Community Development Research Articles

ФІНАНСОВІ ІНСТРУМЕНТИ ЯК ВАЖЛИВА ДОМІНАНТА ЗАБЕЗПЕЧЕННЯ ІНКЛЮЗИВНОГО РОЗВИТКУ ТЕРИТОРІАЛЬНИХ ГРОМАД

Introduction. In the context of the latest transformational challenges, the problem of ensuring inclusive development of territorial communities is becoming increasingly relevant, and it is advisable to develop innovative approaches to the use of financial instruments in managing socio-economic development at the local level. The purpose of the article is to develop the conceptual framework for the use of financial instruments by public authorities as a means of management to ensure the inclusive development of territorial communities. Methods. The methodology of the study is based on the use of dialectical and process approaches, methods of induction and deduction, analysis and synthesis - when considering the content and specification of the essence of the concept of “inclusive development of territorial communities” and determining the imperative of this type of socio-economic development; structural and functional approach and methods of theoretical generalization, scientific abstraction, systematization, argumentation - to develop a conceptual model of the use of financial instruments as a dominant factor in ensuring inclusive development of territorial communities. Results. Based on the generalization of scientific views and the use of the process approach, the author's own definition of the concept of “inclusive development of territorial communities” is formed. The study of the key aspects of the concepts of inclusive development, barrier-free, integrated and sustainable development, and current global challenges and threats made it possible to outline the imperatives of inclusive development of territorial communities that should be taken into account by public authorities when choosing financial instruments. The use of the structural-functional approach made it possible to consider financial instruments for the inclusive development of territorial communities as a means of managing socio-economic phenomena and processes, which result in the implementation of the principles of financial policy aimed at the inclusive development of territorial communities. The article reveals the dualistic nature of the impact of financial instruments for inclusive development of territorial communities on the object of management from the standpoint of their provisioning, allocative and regulatory effects. Conclusions. Financial instruments are an important dominant of the inclusive development of territorial communities. It is through the dualistic nature of their impact on the object of management, taking into account the imperative of inclusive development, the priorities of the State regional policy and strategies for the development of territorial communities, that the goal of managing socio-economic development at the local level is achieved.

Pemantauan Indeks Massa Tubuh dalam Pencegahan Obesitas pada Masyarakat Kelurahan Kessilampe Kota Kendari

Obesity is a risk factor for degenerative diseases in developing countries. This is due to changes in people's lifestyles, including physical activity and eating patterns, influenced by the socio-economic development of urban and rural communities. This activity aims to determine the cut-off point for obese nutritional status based on the Body Mass Index (BMI) indicator. The study seeks to evaluate the nutritional and health status of the community in Kessilampe Village, Kendari City, by measuring Body Mass Index (BMI) and waist circumference. A total of 50 respondents participated in this activity, with the majority being women (86%). The research method used a descriptive design with a cross-sectional approach. Data collection was conducted through measurements of height (HT), weight (WT), and body mass index (BMI) on 50 adults, consisting of 7 males and 23 females.The measurement results indicated that 58% of respondents were in the normal weight category, while 26% were overweight and 16% were classified as obese. Waist circumference measurements also revealed that 44% of respondents had a waist circumference between 81-90 cm, indicating health risks associated with obesity.

The Application of Action Research in Kindergarten: Analysis of the Professional Development Model of Preschool Educators for the Reggo-Inspired Educational Practice

This paper presents the results of an action research conducted in a kindergarten in Sarajevo Canton. The participants were four female kindergarten educators who collaborated with two university professors who took the role of research leaders and moderators of reflective meetings. The action research was conceived as a model of professional development for preschool teachers in the Reggio pedagogy field, aiming to develop the skill of documenting pedagogical observation and the competence of implementing reflective practice (RP below the text) based on the Reggio principles. Data were collected on two levels: the educators documented their educational practice (photos, transcripts, videos, etc.), which was the basic material for analysis at collaborative reflective meetings, and all of it was documented by the research leaders. The data were analyzed simultaneously during the research (to decide on further action) and finally at the end of the research. The results of the research indicate that the action research raised awareness of the elements of traditional educational practice and developed the skills of pedagogical documentation management and the skill of implementing RP. Considering the limited time period for the realization of the research (14 months), significant but not optimal results were achieved, and there is still room for further progress in terms of improving the skills of keeping records and the capacity of RP implementation. It is necessary to systematically provide support for the professional development of educators through the development of reflective learning communities in kindergartens instead of the one-off and lecture-based forms that are offered.

Peningkatan Kualitas Tata Kelola Destinasi Wisata di Desa Krikilan Kalijambe Kabupaten Sragen

Improving the Quality of Tourism Destination Management in Krikilan Village, Kalijambe, Sragen Regency This article aims to describe the factors contributing to the limited involvement of local communities in tourism development, identify the need for improved management of tourist village destinations, and explore efforts to enhance tourism services to attract more visitors. The discussion focuses on the conditions of the Sangiran Site as a cultural heritage that must be preserved, emphasizing the role of local communities in supporting its sustainability and appeal. The article highlights challenges such as the lack of central permissions despite various local initiatives to boost attractiveness. Additionally, inadequate promotion is identified as an obstacle to introducing the destination to a broader audience. This article underscores the importance of active community participation in preserving authenticity and maximizing the potential of the Sangiran Site as a sustainable historical tourism destination. These efforts are expected to support cultural preservation and improve local welfare.

Selayang Pandang Perlindungan dan Pemberdayaan Pekerja Migran Indonesia

Efforts to protect and empower Indonesian Migrant Workers have been carried out through various forms, such as One-Stop Integrated Services and Socio-Economic Empowerment. These efforts prioritize a centralized administration system and community development to overcome various problems faced by Migrant Workers, Former Migrant Workers and their Families. This study uses the literature study method with a content analysis approach. It concludes that efforts to protect and empower have been carried out in various places in Indonesia, and various forms have been implemented. Starting from the administrative side, information socialization, family strengthening, increasing the capacity of PMI abroad and consolidating former PMI. However, these efforts still seem to stand alone. They are not integrated between protection and empowerment, which should be a whole unit in the service of Indonesian Migrant Workers, including the lack of involvement of the private sector and NGOs in efforts to protect and empower.

EXPANDING RURAL BROADBAND IN AMERICA: CHALLENGES, OPPORTUNITIES, AND POLICY IMPLICATIONS

Access to high-speed broadband has emerged as a critical enabler of economic growth, education, healthcare delivery, and overall quality of life in the United States. Despite its transformative potential, rural areas continue to face significant challenges in accessing reliable and affordable internet services, leaving millions of residents underserved or completely disconnected. This disparity exacerbates the digital divide, creating economic, educational, and social inequities that hinder community development and individual opportunity. This paper delves into the current state of rural broadband access in the U.S., exploring the multifaceted economic and social consequences of inadequate connectivity. It examines the structural, financial, and technological barriers that impede broadband infrastructure deployment in rural regions. Through an in-depth review of peer-reviewed research, government policy reports, and case studies, the paper identifies best practices for expanding rural broadband access, focusing on innovative solutions such as community-led initiatives, strategic public-private partnerships, and federal funding programs like the Broadband Equity, Access, and Deployment (BEAD) initiative. Additionally, the paper offers actionable recommendations for policymakers, stakeholders, and communities aiming to bridge the rural broadband gap. These include fostering sustainable funding models, enhancing regulatory frameworks, and leveraging emerging technologies to address coverage challenges. By emphasizing the importance of inclusive and equitable broadband expansion, this paper contributes to the ongoing discourse on reducing digital disparities and achieving universal connectivity in the United States. KEY WORDS: Broadband connectivity, rural economic development, Education, Healthcare, Broadband Equity, Access, and Deployment (BEAD)

Language Teachers' Developmental Trajectories as Materials Developers

AbstractLanguage teachers are increasingly expected to develop teaching materials in many contexts. This trend necessitates greater understanding of how language teachers develop their professional practices as materials developers. Applying an ecological perspective in combination with Wenger's theory of Communities of Practice, the present study examines the developmental trajectories of language teachers participating in a materials development community. Adopting a narrative case study approach, this study collected interview data, policy documents, meeting minutes, and personal materials that four language teachers used for developing materials. The findings show that these language teachers' developmental trajectories as materials developers were not linear and were mediated by individual beliefs and policy requirements upon entering the community; their knowledge and skills and the power relations they experienced during the materials development process; and their beliefs and power relations at the end of the project. These findings suggest that language teachers need individualized support and resources at various points throughout their participation in a materials development community to develop their professional practices throughout the process.

Farmer Managed Natural Regeneration and Community Development: An analysis of Impact in Selected Countries

Purpose: This paper explores the relationship between community development and Farmer-Managed Natural Regeneration (FMNR) as a strategy for resource conservation and community empowerment. It highlights how FMNR contributes to ecological sustainability and rural household livelihoods in selected countries in West and East Africa, including Niger, Ghana, Mali, Uganda, Tanzania, and Kenya. Methodology: A content review of FMNR practices was conducted, focusing on their adoption, spread, and impact on community development. The analysis emphasized economic empowerment, ecological sustainability, best practices, challenges, and mitigation strategies. Findings: The study found that FMNR enhances community livelihoods by promoting sustainable natural resource use and reducing environmental degradation. It strengthens community capacity for resource management and supports rural economic development. However, challenges such as land fragmentation, technological gaps, and limited adoption were noted. Unique Contribution to Theory, Practice and Policy: To scale up FMNR, stakeholders should prioritize community training, strengthen institutional frameworks, and provide policy support for sustainable resource management. Addressing technological and socio-economic barriers is essential to maximize FMNR's potential in improving livelihoods and achieving ecological sustainability.

Agricultural and Livelihood Development of Tribal Communities in Melghat: Challenges and Recommendations

The present study explores the constraints faced by tribal farmers in the Melghat region of Amravati district, Maharashtra. An exploratory research design was adopted to systematically investigate the challenges impeding agricultural and livelihood development among tribal communities. The study was conducted in Dharni taluka, selected purposively for its high concentration of tribal populations. A multi-stage sampling technique was employed, involving the random selection of 12 villages and 120 tribal farmers actively engaged in farming and allied activities. The study identified four major constraints: lack of market intelligence and regulated markets (91.66%), absence of agro-based and rural industries (87.50%), inadequate education systems (81.66%), and limited awareness of developmental schemes (63.33%). Based on these findings, the study proposed actionable suggestions to address these challenges. The top-ranked recommendation was the development of regulated markets to reduce the interference of middlemen (93.33%), followed by enhancing tribal infrastructure, particularly in education and subsidiary occupations (86.66%), establishing employment-focused agro-industries (77.50%), and conducting awareness campaigns about government schemes (65.00%). This research underscores the critical need for targeted interventions to enhance the socio-economic conditions of tribal farmers, emphasizing the role of government support and community-based strategies in fostering sustainable agricultural and livelihood development.

Gains and pains: a qualitative study on the implications of value-based health care for professionals

BackgroundWhile aiming to optimize patient value, the shift towards Value-Based Health Care (VBHC) in hospitals worldwide has been argued to benefit healthcare professionals as well. However, robust evidence regarding VBHC’s workforce implications is lacking. This gap is problematic, as the motivation and health of healthcare professionals are central to the quality of care and crucial amidst contemporary workforce challenges. This study aims to qualitatively examine the implications of VBHC for healthcare professionals’ motivation, job strain, and ongoing participation in VBHC. In addition, it explores how these outcomes are regulated at both the individual and organizational levels.MethodsSemi-structured interviews were conducted with 26 healthcare professionals across six Dutch hospitals. Interviewees engaged in three VBHC activities: (1) value-based outpatient consultations and/or; (2) value-based quality improvement activities; as well as in; (3) VBHC implementation. Interview questions and data analysis were guided by the Job Demands–Resources model.ResultsVBHC interacts with four themes perceived to affect professional’s motivation (perception of making a positive impact, enjoyability of job activities, personal development, and sense of community and support) and three themes perceived to affect job strain (workload, cognitive demands, and confidence). VBHC creates both gains (primarily increasing motivation; occasionally reducing strain) and pains (primarily increasing strain; sometimes reducing motivation). The perceived impact of VBHC depends on the fit between the individual, one’s activities in VBHC, the working conditions, and the pace of VBHC implementation. An observation that warrants attention is that healthcare professionals with a 'do-er' mentality and high ambitions to optimize patient value can become demotivated to continue advancing VBHC with the same intensity, particularly due to perceived slow progress.ConclusionsWhile VBHC is centered around patients, this study emphasizes that the needs, experiences and changing role identities of healthcare professionals cannot be overlooked in this transition. VBHC currently presents as a double-edged sword for healthcare professionals: resulting in both gains and pains. In the move to VBHC, it is crucial to maintain alignment between the individual, their job activities, the work environment, and the pace at which VBHC unfolds. This is essential for fostering and retaining motivated individuals, who are not only vital to the workforce but also pivotal in advancing VBHC.

Inovasi Pengabdian Masyarakat melalui Pemberdayaan Keterampilan dan Pelestarian Lingkungan yang Berkelanjutan

Environmental preservation and community skills empowerment are the focus of addressing local community development needs. This community service aims to apply knowledge through practical training to improve community welfare, especially in RT 03/RW 07 Griya Asri Housing, Kalitengah Village. The methods used include macrame training, e-commerce socialisation, composting, and installation of administrative maps. The results show that active community participation impacts the activity's success, including improving community skills and environmental management. The focus of this activity lies in the combination of digital technology and environmental preservation in a series of activities. This approach offers a collaboration-based community empowerment model that is relevant to be applied in similar communities.

Human Resource Management (HRM) and Corporate Social Responsibility (CSR): Integrating Social Goals with Employee Engagement

The integration of corporate social responsibility (CSR) and human resource management (HRM) in Pakistani firms is examined in this study, with an emphasis on the effects of CSR-driven efforts on employee engagement. 300 workers from a variety of industries, including manufacturing, services, and education, were surveyed using a standardized questionnaire as part of a quantitative research design. Employee engagement metrics (job satisfaction, motivation, and organizational commitment), HRM practices (employee training, performance evaluation, and inclusivity), and CSR practices (community development, environmental sustainability, and ethical governance) made up the three sections of the questionnaire. An online survey platform and in-person distribution was used to gather data, guaranteeing a balanced representation of demographic groupings and industries. A high positive correlation between CSR activities and employee engagement was shown through statistical analysis, including regression and correlation tests. Notable impacts were seen in community development and ethical governance projects. The results emphasize how important it is for Pakistani companies to match HRM strategies with social objectives in order to create an inclusive and purpose-driven work environment.

Healer’s Art in the Online Era: Successes, Challenges, and Implications

Abstract Purpose Healer’s Art (HART), a health professional elective course, shifted to online platforms during the pandemic year (2020–2021). Because HART focuses on affective domain aspects of such education, the question arose of its validity and efficacy in the online format. This study aimed to identify challenges and experiences of online versus in-person HART learners. Methods The authors compared students’ end-of-course evaluations between in-person and online cohorts across 3 years. The evaluations included Likert scale responses compared between cohorts with Fisher’s exact tests. Novel questions with narrative responses in the online cohort’s evaluation captured information on challenges with the online platform. Narrative responses were analyzed using constant comparative analysis. Results No difference was found between in-person (n = 654) and online cohorts (n = 570) in ratings of good/excellent for the overall course (1111/1203, 92.4%), course faculty (1184/1214, 97.5%), and small group experience (1142/1208, 94.5%). Thematic analysis of narrative responses indicated that online HART engagement supported student development of community, professional identity formation, self-care, and relationships. Conclusions The findings suggest that HART effectively supports affective domain learning in medical and health professional students whether delivered in-person or online. The authors share challenges and successes of online HART, thus increasing the delivery versatility of this course.

Exploring Differences Between Daily Activity Spaces and Access to Urban Resources in Suburban Affordable Housing Based on the Different Income Groups: A Case of Nanjing, China

Most of the affordable housing communities are built in disadvantaged locations (e.g., the suburbs of Chinese cities) and are generally considered to be the main space for middle- and low-income groups to live in. After decades of development, with the relocation of residents, housing sales and the implementation of mixed housing policies in some countries, there is a common phenomenon of mixed living among different groups in many affordable housing communities. Existing studies have explored the differences and social inequities between affordable housing communities and other types of neighborhoods, but little attention has been paid to the differentiation of residents’ daily activities and the unfair access to resources within affordable housing communities. Understanding this difference is crucial to sustainable community development and the delicate management of cities. From a personal-based perspective, this study examines the sociospatial differentiation of different income groups in the community from two aspects: the multidimensional characteristics of the individual activity space and the availability of different types of urban space. The results highlight significant differences in the activity spaces of different income groups across four dimensions: extensity, intensity, diversity, and exclusivity. Low-income suburban residents have fewer opportunities to access inner-city and inner-suburban areas compared to their non-low-income counterparts. They are more constrained to the outer suburbs. Regression models show that income is a key factor influencing how outer-suburb residents use urban spaces. Other factors, such as one’s employment status, family structure, education level, and the built environment, also play an important role in shaping access to different urban resources. This study highlights the impact of income on social isolation within Chinese urban affordable housing communities. It provides nuanced insights that can inform future policy recommendations in a broader urban context.

The Impact of “Jakpa” on Educational, Healthcare and Housing Development of Rural Communities in Nigeria

This paper assessed if remittances from international migration otherwise known as Jakpa in Nigeria has made any appreciable impact on socio-economic development of the rural communities in the areas of educational, healthcare, and housing development. In the explanatory research design, we adopted both descriptive and inferential statistics to achieve the three objectives of the study which were to determine the rate of remittances receipts relative to rate of Jakpa in south-east Nigeria; determine the impact of Jakpa on Education, Healthcare and Housing in south-east Nigeria; and to ascertain the opinion of the rural people on how Jakpa have affected developmental projects that affect their lives. Primary data was generated from a sample of 1200 respondents selected across the five states of south-east Nigeria using multiple sampling techniques. Results from logistic regression analysis model show that remittances from Jakpa, has made significant impacts on education, healthcare and housing development of the rural people in the region. The findings show that any unit increase in the remittance from Jakpa has an odd ration of 4.5 for education, 5.2 for healthcare and 6.9 for housing development. Hence, the rural people are about 4.5, 5.2 and 7 times more likely to witness improvement in education, healthcare and housing development respectively. From the opinion of the rural people, persons involved in Jakpa have contributed both as individuals and groups in projects that have benefited the communities. Hence, the study recommended that, the governments at all levels should do better by instituting and implementing policies that will minimize the harmful effect of Jakpa but will maximize the positive effect for development.

Asset-based community development and happiness in community residents in Taiwan

ABSTRACT The rise of literature on Asset-Based Community Development (ABCD) has indicated a positive association between ABCD and life outcomes in communities. However, the empirical effects of ABCD on the well-being of community residents in Taiwan remain largely unexplored. This study used 682 residents to examine the relationships between ABCD and happiness in community residents in Taiwan. The findings of this study show that ABCD had significant positive effects on happiness (β = 0.42, p < .001). Specifically, dynamic assets have a 22% stronger impact on happiness compared to static assets (β = 0.44 versus 0.36). Further, the study found that the community capacities in below dimensions have high effects on the happiness of the residents: participation (β = 0.47), leadership (β = 0.43), and organization (β = 0.43). This study calls for specific strategies to strengthen community assets in community development that has vital effects on the well-being of community residents in Taiwan, especially for community participation, leadership, and organizational capacities.

Public Consultations As A Participatory Component Of The Project Management Cycle In The Activities Of Local Government Authorities

The article provides a scientific justification for the need to use public consultations as a participatory component in the implementation of the project management cycle in the activities of local government authorities. The main advantages of applying the project approach in the process of decision-making by local government authorities are identified, namely: systematization of the process (forming a structured basis for planning, analysis, and evaluation of results; efficient and timely execution of tasks; optimization and rational use of financial, economic, technological, and human resources), transparency of implementation (increasing citizens' trust in local government officials, conducting objective monitoring, analysis, and evaluation of their activities; providing the public with a clear understanding of goal achievement, resource use, and results), and compliance with regulatory acts (ensuring compliance with normative requirements; ensuring lawful activities of implementers; successful implementation of legislative initiatives). The article systematizes and generalizes the description of the characteristics of the stages (phases) of the project management life cycle in the activities of local government authorities, considering the participatory component of public consultations, specifically at the initiation stage — defining the problem, formulating goals and tasks, creating a stakeholder group from among the residents of territorial communities; at the planning stage — forecasting the impact of internal and external factors considering public opinion, particularly from various local government entities; at the implementation stage — using modern team management methods and tools for digital participation; at the monitoring, control, and evaluation stage (of intermediate and final results) — collecting and processing information through public consultations (providing feedback with the population, organizations, enterprises, stakeholders) to determine the level of satisfaction with the results of project implementation; at the completion stage — identifying mistake and shortcomings based on public opinion surveys. It is proven that the use of public consultations at all stages of the project management cycle in the activities of local government authorities contributes to the timely correction of plans and the adaptation of community and territorial development strategies according to changes in the external and internal environment, thereby increasing the effectiveness of management decisions.

Study on the Construction of Business Models and Sustainable Development of Retirement Communities

As the global trend of aging intensifies, the eldercare industry has increasingly captured the focus of societal concern. In my country, the burgeoning elderly population has rendered the issue of eldercare increasingly prominent, while simultaneously presenting the eldercare industry with unparalleled opportunities for growth. This paper aims to conduct a comprehensive analysis of the market status of the eldercare industry and to anticipate its future prospects. The primary focus of this study is to examine and analyze the current business model of Chinas eldercare industry and to explore strategies for its sustainable development. Utilizing literature review and case study methodologies, the findings reveal that Chinas existing eldercare industry model harbors several areas requiring improvement to ensure sustainable progression. It can be concluded that the eldercare industry in China currently grapples with high costs, a shortage of specialized personnel, inconsistent service standards, and uneven resource distribution. To achieve sustainable development, it is imperative to enhance regulation and standardization, drive innovation in business models, elevate service quality, optimize resource allocation, and foster interdisciplinary collaboration.

The Urgency of Community Participation and Empowerment in Corporate Social Responsibility (CSR) Programs: A Case Study in Riau Province, Indonesia

Community empowerment is crucial for poverty alleviation, allowing communities to develop their potential and strengthen their power. However, government funding is limited, leading to the need for Corporate Social Responsibility (CSR) programs. In Riau Province, Indonesia, CSR implementation is not optimal, resulting in a poverty rate of 8.42%. The research uses a qualitative method with a case study approach to analyze the situation. CSR programs should focus on community empowerment and partnership, using principles like democratic, transparent, accountable, and responsive. However, issues such as involving the community in program development, focusing on community economic development, lack of community economic empowerment, lack of sustainability, lack of synergy with the government, and assistance provided hinder community empowerment.

An Exploratory Study on the Internet of Things (IoT) Practices on the Human Capital Development Within Tourism Village Business Continuity Management in Indonesia

This exploratory study investigates the role of Internet of Things (IoT) practices in enhancing human capital development within the framework of Business Continuity Management (BCM) for tourism village businesses in Indonesia. With a focus on the integration of IoT technologies such as smart devices, real-time data analytics, and automation, the study aims to understand how these innovations influence the skill development of local communities, improve workforce management, and contribute to sustainable business practices in the tourism sector. The research examines the ways in which IoT adoption facilitates enhanced training programs, improves decision-making capabilities, and fosters better management of tourism resources, thereby strengthening the resilience of tourism villages. Data were collected from key stakeholders, including tourism operators, local government officials, and community members, across several tourism villages in Bali and Java. The findings reveal that IoT practices are instrumental in equipping local employees with the necessary skills for digital marketing, resource management, and customer service, ensuring business continuity during both normal operations and crises. Additionally, IoT-driven solutions have been shown to improve operational efficiency and resource sustainability, which in turn supports long-term human capital development. The study concludes by highlighting the significance of IoT in fostering a digitally skilled workforce and enhancing the overall competitiveness of tourism villages in Indonesia.