Ravi S. Sharma, Ekundayo M. Samuel and Elaine W.J. Ng
The purpose of this paper is to report the results of using the framework in the field for the purpose of formulating knowledge policies. The framework derives from a conceptual…
Abstract
Purpose
The purpose of this paper is to report the results of using the framework in the field for the purpose of formulating knowledge policies. The framework derives from a conceptual model for analyzing knowledge development overviewed by the authors in a previous paper.
Design/methodology/approach
The paper uses the conceptual framework of 13 dimensions for knowledge policy‐making analysis and qualitative focus group discussions by means of what is known as a knowledge SWOT analysis. Such an exercise ordinarily determines what is termed as net strength (strengths offset by weaknesses) and net opportunity (opportunities offset by threats).
Findings
The field research suggests that, whereas quantitative indicators are very commonly used for the purpose of benchmarking and progress tracking, they are limited in terms of determining causes, effects and encapsulating good practices. The present framework provides a means for policy‐makers and analysts to engage in discussion, debates, story‐telling and scenario building in order to understand net strengths and opportunities.
Research limitations/implications
The research is limited by the time constraints of the focus group participants and it is not feasible to conduct a K‐SWOT of more than the four societies used for the reason that there are insufficient numbers of informed participants.
Practical implications
Developing the knowledge economy has to be more than a management of socio‐economic indicators. Understanding the net strength and opportunity faced by a society in the context of a global knowledge economy allowed insights into gaps that may be addressed with appropriate knowledge policies. There is much work to be done in formulating implementable policy recommendations.
Originality/value
It is hoped that a useful and valid policy analysis tool for knowledge development has thus been described.
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Ayodeji Emmanuel Oke, Ahmed Farouk Kineber, Oluwaseun Akindele and Damilola Ekundayo
To realize full benefits without sacrificing the practicality of such projects, the decision-making process for residential building construction needs to include sustainability…
Abstract
Purpose
To realize full benefits without sacrificing the practicality of such projects, the decision-making process for residential building construction needs to include sustainability principles at every level. Therefore, this paper aims to investigate the applicability of radio frequency identification (RFID) and identify the barriers that impede its successful adoption in construction projects to achieve sustainability.
Design/methodology/approach
This paper opted for a quantitative approach by using a structured questionnaire survey. A total of 107 responses were collected from Nigerian construction practitioners involved in private and public construction businesses.
Findings
The results showed the high cost of RFID implementation, with a mean score of 4.42 as the top-ranked barrier, followed by lack of security, maintenance, power availability and inadequate training. This study further deployed Ginni’s mean difference measure of dispersion and revealed that the stationary barrier to adopting RFID technology is the lack of demand.
Practical implications
The findings of this research can assist decision-makers in improving the sustainability of all building projects by implementing RFID.
Originality/value
The findings of this study will serve as the basis for comprehension and critically evaluate the numerous barriers preventing the widespread adoption of RFID technology.
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Rachael Oke Misan-Ruppee, Sunday Obro and Williams Pius Akpochafo
The study explored the effect of information and communication technology-assisted instruction (ICTAI) on civic education (CE) students' academic performance and the effect of…
Abstract
Purpose
The study explored the effect of information and communication technology-assisted instruction (ICTAI) on civic education (CE) students' academic performance and the effect of gender on students' performance. Specifically, the study addressed the facilitating effect of ICTAI on students' scholarly performance.
Design/methodology/approach
This study utilised the quasi-experimental approach. A sample of 255 senior secondary school students was the analysis unit. A teacher-made performance test was used as an instrument for the study. The data were analysed with descriptive statistics for the research questions, and hypotheses tested with paired sample t-test statistics.
Findings
The study results indicated that ICTAI improved student scholarly performance. The study also proved that gender had an impact on student academic performance.
Research limitations/implications
Not all the students in intact classes that were used for conducting the study/research, and the background and gender of research assistants were not considered, and these could have affected the result of the study. The study implications are that this study is a piece of deeper ingenuity and innovation that provides an additional source of information to study. The study provided proof that innovative activity-based instructions such as computer-assisted instruction (CAI) boost students’ performance.
Practical implications
On the instructor, the study findings demonstrated the significant effect of ICTAI on the scholarly performance of CE students. Consequently, this study contends that CE instructors/teachers can benefit from the implications of these findings by comprehensively understanding that ICTIA usage enhances student performance and, thus, improves the students' performance. Additionally, the study's findings proved that gender affected students' performance when instructed with ICTAI. The study implies that CE instructors/teachers should pay special attention to students' gender, specifically female students, as gender affects the improvement of students' CE performance when instructed with ICTAI.
Originality/value
The study findings contribute to the literature on academic improvement and performance of CE students by enhancing the understanding of the effect of ICTAI on students' scholarly performance. The study recognises the existing gaps in previous literature and vivid understanding of the effect of ICTAI on students' performance and gender as a mediator.
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Nathaniel Ayinde Olatunde, Imoleayo Abraham Awodele, Bosede Olajumoke Adebayo and Sola Samuel Makanjuola
The study examined the factors inhibiting the engagement of Quantity Surveyors (QS) on private residential building projects in Ado-Ekiti, Nigeria with a view to enhance the…
Abstract
Purpose
The study examined the factors inhibiting the engagement of Quantity Surveyors (QS) on private residential building projects in Ado-Ekiti, Nigeria with a view to enhance the performance of such projects.
Design/methodology/approach
The study used a qualitative research approach with the use of interview protocol for data collection. A Convenient sampling method was used to select 20 on-going residential building construction projects for the study in the Government Reserved Area, Ado Ekiti, Ekiti State, Nigeria. The client and the architect of the selected projects were the population of research for interview. For data analysis, 28 successful interviews were used, while frequency, percentile and content analysis were the method of data analysis used.
Findings
The result indicated that the most important factor inhibiting the engagement of QSs on private residential building projects is lack of awareness of the benefit inherent in engagement of QS on residential projects. Other important factors are; the perception that engagement of QS will increase the construction cost, absence of legislation that mandate engagement of QS, usurpation of Quantity Surveyor’s roles by other professionals and the perception that engagement of QS is essential only in big projects.
Practical implications
It was recommended that every state chapter of the Nigerian Institute of Quantity Surveyors (NIQS) should start a series of awareness campaign program within their State to enlighten the populace on the services that a professional QS can offer them with emphasis on the benefits of engaging QS on the small scale projects such as residential building projects. More recommendation has it that as a matter of policy and requirement for building approval criteria, deliverables from QS should be made compulsory. This measure will help every potential residential building client to see QS as an important professional that must be engaged before their project can be successfully delivered.
Originality/value
The study attempted to investigate the factors inhibiting the engagement of QS on private residential building construction projects. This was motivated by the perceived prevalent of non-engagement of QS in the study area with the attendant poor project performance.
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Andrew Ebekozien, Clinton Aigbavboa, Wellington Didibhuku Thwala, Mohamad Shaharudin Samsurijan, Mohamed Ahmed Hafez Ahmed, John Aliu and Samuel Adeniyi Adekunle
Twenty-first century digitalisation birthed new methods of payment systems like the emergence of cryptocurrencies. Cryptocurrency technologies have been identified as drivers for…
Abstract
Purpose
Twenty-first century digitalisation birthed new methods of payment systems like the emergence of cryptocurrencies. Cryptocurrency technologies have been identified as drivers for crypto-smart contracts and procurements. Studies regarding the application of cryptocurrency technologies in the Nigerian built environment industry are uncommon. Therefore, this paper aims to explore the relevance of cryptocurrency technologies to the sector, examine the perceived barriers that may hinder cryptocurrency technologies implementation and propose measures to promote the applications.
Design/methodology/approach
The research conducted a virtual interview across Abuja and Lagos cities to appraise stakeholders’ perceptions. The interviewees were requested to proffer answers to the research questions. The study conducted 25 semi-structured interviews with knowledgeable stakeholders. The data were analysed, and findings were reported in themes.
Findings
Enhanced the era of smart contracts, increased liquidity for small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs) and new openings to raise more funds for capital-intensive construction projects emerged as the advantages where cryptocurrency technologies can benefit the sector if allowed to operate. Cryptocurrency technology applications are not without some anticipated hindrances. Risk of loss of investment/price instability, lack of intrinsic value, money laundering, attracting speculators, criminal activities/security issues, lack of clarity and awareness and lack of skills emerged as the frequently anticipated barriers that may hinder cryptocurrency technologies applications.
Research limitations/implications
The study is limited to cryptocurrency technology applications in Nigeria’s built environment, and a qualitative method has been adopted.
Originality/value
Besides uncovering barriers hindering cryptocurrency technology usage via an unexplored mechanism, the study is one of the few studies to proffer measures to improve cryptocurrency technology usage in the built environment.
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Ibukun Oluwadara Famakin, Dorcas Titilayo Moyanga and Ajoke Aminat Agboola
Although the overall impacts of innovation and innovative practices have been emphasized in recent years, the effect on the growth of firms in Nigeria have not been proven…
Abstract
Purpose
Although the overall impacts of innovation and innovative practices have been emphasized in recent years, the effect on the growth of firms in Nigeria have not been proven. Therefore, this study aims to investigate the effect of innovative practices on the growth of quantity surveying firms (QSFs) in Nigeria.
Design/methodology/approach
The study adopted the quantitative correlational research design in which a well-structured questionnaire was used to collect data from QSFs in South-West, Nigeria. The data were analyzed using descriptive statistics and multiple regression analysis to investigate the effect of innovative practices on the growth of QSFs.
Findings
The study reveals that there is a significant increase in the growth indices used for assessing QSFs, while all the innovation variables were found to be reliable. Based on the result of multiple regression analysis, the relationships were identified as follows: quantity surveying (QS) software influenced the size growth of QSFs; QS software and services affected client growth and profit growth; and all innovation practices impacted asset growth of QSFs.
Practical implications
Although the use of software tools has been found to negatively affect the size of QSFs and other growth indices, there is need for them to embrace innovative software applications for more quality service delivery. In addition, QSFs should formulate strategic objectives that will guide them in taking informed decisions for diversification.
Originality/value
The outcome of this study provides information and direction for innovation practices required to bring about the growth of QSFs.
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Morufu Abolaji Alli and Joshua Oluwasuji Dada
University-industry collaboration (UIC) is a symbiosis relationship, brought about through knowledge and resource sharing, with the attendant benefits of innovation and…
Abstract
Purpose
University-industry collaboration (UIC) is a symbiosis relationship, brought about through knowledge and resource sharing, with the attendant benefits of innovation and technological advancement. The purpose of this paper is to investigate the state of UIC in quantity surveying profession in Nigeria with a view to ascertaining the situation and chatting the way forward.
Design/methodology/approach
Using quantitative survey research approach, primary data were collected through the administration of structured questionnaires on quantity surveying academia and practitioners. A total of 126 respondents were sampled: 52 university lecturers and 74 quantity surveying firms. Of these, 32 university lecturers (61.54%) and 34 quantity surveying firms (45.95%) provided valid responses. In all, this amounts to 52.38% response rate. The quantitative data obtained were analysed using mean score, frequency distribution, percentage and Mann Whitney test.
Findings
The findings show that collaboration is very strong in the areas of student industrial placement and research cooperation between students and academic researchers. However, collaboration in the areas of funding and staff exchange was found to be lagging behind.
Practical implications
The findings indicate strong collaboration areas (student industrial placement and research cooperation) to be sustained as well as weak areas (funding and staff exchange) to be critically looked into.
Originality/value
The paper represents the first research to empirically assess the state of UIC in quantity surveying profession in Nigeria. In addition, it shows the areas where efforts should be concentrated in maximizing the benefit of UIC.
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Ali Hassan Ali, Ahmed Farouk Kineber, Ahmed Elyamany, Ahmed Hussein Ibrahim and Ahmed Osama Daoud
This study aims to identify the most significant barriers and the stationary barrier to modular construction (MC) implementation and promote MC widespread use. By doing so, the…
Abstract
Purpose
This study aims to identify the most significant barriers and the stationary barrier to modular construction (MC) implementation and promote MC widespread use. By doing so, the construction industry can leverage the benefits of MC, such as faster construction times, improved quality control, reduced waste and increased sustainability.
Design/methodology/approach
This study uses a Gini’s mean analysis approach to identify the stationary barriers hindering the MC adoption in residential projects. The research focuses on the Egyptian context and uses a questionnaire survey to gather data from professionals in the construction industry.
Findings
According to the survey findings, the top five significant MC barriers are inability to modify the design; contractors asking for high bidding prices (higher initial cost); scepticism, conservation and resistance of clients to innovation and change; transportation restrictions; and lack of a one-size-fits-all tool for the design. In addition, Gini’s mean of dispersion demonstrated that the stationary barrier that faces MC adoption is the apprehension that architectural creativity will suffer because of MC.
Practical implications
The identified obstacles could be useful for decision makers in countries that have not yet adopted MC and may aid in the planning process to manage the risks associated with MC projects. The paper stresses the significance of devising techniques to overcome these barriers and proposes several methods to tackle these challenges.
Originality/value
This study fills the knowledge gap by identifying the stationary barrier and emphasising the potential risks associated with MC barriers. Furthermore, it suggests several strategies for overcoming and reducing these barriers in developing countries residential projects.
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Ibrahim Inyass Adamu, Taofeek Tunde Okanlawon, Luqman Oyekunle Oyewobi, Abdullateef Adewale Shittu and Richard Ajayi Jimoh
This paper evaluates the benefits of harnessing artificial intelligence (AI) tools for safety compliance on construction projects in Nigeria.
Abstract
Purpose
This paper evaluates the benefits of harnessing artificial intelligence (AI) tools for safety compliance on construction projects in Nigeria.
Design/methodology/approach
This study employed a specialised approach by combining qualitative and quantitative approach. The study carried out a brief systematic literature review (SLR) to identify the variables of the study. These variables were prepared in a questionnaire which was distributed among professionals within the Nigerian construction sector using purposive sampling. A total of 140 questionnaires were retrieved. The collected data were analysed using Relative Importance Index (RII), Ginni’s Mean (GM) and exploratory factor analysis (EFA).
Findings
The analysis revealed that all the identified benefits hold considerable importance, with an average RII of 0.86, with real-time monitoring as the most prominent advantage. However, using the GM which was 0.861, the study identified “mitigation of hazards on worksites” as the stationary benefit of AI in safety compliance.
Research limitations/implications
The study was conducted exclusively within Nigeria’s Federal Capital Territory, using a cross-sectional survey approach.
Practical implications
The results will be valuable for professionals and practitioners in the Nigerian construction sector, as they will acquire insights into the potential advantages of utilising AI tools for monitoring of safety compliance on construction projects.
Originality/value
The study adopted a robust approach by identifying the stationary benefit using the GM in combination with RII and EFA.
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The research sought to explore the role of public law libraries in advancing the net of persons who could access justice, using the law clinic in Nigeria as a gateway. It also…
Abstract
Purpose
The research sought to explore the role of public law libraries in advancing the net of persons who could access justice, using the law clinic in Nigeria as a gateway. It also examined how public law libraries could fit in drawing justice closer to the people using law clinics.
Design/methodology/approach
In achieving the research intentions, the researcher adopted mixed research approach. For the doctrinal method, the study embraced a desktop review of relevant literature on law clinic, access to justice and law libraries. For non-doctrinal method, the researcher brought to bare, his observation, experience and participation in clinical legal education, law clinic and law librarianship for a period of almost a decade. The literature and the experience of the researcher formed the basis on which the paper was developed.
Findings
The findings from this research reveal that access to justice is constrained by a number of factors that make it impossible for many Nigerians to access justice. The study further brings to the fore the role of law clinics in widening the gap of access to justice. In addition, the place of public law libraries in expanding the frontiers of access to justice is further underscored.
Originality/value
Not minding the potentials of public libraries in advancing access to justice world over, perusal of literature reveals that there is dearth of literature on the role of public law libraries in advancing access to justice through the instrumentality of law clinics in Nigeria. This research appears to be pioneering research in this regard.