Case Study Research Research Articles

Learner perception on tactile materials as a correlate of performance in mathematics: The case of Thika high school for the Blind, Kiambu County, Kenya

Mathematics is considered the foundation of scientific and technological growth, making one of the most important subjects taught in formal schools. Yet learners with visual impairment continue to perform poorly in Mathematics due multiple factors, among them unfavorable perceptions on the subject. Drawing from the social constructivism theory, this study aimed to establish learner perception on tactile materials as a correlate of performance in Mathematics among learners in Thika High School for the Blind. The objectives were to investigate general performance of mathematic among the learners who are blind and assess learners’ perception on the mathematic tactile learning materials in relation to their performance in Mathematics. This study used a case study research design. The target population comprised 80 learners who are blind in the school. Stratified random sampling was used to select the learners 24 who are blind according to class and gender. Questionnaires were used to collect data. Quantitative data was collected, coded and organized. Data analysis was through descriptive summaries and correlational analyses. There was a weak positive relationship between learners’ perception in learning Mathematics and performance in Mathematics (r = 0.203, p = 0.342). The majority the students indicated doing their homework daily when given by the teacher, getting homework marked daily, and doing homework alone daily. Therefore, this study recommends the need for the Ministry of Education to initiate strategies to enhance positive perceptions toward Mathematics among learners who are blind.

Takāful Al-Ijtimā: Model Development of Religious Character Education

The research aims to: describe and understand the strategy of Pondok Pesantren Manbaul Ulum Bondowoso in conducting religious character education through takāful al-ijtimā, describe and analyze the design model, implementation of the model, and implications of takāful al-ijtimā as a model of religious character education for the students. This study uses a qualitative approach with a case study research design. Data collection techniques include documentation, interviews, and participatory observation. The study also generates data analyzed using a descriptive model with steps: data collection, data condensation, data presentation, and conclusion. The results of the study are: (1) There are three strategies in the implementation of takāful al-ijtimā, namely through introduction, learning, and habituation. (2) In the implementation of takāful al-ijtimā, the students become part of the actors who are free to be creative. This means they are not only participants but also the most important part of the implementation of takāful al-ijtimā, because agreements among students determine various activities; (3) Activities in takāful al-ijtimā are designed not only as enjoyable outdoor learning but also implemented for the benefit of the community, namely: Community Development, Teaching at TPQ and Madrasah, Village Observation and Exploration, Financing Assistance and Social Rehabilitation, Alumni Development; (4) The implications of takāful al-ijtimā are manifested through the attitudes, behaviors, and skills of the students.

Advocating for a behavioural science approach to inclusion and diversity

In recent years the benefits of inclusion and diversity have become increasingly clear. Australian and international studies have demonstrated the significant improvements in innovation, productivity and growth that can be achieved when teams are both inclusive and diverse. However, meaningful progress requires moving beyond traditional diversity initiatives. This paper highlights the potential use of behavioural science to design successful implementation strategies to improve diversity and inclusion in the upstream energy industry. This paper will also provide guidance on how scientific methodologies can be applied to measure impact and return on investment (ROI), aligning the business case for diversity and inclusion with individual interventions. Behavioural science involves the observation, hypothesis, experiment and analysis of human behaviour to draw conclusions. It is now a leading school of thought at the world’s top research and learning organisations. This paper argues that by measuring outcomes of diversity and inclusion interventions through a behavioural science approach, organisations can make informed decisions, identify areas of improvement, and refine their strategies to improve ROI. This approach not only ensures that resources are invested effectively but also fosters a culture of continuous learning and adaptation, leading to sustainable and meaningful progress for all employees and stakeholders. Drawing on international research and local case studies, this paper showcases successful applications of behavioural science in transforming organisational cultures, creating safer and more inclusive workplaces. Ideas for quantitative and qualitative measurements are proposed for application in the upstream energy industry, with a particular focus on operational people and performance.

Reducing construction noise: sound masking effect on soundscape dominated by construction noise

AbstractPeople move to cities to enjoy the conveniences of modern life, but the resulting population growth comes with issues such as increased noise. While public awareness of noise pollution is increasing, noise emanating from construction sites remains a source of complaint. Despite the actions taken by different parties to control construction noise, newly constructed structures continue to exacerbate the harmful consequences of noise. The acoustic environment in some areas of cities, such as London, can no longer provide the tranquility expected by residents, and the risk of daily disruptions for those living near construction sites is high. Given the various limitations and complications of current construction noise control methods, the campaign to limit construction noise must embrace other strategies. Sound masking can potentially abate noise without resorting to time-consuming procedures. In this paper, five raw construction noise datasets were collected around an existing noise-sensitive premise. Five masker sound datasets were recorded to form seven mixed sounds to create a comparative experiment on masking construction noise. A case study and additional research are presented to demonstrate the mechanism of sound masking and to investigate the factors involved in effectively masking construction noise using the sound masking concept. Based on the case study and theoretical research findings, suggestions for masker selection of specific noise datasets and conclusions regarding ideal sound simultaneous masking of construction noise are provided.

A Snapshot of Inter-Methodology Mixing: The Intersection, Integration and Merging of Methodologies

The relatively recent trend of mixing MMR with other methodologies represents a significant methodological advancement in the field and on examination spans a diverse range of methodologies. The purpose of this paper is to provide an overview of recent trends in inter-methodology mixing. The paper will provide signposts to the methodological literature that has begun to conceptualize and advance these methodological innovations and highlights examples of empirical studies that are adopting these new forms of mixed methodological types. The article provides a snapshot of the current state of this trend with particular reference to the mixing and merging of MMR with four established methodologies: grounded theory, case study research, community-based participatory research, and action research.

Management of childbearing with hypermobile Ehlers-Danlos syndrome and hypermobility spectrum disorders: A scoping review and expert co-creation of evidence-based clinical guidelines.

To co-create expert guidelines for the management of pregnancy, birth, and postpartum recovery in the context of hypermobile Ehlers-Danlos syndrome (hEDS) and hypermobility spectrum disorders (HSD). Scoping Review and Expert Co-creation. United Kingdom, United States of America, Canada, France, Sweden, Luxembourg, Germany, Italy, and the Netherlands. Co-creators (n = 15) included expertise from patients and clinicians from the International Consortium on the Ehlers-Danlos syndromes and Hypermobility Spectrum Disorders, facilitated by the Ehlers-Danlos Society. A scoping review using Embase, Medline, the Cochrane Central Register of Controlled Trials and CINHAL was conducted from May 2022 to September 2023. Articles were included if they reported primary research findings in relation to childbearing with hEDS/HSD, including case reports. No language limitations were placed on our search, and our team had the ability to translate and screen articles retrieved in English, French, Spanish, Italian, Russian, Swedish, Norwegian, Dutch, Danish, German, and Portuguese. The Mixed Methods Appraisal Tool was used to assess bias and quality appraise articles selected. The co-creation of guidelines was based on descriptive evidence synthesis along with practical and clinical experience supported by patient and public involvement activities. Primary research studies (n = 14) and case studies (n = 21) including a total of 1,260,317 participants informed the co-creation of guidelines in four overarching categories: 1) Preconceptual: conception and screening, 2) Antenatal: risk assessment, management of miscarriage and termination of pregnancy, gastrointestinal issues and mobility, 3) Intrapartum: risk assessment, birth choices (mode of birth and intended place of birth), mobility in labor and anesthesia, and 4) Postpartum: wound healing, pelvic health, care of the newborn and infant feeding. Guidelines were also included in relation to pain management, mental health, nutrition and the common co-morbidities of postural orthostatic tachycardia syndrome, other forms of dysautonomia, and mast cell diseases. There is limited high quality evidence available. Individualized strategies are proposed for the management of childbearing people with hEDS/HSD throughout pregnancy, birth, and the postpartum period. A multidisciplinary approach is advised to address frequently seen issues in this population such as tissue fragility, joint hypermobility, and pain, as well as common comorbidities, including dysautonomia and mast cell diseases.

LEADERSHIP CHALLENGES IN DEVELOPING COUNTRIES: A CASE STUDY OF PAKISTANI HIGHER SECONDARY SCHOOLS

The main objective of the research was to explore public school principals’ leadership problems and the techniques they used to overcome those problems. A qualitative research case study was conducted involving 10 public school principals (5 male and 5 female) from district Mardan of Pakistan. The data were gathered through semi-structured interviews and analyzed using the thematic analysis process. The results show that public school principals in Pakistan face multiple problems, including lack of authority, insufficient assistance from higher authorities, lack of resources, and teacher recruitment and retention issues. Additionally, the research also found that public school principals in Pakistan combat their problems with a variety of techniques, including creating a friendly rapport with teachers, engaging the community in the educational process, seeking help from higher authorities, and effectively leveraging resources. Moreover, this research has also examined Pakistani female public school principals’ problems and tactics. The results show that female public-school principals in Pakistan experience typical male principals’ problems, including lack of autonomy, insufficient resources, and support from higher authorities, as well as gender inequity. The results of the study have significant implications for policy and practice as the results of the study can inform specific policies and practices that can help in enlightening public schools’ leadership in Pakistan to improve the quality of education for students.

Technological Innovation in Chinese Digital Drama: A Case Study on the Posthuman Transformation of the Performing Subject – Digital Mei Lanfang Analysis

In the global artistic arena, digital performance, a fusion of art and technology is increasingly garnering attention. Accompanied by rapid technological advancements, Chinese performing arts are in a state of continual boundary expansion and exploration of new possibilities. This art form is undergoing a profound and revolutionary transformation with the infiltration and advancement of digital technology. This article, titled "Technological Innovation and Chinese Digital Drama: The Post-Human Transformation of the Performing Subject," delves into how digital technology is innovating traditional Chinese drama by transforming the performing. Centering around the Digital Mei Lanfang project as a pivotal case study, the research demonstrates how digital technology is redefining the subject of drama performance, thereby further redefining the scope and essence of theatrical performance. Employing qualitative research methods, literature reviews, and case study analysis, the article assesses the impact and value of the shift from Natural Human to Posthuman entities as performing subjects in Chinese theatrical arts, driven by digital technology. The research underscores the significance of post-human entities in protecting and disseminating cultural heritage in the digital era. This article aims to expand the boundaries of dramatic artistic expression through the study of posthumans becoming dramatic performing subjects and to provide theoretical foundations and practical references for the future development of dramatic arts. Consequently, this fosters the further development of Chinese dramatic arts in the digital age without losing their original characteristics.

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.

Crafting an Inclusive Procurement Policy: Strategies for Embracing Supplier Diversity

Purpose: In today's global marketplace, diversity and inclusion have transitioned from mere buzzwords to indispensable elements of successful business practices. A robust procurement policy that embraces supplier diversity not only cultivates a more inclusive supply chain but also drives economic growth and social progress. Methodology: This article examines key strategies for integrating supplier diversity into procurement policies, drawing insights from existing literature and best practices in the field of supply chain management and diversity initiatives. Findings: The article outlines strategies such as incorporating diverse suppliers into Requests for Proposals (RFPs), setting thresholds for diverse supplier consideration, addressing risk acceptance and deviations, and emphasizing genuine efforts over token gestures. It highlights the importance of striking a balance between excellence and diversity while prioritizing active engagement with diverse suppliers. Unique Contribution to Theory, Practice, and Policy: By synthesizing insights from academic research and real-world case studies, this article offers actionable recommendations for organizations seeking to enhance their supplier diversity initiatives. It underscores the necessity of genuine efforts in supplier diversity initiatives, advocating for the integration of diversity considerations into procurement policies to foster economic empowerment, social equity, and long-term sustainability in supply chain operations.

Students Reading Achievement Based on Their Intelligence Quotient (IQ): A Case Study

This research was conducted to determine the factors that caused some students to have high IQ but low English reading achievement and vice versa. The research aimed to find out what factors caused students to have high intellectual intelligence but low reading achievement and vice versa. This type of research was a qualitative method with a case study research design. Participants in this research were grade VIII students at SMPN 4 Bukittinggi, and using purposive sampling techniques, the researchers selected 9 participants for this research. The instruments used in this research were interviews and observations checklist of students. The results of the analysis showed that there were two factors that caused students to have high IQ but low English reading achievement and vice versa. This could be seen from the results of interviews and observation checklists with students, namely internal factors are physiological, intelligence, talents, interests, student activity during the learning process, and also external factors, namely the role of parents, teachers, learning media, infrastructure, curriculum, school time, and mass media. It can be concluded that the factors causing students to have high IQ but low achievement in learning English and vice versa were internal and external factors, and were also supported by aspects of student activity in the English learning process.

Assessing the Dynamics Leading to the Decline in Enrolment of Grade 10 Accounting Learners in Selected Secondary Schools in the Mthatha Education District of South Africa

The purpose of this research was to assess the dynamics leading to the decline in enrolment of grade 10 Accounting learners in selected secondary schools in the Mthatha Education District in the Eastern Cape Province of South Africa. The case study research design was employed as this research focused only on grade 10 learners in secondary schools in Mthatha. The qualitative approach was adopted. The purposive sampling technique was used to select six grade 10 learners from six participating secondary schools. The face-to-face interviews were used to gather data from sampled six grade 10 Accounting learners. The Constructivist Theoretical Framework was adopted. The thematic approach was employed to analyse the collected data. It emerged that learners dropped interest in studying Accounting because they lack therein to have sufficient and relevant content knowledge resulting from incompletion of the syllabus and few basic Accounting concepts in Economic Management Sciences (EMS) subject. It was recommended that EMS teachers should complete the syllabus and add some Accounting concepts in their annual teaching plans (ATPs) to familiarise themselves with and enhance the learners’ desire to enrol in their higher classes. It was also recommended that Accounting teachers should adopt user-friendly teaching pedagogics as well as professionalism that could inspire and empower learners to master the subject content. Lastly, the curriculum planners should re-visit the EMS syllabus to ensure that it prepares the learners for Accounting in higher grades. The findings will be of benefit to all secondary schools in South Africa experiencing the decline in enrolment of learners in their subjects. Keywords: Accounting, Annual teaching plans, Decline enrolment, Economic and Management Sciences, Enrolment of learners, Secondary schools.

Local government policymaking environment for Health in All Policies: a case study research investigation

ABSTRACT The local level of government is identified as being well placed to address the determinants of health due to their flatter governance structure and proximity to the community. Research has identified multiple factors that influence local governments to act on these health determinants, although few have applied theories of the policy process to understand the policymaking environment. Using two Australian local government case study sites, we explored the policymaking environment regarding policy decisions to address health determinants using the lens of four theories of the policy process. We conducted 20 interviews and one focus group with elected members and staff in local government, along with an analysis of 12 policy documents and participation in a policy reference group. Following thematic analysis, 13 factors influencing policy addressing health determinants were identified, mostly confirming previous research from within Australia and globally. New themes have emerged regarding the limited range of policy actors involved and the lack of advocacy, particularly by community or media, who have an identified influence over decision-making in a local government context. Applying theories of the policy process also demonstrates how they can be used to add meaning to the interconnectedness of influences in unique local government policymaking environments.

Application of olive oil to the degree of diaper rash in babies aged 0-12 months

Diaper rash is a skin disorder in the form of inflammation around the area covered by the diaper or around the diaper. This inflammation mainly occurs in the area of both thighs, buttocks, lower abdomen, around the genitals and the area around the buttocks and lower back The author uses the description method, with a case study research approach, this case study was carried out in 2 patients with diaper rash. By applying the nursing process method. This data was obtained in the following ways: Interviews, examinations, observation of activities obtain notes and diagnostic reports. Results after nursing actions for 3 days with a diagnosis of impaired tissue/skin integrity related to chemicals with the application of Olive Oil (Olive Oil) with the results resolved on day 4.‎ Conclusion the application of Olive Oil (Olive Oil) to both diaper rash patients can reduce reddish spots, blisters, genital diarrhea and its surroundings. In this study it is hoped that patients can apply Olive Oil as a treatment that can be done alone at home because one of the benefits of olive oil is to reduce red spots, blisters, in the baby's genital area.

Designing Holistic and Multivoiced Online Learning: Higher Education Actors’ Pedagogical Decisions and Perspectives

Higher education has witnessed continuous growth in online learning, further catalysed by the COVID-19 pandemic. Moving forward, it is important to transition from remote teaching to sustainable, high-quality and mature online learning practices for impactful student learning. This paper presents the findings of a qualitative multiple case study research that investigated the pedagogical decisions and rationales of educators and digital learning professionals in deliberately designed online learning contexts. Data were collected through 31 interviews, observations and documents from seven interdisciplinary design teams across six UK universities over an extended period. Three themes were constructed to convey key research insights including: (1) embracing a multi-level view of student learning journeys, (2) embedding multiple and diverse ‘voices’ and (3) creating a complex web of social learning opportunities and ‘spaces’. The findings from this study offer a revitalised understanding of pedagogies suggesting holistic and multivoiced approaches to online learning. Findings pointed to the need for narrative-based approaches to online learning design, attention to purposeful hybrid learning spaces and an expansive view of educators’ role. The insights presented in this paper can be enlightening for educators, teaching teams, digital learning teams, academic developers, researchers and university leadership, opening up dialogue and new directions for online learning practices and research.

Comparative Life-Cycle Assessment of Steel and GFRP Rebars for Procurement Sustainability in the Construction Industry

This research examines the potential impact on the procurement sustainability of replacing steel rebars with Glass Fiber-Reinforced Polymer (GFRP) rebars in the construction industry, focusing on screed pre-cast hollow core topping in a project in the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia. A comparative life cycle assessment (LCA) is conducted using One Click LCA (Version 0.26.0) software for cradle-to-grave analysis. The assessment covers various stages, including raw material extraction, manufacturing, transportation, usage, and recycling. The comprehensive LCA highlights GFRP rebars as a more sustainable alternative to steel, emitting 17% less CO2 equivalent (2e) per kilogram throughout its life cycle. Additionally, GFRP requires substantially less mass compared to steel, resulting in a dramatic reduction in CO2e emissions ranging from 77.89% to 85.26% across different spacing configurations in real-world construction scenarios, as presented in this research case study. These findings suggest that GFRP rebars offer a promising solution for reducing the environmental impact of construction activities while potentially yielding significant cost savings over the project’s life cycle. Integrating environmental considerations into material selection processes can prioritize sustainability without compromising performance or safety, contributing to a more sustainable future for the construction industry globally.

Architectural semiotics in the renovation of rural architecture

AbstractThis study combines theoretical research and practical case studies to explore effective methods for renovating rural architecture within the context of Chinese new rural construction. By analyzing the current state of existing rural architectures, identifying their characteristics and shortcomings, and applying the theory of architectural semiotics, this study proposes an innovative model for rural architecture renovation. The aim of this research is to provide valuable insights and optimization strategies for the revitalization of rural architectures in China, ultimately contributing to the sustainable development of rural areas and the preservation of regional culture.

Performance management system components and the role of the management accountant

Purpose While extant research does mention performance management systems as antecedent to a management accountant’s role, and that there is tension between both, there is little detailed research. Thus, this paper aims to investigate the extent to which a performance management system interacts with the role of a management accountant. Design/methodology/approach The study is a cross-sectional field study, using interviews with paired management accountants and operative managers in 16 multinational organisations in Germany. The perspectives of both management accountants and operative managers are analysed separately. The role episode model theoretically informs the study. Findings The findings reveal management accountants distinguish between three roles of scorekeeping, controlling and business support, similar to prior literature. By contrast, operating managers are concerned with the value-adding and non-value-adding character of activities and thus support a dichotomy of management accountants’ roles. Drawing upon the role episode model, this study elucidates the interplay between performance management systems and the roles of management accountants, which encompass both role-taking and role-making dynamics. Additionally, this study contributes to management control literature by operationalising the components of a performance management system framework and linking them to the role of management accountants, as proposed by role antecedents in previous literature. The study also uncovers factors influencing role-taking and role-making, alongside examining the repercussions of role consensus or conflict based on the interaction with the operating manager. Research limitations/implications This paper is subject to the normal limitations of case study research and generalisation. The findings may also be influenced by the cultural context of the study. Originality/value An updated role episode model is presented, highlighting further performance management systems’ components. The study also reveals factors enabling and/or inhibiting the management accountants’ business support role and the impact of role consensus/conflict.

Pre-Service English as a Foreign Language Teachers’ Perceptions of Task Based Language Teaching for Higher Education Programs in Mexico: Methodology of a Case Study

This quantitative case study research explored English as a foreign language (EFL) pre-service teachers’ perception of the Task-Based Language Teaching (TBLT) for facilitating written language competency for learners of English in northern Mexico. The participants in the study (n = 193) were from two locations: A public university in the state of Nuevo León, Mexico with 112 EFL Pre-service teachers (Location A) and a Normal Superior School with 81 (Location B). All participants took part in the study voluntarily and responded to a survey via email. The study included a survey with a five-point scale (1. Strongly disagree, 2. Disagree, 3. Neutral, 4. Agree, 5. Strongly agree). The survey contained a demographic section followed by three subscales with a total of 35 items: Subscale one, The Teaching Process (items 1-10); Subscale two, The Role of the Task (items 11-18), and Subscale 3, The Teaching of Language Competencies (items 19-35). The last five items (31-35) asked participants about the facilitation of written expression competency through TBLT. The items of the survey responded to the three research questions of the study, regarding perceptions about TBLT approach to the teaching of English; the role of task in English language learning; and the contribution of TBLT for teaching of the written expression competency in Mexico. The construction of the survey was informed by contributions of Prabhu (1987), Nunan (2004), Swan (2005), Ellis (2009), Long (2015), Jeon and Hahn (2006), and SEP (2018). The survey was administered using the SurveyMonkey platform. Since this is an in-progress research, findings and conclusions will appear in further publications.

Skilling in the Informal Economy in India: Identifying and Addressing Inequities in Designing and Delivering Lifelong Learning Opportunities

Lifelong learning opportunities (LLOs) for adults enhance their capabilities and resilience in adapting to changing circumstances, especially in the context of livelihoods. However, informal economy workers face barriers to accessing LLOs, including the digital divide among other challenges. An action research case study of an Indian LLO provider shifting to hybrid vocational education reveals the potential of digital LLOs, where low mobile data costs, high phone penetration, and flexible options mitigate learning expenses. The study details the constraints that the informal economy learners and the LLO providers face and thus contributes to the literature analyzing the broader implications of market changes and skill development for sustainable development.