Community Knowledge Research Articles

Challenges and Practices of Education Teachers on Inclusive Education

The challenges and practices of teachers on inclusive education, are examined in this study. The study emphasizes the goal of the global inclusive education movement, which is to integrate all learners - especially those with disabilities - into regular classroom settings. Notwithstanding notable advancements, such as the rise in the number of children with disabilities enrolled in mainstream classrooms, inadequate training for teachers, and inequalities in the application of policies. The study employed self-designed questionnaires to five teachers from various schools, with data analysis using qualitative research methods. The result shows that there are still lot of gaps in the efforts being made to improve inclusive education through teacher training programs and policy frameworks. These include insufficient infrastructure in schools, geographical differences in the accessibility of resources, and low community knowledge on inclusive approaches. In order to solve these issues and advance successful inclusive education strategies that benefit all learners, the research ends by urging cooperation, which will help the Philippines’ educational system become more egalitarian.

Ethnobiological survey on medicinal plants used by gaddi and gujjar tribes of riparian region of Beas River of Himachal Pradesh in North Western Himalayas, India

Himachal Pradesh is one of the most species-rich regions in the world and a key center for the origin and diversity of numerous plant species. Ethnobotanical research is essential for exploring these diverse biological resources for medicinal uses. This study aimed to record the traditional knowledge of the tribal communities in Himachal Pradesh concerning the use of medicinal plants for treating diseases in humans and livestock. Despite this richness, there is a lack of detailed documentation about the use of therapeutic plants in this area. The indigenous communities in this region rely on traditional knowledge of medicinal plants, making it a valuable resource for further pharmacological and phytochemical research. The ethnobotanical surveys were conducted from August 2022 to July 2023, and our fieldwork took place in four districts (Kullu (1279 m), Mandi (760 m), Hamirpur (780 m) and Kangra (1200–1300 m) under various villages. The ethnobiological data was gathered through field surveys, open interviews, discussions, and semi-structured questionnaires conducted with 193 tribal participants aged 40 to 80 years. Informants were chosen using the randomized household interview and snowball sampling methods. The study documented 64 plants from 39 families, among which 58 species are angiosperms, 5 species are pteridophytes and one species is bryophyte utilized for therapeutic purposes. Rosaceae, Lamiaceae, and Ranunculaceae were the most used medicinal herb families. Rubus ellipticus (0.75) and Trillium govanianum (0.74) demonstrated the highest UV (Use value) values. The ICF (Informant Consensus factor) value revealed that nervous system disorders-related ailments were the most treated. This study explored the ethnobiological information of therapeutic flora from riparian vegetation within tribal communities while also assessing the present state of research and the practical application of their medicinal information. It underscores the potential for additional research to delve deeper into the indigenous properties of their therapeutic floras and emphasizes the importance of preserving their traditional medicinal wisdom.

Preparation of an Operational Curriculum Based on Local Wisdom for Students in PAUD

Local wisdom as a cultural heritage owned by a community, including traditions, values, customs, and local knowledge that has been passed down from generation to generation. Within the scope of PAUD, local wisdom has great potential to become an integral part of the learning process, enrich children's learning experiences, and strengthen their cultural identity. This research aims to find out the preparation of an operational curriculum based on local wisdom and to find out the challenges faced in the preparation of an operational curriculum based on local wisdom in PAUD. The research method used is descriptive qualitative research with a descriptive approach. The results of the study show that the process of preparing the curriculum through systematic stages involves analyzing needs, formulating goals, determining the content and structure of the program, and developing learning strategies that integrate elements of local wisdom. Collaboration between the school, community leaders, and parents of students is the key in identifying and integrating relevant local wisdom in the curriculum. Conclusions and suggestions in this study are periodic training to improve teachers' understanding and skills in integrating local wisdom into learning. The Education Office should provide guidance and training for schools in developing an operational curriculum based on local wisdom.

Looking for Marai ‘on-the-fly’: mobile more-than-human methods for cultural landscape mapping with Gajerrong Country

At the intersections of rapid socio-ecological transformation, Indigenous people in Northern Australia are articulating their aspirations for land management. However, while people reconcile goals, knowledges and practices to care for Country, the available toolkit that might facilitate planning and activities has often constrained ideas because technologies and systems have tended to be both inaccessible and incompatible with non-Western representations of place. In this paper, we report on a cultural landscape mapping project with Marralam Community of the Northern Territory, Australia, undertaken to analyze, advocate and communicate community ideas, knowledge and visions for managing Country. Prioritizing culturally respectful ways of working, we articulate mobile mapping methods that speak to the experiential, emergent and performative, and political aspects of how our research collaboration is mapping together with Country. Harnessing the innovations of qualitative GIS, mapping with Country ‘on-the-fly’ facilitates what may otherwise be conceived of as competing demands and interests, highlighting Indigenous expertise in navigating the complex terrain of natural resource management and knowledge sharing. Mapping with Country foreshadows lively possibilities for mapping as more-than-human collaborative research practice.

Qualitative analysis of pain impact in adult patients with X-linked hypophosphatemia

Abstract We previously reported pain as a predominant finding in adult patients with XLH. This study explored health-related quality-of-life using the 36-item Short Form survey instrument (SF-36v1) and pain experiences of adults with X-linked hypophosphatemia (XLH) through qualitative analysis of interviews with 15 patients (11 females, 4 males). Age-adjusted differences using SF-36 were lower than the general population in all domains of health-related quality of life, with significant differences notably related to physical function and pain. Ten themes emerged from semi-structured interviews: 1) Chronic and Variable Pain: Patients reported persistent pain of varying intensity and location; 2) Impact on Mobility and Daily Life: Pain severely restricted daily activities, affecting lifestyle, employment, and independence; 3) Pain Management: Patients used medications, physical therapy, lifestyle changes, alternative therapies, and assistive devices; 4) Healthcare and Accessibility Challenges: Access to appropriate care and treatments was limited by insurance issues and healthcare providers’ lack of XLH knowledge; 5) Emotional and Psychological Impact: Chronic pain and limitations led to social isolation, depression, and emotional burden; 6) Desire for Improved Information and Support: Patients sought better information, treatment, and community support; 7) Challenges with Physical Inactivity: Staying active was essential but difficult, as inactivity worsened pain; 8) Navigating Healthcare Services: Accessing therapy and insurance was often challenging; 9) Long-term Outlook and Concerns: Patients worried about disease progression and future health; and 10) Advocacy and Awareness: Increased public and medical awareness was needed to improve care. Although pain is not a universal experience within this population, it is a significant issue for many individuals with XLH. These data illustrate the profound impact of XLH on multiple life aspects underscoring the need for effective pain management strategies, better healthcare accessibility, supportive tools, and a more knowledgeable medical community to improve quality of life. Insights from this study will guide the development of a digital pain self-management intervention tailored to XLH patients to address these needs.

Hear the herd: the power of Sámi perspectives for achieving just transitions in Norway

IntroductionFor achieving just transitions, it is crucial to address Indigenous perspectives and knowledge systems. In the North of Europe, the fast pace of transformational actions toward the decarbonisation of society has caused much controversy associated with the (further) endangerment of the traditional modes of life. Reindeer herding is a traditional activity of the Sámi, the Indigenous Peoples of Norway, Sweden, Finland, and North-Western Russia. For many Sámi, reindeer herding is of economic, social, and cultural importance. However, increasingly, pressures are being put on reindeer, as human activities, such as the building of roads or wind turbines, further encroaches on grazing lands.Methods and objectiveUsing semi-structured group and individual interviews, this article investigates Sámi perspectives on drivers and stressors impacting reindeer in Norway and its connections to sustainable development activities, in the context of the energy transition. It also focuses on the communication of Traditional Ecological Knowledge to better address inclusive decision-making processes.ResultsThe results highlight the divide between Western and Indigenous ways of thinking about land management and use. They provide reflections on why Traditional Ecological Knowledge, including from the Sámi is still far from being actively integrated in the processes toward Just Transitions. This work also brings to light some of the reasons behind the hesitance of many Indigenous Peoples to integrate mainstream transition processes as well as make available their Ancestral Knowledge for the benefit of nature conservation and sustainable management of the areas they inhabit. Lastly, the article offers some insight into how to facilitate communication of Traditional Ecological Knowledge and its potential impact on the current Norwegian strategy toward nature conservation and societal decarbonization.

Delineating urban flooding when incorporating community stormwater knowledge

Abstract Accurately delineating both pluvial and fluvial flood risk is critical to protecting vulnerable populations in urban environments. Although there are currently models and frameworks to estimate stormwater runoff and predict urban flooding, there are often minimal observations to validate results due to the quick retreat of floodwaters from affected areas. In this research, we compare and contrast different methodologies for capturing flood extent in order to highlight the challenges inherent in current methods for urban flooding delineation. This research focuses on two Philadelphia neighborhoods, Manayunk and Eastwick, that face frequent flooding. Overall, Philadelphia, PA is a city with a large proportion of vulnerable populations and is plagued by flooding, with expectations that flood risk will increase as climate change progresses. An array of data, including remotely sensed satellite imagery after major flooding events, Federal Emergency Management Agency’s Special Flood Hazard Areas, First Street Foundation’s Flood Factor, road closures, National Flood Insurance Program claims, and community surveys, were compared for the study areas. Here we show how stakeholder surveys can illuminate the weight of firsthand and communal knowledge on local understandings of stormwater and flood risk. These surveys highlighted different impacts of flooding, depending on the most persistent flood type, pluvial or fluvial, in each area, not present in large datasets. Given the complexity of flooding, there is no single method to fully encompass the impacts on both human well-being and the environment. Through the co-creation of flood risk knowledge, community members are empowered and play a critical role in fostering resilience in their neighborhoods. Community stormwater knowledge is a powerful tool that can be used as a complement to hydrologic flood delineation techniques to overcome common limitations in urban landscapes. 

Cultural heritage, the environment and climate change: cultural damage from environmental deterioration in San Basilio de Palenque, Colombia

ABSTRACT The manuscript analyzes the damage to tangible and intangible cultural assets due to climate change and the deterioration of practices and traditions derived from the ancestral knowledge of local communities about their territory. These assets are threatened by several factors, such as an increase in sea level and in the frequency and severity of droughts. This study, conducted using a qualitative and ethno-methodological approach, analyzes the case of San Basilio de Palenque in Colombia, declared as Intangible Cultural Heritage by UNESCO. According to the Ministry of Culture, the territory of San Basilio de Palenque is synonymous with freedom, as anyone who became part of it was automatically free. This territory was originally populated by Maroons or African slaves who escaped from the slavery regime during the colonial period. Today, it is the only one that preserves its ancestral traditions and identity. The results show how environmental deterioration resulting from activities carried out by the community itself, together with intense periods of drought and other adverse effects of climate change, compromise the enjoyment of the cultural life of the palenqueros, put at risk the worldview that the inhabitants associate with the Melchor stream, and restricts the exercise of the freedoms of the community and its capabilities to obtain basic economic means that guarantee their well-being.

A Snapshot of United States Sarcoidosis Patients and their Perceived Disease Impact: Results of the Sarcoidosis Research Institute Survey

PurposeThe priorities and concerns of sarcoidosis patients in the United States (US) have not been well-described.MethodsA survey constructed by sarcoidosis patients and doctors was administered to US sarcoidosis patients. The survey queried patients concerning their demographics, disease state, disease impact on health and well-being, health care priorities and impressions of sarcoidosis care. Respondents were solicited via social media and networking with sarcoidosis clinicians.Results1018 US sarcoidosis patients completed this survey. 65% were female, 63% White, 34% Black, and 87% > 45 years old. The most common organs involved were the lungs 87%, skin 30%, heart 25%, and eyes 25%. Household income was < $50 K in 31% and > $150 K in 14% of patients. There was a fairly even split between those living in urban (29%), suburban (42%), and rural (29%) environments. The patients’greatest concerns were fear of worsening disease, fear of sarcoidosis developing in more organs, and fear of sarcoidosis not improving. These were closely followed by concerns about poor health-related quality of life (HRQoL), inability to enjoy everyday activities, lack of medical research, disability from sarcoidosis, and pulmonary function status. Lack of physician knowledge and poor physician communication were ranked of lowest concern. Concerns about ineffective medications and cost of medical care were also ranked relatively low. Patients overwhelmingly considered information from their doctor as very useful.ConclusionIn this survey of over 1000 US sarcoidosis patients, their greatest concerns were fear of poor clinical outcomes. The patients were relatively less concerned about their doctors’ knowledge about sarcoidosis and poor physician communication. Although patients expressed significant concerns about poor HRQoL, not all domains of HRQoL were equally affected. US sarcoidosis patients rank concerns about disease progression higher than disease impact on HRQoL.

Community knowledge of voluntary assisted dying: a cross-sectional survey of the public in Queensland, Australia

This research, undertaken in Queensland, Australia aimed to explore community members’ knowledge of voluntary assisted dying (VAD) 17 months after it became a lawful option. Adults living in Queensland (n = 1000) completed an online survey about knowledge of VAD as a legal option and awareness of how to access VAD and information about it. Quotas were set for age, gender and geographical region within Queensland. Only 33% (n = 329) of community members correctly identified that VAD is legal and fewer (26%, n = 257) reported that they would know how to access VAD if they wished to. Most community members (86%, n = 858) reported they would access information on VAD online, typically via search engines, and from health and medical practitioners, primarily doctors. Since lack of awareness and understanding are major barriers to seeking and accessing VAD, proactive measures are needed to increase awareness of VAD in the community and among potentially eligible patients.

Penyuluhan Gerakan Makan Ikan (GEMARI) untuk Mencegah Stunting di Desa Jogonegoro, Kabupaten Magelang

Stunting is a condition where the growth failure experienced by toddlers is caused by malnutrition that occurs since the baby is in the womb and in the early days of birth. This condition not only affects the child’s physical growth, but also cognitive development and the child’s future quality of life. The purpose of this activity is to increase community knowledge and awareness about the importance of fish comsumption as a step to prevent stunting in the Jogonegoro Village area, Magelang Regency. The method used by the service team in this activity is counseling titled the movement to eat fish (Gemari) to prevent stunting which was held on October 24, 2024, with 50 participants including lecturers, nutritionist resource persons, students, pregnant women, nursing mothers, and families who have children under five. This program adopted two educational methods in the form of direct counseling with presentations (lectures) and discussion sessions involving the participation of all participants, as well as through educational posters posted at the Jogonegoro Village Hall, Magelang District. The results of this counseling activity show that 100% of the people who attended gave a good response during the counseling and now know more about the importance of fish consumption in preventing stunting as seen from the participants post-test results.

Improving Community Economic Value Through Utilization of Oil Palm Leaf Midribs into Export Handicraft Products

This community service activity aims to increase the economic value of the community through the utilization of oil palm leaf midribs that have been underutilized into export-valued handicraft products. Palm oil is a leading commodity in many regions in Indonesia, but the waste in the form of leaf midribs is often neglected. Through training and mentoring programs, the community is able to produce a variety of innovative new designs, following modern market trends. palm oil leaf midribs handicrafts not only have functional value but also a more attractive aesthetic value. In addition, this activity also includes education on international marketing strategies and export market access. The results of the activities showed an increase in community knowledge and skills in processing oil palm leaf midribs and an increase in economic income through marketing products to international markets. This activity is expected to be sustainable and become a model for local resource-based economic development.

TRAINING ON DURIAN CULTIVATION AND MAINTENANCETHROUGH HYDROCULTURE TECHNIQUES INWARUNGPRING VILLAGE, PEMALANG

Empowering village communities is a strategic effort to increase the capacity ofindividuals or groups so they can be independent and develop local potential.Warungpring Village, which has great potential in durian cultivation, faces challengesin utilizing this potential due to limited community knowledge and skills regardingappropriate cultivation techniques. This research aims to increase the capacity of theWarungpring Village community in cultivating durian through hydroculationtechniques and good maintenance of durian plants. This empowerment program isexpected to help the community utilize durian's potential optimally and increase theirincome. Community service activities were carried out by UIN KKN student K.HAbdurrahman Wahid Pekalongan in Warungpring Village on August 15 2024. Themethod used included training with three stages: planning, implementation andevaluation. Participants are given knowledge about shoot grafting, grafting andhydroculation techniques, as well as practicing durian planting. The evaluation showsthat the availability of supporting technology such as a simple and affordablehydroculation system makes it easier for farmers to apply this technique. The prospectof higher profits from hydroculated durian cultivation attracts farmers' interest intaking part in the outreach. The availability of quality durian seeds that are suitablefor the hydroculation system facilitates the socialization process, but faces challengesin the form of low participation from residents who live far from the activity location.The community empowerment program through training in hydroculating duriancultivation and durian plant maintenance can increase the knowledge and skills of theWarungpring Village community.

Cultural Identity of Lat’s Cartoons in the Context of ‘Malaysia Madani’

Malaysians' varied perceptions of cartoons, often undervalued as mere entertainment despite their deep cultural and societal resonance. Hence, it prompted the researchers to explore the denotation and connotation of cultural significance in Malaysian cartoons, particularly in the works of Lat. The cartoons were selected for this study because of their ability to capture the essence of Malaysian society, culture, and identity through humor and social commentary. The objectives of this study are to quantify the portrayal of the colour, meaning and relationship between these elements in Lat’s cartoons to represent local cultural identity in the context of ‘Malaysia Madani’. Through the quantitative content analysis method with 248 visuals from Lat’s cartoons by exploring the Madani concept through themes of these cartoons, the study unleashes a diverse range of societal issues and viewpoints; the prominence of the themes indicates areas of significance, relevance, and engagement. The findings demonstrate that Lat’s cartoons effectively communicate the benefits of the Madani concept, encouraging Malaysians to be sustainability-oriented and compassionate for others, regardless of race or religion, thereby fostering harmony and unity. For further suggestions, the government and education sectors should use cartoons to promote knowledge transfer and community engagement.

Penerapan Multidisciplinary Nursing Health Services (MNHS) dalam Meningkatkan Kemandirian Masyarakat Peduli Sehat Rohaniah dan Jasmaniah

Background: The service aims to increase community awareness of spiritual and physical health through the application of Multidisciplinary Nursing Health Services. This activity involves the collaboration of various disciplines in the field of nursing, namely medical-surgical nursing, basic nursing, maternity and pediatric nursing, and community mental nursing. In its implementation, the service team held educational activities, health checks, counselling, and healthy living skills training for the community. Methods: The methods used include direct counseling, interactive discussions, and field practices that involve the community directly. Results: The results of this activity show an increase in community knowledge and awareness of the importance of maintaining physical and mental health, as well as increased community involvement in supporting environmental health and healthy lifestyles. Conclusion: The application of multidisciplinary health services in nursing is effective in building a community that cares more about holistic health, both spiritually and physically.

What Research Approach to Understanding and Analyzing the Perceptions and Practices of Breast Cancer Patients?

Health and illness are intertwined concepts in anthropological studies that require understanding and interpretation, especially when related to chronic and incurable diseases like breast cancer. Patients must adhere to treatment protocols and may also seek other remedies linked to traditional medicine and the community's folk knowledge. Patients can be influenced by social interactions and communication with others, particularly with the advancement of technological and social communication methods. This creates a perception of suffering that may extend beyond the medical concept to interpretations and unknown realms in understanding those perceptions and therapeutic practices of traditional medicine. Keywords: The patient, breast cancer, anthropology, perceptions, traditional medicine.

The development and effects of an online parent sexuality education programme for preschool children in Türkiye

ABSTRACT This study aimed to develop an online sexuality education programme for the parents of children aged 3–6 years, by enhancing their knowledge of sexuality education, their attitudes towards sexuality education, their use of positive communication during sexuality education, and their awareness of sexual abuse. A quantitative semi-experimental design, using a Solomon four-group model, was adopted. The sample consisted of 410 parents in Ankara, Türkiye. Data were collected using a Personal Information Form, the Sexual Development Knowledge Scale, the Sexual Education Attitude Scale, the Sexual Communication Scale, and the Child Sexual Abuse Knowledge/Attitude for Parents Scale. The data were analysed using paired sample t-tests, independent sample t-test, and ANCOVA. The online Parental Sexuality Education Programme for the Preschool Period was found to have a significant effect on the sexual knowledge levels, attitudes, communication, and awareness of sexual abuse of the parents. According to findings of a follow-up test performed 12 weeks later, the programme exhibited retention in sexual development knowledge, positive attitudes towards sexual education, and sexual communication. Retention was not achieved in relation to sexual abuse knowledge/attitudes.

Social technology and rescue of native seeds in the Venezuelan Andes Páramo

This study analyzes the recovery and conservation of potato landraces in the Venezuelan Andes Páramo, specifically in the Mérida region. Smallholder potato farmers in the Venezuelan Andes have been actively creating knowledge, processes, and socio-technical artifacts necessary for the recovery of potato seeds and other types of plant genetic resources critical for food and agriculture. This effort has involved diverse socio-technical dynamics, engaging both human and non-human actors, with the support of universities, research institutions, local and national governments, etc. These initiatives counter historical trends, such as the erosion of complex genetic resource systems, genetic resources, the impacts of agricultural modernization, dependency on oil and imported agricultural technologies, and more recent challenges, such as food shortages. Using traditional techniques such as Tinopós—underground caves for seed storage—and social appropriation of technological processes, including genetic improvement, Andean smallholder farmers have successfully rescued ancient potato varieties while developing new ones. Fieldwork conducted in 2019 included a documentary review, thematic analysis, and a technology inventory. The findings reveal a close relationship between the diversity of Andean root and tuber crops, the unique biophysical and climatic conditions of the Páramo, and the traditional knowledge of peasant communities residing in these territories. The study underscores the importance of border relations and cultural translation between different knowledge systems in recovering and conserving native potato seeds. These efforts represent a locally driven initiative to construct social technologies for food sovereignty and sustainable local development.

Public awareness of telephone number for medical emergencies: a scoping review.

Prompt activation of emergency medical services (EMS) constitutes the fundamental component of bystander response to time-dependent health crises. A clear understanding of the public ability to access EMS may help to guide interventions aimed at enhancing community preparedness for emergencies. This review was conducted to summarise studies that examined public knowledge of emergency phone numbers. The scoping review encompassed articles published since 2004 that reported the proportion of subjects who knew emergency phone numbers. Data sources included PubMed, Google Scholar and references of included articles. Relevant data from eligible publications were extracted manually to an author-developed data-charting sheet and analysed descriptively. Forty-eight articles were analysed. Reported studies, mostly cross-sectional surveys, were conducted in 26 countries, including 16 high-income, nine middle-income and one low-income country. The percentage of subjects who knew emergency numbers varied from 0.0 to 97.8 (median [interquartile range]: 64.3 [32.8-80.0]). For developed countries, it was significantly higher than for developing nations (69.6 [54.1-84.2] and 34.6 [19.4-61.5], respectively; p=0.003). The studies were generally inconsistent regarding the association of subjects' socio-demographic factors with knowledge of emergency numbers, suggesting the existence of geography-specific patterns. Available studies observed low community knowledge of emergency numbers, especially in developing countries, and suggest that the problem has a global scale. Further research efforts are required to determine the best strategies for enhancing the public ability to access EMS.

Scientific prospecting of the biological activities and bioactive compounds of medicinal plants in Santo Antônio do Içá-AM

Medicinal plants have constituted a crucial resource in the Amazon, serving as primary tools for disease treatment by local communities for centuries. This knowledge, passed down through generations, forms a rich ethnobotanical heritage. The Amazon's unique biodiversity continues to draw significant scientific interest globally. The study of medicinal plants in this region not only validates traditional practices but also uncovers novel molecules with significant biological activities, while promoting biodiversity conservation. This project, conducted in Santo Antônio do Içá, utilized a questionnaire to gather information on the use of medicinal plants, focusing on their botanical characteristics, therapeutic applications, and the primary classes of chemical compounds present in the most frequently cited species. Interviews with residents revealed several medicinal plants, with copaíba, orange tree, and sucuúba emerging as the most frequently mentioned according to established criteria. These findings suggest the potential for broader applications of these plants beyond the neighborhood, extending into rural and other regions. The study underscores the importance of traditional medicine and its potential for wider use, while also contributing to the preservation and appreciation of local community knowledge, biodiversity, and the exploration of natural medicines. This work enhances scientific and educational understanding in the upper Solimões region.