Individual Aspects Research Articles

베트남 대학 한국어 전공 학습자의 기계번역 포스트에디팅 양상 연구

Objectives This study aims to investigate the modification patterns of post-editing(PE) in Vietnamese-to-Korean machine translation(MT) by Korean language learners at Vietnamese universities. Methods Twenty-five Korean majors at Vietnamese universities performed PE on a Vietnamese text and recorded their reasons for modifications. The 192 modifications made by the learners were analyzed based on eight error categories to identify their error recognition and correction intention. Results The results revealed that learners prioritized correcting semantic errors over morphological errors in the machine-translated texts and among semantic errors, attempts to correct clarity errors were the most common. However, some corrections deviated from the intended meaning, or introduced new errors during the correction process. Conclusions This suggests that learners need education to consider various aspects beyond simply replacing awkward or incorrect expressions when recognizing and correcting errors. Furthermore, machine translation er-rors frequently necessitate more comprehensive revisions than merely addressing individual aspects. Therefore, it is necessary to provide detailed and step-by-step education by providing post-editing guidelines so that learn-ers can improve by considering various aspects.

Assessing the impact of contraceptive use on mental health among women of reproductive age – a systematic review

BackgroundContraceptive use is the principal method by which women avoid unintended pregnancy. An unintended pregnancy can induce long-term distress related to the medical, emotional, and social consequences of carrying that pregnancy to term.ObjectivesThis review investigates the effects of modern contraception techniques such as birth control pills, long-acting reversible contraceptives (e.g., intrauterine devices, implants), and condoms on mental health status.MethodsWe searched multiple databases from inception until February 2022, with no geographical boundaries. RCTs underwent a quality assessment using the GRADE approach while the quality of observational studies was assessed using the Downs and Black scoring system. Data were analyzed through meta-analysis and relative risk and mean difference were calculated and forest plots were created for each outcome when two or more data points were eligible for analysis.Main resultsThe total number of included studies was 43. In women without previous mental disorders, both RCTs (3 studies, SMD 0.18, 95% CI [0.02, 0.34], high quality of evidence) and cohort studies (RR 1.04 95% CI [1.03, 1.04]) detected a slight increase in the risk of depression development. In women with previous mental disorders, both RCTs (9 studies, SMD − 0.15, 95% CI [-0.30, -0.00], high quality of evidence) and cohort studies (SMD − 0.26, 95% CI [-0.37, -0.15]) detected slight protective effects of depression development. It was also noticed that HC demonstrated protective effects for anxiety in both groups (SMD − 0.20, 95% CI [-0.40, -0.01]).ConclusionsAmong women with pre-existing mental disorders who use hormonal contraceptives, we reported protective association with decreased depressive symptoms. However, the study also draws attention to some potential negative effects, including an increase in the risk of depression and antidepressant use among contraceptive users, a risk that is higher among women who use the hormonal IUD, implant, or patch/ring methods. Providers should select contraceptive methods taking individual aspects into account to maximize benefits and minimize risks.

Influence of Sports and Physical Activities on Job Performance of Working Professionals

The often-said statement “A fit employee is a productive employee” is the basis of this research. The purpose of this study is to address the interplay among individuals who participate in sports or physical activities and their perceived job performance. Job performance is one of the most salient aspects of individuals working in an organization. With organizations emphasizing the need of inculcating various co-curricular activities to increase workplace productivity, it is important to understand if participation in sports/ physical activities does aid in doing so. Thus, the objective of the study is to find the correlation between participation in sports/ physical activities and job performance and also to see the difference in the effect of sports on job performance between government sector employees and non-government sector employees. The data was collected from three different groups of the working population (Government employees, non-government employees, and individuals who have taken sports as their profession) within the age range of 20-60 years. The Individual Work Performance Questionnaire (IWPQ) by Koopman (2013) was used for assessing the job performance levels among individuals, while the SQUASH (Short Questionnaire to Assess Health enhancing physical activity) developed in 2008, was used to measure the physical activity level of the individuals and their participation in any form of sports. Correlation was conducted between the two data sets followed by t-tests. The results concluded that there is a strong positive correlation between participation in sports and job performance and that the government employees had a better job performance compared to the non-government employees owing to their greater amount of time spend in engaging in a sport of physical activity. Also, the participants associated with sports were seen to have a better work performance as compared to those who were not associated with any sports and physical activities. Thus, this paper suggests organizations promote and incorporate fitness programs and yearly inter as well as intra sports tournaments as a part of their routine. Keywords: Sports, Job performance, Government and non-government employees, Physical activities

Current Management of Acute Severe Ulcerative Colitis: New Insights on the Surgical Approaches.

Acute severe ulcerative colitis (ASUC) is a life-threatening medical emergency with considerable morbidity. Despite recent advances in medical IBD therapy, colectomy rates for ASUC remain high. A scoping review of published articles on ASUC was performed. We collected data, such as general information of the disease, diagnosis and initial assessment, and available medical and surgical treatments focusing on technical aspects of surgical approaches. The most relevant articles were considered in this scoping review. The management of ASUC is challenging; currently, personalized treatment for it is unavailable. Sequential medical therapy should be administrated, preferably in high-volume IBD centers with close patient monitoring and indication for surgery in those cases with persistent symptoms despite medical treatment, complications, and clinical worsening. A total colectomy with end ileostomy is typically performed in the acute setting. Managing rectal stump is challenging, and all individual and technical aspects should be considered. Conversely, when performing elective colectomy for ASUC, a staged surgical procedure is usually preferred, thus optimizing the patients' status preoperatively and minimizing postoperative complications. The minimally invasive approach should be selected whenever technically feasible. Robotic versus laparoscopic ileal pouch-anal anastomosis (IPAA) has shown similar outcomes in terms of safety and postoperative morbidity. The transanal approach to ileal pouch-anal anastomosis (Ta-IPAA) is a recent technique for creating an ileal pouch-anal anastomosis via a transanal route. Early experiences suggest comparable short- and medium-term functional results of the transanal technique to those of traditional approaches. However, there is a need for additional comparative outcomes data and a better understanding of the ideal training and implementation pathways for this procedure. This manuscript predominantly explores the surgical treatment of ASUC. Additionally, it provides an overview of currently available medical treatment options that the surgeon should reasonably consider in a multidisciplinary setting.

Gender Stereotypes and Toxic Masculinity: Phenomenological Study of Pamulang University Students

In Indonesia, which is still considered a conservative country, feminism as a gender-based emancipatory movement has become an understanding that tends to be covered by the glitter of patriarchism. Resistance to feminist thought is quite massive because the majority of people consider it to be a Western epistemology that is not in harmony with Eastern cultural values. One of the main causes of gender inequality is society's lack of understanding of the differences in definitions between sex and gender. The majority still view these two terms as merely linguistic synonyms, even though conceptually they have significant differences. In an intimate academic environment with a tradition of thinking, the phenomenon of toxic masculinity is quite widely recognized by students. Like several students at Pamulang University, South Tangerang who feel they are victims of systemic toxic masculinity. In the initial research observations, the results of interviews showed that the phenomena of gender stereotypes and toxic masculinity experienced by Pamulang University students included several things, namely regarding individual aspects such as role, character, physique and sexual orientation.

Teori Psikodinamika : Perspektif Multikultural Dalam Trend Pendekatan Psikodinamika

The psychodynamic approach includes a deep understanding of the complex interactions between culture and individual psychological aspects. This approach combines elements of psychodynamics, such as unconscious conflict and psychosexual development, with sensitivity to the role of culture in shaping a person's identity and thought patterns. The aim of this research is to understand in depth the multicultural view in the psychodynamic approach. By using literature study research methods which involve collecting, reviewing, and synthesizing information from relevant text sources to answer research questions or develop arguments. This study supports the aspect of cultural integration in psychodynamic practice to understand mental dynamics in a multicultural context. Psychodynamics in multiculturalism tends to emphasize the importance of understanding the complexity of individuals by considering their cultural background. These conclusions indicate the need to integrate multicultural aspects in psychodynamic practice to understand and respond to the diversity of human experience more holistically

UNLOCKING THE ESSENCE OF LONELINESS IN THE OLDER ADULTS: AN EXPLORATION THROUGH PARTICIPATORY RESEARCH

In Lithuania's aging culture, aspects of older individuals' "loneliness" and social isolation are becoming increasingly relevant. Despite this, older adults frequently refuse to acknowledge these life's intricacies. Numerous studies indicate that older individuals link social isolation and loneliness to a life of failure and personal worthlessness. As a result, rather than finding solutions, people frequently choose to isolate themselves even more and refrain from discussing these issues with friends or family. The loneliness experienced by older people should be acknowledged, and steps to increase social inclusion will not only extend but also greatly enhance their quality of life. Participatory research was employed to conduct the study. It is a systematic study in direct cooperation with persons for whom the research question is relevant, with the aim of acting or changing something. Participatory research favours collaborative research, where researchers and interested groups actively collaborate with sharing information and expertise. The study was conducted in a care institution providing social services. Every participant in the participatory research gave their consent to participate in the study, and they were informed about its goals, methods, and use of data. They were also given the choice to leave the study at any time if they felt it was inappropriate. The study revealed that loneliness is discerned through the emotions and behaviours of older adults; an individual's loneliness is reflected in both mental and physical health. Emotions like indifference, rage, despair, boredom, needing attention, longing, and the want to speak are signs that someone is lonely. Older people sometimes openly express loneliness but loneliness can also be associated with depression. Concerning employee motivation for change, it was observed that employees displayed a keen interest in training, comprehending its necessity and benefits. Simultaneously, it was noted that some employees may exhibit passivity and a lack of motivation to embrace change and accept innovations. Therefore, the myth that older workers are less likely to change and innovate as well as to increase their knowledge and abilities has been partially validated by participatory studies.

Microbiological and Immunological Assessment of Peri-implant Sites in Healthy and Diabetic Individuals After Prosthetic Rehabilitation: A Prospective Case Control Study

Aim: Microbial colonization contributes to periodontitis and peri-implantitis with an increase in proinflammatory cytokines like IL 17. This has a vital role in the destructive process of tissue and bone around the implant. Type 2 diabetes mellitus has the potential to increase these microbial colonies thus becoming a risk factor. To compare and correlate the association of peri-implant sulcular microflora and salivary IL-17 between healthy and controlled diabetic individuals. Materials and Methods: A total of 30 participants who have undergone dental implant placement with screw-retained prosthesis were included in the study. Participants were divided into two groups, healthy ( n = 15) and diabetic ( n = 15). The subgingival plaque was collected from peri-implant sites into TE buffer vials and the salivary sample was collected into Eppendorf tubes at the 7th, 14th, and 30th day. Microbiological counts of P. gingivalis, T. denticola, T .forsythia, and F. nucleatum were evaluated by polymerase chain reaction, and salivary interleukin (IL)-17 levels were obtained by enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay. Results: The bacterial count was increased in both healthy and diabetic individuals but more prevalent in diabetes. The salivary IL-17 levels were increased in diabetic individuals which was statistically significant. Conclusion: Increased microbiota in both healthy and diabetic individuals along with increased IL-17 levels can lead to peri-implantitis which provides an insight into microbiological and immunological aspects in individuals with dental implants further acting as a predictor for peri-implantitis.

Dental Profile of Brazilian Patients with Rare Skeletal Genetic Disorders: Clinical Features and Associated Factors.

The aim of this study is to compare the dental profiles of Brazilian patients with rare genetic skeletal disorders and normotypical patients. A cross-sectional study was carried out with 210 individuals aged between 2 and 54 years old [105 with rare diseases (Mucopolysaccharidosis/MPS n = 27 and Osteogenesis Imperfecta/OI n = 78) and 105 without rare diseases] and their parents/caregivers. The parents/caregivers answered a questionnaire about individual aspects of their child and the dental profile was identified from questions related to dental history and the presence/absence of dental problems. The patients' oral cavity was also examined by three examiners for dental caries, malocclusion, gingivitis, and dental anomalies. The average age of individuals with a rare disease was 14.1 years (±12.2) and the median was 9.5 years. Participants who had already used the public health system (SUS) dental care services had a 2.24 times higher chance of belonging to the group with a rare disease (OR = 2.24; 95% CI: 1.07-4.89). Patients with rare diseases are 14.86 times more likely to have difficulty receiving dental treatment (OR = 14.86; 95% CI: 5.96-27.03) and 10.38 times more likely to have one or more dental problems (OR = 10.38; 95% CI: 1.95-35.17). Individuals with rare disorders have a greater history of difficulty in accessing dental treatment, using the SUS, and were diagnosed with more dental problems compared to normotypical individuals.

Perspektif Psikologi Pendidikan Islam terhadap Perceraian: Implikasi, Pencegahan, dan Penanganan

Divorce is a complex phenomenon and has a broad impact, including on the psychological aspects of individuals, families and society. In the perspective of Islamic educational psychology, divorce is seen as the result of an imbalance in the husband and wife relationship which is influenced by various psychological, social and spiritual factors. This paper explores the psychological views of Islamic education on divorce, as well as its implications in efforts to prevent and handle divorce. The psychological view of Islamic education emphasizes the importance of the family as the main educational institution in shaping individual character and values. Divorce is considered a disruption to the educational process and formation of children's personalities, which requires serious attention from the perspective of Islamic educational psychology. In addition, Islamic educational psychology emphasizes the importance of good communication, openness, and individual responsibility in building healthy and harmonious relationships. Implications in preventing and handling divorce include pre-marital education which prepares prospective partners to understand roles, responsibilities and commitments in marriage. Family counseling programs and communication skills development are also important tools in helping married couples improve and maintain their relationships. Thus, this paper presents a comprehensive understanding of divorce from the perspective of Islamic educational psychology, and highlights the importance of efforts to prevent and handle divorce based on Islamic values to create healthy and harmonious relationships between individuals, families and society.

Quality of life in permanent ostomates - what really matters to them?

The impact of a permanent stoma, such as post-abdominoperineal resection (APR), on quality of life (QoL) is well-documented. While stoma-related QoL tools exist, their relationship with stoma satisfaction is unclear. This study aimed to identify which aspects of QoL were most associated with stoma satisfaction. A cross-sectional study of consecutive patients who had an APR for rectal cancer at an Australian tertiary hospital (2012-2021), identified from a prospectively maintained database, was conducted. The Stoma-QoL questionnaire was used. Overall patient satisfaction with stoma function, and whether healthcare advice was sought for stoma dysfunction, were explored. Linear regression assessed the association between individual issues examined in the Stoma-QoL questionnaire and overall patient satisfaction with stoma function. Overall, 64 patients (62.5% male, mean 68.1 years) participated. Stoma-QoL score was associated with stoma satisfaction (P < 0.05). QoL items impacting satisfaction were: needing to know nearest toilet location (P = 0.04), pouch smell concerns (P = 0.008), needing daytime rest (P = 0.02), clothing limitations (P = 0.02), sexual attractiveness concerns (P < 0.05), embarrassment (P < 0.05), difficulty hiding the pouch (P = 0.02), concerns about being burdensome (P = 0.04) and difficulty with interpersonal interaction (P = 0.03). Only 11 (17.2%) patients sought healthcare advice for stoma dysfunction. While stoma-specific QoL is associated with stoma satisfaction, individual QoL aspects impact differently on satisfaction in permanent colostomy patients. These findings may help identify focus areas for peri-operative counselling for clinicians and stomal therapists, highlight the importance of tailored multidisciplinary care in ostomates and suggests that a stoma type-specific Stoma-QoL questionnaire is required.

The recovery processes among paramedics who encountered violence during work—a narrative interview study

BackgroundAlmost all paramedics encounter workplace violence (WPV) during their careers. The most common form of WPV is verbal, and the perpetrator is usually the patient. It is known that paramedics suffer from post-traumatic stress disorder and other mental health problems, and WPV is one of the reasons behind that. Nevertheless, little is known about the recovery processes paramedics have had after encountering WPV. The research question was: What kind of recovery processes have paramedics had after encountering WPV?MethodsA qualitative, narrative interview study was done. Data was collected in individual interviews with Finnish paramedics (n = 18). Paramedics were from different parts of Finland, and their ages varied from 24 to 49 years. They had been working in EMS for an average of 10.5 years (range 1.5 to 25 years). Interviews were conducted with a narrative approach, which enabled paramedics to narrate their experiences and speak on their own terms about the subject to the extent of their choosing. The data was analyzed using thematic analysis.ResultsTen recovery process themes were identified: Strong psychological and physical reactions in a short time frame, Questioning one’s profession and actions, Various support structures aided in recovery, Dysfunctional processes hindered recovery, Personal resources provided support, The support of the workcommunity as a lifeline, Left to cope alone, Permanent changes to work routines, Resulting in professional growth and Eternal crack in the shell.ConclusionsMany internal and external factors affect paramedics’ recovery processes. While some receive adequate help, others struggle to get appropriate support, especially from their organization and supervisors. The findings of this study suggest that clear protocols should be established to help paramedics recover after encountering WPV and that an individual aspect should be kept in mind, as not everybody reacts in the same way.

Dual citizenship in Ukraine and the world

This work is devoted to the topic of dual (multiple) citizenship and its features. The author examines aspects that may arise with multiple citizenship in matters of national security, taxes on legal conflicts, as well as advantages and complexities, the relationship between rights and obligations. Dual citizenship offers significant and diverse benefits, including empowerment in employment, education, business and travel. Citizens are able to enjoy the social and economic benefits of both countries, which also contributes to the strengthening of international ties through cultural exchanges and diplomatic cooperation, increasing understanding and respect between peoples. However, despite numerous advantages, there are also significant disadvantages and risks associated with dual citizenship. The main ones – are issues of national security and identity, difficulties arising in the areas of taxation, military service, as well as possible legal conflicts when the same person falls under the legislation of two different states. The article considers possible changes in the legislation of Ukraine regarding the introduction of dual (multiple) citizenship, and the prospects for its possible development. The author notes that before making a separate decision regarding dual citizenship, it is necessary to carefully investigate all its aspects. Consider both positive and negative sides, taking into account personal circumstances. In addition, the author of this article presents arguments both for and against dual citizenship, and also describes the possible risks and challenges associated with it. The conclusion states that dual citizenship is a complex legal concept that can have both positive and negative aspects for individuals who have it. The article emphasizes that the issue of dual citizenship should be carefully studied at the state level with the participation of all interested parties — politicians, experts in the field of law, economics, sociology and ordinary citizens. Only a balanced approach will allow to achieve the maximum benefit from dual citizenship, avoid potential risks and ensure the stability and security of the state.

The relationship between modifiable lifestyle behaviours and self-reported health in children and adolescents in the United Kingdom.

Obesity, along with its associated health issues, is closely tied to lifestyle habits. While certain elements affecting childhood health, such as genetics and ethnicity, are beyond individuals' control, there exists modifiable lifestyle behaviours that can facilitate healthier living. This study employed multiple regression analysis to investigate the relationship between specific modifiable lifestyle behaviours and self-reported health. The independent variables considered included days of moderate to vigorous physical activity (MVPA), fruit and vegetable consumption, breakfast frequency, school night sleep duration, and non-school night sleep duration. These variables were chosen for their practical modifiability within participants' daily lives. The analysis revealed a highly significant overall model (F(13,11363) = 191.117, p < .001), explaining 17.9% of the variance in self-reported health. Notably, higher MVPA levels were associated with improved self-reported health (B = 0.136 to 0.730, p < .001). Additionally, regular breakfast consumption and increased fruit and vegetable intake exhibited positive associations with self-reported health (B = 0.113 to 0.377, p < .001), while girls reported lower self-reported health (B = -0.079, p < .001). School night sleep duration was positively linked to self-reported health (B = 0.071, p < .001). Furthermore, a dose-response relationship between MVPA, dietary habits, and health was identified. These findings hold substantial potential for public health campaigns to promote healthy behaviours and prevent chronic diseases in young individuals. It is imperative to emphasise that all the variables considered in this study are readily modifiable aspects of individuals' lives, offering a promising avenue for personal health and well-being enhancement.

Demographic and Socioeconomic Predictors of Prehypertension and Hypertension in the Adult Population: Serbian National Health Survey

Background and Objectives: Prehypertension and hypertension are the most common cardiovascular disorders worldwide and are increasingly considered one of the most serious public health problems, particularly in developing countries. The objective of this study was to determine the frequency and demographic and socioeconomic predictors of prehypertension and hypertension in the adults in Serbia, and to examine the relationship between prehypertension and hypertension and health behavior determinants (smoking, alcohol use, physical activity) and individual aspects of health (a health self-assessment, multimorbidity, BMI, depressive symptoms). Materials and Methods: The research is part of the fourth National Population Health Survey conducted in 2019, which was conducted by the Republic Institute of Statistics, in cooperation with the Institute of Public Health of Serbia and the Ministry of Health of the Republic of Serbia. As a research instrument, questionnaires were used in accordance with the methodology of the European Health Survey. For the purposes of this research, data on the adult population aged 20 and over were used. Results: Women are at a reduced risk for both prehypertension (OR = 0.328) and hypertension (OR = 0.349) by nearly 70%. Similarly, those aged below 60 years have a lower risk for prehypertension and those younger than 40 years have a lower risk for hypertension (OR = 0.995), whereas people with a lower education have a 4.3 times higher risk of prehypertension (OR = 4.323) and a 1.6 times higher risk of hypertension (OR = 1.614). The poor have a 1.4 times higher risk of prehypertension (OR = 1.413) and a 1 times higher risk of hypertension (OR = 1.035). People with multimorbidity have a 1.2 times higher risk of both prehypertension (OR = 1.218) and a 4.8 times higher risk of hypertension (OR = 4.867). Conclusions: Male gender, lower education, poverty, age and the presence of multimorbidity are significant predictors of prehypertension and hypertension in the Serbian adult population, so preventive strategies should be aimed at these sensitive population groups.

Parental emotional warmth and non-suicidal self-injury among Chinese adolescents: The mediating effect of bullying involvement and moderating effect of the dark triad

Previous studies have mostly explored the relationship between negative parenting styles and non-suicidal self-injury (NSSI), while little research has investigated the role of parental emotional warmth in NSSI. The present study constructed two moderated mediation models and explored the effects of multiple factors, involving family, peer, and individual aspects, on NSSI. A random cluster sampling of 955 adolescents (490 boys, Mage = 13.33 years, SD = 1.29) was surveyed using questionnaires to measure parental emotional warmth, bullying perpetration and victimization, the dark triad, and NSSI. The results showed that parental emotional warmth was negatively associated with NSSI. Bullying perpetration and bullying victimization mediated the relationship between these two, respectively. Moreover, the dark triad moderated the relationships between bullying perpetration and NSSI, as well as bullying victimization and NSSI, and further moderated both mediating pathways. That is, for adolescents with lower levels of the dark triad, parental emotional warmth is more conducive to reducing the risk of NSSI by decreasing bullying involvement. Accordingly, there is a need for educators to provide youth with as much emotional support as possible and create a warm and healthy environment for growing up, which might help to prevent and mitigate their NSSI.

Additive manufacturing with varying material properties of thermosetting reactive polymers: a framework and comparison of different modes for implementing material transitions

Additive Manufacturing with Varying Material Properties enables controlled spatial variation of material properties in 3D-printed components, facilitating custom-tailored characteristics, added functionalities and reduced assembly processes. To promote this approach in building façade applications, this paper presents a novel framework for Additive Manufacturing with varying material properties using a thermosetting reactive polymer, specifically polyurethane. By dynamically changing the polyurethane’s chemical composition, the material properties can be precisely controlled. The framework’s individual aspects, including the material, hardware setup and computational system, are described in detail. Additionally, the research explores the implementation of material transitions with this framework, highlighting three different modes (horizontal, vertical and multi plane) and their impact on print time and material consumption. The paper concludes by discussing the potential of this approach for building façade applications, addressing current challenges and outlining future research directions.

Public Administration Analysis of Bleaching Motorized Vehicle Tax in Gorontalo Province

faced by the Gorontalo Provincial government in increasing local revenue (PAD) from the sector. The method used is a qualitative approach, with primary and secondary data collection to get an in-depth picture. The results showed that motor vehicle tax bleaching is part of the tax administration reform efforts aimed at improving performance through the improvement of administrative processes that are more efficient, economical, and responsive. In addition, this study also identifies various challenges in implementing the policy, including institutional, group, and individual aspects, which need to be addressed to maximize the potential revenue from the motor vehicle tax sector. This research provides recommendations for an improved tax administration system that can support the achievement of PAD targets more optimally.

Using threshold concepts about online teaching to support novice online teachers

As online learning expands across the higher education sector, individual university lecturers are required to take on roles that incorporate responsibilities for designing and teaching online courses. Their growing capacities to fulfil these roles are sometimes supported by professional development (PD) programs within their institutions while some staff engage in staff development activities outside their home institutions. These programs and activities may take place within Communities of Practice (CoPs) while others are conducted on an individual basis. While much research has been undertaken into the field of online teaching and learning, including investigations into the most useful technological tools to incorporate into the design of online courses, the design of PD curricula to support the needs of novice teachers of online courses has not been as extensively explored. This paper reports on the outcomes of an Office for Learning and Teaching (OLT) funded project which purposely set out to identify the threshold concepts about online teaching that university lecturers develop as they engage in both the individual and communal aspects of designing and teaching online courses. The paper explains how the identification of threshold concepts about online teaching informed the development of a set of curriculum guidelines for the PD of novice online teachers. Recommendations for the design of PD for individual teachers (at the “me” level) are provided along with recommendations for the institution (at the “us” level).

Recruitment of Volunteers with Immigrant Backgrounds: The Impact of Structural and Individual Aspects

AbstractVolunteering is associated with health-promoting benefits for both recipients and volunteers and may contribute to a more inclusive society. However, studies have shown a persistent pattern of social inequality among those who volunteer, and immigrants participate as volunteers less than the majority population. To date, approaches for recruiting immigrant populations have not been sufficiently examined, even though multicultural societies are becoming increasingly diverse. This study investigates how recruitment is carried out in voluntary organizations and how volunteers who are involved in recruitment reflect on the inclusion of citizens with immigrant backgrounds. Qualitative interviews were conducted with 18 volunteers and three employees with recruitment responsibility at five voluntary organizations engaged in welfare and community-related activities in a semirural district in Norway. Our findings show that different structural factors and individual aspects of the recruiter influence the recruitment of immigrants as volunteers. Large-scale organizations are more professionalized and more directed by fundings and frameworks and demand more qualifications due to their volunteer tasks. This might make inclusive recruitment more challenging. Small-scale organizations have more flexibility and less professionalized volunteer activities, making recruitment more inclusive. In addition, if the small-scale organizations are minority driven, it seems to positively influence the recruitment of immigrants through increased diversity sensitivity and more connections with immigrants through their social network.