Focus Group Discussion Method Research Articles

Analysis of constraints for performance improvement of FPCs in Tamil Nadu

The urge for bringing small holders together is to offset the negative effects of increasing urbanization, decreasing land area under cultivation and the other reason being poor resource base of farmers making them unable to operate their farm with limited capital while agriculture is becoming non-competitive. Therefore to protect the interests of small and marginal farmers the farmer producer companies (FPCs) were included in the special provision of Producer Companies Act 2002. In the present study twenty FPCs were selected purposively for the study based on the highest paid-up and authorized share capital. Focus group discussion (FGD) method was employed in collecting the details of constraints of the selected FPCs where the farmers and administrative members like CEOs and BODs constituted the participants. Altogether 20 FGDs were conducted to cross check/validate the response from the farmers and the survey. The study probed the driving forces in performance of FPCs by employing qualitative tools and also assessed the challenges in the operations of FPCs. The results revealed that the driving factors were potential of branding purchase of machines and assets, scope in value addition, active dissemination of market information, price setting and credit for purchase. The challenges faced by FPCs were: problem in obtaining bank loan, no waiving off of license fee, cumbersome process of registration of FPCs, not able to raise funds from farmers and capturing market for selling the produce which were the major causes for failure of some FPCs in the state.

Priorities in effective management of primary health care institutions in Lithuania: Perspectives of managers of public and private primary health care institutions.

BackgroundPrimary health care institutions are looking for opportunities to create value for patients and to increase the competitiveness of the health care institution. Determination of competitive priorities for creation of value for patients in the management of primary health care institutions allows improving competitiveness and achieving a competitive advantage in the market.The aim of the studyTo determine the priorities in the management of public and private primary health care institutions by using the focus group discussion method with managers.MethodsThe study was exploratory with intention to find a ground for a management theory and to be the root for the development of health care reform in Lithuania. Focus group discussions were held in 10 Lithuanian counties; 10 focus group sessions were carried out. A total of 48 primary health care executives were interviewed. The participants of this qualitative study were given 8 questions related to value creation of the primary health care institution to patients and rise in competitiveness. The main question of the focus group discussion was “What are the main priorities of management of primary health care institution?” The criteria of data collection based on the deep understanding of the phenomenon and the richness of data expressed by participants of the research.ResultsQualitative research showed that the priorities of management of primary health care institutions were work management of an organization; human resources management; patient management; and health policy decision making. The participants of focus groups pointed out that effective work of primary health care institutions is ensured by the model of management, doctor-patient communication, quality and timely delivery of health care services, and financial resources. The major decisions involving the management of patients were as follows: meeting patients’ expectations, quality and timely satisfaction of patients’ needs, effective solution of patients’ problems, patient-centered services, patient satisfaction, and communication with the patient. Accessibility to services, quality, geographical accessibility, disease prevention, strengthening of patients’ health and adequate funding were mentioned as the priorities of health policy.

Verifying Theoretical Concepts of Performance Management Framework

Purpose – This paper aims to discuss the verification process of the theoretical concepts of the proposed performance management (PM) framework in practice. Design/methodology/approach – A case study based on a focus group discussion (FGD) method is used to describe the application a PM framework and the implementation of a PM system in a case organisation. Findings – The findings show that the case organisation has been applying the Balanced Scorecard framework and show that it needs to add some important aspects to the framework to support the better implementation of its PM system. Research limitations/implications – This paper is based on a single case study due to the need for an effective FGD in a selected organisation. Originality/value – The study drives the development of PM research in the use of a theoretical verification method to confirm the application of the theoretical concepts of PM framework in practice.

Economic Analysis of Perennial Crop Systems in Dak Lak Province, Vietnam

Dak Lak province, Central Highlands, Vietnam presents an interesting case in perennial crop systems, of which coffee and black pepper are the two premier commodities and contribute a large part to economic growth provincially and at the national level. In recent years, in addition to mono-cropping systems, intercropping systems for diversification have developed quickly. This paper focuses on (1) comparing the economic efficiency of mono-coffee systems (MCSes), mono-pepper systems (MPSes), and coffee and pepper intercropping (CPI) by analyzing startup cost, annual cost, and profits; and (2) identifying the main factors affecting farmers’ decisions to convert their crop systems. The study was carried out by investigating 90 perennial crop samples using the three perennial crop systems (MCSes, MPSes, and CPI) in 2017–2018. Additionally, in-depth interviews and focus group discussion (FGD) methods were applied to collect more information about the operations of each system. Another survey with 37 samples (new plantations) was carried out to compute the startup cost. The findings showed evidence that MCSes had the lowest startup and annual costs, whereas MPSes had the highest costs of the three perennial crop systems. MCSes used less manure or compost in the initial setup and overused chemical fertilizer in annual production. Similarly, MPSes had high pesticide-stimulant costs in the production process to sustain crop development. The study indicated that CPI not only had the highest economic efficiency, but also created the best family employment opportunities of the three systems. Additionally, the study found some social factors that strongly influenced farmers’ decisions to shift their cropping system: These included ethnicity, education, training, and crop failure, in addition to economic factors (profits).

Community-based ecotourism as an alternative to the development of vocational tourism

The concept of ecotourism is one of the alternatives for the development of Wonosadi Forest. Ecotourism focuses on three main things: natural or ecological sustainability, economic benefits, and psychologically acceptable in social life. This study aims to determine the extent to which the concept of community-based ecotourism can be used as an alternative development of Wonosadi forest. Through the development of ecotourism, the forest wonosadi is expected to be able to: 1) build environmental and cultural awareness around the forest area wonosadi 2) reduce the negative impact of damage or environmental pollution , in this case, wonosadi forest and local culture due to ecotourism activities, 3) directly to conservation through contributions from tourist visits, 4) develop a community economy and empower local communities by creating alternative tourism products that prioritize local values and uniqueness. This study used a qualitative approach using FGD (Focus Group Discussion) method and in - depth interview, secondary data study, and literature study. The results of the analysis show that: 1) ecotourism can create business opportunities, 2) ecotourism can increase employment and 3) ecotourism can increase income while increasing equality of local income.

'We get so task orientated at times that we forget the people': staff communication experiences when caring for Aboriginal cardiac patients.

Objective The aim of this study was to describe the experiences of communication for staff providing cardiac care for Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander patients in hospital and discuss potential improvements. Methods Focus group discussions were performed with 58 multidisciplinary staff who provide care for Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander cardiac patients in two metropolitan and two regional hospitals in South Australia and Northern Territory. Inductive thematic analysis was undertaken to identify staff perceptions of communication challenges and strategies for improvement. Results There were five key themes: (1) communication is central to good care; (2) communication within busy clinical environments; (3) supporting a strong Aboriginal workforce; (4) a cultural as well as clinical focus; and (5) particular challenges working with patients from remote areas. Conclusions Providing effective communication that is both clinically and culturally appropriate is often challenging within a busy and non-adaptive hospital environment. Moving beyond clinical tasks, increased Aboriginal and Torres Strat Islander health workforce and cultural competency, supporting coordinated care and improved skills are required to meet the communication needs of Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander patients. What is known about this topic? Communication between patients, their families and hospital staff is crucial for health care quality and safety. There is little understanding of the challenges and opportunities for staff to meet the communication needs of Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander cardiac patients to address disparities in acute care settings. What does this paper add? This paper discusses the barriers and potential improvements, as identified by hospital staff providing care to Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander cardiac patients in both metropolitan and regional settings. What are the implications for practitioners? Practitioners should be trained and supported in providing both clinically and culturally safe care for Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander patients. This requires adequate time, two-way communication and resources to support and facilitate effective communication.

STRATEGY FOR DEVELOPMENT AND REVITALIZATION OF BANYUMULEK POTTERY INDUSTRY, WEST NUSA TENGGARA WITH AN INTEGRATED APPROACH BASED ON TOURISM AND CREATIVE ECONOMY

This study is aimed to determine the development of pottery industry, the factors that influence the development of pottery industry, and to formulate the appropriate development and revitalization strategy for the community of potters in Banyumulek, West Nusa Tenggara. The type of research used is qualitative research with Focus Group Discussion method, and field visits (survey), which take place at Banyumulek Pottery Industrial Center. The result of the research shows that the industry of pottery in Banyumulek Village undergoes prospective development. The formulation results of community empowerment strategy in the form of program planning are: (1) establishment of community to preserve pottery industry, (2) innovative entrepreneurship training and pottery-making skills; (3) development of marketing methods and (4) a tourism-based and creative economy approach. Article DOI: https://dx.doi.org/10.20319/mijst.2018.43.97103 This work is licensed under the Creative Commons Attribution-Non-commercial 4.0 International License. To view a copy of this license, visit http://creativecommons.org/licenses/by-nc/4.0/ or send a letter to Creative Commons, PO Box 1866, Mountain View, CA 94042, USA.

Why Regions with Archipelagic Characteristics in Indonesia Also Need Asymmetric Decentralization?

Indonesia has been practicing both symmetric and asymmetric decentralization for decades. This study believes that asymmetric decentralization should not only for those five provinces (Jakarta, Yogyakarta, Aceh, Papua and West Papua). If political considerations and the effectiveness and efficiency of government, asymmetric decentralization becomes a necessary choice for many other regions in Indonesia. This includes autonomous regions characterized by islands (archipelagic regions). Hence, this paper will discuss a number of reasons why archipelagic regions also need asymmetrical arrangements. How to make such arrangements functional? What potential challenges might be encountered? This study employs qualitative approach with theory-driven type. Operationally, this study is sustained by a series of Focus Group Discussion (FGD) and documentary method. Aiming at strengthening the capacity of the government for more effective governance and development process, the uniqueness and various specific problems faced by archipelagic regions become the main reasons for applying asymmetric decentralization. Proposing a separate policy provides an effective strategy for certainty and functional de jure and de facto asymmetry arrangements. Handling various existing problems which could weaken the capacity to carry out asymmetric decentralization policy would be the most appropriate strategy to make the policy facilitates its potential benefits.

ILLEGAL HOUSE RENOVATIONS: IMPROVING THE RENOVATION GUIDELINES OF A LOCAL AUTHORITY THROUGH PUBLIC PARTICIPATION

Illegal house renovations have created numerous problems to local councils in Malaysia. Enforcement work have cost unnecessary financial burden to local councils as well as losses to the house owners. Hence, this research is aimed at investigating the issues associated with illegal house renovations in a local council and exploring the responses from the local council’s stakeholders on the possibility of involving the public in reframing the house renovation guidelines. A qualitative research method of focus group discussion was held among the related stakeholders in Ampang Jaya Municipal Council (MPAJ). The findings indicated that the problems with illegal renovations are mainly due to the unsuitable guideline itself, the level of understanding of the public, the unrestrained small contractors and the complicated enforcement procedures. The council’s stakeholders also agreed that more community involvement is encouraged in restructuring the existing renovation guideline, but not to the extent of giving the public all the rights to decide the final outcome.

ILLEGAL HOUSE RENOVATIONS: IMPROVING THE RENOVATION GUIDELINES OF A LOCAL AUTHORITY THROUGH PUBLIC PARTICIPATION

Illegal house renovations have created numerous problems to local councils in Malaysia. Enforcement work have cost unnecessary financial burden to local councils as well as losses to the house owners. Hence, this research is aimed at investigating the issues associated with illegal house renovations in a local council and exploring the responses from the local council’s stakeholders on the possibility of involving the public in reframing the house renovation guidelines. A qualitative research method of focus group discussion was held among the related stakeholders in Ampang Jaya Municipal Council (MPAJ). The findings indicated that the problems with illegal renovations are mainly due to the unsuitable guideline itself, the level of understanding of the public, the unrestrained small contractors and the complicated enforcement procedures. The council’s stakeholders also agreed that more community involvement is encouraged in restructuring the existing renovation guideline, but not to the extent of giving the public all the rights to decide the final outcome.

Peningkatan Peran serta Masyarakat dalam Pemanfaatan Lahan Pekarangan melalui Penanaman Pohon Ekonomis di Desa Ciherang, Bogor, Jawa Barat

The yard is a green open space that has economic value. The society's devotion was conducted on Sunday, October 22, 2017, in Ciherang Village, Bogor, West Java. The purpose of community service was to grow the spirit of public awareness of the importance of preserving the environment within the scope of the family and the surrounding environment. The method used was FGD (Focus Group Discussion) method and application. The research used descriptive analysis. The results showed that the high enthusiasm and awareness about environmental awareness in the field of the yard. Overall awareness raising of the community requires cooperation between various parties.

Smart phone is a expectation-laden trophy: adolescent girls–adults’ mobile phone tensions and changing sexuality negotiation

ABSTRACTThis article is based on a study conducted in Nigerian Christian and Muslim neighborhoods on the intrigues that characterized adults-adolescent girls’ relations about how and when adolescent girls could use smart phones. Questionnaires, ethnographic interviews, school debates, observations, and focus group discussion methods were used to study the influence of smart phones on adolescent girls’ identity construction, adults-adolescent girls’ tension as regards ownership and use of smartphones, and new dynamics in adolescent girls-male friends’ relationship caused by smart phone uptake. For this population, smart phones display contextual symbolism that transcends their technological meaning, shifting girls’ social dependence from adults to peers and technology. Smart phone use has given adolescent girls a new way of identity construction, empowered them subtly in sexuality negotiation and assigned new roles to them. Adults’ concern about adolescent girls’ use of smart phones is rooted in their fears about the possible negative influences of smart phone use, which they see as entertainment driven and inimical to adolescent girls’ development. Findings of this study revealed that tensions between adults and adolescent girls over smart phone uptake originated from role reversal and expectation-laden nature of smart phones acquired by male friends, which effective mutual sharing of knowledge and resources could address. Adolescent girls should justify their craving for smart phones morally, socially, and psychologically. Adults and social institutions also need to rediscover their new roles in a world where digital innovations are necessities.

Spatial and temporal dynamic of land-cover/land-use and carbon stocks in Eastern Cameroon: a case study of the teaching and research forest of the University of Dschang

This study was carried out in the teaching and research forest of the University of Dschang in Belabo, with the aim of analysing land-cover and land-use changes as well as carbon stocks dynamic. The databases used are composed of three Landsat satellite images (5TM of 1984, 7ETM + of 2000 and 8OLI of 2016), enhanced by field missions. Satellite images were processed using ENVI and ArcGIS software. Interview, focus group discussion methods and participatory mapping were used to identify the activities carried out by the local population. An inventory design consisting of four transects was used to measure dendrometric parameters and to identify land-use types. An estimation of carbon stocks in aboveground and underground woody biomass was made using allometric models based on non-destructive method. Dynamic of land-cover showed that the average annual rate of deforestation is 0.48%. The main activities at the base of this change are agriculture, house built-up and logging. Seven types of land-use were identified; adult secondary forests (64.10%), young secondary forests (7.54%), wetlands (7.39%), fallows (3.63%), savannahs (9.59%), cocoa farms (4.28%) and mixed crop farms (3.47%). Adult secondary forests had the highest amount of carbon (250.75 t C ha−1). This value has decreased by more than 60% for mixed crop farms (94.67 t C ha−1), showing the impact of agricultural activities on both forest cover and carbon stocks. Agroforestry systems that allow conservation and introduction of woody species should be encouraged as part of a participatory management strategy of this forest.

Physical-internet-enabled auction logistics in perishable supply chain trading

PurposeWhile significant efforts have been made to study auction and logistics theories in the context of perishable supply chain trading (PSCT) over the last few years, the consensus has not yet been reached on how best to examine the impact of physical-internet-enabled auction logistics (AL) decisions and processes on dynamic perishable products transactions. The purpose of this paper is to address this gap by investigating the existing situations and identifying future opportunities for both academic and industrial communities.Design/methodology/approachThe relevant literature was sort out along with three dimensions, namely auction mechanism, level of decision and coordination. The methods of field investigation and focus group discussion were also used to explore the factors influencing AL performance.FindingsA number of key findings presented. First, there is an emerging paradigm shift from offline auction to online auction. Robust and resilient AL are needed to fulfill the massive number of orders from different channels while considering dynamic decisions. Second, three-level decisions in AL have been explicitly classified and defined. Various mathematical techniques used in literature vis-à-vis the contexts of AL were mapped. Third, a coordination mechanism that dynamically balances trade-off between logistics efficiency and transaction price was discussed. Lastly, several opportunities for future research were distinguished with coherent connection of research domains and open questions.Originality/valueThis paper not only summaries key themes of current research dimensions, but also indicates existing deficiencies and potential research directions. The findings can be used as the basis for future research in PSCT and related topics.

The Helping Behavior of Senior and Vocational High School Students Based on the Values of Pancasila in Pemalang Regency


 
 
 The decline in a social relationship has led people, particularly teenagers, to an unwillingness to help others. Therefore, there needs such an effort to help teenagers realize the importance of helping others. One possible effort is to hold a character building program. In this case, the writer involves Pancasila as the fundamental principle of the program to relate its values to the helping behavior the teenagers might show. Accordingly, this study focuses on finding the helping behavior related to the values contained in the Sila of Pancasila shown by the teenagers. This descriptive-qualitative study uses Focus Group Discussion (FGD) and literature study methods to collect data. From the research, the writer finds Sila 2 Kemanusiaan Yang Adil dan Beradab fits the helping behavior shown by the teenagers the most. The helping behavior shown relates, particularly, with the following values of Pancasila, i.e., "To recognize equality both in rights and responsibility, to uphold the values of humanity," and "To promote fairness to others." Nevertheless, teenagers have not shown yet the one related with "To practice tolerance and show empathy."
 
 

AJARAN DAKWAH SUNAN MURIA (KAJIAN RIJAL AL-DAKWAH)

<p>This article is an attempt to know the abouts of Sunan Muria in more depth. This is done because there are several versions of the existence of Sunan Muria from birth to death and gait da'wah that has been implemented. This article is written and extracted from the Focus Group Discussion (FGD) method that has been implemented by various universities, academics, historians and researchers who are intensive in the study of walisongo. The results of this study indicate that Sunan Muria is one son Sunan Kalijaga, the result of his marriage with the goddess Sarah binti Maulana Ishaq. In addition this article shows that the mission carried out by Sunan Muria and the condition of the people who are more embracing the religion of the earth, more precisely <em>Kejawen</em> community. Armed with a variety of works he made, one of the famous known <em>pagerana omahmu kanthi mangkok</em> (Protect Your house with bowl) makes him famous as a pious person who put forward shodaqah. It is known that sodaqah is one of the da'wah material that is often delivered</p>

Exploring Technological, Pedagogical, and Content Knowledge (TPACK) and Self Efficacy Belief of Senior High School Biology Teachers in Batangas City

Teachers are considered as one of the key factors in the educational process, especially, in the implementation of a new curriculum. Thus, the introduction and implementation of the new K to 12 curricula, requires monitoring, assessment and evaluation of areas in teaching and learning, in order to ensure that the set goals and objectives were successfully attained. This study aimed to explore two important aspects of teaching such as self-efficacy belief and technological, pedagogical, and content knowledge (TPACK) of private and public senior high school biology teachers from Batangas City for AY 2017-2018. Surveys, focus group discussion and class observation methods were used to gather data. Using mean and standard deviation, the results revealed that biology teacher have moderate self-efficacy belief in both aspects of self-efficacy belief, the personal biology teaching efficacy and biology teaching outcomes expectancy. On the other hand, in TPACK, they were rated as moderately proficient. Furthermore, the study also implies that there is no significant relationship between these two variables when compared using Pearson’s r, which means that the self-efficacy belief of senior high school (SHS) biology teachers of Batangas City has nothing to do with their TPACK. Designing of a training design framework for faculty development programs and similar studies for physics and chemistry teaching are suggested.

Exploring the educational needs of adult learners: A study of three universities in Ghana

Adult learners have unique educational needs that require attention from Higher Education Institutions, facilitators and industry. While several theories and policies have been developed to address the bourgeoning educational challenges confronting adult learners in Higher Education Institutions, not much has been achieved in the wake of growing knowledge and skills demands of employers. Using a mixed method approach, a survey (n = 200) and focus group discussions (n = 27) were conducted among adult learners who were also professionals studying engineering programmes in three diverse universities in Ghana. Additionally, interviews were conducted with representatives from industry and from the three engineering departments in the three universities. The study revealed that while the development of separate programmes for adult learners in Higher Education Institutions is not plausible in meeting the educational needs of adult learners, a different pedagogy could be used in addressing the unique knowledge and skills needs of adult learners. We present the implications of our study in relation to theory, practice and further research.

Adverse selection and supply-side factors in the enrollment in community-based health insurance in Northwest Ethiopia: A mixed methodology.

Since 2010, the Ethiopian government introduced different measures to implement community-based health insurance (CBHI) schemes to improve access to health service and reduce the catastrophic effect of health care costs. The aim of this study was to examine the determinants of enrollment in CBHI in Northwest Ethiopia. In this study, we utilized a mix of quantitative (multivariate logistic regression applied to population survey linked with health facility survey) and qualitative (focus group discussion and in-depth interview) methods to better understand the factors that affect CBHI enrollment. The study revealed important factors, such as household, informal association, and health facility, as barriers to CBHI enrollment. Age and educational status, self-rated health status, perceived quality of health services, knowledge, and information (awareness) about CBHI were among the characteristics of individual household head, affecting enrollment. Household size and participation in an informal association, such as local credit associations, were also positively associated with CBHI enrollment. Additionally, health facility factors like unavailability of laboratory tests were the main factor that hinders CBHI enrollment. This study showed a possibility of adverse selection in CBHI enrollment. Additionally, perceived quality of health services, knowledge, and information (awareness) are positively associated with CBHI enrollment. Therefore, policy interventions to mitigate adverse selection as well as provision of social marketing activities are crucial to increase enrollment in CBHI. Furthermore, policy interventions that enhance the capacity of health facilities and schemes to provide the promised services are necessary.

Qualitative exploration of barriers and facilitators of dental service utilization of pregnant women: A triangulation approach

BackgroundPregnant women are vulnerable to a wide range of oral health conditions that could be harmful to their own health and future child. Despite the usefulness of regular dental service utilization in prevention and early detection of oral diseases, it is notably low among pregnant women. In this qualitative study, we aimed to explore barriers and facilitators influencing pregnant women’s dental service utilization.MethodsUsing a triangulation approach, we included pregnant women (n = 22) from two public health centers, midwives (n = 8) and dentists (n = 12) from 12 other public centers in Tehran (Iran). Data was gathered through face-to-face semi-structured interviewing and focus group discussion methods. The analysis of qualitative data was performed using conventional content analysis with MAXQDA10 software.ResultsReported barriers of dental service utilization among pregnant women were categorized under emerging themes: Lack of knowledge and misbelief, cost of dental care, physiological changes, fear and other psychological conditions, time constraint, dentists’ unwillingness to accept pregnant women treatment, cultural taboos and lack of interprofessional collaboration. Solutions proposed by dentists, midwives and pregnant women to improve dental care utilization during pregnancy were categorized under three themes: Provision of knowledge, financial support and establishing supportive policies.ConclusionsUnderstanding perceived barriers of dental service utilization during pregnancy can serve as baseline information for planning and formulating appropriate oral health education, financial support, and legislations tailored for lower income pregnant women, midwives and dentists in countries with developing oral health care system.