal workforce performance at the organizational level. The Ministry of Health in Rwanda applied these three tools sequentially to assess and improve the supply and performance of its health SCM workforce.
Findings
The authors describe this framework, how the tools were applied in Rwanda, and early impressions of the results.
Practical implications
Practitioners can apply this approach to improve SCM competence and promote the attractiveness of health SCM positions by formalizing their professional status. This could lead to a pool of individuals who seek SCM qualifications and, in time, overcome the current shortage of health SCM workers. Employers can apply this approach to structured roles and workforce needs to meet health SCM system requirements. This would lead to a greater demand for and use of appropriately trained personnel.
Originality/value
This paper presents a novel, iterative, systems-thinking approach to develop human resources in public health supply chains. Rwanda is the first country to apply all three tools using this framework.
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