Community Development Research Articles

Advancing scholarship on rural social work in China: published researchers’ perspectives

ABSTRACT A search of literature spanning 2000–2019 located 45 articles on rural social work in China in peer-reviewed international and Chinese journals, showing that this was an emerging area of research and scholarship. To explore the nature of, and enrich the knowledge base on, rural social work in China, this paper reports on an exploratory study that involved interviews with Chinese researchers (n = 11), who had published on the topic. Thematic analysis revealed several findings: emerging place-based models, responding to complex rural dynamics and challenges, a focus on rural community development, professional practice issues, the need for political support and skilled professionals.

For and by the People? Internal Versus External Slum Tourism Entrepreneurs’ Impacts

The controversial impacts of slum tourism have sparked debate and raised questions about its benefits for impoverished communities. The potential positive effects of slum tourism often hinge on “last mile” strategies and the crucial role of local entrepreneurs who manage the visits and interactions in determining the benefits to these areas. Drawing on a blend of Social Entrepreneurship Theory and Economic Development Theory, we explore and compare the contributions of both internal and external slum tourism entrepreneurs. Our findings reveal striking differences in their strategies and orientations. For example, internal entrepreneurs are deeply rooted in the focal slum and prioritize long-term poverty alleviation through the creation of permanent jobs and innovative approaches, whereas external entrepreneurs tend to focus on profit maximization and diversification of their offer outside the slums. However, both internal and external entrepreneurs actively challenge stereotypes, catalyze skills’ development, and channel resources back into the slum communities. This research sheds light on the multifaceted impacts of slum tourism entrepreneurship, providing critical insights for future endeavors in community development and slum tourism studies.

Genesis 15:1–6 and child adoption in Awkunanaw, Enugu state, Nigeria

Adoption is a global phenomenon, and many childless couples choose adoption because they cannot have children biologically. Over the years, legally approved orphanages have been a beacon of hope for prospective adoptive parents. However, in contemporary times, many childless couples have employed both legal and illegal means to have children. As a result, baby-making industries have become a lucrative business because it is a fast means for childless couples to have children. In the contemporary Awkunanaw, this practice has devalued socio-cultural practices and made the Awkunanaw society and her dwellers vulnerable to social vices. This study investigates the importance of adopting a child from a known background other than a strange one. Genesis 15: 1–6 tells of God’s covenant with Abram in which God promised him a great reward. Amid the divine promises of greatness and protection, Abram was worried about his state of childlessness. The part of the pericope which relates to this study is that Abram adopted an heir from a known background. The exegetical research methods employed in studying Genesis 15:1–6 include a narrative method and sociological approach to the study of the Old Testament. The data obtained through interviews and secondary sources were analysed using the phenomenological method. The study aims to advocate that Awkunanaw parents who patronise baby-making industries should desist from such practice as it contributes to the prevalence of social vices in the community.Intradisciplinary and/or interdisciplinary implications: The article studies adoption in Awkunanaw, Enugu state, Nigeria, in the light of Abraham’s narrative in Genesis 15:1–6. In Awkunanaw culture, adoption from an unknown background is abhorred. The article submits that adopting children from unknown backgrounds is precarious for the social development and peace of the Awkunanaw community. Hence, the study is a contribution to Old Testament discourses on religion and society. Its related disciplines are sociology, biblical interpretation and practical theology.

Social media quality in undergraduate medical education: A reconceptualisation and taxonomy.

Social Media (SoMe) as a learning tool, though ubiquitous in society and popular within medical education, is often criticised as superficial. Its limitless output has been blamed for encouraging shorter attention spans and shirking in-depth reflection. The evidence base is itself superficial and lacking rigour or meaning. We aimed to consider a theoretical basis for how 'quality' learning may happen on such platforms. Our findings then informed the construction of a taxonomy for SoMe learning. We conducted a qualitative interview study of United Kingdom (UK) medical students using a theory-informed inductive study design. The research question was: 'How do medical students conceptualise quality of learning on social media?'. We purposively sampled participants from responses to a short survey collecting demographic and SoMe usage data. Interview data were analysed using framework analysis and informed by Blooms taxonomy, connectivism and communities of practice (CoP) theories. We received survey responses from 118 medical students across 25 UK medical schools. From these, 13 participants were recruited to individual semi-structured interviews. We constructed three themes through framework analysis of interview data: cognitive hacking, professional identity reflection and safety, control and capital. Quality SoMe learning may be conceptualised as a socially connected process, built upon constantly evolving networks but inexorably influenced by fluctuating hierarchy within learner-centric CoP. Educators and institutions may support high-quality learning for students through engagement which promotes community development, and safe, listening environments which foster professional identity formation.

Enhancing community potential to boost grassroots economy through value-added pickled bamboo shoots, Thailand

The objectives of this research article were: 1) to examine the community context, problems, and needs, 2) to enhance the community's capacity through the process of upgrading and adding value to fermented bamboo shoot products, and 3) to assess the capacity development of the Ban Sang Thor community, Phon Mueang Subdistrict, Lao Suea Kok District, Ubon Ratchathani Province. This study employed a mixed-methods research design. The key informants were 12 experts, 50 workshop participants selected through purposive sampling, and ten experts, 50 producers (selected through purposive sampling), and 100 consumers selected through accidental sampling for product development satisfaction evaluation. Data were analyzed using descriptive statistics, including percentages, frequencies, means, and standard deviations. Qualitative data were analyzed using content analysis and descriptive explanations. The Ban Sang Thor community, characterized by a rich historical background and traditional Heet Sip Song Kong Sip Si customs, addressed socioeconomic challenges such as poverty, household indebtedness, and low income through the enhancement of fermented bamboo shoot products. The community engages in educational initiatives regarding hygienic production practices and participates in packaging design processes. The resulting products exhibit durability, aesthetic appeal, and consumer acceptance. High levels of satisfaction from experts and consumers culminate in the production of safe sanitary products with a distinct community-branded identity. Sustainable economic development contributes to the preservation of a community's cultural heritage.

Vegetation and carbon sink response to water level changes in a seasonal lake wetland

Water level fluctuations are among the main factors affecting the development of wetland vegetation communities, carbon sinks, and ecological processes. Hongze Lake is a typical seasonal lake wetland in the Huaihe River Basin. Its water levels have experienced substantial fluctuations because of climate change, as well as gate and dam regulations. In this study, long-term cloud-free remote sensing images of water body area, net plant productivity (NPP), gross primary productivity (GPP), and Fractional vegetation cover (FVC) of the wetlands of Hongze Lake were obtained from multiple satellites by Google Earth Engine (GEE) from 2006 to 2023. The trends in FVC were analyzed using a combined Theil-Sen estimator and Mann-Kendall (MK) test. Linear regression was employed to analyze the correlation between the area of water bodies and that of different degrees of FVC. Additionally, annual frequencies of various water levels were constructed to explore their association with GPP, NPP, and FVC.The results showed that water level fluctuations significantly influence the spatial and temporal patterns of wetland vegetation cover and carbon sinks, with a significant correlation (P<0.05) between water levels and vegetation distribution. Following extensive restoration efforts, the carbon sink capacity of the Hongze Lake wetland has increased. However, it is essential to consider the carbon sink capacity in areas with low vegetation cover, for the lakeshore zone with a higher inundation frequency and low vegetation cover had a lower carbon sink capacity. These findings provide a scientific basis for the establishment of carbon sink enhancement initiatives, restoration programs, and policies to improve the ecological value of wetland ecosystem conservation areas.

MAGqual: a stand-alone pipeline to assess the quality of metagenome-assembled genomes

BackgroundMetagenomics, the whole genome sequencing of microbial communities, has provided insight into complex ecosystems. It has facilitated the discovery of novel microorganisms, explained community interactions and found applications in various fields. Advances in high-throughput and third-generation sequencing technologies have further fuelled its popularity. Nevertheless, managing the vast data produced and addressing variable dataset quality remain ongoing challenges. Another challenge arises from the number of assembly and binning strategies used across studies. Comparing datasets and analysis tools is complex as it requires the quantitative assessment of metagenome quality. The inherent limitations of metagenomic sequencing, which often involves sequencing complex communities, mean community members are challenging to interrogate with traditional culturing methods leading to many lacking reference sequences. MIMAG standards aim to provide a method to assess metagenome quality for comparison but have not been widely adopted.ResultsTo address the need for simple and quick metagenome quality assignation, here we introduce the pipeline MAGqual (Metagenome-Assembled Genome qualifier) and demonstrate its effectiveness at determining metagenomic dataset quality in the context of the MIMAG standards.ConclusionsThe MAGqual pipeline offers an accessible way to evaluate metagenome quality and generate metadata on a large scale. MAGqual is built in Snakemake to ensure readability and scalability, and its open-source nature promotes accessibility, community development, and ease of updates. MAGqual is built in Snakemake, R, and Python and is available under the MIT license on GitHub at https://github.com/ac1513/MAGqual.EB_9RbKd3CYdEq3zCTHKaqVideo

Socio-Economic Profile and Vulnerabilities Assessment in Small-Scale Fisheries of Lower Gangetic Flood Plain Wetland: An Initiative Towards Achieving Wetland Ecosystem Sustainability and Community Well-Being

ICAR-CIFRI has been continuously working to develop wetland fisheries in a transdisciplinary knowledge-to-action mode to upscale the livelihood of vulnerable small-scale fishermen communities. The integrated development approach was initiated in different lower Gangetic floodplain wetlands of North 24 Parganas, West Bengal, India, to increase the fish production and socio-economic development of small-scale fishermen communities of the wetlands. Duma is one of the most extensive horseshoe-shaped wetlands in Asia. To augment the fish production from this wetland, the pen culture system was adopted by the fishers under the supervision of ICAR-CIFRI in 2021. Within a year, they received 15 tons of commercial fish, valued at around 30 lakhs apart from the small indigenous fish. It has recently been advised that auto-stocked, high-value minor carp in the wetland be adopted to improve income and conserve small indigenous species. In this article, SDG 14 (Life below water) addresses sustainable ecosystem management and livelihood enhancement for the wellbeing of the local people (SDG 3). Nutritional security of the local people is maintained through the small indigenous fish species which is crucial for addressing ‘No hunger’ as per SDG-2. The research also proves that women can play a crucial role in small-scale fisheries and they can economically stand alone, which is the main aim of SDG-5 (gender equality). However, significant issues such as lack of jurisdictional coordination, ecological changes, inequitable distribution of benefits, and income reduction persist in wetland management. The need for urgent reformation of policy and resource management systems is crucial to boost the economic efficiency of the SSF in the wetland. Training for more knowledge on fishing and fish farming, acquiring alternative livelihood and education on financial management should be brought to the fishermen’s communities. These could develop a resilient community that is more equipped to respond to future crises.

Professional Development of Teachers in the Context of STEM Education as a Relevant Psychological and Pedagogical Issue

The article analyzes scientific research related to the issues of professional development of teachers in the context of STEM education, which is determined as a prerequisite for improving the quality of education. It is determined that the professional development of teachers in the context of STEM education involves mastering the knowledge and skills necessary for the implementation of STEM programs and methods, adaptability and cognitive flexibility, professional self-improvement, etc. This process should be systematic and continuous and requires training and professional development during courses, scientific and practical seminars, conferences, workshops, summer schools, and other educational events. The article presents the results of a study that highlights the psychological and pedagogical aspects of teachers' professional development in the context of STEM education, and identifies a number of problems with professional support for educators. The authors of the publication substantiate the relevance of teacher training to ensure the competitiveness and high quality of the educational process. The steps for effective professional pedagogical development in modern conditions are highlighted and a list of resources for the professional development of the teaching community in the context of STEM education is proposed.

Assessing the awareness level, knowledge, and attitudes of the university community for sustainable development in Higher Educational Institutions in India—A review paper

Background: Sustainability plays a crucial role in the development of the education sector. It is analyzed that higher education institutions (HEIs) continuously working on the adoption of sustainable practices for carrying out business operations in the long run. Agenda 2030 is a comprehensive, multifaceted strategy that serve as an important framework for the comparison to uphold different principles. Additionally, the UN 2030 Agenda concerning sustainable development is introduced as global idea of balanced development. The 2030 Agenda and SDGs representing the program related to global development programs. Higher education institutions also working on the adoption of sustainable development perspective and the issues linked with them. Aim: The main aim of the study is to determine the level of knowledge, awareness, and attitude of the university community for achieving sustainability in HEIs. Policy Implementation: Adopting sustainable behavior is encouraged when policies are implemented well. Universities have the authority to develop and implement sustainability policies that set guidelines and requirements. Topics like waste reduction, environmentally friendly transportation, and environmentally friendly buying may be covered by the sustainability policies. Acting sustainably is encouraged among university community members through the implementation of sustainability policies. Conclusion: Findings stated efforts across sectors for the promotion of awareness and alignment with the 2030 Agenda consider a comprehensive strategy for addressing humanity, nature, and human rights. In higher education institutions, the role of education emerges as pivotal, developing green practices, development of campuses, and attracting students globally. In HEIs green practices are carried out for the development of the campus and activities in the future terms. Universities also supported in the adoption of sustainability in working education institutes international students are also attracted to them. It is identified that educators are playing an important role in achieving sustainability aspects in the education sector.

Mining industry’s potential for community development, challenges, and way forward in the East Africa community. A review

ABSTRACT East African Community (EAC) countries have abundant natural resources, including minerals which are critical inputs for achieving sustainable development. The mining sector contributes a substantial portion of EAC exports, revenue, and gross domestic product to achieve sustainable development goals. Despite this accomplishment, the mining industry is nevertheless plagued by various issues. As a result, this review provides an overview of the mining sector’s challenges and way forward. It also looks at ways to improve the situation in the future. The study found that financial resources, human and technical resources, infrastructure, political instability, the nature of mineral reserves, social difficulties, marketing, and limited research and exploration are some of the main challenges faced by the mineral sector in the EAC region. Thus, the study recommends capacity building, resolving political instabilities, diversifying the economy to lessen reliance on mining, improving marketing, improving mining infrastructure, and encouraging research and exploration.

Influence of technology on the performance of community development non-governmental organisations-governmental NGOs in Kenya

The aim of this study was to find out the influence of technology on the performance of community development non-governmental organisations (NGOs) in Nairobi County, Kenya. The research was anchored by two theories: strategic fit theory and Ansoff strategic success theory. The research employed a descriptive research design focusing on a target population of the senior management team, social workers and caseworkers comprising 300 employees of SHOFCO located in Kibera Nairobi County, Kenya. The study selected a sample using a stratified random sampling technique, using a sample size of 90 individuals. The study used a structured questionnaire containing open-ended questions to collect data. Questionnaires were administered individually and collected after respondents had fully filled them. The results were analysed thereafter using a statistical package for social sciences (SPSS), regression analysis and presentation using figures and tables for ease of interpretation and understanding. The findings showed that technology had a positive and significant relationship with the performance of community development NGOs in Kenya. This study concluded that technology was the last predictor of the strategic performance of community development non-governmental organisations in Kenya.

Corporate Social Responsibility and Financial Performance of Automotive Companies: A Basis for Corporate Social Responsibility Framework

This study determined the relationship between corporate social responsibility (CSR) activities and the financial performance of automotive companies in Tuguegarao City, Cagayan, using data from 2020-2022. Descriptive statistics, financial metrics analysis, ANOVA, and Chi-Square Pearson tests were employed. Results showed that while environmental and ethical CSR initiatives were emphasized, economic community development was less prioritized. No significant differences were found in CSR activities based on firm profiles, and there was no significant link between CSR activities and financial performance. The study recommends a more balanced CSR approach, with greater emphasis on local economic development and partnerships with community and educational institutions. Due to limitations in sample size and data variety, future research should involve a broader participant base.

Business Sustainability Among Women Entrepreneurs in Ghana

There is a problem among women entrepreneurs in Ghana caused by the lack of training among women’s entrepreneurs that includes social, cultural, economic, political, demographic, institutional, and technological support. The purpose of this qualitative exploratory multiple case study was to explore business strategies that women entrepreneurs in Ghana need to learn to make their business sustainable beyond 5 years. Ten successful women entrepreneurs from 5 industries in Ghana, who had the training, experience, and information to understand the causes of business failure and had applied that information to gain business sustainability beyond 5 years were recruited. Data analysis involved triangulation, member checking, and Yin’s 5 steps. Key findings were change management and adaptation, agility and flexibility in operations, analysis of stakeholders, creation of business policies and objectives, designing and executing digital implementation plan, developing and supporting corporate culture, developing and measuring performance standards, and enhancing internal control and processes. Findings could reduce poverty and increase women’s employment, sustainability in women-owned businesses, community development, and the standard of living.

Modelling project activities for future teachers within the innovative infrastructure of pedagogical universities: integrative solutions

Introduction. In the quest to enhance the training of future teachers, particular emphasis is placed on identifying the educational potential of new learning environments within pedagogical universities under the Ministry of Education of Russia. These institutions have undergone infrastructure updates as part of federal programs designed to support education. Aim. The aim of this study is to develop an original model for organising the project activities of student teachers, taking into account the contemporary infrastructural capabilities of pedagogical universities under the Ministry of Education of Russia. Methodology, methods and techniques. The methodological foundation of this research is grounded in the principles of community development pedagogy and the design of evolving educational systems. The integration of integrative, synergetic, environmental, and system-activity approaches facilitated the identification and development of components within the author’s model for organising project activities for future teachers in the context of pedagogical technoparks, such as “Quantorium”, and technoparks focused on universal pedagogical competencies in higher education institutions under the Ministry of Education of the Russian Federation. The validation of the developed model was conducted through expert assessments. Results. The authors developed the model for organising project activities for future teachers within the innovative infrastructure of pedagogical universities. The main components of the model are outlined, including integrative objectives and anticipated outcomes of students’ project activities, interdisciplinary project content, and a technological component that facilitates the transformation of interdisciplinary project content into personally meaningful experiences through the technology of collaborative distributed project activities. The study identifies and justifies the conditions necessary for the effective implementation of the developed model, focusing on the management of processes, resources, and participants involved in interdisciplinary project activities. Scientific novelty. Integrative processes, within the context of this study, are regarded as a pedagogical phenomenon that reflects the interconnections among the objects, processes, and subjects involved in project activities. Practical significance. The research materials can be utilised in the development of programmes aimed at enhancing the infrastructure of pedagogical universities. They can also assist in the refinement of educational curricula for training teaching staff, particularly in disciplines that prepare future educators to effectively organise project-based activities within contemporary educational environments.

Leveraging professional learning communities in linking digital professional development and instructional integration: evidence from 16,072 STEM teachers

BackgroundIntegration of digital tools and resources in STEM instruction has garnered significant attention due to its high potential. Digital professional development is identified as a pivotal factor for equipping teachers with necessary digital skills to effectively orchestrate digital resources. Notably, the role of professional learning communities is considered critical. However, the intricate relationships among digital professional development, professional learning communities, and digital instructional integration among STEM teachers remain underexplored. Utilizing partial least-squares–structural equation models (PLS–SEM), the present study examined links in digital professional development, professional learning communities, and digital instructional integration among STEM teachers (N = 16,072) who participated in the Programme for International Student Assessment (PISA) 2022.ResultsFindings from the PLS–SEM analysis indicate that digital professional development exhibits a direct positive relationship with professional learning communities and digital instructional integration. Relatedly, professional learning communities is positively correlated with digital instructional integration. In terms of indirect effect, findings show that professional learning communities play a significant positive mediating role in linking digital professional development and digital instructional integration.ConclusionsThis study reports new evidence on the influence of digital professional development on digital instructional integration through professional learning communities among 16,072 STEM teachers and concludes that, when STEM teachers regularly immerse themselves in professional learning communities, they are more likely to benefit from their digital professional development by integrating digital technologies in classroom instruction. Policymakers and educational leaders should consider promoting digital professional development and professional learning communities among STEM teachers, along with efforts to encourage digital instructional integration.

Assessing rainwater harvesting scenarios to mitigate potable water storage needs in Algerian individual houses under intermittent supply.

Urban areas in Algeria are increasingly suffering from water scarcity due to climate change and rapid urbanization, prompting the government to introduce an intermittent water supply system. This situation requires households to store potable water during supply interruptions. This study investigates the potential of rainwater harvesting (RWH) to reduce the need for such storage in single-family homes in the municipality of Beni-Mared (north of Algeria). Through five simulated scenarios: "Current" which represents the existing situation without RWH; "Maximum" in which all available rainwater is captured; "Switch" in which the existing potable water storage tanks are used for rainwater; "Optimal" in which the size of the storage tanks and efficiency are balanced; and "Outdoor" in which the focus is on rainwater for external purposes such as watering. The results show that the "Maximum" scenario has the greatest potential, as it reduces the need for potable water storage by up to 84.5%, although it requires large and potentially expensive tanks. The "Optimal" scenario offered a practical solution in which a 2.7 m³ tank covers up to 33% of the storage. The "Switch" scenario, where existing tanks were repurposed, reduced storage requirements by 15.07%, while the "Outdoor" scenario, designed for external uses, achieved a more modest reduction of 5.85% to 6.71%. These results demonstrate the importance of implementing an adapted RWH approach supported by a comprehensive development strategy, community involvement and financial support to effectively address water scarcity in Algeria.

The National Institute on Aging's Resource Centers for Minority Aging Research: Development, Evolution, and Impact.

Spanning nearly 30 of the 50 years in which the National Institute on Aging (NIA) has existed, the Resource Centers for Minority Aging Research (RCMAR) program represents one of the most successful initiatives for advancing minority aging research and diversifying the scientific workforce within the Institute and across the National Institutes of Health. This article celebrates the genesis of the RCMAR program, beginning with the need to enhance this work, ranging from theories underlying the then-nascent field of health disparities research to study design, measurement, and analytic procedures. It describes the companion focus on preparing, expanding, and diversifying generations of future scholars/scientists to carry forward these advances. RCMAR's emphasis on promoting a comprehensive approach to research career development and building supportive learning communities heralded a more holistic approach to training than was previously the case. The discussion describes the evolution of the structure and emphases of the RCMAR program as it has responded to the frequently changing political, funding, and research environments. The article concludes by highlighting the major successes of this initiative, the challenges it faces, and opportunities afforded future growth as individual centers, the program at large, and NIA as a whole continue to innovate as they collectively address the original goals which remain relevant today and in the near future.

Implementation status of Health and Wellness Centers in a community development block of West Bengal: A mixed-method study

Implementation status of Health and Wellness Centers in a community development block of West Bengal: A mixed-method study

Intangible cultural heritage transmission: empowering generations through Emirati handicrafts at Turath center

PurposeIn order to preserve and honor authentic Bedouin Emirati heritage history, the Turath Centre for Traditional Handicrafts, which operates under the supervision of the Art authority of Dubai culture, which is essential. The center aims and its strategy for cultural preservation, then the effects of its operations on community development are all explored in this article.Design/methodology/approachThe goals and strategies employed by the Turath Centre to promote traditional Emirati crafts are analyzed in this study using the qualitative methodology that blends historical analysis and ethnographical research. It also examines the effects of the center's training programs and workshops. This study reveals the methods the Turath Centre uses to disseminate cultural heritage through a thorough analysis of the supporting documentation and on-site observations.FindingsAccording to the research, the Turath Center effectively instructs community people in a variety of craft areas, such as traditional weaving, silversmith work, and burqa sewing and intangible facets of Emirati history though Al Talli and Al Sadu Weave. This study highlights the value of the Turath Centre's contribution to community development and preservation of Emirati heritage though younger generations.Research limitations/implicationsAlthough this study offers insightful information, there are certain limitations. Specifically, more research is required to evaluate the efforts of the Turath Center's adaptability and impact over time.Practical implicationsThe results highlighted the consideration to these educational programs and their capacity to foster heritage industries, increase cultural tourism, and promote Emirati culture internationally.Social implicationsBy enhancing Bedouin heritage culture and encouraging pride and identity among community members, the Turath Center's activities support unity in society.Originality/valueThis research offers valuable insights into the Turath Centre's role in preserving Bedouin Emirati heritage and fostering community development, the center symbolizes Dubai's aim for cultural growth and makes a significant contribution to cultural preservation.