Alexandra Zimbatu, Amanda Beatson, Evonne Miller, Gaby Odekerken-Schröder, Katya Sion and Rebekah Russell–Bennett
The purpose of this research is to examine the role of anticipation as a source of well-being in extended service contexts involving constraints on one’s agency (e.g. aged care)…
Abstract
Purpose
The purpose of this research is to examine the role of anticipation as a source of well-being in extended service contexts involving constraints on one’s agency (e.g. aged care). In these service contexts, consumers have limited ownership over their time usage and foci of anticipation, which affects their well-being.
Design/methodology/approach
Semi-structured interviews (n = 35) were conducted with members of the aged care ecosystem (residents, family and staff). Two separate aged care service models were investigated as they typically reflect different levels of agency/constraint: retirement villages and residential aged care facilities.
Findings
Results indicate that the subjective passage of time is influenced by one’s foci of anticipation. Having regular foci of anticipation both at a micro- and macro-level can generate well-being benefits for recipients. The importance of restabilization and building positive curves to counteract potential negative implications was identified.
Originality/value
This research is the first service study to investigate the concept of anticipation and subjective time perception as key components of one’s well-being in extended service encounters. We propose a novel conceptual model that combines micro- and macro-level foci into an iterative package to mitigate the after-effects of anticipation. We also demonstrate how Sustainable Development Goal 3 (SDG3) (good health for well-being) can be addressed through service research.
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Buildings, which account for approximately half of all annual energy and greenhouse gas emissions, are an important target area for any strategy addressing climate change. Whilst…
Abstract
Purpose
Buildings, which account for approximately half of all annual energy and greenhouse gas emissions, are an important target area for any strategy addressing climate change. Whilst new commercial buildings increasingly address sustainability considerations, incorporating green technology in the refurbishment process of older buildings presents many technical, financial and social challenges. This paper aims to explore the social dimension, focusing on the perspectives of commercial office building tenants.
Design/methodology/approach
Semi‐structured in‐depth interviews were conducted with seven residents and neighbours of the case‐study building undergoing green refurbishment in Melbourne, Australia. Responses were analysed using a thematic approach, identifying categories, themes and patterns.
Findings
Commercial property tenants are on a journey to sustainability. Tenants are interested and willing to engage in discussions about sustainability initiatives, but the process, costs and benefits need to be clear.
Research limitations/implications
The findings, while limited by non‐random sampling and small sample size, highlight that the commercial property market is interested in learning about sustainability in the built environment.
Practical implications
The findings highlight the importance of developing a strong business case and transition plan for sustainability in commercial buildings. As sustainable buildings become mainstream, tenants predicted the emergence of a “non‐sustainability discount” for residing in buildings without sustainable features.
Originality/value
This research offers a beginning point for understanding the difficulty of integrating green technology in older commercial buildings. Tenants currently have limited understandings of technology and potential building performance outcomes, which ultimately could impede the implementation of sustainable initiatives in older buildings.
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Fitri Arlinkasari, Debra Flanders Cushing and Evonne Miller
Researchers face many ethical challenges when conducting research with children. Ethical issues can be even more significant when researchers work with children from low-income…
Abstract
Researchers face many ethical challenges when conducting research with children. Ethical issues can be even more significant when researchers work with children from low-income urban settings in the Global South. This chapter presents reflections on research conducted with children aged 6–12 years old who live in Jakarta, Indonesia. Underpinned by the new sociology of childhood, the study was designed to gather these children’s perspectives on child-friendly public spaces in their neighbourhoods. A range of qualitative methods were used including child-led tours, drawings, observations and interviews. As part of the study, the authors developed and reflected on the use of story and storytelling to deliver the research information and obtain the children’s consent to participate. The authors’ experience demonstrates that story and storytelling supported children’s competence and engaged them in a meaningful informed consent process. This approach is especially relevant for children with low literacy skills and whose parents or caregivers may not be available to help children decide on their participation in research. The chapter concludes with recommendations for effectively approaching this ethical challenge in future social research with children from similar backgrounds.