Qualitative Observations Research Articles

Sensitivity of small river channels in the North Carolina Piedmont to change in streamflow conditions, Atlantic Multi-decadal Oscillation, and land use/land cover change

Twenty-four years (1999–2022) of channel change is assessed using specific-gage analysis based on the United States Geological Survey (USGS) rating curve calibration data from thirteen sites (drainage area < 500 km2) to understand the sensitivity of discharge-specific stage (DSS) or its inverse, stage-specific channel capacity (SSCC) to streamflow regimes, hydroclimatological history, and land use in small Piedmont watersheds of North Carolina, USA. We compare observed channel changes to common streamflow and flood metrics, Atlantic Multi-decadal Oscillation Index (AMOI), and land use/land cover data using regression and correlation techniques to suggest drivers of change and infer sensitivity. In addition to interannual variability, our results at most sites reveal three coherent periods of DSS/SSCC variation at the sub-decadal scale as well as multidecadal trend variation. The magnitudes and frequencies of these changes indicative of potential sensitivity vary substantially amongst sites. The trendlines from the DSS plots for the full length of record indicate that six sites showed increased specific stage while the remaining seven sites showed either reduced or a near-zero change in specific stage. Coefficients of determination relating specific stage and the index of AMO are low (R2 = 0.14—0.38) with both positive and negative relationships exhibited. Multiple regression, coefficients of determination relating specific stage and average monthly discharge are more variable, ranging from 0.18 to 0.94. Both positive and negative correlations (r ≤ 0.7) are found between specific stage and basin land use/land cover intensity indices, although few are significant at 95 % confidence interval. Both qualitative observations and correlation analyses support inferences that drought and persistent low mean discharge conditions tend to increase discharge-specific stage values (decreasing SSCC), by aggradation of the bed and/or lower banks. At our sites, this may be responsible for a sub-decadal trend of increasing specific stage between roughly 2013 and 2018, followed by ongoing reductions over the subsequent period.

KERTAS KONSEP: CADANGAN PENAMBAHBAIKAN GARIS PANDUAN PENGOPERASIAN PROGRAM PENDIDIKAN KHAS INTEGRASI DI MALAYSIA.

This concept paper discusses the importance of improving the operating guidelines of the Special Integration Education Program (PPKI) in Malaysia. By addressing current challenges and the effects of inadequate guidelines, this concept paper outlines the perspectives of Inclusive Special Education teachers for needed improvements. Through a qualitative research approach, including interviews, observations and focus group. The study will explore the potential impact of improved guidelines, barriers to implementing change, stakeholder adaptability, and the long-term sustainability of proposed improvements. Based on past research, best practices, theoretical frameworks and case studies, this research emphasizes the importance of refining professionalism training and fostering collaboration among stakeholders to effectively meet the needs of students with special educational needs (SEN). These findings underscore the importance of continued professional development for educators to navigate the complexities of special education. The proposals presented have the capacity to significantly influence program outcomes, paving the way for a more inclusive and equitable educational landscape for students with special educational needs in Malaysia. Stakeholders are urged to support better implementation of the guidelines to drive positive transformation in the special education sector, ultimately fostering a more supportive environment for all pupils with special educational needs.

Impacts of a continued Mathematics Education program on teaching practice in public schools of Jaguariaíva, Paraná

This article investigates the effects of a continuing education program in Mathematical Education for early elementary school teachers in Jaguariaíva, Paraná. The research, carried out within the Postgraduate Program in Science and Mathematics Teaching at Lutheran University of Brazil, adopted a qualitative approach, using questionnaires, reports, and observations. The training program, grounded in the National Common Curricular Base (BNCC) and school demands, emphasized playfulness and the use of digital technologies. The results showed positive impacts on teaching practices, including the acquisition of skills for remote teaching during the Covid-19 pandemic. The importance of the BNCC and continuous education to enhance pedagogical practice and the curricular of initial education courses is highlighted.

Experimental Analysis of the Effect of Limescale on the Wettability of Indirect Evaporative Cooling System Plates

Indirect evaporative cooling systems have attracted much interest in recent years as they guarantee good cooling effectiveness, with lower energy demand with respect to traditional systems, thus helping to address the issue of climate change. Many studies have shown that an increase in the wettability of recuperator plates results in an improvement in the system performance. However, if the water injected into the system comes from the city water supply, it will contain calcium carbonate residuals, which will form limescale layers on the plates, thus possibly changing their wetting behavior. Therefore, the wettability of three surfaces (an aluminum uncoated surface, AL, a standard epoxy coating, STD, and a hydrophilic lacquer, HPHI) was analyzed in the presence of limescale formations, and compared with that obtained in a previous study for corresponding clean surfaces. The results showed that the HPHI contact angle was reduced in the presence of limescale (median: 50°), that for STD was slightly increased (median: 81°), and that for AL was again reduced (median: 75°). Consequently, HPHI was confirmed to be the most wettable surface in both clean and limescale conditions. Finally, an analysis was undertaken evaluating the spreading factor and the reversible work of adhesion, which were in good agreement with the qualitative visual observations of the plates covered with limescale.

Positive psychological studies of Riau Malay poem and its nntegration in literary appreciation learning

The nearly extinction of Riau Malay poem is the result of the youth neglect on their own culture. Then, the existence of literature must be preserved by introducing Riau Malay poem to them especially to students through learning literature appreciation based on local wisdom. The purpose of this research is to study the positive psychology of Riau Malay poem and its integration in literary appreciation learning. In this qualitative research, observation, interview and documentation were used to collect the data. The techniques analysis data used in this research were data collection, data reduction, data display, and conclusion drawing/verification. Seligman’s theory were used to examine the positive psychology. The data sources of this research were the committee of Riau Province Malay Customary Institution, Indonesian Language teacher, and 90 students of State Junior High School 6 Pekanbaru City, Riau. Riau Malay poem in Malay Teaching Guide (Tunjuk Ajar Melayu) consists of life and in learning appreciation of literature based on local wisdom. The integration of Riau Malay poem in literary appreciation learning can be applied through the following stages: 1) determining the material for Riau Malay poem, 2) heeding to the reciting of Riau Malay poem, 3) comprehending Riau Malay poem, and 4) demonstrating Riau Malay poem reciting.

Evaluation of Petty Cash Accounting: A Case Study at a Job Training Institution

This research aims to evaluate the petty cash recording process at the SCK job training institution. Researchers used qualitative methods, namely interviews, observation, and analysis of the petty cash accounting system. The implementation of petty cash has been carried out by procedures and the recording has been carried out according to the flow established by the institution. However, several things are inaccurate and not by the accounting information system that should be implemented by petty cash users using the imprest fund method. In order not to experience a shortage of petty cash funds, companies should use an imprest system that meets standards. Companies must pay attention to the principles of internal control so that the institution’s operational activities run according to the expected goals and avoid misappropriation of petty cash funds.&#x0D; Keywords: Petty cash recording, imprest fund system, accounting system information

Exploring of the gender variations in 4Cs skills among primary students

The development of 21st-century learning skills must prioritize collaborative problem-solving abilities. These include critical thinking, creativity, cooperation, and communication (4Cs) and the gender-based difference in the proficiencies of these skill have been reported in literature. The purpose of this study was to explore gender differences in 4Cs skills between males and females among the primary students after the execution of an informal program. This research provides an example of a STEM program that uses a problem-solving methodology to encourage students interested in environmental sustainability. The research was conducted with 43 female students and 93 male students. The study used a mixed-method involving qualitative observations of facilitators feedback, quantitative paired t-test and SWOT (strengths, weaknesses, opportunities and threats) analysis to evaluate students’ 4C skills. Results of the study revealed that there were statistically significant differences between males and females. The Shapiro-Wilk test for normality revealed that the data did not have a normal distribution, non-parametric analysis, such as the Mann Whitney U test, Spearman's Rho correlation were used. Findings from the Mann-Whitney U test illustrated that males received significantly greater mean score than females on the critical thinking and communications after the program. The females received more score than males on the collaboration and creativity (p < 0.05). The Spearman's Rho correlation analysis reveals that there is a positive correlation between students’ critical thinking and creativity (both male and Female) (p < 0.001). The development of advanced thinking abilities and creativity through facilitation is argued in this study. In summary, a strengths, weaknesses, opportunities, and threats (SWOT) analysis has demonstrated the effective use of the 4Cs skills throughout the duration of a week-long course. It, thus, can be concluded that the Integrated Problem-solving approach can be used as an alternative approach for empowerment of students’ 4Cs skills. Future research should look at the effects of participants' 4Cs on long-term development in formal education.

Associative linking for collaborative thinking: Self-organization of content in online Q&A communities via user-generated links.

Virtual collaborative Q&A communities generate shared knowledge through the interaction of people and content. This knowledge is often fragmented, and its value as a collective, collaboratively formed product, is largely overlooked. Inspired by work on individual mental semantic networks, the current study explores the networks formed by user-added associative links as reflecting an aspect of self-organization within the communities' collaborative knowledge sharing. Using eight Q&A topic-centered discussions from the Stack Exchange platform, it investigated how associative links form internal structures within the networks. Network analysis tools were used to derive topological indicator metrics of complex structures from associatively-linked networks. Similar metrics extracted from 1000 simulated randomly linked networks of comparable sizes and growth patterns were used to generate estimated sampling distributions through bootstrap resampling, and 99% confidence intervals were constructed for each metric. The discussion-network indicators were compared against these. Results showed that participant-added associative links largely led to networks that were more clustered, integrated, and included posts with more connections than those that would be expected in random networks of similar size and growth pattern. The differences were observed to increase over time. Also, the largest connected subgraphs within the discussion networks were found to be modular. Limited qualitative observations have also pointed to the impacts of external content-related events on the network structures. The findings strengthen the notion that the networks emerging from associative link sharing resemble other information networks that are characterized by internal structures suggesting self-organization, laying the ground for further exploration of collaborative linking as a form of collective knowledge organization. It underscores the importance of recognizing and leveraging this latent mechanism in both theory and practice.

Account-sharing programme: beyond piracy streaming platforms in Indonesia

ABSTRACT Examining user practices at the centre of debates on video content consumption amidst the popularity of streaming platforms in Indonesia, this paper uses de Certeau’s work (1984) to understand the ways in which users as the weak ‘make use of the strong’ to manipulate and enjoy audiovisual content in everyday life. Based on qualitative empirical virtual observation of Shopee, this study explores how the presence of online shopping platforms contributes to the proliferation of account-sharing programmes as a method for accessing audiovisual content on streaming platforms. Such practices are difficult to define as acts of piracy given that no copyright infringement of protected content or distribution of audiovisual content outside the streaming platforms has occurred. Further, these practices constitute a new form of ‘shadow economy’ , by allowing certain users to rent their streaming platform accounts and by enabling many users to enjoy streaming platforms legally but by contravening the streaming services’ ToS. Such account-sharing programmes differ from piracy practices through peer-to-peer (P2P) or audiovisual streaming websites which allow unauthorized circulation of video content. This paper offers greater insight into the distribution of audiovisual content through streaming platforms and contributes to the discussion of new form of piracy.

Unleashing Student Creativity

This study explores the Implementation Analysis of the Merdeka Belajar Curriculum at SMKN 10 Luwu to foster creative and innovative students. The research delves into the curriculum implementation process, challenges faced, and outcomes through qualitative descriptive methods, including interviews and observations. Findings reveal successful implementation for the 2022/2023 academic year, showcasing teachers' proficiency in lesson planning and differentiated learning. Challenges include teachers' creative teaching methods, school environment considerations, and resource constraints. Addressing these requires training, community support, improved infrastructure, increased supervision, and collaboration. While the curriculum is effectively applied, refinement is ongoing, and some teachers encounter challenges in assessment timing. Despite this, teachers at SMKN 10 Luwu actively engage in the implementation process.

Implementing a new living concept for persons with dementia in long-term care: evaluation of a quality improvement process

BackgroundImproving quality of nursing home care for residents is a constant focus of stakeholders involved within quality improvement projects. Though, achieving change in long-term care is challenging. Process evaluations provide insight into the nature, exposure and experiences of stakeholders and influencing mechanisms for implementation. The aim of this study is to gain insight into the process and facilitating and hindering mechanisms of implementing a quality improvement project that seeks to create a dementia-friendly community with a nursing home at its core.MethodsFor the process evaluation we planned a case study design with an ethnographic approach. Various research methods were used: qualitative observations, focus groups, interviews and questionnaires for various stakeholders and document review. Data collection and analyses in this study is based on the Consolidated Framework for Implementation Research.ResultsFour main lessons were learned. Firstly, nursing staff are crucial to achieve more freedom for residents. Secondly, high-impact changes in daily care need strong and sustainable focus from the care organisation. Thirdly, dementia-friendly societies should be deployed from multiple actors, which entails long-term collaborations with external stakeholders. Fourthly, the transition to a dementia-friendly society requires meeting spaces for and a focus on both residents and people from the community. Consequently, local residents are shifting from external to internal stakeholders, extending beyond the regular involvement of informal carers and volunteers within the nursing home.ConclusionsNursing homes are part of the local community and provide opportunities to collaborate on a dementia-friendly society. However, the change that is required (promoting freedom, residents’ autonomy and the redesign of care processes) is complex and influenced by various mechanisms. Understanding these mechanisms can benefit other care organisations that strive to implement a similar initiative.

Development of Islamic Economy and Finance in Indonesia through KNEKS Structure in 2019-2024

&#x0D; &#x0D; &#x0D; This research discusses the development of Sharia Economics and Finance in Indonesia through the KNEKS Structure in 2019-2024. This research discusses the Direction of Development and Strengthening of Sharia Economics and Finance in Indonesia, of course strengthening the halal value chain with a focus on sectors or clusters that are considered potential and highly competitive; second, strengthening the sharia financial sector whose master plan has been outlined in the Indonesian Sharia Financial Architecture Masterplan or AKSI which has been refined in this master plan; third, strengthening micro, small and medium enterprises or MSMEs as the main drivers of the halal value chain. For the research process on Sharia Economic and Financial Development in Indonesia Through the KNEKS Structure in 2019-2024, this research used the library research method, and we conducted this research where the data study object used library data sourced from several types of books and the internet. as a source for obtaining these data. Then we read, study and understand various kinds of literature related to the research we are doing. And we also use a qualitative observation method by observing data sourced from a book entitled sharia economics, especially at the undergraduate level of higher education. This research is also useful for knowing the direction of development and strengthening of sharia economics and finance in Indonesia through the KNEKS structure in 2019-2024.&#x0D; &#x0D; &#x0D;

Implementation of Radio Convergence of The Republic of Indonesia (RRI Pro 1 Yogyakarta) in Maintaining Existence in The Digital Era

In a modern era as it is today, technology is developing very rapidly, so the media industry must also grow.The mass media, especially radio, must go hand in hand with globalization and the Internet to survive, let alone society has shifted from digital media to conversional, so convergence is a solution to keep radio heard by the public. Media convergence is the integration of the traditional telecommunications media with the Internet. The Radio of the Republic of Indonesia (RRI) is the only radio station owned by the State of the Union of Indonesia. (NKRI). The aim of this research is to know and explain the form of Yogyakarta RRI strategy inining its existence in the digital age. The theory used in this study is Henry Jenkins' theory by uniting the 3c of computing, communication, and content. The study uses qualitative methods and participant observation. The results of this study found that the step RRI Yogyakarta took to preserve its existence in this digital age was by making convergence. Convergence carried out by RRI Yogyakarta among others Website, RRI Go Play, Chanel Youtube and RRI Net. The impact of the convergence done by Yogyakarta RRI is the ease of access, the public can access and can enjoy through smartphone anywhere and anytime.

Obtaining the percentages of ductility and brittleness of AISI/SAE 1020 and 304 steels, using digital image processing.

This research is the integration of a set of elements in a system of capturing, processing, and digital image analysis. It allows a better visual and numeric interpretation to determine the toughness, ductility percentage, and fragility of steel AISI/SAE 1020 and 30, getting better qualitative and quantitative observation of the results from the impact test (Charpy test). Patterns in the standard form, ASTM E23, were digitalized to evaluate the percentage of ductility/fragility of specimen testing. After, we calculated the area and the equivalent diameter of the material. using digital image processing and numerical comparison between the patterns specified in the standard form ASTM E23 and the testing in the impact test, and it allows to find the kind of pattern it is closest and determine which degree of ductility. Finally, the results were compared by three experts. The algorithm accuracy was 80%.

Exploring the Process of Adaptation and Integration of Islam in European Societies and Its Impact on Cultural Exchange and Coexistence

This study investigates the multifaceted process of adaptation and integration of Muslim communities within European societies, analyzing its implications for cultural exchange and coexistence. Through a mixed-methods approach that combines qualitative interviews, ethnographic observations, and quantitative data analysis, the paper offers a comprehensive examination of the interactions between Muslim populations and their host societies in France, Germany, and Sweden. It highlights the significance of shared cultural practices, interfaith dialogues, and community initiatives as pivotal mechanisms for fostering mutual understanding and respect. The research uncovers the dual nature of integration, marked by both challenges—stemming from socio-political tensions and legislative barriers—and opportunities, as evidenced by successful integration stories and the enriching impact of cultural diversity on European identity. The study critically assesses the role of policy and legislation in shaping the lived experiences of Muslim communities, advocating for inclusive strategies that recognize and accommodate diversity. This work contributes to the broader discourse on multiculturalism, offering insights into the dynamic interplay between cultural preservation and societal integration, and underscores the need for continued exploration into the complexities of coexistence in contemporary European contexts.

Operational and Environmental Assessment for Night Markets under the Informal Economy Impacts: Insights from the Case Study of Selangor, Malaysia

As an expression of the informal economy, the night market is not only a place that could attract locals to buy goods but also a place where tourists can experience the local characteristics. While the night market brought economic vitality to the city's economy, it also brought some issues. A comprehensive literature review of night markets revealed that existing studies paid less attention to outdoor night markets' spatial operations and waste management. Grounded in the connection between sustainability and night markets, the present study reflected on existing research findings by adopting different periods of fieldwork to conduct a case study of the night market in Jalan 17/1A, Selangor, Malaysia. The study focused on three aspects of night markets: spatial operations, waste, and waste recycling. It found that night market operations brought localized regional economic benefits while causing more severe pollution issues, significantly affecting the region's environmental health and sustainable development. The findings revealed that local government regulation of night market businesses in Malaysia is weak (the issuance of business licenses is informed of the operational guidelines), and there is also no relevant monitoring and penalties by the local government to intervene in the misbehavior of night market consumers. Based on the results of the field survey and combined with the concept of sustainable development, the present study recommended suggestions for the future spatial operation and waste management of night markets. Innovative and novel perspectives of the study combined qualitative observations and data analysis to comprehensively examine how spatial considerations and waste management strategies intersect in the unique context of night markets—aiming to fill the gaps in the sustainability of night market operations and to protect the ecology of the surrounding territorial environment, contributing to the discourse on sustainable development.

Dedalo Vola project: The effect of choral singing on physiological and psychosocial measures. An Italian pilot study

Several studies have been conducted that show the crucial role of active participation in music in health promotion (e.g. Dingle et al., 2021; Sheppard & Broughton, 2020); however, little research has focused on the biopsychosocial effects of choral singing. The present study aims to evaluate the effectiveness, in terms of improving physiological and psychosocial factors, of a choral program for middle-aged and older individuals. We integrated our study with qualitative observations of the atmosphere and flow state experienced by the choristers. The data were collected before and after 12 weeks of training, with 23 participants took part in the study. They experienced significant improvements in weight, oxygen saturation, heart rate, and satisfaction of psychological needs. A beneficial trend, although not statistically significant, were observed for blood pressure, cholesterol, triglycerides, stress, psychological needs, and mental health. The observations progressively revealed a more cohesive and focused group. Our findings support the potential for cross-disciplinary collaboration between healthcare and arts policy to promote and enhance health and well-being throughout the lifespan.

Vinsers’ Reviews: A Content Analysis of Selected Tiktok Videos with #Health

In recent years, social media has emerged as a ubiquitous channel that enables individuals to share their viewpoints and experiences on various subjects, including matters related to healthcare. Especially on TikTok, videos tagged with #Health have garnered a significant following, raising questions about how these videos are perceived by their audience. This study aims to provide an in-depth analysis of TikTok videos with the hashtag #Health. Specifically, this research decoded the themes presented in the selected 100 #Health videos, described their content, and checked their factual accuracy. Qualitative approaches such as content analysis, and qualitative observations were used to gather data. The study explored the themes presented in #Health videos, assess how viewers engage with these videos, and determine the accuracy of the information presented. A variety of themes are present in TikTok videos with the #Health. Most of the content has creative, informative, and educational presentations that capture the interest of viewers. However, some misinformation in these videos was encountered. Furthermore, this study recommends that additional focus be allocated to verifying the accuracy of the information provided in these videos.

Breeding colony contraction of Asian openbill stork (Anastomus oscitans): an eco-spatial monitoring from Keleghai River Bank, India.

Asian openbill stork (Anastomus oscitans) colonies and also the numbers were enormous before some decades in some villages beside Keleghai River bank. However, there has been a significant decline in both the colonies and their populations. This present study investigates the rapid decline in the number of breeding colonies and birds, exploring the reasons behind this phenomenon. To address these inquiries, the study collects perceptions from various stakeholders through extensive field observations and interviews. Expeditions are conducted to comprehend the prevailing situation and associated circumstances. Qualitative observations reveal that human intervention, both direct and indirect, is limiting the development of stork colonies. Data analysis indicates that 37.5% of respondents attribute the contraction of bird colonies to changes in land use, while 26.3% point to the extermination of larger trees along the colony periphery. Additionally, 18.05% of opinions implicate the heavy use of pesticides and fertilizers in the wetland, 6.94% cite local climate change, and 11.11% cite other reasons. To validate the gathered information, the study employed temporal land use land cover (LULC) classification techniques. Random point pattern analysis from Google Image of 2023 is also utilized to reinforce the survey results. It enhances understanding of the spatio-temporal relationship. Subsequently, the study presents the correlation matrix to elucidate the relationship between stork colonies and contributing factors. It provides a clear insight into the underlying situations. Finally, a comparative analysis of the surveyed and spatial analysis information is conducted to detect and validate the perception of stakeholders. Based on these observations, the study formulates conservation measures for the bird habitat and their colonies in the study area.

Everyday nationhood and religion in the context of migration: The case of Lithuanian Catholics in Norway

AbstractIn this article, I explore the relationship between religion and nationhood among contemporary Lithuanian migrants in Norway. The central puzzle is the lack of an open national feeling in the religious setting. However, academic literature has well documented the tight connection between the Catholic Church and Lithuanian nationhood. Interpreting the empirical data from qualitative interviews and participant observations through the lens of everyday nationalism, I argue that seeming lacklustre national sensibilities among Lithuanian Catholics do not signal Catholicism's demise as the vehicle for reproducing Lithuanian nationhood. Instead, it is an expression of the resilience of banal forms of nationalism reproduced via the institutional framework of the Catholic Church and the practices of the clergy and laity. I suggest that the case of Lithuanian Catholics in Norway intimates the need for a more nuanced approach to the concept of individual agency as opposed to a strict agency vs. banality dichotomy in everyday nationhood scholarship. Scrutinising habitual, banal forms of nationhood, together with the conscious ones, is pivotal in comprehending the complex relationship between religion and nationalism in empirical cases where visible displays of national sensibilities may be subtle but nonetheless meaningful.