Collaborative Support Research Articles

A proposal for a comprehensive protocol to develop and provide user-tailored assistive technology

BACKGROUND: Various models, frameworks, and systems have been established to support persons with disabilities in accessing assistive technology (AT). This paper highlights the commonalities and complementary aspects of these resources for the optimal selection of the most appropriate AT for a particular user. The selection process considers the user characteristics, abilities, needs, and environment. However, it does not provide a specific methodology for tailoring this technology to individual users. OBJECTIVE: This study reports on the experience of an interdisciplinary team formed in 2001 to develop user-tailored AT. The team established a systematic methodology, detailed as a step-by-step protocol. METHODS: A survey was conducted to validate the protocol’s effectiveness and assess the impact of user-tailored AT. Participants included users and stakeholders. Quantitative data were requested and complemented with qualitative information. RESULTS: Eighty-one participants were involved, with 92.6% reliant on augmentative and alternative communication (AAC) systems. A user-tailored AT was developed for this cohort, with a sustained usage rate of 56.4%. Quantitative analysis revealed a 40% reduction in reported difficulties, and Individually Prioritized Problem Assessment (IPPA) scores demonstrated a corresponding 40% improvement in overall effectiveness. The qualitative data corroborated these findings, highlighting positive user feedback and underlining the significance of family support and interdisciplinary collaboration. CONCLUSIONS: The proposed methodology offers a step-by-step protocol that complements current models and frameworks and aims to guide individuals and teams that develop user-tailored AT for persons with disabilities. Additionaly, this study reflects the importance of applying user-tailored AT to improve the quality of life of persons with disabilities.

Prevailing Organizational Culture Strategies in Public Primary Schools in Rorya District Council, Tanzania

The study investigated the prevailing organizational culture strategies in public primary schools in Rorya District. The study was guided by cultural dimensions theory and organizational culture model. The study employed pragmatism research philosophy and concurrent triangulation mixed research design. The target population comprised Chairpersons of School Management Committees, teachers, and heads of schools. Questionnaires and interviews were used for data collection. To ensure validity and reliability, various strategies were implemented, including expert reviews, member checking, Cronbach’s Alpha, and pilot studies. Data analysis involved descriptive statistics and thematic analysis. Ethical considerations were addressed through obtaining approvals from relevant authorities. The study found that the organizational culture in public primary schools in Rorya District is generally perceived positively by teachers, with strong support for collaboration, shared values, teamwork, and effective communication. The culture also fosters a sense of belonging and commitment to school goals. However, areas such as continuous learning and professional development were rated slightly lower, indicating potential opportunities for improvement. The study recommends strengthening collaboration, teamwork, and a sense of belonging in Rorya District's public primary schools while enhancing continuous learning and professional development to further support teachers and align with effective organizational culture practices.

Approaches in care for people with variations of sex characteristics—focus groups in the European context on the strengths and challenges of multidisciplinary teams

Abstract Background New guidelines in the Consensus Statement on Management of Intersex Disorders by the Lawson Wilkins Pediatric Endocrine Society/European Society for Paediatric Endocrinology Consensus Group 2006 introduced multidisciplinary teams (MDTs) to provide care that involves collaboration between healthcare professionals, parents, and children with variations of sex characteristics (VSC). Aim The aim of this study was to examine a neglected but important field of collaboration among healthcare professionals and peer support groups who provide care for people with VSC. Outcomes The study outcome was the information obtained regarding the actual composition and collaboration of the multidisciplinary teams caring for children with VSC, including their collaboration with parents, peer support groups, and other care providers. Methods In this study we used an exploratory qualitative design based on mixed focus groups (in terms of professional background) and reflexive thematic analysis. Semi-structured focus group interview guides were used to obtain information about the participants’ viewpoints on the composition and challenges of, and collaboration between, peer support groups and members of multidisciplinary teams working to care for children with VSC and their parents. Seven focus groups were conducted with healthcare professionals and peer support groups in care teams in Central, Northern, and Western Europe. The data from the focus groups were examined using reflexive thematic analysis. Results The participants in the focus groups provided information regarding the use of multidisciplinary and interdisciplinary child- and family-oriented approaches and the strengths and challenges of collaboration and peer support groups. The results showed that the teams used a predominantly multidisciplinary approach and suffered from a lack of psychosocial providers, poor collaboration with peer support groups, and poor implementation of shared decision-making to address the clinical uncertainty of parents and people with VSC. Clinical Implications Clinicians should provide more psychosocial support and improve collaboration with peer support groups and nonmedical professionals. Strengths and Limitations This study is one of the first qualitative studies to provide information on the collaboration of multidisciplinary teams working to provide care for children with VSC and collaborate with their parents in the European context. However, due to language barriers, the dropout rate of participants, and the under-representation of peer support groups in the sample there was a lack of information on collaboration among healthcare professionals and peer support groups. Conclusions The collaboration between MDTs and parents does not involve adequate psychosocial and peer support or shared decision-making to address the uncertainty experienced by children and families when faced with information about variations of sex characteristics.

Cultural perspectives on academic dishonesty: exploring racial and ethnic diversity in higher education

ABSTRACT This study explores academic dishonesty within higher education, with a particular focus on the perspectives of the Arab ethnic community in Israel. Through in-depth interviews involving 38 students, the research unveils three overarching themes: (a) “Academic dishonesty as a social norm” illuminates the prevalent acceptance of cheating driven by moral justifications, emphasizing the crucial role of perceived low likelihood of detection and inconsistencies in enforcing academic standards in a multicultural context, (b) “Rationalizations for academic dishonesty and coping with minority status,” explores how overwhelming academic demands, familial and social pressures, and collaborative support networks contribute to unethical behavior, and (c) “Erosion of academic effort,” elucidates the connection between uninspiring teaching methods and the derision of less committed peers, contributing to plagiarism. These findings contribute to a culturally understanding of academic dishonesty. Practically, recognizing specific groups’ challenges with academic dishonesty can inform instructors and administrators, aiding effective strategies to promote integrity.

Implementasi Teknologi Genetika Untuk Konservasi Spesies Laut Terancam: Tinjauan Literatur Tentang Metode dan Keberhasilan

The pace of global environmental change and the intensification of human activities have put significant pressure on marine ecosystems, threatening the sustainability of many species that are important both for ecosystems and the economies of coastal communities. In this context, this study aims to evaluate the application of genetic technologies in the conservation of endangered marine species, focusing on environmental DNA (eDNA) monitoring, CRISPR genetic engineering techniques and population genetic analysis. The method used was a literature review that examined current academic sources related to genetic technologies and their implementation in conservation. Findings show that eDNA is a highly effective tool in species and habitat monitoring, and has been successful in specific cases such as Napoleon fish and green turtles in Raja Ampat. In contrast, CRISPR techniques offer the potential to improve the genetic resilience of species, despite significant regulatory and ethical challenges. The implications of this study emphasize the need for strong policy support and international collaboration to address these challenges and optimize the use of genetic technologies in more effective conservation strategies in the future.

Literature Study: Building Adolescent Mental Health by Tackling Toxic Culture Among Teens on Social Media

Today's teenagers are active social media users. However, in interacting on social media, people often engage in negative behaviour on social media or toxic culture, which can interfere with adolescent mental health. If allowed to continue, it will be dangerous for the next generation. A toxic culture will cause moral decline in a nation, which will have an impact on the mental health of the community itself. Therefore, this study aims to provide a deeper understanding of how toxic culture on social media impacts the mental health of adolescents. This research uses a qualitative approach with a literature research method. Data analysis in this research uses the content analysis method of the literature that has been collected. The results showed that toxic culture on social media has a significant impact on adolescents' mental health. Forms of toxic culture that are often found on social media are body shaming, cyberbullying, addiction, and the spread of misinformation. It can have an impact on mental health, interpersonal relationships, and academic achievement and encourage risky behavior among adolescents. Therefore, efforts have been made to educate and improve digital literacy, parental guidance and supervision, content moderation, mental support, and community collaboration. These efforts have shown some degree of success. Factors influencing success include commitment and consistency from those involved, active involvement of parents, effective digital content moderation, adequate mental support, and strong community collaboration. However, there are failure factors such as lack of resources and funding, stigma and discrimination towards mental health issues, lack of coordination between stakeholders, resistance to change, and socio-cultural and economic factors.

Sero-Kinship: How Young People Living With HIV/AIDS Survive in Southeast Nigeria.

Research on the lived experiences of HIV survivors, including young people living with HIV, has primarily emphasized broader sociocultural concerns, such as stigmatization and cultural attitudes toward sexuality and gender, while giving less attention to the interconnectedness of these issues with the mental well-being of those affected by the illness. This study, drawing on relational ethnography including observations and interviews at four antiretroviral-administering healthcare facilities in Enugu State, southeast Nigeria, explores how young people living with HIV strive toward viral suppression and how they develop collaborative psychosocial support along with the global efforts in eradicating the HIV epidemic. We found that, in and between themselves, young people living with HIV weave for themselves a network of relationships, though discreetly, to foster and encourage survivorship. Such relatedness, where mutual trust and support have emerged and rebuilt HIV survivors' faith in a livable life, forms what we conceptualize as "sero-kinship." That is, sero-kinship, which focuses on how people create and change meanings in their everyday lives that ultimately contribute to controlling HIV and treatment management, forms an essential foundation on which a life with HIV becomes thinkable, bearable, then manageable, and acceptable.

“I don’t really know how to help her.” Family caregivers’ capabilities, opportunities and motivations to provide hearing support to long-term care home residents with dementia

Purpose Hearing loss is highly prevalent in long-term care home (LTCH) residents with dementia (“residents”) and exacerbates confusion and communication difficulties. Residents rely on caregivers, including family, for hearing-related care. This study aims to understand the drivers of family caregivers’ provision of hearing support to LTCH residents using the Behaviour Change Wheel. Materials and Methods This exploratory two-stage study was guided by the Capability, Opportunity, Motivation-Behaviour (COM-B) model and the Theoretical Domains Framework (TDF). A self-report survey (N = 87) and interviews (N = 6) explored drivers behind the provision of hearing support. Quantitative data were analysed using descriptive statistics and a within-participants ANOVA. Deductive coding of TDF domains alongside thematic analysis was used for qualitative data. Results Provision of hearing support was variable. Gaps in family caregivers’ psychological capability, reflective motivation and physical opportunity were identified. Barriers included lacking knowledge, unclear caregiver responsibilities, deprioritising hearing support, COVID-19 restrictions and fragmented collaborations with audiology services. Conclusions Future behaviour-change interventions to facilitate family caregivers’ provision of hearing support to LTCH residents should include: Improving knowledge of how to provide effective hearing support, establishing caregiver responsibilities and increasing the resources for hearing support within LTCHs.

Failure mechanisms and reinforcement support of soft rock roadway in deep extra-thick coal seam: A case study

The soft rock roadway in deep extra-thick coal seam is prone to large deformation disaster. In order to solve this problem effectively, taking the W3101 coalface of Xiao’kang coal mine as the engineering background, the failure mechanisms and the corresponding control technology were investigated by the methods of laboratory test, numerical simulation and field measurement. First, a series of tests were carried out on the basic mechanical properties of rock mass, in-situ stress and loose zone, and it was found that the failure mechanisms of soft rock roadway in deep extra-thick coal seam are poor lithology of surrounding rock, high in-situ stress, large loose circle and unreasonable original support. Then, based on the supporting mechanisms of grouting cable and concrete-filled steel tube (CFST) of bottom angle, a new collaborative reinforcement support (CRS) technology combining the two was proposed. Next, the numerical simulation shows that the CRS technology has good applicability in controlling large deformation of soft rock roadway in deep extra-thick coal seam. Finally, to exhibit the engineering application effect of the proposed CRS scheme, it was also applied in Xiao’kang coal mine. Comparing to the controlling effect of original support scheme, it can be seen that the average deformation of soft rock roadway reduces by 73.2 % under the proposed CRS scheme, and the steel arch frame of bottom angle is slightly deformed. Meanwhile, it is found that the grouts diffusion radius is nearly 1.21 m, and the deepest diffusion depth is 4.25 m, which also indicates again that the feasibility of the proposed CRS scheme in controlling large deformation of soft rock roadway in deep extra-thick coal seam.

Factors influencing the continuity of evidence-based practice in perioperative airway management for elderly patients with fractures: A qualitative study.

More and more evidence-based practices are emerging, but researchers mostly focus on short-term effects, resulting in evidence-based practices not being applied in the clinic in the long term. In this study, we took the evidence-based practice of perioperative airway management in elderly fracture patients as an example and adopted a descriptive phenomenological approach to understand the influencing factors of its sustainability to provide a reference basis for promoting the continuity of evidence-based practice in the clinic. To explore factors influencing the persistence of evidence-based practice in perioperative airway management in elderly patients with fractures. This study was qualitative research. Nine nurses who implemented evidence-based practice in the orthopedic ward of a tertiary comprehensive hospital in Shanghai from September 2023 to October 2023 were selected using purposive sampling as research subjects. Semi-structured interviews were conducted with them, and the data were analyzed using the Colaizzi phenomenological analysis method based on the three dimensions and ten factors of the NHS sustainability model. Three main themes and ten subthemes were identified: Process aspects (benefits to patients, benefits to nurses, lack of follow-up, complex processes); staff aspects (insufficient human resources, inadequate training and education, lack of leadership support); and organizational environment aspects (inadequate infrastructure, poor patient compliance, poor doctor cooperation). Human resources, training and education, leadership support, infrastructure, and patient-physician collaboration are important factors influencing the sustainability of evidence-based practice for perioperative airway management in older patients with fractures.

Affective, meta and collaborative STEAM learning

The purpose of this research was to identify synergies in affective, meta and collaborative STEAM learning, and the level of professional development structure and collaborative support needed for teachers to achieve these. Three project case studies (KIKS, STEAMTEACH and STEAMCONNECT) are examined to do this. In the KIKS (Kids Inspiring Kids in STEAM) project, student groups were issued a very open-ended challenge: “How would you get your fellow students to love STEAM?” They undertook a series of student-led intensive workshops to deliver prototypes and other teaching materials. The intensive, collaborative problem-solving Hothousing workshops focusing on Expectation shock perception enhancement, were inspired by industry practice. The successful outcomes evidenced affective, meta and collaborative learning and suggested the need for further research to develop an associated teacher professional development framework (STEAMTEACH) and also to develop further the collaborative aspect beyond the students (STEAMCONNECT). The projects together delivered over forty project outcomes judged high quality by teachers, students and researchers alike benefitted from affective, meta and collaborative, inclusive learning on many levels from students to teachers to parents to wider community collaboration including local community, business and academic experts. It was thus found that STEAM education can synergically enhance affective, meta and collaborative learning, and for this to happen, should be supported by a STEAM professional development framework and extended networking between teachers, schools, parents, education and industry experts, and community from all abilities and backgrounds.

Exploring the Impact of Experience, Department, and Course on the Perception of the Internationalization of Curriculum (IoC) Among Staff at UTAS-Salalah

The internationalization of Curriculum (IoC) is a significant aspect of higher education to prepare graduates for a globalized world. This study explores academic staff perceptions of IoC at the University of Technology and Applied Sciences-Salalah (UTAS) in Sultanate of Oman, addressing a gap in the literature on IoC in non-Western contexts. Furthermore, the study explores the perspectives of academic staff regarding the implementation of IoC at different levels within the institution, department, and courses. Not only this, it also explores how these perspectives may vary based on the number of years of experience, as well as the differences in perceptions among different departments. Additionally, the study explores the perceptions of academic staff regarding the three fundamental levels of IoC, namely awareness, competence, and expertise. A quantitative cross-sectional survey was conducted among all academic staff at UTAS. Data were analyzed using descriptive statistics, ANOVAs, and paired t-tests. Results revealed that perceptions of IoC did not vary significantly based on years of experience or across departments. However, perceptions varied significantly across the three core levels, with expertise rated highest and awareness lowest. Strengths and weaknesses were identified within each level. This study contributes to the understanding of IoC in non-Western settings and informs institutional policies and practices. A holistic and contextually sensitive approach is needed, involving staff development, institutional support, and cross-disciplinary collaboration. Finally, the findings represent a significant step towards a more inclusive understanding of IoC in the Omani context and beyond.

Urban children at risk of violence: A qualitative study of experiences of parents, teachers, and service providers of collaborative support.

Children who are at risk of involvement in violence need assistance from multisector agencies such as social services, law enforcement, health, and education. The aim of this study was to understand the perceptions and experiences of parents, teachers, and service providers (i.e., counselors, psychologists, paralegals, and social workers) on collaborative support for children at risk of violence in Banda Aceh, Indonesia. Twenty-four structured interviews were conducted with ten parents whose children were victims of sexual or physical abuse or were involved in substance abuse and theft and have received support from the Integrated Service Center for the Empowerment of Women and Children in Banda Aceh, Indonesia; ten service providers; and four teachers who either worked with the concerned children or knew them. Using a thematic analysis approach, the data was systematically coded and analyzed to identify important themes. Most parents who sought help or support from governmental agencies were referred by other service providers or recommended by relatives or friends. Parents hesitated to discuss their children's problems with the teachers, worrying about stigma, particularly for sexual abuse victims. The school's lack of collaboration with external agencies was consistent with the teacher's claim that they seldom work with other agencies outside of school, resulting in a siloed system of care. It can be concluded that the biggest barrier to communication and coordination among parents, teachers, and service providers is the parents' and service providers' lack of willingness and confidence to work with teachers. Clear policies are needed to establish a cross-institutional linkage structure that promotes shared responsibilities.

The Application and Development of Music Therapy in Rehabilitation Medicine

Music therapy, as an ancient and continually evolving therapeutic approach, has demonstrated unique effects and extensive potential applications in the field of rehabilitation medicine. This paper first explores the physiological and psychological impacts of music and theoretical models of its therapeutic mechanisms. It further details the specific applications of music therapy in neurological rehabilitation, motor function recovery, psychological and emotional adjustment, and chronic disease and pain management. The article also investigates the prospects of integrating music therapy with modern technologies such as virtual reality and artificial intelligence and emphasizes the importance of interdisciplinary collaboration and policy support in advancing this field. Through comprehensive analysis, the paper identifies future development directions and research needs for music therapy in rehabilitation medicine.

QUALITATIVE STUDY OF THE CHALLENGES AND STRATEGIES OF HISTORY TEACHERS AT SMAN 2 MEDAN IN IMPLEMENTING THE INDEPENDENT CURRICULUM

This research aims to explore the challenges faced and the strategies used by history teachers at SMA Negeri 2 Medan in implementing the Independent Learning Curriculum. Qualitative research methods were used to collect data through in-depth interviews with eight experienced history teachers. Data analysis was carried out using a thematic approach to identify general patterns in the challenges faced and strategies implemented. The research results show that history teachers face a variety of challenges in implementing the Merdeka Belajar Curriculum, including a lack of resources, the need for additional training, and pressure to balance the curriculum. To overcome these challenges, teachers use a variety of strategies, including collaboration between teachers, integration of technology, and adjustments in teaching. The implications of these findings for developing teacher professionalism and improving the implementation of the Independent Learning Curriculum are discussed in the context of this research. The challenges of implementing the Independent Learning Curriculum, including limited resources, the need for additional training, and the pressure to balance the existing curriculum with new principles, are the main obstacles for history teachers. History teachers use various strategies, such as collaboration between teachers, integration of technology in learning, and adjustments in teaching, to overcome challenges and increase the effectiveness of history teaching. The implications of these findings include the need to provide adequate resources, collaborative support from various parties, and increase the integration of technology in history learning. By understanding and overcoming the challenges faced by history teachers, as well as implementing appropriate strategies, the implementation of the Independent Learning Curriculum at SMA Negeri 2 Medan can be improved, which in turn will bring benefits to the development of teacher professionalism and improve the quality of learning in the school. Therefore, concrete steps need to be designed and implemented to support history teachers in facing challenges and improving the implementation of the Independent Learning Curriculum at SMA Negeri 2 Medan.

Exploring Shared Challenges of Empowered Patients and Entrepreneurs: Towards Diversity, Innovation, and Entrepreneurship in Post-Crisis Contexts

This practical study explores the shared challenges faced by individuals managing chronic health conditions and entrepreneurs within the context of post-crisis periods, focusing on diversity, innovation, and individual empowerment. The aim is to develop a theoretical framework elucidating the mechanisms behind these challenges and their implications for fostering diversity, social innovation, and sustainability. Methodologically, an integrative approach was employed, drawing upon insights from psychology, sociology, health management, and entrepreneurship literature to conduct a comprehensive analysis. The research utilized mixed methods, including scoping reviews and qualitative analysis of virtual communities, to uncover the dynamic mechanisms that drive empowerment. This approach not only validated the theoretical framework but also proposed practical strategies to harness diversity, innovation, and entrepreneurship in post-crisis contexts. Drawing upon Dubin’s methodology, the study structured the theoretical framework to highlight the interconnectedness of empowerment experiences within communities. The findings underscore the interconnectedness of empowerment experiences within communities and highlight the vital role of collaborative environments and support networks in promoting diversity, innovation, and entrepreneurship. Ultimately, this research contributes to the development of strategies that capitalize on cultural diversities and reap the benefits of different nationalities, knowledge areas, and cultures, particularly in the aftermath of crises.

Green finance as a driver for environmental and economic resilience post-COVID-19: A focus on China's strategy

This study investigates the critical role of green finance in enhancing environmental and economic resilience during China's post-COVID-19 recovery. Employing sophisticated econometric techniques, including the Vector Error Correction Model (VECM) and Nonlinear Autoregressive Distributed Lag (NARDL) model, the effectiveness of green finance policies and instruments is rigorously assessed during the years 1986–2022. The findings reveal that green finance initiatives significantly fund sustainable projects and drive economic revitalization, marking substantial progress in China's eco-friendly recovery. Essential areas for improvement identified include robust policy support, technological innovation, and stronger international collaboration. Specifically, leveraging green finance effectively necessitates coordinated efforts across various sectors, ensuring it underpins China's sustainable development and resilience amid global economic challenges. The study recommends enhancing green finance mechanisms through comprehensive policy frameworks, fostering green technology innovation, and developing global partnerships to address environmental sustainability and economic recovery synergistically.

Revisiting The Usability of Personalised E-Learning Framework with Social Collaboration Support Using PCA

Personalised e-learning aims at providing a personalisation effect based on the learner’s characteristics such as knowledge level, preferences, and learning style. The support derived from using social collaboration tools like social media reflects the discovery of these characteristics from content generated during collaboration. The collaboration process is guided using different annotations equipped with the collaboration tool. This type of system needs to be evaluated in terms of usability factors including usefulness, ease of use, and System Usability Scale (SUS). These evaluation factors reflect the objectives of the system based on the different functionalities provided. Thus, the correlation between these factors and how they are related to the system objectives is needed to be validated. This validation is performed using Principal Component Analysis (PCA) utilising PerLCol framework as discussed in this paper. PerLCol is a framework that aims at providing personalisation effects by utilising the generated information during social collaboration and interaction. The result reveals the strength items as indicated by the selected components (PC1, PC2, and PC3). These components are related to three evaluated factors which are personalisation, social collaboration, and seamless design which ultimately reflect the objectives of the framework.

The Role of Self-Efficacy in Reducing Unemployment: A Field Study on Women in Indonesia

Women still face significant challenges in many societies in achieving equal opportunities in employment. Despite efforts, substantial disparities persist between males and females in unemployment rates. Therefore, this study aimed to explore the relationship between self-efficacy and unemployment among women in Indonesia, specifically in Jakarta and Surabaya, through survey data analysis. The sample included 500 women from diverse age, educational, and professional backgrounds. The results indicate a moderate level of unemployment among Indonesian women, with variations in post-graduation experiences. Additionally, the study reveals that a higher level of self-efficacy among women, affects their abilities in effective interaction and emotional management in the workplace. Furthermore, the findings demonstrate a statistically significant positive correlation (α = 0.05) between unemployment and self-efficacy levels. The study underscores the importance of governmental policy support and institutional collaboration to enhance women's employment opportunities and their active participation in the economy, thereby contributing to sustainable development and comprehensive societal progress.

Global Financial Dynamics: Crisis, Ethics, and Market Impacts: Insights from the June 2023 Issue

With the collaborative support of the editorial board members, authors, reviewers, section editors, technical editors, and production editor, we successfully launched the June 2023 issue of the International Journal of Accounting, Business, and Finance (IJABF). Volume 2, Issue 2 of IJABF features five articles addressing contemporary issues. The authors explore these research questions through empirical results, providing insights and directions for future studies. We extend our gratitude to all contributors to this issue.