Intergenerational Knowledge Transfer Research Articles

A journey through time: Exploring Afro-futurism and Igbo cultural heritage in elementary education

This study explored the significance of including the study of some unrecognized Igbo cultural heritage into the primary education curriculum through the lens of Afrofuturism/African futurism. Drawing from data sourced from interviews conducted among individuals aged 75 years and above, this study illuminates the cultural, nutritional, and educational dimensions of integrating these elements into early education. From an Afrofuturist perspective, education serves as a vehicle for cultural preservation, empowerment, and envisioning alternative futures rooted in African heritage. The inclusion of this yet to be recognized aspect of Igbo cultural heritage in the curriculum not only imparts knowledge of traditional culinary practices and medicinal uses but also fosters a sense of cultural pride and connection among younger generations. By engaging these Igbo cultural heritage with students at a young age, they will develop a deeper understanding of their cultural identity and heritage, which will contribute to a more inclusive and diverse educational experience. More so, the study highlights the potential benefits of integrating indigenous knowledge systems into formal education, promoting sustainability, environmental stewardship, and community resilience. Through hands-on learning experiences related to agriculture, nutrition, and cultural studies, students are equipped with practical skills and critical thinking abilities essential for navigating future challenges like how to improve scientifically the use of the seeds and vegetables mentioned for the betterment of humans’ health as well as checkmate the abuse of them through unconscious overdose usage by people which leads to the damages of the organs of the body. In conclusion, integrating the study of indigenous vegetables and seeds into the primary education curriculum offers a transformative opportunity to cultivate cultural identity, foster intergenerational knowledge transfer, and advance Afrofuturist/African futurist visions of inclusive, empowered futures for African societies.

For the sake of my job security: examining the effect of age-based stereotype threat on older workers’ knowledge hiding

Purpose Organizations can greatly benefit from the transfer of knowledge from older employees to younger generations. However, older workers often hesitate to share their expertise with their younger colleagues. Grounded in conservation of resources theory and the stereotype threat framework, this study aims at examining the negative impact of age-based stereotype threat on organizational knowledge management. Design/methodology/approach The authors developed a moderated mediation model and collected data from 219 older workers with a time-lagged design to explore the effect of age-based stereotype threat on older workers’ knowledge hiding. Findings The results showed that age-based stereotype threat could lead to knowledge hiding behaviors among older workers due to increased job insecurity, and leader-member exchange can potentially mitigate these effects. Originality/value The findings underscore the detrimental effect of age-based stereotype threat on organizational knowledge management and suggest that organizations should foster an age-inclusive environment to facilitate effective intergenerational knowledge transfer.

Promoting women's wellbeing through the Niska (Goose) Harvesting Program in subarctic Ontario, Canada.

Geese harvesting is a longstanding cultural tradition deeply ingrained among the Omushkego Cree in Fort Albany First Nation, embodying a holistic approach to health that integrates Indigenous knowledge, community wellbeing, and resilience. Despite historical disruptions stemming from colonization and assimilation policies, women have played a pivotal role in preserving and passing down traditional practices. The significance of goose harvesting extends beyond providing a nutrient-rich and cost-effective food source; it serves as a vehicle for cultural preservation and education, particularly fostering language acquisition among children. Nevertheless, concerns persist regarding the potential decline in the transmission of Indigenous knowledge. The interruption of intergenerational knowledge transfer not only poses implications for overall wellbeing but also worsens historical trauma within the community. In response to these challenges, the Niska (goose) harvesting program was developed with an aim to revitalize community harvesting practices, with a specific focus on incorporating the perspectives of women, especially in the preparatory and smoking phases of the geese. Omushkego Cree women were approached to participate. The study was conducted during the spring of 2018, and employed photovoice and semi-structured interviews that explored the impact of geese preparatory activities on the health and wellbeing of Indigenous women. Major themes from the qualitative data included the importance of knowledge sharing, cultural continuity, healing, and the profound connection to the land. Women emphasized the value of sharing acquired knowledge, passing on traditions, and maintaining a connection to their cultural identity. Cultural continuity, depicted through intergenerational teachings and experiences, emerged as crucial for overall wellbeing. Participants spoke of the healing dynamics derived from engaging in traditional activities, highlighting the positive impact on physical, mental, emotional, and spiritual wellbeing. The land was identified as a central element in this healing process, representing more than just a physical space but an extension of home, contributing to a sense of peace and tranquility. The land became a medium for transmitting cultural teachings, shaping identity, and sustaining a subsistence lifestyle. The study emphasizes the importance of future research including more female youth participants to uncover specific challenges and strengths within this demographic. Overall, the Niska program demonstrates a comprehensive approach that intertwines cultural revitalization, community engagement, and holistic wellbeing, emphasizing the need for interventions that go beyond immediate challenges to create enduring positive impacts on Indigenous communities.

"I Haven't Had Moose Meat in a Long Time": Exploring Urban Indigenous Perspectives on Traditional Foods in Saskatchewan.

This qualitative study investigates the perspectives of urban Indigenous individuals in Saskatchewan, Canada, regarding their consumption of traditional foods. Through in-depth, semi-structured interviews with 14 participants across Saskatoon, Regina, and Prince Albert, the research aimed to uncover the benefits, risks, and barriers associated with acquiring and consuming traditional foods. Participants emphasized the nutritional advantages of traditional foods, such as higher nutrient density and absence of industrial additives, which they linked to improved health outcomes and alignment with Indigenous biology. The study also highlighted the vital role of traditional foods in maintaining cultural identity and fostering community connections through practices of food sharing and intergenerational knowledge transfer. However, significant challenges were identified, including economic and physical barriers to access, environmental degradation, and regulatory issues that restrict the availability of traditional foods in urban settings. The findings suggest a complex landscape where cultural practices are both preserved and challenged within the urban environment. This study contributes to the broader understanding of how Indigenous populations navigate the preservation of their culinary heritage in the face of modern economic and environmental pressures, providing insights for policy and community-based interventions aimed at supporting Indigenous food sovereignty.

Ethnomedicinal Uses of Plant Species in Panchase Protected Forests (A Case Study including the Kaski, Parbat & Syangja Districts of Nepal)

Ethnomedicinal plants, which have been utilized by indigenous communities in Nepal for centuries, hold promise for treating various ailments. Globally, medicinal plants are integral to healthcare systems, with Nepal renowned for its rich biodiversity and indigenous knowledge. This manuscript explores the ethno-medicinal practices within Nepal's Panchase protected forest, aiming to validate traditional remedies and contribute to healthcare improvement. Through a comprehensive study involving reconnaissance surveys, interviews, and data analysis, 103 ethno-medicinal plants from 58 families were documented, with Asteraceae being dominant. Various plant parts were utilized for treating 57 ailments, with leaves being most common. Gastrointestinal issues were prevalent, with plants such as Gheu kumari and Harro being frequently employed. Additionally, plants such as Dhursul and Ghodtapre were used for fever and migraine, while Khole Saag and Pani Amala addressed blood pressure and diabetes concerns. This study focuses on the importance of traditional medicine in rural healthcare and underscores the need for its preservation. Conservation efforts and intergenerational knowledge transfer initiatives are vital to safeguarding indigenous wisdom. Phytochemical and pharmacological studies are recommended to validate traditional knowledge scientifically. The commercial cultivation of medicinal plants could alleviate pressure on natural habitats and promote sustainable healthcare practices. This research contributes to the documentation of valuable ethno-medicinal knowledge, emphasizing its potential for socioeconomic development and healthcare enhancement in Nepal's rural communities.

Effects of Age Stereotypes of Older Workers on Job Performance and Intergenerational Knowledge Transfer Intention and Mediating Mechanisms.

The workforce is aging with the population aging. How to effectively manage and motivate older workers is significant for elderly human resources development and the sustainable development of enterprises in organizations. Age stereotypes of older workers refer to people's beliefs and expectations about a specific group of 45-65-year-olds in the workplace. This paper examines the effect of age stereotypes of older workers on job performance and intergenerational knowledge transfer intention. This study carried out two research designs, a questionnaire survey and an experimental study, to explore the effects of positive and negative age stereotypes of older workers on job performance and intergenerational knowledge transfer intention within an organizational context and underlying mediating mechanisms. The results showed that positive stereotypes of older workers significantly positively affected job performance and intergenerational knowledge transfer intention. In comparison, negative stereotypes of older workers significantly negatively affected job performance and intergenerational knowledge transfer intention, and self-perception of aging substantially mediates the effects. This study broadens the research field on the impact of positive and negative age stereotypes on older workers in organizational contexts. This study guides organizations in reducing age discrimination, creating an inclusive workplace environment, and achieving the successful aging of older workers.

Entropic Artificial Intelligence and Knowledge Transfer

An overview of entropy applications to illustrate a few possible uses of entropy in knowledge transmission and artificial intelligence. Artificial intelligence uses entropy as a fundamental concept in many diverse applications, including reinforcement learning, data compression, and decision-making. It assists artificial intelligence models in producing wellinformed forecasts and judgments by assessing uncertainty and information content. As such, the purpose of this work is to highlight the importance of entropy and draw the attention of the artificial intelligence research community to it as a potent tool for advancing artificial intelligence. This work also addresses the importance of knowledge transfer (KT), especially intergenerational KT (IGT), in knowledge management. Knowledge entropy (KE) is a concept that is used to measure the complexity of knowledge distribution within an organisation and evaluate the effectiveness of KT activities. Furthermore, the KT model—which is predicated on the ideas of information content and tacitness—is presented. It blends techniques for customisation and codification. A few challenging open problems are presented along with future study options

Unlocking Creativity: The Influence of Learner Motivation and Intergenerational Knowledge Transfer in Hospital Settings

This study examines the dynamics of intergenerational knowledge transfer among young hospital staff. Through a sample of 361 participants, the research investigates the impact of learner motivation, organizational atmosphere, and absorption capacity on knowledge sharing and innovation. Findings reveal a significant positive relationship between learner motivation and both online and offline knowledge transfer, emphasizing the pivotal role of intrinsic drive-in facilitating knowledge exchange. Moreover, the study identifies organizational atmosphere as a moderator, highlighting its influence on the effectiveness of knowledge transfer processes. Additionally, absorption capacity emerges as a critical factor in enhancing the efficacy of knowledge dissemination within healthcare settings. These results underscore the importance of fostering a supportive organizational culture and developing individuals' intrinsic motivation to promote knowledge sharing and innovation among hospital staff.

Income-Generating Activities and Economic Empowerment of Rural Women in the Mion District, Ghana: A Phenomenological Study

The economic empowerment of rural women is pivotal to sustainable development, particularly in areas where traditional gender roles and limited access to resources impede their economic participation. This phenomenological study investigates the lived experiences of rural women in the Mion District of Ghana, focusing on their engagement in income-generating activities (IGAs) and the associated challenges and opportunities. Employing qualitative research methods, including in-depth interviews and focus group discussions, the study reveals that these women predominantly engage in farming, trading shea butter and dawadawa, and charcoal production. Despite their significant contributions to household incomes and the local economy, these women face substantial barriers such as inadequate access to education and training, insufficient infrastructure, and restrictive cultural norms. The findings underscore the critical role of intergenerational knowledge transfer, with many participants learning their skills from their mothers. However, the lack of formal training and support from governmental and non-governmental organizations limits their ability to enhance productivity and profitability. The study emphasizes the need for targeted interventions to improve access to modern agricultural techniques, business management skills, and financial resources. Additionally, policy reforms promoting gender equality in economic activities are essential to creating an enabling environment for these women. This research contributes to the broader discourse on rural development and gender equity by highlighting the resilience and adaptability of rural women and the necessity for inclusive policies and support mechanisms. The insights gained from this study offer valuable implications for policymakers, development practitioners, and stakeholders committed to fostering the economic empowerment of rural women, ultimately contributing to sustainable development goals. Future research should continue to explore and address the unique challenges faced by rural women, ensuring their active participation in the economic landscape and enhancing their socio-economic well-being.

Sustainable Parental Resources of Organic Urban Teaching (SPROUT): An Innovation to Upgrade 4Ps Parents’ Livelihood Sustainability

Parental involvement in education has long been recognized as a crucial factor in determining a child’s academic success and overall well-being (Hill et al., 2004). In many developing countries, such as the Philippines, government programs like the Pantawid Pamilyang Pilipino Program (4Ps) have been implemented to provide conditional cash transfers to low-income families, with the aim of improving their livelihood sustainability (Adhikari et al., 2017). However, sustainability also entails long-term empowerment and the development of skills for parents to become self-reliant. This action research study introduces the Sustainable Parental Resources of Organic Urban Teaching (SPROUT) innovation as a means to upgrade the livelihood sustainability of 4Ps parents. SPROUT, founded on the principles of sustainable development and organic urban teaching, aims to provide 4Ps parents with the necessary resources and knowledge to enhance their self-reliance and livelihood opportunities. By incorporating sustainable agriculture practices and urban gardening techniques, SPROUT offers parents the chance to grow their own organic produce, both for personal consumption and potential income generation (FAO, 2013). This approach not only enhances the nutritional status of families but also promotes environmental stewardship and encourages a shift towards healthier and sustainable lifestyle choices. The empowerment of parents through sustainable practices has yielded positive outcomes in various contexts. A study conducted by Hirai and Fujii (2019) found that engagement in sustainable livelihood activities led to increased self-confidence and a sense of agency among participants. Additionally, Oyelaran-Oyeyinka and Sanni (2020) demonstrated that sustainable livelihood initiatives can contribute to poverty reduction and improved standard of living in rural communities. By adapting and applying these concepts to the urban setting and specifically targeting 4Ps parents, the SPROUT innovation has the potential to significantly uplift the livelihood sustainability of this vulnerable population. Furthermore, the incorporation of organic urban teaching methodologies aligns with the growing demand for sustainable and eco-friendly practices within the global educational landscape (ITO, 2014). This approach not only equips parents with important agricultural skills but also fosters a sense of pride and cultural heritage. By tapping into traditional and indigenous knowledge systems, SPROUT emphasizes the importance of intergenerational knowledge transfer and community engagement, offering a holistic approach to sustainable parental resources. The SPROUT innovation holds immense promise as a means to upgrade the livelihood sustainability of 4Ps parents. By combining sustainable agriculture practices and organic urban teaching methodologies, SPROUT seeks to empower parents, enhance their self-reliance, and contribute to poverty reduction. This action research study will explore the implementation, impact, and potential challenges of the SPROUT intervention, aiming to provide valuable insights for policymakers, educators, and communities seeking innovative approaches to uplift the lives of vulnerable populations.

Key Factors in Intergenerational Knowledge Transfer: A Case Study of Allameh Tabataba'i University in the Academic Environment of Iranian Universities

This study investigates the pivotal factors influencing intergenerational knowledge transfer within the academic environment of Iranian universities, with a focused case study on the administrative staff of Allameh Tabataba'i University. Employing a dualphase research process, the first phase involves an indepth literature review and the application of the Delphi method to distill expert opinions, culminating in the identification of key knowledge transfer factors, and the development of a comprehensive questionnaire. The subsequent phase entails the distribution of this questionnaire among the administrative staff, resulting in the collection and analysis of 261 responses through exploratory and confirmatory factor analysis tests. Significantly, the study unveils a nuanced classification of knowledge transfer factors into four distinct categories: knowledge characteristics, individual attributes, interpersonal dynamics, and contextual influences. Beyond mere classification, the research identifies specific items wielding the most substantial impact on intergenerational knowledge transfer.

Evaluation of a longitudinal digital citizen science initiative to understand the impact of culture on Indigenous youth mental health: Findings from a quasi-experimental qualitative study.

Indigenous youth in settler nations are susceptible to poor mental health due to complex intergenerational systemic inequities. Research has shown benefits of cultural connectedness for improving mental health; however, there are few studies which have evaluated the impact of culturally relevant mental health interventions, particularly among Indigenous youth. The purpose of this study is to assess the impact of a culturally-responsive, land-based, active living initiative on the mental health of Indigenous youth. This quasi-experimental qualitative study is part of Smart Indigenous Youth (SIY), a mixed-methods 5-year longitudinal digital citizen science initiative. SIY embeds culturally responsive, land-based active living programs into the curricula of high schools in rural Indigenous communities in the western Canadian province of Saskatchewan. In year-1 (Winter 2019), 76 Indigenous youth citizen scientists (13-18 years) from 2 schools participated in the study. At the beginning of the term, each school initiated separate 4-month land-based active living programs specific to their culture, community, geography, and language (Cree and Saulteaux). Before and after the term, focus groups were conducted with the 2 Youth Citizen Scientist Councils, which included students from both participating schools. This study includes data from focus groups of one participating school, with 11 youth citizen scientists (5 boys, 6 girls). Focus group data were transcribed and analyzed by two independent reviewers using Nvivo to identify themes and subthemes. Both reviewers discussed their thematic analysis to reach consensus about final findings. Baseline focus group analyses (before land-based programming) revealed themes demonstrating the importance of Indigenous culture, identity, history, and language. Youth emphasized the impact of loss of language and culture, the importance of being a helper, and the necessity of intergenerational knowledge transfer. Follow-up focus group analyses (post land-based programming) indicated that cultural school programming led to students expressing positive mental health benefits, increased interest in ceremonies, increased participation in physical activity, and greater knowledge of culture, identity, and ceremonial protocol. This novel qualitative quasi-experimental study offers a window into the future of upstream interventions in partnership with Indigenous communities, where Indigenous youth can be engaged in real-time via their digital devices, while participating in culturally-sensitive, land-based school programming that promotes culture, identity, and mental health.

Components and factors affecting adolescent resilience promotion education in disasters: a systematic review

Purpose Community-based disaster management and access to social resilience during disasters are fundamentally based on the concept of participation of all social groups. Up to now, no comprehensive study has been done regarding adolescents’ roles and experiences in all stages of disaster management, and discussions existing in the domain of adolescents’ engagement in disaster risk management are usually restricted to children’s participation. Thus, this study aims to extract the effective components and factors in disaster education to improve adolescents’ resilience to disasters. Design/methodology/approach This systematic review was done through English databases and three Persian databases between August 18, 2001, and August 31, 2021. The articles were searched based on the PRISMA checklist using four key dimensions of “resilience,” “disasters,” “adolescents” and “education.” Finally, the effective components and factors in disaster education for improving adolescents’ resilience during disasters were extracted. Findings Totally, 29,856 articles were extracted through the systematic review. After studying the titles, abstracts and contents of the extracted articles, 17 were selected for the final analysis. Among these articles, 3, 12 and 2 had qualitative, quantitative and mixed research designs, respectively. The extracted components were categorized into five major categories including education, community, adolescents, resilience and governing policies and approaches. Research limitations/implications Unfortunately, due to sanctions, Shiraz University of Medical Sciences did not have access to the Embase database, and consequently, this database could not be used. Originality/value The results of this systematic review presented an overall view of the effective components of adolescents’ disaster resilience education. The formation of thoughts developed feelings, and social knowledge in this age group provides a wide range of opportunities for social empowerment and intergenerational knowledge transfer.

Emotional heterogeneity and intergenerational knowledge transfer in family firms

With this study, we attempt to understand how emotions influence the intergenerational transfer of knowledge in family businesses from the perspective of emotional heterogeneity. We use a qualitative methodology of multiple case studies to comprehensively address theissue. The results indicate that emotions influence knowledge transmission and learning, sotransmission is more effective in Enmeshed and Balanced family businesses than in Disengaged ones.

What Is Next? The Longer-Term Managerial Challenges following COVID-19

Existing research has highlighted the immediate challenges posed by the enforced work-from-home arrangements during the COVID-19 pandemic, particularly in the effective transfer and retention of knowledge, especially tacit knowledge, due to the reduced opportunities for face-to-face interactions. This study seeks to delve into the enduring concerns and obstacles faced by business managers as they navigate a return to normalcy in their operations. We conducted a grounded approach study between September and December 2021, involving semi-structured interviews with thirteen managers from eight business firms in Hong Kong who had experience supervising and undergoing work-from-home arrangements during the COVID-19 pandemic. Our research uncovered three layers of challenges. The first layer, echoing the existing literature, revolves around the inefficiencies in knowledge sharing stemming from the absence of physical interactions among colleagues. The second layer addresses the difficulties related to the socialization, performance, and retention of newcomers who joined the workforce during the pandemic. The third layer represents a longer-term challenge, encompassing skill and talent shortages attributed to the lack of intergenerational knowledge transfer. While our study acknowledges its limitations regarding representativeness and the absence of extensive quantitative evidence often associated with exploratory research, it nonetheless offers valuable insights for researchers and managers alike. These insights illuminate the imminent challenges that will surface as we navigate the recovery from the COVID-19 pandemic. Consequently, this paper holds significance for business sustainability by directing managerial attention towards addressing the issues of skill and talent shortages that may hinder business performance or even its survival in the post-COVID-19 era.

Indigenous land-based approaches to well-being: The Sibi (River) program in subarctic Ontario, Canada

ABSTRACT The Albany River system holds a special significance for the Omushkego Cree of subarctic Ontario, Canada, embodying their cultural roots, history, and the Cree way of life and worldviews. Through the Sibi program, youth learned traditional fishing practices from Elders and on-the-land experts, gaining valuable knowledge on the land and river. The program addressed barriers to being on the land, while also creating a space for the transfer of Indigenous knowledge and revitalising community social networks. The program took place in the summer, following the Omushkego Cree’s seasonal cycle and employed community-based participatory research approach. Photovoice and semi-structured interviews were used to identify elements of well-being from an Indigenous perspective. Regardless of age or experience, participants expressed positive emotions while being on the land, highlighting how strengthening social and community networks, intergenerational knowledge transfer, and fostering cultural continuity contribute to improved well-being. Program outcomes emphasize the importance of collaboration with communities to gain insights into their needs, priorities, and values, ultimately creating more sustainable and effective well-being programs. By fostering engagement and recognizing the environment’s significance, sustainable and long-term solutions can be pursued to address challenges faced by communities, ultimately advancing health and well-being for both present and future generations.

Determinants of Traditional Food Sustainability: Nasi Ambeng practices in Malaysia

The Javanese and Malays have undergone distinct evolutionary transformations, notably seen in culinary practices like Nasi Ambeng, which has endured across generations. With limited research on the sustainability of traditional foods in Malaysia and the decline of culinary practices, this study aims to explore the perpetuation of Nasi Ambeng among the Javanese-Malay community. Employing ethnographic and netnographic approaches, the study identifies intergenerational knowledge transfer, adoption, adaptations, and demand in the food business as key factors supporting the sustainability of Nasi Ambeng. This study enriches Malaysia's gastronomy studies, benefiting tourism authorities, culinary heritage bodies, and ethnic representatives for preserving traditional foods.

Ob-La-Di, Oc-to-Pus (Life Goes on): a Modern Métis Fire Bag (2021)

The author, a Red River Métis beadwork artist and researcher, offers a brief introduction to the history and purpose of octopus/fire bags, a traditional Métis garment. She explores both her experience of reclaiming the garment design following disruption of intergenerational knowledge transfer as a result of colonialism, and details textile and garment construction processes. Reflecting on the finer points of selecting materials, choosing lining, and binding of the piece, the author takes an organic detour into the sphere of Métis fingerweaving and beadwork, and ultimately explores the meaning and visual language of the beadwork featured on Ob-La-Di, Oc-To-Pus (Life Goes On): A Modern Métis Fire Bag.

How is nutrition, health and wellbeing conceptualised in connection with seafood for coastal Indigenous Peoples’

Coastal Indigenous people access and maintain customary connections to seafood for nourishment, livelihoods and Indigenous values. It is recognised that seafood contributes significantly to coastal Indigenous people’s diets. Despite this, global fisheries sectors have overlooked the role seafood plays in contributing to nutritional, health and wellbeing outcomes of coastal Indigenous communities. Global entities have called for ‘nutrition sensitive policies’ to improve nutritional, health and wellbeing outcomes. The aim of this study was to apply an ‘Indigenist’ inquiry lens and ‘yarning’ as a method to further understand from an Indigenous perspective how concepts of nutritional, health and wellbeing outcomes are represented and connected to seafood. Research involved 16 Aboriginal informants, six women and ten men from a fishing enterprise, arts and culture centre and a women’s centre with a connection to commercial and customary fishing in Maningrida community in the Northern Territory of Australia, 2019–2022. Key themes related to respecting of Elders, culture, country, Aboriginal nutrition, traditional medicinal knowledge, Aboriginal fishing enterprises, barriers to accessing seafood, lived experience, intergenerational knowledge transfer and interconnectedness. It is clear that fishing and access to seafood for Aboriginal people is a pathway to healthier food provision within coastal Indigenous communities. It needs to be recognised however, that Indigenous nutritional, health and wellbeing concepts and self-determination principles need to be integrated into ‘nutrition sensitive policies’ within fisheries and mariculture sectors.

Positive Aspects of Welfare in Sheep: Current Debates and Future Opportunities.

The concept of positive welfare is an expansion of the traditional understanding that animal welfare is defined by minimizing stress, pain, suffering, and disease. Positive welfare shifts the animal welfare narrative from a focus on reducing negative experiences to proactively providing animals with opportunities to have positive experiences and feelings. The concept, although around for several decades, is in its infancy in terms of developing ways of assessing positive welfare on farms, especially in extensive systems, and there are challenges in the adoption of positive welfare practices and the monitoring of continuous improvement at the farm level. Using an iterative approach, this critical review aims to explore the extent to which positive welfare interventions and indicators are positioned and have been developed within the animal welfare literature for sheep. This paper critiques existing positive welfare indicators, such as choices in food and the physical environment, conspecific social synchronization, maternal bonds, intergenerational knowledge transfer, positive human-animal relationships, etc., as currently assessed by the 'good life framework'. It also reviews the characteristics of scientific measures for (positive) affective states in the current sheep literature and their potential contribution to understanding positive welfare states in sheep. In conclusion, this paper provides recommendations for future research regarding sheep welfare.