Foster Change Research Articles

What Can We Learn From Qualitative Impact Evaluations About the Effectiveness of Lobby and Advocacy? A Meta-Evaluation of Dutch aid Programmes and Assessment Tool.

Official development agencies are increasingly supporting civil society lobby and advocacy (L&A) to address poverty and human rights. However, there are challenges in evaluating L&A. As programme objectives are often to change policies or practices in a single institution like a Government Ministry, L&A programmes are often not amenable to large-n impact evaluation methods. They often work in strategic partnerships to foster change; hence, contribution may be a more relevant evaluation question than attribution. Small-n qualitative approaches are available to measure the effectiveness of L&A which use the theory of change as their analytical framework. We conducted a meta-evaluation of 36 evaluations of multi-component international programmes to support civil society L&A across Asia, Africa and Latin America, comprising the majority of programmatic support from one international donor. We assessed the confidence in causal claims in the evaluations using a new tool that we developed. Assessments of the contribution of the programmes to the changes in outcomes were not provided in many of the evaluations, nor were predictable sources of bias addressed. Given that L&A programmes are likely to adopt an influencing approach where many different inside-track and outside-track engagement objectives, opportunities and strategies are attempted, many of which might be expected to fail, there appeared to be a clear bias in the evaluations towards reporting outcomes that were achieved, ignoring those that were not. We provide guidance on how to improve the design, conduct and reporting of small-n qualitative evaluations of aid effectiveness.

Embracing practice innovation: The synergy of evidence-based practice and quality improvement strategies.

This article explores the synergistic relationship between evidence-based practice (EBP) and quality improvement (QI) methods in nursing, highlighting their potential to enhance patient outcomes and foster practice change. By identifying clinical gaps and employing a structured approach to integrate EBP and QI, nurses can effectively implement best practices tailored to evolving healthcare needs. Ultimately, this article provides a comprehensive framework for nurses to leverage EBP and QI collaboratively, thereby advancing nursing practice and improving patient care.

Enhancing Urban Sustainability in Abuja through E-Back-casting: A participatory methodology for sustainable city development

This study explores the potential of e-backcasting as a participatory tool for improving urban sustainability in Abuja, Nigeria. Given the rapid urbanization and environmental challenges faced by cities like Abuja, there is a growing need for innovative approaches that integrate environmental, social, and economic dimensions in urban planning. E-backcasting, a method that involves envisioning a sustainable future and working backward to develop actionable strategies, offers a promising approach. This study utilizes e-backcasting to engage stakeholders from diverse sectors—including urban planners, policymakers, academics, and residents—to collaboratively design long-term sustainability strategies. The results show significant improvements in participants' critical thinking, goal-setting abilities, and cross-sectoral collaboration. By fostering social learning, enhancing knowledge exchange, and facilitating inclusive urban planning, e-backcasting contributes to more resilient, sustainable urban environments. This article discusses the methodology, key findings, and implications of e-backcasting for sustainable urban development in Abuja, highlighting its potential to foster long-term change and collaboration in rapidly growing cities.

Optimizing the Merdeka Curriculum for Developing the Pancasila Student Profile through Project-Based Learning

This study aims to understand the planning and implementation of the Merdeka curriculum in shaping the Pancasila student profile. Employing a qualitative research design with descriptive analysis, the subjects included curriculum vice principals, project teachers, and students. Data were collected through observation, interviews, and documentation, while data validity was ensured through technique and source triangulation. The findings reveal that the implementation of the Merdeka curriculum is at a developing stage, 1) Curriculum planning carried out at the start of the academic year 2022/2023 following a prepared workflow. The school extensively improvises government-provided guidelines in developing the operational curriculum and project modules to better meet student and industry needs. 2) The instructional approach at SMK PK Krian 2 is project-based, with the implementation of (Projek Penguatan Profil Pelajar Pancasila dan Budaya Kerja: P5BK) using monthly blocks to replace intracurricular learning hours after (Masa Pengenalan Lingkungan Sekolah: MPLS) activities, covering five themes to achieve the six dimensions of the Pancasila student profile. Assessment results show that students are progressing towards the goals set in the project modules, yet the full formation of the Pancasila student profile is not yet achieved due to the novelty of the projects. However, educators are optimistic that the Merdeka curriculum will foster changes in student attitudes and is most suitable for the school's conditions.

Clinical Questions and Psychological Change: How Can Artificial Intelligence Support Mental Health Practitioners?

Despite their diverse assumptions, clinical psychology approaches share the goal of mental health promotion. The literature highlights their usefulness, but also some issues related to their effectiveness, such as their difficulties in monitoring psychological change. The elective strategy for activating and managing psychological change is the clinical question. But how do different types of questions foster psychological change? This work tries to answer this issue by studying therapist-patient interactions with a ML model for text analysis. The goal was to investigate how psychological change occurs thanks to different types of questions, and to see if the ML model recognized this difference in analyzing patients' answers to therapists' clinical questions. The experimental dataset of 14,567 texts was divided based on two different question purposes, splitting answers in two categories: those elicited by questions asking patients to start describing their clinical situation, or those from asking them to detail how they evaluate their situation and mental health condition. The hypothesis that these categories are distinguishable by the model was confirmed by the results, which corroborate the different valences of the questions. These results foreshadow the possibility to train ML and AI models to suggest clinical questions to therapists based on patients' answers, allowing the increase of clinicians' knowledge, techniques, and skills.

Faith-based initiatives, HIV awareness, religious communities, health education, stigma reduction

Faith-based initiatives have emerged as a powerful tool in addressing the global HIV/AIDS epidemic, particularly in communities where access to healthcare services may be limited or where stigma surrounding the disease remains high. Religious communities often have deep-rooted social influence and can serve as trusted platforms for spreading HIV awareness, promoting prevention measures, and reducing stigma associated with the disease. This review examines the role of faith-based organizations (FBOs) in HIV education and care, highlighting successful programs that leverage religious teachings to foster behavioral change, while also addressing the challenges these initiatives face, such as doctrinal conflicts and community resistance. One of the significant advantages of faith-based initiatives is their ability to reach vulnerable populations in a culturally sensitive and compassionate manner. Religious leaders can use their influence to normalize HIV-related discussions, advocate for safe-sex practices, and offer support to individuals living with HIV. FBOs also play a crucial role in reducing HIV-related stigma by framing HIV care within the context of love, compassion, and moral responsibility, which can create a more accepting environment for affected individuals. By integrating HIV education into religious settings, faith-based initiatives help bridge the gap between public health messages and local cultural values. Keywords: Faith-based initiatives, HIV awareness, Stigma reduction, Religious communities, HIV prevention

Testing the boundaries of conflict systems: the case of La Frutera, Philippines and the possibilities and limitations of localised peace-positive action

ABSTRACT Contemporary peacebuilding frameworks articulate clear distinctions among the levels of conflict in which peace-positive action occurs. However, there is still little conceptual clarity as to how the impacts of such actions move across and between levels of conflict and how to ascertain the boundaries of their impacts. This article uses the case study of Unifrutti-Tropical Philippines Inc.’s (UTPI) farm, La Frutera, in Mindanao, Philippines to explore how the generation of local peace by a prominent actor can influence regional- and national-level conflict dynamics and where the boundaries lie for impact. The case study uses a systems modelling and time series analysis to consider questions about when, why, and for how long positive action may or may not foster societal change. Findings from this case shed light onto the frontiers of localised pro-peace action and the sustainability of those outcomes in complex conflict systems.

Enabling Formal and Natural Supports for Adults with Developmental Disabilities in British Columbia, Canada: Experiences of Three Organizations

Despite the recognition of the importance of both formal and natural supports for adults with developmental disabilities, there is limited research on how organizations integrate these supports in the Canadian context. Using a collective case study design, this study explored how three organizations in British Columbia, Canada, facilitate the integration of formal and natural supports to improve the lives of adults with developmental disabilities. Data were collected through a comprehensive document review, interviews, and focus groups. The analysis was conducted in multiple phases, focusing initially on individual cases and then on cross-case themes. This research revealed both similarities and differences across three organizational approaches to integrating formal and natural supports for adults with developmental disabilities and their families. Key themes were identified, including the importance of relationships in this work, the creation of natural supports through formal supports and brokered community connections, systemic changes and innovative approaches, and the impact of funding models on organizational support. The findings highlight the critical need for organizations to build trust-based relationships between staff and the people they serve and to provide flexible support that adapts to changing needs and circumstances, facilitated by funders allowing for such flexibility. This study also underlines the value of formal supports in establishing natural networks and the necessity for cross-organizational partnerships to foster innovation and implement effective changes in the provision of services for people with developmental disabilities and their families.

AI-powered business model innovation: Analyzing the implications of generative AI on value creation, operational efficiency and market dynamics

The revolutionary way that generative AI disrupts business models today is by delivering radical shifts in important things like value delivery, business operations, and competitiveness. It allows businesses to perform difficult tasks, orchestrate customized client interactions, and foster change throughout sectors. With endless possibilities, generative AI's risks upon implementation are as follows: Data protection, Ethical and legal spheres, and Talent demand. Some challenges must be overcome when adopting AI in any organization to harness this technology for work benefits. Generative AI will continue to define future business models ' directions and contours through innovation, support of the decision-making process, and a focus on the principles of ethical entrepreneurship. This paper discusses the opportunities of generative AI for business model innovations, its effect on operational improvement, and entering a new kind of competition in a market. Finally, it reveals the factors that companies experience when implementing AI and presents the possible future trend of deploying business models based on artificial intelligence.

Significance of Artificial Intelligence and Machine Learning in Business Enterprises

The rising demand for Artificial Intelligence (AI) and Machine Learning (ML) technologies in the corporate sector offers significant opportunity for firms to foster innovation and change. Incorporating generative AI capabilities into AI/ML corporate adoption plans can significantly improve the performance and efficacy of these technologies. By adopting AI/ML with generative AI functionalities, organizations may optimize content production workflows, provide synthetic data to enhance ML model training, and provide more captivating consumer experiences. This connection enhances creativity and innovation, accelerating model development and refinement, leading to expedited advancement in the creation of sophisticated AI systems. This article discusses the significance of AI and ML in business. Future trends and difficulties are also examined.

Socio Emotional Learning Within Prison Walls: The Effects of GRIP Program (Guiding Rage into Power) as Perceived by Participant and Non Participant Incarcerated Persons

ABSTRACTLong‐term imprisonment often results in negative psychological and behavioural effects that hinder effective reintegration into society, exacerbating antisocial behaviour and increasing recidivism rates. In response to a Supreme Court mandate, California, the state with the second‐largest prison population in the United States, embarked on a significant prison downsizing initiative. Designed to help violent offenders develop emotional intelligence, mindfulness, and understanding of victim impact, Guiding Rage into Power (GRIP) is an example of a rehabilitation program expanding within California's state prison system in part because it has generated promising results. Building on previous investigations of the same program, this study evaluates the effectiveness of GRIP in altering incarcerated men's self‐perceptions and observed behaviours, with a focus on trust and self‐control. Employing a mixed‐methods approach, including a qualitative photo elicitation task and psychological scales, data were collected from GRIP and non‐GRIP participants in two California prisons. GRIP participants demonstrated a profound commitment to self‐awareness and transformation, as evidenced by their narratives and photo choices. Differential levels of trust between the two groups also predicted distinct outcomes in the photo elicitation task. While this study has limitations, it underscores GRIP's potential to challenge entrenched identities and foster positive internal changes, paving the way for future research to assess broader program impacts. Please refer to the Supplementary Material section to find this article's Community and Social Impact Statement.

Ripples of change: transforming lives and communities through sport in Colombia.

The Colombianitos Foundation (CF) is a pioneering youth development organization that utilizes football as a pedagogical instrument to promote life skills, civic values, and social inclusion in vulnerable communities across Colombia. This study aims to challenge the foundational assumption that sport can catalyze positive change and impart civic values, by investigating the perceived change and efficacy of the CFs Goals for a Better Life program on positive youth development in Colombia. Employing a qualitative research methodology, 28 in-depth interviews with administrators and coaches were conducted, followed by a content analysis to identify thematic patterns. The findings reveal CF's transformative capacity in cultivating human capital, social and societal capital, and distinct programmatic characteristics. CF's interventions foster significant behavioral changes, such as improved conflict resolution and non-violent communication, while promoting essential life skills and social cohesion. Moreover, the study illustrates CF's role in generating a ripple effect, wherein the benefits extend beyond individual participants to their families and the broader community. CF challenges entrenched gender norms through its mixed-gender team structure, aligning with SDG 5, and demonstrates a commitment to fostering peaceful, inclusive societies in line with SDG 16. By grounding its approach in evidence-based evaluation and leveraging strategic partnerships, CF exemplifies a sustainable model of sport-for-development. The study contributes to a deeper understanding of sport's potential to drive long-term social transformation, offering empirical insights for future research and intervention design in post-conflict and marginalized settings.

On the Crossroads of Ecology and Education

AbstractThe interrelations between education at all levels, including K‐12, undergraduate, graduate, and adult education, and the field of ecology are multiple, come from both domains, often relate to social change (Wright and Hill, 2021), and build on the expansion of the field of ecology education over the past 30 years. Discussions at the crossroads of ecology and education are particularly important to all those interested in better understanding how ecology can foster change among educational institutions. In this context, this article offers a review of key discussions on how education and ecology, as distinct domains of study and application, inform each other and support transformational shifts among educational institutions at all levels. It is shown that the teaching and learning of ecology among educational institutions have been key concerns for ecologists historically and that educational philosophers and theorists have been finding it important to increase awareness of our interconnectivity with natural systems through education.

Restorative Justice as a Tool to Address Violence Against Women? An Assessment of the Italian Case in Light of the Practice of International Monitoring Bodies

Abstract This article examines the use of restorative justice (RJ) as an alternative to traditional retributive justice in addressing violence against women (VAW) in the Italian legal system. Amidst a broad crisis of retributive justice characterised by its abstract conceptualisation of retribution, restorative justice offers a personalised approach to repairing the harm between victim and offender. However, the implementation of RJ in VAW cases poses significant risks, including secondary victimisation, exposure to physical and psychological harm, and potential manipulation by offenders seeking to exploit RJ processes. This debate has been particularly pronounced in Italy following the adoption of the “Cartabia reform”, and previous legislation on mediation in family law. Against this background, the first part of the article analyses how international bodies such as the CEDAW Committee and GREVIO have assessed Italy’s international obligations under CEDAW and the Istanbul Convention in relation to alternative dispute resolution mechanisms. After providing an overview of VAW in Italy and the country’s interactions with international monitoring bodies, the article discusses the concept of RJ in the context of VAW, followed by a comparative analysis of GREVIO’s interpretation of the concept of “mandatory mediation”. The second part of the article focuses on Italian alternative dispute resolution methods and the “Cartabia reform”. The authors argue that, while RJ measures may be beneficial in some contexts, in the specific case of VAW they could worsen the situation if not properly managed. In particular, mandatory RJ could mislead society into seeing women as mere participants in solving the problem thus ignoring their victimhood and leading to their secondary victimisation. Rather, response to VAW in Italy should include risk analysis, funding for anti-violence centres, appropriate training for the judiciary and police, and educational policies to challenge gender stereotypes and foster cultural change.

How to Detonate a Semiotic Bomb: The Dynamics of Lotmanian Explosion in the Semiosphere

Abstract Lotmanian cultural dynamics involve change through textual interaction. Texts, offering vehicles for information, play a central role in this, with cultural change happening in two modes: gradual and explosive instances of texts that alter the semiosphere. This paper focuses on the process of explosion–an unpredictable mode of change in Lotmanian theory–through a metaphorical methodology, by introducing the concept of semiotic bomb. A semiotic bomb works here as a theoretical object that tries to harness the effect of explosion within the semiosphere. The concept of semiotic bomb serves as both a way to examine what is necessary for explosion to happen and as a theoretical exercise in attempting to predict the unpredictable in culture. We contend that cultural change must be understood in terms of sign configurations and information transmission through Charles Morris’s behavioral semiotics, and that this basis works as a complement of Juri Lotman’s cultural dynamics by grounding textual information on behavioral change and resignification. Taking a note from information and semiotic warfare, we look at what it takes for culture to foster change through the prism of Lotman’s theory, and how we could conceptualize intentional change through information manipulation and presentation. The paper offers a novel look into the logic of explosion within the semiotic theory of Juri Lotman and proposes conceptual avenues for exploring, analyzing and tentatively implementing the concept of explosion by the proposed idea of a semiotic bomb.

Self-transformation: The Importance of Education for Adults in the Modern Era

This study explores the transformative role of education for adults in the modern era, emphasizing the importance of lifelong learning for personal growth and adaptability. Utilizing a qualitative approach through library research and a comprehensive literature review, this study analyzes the impact of education on self-transformation, focusing on how educational experiences foster changes in identity, critical reflection, and emotional intelligence among adult learners. The findings highlight that education is not only a means of acquiring new skills but also a key factor in reshaping personal identity and fostering adaptability in a rapidly changing world. By engaging in education, adults experience shifts in self-perception, develop enhanced critical thinking skills, and improve their ability to navigate complex social and professional environments. Additionally, the study underscores the role of collaborative learning environments, where interactive and participatory educational settings amplify the transformative potential of education. The process of self-transformation is found to be ongoing, with each educational experience contributing to continuous personal development. This study concludes that educational programs aimed at adults should adopt a holistic approach, addressing both the practical and emotional dimensions of adult learners’ needs. Such programs will enable adults to thrive in the modern era, not only by equipping them with essential skills but also by fostering deeper self-awareness and lifelong growth.

“I’d just love to hear what the community has to say”: Exploring the potential of community-driven vaccine messaging amongst ethnic minority communities

ABSTRACT Community-based communication interventions improve health outcomes and foster positive behavioral changes across diverse populations. However, their potential to support vaccine readiness remains underexplored. This paper addresses this gap by investigating the opinions and preferences of ethnic minority community members who attended a health information session regarding community-delivered vaccine messaging. The study explored the perceptions and willingness to engage in community-led communication efforts about vaccination, focusing on COVID-19 booster vaccines. In-depth interviews were conducted between November and December 2023 with individuals from ethnic minority communities in Central Eastern Sydney who attended an information session about COVID-19 boosters. Four key themes emerged from speaking to this specific group, highlighting diverse communication preferences and intentions. Participants emphasized obtaining vaccine-related knowledge from various sources, particularly through interpersonal discussions. Trusted voices like general practitioners (GPs) and targeted media campaigns were deemed to be crucial. Recommendations included leveraging community champions and establishing a central body for efficient vaccination campaign management in multicultural communities. Personal engagement through community discussions was stressed, with inclusive spaces recommended in various settings. Effective strategies include transparent communication, credible health professional endorsement, and addressing concerns with balanced responses. The findings accentuate the potential effectiveness of grassroots, community-centric initiatives in promoting informed vaccine messaging, countering misinformation, and engaging communities in meaningful health dialogs. Further research on tailored communication and strategic partnerships could enhance this initiative and promote sustained health literacy within ethnic minority communities.

Exploring the Role of Local Artists in Public Health Campaigns

This paper investigates the role of local artists in public health campaigns, emphasizing how art can serve as a potent tool for health communication. By examining case studies and the intersection of art and public health, the paper reveals how local artists contribute to community mobilization, enhance message dissemination, and foster behavioral changes through various creative mediums. The study also examines the challenges artists face in such campaigns, including funding, recognition, and integration into public health initiatives. Recommendations are offered for fostering more effective collaborations between artists and health professionals, promoting the co-creation of impactful health messaging. Keywords: Local artists, public health campaigns, health communication, community engagement, art and health collaboration.

Closing the Gap: A Holistic Approach to Leadership Development in Times of Change

Effective leadership is essential for organizations to thrive in today’s fast-paced and complex business environment. However, many companies face critical leadership development gaps, particularly in managing change, attracting and retaining top talent, and fostering diversity. This article examines these challenges and provides actionable strategies for addressing them. Organizations often struggle to cultivate leaders prepared to drive transformation, as traditional leadership programs focus on stability rather than agility. Attracting talent is also hindered by the absence of key leadership qualities like emotional intelligence and collaboration. Furthermore, a lack of diversity in leadership pipelines limits innovation and decision-making capabilities. To overcome these gaps, organizations must foster change leadership through hands-on initiatives and mentoring, develop high-performance cultures that empower and engage employees, and create diverse pipelines by addressing unconscious bias and providing sponsorship programs. Companies like Amazon, Google, and Accenture demonstrate how aligning leadership strategies with modern business needs can drive sustained success. Ultimately, leadership development must be a continuous, integrated effort woven into the organization’s culture to meet evolving challenges and ensure long-term growth.

5.E. Round table: Crafting Policies for Health Promotion: evidence from local settings

Abstract As communities vary in their needs, challenges, and resources, tailoring health promotion policies to specific contexts becomes imperative for effectiveness. Drawing upon the expertise of seasoned practitioners, policymakers, and researchers, this workshop offers a multifaceted perspective on navigating the complexities inherent in designing, implementing, and evaluating locally tailored health promotion policies, with a specific focus on environmental and social factors. The workshop will make it possible to compare different experiences from various European countries, with high-level speakers who have different backgrounds and roles in their countries and regions, thus providing an interesting and interactive way of comparing and examining real-world examples and best practices. The examples provided delve into: participatory techniques to design healthier environments, to identifying, collecting and elaborating evidence upon which to build policies and actions that are effective in addressing specific health challenges. Through the examples presented, we will seek to make the case for multi-actor and multisectoral collaboration. In addition, we will try to understand How do subnational authorities and partners identify priorities for action. A common question asked to the speakers will therefore: how can a variety of actors (local and regional authorities, university and research centres...) come together to support cross-sectoral action? How can policymakers be supported towards creating environments that prioritize the well-being of all, ensuring a healthier and more prosperous future for everyone? The end goal will be to enable attendees to be equipped with actionable strategies and tools to foster meaningful change within their own communities, by understanding the intricate interplay between community dynamics, stakeholder engagement, evidence-based practices, and policy implementation strategies. The workshop is being organized by the WHO Regions for Health Network (RHN). Key messages • Tailoring health promotion policies to specific contexts is imperative for effectiveness, considering the diverse needs, challenges, and resources of different communities. • Subnational authorities and partners must identify priorities for action and collaborate across sectors to address specific health challenges effectively. Speakers/Panelists Klara Dokova Medical University of Varna, Varna, Bulgaria Camilla Ihlebaek Norwegian University of Life Sciences, Aas, Norway Jo Peden Public Health Wales, Cardiff, UK Odile Mekel NRW Centre for Health, Bochum, Germany Liesbeth van Holten Province of Utrecht, Utrecht, Netherlands