Exploratory Case Study Research Articles

Navigating the new normal: Exploring the evolution of entrepreneurship education in the aftermath of COVID-19

The COVID-19 pandemic has significantly impacted business schools worldwide, prompting the urgent adoption of innovative teaching methods and digital transformation. This study employs an exploratory case study approach, conducting 18 semi-structured interviews to examine the benefits and risks associated with novel teaching modalities in entrepreneurship education. Specifically, the research highlights the effects of COVID-19 on students' social dynamics, their learning experiences and engagement, as well as the digital transformation of teaching within entrepreneurship education. The findings reveal substantial changes in various components of entrepreneurship education during the pandemic, including the emergence of new teaching forms and modalities. Drawing from these insights, the study provides valuable recommendations for future developments in entrepreneurship education. It emphasises the importance of adopting a balanced approach to teaching that leverages the advantages of face-to-face instruction while harnessing digitalisation and innovative teaching methods. By embracing successful elements of digital transformation in entrepreneurship education, higher education institutions can enhance the resilience and adaptability of their entrepreneurship programmes, equipping students for the entrepreneurial journey ahead. This longitudinal study highlights the evolving nature of entrepreneurship education in response to unprecedented challenges.

Economic, social, and administrative barriers to achieving the sustainable development goal of good health and well-being

Good health and well-being are embedded in the 3rd Goal amongst the UN Sustainable Development Goals. The primary objective of this research was to identify the most critical economic, social, and administrative barriers to implementing the Expanded Program on Immunization (EPI) in the Punjab Province of Pakistan. A sequential exploratory design and case study technique were used, employing both qualitative and quantitative methods. In the first stage, in-depth interviews with 50 key officials were conducted to identify the most critical barriers to the EPI program. A quantitative analysis was then performed based on the results obtained from qualitative analysis, and rank orders of barriers were received from the same health department experts. The results indicate that twenty-eight barriers can cause implementation problems for this program. Still, the ten barriers that gained the maximum hits are the most important barriers, which include Shortage of vaccinators, mismanagement of vaccines’ cold chain, biometric android application, ice-lined refrigerators, communication gap, inadequate legislation of EPI program, capacity building issues with EPI staff, Misconceptions about EPI program, lack of awareness of the parents and community, refusal cases and inadequate cooperation of lady health workers (LHWs). Coordinated efforts of the government and the public are highly recommended to address these barriers.

Industry 4.0‐driven business model innovation for supply chain sustainability: An exploratory case study

AbstractIn the rapidly evolving landscape of the automotive industry, firms are increasingly turning to advanced Industry 4.0 (I4.0) technologies to drive innovation and sustainability. While I4.0 technologies hold immense potential for Business Model Innovation (BMI) and supply chain (SC) sustainability, a gap exists in understanding how firms can leverage BMI and SCS effectively. This study addresses this gap and explores the impact of implementing I4.0 on BMI and its effects on SC sustainability. Utilizing an exploratory case study approach, the research investigates an Indian automobile SC and highlights how I4.0 technologies such as IoT, cloud computing, additive manufacturing, analytics, and automation contribute to BMI, enhancing operational efficiency and SC sustainability. Additionally, the study emphasizes the importance of fostering collaboration among SC entities and the need for support from large‐scale manufacturers for the initial adoption of I4.0 technologies at the small‐scale supplier level. Based on these findings, the study develops the ‘I4.0‐enabled BMI for SC Sustainability’ framework, providing a structured approach for integrating I4.0 and BMI to enhance SC sustainability. This research investigates and applies Dynamic Capability (DC) theory to examine I4.0 transformations and contributes to DC theory by demonstrating how I4.0 facilitates BMI across the value chain, leading to improved sustainability performance.

Use of Social Media and Artificial Intelligence Tools by Online Doctoral Students

Our paper aims to explore how doctoral EdD students in their thesis stage made use of digital technologies, social media (SM), and artificial intelligence (AI) tools. In this study, AI does not involve data on the use of the new generation of AI, which has been introduced in more recent years after this study took place. This paper refers to a 2nd stage qualitative analysis of semi-structured interviews collected from research undertaken in 2018 into student use of digital technologies in an online professional doctorate programme. The original study utilised an exploratory case study approach, an online survey (n = 28), and a series of semi-structured interviews (n = 9). This study will add further qualitative findings and perspectives to those that emerged in the previous study. This study will help to provide new insights into the interview data that was used to inform the initial paper resulting from the research in 2018. We argue that the unique characteristics of online doctoral students as both individuals and learners determine the popularity of some digital tools and that, in order to make the best use of the full range available they need to develop new skills and a better understanding of the pedagogy associated with those digital tools and the value they can add to an educational context. This can be achieved through the provision of more systematic coaching and support systems. This in turn will contribute to enhancing students’ feelings of belonging to a real academic learning community and their self-confidence and autonomy as online learners in general and in their performance in a Viva in particular.

Through the looking glass; midwifery students' experience of ethical issues: A feminist explanatory case study

BackgroundThe ethical component in midwifery education is governed by international professional values, codes, and ethical principles. The aim of midwifery education is to encourage students to develop a lifelong commitment to ethical practice within their midwifery role and scope. However, little evidence is available on the experiences of midwifery students and how they navigate ethical issues in maternity systems. AimTo present a case study from a midwifery students' perspective that demonstrates observed ethical issues and to provide analysis of the ethical issues identified. DesignA Single explanatory case study design with a feminist lens applied. Explanatory case studies present the ‘how and why’ of a phenomenon and contributes to understanding phenomena in a holistic and real-life context. SettingThis project was set at a West Australian university from which pre-registration midwifery courses are delivered. ParticipantsA solitary case study is presented from a midwifery students' clinical placement. MethodsEthics were approved 2023-04805. Edith Cowan University HREC. The source of data for this case study was direct observation by the primary author (Priya, 2021) and the Joanna Briggs Methods for Case study reporting guide followed. Thematic analysis with a feminist lens was applied to the data. ResultsThree themes were generated ‘Through the looking glass; observing ethical issues’; ‘Whose body Is It? The Erosion of Maternal Consent’ and ‘Relational care versus defensive practice’. These themes explain the antecedents and consequences of the ethical issues identified by the midwifery student, the findings are supported by ethical theory and midwifery philosophy to highlight some of the underlying causes that contribute to ethical issues. ConclusionMidwifery students experience ethical distress when they observe ethical issues and are powerless to support birth people in a way that aligns with midwifery philosophy of relational, woman-centred care. Further research is required to better understand how midwifery students may be better supported to foster ethical care.

Governing the paradox of success in a hybrid supporter-owned professional football club

ABSTRACT Research question Using insights from success paradoxes and hybrid institutional logics, we analyse the institutional work undertaken to construct a novel governance structure in a supporter owned professional football club. Research methods A single exploratory case study design was adopted, focusing on the transition from existential crisis to supporter ownership. A mixed method strategy involved collecting participative observation, primary interview and secondary documentary data. Results and findings We observed a shared understanding of the overlapping priorities for the Club and (supporter) Foundation that formed the basis for collaboration. Ambiguity as to what constituted success, and awareness of latent paradoxes contributed to the institutional work necessary to develop a resilient governance structure. A distinctive aspect arose from harnessing the productive friction between the corporate and professional logics of the Club, and the community and family logics of the Foundation. Implications Institutional work undertaken in creating a new governance structure shows the potential within clubs for cooperation between different actors, demonstrating the mediating influence arising from mutual dependency between actors. When there is a high level of co-dependencies between the club and stakeholders, and contestation over what constitutes success, tensions between logics can be leveraged to benefit the hybrid organisation. While any governance solution needs to reflect a club’s specific context, the adopted governance structure should integrate resilience, mutual dependencies, business acumen, inclusion, emotion, engagement and accountability.

Key internal drivers for an SME’s dynamic ambidextrous growth strategy: A case study of a Norwegian seafood group

This qualitative, explorative case study presents a small and medium-sized enterprise (SME) in Norway that successfully pursued a dynamic ambidextrous growth strategy. The study applies a micro-foundation perspective and focuses on identifying and describing key internal drivers behind the group’s ambidextrous strategy. The empirical findings underscore ambidextrous owner-managers' pivotal role in facilitating strategic realignment, structural adaptation, and knowledge management to enable the case group’s long-term growth. This study contributes to the strategy literature by proposing a framework for theorizing how the identified key internal drivers can be employed to form a dynamic ambidextrous growth strategy in SMEs.

Comparative analysis of data protection regulations in East African countries

Purpose Protection of personal data is integral to the digital economy, ensuring trust and privacy as its foundational elements. The purpose of this study is to analyze data protection laws in Tanzania, Kenya, Uganda and Rwanda to understand their legal frameworks and identify challenges hindering their effective implementation. Design/methodology/approach This study uses a comparative exploratory case study approach, analyzing legal frameworks of four East African (EA) countries through examination of legal documents, official reports and academic articles. The dimensions of analysis include registration, supervisory authority, data subject rights and cross-border data transfer regulations. Findings While all four EA countries are in the process of enacting data protection acts, they differ in scope, provisions and enforcement; more needs to be done to ensure mature data protection in these countries. The commonalities and distinctions in the legal frameworks are underscored, providing a mapping of data protection regulations in the EA region. Moreover, this study reports implementation constraints and areas for improvement. Practical implications The findings of this study provide valuable insights for policymakers, highlighting areas where data protection regulations can be improved. The results of this study can guide harmonizing regional data protection laws, ensuring consistent and effective enforcement. This study offers a foundation for future policy development and regional cooperation on data protection issues. Social implications The social implications of this research lie in its potential to shape public attitudes on data protection and privacy rights. By highlighting these concerns, this study may influence societal norms and values, encouraging a more informed and conscientious public discourse on inclusive policies that consider the diverse needs of different regional populations. Originality/value This study provides a pioneering comparative analysis of data protection regulations across four EA countries, offering unique insights into the regional variations and commonalities in legal frameworks. Its value lies in informing future policy development, enhancing regional cooperation and contributing to the harmonization of data protection practices in the selected EA countries, which remains an under-explored area in existing literature.

Perception of the elementary mathematics teachers about assessment for learning: a case study of Sukkur IBA community colleges, Sindh, Pakistan

This study aims to explore the perceptions of elementary mathematics teachers regarding assessment for learning (AfL). The participants of this study included three elementary mathematics teachers, each with over 5 years of teaching experience at Sukkur IBA community colleges and schools in Sindh, Pakistan. These participants were selected using purposive sampling techniques. A qualitative exploratory case study research approach was used, with data collected through semi-structured interviews and observations. To ensure the trustworthiness of the study, the interview guide and observation checklist were reviewed by experts. The data were analyzed using thematic analysis. The findings of this study revealed that teachers had a limited understanding of the concept of assessment for learning. Based on these results, the study recommends several measures: the initiation of an assessment literacy program, an increase in class time, reducing the number of students per class, using moveable chairs to enhance classroom flexibility, and making amendments to the assessment policy.

Retire or get retired: Stocks, memes, and desperation capitalism on r/WallStreetBets

There is growing discontent with the financial services industry. The roots of these feelings are old but have expanded during the 2008 financial crisis and were enhanced by the COVID-19 pandemic and its associated cost of living crisis. This has given rise to the concept of “desperation capitalism”, where individuals are resorting to high-risk measures to try to achieve economic security. This research paper presents new insights into desperation capitalism and its participants through an exploratory case study of the r/WallStreetBets community on Reddit. The case study asks: how does social media impact the behaviour of retail investors? Drawing on multiple sources of primary and secondary empirical evidence, the paper makes two core contributions. First, the paper offers an initial conceptualization and model for understanding the phenomenon of “desperation capitalism”. Second, the paper demonstrates how the decision-making processes of retail investors can be influenced by social media.

A fast all-optical 3D photoacoustic scanner for clinical vascular imaging.

The clinical assessment of microvascular pathologies (in diabetes and in inflammatory skin diseases, for example) requires the visualization of superficial vascular anatomy. Photoacoustic tomography (PAT) scanners based on an all-optical Fabry-Perot ultrasound sensor can provide highly detailed 3D microvascular images, but minutes-long acquisition times have precluded their clinical use. Here we show that scan times can be reduced to a few seconds and even hundreds of milliseconds by parallelizing the optical architecture of the sensor readout, by using excitation lasers with high pulse-repetition frequencies and by exploiting compressed sensing. A PAT scanner with such fast acquisition minimizes motion-related artefacts and allows for the volumetric visualization of individual arterioles, venules, venous valves and millimetre-scale arteries and veins to depths approaching 15 mm, as well as for dynamic 3D images of time-varying tissue perfusion and other haemodynamic events. In exploratory case studies, we used the scanner to visualize and quantify microvascular changes associated with peripheral vascular disease, skin inflammation and rheumatoid arthritis. Fast all-optical PAT may prove useful in cardiovascular medicine, oncology, dermatology and rheumatology.

How higher education institutions may catalyse regional innovation ecosystems: The case of polytechnics in Portugal

This article explores the crucial role of higher education institutions in catalysing regional innovation ecosystems. In particular, it aims to study how polytechnics in Portugal have been involved in this process. The research utilizes an exploratory and reflective case study approach to present real-world evidence of collaborative efforts within innovation networks that involve both businesses and the social economy. Thus, the study raises awareness of collaborative innovation and entrepreneurship networks, emphasizing genuine interactive learning and knowledge exchange. Polytechnic institutions can enhance regional competitiveness by providing education and training for future entrepreneurs and highly skilled professionals, as well as offering technological and managerial solutions that drive value creation and the emergence of new businesses and markets, potentially even on an international level. The study also emphasizes the fourth mission of higher education institutions, particularly polytechnic institutes, focusing on empowering communities through social innovation projects for sustainable local and regional development.

The Effects of Restorative Practice Curriculum on Student Behavior at A Disciplinary Alternative Secondary Campus

This mixed-methods, sequential explanatory case study was designed to assess the effects of a Restorative practices intervention curriculum on student behavior at a disciplinary alternative secondary campus, and to assess the effects of this curriculum on teacher and administrator decisions regarding student discipline, through the lenses of Social Justice Theory. There is currently no data available on the effects of Restorative practices among students who are already receiving the impact of exclusionary discipline in schools in the United States. Quantitative data was extrapolated using campus disciplinary data over the course of two academic school years. Qualitative data was extrapolated through a 42-question survey protocol and an eight-question interview protocol. The results assert Restorative practices curricula appear to have a positive impact on student’s behavior, teacher’s classroom management decisions, and administrator’s disciplinary decisions at the disciplinary alternative school.

Exploring Indigenous Knowledge Systems Integrated in Natural Sciences Practical Work in Selected South African Schools

This study used the nature of indigenous knowledge (NOIK) framework to explore indigenous knowledge systems (IKS) practices that were integrated when practical work in natural sciences was facilitated. In this interpretive explorative case study, data were collected by semistructured interviews, lesson observations and a focus group interview conducted with three purposively selected natural sciences teachers and two natural sciences district officials in the province of KwaZulu-Natal in South Africa. Thematic analysis techniques were used to analyze the data that were collected. Three findings on ways to integrate IKS in science practical work are the following. First, IKS was integrated in practical work through teaching of applied science and including the learners’ lived experiences of local technologies to solve problems. Second, practical work that integrated IKS was conducted as empirical observations of natural phenomena, which included genetic variation of plants and animals, including human beings, animal behavior, using moon cycles and the movement of the sun to guide day-to-day, cultural and agricultural activities. Third, some of the IKS included myths and superstitions that distorted the public understanding of science but were nevertheless used to persuade people to uphold certain cultural practices. The study recommends comparing NOIK and the nature of science when integrating IKS in the classroom to enable learners to distinguish myths from scientific facts.

An architectural design framework to promote healthy indoor-outdoor connections in Arctic housing

This research proposes biophilic intermediate spaces as a promising architectural solution to improve indoor-outdoor connections, occupant well-being, and energy efficiency in Arctic housing. Basic examples of intermediate spaces in Arctic housing models include porches and vestibules. However, the architecture of these spaces has not yet been optimized to adress extreme climatic conditions and occupants’ needs. Therefore, this research develops an architectural design framework to optimize the architecture of intermediate spaces for Arctic housing to meet occupants’ well-being needs and improve housing energy efficiency. The research methodology combines an archetypal approach, exploratory case study analysis, and scoping literature review. The archetypal study examines the historical development of Canadian Arctic housing models in Nunavut, revealing the typological evolution, features, potentials, and deficiencies of intermediate spaces in the Arctic. The study identifies of the main design variables and performance indicators of intermediate spaces corresponding to healthy and positive indoor-outdoor connections, thermal and visual comfort, and energy efficiency. A conceptual model of an intermediate space is then simulated as an exploratory case study for a public Canadian Arctic residential building. The architectural design framework is established based on findings from the literature, archetypal studies of Arctic housing, and simulation results of an integrated model for an intermediate space and a public Arctic housing model in Nunavut. The proposed framework includes main architectural variables such as physical adjacency, material, orientation, space depth, and transparency ratio which impact thermal, lighting, and energy performance. This design framework can serve as a reference for creating policies and decision-making processes that integrate biophilic intermediate spaces with Arctic building practices, contributing to Canada's strategic plan for energy efficiency and vegetable production in the Arctic.

A digital forensic analysis of an electrocardiogram medical device: A first look

AbstractThe increased frequency and severity of cybersecurity incidents impacting healthcare organizations has prompted the publication of suggested best practices for these organizations, when attempting to respond to incidents in their respective settings. While these best practices provide a wealth of information on how to respond to a cybersecurity incident impacting medical devices, minimal information is provided related to the forensics investigation of the devices themselves. A growing appetite for digital evidence from medical devices, coupled with limited practical guidance from industry best practices prompts an investigation into identifying tools and techniques to assist digital forensic investigators with device disassembly, data acquisition, and preservation of evidence in medical devices. This paper presents the results of a detailed exploratory case study involving the digital forensic investigation of a General Electric MAC 800 electrocardiogram medical device. The contributions of this research are threefold. First, it provides an empirical demonstration of practical techniques for acquiring and examining residual data from the electrocardiogram medical device. Second, the research documents the artifacts that can be recovered from the medical device, which could be used as potential evidence. Third, it provides the foundation for future investigations regarding the tools and processes suitable for examining additional medical devices.This article is categorized under: Digital and Multimedia Science > Cybercrime Investigation Digital and Multimedia Science > IoT Forensics

One element of the emergency department nurse burnout epidemic – who can help? Based on a qualitative exploratory case study

ABSTRACT Background Nurses are responsible for a substantial portion of the care patients receive in emergency departments and must be well-equipped to deal with the associated environmental challenges, including managing patients in crises, boarding, and overcrowding. These challenges lead to adverse impacts, like burnout. This study identified training as a resource to reduce the prevalence of nurse burnout. Methods This qualitative case study employed the Job Demands-Resources model to explore the experiences of one hundred and eleven nurses regarding their preparedness to manage patients undergoing mental health crises and associated boarding and overcrowding. Data were collected from July to August 2023 using anonymous surveys, a burnout inventory, semi-structured interviews, and focus groups. Results 75% reported experiencing burnout, with over half expressing feelings of inadequacy due to insufficient training. Those not reporting burnout indicated a strong support system at work and felt adequately trained. The imbalance between job demands and resources influenced motivational and health impairments. Conclusion The study aimed to bridge literature gaps by examining the link between training and burnout, offer empirical evidence and recommendations to academic and healthcare leaders to promote the well-being of nursing staff, and highlight the critical need for supportive training and resources to diminish burnout.

Top-management attitudes toward workplace happiness: An exploratory case study at a semi-government organization in the United Arab Emirates (UAE)

This study aimed to gain insights into the attitudes and strategies of top management regarding workplace happiness within a semi-government organization in the United Arab Emirates (UAE). Six senior managers at the organization were interviewed to explore their perspectives on employee happiness and the initiatives implemented to enhance it. Thematic analysis of the interview transcripts revealed several key findings. Top managers demonstrated strong commitment and willingness to prioritize employee well-being through long-term research-driven improvements. A variety of strategies incorporating personal, organizational, and Human Resources Management (HRM) factors known to impact happiness were utilized. Religious considerations and empowerment initiatives respect personal values while fostering intrinsic motivation. Top leaders modeled strategic priorities through their conduct, emphasizing visible support. The organization balanced individual needs with organizational goals respectfully. The findings provide practical implications for optimizing retention and performance outcomes through dedicated strategic happiness efforts guided by empirical research. However, more extensive research across diverse populations could further advance understanding in this field.

An exploration of higher education leadership competencies: knowledge, skills and attitudes

PurposeCompetencies for leadership in higher education have begun to emerge in the literature. Yet to better equip future leaders in higher education, the use of a learning taxonomy may serve as a framework to understand necessary learning for leaders in higher education. The aim of this study is to explore the competencies of higher education leadership through Bloom’s knowledge, skills and attitudes framework.Design/methodology/approachAn explanatory case study qualitative methodology was used to explore the experiences of senior leaders within a singular university to determine the necessary competencies of leadership in higher education. Purposive sampling was used to recruit participants who served in Dean-level or higher positions. Eligible participants participated in a semi-structured interview.FindingsEach of Bloom’s domains had a variety of themes emerge: knowledge (2), skills (6) and attitude (2).Research limitations/implicationsSample size was limited by the availability of senior leaders and may not represent the experience of leaders at all institutions.Practical implicationsFindings from this study may allow future researchers to investigate the outcomes of a combination of competencies. Findings from this study will hopefully be able to be extrapolated to better understand the learning required of those who aspire to be future leaders in similar university structures.Originality/valueAvailable studies fail to explore the process by which one learns the skills necessary to become a leader in higher education. To the best of the authors’ knowledge, this is the first study to map higher education leadership competencies through a learning taxonomy.

A Qualitative Exploratory Case Study of the Safe Doors, Safe Homes Intervention for Intimate Partner Violence Prevention in the Canadian Context: Perspectives from IPV Survivors, Service Providers and Police

A Qualitative Exploratory Case Study of the Safe Doors, Safe Homes Intervention for Intimate Partner Violence Prevention in the Canadian Context: Perspectives from IPV Survivors, Service Providers and Police