Compelling Story Research Articles

Storynomic Strategy in the Digital World: A Study on Instagram Reel in Increasing Audience Attraction and Potential for Ordering Products Based on Indonesian Language and Literature

His research aims to investigate and analyze the strategy of utilizing Storynomic in the context of Indonesian language and literature through the Instagram Reels platform. Storynomic is an approach that combines narrative and economic elements to build engagement and captivate audiences. In the digital era, Instagram Reels has emerged as a potential medium for presenting compelling stories to promote language and literature-based products or services in Indonesia

Storytelling in the Field with Sea Grant’s Science Communicators

Communicating science is a core component of the Sea Grant model. Telling compelling stories that convey accurate and balanced information in an interesting manner is key to these communications efforts and to achieving the organization’s overall goal of an engaged public and decision-makers. This article outlines and highlights best practices for some of the most commonly used storytelling mediums: narrative writing, photography and video, and podcasts. The importance of conducting first-hand reporting, placing a narrative focus on people, and taking time to formulate a thoughtful and strategic communications approach are key takeaways.

Francesco D’Adamo’s Ordinary Moral Heroes

Abstract: Building on the inspirational “monthly stories” in Edmondo De Amicis’s Cuore , Francesco D’Adamo’s novels present rich resources for youth navigating through the increasingly dehumanized world. His eighteen children’s books narrate compelling and imaginative stories of heroism while avoiding the paternalistic didacticism for which De Amicis and his imitators are often critiqued. D’Adamo won the Premio Andersen Best Writer Award for children’s literature in 2023.

Strategic Communication in the Digital Age: Amplifying CSR Initiatives through Digital Media

In the ever-evolving realm of corporate governance and social engagement, the seamless integra-tion of Corporate Social Responsibility (CSR) with strategic communication, particularly through digital channels, stands as a cornerstone. This in-depth analysis embarks on a journey to explore how businesses are leveraging the power of nuanced, strategic digital communications to amplify their CSR initiatives. It metic-ulously evaluates the array of mechanisms, strategies, and digital tools—spanning across various platforms such as social media, blogs, and content marketing—that are employed to enhance CSR messaging, broaden its outreach, and deepen engagement with stakeholders. The discourse delves into the intricate ways in which companies navigate the digital landscape to communicate their commitment to social and environmental causes, thereby forging stronger connections with their audience. From crafting compelling stories that reso-nate with the public to utilizing analytics for targeted outreach, this exploration sheds light on the dynamic interplay between digital communication strategies and CSR efforts. It highlights how businesses are not only using digital platforms to disseminate information about their CSR activities but also to engage in meaningful dialogues with stakeholders, gather feedback, and drive social change. Through this comprehensive exami-nation, the article reveals the transformative potential of digital media in enhancing the visibility, impact, and authenticity of CSR initiatives, thereby reshaping the way companies engage with their communities and stakeholders in the digital age.

Compelling Stories for English Language Learners: Creativity, Interculturality and Critical Literacy

Compelling Stories for English Language Learners: Creativity, Interculturality and Critical Literacy

ACCEPTABILITY OF PODCASTS TO ENHANCE WELLNESS SKILLS AMONG OLDER ADULTS IN AN UNDERSERVED COMMUNITY

Abstract Podcasts convey information in an accessible, engaging, and memorable way, yet are seldom incorporated into behavioral interventions for older adults. We developed a podcast series as a component of the RESET intervention (Re-Engaging in Self-care, Enjoying Today), the subject of an ongoing NIH-funded randomized controlled trial in Detroit, Michigan. In RESET, community health workers teach self-management and resilience-building skills to small groups of primarily African American older adults, to address challenges to well-being and functioning caused by the COVID-19 pandemic. Participants listen to six podcast episodes, accessible by website, app, or IVR/dial-in, which feature an older-adult host from the community interviewing other community members and topic experts. Each episode is then discussed in the corresponding intervention session. The goal of the current study was to evaluate the first three podcast episodes (Power of Positivity, Eating for Well-being, and Stability in Strength) in a convenience sample of 8 older adults and agency staff from our trial’s Community Advisory Board. Using 5-point Likert scales, all respondents strongly agreed or agreed that the episodes were enjoyable, relevant, and effectively taught key wellness skills. Podcast strengths identified by respondents included: warm interactions between host and guests, motivational tone, and compelling personal stories. Areas for improvement included the need to represent additional perspectives. These data suggest that podcasts are an acceptable way to provide health information to older adults. The ongoing RESET trial will allow us to determine the extent to which podcasts can help bring about behavior change and functional improvement.

Into the Realms of the Burning Iron: Narratives of Blacksmiths in Santiago, Ilocos Sur, Philippines

This narrative study explored the lived experiences of blacksmiths in Santiago, Ilocos Sur, delving into various aspects of their craft. It examines their early life experiences, unwavering dedication to blacksmithing as a profession, and the marketing strategies employed to sell their meticulously crafted products. Using the snowball sampling criteria, four (4) participants were identified and interviewed. Through the narratives of skilled blacksmiths, a compelling story unfolded, revealing the rich heritage of blacksmithing passed down through generations. The study also uncovered the physical demands blacksmiths face, highlighting their strength and resilience in the face of strenuous labor. Additionally, it revealed the challenges that blacksmiths encounter including negotiations for lower prices and criticisms of their craftsmanship, which they navigate with professionalism and dedication. Despite these adversities, blacksmiths rise above challenges, using them as opportunities to create exceptional products that exemplify their devotion to the art of blacksmithing.

METHODS OF ASSESSING TERRORIST THREATS TO STRATEGIC FACILITIES OF THE STATE

The study highlights the main regularities of preparation and execution of a terrorist act from the standpoint of considering a terrorist emergency as a spatiotemporal process. It is proposed to use the expert method of scenarios to assess terrorist threats to strategic objects. Ensuring the national security of Ukraine is a multifaceted problem, which includes military and political, economic and informational security, protection of the state border, and civil defence. Solving these component tasks is impossible without taking into account the possible terrorist impact on the strategic objects of the state, which include critical infrastructure enterprises, key transport communications, and military facilities. The description of any emergency requires a clear definition of the type of catastrophic event that caused it. Terrorist threats at protected strategic objects are possible socially dangerous consequences of malicious actions, i.e., terrorist acts that lead to stopping or limiting the functioning of these objects. The scenario method involves the creation of scenario development technologies that provide a higher probability of developing an effective solution. Scenarios are a set of equally compelling stories, each describing one of the potentially possible options for the future. Intrusion scenarios used in physical protection systems of protected objects consist of two parts. The first one provides a set of variants of terrorist threats, that is, expected actions of intruders against the protected object. The second is an action plan (reaction to the actions of intruders) of the physical protection system to neutralise terrorists. The process of improving the technology of developing scenarios of terrorist threats will provide a higher probability of developing an effective solution to ensure the security of strategic objects and counter terrorist threats, when possible, and a higher probability of reducing expected losses to a minimum in situations where losses are unavoidable. Keywords: emergency, catastrophic event, man-made object, danger, threat, risk.

A geographer's place matters: Reflections from a ‘local scholar’ and the politics of North/South knowledge production

AbstractThe most prominent and influential Geography literatures about the Global South are predominantly produced by scholars in the North and less so by intellectuals whose homes are located in the Global South—the ‘local scholars’. As a Cambodian scholar, I argue that the challenges of participating in collaborative, English language knowledge production derive not merely from skill disparities between international and ‘local’ academics, but also from constraints in finding the right platforms for research and academic expression. Constrained conditions for knowledge participation and expansion are rooted in a long history of colonialism in the Cambodian education system and the contemporary political economy of academia. Rather than directly engage with international intellectual and political discussions, in many cases, Cambodian scholars largely supply compelling stories—in the form of ethnographic evidence, data, images and affect to fuel theoretical debates taking place in the North. Beyond emphasising this well established inequity in the political economy of knowledge production, I contend that being ‘on the ground’ not only equips local scholars with contextual depths but also confines them to think and act locally.

The unity productions foundation film and the C3 framework

PurposeThe purpose of this paper is to engage readers with Unity Productions Foundation (UPF) films, which provide a powerful, inspirational digital tool for teachers. The organization's mission is to create documentaries, films and educational materials that contribute to bringing to light compelling stories of Muslim engagement through history and culture. UPF films and educational projects aim to promote peace and understanding to increase cultural pluralism and counter bigotry in our world.Design/methodology/approachTeachers will be able to utilize the resources provided in this paper to harness the power of media in their classrooms. Outlining the process by which teachers can follow the C3 inquiry using the film Prince Among Slaves will prepare teachers to see the alignment of the C3 Framework with their teaching. The “best practice” classroom strategies in structuring deliberations are ones that encourage students to fully participate and emphasize their voice.FindingsThis paper will unpack the practice methods that address the film Prince Among Slaves to be of benefit when sharing narratives through digital film and engage students in critical thinking through the C3 Framework. UPF films are the product of scholarly research and innovative production teams as the films provide the opportunity to visualize and explore multiple perspectives to understand historical content by providing a context for inquiry teaching and learning that is inclusive through deliberative discussions in the classroom.Originality/value The author certifies that this manuscript submission is original work and that all authors were involved in the intellectual elaboration of the manuscript and all parties have been acknowledged.

Advocacy and Fundraising through Strategic Communication: A Critical Literature Review in China

Purpose: The aim of this study was to explore on the advocacy and fundraising through strategic communication in China. Methodology: The study adopted a desktop research methodology. Desk research refers to secondary data or that which can be collected without fieldwork. Desk research is basically involved in collecting data from existing resources hence it is often considered a low-cost technique as compared to field research, as the main cost is involved in executive's time, telephone charges and directories. Thus, the study relied on already published studies, reports and statistics. This secondary data was easily accessed through the online journals and library. Findings: The findings revealed that there exists a contextual and methodological gap relating to the on the advocacy and fundraising through strategic communication in China. The findings from the empirical studies on reveal several key trends and insights. First, digital communication channels have emerged as pivotal tools for nonprofits. Personalized and emotionally resonant content, coupled with consistent engagement strategies, significantly increase donor participation and donation rates. Second, storytelling is a universally powerful tool in advocacy and fundraising efforts. Whether through written narratives or video content, storytelling has consistently proven its ability to engage donors on a personal and emotional level. Sharing authentic and compelling stories about the impact of donations not only deepens donor relationships but also motivates ongoing support. Recommendations: Storytelling emerged as a powerful communication tool across various studies. To effectively convey their mission and engage supporters, nonprofits should prioritize the art of storytelling. This involves sharing authentic, relatable, and emotionally resonant narratives that connect donors to the cause on a personal level. Providing real-life examples of how donations make a difference can strengthen donor relationships and encourage ongoing support. Nonprofits should train their communication teams in storytelling techniques and consistently incorporate compelling narratives into their advocacy and fundraising campaigns. Furthermore, the studies emphasize the significance of transparency and building trust with donors. Nonprofits should be open and honest about their goals, progress, and the impact of their work. Clear communication about how donations are utilized can enhance donor trust and confidence. Organizations should consider creating impact reports and sharing success stories regularly to keep supporters informed about the outcomes of their contributions.

Creating a Compelling Data Story: Inside a Search Engine's Ad Sales Strategy

The case revolves around a marketing/sales executive who works in the Ad Sales wing of a popular search engine. Over the course of the case, the protagonist realizes that their marketing strategy needs to refocus on a different vertical than the one they have been paying the most attention to. He had done the required data analysis and feels the data strongly points to a need for change in their strategy. However, he needs to convincing the higher management by put together a compelling pitch using storytelling elements, so that the message in his data gets across clearly, compelling them to act.

Pseudocide: dying to get away with it

PurposeWhen an individual leaves evidence to suggest that they are dead to mislead others, they are committing “pseudocide.” This study aims to examine pseudocides performed for the purpose of committing or concealing a financial crime.Design/methodology/approachThis manuscript summarizes information from both academic and nonacademic publications. To provide evidence related to the conclusions made by prior authors and identify the risk factors that are often indicative of pseudocide, this manuscript examines the characteristics of pseudocides that received media coverage.FindingsPseudocides that receive media coverage often involve a prominent figure or a compelling story. These stories are not representative of the average pseudocide, which receives no publicity because it occurs in a less developed nation and is committed by a nonpublic figure. Common characteristics include the absence of a corpse and paperwork procured through bribery.Originality/valueOne of the only academic papers focused on pseudocide, this manuscript provides readers with information related to the scope of the issue, common methodologies and factors indicative of pseudocide. This should be of interest to several parties including forensic accountants, insurers, regulators and academics.

Implementing Vladimir Propp's Theory of Narratology in Writing Skill using Bumi Manusia Movie

The main material object of this research is the movie Bumi Manusia. This research aims to reveal the narratives' function and learning aspect in the Bumi Manusia movie, which tells the story of patience and sacrifice in the face of European stereotypes of the natives. Then, this study also looks for the meaning of the struggle contained in each scene. This research analyzes the depiction of 31 narrative functions, the division of seven characterizations according to Propp, and the identification of various aspects of learning in the story. From the analysis, it is expected to find benefits to improving creative writing skills. The approach used in this research is qualitative and narrative structure, using Vladimir Propp's narrative theory. The results showed the structure of the Bumi Manusia movie as follows: there are 20 functions in the story. In analyzing the story above, it does not reach 31 narrative functions that are the same as Vladimir Propp's theory, and the order of the narrative functions is different from Propp's, and then there are repeated narrative functions. There are seven types of dramatic personae: villain, donor, helper, princess and her father, dispatcher, hero, and false hero. Despitefully, the various aspects of learning from the movie Bumi Manusia have deep messages in this story, including the religious, educational, and cultural aspects. Narrative structure is a fundamental aspect of writing that shapes the flow and impact of a story. Mastering narrative structure and integrating these elements into writing skills can create compelling and memorable stories that resonate with readers and leave a lasting impression

Kishōtenketsu as Leitmotif

Final Fantasy VII (1997) is perhaps best known for its compelling story and memorable soundtrack. Like many of the other games within the franchise, storytelling within FF7 is heavily rooted in the Kishōtenketsu storytelling format. This four-part structure favors character development over conflict and establishes strong psychological connections between the characters. Nobuo Uematsu’s penchant for leitmotivic scoring strengthens these bonds further, creating a tripartite connection between story, music, and the audience. And while his compositional styles draw heavily from Western traditions found in film and opera throughout much of his oeuvre, it is apparent that Kishōtenketsu bears tremendous influence on his treatment of FF7’s score, especially as it pertains to the game’s main theme. This article addresses the musico-dramatic influences that Kishōtenketsu has on Uematsu’s compositional strategies regarding FF7’s main theme, its various transformations, and their strategic deployment over the course of the game. After discussing FF7 through the principles of Kishōtenketsu, I provide a thorough leitmotivic analysis of the self-titled “Main Theme to Final Fantasy VII,” identifying the Tarnhelm progression within its opening phrase as Cloud’s leitmotif. I suggest that the harmonic and tonal ambiguity inherent within the infamous progression symbolizes Cloud’s own struggles with identity and memory. Uematsu musically depicts the entire game’s story arc within the “Main Theme” through his use of musical allusion to other characters, as well as his subtle approach to harmonic and motivic development. As Cloud’s leitmotif is only found in a handful of the main theme’s transformations, I conduct leitmotivic analyses on these themes, emphasizing their strategic deployment within scenes that depict his struggles with his trauma. Moreover, these different transformations are all paired together at key moments in the game, suggesting a wider leitmotivic network surrounding the “Main Theme.” Ultimately, the symbiotic relationship between Uematsu’s leitmotivic language and the story’s Kishōtenketsu structure help us to identify new symbolic meaning within the game, its story, and the soundtrack.

The Advertising On-Ramp … and Destinations and Off-Ramps: An Interview with Belle Frank

Abstract: This article captures a conversation between Belle Frank, the Chief Strategy Officer of VLMY&R Group Health Practice, and Nancy R. Tag, former creative director and professor and director of the Branding and Integrated Communication (BIC) Program at the City College of New York. The discussion covers the multifaceted landscape of the advertising industry, drawing from Frank's rich career and the insights encapsulated in her 2013 book The Advertising On-Ramp: Getting Your First Advertising Job . The conversation traverses the nuances of crafting strategic resumes that narrate a compelling story, honing interview skills, and the underestimated value of diverse backgrounds and transferable skills in advertising. Frank underscores the symbiotic relationship between advertising and culture, emphasizing the essential role of diverse perspectives in fostering creativity and innovation in the sector. She also envisages necessary updates to her book, highlighting many digital shifts impacting job searches. Frank and Tag envision an industry propelled by discerning professionals, balancing business imperatives with moral integrity. They accentuate the cruciality of adaptability, persistence, and choosing the right team in building a fulfilling career while fostering a culture of diversity and sustainable practices for a future generation of advertisers.

Behind the scenes: The role of writing guideline design in online charitable crowdfunding market

The online charitable crowdfunding platform has emerged as a powerful tool for raising funds from large crowds to support non-profit activities. Following a patronage model, fundraisers on the platform are forced to use compelling stories to capture the attention of individual donors. As such, conceptualizing a persuasive request narrative for projects posted on the platform becomes one of the most pressing issues. Project writing guidelines, as an important platform design, are widely adopted to help fundraisers. Unfortunately, their role in the market has not been well examined. To fill this research gap, we leverage a unique dataset from a leading donation-based crowdfunding platform in the United States and make full use of its policy change opportunity on writing guidelines to thoroughly investigate its impacts and the underlying mechanism on donors’ contributions. Our empirical results show that the more constraints the guidelines impose on writing, the more likely they are to weaken the persuasiveness of narratives. We specifically focus on three aspects of narrative complexity and find that writing guidelines have a negative impact on linguistic complexity, which in turn diminishes donors’ contribution behavior. Nevertheless, they have positive impacts on both content and structural complexity, with the difference being that increased content complexity weakens donors’ contributions, while higher structural complexity is more likely to attract donations. Moreover, we examine the heterogeneous effects of writing guidelines on fundraisers with varied involvements. These findings deepen our understanding of writing guidance design in online platforms and have implications for charitable crowdfunding platforms and fundraisers.

Breaking the glass ceiling: gender equality practices in a Japanese bank

PurposeThis study aims to explore the mechanism of the relationships between financial and non-financial outcomes and gender equality through a case study of a Japanese bank that has consistently pursued gender equality.Design/methodology/approachA single case study was adopted to explore the outcomes of promoting gender equality. Primary data were collected from 12 semi-structured interviews. Data were analysed by rereading and coding the interview responses coded to generate themes.FindingsThrough governance reform in Company A, women have been placed in top management positions and the number of female managers has increased, allowing frontline intentions to be reflected in decision-making. The increased number of female managers has led to a decrease in female turnover, men taking parental leave, improved training of female managers and the recruitment of excellent new graduates. The appropriate allocation of jobs to female managers and employees also meets customer needs and has led to increased sales. Finally, involvement of female employees in product development in male-dominated workplaces brings women’s experiences and perspectives to product development, resulting in the development of products that are favoured by customers.Originality/valueThis study determined the mechanism behind the relationships between financial and non-financial outcomes and gender equality, based on agency, upper echelons, resource dependence, institutional and social role theories. It also contributes to gender equality research methodology by providing compelling qualitative stories of gender equality outcomes to increase a company’s commitment to promoting gender equality.

Invisible and yet hypervisible: gendered misconduct and the U.S. military

PurposeThe representation of women throughout all levels of military service and the experiences of women in military service remains a challenge for the U.S. military. The purpose of this qualitative study was to understand the gendered experiences of active-duty senior enlisted women in the U.S. military. In particular, this paper addresses gendered misconduct and its implications for training and human resource development.Design/methodology/approachInformed by gendered organizations theory, feminist institutional theory and social learning theory, this interpretive qualitative study used document reviews and in-depth interviews with 12 active-duty senior enlisted women representing various occupational specialties within the four branches of the Department of Defense.FindingsFindings included compelling stories of the gendered experiences of the participants’ related to organizational structures, institutional culture, gendered misconduct and learning to navigate as a woman. Gendered misconduct, to include sexual assault, sexual harassment and sex-based discrimination, particularly reflected the simultaneous visibility and invisibility of women in military service.Originality/valueThe findings of this study are consistent with extant literature and may be used to inform policy and regulatory efforts regarding gendered misconduct in the military. Otherwise, women in the military will remain invisible and yet hypervisible.

Exploitation and Domination in Application

As part of a book symposium on Nicholas Vrousalis' Exploitation as Domination: What Makes Capitalism Unjust (2023), Gulzaar Barn suggests that while Vrousalis' account provides a compelling story of why capitalist labour relations are unjustly exploitative, difficulties arise in its application to other cases such as surrogacy.