Qualitative Case Study Research Articles

Not in the file: How competency committees work with undocumented contributions.

Competence committees (CCs) centre their work around documentation of trainees' performance; undocumented contributions (i.e. informal, unrecorded material like personal judgements, experiential anecdotes and contextual information) evoke suspicion even though they may play a role in decision making. This qualitative multiple case study incorporates insights from a social practice perspective on writing to examine the use of undocumented contributions by the CCs of two large post-graduate training programmes, one in a more procedural (MP) speciality and the other in a less procedural (LP) one. Data were collected via observations of meetings and semi-structured interviews with CC members. In the analysis, conversations were organised into triptychs of lead-up, undocumented contribution(s), and follow-up. We then created thick descriptions around the undocumented contributions, drawing on conversational context and interview data to assign possible motivations and significance. We found no instances in which undocumented contributions superseded the contents of a trainee's file or stood in for missing documentation. The number of undocumented contributions varied between the MP CC (six instances over two meetings) and the LP CC (22 instances over three meetings). MP CC discussions emphasised Entrustable Professional Activity (EPA) observations, whereas LP CC members paid more attention to narrative data. The divergent orientations of the CCs-adding an 'advis[ing]/guid[ing]' role versus focusing simply on evaluation-offers the most compelling explanation. In lead-ups, undocumented contributions were prompted by missing and flawed documentation, conflicting evidence and documentation at odds with members' perceptions. Recognising other 'red flags' in documentation often required professional experience. In follow-ups, purposes served by undocumented contributions varied with context and were difficult to generalise; we, therefore, provide deeper analysis of two vignettes to illustrate. Our data suggest undocumented contributions often serve best efforts to ground decisions in documentation. We would encourage CC practices and policies be rooted in more nuanced approaches to documentation.

Utilizing fillers for addressing speaking challenges, improving self-confidence and motivation in EFL learning

This qualitative case study aimed to explore fillers usage to address speaking challenges related to the improvement of self-confidence and motivation in speaking practices done by two English foreign language (EFL) learners of the English department of one of the Islamic Universities in Malang, Indonesia. Data were collected through observations and in-depth interviews to two students employing filler strategies to address speaking challenges related to the improvement of self-confidence and motivation during their speaking exercises. The research revealed that both learners used fillers to address speaking challenges during the conversation due to their linguistic components’ shortage such as a limited mastery of vocabularies and having a little understanding on grammar. Fillers might bring them to have more self-confidence in speaking practices shown by not being afraid of making mistakes when they practice speaking with their speaking partners. Fillers might bring them to have more motivation in speaking shown by their enthusiasm to get involved in the discussion whether in group or class discussions. Thus, fillers usage is prominent due to its potential to address speaking challenges, enhance self-confidence and motivation, eventually contributing to an overall improvement in language proficiency particularly in speaking skill.

Factors restraining youth involvement in fish farming business: Case study of Kamuthanga Village, Kenya

Fish farming serves as one of the important strategies for reducing unemployment and improving the standard of living for many households. However, in many African countries, including Kenya, a large number of young people tend to pursue administrative and white-collar jobs, resulting in a noticeable lack of youth participation in the fish farming sector. This trend underscores the challenge of attracting youth to agricultural enterprises like fish farming, despite its promising opportunities. This study explored the factors limiting youth participation in the fish farming business, targeting some individuals aged 18-35 in Kamuthanga village. The research follows a qualitative case study approach, with twenty-six (26) individuals interviewed. The study is grounded in the anthropological entrepreneurship theory, utilizing triangulation to ensure a holistic understanding. In-depth interviews and key informant interviews were employed to capture perceptions regarding barriers to youth involvement. The data was gathered through focus group discussions and in-depth interviews and analyzed using Qualitative Data Analysis (QDA) Miner Lite software. Data organization, coding, and theme development were conducted systematically to align with the study’s objectives. The findings revealed several challenges hindering youth involvement in fish farming, including the semi-arid conditions of Kamuthanga village, which lead to water scarcity; limited access to capital; insufficient technical knowledge; inadequate support structures; and some cultural barriers. These findings shed light on the critical factors that must be addressed to foster greater youth involvement in fish farming and ultimately unlock its potential for economic development and unemployment reduction in Kamuthanga village.

AI-driven innovations for enhancing mental health care in Tanzania: opportunities and challenges

Purpose This study aims to explore how artificial intelligence (AI) can enhance mental health care in Tanzania, focusing on its potential to enhance mental health services and address challenges in a low-resource setting. Design/methodology/approach A qualitative case study approach was used, with data collected through semi-structured interviews and focus group discussions involving key stakeholders in mental health and AI, including policymakers, technical experts, health-care providers and patient advocacy groups. Thematic analysis was used to identify key themes related to the opportunities and barriers to AI integration in mental health care. Findings This study identified several benefits of AI in mental health care, including improved diagnostic accuracy, personalised treatment and the potential for real-time monitoring of patients. However, significant barriers to AI adoption remain, such as infrastructure limitations, data privacy concerns and the need for training and resources to effectively integrate AI into mental health services. Originality/value This study contributes to the growing literature on AI in health care by focusing on its application in mental health care in Tanzania, a low-resource setting. The research provides valuable insights into how AI can bridge gaps in mental health service delivery, particularly in underserved regions, while highlighting the challenges that must be addressed for successful implementation.

A qualitative case study on the development of the scholarship of teaching and learning: Centred on primary and secondary school teachers

This study aims to explore the perceptions of the Scholarship of Teaching and Learning (SoTL) of primary and secondary school teachers in C City, China, as well as the challenges they face in developing these abilities. Through narrative inquiry involving five current teachers, the research collected their personal experiences in the development of teaching and academic abilities, with data gathered through semi-structured interviews. The findings reveal that teachers are primarily driven by external forces, professional identity, personal growth, and the need to improve teaching quality in their efforts to enhance teaching and academic abilities. However, they also encounter challenges such as teaching pressures, time management difficulties, insufficient school support, and declining energy. To overcome these obstacles, teachers have adopted strategies such as time management, task allocation, and cognitive enhancement. The study concludes by recommending that through the combined efforts of teachers, schools, and society, a strong professional belief system should be established, and a supportive environment should be created to collaboratively promote the development of teaching and academic abilities among primary and secondary school teachers, thereby fostering their professional growth.

Data dashboards in health inequalities monitoring - A qualitative study of subnational policy-makers

Abstract Background Despite sustained improvements in life expectancy and health during past decades, substantial health inequalities persist. Subnational jurisdictions are increasingly recognised for their pivotal role in addressing health inequalities. While data dashboards offer a promising solution for monitoring health inequalities, their utilisation in supporting local policies to reduce inequalities remains largely unexplored. This study examines the utilisation of health equity data and data dashboards (i.e. Sotkanet, Sotekuva, Tietotarjotin and Hyvinvointivajemittaristo) for health policy-making in Finnish wellbeing services counties, identifies barriers in using existing dashboards and determines the data needs for improved health inequalities monitoring. Methods A qualitative case study design with reflexive thematic analysis will be used. The study will be pre-registered in the OSF framework. Semi-structured interviews will be conducted with policy-makers involved in health policy development. Data analysis will involve open and axial coding to identify themes in participants’ responses. Themes will be organised into a coding framework, and the analysis will continue iteratively until data saturation is achieved. The study will include a pre-approved interview guide and peer debriefing sessions. Findings will be reported according to the Consolidated criteria for reporting qualitative research (COREQ) guidelines, with thematic diagrams illustrating key themes and sub-themes. The study is expected to reveal varying levels of utilisation of data and data dashboards among local policymakers, along with specific challenges and gaps in their current use. Policymakers may express needs for additional data or new features in dashboards to better monitor health inequalities. The study will conclude with recommendations for improvements in current data dashboards. Work is under development but by funders requirement the results will be ready by November 2024. Key messages • Data dashboards offer a promising solution for monitoring health inequalities, but their utilisation in supporting local policies to reduce inequalities remains largely unexplored. • This study examines the utilisation of data dashboards for health policy-making subnationally, identifies barriers for use and determines the data needs for improved health inequalities monitoring.

Engaging nursing home residents in clinical research: insights from a patient advisory board, a patient advocate, and a study team

BackgroundPatient and Public Involvement (PPI) is increasingly recognized as an essential aspect of clinical research, particularly for ensuring relevancy and impact of research to those most affected. This study addresses the gap in involving older patients, particularly nursing home residents, in the research process by exploring motivations, expectations, and experiences of nursing home residents in Bremen, Germany, involved in PPI for developing a clinical trial on polypharmacy.MethodsTwo Patient Advisory Boards (PABs) were established in nursing homes as part of the INVOLVE-Clin project. A Patient Advocate (PA) facilitated communication between nursing home residents and researchers. A qualitative case study approach was employed, involving semi-structured interviews and group discussions with nursing home residents and researchers. Data was analyzed using structured qualitative content analysis.ResultsThe study found varied motivations and expectations between nursing home residents and researchers. Nursing home residents valued the social interaction and the opportunity to voice their health concerns, while researchers aimed to incorporate patients’ perspectives into study design. The PA was considered crucial in facilitating communication between nursing home residents and researchers. Challenges included the complexity of the study topic and the need for methodological adjustments to suit nursing home residents´ cognitive abilities. Generally, PAB participation was experienced to provide mental stimulation and increased confidence among nursing home residents in discussing their medication management. The PAB’s influence led to the decision not to conduct a polypharmacy study.DiscussionThe findings underscore the importance of flexible approaches to PPI, particularly when involving older nursing home residents. Methodological adjustments, such as tailoring content and structure of PABs, and the inclusion of additional boards for diverse perspectives, are vital for effective involvement. The study also highlights the need for ongoing innovation in PPI methods to ensure meaningful engagement of older patients in clinical research.ConclusionThis study contributes essential insights into the practical implementation of PPI with nursing home residents, highlighting the need for patient-centric approaches that recognize their unique challenges and contributions. These findings are critical for shaping scientifically robust but also socially relevant and impactful research, especially in an aging society.

Scoping the EU’s health impact in the Southern Neighbourhood: Building resilience and trust

Abstract Background The European Neighborhood Policy (ENP) focuses on security, migration, and economic stability. Strengthening health systems can contribute to these aims by building local resilience and institutions; however, little is known about the EU’s health policy and impacts in the Southern Neighborhood (Syria, Lebanon, Jordan, Palestine, Egypt, Libya, Tunisia, Algeria, Morocco). This paper examines the role of health in the ENP and what is known about the health-related impacts of EU actions in this region. Methods This is a qualitative case study of the EU’s ENP commitments, outcomes, and impacts (2004-2024) in nine middle-income Southern Neighborhood countries. A scoping review of empirical evidence included 5 scholarly databases and grey literature published. Retrieved publications and the ENP documents were thematically analysed with WHO’s health systems building blocks and the alignment between the ENP and practice was assessed. Results ENP health actions have evolved from public health and selected communicable diseases (2004), to health service delivery, vaccine supply, and occupational health (2021). The review included 19 publications (2004-2024). Publications most often addressed the financing (n = 14 papers) and service delivery (n = 9) aspects of health systems (not mutually exclusive), and only once addressed workforce and health information. Publications addressed mostly intentional EU health actions in the region; 4 papers reported unintentional effects. Conclusions The limited scope of health actions in the ENPs suggests health may be instrumentalised to pursue the EU’s security and stability goals. The type of EU health actions reported most often in the literature were consistent with the ENP health priorities. There is no systematic evaluation of the impacts of the EU’s health-related commitments in the ENPs. To build resilience and trust in the region, future EU action should support a range of WHO building blocks and mitigate potential negative effects. Key messages • The EU’s health commitments in the European Neighborhood Policy evolved from public health & communicable diseases (2004), to health service delivery, vaccine supply, & occupational health (2021). • There is no systematic empirical evaluation of the impacts of the EU’s health-related commitments in the European Neighborhood Policy.

Co-designing a Children’s Cabinet: a school district–university partnership for youth well-being post-pandemic

PurposeThis paper presents a case study of a school district–university partnership to co-design a Children’s Cabinet, a cross-sector initiative bringing together institutional and community leaders to address youth well-being in the aftermath of the COVID-19 pandemic. In a vibrant, immigrant-serving community in the Northeast United States, the partnership was initiated by district leaders in Spring 2021 after pandemic disruptions led to a youth mental health crisis.Design/methodology/approachOur descriptive, qualitative case study focuses on the structure and emerging design principles of the research–practice partnership, which established a Children’s Cabinet comprised of educational, government and community leaders along with researchers. From Spring 2021 through Spring 2024, we collected and analyzed member and youth interviews, ethnographic observations and artifacts from all meetings and process interviews with key partners.FindingsWe describe the structure of the partnership, including how researchers and district leaders collaborated on meeting facilitation and how researchers conducted and shared applied research. We then discuss three design principles that guided the work, including centering relationships, sustaining focus on key goals and embedding applied research.Originality/valueAs embedded research partners, our team is uniquely situated to narrate the nature and structure of the partnership and reflect on the design of our cross-sector initiative. Increasingly, universities are partnering directly with districts on school improvement initiatives. Our work shows how engaging in RPPs to bring together school, community and research partners can facilitate local leadership and collaboration to address complex, cross-sector goals such as increasing youth well-being.

Principals’ Leadership Competencies: Implications for Educational Excellence

The study utilized a qualitative case study research design entailing an in-depth exploratory examination of principals' leadership competencies and their impact on educational excellence within the O R Tambo Inland education district. Semi-structured interviews were conducted with five principals selected from secondary schools in the district. A convenient sampling technique was used to select the participants from whom empirical data were gathered. A narrative analysis was employed to analyze the collected data, allowing for a comprehensive understanding of the principals' experiences, perspectives, and practices regarding leadership competencies and their implications for educational excellence. The findings revealed that principals play a pivotal role in shaping the school's image and reputation, attracting learners, families, and talented educators through positive attributes and effective leadership practices. Clear and measurable academic objectives aligned with the school's mission and vision are emphasized as essential for guiding educational endeavors and promoting continuous improvement. Thus, the study recommended that a collaborative approach to decision-making, professional development, and community engagement is essential for creating supportive and inclusive learning environments that empower students to thrive academically and personally.

Peer facilitation and teacher‐less pedagogy: A case study of a tertiary EFL listening course

AbstractThe benefits of peer facilitation on the development of students' skills in various fields have been widely discussed. However, we know very little about how teachers could draw on peer facilitation to improve pedagogical designs. This study aimed to investigate the influence of peer facilitation carried out in a tertiary EFL (English as a Foreign Language) listening course on students and teacher's pedagogical improvement. This qualitative case study collected data from four main sources: students' (n = 20) presentation slides; student feedback survey (n = 17) conducted at the end of the 4‐month listening project; teacher's reflective journal; teacher's observation notes. Two researchers adopted the approach of thematic analysis, following the six steps in the process of data analysis. On students' part, results indicate that pre‐facilitation training and teacher‐student communication in the preparation stage helped students improve linguistic, social and affective, cognitive and metacognitive skills. Learner autonomy was reflected in a good showcase of student personalities in peer facilitation and an awareness of demonstrating positionality when selecting materials and designing exercises for listening. On the teacher's part, by providing training for student peer facilitation, monitoring the preparation, observing the presentation, and giving feedback on the facilitation, the teacher gained a profound understanding of student needs, aspirations, and techniques adopted in their facilitation, which in turn helped the teacher improve pedagogical designs.

Transforming Literacy and Social Skills through Storytelling in a Community-Based Setting

The research question of this study evaluates the impact that the storytelling tradition at Rumah Baca Rambutan has on children concerning literacy, emotions, social skills, and creativity. Through the qualitative case study, the study discovers that storytelling enhanced the children’s reading appreciation, language, and literacy learning as well as culture. Emotional literacy interconnection was also achieved through the use of storytelling since learners developed empathy and social relationships with characters. In addition, storytelling can develop creative thinking and imagination, through which children can act as main constructors of narratives what would support their cognitive flexibility and problem solving. Notably, the study enjoys the use of storytelling in the passing of cultural values of a certain group besides enhancing the sense of belonging in children. The study contributes to the knowledge that informal narrative intervention enhancing formal and community learning can promote literacy, well-being, and cultural identity when implemented in low and rural context, such as Indonesia. Implications of these outcomes for reform in education include the need to embrace cultural production approaches that are educationally relevant so as to facilitate consideration of children’s developmental experiences.

Implementasi Strategi Marketing Mix Syariah pada Produk Obu Jamu di CV. Dua Laba Batam dan Manfaatnya

This study aims to investigate the implementation of the sharia marketing mix strategy on CV. Two Profits in Batam City for OBU Jamu products and their benefits for the surrounding community. Using a qualitative approach and case studies, this study involves an in-depth analysis of the sharia marketing strategy implemented by CV. Two Profits, including in the aspects of product, price, distribution, and promotion. The basic concept of sharia marketing and the characteristics of OBU Jamu products are also the focus of this research. Through interviews, observations, and document analysis, this study found that CV. Dua Laba has successfully implemented a sharia marketing strategy on their OBU Jamu products well. Packaging that is in accordance with sharia principles, fair and transparent pricing, distribution through channels that are in accordance with sharia principles, and promotions that prioritize sharia values are integral parts of their marketing strategy. The impact of this implementation is also felt by the surrounding community, including increased awareness of sharia products, local economic empowerment, and positive social and cultural impacts. The results of this study contribute to the understanding of sharia marketing in the context of the herbal medicine industry in Indonesia, as well as provide insights for other companies that want to implement sharia marketing strategies. Practical recommendations are also recommended for CVs. Dua Laba and other stakeholders in optimizing the implementation of sharia marketing strategies on their OBU Jamu products.

Examining the Role of Cultural Diplomacy in Enhancing Global Presence and National Identity: A Case of the Ethnographic Museums of Rwanda (Huye and Nyanza) and Itorero ry'Igihugu

This study aims to evaluate the impact of the Ethnographic Museums and Itorero ry’Igihugu on Rwanda’s international standing, guided by Soft Power Theory and Cultural Exchange Theory. Specifically, it examines how these institutions act as conduits for cultural diplomacy and project Rwanda’s unique narrative both locally and globally. Additionally, the study explores their role in reinforcing Rwanda’s cultural identity and assesses their impact on international relations, shaping Rwanda’s image abroad and supporting its diplomatic endeavors. The research employed a qualitative case study approach, focusing on qualitative data. The overall target population consisted of museum personnel, government officials, local community members, and visitors. Data were collected from a sample of 60 participants, including museum personnel and visitors (12), government officials in charge of cultural affairs (8), and local community members (40). Snowball and convenience sampling techniques were utilized to ensure representation from key groups involved in Rwanda’s cultural and diplomatic sectors. Data collection methods included semi-structured interviews with key stakeholders, participant observations at museum exhibits and Itorero ry’Igihugu ceremonies, and document analysis of museum records and official publications. Data were analyzed using a combination of thematic analysis for qualitative data and descriptive statistics for quantitative data to identify patterns and trends in the findings. Key findings indicate that the Ethnographic Museums and Itorero ry’Igihugu significantly contribute to cultural diplomacy by fostering a positive national identity and enhancing Rwanda’s visibility on the global stage. These institutions serve as platforms for intercultural exchange, reinforcing Rwanda’s image as a country rich in culture and history, while also playing a role in nation-building through the preservation of cultural values. In conclusion, the study underscores the importance of cultural institutions in projecting national identity and promoting diplomacy. The findings suggest that Rwanda’s international presence can be further enhanced through greater investment in cultural diplomacy programs, particularly in promoting the Itorero ry’Igihugu’s values globally. Recommendations include developing strategic partnerships with international cultural organizations and expanding the global reach of Rwanda's museums through digital platforms to attract a wider international audience.

Exploring Collaboration and Social Dynamics in the Paediatric Morbidity and Mortality Meeting, A Qualitative Case Study.

To explore collaboration and social dynamics within paediatric Morbidity and Mortality meetings. Qualitative Exploratory Case Study Methodology incorporating semi-structured interviews and qualitative observations. Data were collected in a large quaternary paediatric hospital in Melbourne, Australia. Semi-structured interviews with meeting attendees were conducted after observing and documenting meeting conduct. Reflexive thematic analysis was used to interpret data and generate a thematic map of findings. Forty-four interviews and 32 meeting observations were conducted between July 2019 and January 2020. Participants valued collaboration between attendees in Morbidity and Mortality meetings, however there were barriers to this. They included differing views about roles and negative impacts of hierarchies and authority. Senior doctors dominated discussion, and participants described this occasionally signalling reverence and respect, but sometimes signified intimidation and feeling unsure about how to contribute. Because of this complexity, successfully achieving positive social dynamics in a meeting required active promotion and management. Morbidity and Mortality meetings mirror the complexity and richness of the clinical environment. Descriptions of how meeting conduct can shape positive workplace culture and address hierarchical obstructions to safe clinical care highlight their far-reaching potential. Effective collaboration is an intrinsic part of realising this value. This paper addresses a paucity in the literature in understanding how social dynamics and collaboration in Morbidity and Mortality meetings are interpreted and experienced. These findings illuminate challenges and obstacles to achieving a productive and equitable social dynamic in meetings. They also illustrate positive discrimination strategies that may improve participation and widespread engagement of nurses, junior doctors, and allied health professionals. Importantly, fostering constructive social dynamics in the Morbidity and Mortality meeting could positively impact patient safety culture and therefore patient care. No patient or public contribution.

The influence of the contextual framing on physio- and occupational therapists’ clinical reasoning in sensory rooms with patients admitted to psychiatry – a qualitative case study

Aim To investigate the influence of contextual framing on physio- and occupational therapists’ clinical reasoning in sensory rooms for patients admitted to psychiatric units. Material and method Physiotherapists and occupational therapists from acute and intensive care units with sensory rooms were invited to participate in the study. The therapists were interviewed following sessions with patients in sensory rooms, using a semi-structured interview guide. These therapists also participated in a focus group interview. All interviews were transcribed and analysed based on the thematic analysis by Braun and Clarke. Results Twenty individual interviews and one focus group interview were conducted with seven physio- and occupational therapists. Three themes with accompanying subthemes emerged: (i) The contextual influence: Therapists’ perceptions of the use of sensory rooms, The dominance of the medical paradigm). (ii) The therapeutic alliance: The therapists’ relational skills, The importance of a good therapeutic patient relation, and Physio- and occupational therapy in a psychiatric setting.: (iii) The therapeutic diagnosis, Therapeutic sensory room interventions, and Holistic approach in a limited timeframe. Conclusion The clinical reasoning of physio- and occupational therapists in sensory-modulating sessions for patients admitted to psychiatric units is influenced by a primarily medically dominated paradigm; legally, economically, and politically. Occupational therapists mainly focus on everyday skills and being in the present, whereas physiotherapists focused on activities with bodily anchoring and awareness.

Building Emotional Connections Through Marketing Strategies: A Case Study of Lululemon

Abstract: This paper examines how Lululemon, a premium athletic apparel company, leverages its marketing strategies to establish emotional connections with consumers. By analyzing Lululemon's community engagement, ambassador program, storytelling, product quality, transparent communication, and social responsibility initiatives, this study uncovers how these strategies collectively enhance brand loyalty and market influence. Utilizing qualitative analysis and case study methods, this paper provides a comprehensive understanding of Lululemon's successful marketing strategies. This study employs a qualitative research approach, utilizing case study methodology to analyze Lululemon's marketing strategies. Data were collected through an analysis of Lululemon's official website, social media activities, public marketing materials, and industry reports.

Strengthening uptake of breast cancer screening services in Tanzania; re-visiting the breast cancer screening messages

BackgroundBreast Cancer remains among the top five cancers responsible for morbidity and mortality globally. For many years, infectious (communicable) diseases were a primary concern in low- and middle-income countries (LMICs) compared to higher-income countries, where non-communicable diseases (NCDs) were already a major concern. However, starting from the early 2000s, the LMICs including Tanzania has witnessed an epidemiological transition being equally affected by NCDs, and breast cancer, is among the prevalent NCDs. While the evidence is vast on the role of breast cancer screening messages in promoting screening, debunking myths, and addressing barriers to the uptake of breast cancer services, context-specific messages are limited. Amidst the changing technology, growth of social media and cultural dynamics, context-specific breast cancer screening messages are needed. We aimed to analyze the breast cancer screening messages from the experiences of women seeking care at Ocean Road Cancer Institute in Tanzania.MethodsAn exploratory qualitative case study adopting in-depth interviews (IDI) and focused group discussion (FGD) was carried out among purposefully selected women aged from 18 years to 65 years seeking care from Ocean Road Cancer Institute in Dar es Salaam, Tanzania. Eighteen women participated in the IDIs, and 16 women participated in FGD. Data analysis followed inductive qualitative content analysis.FindingsThree main categories emerged: the existence of multiple sources of breast cancer screening messages, the strengths and weaknesses of breast cancer screening messages, and clients’ mixed perceptions of breast cancer screening messages.ConclusionThe findings of this study depict that although breast cancer screening promotion messages are regarded as a source of information about cancers, they fall short of completeness and relevance to the otherwise at-risk population and trigger negative perceptions toward screening. Therefore, this study advocates revisiting the breast cancer screening messages, employing participatory approaches to tailor the screening messages and communication media to fit specific audiences. This calls for re-designing both the content of the messages and means of delivery; thus, collaborative efforts are needed.

Conceptualizing Teachers Unions as Organizations Leading for Equity

Purpose: Teachers unions in the United States are increasingly taking up issues of equity and justice. While there is a growing and robust body of scholarship on leading for equity, unions are rarely included as sources of education leadership. This creates an opportunity to not only consider unions in these equity efforts, but also re-shape our understandings of the shifting purposes and priorities of unions themselves. Methods: This paper synthesizes the literature to argue for the conceptualization of teachers unions as consequential sites of equity-focused leadership. Drawing from a larger year-long qualitative case study of a social-justice minded teachers union, I illustrate how a union may infrastructure towards equity by highlighting key mechanisms by which they lead. Findings & Implications: Through the creation of a union-based equity center and leveraging the collective bargaining agreement, this teachers union was able to implement formal structures to prioritize racial equity, educator agency, and autonomy. Unions are making strides to lead for equity and should be examined as a form of district leadership. Investigating these new contexts expands our conceptualizations of leadership and opens new possibilities for systemic change.

Optimizing Independent Curriculum Management to Shape Excellent Student Character

This research analyzes the optimization of independent curriculum management in forming superior student character in madrasas. This research uses a qualitative case study type approach. The data collection technique uses observation, in-depth interviews, and documentation. The data analysis technique uses the Miles, Huberman, and Saldana Interactive Model with data condensation activities, data presentation, and concluding. The triangulation of sources and techniques obtains the validity of the data. The research results show that implementing Independent Curriculum Management to build student character is structured and reasonable. The implementation of Independent Curriculum Management includes five steps, namely increasing the efficiency of using curriculum resources, increasing fairness and opportunities for students, increasing the relevance and effectiveness of learning, increasing the effectiveness of teacher performance and student activities, and increasing the efficiency and effectiveness of the teaching and learning process. These five steps are a process of organizational and functional strengthening of the madrasah for student character. Student character can be influenced by a conducive and collaborative learning culture and learning activities that are proactive and productive in their implementation.