Research Design Research Articles

A study on music therapy aimed at psychological trauma recovery for bereaved families driven by artificial intelligence

IntroductionThis study explores the effectiveness of music therapy in repairing psychological trauma in bereaved families, aiming to provide a comprehensive understanding of its potential therapeutic impact. It begins with an analysis of the current situation faced by bereaved families, identifying the psychological challenges they experience.MethodsThe research design included the recruitment of participants from bereaved families, who were then divided into an experimental group and a control group. An optimized Long Short-Term Memory (LSTM) network model was constructed to analyze music therapy data, tailored specifically to capture the nuances of this therapeutic process. The experimental procedure detailed the specific operations involved in the music therapy sessions and established a clear comparison framework between the two groups.ResultsThe performance of the proposed LSTM model demonstrated high accuracy (0.85), precision (0.86), recall (0.84), and F1-score (0.85), indicating its effectiveness in predicting treatment outcomes. When compared to the Self-Reporting Inventory-90 (SCL-90) scale, the model captured the trend of treatment effects with a high level of accuracy and reliability. Notably, participants numbered 2, 6, and 8 in the experimental group showed substantial improvement rates of 67.21%, 71.45%, and 75.67%, respectively, in their psychological health issues.DiscussionThe comparative analysis between the experimental and control groups confirmed that the music therapy approach, as guided by the proposed LSTM model, led to a more significant improvement in psychological health issues for bereaved families. This suggests that the model offers a promising avenue for enhancing the effectiveness of music therapy in this context.

Gambaran Tingkat Stres Remaja Panti Asuhan di Kota Padang Ditinjau dari Perbedaan Jenis Kelamin

Is a critical developmental period characterized by significant physical and psychological changes. Teenagers living in orphanages, in particular, experience stress due to internal and external demands. This study aims to determine the description of stress levels in teenagers living in orphanages in Padang City in terms of gender differences. The type of research used is descriptive quantitative. The sample in this study was random sampling which amount 268 people in 6 different orphanages in Padang city. The instrument used was the DASS 14 questionnaire, with a cross-sectional study research design. The results of the hypothesis test using the Mann-Whitney test indicate a significance value of 0.001. Since the p-value (0.001) is less than 0.05, it can be concluded that there is a significant difference in stress levels between male and female adolescents living in orphanages in Padang City. The study results show that the stress levels of adolescents in the orphanage tend to be low. However, the orphanage management should still anticipate factors that could increase the stress levels of these adolescents.

The Implementation of Geogebra-Assisted Discovery Learning Approach Towards Mathematical Communication Ability of Vocational Students

Mathematicals communication ability is one of essential mathematical abilities that every person, who learns mathematics, needs to have. However, many facts found in many studies has shown us that students’ achievements on this ability are still low. Factors that may cause it spread from teacher factors, tools, approaches, learning media to students themselves. To overcome these issues, many efforts are made to select and implement learning approaches that can improve students' mathematical communication ability as well as their activities in instructional process. Thus, the purpose of this study is to examine whether the implementation of GeoGebra-assisted discovery learning approach is effective in improving vocational school students' mathematicals communication ability or not. This quasi experimental research design involved 60 students of Gema Karya Bahana Vocational School as samples. The samples were divided into two groups in which 30 students of Accounting-1 class as the experimental group and 30 students of Accounting-2 as the control group. The data collected through a description test consisted of 3 questions on a linear program. The data collected through the test, both in pre-test and post-test, then analyzed using inferential statistics. The results of this analysis showed that the implementation of the discovery Learning approach assisted by GeoGebra was effective in improving vocational school students' mathematicals communication ability. Thus, the discovery learning approach assisted by GeoGebra can be implemented on instructional processes as one of instructional approach alternatives.

Influence of Community Participation on Sustainability of Non-Profit Organizations: The Case of Kenya Wildlife Conservancies Association (KWCA)

This paper examines the influence of community participation on the sustainability of non- profit organizations, with a particular focus on the Kenya Wildlife Conservancies Association (KWCA). Using stakeholder theory and participatory development theory as its theoretical framework, the study employed a descriptive research design and utilized stratified and purposive sampling. Data was collected from 100 respondents—including board members, staff, and stakeholders—via structured questionnaires and analyzed using SPSS with multiple regression. The findings demonstrated a significant positive correlation Y = 2.184 + 0.438X1 + Ԑ., between community participation and sustainability of non-profit organizations highlighting that community engagement fosters ownership, responsibility, and long-term support. The study revealed that community participation enhances resource mobilization, accountability, and transparency within non-profit organizations. Respondents emphasized the importance of community involvement in achieving these outcomes, aligning with prior research by Smith et al. (2020) and Mwangi and Njenga (2019), which also underscored the positive impact of community engagement on non-profit effectiveness and sustainability. By integrating community members into decision-making processes, non-profits can leverage local knowledge and skills, ensuring continued support and effective management. Based on these insights, several recommendations are proposed for KWCA and similar organizations. It is essential to prioritize and expand community involvement by developing more inclusive and interactive engagement programs. Establishing robust feedback mechanisms will facilitate community input and foster a sense of ownership. Additionally, investing in capacity-building initiatives to equip community members with the necessary skills and knowledge is crucial. These measures are expected to enhance community engagement, improve program effectiveness, and bolster the overall sustainability of KWCA’s initiatives.

FINANCIAL INCLUSION AND PERFORMANCE OF TOP 100 SMALL AND MEDIUM ENTERPRISES IN KENYA

Access to services such as credit, insurance, and savings enables SMEs to invest in growth, innovation, and operational efficiency. SMEs leveraging financial inclusion can enhance their revenue generation, cash flow management, and overall profitability. The study sought to find out what impact finance inclusion has had on the performance of Kenya's top 100 SMEs. This study was guided by finance intermediation theories, technology acceptance theory, TAM signal theory and pecking order theory. The study1was carried1out on the basis of a descriptive research design. The target population consisted of top 100 medium size enterprises in Kenya as shown in the annual survey carried out by KPMG and nation media group in the years 2020. Respondents ware financial officers from Kenya's top 100 mid-sized companies. Stratified sampling was used to interview respondents based on company category. Respondents were selected using a purposeful selection process. Data1was collected using structured questionnaire. A pilot survey was conducted with 10 respondents, but the final survey did not include these respondents. Validity of research instruments was measured using content validity. The study examined the effects of micro savings, micro credit, micro insurance, and digital banking on the performance of Kenya's top 100 SMEs, revealing that tailored financial products significantly enhance operational efficiency and growth. Findings indicated that micro savings improve financial stability, while flexible repayment options for micro credit support sustainable business practices. Additionally, awareness and customized solutions for micro insurance products were found to bolster risk management among SMEs. Digital banking was highlighted as a critical enabler of faster transactions and better cash flow management. The conclusions suggest that targeted financial services and educational initiatives are vital for empowering SMEs to optimize their performance. Recommendations include developing customized financial products, enhancing digital banking infrastructure, and providing financial literacy training to improve overall business resilience and sustainability.

Why People Procrastinate on Facebook: Case Study from Employed and Unemployed Facebook Users in Sri Lanka

Procrastination is the intentional postponing of a necessary or devoted task, which can have a number of adverse impacts, including distress, physiological health issues, poor work performance, and subpar academic success. The study aims to analyze and compare procrastination levels among employed and unemployed Facebook users, exploring the reasons behind their procrastination, which is crucial from both an economic and informational perspective. Additionally, it seeks to investigate the association between procrastination on Facebook and the users' education levels. The study also examines how procrastination on Facebook differs between males and females. Positivistic research Philosophy, deductive approach and explanatory research design were deployed for this study. The study used convenience sampling technique and, 300 employed and unemployed Facebook users were taken for analysis of Independent sample test, Anova test and post hoc-tukeys test. Accordingly, five factors namely notification features, immersive decision features, surveillance of presence, identification features, and interaction features were utilized to gauge the degree of procrastination. The findings of this study outlined the causes of procrastination and revealed a substantial difference between employed and unemployed Facebook users in terms of procrastination levels on social media sites. Additionally, results showed that there is a considerable variation between males and females too. The findings will provide a deep knowledge for marketers, psychologists and for academics as well.

Exploring the impact of screencast-based ipsative assessment on EFL students’ writing development

Screencast technology in English writing assessment offers personalized, detailed feedback, but not dialogic. However, integrating it with ipsative assessment (IA) principles may sustain conversations between teachers and learners on students’ writing development. This study explored the impact of screencast-based ipsative assessment (SIA) on developing students’ writing skills in an Iranian EFL context. Screencast technology recorded teachers’ feedback and facilitated students’ access to and reflection on their previous works. A qualitative research design was used to analyze teacher’s feedback profiles and students’ reflections. The findings revealed that SIA engaged participants in ipsative self-assessment, enhanced their self-regulation skills in writing, and created a comforting and socially safe environment where they felt supported and encouraged to take risks, knowing that their mistakes could be considered part of the learning process. However, SIA caused some students to focus on their scores rather than skill development in their writing tasks. The findings suggest that English teachers can utilize screencast technology for precise, detailed ipsative feedback in an IA regime. SIA procedures may encourage student self-assessment and foster a dialog between teachers and students to seek clarification and plan their next move in writing progress.

Relationship Between Operational Factors and Cost Efficiency in Defined Contributions Pension Schemes

Pension schemes in Kenya provide income for individuals who attain the retirement age and consequently boost economic growth as well as accelerate domestic savings. The industry is regulated by the Retirement Benefits Authority (RBA). The purpose of the study was to determine the relationship between operational practices on cost efficiency in defined contributions pension schemes in Kenya. The specific objectives were to determine the relationship between service provider costs on cost efficiency in defined contributions pension schemes, to examine the relationship between fund size on cost efficiency in defined contributions pension schemes, to determine the relationship between portfolios mix on cost efficiency in defined contributions pension schemes and to examine the relationship between investment strategy on cost efficiency in defined contributions pension schemes. The study will be significant to the management of defined contributions pension schemes in Kenya and other researchers. The study adopted a descriptive research design. The target population was all the 1,262 pension schemes in Kenya. Stratified random sampling was employed to select small schemes, medium schemes, large schemes and mega pension schemes in Kenya and obtained a total of 304 sample population. The study used secondary data. Descriptive statistics was performed by getting frequencies, means, and standard deviation for the purpose of understanding the results, which was displayed in tables, charts, and graphs. A multiple regression model was fitted to the data and the results revealed that there was a relationship between cost efficiency and service provision expenses, portfolio mix, fund size and investment strategies. Service provision expenses for a pension scheme should be able to cover the cost of administration without unduly compromising the growth of pension savings. Further, while a substantial fund size offered advantages, it should be complemented by strategic acumen and diligent oversight to ensure the scheme delivers on its mandate. A balanced and diversified portfolio is considered a cornerstone providing a buffer against market volatility and therefore enhancing the prospects of sustainable goals and cost efficiency. Finally, the cost associated with portfolio mix and risk management was a necessary investment in securing the long-term sustainability and stability of the pension fund. Recommendation for further studies on cost efficiency of defined benefits schemes should be done as well as further studies on challenges facing pension schemes in Kenya

Achievement Oriented Leadership Style and Performance of Manufacturing Small and Medium Enterprises (SMEs) in Nairobi County, Kenya

This study sought to examine the influence of achievement oriented leadership (AOL) style on organizational performance of manufacturing SME’s in Nairobi, Kenya. Positivism research philosophy and descriptive correlational research design were used. The target population of interest in the study comprised of managers/owners from 425 SME’s listed members of the Kenya Association of Manufacturers based in Nairobi region. A sample size of 369 managers/owners was derived using stratified random sampling technique. From this, a total of 367 participated in the study, giving a response rate of 99%. Data was collected using self-administered questionnaires. The descriptive statistics covered were mean, standard deviation, skewness and kurtosis while inferential statistics used for data analysis included:-pearson’s correlation, chi-square and binary logistic regression. Binary logistic regression (Cox and Snell R squared) showed that 5.9 % of the probability of organizational performance was explained by achievement oriented leadership style. The parameter estimates indicated that AOL style positively and significantly predicted organizational performance, β= 2.450, p = .000, p < 0.05. Hence, the study rejected the null hypothesis that AOL style does not influence organizational performance in manufacturing SME’s in Nairobi. From the conclusion, AOL style significantly influenced organizational performance in manufacturing SME’s Nairobi, Kenya. The findings provide insights to the owners/managers of manufacturing SME’s on influence of AOL for better performance. This study recommends further research on SME’s from specific manufacturing categories in Kenya, the inclusion of demographic variables and a longitudinal approach to reveal the impact of AOL style on organizational performance over time.

Examining the impact of organizational and management variables on sport service delivery in Ethiopia

There is an observed general low performance of Ethiopian Sport Governing Bodies (SGBs) in service delivery. Evidence shows that the trend can be corrected with proper understanding and insight into the process of organizational and management factors of these SGBs. This study aimed to investigate the contribution of organizational and management factors as determinants in effective service delivery in SGBs. For this study, a cross-sectional research design was employed. Purposive sampling was used to choose 350 samples from 154 internal and 196 external stakeholders. The instruments used for the study were the key informant interview and the questionnaire. Pearson Product Moment Correlation Coefficient and multiple regression were used to analyze the data at the 0.05 significant level while qualitative data were content analyzed. The findings confirmed that organizational and management factor variables had a significant positive relationship with sport service delivery (organizational structure (r=0.515), organizational capabilities (r=0.701), communication (r=0.549), management practice (r=0.571), materials & resources (r=0.527) and stakeholders satisfaction (r=0.742). Management factors jointly predicted effective sport service delivery (F (3, 329)= 165.868, R2= 0.612); organizational factors had a joint significant contribution to effective sport service delivery (F(3, 329) = 148.743, R2= 0.576). Further, organizational and management factor variables had a joint relative significant influence on effective sport service delivery in Ethiopian SGBs (F (6, 326) =130.81, R2= 0.707). Interviews revealed that there are weak relations with stakeholders, an unaligned structure of regional sport bodies with federal bodies, and managers with improper experience and knowledge in sport which influences effective sport service delivery in Ethiopian SGBs. Therefore, working together with stakeholders, structural advancement, designing rules and regulations that can serve a longer time, taking correction based on feedback from stakeholders, networked structures and collaborations with local sports organizations as means of improving service delivery employing shared burden and coordinated effort are recommended. Keywords: Management, Organization, Service delivery, Sport governing bodies

Enhancing Jakarta Faces Web App with AI Data-Driven Python Data Analysis and Visualization

Python is widely used in artificial intelligence (AI) and machine learning (ML) because of its flexibility, adaptability, rich libraries, active community, and broad environment, which makes it a popular choice for AI development. Python compatibility has already been examined with Java using TCP socket programming on both non-graphical and graphical user interfaces, which is highly essential to implement in the Jakarta Faces web application to grab potential competitive advantages. Python data analysis library modules such as numpy, pandas, and scipy, as well as visualization library modules such as Matplotlib and Seaborn, and machine-learning module Scikit-learn, are intended to be integrated into the Jakarta Faces web application. The research method uses similar TCP socket programming for the enhancement process, which allows instruction and data exchange between Python and Jakarta Faces web applications. The outcome of the findings emphasizes the significance of modernizing data science and machine learning (ML) workflows for Jakarta Faces web developers to take advantage of Python modules without using any third-party libraries. Moreover, this research provides a well-defined research design for an execution model, incorporating practical implementation procedures and highlighting the results of the innovative fusion of AI from Python into Jakarta Faces.

How to close a telephone call in Chinese – A problem for foreigners

AbstractIn this study, we examine why closing a telephone call in Chinese can trigger intercultural irritations for foreigners. We investigate such irritations by comparing ways in which learners and native speakers of Chinese end phone calls. We follow a tripartite research design anchored in speech acts and interaction. First, we administered Discourse Completion Tests (DCTs) to a group of advanced European learners of Chinese and a group of native speakers of Chinese, investigating how members of these groups close telephone calls. Second, we studied two corpora of telephone closing conversations, including a Chinese and an English as lingua franca corpus. Third, we considered whether the pragmatic differences observed through our DCTs reflect broader Chinese and Western conventions of telephone closing observed through our interactional corpora, and whether the behaviour of foreign speakers of Chinese may have been influenced by pragmatic transfer. Through the research outcomes we interpret the above-mentioned intercultural irritations.

The Role of Attachment Styles in Marital Stability: A Psychological Approach to Strengthening Relationships

Purpose: The present study attempts to establish how attaching styles influence marital stability. To help determine how the various attachment patterns or styles-secure, anxious, avoidant, and disorganized-influence communication quality, conflict resolution, and overall marital satisfaction. Provide an understanding of how attachment styles, which are developed during one's childhood years, impinge on adult-to-adult relationships, particularly in marriage. Understand the rise in divorce rates and marital problems based on exploration of attachment styles that strengthen or weaken the marital bond. Add to the increasing scientific knowledge repository by focusing on real-life marital outcomes related to psychological theories of attachment. Material and Methods: The research design for this study is a mixed-methods design, which includes the following; Quantitative Component: Standardized questionnaires related to attachment style and relationship satisfaction scales will be administered to 200 couples. Qualitative Component: 20 couples from each category of different attachment styles will be interviewed in depth. This will be done at the marriage counseling centers in Houston, Texas. Population: Married individuals from different age brackets and years of marriage. Sampling: Stratified random sampling to ensure that there is a fair representation of marital backgrounds. Statistical Analysis: Application of correlation and regression analysis will help identify if attachment styles significantly predict marital outcomes. Findings: The key results of the study are that secure Attachment: Couples with at least one partner showing a secure attachment style exhibit: Improved communication, Successful conflict resolution, Overall relationship satisfaction, Insecure Attachment Styles, Anxious and avoidant are attached to less satisfaction and more conflict in marriage. Implications to Theory, Practice and Policy: Based on this research, our recommendations in the present study are as follows: The need for Attachment-Based Interventions and Relationship Education Programs.

Mobile Assisted Language Learning: Ecuadorian Undergraduate Polytechnic Students' Perceptions

Despite the increased use of mobile devices for language learning, little research has examined Ecuadorian university students' perceptions of Mobile-Assisted Language Learning (MALL). This study aims to explore undergraduate polytechnic students' perceptions of using MALL for English skills development. Also, it looks at the different factors associated with the acceptance of technology and identifies those that are more common. This quantitative research design uses a survey adapted from the Technology Adoption Model (TAM). It counts with the participation of 126 Ecuadorian undergraduate polytechnic students taking English as a foreign language classes. Participants were very positive about using MALL applications to learn English during their off-classroom time. The average total mean score was 4.373. It was also determined, through multiple regression analysis, that Perceived Usefulness (t = 6.025, p < 0.000), Social Influence (t = 2.876, p < 0.000), and Perceived Outcomes (t = 3.903, p <0.000) were the highest predictors of MALL acceptance. The two main contributions of this study to the literature are that students feel a connection between their language learning aims and attaining them by using MALL. Perceived Outcome is a high predictor of MALL usage. The findings suggest that Ecuadorian educational practices should increasingly integrate Mobile-Assisted Language Learning (MALL) technologies, as students perceive them as highly useful, especially in improving language skills, fostering social collaboration, and offering personalized, flexible learning experiences that align with their technological readiness and cultural context.

Development of an Instrument for Evaluating Action Video Game Elements

Background Studies on the impact of videogame play on the brain and behavior demonstrates potential benefits of playing action video games (AVGs) for cognitive enhancements. However, it is becoming increasingly challenging to distinguish between AVGs and non-AVGs due to the emergence of new video game genres and platforms that incorporate action elements in historically non-action genres. Thus, more research is needed to understand AVG mechanics. Objective This study developed an Action Video Game Elements (AVGE) Likert-type scale for differentiating an AVG from a non-AVG and examined its performance in an AVG and a non-AVG. Method We employed standardized lab data collection procedures to administer the AVGE scale in undergraduate education majors after they played either an AVG ( n = 144) or a non-AVG ( n = 48). Results Exploratory factor analysis revealed a five-factor theoretically sensible structure: (1) focus, (2) pacing & goal setting, (3) challenge, (4) sensory stimulation, and (5) speed. Using an experimental research design, we examined the AVGE scale for its ability to distinguish an AVG from a non-AVG. Players who played the AVG rated the game significantly higher in all AVGE categories than their peers who played a non-AVG, thus providing empirical evidence regarding the scale’s discriminant validity of the game. Additionally, we explored the AVGE score differences in players with and without prior AVG experience in the AVG and non-AVG. Conclusion The AVGE scale has a promising internal consistency and discriminant validity. Future research can use it for examining AVG elements in various games as well as guiding the design and development of video games that aim to enhance cognition and better align these games with players’ demographics.

Accessibility Design Research: Redesign of the Canterbury Square

Accessibility for disabled individuals in urban environments is a fundamental aspect of inclusive design and social equity. When investigating a suitable site for this redesign project as a group, it is found some iconic outdoor barrier-free designs. Conducted the research in China, the examples include ramps, curb ramps, blind access, and other auxiliary facilities, and most of the specific relevant technologies should comply with the relevant provisions of the Code for Barrier-free Design of Urban Roads and Buildings. Despite progress in awareness and legislation, many cities around the world still face significant challenges in providing adequate access for disabled people. This essay will explore the current state of accessibility for disabled individuals in cities, focusing on the barriers they encounter, and the efforts being made to overcome them. Subsequently, this essay will also examine several exemplary architectural designs that prioritize accessibility and inclusivity, providing real-world examples of innovative solutions that enhance the quality of life for disabled individuals, which give insight into the ongoing redesign project of the Canterbury Lane Square near the Canterbury City Centre.

The Development of Liveworksheets-Assisted Discovery Learning Model Worksheets for Improving Student’s Critical Thinking Ability

Student Worksheets (LKS) are an interactive bridge between teachers and students, this is also related to measuring student learning outcomes. The use of worksheets affects the level of effectiveness in working on test questions. Stimulating students' cognitive critical thinking can be obtained, including from learning mathematics with the right approach method. One of the students' learning goals is to be innovative and creative in solving problems with solutions. The aim of this research is to develop a LKPD (Learner Worksheet) model of discovery learning assisted by a live worksheet to make it more effective and efficient and have the potential impact of growing students' cognitive level of critical thinking. The research method used is a design research model which is divided into two parts, namely preliminary (preliminary study and LKPD-Liveworksheet design) and formative evaluation including self-evaluation, prototyping (expert review, one-to-one, and small groups) research field tests as well revision. Research data was analyzed quantitatively and qualitatively. The research results show students' critical thinking abilities for Liveworksheet LKPD teaching materials with exponents and logarithms in the "Legal" and "Easy" categories according to experts and practitioners. The results of the research show that the LKPD developed is feasible, effective and influences students' critical thinking skills using the discovery learning model. The activities in this research have resulted in a product being developed in the form of a critical thinking worksheet using a discovery learning model assisted by a live worksheet which creates productive learning.

Scaffolding Fifth Graders’ Learning with a Digital Multi-Representation Applet: Design Research on Focusing Multiplicative Structures with Dynamic Dot Arrays

AbstractDigital multi-representation applets offer promising opportunities for promoting students’ conceptual understanding by dynamically converting graphical and symbolic representations and for promoting discoveries and justifications of mathematical properties. However, learning effects of open-ended multi-representation applets seem to depend on targeted scaffolds for students’ processes of conversions, treatments, and conversions of treatments. While these design challenges have come to be well-understood for dynamic geometry and functions, more design research is needed for multi-representation applets for multiplicative reasoning. We report on a design research study in Grade 5 in which the multi-representation applet of a dynamic dot array was integrated into a digital teaching–learning environment with sequenced tasks and more targeted scaffolds. The qualitative analysis of 30 students’ processes revealed multiple potentials of the dynamic array to (a) connect static representations by articulating the underlying multiplicative unit structures (conversions), (b) describe systematic variations (coordinated treatments), (c) explain systematic variations in representations by articulating unit structures (conversions of variations), (d) discover multiplicative commutativity (treatments), and (e) go towards justifying multiplicative commutativity by restructuring the array and its unit structures (conversions of treatments). Design experiment Cycle 1 revealed that all potentials were partially addressed by some students. To enable students to exploit more of these multiple potentials, attention scaffolds and language scaffolds were integrated. In Cycle 2, more potentials were exploited while still leaving room for improvements. In total, the study shows how design research can contribute to embed multi-representation applets into teaching–learning environments with well-sequenced tasks and targeted scaffolds.

‘Because I am a woman, an old woman, I have no voice’: gendered ageism and disempowerment of older women in three African countries

Background and objectives: Gendered ageism refers to the intersectionality of age and gender bias and discrimination. It is widely prevalent and leads to inequality, injustice, oppression, exploitation and disempowerment of older women. In this study, we explore the impacts of gendered ageism on three areas of older women’s lives in three African countries. These areas are: (1) participation in public and political life and access to justice and law enforcement; (2) family relations, inheritance, and land and property ownership; and (3) violence, abuse and neglect. Research design and methods: Eighteen women aged 54–85 years were interviewed for this study. Thematic analysis was undertaken to identify and explore disempowering impacts of gendered ageism on their lives and rights. Results: In all areas of the participants’ lives, their lack of voice in their inability to make choices, to claim their rights and to participate meaningfully in decision-making were highlighted. These manifested in the suppression of their interests, opinions and aspirations in public life; denial of justice; prejudice and discrimination within family settings; exploitation, harassment, abandonment and violence; and an overall devaluation, dehumanisation and silencing of older women. Discussion: Women often outlive men and experience marginalisation for a greater proportion of their lives. Yet, their lived experiences receive limited acknowledgement and redressal. In developing countries, older women face multiple forms of oppression arising from gendered ageism. This study highlights such experiences with the expectation that this will generate awareness, garner support from stakeholders and help inform policies for the protection and equal treatment of older women.

Assessing the impact of structural change in sustainable consumption and lifestyles research

Scientific evidence highlights the pivotal role for structural change in pursuit of the sustainability transformation. A particular challenge for research on structural aspects of sustainable consumption and lifestyles, however, is the assessment of their impact. Especially quantifying the impact of structural change remains a serious problem. While some forms of structural change can be quantified, like the rate of building renovations, changes in the energy mix at the production level, or trends in access to health care or education, the impact of other changes such as societal narratives about wellbeing, political campaigns on energy technologies or policies, or the abandonment of the growth paradigm defy easy quantification. This article aims to shed light on potential avenues for quantitatively assessing the impact of structural change drawing on insights gained by a group of international and interdisciplinary research consortia funded by the European Union in the area of sustainable consumption, citizenship, and lifestyles research. It delineates strengths and weaknesses of different approaches, foci and blindspots of associated data types. Thereby, it highlights fundamental decisions that need to be made in research designs, but also important aspects to consider in the interpretation of results. Finally, the article highlights the particular challenges related to assessing the impact of deep political and ideational structures.