Olli Suominen, Johanna Kallo, Risto Rinne and Yihong Fan
Different aspects of the globalisation of Chinese basic education have been examined in recent studies. This paper aims to contribute to this research base by examining the…
Abstract
Purpose
Different aspects of the globalisation of Chinese basic education have been examined in recent studies. This paper aims to contribute to this research base by examining the relationship between global quality assurance and evaluation (QAEVAL) trends and reforms in the Chinese basic education system.
Design/methodology/approach
Relevant research literature in English and Chinese was reviewed to assesses whether a movement of increasing convergence with global QAEVAL policy contents and policy instruments has taken place in China following the introduction of the so-called “equality education”. A guiding theory regarding the basic features of QAEVAL was used to conceptually structure the findings of the authors.
Findings
The findings indicate that several subtle convergences are evident in China with global trends in QAEVAL, but a few notable exceptions are also evident.
Research limitations/implications
Albeit the research indicates certain convergence, the authors acknowledge that further research is still needed to examine causal mechanisms of QAEVAL policy convergences and the processes and logic through which global trends are localised.
Originality/value
Both the importance of QAEVAL in global education governance as well as China’s importance to world affairs are increasing. However, so far, the effects of QAEVAL policies on China’s education system have not been thoroughly examined. This paper can serve as a concise starting point for examining the topic more deeply.
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Xiu Susie Fang, Quan Z. Sheng, Xianzhi Wang, Anne H.H. Ngu and Yihong Zhang
This paper aims to propose a system for generating actionable knowledge from Big Data and use this system to construct a comprehensive knowledge base (KB), called GrandBase.
Abstract
Purpose
This paper aims to propose a system for generating actionable knowledge from Big Data and use this system to construct a comprehensive knowledge base (KB), called GrandBase.
Design/methodology/approach
In particular, this study extracts new predicates from four types of data sources, namely, Web texts, Document Object Model (DOM) trees, existing KBs and query stream to augment the ontology of the existing KB (i.e. Freebase). In addition, a graph-based approach to conduct better truth discovery for multi-valued predicates is also proposed.
Findings
Empirical studies demonstrate the effectiveness of the approaches presented in this study and the potential of GrandBase. The future research directions regarding GrandBase construction and extension has also been discussed.
Originality/value
To revolutionize our modern society by using the wisdom of Big Data, considerable KBs have been constructed to feed the massive knowledge-driven applications with Resource Description Framework triples. The important challenges for KB construction include extracting information from large-scale, possibly conflicting and different-structured data sources (i.e. the knowledge extraction problem) and reconciling the conflicts that reside in the sources (i.e. the truth discovery problem). Tremendous research efforts have been contributed on both problems. However, the existing KBs are far from being comprehensive and accurate: first, existing knowledge extraction systems retrieve data from limited types of Web sources; second, existing truth discovery approaches commonly assume each predicate has only one true value. In this paper, the focus is on the problem of generating actionable knowledge from Big Data. A system is proposed, which consists of two phases, namely, knowledge extraction and truth discovery, to construct a broader KB, called GrandBase.
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Zhipeng Liang, Chunju Zhao, Huawei Zhou, Yihong Zhou, Quan Liu, Tao Fang and Fang Wang
The spatial–temporal conflicts in the construction process of concrete arch dams are related to the construction quality and duration, especially for pouring blocks with a…
Abstract
Purpose
The spatial–temporal conflicts in the construction process of concrete arch dams are related to the construction quality and duration, especially for pouring blocks with a continuous high-strength and high-density construction process. Furthermore, the complicated construction technology and limited space resources aggravate the spatial–temporal conflicts in the process of space resource allocation and utilization, directly affecting the pouring quality and progress of concrete. To promote the high-strength, quality-preserving and rapid construction of dams and to clarify the explosion moment and influence degree of the spatial–temporal conflicts of construction machinery during the pouring process, a quantification method and algorithm for a “Conflict Bubble” (CB) between construction machines is proposed based on the “Time–Space Microelement” (TSM).
Design/methodology/approach
First, the concept of a CB is proposed, which is defined as the spatial overlap of different entities in the movement process. The subsidiary space of the entity is divided into three layered spaces: the physical space, safe space and efficiency space from the inside to the outside. Second, the processes of “creation,” “transition” and “disappearance” of the CB at different levels with the movement of the entity are defined as the evolution of the spatial–temporal state of the entity. The mapping relationship between the spatial variation and the running time of the layered space during the movement process is defined as “Time–Space” (TS), which is intended to be processed by a microelement.
Findings
The quantification method and algorithm of the CB between construction machinery are proposed based on the TSM, which realizes the quantification of the physical collision accident rate, security risk rate and efficiency loss rate of the construction machinery at any time point or time period. The risk rate of spatial–temporal conflicts in the construction process was calculated, and the outbreak condition of spatial–temporal conflict in the pouring process was simulated and rehearsed. The quantitative calculation results show that the physical collision accident rate, security risk rate and efficiency loss rate of construction machinery at any time point or time period can be quantified.
Originality/value
This study provides theoretical support for the quantitative evaluation and analysis of the spatial–temporal conflict risk in the pouring construction process. It also serves as a reference for the rational organization and scientific decision-making for pouring blocks and provides new ideas and methods for the safe and efficient construction and the scientific and refined management of dams.
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Yihong Chen, Rob Law and Xinyuan Zhao
Digital well-being (DWB) has become a preoccupation of society, businesses and consumers because of the proliferation of technology and the pandemic. This study aims to understand…
Abstract
Purpose
Digital well-being (DWB) has become a preoccupation of society, businesses and consumers because of the proliferation of technology and the pandemic. This study aims to understand the four main problems of DWB in hospitality (DWBH): epistemology, scope, aggregation and specification by adopting integrative literature review.
Design/methodology/approach
The systematic analysis process develops a dynamic DWBH framework, which connects individuals and society, based on the doughnut model. A critical method is used to conceptualize the DWBH and digital behavior change interventions (DBCIs) by combining psychology and sociology.
Findings
This study provides a definition of DWBH. It identifies three antecedents (digital design, awareness and utilization advancement), three decision factors (individual psychology, category differences and external environment) and four outcomes. The doughnut model visualizes dynamic sustainability of subjective well-being, master, engagement, autonomy, relationship and mastery. DBCIs provide a comprehensive strategy: effective design is essential, personalized implementation is standard, and strategy and structure ensure success.
Research limitations/implications
This study theoretically addresses issues of epistemology, scope and aggregation, expanding the existing knowledge base of DWBH and fostering theoretical integration across different disciplines. Practically, it provides actionable guidelines for stakeholders in hospitality to enhance community DWB, thereby promoting both individual and societal well-being.
Originality/value
This study makes a pioneering effort by extending the knowledge of DWBH with epistemology, scope, aggregation and specification. Furthermore, this study helps clarify the academic research process of DWBH, formulating management and practical strategies and improving individuals’ well-being.
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Yihong Chen, Sirong Chen and Rob Law
A substantial body of literature discusses the motivations and intentions behind participation in hospitality and tourism (HT). However, a coherent framework for systematically…
Abstract
Purpose
A substantial body of literature discusses the motivations and intentions behind participation in hospitality and tourism (HT). However, a coherent framework for systematically studying the antecedents, interactions and differences of non-participation is lacking. This paper aims to comprehensively identify the mechanisms behind non-participation in HT activities by conducting a critical review focusing on unequal rights.
Design/methodology/approach
This study commences by focusing on a review of research on HT constraints, drawing upon the theory–context–method framework. Subsequently, a critical evaluation is adopted to clarify the constraints at different levels within the socio–ecological model (SEM) and explore the underlying mechanisms from the perspective of substantive rights within self-determination theory.
Findings
This study identifies the most common theories and methods related to non-participation in HT and explores features of non-participating groups across different countries. In addition, the SEM facilitates the coding of reasons for non-participation in HT into 40 initial concepts, 14 categories and 5 levels. The non-participation of HT model (NPHTM) recognizes three interactive mechanisms of rights inequality: autonomy, relatedness and competence rights.
Research limitations/implications
Theoretically, this study integrates the internal negotiation process with the external opportunity inequality, extending the existing research. The identified constraints facilitate qualitative coding and the identification of quantitative variables for future studies. The proposed NPHTM framework deepens understanding of individual−environment interactions and extends to other domains. Practically, this study enables all HT stakeholders to develop targeted strategies for effectively promoting participation from diverse perspectives.
Originality/value
The research pioneers the review of mechanisms behind non-participation in HT by considering rights inequality as the core context. The concepts and categories within the SEM assist in targeted promotion efforts. The proposed NPHTM analyzes non-participants’ underlying mechanisms, external effects and individual rights of non-participants, thereby extending the research knowledge base.
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Di Yang and Yihong Jin
Purpose – This chapter analyzes how various gender discourses transmitted through mass media such as television form discourse competition and conflict today as China is…
Abstract
Purpose – This chapter analyzes how various gender discourses transmitted through mass media such as television form discourse competition and conflict today as China is confronting cultural globalization. In that context, a wave of consumerism and nostalgia for cultural tradition become two of the key factors that shield patriarchy and resist feminism.
Method – Quantitative and qualitative responses of Chinese university students to video productions from South Korea and the United States are studied, compared, and contrasted by using survey and focus group discussion methods.
Findings – Women and men students show preference for different types of televised and film entertainment. Both respond to the gender discourses depicted, seeing in them models for behavior and fashion. The independence and sexual freedom reflected in TV series from the United States is seen by many as less applicable to the Chinese context than the idealized traditionalism of the Korean series.
Social implications – Global culture provides alternative and competing gender discourses, which can lead to social change or to nostalgia for an idealized tradition in the face of change. To the extent that both women and men adopt the male gaze, patriarchal culture is strengthened, not challenged in the process.
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Abdulqadir Rahomee Ahmed Aljanabi and Karzan Mahdi Ghafour
This study aims to provide a practical solution to the relationship between supply chain (SC) integration and market responsiveness (MR). A method is proposed to integrate SC and…
Abstract
Purpose
This study aims to provide a practical solution to the relationship between supply chain (SC) integration and market responsiveness (MR). A method is proposed to integrate SC and MR parameters, namely, product supply and demand in the context of low-value commodities (e.g. cement).
Design/methodology/approach
Simulation and forecasting approaches are adopted to develop a potential procedure for addressing demand during lead time. To establish inventory measurements (safety stock and reorder level) and increase MR and the satisfaction of customer’s needs, this study considers a downstream SC including manufacturers, depots and central distribution centers that satisfies an unbounded number of customers, which, in turn, transport the cement from the industrialist.
Findings
The demand during lead time is shown to follow a gamma distribution, a rare probability distribution that has not been considered in previous studies. Moreover, inventory measurements, such as the safety stock, depending on the safety factor under a certain service level (SL), which enables the SC to handle different responsiveness levels in accordance with customer requests. In addition, the quantities of the safety stock and reorder point represent an optimal value at each position to avoid over- or understocking. The role of SC characteristics in MR has largely been ignored in existing research.
Originality/value
This study applies SC flexibility analyzes to overcome the obstacles of analytical methods, especially when the production process involves probabilistic variables such as product availability and demand. The use of an efficient method for analyzing the forecasting results is an unprecedented idea that is proven efficacious in investigating non-dominated solutions. This approach provides near-optimal solutions to the trade-off between different levels of demand and the SC responsiveness (SLs) with minimal experimentation times.