Clear Policy Research Articles

Peran Kepala Sekolah dalam Meningkatkan Mutu Sumber Daya Manusia

The purpose of this study is to explain and describe the role of the principal in improving the quality of human resources at Al-Ghafur Vocational High School in Sumenep. The research method used is qualitative through a case study. Data collection techniques include interviews, observations, and documentation. The results of the study show that the principal's strategy in improving the quality of human resources includes the design and development of a curriculum that meets the needs of students, with a primary focus on HR management. The goal is for all school members to have a high spirit to advance the educational institution. Other strategic steps include regular performance monitoring and evaluation, as well as staff training and skills development. The principal also strives to build good relationships with the community through meetings with students' guardians, social activities, and school events. As an educational manager, the principal focuses on improving HR quality through regular planning, organizing, directing, coordinating, and supervising. Factors such as effective leadership, a supportive organizational culture, clear policy implementation, technology development, and HR training also play important roles in improving HR quality.

A Changing Landscape: Exploring the Relationship between Clean and Clear Status Policy, Coal Mining, and Deforestation

Coal plays a crucial role in energy generation in developing nations and serves as a vital source of power amidst growing energy demands. However, coal mining often acts as a primary driver of deforestation and poses significant environmental challenges. Indonesia, a country with extensive forest areas and a significant coal producer, has implemented a Clean and Clear status policy to address regional and administrative issues related to mining permits. This study aims to assess the impact of this government permit for coal mining in forest areas using the fixed effect panel data method, offering insights into the relationship between coal mining activities and deforestation trends. The analysis focused on the period from 2010 to 2019 and covered 110 regencies in Indonesia, providing a comprehensive understanding of the spatial and temporal dynamics of forest loss. The estimation findings indicated a negative correlation between the areas allocated for coal mining concession permits and forest areas, underscoring the need for stringent regulations and effective land management practices. Therefore, it is recommended that the Clean and Clear status policy not only be applicable during the permit granting phase, but also prioritize post-mining periods to ensure the completion of land reclamation activities.

Global burden of 288 causes of death and life expectancy decomposition in 204 countries and territories and 811 subnational locations, 1990–2021: a systematic analysis for the Global Burden of Disease Study 2021

Global burden of 288 causes of death and life expectancy decomposition in 204 countries and territories and 811 subnational locations, 1990–2021: a systematic analysis for the Global Burden of Disease Study 2021

Initiating Immersive Teaching and Learning Service in Academic Libraries

This is Part 2 of the paper “Initiating Immersive Teaching and Learning Service in Academic Libraries” by Plamen Miltenoff (Part 1 published in the previous issue of International Information and Library Review DOI: 10.1080/10572317.2024.2301864). In Part 2 “Pedagogical opportunities, including integration into an information literacy programme” the methodology applies contextual analysis, including systematic literature review. The paper highlights how virtual reality has great potential as a technology for learning and social engagement. However, the need for clear policies is highlighted regarding technology, along with the need to invest in infrastructure and resources, fostering collaboration among stakeholders and promoting equity and access. As with other educational technologies, academic libraries remain the best candidates for hosting a university-level sandbox of immersive teaching and learning.

Relationship between workplace ostracism and knowledge hiding; mediational role of reciprocity beliefs among college teachers

Based on the social exchange theory and conservation of resources theory, the present research aimed to study the role of reciprocity beliefs in the relationship between workplace ostracism and knowledge hiding among college teachers. The study was conducted on a sample of 490 college teachers (i.e., 250 men & 240 women). The sample's age ranged from 24 to 58 years (M = 28, SD = 1.30). Psychometrically strong measurement tools were used to measure the constructs. Simple linear regression analysis demonstrated workplace ostracism as a significant positive predictor of knowledge hiding for college teachers. Mediation analysis demonstrated that negative and generalized reciprocity beliefs significantly mediated the relationship between workplace ostracism and knowledge hiding. This research will help organizations develop clear policies that encourage knowledge sharing and provide support systems for instructors with experience of ostracism. Limitations and suggestions of the current study for further empirical endeavors have also been discussed.

Diversity of returnee executives' foreign experience and corporate social responsibility performance.

Top managers' past experiences (e.g., foreign experience) significantly impact their decision-making behavior, which may influence firms' sustainable development. The available literature, focusing on the role of the increase in the number of top executives with foreign experience in corporate social responsibility (CSR), yields mixed results. In order to clarify the ambiguous relationship between executive foreign experience and CSR, we empirically examine the effect of the geographic diversity of top executives' foreign experience on CSR. Based on a hand-collected dataset of the top management team's (TMT's) foreign experience, we demonstrate the positive impact of the geographic diversity of returnee executives' foreign experience on firms' CSR using Chinese A-share listed firms from 2009 to 2018. Moreover, this impact is stronger in firms with political connections with the central government and in regions with good market development. Furthermore, the mechanism analysis shows that returnee executives drive firms' CSR by promoting corporate donations and green innovation. This paper offers clear policy implications by suggesting that hiring returnees with a broad geographic scope of foreign experience as corporate executives is an efficient way to enhance firms' CSR.

Komunikasi Krisis Dalam Organisasi: Analisis Naratif Tentang Pengelolaan Konflik Internal

This research aims to examine internal conflict management in organizations through narrative analysis of crisis communication. Qualitative methods were used to understand the causes of conflict, crisis management strategies, leadership roles, the impact of conflict, communication techniques used, and policies and procedures implemented in the organization. Data were collected through in-depth interviews, participatory observation, and document analysis. The results revealed that internal conflicts are often caused by differences in interests, lack of effective communication, and organizational change. Effective crisis management strategies involve open communication, mediation, and a proactive approach. Responsive and thoughtful leadership plays a key role in conflict resolution. Poorly managed conflict negatively impacts productivity, employee morale, and team collaboration, and damages the organization's image. Communication techniques such as collaborative approaches and assertive communication are essential in managing crises. The practical implications of these findings are the need for the development of clear conflict resolution policies, conflict management training, promotion of open communication, and periodic evaluation of policy effectiveness. With a comprehensive approach, organizations can improve work dynamics and strengthen teamwork.

Usability of ChatGPT in the english essay writing proficiency of the BEED students

The advancement of AI technology, especially in language processing systems like ChatGPT, creates opportunities for students to elevate their writing skills. This study aimed to explore the relationship between the usability of ChatGPT and the English essay writing proficiency of the BEED students. The study utilized a descriptive correlational design to investigate the relationship. A sample of 58 participants was selected to write an essay with the assistance of ChatGPT. Researchers developed and employed a rubric to assess the quality and ethical use of ChatGPT. Then, the participants answered the USE questionnaire to measure their perceived usability of ChatGPT. The result revealed that BEED students perceived ChatGPT as beneficial in enhancing their essays and found the system easy to use, and learn, and provided satisfying results. The participants also expressed a strong sense of contentment regarding using ChatGPT. The essay writing proficiency assessment revealed that BEED students were proficient writers. However, a Pearson correlation coefficient of 0.042 showed a statistically significant but very weak relationship observed between ChatGPT usability and English essay writing proficiency levels. It can be concluded that ChatGPT may improve students' essay writing proficiency to a minimal extent. Moreover, this study recommended further research to explore ChatGPT's use in other academic outputs, refine the rubrics to include vocabulary, grammar, and sentence structure criteria, and provide training for effective AI tool management among students. Also, policymakers should establish clear policies and guidelines to ensure the responsible and ethical use of ChatGPT, maintaining academic integrity and enhancing writing proficiency.

Employee Advocacy Programs in Public Relations

Purpose: The general aim of the study was to determine how the implementation of employee advocacy programs influences the effectiveness of employee advocacy programs in the context of public relations.
 Methodology: The study adopted a desktop research methodology. Desk research refers to secondary data or that which can be collected without fieldwork. Desk research is basically involved in collecting data from existing resources hence it is often considered a low cost technique as compared to field research, as the main cost is involved in executive’s time, telephone charges and directories. Thus, the study relied on already published studies, reports and statistics. This secondary data was easily accessed through the online journals and library.
 Findings: The findings reveal that there exists a contextual and methodological gap relating to employee advocacy programs in public relations. Preliminary empirical review revealed that that these initiatives played a significant role in shaping organizational culture, enhancing brand perception, and fostering stakeholder relationships. Through a comprehensive review of empirical research, it was found that employee advocacy positively influenced employee engagement, organizational reputation, consumer trust, and crisis management. Factors such as leadership support, clear communication, organizational culture, and employee training were identified as critical drivers of program success. Additionally, research highlighted the impact of advocacy programs on consumer trust and purchase intentions, emphasizing their strategic value in building brand credibility and loyalty. Future research is encouraged to explore emerging trends and best practices in employee advocacy.
 Unique Contribution to Theory, Practice and Policy: The Social Identity, Social Exchange and Social Learning theories may be used to anchor future studies on employee advocacy programs in public relations. The study provided valuable recommendations that contributed to theory, practice, and policy in the field. It suggested further exploration of theoretical frameworks such as Social Identity Theory and Social Exchange Theory to better understand employee advocacy dynamics. Practitioners were advised to prioritize leadership support, authenticity, and transparency in advocacy efforts while investing in training and development programs for employees. Additionally, the study recommended the development of clear policies and metrics to guide and evaluate advocacy initiatives. Emphasis was placed on fostering a supportive organizational culture, promoting collaboration, and cross-functional integration to maximize the impact of employee advocacy programs.

VILLAGE GOVERNMENT MANAGEMENT ON THE EFFECTIVENESS OF ACHIEVING THE VILLAGE AUTONOMY PROGRAM THROUGH THE PERFORMANCE OF VILLAGE APPARATUSES IN GARUT REGENCY

The village apparatus in the Garut Regency still needs to be fixed. It is suspected that the village autonomy program will be less successful because the management of village governance has yet to be implemented. This study intends to examine the influence of village government management on the effectiveness of regional apparatus in implementing the village autonomy program. Utilizing a survey approach, quantitative and descriptive analysis is the research methodology used. The research target group was 421 villages included in the village administration in Garut Regency, with 81 villages being the sample of 81 respondents. Statistical analysis method using path analysis is the applied data analysis technique. Based on the discussion results, the village government's management needs to disseminate development to the community optimally. The performance of the village apparatus could have been better for the independence of the apparatus in carrying out its duties and responsibilities and the effectiveness of the achievement of the village autonomy program. The findings of the research results are suggested to the government of Garut Regency to increase the effectiveness of achieving the village autonomy program to make clear and detailed village strategic policy formulations.

Pathways for enhancing sustainable mobility in emerging markets: Cost-benefit analysis and policy recommendations for recycling of electric-vehicle batteries in Thailand

To transition towards sustainable mobility in emerging economies, fostering the use of electric vehicles (EVs) is required. This necessitates the development of an efficient management system for end-of-life (EoL) EV batteries under a circular economy principle. Using Thailand as a case study, this paper provides a holistic analysis by developing a Cost-Benefit Analysis (CBA) and deriving policy implications from the CBA results that consider stakeholder perspectives at the micro level and the uncertainties of future development. The findings suggest that the economies of scale (plant centralization) and the share of cathode chemistries play pivotal roles. In some cases, investment incentives may be required depending on the inflow of EoL batteries, technological advancements, and market volatility. A policy mix combining EoL volume-focused (i.e., enhancing battery collection rates/imports and establishing a clear policy roadmap for scaling up recycling operations) and monetary measures (i.e., taxes and financial subsidies) is essential to establish recycling facilities.

Heart failure care in the Central and Eastern Europe and Baltic region: status, barriers, and routes to improvement.

Despite improvements over recent years, morbidity and mortality associated with heart failure (HF) are higher in countries in the Central and Eastern Europe and Baltic region than in Western Europe. With the goal of improving the standard of HF care and patient outcomes in the Central and Eastern Europe and Baltic region, this review aimed to identify the main barriers to optimal HF care and potential areas for improvement. This information was used to suggest methods to improve HF management and decrease the burden of HF in the region that can be implemented at the national and regional levels. We performed a literature search to collect information about HF epidemiology in 11 countries in the region (Bulgaria, Croatia, Czechia, Estonia, Hungary, Latvia, Lithuania, Poland, Romania, Serbia, and Slovenia). The prevalence of HF in the region was 1.6-4.7%, and incidence was 3.1-6.0 per 1000person-years. Owing to the scarcity of published data on HF management in these countries, we also collected insights on local HF care and management practices via two surveys of 11 HF experts representing the 11 countries. Based on the combined results of the literature review and surveys, we created national HF care and management profiles for each country and developed a common patient pathway for HF for the region. We identified five main barriers to optimal HF care: (i) lack of epidemiological data, (ii) low awareness of HF, (iii) lack of national HF strategies, (iv) infrastructure and system gaps, and (v) poor access to novel HF treatments. To overcome these barriers, we propose the following routes to improvement: (i) establish regional and national prospective HF registries for the systematic collection of epidemiological data; (ii) establish education campaigns for the public, patients, caregivers, and healthcare professionals; (iii) establish formal HF strategies to set clear and measurable policy goals and support budget planning; (iv) improve access to quality-of-care centres, multidisciplinary care teams, diagnostic tests, and telemedicine/telemonitoring; and (v) establish national treatment monitoring programmes to develop policies that ensure that adequate proportions of healthcare budgets are reserved for novel therapies. These routes to improvement represent a first step towards improving outcomes in patients with HF in the Central and Eastern Europe and Baltic region by decreasing disparities in HF care within the region and between the region and Western Europe.

Smart Strategies for Managing Regional Assets: Best Practices in Increase Local Revenue

This study aims to analyze the optimization of asset management consisting of the process of planning, implementing, and supervising regional property. The research method uses a qualitative approach with a phenomenological orientation. The data obtained from the study were analyzed using interactive models. The results showed weaknesses in the stages of planning, implementation, and supervision of assets. Therefore, the strategy to increase regional original revenue (PAD) through the optimization of regional property (BMD), the Gorontalo Provincial Government can take a series of innovation-oriented actions including: 1) A comprehensive asset audit of all assets owned including land, buildings, facilities, and inventory. This audit should include an assessment of the value, condition, and potential reuse. 2) Development of an asset management plan. 3) Involving private parties and communities to identify opportunities for cooperation in asset management. 4) Utilization of software technology to help monitor inventory, maintenance, and sustainability of assets. 5) Data-driven asset management by identifying new trends, market needs, and revenue potential to aid smarter decision-making processes related to asset utilization. 6) Promotion and marketing of assets that can be carried out by regional apparatus organizations (OPD) if they have facilities that can be leased or used commercially to help increase revenue. 7) Improved policies and regulations including procedures for leasing, maintaining, and reusing assets, as clear and flexible policies can support innovation and better asset utilization. The weakness in this study is mainly localisation, which is related to areas that predominantly prioritize local cultural values as the main foundation in their interaction with the surrounding environment. This is due to limitations in consideration of cultural variations that may exist outside the scope of those regions in this study. Therefore, the results of this study require careful consideration when applied in areas that have different cultural diversity or backgrounds.
 Keywords: goverment entities, asymmetric behavior, stabilization

The Nexus between Training and Development and Employee Performance in the County Government of Kakamega, Kenya

The Constitution of Kenya, 2010 promised Kenyans a devolved system of county governments that would bring services closer to people and allow local people and communities to make decisions and manage their affairs through their elected leaders and representatives. Furthermore, article 10, read together with article 232 of the constitution, promises Kenyans good governance and a public service that upholds the principles of integrity. However, the environment for the implementation of devolution has had several obstacles due to various challenges experienced over time. Since the onset of devolution, county governments in Kenya have faced serious performance challenges, some of which have been attributed to the fact that they have not been able to achieve their desired results due to poor employee performance on service delivery. This study sought to investigate the effect of training and development on employee performance in the county government of Kakamega, Kenya. The study used a descriptive research design. The target population for this study was 6,266 employees of the County Government of Kakamega. The study used a sample size population of 375 employees. The data collected for the study were presented using tables and analyzed using Statistical Package for Social Sciences (SPSS). The validity of data instruments was ascertained by both theoretical and empirical literature, while data reliability was confirmed using Cronbach’s alpha test approach. The findings revealed that there was a statistically significant relationship between training and development and employee performance among employees of the County Government of Kakamega. The study recommended that the County Government of Kakamega should prioritize the training and development of employees by committing more budget allocation and supporting these commitments with strategic plans, clear policies, and dedicated establishments to enhance employee performance and service delivery.

Government 2.0: Government-Citizen Engagement through Social Media in Pakistan

This study aims to analyze how the Pakistani public engages with e-government, particularly at the local government level. The research focuses on the social media tools utilized by selected institutions, their social media management practices, institutional policies, and the impact of their initiatives. The study highlights the limited responsiveness of Pakistanis towards e-government adoption. The study shows that Pakistani government institutions are increasingly using social media platforms to engage with the public, establish connections, and receive feedback. However, certain departments need to transition to online platforms, necessitating more digital integration. Government social media administrators include CEOs, regional directors, information officers, and media officers, highlighting the complexity of public sector social media management. The study indicates that numerous social media management departments use data to highlight teamwork but have fewer senior female officers. The most commonly used social media platforms by government agencies are Facebook, official websites, and WhatsApp. Meeting citizens' expectations requires addressing issues, responding to queries, and maximizing the potential of social media. However, despite the popularity of social media, residents still prefer contacting government entities by phone and in person. Therefore, the study emphasizes the importance of clear social media policies for government bodies. The study underscores the need for government institutions to adapt their social media strategies based on public preferences. The report suggests that standard operating procedures (SOPs), varied social media teams, and explicit government social media laws can help improve the situation. The study provides a reliable framework for future research and legislation on government-citizen social media engagement, although it primarily reflects government officials' viewpoints.

Factors influencing the oral health behaviour of Dutch adolescents with mild to borderline intellectual disabilities living in residential care: A qualitative study.

Toothbrushing, limiting intake frequency, and scheduled visits to an oral healthcare professional (OHP) are key for good oral health. We aimed to explore factors influencing these oral health behaviours in Dutch adolescents with mild to borderline intellectual disabilities (MBID) in residential care. Using a qualitative, descriptive approach, we conducted focus groups and interviews with 12 adolescents, 9 counsellors, and 6 OHPs. Thematic analysis mapped factors influencing adolescents' knowledge, attitude, planning, and execution of oral health behaviours to oral care stakeholders. Of nine identified influencing factors, three were pivotal: Structure (influencing toothbrushing and intake frequency), Anxiety (impeding dental visits), and Support (provided by counsellors). Counsellors should provide structured daily guidance on oral hygiene and diet for adolescents with MBID, while respecting the adolescents' autonomy. As intermediaries between adolescents and OHPs, counsellors are key in reducing dental anxiety. Counsellors need clear oral health policies within care facilities to address competing priorities.

Effects of land use and land cover change under shared socioeconomic pathways on future climate in the Yellow River basin, China

The Yellow River basin of China has experienced significant land use and land cover change (LUCC) due to excessive exploitation of nature resources, ecological degradation, and rapid urbanization, which plays an important role in the regional climate. It is crucial to explore the climate patterns of the basin under different future development scenarios to mitigate climate issues and achieve “carbon peaking and carbon neutrality goals”. Here we utilized land use and land cover (LULC) data and projections of future climate under two shared socioeconomic path – representative concentration path (SSP245 and SSP585) scenarios. Using the Weather Research and Forecasting (WRF) model, we simulated four future spatial variation patterns of temperature and precipitation in the basin. Results indicated that under the SSP245 and SSP585 scenarios, the temperature is projected to increase by 0.18 °C and 0.46 °C, respectively, while precipitation is expected to rise by 32.21 mm and 134.24 mm, respectively. The impact of LUCC was found to be relatively minor and mainly concentrated in the middle reaches of the basin. It resulted in a slight increase in temperature in both scenarios and an increase in precipitation in SSP245, but a decrease in precipitation in SSP585. Changes in farmland and urban area exhibited a certain warming effect in both scenarios, with urban areas having a greater influence, leading to a temperature increase by 0.25 °C and 0.28 °C, respectively. Forest, grassland, and bare areas had a lesser impact on temperature and showed different trends under two scenarios. Regarding precipitation, forests and urban areas had a greater influence in both SSP245 and SSP585 scenarios. This study identified the significant role of LUCC under different development scenarios in shaping future temperature and precipitation changes, providing valuable insights for effectively addressing climate issues in the Yellow River basin. It also highlights the need for clear policy recommendations and identifies institutions or agencies responsible for implementing such recommendations.

Challenges Encountered by the SLP Beneficiaries in the Operations of the Marinated Boneless Milkfish Business

This study explores and develops an in-depth understanding of challenges encountered by the SLP beneficiaries towards business operations regarding food waste management, policy implementation, business marketing, records management, and supply chain. The output of this study will serve as the basis for further training enhancement programs. A qualitative study using the case study method was conducted in the municipality of Candijay, Bohol. Selected members of Mauswagong Pundok sa Pantawid SLP Association who were officers undergo an exploratory interview in the first phase as a basis for the structured interview guide for phase two interview. The findings have highlighted the interplay of various factors that influence the success and sustainability of this venture, encompassing food waste management, policy implementation, business marketing, records management, and supply chain management. The challenges encountered by SLP beneficiaries in the operations of the Marinated Boneless Milkfish business are multifaceted and interconnected. Addressing these challenges requires a collaborative effort from various stakeholders, including government agencies, non-governmental organizations, and the beneficiaries themselves. The theoretical contribution and originality of this research lie in its holistic examination of the challenges encountered by beneficiaries of the Marinated Boneless Milkfish business, considering the intersection of various elements. This research uniquely integrates these factors into a comprehensive analysis. This approach allows for a more nuanced understanding of how these challenges are interrelated and how addressing them collectively can lead to a more sustainable and prosperous business model. The findings of this research have significant implications for practitioners and policymakers. Clear and supportive policies regarding environmental regulations, quality standards, and fisheries management are vital to creating a conducive business environment. For practitioners, there is an urgent need to address food waste management by exploring innovative sourcing and preservation techniques, and potentially partnering with organizations to reduce waste. Keywords: Business Management, Challenges Encountered, Qualitative Research, Thematic Analysis

Economic policy uncertainty: Global energy security with diversification

Global energy security is a growing worldwide concern in the presence of high economic policy uncertainty (EPU) that can be addressed by advancing sustainable energy diversification (ED) practices. Energy security can be estimated by combining ED and EPU indices; hence, this study uses a dataset covering three continents and 26 countries from 1995 to 2023 to measure energy security employing this approach. The study employs quantile regression and panel data analysis, finding a positive relationship between EPU and ED. The results reveal that when EPU increases, the spectrum of energy sources declines, negatively impacting energy security. Other factors of globalization, Gross Domestic Product, gross capital formation, and the labor force also have an impact on the spectrum of energy sources. To obtain a sustainable level of ED, policymakers should increase investment in gross capital formation because economic growth and openness via pro-global policies have less impact on ED. This study also demonstrates that labor capital shifts have a significant effect on ED. The quantitative results reveal the importance of clear and precise economic policies for increasing investment in carbon-free energy security.

Equity in family planning policies and programs in Uganda: conceptualization, dimensions and implementation constraints

BackgroundEquity is at the core and a fundamental principle of achieving the family planning (FP) 2030 Agenda. However, the conceptualization, definition, and measurement of equity remain inconsistent and unclear in many FP programs and policies. This paper aims to document the conceptualization, dimensions and implementation constraints of equity in FP policies and programs in Uganda.MethodsA review of Ugandan literature and key informant interviews with 25 key stakeholders on equity in FP was undertaken between April and July 2020. We searched Google, Google Scholar and PubMed for published and grey literature from Uganda on equity in FP. A total of 112 documents were identified, 25 met the inclusion criteria and were reviewed. Data from the selected documents were extracted into a Google master matrix in MS Excel. Data analysis was done across the thematic areas by collating similar information. Data were analyzed using thematic content analysis approach.ResultsA limited number of documents had an explicit definition of equity, which varied across documents and stakeholders. The definitions revolved around universal access to FP information and services. There was a limited focus on equity in FP programs in Uganda. The dimensions most commonly used to assess equity were either geographical location, or socio-demographics, or wealth quintile. Almost all the key informants noted that equity is a very important element, which needs to be part of FP programming. However, implementation constraints (e.g. lack of quality comprehensive FP services, duplicated FP programs and a generic design of FP programs with limited targeting of the underserved populations) continue to hinder effective implementation of equitable FP programs in Uganda. Clients’ constraints (e.g. limited contraceptive information) and policy constraints (inadequate focus on equity in policy documents) also remain key challenges.ConclusionsThere is lack of a common understanding and definition of equity in FP programs in Uganda. There is need to build consensus on the definitions and measurements of equity with a multidimensional lens to inform clear policy and programming focus on equity in FP programs and outcomes. To improve equitable access to and use of FP services, attention must be paid to addressing implementation, client and policy constraints.