Equity Theory Research Articles

Research on the Relationship between Education Service Equalization and Regional Economic Development

This study delves into the correlation between education service equalization and regional economic development by examining the theories of public goods, educational equity, and regional economic development. It uncovers the theoretical foundations and the current practice in China. The research indicates that the equalization of education services significantly impacts regional economic development, with these effects showing regional variability. Through both theoretical and empirical analyses, the equalization of education services has proven pivotal in enhancing labor quality, accelerating talent mobility, strengthening regional innovation capability, and optimizing economic structures. While China has achieved certain accomplishments in advancing the equalization of education services, the issue of uneven distribution of educational resources among regions remains prominent. In light of this, governments should formulate differentiated education policies based on regional characteristics and strengthen inter-regional educational cooperation and exchanges, aiming to promote coordinated regional economic development through balanced educational advancement.

Impact of value-consciousness and brand-self value congruity on sustainable luxury brands and commodities

ABSTRACT Drawing on Self-Congruity and Equity Theories, this research examines the distinct impacts of communicating uniform sustainability initiatives for luxury brands versus commodity brands. This paper introduces a conceptual model that highlights the moderated mediation effect of brand-self value congruity and the three-way moderating effect of value-consciousness on the adverse impact of sustainability on luxury versus commodity brands. The findings from two experimental studies demonstrate that communicating sustainability initiatives has distinct effects on different brands. Specifically, sustainability initiatives enhance the evaluations of commodity brands but diminish the evaluations of luxury brands. The negative impact of sustainability on luxury brands is mediated by brand-self congruity. Moreover, value-consciousness moderates the relationship between sustainability and luxury brands, such that low value-conscious consumers tend to value sustainable luxury brands less than their non-sustainable counterparts, unlike high value-conscious consumers. These findings offer valuable managerial and practical insights for brand managers and communication strategists considering adopting sustainability communication strategies.

The Impact of Sustainability and Environmental Ethics in Product Marketing Campaigns: A Qualitative Study with a Sociological and Economic Approach

This study aims to examine the impact of sustainability and environmental ethics on consumer loyalty, brand perception, and economic resilience within product marketing campaigns. Driven by the increasing consumer demand for ethical business practices, this research integrates sociological and economic perspectives to understand how sustainable marketing shapes consumer-brand relationships and offers competitive advantages. Employing a qualitative methodology based on a comprehensive literature review, the study synthesizes data from recent research to provide a nuanced analysis of the socio-economic implications of sustainable marketing. The findings reveal that sustainability-focused brands not only foster long-term consumer loyalty but also experience enhanced brand equity and profitability due to a stronger alignment with consumer values. Furthermore, the research highlights the importance of transparency, which reinforces consumer trust and solidifies brand credibility in markets sensitive to greenwashing concerns. The study underscores the Theory of Planned Behavior and Brand Equity Theory as foundational frameworks for interpreting consumer responses to ethical marketing. These insights contribute to both academic discussions and practical applications, providing a roadmap for brands to leverage sustainability as a core strategy. The research concludes that sustainable marketing is a transformative approach that fosters socio-economic resilience, positioning brands for sustained success in eco-conscious markets

Engagement as a Lever: The Impact of Talent Management on Turnover Intentions at Ghana's Lands Commission

This study examined the moderation effect of employee engagement in the relationship between talent management and turnover intentions of workers at the Ghana Lands Commission. The study used the human capital and equity theories to explain the relationships among the constructs. The study used the quantitative approach and structural equation modelling (SEM) and employed structural equation modeling (SEM). Data was obtained from 300 employees using a three-wave survey approach that assured accuracy and reduced common method bias, resulting in a final sample of 250 respondents. The study found a positive significant effect of talent management on turnover intention. Again, employee engagement was found to significantly reduce employees’ intentions to quit, showing engagement's protective role against the potentially negative consequences of certain talent management practices. Finally, the study found engagement as a significant negative moderator on the link between talent management and turnover intentions. This emphasizes the need to cultivate a work environment that promotes participation, equality, and transparency in people management practices to reduce employee turnover and increase organizational stability.

Correlation between Teacher Motivation, Remuneration and Student Outcomes in Nigeria, with a Focus on Public versus Private Educational Institutions

Purpose: The aim of the study was to investigate the correlation between teacher motivation, remuneration, and student outcomes in Nigeria, with a focus on public versus private educational institutions Methodology: This study adopted a desk methodology. A desk study research design is commonly known as secondary data collection. This is basically collecting data from existing resources preferably because of its low cost advantage as compared to a field research. Our current study looked into already published studies and reports as the data was easily accessed through online journals and libraries. Findings: The investigation into the correlation between teacher motivation, remuneration, and student outcomes in Nigeria reveals a clear link between teacher incentives and student performance, with notable differences between public and private institutions. In private schools, where teachers generally receive higher salaries and better working conditions, student outcomes are significantly better, as measured by exam performance and retention rates. Conversely, in public schools, low teacher remuneration, lack of incentives, and inadequate working conditions result in low teacher motivation, which negatively impacts student outcomes. Unique Contribution to Theory, Practice and Policy: Herzberg’s two-factor theory, expectancy theory & equity theory may be used to anchor future studies on the correlation between teacher motivation, remuneration, and student outcomes in Nigeria, with a focus on public versus private educational institutions. Performance-based remuneration systems should be implemented in public schools to enhance teacher motivation. Policymakers should establish a national remuneration framework that aligns public and private sector teacher pay, ensuring equity in compensation and reducing the motivation gap between the sectors.

Effect of Traditional Textile Techniques on Modern Fashion Design in Nigeria

Purpose: The aim of the study was to analyze the effect of traditional textile techniques on modern fashion design in Nigeria. Methodology: This study adopted a desk methodology. A desk study research design is commonly known as secondary data collection. This is basically collecting data from existing resources preferably because of its low cost advantage as compared to a field research. Our current study looked into already published studies and reports as the data was easily accessed through online journals and libraries. Findings: Traditional textile techniques in Nigeria, such as adire (tie-dye), akwete weaving, and aso-oke fabric, have significantly influenced modern fashion design. These indigenous methods, known for their intricate patterns and vibrant colors, are increasingly incorporated into contemporary fashion by Nigerian designers. The use of traditional techniques adds cultural depth and authenticity, appealing to both local and international audiences. Modern designers blend these age-old methods with contemporary styles, creating innovative and unique fashion pieces that reflect Nigeria’s rich heritage. This fusion has not only revitalized traditional craftsmanship but also positioned Nigeria as a global hub for Afrocentric fashion. Unique Contribution to Theory, Practice and Policy: Cultural identity theory, sustainable fashion theory & brand equity theory may be used to anchor future studies on the effect of traditional textile techniques on modern fashion design in Nigeria. Fashion designers should collaborate with local artisans who specialize in traditional textile techniques. Policymakers should develop initiatives that support artisanal communities involved in traditional textile production.

The Impact of Unfair Compensation on Employee Morale, Job Satisfaction, and Performance: A Quantitative Analysis in Pakistan’s Health Sector

The main aim of this article is to investigate how the unjust compensation structure affects the motivation, contentment, and performance of Pakistani healthcare professionals working for different healthcare institutions. The theoretical foundation of this study is based on equity theory. The authors administered a self-completed structured questionnaire survey to 381 employees from a variety of organizational sectors, using a PLS-SEM technique to analyze the relationships between variables. The outcomes from this research show that perceived unfair compensation decreases organizational commitment, organizational citizenship behavior, job satisfaction, and performance. The findings contribute to the theoretical understanding of compensation equity and offer practical recommendations for human resource managers to improve organizational success through the correction of pay disparities. It highlights the broader importance of equitable remuneration practices in all businesses. A future study could broaden its scope by incorporating longitudinal and cross-national studies to further corroborate the findings.

Assessing social equity of federal disaster aid distribution: A nationwide analysis.

In this study, we conduct the first comprehensive, nationwide assessment of social equity performance of multiple federal post- and pre-disaster assistance programs that differ in targeted recipients, project types, forms of aid, and funding requirements. We draw on the social equity and distributive justice theory to develop and test a set of hypotheses on the influence of program design and specificity on their aid distributional patterns and equity performance. The analysis uses panel data of about 3000 US counties to examine the relationship between a county's receipt of federal assistance and its recent disaster damage, socioeconomic, demographic, political, local government, and geographic characteristics in a two-stage random effects Tobit model. Expectedly, we find that post-disaster grants are largely driven by recent disaster damage, while damage is simultaneously influenced by local socioeconomic conditions. For all disaster programs, disproportionately more federal aid is allocated to populous counties. For programs geared toward state and local governments and targeting community recovery and mitigation, more aid is received by counties with better socioeconomic conditions. Conversely, for programs targeting individual relief and recovery, more aid is given to counties with lower incomes and greater social vulnerability. Results also indicate that counties located in high-risk regions receive greater outlays. These findings shed light on the varying degrees of social equity of federal disaster assistance programs tied to their cost-share requirement, funding caps, and inherent complexity of application procedures.

Study on the Impact of Urban-Rural Education Resource Equitability and Student Endowment Differences on Promoting Educational Equity

Based on the empirical analysis of the China Education Panel Survey (CEPS), this paper explores the impact of the equitability of urban-rural education resources and student endowment differences on educational equity. The findings not only provide a new perspective and empirical support for the study of the theory of educational equity but also offer valuable references for policymaking and education reform to promote social equity and harmonious development. It is empirically found that cognitive abilities and parents' educational expectations have a positive impact on students' educational expectations, while the dropout situation of friends has a negative impact. Additionally, although health status has a positive influence on educational expectations, it does not significantly affect the choice of future residence. These factors together reveal the significant impact of the family environment, personal ability, and social relationships on students' education and life choices, emphasizing the necessity to optimize educational resources and family education support, holding significant theoretical and practical significance.

BUILDING A PEOPLE'S ECONOMIC ECOSYSTEM THROUGH THE SYNERGY OF COOPERATIVES AND MSMES FOR GOLDEN INDONESIA 2045

This article analyzes strategies for building a people's economic ecosystem through optimizing synergy between cooperatives and MSMEs in order to realize the vision of Golden Indonesia 2045. Using a literature analysis and secondary data approach, this study explores the concept of the people's economic ecosystem, the role of cooperatives, the challenges and opportunities of MSMEs, and the synergy strategy between the two sectors. The implementation of the grand theory of growth and equity was also discussed as a policy foundation. The results of the analysis show that strengthening the digital ecosystem, optimizing collaboration between stakeholders, and developing a data-based monitoring system are the keys to building effective synergy between cooperatives and MSMEs. This study concludes that with the right strategy, the synergy of cooperatives and MSMEs can be the main driver in creating inclusive and sustainable economic growth towards Golden Indonesia 2045. Policy recommendations include strengthening digital infrastructure, improving cross-sector coordination, and developing a comprehensive evaluation system to support evidence-based decision-making in the development of the cooperative and MSME sectors

Influence of Performance Appraisal on Employee Retention at Equity Bank's Head Office in Nairobi, Kenya

The study sought to evaluate the influence of performance appraisal on employee retention at Equity Bank's head office in Kenya. In this study, vroom expectancy theory, goal-setting theory and equity theory were adopted to underpin the relationship between study variables. A descriptive research type was adopted. The research was carried out at Equity Bank's head office in Nairobi. The target population was the 306 staff attached to Equity Bank's head office in Nairobi, Kenya. The study adopted a formula suggested by YaroYarmjne to determine the sample size comprising 173 employees. Questionnaires were adopted to collect primary data. The questionnaires were coded, and the data was entered into SPSS for further analysis. The study first did a descriptive statistics analysis using tools such as mean, standard deviation, frequency distribution and percentages where necessary. The study then carried out an inferential analysis comprising bivariate pairwise correlation and multivariate OLS regression. Based on regression analysis, target setting, performance measurement, appraisal feedback, and the utilization of appraisal reports had a significant influence on employee retention at Equity Bank. The study recommends that the management of Equity Bank improves performance appraisal by enhancing target setting, putting in place adequate tools for measuring performance level, improving its appraisal feedback loop and improving the utilization of appraisal reports to enhance employee retention.

Global perspectives on redefining workplace presence: the impact of remote work on organizational culture

Purpose This paper aims to explore the impact of remote work on organizational culture, focusing on redefining workplace presence during the COVID-19 pandemic. It examines changes in communication patterns, employee engagement and leadership practices, offering insights into how organizations can adapt their cultural frameworks for a remote or hybrid workforce. Design/methodology/approach Using a conceptual approach, this paper draws on existing literature, theories and case studies to analyze the implications of remote work for organizational culture. It examines the practical applications of theoretical frameworks such as Kotter's 8-Step Change Model, the Competing Values Framework, Social Exchange Theory, Role Theory, Self-Determination Theory and Equity Theory. Findings The findings indicate that the transition to remote work necessitates changes in communication patterns, collaboration, employee engagement and the sense of belonging. It also highlights the critical role of leadership in fostering a positive remote work culture, requiring organizations to adapt to a paradigm where presence is measured by engagement and productivity rather than physical visibility. Originality/value This paper contributes to understanding the impact of remote work on organizational culture by integrating various theoretical frameworks and providing practical implications for managing remote work environments. It comprehensively analyzes the challenges and opportunities the shift to remote work presents and provides recommendations for organizations to navigate this transition successfully.

Job Satisfaction: An Analysis Based on Expectancy and Equity Theories

Job Satisfaction: An Analysis Based on Expectancy and Equity Theories

Perceived Fairness of Performance Appraisal: Does It Shape Bankers’ Attitudes towards their Job and Organization?

Purpose: The study aimed to assess the effect of perceived fairness of performance appraisal (PA) on bankers’ attitudes, namely job satisfaction, job involvement, work engagement, and organizational commitment. Methodology: The research employed a convenience sampling method to gather data from 207 front-line bank officers working in 10 private commercial banks in Bangladesh. For the analysis of the collected data, the study used statistical tools such as ANOVA, Pearson correlation, and regression, using SPSS version 25. Findings: The study found that fair PA has a significant positive impact on all four types of attitudes. From the control variables (i.e., experience, age, gender, education, and marital status), only education level is found to have a significant negative association with job satisfaction and job involvement. Practical Implications: By highlighting the significance of a fair performance appraisal (PA) system, the study provides insights for bank administrations on improving the positive attitudes of their workforce. This, in turn, may boost bankers’ performance and foster success for the banks as a whole. Originality/Value: In a first-of-its-kind endeavor, the study contributes valuable theoretical insights by exploring the influence of fair PA on diverse types of desirable employee attitudes towards jobs, work, and the organization. Moreover, the study explains the findings in the context of social exchange theory as well as equity theory. Research Limitations: A small sample size, convenience sampling, and cross-sectional self-reported data are the main limitations.

External Recruitment and Staff Retention Dilemma at Dar es Salaam University College of Education, Tanzania

This paper describes the scenario of external recruitment and staff retention dilemma at Dar es Salaam University College of Education (DUCE) as experienced between 2021 and 2023. In a similar period, a newly appointed Principal of the College, immediately started to analyze the issue with intention to sort it out by conveying regular meetings with the Head of Departments and senior staff. The case investigated the root causes behind the increased turnover rates among academic staff at DUCE, specifically the case explored the effectiveness of the institution's recruitment policy, weighing the advantages and disadvantages of hiring from external sources versus promoting employees internally. Using the Resource-Based View (RBV) and Equity Theory as guiding frameworks, the study examined the implications of both recruitment strategies on employee morale, satisfaction, and the institution's overall credibility. The business case adopted analytical approach in order to present the event or situation of external recruitment and staff retention dilemma in the College as well as the actions and decisions which were implemented against the problem. The qualitative data were collected by this business case through discussion with the protagonists and analyzed using qualitative methods of explanation and discussions. The research employed a decision-making case design and qualitative approach, involving interviews with 5 key administrative members at DUCE, documentation was used in reviewing the secondary information such as turnover rates statistics and recruitment policy. Findings indicate that external recruitment, while beneficial for bringing in top talent and enhancing the institution's credibility, has demoralized internal staff, leading to higher turnover rates. Conversely, internal promotions enhance employee satisfaction and commitment but may not always meet the qualifications required for senior positions. The study concludes that a dual recruitment strategy, which balances internal promotions to boost morale and external hiring for specialized expertise, could be an effective solution to address the turnover dilemma. Recommendations include developing a robust internal control system, investing in staff capacity building, and aligning recruitment practices with government policies to ensure the institution's long-term sustainability and growth. In view of this, the business case proposes that the management need to strike the balance between the external recruitment objectives and the internal staff promotion procedures while keeping the employee retention system in place.

Employment brand equity and corporate’s job growth and reputation

PurposeThis research aimed to explore the commonalities and differences in the type of information provided on corporate websites in relation to their employment brand equity.Design/methodology/approachMixed methods of content analysis, ANOVA and regression analyses were employed to answer the research questions. The data were collected from multiple sources, including the websites of a sample of forty companies listed as the US Fortune 100 Best Companies to Work in 2012 and information presented on Fortune’s website as well.FindingsEmployment brand equity hardly showed any significant impact on either company’s job growth or reputation in the ranking as an “employer of choice”.Practical implicationsThe results indicated some practices to make a company’s employment brand outstanding and how its web presence reflected its “brand” and presence for potential employees. They are useful for HR practitioners concerned with building an employee brand. For example, the more highly ranked companies in the Fortune 100 tend to provide more forms of online support related to employment opportunities.Originality/valueUsing brand equity theory from the marketing arena and applying this within the human resources management area, this study suggests that “employment brand equity” became a major factor that many companies and organizations should focus on to enhance their standing with job seekers, particularly talented ones. Nearly a decade before the COVID-19 pandemic, the best companies to work for in the US had paid attention to digitalization via websites and social media, to attract talent (and support employees).

The Influence Of Job Evaluation On The Wage Bill In Public Sector Organizations

Public service is the main driver of growth for most developing countries. It is a key component because it facilitates the delivery of services to the citizens. However, despite the efforts to grow the economy and deliver quality services, there are challenges with the costs associated with ever-increasing public sector wages. Although a well-paid public sector could be more efficient, the wage bill should be maintained at fiscally sustainable levels to enable the achievement of development goals. Kenya like other developing countries has been grappling with the management of costs associated with wages in the public sector, which were growing at an alarming rate. This is mainly because of the large number of employees, arbitrary determination of wages and implementation of the Constitution of Kenya, 2010. This study will seek to examine the influence of human resource strategies for managing the public sector wage bill in Kilifi County, Kenya. The study will particularly focus on human resource strategies such as job evaluation, total rewards, and performance-related pay and their influence on the management of the public sector wage bill in public sector organizations within Kilifi County. These public sector organizations are expected to be implementing these strategies although the degree of implementation may be varying. The study will, therefore, seek to find out the extent to which their application influences the management of the wage bill costs to a manageable level. The study will also examine the theories associated with wage management. The theories of equity, efficiency wage, and public sector motivation will be examined to determine their influence on the management of wages in the public sector. Questionnaires will be developed and self-administered to the human resource management professionals in the public sector organizations. This will enable the Researcher to capture perceptions of the application of these strategies in their organizations. Their in-depth understanding of the human resource strategies being studied will be useful to the study. The study design will be a survey of the 52 government organizations within Kilifi County thus the target population for the survey will be a census of the 52 public sector organizations. The sampling method applied will be purposive thus the HR professionals will be the respondents. The data collected will be analyzed using analysis of variance (ANOVA) which will be used to establish the relationship between the independent variables and the dependent variable. The findings of the study will be presented in the form of tables, charts and statistical measures such as an analysis of variance

Education and Gender Equality: Pathways to the Realization of Womens Rights

Education is a universally acknowledged instrument for achieving social equity and economic development. Nevertheless, gender inequality persists in numerous regions, impeding womens and girls access to education and their involvement in society. The research presented in this paper examines the potential of education to facilitate positive change for women, with the aim of improving gender equality and womens rights. Based on the theories of gender empowerment and educational equity, the paper delves into how the level and quality of education affect the economic and social status of women around the world by drawing on a range of sources, including peer-reviewed essays, global reports, and case studies from different countries, and the current situation and future trends are presented in as much detail as possible. The results show that though the proportion of females in education is increasing globally, the difficulty of obtaining a good education for both males and females still increases the difficulty of achieving gender equality. Different socio-economic conditions, different cultural backgrounds, and national policies play an important role in female education. Therefore, this paper posits that further measures could be taken to improve the current situation of gender equality, such as eliminating the factors that hinder womens academic success through targeted education policies and more funding for female education. In addition, the results indicate the importance of education in achieving gender equality.

Intersecting public management and social equity Introduction to the special issue of Public Management Review

ABSTRACT This introduction to the special issue stems from the assumption that the field of public management is the necessary, missing catalyst to make tangible progress towards social equity. We begin by outlining the concept of social equity and highlighting the value of improving the field’s understanding of how we can use the foundations of public management to advance social equity principles, practices, and theories, across all forms of oppression. A brief overview of the papers in the special issue follows and we draw out key themes, which hopefully will inspire public management scholars to engage with social equity research.

Exploring the mutual relationships of brand equity in the tourism and hospitality sector

PurposeThe purpose of current study aims to provide a different perspective on customer-based brand equity (CBBE) and integrate this with previous brand equity theory to contribute to the brand equity literature.Design/methodology/approachProposed hypotheses were verified using structural equation modelling (SEM) with multiple datasets. Study 1 collected data from 574 foreign tourists and 624 domestic tourists of culinary tourism. Study 2 used 1,020 customers from anti-epidemic restaurants, and Study 3 investigated 464 hotel customers’ perceptions of customer-based brand equity.FindingsBuilding on the mediation-moderation model, the present study posits that perceived quality relates to brand loyalty through brand image and brand awareness of using 2,682 participants. Specifically, we argue that this indirect relationship exhibits a difference moderated pattern in which motivation and hedonic function are most likely to benefit from revisit destinations for tourists when they are moderate. We further explored the new anti-epidemic concepts of COVID-19 and identified restaurant operation as an important moderator that influences customer image of restaurant revisit.Originality/valueUntil now, no tourism and hospitality studies have addressed these unsolved problems in an integrated manner. This study was to investigate the brand equity development process.