Action Research Design Research Articles

Pastoralists’ Socioecological Trends: The Case of Laikipia County in Kenya

Pastoralism is a complete way of life involving ecological, political, economic and social dimensions, and is dependent on a continuous balance of diverse factors. However, pastoral systems are faced with emerging and accelerating shocks and stresses that challenge their resilience and the ability to meet household livelihood needs sustainably. In response to these pressures, pastoralist socioecological systems in Africa are undergoing a process of rapid transformation that is marked by positive and negative socio-ecological trends. This study, therefore, analyzed the socioecological trends of pastoral systems with a focus on Laikipia County, Kenya. The study used a participatory action research design and multi-stage sampling design. Data collection and analysis were done using the participatory trend analysis method, while Mann-Kendall Z Test and Kendall’s correlation coefficient were used to test the trends and their relationships. This study finds that pastoralists’ culture and lifestyles are changing as shown by the negative trend in observation of cultural practices (Z = - 4.22, P<0.001) and effectiveness of customary governance systems (Z = - 0.401, P<0.001). Secondly, although the total number of livestock is increasing (Z = 3.11, P<0.01), there is a downward trend in the livestock holding per household (Z = -3.83, P<0.001), and, hence increasing diversification to non-pastoral livelihoods (Z = 4.28, P<0.001). These changes are caused by the growing pressure on pastoral resources and ecological stresses due to various factors, including the increasing human population (Z = 4.22, P<0.001), land degradation (Z = 4.17, P<0.001), and climate change and variability (Z = 4.05, P<0.001). Therefore, the study enabled an understanding of pastoralists’ socioecological trends and the underlying drivers. Moreover, the study showed the impacts of the drivers, their feedback on each other, and the responses of the pastoral system. The study will strengthen pastoral development planning and policy-making processes.

Implementing an Internal Quality Assurance System to Enhance Elementary School Education Quality

An education quality assurance system is intended to enhance education quality and establish a quality culture in schools; however, some elementary schools in Indonesia still struggle with its implementation. Hence, this research aimed to suggest action steps as an option to enhance the implementation of the education quality assurance system in elementary schools. This research employed an action research design to investigate this issue and identify alternative solutions. The data were collected using a survey and semi-structured interviews with staff at one private elementary school in East Kalimantan province, namely a school principal, 31 teachers and two school foundation administrators. The findings produced nine action steps: 1) Building management commitment, 2) Setting up a quality improvement team, 3) Engaging in communication and socialization, 4) Building quality awareness, 5) Forming a quality control circle, 6) Mapping quality education, 7) Preparing a mapping instrument, 8) Collecting mapping data, and 9) Processing and analyzing mapping data. This research concludes that new school quality standards improved every year on being compared with eight points on the national education standards, and the national examination results exceeded the average national examination score at the provincial level. The increase in the average values of Standard 1–8 ranged from 0.6 to 1.5. In other words, these nine steps had an impact on obtaining school accreditation with a superior rating.

Penerapan Metode Pemberian Tugas Melalui Media Powerpoint untuk Meningkatkan Motivasi dan Hasil Belajar PKn Siswa Kelas XI-MIA 1 pada Pembelajaran Daring di SMA

This research was carried out with the aim of increasing the motivation and learning outcomes of Civics in online learning for students of class XI-MIA 1 at SMA Negeri Sekotong, West Lombok Regency, odd semester of the 2020/2021 academic year through PowerPoint media. This type of research is Classroom Action Research (CAR). The subjects were students of class XI-MIA 1 at SMA Negeri Sekotong, West Lombok Regency, in the odd semester, with a total of 22 students. Classroom Action Research Design (CAR) uses the Kemmis & Mc.Taggart model which includes planning, action, observation, and reflection. Data collection techniques using observation and tests. The data analysis technique used is descriptive quantitative and qualitative. The results showed that there was an increase in Civics learning outcomes, this can be seen from the KKM completeness of pre-action students and each cycle the average result of the observations in cycle I was 75.18 in the sufficient category, while cycle II was 76.61 in the good category and experienced an increase . According to the success indicators set, the classical completeness criteria at XI-MIA 1 Sekotong State Senior High School, West Lombok Regency is ≥76. In the initial data, classical learning completeness was an average of 75, then the average in the first cycle was 75.18 and in the second cycle it became 76.71. While individual completeness in the initial data of students who were able to fulfill KKM ≥ 75 were only 16 people (57.14%), while in cycle I there were 28 students (64.29%), then in cycle II it became 28 students (85, 71%). Thus, it can be concluded that online learning using PowerPoint media can increase the motivation and learning outcomes of students' Civics.

PENERAPAN MODEL PROBLEM BASED LEARNING UNTUK MENINGKATKAN SIKAP KERJASAMA PESERTA DIDIK KELAS V PADA PEMBELAJARAN IPA

The purpose of this study was to test whether applying the Problem-Based Learning model could improve students' cooperation in learning science in grade V SDN Sampangan on the topic of food chains. This research is a type of classroom action research with the subject of 27 class V students at SDN Sampangan 02 Semarang in the odd semester of the 2022/2023 academic year. The method used is a classroom action research design which consists of four stages: planning, implementing, observing, and reflecting. This research was planned to be conducted in two cycles with planning stages which included scheduling action meetings, preparing lesson plans based on the PBL model, making teaching aids, compiling formative tests, and student collaboration observation sheets. After the planning stage, there will be two meetings in each cycle, with observations made on the observation sheet of student cooperation that has been prepared previously. The results of the observations will be used to reflect and determine the continuation of the action cycle. Based on the results of observations on the implementation of cycles I and II, there was an increase in students showing indicators of always communicating, from 8 students in cycle 1 to 11 students in cycle 2.

How to design platform ecosystems by intrapreneurs: Implications from action design research on IoT-based platform

The recent technological evolution of the Internet of Things (IoT) and data sciences has created opportunities for intrapreneurs in non-platform firms to expand their businesses into platform ecosystem-related businesses. However, previous studies have typically focused on cases involving entrepreneurs. This study aims to clarify how intrapreneurs’ design for platform ecosystems could be different from that of entrepreneurs. We conducted an action design research (ADR) project in collaboration with a company for 29 months, and designed a platform ecosystem structure based on technological platforms related to radio frequency identifiers (RFID). Our main contribution is the following six-step process that describes how intrapreneurs design platform ecosystems: (1) designing an initial ecosystem structure based on platform ecosystem concepts and certain concepts related to the targeted market; (2) analyzing past business cases; (3) making the ecosystem structure into concrete shape; (4) verifying its validity; (5) elaborating the ecosystem structure; and (6) proposing the designed ecosystem business. Our findings highlight the differences between intrapreneurs’ and entrepreneurs’ designs of the ecosystem. First, when the design processes are underway, the direction of the design of the ecosystem needs to be flexibly modified to align with the strategy of the firm. Second, evidence for the success of the proposed platform ecosystem is required to reduce uncertainty and clarify the legitimacy of the proposition. Third, the structure of a platform ecosystem designed by intrapreneurs becomes a style that supports the existing businesses and networks of the firm.

Reimagining Inclusion in Early Childhood Care and Education: A Posthuman Perspective

Despite global and national imperatives to build an inclusive society, incidences of discrimination on the basis of numerous marginalised identity markers are widely reported. The early years are an ideal moment for children to form initial attitudes towards different groups of people. In fact, the early years are regarded as a means for social and economic transformation, according to the South African National Development Plan. This article is a segment of a study on a group of early childhood care and education teachers and teacher trainers who explored inclusion using a participatory action learning and action research design. Eight members formed an action learning set and engaged in mutual and collaborative learning to transform their learning environments to become more inclusive. Data were generated in two iterative cycles using a baseline questionnaire, reflective journals, and purposeful conversations. Underpinned by the posthumanist perspective, the findings highlight that diversity needs to be regarded as a strength to be valued, rather than as an impediment. The findings also suggest the need for collectivism in opposition to individualism, and a reconfiguration of the child's identity as posthuman. The study thus contributes to positive outcomes by identifying ways to transform early learning environments to become more inclusive. This not only leads to a more democratic and socially just learning environment but also contributes to wider positive societal change.

Parent-Practitioner Collaboration to Support Sustainable Development in Early Years Education

This article stems from a research project in five early childhood development (ECD) centres in South Africa, and focuses on parent-practitioner collaboration for sustainable development in early years education. Using a qualitative approach, we followed a participatory action learning and action research (PALAR) design to answer the main research question: "How can parent-practitioner collaboration support education for sustainable development in the early years?" Participants formed an action learning set (ALS) in which they acted as co-researchers and equal partners to construct their own meanings in order to advocate for social change. Data were collected in the ALS during Cycle 3 of the PALAR process. We relied on transcribed, recorded ALS discussions and photovoice activities to generate data, and used thematic content analysis to collaboratively analyse the data. Our findings disclose that education for sustainable development is possible when parents and practitioners collaborate.

Participatory action research

1. Introducing Participatory Action Research 2. Child Welfare Participatory Action Research Design Teams for Workforce Reconfiguration, Organizational Innovation, and Policy Change . 3. Participatory Action Research with Youth 4. A Complex, Community-Based Participatory Action Research Design to Address Obesity in Young Children and Their Families 5. The Critical-Emancipatory Tradition of Participatory Action Research in Postdisaster Recovery Settings in the Global South 6. Summary Reflections and Lessons Learning KEY WEBSITES FOR PARTIPATORY ACTION RESEARCH REFERENCES INDEX

Towards Developing a Science-Language Learning Programme for the Equality of Sustainable Learning Opportunities for Young Children

It is imperative to offer equal quality learning opportunities for young children at both deprived and advantaged early childhood development centres (ECDCs). To this end, substantive involvement by young children in the envisioned quality learning that should take place, even in constrained contexts, warrants thoughtful exploration. Consequently, this study investigated the development of young children's communication and mathematical skills to explore the affordances of the South African National Curriculum Framework for children from birth to 4 years in relation to incorporating science concepts. Our proposition for privileging science concepts relevant to early learning and development areas of the curriculum framework was premised on the urge to respond to young children's current learning needs in order to make learning in the future sustainable. We adopted a participatory action research design, undergirded by principles of intra-relationality, to develop an assessment and activity plan consistent with our proposition. Using the principles of free attitude interviews and brainstorming as techniques, rich qualitative data were generated during meetings, workshops, and reflection sessions with study team member participants. The team made the following observations and findings: the transition of young children from ECD to Grade R is marred by challenges that make the learning of young children beyond ECD unsustainable because of the absence of continual communication between the ECD and Grade R teachers and, to some extent, between the parents (home) and the ECDC. Through the knowledge gained from regular participatory action-oriented meetings, workshops, and reflections, the study contributed to the development of participants and benefited the ECDC involved in this study in several respects.

An Action Research on Improving Environmental Sensitivity of Fourth Grade Primary School Students: What Happens in the School Garden?

School gardens, which play an important role in environmental education, provide an opportunity for students to develop environmental awareness and gain environmental responsibility. In this study, which draws attention to this, it is aimed to reveal the applicability of the workshops prepared in the school garden in order to improve the environmental sensitivity of the students. The research was carried out with 10 female and 10 male 4th grade students in a public primary school in the city center of Bartin in the 2021-2022 academic year. The research was carried out with the action research design, one of the qualitative research methods. The data of the research were obtained through a scale developed by Peker (2020) and a semi-structured interview form prepared by the researchers. Quantitative data obtained using descriptive statistics and dependent group t-test statistical procedures; qualitative data were analyzed with content analysis technique. As a result of the research, it has been determined that environmental education workshops are effective in increasing students’ environmental awareness. Students stated that environmental education activities are fun, useful and instructive. As a result, it is seen that the workshops applied in the school garden increase the environmental awareness of the 4th grade students and the process has a positive effect on them. As a result of the research, it can be suggested that environmental awareness should be brought to students through school gardens and reflected in educational environments by organizing various activities that encourage positive attitudes.

Explanatory Interactive Machine Learning

The most promising standard machine learning methods can deliver highly accurate classification results, often outperforming standard white-box methods. However, it is hardly possible for humans to fully understand the rationale behind the black-box results, and thus, these powerful methods hamper the creation of new knowledge on the part of humans and the broader acceptance of this technology. Explainable Artificial Intelligence attempts to overcome this problem by making the results more interpretable, while Interactive Machine Learning integrates humans into the process of insight discovery. The paper builds on recent successes in combining these two cutting-edge technologies and proposes how Explanatory Interactive Machine Learning (XIL) is embedded in a generalizable Action Design Research (ADR) process – called XIL-ADR. This approach can be used to analyze data, inspect models, and iteratively improve them. The paper shows the application of this process using the diagnosis of viral pneumonia, e.g., Covid-19, as an illustrative example. By these means, the paper also illustrates how XIL-ADR can help identify shortcomings of standard machine learning projects, gain new insights on the part of the human user, and thereby can help to unlock the full potential of AI-based systems for organizations and research.

Popular education to improve water quality and hygiene in a Mexican indigenous community.

Long-term research has identified significant water contamination and associated poor health outcomes in the indigenous community of Alpuyeca, located in south-central Mexico. We set out to develop a popular education initiative in this community to improve water, sanitation and hygiene (WaSH) knowledge and practices. In order to avoid recreating hierarchical power dynamics in this vulnerable community, a participatory action research (PAR) design was used, wherein the community took leadership and facilitation roles in each stage of the research process. In qualitative interviews and design sessions, community members identified unsatisfied WaSH needs in households and community institutions and articulated a clear worldview of the spiritual role of water, which guided the development of a series of popular education-based workshops and discussions. The popular education initiative process was documented with a mixed methods framework, using before-and-after surveys, semi-structured interviews and participatory observation. Increases in knowledge and practices related to water purification, water consumption and hand hygiene were noted in the community. The community identified locally installed and managed ecotechnologies as a key opportunity for sustainable development, community participation and the adoption of water and sanitation systems, compatible with public imaginaries of the role of water.

Moodle as a Tool to Reduce Transactional Distance at an Open Distance and e-Learning University

Despite the expansion of e-learning and the adoption of innovative learning management systems to support students, higher education institutions are still struggling under the burden of digital exclusion, hence increasing the transactional distance between lecturers and students. The research was conducted at a South African Open Distance and eLearning university and attempted to (1) understand how the Moodle site is organized to influence transaction distance, (2) identify students’ perceptions of the Moodle site to enhance their academic writing skills, and (3) identify if Moodle is an enabler or disabler to their learning. This article uses a qualitative participatory action research design and draws on the theory of transactional distance. Using observations, open-ended evaluation questions, and a focus group discussion, the study found that students appreciated the communication and interaction facilitated by the lecturers. Despite the challenges that students experienced, the transactional distance was reduced between lecturers and students. Although the findings of this study cannot be generalized on a broader scale, findings are in line with similar studies, amplifying the critical role of the perceptions and challenges of first-year students in HEIs to bring about the required change.

IMPROVING TEACHERS’ ABILITY IN CLASS MANAGEMENT THROUGH DEMONSTRATION METHODS AT SLB PELITA HATI PEKANBARU

This paper is based on the low teacher's ability to manage classes at SLB Pelita Hati Pekanbaru. It is seen from 1) there are some teachers who cannot manage student seats properly, 2) there are a number of classrooms that do not have study schedules, class plans, and so on, and 3) there are some classes whose atmosphere is less orderly, which can be seen from the classes whose are not orderly and noisy during the learning process. Based on the formulation of the problem, the purpose of the research is, therefore, for knowing teachers’ ability in managing classes and to be improved through the demonstration method at SLB Pelita Hati Pekanbaru. The research uses the School Action Research design of the Kurt Lewin model. The main concept of PTS according to Kurt Lewin consists of four components, planning, action, observation, and reflection. Based on the description of data processing and discussion, it can be concluded that the teacher's ability in class management was obtained in the first cycle at 56% in the good category and in the second cycle it increased to 87% in the good category. It means that the application of the demonstration method for increasing teachers’ ability to manage classes at SLB Pelita Hati Pekanbaru works.

Research on Interdisciplinary Design Thinking and Methods Based on Programmable Mechanical Metamaterials

Interdisciplinary design thinking and methods are developed based on interdisciplinary research backgrounds. Through cross-integration with other disciplines, it can realize the design’s interdisciplinary collaborative innovation and development. At the same time, with the increasing interdisciplinary research interest in programmable mechanical metamaterials, design urgently needs to produce an interdisciplinary design thinking and method model to guide the development of related design research activities. Based on this, this research uses interdisciplinary research methods (mainly grafts method) to transplant the construction methods and related contents of programmable mechanical metamaterials into the research of design thinking and methods to propose a set of interdisciplinary design thinking based on programmable mechanical metamaterials (IDTPMMs). At the same time, under the guidance of IDTPMM, an interdisciplinary design method based on programmable mechanical metamaterials (IDMPMMs) is proposed. The thinking and method take the IDTPMM and IDMPMM process models as the concrete manifestation forms. Subsequently, this study selected two architecture design cases to analyze the rationality of IDTPMM and IDMPMM. This study believes that the proposal of IDTPMM and IDMPMM can narrow the focus of design research from the traditional macro scale to the micro scale of material research and development, which can drive design innovation with material innovation. Meanwhile, it can also change the design research from passive use of existing material mechanical properties to active programming control of material mechanical properties according to demand, which will greatly enhance the programmability, adjustability, controllability, and flexibility of design research with materials as carriers and objects. Additionally, this will have an essential impact on broadening the field of design interdisciplinary research and innovating design thinking and methods. In addition, IDTPMM and IDMPMM will also provide systematic theoretical guidance for designers to conduct interdisciplinary research on design and material science. Its scientific features will also make design research more rigorous, solid, and reliable.

A Conceptual Model for Professional Identity in Nursing: An Interdependent Perspective.

The purpose of this initiative was to define the development, verification, and evolution of the conceptual model for Professional Identity in Nursing. This action research design occurred over two phases, utilizing observations, a modified Norris process for model development, and focus groups. Analysis consisted of conventional content analysis and the Fawcett method for conceptual model analysis and evaluation. The model was modified, and results are presented based on the model's philosophical underpinnings, content, socialness, and evolution. The model resonates with nurses both in the United States and internationally. The interdependency shown in the model encourages collaboration, accountability, and sustainability within the profession and society.

The Ecosystem of Shared Value Model for the Community Development Program in Saguling Hydroelectric Power Station area (West Java)

Purpose: This study aims to integrate CSR programs and stakeholders in the Saguling Reservoir area (West Java) by proposing recommendations in the form of an ecosystem of shared value model that can be implemented by all stakeholders in related ecosystems to restore the function of the Citarum River and increase regional competitiveness, to increase the standard of living of the people in the area. Theoretical framework: The theoretical framework used is The Ecosystem of Shared Value as a New Model of CSR, Pentahelix Collaboration, and Nature-Based Solution Approach. Design/methodology/approach: This study uses a qualitative research approach with an action research design. There are two types of data used in this study, namely Primary Data (Group Discussion, Observation, and Depth Interview) and Secondary Data (Literature and Document Review). This study also uses the data analysis technique of the Miles and Huberman model which consists of three stages that must be carried out, namely data reduction, data display, and data verification. Findings: The results show that the CSR approach in the Saguling Hydropower area is quite good, but the shared value generated is still low, especially for the Saguling Reservoir and the hydropower itself, because the current community development programs are only aimed at the community. The community development program in the Saguling Reservoir has been running for a long time, but these programs have not been integrated, so an ecosystem of shared value model is needed that can integrate several of these programs. The mapping of community development programs along the Citarum river basin (West Java) from upstream to downstream (Citarum River ring 1 area) must be carried out through intense collaboration and coordination with stakeholders. Research, Practical & Social implications: The practical implication is that this ecosystem of shared value model can help stakeholders carry out a common agenda, namely "Restoring the Functions of the Citarum River". In addition, the application of the model, which is also accompanied by the ongoing collaboration between stakeholders, can transform the Saguling Reservoir area into a tourist village area as a form of support for the development agenda in West Java and Indonesia. Originality/value: The research carried out is very significant in the study of corporate social responsibility, especially in the implementation of the ecosystem of shared value model, the output of which is a change towards a tourism village area. This research is also research oriented to social change.

Individual dynamics for effective implementation of mainstream English curriculum at a school for the deaf

Promoting dynamics of curriculum implementation that help all teachers and learners meet their needs and understand who they are is critical. Such is equally needful in special schools which use the mainstream curriculum to teach learners with disabilities. This study sought to explore the dynamics that enhance implementing a mainstream English curriculum at a school for the deaf in Eswatini. This was aimed to assist teachers in reflecting on and critiquing their practices and experiences to improve their classroom actions; and to raise awareness of the natural identity of both teachers and learners at the school with the hope of meeting individual needs and, ultimately, the teaching and learning goals. Utilizing purposive sampling, this qualitative study selected six teachers of English Language at the school. The pragmatic paradigm, action research design, and natural identity theory framed the study. Semi-structured interviews, Zoom focus-group discussions, document review, and reflective activities were used as data-generation methods. Findings revealed that implementing the mainstream English curriculum at the school seemed to overlook the importance of individual dynamics, which are vital in meeting unique individual needs. Personal dynamics combine the strengths of top-down and bottom-up dynamics Thus, relieving the remarkable tension between the dominant top-down and bottom-up dynamics. Consequently, this study recommends a balance between the top-down, bottom-up, and individual dynamics to successfully implement the mainstream English curriculum at the school.

Uncovering the Drivers of Childhood Immunization Inequality with Caregivers, Community Members and Health System Stakeholders: Results from a Human-Centered Design Study in DRC, Mozambique and Nigeria

The importance of immunization for child survival underscores the need to eliminate immunization inequalities. Few existing studies of inequalities use approaches that view the challenges and potential solutions from the perspective of caregivers. This study aimed to identify barriers and context-appropriate solutions by engaging deeply with caregivers, community members, health workers, and other health system actors through participatory action research, intersectionality, and human-centered design lenses. This study was conducted in the Demographic Republic of Congo, Mozambique and Nigeria. Rapid qualitative research was followed by co-creation workshops with study participants to identify solutions. We analyzed the data using the UNICEF Journey to Health and Immunization Framework. Caregivers of zero-dose and under-immunized children faced multiple intersecting and interacting barriers related to gender, poverty, geographic access, and service experience. Immunization programs were not aligned with needs of the most vulnerable due to the sub-optimal implementation of pro-equity strategies, such as outreach vaccination. Caregivers and communities identified feasible solutions through co-creation workshops and this approach should be used whenever possible to inform local planning. Policymakers and managers can integrate HCD and intersectionality mindsets into existing planning and assessment processes, and focus on overcoming root causes of sub-optimal implementation.

Utilizing Microsoft Teams to Enhance Students’ Competence in Writing Recount Text

Students’ writing competence is one of language skills that should be improved. This study aimed at describing the utilization of Microsoft Teams and finding out whether it can enhances the students’ competence in writing historical recount text. The design of action research used the modification of Kemmis and McTaggart’s model. The research finding showed that the total of the successful students in learning for the first cycle was 41,94%, while for the second cycle was 87.1%. It means that the utilization of Microsoft Teams can enhance the students’ competence in writing historical recount text.