Mixed Methods Approach Research Articles

Investigating the effect of customer-robot interaction experience on customer engagement behavior and co-creation value: a mixed methods study

ABSTRACT This study investigated the effect of robots on customer engagement behavior, employing a mixed methods approach. The qualitative study involved in-depth interviews with a total of 25 customers to explore the effects and constructed a theoretical model. A quantitative investigation then evaluated the proposed model based on a sample of 558 valid respondents. The findings demonstrated that customer interaction with service robots affected customer engagement behavior, through customer perceived hedonic, functional, and symbolic benefits. These effects influenced customer happiness and organizational transaction value, facilitating value co-creation between robots, customers, and firms. The impact of robots on customer engagement behavior was contingent upon travel companions and purpose, but not employee support. This study contributes to the literature by enhancing an understanding of service robot performance and customer engagement behavior, offering practical insights for the effective management of robots in the hotel industry.

Older Adults’ Wellbeing and Involvement in a Uruguayan Intergenerational Learning Initiative

ABSTRACT Within Latin America, the evidence surrounding intergenerational learning experiences remains limited. This study addresses this gap and marks a significant contribution to the literature by evaluating a Uruguayan intergenerational learning program using a systematic mixed-methods approach – the first of its kind in this country. Over eight workshops, the program assessed levels of wellbeing and involvement among older adult participants through observation, a series of interviews and focus groups. The findings revealed medium-to-high levels of wellbeing, increased involvement over time and a desire for program continuity. Notably, participants expressed interest in assuming leadership roles in planning and found smaller group settings to be more beneficial to engagement. The results provide comprehensive insights into participant preferences for intergenerational programs and their effectiveness. These findings pave the way for future research and the development of tailored intergenerational programs that cater to the unique sociocultural context of Uruguay and beyond.

Local government revenue mobilisation: assessing property rate management potential of peri-urban districts using geospatial technologies

Property rate is widely considered as the most significant and stable revenue source for local governments. However, it is fraught with challenges. These include the lack of geo-data on rateable properties and the manual approach towards revenue collection and monitoring. A mixed method approach was adopted to gather and analyse data from 15 local government officials and 5000 properties using interview guides and semi-structured questionnaires to assess the property rate capacity of a local government. Geospatial technology was applied to property rate management of the local government as a possible alternative. The study revealed that the geospatial technology-based property rate management system has the potential to generate more than 1000% of the property rate generated. It is proffered that local governments implement a GIS-based property rate management system to generate the needed revenue for local development.

The role of private sponsorship on refugee resettlement outcomes: a mixed methods study of Syrians in a mid-sized city with a linguistic minority

ABSTRACT Given the growing number of refugees worldwide and the disproportionate burden borne by low- and middle-income host countries, the United Nations High Commissioner for Refugees has been seeking to expand pathways for refugees by relocating them to higher-income countries; as such, it put forward Canada’s program of private refugee sponsorship as a model to follow. Despite praise for Canada’s program, many countries hesitate to adopt it due to limited evidence on the integration outcomes of private refugee sponsorship. We address this knowledge gap by examining the case of Syrians resettled in a mid-sized city in Quebec, the only French-speaking province in Canada, using a mixed methods approach. We document the sponsorship experiences of Syrian refuges, and we estimate the effect of private vs. government sponsorship on their resettlement outcomes while controlling for pre-arrival characteristics. We find that private sponsorship offered refugees more diverse, intensive, enduring, and valued support compared to government sponsorship. Consistently with these results, our estimates show that private sponsorship could be an effective strategy for resettling refugees in medium-sized cities with respect to employment, housing, social networking, and a sense of belonging to the city, with the potential exception of acquiring the domestic language.

Rural physicians and social capital: the potential and promises of a rural health research capacity building program

BackgroundAccessible and contextually relevant healthcare research programs and networks for rural physicians are exceedingly rare, which hinders the development of social capital in an already isolating profession. This study aims to examine the impact of the Rural Health Research Capacity Building (RRCB) Program on enhancing cognitive, structural, and relational social capital through comprehensive research skills training, supported by professional teams and resources.MethodsThis study uses a mixed-methods approach with utilization of qualitative and quantitative data and pre-post quasi-experimental design. Data were collected prior and after completion of the program by means of surveys, focus group, and observation. Thirty-five rural physicians participated in this study from 2014 to 2021.ResultsThe results show a significant increase in cognitive (pre-program = 0.37 vs. post-program = 0.61, p < .001), structural (pre-program = 0.58 vs. post-program = 0.81, p < .001), and relational (pre-program = 0.49 vs. post-program 0.69, p < .001) components of social capital. Focus group discussions and observation data supported these findings, particularly highlighting that research capacity-building programs tailored to the needs of rural physicians can enhance collective values, improve the quality of relationships, and foster communities of research-focused practice.ConclusionsBeing equipped with a shared system of meanings and interpretations, research knowledge and resources, and a professional research network appears to play a critical role in enhancing social capital in rural health research. The RRCB program effectively improves social capital among rural and remote physicians.

Service providers views on changes in low vision service provision during and after the COVID-19 pandemic

The COVID-19 pandemic resulted in changes to low vision service provision across the UK. The main aim of this study was to investigate service providers’ (SPs) experiences of, and views on, the impact of the COVID-19 pandemic on provision of low vision (LV) assessments, and future provision post-pandemic. A mixed methods approach employed two surveys (S1 and S2) and one-to-one semi-structured phone interviews. SPs were invited for S1 (LV assessments before and during the pandemic) between June and August 2021, and S2 (post-pandemic services) in July 2022. Eleven purposively recruited SPs gave telephone interviews, assessing changes to LV assessments during the pandemic and how experiences could inform future services. Survey responses were tested for significant differences between proportions, and interviews analysed using thematic analysis. Eighty SPs, comprising clinical and non-clinical professionals, responded to S1, 27 to S2. Two themes emerged from interviews and surveys: early pandemic modifications and remote services. From S1, during the pandemic there was a significant increase ( p &lt; .001) in the proportion of SPs providing LV assessments remotely (either alongside face-to-face provision, or remotely only), compared with pre-pandemic. S1, conducted while some COVID restrictions remained, also identified an increase in the proportion of LV assessments expected to be provided remotely post-pandemic compared with pre-pandemic ( p &lt; .001). However, for S2, conducted after all restrictions were lifted, the increase in the proportion of LV assessments actually provided remotely post-pandemic was not statistically significant ( p = .20). Advantages (e.g., reduced risk of infection) and limitations (e.g., issues for hearing-impaired users) of remote LV assessments were highlighted. Remote LV assessments increased significantly during the pandemic and remained more common post- than pre-pandemic, though less common than anticipated. Many advantages were perceived, but guidance may need to be developed before remote services are more widely adopted.

The Effects of Western Culture on Rites of Passage among the Hehe and Bena Societies: Case Study in Iringa Rural District

This study investigates how Western culture impacts the rites of passage among the Hehe and Bena communities in the Iringa Rural district, revealing a complex relationship between traditional customs and modern influences. Interviews with community members, including elders and youth, show a strong commitment to cultural preservation despite economic pressures and lifestyle changes. The findings highlight the need to adapt traditional rites by integrating modern elements to maintain relevance for younger generations, fostering cultural evolution. Western media and educational advancements significantly shape local practices, leading to a hybridization of traditions that reflects both resilience and adaptability. The study suggests that cultural preservation efforts, educational programs, and media engagement are vital to sustaining traditional practices within a modern context, offering insights into a balanced approach to cultural development. In methodology, the study employed a mixed-methods approach, combining both qualitative and quantitative research techniques to explore the effects of Western culture on the rites of passage among the Hehe and Bena societies in Iringa Rural. A case study design was utilized to gather data from various sources, including interviews, focus group discussions, and surveys. Respondents, representing different community groups, were selected using both simple random and purposive sampling methods. Data were analyzed using SPSS for quantitative insights and content analysis for qualitative data, ensuring a comprehensive understanding of the cultural changes occurring in the region.

Plastic Waste Management Strategies to Reduce Negative Impacts on the Environment and Human Health in Padang City

Plastic waste has become one of the major problems threatening the environment and human healthIn Indonesia, the use of plastics in daily life, such as shopping bags, water bottles, and food packaging, contributes greatly to the increasing amount of plastic waste (Ditjen PPKL, 2018). This research aims to analyse effective plastic waste management strategies to reduce negative impacts on the environment. The research uses a mixed-method approach, a combination of quantitative and qualitative methods, to gain a comprehensive understanding of the condition of plastic waste and identify the factors that influence the effectiveness of such management. This method is relevant for evaluating waste management policies, the role of the community, and the application of environmentally friendly technologies. This study will be conducted in several areas that have high plastic waste production rates, such as urban, coastal, and areas with community-based waste management initiatives. The results show that community awareness level participation in recycling high 60% p = 0.001 This shows that environmental education is very important to increase community participation. Community-based education is needed to raise this awareness. A massive education campaign is needed, involving community leaders to strengthen positive social norms.

Scientific Validity and Fair Subject Selection: An Empirical Analysis of Recruitment Practices in Clinical Trials

This study investigates the relationship between scientific validity and fair subject selection in clinical trials, focusing on recruitment practices. By analyzing 200 clinical trials across oncology, cardiology, and neurology, this research identifies key barriers to diversity and assesses the effectiveness of institutional policies in promoting equitable recruitment. The findings reveal that despite efforts to improve inclusivity, demographic disparities persist, particularly in terms of racial and ethnic representation. Recruitment barriers, including logistical challenges, mistrust among minority groups, and insufficient outreach resources, are prevalent, with oncology trials exhibiting the most significant issues related to minority participation. Additionally, the study highlights that stronger Institutional Review Board (IRB) policies with enforced diversity guidelines lead to higher minority representation in trials. Through a mixed-methods approach, combining systematic trial reviews, surveys of recruitment personnel, and institutional policy assessments, the study emphasizes the importance of community engagement and culturally competent recruitment strategies. The research suggests that while progress has been made, greater transparency, targeted outreach, and mandatory diversity tracking are necessary to achieve equitable and scientifically valid clinical trial outcomes. The study concludes with recommendations for future research to explore technological innovations and broader therapeutic areas, offering potential solutions for overcoming the barriers to diversity in clinical trials.

Integrating collaborative robots in manufacturing, logistics, and agriculture: Expert perspectives on technical, safety, and human factors

This study investigates the implementation of collaborative robots across three distinct industrial sectors: vehicle assembly, warehouse logistics, and agricultural operations. Through the SESTOSENSO project, an EU-funded initiative, we examined expert perspectives on human-robot collaboration using a mixed-methods approach. Data were collected from 31 technical experts across nine European countries through an online questionnaire combining qualitative assessments of specific use cases and quantitative measures of attitudes, trust, and safety perceptions. Expert opinions across the use cases emphasized three primary concerns: technical impacts of cobot adoption, social and ethical considerations, and safety issues in design and deployment. In vehicle assembly, experts stressed the importance of effective collaboration between cobots and exoskeletons to predict and prevent collisions. For logistics, they highlighted the need for adaptable systems capable of handling various object sizes while maintaining worker safety. In agricultural settings, experts emphasized the importance of developing inherently safe applications that can operate effectively on uneven terrain while reducing workers’ physical strain. Results reveal sector-specific challenges and opportunities: vehicle assembly operations require sophisticated sensor systems for cobot-exoskeleton integration; warehouse logistics demand advanced control systems for large object handling; and agricultural applications need robust navigation systems for uneven terrain. Quantitative findings indicate generally positive attitudes toward cobots, particularly regarding societal benefits, moderate to high levels of trust in cobot capabilities and favorable safety perceptions. The study highlights three key implications: (1) the need for comprehensive safety protocols tailored to each sector’s unique requirements, (2) the importance of user-friendly interfaces and intuitive programming methods for successful cobot integration, and (3) the necessity of addressing workforce transition and skill development concerns. These findings contribute to our understanding of human-robot collaboration in industrial settings and provide practical guidance for organizations implementing collaborative robotics while considering both technological advancement and human-centered design principles.

Practices of Good Governance in Budhanilkantha Municipality: Local Government Initiatives

This article explores good governance practices and public service delivery by elected representatives and administrative staff in Budhanilkantha Municipality, Nepal. It examines local government initiatives and emphasizes key principles of good governance such as accountability, transparency, justice, and participation. This study employs a mixed-methods approach, incorporating surveys and interviews, to assess key governance indicators, including transparency, accountability, public participation, and service delivery. Likewise, a stratified sampling method was used to select 120 respondents from all wards of Budhanilkantha Municipality. The findings provide a comprehensive overview of governance practices in the Municipality, highlighting strengths and improvement areas. While awareness of governance principles is generally high, challenges such as limited public participation, delayed public service delivery, and varying levels of transparency persist. The research underscores the importance of citizen engagement and the proactive implementation of good governance mechanisms to foster trust, enhance service delivery, and support sustainable local development. The insights derived from this case study offer valuable guidance for policymakers, practitioners, and community stakeholders seeking to strengthen governance frameworks at the local level.

Strategi Peningkatan Pencapaian Kinerja Guru di Namira Islamic School

This study aims to identify strategies that can be implemented to improve teacher performance at Namira Islamic School, an Islamic-based educational institution in North Sumatra. The study employs a mixed-methods approach, combining both quantitative and qualitative methods to obtain more comprehensive results. The population consists of 104 teachers, with a sample of 51 respondents selected using purposive sampling techniques. Based on a SWOT analysis, Namira Islamic School's strengths include high teacher competence, an inclusive work culture, and solid management support. Development opportunities can be leveraged through partnerships with other institutions and the use of technology. However, weaknesses such as heavy workloads, unequal salary systems, and a lack of comprehensive performance evaluations pose significant challenges. This study recommends strategies to improve performance through more effective workload management, the development of technology-based programs, strategic partnerships, and infrastructure enhancement.

Enhancing Translation Education Through Augmented Reality (AR)

This empirical study explores the deployment and effects of Augmented Reality (AR) in translation education, emphasizing its significant impact on student engagement, motivation, and accuracy across diverse text genres. Conducted over a 16-week period, our research utilizes a mixed-methods approach to assess AR's efficacy, especially in high-precision fields such as medical and technical translations, and its utility in literary and cultural texts. Findings demonstrate marked improvements in translation speed and efficiency with AR, coupled with enhanced accuracy and greater contextual comprehension.

The Role of Transformational Leadership in Enhancing Teacher Motivation and Managing Change in Secondary Schools in Kigamboni Municipality

This study explores the role of transformational leadership in enhancing teacher motivation and managing change in secondary schools within Kigamboni Municipality, Tanzania. The research aims to investigate the relationship between transformational leadership practices and successful change implementation, assess its influence on teacher motivation and performance, and evaluate the challenges faced by transformational leaders. Employing a mixed-methods approach, data were collected from 105 respondents, including teachers and education officers, through surveys, interviews, and document reviews. The findings reveal a significant positive correlation between transformational leadership and effective change management, mediated by school culture and stakeholder support. Recommendations include leadership training programs and strategic stakeholder engagement to ensure sustainable improvements in educational outcomes.

The Role of Formative Assessment in Enhancing Biology Learning: Evidence from Secondary Schools in Dar es Salaam City Council, Tanzania

This study investigates the role of formative assessment in enhancing student learning outcomes in Biology, focusing on selected secondary schools in Dar es Salaam City Council, Tanzania. Drawing on Constructivist Theory and the self-regulated learning framework, the study employed a mixed-methods approach with a descriptive design. Data were collected from 156 participants, including teachers, students, and head teachers, using structured questionnaires, interviews, and classroom observations. Regression analysis revealed that teacher-student oral discussions were a significant predictor of student performance (β=0.67,p&lt;0.01\beta = 0.67, p &lt; 0.01β=0.67,p&lt;0.01), demonstrating their critical role in fostering conceptual understanding and critical thinking. Teacher observations and group projects also emerged as effective formative practices, enabling the identification of learning gaps and fostering collaborative problem-solving skills. Despite these benefits, the study identified systemic barriers, including large class sizes, inadequate teacher training, and resource constraints, which hinder the widespread implementation of formative assessment. These findings emphasize the need for systemic reforms, including professional development for teachers, curriculum integration of formative practices, and resource allocation to support interactive and feedback-driven learning. The study concludes that formative assessment significantly enhances Biology learning outcomes and provides actionable recommendations to address the structural challenges limiting its adoption in Tanzanian secondary schools.

EFFECTIVENESS OF POSITIVE REMINISCENCE GROUP THERAPY ON DEPRESSION, SELF-ESTEEM AND LONELINESS AMONG ELDERS

Background of the studyThe increase in the relative and absolute number of older people in our society has posed a major challenge for both individual and collective levels in the study of aging. It had appeared various contributions, at the individual level, extending the biological perspective of disease and disability with a more positive and comprehensive one, covering the social and behavioral sciences to reduce the risk of adverse events and improve the resilience of the seniors and make changes in their immediate surroundings.At the population level, aging is seen as a challenge that involves, in addition, challenges such as the double burden of disease, increased risk of disability, having to provide adequate care for the aging population, addressing inequalities, economic challenges, and having a different view of aging and old age.Methodology:The study method included quantitative research, Quasi experimental design where Pre and post-test with equivalent control group design, a population comprises all elderly people residing in the selected old age homes, 400 samples chosen for the study, and a purposive sampling methodology was utilized for the study. Three tools were used to evaluate depression, loneliness and self-esteem among elders. Before data collection, the tool was tested and certified by seven professionals. Permission was taken from concern old age homes and consent was taken from elders. Elderly were asked to rate items against depression, self-esteem and loneliness questions followed by positive reminiscencegroup therapy went on for a month and post was conducted after one month. ResultsElderly from experimental group in depression score pretest 14.45 and posttestmean 9.58 and mean difference was 3.304. The obtained t- test value was 21.576 which shows statistical significance at p&lt;0.05. in self esteem score pretest 22.6 and posttest mean 30.26 and mean difference was 7.66. The obtained t- test value was 28.247 which shows statistical significance at p&lt;0.05. in loneliness score pretest 30.73 and posttest mean 20.86 and mean difference was 9.87. The obtained t- test value was 24.717which shows statistical significance at p&lt;0.05.In experimental group, in depression in post test maximum were 110 (55) mild depression, in self esteem maximum 164 (52) moderate self esteem, in loneliness maximum were 105 (52.5) moderate loneliness. In correlation there is weak positive correlation found between depression and self-esteem, Strong Positive correlation found between depression and loneliness and similarly Very strong positive correlation found between self-esteem and Loneliness. ConclusionReminiscence group therapy is an effective therapy for reduction of depression and loneliness and elevation of self-esteem in elderly. Further research and an improvement in methodological quality, such as using qualitative and mixed methods approaches, is recommended to help establish an evidence base and provide better understanding of the effectiveness of group reminiscence therapynical ventilation period of the patients hospitalized in the ICU had a positive effect on physiological responses..

A Comparison of Delivery Modalities for Pregnancy Clinical Care Management: Telephonic Versus Video.

Given the high prevalence of maternal morbidity and mortality, it is imperative that maternal health interventions are comprehensively evaluated, so they can be scaled with fidelity. Community-based care management models focused on perinatal health care are a priority for health care systems and payers. Alternative care management delivery modalities, such as video visits, are needed to expand program reach amidst growing system-level challenges. This evaluation explores the feasibility, acceptability, and impact of video versus telephonic care in perinatal care management. Using a mixed methods approach, we implemented a quality improvement project to learn about the integration and impact of video-enabled care into the UPMC Health Plan "Pregnancy Clinical Support" (PCS) care management delivery model. Focus groups were conducted with PCS care managers (CMs) to explore their perspectives on video-visit integration. Video-only members were propensity scores matched to telephonic-only members; statistical comparisons were conducted to assess between-group differences in engagement. PCS CMs discussed ways to structure effective video-visit onboarding, strengths, and drawbacks of video-enabled care, workflow integration challenges, and best practices for introducing video visits to members. Video-only members had significantly (P < 0.0001) more clinical sessions (2.56 ± 1.57 vs 2.05 ± 1.52) and longer case duration measured in calendar days (209 ± 80 vs 169 ± 94) during the 17-month project period than telephonic-only members. Evidence generated provides direct guidance on successfully integrating video visits into workflows of community-based CMs while improving engagement in care across diverse member populations.

Development of a holistic framework for sustainability measurement: a case study of the tea sector

Managing organisational sustainability is complex, with multiple aspects including decarbonisation, sustainable finance, management of material flows and waste, to reduce harmful impacts and integrate sustainable approaches into business strategy. To improve sustainability, organisations must measure and manage the impacts of operations on the environment and society. This empirical study featuring case studies in the UK and Sri Lanka, examines the economic, environmental and social activities of company operations in the tea sector to evaluate and compare sustainability performance. The Triple Bottom Line (TBL) approach is expanded through a holistic sustainability framework proposed in this study, to support organisational sustainability measurement. We propose a ‘7E’ sustainability model that measures activities across seven operational areas of the organisation to create an overall sustainability score for benchmarking that aids sustainability improvements with an interconnected approach. The model supports organisations to identify savings, explore greener materials and energy choices through detailed insights and allows for ranking and comparison of companies using a sustainability index. A mixed methods approach is used to provide an analysis that offers granularity and comparability for sustainability strategy. Best practices from case studies, insights arising from the analysis of company surveys, interviews and employee surveys provide useful information on sustainability performance and decarbonisation progress. This research demonstrates the use of the 7E model as a practical tool for managers and organisations to improve sustainability management.

Aging in Place in a Depopulated, Mountainous Area: The Role of Hometown-Visiting Family Members in Shimogo, Japan

In this study, we examined the factors that contribute to successful aging in place in the town of Shimogo, a depopulated mountainous area in Japan, focusing on the interplay between household support types, the performance of daily activities, and the involvement of geographically dispersed family members. A mixed-methods approach was used, combining survey data with multiple correspondence analysis and cluster analysis. The resident household findings reveal significant differences in community engagement and reliance on community support across three household support types: self-help, mutual aid, and combined support. The self-help households demonstrated high self-sufficiency and community participation, while the mutual-aid and combined-support households exhibited greater reliance on family and community resources. An analysis of the activities of out-migrated relatives uncovered diverse engagement profiles, motivated by both providing practical support and strengthening family bonds. The visit frequencies and activity types of the relatives were significantly influenced by both their own characteristics and the levels of self-reliance and community support needs of the resident households. Four distinct relative engagement clusters emerged, reflecting varying levels of support, community involvement, and visit frequency. Our findings underscore the crucial role of both informal (family) and formal (community) support networks in facilitating successful aging in place in rural depopulated areas. Policy implications include strategies supporting both self-reliance and the diverse mechanisms of family- and community-based support to ensure the sustainability of life in these challenging environments.

Learning Online vs. Learning in Person: A Mixed-Methods Approach to Understanding How Student Preferences and Perceptions have Evolved Since the Pandemic

Undergraduate enrollment in online courses has been trending upward over the past decade, despite declining enrollment overall. With the onset of COVID-19 during the Spring 2020 semester, more undergraduates were suddenly thrust into online courses. Although learning outcomes for face-to-face and online courses may not differ, some students may not be as efficacious or self-regulated in online contexts and thus, prefer to take classes face-to-face when possible. We aimed to understand undergraduates’ preferred course modality (online, face-to-face) and explored how those preferences may have changed since the COVID-19 pandemic. We also sought to determine whether students’ online self-efficacy and self-regulation skills varied by their preferred modality. Undergraduates (N = 1034) enrolled in various classes between 2019-2023 completed an online survey. Taking a convergent mixed-methods approach, we analyzed qualitative data related to reasons for their online or face-to-face preferences and quantitative data related to their self-efficacy and self-regulation for online learning. Results indicate student preferences have shifted from a clear preference for in-person classes to more equal distribution across modalities, with reasons related to perceived better support for learning, self-regulation, and need for human interaction (face-to-face) versus flexibility (online). Students’ self-regulation and self-efficacy for online learning did not consistently differ across preferred modality. Instructors can use these findings to inform course design, considering how they might incorporate such benefits regardless of their course modality. Institutions might also consider how to balance students’ need for flexibility but preference for face-to-face courses by implementing more hybrid options and providing various financial supports.