Case Study Of University Research Articles

Students’ Acceptance Of Digital Exams: A Case Study In A Swedish University

In this paper we present the results of a case study in a Swedish university regarding students’ acceptance of digital exams. Technology Acceptance Model (TAM), which has been widely used in research concerning technology acceptance, was used to measure the level of students’ acceptance of digital exams. The aim of the study is to investigate students’ acceptance of digital exams and if there are any factors that are responsible for this behavior. A survey based on the two main factors of TAM, perceived ease of use and perceived usefulness, was conducted. The survey was targeting the degree of acceptance along with students’ demographic characteristics. The results showed that the students demonstrated a high degree of acceptance of digital exams, with students in their second and third year having a more positive perception rather than students in their first year. However, other factors, such as gender, subject, and age did not appear to have a strong impact on the overall acceptance of digital exams but did show a moderate impact on external factors such as perceived accessibility and computer self-efficacy, which work as predictors for perceived ease of use for a system. Overall, the knowledge about the level of acceptance of the students is valuable since we can highlight strengths and weaknesses associated with digital exams. This can be a useful tool in deciding upon a suitable digital solution for digital exams, as well as in learning how to increase the level of acceptance among the students in the future.

Social Exclusion and Conversion Factors

Scholarship on international students shows that despite university policies designed to create a welcoming atmosphere, international students still face social challenges. This paper applies the capabilities approach to reveal mechanisms that facilitate or constrain the social inclusion of married international graduate students. For married international graduate students, the personal factors (their level of study and marital status) bring with structural factors (e.g., visa policies, healthcare policies, cultural and linguistic barriers), which in combination lead to social exclusion. With one university case study, including original survey and interview data, we unpack these intertwined processes and find that married graduate students’ social relation and network patterns significantly differ from single graduate students and undergraduate students. They are less likely to attend campus events, interact with their colleagues, and interact with friends from other countries. As such, we challenge the conventional wisdom that access to higher education alone leads to social inclusion.

Management and Administration of Higher Education System: A Case Study of Universities and Colleges in Meishan City, Sichuan Province, China

This research investigates administrativeization within higher education institutions in Meishan City, Sichuan Province, China. The aim is to explore and discuss administrative management phenomena and problems existing under current management systems in these institutions; analyze historical, realistic, internal, and external reasons behind their administration, propose effective coping strategies in order to optimize administrative power while upholding academic standard management strategies; as well as present specific recommendations regarding standard academic standard management policies.

The Role of Design Characteristics in Enhancing Sense of Coherence in Workplace Environments: A Case Study of University of Mosul Buildings

The Role of Design Characteristics in Enhancing Sense of Coherence in Workplace Environments: A Case Study of University of Mosul Buildings

Internationalising teacher education at home: developing empathy through the sense of otherness in language learning

ABSTRACT This study explored how Chinese and Scottish student-teachers from two case-study universities perceived their experiences in foreign language learning in both formal and informal contexts within their home countries, and how the status of a foreign language learner shaped their empathy for culturally and linguistically diverse pupils through a qualitative questionnaire and semi-structured interviews. Drawing on transformative learning theory and its relation to empathy, this study provides a nuanced understanding of how the experience of a language other allows student-teachers to engage with otherness, experience affective sharing, adopt alternative perspectives, and demonstrate empathetic concerns in practices where cultural diversity is apparent. Therefore, we advocate moving student-teachers beyond language acquisition, encouraging them to embrace challenges associated with assuming the position of a language other. This lends insights into the promotion of foreign language learning as a viable internationalisation strategy that benefits all student-teachers by fostering their empathy towards diverse students.

The Relationship between Organizational Culture and Knowledge Management: A Case Study of Bam University of Medical Sciences

Background: Knowledge management creates value for the organization by turning human capital into intellectual assets. Organizational culture affects knowledge management by influencing these assets. The present study aimed to examine the relationship between the components of organizational culture and knowledge management at Bam University of Medical Sciences. Methods: This descriptive-analytical study was conducted using a cross-sectional design in 2017 on 190 staff members of Bam University of Medical Sciences who were selected through stratified sampling. The data were collected using Probst’s Knowledge Management Questionnaire and Denison Organizational Culture Questionnaire. Data analysis was performed using Pearson’s correlation test and linear regression analysis with SPSS-26 software. Results: Most of the staff (81%) had a positive evaluation of the state of organizational culture. The highest and lowest mean scores for the components of organizational culture were related to consistency (2.88) and adaptability (2.67) and also knowledge identification (3.30) and knowledge use (2.53) as the components of knowledge management. The results showed a statistically significant relationship (P<0.005) between organizational culture and knowledge management. Conclusion: The findings confirmed a significant relationship between organizational culture and knowledge management, indicating that the stronger the organizational culture, the more successful the implementation of knowledge management will be. Thus, to improve knowledge management and sharing in the organization, managers can focus on the organizational culture and improve its various dimensions.

The Open University Movement: A Comparative Case Study of Mega Universities

The increase in open and distance education and the rise of open university movement in the field of higher education have resulted in the establishment of open mega universities in different parts of the world with populations of more than 100,000 students each. Despite the benefits of access and low costs, the main criticism of this type of institution has been about quality assurance. The aim of this paper is 1) to compare and contrast three open mega universities namely Anadolu University in Turkey, Indira Gandhi National Open University in India, and Open University in Britain, in terms of their missions, visions, mottos, learning environments, entrance requirements, and quality assurance policies as they appeared on their official websites; and 2) to highlight their alignment with the open university movement. This qualitative study employs a comparative case study approach, and analyses data with the constant comparative method. Major findings suggested that these universities seemed to establish their access strategies and lower their costs through massification. They appeared to be concerned about quality assurance policies on their websites mainly to attract student masses around the world. The question we raise is the extent to which the balance between quality and quantity is reached in actual educational settings.

A pragmatic analysis of students’ complaints and professors’ responses to complaints: A case study of an Egyptian private university

A pragmatic analysis of students’ complaints and professors’ responses to complaints: A case study of an Egyptian private university

Does survey branding matter for human dimensions of natural resources research? A case study of university- and government-branded surveys

ABSTRACT Governmental natural resource entities often use surveys to gather information from the public about wildlife management and conservation policies. Response rate is a metric for understanding how many individuals participate in a survey. Higher response rates can reduce costs and sampling effort and improve the reliability and generalizability of survey findings. However, response rates may be negatively influenced by a distrust in government. Our study evaluated if response rates would differ based on the survey sponsor. We sent a survey to hunters in Georgia, USA that contained either university or governmental agency branding. Response rates did not differ among the two surveys and sentiment analysis of open-ended responses revealed that sentiments of respondents were similar between groups. Although these results suggest branding might not have major impacts on responses, further investigation is needed to determine the effect of sponsorship and other influential factors that both enhance and diminish response rates.

Evaluation of model predictive control (MPC) of solar thermal heating system with thermal energy storage for buildings with highly variable occupancy levels

The presence or absence of occupants in a building has a direct effect on its energy use, as it influences the operation of various building energy systems. Buildings with high occupancy variability, such as universities, where fluctuations occur throughout the day and across the year, can pose challenges in developing control strategies that aim to balance comfort and energy efficiency. This situation becomes even more complex when such buildings are integrated with renewable energy technologies, due to the inherently intermittent nature of these energy source. To promote widespread integration of renewable energy sources in such buildings, the adoption of advanced control strategies such as model predictive control (MPC) is imperative. However, the variable nature of occupancy patterns must be considered in its design. In response to this, the present study evaluates a price responsive MPC strategy for a solar thermal heating system integrated with thermal energy storage (TES) for buildings with high occupancy variability. The coupled system supplies the building heating through a low temperature underfloor heating system. A case study University building in Nottingham, UK was employed for evaluating the feasibility of the proposed heating system controlled by MPC strategy. The MPC controller aims to optimize the solar heating system’s operation by dynamically adjusting to forecasted weather, occupancy, and solar availability, balancing indoor comfort with energy efficiency. By effectively integrating with thermal energy storage, it maximizes solar energy utilization, reducing reliance on non-renewable sources and ultimately lowering energy costs. The developed model has undergone verification and validation process, utilizing both numerical simulations and experimental data. The result shows that the solar hot water system provided 63% heating energy in total for the case study classroom and saved more than half of the electricity cost compared with that of the original building heating system. The electricity cost saving has been confirmed resulting from the energy shifting from high price periods to medium to low price periods through both active and passive heating energy storages.

Human Resources Management in Trouble Time: Strategy to Increase Organization Agility for Digital Transformation in University

Digital transformation has become an urgent need for higher education in this contemporary era. In facing emerging challenges and opportunities, human resource management (HR) plays a central role in ensuring the successful adaptation of educational institutions to technological change. This research aims to identify key strategies in HR management that can increase the resilience of higher education organizations during periods of crisis, especially in the context of digital transformation. The research method used is a combination of literature study and empirical research. Through an in-depth analysis of theories and practices related to HR management, as well as case studies of several universities that have successfully adapted to digital transformation, this research identifies various effective strategies. The research results show that effective HR management in the context of digital transformation requires a holistic and adaptive approach. A strategy that includes developing digital skills and competencies, organizational flexibility, increasing employee engagement, and building a culture of innovation is the key to success. In addition, cross-departmental collaboration, transparent communication, and visionary leadership have also proven important in facing digital transformation challenges. This research provides a theoretical and practical basis for universities to design effective HR management strategies to increase organizational resilience in the face of technological change. The practical implications of this research can guide higher education leaders and HR practitioners to face challenges and take advantage of opportunities in the rapidly changing era of digital transformation.

The Influence of Learner Support on Performance in Mathematics’ Modules of Open Distance and e-Learning (ODEL) for in – Service Secondary School Teachers at University of Rwanda, College of Education

The present study argues that there is a great relationship between the learning support and the performance of mathematics of ODeL level one students. The findings of this study were drawn from a large study aimed at examining the influence of learners support on performance in mathematics’ modules of open distance and e-learning (ODeL) for in – service secondary school teachers with a case study of University of Rwanda-College of Education level one mathematics ODeL students 2021-2022. This study investigated the lecturers’ perception towards the learning support; the extent to which ODeL instructional materials contribute to the performance and examination of the relationship between learning support and the performance of mathematics of ODeL students. The study was carried out based on the gap found in literature review where others have been script on ODeL but not on specific topic of mathematics. Through questionnaire, quantitative data were collected from 40 respondents using mixed approach and analyzed using Statistical Package of Social Sciences (SPSS) for descriptive and inferential statistics. The findings revealed that there is a significant relationship between learning support and the performance of mathematics modules. This study, therefore, recommends the provision of ICT tools to ODeL students, put more efforts in using technology as ODeL students, cooperate each other as ODeL students and choose the options related to their background.

Using Virtual Tours as a University Campus Guide: Al- Zaytoonah University Case Study

Using Virtual Tours as a University Campus Guide: Al- Zaytoonah University Case Study

The interplay of episodic power in enabling and coercive budgetary designs in universities: A case study

AbstractThis paper explores how power exercised at the individual level within existing power relations in a university influences its enabling and coercive budgeting forms. A qualitative case study in a Sri Lankan university involved interviews and document analysis. Findings demonstrate the dominance of coercive controls over enabling controls in the university due to the power and influence of dominant individuals stemming from ongoing struggles among those pursuing diverse interests and strategic actions. We contribute to the literature by demonstrating how power is mobilised by actors and its impact on the variations of the enabling and coercive budgetary forms and practice.

Nutrient Intake and Depressive Mood Status among College Students: A Case Study of Hunan Normal University

In order to understand the relationship between nutrient intake and depressive mood status among college students at Hunan Normal University, this study conducted a questionnaire survey to investigate the relevant issues. The results showed that the more imbalanced the types and insufficient the amounts of nutrient intake were, the stronger the degree of depression experienced by the students, and there was a significant correlation between nutrient intake and depressive mood status. These findings have important implications for improving the daily dietary habits of college students and changing the high prevalence of depressive mood problems at Hunan Normal University.

Exploring the Benefits for First-Year University Students Joining Peer Groups: A case study of a South African University

Abstract
 This study focused on the benefits for first-year university students who lived in the university residences at a South African University joining peer groups. A qualitative approach was adopted through a case study research design. Qualitative data were collected from first-year students in 2017 through three focus group interviews with females only, males only and mixed gender in two first-year residences at a selected South African university. The qualitative data were analysed using thematic analysis. The findings reveal the benefits for first-year students joining peer groups in the residences at the South African university, which include gaining a sense of belonging, receiving academic support, developing student leadership roles, and involving co-curricular activities. The study supports the need for implementing enchanted first-year student programs to assist first-year students in transitioning to higher education and decrease dropout rates.

Teaching and learning “Digital Wellbeing”

Nowadays, the traditional approach to supporting people’s digital wellbeing is providing them with digital self-control tools that can delay or block access to websites and mobile apps. As recent works demonstrate, however, such an approach is often ineffective, and developing proper boundaries to technology (over)use is still a challenge. In this paper, we support the idea that achieving digital wellbeing is a path of personal growth that requires education rather than restrictions, and that education may foster the emergence of a new generation of designers and practitioners that considers digital wellbeing and social good. To this end, we report on the results of a case study (N = 93) in an Italian university during which we measured the impacts and outcomes of a multidisciplinary course on the digital wellbeing topic. The course introduced the digital wellbeing research area from the HCI and psychology perspectives, and challenged students in the design and prototype of technological solutions respecting and promoting people’s digital wellbeing. Results from the case study confirm that educational solutions may positively impact students’ digital wellbeing and inspire them to prototype technologies for the social good, opening the way to exploring and establishing more sustainable design practices.

Analisis Pengaruh Pengetahuan Kewirausahaan, Self Efficacy dan Karakter Wirausaha Terhadap Minat Berwirausaha (Studi Kasus Mahasiswa Universitas Dharmas Indonesia)

This study aims to analyze the influence of entrepreneurial knowledge, self efficacy and entrepreneurial character simultaneously and partially on entrepreneurial interest (case study of University of Dharmas Indonesia students). This study uses quantitative methods with data collection using questionnaire. Data analysis techniques in this study using Validity Test, Reability Test, Correlation Analysis, Multiple Linear Regression Analysis, Classical Assumption Test, T Test, F Test and Determination Test (R2). Respondent population in this study were 683 respondents and the sample was 253. The results of this study indicate that partially (t test) entrepreneurial knowledge has a significant effect on entrepreneurial interest, self efficacy has a significant effect on entrepreneurial interest, entrepreneurial character has a significant effect on entrepreneurial interest and simultaneously (f test) entrepreneurial knowledge, self efficacy and entrepreneurial character have significant effect on entrepreneurial interest. The Adjusted R2 value is 0.644, means that all independent variables can affect 64.0% of the dependent variable. While the remaining 36.0% can be influenced by other factors not tested in this study

Democratizing accounting technologies: A case of a performance evaluation system for academics

AbstractThis paper explores how a country's constitutionally imposed democracy in an academic performance evaluation system was designed and practiced. Building upon agonistic democracy and deliberative democracy perspectives, a qualitative inductive case study in a Vietnamese public university involved 52 interviews, direct observations, and the analysis of archival documents. The findings revealed three dimensions of democracy in the university's performance evaluation system, namely, democratic context, democratic discourse, and democratic outcomes. The university enforced democracy in its performance evaluation system for academics in line with the country's constitutional obligation. In such an explicit democratic context, there happened democratic discourse (debating academics’ performance in public forums) and implicit discourse (informal social interactions). The outcome of this democracy at the practice level resulted from temporary consensus supported by shared cultural values within the country's socio‐political context with an understanding that it will change as with any change in the macro or micro contexts. These findings contribute to the literature by providing insights into how individuals pursue democracy in an accounting tool legally built to promote democracy through their multiple voices and collective wisdom. Thus, democratizing accounting technologies and processes, such as an academic performance evaluation system, can effectively promote democracy in multi‐cultural workplaces across the globe.

Fostering Community Engagement and Growth in Arts Programs: Insights and Practical Strategies for Educators (A Case Study of West Virginia University's Community Music Program)

In this interview Eftihia Arkoudis highlights the importance of integrating social media into community arts programs, using West Virginia University's Community Music Program (CMP) as an example. It discusses the online marketing strategy employed by the CMP, emphasizing the use of social media platforms to increase brand awareness and reach new audiences. The article also explores the significance of meaningful engagement and community development within the program, focusing on providing high-quality education, showcasing success stories, and fostering collaborations. It addresses the implications for educators, emphasizing the need to respect parental preferences and establish a balanced approach to social media usage. The article further emphasizes the importance of cultivating inclusive music education and collaborative approaches to expand the impact of arts initiatives. It provides practical solutions for navigating challenges in the arts, such as funding and student engagement. The article concludes by 1) highlighting the importance of fostering creative entrepreneurship in community arts programs and higher education, encouraging experimentation, mentorship, and interdisciplinary collaboration, and providing resources for business and financial management, and 2) offering entrepreneurship and leadership takeaways for Community Music Program Directors. Overall, the article serves as a valuable guide for educators looking to build and expand community arts programs, drawing inspiration from the experiences and success of the CMP.