Positive Social Outcomes Research Articles

Examining teacher candidates’ self-determined motivation to develop self-regulated learning promoting practices

The development of self-regulated learning leads to positive academic, social, and emotional outcomes for learners. For many educators, teaching towards self-regulated learning is challenging. This study investigated contextual and motivational features within teacher education programs that support or hinder teacher candidates' motivation to development self-regulated learning practices. Zimmerman's model of self-regulated learning (2008), along with Perry, Hutchinson, and Thauberger’s (2008) descriptions of self-regulated learning practices and Ryan and Deci's (2017) self-determination theory informed this process. Codes and categories drawn from interviews, documents, and in-class observations and reported upon in previously published work was analyzed to identify themes that are supportive or constraining of teacher candidates' motivation to develop practices that foster self-regulated learning in the classroom. Results reveal five themes: (a) opportunities for teacher candidates to see their school mentors' formation of classroom participation structures, (b) the provision of freedom for teacher candidates to experiment with practices along with in-situ scaffold support, (c) adequate support for teacher candidates to integrate self-regulated learning content into their practice, (d) teacher candidates' perceptions of alignment across their learning experiences, and (e) adequate time and support for teacher candidates to establish relationships in their practicum settings.

Hot at the top: The influence of self-rated attractiveness on self-perceived status

Beautism reflects the phenomenon of a widespread positivity bias that physically attractive people enjoy. This bias results in more attractive people receiving more positive social judgments, interactions, and economic outcomes. However, the literature has largely focused on third-party judgments of physical attractiveness, neglecting examinations of how self-rated attractiveness may predict self-evaluations. We sought to address this gap by examining how self-rated attractiveness predicts self-inferred social status, which is related to a myriad of psychosocial outcomes. Across one pilot test, one cross-sectional study, and a between-subjects experiment, we find converging evidence for the notion that self-rated physical attractiveness positively predicts higher self-inferred status. We discuss how this finding may have implications for status-navigating strategies in light of the malleability of self-rated attractiveness in a variety of social and occupational contexts.

Designing a Skill-Based Education Model in Schools Based on the Real Needs of Society Using Grounded Theory

Objective: This study aims to design an appropriate model in the field of skill-based education based on the real needs of society using grounded theory. Methods and Materials: The method of this research is grounded theory with a qualitative approach. Data were analyzed using MaxQDA software. The sampling method was purposive, reaching saturation after conducting 10 interviews with professors and experts in the fields of educational management and skill-based education. Findings: The research results showed that the central phenomenon of skill-based education consists of three components: facilitating personal and social life; value-creating and wealth-generating skills; and human-developing skills. The causal conditions of the research that lead to the phenomenon of the skill-based education model in schools based on the real needs of society were categorized into four groups: pressures of the new age for change; societal needs pressure; poor performance of the non-skill-based educational system compared to the skill-based system; and cultural beliefs of society. Contextual conditions consisted of five main components: policy-making for modern educational systems; enhancing skill-based human resources; providing physical facilities and infrastructure; suitable environment for skill-based education completers; and cultural beliefs of society and families. Conclusion: Appropriate strategies for achieving skill-based education based on the real needs of society were categorized into six groups: correcting government's wrong processes and comprehensive government support; comprehensive culture-building at all levels of society; strengthening and enriching skill-based human resources at the societal level; changing procedures and processes in education; fundamental change in educational policies; and attracting support from effective supplements in the area. The outcomes of implementing these strategies were categorized into four components: economic outcomes and benefits; positive social and cultural outcomes; positive personal outcomes; and educational outcomes.

Digital Psychosocial Follow-up for Childhood Critical Illness Survivors: A Qualitative Interview Study on Health Professionals' Perspectives.

Digital solutions have been reported to provide positive psychological and social outcomes to childhood critical illness survivors, a group with an increased risk for long-term adverse psychosocial effects. To explore health professionals' perspectives on the potential of digital psychosocial follow-up for childhood critical illness survivors. Using a qualitative approach, expert interviews with six health professionals working at a Norwegian hospital were conducted. Transcribed interviews were analyzed using Braun and Clarke's six-phase thematic analysis framework. Concurrent data collection and analysis using inductive coding was also employed, and a model of codes was constructed. The interview yielded thirteen unique codes regarding the health professionals' perspectives on the potential for digital psychosocial follow-up for childhood critical illness survivors, organized in a model comprising the two main themes: Affecting Factors and Digital Usage. Demographic factors (the child's medical condition, age, gender, and residence) and environmental factors (the child's family and health professionals) tended to affect the current psychosocial follow-up. Hospital limitations concerning a lack of digital solutions, worse relationship building with video communication, and children's already high screen time reflected the current state of digital usage. However, ongoing digitalization, existing successful digital solutions, children's good digital skills, and an ongoing process of creating an artifact are also seen as opportunities for digital usage in future psychosocial follow-up for childhood critical illness survivors. Researchers can build further on these findings to investigate the potential of digital psychosocial follow-up for childhood critical illness survivors, and clinicians can use it as a starting point for improving psychosocial follow-up.

A Preliminary Assessment of Short-Term Social and Substance Use-Related Outcomes Among Clients of Integrated Safer Opioid Supply Pilot Programs in Toronto, Canada

AbstractCanada is experiencing an ongoing overdose crisis, driven by a toxic unregulated drug supply. Integrated safer supply pilot programs offer pharmaceutical alternatives, coupled with comprehensive support services, to individuals using unregulated drug supply who are at high risk of overdose. We collected data from December 2020 to January 2023 on clients receiving safer opioid supply from five frontline service providers in Toronto, Canada, using interviewer-administered questionnaires. We assessed the incidence rate ratio of self-reported overdose comparing pre- and post-enrolment in the programs and examined changes in the prevalence of social and substance use outcomes post-enrolment. Forty-one participants were recruited, of whom 26 were followed up for a median of eight months (interquartile range, 5.0–11.7). The incidence rate ratio of overdose comparing post-enrolment to pre-enrolment was 0.20 (95% confidence interval, 0.09–0.43). Participants reported several positive social and substance use outcomes at follow-up, including a reduction in reliance on the unregulated supply and reduced criminal activity. Future implementation of integrated safer opioid supply pilot programs with larger sample sizes and rigorous epidemiological designs could help further illustrate the potential impacts of these programs in reducing overdose rates in Canada.

Prioritizing IoT-driven Sustainability Initiatives in Retail Chains: Exploring Case Studies and Industry Insights

INTRODUCTION: Prioritizing sustainability initiatives is crucial for retail chains as they integrate Internet of Things (IoT) technologies to drive environmental responsibility. Retail chains have responsibility to establish environmental stewardship when they globally expand in terms of operations, supply chain and offerings. By prioritizing the initiatives retail chains can reduce impacts on environment, resource waster and mitigate risks related to that with the help of concepts like IoT.
 OBJECTIVES: This paper aims to explore how IoT can aid in sustainable practices, mitigate risks, and enhance efficiency while addressing challenges, ultimately providing insights for retail chains to prioritize sustainability in the IoT context.
 METHODS: The research employs a qualitative approach, focusing on in-depth case studies and analysis of industry reports and literature to explore IoT-driven sustainability initiatives in retail chains. It includes a diverse sample of retail chains, such as supermarkets and fashion retail, selected based on data availability related to their use of IoT for sustainability. The study involves descriptive analysis to present an overview of these initiatives and competitive analysis to identify sustainability leaders and areas for improvement. However, limitations include potential data availability issues and reliance on publicly available sources, with findings reflecting data up to the 2018-2021 timeframe.
 RESULTS: The results highlight significant sustainability benefits achieved through IoT integration in various retail chain types. Case studies, such as Sainsbury's and Coca-Cola, demonstrate waste reduction and sustainable practices. Examples from Nordstrom and 7-Eleven showcase energy efficiency improvements. The versatility of IoT technologies across supermarkets, department stores, and convenience stores emphasizes the transformative power of IoT in driving sustainability in the retail industry. The study proposes a prioritization approach, considering key metrics and leveraging frameworks like the Triple Bottom Line, Life Cycle Sustainability Assessment, and Sustainability Framework for effective decision-making and goal alignment in IoT-driven sustainability initiatives.
 CONCLUSION: In conclusion, this paper highlights the substantial potential of prioritizing IoT-driven sustainability initiatives in retail chains for positive environmental, social, and economic outcomes. Through case studies, the diverse applications of IoT, such as food waste reduction and energy-efficient lighting, demonstrate tangible benefits. The trend towards sustainable sourcing and materials is evident across various retail chain types. The discussion underscores the need for a systematic approach, utilizing frameworks like the Triple Bottom Line, to align with strategic objectives and optimize resources.

Promoting social and emotional learning in early childhood through intergenerational programming: a systematic review

ABSTRACT Past research has found that intergenerational programmes can benefit the social and emotional development of participants in the early years. This paper presents a systematic review of studies that address the social and emotional outcomes of young children (aged between 1 and 6 years) who participate in intergenerational programmes. Objective The aim of the present systematic review was to (1) provide an update on the state of literature in this area and, (2) gain insight into the ways that intergenerational programming can contribute to the development of social and emotional competencies in early childhood. Method From a systematic search of four databases, 13 articles were selected for review. Results Findings indicate intergenerational programmes can provide opportunities for children to develop several social and emotional competencies, including self-management, social awareness, relationship skills, and responsible decision making. Conclusion This review identified a body of research which indicates intergenerational programmes can lead to positive social and emotional outcomes for young children. Suggestions for future research including more robust study designs are considered for how intergenerational programmes can be incorporated into mainstream early childhood education, which has the potential to lead to lasting benefits for children, older adults, and the wider community.

Retained EU Law and Implications for Pregnant Workers: A Therapeutic Jurisprudence Perspective

Using the lenses and language of therapeutic jurisprudence, this paper will argue that the rights of pregnant workers are vulnerable in a post-Brexit climate. Whilst the sunset clause from the Retained EU Law Bill, which would have caused all retained EU law to automatically expire at the end of 2023 unless expressly stated otherwise by Ministers, was lifted, the original drafts of the Bill made clear the government’s lack of respect for and interest in protecting workers’ rights (amongst others). Furthermore, despite the abandonment of the sunset, the now legislated Retained EU Law (Revocation and Reform) Act 2023, aiming to deal with all laws that were once of European origin, still gives Ministers wide powers with limited input from Parliament to change EU derived legislation and replace with UK provision. Using an example from employment law, specifically, pregnant workers, this paper will show that the Act is a therapeutic jurisprudence unfriendly bottle as it has the potential to violate positive physical, social, and psychological outcomes. Recognising that these laws are currently vulnerable, we urge the government to keep intact (and potentially enhance) the laws protecting pregnant workers.

The Influence of Marketing Strategy and Port Performance on Enhancing The Competitiveness of Maritime Economy at The Patimban International Port (PIP)

This research presents successful community empowerment programs focusing on sustainable tourism development and waste management in Prabumulih, Indonesia. The Desa Wisata Burai Program, initiated in 2016 by Pertamina EP (PEP) Prabumulih, aimed to enhance the tourist experience by providing recreational facilities, such as saung, galleries, and kiosks, while supporting local artisans. Alongside this, the SARAH (Sampah Jadi Berkah) Program, started in 2020, focused on integrated waste management, transforming waste materials into compost and innovative upcycled products. Collaborations with local institutions resulted in the creation of herbal soaps and probiotic beverages. Both initiatives demonstrated positive social, economic, and environmental outcomes, including increased income generation, environmental preservation, and strengthened community bonds. The programs' successes underscore the importance of community-based approaches in sustainable development, providing replicable models for similar regions. The Desa Wisata Burai and SARAH Programs exemplify how targeted interventions can foster community empowerment, environmental conservation, and socio-economic growth, highlighting the significance of collaboration between various stakeholders to achieve long-term sustainable development goals.

Refugees at home: the role of hospitableness in fostering pro-social attitudes and behaviours towards refugees

PurposeThis study aims to examine the role of hospitableness towards refugees, as embraced by local hosts, in engendering positive social outcomes, including fostering favourable attitudes and empathy towards refugees, satisfaction from hosting refugees in private dwellings and advocacy for hosting them.Design/methodology/approachRooted in the contact theory and drawing on a hospitality social lens framework, the study uses a mixed-methods approach using a sequential quantitative-qualitative design to understand the interface between hospitableness, attitudes and empathy towards refugees, satisfaction from hosting refugees in private dwellings and advocacy for hosting them. A conceptual model is proposed and tested using 160 valid surveys collected from individuals hosting Ukrainian refugees in Slovakia. SEM-PLS is used to test the proposed model. A total of 25 in-depth interviews with Slovakian individuals hosting refugees in private dwellings were also conducted to explain and further explore the initial quantitative results.FindingsThe findings indicate that hospitableness has a positive effect on attitudes towards refugees, fosters a sense of empathy and results in satisfaction from hosting refugees. Interestingly, while hospitableness per se does not directly affect advocacy for hosting refugees, it does so indirectly via favourable attitudes towards refugees and satisfaction from the hosting experience. While qualitative findings largely support and further explain the quantitative results, interesting insights are also obtained.Practical implicationsThe study advocates that hospitableness should be addressed through a social lens beyond its traditional commercial boundaries. Several implications for policymakers, NGOs and other stakeholders involved in hosting refugees are proposed. Overall, policies need to be oriented towards harnessing the power of refugee hosting schemes, thus increasing the role of hospitableness in addressing societal challenges such as the refugee crisis.Originality/valueWhile not new, private hosting of refugees has recently gained momentum following the outbreak of the Ukrainian refugee crisis. In spite of some valuable research delving into hosting experiences from the refugees’ and hosts’ perspectives, this research stream is notably fragmented and largely exploratory. Specifically, there seems to be no comprehensive understanding of how hospitableness towards refugees, as embraced by hosts, can engender positive social outcomes, including fostering favourable attitudes and empathy towards refugees, satisfaction from hosting refugees and advocacy for hosting refugees in private dwellings. Overall, hospitality research is notably biased towards commercial settings, focusing on instrumental benefits rather than societal outcomes. This study focuses on the societal outcomes of hospitableness as a tool to address the refugee crisis.

Artisan social enterprises in Zambia: women leveraging purpose to scale impact

PurposeThis study aims to provide a contextualized look at the artisan sector in Zambia and asks: What factors contribute to scaling positive impact in artisan ventures in Zambia, and how can these factors be leveraged to promote positive economic, social and environmental outcomes for women and their communities.Design/methodology/approachThis study uses an explanatory sequential mixed-methods approach to gain a multi-layered understanding of artisan craft social enterprises in Zambia.FindingsPurpose is found to be the primary driver of social and environmental impact in artisan social enterprises in Zambia, with female leadership a critical factor. Access to finance, markets and resources are also essential to help these organizations achieve their social missions.Research limitations/implicationsWhile this study provides valuable insights into the artisan sector, its scope was limited to the Zambian context, making the generalizability of the findings to other geographies uncertain.Originality/valueThis research makes a valuable contribution to the literature on social enterprises by highlighting the critical role of female leadership and purpose in driving positive impact in artisan businesses in Zambia. Additionally, the study underscores the importance of understanding the mechanisms through which artisan social enterprises create positive change. The study highlights the importance of artisan craft employment for women in Zambia and illustrates the impact of Zambian artisan ventures, both formal social enterprises and informal businesses, on creating positive social and environmental impacts in the country.

Moving Business Models Forward for Positive Social, Environmental and Economic Outcomes: Managing Externalities (and Internalities) for Sustainability Innovation


 
 
 
 Purpose: Organisations are crafting business models to operate and be able to continue operating. While it is now common to mention the importance of the ecosystem surrounding a focal organisation, business models are often considered as internal configurations between resources, organisation and offers. Consequently, the ecosystem is only convoked as a matrix for value creation for stakeholders and value capture for a focal company. In this article, we contend that ecosystems are also the place where externalities of the focal business model operate, eventually destroying value for stakeholders. We suggest that a sustainable business model can only be designed and implemented with a complete account of externalities, and we propose that the business model is the key determinant between externalities and internalities.
 Design/Methodology/Approach: We build on the research about business models and externalities to theorise at the crossroads of this literature. We then draw consequences from our theoretical development and advance business model recommendations for managers, consultants and researchers.
 Findings: We propose to complete the concept of externalities with the symmetrical concept of “internalities” to analyse and design business models. We also offer eight policies to manage (or not) externalities and identify potential consequences of these policies for the business model of the focal organisation and its ecosystem. We conclude that business model thinking allows organisations to decide on what the externalities and internalities of their business model will be and thus induce management responsibilities.
 Originality/Value: Instead of focusing on business models as an internal configuration, we contend that organisations must make decisions on externalities and internalities generated by their business model. We make propositions to design and preserve sustainable business models. Business models’ future should focus on the management of externalities.
 
 
 

Piloting building early sentences therapy for pre-school children with low language abilities: An examination of efficacy and the role of sign as an active ingredient.

Early intervention is recommended for pre-school children with low language. However, few robustly evaluated language interventions for young children exist. Furthermore, in many interventions the theoretical underpinnings are underspecified and the 'active ingredients' of the interventions not tested. This paper presents a quasi-experimental study to test the efficacy and examine the active ingredients of Building Early Sentences Therapy (BEST): an intervention based on usage-based theory designed to support young children to understand and produce two-, three- and four-clause element sentences. BEST manipulates the input children hear to support them to harness the cognitive mechanisms hypothesized in usage-based theories to promote the development of abstract linguistic representations. One such input manipulation is the use of signing alongside verbal input signalling both content and morphology of target sentences. To examine whether (1) BEST is more efficacious than treatment as usual (TAU); and (2) signing of content and morphology is an active ingredient of the intervention. A quasi-experimental study recruited children aged 3;5-4;5 years from 13 schools. Schools were assigned to receive either BEST with sign, BEST without sign or TAU. The TAU group received their usual classroom provision. Across arms schools were matched with respect to classroom oral language environment and indices of deprivation. Participants were 48 children (28 boys) with expressive and/or receptive language abilities ≤ 16th centile measured using the New Reynell Developmental Language Scales (NRDLS). Outcomes gathered by researchers blind to treatment arm were NRDLS production and comprehension standard scores and measures of production of targeted sentence structures. Primary outcomes indicate that BEST with sign was significantly more efficacious than TAU with respect to NRDLS production standard score, but not comprehension. The advantage for production was maintained at follow-up. BEST without sign was significantly more efficacious than TAU on measures of targeted vocabulary, sentence structure and morphology. The results from this quasi-experimental study provide evidence for the efficacy of a usage-based intervention on expressive language outcomes for preschool children with low language abilities. There is also evidence to support the inclusion of sign as an active ingredient, and so efforts to train interventionists in its use are worthwhile. Patterns of findings across outcomes suggest signing of content and morphology may support the development of abstract linguistic representations and accelerate language learning. Given these positive results and the scale of this study, a fully powered randomized controlled trial is warranted. What is already known on the subject Robust language skills are crucial for positive social, emotional, academic and economic outcomes across the lifespan. There is a paucity of robustly evaluated interventions for preschool children with language difficulties. The development of such interventions is crucial for ameliorating language difficulties and promoting positive educational and psychosocial outcomes. What this study adds to the existing knowledge This paper evaluates BEST, a novel usage-based language intervention targeting children with language difficulties in the early years. Findings indicate that a usage-based intervention is efficacious for treating language difficulties. In particular, BEST benefited expressive language development, bringing benefits to both treated and untreated language structures and improving standard scores. The role of sign as an active ingredient is also supported. Further evaluation is warranted. What are the practical and clinical implications of this work? Findings suggest that BEST may be effective for targeting children who have been identified as having language difficulties. In particular, expressive language may be improved when the intervention is delivered as it was originally manualized, including a signing system to represent content and grammatical morphology. More broadly, these findings also provide preliminary evidence that the use of a signing system does not hinder oral language development in children with language difficulties and may conversely support their expressive language. Future research exploring the role and underpinning mechanisms of sign in language intervention is warranted.

Post‐secondary vocational education for youth leaving care: Examining a potential pathway to successful outcomes

AbstractPost‐secondary educational outcomes for care‐experienced youth are poor. This has been a consistent finding across studies in many countries. Most studies do not distinguish between different types of post‐secondary educational pathways and outcomes, however. There has been limited attention to the potential for post‐secondary vocational education (PSVE) as a viable educational path that may lead to positive employment and social outcomes. In this paper we examine PSVE for care leavers by reviewing available data, examining policy context and utilising relevant theories. We offer next steps in policy, practice and theory development.

Can cash transfer interventions increase contraceptive use and reduce adolescent birth and pregnancy in low and middle income countries? A systematic review and meta-analysis

Becoming pregnant and giving birth under the age of 20 is associated with a range of adverse social, socioeconomic and health outcomes for adolescent girls and their children in Low and middle income countries. Cash transfers are an example of a structural intervention that can change the local social and economic environment, and have been linked with positive health and social outcomes across several domains. As part of a wider review of structural adolescent contraception interventions, we conducted a systematic review on the impact of cash transfers on adolescent contraception and fertility. Fifteen studies were included in the review with eleven studies providing evidence for meta-analyses on contraception use, pregnancy and childbearing. The evidence suggests that cash transfer interventions are generally ineffective in raising levels of contraceptive use. However, cash transfer interventions did reduce levels of early pregnancy (OR 0.90, 95% CI 0.81 to 1.00). There was suggestive evidence that conditional, but not unconditional, cash transfers reduce levels of early childbearing. Given that much of the evidence is drawn from interventions providing cash transfers conditional on school attendance, supporting school attendance may enable adolescent girls and young women to make life choices that do not involve early pregnancy.

Trusting strangers: The benefits of reciprocal self-disclosure during online computer-mediated communication and mediating role of interpersonal liking.

Reciprocal self-disclosure has reportedly been associated with increased interpersonal trust. However, existing research mainly focuses on online disclosure between acquaintances and overlooks the types of reciprocal disclosure, especially in the initial interactions between strangers communicating online. This study aimed to investigate how three types of reciprocal self-disclosure (turn-taking reciprocity, extended reciprocity and non-reciprocity) contribute to trust and the mechanism of positive interpersonal liking, and whether any effect was instant and stable or increased across two interactions during computer-mediated communication (CMC). Participants were assigned to one of the three reciprocal disclosure conditions and engaged in online interactions. Self-reported and behavioural results demonstrated higher levels of interpersonal trust and liking in the second interaction phase than in the first across all conditions. The turn-taking reciprocity condition showed higher interpersonal trust than did the extended condition, and higher interpersonal liking than did the extended and non-reciprocity conditions; this effect was apparent in both interactions. These findings help us understand the relationship between online self-disclosure and interpersonal trust, suggesting that certain patterns of communication with strangers (e.g., turn-taking reciprocity) may foster more positive social outcomes during CMC over time, while demonstrating the importance of immediacy in synchronous conversations.

Measuring Communities’ Perceptions Towards the Socio-Economic Impact of Community-Based Tourism Development of Tourism Villages in Indonesia (Case from Bogor Regency, Indonesia)

Objective: The objective of this study is to examine the impact of community-based tourism (CBT) practices in Ciasmara Village, Bogor Regency, specifically focusing on the social and economic benefits to the community. The study aims to understand how traditional management of community-based tourism affects the local population and to identify potential differences in economic impacts between residents living near tourist sites and those residing farther away.
 
 Method: The research methodology employed a purposive sampling approach, selecting 210 respondents from the community. The study utilized various data analysis techniques, including average score calculations and analysis of variance (ANOVA). These methods were applied to assess the social and economic impacts of community-based tourism practices in Ciasmara Village.
 
 Result: The research findings indicate that the implementation of community-based tourism in Ciasmara Village has led to positive economic and social outcomes for the community. However, a noteworthy observation is the divergence in economic impacts between residents living in close proximity to tourist sites and those residing farther away. The study's analysis, conducted through techniques such as average score calculations and ANOVA, reveals these differences in the economic trends experienced by these two groups within the community.
 
 Conclusion: In conclusion, community-based tourism practices in Ciasmara Village have yielded positive economic and social effects on the local population. However, the study highlights disparities in economic impacts based on residents' proximity to tourist sites. This nuanced understanding underscores the importance of considering the geographical distribution of these impacts when planning and implementing community-based tourism initiatives. Such insights are crucial for ensuring equitable and sustainable development in rural areas, emphasizing the need for tailored strategies that address the specific needs and challenges faced by different segments of the community.

Infodemic Management for Social and Behavior Change: Youth Mobilization for Combating Disinformation During COVID-19

This study discusses an undergraduate elective university course as a notable case for youth mobilization in combatting misinformation during COVID-19 with positive social and behavior change outcomes of an indicative nature. Remote modality of the civic engagement course entailed students’ voluntary work at partnering with society organizations specialized in new media technologies. Students’ engagement with the civil society organizations’ three different research and implementation projects as a form of voluntary work enabled them to mobilize in accordance with a vital dimension of infodemic management, namely engagement of communities to take positive action. Results derived from a mixed model research present that individual change observed on the students’ knowledge, attitudes and practices as well as social change objectives of partnering institutions and the course are modestly positive, suggesting replication of adapted course design and implementation in relevant contexts.

Artificial intelligence ‐ driven sustainable development: Examining organizational, technical, and processing approaches to achieving global goals

AbstractThis study presents a comprehensive literature review using a systematic approach to explore the role of artificial intelligence (AI) in promoting sustainable development in line with the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs). The systematic review approach was applied to collect and analyze topics, and the literature search was conducted in two stages, encompassing 57 articles that met the research requirements. Our analysis reveals that AI's contribution to sustainability is concentrated within three key areas: organizational, technical, and processing aspects. The organizational aspect focuses on the integration of AI in companies and industries, addressing barriers to implementation and the relationship between companies, partners, and customers. The technical aspect highlights the development of AI algorithms that can address global challenges and contribute to the growth of stability and development in society. The processing aspect emphasizes the internal transformation of companies, their business models, and strategies in response to AI integration. Our proposed conceptual model outlines the essential elements organizations must consider when incorporating AI into their sustainability efforts, such as strategic alignment, infrastructure development, change management, and continuous improvement. By addressing these critical aspects, organizations can harness the potential of AI to drive positive social, environmental, and economic outcomes, ultimately contributing to the achievement of the SDGs. The model serves as a comprehensive framework for organizations seeking to leverage AI for sustainable development, but it should be adapted to individual contexts to ensure its relevance and effectiveness.

Implementing a resilience‐based management system in Mongolia's rangelands

AbstractA primary challenge in advancing sustainability in rangelands and drylands is the lack of governance systems that are linked to information about highly variable ecosystem conditions. Here, we describe the national‐scale implementation of a resilience‐based management system in the rangelands of Mongolia. The system comprises several interacting elements. Land type‐specific information about rangeland conditions was captured in vegetation state‐and‐transition models (STMs) that allow interpretation of monitoring data and locally tailored restoration recommendations. Rangeland monitoring systems based on standardized protocols were developed and have been adopted by national government agencies, which provide annual, high‐quality data on rangeland conditions on which to base and adjust management decisions. Rangeland use agreements between local governments and herders' collective organizations, called Pasture Users' Groups, define their respective rights and responsibilities and introduce economic and policy incentives for management changes. Pasture Users' Groups also provide a platform for information sharing and collective action. Rangeland condition data and other indicators are linked to the Responsible Nomads product traceability system that provides consumers and industry a means to associate products with sustainable rangeland management practices. The collaboration between national agencies, international donors, scientists, and herders has been essential to initial success, but longer term support and monitoring will be needed to assess whether the adoption of resilience‐based management leads to positive social and ecological outcomes. We draw generalizations and lessons learned from this effort, which can lead to the successful implementation of new management systems across global rangelands.