Case Study Research Research Articles

Arts-based approaches to evaluating impact: a case study of youth perspectives towards Smart Local Energy Systems

ABSTRACT The need for citizen voice in policy feedback operations is increasingly recognised amongst policymakers. As the climate crisis becomes more urgent, young people are often excluded from conversations about energy policy that will affect their future ways of living. This article presents an example of an innovative methodological approach to evaluating young peoples’ involvement in policymaking feedback processes based on the discoveries made during a performance-based practice research case study. Referring to previous working models, reflections are offered about how Evaluative Performance can be used in valuing young peoples’ responses to new innovations in Smart Local Energy Systems (SLES). This article makes three key claims: Evaluative Performance as a method and approach can provide insight into how a group of young people, whilst acting as consultants, might respond to energy policy innovations such as SLES; understandings of the wider affordances of arts-based approaches within an experimental evaluative context mean they have potential applications beyond the cultural sector; and Evaluative Performance can facilitate understandings of how staging and directorial choices impact theatre audiences’ experience of the ‘real’ and (re)presented words of research participants.

On the need for caution in using ‘big data’ for built environment research: A response to Chng et al. (2024)

The study of the built environment is evolving with digital advancements and the emergence of a big data era, opening up new possibilities for planning practice and research. However, the integration of digital tools in research and practice calls for consideration of methodological questions. In this article, we compare two studies. One is our own ‘small data’ case study research and the other is a ‘big data’ approach recently published in this journal. Both studies discuss housing space standards – internal floorspace – in the context of a deregulated planning policy known in England as ‘permitted development’ (PD) relating to office-to-residential conversion schemes. Not only do these studies differ methodologically but also in results: our own case studies found that the majority of PD housing units do not meet recommended space standards. This finding is consistent with other in-depth studies on the same issue but is contradicted by the big data study that yielded different results. By reference to example conversion schemes, we argue that to understand the space standards issue, a more in-depth small data approach is more reliable than relying solely on secondary data sets and a big data approach. This illustrates a need for wider debate as to when big data is beneficial and when it can be misleading, particularly if being utilised to criticise evidence from alternate, more detailed data approaches. We conclude that it is crucial that academic discussions on different methodological approaches are conducted with respect, openness and transparency regarding the suitability of different approaches.

The Economic and National Security Implications of Money Laundering and Fraud in the US

Purpose: Money laundering and fraud are pervasive financial crimes that pose significant threats to both economic stability and national security. This paper explores the multifaceted impacts of these crimes within the United States by assessing how illicit financial flows distort market operations, undermine public institutions, and enable criminal and terrorist networks. Methodology: Drawing upon qualitative data from scholarly research, government reports, and real-world case studies, the study illustrates how money laundering inflates asset prices, misallocates capital, and distorts investor risk perceptions thereby reducing economic efficiency and hindering long-term growth. Findings: Fraud, particularly corporate and cyber-enabled, is further shown to erode trust in financial institutions, increase compliance costs, and exacerbate social inequality. National security threats arise when laundered funds are used to finance organized crime, terrorism, and espionage. The growing role of digital currencies adds complexity by providing anonymity and bypassing traditional financial oversight. Unique Contribution to Theory, Policy and Practice: The paper offers a comprehensive analysis of current policy responses, identifies gaps in enforcement, and proposes targeted recommendations to strengthen regulatory frameworks and foster international cooperation. Innovative solutions such as blockchain analytics, AI-based detection tools, and whistleblower protections are highlighted as critical to curbing these crimes. The paper concludes that combating financial crimes requires a multidimensional strategy involving legal, technological, institutional, and cross-border collaboration. By addressing the root causes and systemic enablers of money laundering and fraud, the United States can enhance its financial integrity, safeguard national security, and promote sustainable economic growth.

A Review of Fengshui Forests: Ecological Functions, Humanistic Values, and Potential Applications to Enhance Biodiversity in Urban Green Landscapes and Achieve Sustainable Development Goals

Sustainable urban development increasingly aligns with the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs), highlighting the importance of integrating local cultural landscapes into city planning. One compelling example is the concept of fengshui forests in China, which are deeply rooted in traditional beliefs associated with prosperity for local communities. This study explores how fengshui forests can inform urban landscape design, particularly in the context of biodiversity conservation. We conducted a comprehensive literature review to examine studies on the ecological functions and cultural significance of fengshui forests. This review included research articles, case studies, and ecological assessments, revealing that fengshui forests provide essential ecosystem services—such as preserving biodiversity, regulating microclimates, and sequestering carbon—while also offering unique cultural insights, economic resources, and tourism potential. Recognizing the critical role of plant selection and combination in urban landscape design, we compiled a database of 1196 recorded plant species from fengshui forests, detailing their physiological traits, geographical distribution, and social values. By employing diverse plant arrangement and combination, urban landscape designers can select suitable species to create green spaces that support a well-functioning food web and ecosystem, ultimately fostering biodiversity conservation. By harnessing both the ecological functions and cultural values of fengshui forests, this research highlights their potential to enhance urban eco-landscape design, promote eco-tourism, and aid in the preservation of local species. These forests, with their traditional roots and ecological significance, hold promise for advancing ecological civilization through effective biodiversity conservation and sustainable urban planning.

Constructivism in Online Course Design of Skilled-based Courses and Its Impact on Student Achievement

The following monogram presents a research case study involving two sections of an asynchronous online college algebra course which aimed at exploring the potential impact (or lack thereof) of the traditional one-size-fits-all online course design ideology for the development of skilled-based courses at a large higher education institution in Florida, USA. At the principal author’s institution, as appears to be the case in many other sister institutions, constructivism is the philosophical framework upon which all online courses are being built – that occurs without the consideration that the impact of constructivist elements of course design may have little to no effect on student achievement when applied to largely or strictly skilled-based courses. Empirical observations, as well as past experiences in this field, have pointed to the realization that there are many skilled-based courses “sprinkled” with myriads of “little” tasks aimed at conforming to the constructivist ideology that do not appear to add any value in terms of the actual objectives of learning. Therefore, adding such tasks for the mere satisfaction of or adherence to a particular educational ideology may pose an inappropriate, ineffective, and inefficient way to provide and assess learning. Hence, it was the authors’ impetus to investigate what empirical observations in online skilled-based courses alluded to in a structured academic research manner and ascertain mathematically whether such a misalignment exists so as to inform future practice. Results obtained confirmed empirical observations that adding constructivist elements in the asynchronous online college algebra courses analyzed made no difference in overall student success.

Application of Client-Centered Theory Using Positive Regard (Acceptance) Techniques to Manage Anxiety in Students Who Are Studying While Working

Students who work while studying often experience anxiety and difficulty in managing time, which hurts their learning outcomes and emotional well-being. This study aims to understand the initial state of the counselee, the process of applying therapy, and the impact of applying Client-Centered Theory with Positive Regard (Acceptance) techniques in managing the anxiety of these students. This research uses a qualitative approach with observation, documentation, and interview methods, and the type of case study research. The results showed positive changes in the counselee after therapy, including improvements in positive affirmations, emotional management, and social interactions. The counselee began to smile more often, take a deep breath, worship more diligently, and show improvement in interacting with family. In conclusion, applying Client-Centered Theory with Positive Regard (Acceptance) techniques effectively manages the anxiety of students who study while working. This therapy helps counselees to accept themselves, think positively, and improve emotional and social well-being. It is hoped that the counselee will continue to remember Allah as a source of strength and understand that everything happens by His will, including the challenges faced.

Innovation intermediaries in the digital transformation process. A comparative case study of research and technology organisations in the US and the UK

Innovation intermediaries in the digital transformation process. A comparative case study of research and technology organisations in the US and the UK

A qualitative case study of constructivist teaching at a high school in a northern area of Vietnam

<span>This study aims to identify the English high school teachers’ beliefs at a high school in the northern region of Vietnam regarding constructivist teaching (CT) and their actual classroom practices (CP). This paper summarizes results from a five-year Ph.D. study conducted with seven high-school English teachers within a qualitative case study research design with the help of three data collection instruments, including semi-structured and Stimulated recall interviews and direct classroom observations. Thematic analysis using MAXQDA was chosen for data analysis. The findings uncovered themes that emerged from the data, which might lay the foundation for classifying teachers into three groups: adaptive originators (AOs), neutral pragmatists (NPs), and traditional conservers (TCs). Most TCs’ teaching philosophies were teacher-centered and supportive of conventional teaching techniques. Still, the NPs acknowledged that instructional strategies needed to be changed. The AOs sought to change how teachers used CT; they actively put strategy into place to bring about meaningful change. These results were valuable references for high school teachers to assist their students with better constructivist instruction, thus enhancing the quality of teaching and learning English in the 4.0 era.</span>

李日华的书法史观和书学要求

Li Rihua (1565–1635) was a renowned literary figure, collector, and connoisseur in the late Ming Dynasty. Throughout his life, he devoted himself to calligraphy and painting, producing a wealth of writings. The late Ming period, in which Li Rihua lived, was characterized by the integration of various intellectual currents, resulting in a highly complex and pluralistic academic landscape. In this historical context, Li Rihua, as a Ming scholar-official, experienced significant changes in his mindset. Currently, there is still a scarcity of research on Li Rihua's calligraphic thought. This paper adopts a dual approach that combines historical materials with contemporary scholarly works, using Li Rihua’s extensive writings and colophons as a foundation to systematically summarize and analyze his views on the history of calligraphy and his requirements for calligraphic learning. Through this, the study aims to outline Li Rihua's overall understanding of the historical perspectives on calligraphy and the essential criteria for learning calligraphy. From the perspectives of calligraphic styles and calligraphers, this paper examines Li Rihua’s historical views on calligraphy, exploring the key themes in calligraphy and its orthodox evolution as perceived by this high-ranking Ming scholar. Li Rihua’s calligraphic learning requirements were deeply influenced by his Confucian background. Within this framework, he proposed several metaphysical principles for calligraphy learning: first, the “Theory of Innate Spirit in Calligraphy,” and second, the “Theory of Broad-mindedness in Calligraphy.” Based on these principles, he presented profound insights into the study of calligraphy. By analyzing the calligraphic perspectives of Li Rihua, a late Ming scholar with extensive social connections and multiple identities, we can reconstruct the general calligraphic attitudes and the underlying causes of calligraphic thought among late Ming scholars. Furthermore, by examining Li Rihua’s unique calligraphic ideas, we can reassess the value of his calligraphic thought, providing an additional perspective and case study for research on late Ming calligraphic thought. 李日华（1565年-1635年）是明末享有盛名的文学家、收藏家和鉴赏家，其一生寄情于书画，著述丰富。李日华生活的晚明时期，思潮融合，学术思想极其复杂，思想体系呈现出多元化的面貌。处于这样的一个历史时期，作为明代士人的李日华心态也发生了重大变化。 目前关于研究李日华书学思想的资料还比较少，笔者在此拟用史料和当代人论著二重结合的方法，以李日华的大量著作和题跋为根基，对其书法史观和书学要求进行系统的归纳和梳理，从而勾勒出李日华对书法史观念和书学要求的总体认识。 本文从书体和书家的角度对李日华的书法史观进行梳理，窥探出这位明代高级士人眼里的书法重点脉络和他的书法正统演变。李日华的儒学思想是其根基，这也对其书学要求产生了深远的影响。李日华在儒学背景下，就对书学提出了许多的形而上要求，一为学书的性灵论，二为学书的胸次论，其在此基础上对书法的学习提出了卓然的见解。 我们不仅可以从李日华这样一个交游广泛、具有多重身份的明末士人的书学观点中还原出明末士人的大致书学态度、书学观点成因。还可以在李日华的一些个性书学思想中重新对李日华的书学做价值评估，为明末书学思想的研究多提供一个视角、一个个案。

Effects of Police Operational Factors in Managing Juvenile Gang Crime in Kisauni Sub County, Kenya

For many years, Kisauni has always been known as a crime zone with Juvenile criminal gangs terrorizing the residents. Despite the Kenya police service presence, crime is still on the increase than decrease trend. Hence this paper sought to examine the effect of operational factors in managing of Juvenile gang crime. The research was predicated on a case study research design. The study comprised of 288 main respondents and used interview method to collect data which was analyzed using NVIVO software. Descriptive statistics such as use of histogram was used to present data while content analysis was used to interpret data and presented it using verbatim quotes. Operational factors such as poor communication network, systemic corruption in the police department and political influence, inadequate training of officers and poor transport network were found to affect the Kenya police service officers responses in managing juvenile gang crimes in Kisauni sub county. Major recommendations made by this study include legal and policy frameworks that tame activities of Juvenile criminal gangs whose networks are transnational in nature, Strengthening the police- community collaboration in the spirit of community policing, increase police funding to facilitate police operations, increase police training reforms, indulgence of non governmental organizations in wealth and job creations for the youth and in eradication of poverty.

Building relationships, not just locations: Transforming economic development in small cities

This article examines how smaller cities like Clarksburg, West Virginia can enhance economic development outcomes through relationship marketing rather than traditional promotional approaches. Drawing on case study research comparing Clarksburg with five benchmark communities, the study reveals that successful relationship marketing implementation begins with strategic process changes and mindset evolution rather than significant resource expansion. Four relationship marketing principles particularly applicable to resource-constrained communities include trust development through transparent communication, segment-specific personalization, multi-stakeholder coordination, and systematic relationship maintenance. The research presents a phased implementation model for transforming economic development communications from location promotion to relationship development.

Pendekatan Guru Profesional dalam Mengatasi Hambatan Belajar pada Pembelajaran Sejarah Kebudayaan Islam

This study examines the professionalism of teachers in overcoming student learning difficulties in the subject of Islamic Cultural History (SKI) at MTsN 4 Mojokerto. Using a qualitative approach with a case study research type, this study aims to analyze innovative strategies applied by teachers in facilitating effective SKI learning. Data collection was conducted through in-depth interviews, participant observation, and documentation studies, with data analysis using the Miles and Huberman interactive model. The results show that SKI teachers apply high professionalism through careful lesson planning and implementation of comprehensive learning strategies. The main strategies include a student-oriented approach, inquiry/discovery learning, and integrating various learning resources. Teacher professionalism is reflected in the ability to analyze class situations, the use of varied learning methods, and the use of diverse learning media. The implementation of this strategy shows a positive impact on SKI learning, characterized by increased student interest in learning and the creation of a conducive learning atmosphere. This success is supported by teachers' commitment to continuous professional development and adequate institutional support from the school.

The Data Governance Journey in Practice: Insights from Case Study Research

ABSTRACT This paper examines case study research exploring the operationalization of organizational Data Governance (DG) programmes. In total, 20 case studies are coded using an inductive open coding approach. Following an analysis of practitioner experiences in these case studies a series of DG practice insights emerge. They reveal that DG theory does not resonate with practitioners, and the management of people and their data behaviors have the most influence on DG programme outcomes. Our findings provide a better understanding of DG programmes ‘on the ground’. We also develop a DG readiness primer to guide practitioners on their future DG programme journeys.

Preparing the next generation of scholars to produce and defend case study research: an evaluative case study

ABSTRACT Faculty at research universities are responsible for training the next generation of scholars to conduct qualitative studies so they can produce and defend work that attends to the issues from which they hope to build their academic careers. Faculty must also teach these doctoral students in a manner that helps prepare them to instruct future generations about how to engage in such research activities. Yet, this can be a challenge for many faculty, including myself. As such, I share data from an evaluative case study of an advanced qualitative case study methodology course I taught to investigate how I am/am not assisting these doctoral students in understanding as well as advocating for their work while also developing the skills required to instruct their future students. Examining these issues not only creates the opportunity for me to reflect on my own pedagogical practices but also to consider how faculty who teach qualitative research courses can support doctoral students in making sense of and defending these research methodologies while fostering their skills in becoming future instructors of such approaches to research.

The Role of Green Digital Marketing in Driving Consumer Engagement and Brand Loyalty: A Study on Sustainable Product Adoption

This paper aims at examining the application of green marketing by comparing and contrasting the best examples of three companies: Tesla, Patagonia, and Unilever. The studies focus on the strategies that organizations apply to incorporate sustainability into their marketing strategies and its effects on customers, brand image, and revenues. A case study research design was used and data from published reports, sustainability reports, firms’ web sites and relevant academic literature were utilized to evaluate the effectiveness and effectiveness of issues of green marketing. According to the analysis, Tesla had the highest growth due to the growing demand for electric vehicles and solar energy products all over the world. Patagonia used a theory of ethical consumerism as well as radical transparency which made consumers trust the company hence the loyalty. Thus, the definitive green crusade of Unilever came across issues with regard to lack of consumer credibility and green-washing controversies. An online poll with an equal number of respondents found out that 44 percent of the consumers are skeptical about the sustainability disclosures of large corporations; an insight that alerts marketers to the importance of trust as a component of green marketing communication. Although the concept of green marketing has some advantages of brand positioning and customer loyalty, some barriers pointed in this paper are regulation barrier, high cost of implementation, and consumer skepticism barrier. Therefore, the research makes the following recommendations for organizations planning to improve their sustainability: These include the need to engage in the provision of the truth and nothing but the truth, the need for third-party certifications, and the need to develop innovative products. Thus, on the basis of actual cases, the empirical study participates to the advancement of knowledge on sustainable marketing management and provides specific managerial recommendations that can enhance the development of a responsible brand for organizations that want to sustain themselves in the long term.

237 Improving collaboration opportunities for implementation scientists conducting pragmatic trials and hybrid effectiveness-implementation trials

Objectives/Goals: Dissemination and implementation scientists often conflate or confuse pragmatic trials and effectiveness-implementation trial designs. This study evaluates the barriers and facilitators affecting these scientists’ collaborative work to design, plan for, and conduct these different kinds of trials. Methods/Study Population: This is a sequential mixed-methods study. For the quantitative evaluation secondary data collection and surveys of roughly 200 investigators constituting an Implementation Science Network were carried out to identify research needs and impacts associated with the Translational Science Benefits Model. Surveys were prepopulated with respondents’ grant awards and prompts to define the study designs being used. Interviews of respondents are being conducted to identify barriers and challenges they faced in conducting different implementation trials and to develop case studies of their resultant research agendas. A peer-reviewed interview protocol designed for Clinical and Translational Research Institutes to conduct case studies of translational research is being used for this qualitative evaluation. Results/Anticipated Results: The 182 ISN members submitted 1590 research proposals since 2020, 52% of which were funded. ISN members responding to surveys (N = 30) self-identified many of these studies as being Hybrid 3 (29%), Hybrid 1 (17%), or Pragmatic trials (7%), although the largest proportion included studies classified “other” (33%), and some could not be classified (12%). Surveys of ISN members also indicated that many want to conduct pragmatic trials (36%) or hybrid trials (8%) but need more opportunities to collaborate (19%). Twelve (40%) ISN members agreed to be interviewed and another 11 (37%) indicated that they would do so in fall 2024 if available. Initial findings suggest that regular interactions with colleagues helped investigators new to the field understand how varied study designs could advance their implementation science. Discussion/Significance of Impact: These findings will show how U-M implementation scientists collaborate to conduct implementation trials. If the kinds of barriers faced by investigators differs by trial type, research supports and initiatives can be tailored to better support all implementation scientists in the CTSA Consortium.

IoT-Based Framework for Connected Municipal Public Services in a Strategic Digital City Context

The use of digital technology resources in public services enhances efficiency, responsiveness, and citizens’ quality of life through improved resource management, real-time monitoring, and service performance. The objective is to create and apply an IoT-based framework for connected municipal public services in a strategic digital city context. The research employed a modeling process validated in a Brazilian city, identifying seven related frameworks and four themes through a bibliometric review. The original framework comprises three constructs, eight subconstructs, and 12 variables, validated through a case study inquiry. The results revealed that the researched city has yet to enlarge IoT into its municipal public services as part of a digital city project initiative. Key recommendations for IoT implementation include prioritizing the preferences of digital citizens, expanding critical services suited for IoT, and updating municipal strategies to incorporate IT resources to streamline decision-making. The conclusion reiterates that the IoT framework for municipal services is effective when actionable information supports strategic planning and decision-making and highlights the transformative potential of IoT in driving more resilient and sustainable cities aligned with citizens’ needs. This approach allows public managers to enhance citizens’ quality of life while improving the efficiency and responsiveness of urban management processes and services.

An Evaluation on the Effectiveness of M&E in Enhancing the Performance of CDF Funded Projects at the Local Level: A case study of Petauke Central Constituency

The study evaluated the effectiveness of monitoring, and evaluation on the performance of CDF funded projects in Petauke Central constituency. The study was guided by the following objectives namely; to establish how M&E processes are being done during the implementation of CDF projects at local level, to examine the implementation of M and E in CDF funded projects, to analyse the impact of executing M&E during CDF projects implementation, and to assess the challenges faced in the implementation of M and E during the implementation CDF projects. The theory that guided this study was Results-based theory. The study employed an explorative case study research approach in addressing the research problem. The structured questionnaires were used to collect data from respondents. A sample of 100 respondents was used in the research. Purposive and random sampling techniques were used to get the sample for the study. Data was analyzed through descriptive statistics and thematic analysis methods. Findings indicated that the effect of M&E on the performance of the CDF projects can be realized through factors such as enhancing staff training in M&E, promoting local stakeholder interest in M&E as well as engagement of local stakeholders in the implementation process of CDF projects. It was further found that project monitoring has a positive relationship with public projects since project monitoring leads to project usefulness, hence ensuring the performance of the project; this implies that to attain usefulness to CDF project specifically in Petauke Central constituency. Moreover, the study indicated that project evaluation has a positive relationship with the performance of the CDF projects. For instance, achievement of project objectives, goals, development effectiveness, efficiency, impact, and sustainability seem to be vital toward attaining project sustainability. The study concluded that monitoring of the project needs to be strengthened toward CDF project performance at local level.

Integrating Social Innovation Education into Higher Education Curricula to Address the Agenda for the 2030 Sustainable Development Goals

The 2030 agenda for sustainable development is described as a plan of action for people, planet and prosperity that seeks to strengthen universal peace. While Goal 4 of the SDG Agenda focuses on equitable quality education and the promotion of lifelong learning opportunities for all, education is the panacea that will ensure the realisation of the seventeen universal goals that would transform developing and developed countries alike. Therefore, educational institutions have a fundamental role to play in the realisation of these goals. The purpose of this study was to investigate the extent HEIs are integrating social innovation education into higher education curricula to address the agenda for the 2030 sustainable development goals. A qualitative case study research design was adopted for this study. The target population for this study consisted of students from different faculties. Purposive sampling was used. Data was collected using focus group interviews and analysed using content analysis. Key findings reveal that HEI students believe that social innovation education integrated into the curriculum will provoke impactful discussions about the current environment, and existential and socio-economic crisis. Graduates must be competent in social innovation and global citizenship to prepare for the world of work and life. To effectively harness and accelerate these capabilities, higher education institutions (HEIs) must reimagine their teaching methods and curricula to meet the demands of future generations. The creation of new a model for higher education, social innovation education, will promote the development of more critical and socially impactful graduate attributes.

Hari Bae Nagi: Semana Santa Procession in the Easter of the Larantuka People

The purpose of this research is to find out about the Larantuka religious tradition which they call Hari Bae Nagi, or known throughout the world as Semana Santa Larantuka. In this research, researchers used a qualitative approach with the type of research case study research and in nature descriptive. A qualitative approach is an important approach to understand a social phenomenon and the perspective of the individual being studied. The qualitative approach is also the research procedure produces descriptive data in the form of written words or verbally from the behavior of the people being observed. Research results show that Semana Santa in Larantuka is a legacy of the Portuguese colonial people. However, the inclusion of Semana Santa as a way of life for the Larantuka people from the past until now was not forced because the Larantuka people themselves were historically a mixture of immigrants (Portuguese, Topas, and Malacca natives who were Catholic). They came and lived side by side in harmony with the native people. When Catholicism became the religion of the Larantuka kingdom, there was a real element of peaceful acceptance of this religion, along with its variant in the form of Semana Santa. Semana Santa, which is the culmination of the Larantuka people's spiritual life for a year, is a legacy passed down from their ancestors. The position of tribes which are still taken into account and given a place in Semana Santa provides evidence that this procession is a perfect peaceful merger between local religion and Catholicism, as well as tribal "breeds" in the traditional life of the Larantuka people. This is now just waiting for its development by the current generation, as a true practice of living faith.