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Doing Your Research Project: A Guide for First-Time Researchers in Education and Social Science

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... The questions in the interview were organized according to different topics related to mentoring supporting teachers, including mentoring skills, the process of visiting teachers, post-lesson discussions, peer observations and relationships established with teachers. Drever (2003) and Bell (1999) suggested incorporating prompts into the interview which help to obtain broad coverage and in-depth answers. Moreover, it was recommended that the interview should end with a question such as "is there anything you would like to add that we have not mentioned?" ...
... One of the pilot SETs was experienced and the other was in their second year as a SET. A pilot study was crucial to the success of the research as it helped identify weaknesses and limitations in the interview tool (Bell, 1999;Cohen et al., 2000;Gillham, 2000). As a result of the pilot process, the research questions were refined and redrafted. ...
... As a result of the pilot study, the question was changed to explore how SETs supported their teachers so that the interviewer's response might include examples of professional activities. I also altered the order of the questions and added follow-up questions to meet the study's objectives (Bell, 1999). ...
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The concept of mentoring was introduced in February, 2010 at a training conference for all SETs in the Batinah South Region. In the study, it was shown that SETs have a limited understanding of mentoring due to the lack of knowledge they have of the process. This has been inferred from the limited definitions of the process the participants presented and from the few examples given by the SETs on the requisite skills and the kinds of support needed for the teachers. None of the participants mentioned the concepts of professional and personal development or professional and personal support. Moreover, none of the participants mentioned professional and personal development as the main purpose of their mentoring work, but they did mention examples that lead to either development. Participant F mentioned professional development when she said, "as you know. .. peer observation is part of the professional development of the teacher." Furthermore, most of the participants' responses are attributed to either the experience they gained from working as SETs or from their knowledge of the duties they are expected to perform as SETs, especially in their descriptions of how to conduct PLDs, which was found to be the same with the both groups.
... Qualitative research is empirical research where the data are not in the form of numbers". Additionally, Bell (2010) presents action research, case studies, experiments and surveys as the main research approaches which can be implemented by documents, interviews, diaries, observations and questionnaires. ...
... To implement the survey and collect data the researcher uses the techniques of semi-structured interview (see Appendices II & III) and questionnaire (see Appendices V & VI). Bell (2010) maintains that in this way triangulation is safeguarded as the findings can be cross-checked. Moreover, the researcher takes into serious consideration the important issues of reliability and validity. ...
... Considering the wording for the interview questions, researchers should prepare comprehensible and simple questions in order to avoid misunderstandings and save time. In the current research interview cards (see Appendix II) have been prepared in advance as Bell (2010) recommends. Moreover, Horton et al. (2004) suggest that interviewees could have sight of the questions in advance so that they could prepare themselves and not be taken by surprise. ...
Book
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The present small-scale research surveys the emotions that the students of the Master of Education programme “Teaching English as a Foreign/International Language” of the Hellenic Open University (hence HOU) may experience during their studies as well as their possible causes and the extent of their influence in their academic progress. The researcher investigates the aforementioned through the combination of both qualitative and quantitative methods and the survey approach implemented with the techniques of semi-structured interviews and the use of a questionnaire. The participants of the research are asked to express the range of their emotions that they tend to experience at the various academic settings, attempt to attribute a number of factors to them and, finally, describe the impact these emotions have on their motivation to continue their studies, to search and study additional academic material as well as on the time they invest in studying and writing their assignments. The aims of this study are twofold. Firstly, it intends to assist the students to have a fruitful learning experience through the benefits derived from the process of expression of their emotions. Secondly, it attempts to raise the tutors’ awareness regarding the importance of their students’ emotions and ultimately, to have a positive impact on their tutoring and supervision to some extent.
... However, the questions above are not designed to solve a problem and enhance professional application or to answer specific pedagogical/political questions (Bell, 2018). Instead, I was interested in identifying how a specific cohort of special needs teachers (QToDs) perceive their role within an inclusive education system. ...
... Therefore, it was important to conduct the interviews without prejudicing the interviewee by revealing my thoughts on the matter being discussed (Ibid.). Therefore, to mitigate potential bias, it was important to maintain objectivity through an appropriate use of language and an appropriate demeanour, while post-interview, employing a non-value-based system of analysis would also help to avoid bias (Bell & Waters, 2018). ...
... A potential disadvantage of this method, aside from the impact on time (Denscombe, 2017), potential interviewer bias (Bell & Waters, 2018), and the intimidatory nature of one-to-one interview (Koshy, 2005), is the contrived nature of interviews (Cohen, et al., 2017) which could, it is suggested, inhibit any insight from the participants (Denscombe, 2017). However, this should be mitigated via planningchoosing, testing and using the correct, most open, prompt questions through which the interviewer funnels broad topics to specific areas of foci (Cohen, et al., 2017). ...
Thesis
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Usually catering for a specific type of special educational need (SEN), resourced provisions (RPs), including RPs for pupils who are deaf, are an established part of the SEN provision within the United Kingdom. Whilst much research and discussion has been undertaken into ‘inclusion’, a definitive received definition of what inclusion should be, or represent, eludes researchers and policy makers. This small-scale research project explores the attitudes and perceptions of Qualified Teachers of the Deaf (QToDs) of the inclusion of D/deaf children who attend a primary school with a RP, in England. In relation to the inclusion of D/deaf learners who have access to RPs, very limited research has been undertaken in this area. Convenience sampling was used to recruit participants via professional forums and personal contacts. Data was collected using semi-structured, online interviews to capture the lived experiences of 8 QToDs currently working in RPs based in primary schools. Transcriptions of the interviews were thematically analysed revealing common themes. Analysis of the results found that QToDs positively perceived inclusion as a concept. However, QToDs were split as to how effectively D/deaf pupils are included within the mainstream classroom even when supported by RPs. QToDs indicated that successful inclusion of D/deaf children varied depending on the additional needs of the D/deaf pupils, the attitudes of the mainstream staff, the support of the school’s senior leadership team (SLT), and the abilities of specialist teaching assistants (TAs). Moreover, QToDs expressed a degree of confusion as to the role of a QToD as the needs of the D/deaf children become increasingly complex. The results also clearly show that QToDs based in RPs do not uniformly follow prescribed quality standards. Further research is required to understand if the conclusions of this study are reflective of RP provision more broadly within England.
... As a cross-sectional study, specific primary source data of small firms that applied for credit from any the four major banks in South Africa within a 3-year period, was collected by a survey questionnaire. The cross-sectional approach analysed the impact, if any, of the factors collected in determining credit rationing at a specific point in time and not the trend of how these impacts change with time as would a longitudinal study (Bell, 2014). As such, the study inherently did not nor intend to, assess the impact of change of any of the identified factors on small business loan application outcome because it only analysed a snapshot (Mbwambo, Emidi, Mgabo, Sigall, & Kajeguka, 2017). ...
... Johnston (2014), citing Magee, Lee, Giuliano, and Munro (2006), states that the literature review and the data collection process inform the issues of validity and reliability. Construct validity considers if the variables observed actually measure what they are intended to measure (Bell, 2014). ...
Thesis
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SMEs are key to economic growth, development and fighting unemployment, yet their growth or survival continues to be threatened by their lack of access to credit finance from the major banks in South Africa. This lack of access has been attributed to a lack of creditworthy borrowers. Credit rating, relationships with the banks, the presence of hard information and the availability of collateral or thirdparty guarantees were identified as possible borrower characteristics that might affect the outcome of their loan applications. The study was informed by data collected using a survey-type questionnaire, from which responses were used to evaluate the borrowers’ credit scores, relationships with the banks, whether they presented hard information or whether they presented collateral or third-party guarantees with their applications and the outcome of the loan applications. Having relationships with the banks or presenting hard information were found to be insignificant factors in predicting the outcome of small businesses’ loan applications. A good credit rating, defined as having a credit scores above a threshold value, or the presence of collateral or third-party guarantees or both, give the borrower a good chance of loan application success. Small businesses in South Africa need to maintain a good credit rating or be able to present collateral or third-party guarantees if their loan applications at the major banks are to be successful.
... Since this study's theme is complex and dynamic, it is essential to clearly identify and value people's experiences, knowledge, perceptions, and feelings, and to take into account contextual factors. The qualitative approach allowed for the collection of in-depth information, providing the opportunity for participants to discuss and comment on one another's arguments, which created rich and vivid data [53]. The focus groups with three different categories of employees and the three types of data sources (i.e., company documents, focus groups, and on-site observations) allowed for data triangulation, which contributes to clarity and confidence in understanding complexity [54]. ...
... Observations were also made on-site, during three two-hour visits to the company. As suggested by Bell [53], observations were important to better understand how things happened at the plant. ...
Article
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To clarify how the interaction of socio-material and human factors impacts the implementation of sustainable workplace routines, we developed the identity and practice interdependence model and then applied it to empirical data collected from a major Brazilian steel-producing facility. This qualitative exploratory study examined the model’s assumption that employee identity construction principles (e.g., self-esteem, self-efficacy, distinctiveness, continuity) and elements of practices (e.g., materials, meanings, competencies) provided by organizations directly impact routines and also interact in a continuous, interdependent process. Company documents, on-site observations, and data from three focus group sessions with a total of thirty employees from all levels were examined. A deductive reflexive thematic analysis was carried out on the data using Atlas.ti v 8. The results show that the model allows for the identification of the factors and their interactions, providing insights into how greener routines are created, accepted, resisted, maintained, and/or altered. When changes in practice elements can provide a path towards satisfaction of identity principles, rather than threats, there is good engagement in more sustainable routines. Employees seeking satisfaction of identity principles also take initiative, addressing practice elements that can allow for improved routines. Organizations/companies can apply some of the insights that this model provides to facilitate changes towards more sustainable work routines.
... Las encuestas y entrevistas a estudiantes se pilotearon con una muestra de alumnos de perfil y nivel similar en una sesión de prueba y simulacro. El objetivo del pilotaje fue identificar imprecisiones en las preguntas propuestas e items (y rubros) y determinar la validación de los instrumentos, la claridad de las instrucciones y aspectos innecesarios (Bell, 2005). La fase de análisis comenzó mientras se recopilaban los datos con el propósito de obtener conocimientos analíticos basados en el campo (Patton, 2002). ...
Article
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La Educación para el Desarrollo Sostenible (EDS) constituye un esfuerzo internacional basado en la participación social de los actores del proceso educativo. Por ello, la EDS ha permeado los aspectos pedagógicos y didácticos de modelos educativos y de programas. Este estudio examina la pertinencia de la incorporación de los Objetivos de Desarrollo Sostenible (ODS) desarrollado por Naciones Unidas en un programa de Español para Fines Específicos (EFE) nivel B2-C1, dirigido al cuerpo diplomático de un país G20 estudiando en Colombia. Se aplicó la metodología de investigación acción, empleando encuestas, entrevistas diarios e implementación pedagógica como herramientas de recolección, así como análisis cuantitativos y cualitativos. Los hallazgos resaltan los desafíos y ventajas de la integración de los ODS en los planes de estudio, como la transversalidad de los contenidos, la responsabilidad social y el vínculo con el entorno. Las implicaciones apuntan hacia la adaptación de prácticas pedagógicas y el diseño de recursos con enfoque multi, inter y transdisciplinar.
... Data were collected through a survey consisting of 20 questions, blending open and closed formats to explore themes of business motivations, effectiveness of EI's support and challenges faced by entrepreneurs. The survey, crafted to ensure both accuracy and comprehensiveness (Bell, 2005;Saunders et al., 2019), was distributed electronically to participants during the first half of 2023. With a response rate of 81% (25 responses), the study achieved a typical return rate for online surveys (Wu et al., 2022), affirming the targeted sampling strategy's effectiveness. ...
Article
Purpose This paper investigates the motivations and challenges of women entrepreneurs in Ireland, assessing the role of policies and Enterprise Ireland (EI) support for women-led companies and high potential start-ups (HPSUs). It employs the gendered theory of entrepreneurship and opportunity recognition theory to analyse the enablers and obstacles to women’s entrepreneurship, particularly in the context of EI’s support, aiming to suggest improvements. Design/methodology/approach Grounded in a feminist epistemology and employing a mixed-methods approach, a targeted survey explores motivations, barriers and supports the needs of female entrepreneurs in Ireland, offering a comprehensive gender perspective evaluation for policy enhancement. Findings Findings note a shift in Irish women’s entrepreneurship motivations and outlines major hurdles like limited funding and work–life balance issues. It recommends policy enhancements in data collection, website usability, financial guidance and childcare support. Practical implications This paper aims to highlight the impact of gender-specific factors on entrepreneurship, the study highlights the importance of ongoing data collection and gender comparative analyses. It advocates for women mentoring networks and improved financial support to build a more inclusive entrepreneurial environment in Ireland, with potential global implications. Originality/value This study is unique for its in-depth exploration into Irish female entrepreneurship challenges, this study proposes actionable strategies with local and global relevance. Advocating for caregiving support integration and women’s increased involvement in tech, it offers a blueprint for fostering female entrepreneurship. It contributes to global discussions on creating supportive, equitable entrepreneurial ecosystems, serving as a valuable resource for advancing gender inclusivity and equity in entrepreneurship worldwide. It identifies scope for integration of a feminist epistemology in policy development.
... Conducting a range of data collection activities in order to create a holistic picture of student attitudes towards, behaviours within, and interactions with on campus Social Informal Learning Spaces will has not only enabled the researcher to answer the research questions, but has also help to build a foundation on which further research in this field can be built, and the final section of this chapter describes how the thesis is structured. Informal Learning Spaces in order to place this research in context, and to enable the researcher to gain additional subject knowledge from different perspectives, which will help to support or refute the arguments made when writing about the study's findings, and therefore inform the conclusions drawn from this study (Bell, J., 1993). The literature reviewed is then discussed as viewed through Radcliffe's Pedagogy-SpaceTechnology (PST) Framework (Radcliffe, 2009), separating each of the components of this model into discreet numbered sections (2.5.1: ...
Thesis
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This PhD thesis uses mixed methods case study methodologies to examine the wants, needs, preferences, and the ways in which students engage with learning whilst studying within Social Informal Learning Spaces on a UK Higher Education Institution campus.
... The survey used online Questionnaires as instruments to collect data. Questionnaires gather information about opinions, beliefs, emotions, and attitudes [50]. The information was collected using online questionnaires that were prepared by the team. ...
Article
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Women's involvement in political leadership is crucial to ensure gender equality and meet sustainable development and international integration requirements. Although many measures have been developed domestically and internationally to enable women to be involved in political leadership, women's involvement in this area still needs to be improved in Ghana and around the globe. However, women's participation in political leadership has increased relatively but not significantly. The study investigates the aspects that affect women's participation in political leadership. The study assesses the influence of demographic, economic, cultural and gender-based electoral perception on women's participation in political leadership. Economic aspects such as mobility, income, and resources were examined as cultural aspects such as women's priorities and if the cultural aspect supports women's entry into politics. The study was conducted through a descriptive survey with a quantitative approach. Data was collected using online questionnaires and responses from 70 University of Education, Winneba participants. Data were analysed using percentage and frequency distribution techniques using the JASP 6.0 version. Data collected was presented in tables in frequencies and percentages. Results showed a significant association between women's involvement in political leadership and demographic and cultural aspects. The research has theoretical and practical implications for future studies on women and politics in the country.
... The author employed triangulation during data analysis, a multi-method approach that verifies findings using alternative sources or methods, thus enhancing reliability and validity (Bell, 2010). Additionally, the researcher used inductive methods, open coding vii , and axial coding viii during data analysis. ...
Article
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Free play is recognized as a vital aspect of early childhood education, significantly contributing to children's cognitive, physical, social, and emotional development. Teachers play a crucial role in facilitating free play, ensuring that it becomes a meaningful part of the learning environment. This article critically evaluates Selda Aras’s 2016 study, which explores the perceptions and practices of early childhood educators in Turkey regarding free play. Using a phenomenological approach, Aras delves into the lived experiences of teachers, highlighting both the strengths and challenges they face in integrating free play into their curricula. The study, based on interviews and observations, reveals that while educators generally acknowledge the importance of free play, its effective implementation is often impeded by various constraints. These include limited time within the curriculum, insufficient training for teachers, and a lack of resources. Aras’s findings emphasize the need for enhanced teacher training programs that focus on the value of free play and equip educators with the necessary skills to overcome these barriers. Additionally, the research suggests that raising awareness about the benefits of free play among educators, parents, and policymakers is crucial, along with providing increased administrative support in the form of time, resources, and flexibility within the curriculum. This critical evaluation examines the methodological strengths and weaknesses of Aras’s study, including its research design, sampling strategy, data collection methods, and ethical considerations. By assessing the study's rigor and implications, this article contributes to a deeper understanding of free play's role in early childhood education and offers practical recommendations for improving its integration into educational settings.
... In addition, face-to-face and focus group interviews were conducted to collect data. Bell (2005)and Creswell (2014) define an interview as the process of asking questions and receiving responses from a specific group. Furthermore, participants were given pseudonyms for anonymity purposes. ...
Article
Online learning is undoubtedly a crucial method for effective teaching and learning in the 21st century. COVID-19 forced the implementation of online teaching because face-to-face teaching alone was impossible due to the rules, regulations, and protocols which included movement restrictions. Institutions of higher learning in Lesotho therefore adopted online learning so that classes continued during university closure. The study used diffusion of innovation theory because it focused on how students’ adoption of technology acquires traction and diffuses or spreads within a certain demographic or social system over time, thereby determining the acceptance or rejection of such technology. The study responded to two main research questions, namely; ‘what are the students’ perceptions towards online learning? And ‘what are the challenges faced by students during online learning?’ An interpretive paradigm was adopted in this study using a qualitative approach and a case study design. A purposive sampling technique was adopted to identify the participants. Thus, face-to-face interviews with students (n=30) and focus group discussions with students (n=80) from three different institutions were used as the tool for data collection. The emergent themes were analysed through thematic analysis. Findings revealed that online learning is crucial since it promotes collaboration and learner-centeredness. However, findings from focus group discussions bring to surface the challenges that students encounter in online learning such as poor network connectivity, lack of training, and poor infrastructure. The study thus recommends ample training for students and lecturers as well as building infrastructure that will enable smooth online learning. Keywords: Diffusion of innovation; Higher Education, Lesotho, Online learning; Post-COVID-19, Educational technology
... Then, the researcher spent two other weeks collecting data and fortunately all the responses of the 10 SETs and 20 teachers who participated in the study were usable. When finished, the researcher analyzed and presented the quantitative data collected by the questionnaire in table form according to frequency [41]; the questionnaire's qualitative data were analyzed by identifying themes and categorizing the data accordingly [14]; [39]. Typical of the qualitative study, the study used a descriptive language based on the statistics the researcher obtained from the analysis. ...
... Vol. 7, No. 7, June 2024ISSN 2619 Providing opportunities for independent research allows students to engage in investigative and analytical processes, fostering their critical thinking skills. Independent research tasks require students to identify research questions, gather and analyze data, and draw evidence-based conclusions (Bell, 2010). Through independent research, students can develop their ability to think critically, evaluate information, and generate new knowledge. ...
Presentation
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This research study investigated the experiences of graduate school students in ensuring critical thinking skills through the implementation of rigorous examination questions. A qualitative case study approach was utilized to gather data from participants. Interviews, surveys, and document analysis were employed to collect and analyze the data. The study found that the implementation of rigorous examination questions played a vital role in fostering critical thinking skills among graduate students. Participants reported various benefits, including improved analytical thinking, problem-solving abilities, and a deeper understanding of the subject matter. The findings of this study contribute to the body of knowledge on promoting critical thinking in graduate-level programs, emphasizing the significance of designing challenging examination questions to enhance students' critical thinking abilities.
... The structured questionnaire was chosen for its ability to gather statistically quantifiable data, enabling straightforward statistical analysis of the responses. Furthermore, it has been widely recognized as a reliable method for obtaining quantitative data on individuals' attitudes, values, experiences, and past behaviors (Bell, 2008). Administering similar questions simultaneously to a large number of participants ensures that the acquired data are more consistent, accurate, and standardized (Zohrabi, 2013). ...
Article
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This research investigates the teaching strategies employed by early childhood teachers in the Gomoa West District during the COVID-19 pandemic. Using a nested concurrent research design, a sample size of 148 teachers was selected from a population of 234 using the Slovin (1960) formula and a random technique in Microsoft Excel. Additionally, ten teachers from the sample were interviewed. The study identified various teaching strategies used during the pandemic, including the demonstration method, online teaching, question and answers, individual play, and discussion method, all adapted to address the unique challenges posed by the outbreak. The study recommends that the Ministry of Education and Ghana Education Service provide early childhood teachers with training on pedagogical approaches for disease outbreaks and make ICT resources available in early childhood centers to better prepare teachers and students for digital learning in such circumstances. These measures aim to ensure that educators are better equipped to handle unforeseen challenges in the future.
... In addition to the above, Drew (1980, quoted in Bell 2005 2) assumes that a research is "conducted to solve problems", as well as he agrees that it is useful "to expand knowledge". It is obvious that a research paper is about solving problems and gaining knowledge on issues that, most probably, had not been investigated before. ...
Research
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Carrying out a research paper is concerned to be a simple task. However, in practice it is far more complicated. The most important factor is for the researcher to know the main principles of the research process. It is vital to identify the research methods progression, the meaning and purpose of the research to be carried out, by the formulation of hypothesis, aims and questions, the use of methodology-both quantitative and qualitative-their characteristics and suitability when utilized, and the need of sampling and ethical considerations. By the use of theoretical framework, the current research paper firstly discusses and analyses the principles of bringing about a research paper, and most importantly it emphasizes the advantages and disadvantages of research methodology.
... This study employed qualitative approach to get in-depth understanding of the problem under investigation. The use of qualitative perspectives allows the researcher to understand the individuals' perceptions (Bell, 1993). Qualitative approach enabled the informants to provide data freely and the researcher had an opportunity to record what has been spoken. ...
Article
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The study employed a qualitative approach using a case study design. The study was conducted at Dar es Salaam Region. Purposive and convenient sampling strategies were used to sample the respondents. The study involved a total of 49 respondents including 7 principals and 42 tutors. The data were collected through interview, focus group discussion, observation and documentary review. The major findings revealed that principals perceived the appraisal as potential since helped them to monitor tutors, conversely, tutors perceived the appraisal as useless since they are practiced in a bias basis. Also, many tutors indicated unawareness about strategies used to appraise them. It was further found that the principals and tutors have never attended any training concerning performance appraisal. From the findings, the study recommended that the government through the ministry of education has to formulate a specific policy to govern and enforce the colleges’ directors and principals on appropriate proceedings to appraise tutors’ work performance in private teachers’ colleges.
... Este paradigma permitió observar el comportamiento de los alumnos, identificar sus opiniones, puntos de vista y sentimientos, así como ver el entorno en el que estudian. Finalmente, la presente investigación siguió un diseño de estudio de caso mediante el cual un investigador único, el cual cuenta con limitantes temporales y financieras, describe y narra cronológicamente los acontecimientos relevantes para el estudio a través de métodos de recolección de datos tales como la observación, la entrevista y la narración descriptiva (Bell & Waters, 2014;Rodríguez, Gil, & García, 1999). ...
Article
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La escuela Telesecundaria surgió como una respuesta gubernamental para atender las necesidades educativas de poblaciones rurales o semi-urbanas. En esta modalidad, las clases se imparten a tarvés de televisión satelital y de un profesor monitor en un salón presencial. Dicho profesor monitor es el encargado de impartir las lecciones de todas las asignaturas que conforman el currículo educativo, incluida la asigantura de Inglés como Lengua Extranjera (ILE). Particularmente, el proceso de aprendizaje de ILE resulta desafiante para los estudiantes de Telesecundaria. Ello se debe a la presencia de cuatro factores: carencias en el entorno social y escolar; falta de materiales didácticos; así como la interacción aúica entre agentes escolares (Martínez; 2005; Navarrete&López, 2022; Sánchez, 2000; Sandoval, 2000; Sántos, 2001). En este sentido, la presente investigación tuvo como objetivo anaizar la naturleza de los desafíos que un grupo de estudiantes de una Telesecundaria ubicada en la zona montañosa del estado de Veracruz, México enfrentaron al aprender ILE. Se emplearon tres métodos de recolección de datos: observaciones, entrevistas y una encuesta. Los resultados revelaron que los estudaintes enfrentaron principalmente tres dificultades: nulo uso de tecnología en el salón de clases, competencias didácticas no adecuadas para la enseñanza del idioma, y procedimientos didácticos no acordes con sus necesidades de aprendizaje de ILE. En contraste, las actitudes de los estudiantes hacia los materiales, así como la interacción entre docente y estudiantes fueron positivas. Estos resultados implen a los docentes de Telesecundaria para que consideren las condiciones contextuales, el uso de materiales didácticos y técnicas de enseñanza de ILE acordes a las necesidades de aprendizaje de los estudiantes.
... La investigación descriptiva tiene como objetivo principal describir características de fenómenos o poblaciones, estableciendo asociaciones entre variables. Bell (1999) indica que este tipo de investigación busca detallar y representar la realidad tal como se observa. La descripción de la realidad del financiamiento de la salud pública y la correlación de variables asociadas al cumplimiento de las metas de Atención Primaria de Salud encaja dentro de este paradigma. ...
Article
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Este estudio tiene como objetivo analizar el impacto de la inversión en salud en Brasil y sus relaciones con las metas estipuladas para la Atención Primaria de Salud (APS). En la construcción teórica, el trabajo explica cómo se construye el financiamiento de la salud en Brasil a través del Fondo Nacional de Salud (FNS) y cuál es el papel de las entidades en el financiamiento tripartito. Luego, explica las especificidades de la APS. Los procedimientos metodológicos demuestran que los datos fueron extraídos a través de la plataforma del PROADESS, que es mantenida por el Laboratorio ICICT/Fiocruz. Los indicadores de inversión en salud fueron comparados mediante una correlación con indicadores de desempeño de la APS. Los resultados demuestran que existe una relación directa entre la inversión en salud y el cumplimiento de la mayoría de las metas de la APS, lo cual es posible contrastar en la literatura disponible. El análisis factorial resulta en la creación de un indicador denominado el impacto de la inversión en la atención primaria a la salud, que se presenta como una estrategia de evaluación de las políticas integradas. Se sugiere que estos datos sean investigados para regiones, estados y municipios brasileños.
... The semi-structured interview (Bell, 2010) was framed around three categories that resulted from the literature review, which in turn was conducted in light of the research objectives. The three categories are the linguistic and sociocultural writing difficulties, the process of writing academic articles, and the role tutors play in guiding their tutees' academic writing. ...
Article
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Earning a master’s or doctoral degree often requires writing scientific articles, a challenging task for graduate students. A review of existing literature on writing in higher education underscores the need to learn more about the strategies tutors use when teaching their tutees how to prepare their theses and academic articles. Objective: Explore the contribution of tutoring to the composition of academic articles as graduation requirements and thereby to the development of academic literacies among master’s degree students. Methodology: Descriptive case study following the interpretive paradigm. This qualitative study was conducted in a master’s degree program in education at a private university in Medellin, Colombia. The data were collected through semistructured interviews with three tutors, two students, and one graduate student. The content was analyzed by utilizing open and axial coding. Results: The study revealed three pivotal functions performed by tutors in fostering academic literacies during their support for article writing: adept management of the tutor-tutee relationship concerning co-authorship, skillful guidance in navigating interactions with external agents who regulate publication, and proactive promotion of the tutees’ relationship with writing and research, thereby fostering the configuration of their identity as authors and researchers.
... Alanyazın incelendiğinde, nitel araştırma yöntemlerinin kişilerin bakış açılarını, görüşlerini ve algılarını öğrenmede en uygun yöntem olduğu anlaşılmaktadır (Bell, 1992;Yıldırım ve Şimşek, 2006). Araştırmanın amacı doğrultusunda bu araştırmada nitel araştırma desenlerinden olgu bilim deseni kullanılmıştır. ...
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Bu araştırmada öğretim süreçlerine aile katılımının ilkokul 1. sınıf öğrencilerinin akademik başarıları üzerine etkisi, sınıf öğretmenlerinin görüşleri açısından incelenmiştir. Araştırma, 2019-2020 öğretim yılında İstanbul ilindeki devlet okullarında görev yapmakta olan, en az 5 yıl öğretmenlik deneyimine sahip 10 sınıf öğretmeni ile nitel araştırma desenlerinden olgu bilim deseni kullanılarak gerçekleştirilmiştir. Yarı yapılandırılmış görüşmeler yoluyla toplanan veriler içerik analizi yöntemiyle analiz edilmiştir. Elde edilen bulgular değerlendirildiğinde, sınıf öğretmenlerinin ilk okuma yazma kazanımlarına ulaşabilmek için diğer ders saatlerini de bu amaçla kullandıkları, bu durumun öğrencilerin genel akademik başarıları üzerinde olumsuz bir etkisi olduğu, bu noktada öğretim süreçlerine veli katılımının önemli olduğu ve akademik başarıyı artırıcı etkiye sahip olduğu, bunun için aile eğitim çalışmaları ile ailelerin desteklenmesi gerektiği sonuçlarına ulaşılmıştır.
... The article is qualitative in nature, and words, phrases, and sentences were applied during data analysis. The choice to use this approach was based on the interpretivism paradigm, under which it is assumed that meanings are derived from the social world surrounding people (Bell, 2007). The study applied convenience sampling, whereby three native speakers of Kinyarwanda were selected purposively because of their availability and competence in the Kinyarwanda language to verify data and ensure authenticity. ...
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This article describes paradigmatic relations in Kinyarwanda language. Most of the available literature on paradigmatic relations has not addressed this topic in Bantu languages. That is what motivated the author to do this analysis. The study is qualitative in nature, and it employed a case study design, with Kinyarwanda as the case. Convenience sampling procedures were used to obtain the sample for the study. Three native speakers of Kinyarwanda were selected purposively by virtue of their availability and competence in the Kinyarwanda language. Two of them were trilingual. Unstructured interviews were used to collect data from the respondents. After analyzing the data, eight (8) paradigmatic relations were revealed. These are polysemy, hyperonym, homonyms, synonyms, homographs, metonyms, patronyms, and Meronyms. The paper does not claim to have exhausted all angles of the topic under discussion. Other areas, like syntagmatic relations, need investigation to shape and develop linguistic theories on African languages.
... The qualitative methodology used in this study is case study approach. The case study approach allows for specific concentration on a specific instance or situation to identify general information of facts and findings (Bell, 1999). The narrative inquiry approach was also employed in this study which allowed the respondents enumerate the facts for follow-up to be made. ...
... After reviewing relevant literature and consulting with fellow researchers, the writer opts for an action research design, considering it the most suitable approach to address the research questions effectively (Lomax, 2007, as cited in Bell, 2010). Action research is chosen primarily to take proactive steps in resolving specific issues and finding solutions to identified problems (Creswell, 2012). ...
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In Vietnam, a significant number of university and college students are avid gamers, leading the author to recognize the potential of video games in motivating them to learn English. However, there is limited research on teachers' perspectives in this area. Hence, the author decides to conduct action research to explore how teachers can enhance their skills to effectively incorporate video games into their classes. This study involved 16 teachers and 24 students from the author's school. The teachers were surveyed through interviews and questionnaires, while the students were tasked with playing a selected video game. Combining the teachers' feedback with the author's observations of student progress yielded satisfactory results. The findings demonstrated that there was a substantial change in the students' vocabulary learning performance and increased motivation between the pre- and post-tests. The results of this study suggest that using video games in English classrooms can improve students' motivation and glossary achievements among Vietnamese university students.
... A conceptual framework is a gathering of ideas that are characterized and deliberately coordinated to give a center, reasoning, and apparatus for the incorporation and translation of data [45]. Also, Glatthorn [46] states that "the conceptual framework identifies the concepts included in a complex phenomenon and shows their relationships (p. ...
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This study investigated the effects of a process-genre approach on EFL students’ use of writing strategies when writing paragraphs. To ensure the reliability of the writing strategy inventory questionnaire, Cronbach’s alpha was calculated. A quasi-experimental research design was used, and strategy questionnaires were used to collect data. The experimental and control groups were assigned using the lottery method. Independent and paired-sample t-tests were used to determine if there was a statistically significant difference due to treatment between the students’ before and after treatments. Before treatment, the students completed the writing strategy questionnaires, and after 12 weeks of treatment, they were given after-treatment questionnaires. The results revealed that students in the experiment group outperformed the control group in terms of using different writing strategies based on the process-genre approach. The study concluded that the process-genre approach could significantly improve students’ paragraph writing. Therefore, university-level English language teachers are strongly recommended to be aware of the role of the process-genre approach and to follow the process-genre model in improving their students’ use of writing strategies in writing paragraphs.
... The observation allowed the researcher to ascertain Social Studies teachers' use of ICT in teaching Social Studies. Bell (2005) believed that observation is useful in determining what people actually do or how they actually behave in their context. ...
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The study focused on Social Studies teachers' knowledge and usage of ICT in teaching Social Studies in Junior High Schools in the Gomoa West District of the Central Region of Ghana. The study was hinged on Technology Acceptance Model and used concurrent triangulation design within the mixed method approach. Census sampling was used to select all the 77 Social Studies teachers and purposive sampling was used to select 5 out of the 77 for the study. The study used questionnaire, semi-structured interviews and non-participant observations as instruments to collect the data. Descriptive statistics such as frequency and percentages were used to analyze the quantitative data and qualitative data were analyzed thematically. The study's findings showed that greater number of the JHS Social Studies teachers possess knowledge in ICT, have good perception about ICT integration in teaching Social Studies and are willing to use ICT in teaching. However, only few of the teachers integrated ICT in teaching the subject. This was as a result of inadequate computers and other ICT tools, lack of electricity in schools and some of the Social Studies teachers' wrong perception about ICT integration in teaching Social Studies. It is recommended that Social Studies teachers be given regular in-service training; be provided with computers and other ICT tools, by the Gomoa West District Education Office. Head teachers, Circuit Supervisors should encourage, motivate and supervise Social Studies teachers to integrate ICT in teaching Social Studies.
... Before collecting data from respondents, a pilot study was conducted to confirm construct validity. According to (Bell, 2005), 50 responses were collected in pilot testing, which helped the researcher guarantee the instrument's construct validity (REF, REF). This study utilized rating scales to manage the inclusion of closed-ended questions. ...
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Amidst China's burgeoning population and rapid technological strides, this study explores how elderly citizens navigate and embrace electronic governance (e-governance) platforms. Addressing a crucial gap in knowledge, we delve into their limited digital fluency and its impact on e-governance adoption. Our meticulously crafted online survey, distributed via WeChat across significant cities (Beijing, Shanghai, Tianjin, Changsha), yielded 396 responses (384 analyzable). Utilizing Structural Equation Modeling (SEM), we unearthed key influencers of subjective norms, including perceived ease and usefulness, trust, supportive conditions, and past tech exposure. These norms, in turn, positively shape attitudes. Crucially, educational background emerges as a moderator, amplifying the positive link between attitudes and e-governance engagement intent. This underscores the necessity of an inclusive, customized e-governance approach, offering valuable policy insights and advocating for holistic solutions for older adults. Our research yields empirical and theoretical contributions, paving the way for actionable Social Sustainability Marketing Technologies in China, particularly championing digital inclusivity for seniors.
... According to Murray Thomas (2003), a case study usually consists of a description of the actions of an entity, and in this particular case, through the eyes of a school principal in a school organization. A case study also allows one to study a specific aspect of a topic in depth in a short amount of time (Bell, 1999). In addition, the case study perspective provides a unique example of real people in real situations, allowing for the multifarious phenomena of a situation (Cohen et al., 2018). ...
Chapter
This chapter offers insights into educational leadership in relation to school principals, who play an important role as leaders in this new digital environment , during the global pandemic COVID-19. Based on the five leadership styles of the Pashiardis-Brauckmann Holistic Leadership Framework, as the theoretical background of this research study, a successful primary school principal's actions and practices in leading the school community during times of uncertainty is presented , thus, providing an opportunity to consider lessons to be learned. In order to reveal how school leadership in Cyprus was enacted during the COVID-19 crisis, the qualitative research paradigm was selected. In particular, through the five leadership styles of the Pashiardis-Brauckmann Holistic Leadership Framework which was utilized as the theoretical foundation of this study, a case study of a primary school principal in Cyprus was selected. The school principal successfully addressed the urgency of the pandemic crisis, referring to the digitalization of the teaching and learning process, together with addressing the obstacles and challenges that occurred during the timeframe of the pandemic crisis.
... Section D covered how large class sizes can be managed to enhance good students' academic performance in public senior high schools. It was important to craft items of the questionnaire around issues that were central to the research because, according to Bell (2020), they enable the researcher to gather the relevant data to answer the research questions and achieve the objectives of the study. Mock examination scores for Core Mathematics were obtained from the schools as a measure of students' performance. ...
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This study sought to determine the extent to which large class sizes influenced the manner in which teaching and learning were mediated in senior high schools. To achieve this, a survey design was employed. 192 students were purposively selected from four senior high schools in the Asutifi North and South Districts. A questionnaire with a reliability coefficient of 0.791 was used to obtain data from the respondents. Quantitative data analysis was performed using Statistical Products and Service Solutions (SPSS). Both descriptive and inferential statistical tools were used in order to analyze the data and also answer the research questions. To find out the influence of class size on the teaching and learning of mathematics in SHS, the mean, standard deviation, multiple linear regression, and Pearson's product moment correlation were used to perform the analyses of the data collected. According to the study, large class sizes have an impact on students' academic performance as well as their learning opportunities. It was again revealed that classroom interactions had a great influence on the students' academic performance. It has been recommended that since small class sizes and good classroom interactions enhance performance, therefore, teachers and head teachers should make sure they conform to the required teacher-to-student ratio of 1:40 set by the Ghana Education Service. Teachers should create an enabling environment for students to participate in classroom activities. Furthermore, the study showed that students performed better in smaller classes with good classroom interaction. Therefore, the government should employ more teachers and build more classrooms to solve the problem of large class sizes in the senior high schools in Ghana.
... Questionnaires have the ability to supply answers to What, Where, When and How questions. Although, "Why" is not as easily answered by surveys (Bell, 2010). To be able to construct and design a survey that asks the right questions to get necessary answers, a sample audience of a few people is determined to conduct online face-to-face interviews. ...
Thesis
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Communication and entertainment continue to move towards digital media. Understanding the gains and losses of these transformations from physical to digital is essential for better digital experiences. Games are a big part of human life. Moreover, currently, the video game industry has the biggest share in the entertainment industry. Every statement that is supported with an academic research on such a subject would have an audience that can benefit from. This thesis aims to reveal the differences between playing experiences of different platforms. In order to completely grasp player experience, concepts like game, play, player, play typology, user experience and player experience itself has been extensively studied. With the gathered information, in order to conduct a research an individual game has been selected. Magic: The Gathering originally being a tabletop card game recently launched a successfully received version for online play. The game is almost exactly the same in both platforms and has a lot of components for a multifaceted and deep experience. Since players can play with the same game pieces in a similar manner in both platforms against equivalently competent opponents, the difference that the two platforms would generate is expected to be revealed clearly. For the collection of the data, after an exploratory research a handful of online face-to-face interviews are conducted, and the qualitative data gathered from these interviews used to construct a theoretical model for an online questionnaire. 697 Magic: The Gathering players’ views are collected, analyzed and discussed through this method. Detailed analysis of the results concluded that the tabletop experience is superior overall for the case of this study. Especially social interaction and the idea of fun scored much higher than the online experience of the same game. Contrarily, the online version had better numbers in the areas of competitive play and convenience of gameplay.
... In conservation ecology, the reason for conservation should never be taken for granted with a non-specialist audience. for all studies utilizing these research tools (Bell, 2005;Cohen et al., 2007;Oppenheim, 1992). ...
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The need for public awareness of scientific findings through effective communication, delivered in easily understandable formats, is rapidly increasing. In this context, art and graphic design can help bridge the communication gap between science and various target groups, both within and outside academia, for a wide range of scientific topics. Centred on the field of conservation ecology, I explored the interdisciplinary relationship between visual arts and natural sciences. I focused on rewilding with European bison as a specific ecological subject, narrowing down to two locations in Poland and the Netherlands. Drawing on my background in scientific illustration and graphic design, a set of questions regarding visual communication in science were developed. How effective are visual communication tools for sharing scientific information? What types of visuals should be used? How should the information be laid out? What is the public’s perception on the format used? What is the process of creation of these visuals and how can these processes improve? To address these questions, a series of studies were conducted, resulting in both textual and visual outcomes. The findings of this project have implications for enhancing communication about European bison research and conservation efforts, with potential application to other related ecological topics. By examining the effectiveness of different types of illustrations, the layout of graphic scientific information, a variety of visual communication formats, and the public’s perception of these visual tools, we shed light on opportunities to visually improve the communication of ecological subjects. These insights also aim to inspire more interdisciplinary studies, investment, and interest in collaborations between visual communication and natural sciences.
... The perceptions and experiences of the people making up the sample can change over time. Wellington [61] quoted Bell [62] who pointed out that surveys can provide answers to the questions "What"? "Where"? ...
... This can lead students to respond inaccurately or falsely to questions. Students and teachers might respond according to what they think the researcher wants to hear (Bell, 2005). ...
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El Translenguaje entre el Inglés y el Español e Identidades Positivas en el Aula de Español como Segunda Lengua en un Colegio Privado en Asunción Abstract Even though Paraguay is a bilingual country, most language institutes have a monolingual policy, and they do not allow students to use their first language in the classroom. This can be an obstacle to fostering positive identities, which can negatively affect students' academic success (García-Mateus & Palmer, 2017). This research draws upon Translanguaging theory to explore how this practice influences the development of students' positive identities when learning a foreign language. The study also aims to explore students' and teachers' perceptions of Translanguaging practices. A descriptive case study was conducted in a private school in Asunción, capital of Paraguay, where a Translanguaging methodology is implemented in the Spanish as a second language (SSL) classroom with international students. An online survey, interviews with teachers, a focus group with students, and class observations were conducted. The data revealed that Translanguaging offers various benefits when learning a second language. For instance, Translanguaging helps in understanding new vocabulary, explaining grammar, and clarifying concepts. The results showed this practice also fosters aspects related to identity, such as self-expression. However, students and teachers also acknowledged one of the main drawbacks of Translanguaging: dominant language overuse. The general results showed that teachers and students perceive Translanguaging as a useful pedagogy for learning a new language and for fostering positive identities in the language classroom.
... Research methodology instructions facilitate learners to make inferences and evaluate information critically and promote problem-solving and critical thinking (Thyer, 2000;Bell, 2014;Curtin & Hall, 2018). In some universities, the course 'Research Methodology' is introduced to the learners about which they do not have prior knowledge. ...
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Developing research skills among undergraduate students is a very challenging task for teachers. Studying research skills/the course on research methods, students also find it daunting, especially undergraduate students. Students are novices in this course, and they do not see the relevance and value of research skills. As a result, they find it boring and not useful for their professional life and feel uninterested and unmotivated to study this course. Teachers have a double responsibility: to clarify the basics of research skills and involve the learners in research with interest. The study intends to determine if research skills are developed through student-centered active learning approaches that may motivate students to perform better. For this purpose, data was collected from 60 participants (15 teachers, and 45 students). Then, the data was coded in the descriptive analysis by using SPSS (Statistical Package for the Social Sciences-version 26). These teachers are either teaching this course or have already taught it and students are either studying or have already studied it. The research findings revealed the necessity of enhancing understanding through motivation and involving students through activity-based and student-centered approaches. Further, the study recommends that teachers adapt teaching materials according to the nature of this course and the students' needs (their prior knowledge, context, interest, etc.).
... They were used to understand the world from the participant's point of view, to reveal the meaning of their experiences, and to uncover their worlds. These interviews enabled the researcher to follow up on ideas, probe responses, and investigate motives and feelings [34]. Creswell posits that semi-structured interviews are appropriate to pursue a specific issue. ...
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This paper reports on the disproportional support that affects the implementation of inclusive education in full-service schools of Limpopo Province. The study followed a qualitative case study research methodology. Sixteen teachers and eight Heads of Departments were recruited through purposive sampling. Data were collected using interviews. Creswell’s model of thematic analysis was used to analyse data. Four findings emerged from the data: lack of communalism, a missing link, the ignored purpose, and lack of interdependence, which resulted in the disproportional support that affected the implementation of inclusive education in full-service schools. Recommendations that may help to restore the balance of support offered for the implementation of inclusive education in full-service schools have been made.
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2 DECLARATION BY CANDIDATE I hereby declare that the mini-dissertation dissertation submitted for the degree M Tech Policing at the Tshwane University of Technology, is my own work and has not previously been submitted to any other tertiary institution, and that all the sources consulted or quoted are indicated and acknowledged by means of a comprehensive list of references
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Problems with writing academic research by the senior literature students of the English department of the college of languages at Salahaddin University in Erbil have been occurring literally since the establishment of this department. Students face many difficulties while setting out to write research projects which are part of their graduation requirements. They usually feel frustrated at the beginning stages and struggle with their research title, outline and structure. Graduation research has been a big challenge for the department and teachers, too. It becomes a controversial topic every new academic year, and discussions around it conclude with either removing this subject from the department curriculum for fourth-year students or actions to be taken up to improve its existing situation and mechanisms of conducting it. This research study is an attempt at looking at the problems surrounding this subject at the English department, going to the roots of these problems and finding relevant solutions so the situation changes for the better and students face fewer problems with their research works.
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Event tourism is a subject that has not passed through any intensive research in the case of Cyprus. the current research attempted to investigate the extent to which events contribute to the development of tourism in Cyprus. In more depth, the research study compared both primary and secondary research on the subject of events, their importance, and their contribution to the development of tourism in Cyprus. In conclusion it highlighted the minimum contribution of events in the development of tourism in Cyprus as events are being used as supplements in the case of Cyprus, and as a tool that will assist to the strengthening and enrichment of the existing tourism product. However, potentials and opportunities exist for further developments regarding this sector. In response to these, tourism organizations, authorities, and tourism bearers should become active players and create such strategic plans, to develop events in means that will be fitted to the existing image of the island and thus improving, not changing, its tourism product.
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Corporate agility a concept that has recently appeared in global corporate businesses. Aspects of innovation, culture and leadership affect various corporations in different ways. Corporations that apply agility management are recognized as having better standards of working conditions and cultures that help the corporation succeed. An agile environment helps employees to unite, facilitates collaborations in order to motivate employees to exchange information and ideas from multi divisions/departments. The objective of this paper is to examine three selected factors that affect agility in organizations. The factors under consideration in this paper are innovation, culture and leadership. The paper shall seek to find out the role they play in enhancing agility in any organization leading to a higher level of performance. Corporate agility signifies a new perception in the corporate field that has not yet been well observed. Formerly, corporations were self-confident in their management practices and resistant to change. However, organizations around the world have suffered from the impact of the Global Covid-19 Pandemic during 2019-2020, and therefore the importance of agility has been obviously clear for many organizations to survive and to overcome the challenges that have arouse globally. Furthermore, in order to survive a global pandemic or a crisis, corporations need to adapt agility, flexibility, and effective approaches to survive and be able to change in order to succeed. Openness to change plays an important role as one of the major factors helping businesses to survive and lead in the market. This paper focuses on determining the impact of innovation on corporate agility, discovering how culture affects corporate agility, linking the power of leadership to corporate agility, and investigating how a company's performance depends on its agility. To achieve this, the paper seeks to explore such areas as the influence of innovation on organizational agility, the impact of culture on organizational agility, the impact of leadership on organizational agility, and the impact of organizational agility on performance. This study is based on a cross-sectional research design and quantitative techniques for data collection. Quantitative research methods are applied to generate knowledge, create an understanding of corporate agility, and observe occurrences of incidents affecting employees, middle management and higher-level employees within the corporation. A sample size of a minimum of 300 employees from various corporations is intended. Data shall be collected from online surveys using a qualitative technique. Data analysis is performed using SPSS analysis of the four items: industry, revenue, employees, and age, to ensure the data is suitable for subsequent factor assessment. The research adopts a case methodology approach that assesses the impact of a system’s agility and Enterprise Resource Planning (ERP) assimilation on organization agility. The contribution of this research will be of concentration to both academics and business experts. The study established indicates that innovation has a positive significant impact on Corporate Agility R = 0.592, the mean for the Total of Innovation variable is (38.12) with standard deviation (3.81). The results showed that the overall effect of independent variables on the dependent variable was statistically significant (F = 160.643, Sig. = 0.000). In relation to independent variables effects, it was found that (Innovation) had a significant effect on (corporate agility) where (ß = 0.797, t-value = 12.674, Sig. = 0.000). Also, the study shows that the culture has a positive significant effect on Corporate Agility R = 0.604, the mean for the Total of Culture variable is (42.08) with standard deviation (5.10). The results showed that the overall effect of independent variables on the dependent variable was statistically significant (F = 170.792, Sig. = 0.000). In relation to independent variables effects, it was found that (Culture) had a significant effect on (corporate agility) where (ß = 0.607, t-value = 13.069, Sig. = 0.000). Results indicate that power of leadership has a positive significant relation on corporate agility R = 0.657, the mean for the Total of Leadership variable is (29.86) with standard deviation (7.97). The results showed that the overall effect of independent variables on the dependent variable was statistically significant (F = 226.100, Sig. = 0.000). In relation to independent variables effects, it was found that (Leadership) had a significant effect on (corporate agility) where (ß = 0.422, t-value = 15.037, Sig. = 0.000). As a result, for corporations to improve the level at which they adapt to changes in their operation, managers need to be innovative. With agility well-managed, the levels of production and performance of the corporation can improve. For a corporation to maintain a sense of agility, the power of leadership should be at its peak to enable quick and decisive communication to all corporation members to ensure better levels of agility.
Thesis
This thesis is a sociolinguistic ethnography to explore the socialization and lived experiences of Iranian migrants in Madrid. It investigates the trajectories, language barriers, application of English as a lingua franca, Spanish language learning, language investment, and socialization dynamics of first-generation Iranian adults, with a particular emphasis on PhD students. Thus, drawing on Martín Rojo and Del Percio's (2019) theory of neoliberal governmentality as a foundation, I examine how neoliberalism influences subjectivities, trajectories, attitudes, social identity, socialization, language choice, and investment. This study's methodological design comprises ethnographic fieldwork conducted in two separate contexts between January 2018 and February 2020, as well as participant observations, interviews, focus groups, and documents. The two settings that are designated to undertake the ethnographic fieldwork are a religious center and an educational institution. In order to provide a thorough interpretation of the data, content analysis is designated as the analytical technique. The data analysis for this study is covered in three chapters: three, four, and five. Chapter three, which is the first data analysis chapter, discusses the discovery of the Iranian community in Madrid and the identification of two field sites for the current ethnography. Since the major objective of this chapter is to explore the participants' migration trajectories and motivations to migrate to Spain, this chapter discusses Spain's migration policies as well as Iranian migration motivations and alternative destinations. There is also discussion of the participants' linguistic repertoire, motivations for relocating to Spain, and future intentions. The data supplied in this chapter serves as a foundation for the two following data analysis chapters. Chapter four's main objectives are the participants' linguistic challenges and the strategies they employed in order to get through them. English being used as a lingua franca is one of the primary methods for overcoming linguistic barriers; hence, Englishization is well covered. Considering language and culture are inextricably linked, cultural differences are explored as another challenge that V participants may encounter while socializing in the host nation. Furthermore, it is examined how Englishization may alter participants' attitudes toward the usage of English in higher education and their linguistic preferences. In chapter five, the motivation of the participants for learning Spanish and their perspective regarding the value of understanding the local language are explored. Thus, drawing on Norton's investment theory, language investment is discussed in terms of political economy. In addition, the dynamics of the classroom are analyzed, since engaging in Spanish classes could be an investment in learning the local tongue. The willingness of the participants to interact with locals and their language practices in society are also explored. Finally, in the conclusion chapter, the major contributions of this dissertation are underlined. The findings contribute significantly to the field of sociolinguistics by highlighting neoliberalism, Englishization in higher education, the challenges of migrants (mainly PhD students), and migrants' socialization in the host nation.
Article
This paper aims to explore the factors that affect first-year university English language learners’ progress, such as their motivation, their teachers’ assessment techniques and the teaching process they underwent. The goal of the research was to find out how the students perceive their progress, and how teachers see their students’ improvement in relation to their teaching practices. In order to gather this information, two written retrospective online questionnaire surveys were conducted. The data were analyzed by discerning patterns in the results, and by comparing the answers from the respondents. It was discovered that students were generally satisfied with the elements of the course, their language skills development and with the teaching approaches employed by their teachers, though there were some disparities in certain areas. Teachers had some shared viewpoints, and were in agreement with the students as to the methods of teaching, yet in regards to evaluating students’ progress, there were dissimilarities. The results of the research provide beneficial information and guidelines which may assist course designers in modifying parts of the language practice course.
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This research work deals on efficient contract management and its effect on project delivery. The need for the research arose due to rampant project delays and abandonment in the country and their adverse effect on the national economy. Both primary and secondary data sources were used to obtain the data for the research work. A structured questionnaire based on the 4-point lickert scale was used to collect data from the respondents. The results of the analyses indicate that there is a significant relationship between contract management and project execution. Also, good preparation through an accurate assessment of needs will help to create a clear-cut based specification. The study, therefore recommends an active involvement of local contractors and host communities in project implementation through training, sensitization on modern approaches and as well by active supervision/ monitoring for efficient project executions.
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The traditional, cultural or civic practice of 'marriage' is found in all human societies. Its origin can be traced back to the very beginning of human existence on earth. The importance accorded to this institution is confirmed by the common understanding that every society needs marriage and that any community that lacks marriage is bound to have its families fail (Chewe, 2013). Moreover, on the importance of this institution, Chilufya (2008), opines that the civic practice of marriage is the foundation and substance of every family and social unit in every society. Usually, marriage is embedded in various issues but of particular importance to this article is its embeddedness in cultural issues, specifically the custom of bride-price or bride payment. Drawing qualitative data from Musonda's (2021) study entitled "the nature and scope of bride-price among the Mambwe people of Mbala District", the article specifically focuses on both the positive and negative effects of bride payment on the institution of marriage specifically among the Mambwe people. Most scholarly studies and discourse in academia mainly engage with the aspects of how bride payment is done and its cultural significance in various ethnic groups globally. Utilizing research findings from Musonda's (2021) study, this article departs from the aforementioned and brings to the fore a unique blend of both the positive and negative effects of bride payment to the institution of marriage particularly among the Mambwe people. Of particular heightened significance in this article, is the aspect of the negative effects of bride payment on the institution of marriage among the Mambwe because it provides a very unique or rare exposition of the dark side or unpleasant face of this common customary practice to both men and women among the Mambwe people. The article specifically perceives 'bride payment' from a civic perspective.
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This study examines the experiences of martial arts coaches dealing with parents and how they manage their relationships as coaches. The research was conducted at Chongqing Normal University in China, involving five university martial arts coaches who have been serving for at least 18 years. The study revealed that these coaches have a passion for teaching and a strong emphasis on research, competition, and professional development. The experiences coaches have with parents before training are multi- faceted, encompassing various themes that contribute to fostering a positive and supportive environment. As coaches guide their trainees or athletes through the training process, the interactions between coaches and parents play a pivotal role in shaping the overall journey. Post-training interactions focus on various themes that aim to foster a supportive and encouraging environment for the young athletes. During a competition, the involvement of parents in the training process takes on a new dimension, and their interaction with coaches becomes crucial to the athletes' performance. After the competition concludes, coaches engage invital interactions with the parents of their trainees or athletes to reflect on the performance and progress achieved. Recommendations from the study include maintaining regular communication with parents, educating them about the martial arts discipline, highlighting character development, discipline, and respect, requesting positive reinforcement rather than solely on competition results, clearly communicating training goals and expectations, offering constructive feedback after competitions or training sessions, encouraging parents to participate in specific training activities, managing expectations realistically, and demonstrating professionalism, respect, and dedication as a coach.
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The recording of a Sustainability Report has become one of the primary approaches in modern businesses aiming to measure, track, and communicate the social, environmental, and economic impacts of a company. This research aims to analyze the influence of recording the Sustainability Report on resource productivity and economic growth at PT Unilever Indonesia Tbk. Through a methodology involving historical data analysis and detailed evaluation models, this study investigates how the implementation of the Sustainability Report within the company influences resource productivity in day- to-day operations. This research provides a foundation for a deeper understanding of the importance of maintaining a Sustainability Report in enhancing the productivity and economic growth of the company, along with its implications within the context of a sustainable economy. Abstrak. Pencatatan Sustainability Report telah menjadi salah satu pendekatan utama dalam bisnis modern yang bertujuan untuk mengukur, melacak, dan mengomunikasikan dampak sosial, lingkungan, dan ekonomi suatu perusahaan. Penelitian ini bertujuan untuk menganalisis pengaruh pencatatan Sustainability Report terhadap produktivitas sumber daya dan pertumbuhan ekonomi di PT Unilever Indonesia Tbk.. Melalui metodologi analisis data historis dan model evaluasi terperinci, penelitian ini menyelidiki bagaimana implementasi Sustainability Report di perusahaan memengaruhi produktivitas sumber daya dalam operasional sehari-hari. Penelitian ini memberikan landasan untuk pemahaman lebih lanjut tentang pentingnya pencatatan Sustainability Report dalam meningkatkan produktivitas dan pertumbuhan ekonomi perusahaan, serta implikasinya dalam konteks ekonomi yang berkelanjutan. Kata kunci: Sustainability Report, produktivitas sumber daya, pertumbuhan ekonomi, PT Unilever Indonesia Tbk.
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After the introduction of the Basic Education Teacher Diploma (BETD) in Namibia, a number of studies were conducted on how teachers, lecturers, stakeholders and the Namibian public perceived the BETD program and its implementation. However, very few studies focused specifically on mathematics subject content knowledge and pedagogical content knowledge in the BETD. This paper reports on a study which investigated the need for a complementary course for mathematics teachers to address the perceived lack of mathematical content and pedagogical knowledge in the Namibian BETD. The study involved five mathematics school teachers, two former mathematics college lecturers in the Kavango educational region and a professor of mathematics education at the University of Namibia. These participants were purposefully selected because of their knowledge and experiences with various aspects of the BETD program. And the data was collected by means of two methods namely documents analysis and semi-structured interviews. These methods complemented each other and also provided a degree of cross checking of claims.
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