Case Study Design Research Articles

Exploring the significant problems confronting secondary schools history education: a baseline study

The purpose of this baseline study is to determine the significant problems confronting history education in secondary school. The researchers employed qualitative research methods and case study design. The techniques that were employed to acquire credible data were document analysis, interviews, and classroom observation. Six experienced history education teachers and eight top-ten students from Sebeta town public secondary school were interviewed, and academic achievement statistics of 174 students in history education were analyzed. In addition eight lesson observations were carried out to validate the information gleaned from the interviews and document analysis. The study's findings show that the primary challenges influencing history education in Sebeta town public secondary schools were teaching strategy, a lack of awareness about implementing participatory teaching methods, a lack of comprehensiveness of the contents of history education teaching materials, and the issue of the bulkiness and scope of history education texts being covered on time. The findings also indicate the significance of training history education teachers to use participatory teaching tactics, as well as the need for curriculum experts to better coordinate the range of history education content and teaching strategies. The findings of this study will help teachers, practitioners, scholars, policymakers, and educational professionals find solutions to significant problems in secondary school history education, as well as develop effective techniques for teaching history education in secondary schools that involve twenty-first century skills and abilities.

Who to engage in HIV vaccine trial benefit-sharing negotiations? An empirical proposition of a framework

BackgroundA morally sound framework for benefit-sharing is crucial to minimize research exploitation for research conducted in developing countries. However, in practice, it remains uncertain which stakeholders should be involved in the decision-making process regarding benefit-sharing and what the implications might be. Therefore the study aimed to empirically propose a framework for benefit-sharing negotiations in research by taking HIV vaccine trials as a case.MethodsThe study was conducted in Tanzania using a case study design and qualitative approaches. Data were collected using in-depth interviews (IDI) and focus group discussions (FGD). A total of 37 study participants were selected purposively comprising institutional review board (IRB) members, researchers, community advisory board (CAB) members, a policymaker, and HIV/AIDS advocates. Deductive and inductive thematic analysis approaches were deployed to analyze collected data with the aid of MAXQDA version 20.4.0 software.ResultsThe findings indicate a triangular relationship between the research community, researched community and intermediaries. However, the relationship ought to take into consideration the timing of negotiations, the level of understanding between parties and the phase of the clinical trial. The proposed framework operationalize partnership interactions in community-based participatory research.ConclusionIn the context of this study, the suggested framework incorporates the research community, the community being researched, and intermediary parties. The framework would guarantee well-informed and inclusive decision-making regarding benefit-sharing in HIV vaccine trials and other health-related research conducted in resource-limited settings.

Understanding land take by low-density residential areas: An institutionalist perspective on local planning authorities, developers and households

Using a case study design, the study focuses on identifying the institutional configuration that determines land take by low-density residential areas. Methodologically, it combines geospatial approaches and new institutionalism to capture and understand residential development, taking into account the interests, constraints and agency of local planning authorities, developers and households. The geospatial analysis shows that land take in the case study regions is primarily the result of low-density residential areas. We find that the combination of rural housing ideals, municipal policy objectives, municipalities' disengagement from spatial development and private sector interests are the main drivers for this kind of residential development. As the interests and constraints apply to all case study regions, the identified institutional configuration has high power in explaining low-density residential development. Our study thus uncovers a close link between the interests and constraints of actors, which on the one hand explains the limited impact of existing and new planning instruments on reducing land take, and on the other hand fosters path dependency in the development of low-density residential areas. Although there is some potential for change, breaking path dependency requires significant behavioural change among local planning authorities, developers and households.

In-service training for improving the quality of English language teaching in Zanzibar’s secondary schools

Purpose The purpose of this study is to evaluate an in-service training (INSET) programme for improving the quality of English language teaching in Zanzibar’s secondary schools. Specifically, there were two objectives: i) to explore the teachers’ views on the zanzibar improvement students prospect (ZISP) training programme in improving the English language teaching techniques in secondary schools in Zanzibar and ii) to find out the organisational support provided to teachers when they are using the skills and knowledge acquired from the ZISP teaching programme. Design/methodology/approach The study used a qualitative research approach, particularly the case-study design. It used interviews to collect qualitative data that was analysed thematically. Twelve English language teachers from seven secondary schools who had benefited from the ZISP teaching programme and five headmasters from five schools participated in the study as respondents. Findings The study found that the ZISP training programme equipped teachers with pedagogical skills useful for preparing lessons and materials, using technology in teaching and providing timely feedback to students. In terms of support, teachers receive materials and motivation from various organisations. Research limitations/implications This study focused on ordinary teachers and headmasters. Nevertheless, other studies could use classroom observation, focus group discussion, document review or survey questionnaire to evaluate the impact of the programme and look at how the skills obtained are used in the teaching and learning of the English language. In addition, this study involved 12 participants who were teachers and headmasters, respectively. Other studies could include students, their families, employers and non-teaching staff. This would provide a holistic view of how the stakeholders perceive the INSET programme. Originality/value The study contributes to the body of knowledge regarding the benefits and organisational support teachers receive after participating in the INSET training programme in Zanzibar. Thus, teachers need regular exposure to INSET so that they improve the quality of their teaching.

Engaging teacher’s mental health self-care early through a trauma-informed microcredential

PurposeThe purpose of this study was to examine how beginning teachers’ participation in a microcredential based on trauma-informed classroom management and restorative discipline (TIMRD) practices might enhance their self-efficacy (SE), through an understanding of their own trauma response, its neurobiological basis and classroom interventions that focus on student wellness and teacher self-care.Design/methodology/approachUsing a single case study design, participants completed a pre- and post-assessment before and after completion of a TIMRD microcredential.FindingsA total of seven teaching fellows completed the microcredential process. Results indicate that the use of a microcredential for professional learning assisted with decreasing sense of burnout while increasing professional SE, SE related to classroom management and instructional strategies (ISs).Originality/valueNew teachers commonly struggle with a lack of professional efficacy for a variety of reasons, yet all teachers present with their own personal trauma. Increasing new teachers’ sense of resilience through addressing their own trauma and the impact of student trauma is integral to increasing teaching SE and reducing rates of burnout.

Improving pupil performance in rural Ghana basic schools: Principals' leadership challenges

This research used the multiple qualitative case study design, aiming to explore the leadership challenges of principals of basic schools in rural Ghana. Specifically, the study was to uncover the latent conditions frustrating the efforts of the principals to improve pupil performance and to explore leadership practices of school principals that could address the challenges and boost rural pupil performance. The study utilised multiple sources to obtain data from 33 participants accidentally selected. The study found that the principals could not do much to improve rural pupil performance because of ill-equipped learning environments, school indiscipline, ineffective instructional supervision, parents’ casual attitudes towards formal education, and mass promotion. The research revealed further that, to salvage the situation, the leaders needed to engage in practices such as vision-driven leadership, people-centered leadership, leadership based on resourcefulness, autonomous leadership, and decisive leadership. The significance of the study, both locally and internationally, was explored.

Examination of the Activities in the 5th Grade Turkish Course Book in Terms of Digital Competence

In this study, the activities in 5th grade Turkish textbook were examined in terms of digital competence. The case study design, one of the qualitative research designs, was used in the research. In this context, an attempt was made to reveal the adequacy of the activities in the textbook in terms of digital competence. For this purpose, a list of criteria was created by the researcher. The data was obtained through document analysis using the criteria list from the activities in this textbook. Descriptive analysis technique was used to interpret the data. As a result of the findings obtained from the analysis of the data, it was determined that examined only 10 of the 329 activities and 41 of the 128 preparatory studies were capable of measuring digital competence. Although 32 percent of the preparatory studies fill the gap of activities in terms of directing students to internet resources, it has been determined that they mostly measure the "access to information" item, while other items are measured very little or not at all. Since access to information alone will not be sufficient to gain digital competence, it has been concluded that the activities in this textbook are not sufficient in terms of digital competence.

Translating global evidence into local implementation through technical assistance: a realist evaluation of the Bloomberg philanthropies initiative for global Road safety

BackgroundTraffic-related crashes are a leading cause of premature death and disability. The safe systems approach is an evidence-informed set of innovations to reduce traffic-related injuries and deaths. First developed in Sweden, global health actors are adapting the model to improve road safety in low- and middle-income countries via technical assistance (TA) programs; however, there is little evidence on road safety TA across contexts. This study investigated how, why, and under what conditions technical assistance influenced evidence-informed road safety in Accra (Ghana), Bogotá (Colombia), and Mumbai (India), using a case study of the Bloomberg Philanthropies Initiative for Global Road Safety (BIGRS).MethodsWe conducted a realist evaluation with a multiple case study design to construct a program theory. Key informant interviews were conducted with 68 government officials, program staff, and other stakeholders. Documents were utilized to trace the evolution of the program. We used a retroductive analysis approach, drawing on the diffusion of innovation theory and guided by the context-mechanism-outcome approach to realist evaluation.ResultsTA can improve road safety capabilities and increase the uptake of evidence-informed interventions. Hands-on capacity building tailored to specific implementation needs improved implementers’ understanding of new approaches. BIGRS generated novel, city-specific analytics that shifted the focus toward vulnerable road users. BIGRS and city officials launched pilots that brought evidence-informed approaches. This built confidence by demonstrating successful implementation and allowing government officials to gauge public perception. But pilots had to scale within existing city and national contexts. City champions, governance structures, existing political prioritization, and socio-cultural norms influenced scale-up.ConclusionThe program theory emphasizes the interaction of trust, credibility, champions and their authority, governance structures, political prioritization, and the implement-ability of international evidence in creating the conditions for road safety change. BIGRS continues to be a vehicle for improving road safety at scale and developing coalitions that assist governments in fulfilling their role as stewards of population well-being. Our findings improve understanding of the complex role of TA in translating evidence-informed interventions to country-level implementation and emphasize the importance of context-sensitive TA to increase impact.

Exploring cultural dynamics of Black Asian Minority Ethnic (BAME) women in addiction recovery: a comparison of three women from different ethnic backgrounds

Background The existing recovery capital (RC) literature primarily focuses on white males. This study aims to fill this gap by exploring addiction recovery among three culturally diverse UK women, utilizing CHIME-D (Connectedness, Hope/Optimism, Identity, Meaning, Empowerment, and Difficulties) and RC frameworks. It seeks to compare their recovery paths, combining quantitative data with lived experiences, and barriers specific to women in recovery. Methods The article will deploy a case study design involving a mixed methods approach to explore recovery pathways and resulting RC, based on in-depth interviews and recovery capital assessments with three women from white, black and Asian ethnic backgrounds. Results While one of the three participants, reports very strong and positive RC on the REC-CAP, the other two are at a much earlier stage in their journey. In contrast to the white female participant, who lacks personal RC and has significant barriers around ongoing substance use, the Black and Asian Minority Ethnic (BAME) participants report cultural challenges and difficulties engaging with mainstream services. Conclusion Recovery is a personal and individualized journey, but one that is predicated on social support, belonging and access to cultural and community resources. For BAME participants, accessing and engaging with appropriate peer support is essential in building RC and fulfilling the requirements of CHIME.

Songs of the Sea: the Socio-Cultural Fabric of Fisherfolk Work Songs in Winneba

This article presents the findings of a study investigating the socio-cultural dimensions of work songs among the fisherfolk of the Winneba Fishing Community in Ghana's central region. It explores the significance of work songs in the daily lives of fisherfolk and their broader socio-cultural impact within the community. Employing a qualitative approach and utilizing a case study design, the authors gathered data through interviews, observations, and focus group discussions involving fifteen purposively sampled fisherfolk. The study was underpinned by the theories of Sense of Community as well as Understanding Music Making of a community. It was found that work songs are integral to various fishing activities in the Winneba fishing community, serving to foster community cohesion, enhance productivity, and preserve cultural heritage. The findings offer practical recommendations for the preservation and promotion of work songs within the Winneba fishing community.

Evaluation of integrated community case management of the common childhood illness program in Gondar city, northwest Ethiopia: a case study evaluation design

BackgroundIntegrated Community Case Management (ICCM) of common childhood illness is one of the global initiatives to reduce mortality among under-five children by two-thirds. It is also implemented in Ethiopia to improve community access and coverage of health services. However, as per our best knowledge the implementation status of integrated community case management in the study area is not well evaluated. Therefore, this study aimed to evaluate the implementation status of the integrated community case management program in Gondar City, Northwest Ethiopia.MethodsA single case study design with mixed methods was employed to evaluate the process of integrated community case management for common childhood illness in Gondar town from March 17 to April 17, 2022. The availability, compliance, and acceptability dimensions of the program implementation were evaluated using 49 indicators. In this evaluation, 484 mothers or caregivers participated in exit interviews; 230 records were reviewed, 21 key informants were interviewed; and 42 observations were included. To identify the predictor variables associated with acceptability, we used a multivariable logistic regression analysis. Statistically significant variables were identified based on the adjusted odds ratio (AOR) with a 95% confidence interval (CI) and p-value. The qualitative data was recorded, transcribed, and translated into English, and thematic analysis was carried out.ResultsThe overall implementation of integrated community case management was 81.5%, of which availability (84.2%), compliance (83.1%), and acceptability (75.3%) contributed. Some drugs and medical equipment, like Cotrimoxazole, vitamin K, a timer, and a resuscitation bag, were stocked out. Health care providers complained that lack of refreshment training and continuous supportive supervision was the common challenges that led to a skill gap for effective program delivery. Educational status (primary AOR = 0.27, 95% CI:0.11–0.52), secondary AOR = 0.16, 95% CI:0.07–0.39), and college and above AOR = 0.08, 95% CI:0.07–0.39), prescribed drug availability (AOR = 2.17, 95% CI:1.14–4.10), travel time to the to the ICCM site (AOR = 3.8, 95% CI:1.99–7.35), and waiting time (AOR = 2.80, 95% CI:1.16–6.79) were factors associated with the acceptability of the program by caregivers.Conclusion and recommendationThe overall implementation status of the integrated community case management program was judged as good. However, there were gaps observed in the assessment, classification, and treatment of diseases. Educational status, availability of the prescribed drugs, waiting time and travel time to integrated community case management sites were factors associated with the program acceptability. Continuous supportive supervision for health facilities, refreshment training for HEW’s to maximize compliance, construction clean water sources for HPs, and conducting longitudinal studies for the future are the forwarded recommendation.

The Inclusion of Women with Disabilities in Internal Savings and Lending Schemes (ISALS) by the Ministry of Women Affairs, Community, and Small and Medium Enterprises Development in Harare Metropolitan Province, Zimbabwe

Women with disabilities remain among the common social groups in communities that face sidelining and exclusion from development interventions, often referred to as the ‘unseen’ and ‘left behind’ group. Most research focuses on development initiatives for all women generally whilst following on interventions by the civil society to the relative exclusion of disabled women. Hence, this study was influenced by the need to examine the services of the government through the Ministry of Women Affairs in ensuring inclusion of women with disabilities in development initiatives in particular Internal Savings and Lending Schemes (ISALs) that are being carried out in Harare. The study was informed by the intersectionality approach and used a qualitative research approach in which a case study design was employed. The study involved fourteen participants who included women with disabilities, Community Development Officers/Coordinators (CDOs/ CDCs), Provincial Development Officer (PDO) and other professionals from disability rights agencies. Qualitative data was gathered through interviews, and findings were analyzed using thematic analysis. The major services that were found included mobilizing and training women in communities and monitoring ISAL activities. It was revealed that inclusion of women with disabilities in ISALS is still low and in gradual progression. The study also showed major challenges that the ministry faces in their efforts to include women with disabilities in ISALs, which include shortage of resources to fund reasonable accommodation and inclusive ISALS, lack of support from the families and communities of women with disabilities, stigmatization, and discrimination. The researchers went on to make recommendations towards the implementation of ISALS to promote full inclusion of women with disabilities.

Students’ Response to Cross-culture Based Instruction in Teaching Listening Comprehension at Indonesian Islamic Higher Education

The present study explores the students’ response to the cross-culture based construction in teaching listening comprehension at Indonesian Islamic higher education. This research used qualitative approach with case study design. In collecting the data, the researcher used questionnaire and gave to the 34 students as the respondents by purposive sampling. They were from English language program at fourth semester. The result showed that most of the students stated that they were motivated and interested in cross culture - based instruction in learning listening comprehension. Learning listening by using cross culture based instruction make them enjoyable and they can remember the new word. It can be concluded that cross culture -based instruction is useful since the lecturer choose the appropriate material and strategise in teaching listening comprehension.

Perceptions of farmers regarding peatland restoration model of paludiculture in South Sumatra, Indonesia

Peatland fires are a common problem requiring urgent and comprehensive action. Therefore, this research aimed to examine perceptions of farmers regarding paludiculture model in peatland restoration efforts. The methodology used was a case-study design, while sampling was carried out with a deliberate method, producing a total of 50 farmers. Data analysis was performed through tabulation followed by interpretation using Likert tables. Statistical tests were conducted with chi-square, multiple linear regression, and logistic analysis. The results showed that perceptions of farmers were in a good category, with the influencing factors being social, economic, and environmental. Efforts made by the government and academics produced significant results regarding the factors influencing perceptions to adopt paludiculture model. Adopters were divided into five categories of farmers with the largest number being the initial majority, namely 23. Chi-square analysis identified variables strongly related to perceptions of farmers, including income, production amount, and education. The decision of farmers depends on the assessment of perceptions regarding the paludiculture model. In conclusion, the paludiculture model is a solution for making informed decisions to sustain peatland and yield significant profits for farmers.

What qualitative systems mapping is and what it could be: integrating and visualizing diverse knowledge of complex problems

AbstractResearchers in sustainability science deal with increasingly complex problems that cross administrative, geographical, disciplinary, and sectoral boundaries, and are characterized by high stakes and deep uncertainties. This in turn creates methodological challenges to frame, structure, and solve complex problems in science and practice. There is a long tradition in visualizing systems as diagrams, and concept and cognitive maps, but there is insufficient differentiation and comparison between these methods and no clear umbrella term has yet been established. Against this background, we systematically review three foundational methods from different academic disciplines—causal diagrams, concept mapping, and cognitive mapping. Comparing and contrasting them, we facilitate a coherent understanding of qualitative systems mapping (QSM) as an umbrella term. We then proceed to explore the evident intersections between these methods to showcase some of the inter- and transdisciplinary opportunities and challenges crystallizing in integrated QSM approaches. Finally, we share case study insights from the food–water–biodiversity nexus in Austria and elaborate on some of the methodological nuances to data integration in QSM. Overall, with this overview paper, we lay the groundwork for a systematic, transparent, and yet flexible development and application of QSM methods to support mixed-methods research design and clear case study documentation, as well as fostering effective inter- and transdisciplinary communication in sustainability science. Further research needs to explore these QSM applications in depth across alternative sustainability science contexts, particularly with respect to efficient and rigorous protocols for knowledge and data integration vis-a-vis complex problems and transdisciplinary research processes.

Perbedaan Perawatan Perineum Metode Sitz Bath Ekstrak Daun Pegagan (Centella Asiatica) dan Ekstrak Bunga Telang (Clitoria Ternatea) Terhadap Penyembuhan Luka Perineum Pada Ibu Postpartum

The puerperium is the time between the birth of the placenta and return of organs to their pre-pregnancy state.  The postpartum period generally lasts 6-12 weeks after delivery.  During the postpartum period, mothers need more attention, because as many as 50% of postpartum mothers experience tears in the birth canal.  It is very important to do perineal care because the suture scars of the birth canal can be the entry point for germs and can cause infection. The purpose of this study was to determine the differences in perineal wound healing using the Sitz Bath method using Centella Asiatica leaf extract and butterfly pea flower extract (Clitoria Ternate) in Postpartum Mother. This research is a quantitative research with the type of pre-experimental research with the design of the research design used is the One Shoot Case Study design. The results of this study showed that perineal treatment using the sitz bath method using gotu kola leaf extract and pelang flower extract had a significant difference in perineal wound healing with a significance value (0.043 <0.05), The application of perineal care using the sitz bath method using gotu kola leaf extract and butterfly pea flower extract has been shown to be effective in healing perineal wounds.  It is hoped that midwifery services need to develop postpartum care by applying several complementary therapies to help accelerate wound healing.

Use of the International IFOMPT Cervical Framework to inform clinical reasoning in postgraduate level physiotherapy students: a qualitative study using think aloud methodology

BackgroundVascular pathologies of the head and neck are rare but can present as musculoskeletal problems. The International Federation of Orthopedic Manipulative Physical Therapists (IFOMPT) Cervical Framework (Framework) aims to assist evidence-based clinical reasoning for safe assessment and management of the cervical spine considering potential for vascular pathology. Clinical reasoning is critical to physiotherapy, and developing high-level clinical reasoning is a priority for postgraduate (post-licensure) educational programs.ObjectiveTo explore the influence of the Framework on clinical reasoning processes in postgraduate physiotherapy students.MethodsQualitative case study design using think aloud methodology and interpretive description, informed by COnsolidated criteria for REporting Qualitative research. Participants were postgraduate musculoskeletal physiotherapy students who learned about the Framework through standardized delivery. Two cervical spine cases explored clinical reasoning processes. Coding and analysis of transcripts were guided by Elstein’s diagnostic reasoning components and the Postgraduate Musculoskeletal Physiotherapy Practice model. Data were analyzed using thematic analysis (inductive and deductive) for individuals and then across participants, enabling analysis of key steps in clinical reasoning processes and use of the Framework. Trustworthiness was enhanced with multiple strategies (e.g., second researcher challenged codes).ResultsFor all participants (n = 8), the Framework supported clinical reasoning using primarily hypothetico-deductive processes. It informed vascular hypothesis generation in the patient history and testing the vascular hypothesis through patient history questions and selection of physical examination tests, to inform clarity and support for diagnosis and management. Most participant’s clinical reasoning processes were characterized by high-level features (e.g., prioritization), however there was a continuum of proficiency. Clinical reasoning processes were informed by deep knowledge of the Framework integrated with a breadth of wider knowledge and supported by a range of personal characteristics (e.g., reflection).ConclusionsFindings support use of the Framework as an educational resource in postgraduate physiotherapy programs to inform clinical reasoning processes for safe and effective assessment and management of cervical spine presentations considering potential for vascular pathology. Individualized approaches may be required to support students, owing to a continuum of clinical reasoning proficiency. Future research is required to explore use of the Framework to inform clinical reasoning processes in learners at different levels.

Toward a framework for the design of fair shared open spaces case study: Effat University, Jeddah

PurposeThis research aims to shed light on the utilization of open spaces at Effat University through a gender lens. By eliminating gender segregation, the study seeks to examine how these spaces are equitably shared between genders, while also delving into the realm of gender sensitive urban design (GSUD). Furthermore, the research strives to gain valuable insights into the experiences of female students in open spaces to propose a framework for the design of fair shared open spaces.Design/methodology/approachTo achieve these objectives, a multi-faceted approach was adopted. First, the research started by reviewing the literature about gender sensitive urban design and inclusive urban design to conclude the indicators examine how open spaces are shared fairly between both genders; second, an online questionnaire was administered to gather comprehensive data. Third, meticulous observations were conducted, involving the study, analysis and mapping of students' activities using maps and photos. Lastly, a walk shop was organized, with a focus group comprising of female participants. The collected data was then analyzed using SPSS descriptive statistics and the Pearson product-moment correlation coefficient, enabling the identification of key patterns and evaluating female students' satisfaction levels.FindingsThe findings unearth a distinctive perspective on the perception and needs of females within a unique subset of open spaces, referred to as “campus open spaces,” in the context of a gender sensitive urban design. This exploration provides valuable insights into the intricacies of gender dynamics within public spaces, contributing to a more inclusive and equitable environment for all individuals at Effat University, framework shows some of significant indicators that effect on other indicators strongly as sense of safety and security and the diversity of activities that increase visiting rates, sense of belonging.Originality/valueThis research presents a framework aimed at improving the concept of equitable and inclusive, open spaces, particularly on campuses within significant communities like KSA. The focus is on creating fair shared places that facilitate interaction and cater to the social and cultural needs of students, with a particular emphasis on supporting female students. By enhancing their sense of belonging and addressing their unique requirements, this framework aims to positively impact their academic performance while fostering an inclusive and engaging campus environment.

Unveiling the significant contribution of Child and Youth Care Workers in South African township schools

The deployment of Child and Youth Care Workers (CYCWs) in South African schools is a recent development prompted by the growing barriers to learning faced by learners. This study explored the critical role of CYCWs and their contributions to eight township schools in Botshabelo, South Africa. The aim was to explore and understand the experiences of stakeholders’ regarding the contributions of CYCWs within the Thari programme to township schools in South Africa and how their contributions affected the school environment and aided the well-being of learners. The study followed a qualitative case study design, which integrated the insights from the programme staff, CYCWs (n = 9), principals (n = 5), educators (n = 16), and stakeholder forum members (n = 4) forming part of the Thari programme. Programme documents were also analysed as background and the face-to-face individual and group interviews were thematically analysed.Aligned with the developmental approach to social services, the findings revealed that CYCWs partake in diverse semi-professional activities which significantly contribute to helping learners navigate the challenges they experience in their daily lives. These activities encompass providing psychosocial support, conducting awareness campaigns, organising group sessions, and facilitating educational games. Furthermore, they assume the role of surrogate parental figures and role models for children facing vulnerabilities.The study found that the CYCWs registered in the auxiliary category were not supervised by CYCWs in the professional category. They also had restricted access to full-time social workers for referrals. These challenges underscore the pressing need for increased resources and professional development opportunities for CYCWs so that they can fully attend to their responsibilities in schools.Several recommendations are made, such as increasing resources for the Thari programme, investing in CYCW training, promoting collaboration with other professionals, conducting regular evaluations, engaging parents through workshops, and acknowledging the pivotal role of CYCWs as role models and parental figures. The study offers valuable insights into enhancing the impact and effectiveness of CYCW interventions in township schools, thereby contributing to South African children’s holistic development and well-being.

Islamic Religious Education and Religious Moderation at University

This study highlights the ideal ratio between the number of lecturers and students in Islamic Education classes at the Faculty of Economics, Udayana University, Bali. With only one lecturer teaching 200 students, this imbalance is a significant concern, especially amidst worries about the spread of extremism and exclusivism on campus. The research aims to evaluate the learning process, religious moderation attitudes among lecturers and students, and factors influencing religious moderation attitudes among students. Using a qualitative descriptive method and a case study design, data were collected through observation, in-depth interviews, and questionnaires, and analyzed using descriptive analysis techniques. The findings indicate that the ratio of Islamic Education lecturers to students does not meet government standards, despite the implementation of various teaching methods. Nevertheless, attitudes towards religious moderation are generally positive, although there are indications of a lack of moderation among some students. Internal and external factors were identified as influencing factors on religious moderation attitudes. These findings emphasize the need for ongoing efforts to improve the quality of Islamic Education learning through enhancing lecturer competencies and implementing programs to strengthen religious moderation in higher education, aiming to promote tolerance and reinforce religious moderation among students.