Phenomenological Research Approach Research Articles

Strategies employed by EFL teachers to cope with language learners' classroom anxiety

AbstractLanguage classroom anxiety is a significant concern for applied linguists and English language teachers. As an affective variable, foreign language anxiety has the potential to harm learners' language learning and performance. While the impact of language anxiety on the academic achievement of learners of English as a foreign language (EFL) has been extensively studied, little research has investigated the coping strategies of teachers to address learners' anxiety. This study aimed to explore such EFL teacher strategies in online English language classes, using a qualitative phenomenological research approach. The study involved in‐depth interviews with 20 teachers selected through theoretical sampling. The researchers used thematic analysis to analyze the interview data. The results revealed three factors that emerged from 24 identified coping strategies: creating a safe environment for EFL learners, utilizing learners' first language (L1), and engaging learners in classroom activities. These findings have theoretical and practical significance for teachers, educators, and administrators.

More than words: PhD students and critical reading

Purpose Many PhD students have strong reading comprehension, but some struggle with how to read critically. The purpose of this study is to understand what reading looks like for PhD students, what they are doing when they read scholarly texts and how they bring these texts to life in meaningful ways. Design/methodology/approach The authors conducted a self-study using a phenomenological research approach. Five PhD students collected data on their academic reading for three weeks, including the references, purpose for reading, and what they did as part of the reading process. Second, students analyzed their reading processes according to Paul and Elder’s (2006) intellectual standards. Third, students participated in two semi-structured discussions about the standards in relation to doctoral reading. Findings Reading is inseparable from thinking, with Paul and Elder’s (2006) intellectual standards (e.g. clarity, relevance, logic and fairness) playing an essential role in the academic reading process. Alongside these cognitive aspects of reading, the affective domain also contributes to the reading process. Originality/value This study is important because being able to read scholarly work is crucial for completing doctoral programs, conducting research, and publishing. We suggest that just as we need to teach writing, we need to acknowledge that many doctoral students need guidance to read scholarly texts, they need to be educated on the intellectual standards, and supervisors must rest their assumptions about doctoral reading and explicitly teach these processes.

The Lived Experiences of Paternal Parents as Primary Caregivers in Raising Children with Developmental Disabilities

This study delves into the lived experiences of paternal parents raising children with developmental disabilities within the City of Cabuyao Laguna. It aims to comprehend their unique challenges, explore how the distress of raising a child with developmental disabilities is manifested in them, and identify their coping strategies. Eight (8) paternal parents, acting as primary caregivers for children with Autism, Down syndrome, and Intellectual disability who were also reported to experience significant stress, were interviewed. The study used a Parental Stress Scale and interviews to collect data. By using a phenomenological research approach, three main themes emerged through thematic analysis: (1) Navigating Parenting Challenges and Sacrifices; under this theme are the subthemes: (1.1) lifestyles, (1.2) financial issues, and (1.3) social stigma. (2) Holistic Well-being Under Stress, its subthemes are (2.1) physical manifestation, (2.2) emotional impact, and (2.3) impact on the body. (3) Balancing Approach to Personal Development and Well-being, under this main theme are these subthemes: (3.1) coping and fostering resilience, (3.2) positive mindset in maintaining children’s growth and well-being, (3.3) engaging diverse activities. The study recommends a Stress Management Program for Paternal Parents of Children with Developmental Disabilities, which aims to support paternal parents in raising children with developmental disabilities by providing them with essential stress management tools and fostering a supportive community. Throughout the 5-week program, participants will engage in interactive sessions focused on understanding stress, exploring coping strategies, strengthening physical health, enhancing parent-child interactions, building support networks, and accessing resources for ongoing support.

Longitudinal qualitative study on the psychological experiences of COVID-19 patients based on timing it right framework

Timing it right framework was used as a framework to explore the illness experiences of patients infected with COVID-19 and to analyze the patients' perceptions of the disease and their true inner feelings to provide a reference for the control of infectious diseases. This research adopted a phenomenological research approach to develop a longitudinal qualitative study. A purposive sampling method was used to select participants and 37 patients were recruited. Depending on the principle that participants should have maximum variation and sampling should cease when interviews content saturation is achieved, 16 COVID-19 patients in an isolation ward in Ningbo City, Zhejiang Province were finally included. Data were collected using semi-structured interviews, and the content of the interviews was analyzed by Colaizzi’s 7-step method. The themes of COVID-19 patients’ experiences at various phase were presented as follows: multiple emotions intertwined at the time of diagnosis (anxiety, stressful panic, facing the diagnosis calmly), multiple pressures during the hospitalization period (concerns about the disease, unable to adapt to the ward environment, worrying about future hardship), growth of positive illness experience during the isolation and observation period (sublimated outlook on life, affirmation of the government's anti-epidemic policy, more concerned about their own health), adjustment after returning to society (stigma, loss of previous living environment, problems caused by nucleic acid testing), and adaptation to social life (return to normal life, avoidance of illness experience, post-covid-19 syndrome). The illness experience of COVID-19 patients changed dynamically with time, but a sense of shame and uncertainty about recovery was present throughout the process. Interventions should be developed according to the needs of the patients at different times to inform subsequent optimization of care and management of infectious diseases.

Ethnographic Study on Marriage Practices of Selected Groups in Socorro Surigao Del Norte, Philippines

This study aimed to determine and explore the marriage practices of the selected groups in Socorro, Surigao del Norte. The researcher believed that incorporating these ethnographic marriage practices on values education and ethics would help to understand the sociological, anthropological, and cultural concept of marriage and thus improve the family and society. This study used the Descriptive Phenomenological Research Approach using the Husserl method, as illustrated by Groenewald (2004), with transcribed semi-structured in-depth one-on-one interviews to explore the marriage practices of the selected group in Socorro, Surigao del Norte. A purposive sampling technique was used to find the eight (8) selected identified participants who are leaders, elders, and core members of the tribal group of Iglesia sa Socorro. Thematic analysis was used to determine the themes of the study. Based on the emerging themes, tribal migration and fanatic ideology were the primary historical background of the group's marriage practices. Findings revealed that the marriage practices of the selected groups of Socorro are based upon six emerging themes: customs, beliefs, bylaws, prohibitions, abuses, and trends.Marriage practices and customs are the ceremonial observance and procedures of the group. Beliefs are the faith and convictions of the tribes. Marriage practices, according to bylaws, are the rules and regulations. Prohibitions on marriage practices are the forbidden actions and rules on marriage practices. Abuses of marriage practices are the misuse, exploitation, and perversion of the customs. At the same time, the trending practices on marriage pertain to the new craze or mania observed or confirmed from outside the tribal norms in these current times. Marriage practices based on customs, beliefs, bylaws, and prohibitions are indigenous in traditions. In contrast, abuses of marriage practices and trending marriage practices are products of extremist viewpoints and conformation to outside traditions. They may result in dire consequences, including the destruction of marriage and, thus, the family.

Experiences of Parental Caregivers of Adults with Autism in Navigating the World of Employment.

Caregiving often presents challenges for parents, particularly for parents of loved ones with disabilities or health challenges, who need and/or want to be employed. This study describes the employment experiences of aging parents as they continue to balance engagement in the paid workforce with the ongoing provision of care for their adult children with autism spectrum disorder (ASD). The purpose of this study was to examine the lived experiences of parents of adult children with ASD in the context of balancing career and caregiving responsibilities. The current study uses a qualitative phenomenological research approach to describe the lived experiences of 51 parents who were caring for an adult child with ASD. The parents participated in telephone interviews to obtain information about their career experiences while providing care and support to their adult children with ASD. Three caregiving themes emerged including: (a) difficulty balancing caregiving with work responsibilities, (b) reasons for working, not working, or working intermittently, and (c) work as an escape or wanting to work more. As more individuals with ASD reach adulthood, often relying to varying extents on their families for daily support, parental employment will continue to be impacted as they juggle their career with caregiving responsibilities. Economically, one or more family members typically need to work to sustain the family's needs and employment support should be considered. As a society, families often need to make choices even with an adult child with ASD of who will work, how, and when.

Effectiveness of Environmental Leadership Indicators Based on Local Wisdom in Development Horticultural Agriculture in Ngada - Indonesia

This research delves into the pivotal role of farmer groups in driving the development of horticultural agriculture in Ngada Regency, Flores, Indonesia, under the leadership of their respective group chairmen who adopt an environmental leadership approach rooted in local wisdom, recognizing its significance in fostering effective agricultural development. Employing an interpretive phenomenological qualitative research approach, the study unravels the intricate dynamics of environmental leadership by delving into the lived experiences and perceptions of participants. Data collection involves diverse methods including observations, in-depth interviews, and focus group discussions (FGD) within horticultural farmer groups, highlighting nuances of their organizational structure and practices. Findings elucidate a spectrum of indicators emblematic of effective environmental leadership within the context of agricultural development, such as possessing an ecological vision, adeptness in motivating others, exemplifying leadership through personal conduct, effective communication skills, and a steadfast commitment to goal attainment, underscoring the interconnectedness between local wisdom, ecological stewardship, and leadership efficacy.

Tricycle Fare Price in The Municipality of Concepcion: A Commuters’ Perspective

Objectives: The objective of this study is to evaluate the tricycle fare price in the Municipality of Concepcion from the perspective of commuters. Additionally, the study aims to assess the demographic profile of respondents in terms of age, gender, and socioeconomic status, examine passengers' experiences with tricycle fares, identify problems encountered by passengers regarding tricycle fares, propose recommendations to address prevailing issues, and explore the implications of the study for public administration. Methods: This study employs a phenomenological qualitative research approach, utilizing discussions and narrative discourses of respondents to explore their experiences with tricycle fares. The research focuses on gathering insights into commuters' perspectives on fare pricing and their encounters with fare-related issues. Results: The study reveals that tricycle fare pricing in the Municipality of Concepcion exhibits irregularities, with fares often being more expensive than in previous years. Passengers report dissatisfaction with fare inconsistencies and express concerns about the affordability of tricycle transportation. Based on the experiences shared by respondents, it is concluded that implementing a standard fare matrix is necessary to benefit both commuters and drivers. Conclusion: In conclusion, this study highlights the need for a standardized fare structure for tricycle transportation in the Municipality of Concepcion. By addressing fare irregularities and ensuring fare affordability, public transportation services can better serve the needs of commuters. The findings of this study have implications for public administration, emphasizing the importance of regulatory measures to improve transportation accessibility and affordability for the local community.

Filling in the gaps: a service ecosystem perspective on purchase groups as interstitial markets

PurposeGiven the continuing need to study service marketing adaptations that emerged in the wake of Covid-19, this paper aims to look at the formation and evolution of purchase groups (PGs) that arose in Indian gated communities during the pandemic and have continued functioning in the post-pandemic marketplace. Not only did these groups act as much-needed interstitial markets during a time of significant external disruption, but they also served as sites of value co-creation, with consumers collaborating with each other and with service providers.Design/methodology/approachUsing a phenomenological research approach, the authors conducted 22 in-depth interviews with Indian consumers and small service providers to gather accounts of how PGs started and evolved with time. Subsequent data coding and analyses are conducted with NVivo 12.FindingsUsing the service ecosystem perspective, the authors illustrate seven distinct themes that capture the nuances of the formation and evolution of PGs. These consist of entrepreneurality, collectivity, and fluidity at the service ecosystem level, hybridity and transactionality at the servicescape level, and mutuality and permeability at the service encounter level.Originality/valueThis study provides an empirical and theoretically grounded account of a long-term service marketing adaptation that has persisted in the post-pandemic marketplace. This helps us address recent calls for such research while also adding to the work on value co-creation in collective consumption contexts and extant discourse on service ecosystems.

The Unique Professional Journey of Female High School Principals in Utah

The purpose of this study was to increase awareness of the unique professional journey of female high school principals in Utah and to potentially adjust the male-gendered lens through which such leadership positions have traditionally been viewed. A narrative, phenomenological qualitative research approach was used to gather and analyze the career journeys of six female high school principals in Utah. Our findings indicated that female high school principals in Utah have experienced barriers similar to those identified in the relevant literature. Mentored support and examples of inclusive leadership practices assisted these women in moving through and beyond these barriers. Themes included expectations for female high school principals to act more like moms, failure to be recognized as the principal, perceptions of female leadership as unnatural, a woman’s voice not being heard, coaching as an effective career move for men, men freely talking down to women, not considering women for advancement, career-limiting stereotypes, women having to work harder, and the impact of mentors. We suggest that the simple sharing of rich narratives like those in this paper can invite administrators and policy makers to develop an awareness of the unique experiences of female high school principals and facilitate a reconceptualization of the high school principalship both in terms of theory as well as policy.

Management of Religious Activities at Thoyyibah Mosque, Banyuanyar

This research aims to determine and describe the management of religious activities, along with the supporting and inhibiting factors of religious activities carried out at the Thoyyibah Banyuanyar Mosque. This research is qualitative, using a phenomenological research approach. The data sources in this research use primary and secondary data sources. The primary data sources referred to are the chairman of the takmir and the missionary of the Thoyyibah Mosque, while the secondary data sources are data in the form of documents. The data analysis technique in this research uses the analysis model according to Miles and Huberman, namely data collection, data reduction, data presentation, and drawing conclusions. The validity of the data in this research uses two types of triangulation, namely source triangulation and technique triangulation. The results of this research show that there are various kinds of religious activities carried out at the Thoyyibah Mosque, including routine recitations and community markets, while strengthening its activities by carrying out management functions including planning, organising, implementing, and supervising. The supporting factors for managing religious activities include funding sources, the strategic location of the mosque, community enthusiasm, and cooperation with mosque administrators. The inhibiting factors are the mosque's parking space, which is not spacious enough, and mosque youth, who do not contribute enough to participate in activities.

Latina mothers in participatory action research: Insights and reflections of a mathematics co-design session tool

Co-design methods offer a powerful collaborative approach that allows for integrating various participants’ needs and expectations in the design process. However, current co-design tools often reflect a Eurocentric bias, limiting their utility in diverse settings. This article explores co-design methodologies and their application in a study with Spanish-speaking Latina mothers living in Southern California. I focus on co-design tools and processes, integrating culturally sustaining methods that respect and value the lived experiences of Latina mothers. Drawing from a qualitative phenomenological research approach and using in-depth interviews, the study underscores the mothers’ ways of knowing, highlighting personal math experiences and traditions in co-design sessions where the mothers sought to develop a math activity for their children. The article contributes to the literature on co-design methodologies to include culturally inclusive research tools and practices, emphasizing a co-design process that works “with” rather than “for” nondominant social groups.

Unveiling challenges with e-learning faced by academic staff at a University of Technology after COVID-19 pandemic in South Africa

The global shift from traditional face-to-face learning to e-learning, spurred by the COVID-19 pandemic, has significantly transformed higher education (HE) landscapes. Many institutions in developing countries, unprepared for this shift, now find e-learning integral to the educational process. This study explores challenges faced by academic staff at a South African University of Technology (UoT) post-COVID-19. Utilising a phenomenological qualitative research approach, insights were gathered from academic staff through semi-structured interviews. Key challenges identified include insufficient infrastructure, limited training, technological proficiency gaps, student engagement issues, and concerns about academic dishonesty. Practical recommendations encompass infrastructure enhancement, digital training, blended learning strategies, improved student engagement, and measures to ensure academic integrity. These adaptable suggestions provide insights for institutions seeking to enhance e-learning environments, contributing to improved teaching and learning (T&L) outcomes in an evolving educational landscape. It was further recommended that future studies can explore long-term intervention effects, conduct comparative institution studies, and delve into innovative pedagogical approaches.

Akad Musaqah pada Praktik Matteseng dalam Meningkatkan Kesejahteraan Masyarakat di Kecamatan Pitumpanua Kabupaten Wajo

The practice of matteseng is a form of work carried out by the community in Pitumpanua sub-district, Wajo Regency, which is established between land owners and managers. It is necessary to study whether the practice of matteseng by implementing musaqah contracts can improve community welfare. The method used in this study is qualitative method using phenomenological research approach. The data sources used are primary data (direct information) and secondary data (books, journals and related articles). The data is obtained through interviews, documentation, and observation. The results showed that the application of musaqah contract in matteseng practice has not been maximized enough and the improvement of community welfare when viewed the fulfillment of the 5 aspects of Sharia maqashid has not been fully fulfilled.

Experiences of Adult Educators in Selecting Appropriate Teaching Methods in Engineering Courses at TVET Colleges in Mpumalanga Province, South Africa

ABSTRACT This study’s sought to identify and fix problems with teaching strategies used in engineering courses at a TVET college in South Africa’s Mpumalanga area. A Phenomenological, explorative, and descriptive research approach was used to capture the experiences of educators in choosing effective teaching approaches. Convenience sampling was employed to select 10 educators who participated in two Focus Group Discussions in an endeavor to collect qualitative data. These discussions were conducted through the lenses of Albert Bandura’s social learning theory. Two audio recorders were used to capture the debates, thereafter verbatim transcribed. A computerized software called NVivo was used to do content analysis and theme analysis on the gathered data into manageable themes and sub-themes. Subsequently, the findings revealed the following five themes: preferred teaching methods, the effectiveness of teaching methods, the relationship between teaching methods and pass rate, assessing teaching and learning outcomes, and factors influencing adult learners’ performance: however, by the scope of this article only three were discussed in the forthcoming paragraphs. These themes demonstrated that some engineering educators struggle to choose the best teaching strategies which meet industrial skills requirement. Thus, the authors advise industry and TVET colleges to work together so that educators can teach adults the essential engineering skills.

Internal and External Factors Competitiveness of Sinia. Co Coffee Shop in Lampung Province

This research aims to analyze internal and external factors that influence the competitiveness of Coffee at Sinia. Co. This research was conducted in Bandar Lampung. This location was chosen deliberately. The research period will be carried out from April to September 2023. In this research, informants were determined using purposive sampling with the judgment sampling category to answer problems related to internal and external factors. Respondents consisted of three people from the Sinia.Co Coffee Shop business and four academics in the agricultural socio-economic field whose research focus was related to competitiveness and coffee. Using a qualitative phenomenological research approach, this investigation seeks to explore a holistic view rather than dissect the individual components that comprise the whole. Sinia.Co Coffee Shop has built a strong presence in the coffee industry by leveraging these internal strengths. Affordable prices, distinctive taste, supporting facilities, and easy accessibility, the weaknesses consist of a limited menu, limited promotions, and brands that are not yet well known. In contrast, for external factors, the opportunities consist of the coffee-drinking lifestyle and developments in information technology, while The threats it faces consist of competitors and fluctuations in raw material prices.

Ethical dilemmas: Experiences of secondary school teachers in Addis Ababa city, Ethiopia

Being a teacher involves multi-layered ethical challenges and decisions. The purpose of this research was to explore the ethical dilemmas faced by secondary school teachers in Addis Ababa, Ethiopia. In addition, the study aimed to explore the ways and approaches to resolving ethical dilemmas. A phenomenological qualitative research approach served as the guiding methodology. Eight participants were involved in the semi-structured in-depth interviews. Data were analyzed by exploring potential themes and sub-themes using thematic analysis. The major ethical dilemmas that emerged from the data include (a) not being governed by schools’ rules and regulations (disrespect and dis-rule), (b) not being honest in the position they have, (c) lack of acceptance and recognition among the school community, and (d) being indecisive due to deep personal challenges of students and political interference. The major approaches utilized in addressing ethical challenges were (a) respecting the code of conduct of students’ discipline, (b) open discussion and confrontation, (c) understanding causal factors, and (d) being ethical. The need for professional development plans and training based on guiding books have been suggested as means of action in preparing secondary school teachers to deal with ethical challenges and to help them be good at decision-making.

School leadership training transfer in Ghana: Views of successful basic school leaders

Various professional development activities including training workshops are organised annually for school leaders. However, there have been questions as to whether participants in training workshops do necessarily implement lessons learnt from such workshops in their schools. This study reports lessons from school leaders who were adjudged to have been successful in implementing lessons from a British Council Connecting Classrooms training workshops for school leaders in Ghana. Adopting a qualitative phenomenological case study research approach using interviews, the study explored what school leaders perceived to be the factors that contributed to their successful implementation of lessons from the training workshops. The study found that when the focus of the workshop met participants needs, engagement of workshop participants in action planning, attending the workshop together with teachers and School Improvement Support Officers, follow-up visits by workshop trainers and organisers, creating of a platform for workshop participants to share experiences, and the organisation of a post-workshop reflective experience and successful stories sharing conference got them to commit to implementing lessons from the workshops. It is therefore recommended that organisers of training workshops for school leaders should incorporate these activities in their organisation of training workshop to achieve the intended impact.

FIGHTING FOR THEIR PLACE IN BRAVE SPACES: UNCOVERING THE TRAVAILS OF THE CLOSETED POLICE OFFICERS

<p>In law enforcement and correctional agencies, sexual orientation and gender identity-based harassment and employment discrimination remained persistent until today. Moreover, there is stereotyping involved in the issue of being closeted in the law enforcement agency. This study aims to provide a comprehensive understanding of the experiences, challenges, and struggles faced by closeted officers in law enforcement organizations. The study’s participants are closeted police officers, who were chosen through snowball sampling, while data were collected via interview guide questionnaires. The study employs a qualitative phenomenological research approach, focusing on what people experience concerning certain significant life events and how they perceive those occurring. Thematic analysis was employed as the chosen qualitative data analysis approach. The study revealed that closeted gay police officers needed to adjust and adapt themselves to the workplace dynamics to fit in while balancing their values to stay true to themselves. The participants also experienced discrimination, stereotypes, and bullying. The significance of this study is to understand better the experiences, challenges, and struggles of closeted police officers; specifically, to explore their lived experiences in law enforcement organizations, document the difficulties the respondents have faced and the coping techniques they used to overcome the significant challenges in their professions and document how the closeted police officers project themselves during police operations.</p><p> </p><p><strong>JEL: </strong>J15, J71, J78, Z13<strong></strong></p><p> </p><p><strong> Article visualizations:</strong></p><p><img src="/-counters-/soc/0758/a.php" alt="Hit counter" /></p>

Impact of hospital architecture on the birthing experience: a phenomenological study with mothers-to-be who are design experts

The birthplace has a crucial role in shaping the childbirth experience and mothers' satisfaction levels. This study aimed to identify the experiences and perceptions that may have an impact in the long-term on mothers' birthing experience, considering hospital design features in the birthing environment until discharge. Inductive thematic analysis of twenty-five hospital labor testimonies employing a phenomenological research approach and utilizing a biographical method. Participants were women with a professional background in architecture, landscape architecture, engineering, or interior design. The results are organized into four themes and seven subthemes. The first theme is "First sight and long term impression" which is subdivided into the subthemes "Depersonalized itinerary in entrances and corridors" and "Instinctive search for connection with nature". The second theme deals with "Accompaniment and tucking in during the birthing process", subdivided into "Hotel-like: space for movement and personalized adaptation" and "Helplessness, cold and uncertainty: spaces to be against one's will". The third theme is "Damage in collateral rooms", which includes "The integration of toilets in the birthing process", "Operating rooms unchangeable in the face of cesarean delivery" and "Neonatal units that do not integrate families". Finally, the fourth theme includes "Improvement proposals for new designs". This study contributes to the existing literature by deepening the understanding of the design features identified in hospitals in recent studies. Further research incorporating the experiences of women in the birthing process is needed to facilitate evidence-based design policies.