Community Leaders Research Articles

The role of transformational leadership in professional learning communities: Empirical evidence from China

The role of transformational leadership in professional learning communities: Empirical evidence from China

Child drowning in Indonesia: insights from parental and community perspectives and practices.

Child drowning is a significant public health issue in Indonesia, however, there is insufficient understanding of the issue and its associated risk factors within communities. This qualitative study aimed to explore parental and community perceptions and practices related to child drowning in Indonesian communities, and the perceived causes and risk factors. Seven focus group discussions (n = 62) were conducted with parents of children aged under-5 years and village community leaders in seven villages across all districts of Lombok Island, West Nusa Tenggara Province of Indonesia. Participants were recruited using purposive and snowball sampling. The thematic analysis, guided by Braun and Clarke's framework, used both deductive approaches, utilizing the Health Belief Model's constructs and inductive approaches. Most participants were unaware of the susceptibility of their children and others in their community to drowning and of the potential severe outcomes of drowning such as injury, disability and death. Participants generally associated drowning with beaches or open seas. Unprotected wells, tubs and buckets were identified as notable risk factors for child drowning in and around the home, shaped by some experience of child drowning incidents in the community. Supervision was identified as protective factor, however, mothers were often unavailable to supervise children, and supervision responsibility was often delegated to other family and community members. This study highlights the urgent need to enhance public awareness regarding children's susceptibility to drowning. Further exploration of local contexts and social determinants of drowning in Indonesian communities is crucial for ensuring effective water safety and drowning prevention strategies.

Building the NHPI Data Policy Platform to Identify the Most Pressing SDOH Policy Domains for the NHPI Community

Abstract: Access to accurate Native Hawaiian and Pacific Islander (NHPI) social drivers of health (SDOH) data is crucial for understanding health needs and shaping effective public health strategies. However, this data often gets obscured within broader racial and ethnic categories making NHPI issues invisible. Moreover, NHPI communities face barriers when published data formats are inaccessible to community-based organization staff. To tackle these challenges, we initiated the Assessing Social Determinants of Health Data Through Local Data Intermediaries Initiative (AHEAD), supported by the federal Office of Minority Health. We developed two community-centered resources: 1. The NH PI Data Policy Platform, shaped by 138 NHPI community leaders from 13 states and Washington, D.C., representing nine NHPI subgroups. This platform highlights NHPI priority issues and provides equitable data policy recommendations for advocates and policymakers. 2. An NHP I SDOH Dashboard for California Counties, tailored to offer accessible data for community-based organization staff, ensuring better-informed interventions and support.

Evaluating the Impact of Home Economics Teachers' Entrepreneurial Activities on Family Economic Stability and Well-Being in Northeast Nigeria

This study examines the impact of entrepreneurial activities of Home Economics teachers on family economic stability and well-being in Northeast Nigeria. Home Economics, as a field, encompasses various disciplines such as nutrition, home management, and consumer education, aiming to improve the quality of life for individuals and families. In Northeast Nigeria, Home Economics teachers often engage in entrepreneurial activities, leveraging their expertise to supplement their income and enhance their families' economic stability. This study evaluates the extent to which these entrepreneurial endeavors contribute to family income, food security, and overall quality of life. Using a cross-sectional survey design, data were collected from Home Economics teachers across Adamawa, Bauchi, Borno, Gombe, Taraba, and Yobe states. A sample of 200 teachers was selected through multistage sampling. The study employed both descriptive and inferential statistics to analyze the data, including paired samples t-tests and W-statistics to test the hypotheses at a 0.05 level of significance. The findings reveal that entrepreneurial activities significantly enhance family economic stability and well-being. Teachers engaged in ventures such as catering, textile and fashion businesses, and home management consultancy experienced notable improvements in family income, food security, and overall quality of life. The study underscores the importance of supporting entrepreneurial initiatives among Home Economics teachers to foster economic resilience and social development in the region. The results provide valuable insights for policymakers, educators, and community leaders to integrate entrepreneurial education within the Home Economics curriculum, thereby promoting sustainable development in Northeast Nigeria.

Gender and evaluations of leadership behaviors: A meta-analytic review of 50 years of research

As more women have entered the managerial ranks, discussion about differences between men’s and women’s leadership behaviors have persisted. The current study reviews and analyzes 50 years of research to examine gender differences in evaluations of their leadership behaviors. Across 13 new meta-analyses using data from 1970 to 2020, we examine evaluations of leadership behaviors that vary across two dimensions: communal-agentic and effective-ineffective, including: democratic/participative, relationship-oriented/consideration, idealized influence, individualized consideration, intellectual stimulation, ethical/moral, autocratic/directive, task-oriented/initiating structure, contingent reward, MBE-active, inspirational motivation, MBE-passive, and laissez-faire. The meta-analytic results suggest that women are seen as engaging in more effective agentic and communal leadership behaviors, compared to men, while men are seen as engaging in less effective and more passive leadership behavior, compared to women. Relying on social role theory and arguments from the double standards of competence literature, we also examine whether the relationship between gender and evaluations of leadership behaviors differs across time and levels of leadership. Interestingly, only one primary study across all our analyses utilized an objective instead of a subjective measure of leader behavior, underscoring the imperative for more objective assessments in the future. Practical implications and future research directions are also discussed. All supplemental material can be found at: https://osf.io/enm3d/?view_only=ea99d34911284304a4b2bf61079d5ecd.

Listening to Rural Community Experts: Making a Comprehensive Local Needs Assessment Transformative for Inclusive Postsecondary CTE

This Delphi study identified postsecondary career and technical education (CTE) needs and differences by race in rural areas. Seventeen rural community experts in education, business, and community leadership participated across three rounds. Round 1 involved interviews to compile perspectives about future careers and training. Round 2 used Likert-scale surveys to rate the perceived likelihood of careers and the value of training; consensus was evaluated. Round 3 conducted member checking. Results showed alignment between community-identified labor needs and workforce data. However, Native American members faced distinct qualifying barriers for training programs. Recommendations are that Comprehensive Local Needs Assessments (CLNAs) intentionally include marginalized groups and consider historical and present-day inequities certain students face to better meet the workforce training needs of the entire community. The Delphi method revealed nuanced perspectives and the need for more culturally responsive practice in rural areas.

Mathematical Concepts and Cultural Values in Sonaf Tamkesi: Ethnomathematics Study in a Traditional Village on Timor Island

Mathematics is a universal science, and it is crucial for everyone to master it, both in terms of its applications and its cognitive patterns. The purpose of this research is to explore the concepts of mathematics and cultural values found in the artifacts of Sonaf Tamkesi Manufui. The study was conducted in the traditional village of Tamkesi, south Biboki District, North Central Timor Regency, in July 2023. The subjects of this study were three community leaders. The type of data collected for this research was primary data obtained through documentation and interviews between the researcher and the respondents. Data analysis was conducted through stages of domain analysis, taxonomy, componential analysis, and cultural themes. The research findings indicate that there are concepts of plane geometry in the artifacts such as trapeziums, rectangles, squares, rhombuses, triangles, circles, cylinders, hexagons, and cubes. Meanwhile, the cultural values of the artifacts in Sonaf Tamkesi are the roof symbolizes harmony, the door symbolizes greatness and respect for ancestors, the pillars symbolize vertical relations with ancestors, the betel-nut container symbolizes service, the clay pot symbolizes a gift from ancestors to the living, the hearth symbolizes balance, and harmony in achieving goals.

A PRELIMINARY OBSERVED SELF EVALUATION STUDY OF STATUTORY TOBACCO REGULATION ACT IN AND AROUND SCHOOLS OF MYSURU DISTRICT

This preliminary survey investigates the proximity and prevalence of tobacco outlets shop near schools, aiming to understand the potential exposure of school-aged children to tobacco products specially cigarettes. The study focuses on identifying the density and location of tobacco shops within a defined radius of educational institutions. Data were collected from multiple schools in various regions of Mysuru city and rural areas, using geographical information systems (GIS) to map and analyze the distribution of these outlets using the latitude and longitude of the location. The findings reveal a significant number of tobacco outlets situated within close proximity to schools, raising concerns about the accessibility of tobacco products to minors. Although the school management is strictly following the rules in the virtue of COPTA act 2003 of displaying board of prohibition, restriction, prevention and punishments of usage tobacco products. The results underscore the need for stricter zoning regulations and public health interventions to reduce the exposure and appeal of tobacco products to young people. This survey provides a foundational analysis that can inform policy makers and community leaders in their efforts to create healthier environments for children and adolescents.

Unethical behaviours, leadership, and gender in the village development programme: the case of rural Sri Lanka

ABSTRACT This study examines whether leaders’ unethical behaviours discourage people from participating in activities initiated by community-based programmes, and whether the impact of unethical leadership is moderated by the genders of leaders and community members. We conducted a vignette experiment with 1,421 respondents in rural Sri Lanka. We find that village residents perceive: (1) leaders’ unethical conduct discourages residents’ intention to engage in community activities and (2) leaders’ unethical conduct reduces female residents’ engagement more than male residents’, regardless of leaders’ gender. The findings underscore the importance of addressing the low motivation issue, particularly among women, to engage in community activities.

Role of Kader Siaga Bencana in the flood management of selected Kampung Siaga Bencana.

The research assessed the initial readiness of health cadres and community leaders to become disaster preparedness cadres in flood management. It is necessary to provide training to develop their expertise as KSB.

Exploring Malay Parenting Patterns and Cultural Identity in Medan City: Traditions, Values, Adaptation in an Urban Context

This research explores early childhood parenting patterns and Malay culture in Medan City, Indonesia. With a focus on traditions, values, and adaption in urban context, this research explores how Malay culture remains relevant in child-rearing patterns amidts dynamic changes in the urban environment. The research method involved in-depth interviews with parents and Malay community leaders living in Medan City, as well as observations of child-rearing practices in everyday life. The research results show that despite adaption to urban development, Malay cultural traditions and values remain the main basis for parenting patterns. However, there are also challenges faced in maintaining Malay cultural identity in globalization and modernization. The implication of this research is the importance of understanding the dynamic of local culture in a urban context to strengthen cultural identity and enrich the study of child-rearing patterns in Indonesia.

The Role of Learning Communities as A Means of Teacher Professionality Development at SDN 1 Srobyong

Teacher professionalism is very important to improve student learning outcomes. For this reason, learning communities exist as a means of developing teacher professionalism. This research aims to analyze the role of learning communities in the professional development of elementary school teachers, identify the obstacles and challenges faced, and find solutions to overcome obstacles and challenges when participating in learning communities. This research method is qualitative case study research. Data collection techniques include in-depth interviews, focus group discussions, and participatory observation. The data collection technique used purposive sampling, the researcher chose subjects, namely 3 teachers including the community leader, class teacher, and PAI subject teacher. The data analysis technique uses Milles and Huberman qualitative analysis. Learning communities in elementary schools have an important role in developing teacher professionalism. The novelty of this research is the use of technology, especially the Merdeka Mengajar Platform (PMM) to facilitate collaboration and share teacher knowledge in learning communities. As well as using a holistic approach to pedagogical competence and developing soft skills such as leadership and collaboration. The obstacles and challenges found included limited time, school support, and motivation. Solutions to overcome this include institutional support, strategies to increase teacher participation, technology-based implementation approaches, and curriculum development with the community. Therefore, this article makes a significant contribution to efforts to increase the capacity of elementary school teachers through more active participation in learning communities, so that it can become a reference for increasing the effectiveness of the existing education system in Indonesia.

The Role of Religious Counselors in Fostering Kampong Moderation in Subulussalam City

This research explores the role of Islamic religious instructors in fostering religious moderation in the villages of Subulussalam City, particularly in Suka Makmur and Penanggalan villages. The aim is to understand how religious extension workers promote harmonious socio-religious harmony in diverse communities. Using a qualitative approach and a multi-site study design, the research involved semi-structured interviews, participatory observation, and document analysis to collect data from religious extension workers, community leaders, and community members. The results show that the role of religious educators as motivators, agents of change, central figures, and facilitators is crucial in maintaining and enhancing inter-religious harmony and cooperation. Activities such as joint construction of houses of worship, joint religious celebrations, and gotong royong show the community's high level of religious moderation. These findings suggest that the religious moderation model implemented in Suka Makmur and Penanggalan villages can be used as a reference for similar programs in other areas, strengthening the role of religious educators in promoting socio-religious harmony.

Pelecehan Seksual Terhadap Model Perempuan dalam Prespektif Hukum Islam (Studi Kasus di Banjarnegara)

This research aims to understand the phenomenon of sexual harassment against female models in Banjarnegara from the perspective of Islamic law and the Criminal Code. This research uses a qualitative research method with a case study research type. Research data was obtained through interviews with victims of sexual harassment, perpetrators of sexual harassment, victims' families, law enforcement officers, and community leaders in Banjarnegara. The research results show that sexual harassment against female models in Banjarnegara is a serious problem. Modes of sexual harassment that often occur include physical and verbal harassment. The factors behind the occurrence of sexual harassment are the perception that women are weak and powerless, patriarchal culture, and lack of law enforcement. Sanctions for sexual harassment according to Islamic law and the Criminal Code vary. In Islamic law, sexual harassment is included in the category of zina and is punishable by had. Meanwhile, in the Criminal Code, sexual harassment is regulated in Articles 281, 282, 283 and 285, with the threat of a maximum criminal penalty of two years and eight months or a maximum fine of IDR 4,500. This research recommends several steps to prevent sexual harassment against female models in Banjarnegara, including: Increasing education about gender equality and women's rights, Strengthening law enforcement against perpetrators of sexual harassment, Providing assistance and protection for victims of sexual harassment.

The Mediating Role of Communication in Fostering Religious Tolerance within a Diverse Society

This study aims to examine the influence of social prejudice, local wisdom, social piety, religious identity, and communication behaviour on religious tolerance in Sidoarjo Regency. It focuses on the mediating role of communication behaviour in strengthening or weakening the impact of these variables on religious tolerance. A quantitative research approach was adopted, using a structured questionnaire to collect data from respondents in the Sidoarjo Regency. The data was analysed using Structural Equation Modelling (SEM) to test the relationships between the variables and the mediating role of communication behaviour. The results show that communication behaviour plays a crucial role in mediating the influence of social prejudice, local wisdom, social piety, and religious identity on religious tolerance. While social prejudice, local wisdom, and religious identity do not have direct significant effects on tolerance, their impact is enhanced through effective communication. Communication behaviour, characterised by openness, empathy, and support, positively influences religious tolerance, whereas ineffective communication diminishes the positive effects of other variables. The findings suggest that strategies to improve religious tolerance should prioritise communication behaviour. Policymakers, educators, and community leaders are encouraged to implement programmes that foster open dialogue, empathy, and respect among diverse religious groups to strengthen social harmony. This study provides new insights into the role of communication behaviour as a mediating variable in the relationship between social factors and religious tolerance, offering practical implications for enhancing tolerance in multicultural societies.

Addressing childhood malnutrition in low-income communities in northern Nigeria

Background: Childhood malnutrition is a critical public health issue in Northern Nigeria, significantly affecting the survival, development, and growth of children. This project in Kano State aimed to combat the high malnutrition rates in low-income communities. Factors contributing to malnutrition include food insecurity, poverty, and limited access to healthcare, compounded by cultural norms. This initiative required collaboration with various stakeholders, including government health departments, NGOs, and community leaders, to effectively address the root causes and promote health equity. Methods and Materials: A comprehensive needs assessment and literature review were conducted to identify nutrition-related issues and knowledge gaps among caregivers. Partnerships with local organizations facilitated resource sharing and program implementation. Baseline surveys assessed caregivers' knowledge, attitudes, and practices regarding childhood nutrition. The intervention included a nutrition education program, a long-term food supplementation initiative, and capacity-building for healthcare providers. Pilot testing and observational studies were used to refine the program and gather data on malnutrition patterns and trends. Results: The intervention significantly improved caregivers' knowledge and practices related to child nutrition. There was a 30% increase in caregivers' nutrition knowledge and a 40% increase in appropriate nutrition practices from baseline to post-intervention. Caregivers' attitudes towards nutrition also improved, with a 25% increase in positive attitudes. The program effectively addressed malnutrition by enhancing knowledge about essential nutrition concepts, promoting exclusive breastfeeding, and improving complementary feeding practices and hygiene. Conclusion: The results highlight the necessity of a multifaceted approach to reduce childhood malnutrition in Northern Nigeria. Successful strategies included community-based initiatives, caregiver support, and targeted nutrition education. Addressing underlying causes such as poverty and food insecurity is crucial for sustainable progress. Future efforts should focus on scaling the program, engaging healthcare providers, and advocating for policy changes to ensure long-term child nutrition and health improvements.

Evaluation of The Effectiveness of HIV Prevention Strategies on HIV Prevalence Among Men and Women in Zoba-Ma’akel/Eritrea

Human Immunodeficiency Virus (HIV) emerged in the late 1970s and is transmitted through unprotected sex, mother-to-child transmission, drug use and contaminated medical tools. HIV have continued yet, as health and development problems through the world. This study assesses the effectiveness of HIV prevention strategies in Zoba-Ma’akel/ Eritrea, focusing on gender disparities in HIV prevalence. Using Convergent-Parallel-Mixed-Method of Research Design, the study gathered quantitative data from 150 people living with HIV, and qualitative data from experts and community leaders. The quantitative data were processed using SPSS, while qualitative data were analyzed in thematic and content-based methods. The study found a significant decline in HIV prevalence in Zoba-Ma’akel over the past decade, but noted persistent new infections and higher prevalence among women. Key findings highlighted the importance of HIV education, the impact of gender-based violence, stigma, unemployment and the effectiveness of Antiretroviral Therapy. Innovative strategies, such as establishment of Association for People Living with HIV, couple testing, and integrated HIV-TB prevention, were identified as crucial. The study recommended targeted interventions for high-risk groups and emphasized the need for women's empowerment programs. Despite challenges, the study provided valuable insights for policymakers and future research

Defining and cultivating creative citizenship in northern Thailand: enhancing urban livability through sustainable tourism

Purpose This qualitative investigation is one of a series of sub-investigations under an umbrella project to develop Lampang Creative Livable Tourist City. The aim of this paper is to explore the integration of sustainable tourism into the development of Lampang, a city in northern Thailand. By collaborating with government and private agencies, academics, community leaders and the people of Lampang to reskill and upskill core community groups in the city, the researchers hope to enhance active citizenship, develop relevant skills and foster leadership networks that boost Lampang’s appeal as a sustainable tourism destination. Design/methodology/approach Data were gathered from brainstorming meetings, focus group discussions, observations and in-depth interviews. After identifying key characteristics required for creative citizens of Lampang city, the researchers developed and implemented pilot curricula with five target groups. Activities were developed to nurture creative leaders and promote innovative use of traditional culture and lifestyle. Findings The findings revealed that targeted local curricula can harness the cultural capital of the local community and equip locals with a modern toolkit to lay the foundations for a creative, livable tourist city. Originality/value This study’s originality lies in its grassroots approach to defining creative citizenship. It captures local community perspectives on what constitutes a creative citizen. Moreover, this research demonstrates how custom-designed educational initiatives can effectively nurture a creative and resilient urban ecosystem. This offers a blueprint for culturally informed urban regeneration, highlighting the role of sustainable tourism in enhancing the city’s attractiveness and livability for both residents and visitors.

Intercultural Communication Among the Bugis Community In Fostering Harmony Within The Buton Society

This study aims to understand and explain how intercultural communication between the Bugis and Buton ethnic groups fosters harmony within the Pajalele community in Baubau City and to identify the barriers faced by the Bugis in establishing harmony with the Buton community. A qualitative approach with a Symbolic Interactionism method was used. The study involved 7 informants: 3 Ambonese, 3 Bugis, and 1 Community Leader. Data was collected through participatory observation, in-depth interviews, and document analysis, which were then analyzed thematically to identify effective communication in different cultural contexts. The results indicate that there is distinct yet complementary communication between the Bugis and Buton ethnic groups. The Bugis people have successfully fostered harmony within the Buton community according to the concepts of Thought, Self, and Social. The communication barriers identified include differences in language, cultural values, and the ongoing development of stereotypes and prejudices between the two ethnic groups

Critical Role of Sociology in Sustainable Development and Social Equity

This study examines the critical role of sociology in ensuring sustainable development within a nation. Despite the recognition of sustainable development's importance, the practical application of sociological insights remains underexplored, creating a significant knowledge gap. Utilizing a mixed-method approach, including qualitative analysis of policy documents and quantitative surveys of public attitudes, this research identifies key areas where sociology informs policy decisions, promotes social equity, and fosters community engagement for environmental protection. Findings reveal that sociological perspectives significantly impact the development and implementation of effective sustainability initiatives. Results highlight the necessity of integrating sociological insights with policymaking processes to address complex societal issues and achieve sustainable development. This study implies that greater collaboration between sociologists, policymakers, and community leaders is essential for navigating the challenges of a sustainable future.