Policy Assessment Research Articles

Allomilk: An Anthropogeny-Based Framework for Human Milk as a Climate Solution.

Climate change is an urgent threat to perinatal and infant health, with the greatest effects of climate change exposures being felt disproportionately by global majority communities who have been most harmed by systems of oppression. Human milk feeding is one recognized solution to bolster climate resilience. Yet, policies and practices to support human milk as a climate solution are inconsistent and under-prioritized, which is unsurprising given the lack of alignment between human history and current cultural context with regard to lactation and human milk access. This paper presents a new framework on lactation as a climate solution, which is unique in its incorporation of the critical history of cooperative breastfeeding in our species. Rooted in anthropogeny, or the study of human origins, and antiracist principles of lactation, the Allomilk Framework highlights five concepts of the ideal application of human milk as a climate solution, bridging ancient allonursing with present-day lactation and human milk access. These ideal applications-and the proposed development of measures to operationalize them-will advance the field through a shared understanding of the qualities that should be prioritized in the assessment of policies and practices at the intersection of climate resilience and human milk access. Application of the Allomilk Framework to assess and design future policies and practices will advance the field by increasing the potential for climate resilience and climate mitigation while working with-rather than against-the importance of cooperative breastfeeding in human history.

Influence of Supply Chain Diversification on the Performance of Large Food and Beverage Processing Companies in Nairobi City County, Kenya

The performance of food and beverage manufacturing companies has become a pressing concern due to the rising incidence of supply chain disruptions, which pose significant threats to achieving operational goals. This study investigates the influence of supply chain diversification on the performance of large food and beverage processing companies in Nairobi City County. Supply chain disruptions have been linked to severe financial repercussions, including lower stock returns and increased failure rates, necessitating innovative management strategies. Utilizing a quantitative correlational research design, the study surveyed all 46 major food and beverage companies in the region, targeting procurement, financial, operations, and supply chain managers. Data collection was conducted via questionnaires, achieving an impressive response rate of 81%, underscoring the representativeness of the findings. Statistical analysis revealed a strong positive correlation between supply chain diversification and organizational performance, with an R-squared value of 0.650, indicating that approximately 65% of performance variability could be attributed to diversification practices. Regression analysis confirmed that each unit increase in diversification significantly enhanced performance metrics. These results align with existing literature, emphasizing the need for proactive diversification strategies to mitigate risks and enhance operational efficiency. Recommendations include continuous investment in diversifying supplier bases, adopting advanced technologies such as artificial intelligence, and implementing regular training programs for staff. Furthermore, strategic partnerships with suppliers and routine assessments of risk management policies are vital for maintaining competitive advantages. This research highlights the critical role of supply chain diversification in enhancing performance in the food and beverage sector, providing insights that are essential for navigating the complexities of modern supply chains. Future research should explore comparative studies across different sectors, longitudinal impacts of diversification, and qualitative insights from industry leaders to further enrich understanding in this area. By addressing these recommendations and research avenues, food and beverage manufacturing companies can enhance their resilience and ensure sustained performance in an ever-evolving market landscape..

Public views on open data health research in Switzerland: Implications for research and policy

Abstract Background The increasing volume of publicly available data offers health researchers opportunities to explore public sentiment through open data research on issues such as vaccination hesitancy and fake news propagation. To ensure ethical conduct and maintain public trust, assessing public perceptions of open data research in healthcare is crucial. Methods We conducted 10 focus groups across the German, French, and Italian-speaking regions of Switzerland. We presented participants with real-world examples of open data research in healthcare and guided discussions using a semi-structured format. The topic areas were: (1) using Twitter data to assess public opinion on gene-editing technology, (2) assessment of health policy documents, (3) using Twitter data to predict individual health status and (4) using YouTube data to assess public sentiment on health policies. We assessed our findings using a thematic analysis approach. Results Gathering insights from 75 citizens, four major themes emerged: (1) Expectations towards actors and open data research, such as using research findings for societal benefit, and ensuring transparency in data use through informed consent; (2) Supportive measures including communication strategies to raise awareness and inform the public about the use of publicly available data for health research; (3) Concerns about data reuse for purposes beyond the study’s objectives, especially for financial gain, and about data validity and privacy, particularly for sensitive health data; and (4) Mitigative measures to minimize harm, such as through the involvement of external oversight committees. Conclusions Our findings indicate public support for open data research in healthcare, provided that specific expectations are met. Developing a guiding framework for legitimate open data research in healthcare is a valuable next step, with a focus on enhancing public awareness through communication campaigns and providing oversight measures to foster public trust. Key messages • Open data research in healthcare relies on public data use without explicit consent, which can disconnect the research community from society. • We found that public support for open data research in healthcare is generally present, however it is also conditional on communication and policy efforts addressing their concerns.

Populating HIA of tobacco policies with empirical evidence on behavioral response to price increases

Abstract Performing Health Impact Assessment of tobacco policies requires to have insights into how smokers will react to policy measures such as price increases. In the Netherlands, a series of 3 substantial price increases has been implemented in 2020 (10% increase), 2023 (10% increase) and 2024 (24% increase). We performed three consecutive studies comparing the ex-ante stated preferences about behavioural response to actual and hypothetical future price increases, and compared these stated preferences with actual behaviour changes 6 months after the increase in excise tax. Two of these possible behavioural reactions actually will impact smoking prevalence or smoking intensity, e.g. stopping altogether and decreasing the number of cigarettes smoked. Other behavioural responses are less favourable and will not impact health, such as buying more and cheaper tobacco abroad and smoking less expensive brands or transferring from cigarettes to roll-your-own or e-cigarettes. For the price increases of 2020 and 2023, we have observed a substantial number of about 10% of smokers quitting successfully and about one third attempting to quit smoking. (Attempting to) quit smoking was much more prevalent among those with a more pronounced intention to stop smoking at the ex-ante measurements. At the same time, cross-border shopping increased significantly as well, with a 10 percent-point growth in the absolute amount of all tobacco consumed originating from abroad following the 10 percent price increase of April 2023. This big increase in cross-border shopping appeared to be independent of distance to the border. We conclude that every significant price increase stimulates smokers to consider to stop smoking. However, unilateral price increases in one country will eventually also stimulate smokers to buy cross-border. Behavioural data as presented should inform HIA to make them more realistic with regard to actual behaviour changes and health impacts of smoking policies.

Mapping the Policy Alternatives for Rare Cancer

Abstract Issue This policy research addresses the issue of rare cancers in the European Union (EU). Rare cancers have an annual incidence rate of less than 6/100 000 and face challenges in diagnosis, clinical care, and research investment. Survival rates for rare cancers are lower compared to common cancer types, with significant variations among EU Member States. Description of the problem Policy frameworks for rare cancers are often fragmented and greatly vary across the EU. This study aims to develop a tool for assessing policy alternatives by reviewing existing national rare cancer policies, conducting interviews with experts, and analysing core stakeholders at the EU level. Results The main policy alternatives covered five domains: definition, registration, organisation of care, access to innovative therapies, and funding. Interviews revealed four policy options for each domain. Six core stakeholders were determined: patient organisations, healthcare professionals, researchers, industry, health legislators, and health authorities. A pilot policy assessment tool was developed on this basis. Lessons The pilot study coherently explored policy alternatives for rare cancers in the EU. Using these findings, policymakers and researchers can assess the impact of different policy options at a national level and contribute to the development of a unified EU policy framework for rare cancers. The pilot survey was also useful to collect input from the core stakeholders. Key messages • This study identifies key policy domains and feasible alternatives. A pilot preference assessment study based on these options can aid in EU policy development. • Navigating rare cancer policy complexities demands collaboration and innovation. Engaging stakeholders and exploring alternatives can forge a more effective EU framework for addressing rare cancers.

An overview and comparison of approaches used for health policy analysis: What to use and when?

Abstract Background Public health challenges are complex and analyzing them requires advanced approaches such as, societal cost-benefit analysis (SCBA), health impact assessment (HIA), and strategic foresight. Analyzing health policy is a multifaceted process, and depends on, among others, the scope, approach, and policy goals. Given this complex and multifaceted nature, it is not always clear which approach to use, and how the approaches can complement each other. Therefore, health policy analysis could benefit from practical and explicit guidance regarding clear identification of cases and types of analysis. Hence in this paper we aim to develop a framework that can provide this guidance. Methods In this paper we describe the differences and similarities of three distinct health policy assessment approaches, SCBA (an economic evaluation approach that takes into account the impact on society as a whole), HIA (is a combination of tools that focus on evaluating the potential health effects of a given policy) and strategic foresight (a systematic and participatory approach used to anticipate and plan for future trends and uncertainties that may impact policy), their application, and how they can complement each other within the field of public health. A framework that can be used when deciding which health policy approach to use for a given case will be developed, based on existing literature, frameworks, and a case study. Discussion This paper contributes to knowledge on health policy analysis and towards efficiency and clarity in analyses conducted in this field. Key messages • There is little guidance regarding how to conduct health policy analysis. • Clear guidance on which approaches to use and how they complement each other will contribute towards efficiency and clarity in health policy analysis.

Subject Advisors’ Understanding of their Curriculum Leadership Roles for Mathematics Improvement in South African Schools

The study aimed to investigate the curriculum leadership role of Mathematics subject advisors in enhancing Mathematics education in South Africa. Using a case study design, seven Mathematics subject advisors and ten Mathematics educators were sampled from all seven districts of the Free State province. Data collection methods included in-depth semi-structured interviews, observations, and document analysis. Data analysis followed Tesch’s (1990) eight-step coding technique. The field study revealed that Mathematics subject advisors’ leadership roles encompassed providing support and guidance to educators, conducting educator appraisals, monitoring and overseeing educators’ and learners’ workbooks, mentoring, and professional development. They also handled administrative tasks findings like resource provision and paperwork using monitoring tools. While all subject advisors aimed to improve Mathematics achievement, their approaches varied. Some reviewed past strategies while others adapted based on resource availability. Individual educational philosophies also influenced their strategies. Moreover, subject advisors operate within a network that includes principals, educators, learners, and the broader context. Effective curriculum leadership depends on these interactions. Interestingly, none of the subject advisors claimed comprehensive knowledge of their subject area. Some lacked specialization in Mathematics or related fields in which they were operating. Many expressed a need for training, particularly in managing and supporting progressed learners. These findings suggest the need for a standardized model to guide leadership training for Mathematics subject advisors. Such a model could enhance curriculum leadership, thereby improving teaching practices and student performance. Future research could use these insights to develop this model. Keywords: Curriculum Leadership, Subject Advisors, Mathematics, Curriculum, Assessment Policy Statement (CAPS), Cognitive Theory

Demystification of Readiness, Security, and Technological Enhancements in the Adoption of a Cashless Economy

The adoption of a cashless economy was accelerated globally by the devastating impact of the COVID-19 pandemic. Brunei Darussalam was not excluded from this trend, as pandemic-related restrictions were implemented to ensure the safety of its population. In light of the COVID-19 crisis, this research paper examines the factors influencing the readiness and acceptance of a cashless economy among working society in Brunei Darussalam. The integrated concepts of the Technology Acceptance Model (TAM) and Technology Readiness Index (TRI) are applied to examine perceptions impacting their acceptance and readiness to continue adopting a cashless economy. The methodology includes a literature review and the use of secondary data from government reports and industry publications. A quantitative approach is employed, utilizing an online survey to collect non-probability samples from 212 respondents. The main instruments used in the survey are structured questionnaires. The study’s findings show that factors such as the assessment of payment modes, technological development, digital literacy, knowledge, regulatory policies, and security concerns significantly affect working society’s perceptions, readiness, and acceptance of a cashless economy. These results provide insights for policymakers and stakeholders on the key factors influencing continued cashlessness adoption and shaping societal behavior towards cashless payments.

Research Topics and Trends in Gifted Education: A Structural Topic Model

Many articles have been published in gifted education in recent years. This study aims to provide a comprehensive review of the evolution of academic studies in gifted education. In this context, the structural topic modeling (STM) method was used to analyze the topics and trends in the field. STM is a machine learning technique that utilizes natural language processing techniques based on text mining. It is a valuable methodology for identifying a text corpus’s main topics and trends. The corpus used in this study is 5,127 articles from nine leading journals in giftedness without any year limitations. As a result of the analysis, five topics that prominently emerged in the literature were discovered. These are curriculum and instruction, social-emotional characteristics, thinking skills, identification and assessment tools, and equity and policies. The research topics and trends discovered due to the analysis are discussed within the literature framework, and recommendations are presented.

Impact Assessment of Technological Innovation Policy on The Competitiveness of Spain's Cloud Computing Market

This paper discusses the impact assessment of technological innovation policy on the competitiveness of Spanish cloud computing market. The research points out that under the wave of digitalization, cloud computing technology has become the key to promote the development of informatization. As an important economy in Europe, the development of Spain's cloud computing market is of great significance to digital transformation. The technological innovation policies introduced by the European Union and the Spanish government, such as GAIA-X project, Industry 4.0 strategy and carbon neutrality goal, not only promoted the development of cloud technology, but also promoted the prosperity of the Spanish cloud computing market. GAIA-X project has brought opportunities for cooperation and competition for Spain, while Industry 4.0 strategy and carbon neutrality goal have stimulated the demand of enterprises for cloud computing. At the same time, Spain's domestic policies such as "Digital 2025 Plan" and Microsoft and Amazon's investment in data centers in Spain provide a good environment and opportunities for the cloud computing market. These policies have promoted the standardized development of the cloud computing market and enhanced the market competitiveness. Spain's public cloud market is growing steadily and is expected to continue to expand in the next few years. The establishment of a data center in Spain by cloud vendors not only promoted the country's position in the global cloud computing network, but also brought significant feedback effects to the local cloud computing market. The research reveals the mutual promotion relationship between policy and market, emphasizing the key role of policy in creating favorable environment and promoting market demand growth, while the development of market promotes the improvement and innovation of policy. This paper provides valuable insights and suggestions for the further prosperity of Spanish cloud computing industry.

Andean Landscape Legacies: Comprehensive Remote Sensing Mapping and GIS Analysis of Long-Term Settlement and Land Use for Sustainable Futures (NW Argentina)

The Andes region has an exceptional record of high-altitude settlements integrated within widespread regional chains of mobility and exchange. The Sierra de Aconquija (NW Argentina, south-central Andes) is an effective climatic barrier that has afforded an enduring indigenous approach to land use, mobility, and exchange over millennia. Despite this rich history, the Sierra has been largely considered marginal in pre-Columbian regional cultural developments. Today, the expansion of extractive industries threatens the region’s heritage and the sustainable futures of local communities. Innovative, integrative methodologies are needed for landscape characterisation, heritage assessment, and sustainable policy development. Building on earlier work, we undertook the first comprehensive mapping of archaeological features over 3800 sq. km of the Sierra using interpreter-led assessment of commercial and open-access satellite imagery and DSM data, to verify earlier assumptions and to identify previously unnoticed trends in the aggregation, distribution, and connectivity of archaeological features. The mapping identified 6794 features distributed unevenly but with clear tendencies towards maximising topographic, ecologic, and connectivity advantages expressed consistently across the study area. The outcomes confirm the important role the Sierra had in pre-Hispanic times, highlighting the significance of ancient indigenous practices for the sustainability of vulnerable upland landscapes both in the Andes and worldwide.

Anticipatory climate policy mix pathways: a framework for ex-ante construction and assessment applied to the road transport sector

ABSTRACT Globally, climate policy implementation is failing to deliver on the ambitions outlined in the Paris Agreement and countries’ Nationally Determined Contributions. We argue that a more strategic and anticipatory approach to policy mix design and implementation can help contribute to realizing these ambitions. Policy mixes need to co-evolve as energy transitions progress, in order to effectively target multiple transition challenges as these change over time. Accordingly, policy assessments need to both consider interactions between instruments and adopt a dynamic perspective, in terms of design logics and evaluative criteria. We highlight the need for a construction and assessment methodology for designing policy mix pathways which explicitly considers durability risks which could weaken support and lead to dismantling, and anticipatory design principles which can help mitigate these risks. Our paper addresses this gap by proposing and illustrating a novel framework for policy instrument mix pathway construction and ex-ante assessment. We identify generalizable durability challenges for effective anticipatory design: dynamic cost effectiveness, the distributive impacts and acceptance of pathways, along with fiscal and governance requirements for effective implementation. We demonstrate the value of the approach by application to the German light-duty vehicle sector transition. We construct and comparatively assess three illustrative pathways promising to deliver the German LDV sector 2030 GHG targets. The pathways differ in logic, and which of three main market dynamics driving a diffusion-stage transition they emphasize: battery electric vehicle (BEV) purchase, vehicle stock usage, and internal combustion engine (ICE) vehicle scrappage. Accordingly, the pathways utilize different instrument combinations, design features and calibrations. We also assess the illustrative pathways and discuss trade-offs. We argue that this approach can help improve climate policy planning and implementation processes, and increase the likelihood attaining ambitious mitigation targets.

Religious Inequalities and Human Rights: Implications for International Development

: This article explores the impact of inequalities linked to religious identity on development strategies and outcomes. Religious prejudice and differential treatment among communities affect development practice and outcomes, undermining social harmony and cohesion and deflecting development strategies. Development actors, however, often fail to take these issues fully into account. Unequal treatments range from discriminatory exclusion and persecution to preferential treatment, creating or accentuating inequalities among communities. Human rights violations are often involved. By various measures, problematic situations are increasing across countries, sparking social tensions that can undermine social compacts. Assessments of inequality and policies to address inequality should take more clearly into account religious identities and communities.

Challenges of Adult Education in China: A Review

This literature review examined the situation of adult education in China, using Knowles' Andragogy Theory and an assessment of legislation, policies, and challenges to adult learning. Knowles' approach emphasizes the value of self-directed, experiential learning, which is critical for adult learners. In China, the government has implemented laws such as the "Lifelong Education Law" to encourage continual learning, although considerable problems remain. These include insufficient finance, out-of-date curricula, restricted access to educational resources, and social attitudes that devalue adult education. Therefore, this review emphasized the need for policy refinement, creative teaching methods, and more investment in infrastructure and educator training. Addressing these difficulties is essential in developing a strong adult education system in China that encourages lifelong learning.

Have City Deals delivered higher productivity in England? An empirical assessment of a broad-spectrum local growth policy

Have City Deals delivered higher productivity in England? An empirical assessment of a broad-spectrum local growth policy

Economic assessment of MSW reduction policy in the Republic of Kazakhstan using contingent valuation method

The growth of waste, including food waste, is one of the main environmental problems of current time. Our planet is increasingly covered with waste every year, and a large area is formed under landfills. Therefore, the ways to reduce waste effectively are being investigated by worldwide scientists. Composting is one of the proven means of dealing with food (organic) waste. Fortunately, this method of recycling food waste is actively practiced in Kazakhstan. However, statistics show that food waste recycling is still developing slowly. Only 3% of the total amount of waste processed is food waste. To develop effective strategies for addressing environmental programs, scientists propose using the CV method to determine the monetary value of environmental benefits. Furthermore, the examination of household behaviour regarding food waste is crucial for enhancing the effectiveness of government environmental programs. The results of this study showed that Kazakhstanis expressed their willingness to support the environmental initiative and pay 10 tenge more for utilities if this money was used to create food industry enterprises. This amount will be 600 million per year. The results of the regression analysis showed the importance of age and leading an environmentally friendly lifestyle in supporting environmental initiatives. Although we consider the results of this study to be preliminary data and continue to work on scaling the sample size, the chosen method of analysis may nonetheless be of interest to other researchers in the field.

Perception of the elementary mathematics teachers about assessment for learning: a case study of Sukkur IBA community colleges, Sindh, Pakistan

This study aims to explore the perceptions of elementary mathematics teachers regarding assessment for learning (AfL). The participants of this study included three elementary mathematics teachers, each with over 5 years of teaching experience at Sukkur IBA community colleges and schools in Sindh, Pakistan. These participants were selected using purposive sampling techniques. A qualitative exploratory case study research approach was used, with data collected through semi-structured interviews and observations. To ensure the trustworthiness of the study, the interview guide and observation checklist were reviewed by experts. The data were analyzed using thematic analysis. The findings of this study revealed that teachers had a limited understanding of the concept of assessment for learning. Based on these results, the study recommends several measures: the initiation of an assessment literacy program, an increase in class time, reducing the number of students per class, using moveable chairs to enhance classroom flexibility, and making amendments to the assessment policy.

The Foreign Policy of the Russian Federation in the 1990s in the assessments of domestic social Democratic parties

The article is devoted to the consideration of assessments of the foreign policy of the Russian Federation in the 1990s by domestic social democratic parties. The subject of the study is the publications of representatives of Russian Social Democrats, which reflect their views on the foreign policy of the Russian Federation during the period of Boris Yeltsin. The Social Democratic parties in the world and in Russia at that time influenced both the domestic and foreign policies of their states. The assessments of the social democratic parties in their programs and press reflect a wide range of views on the foreign policy of our state in the 1990s. Depending on the directions of the Social Democrats - left and right, their contradictions in views are displayed, which shows the breadth of social democratic thought at that time. The study uses a historical and comparative method, a civilizational approach in analyzing the assessments of the positions of the right-wing social Democrats and a world-system analysis in analyzing the assessments of the positions of the left-wing social Democrats. The scientific novelty of the study consists in identifying the positions of the social democratic parties of the 1990s on the foreign policy course of the Russian Federation, and the different assessments of the country's foreign policy by left and right social Democrats. The study reveals differences in the assessments of social democratic parties and their priorities in the foreign policy of the Russian Federation, depending on their directions - the left social Democrats and the right social Democrats. The article evaluates the attitude of the parties to the official course of the authorities of the Russian Federation at that time, who advocated the country's close integration into the Western world. The conclusion is made about the role of social Democrats of different directions in constructing a new understanding of Russia's foreign policy, based on the ideological positions of the parties.

The Implementation of the Screening, Identification, Assessment and Support Policy to Manage and Support Teaching and Learning Processes in KwaZulu-Natal

The Screening, Identification, Assessment and Support (SIAS) policy was developed to enable South African schools to respond systemically to diverse needs within an inclusive education (IE) system. This study explored teachers’ role as case managers with the implementation of the SIAS policy in inclusive education in three schools in the Pinetown District of KwaZulu-Natal. One departmental head and one principal from each of the selected schools were interviewed while two focus group discussions per school consisting of six teachers were conducted. The researcher used a reflective journal during the research process to ensure that the study was conducted rigorously as this improves the quality of the study. This qualitative study was grounded by Bronfenbrenner’s Bio-Ecological Systems Theory. The findings revealed that teachers lack adequate knowledge of the SIAS policy, leading to insecurity in its implementation. Overcrowded classes also pose a challenge, hindering teachers’ ability to provide individual support. The research aimed to contribute to a greater understanding of teachers’ challenges in understanding SIAS policy and the effective implementation of inclusive education. This study discusses the inadequate knowledge, understanding, and skills of teachers in implementing the SIAS policy effectively. To remedy this, regular workshops should be provided to teachers, which should explain the SIAS process or protocol, provide information on the responsibilities of all stakeholders, and inform teachers about their roles and responsibilities as case managers. Additionally, collaboration between the DBST, SBST, parents, and teachers is essential for the successful implementation of the policy, as it aims to provide teachers with the necessary support and resources. Keywords: Inclusive Education, District Based Support Team, Case Managers, School-Based Support Team, Screening, Identification, Assessment and Support

Navigating new assessment policy

The last issue of Assessment News (Darr & Cosslett, 2024) outlined NZCER’s position on possible assessment policy directions that had been signalled by parties within the new coalition government. Since then, the Government has released a plan for consistent assessment, which requires all primary schools to use standardised assessment tools twice yearly. The PATs are one of three choices of assessment tools that schools can use for progression monitoring in Years 3–8. This edition of Assessment News is written by members of NZCER’s Assessment Services and Education Advisory teams. The team reflects on how they are going about providing the support needed to help schools to navigate the new policy settings and build assessment and data analysis capability according to where each school is at and what they want to achieve.