Case Study Approach Research Articles

Meaningful app-work? Exploring meaningful work experiences of food delivery couriers in Poland

PurposeThe rise of app-based work in the gig economy, particularly within the food delivery sector, challenges traditional employment paradigms and raises questions about the potential for achieving meaningful work experiences. This study explores whether such work can be considered meaningful for food delivery couriers in Poland.Design/methodology/approachThis research adopts a qualitative, case-study approach, conducting 30 in-depth interviews with food delivery couriers in Poland. The study investigates how these workers perceive the meaningfulness of their work, focusing on the interplay between subjective and organisational aspects of their work.FindingsThe findings reveal that despite the precarious nature of app-based work, couriers often find meaningful experiences through perceived autonomy, gamified control and the physical demands of their job. The study highlights the dual nature of app work, where the same elements that contribute to worker engagement and a sense of independence also perpetuate exploitation and job insecurity.Research limitations/implicationsThe study’s reliance on a convenience sample of 30 interviews conducted via social media may not represent the broader population of food delivery couriers. Future research should expand the sample size and include a more diverse range of participants to improve generalisability.Practical implicationsThe insights from this study can inform platform designers and policymakers to create more supportive environments for gig workers. Enhancing algorithmic transparency, providing better social protections and implementing fair gamification strategies can help mitigate the negative aspects of gig work and improve job satisfaction.Social implicationsThe study underscores the need for regulatory changes to ensure minimum guaranteed earnings and health and safety provisions for gig workers. By fostering a supportive and transparent work environment, the gig economy can better contribute to worker well-being and social equity.Originality/valueThis research contributes to the limited body of literature on meaningful work within the gig economy, particularly focusing on food delivery couriers in Poland. It provides new insights into how workers create and perceive meaningful work in a highly digitised and algorithmically managed environment.

Education and Welfare: The Role of Public Policy in Equalizing Educational Opportunities for the South Papua Generation

This research aims to identify public policies that increase access to education in South Papua, analyze their impact on educational equality, and evaluate the factors that influence the effectiveness of these policies, including the social, economic, and cultural challenges faced by local communities. This research uses qualitative methods and a case study approach to investigate the role of public policy in improving access and quality of education in Merauke Regency, especially Waan District. Through a purposive sampling approach, this research selected a representative sample to explore challenges and solutions in education in the region. The research instrument includes indicators such as access to education, quality of education, community involvement, and the impact of education policies, which will be analyzed comprehensively using a qualitative approach. The research results show that public policy has increased access to education in South Papua through infrastructure, scholarship programs, and improving the quality of teachers and curriculum. The development of educational infrastructure, including school buildings and learning facilities, has a positive impact on the accessibility and quality of education in the region. The scholarship program needs to be updated to reach the right targets and be effective for the people who need it. Improving teacher quality and adjusting the curriculum supports education standards in South Papua, but needs to be further encouraged through continuous training. Social factors such as economic inequality, gender inequality, and traditional culture influence access to education, requiring a holistic approach to education policy. Keywords: education, well-being, public policy, educational opportunities, South Papuan Generation

Sustainability Indicators of Family Farming in a Rural Community in the Amazon Interior

Objective: The objective of this work was to measure sustainability indicators using the MESMIS methodology in the Colônia do Uraim community in Paragominas, state of Pará, aiming to show the sustainability level of this productive activity. Theoretical Framework: This section introduces the concept and foundations of the MESMIS Method (Marco para Evaluación de Sistemas de Manejo de Recursos Naturales Incorporando Indicadores de Sustentabilidad), which assesses the sustainability of agroecosystems through indicators. Additionally, it explores the concept of sustainable development and the importance of specific indicators to evaluate and strengthen sustainability in family farming systems in the Amazon. Method: The research adopts a case study approach in a community within the Amazon, focusing on nine family agroecosystems. The MESMIS method was used, applying questionnaires and direct observations to gather data from the producers. The analysis was based on identifying and measuring sustainability indicators in the environmental, economic, and social dimensions, which were scored on a scale from 1 to 5. Results and Discussion: The results show an intermediate effort in environmental conservation, primarily through reforestation, but reveal economic and social challenges, such as low diversification of activities and the need for technical support, underscoring the need for public policies adapted to the local context. Research Implications: The implications of this research encompass both the practice of monitoring sustainability in agroecosystems and the development of support policies for family farming. This study is particularly relevant for environmental conservation initiatives and local economic development, providing essential data to improve sustainable agricultural practices. Originality/Value: The study contributes to the sustainability literature by applying and adapting the MESMIS method to Amazonian family agroecosystems, highlighting local specificities. This innovative approach enables a critical assessment and offers recommendations that can influence policies and sustainable development strategies in the region.

Challenges and opportunities in using ChatGPT as a team member to promote code review education and self-regulated learning

In this study, we examine the use of ChatGPT as a team member to enhance code review education and promote self-regulated learning among programmers of varying experience levels. A case-study approach was used to answer three research questions about code quality, perceived benefits, and challenges. Participants reported diverse perspectives on the quality and utility of ChatGPT-generated code, with novice programmers gaining a deeper understanding of code interactions and experienced programmers refining their code through iterative prompt optimisation. Despite the benefits, challenges emerged, such as concerns about the potential negative impact of generative AI on learning experiences and the difficulties posed by foundational knowledge gaps in effectively interacting with ChatGPT. The findings suggest that ChatGPT is a promising tool for supporting code review education, especially for novice programmers, and for fostering self-regulated learning strategies like elaboration and metacognition. Future research should validate these results with larger sample sizes and address the identified challenges to better integrate generative AI tools in educational contexts.

Current Scenario of the Changing Role of Human Resource in a VUCA Environment: A Case Study of UPRVUNL

The modern business environment is increasingly characterized by Volatility, Uncertainty, Complexity, and Ambiguity (VUCA). In today's VUCA environment, organizations face unprecedented challenges and it is undergoing significant transformations of the role of Human Resources (HR). This paper explores how Human Resources (HR) departments adapt to these conditions, and examines the evolving role of HR in the context of VUCA with a focus on Uttar Pradesh Rajya Vidyut Utpadan Nigam Limited (UPRVUNL), a major power generation company in energy sector in India. Through a detailed case study approach, This research aims to explore the current challenges and strategies adopted by UPRVUNL's HR department in response to VUCA conditions and to understand the evolving role of HR in this context, identifying challenges and strategies that enhance organizational resilience and effectiveness.

Development of a Multicultural Curriculum to Enhance Student Tolerance in Senior High School

This study aims to explore how the development of a multicultural curriculum can enhance student tolerance at SMA Trenggalek. The main focus of the research is on the implementation of a multicultural curriculum that includes the integration of multicultural content into various subjects, extracurricular activities that support diversity, and specialized training for teachers. The research method employed is qualitative with a case study approach, involving school principals, teachers, students, and staff as research subjects. Data were collected through observations, in-depth interviews, and documentation. Data analysis was conducted thematically. The findings indicate that the implementation of a multicultural curriculum at SMA Trenggalek has a significant positive impact on students' attitudes towards tolerance. The integration of multicultural content in subjects such as Indonesian language and history helps students understand and appreciate cultural diversity and the nation's history. Extracurricular activities like cultural festivals and interfaith discussions serve as platforms for students to interact and learn firsthand about various cultures and beliefs. Additionally, intensive teacher training ensures that multicultural values are effectively applied in the teaching process. The impact of the multicultural curriculum is evident in the increased tolerance among students, the reduction of conflicts between students from different backgrounds, and the creation of a more inclusive learning environment. Students become more open to differences, reducing prejudice and stereotypes, and are more active in collaborating with peers from diverse backgrounds.

Analisis prosedur inventarisasi Barang Milik Daerah (BMD) berdasarkan Permendagri Nomor 47 Tahun 2021 (Studi kasus Dinas Sosial Daerah Provinsi Sulawesi Utara)

Inventory of Regional Property (BMD) is an important process in managing regional assets. Inventory activities to collect data, record, and report the results of data collection of Regional Property. This study aims to determine the implementation of the Regional Property Inventory Procedure based on Permendagri Number 47 of 2021 at the Regional Social Service of North Sulawesi Province. This type of research is qualitative research with a case study approach. Data collection methods through interviews, observation, and documentation. The data analysis process is carried out by collecting data which is then grouped and then analyzed and described. The results of this study indicate that the Regional Property inventory procedure carried out at the Regional Social Service of North Sulawesi Province is in accordance with Permendagri Number 47 of 2021 concerning Procedures for Implementing, Bookkeeping, Inventory, and Reporting Regional Property. However, there are still obstacles where the implementation of E-BMD is still not optimal so that it does not accommodate the entire implementation of the inventory of Regional Property at the Regional Social Service of North Sulawesi Province.

Judicial Review as a Second Stage of Land Use Approvals: The Case of Patrick Farm

In the United States, courts can review zoning decisions and overturn local approvals. Judicial review doesn’t just stall projects, it alters land use governance. This paper uses a case study approach to investigate a highly litigated suburban multifamily development project. The case demonstrates how courts have become a de facto second stage of approvals. This has important implications for planning. Courts privilege abstract, technical, and procedural arguments and they elevate different land use actors to the fore. Pervasive judicial review also imbues planning work with future legal import, changing practices within the municipal system.

Increasing the Wear Resistance of the Impellers of Electrical Centrifugal Submersible Pumps Through Repair

Objective: This research investigates the challenges of maintaining electrical submersible pumps (ESP) and develop effective repair techniques to enhance their reliability and efficiency. Theoretical Framework: The research draws upon theories and models related to pump maintenance, materials science, and corrosion prevention. Methodology: A case study approach was adopted, focusing on a Weir VTP submersible pump in continuous operation for 15 years. The pump's condition was assessed, and the root causes of erosion and corrosion were identified. Laser cladding with a TiC coating was applied to the damaged areas. Results and Discussion: The results demonstrated a significant improvement in the pump's wear resistance and overall efficiency following the laser cladding treatment. The TiC coating effectively mitigated the effects of erosion and corrosion, extending the pump's lifespan and reducing maintenance costs. Research Implications: The findings of this research contribute to the development of more effective maintenance strategies for submersible centrifugal pumps. The use of laser cladding with TiC coatings can be applied to other types of pumps and machinery operating in harsh environments. This research also highlights the importance of regular inspections and preventive maintenance. Originality/Value: This study provides a practical solution to the problem of erosion and corrosion in submersible centrifugal pumps. The application of laser cladding with a TiC coating is a relatively novel approach, offering a more effective repair method compared to traditional techniques. The results can be applied to improve the reliability and efficiency of pumps in various industries.

Emergency remote teaching during COVID-19: an examination of selected secondary school teachers’ experiences on technology integration in Namibia

This study examines the experiences of secondary school teachers in Namibia in integrating technology during emergency remote teaching (ERT) necessitated by the COVID-19 pandemic. Aided by the TPACK framework and an interpretive qualitative case study approach. The data were gathered through semi-structured interviews of 17 secondary school teachers selected using purposive sampling. Findings revealed teachers innovatively employed available technological resources to ensure continuity of education, sharing and customising instructional content to promote student interaction. The study also found a significant role for parental involvement in supporting ERT. However, the integration of technology in the transition to ERT was associated with challenges, including lack of access to digital technologies, technical glitches, and maintaining student engagement. Unexpectedly, feelings of professional isolation were also reported among teachers, potentially due to the abrupt shift to online teaching lacking conventional face-to-face professional collaboration. The research underscores the importance of adequate digital literacy skills, essential technological resources, and the role of policymakers and educators in creating effective tactics to overcome emerging challenges. The findings suggest technology can significantly enrich and support educational continuity in crisis situations.

The knowledge gaps in social media marketing for the agriculture industry

Abstract By applying the PZB gap theorem and its extension of knowledge gap model, this study explores the gaps between the knowledge capabilities needed for social media marketing and what agricultural organizations such as cooperatives or family farms have done from the strategic perception aspect, planning aspect to implementation aspect. This study employs a case study approach combined with a structured questionnaire distributed to top agricultural organizations in Taiwan, focusing on social media marketing within the knowledge management framework. The results of empirical analysis exhibit two gaps significantly impact the corporate performance, namely: the gap between the obtained knowledge capabilities after implementing the social media marketing plan and the actually required ones for the enhancement of corporate competitiveness in social media marketing; the gap between the knowledge capabilities for enhancing corporate competitiveness in social media marketing perceived by senior managers and perceived by employees. Based on the findings, this study suggest the agricultural organizations could try to improve by reducing these two gaps of implementation aspect to improve their performance. Finally, the in-depth interviews with two agricultural organizations could establish a practical understanding of the relationship between these empirical findings and business practices.

Beyond catching fish: exploring community-based management efforts to restore a Sub-Arctic lake in Norway

Across the world, local communities are actively engaging in management and monitoring of natural resources. The underlying driver of most community-driven efforts goes beyond the utilizations of natural resources to entail a deeper relation to the place or ecosystem they are managing. The aim of this study is to understand what motivates a local volunteer group to spend considerable amount of time and resources to manage and restore a subarctic lake. We used a case study approach combining analysis of documents, participant observation and semi-structured interviews to explore their narrative. The findings show that values, such as care, responsibility, and stewardship, were the primary motivation of this effort and its ultimate goal. The project also promoted relational values like social cohesion, cultural identity, and knowledge-sharing. Despite no longer being essential for subsistence, the lake retains cultural and social significance, highlighting the need to document informal community-based monitoring and management practices for understanding ecological dynamics. The implications include the importance of recognizing relational values in shaping behaviour towards nature for achieving sustainability.

Effective communication by health care workers to promote HPV vaccination: Lessons learned from Kenya, India, and Nigeria

Health care workers play an essential role in maintaining the public trust in vaccination programmes globally, and more specifically, in low- and middle-income countries. This role is particularly important in building trust in the human papillomavirus (HPV) vaccine. While there are many factors that affect HPV vaccine acceptance, health care workers are one of the most critical influences in the decision-making process among parents as well as adolescent girls. In this paper, we sought to better understand how health care workers in a diverse set of countries communicate and promote HPV vaccines. We summarize communication approaches and lessons learned by health care workers in Kenya, India, and Nigeria through a case study approach. In Kenya, the utilization of a multisectoral approach proved to be very important. In India, intense social mobilization with targeted messaging by target audience laid the groundwork for community acceptance. An evolving communication strategy was essential in Nigeria, where there is no national HPV vaccination programme. Given the increase in vaccine hesitancy globally, the lessons learned through these three country examples highlight the importance of communication efforts in increasing vaccine acceptance.

Teachers’ perceptions and practices of iPads for visual arts learning in early childhood education

This paper contributes to the ongoing debate about information and communications technologies integration in early childhood education, specifically its role in promoting visual arts education. We explored the use of iPads to support young children’s visual arts learning. A qualitative case study approach used observations, interviews, and children’s assessments to obtain data. Results showed that teachers held positive perceptions of iPads as tools for young children’s visual arts education, teachers collaborated with children while using iPads, and teachers integrated iPads with traditional art resources. The study suggests that teachers’ positive perceptions of iPads and their purposeful integration into children’s learning environments could creatively foster young children’s visual arts education.

Thermal Performance Analysis and Design Evolution of Ventilated Stone Facades: A Case Study of the Praski Student House (Akademik Praski) in Warsaw

The rationale for this work arose from the urgency of improving the energy efficiency of buildings at the design stage, given the changing requirements of energy efficiency standards such as the Polish Technical Conditions (WT 2014 and WT 2020). This research is novel as there is currently limited information available on the improvement of the thermal performance of ventilated stone facade systems, although they are now widely used due to their practical and aesthetic advantages. The first objective of this work is to evaluate the thermal performance of the ventilated facades of the Praski Student House (Akademik Praski) and to assess how certain design variations can help achieve a lower level of energy consumption. Using a comprehensive case study approach, this study provides accurate thermal calculations of the facade to assess its global thermal insulation coefficient (Rt) and thermal transmittance (Uc). The improvement in the actual U-value from the original design is as follows: the U-value is reduced from 0.33 originally to 0.228 for WT 2014 and to 0.198 for WT 2020, showing a reduction of about 30.9% and 13.2%, respectively. These results indicate the energy efficiency of increased insulation thickness and optimally oriented air gap dimensions. The practical contributions of this research are valuable for architects, engineers, and contractors involved in the design and construction process of buildings aiming to achieve near-zero energy buildings (nZEBs), including concrete suggestions on how to improve current construction practices as well as material recommendations. There is a need for durability studies, for example to assess the performance of such facades under different climatic conditions, as part of future work to support these findings.

The Co-evolution of actor engagement and value Co-creation on digital platforms

Increasingly, digital platforms connect suppliers, customers, and other ecosystem parties, facilitating the introduction of various Platform-as-a-Service (PaaS) offerings. This study examines the co-evolution of actor engagement (AE), reflecting actors’ dispositions to invest resources in interactions, and value co-creation (VCC), demonstrated through reciprocal resource integration. The focus is on PaaS initiatives in the asset management industry. Using a comparative case study approach, we analyze two fintech-generated PaaS offerings: a freemium model and a subscription-based model. Our findings reveal distinct pathways for platform development and scaling, driven by the interplay between AE and VCC. The freemium model fosters a “viral” community-building path, where early VCC serves as the engine for AE-VCC co-evolution. Conversely, the subscription model follows a “controlled” ecosystem-building path, with AE driving the process. We observe a gradual involvement of additional ecosystem partners, leading to upgraded solutions, expanded PaaS offerings, and platform upscaling. We identify key factors influencing these dynamics, including business model characteristics, actor roles, and feedback loops. Our study contributes to the literature on digital servitization and platform ecosystems by highlighting the importance of integrating AE and VCC practices to enhance platform utilization and scalability. We propose a framework and research propositions to guide future studies on PaaS development in complex, institutionalized industries. These insights also provide implications for managers aiming to implement effective PaaS strategies and foster innovation in the financial services sector.

The Influence of Corporate Governance on Tax Avoidance and The Role of Independent Auditors in Vietnamese Firms

This research addresses how corporate governance mechanisms influence tax avoidance in Vietnamese firms and the role of independent auditors in detecting or mitigating tax avoidance. The purpose of the research is to explore the relationship between corporate governance structures (e.g., independent boards, audit committees) and tax behavior, as well as to assess how auditors interact with these governance mechanisms to ensure tax compliance. A qualitative case study approach was used to analyze six companies from different sectors and governance models (2 state-owned enterprises; 2 family-owned private companies; and 2 publicly listed companies) through 18 interviews conducted between May 2024 and October 2024 with 3 key individuals from each company, including: Independent auditor; Company CEO; Manager or administrator, along with documentary analysis of financial statements and tax filings. The research found that firms with stronger governance (e.g., independent boards and active audit committees) are less likely to engage in tax avoidance, while weak governance structures often lead to more aggressive tax strategies. Independent auditors were more effective in well-governed firms, but faced ethical challenges in weaker ones. These findings are significant because they highlight the importance of strengthening governance frameworks and ensuring auditor independence to reduce tax avoidance and improve corporate transparency in Vietnam.

Gambaran Adiksi, Pola Asuh, dan Attachment Style pada Mantan Pecandu Sabu-Sabu di Kota X

The purpose of this study is to explore and understand the experiences of former methamphetamine addicts in rehabilitation centers. The method used method used is qualitative with a case study approach. Subject A who is 28 years old and is undergoing the rehabilitation process in one of the rehabilitation houses in X City participated as a subject. Data collection over five weeks involved interviews and observations. Data analysis involved data reduction, presentation, and conclusion drawing, with validity checks using triangulation. Interviews revealed psychological dynamics, avoidant attachment style, and permissive-indulgent parenting. Subject shared his journey of addiction to methamphetamine, including emotional changes, antisocial behavior, and the impact on his family relationships. This study provides an understanding of the experiences of former methamphetamine addicts and can help design rehabilitation programs that are more suited to individual characteristics, especially for those with avoidant attachment style

Quantifying the Emergence of Basic Research Capabilities in Cluster Enterprises: An Analytical Framework Based on Information Entropy

This study looks at how basic research capabilities develop within enterprise clusters, focusing on the complex and adaptive nature of these systems. It builds a conceptual model using systems theory and applies information entropy to measure how much these capabilities have emerged. This study introduces an innovative application of information entropy to model and quantify the emergence of research capabilities within enterprise clusters, offering a novel framework for assessing research development. To dive deeper, China Pingmei Shenma Group (Henan, China) was used as a case study. A case study approach was used to gather empirical data. This case—focused on a state-owned enterprise cluster in China’s coal-based energy and chemical industries—highlights the key factors that influence research capability growth. These factors include support from external systems, how internal resources are used, and their renewal over time. From 2017 to 2022, the study tracked how the organization of research capabilities evolved over time by tracking changes in entropy, revealing the process of research development driven by both internal and external forces. The methodology involves measuring system entropy to evaluate the degree of orderliness and innovation performance, incorporating entropy generation and exchange metrics, which allows for a more precise understanding of system emergence and complexity. The interactions within the system, such as knowledge exchange, research collaboration, and external input from government subsidies or tax incentives, are modeled to track how they influence the system’s overall entropy. This study finds that the ability of an enterprise cluster to bring in external resources and reduce internal inefficiencies is critical for enhancing research capabilities. This model can help policymakers and enterprises in strategic decision-making, particularly in industries undergoing technological transformation. This framework also provides practical insights for improving research collaboration and innovation in enterprise clusters, especially in rapidly evolving industries like energy and chemicals.

Teaching agile: A case study approach with an optional game

Learning Agile philosophy is essential for system analysis and design or software development courses. Organizations operate in highly dynamic environments, constantly needing to adapt, change, or create innovative Information Systems. Agile provides guiding values and principles that enable systems analysts to support organizations in responding to change and developing, modifying, or updating information systems. By learning Scrum, an Agile-inspired framework, students can assume the role of systems analyst, organizing activities and working in teams iteratively to solve complex problems using Agile principles. This hands-on approach helps students understand the importance of stakeholder involvement, constant scrutiny, and adjustment to achieve frequent system updates. Hence, this case study immerses students in a scenario where they apply the Scrum framework, with an optional puzzle game to introduce students to agile philosophy through its manifesto. Learning by doing has proven effective for complex or dry topics, with students responding positively to this method. Interview data collected at the end of the activity showed high student satisfaction and a strong sense of knowledge acquisition while enjoying the class. Additionally, integrating a game to internalize agile concepts with a teaching case to apply concepts presents a rich educational approach that can be adapted to other Information Systems topics.