Genevieve Johnsson, Michelle Lincoln, Anita C. Bundy, Debra Costley and Kim Bulkeley
The rollout of individualised disability funding in Australia resulted in an increased demand for services for people with a disability, particularly support for the high…
Abstract
Purpose
The rollout of individualised disability funding in Australia resulted in an increased demand for services for people with a disability, particularly support for the high percentage of Australians with autism spectrum disorder. Continuing professional development is one way to grow and maintain a skilled workforce; however, face-to-face opportunities can be limited in remote areas of Australia. Technology may provide a low-cost and widely accessible platform for providing education and support for staff in these areas.
Design/methodology/approach
The current study evaluated a novel webinar training and individual online support program for 36 allied health, education and community support staff. Data were collected via a survey on changes in perceived “knowledge and skills” and “confidence” in supporting children with autism, as well as mode of participation, and accessibility of the program.
Findings
Participants reported a significant increase in their “knowledge and skills” and “confidence”, in working with children with autism. This increase was positively related to the number of webinars the participants accessed. The mode of webinar access was predominantly via watching recordings of webinars (asynchronous learning). Synchronous learning via individual online sessions was accessed by a small number of participants, mostly allied health professionals. Workload and scheduling were identified as barriers to engaging in the program. The technology platform was found to be accessible and acceptable.
Originality/value
A predominantly asynchronous mode of delivery was successful, thereby increasing program access and flexibility for remote staff. Technology was not a barrier to accessing the program regardless of remoteness or job role.
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Maureen O'Callaghan and Michelle Robinson
This chapter looks at what is meant by relationships, thinking specifically about business owners. It defines relationships as the association and connection they have with other…
Abstract
This chapter looks at what is meant by relationships, thinking specifically about business owners. It defines relationships as the association and connection they have with other people as well the way they and other people influence each other's thoughts, feelings and actions. It goes on to look at what is needed to connect successfully with others, particularly the need for social intelligence. This chapter looks at how to develop social intelligence and how to communicate and interact mindfully to have better relationships.
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Maureen O'Callaghan and Michelle Robinson
This chapter introduces the seven stages of business growth and development and looks at business transformation and how to develop a transformation strategy. Corporate social…
Abstract
This chapter introduces the seven stages of business growth and development and looks at business transformation and how to develop a transformation strategy. Corporate social responsibility (CSR) is also discussed and is broken down into four main types of responsibility: ethical/human rights social responsibility, philanthropic corporate responsibility, economic corporate responsibility and environmental corporate responsibility. Business owners are asked to consider how their businesses are responsible and where there is room for improvement. This chapter goes on to explore accountability, from what it means, to the benefits of accountability and how to create a culture of accountability.
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Maureen O'Callaghan and Michelle Robinson
This chapter looks at what mindfulness is, what it isn't and discusses the benefits of being more mindful for business owners. There are links to optional mindfulness practices…
Abstract
This chapter looks at what mindfulness is, what it isn't and discusses the benefits of being more mindful for business owners. There are links to optional mindfulness practices and resources to help business owners make an informed choice about whether it's for them or not.
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Maureen O'Callaghan and Michelle Robinson
This chapter looks at how business owners can make a difference in their community by collaborating with others, and how they can influence the environment in which they do…
Abstract
This chapter looks at how business owners can make a difference in their community by collaborating with others, and how they can influence the environment in which they do business. Business owners are invited to think about why it's important to make a positive contribution to society, what they already contribute and how they can make a difference in their communities by building engagement.
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Maureen O'Callaghan and Michelle Robinson
This chapter discusses the growing expectation that businesses will address some of society's challenges and how there's an increasing interest among business owners in becoming…
Abstract
This chapter discusses the growing expectation that businesses will address some of society's challenges and how there's an increasing interest among business owners in becoming ethical and sustainable. It introduces the central question posed in the PhD research upon which the online training intervention for business owners is based: How can an intervention be developed that leads to increased levels of prosocial behaviour in entrepreneurs? This chapter goes onto explore the need to develop a greater understanding and awareness of entrepreneurs as individuals and how they can be encouraged and supported to act in ways that benefit themselves, their business, society and the planet. The journey from the initial research question to creating relevant, fit-for-purpose learning materials that will change the way people do business is outlined in this chapter, as are the current gaps between learning and practice in entrepreneur education and how the online training intervention detailed in this book will fill those gaps.
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Maureen O'Callaghan and Michelle Robinson
This chapter looks at viability as the ‘first rung’ of the ladder for entrepreneurs who want to flourish and build a sustainable business. Viability is defined as having a…
Abstract
This chapter looks at viability as the ‘first rung’ of the ladder for entrepreneurs who want to flourish and build a sustainable business. Viability is defined as having a reasonable chance of being able to grow, develop and be successful, and this chapter looks at how this requires stability, being able to manage risk and managing personal health and well-being. This chapter looks at practical strategies to achieve this, including dealing with the pressures and challenges of running a business, how to build stability and resilience, managing business and personal risk, achieving a healthy work–life balance and reducing the risk of burnout.
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Maureen O'Callaghan and Michelle Robinson
This chapter explores what it means to perform well as an entrepreneur. It discusses what a successful business might look like, the competencies needed to run a business and…
Abstract
This chapter explores what it means to perform well as an entrepreneur. It discusses what a successful business might look like, the competencies needed to run a business and defines what is meant by productivity and quality. It also explores the steps entrepreneurs should take to ensure they achieve optimum productivity and quality for best results.
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Maureen O'Callaghan and Michelle Robinson
This chapter explores how business owners can make a contribution towards solving societal and environmental challenges. Understanding personal values is introduced as a way to…
Abstract
This chapter explores how business owners can make a contribution towards solving societal and environmental challenges. Understanding personal values is introduced as a way to help business owners make better decisions, contribute more and live a life of purpose. This chapter also highlights the value of taking a long-term perspective when growing a business and explores the concept of Ubuntu, the African concept of interconnectedness and understanding that our actions, however small, can impact on others and the environment.