Qualitative Research Approach Research Articles

How do managers evaluate the impact of the home office on motivation and work engagement? Implications for organization design

Purpose This study investigates the impact of home office on the motivation and work engagement of managers. The study aims to understand how managers perceive the home office environment and how various factors influence these perceptions, leading to either enhanced or diminished motivation and engagement levels. Design/methodology/approach A qualitative research approach was adopted, using in-depth interviews with managers to gather insights. The collected data were then analyzed through grounded theory to identify themes and patterns in the managers’ experiences and perceptions related to motivation and work engagement in a home office setting. Findings The study shows that managers have varied perceptions of the home office’s impact on their motivation and engagement, shaped by individual and environmental factors. Some managers reported increased engagement due to a quiet work environment, while others experienced decreased motivation due to isolation. Managers with a strong fit to the home office setup generally saw no change in motivation, though most noted increased engagement overall. The need to manage workloads to prevent burnout was also highlighted. Practical implications The results can guide organizations in designing effective home office policies that support managerial engagement, emphasizing the need for a balanced workload and addressing potential issues like isolation. Originality/value The results reveal key factors influencing managers’ motivation and engagement in remote work environments, contributing to improved flexible work policies.

Ensuring Trustworthiness Using an Inductive Approach in Qualitative Educational Research: An Autoethnographic Investigation of Two Early Career Researchers Reflecting on PhD Data Analysis

Ensuring Trustworthiness Using an Inductive Approach in Qualitative Educational Research: An Autoethnographic Investigation of Two Early Career Researchers Reflecting on PhD Data Analysis

The Opinions of Academics on the Usage of Artificial Intelligence Tools in Primary Schools

Within the scope of this research, it is aimed to obtain academician opinions on the use of artificial intelligence applications such as ChatGPT in the teaching-learning process and classroom applications in primary schools. In this research, the case study method, which is one of the qualitative research approaches, was used. The study group of the research consists of 10 academicians working in state and foundation universities. A semi-structured interview form prepared by the researchers was used as a data collection tool. The data obtained were analyzed by content analysis method. The findings reveal that artificial intelligence tools make significant contributions to the teaching-learning process in areas such as measurement and evaluation and material preparation; to teachers in terms of saving time and understanding the curriculum; to professional development in terms of following the literature and improving field knowledge; and to students in areas such as increasing motivation and supporting individual learning. However, negative aspects such as ethical and security issues, weakening of higher-order thinking skills in students, and mislearning were also pointed out. In addition, it was stated that artificial intelligence tools can be used effectively in various classroom applications in social studies, Turkish, mathematics and science courses. The study emphasizes the importance of balanced and conscious integration of artificial intelligence in education.

Digital innovation and knowledge management involvement: a study of Ghana’s economy

PurposeThis study explores how firms in emerging economies engage in digital innovation, leverage internal and external knowledge and achieve their full potential through digital initiatives. It highlights the pivotal role of knowledge management in facilitating technology-driven transformation, specifically within Ghana’s evolving economic landscape.Design/methodology/approachUsing a firm knowledge-based view framework, the study employs a qualitative research approach. Semi-structured, in-depth interviews were conducted with 150 managers across eight industries in Ghana. This method captures detailed insights into how firms utilize digital innovation and knowledge management to gain a competitive edge.FindingsThe research reveals that engagement in digital innovation enhances productivity and communication by effectively utilizing internal and external knowledge. Proactive involvement in innovation is strengthened through mentorship, firm support and external consultation, which bolster technological and knowledge capabilities. The study also underscores the importance of managing the human element – termed “human-aided utilization” – as critical for the execution of digital innovation, emphasizing the need for a balanced integration of technology and human capital.Originality/valueThis study offers a comprehensive framework for understanding the synergy between digital innovation and knowledge management, particularly in emerging economies. It provides practical insights for managers and decision-makers, emphasizing mentorship, collaboration and effective knowledge utilization as pathways to enhancing digital capacity. The findings are relevant to academics and practitioners seeking to understand knowledge-driven innovation mechanisms and to firms aiming to strengthen their competitiveness in digitally evolving markets.

I won’t become obsolete! exploring the acceptance and use of GenAI by marketing professionals

PurposeGenerative Artificial Intelligence (GenAI) is reshaping the marketing landscape by enhancing creativity, enabling personalised customer engagement, and streamlining operations. Its transformative impact on content creation opens new opportunities for marketing communication. This study examines how marketing professionals perceive its strategic value and investigates the psychological factors shaping their expectations and attitudes towards its adoption.Design/methodology/approachThis study adopts a qualitative research approach, using semi-structured interviews with marketing professionals in the pharmaceutical sector to explore their expectations for GenAI adoption. The pharmaceutical industry’s complex communication needs, strict regulatory requirements, and focus on innovation make it an ideal context for this investigation. Additionally, its underrepresentation in academic marketing research adds further relevance to the study.FindingsMarketing experts do not view GenAI as an immediate threat. However, they are concerned about its long-term impact, particularly its potential to automate complex creative and strategic tasks, reducing the need for human involvement. The results emphasise the lasting importance of human creativity and sensibility, especially in pharmaceutical marketing, where effective communication relies on nuance and empathy. This study contributes to theory by incorporating psychological factors, such as the fear of obsolescence, into traditional technology adoption models, offering new insights into how GenAI can enhance rather than replace human creativity.Originality/valueThis study offers fresh insights into the adoption and implications of GenAI in marketing by focusing on the perspectives of industry professionals. Unlike prior research centred on technical advancements or consumer outcomes, this paper highlights the managerial viewpoint, exploring how GenAI enhances creativity, transforms content creation, and supports strategic goals in marketing communication. It also addresses key challenges, such as regulatory hurdles and the psychological impact of automation, providing a comprehensive understanding of how GenAI is poised to redefine marketing practices.

A Review of Data Analytics and Machine Learning for Personalization in Tech Sector Marketing

This paper reviews the data analytics and machine learning applications in enhancing the personalization of digital marketing communications within the technology sector. Our review focuses on key areas such as customer segmentation, predictive analytics applications, real-time data processing, and behavioral and sentiment analysis. Using an exploratory and qualitative research approach, we examine 61 articles, reports, and case studies. Our study highlights how data-driven and machine learning methodologies improve customer responsiveness and marketing strategies. Our findings reveal that analytical techniques contribute to increased sales through more personalized advertising, fostering stronger customer relationships. Additionally, the growing adoption of these approaches to strengthen digital marketing is a key trend explored in this secondary data-based research.

Pemikiran Komunikasi Dakwah Syekh Nawawi Albantani

This study examines the communication thinking of Sheikh Nawawi Albantani's da'wah through a qualitative literature research approach through quotations contained in several of his books which are full of da'wah scientific treasures. Sheikh Nawawi Albantani is nicknamed the father of Indonesia's yellow book, even his knowledge is recognized and famous abroad as evidenced by Sheikh Nawawi once being a teacher in the city of Mecca, this is the religion that makes researchers interested in reviewing some of his works related to da'wah communication thinking, which may still be relevant to the world of da'wah today. The results of this study emphasize the thinking of da'wah communication which refers to the importance of paying attention to the target object of da'wah, using da'wah methods with soft words, upholding amar ma'ruf nahi munkar and prioritizing the oneness of Allah when delivering da'wah, which are things that need to be deepened for da'wah activists for the sake of the sustainability of religious syi'ar.

Participative Banking in Morocco: History, Impact, and Challenges

Discussions about Islamic banking in Morocco started in the early 80s but nothing came to fruition until 2007 with the "alternative products" initiative that ended, for most, as a failure but served as a practical knowledge foundational to the creation of participative banks in 2017. The primary objective of this paper is to provide a clear historical analysis of the development of participative banking in Morocco. This includes following its development from early 1980s debates to the 2007 "alternative products" effort and the 2017 creation of participatory banks. Furthermore, the paper aims to highlight the present impact and ongoing challenges faced by this emerging industrie within the Moroccan financial system. Through a qualitative historical research approach and a comprehensive review of academic articles, financial reports, and other sources we found that participative banks are growing within the Moroccan banking system with a potential of impacting funds allocation, money creation, and financial inclusion. Nonetheless, they face many challenges notably the over-reliance on debt-based financing, the absence of profit and loss sharing, and a lack of a comprehensive regulatory framework. Facing these problems is crucial to the development of participative banks to provide a larger sectorial impact and fulfill their potential.

Leadership in Action: Cultivating School Culture for Success

This study investigates the dynamic relationship between leadership and school culture, focusing on their impact on student achievement and well-being. Using a qualitative research approach, the study analyzes data from three Kathmandu-based community schools, supplemented by international research, to identify the leadership strategies that foster a positive school culture. The findings highlight that effective leadership—characterized by a shared vision, clear communication, and the integration of social-emotional learning—significantly enhances academic performance, reduces absenteeism, and improves students’ mental health. However, challenges such as limited teacher engagement, resource constraints, and societal expectations persist. To address these issues, the study suggests targeted professional development, stronger community partnerships, and the adoption of evidence-based leadership practices. The research concludes that leadership is a decisive factor in shaping a school’s culture and directly influences student success. Schools that prioritize collaborative leadership, inclusive decision-making, and professional learning communities create environments where both students and teachers thrive. Policy implications emphasize the need for educational policies that support leadership training, equitable resource distribution, and systemic efforts to enhance school culture. By implementing these strategies, schools can cultivate resilient, inclusive, and high-performing learning environments that contribute to both academic excellence and holistic student development.

Peran Bank Wakaf Mikro dalam Peningkatan Pendapatan Masyarakat Pesantren

Poor people play an important role in economic growth, facing challenges and obstacles, one of which is capital. the presence of micro waqf banks to expand public financial access, by providing financial capital to individuals who have ties to financial institutions in the hope of improving people's living standards and reducing poverty in society. This research aims to find out the role of BWM Alpen Barokah and BWM Kariman Birajuda Al-Karimiyyah in increasing the economic income of the Islamic boarding school community and what the direct impact of the BWM Alpen Barokah and BWM Kariman Birajuda Al-Karimiyyah programs is on the development of Islamic boarding school community income and what are the similarities and differences in BWM Alpen Barokah with BWM Kariman Birajuda Al-Karimiyyah The research uses a qualitative comparative research approach. The methods used are interviews, observation and documentation. The subjects of this research were taken from the Managers and Customers of BWM Alpen Barokah and BWM Kariman Birajuda Al-Karimiyyah. The results of this research are 1. The role of BWM Alpen Barokah and BWM Kariman Birajuda Al-Karimiyyah itself is considered very beneficial for the community because of the mentoring program to increase income Islamic boarding school community 2. The direct impact of the BWM program, the Islamic boarding school community experienced changes in income after becoming a customer and taking part in assistance at BWM and thirdly. The similarity between BWM Alpen Barokah and BWM Kariman Birajuda Al-Karimiyyah is that the program helps poor productive communities around the Islamic boarding school environment. and the difference between BWM Alpen Barokah and BWM Kariman Birajuda Al-Karimiyyah is in the amount of cumulative financing where the amount of financing for BWM Alpen Barokah is 2.1 billion while the cumulative amount of financing for BWM Kariman Birajuda Al-Karimiyyah is 1.1 billion.

The practices and challenges of accelerated educational programs in North Wollo zone, Amhara region, Ethiopia

This study aimed to investigate the practices and challenges of the Accelerated Education Program (AEP) in the North Wollo Zone, with a particular focus on its alignment with Speed School guidelines. The research evaluated core programmatic components such as the implementation of teaching-learning activities, Self-Help Groups (SHGs), and the prospects of the program’s beneficiaries, while also identifying critical barriers affecting its success. A qualitative research approach grounded in the social constructivist paradigm was employed, utilizing a case study design to provide in-depth insight. Data were collected through interviews, focus group discussions (FGDs), observations, and document reviews. A total of 25 key informants participated, including curriculum team leaders, Speed School Program (SSP) focal persons, school directors, supervisors, teachers, and students. Thematic analysis was applied, and results were presented narratively. The study found that both ALFA and adoption classes completed their instructional activities within the prescribed ten-month timeframe, though daily schedules varied by school. Preliminary activities, including stakeholder validation workshops, were conducted at multiple administrative levels. However, the program encountered serious financial limitations such as delayed fund disbursement, insufficient training budgets, and lack of incentives for implementers. Regarding SHGs, 315 out of 375 targeted mothers (84%) participated, contributing to a total savings and project fund of ETB 172,875, which supported small-scale income-generating projects like livestock and poultry production. Teachers noted that SHGs enhanced not only household income but also parent collaboration and engagement in education. The findings highlight both the potential and fragility of the Accelerated Education Program. While the program has demonstrated promising outcomes in community engagement and student reintegration, its long-term success is threatened by funding and coordination challenges. It is recommended that stakeholders view the Speed School as a strategic intervention aligned with national education and development goals. Strengthened partnerships, community dialogue on the importance of education, and the establishment of robust, well-funded social protection mechanisms are critical to sustaining the program and addressing the needs of out-of-school children.

Pengawasan Hukum terhadap Konsumen Atas Produk dalam Hukum Bisnis

The purpose of this study is to determine the regulations governing consumer supervision of beauty products in business law and to determine the implementation of legal entity supervision of consumers of a product in Indonesia. This study uses a qualitative research approach method using data analysis techniques, namely the theory of Miles, Hubersman and Sandana. The results of this study are the regulations and laws that form the basis for legal supervision of consumers of beauty products written in the business law where the implementation of legal entity supervision of consumers in the use of beauty products in Indonesia still faces various challenges, both in terms of regulation, law enforcement, and public awareness, especially in dealing with the rampant circulation of illegal products and misleading advertisements, especially on digital platforms. Weak supervision in the field and low public literacy are also factors that worsen the situation. Therefore, this study suggests the need for improvements by the government in enforcing legal regulations and awareness from business actors and consumers to create more effective supervision.

Analisis Loneliness (Perasaan Kesepian) Pada Lansia Di Unit Pelaksana Teknis Pelayanan Sosial Tresna Werdha Jember Kecamatan Puger

Loneliness is a negative emotional state experienced by individuals due to the lack of satisfying social interactions. In response to this issue, the government has established nursing homes that aim to address social problems, particularly psychological challenges among the elderly, such as feelings of loneliness. This study aims to explore the underlying factors contributing to loneliness among older adults residing in a nursing home and to examine the institutional efforts and facilities provided to mitigate such emotional experiences. A qualitative research approach with a descriptive design was employed in this study. The participants consisted of three elderly residents and one staff member from the nursing home, selected through purposive sampling. Data collection methods included observation, semi-structured interviews, and documentation. The data were analyzed using the processes of data reduction, data presentation, and conclusion drawing. The results indicate that most elderly residents in the nursing home experience loneliness. Key contributing factors include the loss of a spouse, limited social interaction, feelings of abandonment, and a perceived lack of purpose. The psychological impacts of loneliness identified in this study are categorized into emotional loneliness and social loneliness.

Ponzi schemes in the Hajj and Umrah business: causes, methods, consequences and prevention

Purpose This study aims to analyze Ponzi schemes’ root causes, methods, consequences and prevention measures in the Hajj and Umrah businesses. Design/methodology/approach The study uses a qualitative research approach, using case studies. Data were collected through interviews, field observations, literature reviews and analyses of relevant news reports. The informants include employees from the Hajj and Umrah section of the Ministry of Religion in District X, East Java, Indonesia, management of Hajj and Umrah travel companies and two victims of Ponzi scheme fraud. Findings The findings reveal that the high demand for Hajj and Umrah services, coupled with limited quotas, aggressive marketing strategies by Umrah travel agencies and low financial literacy among the public, are the primary drivers of Ponzi schemes in this sector in Indonesia. Although Indonesia has regulations governing the organization of Hajj and Umrah through Law No. 8 of 2019, supervision and enforcement remain weak. The consequences include financial losses, reputational damage and social and psychological impacts. Originality/value This study contributes theoretically by confirming the relevance of the fraud triangle theory in explaining the causes of fraud in the Hajj and Umrah sectors. Practically, it offers actionable recommendations to strengthen governance and protect pilgrims from fraud.

Artificial Intelligence: An Algorithmic Mechanism of Institutionalizing the Social Imaginaries of a Dehumanized Global Society?

In the context of the information and network society, with the incorporation of information and communication technologies, one of the most marked and controversial challenges of this last decade has been the growing integration of artificial intelligence (AI) systems in contemporary society, generating a series of ethical, social, economic and political dilemmas that deserve to be addressed. Therefore, the objective of the study is to analyze the implications of AI systems in the workplace and in daily social interactions. Applying the methodological approach of qualitative research, based on the methodological design of interpretive phenomenology, semi-structured and in-depth interviews have been conducted with 20 researchers and intellectuals from 11 countries of the Ibero-American continent: Argentina, Bolivia, Brazil, Chile, Colombia, Ecuador, Spain, Mexico, Peru, Uruguay and Venezuela; all the participants in the study are associate members of the Ibero-American Network of Imaginaries and Representations. The findings reveal that, based on the established core social imaginary of “AI as an expression of modern Western instrumental rationality”, social imaginaries have been institutionalized, both regarding the implications of AI in the workplace and in everyday social interactions. In the first case, the social imaginaries of ethics in AI systems, the reproduction of socioeconomic inequalities and the complementarity between human beings and AI stand out; while, in the second case, the institutionalization of social imaginaries of dehumanization of AI, social alienation of humans from their being and algorithmic subjugation of everyday social life stand out. In short, given the configuration of the dominant social imaginary of the “new global order based on AI systems”, the research calls for the construction and institutionalization of the radical social imaginary of practical ethics in AI systems, which translates into technological policies and regulatory frameworks at a global and local level, implementing socio-institutional transformations, based on the paradigm of multilevel and multidimensional governance.

Teacher mentorship and support: a methodological approach to enhance community of learners in secondary schools in Tanzania

PurposeThis study examined the impact of teacher mentorship and support on enhancing the community of teachers as learners through a school-based in-service training model aimed at influencing student learning. Specifically, it examined mentorship practices and the support provided to mathematics teachers in secondary schools to enhance their teaching competencies. It also investigated the methods employed during teacher mentorship and support to facilitate collaborative learning across various learning communities linked to schools.Design/methodology/approachThe study employed a qualitative research approach and a case study design, using in-depth interviews and focus group discussions to gather data that were thematically analysed.FindingsThe study revealed that participation in the in-service training initiative enabled mathematics teachers to form learning communities with their mentors, colleagues, students, and the wider community of educational professionals. Teachers had opportunities to participate in mentorship activities, both in person and virtually, utilizing social media platforms. It was also found that a structured mentorship programme, grounded in a clear framework, could support teachers in mastering collaborative learning, thereby improving their teaching practices and assessment strategies.Practical implicationsWhen considering the contribution of mentoring practices to promote teachers’ and students’ learning, schools need to create frameworks that facilitate teacher learning through their communities. Furthermore, the teaching model ought to be incorporated into the professional development initiatives currently in place in various schools across Tanzania.Originality/valueA key outcome is that mentoring through communities of learners proved beneficial in improving classroom practices by enhancing teachers’ competence in innovative pedagogy and mastery of subject matter, as well as strengthening collaborative learning.

Students’ experiences on how ubuntu-facilitated group oral presentations enhance their learning

ABSTRACT To orally present a learning experience before an audience is a persistent challenge among many higher education students. Such challenge is exacerbated by the anxiety that obscures the students from effectively delivering oral presentations. This paper reports the findings of a study that investigated the students’ experiences of delivering academic oral presentations, including the benefits of group oral presentations that are premised on the African philosophy of ubuntu or humanism. The study took the direction of a qualitative research approach and was conducted in a South African university of technology using a sample of 20 first-year Surveying students who were face-to-face interviewed. The findings of the study pointed out that ubuntu-facilitated group oral presentations play a salient role in the enhancement of the students’ learning and the practices of ubuntu, such as caring, interdependence, commitment, trust, tolerance, compassion, love, and collective confidence, which help mitigate the stage fright during speech delivery. This study, therefore, contributes to a myriad of student-centered teaching approaches that the teachers can employ to develop their students to be active agents and leaders of their learning. As agents of their learning, the students can innovatively and cooperatively solve any problems that impede their effective learning.

Communicating Diagnostic Preferences for a Chronic Urinary Tract Infection Among the Adult Female Population

Background: Patient stories regarding their experiences of a urinary tract infection, and the language used in dialogue, details the severity and long-lasting consequences of their infection. The aim of this study was to understand the language and dialogue that patients use when discussing diagnosis and management processes that should be embedded as standard practice for their diagnostic bladder journey among the adult female population. Methods: This study adopted a descriptive-interpretive qualitative research approach. Thirty semi-structured interviews were conducted as part of a wider study which focused on diagnosis and management of a urinary tract infection. Data were analyzed using NVivoTM software to identify thematic insight. Results: The main concept that emerged from language expressed through dialogue, was that the patients used collective words and phrases that demonstrated their need for effective diagnosis and management of their urinary tract infection. Diagnostic screening processes that would be straightforward and accurate was their main priority, and having a true record of infection from the urine specimen they produced was frequently articulated in the language they used. Conclusion: Understanding language expressed through dialogue when discussing diagnosis and management of a urinary tract infection are important aspects that should be embedded as standard practice among the adult female population diagnosed with a urinary tract infection.

Cultural Distance Perceptions of International Students: Turkey and Their Home Countries

The cultural distance is the totality of the perceived similarities and differences between the target and the (source) cultures in contact. Cultural distance knowledge can facilitate adapting students from diverse cultural backgrounds to the target culture. This study aims to ascertain the cultural distance perceptions of international students who study Turkish as a second language in Turkey by the classification made by Karluk (2022) into high-cost, low-cost, and zero-cost categories. A case study method based on a qualitative research approach was implemented to reach that aim. Participants are determined by criterion sampling, one of the targeted sampling methods. The data collected from 15 international students through semi-structured interview forms were analyzed through content analysis. The study showed that the participants in the high-cost groups thought their culture was different from Turkish culture in terms of “daily life,” “physical, social, and economic conditions,” “interpersonal relations and social traditions,” and “values, attitudes, and beliefs.” Whereas the low-cost and zero-cost group participants thought their culture was similar to Turkish culture. Accordingly, it appears that the high-cost groups will have more difficulty in adapting. The outcomes were discussed in light of literature and the importance of creating a third space between the target and source cultures, giving students in-class and out-of-class experience-oriented tasks, organizing events introducing Turkish culture, and providing students with psychosocial support was emphasized.

Implementation of Parking Levy Policy on The Main Street of The Holy City (Case Study at the Kudus Regency Transportation Office)

This study aims to evaluate the implementation of the parking fee policy on public roads in Kudus city and to identify the factors inhibiting its successful execution. The study uses a qualitative research approach and applies Merilee S. Grindle’s theory, which focuses on two indicators: policy content and the context of implementation. Data were collected through interviews with key stakeholders, including local government officials, parking attendants, and the public. The findings reveal that the policy’s implementation is facing significant challenges, primarily due to the persistence of illegal parking practices and the involvement of unauthorized parking attendants in the city. These issues have undermined the intended outcomes of the parking fee policy, preventing it from achieving its full potential in regulating traffic and generating revenue for public services. The study also highlights factors such as inadequate enforcement mechanisms, insufficient public awareness, and limited coordination between local authorities and enforcement agencies. Based on these findings, it is recommended that the local government strengthen law enforcement, improve public education on the benefits of the policy, and increase collaboration with stakeholders to ensure more effective implementation of the parking fee policy. The research contributes to the understanding of urban policy challenges in managing public resources and offers practical insights for local governments seeking to implement similar policies in urban areas.