Inclusive Culture Research Articles

Integration of democratic values in natural sciences education: A Literature Review of the last 50 Years

This study examines how democratic values have been promoted through natural sciences education over the last 50 years, providing a comprehensive analysis based on a systematic review of relevant literature. The central problem addressed is understanding the role of natural science education in fostering democratic values such as equity, participation, critical thinking, and ethical responsibility. This research aims to identify and analyze strategies, methodologies, and transformative experiences that contribute to the promotion of democratic values. This study employs the PRISMA methodology to ensure a rigorous and structured systematic review. Data were collected from multiple databases using detailed Boolean equations. Tools such as ScientoPy and VOSviewer were used for data preprocessing, clustering, and network visualization, followed by qualitative analysis to categorize the findings. Educational programs in natural sciences have increasingly integrated democratic values, fostering a culture of inclusivity and participation; the incorporation of ICT has enhanced equity and participation, while civic education has been fundamental in developing critical and informed citizens; citizen science initiatives have empowered students to engage in democratic deliberation and address epistemic injustice; cooperative learning methods in science classes have effectively promoted gender equity and inclusion; and emphasis on sustainability and environmental justice in science education has promoted democratic values and empowered students to take action on global challenges. In conclusion, natural science education is an effective vehicle for promoting democratic values, but it is an understudied field. By integrating practices that emphasize inclusivity, critical thinking, and ethical responsibility, science education not only enhances students’ scientific understanding but also prepares them to be active, informed, and responsible citizens.

The Challenges of Reducing Educational-Developmental Gaps Among Status-less Children in Israel

AbstractIsrael today is home to 34,000 documented asylum seekers, with most of them living under a group protection policy (2A5 visas) which shields them from deportation (National Population and Emigration Authority of Israel, 2023; 2024). This diverse population includes about 23,000 citizens from Eritrea and Sudan, as well as over 10,000 Ukrainian citizens who arrived in Israel post-February 24, 2022. Although the 2A5 status protects them from deportation, it fails to provide them with basic rights and services. While adults possess this status, their children live in Israel without official status or an identification number, effectively rendering them “status-less” as they do not fit into any legally recognized category (HCJ 6312/10). These children do not belong to a civil category, which leads to inconsistent documentation, lack of identity or resident number, and a lack of monitoring across different government systems. This bureaucratic fragmentation hinders their ability to access even the basic rights they are entitled to by law. As a signatory to the International Convention on the Rights of the Child (1989), Israel is committed to upholding three fundamental rights for children: health, well-being, and education. This commentary will focus on the right to education, particularly the obstacles professionals encounter in narrowing the educational and developmental gaps experienced by status-less children in Israel. Key challenges include segregation policies, inadequate allocation of resources, and the tension between integration and cultural inclusion. These challenges are assessed by examining legal documents, evaluating the existing services available in Israel, and gaining insights from the authors’ professional expertise. Finally, the commentary will suggest up-to-date interpretations of the challenges discussed. The conclusions derived from the current commentary may be relevant to educators and social workers, as well as policymakers seeking to formulate consistent policy that provides adapted services to children from diverse communities.

Breaking the glass ceiling in banking: the impact of female directors, digitalization, and income diversification on financial stability

Purpose This study aims to analyze the impact of board gender diversity (BGD) on a bank’s financial stability. Moreover, it also examines whether digitalization and income diversification act as mediators (individual and serial) in this relationship. Design/methodology/approach Hypotheses were tested using data from Pakistan’s banking sector financial statements from 2017 to 2021. A two-step analytical approach was used: panel regression in STATA for initial hypothesis examination, followed by mediation analyses using bootstrapping in SPSS. In addition, mixed-effect ML regression was conducted to verify causation and ensure robust findings. Findings Results demonstrate that BGD, digitalization and income diversification are positively associated with higher financial stability. Moreover, as hypothesized, both digitalization and income diversification individually and sequentially mediate the relationship between BGD and banks’ financial stability. Research limitations/implications It is important to acknowledge the study’s limited five-year timeframe. Further investigation is needed to determine the optimal board compositions, especially considering the study’s inclusion of up to 25% female directors on boards. Practical implications Policymakers and top management should prioritize increasing the number of female directors on boards for diversity. Banks that involve female directors can benefit from the synergies between gender diversity and digitization, along with the unique perspectives these women offer. This cooperative dynamic enables banks to explore and capitalize on innovative income diversification opportunities, enter new markets and ensure financial stability. Social implications Research findings emphasize promotion of gender equality and meritocracy through increased female director representation. This fosters a more inclusive and cooperative decision-making culture, benefiting individual banks and setting a model for other sectors. Ultimately, it contributes to greater social acceptance of women executives. Originality/value The study reveals a novel mechanism, emphasizing the revolutionary impact of active female directors in tandem with digitalization, amplifying chances for income diversification and accelerating increased bank viability.

Políticas educacionais e a implementação da Lei 11.645/2008:Impactos na educação afro-brasileira e indígena

The research evaluated the impacts of Law 11.645/2008, which makes it mandatory to include Afro-Brazilian and Indigenous History and Culture in the curricula of Brazilian schools. The objective was to analyze the effectiveness of the law in promoting a more inclusive and representative education. The methodology involved an integrative literature review, using relevant academic articles identified on the Google Scholar and SciELO platforms, focusing on recent studies on the implementation of the law. The results showed that Law 11.645/2008 has promoted a greater appreciation and inclusion of Afro-Brazilian and indigenous cultures in the school curriculum, helping to combat prejudice and offer a more complete view of national identity. However, the survey also highlighted significant challenges, such as resistance to change and a lack of adequate resources and teaching materials, which hinder full and effective implementation of the law. The conclusion is that, although Law 11.645/2008 represents an important advance for educational equity, it is necessary to continue facing the challenges and promoting improvements to achieve a truly inclusive and diverse education.

Teacher expertise in early childhood instruction: Cross-analysis of language policy and culturally sustaining pedagogies with multilingual learners

This qualitative study explores intersections between U.S. language policies (federal and state-level) and instructional practice in early childhood settings for multilingual learners (MLs). We draw on the theoretical framework of culturally sustaining pedagogy to engage in a critical content analysis of U.S. federal and state-level policy from three states. In the cross-analysis of policy and pedagogy, we also examine data from ML teachers’ instructional artifacts, open-ended surveys, and semi-structured interviews. The findings provide insight into how educators draw on culturally sustaining and asset-based approaches to teaching MLs. Additionally, findings demonstrate how ML teachers negotiate policies that prioritize English language and academic achievement and those focused on teaching discrete language skills (i.e., phonological awareness and phonics) by continually centering children’s linguistic and cultural repertoires. Participants in this study advocated for linguistic pluralism in their instruction and as leaders in their schools and communities. The study further illustrates how policies mandate specific aspects of instruction and leave linguistically inclusive pedagogies to individual educators. This tension can be beneficial for educators’ freedom in interpreting and navigating the policy in their classroom but can also create disparities for young learners and their literacy opportunities. The significance implies a need for revisiting early childhood ML teachers’ role in creating policy that fosters linguistic and cultural inclusion in language and literacy teaching.

A STUDY ON EMPLOYEES SATISFACTION WITH SPECIAL REFERENCE TO MIVAAN STEELS LIMITED

This study examined employee satisfaction at Mivaan Steels Ltd, focusing on key factors that contribute to a positive work environment. Using a purposive sampling technique, we collected primary responses from employees who had at least one year of service and had attended training programs. A sample of 100 was selected from over 130 employees. The data was meticulously organized and analyzed graphically, with responses categorized under various subheadings. The results revealed high levels of job satisfaction driven by effective communication, regular recognition, and ample opportunities for career growth. Despite high levels of employee satisfaction, there is room for improvement, particularly around proactive discussions about career development and promoting a balanced and inclusive company culture. This information highlights the importance of tangible benefits and intangible factors, such as relationships with co-workers and supervisors. Keywords: Attitude, Alignment, Agility, Focus, Interview, Compensation

Exploring AI's Role in Supporting Diversity and Inclusion Initiatives in Multicultural Marketplaces

This paper explores the relationship between diversity, inclusion, and artificial intelligence (AI) in multicultural workplaces and markets. Growing recognition of the value of diversity and inclusion (D&I) initiatives is changing organizational practices globally. Despite progress, challenges such as unconscious bias, resistance to change, and difficulty in measuring progress still exist.This study is based on a comprehensive literature review that adheres to academic ethical standards. These findings highlight the potential of AI to improve recruitment processes, personalize marketing strategies, and develop inclusive technologies. However, challenges such as bias in AI algorithms and limited data diversity need to be addressed.The paper emphasizes the need for ethical AI frameworks, diverse representation in AI development, and transparency in the use of AI to promote justice. AI has the potential to foster a more equitable society by encouraging diversity and inclusion. Further research is needed to explore the long-term impact of AI on diversity and inclusion and to develop ethical AI frameworks tailored to different industries and cultural contexts.The study also explores how AI can support D&I initiatives by providing data-driven insights, automating processes, and offering personalized interventions to reduce bias and increase inclusivity. By reviewing recent research and case studies, this paper offers practical recommendations for leveraging AI in D&I efforts, aiming to build a more inclusive and equitable workplace culture.

A Comprehensive Examination of Workforce Diversity

Workforce diversity has become a crucial topic in organizational management due to its significant effects on workplace dynamics, innovation, and performance. Although our understanding of diversity has grown, its comprehensive impact across various sectors and organizational settings is still not fully understood. This review aims to integrate current knowledge on the many sides of workforce diversity, assess its challenges, and explore opportunities for boosting organizational effectiveness. This study performed a thorough 32 literatures using Nepal Journals Online (NepJOL), an online publication of Nepalese journals, targeting publications from January 2019 to May 2024. Search terms included "workforce diversity," "diversity in organizations," and "cultural diversity," among others. The selection included studies that assessed the effects of diversity using both qualitative and quantitative approaches. The review highlights mixed findings on the correlation between workforce diversity and organizational performance, emphasizing the complexity of diversity's impact. Key themes include the importance of inclusive workplace cultures, challenges in multicultural communication, gender representation issues, and knowledge gaps in diverse sectors. Analysis of publication trends reveals a growing recognition of diversity's significance, particularly in recent years. Workforce diversity is crucial for organizational success, yet its impact varies across contexts. Prioritizing inclusive workplace cultures and addressing diversity-related challenges are essential. Future research should focus on longitudinal studies, sector-specific investigations, and innovative approaches to promote diversity and inclusion. Embracing diversity as a strategic asset can drive innovation and sustainable growth in diverse global environments.

Promoting Religious Moderation through English Language Teaching: Strategies and Challenges in Islamic Educational Settings

Religious moderation aligns with the principles of sustainable development by fostering a culture of peace, justice, and inclusivity. Islamic educational settings often integrate religious values into the ELT curriculum, incorporating Islamic stories, teachings, and ethical principles into language learning materials and activities. By using this methodological approach, this research aims to provide valuable insights into effective strategies and key challenges in encouraging religious moderation through ELT in an Islamic education environment. The data used in this research were interview transcripts, focus group recordings, and documents which were then analyzed using thematic analysis to identify recurring themes, patterns, and insights related to strategies and challenges in encouraging religious moderation through ELT. This study adopted a qualitative research design to explore the various experiences, perspectives and practices of educators and stakeholders regarding the promotion of religious moderation through ELT. The study identified some strategies for promoting religious moderation: Incorporate Multicultural Content; Encourage Critical Thinking; Facilitate Open Dialogue; Promote Empathy and Respect; Address Misconceptions and Stereotypes; Highlight Common Values; Engage with Religious Leaders and Community Members and Empower Educators with Training. Some challenges as well were also found: Sensitivity and Cultural Context; Resistance to Change; Misinformation and Stereotypes; Balancing Academic Freedom and Sensitivity; Language Barriers; Lack of Resources and Training; Community and Parental Concerns; and Political and Social Context.

Immersive Anthropological Methodology towards Sustainable Ecotourism: A Case Study of Bali, Indonesia

Purpose: This research aims to investigate and implement an anthropological methodology for achieving sustainable eco-tourism in Bali, Indonesia. Research methods: This qualitative method used involves a thorough examination and comparison of diverse scholarly works, case studies, and relevant texts. The qualitative comparative analysis provides a robust framework for interpreting the complex interplay of ideas, perspectives, and contextual factors embedded in the literature building upon and expanding the understanding of the subject matter within the broader academic discourse. Results and discussion: The research underscores the critical issues of water supply, waste management, and infrastructure development in Bali. Sustainable solutions, including cultural inclusion, eco-friendly housing, and natural supplements, are proposed to alleviate these challenges. Implications: The results signify a crucial step towards fostering environmental conservation and responsible tourism practices in this popular destination.

Regional cultural inclusiveness and firm performance in China

As society continues to develop, a growing body of research is focusing on how informal institutions, such as culture, influence corporate behavior and economic outcomes. The aim of this study is to explore the impact of cultural inclusiveness, as a non-formal institution, on firm performance. Using Chinese A-share listed firms as our sample, we employ econometric methods to analyze the relationship between cultural inclusiveness and firm performance. Our findings reveal that cultural inclusiveness enhances firm performance, particularly evident in regions with higher levels of cultural inclusiveness, where firms tend to exhibit higher return on equity. To address concerns of endogeneity, instrumental variable regression using regional topographical changes is employed. Mechanism testing indicates that cultural inclusiveness primarily improves firm performance by reducing financial constraints and optimizing employee structure. Additionally, the study finds that cultural inclusiveness has a more pronounced impact on firms with higher corporate social responsibility (CSR) performance as well as those with greater investment in research and development (R&D). This study provides a comprehensive empirical explanation of how cultural inclusiveness influences the sustainable operation of businesses.

The Principal’s Problem: Anchoring Equity in an Exclusionary System

This paper, titled "The Principal’s Problem: Anchoring Equity in an Exclusionary System," offers a critical examination of the multifaceted challenges faced by school administrators in navigating an educational landscape marked by growing equity issues, safety concerns, and the mental health crisis among students. Drawing from the author's 35-year experience in various educational roles in Massachusetts, the critical situational analysis delves into the complexities of fostering a safe, inclusive, and equitable school environment amid a youth mental healthcrisis, reactionary legislative demands, and a hostile, binary, social landscape. The first section of the paper emphasizes the evolving role of educators in addressing the emotional well-being and safety of students. It illustrates how external tragedies, such as student suicides and drug overdoses, directly impact school policies and practices. The author highlights systemic inequities, such as disparities in recognition and funding between male and female sports teams and the controversy over gender-specific graduation gown colors, illustrating the difficulties in upholding Title IX and fostering gender equality. The paper further explores the escalation ofgun violence and its profound impact on school safety protocols and legislation. It addresses the administrative burden of complying with a myriad of regulations aimed at ensuring student safety and emotional well-being, from bullying and gender identity to mental health and substance abuse. The first-person narrative critiques the overwhelming expectations placed on school administrators to act as both educational leaders and first responders in a socioeconomically diverse and politically charged environment. It argues for a more holistic approach to educational leadership, one that balances legal and moral obligations to protect free expression with the imperative to create a nurturing and inclusive school culture. The author posits that the real challenge lies in the practical implementation of these ideals.

The Principal’s Problem: Anchoring Equity in an Exclusionary System

This paper, titled "The Principal’s Problem: Anchoring Equity in an Exclusionary System," offers a critical examination of the multifaceted challenges faced by school administrators in navigating an educational landscape marked by growing equity issues, safety concerns, and the mental health crisis among students. Drawing from the author's 35-year experience in various educational roles in Massachusetts, the critical situational analysis delves into the complexities of fostering a safe, inclusive, and equitable school environment amid a youth mental healthcrisis, reactionary legislative demands, and a hostile, binary, social landscape. The first section of the paper emphasizes the evolving role of educators in addressing the emotional well-being and safety of students. It illustrates how external tragedies, such as student suicides and drug overdoses, directly impact school policies and practices. The author highlights systemic inequities, such as disparities in recognition and funding between male and female sports teams and the controversy over gender-specific graduation gown colors, illustrating the difficulties in upholding Title IX and fostering gender equality. The paper further explores the escalation ofgun violence and its profound impact on school safety protocols and legislation. It addresses the administrative burden of complying with a myriad of regulations aimed at ensuring student safety and emotional well-being, from bullying and gender identity to mental health and substance abuse. The first-person narrative critiques the overwhelming expectations placed on school administrators to act as both educational leaders and first responders in a socioeconomically diverse and politically charged environment. It argues for a more holistic approach to educational leadership, one that balances legal and moral obligations to protect free expression with the imperative to create a nurturing and inclusive school culture. The author posits that the real challenge lies in the practical implementation of these ideals.

Amplifying Their Voice: Inclusive Healthcare Provider Perspectives to Improve Advancement, Resilience, and Retention.

Addressing the issues of workplace advancement, resilience, and retention within medicine is crucial for creating a culture of equity, respect, and inclusivity especially towards women and nonbinary (WNB) providers including advanced practice providers (APPs), most notably those from marginalized groups. This also directly impacts healthcare quality, patient outcomes, and overall patient and employee satisfaction. The purpose of this study was to amplify the voices on challenges faced by WNB providers within a pediatric academic healthcare organization,to rank workplace interventions addressing advancement, resilience, and retention highlighting urgency towards addressing these issues, and, lastly, to provide suggestions on how to improve inclusivity. Participants were self-identified WNB providers employed by a pediatric healthcare organization and its affiliated medical university. An eligibility screener was completed by 150 qualified respondents, and 40 WNBs actually participated in study interviews. Interviews were conducted using a semi-structured interview guide to rank interventions targeted at improving equity, with time allotted for interviewees to discuss their personal lives and how individual circumstances impacted their professional experiences. WNB providers called for efficient workflows and reducing uncompensated job demands. Support for family responsibilities, flexible financial/compensation models, and improved job resources all were endorsed similarly. Participants ranked direct supervisor and leader support substantially lower than other interventions. Conclusions:Career mentorship and academic support for WNB individuals are recognized interventions for advancement and retention but were not ranked as top priorities. Respondents focused on personal supports as they relate to family, job resources, and flexible compensation models. Future studies should focus on implementing realistic expectations and structures that support whole lives including professional ambitions, time with family, personal pursuits, and self-care.

Status of LGBTQ+ Inclusion: Multi-Institution Assessment of US Radiology Residencies

IntroductionAn inclusive residency program is crucial to the recruitment and retention of competitive and diverse applicants. The radiology lesbian, gay, bisexual, transgender, queer or questioning, or another diverse gender identity (LGBTQ+) inclusion audit was published in 2022, which provided a road map for assessing the inclusivity of a program’s policies, facilities, culture, and engagement. In this multi-institutional trial, we detail the results of the LGBTQ+ inclusion audit for nine US radiology residency programs. MethodsA volunteer cohort of academic radiology programs was recruited through the Radiology Residency Education Research Alliance. The LGBTQ+ inclusion audit was modified to apply to a multi-institutional study. Participating programs performed the audit from December 2023 to February 2024. Pre- and postaudit surveys were distributed to capture participants subjective assessment of inclusivity at their programs. ResultsNine US radiology residency programs completed the audit. Audit scores ranged from 6 out of 10 to 9 out of 10; no program received a perfect 10 out of 10 score. Inclusive facilities and institutional culture scored highly, with eight of nine programs reporting all milestones met in these areas. The lowest-performing areas were department culture and community engagement with only three of nine and four of nine programs reporting “all milestones met.” After the audit, programs overall reported improved self-perceived inclusivity, with postaudit survey scores increasing in areas related to department policy, inclusive facilities, and LGBTQ+ community outreach. DiscussionParticipating radiology residency programs demonstrated an overall high level of LGBTQ+ inclusivity; however, all programs identified inclusion shortcomings in department policy and practice. Intentional review of a department can be a helpful tool to promote a welcoming and healthy environment for a diverse radiology practice.

Inclusive Leadership and Cultural Intelligence as an Approach for Fostering Nurses' Voice Behavior

Inclusive Leadership and Cultural Intelligence as an Approach for Fostering Nurses' Voice Behavior

Language of Change: Building an Inclusive Culture Through Diversity Rhetoric and Narrative

Language of Change: Building an Inclusive Culture Through Diversity Rhetoric and Narrative

Enhancing cultural inclusivity in primary schools: insights from Springer multicultural education data

Enhancing cultural inclusivity in primary schools: insights from Springer multicultural education data

Huma BetHuma Betang-Based Resolution of Mining Land Conflictsang Based Mining Land Conflict Resolution

This study aimed to explore local wisdom treasures related to the study of legal culture which was not widely known by the public. This study used a mix of anthropological and juridical philosophical methods. It used the socio-legal study approach conducted through direct exploration and structured interviews. Results showed that Dayak Bakumpai indigenous people highly uphold the inclusive cultural principles contained in the Huma Betang philosophies. One of the philosophies was the resolution of mining land conflicts, influenced by the culture’s positive values. This value was adopted from an inclusive culture in the Belom Bahadat values that are upheld by the Bakumpai Dayak community. Meanwhile, conflict resolution was carried out through "Bahandep Bahapakat Rakat", which is a practice of helping each other in deliberations. This is so that the headman or local traditional leader can help people return to harmony.

ANALYSIS EXPLORING THE INFLUENCE OF TEACHER-PERCEIVED SUSTAINABLE LEADERSHIP AND ENHANCEMENT STRATEGIES ON CONTINUOUS PROFESSIONAL DEVELOPMENT OF TEACHERS IN CHINESE VOCATIONAL COLLEGES: A GROUNDED THEORY APPROACH

The purpose of this study, which is set against the backdrop of teachers' perceived sustainable leadership, is to investigate the key factors that determine the professional development and potential improvement strategies of Chinese vocational college teachers. ten vocational college teachers in Shandong Province, China, were selected for semi-structured interviews using a purposive sampling method, and the interview texts were coded and analysed using the grounded theory. The findings indicated that the continuous professional development of vocational college teachers is significantly influenced by multiple factors, which include teachers’ perception of their professional development, schools’ policies and systems, the fairness of allocating resources and the organisation’s cultural environment. As a result, the professional growth and autonomy of vocational college teachers can be substantially enhanced by establishing a robust institutional guarantee system, fostering a supportive and inclusive organisational culture, and advocating for the implementation of personalised development plans.<p> </p><p><strong> Article visualizations:</strong></p><p><img src="/-counters-/soc/0110/a.php" alt="Hit counter" /></p>