Methods Research Design Research Articles

Cycles: using storytelling to co-design a positive future for menstrual health and wellbeing in public spaces

Despite the ubiquity of menstruation, the area is under-researched and stigmatized. The burden of ‘managing’ periods lies with the people who menstruate (PWM). Some etiquettes and cultures ask that periods disappear/are hidden from the public sphere, however despite this, PWM continue to experience symptoms within these public spaces (pain, nausea, discomfort etc.). This paper describes a design research study in two parts: Cycles is a design project that firstly uncovers what it means to menstruate in ‘public’ and secondly explores how we can collaboratively generate conceptual solutions to contribute towards a positive future for menstrual health and well-being. Through a series of participatory and inclusive design research methods, based on storytelling the diverse experiences of a group of PWM were gathered. Subsequent analysis of the data identified a number of shared and individual stories that were re-enacted in an urban context (using Limerick City as a test bed). This research served to highlight that whilst everyone’s story with their period is individual, there is a collective lack of infrastructural, product and social support for PWM. Cycles surfaced a requirement for inclusive and equitable solutions that support PWM at the point of need whilst also raising awareness and building understanding and sympathy.

Suitability techniques for transforming marginal lands to support building infrastructures in parts of Rivers State, Nigeria

This study examined sustainability techniques for transforming marginal lands to support building infrastructures in parts of Rivers State, Nigeria. The study adopted the cross-sectional survey research design method employing the use of standard penetration approach utilizing Geographic Information System analysis. Marginal lands were delineated as margins of watrbodies using the polygon method in ArcGIS, and were created as a feature class for polygon data (shape file). The locations, river margins and roads formed point data, polygon data and line data respectively. Digitisation was achieved using Orthophoto Image in ArcGIS 10.0 software where seven geotechnical boreholes were located and drilled using permission rig to a depth of 10.5m in five local government areas of Rivers State. In-situ standard penetration testing and soil sampling for laboratory geotechnical properties was done using standard laboratory techniques. Findings of the analysis show that silty and sandy clay are the dominant soil within the foundation depth of 1-2.5m which are underlained by clays and sands of varying densities and grain sizes with their specific gravity value of ranges of 1.9 – 2.66 depicting that the areas are underlined by organic, diatomaceous and high porosity permeability soils deposits under water logged conditions. The cohesive strength of the soils vary from 65KN/m 2 - 115KN/m 2, angle of internal friction ranged from 0o – 10o and shear strength ranged from 110KN/m 2 – 147.46KN/m 2 and the allowable bearing capacities of 180.22KN/m 2 – 236.05KN/m 2. The stability techniques for the transformation of the land to support building infrastructures are pre-construction soil stabilization and marginal land reinforcement. The study thus recommends for building summation of consolidated techniques for sustainability of infrastructures.

Design for shared driverless vehicles of the future

On-demand shared transportation is a major new mobility innovation and potentially the main mode of transport in coming decades. Studies show that driverless vehicles have potential to accelerate uptake of shared vehicles at scale. People perceive sharing positively but do not necessarily translate perception into action, with desire for personal space a major reason for unwillingness to share vehicles. Design research is a powerful tool when creating methods and processes to anticipate future possibilities by visualising detailed features of proposed products. We present a set of design research methods engaging end users in a variety of empathy activities and a design process to translate their needs into visual concepts for future shared driverless vehicles that are attractive and more likely to be adopted.

Association between Stress Levels and Functional Dyspepsia among Medical Students During the COVID-19 Pandemic: A Study of Indonesian Christian University

Background: Stress is a problem that often occurs among students. The high incidence of stress in students can interfere with students' effectiveness in carrying out their lecture activities. Stress in students not only affects the quality of learning but can also affect the physical condition of students, one of which is the occurrence of gastrointestinal disorders, one example of which is dyspepsia. Aims: This study aims to determine whether there is a relationship between stress levels and functional dyspepsia in students at the Faculty of Medicine, Indonesian Christian University class of 2020. Study Design: This research uses an observational analytical research design method with a cross-sectional approach. The main data source is primary data obtained through questionnaires taken online via Google Forms. Place and Duration of Study: The research was conducted at the Indonesian Christian University located in Cawang, East Jakarta. Time of research in September 2022. Methodology: The population in this study was 137 students from the Faculty of Medicine, Indonesian Christian University class of 2020. The sample was taken using a simple random sampling technique totaling 103 people determined using the Slovin formula with an uncertainty percentage of 5%. Results: From the results of data collection on 103 respondents who were FK UKI students Class of 2020, around 65% or 67 respondents were identified as having normal stress levels and as many as 64 students (62%) had symptoms of functional dyspepsia. Based on the results of the bivariate analysis, it was found that there was a relationship between the level of stress and the incidence of dyspepsia experienced by FK UKI students class of 2020 with the results of the chi-square test, namely p = 0.003 < sig 0.05 Conclusion: There is a significant relationship between stress levels and functional dyspepsia. This certainly cannot be taken lightly because the incidence of functional dyspepsia can have fatal consequences which can disrupt the sufferer's activities and productivity. Therefore, it is very necessary to manage emotions (stress levels) both by the sufferer himself and with professional help.

Functional Analysis of Thematic Approach to the Division of Surahs in Two English Contemporary Translations of the Qur’an

Thematic division of Qur’anic chapters (henceforth, surahs) into paragraphs is a recent trend in translating the Qur’an. This thematic approach refers to the translation of Qur’anic surah based on their underlying themes rather than verse-by-verse translation in a bilingual text. Disregarding source text division, some translators divide each Qur’anic surah into paragraphs with subheadings while translating the surahs into English. This paper aimed to reveal how the division and chosen themes for each paragraph of the surahs often differ among translators who choose this thematic approach to the Qur’an translation. The data is collected from two modern thematic English translations of the Qur’an, namely, The Clear Quran by Khattab (2015) and The Majestic Quran by Hussain (2018). Adopting a descriptive design and qualitative research method, the paper aimed at applying Nord’s model of functionalist text analysis to compare the units of analysis selected from three Qur’anic surahs: Q. 86, Q. 87 and Q. 93. These surahs are particularly chosen because they are divided differently in the two translations. The paper queries the impact of thematic translation and text segmentation on the Qur’an translation process, especially in relation to producing loyalty and functional adequacy in the two translations. Nord’s functional model was used to explore the effect of thematic translation in conveying the functions for the intended readership without betraying their trust in that they are reading God’s word in their own language. The findings emphasise that thematic translation tends to violate rather than maintain the original intended functions (skopos) and loyalty to the source text.

COMBATING DRUG AND SUBSTANCE ABUSE AMONG ‘PRIVATE HIGH SCHOOL’ LEARNERS IN WATERFALLS DISTRICT, HARARE, ZIMBABWE

The study investigates the causes of drug and substance abuse and proffers workable solutions to overcome the challenge within theprivate high school environment in Zimbabwe. The researchers used a qualitative research design and data collection method in the form of semi-structured interviews. The participants of this study involved five private high school learners, three private high school teachers and two headmasters from Waterfalls, Harare, Zimbabwe. Data was thematically analyzed. The study established that private high school administrations are neglecting the fundamental pillars of education, thereby compromising the standard of moral fiber in learners. Nonprocedural enrollment policies, lack of weekend and holiday rest and no sporting activities were established as the key causal factors of drug and substance abuse among learners in private high schools. The study concludes that the unconducive learning environment in private high schools in Zimbabwe is fertile ground for learners to succumb to drug and substance abuse usage. Whereas on the contrary, learners should have time to relax, play sports, and engage in creative activities. Therefore, this study recommends the enforcement of standardized healthy living principles of practice in private high schools in Zimbabwe.

Assessment of Risk Strategies in Banking Sector of Nepal

This article examines the impact of strategies in mitigating the risk in commercial banks of Nepal. First the paper introduces the risk in the financial institutions and then discusses the types of risks in the banks that rely on the IT systems for the operations and services. Besides, it forwards some strategies that can help the banking sector to reduce the risk and to promote the security from the attackers. I have used the mixed method of research design and have massively used the secondary data to assess the impact of the tools and techniques employed in mitigating the risk in the banking sector of Nepal. Despite the reliance on the secondary materials for information, the paper is analytical and critical contribution to the existing knowledge on the subject i.e. the risk management in the financial institutions of Nepal. The major objective of the paper has been to scrutinize the current risks faced by the banks in Nepal and the process of reducing the risks as adopted by the financial institutions in general. The finding of the study is the spread of awareness and updating the IT systems by the banks can help to protect the systems from the intruders and the cyber security must be strengthened to let the financial institutions feel safe.

Customer Behaviour towards Online Travel Agency (OTA) Services in the Hotel Industry: A Case Study in Doha, Qatar

This research investigates customer behaviour towards online travel agency (OTA) services in the hotel industry using a quantitative design and correlation research method with 139 tourists in Doha, Qatar. 95% response rate is collected and analysed using SPSS software. The results show that service quality, perceived value, and brand loyalty significantly affect customer satisfaction, while customer expectation does not. However, the study finds that customer satisfaction significantly influences customer behaviour toward OTA services in the hotel industry. The study provides practical insights for hotel managers and OTA services to enhance customer experiences by identifying the key factors that drive customer behaviour. Moreover, it contributes to the existing literature on customer behaviour towards OTA services in the hotel industry by identifying the crucial factors that influence customer behaviour.

Internal core Competencies and Competitive Advantage in Telecommu-nication Industry. A case of Mobile Telecommunication Network Rwanda

In the current demanding economic landscape, organizations must consistently reassess and innovate to stay pertinent in their operational sphere, particularly in highly competitive environments. This study aimed to investigate the influence of internal core competencies on organizational competitive advantage, focusing specifically on MTN Rwanda. Guided by three specific objectives, this research assessed the influence of management qualifications, the perception of innovation, and intellectual capital on the organizational competitive advantage of MTN Rwanda PLC. The study employed a descriptive and correlational research design, combining quantitative and qualitative methods. Data were collected through interviews and questionnaires. Key findings indicated that management capabilities, including education level, experience, training, leadership, and decision-making skills, significantly influence MTN Rwanda’s competitive advantage, with means ranging from 3.17 to 3.85 and standard deviations from 0.54 to 0.78. Attitudes towards risk-taking, willingness to adopt new technologies, creativity, problem-solving skills, culture of innovation, and implementation of innovative ideas are crucial factors in MTN Rwanda’s competitive advantage, with mean scores ranging from 4.45 to 4.48 and low standard deviations of 0.70 to 0.71. Intellectual capital, encompassing human, structural, and relational capital, plays a key role in MTN Rwanda’s competitive advantage, with means ranging from 4.55 to 4.58 and standard deviations from 0.63 to 0.64. An ANOVA test revealed a significant difference in competitive advantage between groups (F(0.12) = 474.605, p = .000). Additionally, strong positive correlations were found between management capabilities and competitive advantage (rs = .752, p = .000), innovation capacity and competitive advantage (rs = .904, p = .000), and intellectual capital and competitive advantage (rs = .876, p = .000). The findings emphasize the critical role of internal core competencies in driving competitive advantage. Management capabilities, a proactive approach to risk-taking, innovation, and leveraging intellectual capital are pivotal in shaping MTN Rwanda’s competitive position in the telecommunication industry. Internal core competencies, including management capabilities, innovation, and intellectual capital, significantly influence MTN Rwanda’s competitive advantage. It is recommended that the company prioritize education, training, leadership, risk-taking, and technology adoption while fostering a culture of innovation and leveraging intellectual capital.

Development of innovations for neighborhood care-Contribution of social innovation laboratories

The article demonstrates the contributions of the innovation program "D-Care Lab Baden-Württemberg 2023" to the development of innovative solutions for neighborhood care. The effects of the program are reconstructed on the basis of initial research findings pertaining to the innovation program. Adistinctive aspect of the laboratory is its cross-sectoral collaborative structure. The levels of impact can be defined as follows: the acquisition of skills by the participants, the connection between skills acquisition and learning arrangement, the changes observed as aresult of participation and the innovative solutions developed for care in the neighborhood. The initial results are presented in accordance with the theoretical research design and research methods previously outlined. The results demonstrate alterations in the competence profiles of the participants and the impact of the cooperative laboratory setting on the development of solutions. Based on these findings, the function of innovation programs becomes evident, thereby highlighting the necessity for mid-term to long-term impact analysis.

The Effectiveness and Relationship of Student Responses toward Learning Outcomes Using Interactive Multimedia-Based E-Modules in Elementary Schools

An interactive multimedia-based e-module is an enhanced version of conventional modules incorporating information technology. It integrates navigation buttons and user instructions, enabling independent use by those at any location and time. This phenomenon facilitates the optimal implementation of learning in the digital literacy era. This study employed a quantitative design utilizing the pre-experimental design research method. It specifically utilized a one-shot case study research form to examine the effectiveness of learning. Additionally, it employed the correlation analysis method to investigate the relationship between student responses and learning outcomes. This effort is achieved by utilizing interactive multimedia-based e-modules focused on the topic of building space in elementary school. A total of 24 fifth-grade students were included as research subjects. Moreover, the employed instruments consisted of tests of learning outcomes and questionnaires. The research data were evaluated using descriptive statistics, the N-Gain, and the correlation test. The findings indicated that using interactive multimedia-based e-modules for teaching space-related content yielded significant positive effects on learning outcomes. The research data were analyzed using descriptive statistics, N-Gain, and correlation tests. The findings revealed that: 1) the utilization of interactive multimedia-based E-Modules for teaching space-related content is quite effective, resulting in significant improvements in learning outcomes falling within the medium category; and 2) there exists a strong and close relationship between student responses to the implementation of interactive multimedia-based E-Modules and their learning outcomes in mathematics learning at the elementary school level.

Development of instructional design principles for using ICT in resource-limited learning environments: a case of Bangladesh

The integration of ICT in education in developing countries has become a significant focus in various ODA projects and educational research. With the increasing demand for teachers to incorporate ICT in their classrooms, the precise methods for effectively integrating ICT resources have not been thoroughly explored. Therefore, this research aimed to develop the most optimal instructional design principles that may systematically guide teachers in planning their lessons using ICT, specifically in the context of Bangladesh. By employing the design and development research method, this research developed an initial set of instructional design principles based on literature review and field research, then elaborated on the principles through three sets of internal validation tests and a usability test by conducting in-depth interviews to confirm the applicability of the principles in real classroom settings in Bangladesh. The final version of instructional design principles is composed of five components, ten principles, and 22 specific guidelines. Two distinct features of the principles are discussed for further research. In discussion, this research underscores the necessity of providing practical instructional design principles to guide teachers in effectively utilizing ICT, particularly within a resource-limited learning environment like Bangladesh.

Performance Management Systems and Employee performance in Selected Ministries in Enugu State, Nigeria

The broad objective of this study is to investigate performance management systems and employee performance in selected ministries in Enugu state, Nigeria. Two hypotheses were formulated in line with the objectives of the study. The study adopted a descriptive research design and survey method for data collection. The population of the study was 637. The study sampled the entire population due to the size of the studied population. The instrument for data collection was a structured questionnaire. Data presentation was on tabulated frequency and statistical Mean Score. Hypotheses were tested using a t-test. The results of the findings revealed that Performance planning has significant positive effects on employee performance levels in selected ministries in Enugu state(this is where the t-value = -796.442, and p-value = 0.00); that performance target setting systems do significantly drive positively employee performance level (where t-value = -295.988, and p-value = 0.00); and that Performance monitoring does significantly propel positively employee performance rate (where t-value = -128.604, and p-value = 0.00). The study, therefore, recommends that the Enugu state government should prioritize PMS through proper planning of work and work-related activities by adopting a friendly work environment and by setting clear, measurable goals, setting achievable goals for individuals and organizations; continuously monitoring the level of goal achievement and providing feedback.

The Relationship Of Compliance With Posyandu Visits And Accuracy Of MP-ASI Portions With Stunted Incidents In Yosowilangun Village, Manyar District

The prevalence of stunting is still increasing, including in Indonesia. The prevalence of stunting in 2022 in East Java province is 19.2%, while stunting in Gresik Regency in 2022 is 10.7% (Ministry of Health, 2022). However, at the end of 2023 there was a spike in stunting cases in Gresik which caused the percentage of stunted toddlers to rise. The aim of the research was to determine the relationship between compliance with Posyandu visits and accuracy of MP-ASI portions with short incidents (Stunted) in Yosowilangun Village, Manyar District. The research design method used is cross-sectional and the sampling method uses Proportioned Random Sampling. This research population involved mothers who had children aged 6-24 months who were registered at the Yosowilangun Village Posyandu. The sampling technique is Simple Random Sampling. The sample size was 112 toddlers. The results of the bivariate analysis between compliance with posyandu visits and appropriate portions of MP-ASI administration and the incidence of stunting were obtained (p = 0.000). Based on the data above, it can be concluded that compliance with Posyandu visits and the correct portion of MP-ASI delivery are significantly related to the incidence of stunting in Yosowilangun village.

Agro-Pastoral Youth Participation in Livelihood Activities, Development Programs and Interventions in East and West Hararghe Zones of Oromia Regional State, Ethiopia

This study was conducted to identify the status and determinants of male and female youth participation in selected livelihood activities, development programs and interventions in agro-pastoral areas of Oromia regional state, Ethiopia. A cross-sectional research design and mixed methods research approach were employed. A multi-stage random sampling strategy was followed to select four agro-pastoral Woredas (A ‘Woreda’ is an administrative unit equivalent to a District), 12 Kebeles (A ‘Kebele’ is the smallest administrative unit in Ethiopia. A Woreda/District consists of several Kebeles) and 398 youth aged 15–29 years for a face-to-face interview. Data were analysed through descriptive and inferential statistics and an econometric model (Logistic regression) estimation. We found that whereas male youth had better access to land, participation in extension/advisory services and Farmers’ Training Centers (FTCs), agricultural training, and NGOs, female youth had better participation in non-/off-farm livelihood activities and Productive Safety Net Program (PSNP). Our findings indicated that lack of access to financial resources, limited access to land, poor extension and rural advisory services, limited skills development programs and mentorship were key factors affecting youth participation. Other factors include: targeting criteria, discrimination (e.g. on the basis of gender, social structure), cumbersome organizational procedures and requirements, limited availability and capacity of supporting organizations, poor infrastructural developments, mismatch between needs and services provided, conflict, and climate-induced shocks and uncertainties. To overcome these challenges, local and regional governments and their development partners operating in the area should implement a multi-stakeholder, participatory, co-design and development of programs, projects and interventions to enhance collaboration, youth engagement and benefit. Investments in capacity-building and alternative income-generating activities, entrepreneurship education and business skills training are also important.

Tracer Study of the Bachelor of Arts Graduates of the University of Cebu-Main Campus from 2019-2024

This study determined the factors influencing job placement among graduates of the College of Arts and Sciences at the University of Cebu-Main Campus between 2019 and 2024, serving as a basis for proposed curriculum enhancements. The study used descriptive research design methods with the adopted-modified questionnaire, with frequency counts and percentages applied to analyze the results. Findings reveal that graduates, particularly those from the Psychology, Political Science, and English programs, are highly employable, whether through direct applications or referrals. Key factors influencing job choices include career challenges, salary, and benefits. The study also highlights a notable gender disparity, with most female graduates and a steady increase in graduates during the study period, peaking in 2024. Although the employment rate is high, most graduates occupy rank-and-file positions, with fewer advancing to managerial roles. Also, many graduates eventually shift to fields unrelated to their studies, indicating a potential mismatch between education and career progression. Graduates identify communication, human relations, problem-solving, and critical thinking as essential skills in their professional roles. These insights suggest the need for curriculum adjustments to align education with long-term career success better.

User Sentiment Analysis Based on Securities Application Elements.

Designing securities applications for mobile devices is challenging due to their inherent complexity, necessitating improvement through the analysis of online reviews. However, research applying deep learning techniques to the sentiment analysis of Korean text remains limited. This study explores the use of Aspect-Based Sentiment Analysis (ABSA) as an effective alternative to traditional user research methods for securities application design. By analyzing large volumes of text-based user review data of Korean securities applications, the study identifies critical elements like "update", "screen", "chart", "login", "access", "authentication", "account", and "transaction", revealing nuanced user sentiments through techniques such as PMI, SVD, and Word2Vec. ABSA offers deeper insights compared to overall ratings, uncovering hidden areas of dissatisfaction despite positive biases in reviews. This research demonstrates the scalability and cost-effectiveness of ABSA in mobile-application design research.

Strategies Development for Sustainable Development Student’s Career Values Education in Higher Vocational Colleges, Hunan Province

This study aimed to 1) study the current situation of students’ career values in the higher vocational college in Hunan province, 2) study strategies for sustainable development of students’ career values in the higher vocational college in Hunan province, and 3) evaluate the feasibility of the strategies for sustainable development students' career values in the higher vocational college in Hunan province. This study employed a mixed methods research design, combining quantitative and qualitative research methods. According to the Krejcie and Morgan sampling table, the sample group of this research will consist of 384 students randomly selected from 6 higher vocational colleges in Hunan to study the current situation of students’ career values education in higher vocational colleges in Hunan province. The research instruments were 1) a questionnaire, 2) a structured interview, and 3) an evaluation form. Data analysis was used for percentage, M, and content analysis. The research findings revealed the following: 1) the current state of students' career values in higher vocational colleges in Hunan Province in four aspects was high (M =3.93). Considering the results of this research, aspects ranged from the highest to lowest level were as follows: the highest level was career skills (M =3.96), followed by career psychology (M= 3.94), career planning (M = 3.92), and career ethics was the lowest level (M = 3.89); 2) the strategies for improving the sustainable development of students' career values education in higher vocational colleges in Hunan Province divided into four aspects which contain 29 measures. There are 5 measures for enhancing career ethics, 6 measures for enhancing career skills, 9 measures for enhancing career psychology, and 9 measures for enhancing career planning; and 3) the adaptability and feasibility of strategies for improving the sustainable development of students' career values education in higher vocational colleges in Hunan Province in four aspects were at the highest level with the M=4.80 and M=4.80 which are adaptable and feasible.

Pembuatan Aplikasi Transaksi Pembayaran Makanan dan Minuman UMKM Nyonya Buki Kuningan

Food and beverage payment transaction applications are very important in helping MSMEs improve operational efficiency and service quality. This research aims to develop a web-based payment transaction application for Mrs. Buki Kuningan MSMEs. This application is designed using the Customer Relationship Management (CRM) method and tested with a qualitative approach. This research uses the Design and Development Research method. The stages in the design and development methods used are needs analysis, design, development, testing, and evaluation. The data collection techniques used include in-depth interviews, observations, and documentation. Data obtained from various sources will be analyzed using content analysis techniques, descriptive analysis, trial and evaluation. The test results show that this application can increase efficiency, reduce errors, and provide convenience for users. This application is expected to increase MSME income through improving service quality

Exploring Halal Awareness and Its Effects on Brand Image, Consumer Attitudes, and Purchase Decisions: A Study of Mixue in Malang

Understanding the impact of Halal awareness on consumer behavior is crucial in markets with high sensitivity to Halal standards, as it can significantly influence brand perception and purchasing decisions. Despite the increasing importance of Halal certification, there is limited research on how Halal awareness specifically affects brand image, consumer attitudes, and purchase decisions in the context of the Indonesian market. This study aims to explore these relationships for Mixue in Malang. Utilizing an explanatory research design and quantitative methods, data were collected from a sample of 175 respondents through a non-probability sampling technique, specifically purposive sampling. Data analysis was conducted using descriptive techniques to interpret the relationships among the variables. The study finds a strong brand image positively impacts consumer attitudes toward the brand and encourages purchasing behavior. However, Halal awareness does not significantly affect consumer attitudes toward the brand or brand image directly. These insights underscore the complex interplay between Halal awareness, brand perception, and consumer behavior, highlighting the need for brands to enhance both Halal principles promotion and overall brand image to effectively drive consumer attitudes and purchase decisions.