Focus Group Discussion Sessions Research Articles

Local community perceptions on human wildlife interactions in the face of climate variability. A case of Nyaminyami community, Zimbabwe

Human interactions with wildlife, both positive and negative, have defined the nature of human wildlife relations throughout history. Along with human wildlife interaction, Climate change exacerbates the complexity and consequences of human wildlife interactions, particularly those that rely on flora and fauna for tourism and development. This study assesses the interrelatedness and causes of human wildlife interactions and climate variability and the impact they have on livelihood. Two hundred and fourteen people randomly selected from four wards in the Nyaminyami community in Mashonaland West, Zimbabwe were interviewed. Four focus group discussion sessions with randomly selected residents were also conducted in each ward. Results from the study show that respondents were concerned that human wildlife interactions resulted in human wildlife conflict, and that anthropogenic factors contributed immensely to an increase in the problems faced by local communities. Most of these concerns stemmed from specific areas (wards) where factors such as competition for resources, settlement in wildlife corridors, agricultural activities, tourism and increasing human induced climate change are accelerating human wildlife conflict. Results also show that human related practices contributed to human wildlife interaction in all the four wards. Discussants reported climate change, competition over resources and living close to protected areas as the major factors influencing human-wildlife conflict. It is recommended that communities be educated on, and need to embrace climate change and adapt to it. It is also important that any tourism ventures in the district involve the communities so that they directly benefit from and see the value of living with wildlife and learn to coexist. Proper land use planning is also paramount before any settlements are allocated to avoid living close to protected areas.

Intention for internal whistleblowing to report sexual violence in higher education institutions: a Nigerian national study

Background Sexual violence is prevalent in higher education institutions in Nigeria and stakeholders have encouraged staff and students to blow the whistle whenever they fall victim to or are aware of any sexual violence case. However, there is lack of data about whether the staff and students of these institutions have the intention to blow the whistle internally (within the institution) or not. There is also a lack of data on the existing reporting mechanisms or preferred whistleblowing mechanisms in these institutions. These have hindered the analysis of stakeholders’ opinions on this topic. Methods This data note presents a comprehensive quantitative and qualitative data set collected from staff and students of three categories of government owned higher education institutions (Universities, Polytechnics, Colleges of Education) in Nigeria. Data collection was between February and December, 2021, during which quantitative data were collected from 21,937 students and 3,108 staff. Qualitatively, 138 students and 111 staff participated in a total of 35 focus group discussion sessions. The study provides unique information on respondents’ attitude, self-efficacy, and subjective norm to sexual violence whistleblowing. It also provides information on self-reported sexual violence experiences, whistleblowing intention, reporting systems in higher institutions and the preferred sexual violence whistleblowing mechanisms. Conclusions In this data note, we provide a detailed account of the variables in the dataset and then highlight the potential of this study to contribute to improved sexual violence reporting in higher education institutions, thereby reducing the occurrence of the social menace.

When Conventional Medicine Fails: Bori and Olokun Ritual Dance as Treatment for Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD) for Nigerian Armed Forces

This article attempts a conceptualisation of African ritual dance therapy (ARDT) as a distinct form and practice of dance movement therapy (DMT). We argue that Bori and Olokun dances, two of Nigeria’s most potent ritual dances, possess therapeutic elements that bear on the treatment of combatants of the Nigerian armed forces currently engaged in a theatre of war against terrorism and banditry in Nigeria. Our argument is premised on the discovery that military hospitals in Nigeria is currently over-stretched with about 57% of the military and paramilitary personnel (participants) suffering from post-traumatic stress disorders (PTSD) resulting from their encounters with terrorists’ cells and bandits. We argue against the institutional frame that sanctions the normalization of conventional medical practice as well as medicine in the diagnosis and treatment of men of the armed forces faced with PTSD. We use ARDT dance ethnography as a theoretical premise to contend that African ritual dance therapy (ARDT) offers an alternative curation for the men of the Nigerian Armed Forces. We use the research instrumentations of focus group discussion and ARDT workshop sessions to get data from 12 para/military participants. We found out that the Bori and Olokun ARDT convey diverse spirit-restorative medicaments that can serve the Nigerian Armed Forces.

Clinical Legal Education and Social Justice: Assessing the Impact on Law Students in a Law Clinic in Nigeria

One of the core missions of clinical legal education is to expose students to the legal needs of society while enhancing access to justice for indigent members of the community. This, the University of Ibadan Women’s Law Clinic (UI-WLC) does by offering pro bono legal aid to indigent women in the community who lack access to justice. In the process, law students are engaged in clinic experiences involving interaction with real clients and conduct of outreach programs for different target audiences within the community. Through these experiences, it is expected that professionalism, empathy, equality and and a sense of fairness is inculcated in the students. Students trained with these values ideally have a strong sense of what is just and fair, and are able to choose careers and lifestyles that support their immediate communities. Since its establishment, the UI-WLC has groomed over 960 law students; and currently has about 120 students spread over third, fourth and fifth year students, however, an assessment of the impact of social justice values which the clinic seeks to impart to the students through the training they receive at the clinic has not been carried out. This research seeks to achieve this aim through a mixed methods approach. Using a quota sampling method, 90 law graduates were identified and interviewed through self- administered pre-tested questionnaires and in-depth interview guides. Two sessions of focus group discussions were also conducted. Findings in this study revealed how participation in the UI-WLC through various activities and programs has had both positive and negative outcomes for the students. It also showed an aspect of group dynamics which has to be improved upon at the UI-WLC to better equip students to impact the society.

When one door closes: a qualitative exploration of women’s experiences of access to sexual and reproductive health services during the COVID-19 lockdown in Nigeria

BackgroundCOVID-19 pandemic widely disrupted health services provision, especially during the lockdown period, with females disproportionately affected. Very little is known about alternative healthcare sources used by women when access to conventional health services became challenging. This study examined the experiences of women and adolescent girls regarding access to sexual and reproductive health (SRH) services during the COVID-19 lockdown in Nigeria and their choices of alternative healthcare sources.MethodsThe study sites were two northern states, two southern states, and the Federal Capital Territory. Qualitative data were obtained through 10 focus group discussion sessions held with married adolescents, unmarried adolescents, and older women of reproductive age. The data were transcribed verbatim and analysed using a thematic approach and with the aid of Atlas ti software.ResultsWomen reported that access to family planning services was the most affected SRH services during the COVID-19 lockdown. Several barriers to accessing SRH services during COVID-19 lockdown were reported, including restriction of vehicular movement, harassment by law enforcement officers, fear of contracting COVID-19 from health facilities, and fear of undergoing compulsory COVID-19 tests when seeking care in health facilities. In the face of constrained access to SRH services in public sector facilities during the COVID-19 lockdown, women sought care from several alternative sources, mostly locally available and informal services, including medicine vendors, traditional birth attendants, and neighbours with some health experience. Women also widely engaged in self-medication, using both orthodox drugs and non-orthodox preparations like herbs. The lockdown negatively impacted on women’s SRH, with increased incidence of sexual- and gender-based violence, unplanned pregnancy resulting from lack of access to contraceptives, and early marriage involving adolescents with unplanned pregnancies.ConclusionCOVID-19 negatively impacted access to SRH services and forced women to utilise mostly informal service outlets and home remedies as alternatives to conventional health services. There is a need to ensure the continuity of essential SRH services during future lockdowns occasioned by disease outbreaks. Also, community systems strengthening that ensures effective community-based health services, empowered community resource persons, and health-literate populations are imperative for overcoming barriers to healthcare access during future lockdowns.

The Development of a 360-degree Evaluation Model of Medical Curriculum with the Kirkpatrick Hierarchy Approach

A 360-degree evaluation model of the medical curriculum was developed by adhering to the Kirkpatrick Hierarchy. To bridge the research gap pertaining to instrument development of 360-degree evaluation, a set of tools derived from various stakeholders’ perspectives was used. This mixed-method study in the sequential exploratory design involved 797 participants for two years, April 2017 to November 2019. The three study phases involved were: the qualitative phase (18 informants), the item construction phase with exploratory factor analysis (EFA) (298 participants), and the validation phase via confirmatory factor analysis (CFA) (481 participants by random sampling). In-depth interview sessions were conducted with two stakeholder groups; lecturers and preceptors. Focus group discussion (FGD) sessions were conducted with two other groups; medical students and patients at the teaching hospital. The item construction phase was executed based on the themes that emerged from qualitative findings. Lastly, the final validation stage was performed based on the EFA results. In total, 23 themes were derived from four stakeholder groups. In the item construction phase, 13 and 10 factors were identified for lecturer and student instruments, respectively. To build the preceptor and patient tools, 10 scales were used to validate the item constructs. Thus, the 360-degree evaluation model has four levels of Kirkpatrick Hierarchy with four instrument models. The 360-degree evaluation model is valid, well-constructed, and accurately reflects the indicator variables. The evaluation model is feasible and acceptable to assess the medical curriculum.

Dissatisfaction and Protest of First-Year Obstetrics and Gynecology Residents and Related Factors: A Qualitative Study

Background: Physical and emotional stress during the residency period can have lasting negative effects on residents’ health as well as patient care. Such stress can cause emotional and psychological burnout, decreased physician productivity, impaired job performance, and poor social relationships. First-year residents have more burnout and stress due to many factors. This study aimed to investigate the reasons for the protest of this group of residents. Methods: This qualitative study was conducted with the participation of residents and professors of obstetrics and gynecology in one of the teaching hospitals of Tehran University of Medical Sciences in spring of 2021. Data were collected through individual face-to-face interviews and group discussions. The conventional content analysis method was used to analyze the data. To ensure the accuracy of the qualitative data, the criteria proposed by Lincoln and Guba were considered. Results: A total of 14 participants were interviewed and 16 people participated in focus group discussion sessions. From the text of the interviews, two themes were extracted. Participants’ experiences showed unbearable pressure, domination, and anonymity as stressors in first-year obstetrics and gynecology residents. Conclusion: The results showed that the main reason for the protest of the first-year residents was the wrong behavior of the second-year residents and the lack of supervision over these behaviors. Launching a kindness campaign was a suggested solution in this research that could help improve communication between residents and the educational atmosphere.

Abstract 2156: Exploring barriers to colorectal cancer screening among adult male immigrants in Salt Lake City

Abstract Background: The United States (U.S) foreign-born population aged 65+ increased substantially between 1990 and 2010 with migrants from Africa and the Middle East being a part of these new refugee admissions. According to 2010 data, socioeconomic disparities and reduced access to health care is common in this population with 16 percent of foreign-born elderly living below the poverty threshold in comparison with 8 percent of U.S.-born elderly. Colorectal Cancer (CRC) is the second leading cause of cancer related deaths in the U.S despite being easily preventable and treatable. Studies among male African Americans reveal a CRC incidence >20% higher than what obtains among whites. Since, genetic factors are believed to contribute as much as 35% to the overall risk of CRC, male adult immigrants aged 45 years and above from Africa and the Middle East may be at increased risk of developing the disease. Determining CRC screening uptake in this population will be critical in planning interventions which may ultimately reduce disparities in CRC-related morbidity and mortality in the future. Methods: We conducted a mixed methods study comprising administration of questionnaires and organizing four Focus Group Discussion (FGD) sessions among adult males in Salt Lake City who identified as refugees from Africa or the Middle East. The sessions were audio-taped, transcribed and coded using the Dedoose software. Results: We had thirty-one participants who were between 45 and 64 years of age. Twenty-five of them (83%) reported awareness of the existence of CRC screening tests. Ten participants (33%) had undergone a CRC test in the past. However, only nine participants (30%) indicated that they will be willing to participate (WTP) in CRC screening if offered for free. Increased WTP was associated with younger age (OR=1.45, 95% CI: 1.23-1.81), length of stay in the United States (OR=1.41, 95% CI: 1.13-1.78) and higher education (OR= 1.26, 95% CI 1.13-1.37). Three major themes identified in the FGDs include: (1) Mistrust - distrust of the US health system (2) Fear - fear of cancer and nature of test and (3) Fatalism - the belief that screening cannot lead to cancer cure. Conclusion: The low level of WTP in CRC screening tests among the respondents may be associated with past experiences. There may be a need to consider the correlates of increased WTP and explore culture-specific CRC prevention measures in planning interventions designed to improve screening uptake in this population. Citation Format: Olanrewaju Olusola Onigbogi, Kebba Kah, Kolawole Okuyemi. Exploring barriers to colorectal cancer screening among adult male immigrants in Salt Lake City [abstract]. In: Proceedings of the American Association for Cancer Research Annual Meeting 2024; Part 1 (Regular Abstracts); 2024 Apr 5-10; San Diego, CA. Philadelphia (PA): AACR; Cancer Res 2024;84(6_Suppl):Abstract nr 2156.

Generation Z's Health Information Avoidance Behavior: Insights From Focus Group Discussions.

Younger generations actively use social media to access health information. However, research shows that they also avoid obtaining health information online at times when confronted with uncertainty. This study aims to examine the phenomenon of health information avoidance among Generation Z, a representative cohort of active web users in this era. Drawing on the planned risk information avoidance model, we adopted a qualitative approach to explore the factors related to information avoidance within the context of health and risk communication. The researchers recruited 38 participants aged 16 to 25 years for the focus group discussion sessions. In this study, we sought to perform a deductive qualitative analysis of the focus group interview content with open, focused, and theoretical coding. Our findings support several key components of the planned risk information avoidance model while highlighting the underlying influence of cognition on emotions. Specifically, socioculturally, group identity and social norms among peers lead some to avoid health information. Cognitively, mixed levels of risk perception, conflicting values, information overload, and low credibility of information sources elicited their information avoidance behaviors. Affectively, negative emotions such as anxiety, frustration, and the desire to stay positive contributed to avoidance. This study has implications for understanding young users' information avoidance behaviors in both academia and practice.

Using Focus Groups to Explore Older Black Men's Perception of Dietary Interventions.

Older Black men are underrepresented in research despite being disproportionately affected by Alzheimer's disease (AD) and cardiovascular (CV) risk factors related to AD compared with non-Hispanic Whites. Although dietary interventions have shown promise to reduce modifiable CV risk factors related to AD, Black Americans have lower adherence likely due to lack of cultural considerations. Using a noninterventional convergent parallel mixed-methods approach, this study examined the cultural contexts that inform perceptions of dietary interventions among older Midwestern Black men. All participants completed an online demographic and dietary habit survey prior to focus group discussions. Two focus group discussion sessions were conducted with a total of 10 cognitively normal Black men aged 55 years and older. Survey data were analyzed using a frequency analysis and qualitative data were analyzed using a six-step thematic analysis process. Most men indicated having hypertension (N = 7, 77.8%) and currently not following a dietary eating pattern (N = 8, 88.9%). Emerging themes identified included (1) knowledge of dementia, (2) perceptions of dietary interventions, (3) barriers impacting participation in dietary interventions, and (4) overcoming barriers to engage Black men in dietary interventions. Findings from this study should inform the design of future dietary interventions for AD prevention to enhance participation among older Black men.

A decision-support framework for suspension of public infrastructure projects: a combined use of neutrosophic AHP and TOPSIS

PurposeThe purpose of this study is to develop a decision-support framework that can be used by decision-makers to suspend public infrastructure projects. Additionally, the study also investigates how to select the most convenient infrastructure project for suspension.Design/methodology/approachThe proposed framework includes an extensive set of factors and a novel comparison mechanism that can reveal the most convenient infrastructure project to be suspended. A comprehensible literature review and focus group discussion (FGD) sessions were conducted to identify factors that should be considered for suspension. Then, the neutrosophic analytic hierarchy process (N-AHP) method was used to determine the relative importance of the factors. Finally, the proposed comparison mechanism was demonstrated through a hypothetical case study and Technique for order of preference by similarity to ideal solution (TOPSIS) analysis.FindingsResults showed that suspension decisions cannot be made merely based on “financial” factors. Instead, the other aspects, namely “Technical and managerial” and “Social and Environmental”, should also be taken into consideration. Second, factors related to the initial investment, cost of refinancing, cash flow, permits and approvals, insufficiency of bidders, degradation of the components, reputation, impact on stakeholders and criticality of the infrastructure were particularly elaborated as the most significant, needing the utmost attention of the decision-makers. Lastly, the results demonstrated that the proposed comparison mechanism has considerable potential to identify the most convenient infrastructure project for suspension.Originality/valuePublic infrastructure projects are often under pressure due to the inflationary state and economic stagnation of countries after major crises. The suspension decision for infrastructure projects necessitates comprehensible assessments to consider all consequences. Studies have widely investigated the contractual and legal aspects of project suspension in light of existing literature. However, little effort has been devoted to identifying the factors that decision-makers should consider before suspending a particular infrastructure project. Furthermore, existing literature does not investigate how to select the most convenient infrastructure project for suspension either. Thus, by developing a specific suspension framework for infrastructure projects by considering various factors, this study is the earliest attempt to examine the contract suspension mechanism of public infrastructure projects. In this respect, the study significantly contributes to the theory of contract management domain and has important managerial implications.

육아의 현실에 관한 포토보이스

Objectives The main purpose of this study is to explore the reality of parenting. To achieve the research purpose, three research questions were set. First, what is the meaning of parenting?, Second, what are the difficulties of parenting?, Third, what are the rewards of parenting?
 Methods Researchers applied the photovoice research method, a type of participatory action research, to explore the reality of parenting. Fourteen mothers who are experiencing childcare participated in the study, and the study participants participated in photovoice activities three times. The first meeting between researchers and partic-ipants took place during orientation. Using this time, the researchers explained the concept, characteristics, pro-cedures, and effects of photovoice to the participants. Additionally, the researchers informed the participants that they would take pictures, give meanings, and conduct discussion activities according to the topic. Researchers collected data through three sessions of photovoice activities and photo-based focus group discussions with participants. Data analysis was conducted through the processes of selecting, contextualizing, and codifying, and results were derived according to three research questions.
 Results As a result of the study, the meaning of parenting appeared to be growth and hope through reflection, and the difficulties of parenting appeared to be continuous self-sacrifice in difficult situations. And the reward of pa-renting appeared as the reason for existence and the power of social movement. This study is significant in that it conveyed their vivid voices by conducting photovoice research targeting mothers experiencing parenting.
 Conclusions Based on the research results, the researchers discussed the following three points. First, we were able to vividly see the reality of mothers experiencing childcare. Second, by applying the photovoice research method, we showed the reality of mothers experiencing childcare in a three-dimensional way. Third, this study, which applied the photovoice research method, served as a useful channel through which the voices of mothers experiencing childcare could be conveyed to society. Fourth, it was confirmed that photovoice can be a useful means of social participation.

HOUSEHOLDS’ COOKING ENERGY TRANSITION IN GOMBE METROPOLIS, NIGERIA: A QUALITATIVE RESEARCH APPROACH

Sustainable energy transition has the potentials to providing a lasting solution to the contending problem of climate change globally. This study investigated the current energy transition situation in Gombe Metropolis, Nigeria. The study used qualitative research method where data was obtained through two (2) sessions of focus group discussions (FGDs) and 5 key informant interviews (KIIs) with different households as well as energy vendors around the study area respectively. The data were analyzed using thematic method of analysis involving manual coding and themes generations. Result revealed on one hand that some of the households have started to adopt modern energy services for cooking while on the other hand some households have been using energy mix consisting solid forms of energy and modern energy services concurrently while some still rely heavily on solid forms of energy for their cooking energy requirements. It was found that energy access, affordability, cost, family size, income and education are the main factors influencing energy transition in the area. The study suggests that the government should provide easy access via feasible subsidies and also engage in public awareness campaigns on the dangers associated with reckless deforestation as well as environmental and health benefits of modern energy consumption for domestic cooking.

Qualitative Study of Anxiety Facing Block Examinations Among Medical Students at Faculty of Medicine, Universitas Ahmad Dahlan

Background: Medical students face examinations more frequently compared to students from other faculties. Examinations are one of the causes of anxiety commonly experienced by medical students, leading to both physical and psychological responses. Effective coping mechanisms in response to stressors are necessary for medical students as a defense mechanism. Objective: This research aims to explore the causes of exam anxiety, the contributing factors to anxiety and the coping mechanism used by medical students. Methods: The research adopts a qualitative descriptive design, the sample consist of active medical students from Faculty of Medicine, Ahmad Dahlan University who have faced block examinations. Sample selection was done using a test- anxiety inventory, with participants chosen from each academic year and divided into focus group discussion (FGD) sessions. The FGD results were subsequently analyzed using content analysis in the form of research problem categories. Results: The discovered data consists of the main research issues, which are student’s anxiety when facing block exams, the factors causing anxiety, and student’s coping mechanisms. Conclusion: The high anxiety group portrays block exams as a subjective matter and tends to lead to anxiety, students in low anxiety group predominantly utilize problem-focused coping mechanism.

Final Year BDS Student Perception of Artificial Intelligence Use in Dental Practice

Background: Modern technology makes everything accessible and easy. In our daily life, we use lots of artificial intelligence. Our modern dentistry also uses lots of new technology. Methods: A total of 26 final-year BDS students of Marks Medical College (Dental Unit) were selected purposively and six respondents were selected among them by simple random sampling method for a focus group discussion session in June 2022. The study implemented one qualitative method: a focus group discussion (FGD) among respondents. Semi-structured interview guidelines study adhered to the consolidated reporting criteria for qualitative studies (COREQ) developed for the FGD. Results: Positive comments included the reduced workload, quick calculations, less radiation exposure, ease of choosing a treatment plan, and ease of motivating patients. On the negative side, it was noted that it was expensive, required additional funding for setup, wasn't available, and required skilled labor to run, which is not readily available. Conclusion: It is encouraging that data-driven and robotic technology is becoming more prevalent in modern dentistry. AI and related advancements are becoming more common and used in healthcare. Dental surgeons should be more knowledgeable to use this technology. JOPSOM 2021; 41(2):57-61

Land acquisition policy and practice for cooperative housing scheme in Bahir Dar, Ethiopia: toward affordable housing solutions

Bahir Dar, a city in Ethiopia, is grappling with the challenges of rapid urbanization, which has made affordable housing a critical issue for its growing population. This study specifically focuses on the urban land acquisition process for cooperative housing schemes, which serve as an essential component of Bahir Dar’s affordable housing program. This atudy aimed to examine the current practices, identify the challenges faced by housing cooperatives during land acquisition and construction, and propose strategies for improvement. The primary data for this research were collected through interviews with key informants from the Bahir Dar City administration’s land management, cooperative organizer office, housing development and management office, and housing cooperative committees. Additionally, three focus group discussion (FGD) sessions were conducted, involving 21 participants from cooperative members who had acquired residential land and from those who were waiting for allocation, including both female- and male-headed households. These discussions explored their views on the effectiveness of the cooperative housing scheme, the challenges encountered during cooperation and construction, and their recommendations for enhancement. Secondary data were also gathered through a comprehensive review of policies, regulations, research articles, reports, and relevant legal documents. The study revealed that, out of the 35,512 certified housing cooperative members since 2014, only 31,596 of them had received residential land plots. However, a relatively small fraction, i.e., less than 7,000 cooperative members, managed to partially or fully construct their homes. This indicates that the scheme has not fully achieved its intended goal and remains unaffordable for many members. The main challenges faced by cooperative members include lengthy delays in obtaining serviced land, high construction costs, and unrealistic building standards for cooperative housing units. In light of these findings, it is recommended that the Amhara National Regional State revise its housing cooperative policy to become affordable for cooperative housing members, particularly in terms of land acquisition costs and building standards.

The Futurity of Indigenous Languages in Nollywood Movies

This qualitative research delves into the futurity of indigenous languages in the context of Nollywood movies, employing a dual methodology of Focus Group Discussions (FGD) and in-depth interviews. Participants spanning two age groups, 18-36 and 36-70, engaged in the FGD sessions, adding depth and diversity to the study. The research is anchored in the Language Vitality Theory and Cultural Hybridity Theory, providing a robust theoretical framework for exploration. The study sets forth four primary objectives. Firstly, it aims to scrutinize the audience’s consumption patterns of indigenous language films vis-a-vis English language movies in Nollywood. Secondly, it delves into the audience’s perceptions and interpretations of the cultural and linguistic dimensions presented in indigenous language movies. Thirdly, the research investigates the factors contributing to the sustained use and relevance of indigenous languages in Nollywood filmmaking. Finally, the study scrutinizes the potential future roles of indigenous languages in the Nollywood film industry. The research questions, strategically derived from the objectives, guide the inquiry process. Key findings underscore the significance of subtitles in enhancing audience engagement, comprehension, and enjoyment. Participants expressed a preference for subtitles, emphasizing their role in reducing the linguistic barrier and enhancing the overall movie-watching experience. In conclusion, the study recommends concerted efforts to enhance the quality and authenticity of indigenous languages in Nollywood. Particularly, it advocates for substantial investment in subtitles, recognizing them as a pivotal factor in bridging linguistic gaps and ensuring a broader audience base. This research contributes to the ongoing discourse on the role of indigenous languages in the ever-evolving landscape of Nollywood, shedding light on both current consumption patterns and potential future trajectories.

A Mixed Method Assessment of the Fertility Preferences of Clients Using Antiretroviral Therapy in Ilorin, Nigeria - A Descriptive Cross-sectional Survey.

The burden of human immunodeficiency virus (HIV)/acquired immunodeficiency syndrome in Nigeria remains one of the highest in the world, with the country having the highest number of people living with the infection in the West African subregion. Recent estimates put the HIV prevalence rate in Nigeria at 1.9%. In the early years of the HIV epidemic, attention on the reproductive preferences of people living with HIV was not really considered because of the high risk of mortality and few options to reduce mother-to-child transmission. A descriptive cross-sectional study was carried out in November 2018 using quantitative and qualitative methods. A total of 400 participants were recruited for the quantitative part of the study and 10 respondents for each of the focus group discussion (FGD) sessions. Data were collected using an interviewer-administered questionnaire and a FGD guide. Frequencies and percentages were determined using descriptive analysis. Univariate analysis was used to explore the association between the outcome variables and the independent variables. The independent variables which showed a significant association in the univariate analysis were further subjected to multivariate analysis. The desire to have children since their HIV diagnosis had been mooted by 255 (63.8%) respondents in the past and 64.5% of the respondents admitted to wanting to have children at some point in the future. More than half of the respondents (61%) currently wanted more children while a significant proportion of the respondents who wanted children (68.4%) wanted more than one child. The study observed that the desire to have children had largely not been affected by the HIV infection as respondents still had a fairly strong desire to continue to have more children in spite of the risks of transmission involved. The study recommended that government and HIV policymakers need to ensure that HIV prevention messages and programmes adopt cultural and socio-economic considerations when designing and planning HIV prevention programmes.

Issues And Challenges in Sustaining Community-Based Societies

Community-Based Societies (CBS) serve multiple roles in community development, such as addressing local concerns, fulfilling communal requirements, and enhancing the overall welfare of the community. The CBS serve as a means of assisting the government in addressing societal problems and fulfilling the needs of particular population groups. The establishment of societies enables the execution of initiatives designed to tackle the difficulties encountered by the specific group, while also promoting improved cooperation between the community and the society. However, there is a growing trend of societies inactivity and dissolution inside numerous establishments. Hence, this study was conducted to address the concerns and obstacles encountered by the societies in sustaining their operational vitality. The present study employs a qualitative research methodology. A total of 17 individual participated in two Focus Group Discussion sessions. The results obtained from thematic analysis using Atlas.Ti were categorized into three distinct themes: ‘the availability of financial resources prerequisite for the implementation of community program’, ‘requires dedication and participation more appropriate for volunteering’ and ‘leadership and personal qualities’. The study's findings indicate that the society plays a crucial role in enhancing community well-being. Nevertheless, it is crucial to address internal issues related to the organization of society expeditiously.

Wikipedia as an academic service-learning tool in science and technology: higher education case from Siberia.

Wikipedia, the open crowdsourced encyclopedia that anyone can edit, ranks among the top ten most-visited websites globally. Its integration into university curriculum as an innovative educational tool is a slowly growing trend; however, many higher education institutions have yet to fully grasp its potential. In response, a specific optional module for Wikipedia editing, designed for the selected undergraduate science courses at the School of Advanced Studies, Russia, was implemented as an optional extra credit service-learning activity, a teaching methodology combining meaningful service to the community with curriculum-based learning. Students who chose to participate and those who preferred not to participate in the activity were invited to participate in a research project to explore their perspectives and experiences. In total, five sessions of focus group discussions were conducted with participants (12 females and 2 males) in one set and non-participants (5 females and 4 males) in another to identify students' perspectives on themes such as their interest in science, reasons for their choices, and their expectations before the activity while post-experience focus group discussions were used to identify the perspectives of participant students on themes, encompassing contribution of the service-learning activity, acquisition of new skills, and the development of prosocial behaviors. Students' opinions on integrating social responsibility topics into the curriculum were also explored. The results extracted from these focus group discussions, analyzed through consensual coding, revealed factors promoting student participation, like interest in the subject, novelty of the activity, and grade improvement opportunities, as well as factors deterring participation, such as concerns about academic benefits, workload, and time constraints. Furthermore, the results demonstrated that Wikipedia editing serves as a novel teaching methodology, promoting student learning and development in digital literacy and information literacy, which are among the twenty-first-century skills. Interestingly, at the same time, not all students could address the value of contributing to open, crowdsourced knowledge for public service or interpret this activity as an academic service-learning. These suggest that Wikipedia editing is an innovative teaching approach, fostering students' learning and development while also indicating its potential to enhance students' understanding of responsible citizenship and public service in the digital age.