Stratified Simple Random Sampling Research Articles

An Evaluation of the Adoption of Cloud Accounting by SMEs in Zimbabwe

This paper investigated the use of cloud accounting by SMEs in Zimbabwe. The research used a quantitative approach and simple stratified random sampling techniques, stratifying according to firm size. A total of 132 questionnaires were used to collect data, and SPSS version 22.0 was used for the analysis. The study findings revealed a very low adoption of cloud accounting among SMEs in Zimbabwe. The foremost reasons for the low adoption rate of cloud accounting are a lack of awareness of the usage of cloud accounting, concerns about data security, and cost implications. The study further revealed that lack of training, data migration challenges, technical difficulties, integration issues, and concerns about data accuracy are the challenges faced by SMEs in implementing cloud accounting. The study recommends that SMEs prioritise training and skill development for their staff to build technical expertise in the utilisation of cloud accounting software. Furthermore, as the main stakeholder, the government should launch public awareness campaigns to educate small businesses about the benefits and opportunities of adopting cloud accounting technology.

Ifs Model Determinant in Sepahijala District of Tripura

The present study was undertaken to study the determinant for adoption of different farming system and major constraints faced by the respondents in the selected area. The research work was conducted under Charilam and Boxanagar blocks and from each block six villages were selected. Total 120 respondents were selected by adopting purposive stratified simple random sampling technique. The results of the study reveal that majority (59.00 per cent) of the respondents were of middle age, out of that 96 per cent were male respondents; married are 96.70 per cent; majority (45.00 per cent) respondents were up to middle school and 45.00 per cent respondents lives in semi-pucca house; majority (62.00 per cent) respondents were medium (2.00 to 3.50 ha) land holding. 71.00 per cent of the respondents were medium (4 to 8 family members); majority (65.80 per cent) were engaged under agriculture and majority (70.80 per cent) respondents were having experience of 7 to 11 years. During the research work total 8 IFS were identified in the study area viz; paddy + potato + dairy; paddy + tomato + dairy; paddy + potato + fishery + duckery; paddy + potato + fishery + piggery; paddy + brinjal + fishery + dairy; paddy + brinjal + fishery + poultry; paddy + cabbage + dairy; paddy + cabbage + dairy + vermicompost; out of that IFS-III recorded as highest contribution, followed by IFS-IV towards the benefit: cost ratio recorded as 3.31 and 3.30, respectively. Also, the age, education, land holding, experience and perception of the farmer contributed significant role for the adoption of integrated farming system. High input cost and scarcity of family labour were the major constraints faced by farmers. Government subsidies must released the enormous amount / number with low interest rate of bank loans; while the enterprise comprising of crops, livestock and fishery turns out to be remunerative for enhancing the income as well as increasing the employment opportunities to farmers.. KEYWORDS :Integrated farming system (IFS), Determinant, Economics, Respondents, Adoption, Income.

Structures of FM Radio Talk Shows Listened to by University Students in Eldoret Town, Kenya

The majority of the consumers of radio stations’ programming are the youth, most of whom are students in high schools, colleges, and universities. Therefore, the main objective of this study was to examine the structure of FM radio talk shows listened to by university students in Eldoret town. Uses and Gratifications theory guided this study. The study utilized a descriptive survey research design. The target population of the study were 3000 students from university campuses within Eldoret, and the sample size was 300. The researcher adopted a stratified sampling and simple random sampling technique to arrive at the sample that would best fit or present the intended purpose of the research. Data was collected using a questionnaire and Focus Group Discussion. The collected data was analyzed using descriptive statistical techniques that included frequencies, percentages. The findings revealed that FM radio talk shows typically feature a mix of news, interviews, and light entertainment to engage listeners at the start of the day. The study established that interactive formats allowing listeners to call in with requests or opinions, countdown formats featuring popular music tracks, and narrative-driven programs were popular among respondents. The study findings from focus group discussion revealed that FM radio talk shows in Eldoret Town typically follow a similar format, often beginning with an opening segment where the host introduces the topic and guests. This is followed by an in-depth discussion led by the host, with opportunities for audience participation through call-ins, SMS messages, and social media interactions. Radio stations targeting university students should create a balanced format that includes a mix of news, interviews, and light entertainment. The study concluded that FM radio talk shows in Eldoret Town typically follow a similar format, with an opening segment, in-depth discussions led by the host, and opportunities for audience participation. The study recommended that Radio stations targeting university students should create a balanced format that includes a mix of news, interviews, light entertainment, structured segments, in-depth discussions, sports coverage, interactive formats, countdown formats, live performances, music genres, structured discussions, narrative-driven programs, informative segments, and light-hearted content.

School Principals’ Conceptual Skills and Students’ Academic Performance in Public Secondary Schools in Kakamega County

Purpose: The purpose of the study was to establish how school principals’ conceptual skills influence students’ academic performance in public secondary schools in Kakamega County. Methods: The study made use of a correlation research design. A total of 3,350 teachers, 276 deputy principals, 1104 heads of departments, and 276 principals of secondary schools in Kakamega County make up the target population of 5006 subjects. The study sampled 152 respondents, which comprised 8 principals, 8 deputy principals, 34 HODs, and 102 teachers. Stratified simple random sampling and purposive sampling techniques were applied to sample participants who were 152. Questionnaires were used to collect data from teachers, deputy principals, and heads of departments, and an interview guide for the principals. Inferential statistics which included regression analysis was used to determine how the independent factors affect the dependent variable. Results: The study found that principals’ conceptual skills had a positive and significant effect on academic performance in public secondary schools in Kakamega County. Conclusion: Ensuring teachers understand the vision and mission of the school which is the responsibility of the school principal enhances the school performance. The principal should however provide guidance to the teachers on ways to achieve the school’s vision and mission. Policymakers who make school-related policies should formulate a policy that will guide the TSC when posting principals to only post those who are competent in conceptual skills. Keywords: Leadership skills, conceptual skills, academic performance

Performance of cash transfer program on farmers’ livelihood: evidence from PM-KISAN scheme of India

IntroductionResearch into various aspects of vulnerability and poverty has played a key role in shaping cash transfer systems. Cash-based direct benefit transfers (DBT) are frequently discussed, as they help reduce corruption and limit intermediary involvement, which often impedes policy implementation in countries like India. Small and marginal farmers (SMFs), constituting 86% of India’s farming population, are essential for sustainable agricultural growth and ensuring food and nutrition security. The Pradhan Mantri Kisan Samman Nidhi (PM-KISAN) scheme provides Rs.6000 annually to the farmer families via DBT mechanism. Despite reports and information from various government sources, significant concerns remain regarding the performance of PM-KISAN scheme in improving living conditions of SMFs.MethodsFor having the highest number of SMFs, a research study was conducted in Bihar and Uttar Pradesh. Two cluster of villages from each of these two states were chosen by simple random sampling (SRS) method. An ex post facto research design was used; data was gathered from 240 SMFs, with 120 beneficiaries and 120 non-beneficiaries, using a stratified disproportionate simple random sampling technique. The study used 18 indicators related to livelihood assets—human capital, social capital, natural capital, physical capital, and financial capital—to generate a Livelihood Index (LI) through Principal Component Analysis (PCA).ResultsThe beneficiaries of the scheme had an average LI score of 0.396, while non-beneficiaries had a score of 0.366. Propensity Score Matching (PSM) was employed to compare the beneficiaries and non-beneficiaries in order to determine the impact of the scheme. In the Livelihood Index of beneficiaries, in comparison to non-beneficiaries, there was a significant improvement of 3.34 to 4.13 percentage points, according to the analysis, which utilized a variety of matching algorithms.DiscussionImplications from the study suggests that PM-KISAN should be integrated into a broader rural development strategy to maximize multiplier effects. By combining cash transfers with complementary initiatives like modern technology adoption and high-yield seeds, farmers can make productive investments that could enhance their livelihood status.

Extending Cochran’s Sample Size Rule to Stratified Simple Random Sampling with Applications to Audit Sampling

Audit samples are selected by businesses, institutions, government agencies, and other organizations to check the accuracy of financial reports and assess the quality of services provided among other reasons. A standard design used in auditing is stratified simple random sampling. Point estimates and confidence intervals for population values are usual products of an audit. Cochran’s sample size rule and its extension by Sugden, Smith, and Jones provided minimum sample size formulas for a simple random sample to ensure effective normal approximation and adequate coverage for nominal 95% confidence intervals of a standardized or Studentized sample mean. The purpose of this paper is to extend Cochran’s rule and establish a formula for the minimum sample size for the normal approximation and the use of traditional one-sided or two-sided confidence intervals to be acceptable for mean estimation in stratified simple random samples. We concentrate on variables that are at least partially continuous. Simulations are used to examine the performance of our sample size formula with a variety of skewed populations based on ones encountered in auditing.

Empirical Study on the Impact of Service Quality Dimensions on Satisfaction of Students: With Reference to Executive Coaching’s of Kota

Purpose: The purpose of this study is to see how the service quality elements affect student satisfaction in private coaching institutes of Kota District. This research unifies, refines, and extends the empirical work undertaken in the field of education service quality in the coaching institutes of Kota, in addition to acknowledging the critical roles of service quality in boosting student satisfaction. It has a number of implications for managers at these coaching institutes, including the importance of strategies related to increasing service quality which will effect the satisfaction level of students. Objective: As one of the first attempts to explore empirically the impact of the service quality approach on student satisfaction this research adds to academic and practical knowledge. The study aims to investigate the relationship between service quality and student satisfaction of private coaching institutes. It also aims to study the Impact of Service Quality on Student Satisfaction of private coaching institutes. The overall study aims to identify the service quality factors leading to student satisfaction. Methodology: The study is based on Empirical research The independent variables in the study are the factors of service quality like Tangibility, reliability, responsiveness, empathy and assurance, while the dependent variable taken for the study is student satisfaction. A quantitative method is used to analyse the data collected through structured questionnaires which was administered in five coaching institutes in Kota: Allen Career Institute, Resonance, Bansal Classes, Aakash, and Vibrant Academy. Data was collected from 400 respondents (384 According to Morgan formulae and 16 as contingency respondents). Stratified simple random sampling method was used to collect the reliable data. The Data was analysed using Statistical tools like correlation and regression analysis. Results: The results shows that all the independent variables are highly correlated with the dependent variable which shows that each element of service quality has an impact on the satisfaction level of the students enrolled in the private coaching institutes of Kota. The Regression analysis concludes that there is a positive impact of tangibility, reliability and assurance on students’ satisfaction and there is a negative impact of responsiveness and empathy on the satisfaction of students of the private coaching institutes. Further, the study gives important guidance for future research opportunities, such as investigating the impact of the marketing mix approach on other coaching institutes' performance criteria.

Learning Achievement in English of the Students at A Private University in Pathum Thani Province Through the Use of the Padlet Application

Background and Aims: Students who achieve high levels in English are better prepared for both academic success and global engagement. It builds self-assurance and provides access to a wide range of opportunities in various fields. Thus, the objectives of this study were 1) to examine the efficiency of teaching English through the use of the Padlet application the students at a Private university in Pathum Thani province, and 2) to compare the learning achievement in English of the students at a Private university in Pathum Thani Province through the use of the Padlet application. Methodology: The participants in this study were 50 students from a private university in Pathum Thani Province who enrolled in Basic Writing in English in the third semester of the academic year 2023, selected through stratified random sampling and simple random sampling methods. The research instrument consisted of 10 sets of English achievement tests. The data was analyzed by Percentage, Mean, Standard Deviation, and t-test. Results: The results found that 1) the efficiency of teaching English through the use of the Padlet application of the students at a private university in Pathum Thani Province (E1/E2) was 81.82/83.18. 2) The learning achievement in English of the students at a Private university in Pathum Thani province through the use of the Padlet application was significantly higher than before at the 0.01 level. Conclusion: At a private university in Pathum Thani Province, the use of the Padlet application dramatically increased student learning achievement and significantly increased the efficiency of teaching English (E1/E2: 81.82/83.18). This shows a significant improvement in English proficiency after the intervention, proving the usefulness of Padlet.

Communication Strategies & Mobile Banking Adoption

This article, as research study, employed a mixed method research approach; which utilized both qualitative and quantitative methods of data collection and analysis. The utilised tools were an interview schedule and questionnaires. A target population of 3000 customers and 17 staff members from whom the sample of 353 respondents among the bank customers all 17 staff members purposively were selected. Simple stratified random sampling and purposive sampling were applied in selecting customers and staff members for the study respectively. Quantitative data collected was analysed using descriptive statistics and presented in form of tables, graphs and charts. The qualitative statistics were analysed thematically. Its findings revealed that good communication strategies influenced mobile banking adoption by enhancing the good corporate relationship with customers through word of mouth rated at 84.4 %, social media at 71.8%and mass media communication at 68.9%. It recommends creating awareness and elevating customers’ attitude by making the mobile banking platform affordable, easy and accessible to customers of all segments, easing the customers into the technology rather than forcing it on them while being innovative to stay competitive in the current market.

Farmer’s Perception and Determinant of Horticultural Crops in Nagaland and Manipur States

Background: The present research work was undertaken to known about the farmer perception and determinant as the adoption of the horticultural crops and major production constraints faced by them in Nagaland and Manipur states. Methods: For the present study by selecting 100 respondents each from Nagaland and Manipur states to have 200 respondents in total by using purposive stratified simple random sampling technique with the help of data collected through personnel interview methods during the Agricultural calendar year 2019 to 2022 (contain 3 years survey field data). Result: About the farmer perceptions for the horticultural crops in the study area viz; pineapple and chili both were selected due to the prominent crops; based on benefit-cost ratio pineapple crops of Nagaland was recorded as highest (3.31:1) returns, followed by pineapple crop of Manipur (3.01:1) state; also based on benefit-cost ratio, chili crop of Manipur was recorded highest (2.70:1) returns, followed by chili crop of Nagaland (2.76:1) state, respectively. About the perception level it increase by maximum 17.00 per cent for Dimapur Pineapple, followed by Thoubal Chili was 16 per cent, Kohima Chili was 12.00 per cent and minimum Senapati Pineapple was 10 per cent, respectively. About the major constraints faced by the respondents during the production, the foremost was due to the need for high investment in inputs, followed by the size of the land holding and lack of technical knowledge, respectively.

Effect of Stakeholders’ Engagement on Performance of Construction Projects in Rwanda: Case of Horizon Construction Company

Purpose: This research focused on the evaluation of the impact of stakeholder engagement on the performance of construction projects in Rwanda. The following specific objectives directed this study: to identify the impact of stakeholders' involvement in project planning on the performance of Horizon Construction Company's construction projects; to assess the impact of stakeholders' engagement in project implementation on the performance of Horizon Construction Company's construction projects; and to evaluate the impact of stakeholders' engagement in monitoring and evaluation on the performance of Horizon Construction Company's construction projects. Methodology: A combination of descriptive and correlational research survey design under a mixed method approach was used to guide the study. Participants in this research consisted of 182 individuals from Horizon Construction Company. Using stratified simple random sampling, this research sampled 125 people. A statistical Package for Social Sciences (SPSS) version 25 was used to analyze quantitative data along with thematic for qualitative data. Findings: The coefficient for stakeholders in project planning is 0.325, suggesting that for each unit increase in stakeholder engagement during the planning phase, project performance is expected to increase by 0.325, with this relationship being statistically significant (β = 0.325, t = 6.153, Sig. = 0.000). Similarly, the coefficient for stakeholders in project implementation is 0.268, indicating that a one-unit increase in engagement during implementation correlates with a 0.268 increase in project performance, which is also statistically significant (β = 0.268, t = 5.841, Sig. = 0.000). Additionally, the coefficient for stakeholders in monitoring and evaluation is 0.409, revealing that improvements in stakeholder engagement in oversight can enhance project performance by 0.409 units, with a statistically significant impact (β = 0.409, t = 8.030, Sig. = 0.000). Unique Contribution to Theory, Practice and Policy: it is recommended that Horizon Construction Company prioritize inclusive stakeholder engagement practices throughout all project phases.

Effect of Parental Involvement by the Headteachers in the Education of their Children on Students Retention in Masinga Sub-County, Kenya

The study focuses on the effect of parents’ involvement by head teachers in the education of their children and students’ retention in secondary school education in Masinga sub – county Kenya. It was guided by the following objective: to determine the extent to which parents’ involvement by the headteachers in the education of their children influences students’ retention in secondary school education. The study adopted a descriptive survey research design. The study was anchored on Epstein theory. The target population was 50 head teachers,50 deputy head teachers and 5022 form 3 and 4 students. Purposive, stratified proportionate sampling and simple random sampling were employed to sample 25 head teachers, 25 deputy head teachers and 370 students. Data collection instruments included questionnaires for headteachers and students, an interview guide for deputy headteachers and a document analysis guide. Validity of the research instruments was ascertained through expert judgement and piloting. Reliability was achieved through test – retest method where the instruments were piloted in a time interval of two weeks and the two results were correlated using Pearson’s product moment correlation method. Further, inferential analysis was employed that involved correlational analysis at a 0.05 level of significance. The hypothesis was accepted or rejected at 0.01 level of significance. The findings showed that there is a positive correction between parents’ involvement in the education of their children and students’ retention (r = 0.811; p = 0.00), hence the hypothesis was rejected and an alternative hypothesis accepted. The study concluded that the head teachers’ efforts to engage parents in the educational matters positively influence students’ retention. The study recommends that head teachers should use more communication strategies in order to involve all the parents in the education of their children.

Relationship Between Accommodation Conflict Resolution Style And Marital Satisfaction Among Couples In Nairobi City County, Kenya

Background: Marriage is considered necessary in most cultures, and is expected to build fulfilling relationships. However, world records show decreased rates of new marriages and divorce figures are still high globally7,11 . Culturally, married individuals achieve socially acceptable status and fulfill religious and cultural obligations through bearing children8 . Research carried out in Kenya12 indicates that 29% of respondents’ marriages were headed for crumbling and only 40% were happy with their marriages. Unhappy marriages may result in marital dissatisfaction leading to divorce. Divorces have profound consequences particularly in children7 . Hence there is need to curb divorce. Research on predictors of marital satisfaction posits that resolving differences and conflicts improves interpersonal skills. In addition, interpersonal skills correlate positively with marital satisfaction, while low marital satisfaction has been associated with marital dissolution. Divorce figures are still high in most regions of the world though some countries such as Germany and United States may have recorded a decrease in Divorce rates12 . Kenyan population census (2019) shows that persons who are either divorced or separated, headed 5.5% of the total households, which is approximately 661,628 households13. Research supports that conflicts and conflict resolutions are among the major determinants of marriage satisfaction. This study aimed to determine the relationship between accommodation conflict resolution style and marital satisfaction among couples in Nairobi City County. The research sought to establish whether Nairobi couples use accommodation conflict resolution style in resolving conflicts and its influence on marital satisfaction. Research assumed that inability to resolve marital conflicts amicably or to manage post-conflict experiences influences a person's perception of their marriage relationship. Studies on how conflict resolution styles influence marriage satisfaction are yet to be extensively conducted locally. Material and Methods: The research used a correlational study design. The target population constituted couples in 858,926 households within Nairobi City County. The households were identified from the Kenya National Bureau of Statistics (KNBS)13 . The study used Stratified and proportional simple random sampling to sample sub counties and households respectively. Data was collected using structured self-reported questionnaires. Modified Conflict Resolution Strategies Scale (CRSS) and Marital Satisfaction Index (MSI) were incorporated into the questionnaire. Results: Data was cleaned and analyzed through statistical package for social sciences (SPSS) version 23. Pearson’s correlation was used to analyze inferential statistics where results showed accommodation conflict resolution style had a weak positive relationship with marital satisfaction where, rs(398) = .179, p < .05. Conclusion: Use of accommodation conflict resolution has positive influence on marital satisfaction. The findings can guide to develop conflict intervention programs for couples.

Evaluation Of The Influence Of Reframing On Intermittentexplosive Disorder Among Female Inmates’ Violence Towards Male Partner In Selected Women Prisons, Kenya

The purpose of this study was to evaluate the influence of cognitive restructuring strategies on intermittent explosive disorder among female inmates’ violence towards male partners in selected women prisons in Kenya. The study helped to evaluate the influence of reframing on intermittent explosive disorder. The study was anchored on Social cognitive theory by Albert Bandura and self-evaluation maintenance theory by Abraham Tesser. The study used an Ex Post Facto research design. The study was carried out at Langata and Thika Women Prisons. Quantitative data was obtained from the sampled inmates using questionnaires; while qualitative data was collected using interview guides from the prison key informants. The study incorporated 8 constables, 4 counsellors, 3 chaplains as key informants. Stratified and proportionate simple random sampling was used to select a sample size of 307 inmates. Quantitative data was analyzed using both descriptive and inferential tests. Hypotheses were tested at p=.05 using Pearson’s Product Moment Correlation Coefficient. Qualitative data was analyzed thematically according to the study objectives. The findings showed there was a statistically nonsignificant positive relationship between reframing and intermittent explosive disorder as, [r (257) = .051, p = .417]. Increase in intensity of frame shift, target thoughts and evidence of thoughts led to increased traits of intermittent explosive disorder. Based on these findings, the study recommends that prison management through the ministry of Interior and Coordination of National Government, enhance provision of counselling programmes mbased on cognitive restructuring techniques in the prisons. Reframing as a technique would provide solutions on the past painful memories of the inmates; optimistically avoid violence and keep away from crime

Examination Of The Influence Of Problem Solving On Intermittent Explosive Disorder Among Female Inmates’ Violence Towards Male Partner In Selected Women Prisons, Kenya

The purpose of this study was to evaluate the influence of cognitive restructuring strategies on intermittent explosive disorder among female inmates’ violence towards male partners in selected women prisons in Kenya. The study used an Ex Post Facto research design. The study was carried out at Langata and Thika Women Prisons. Quantitative data was obtained from the sampled inmates using questionnaires; while qualitative data was collected using interview guides from the prison key informants. Target population was 1023 inmates. The study incorporated 8 constables, 4 counsellors, 3 chaplains as key informants. Stratified and proportionate simple random sampling was used to select a sample size of 307 inmates. Quantitative data was analyzed using both descriptive and inferential tests. Hypotheses were tested at p=.05 using Pearson’s Product Moment Correlation Coefficient. The study also revealed that there was a statistically non-significant negative relationship between problem solving and intermittent explosive disorder as, [r (257) = -.029, p = .639] with increase intensity of problem-solving indicators, there was decrease in the severity of intermittent explosive disorder. Based on these findings, the study recommends that prison management through the ministry of Interior and Coordination of National Government, enhance provision of counselling programmes based on cognitive restructuring techniques in the prisons

Communication Strategies & Radio Talk Shows

The majority of the consumers of radio stations’ programming are the youth, most of whom are students in high schools, colleges, and universities. The findings revealed that majority of the respondents agreed that radio talk show presenters have effectively analysed their respective audiences so as to communicate effectively. In view of this, the research article seeks to determine the communication strategies that are employed in presenting radio talk shows, as observed, through listening, by university students in the city of Eldoret. Uses and Gratifications theory guided this study. The study utilized a mixed method research approach that made use of both quantitative and qualitative methods of data collection and analysis. The target population of the study were students from university campuses within Eldoret, and the sample size was 300. The researcher adopted a stratified sampling and simple random sampling technique to arrive at the sample that would best fit or present the intended purpose of the research. Data was collected using a questionnaire and Focus Group Discussion. The collected data was analysed using descriptive statistical techniques that included frequencies, percentages. The study established that effective communication strategies by presenters are crucial in engaging university students. Radio talk show presenters should analyse their audience effectively and employ communication strategies that foster engagement, such as active listening and utilizing multiple modes of communication.

Fathers’ knowledge of neonatal danger signs and its associated factors in Northwest Ethiopia: a community-based cross-sectional study

ObjectiveThis study aimed to assess fathers’ knowledge of neonatal danger signs and their associated factors in Northwest Ethiopia.DesignCommunity-based cross-sectional study.SettingEnarji and Enawga Woreda, Northwest Ethiopia.ParticipantsThe study was conducted on 613...

Gender Differences in Request Strategies among Graduate Students

Proficiency in request strategies is key in handling social hierarchies and managing interpersonal communication. It is also essential in reducing misunderstandings and enhancing communication efficiency in both educational and professional settings. This quantitative survey investigated the request strategies employed by graduate students in different hierarchical contexts. The sample population consisted of 100 B.Ed. (Bachelor of Education) major English students from ten campuses affiliated to Tribhuvan University (TU). The sample was selected employing stratified simple random sampling method. The data were collected using a structured questionnaire with nine closed-ended questions in the year 2081 BS. The data were analyzed using descriptive statistics technique of quantitative data analysis. The result revealed distinct patterns in request strategies when addressing individuals of varying ranks. In higher-to-lower rank scenarios, male respondents predominantly used mood derivable strategies, while females showed a preference for performatives and hedge performatives. For equal-to-equal rank situations, males favored direct mood derivable strategies, while females used a more varied approach with higher incidences of indirect strategies. In lower-to-higher rank contexts, males again showed a preference for direct approaches, whereas females exhibited a higher use of indirect and polite strategies. These findings highlight significant gender-based differences in communication strategies which emphasize the need for personalized approaches in educational and professional settings.

UTILIZATION OF CLASSROOM ENVIRONMENT AND ITS EFFECTS ON ACADEMIC PERFORMANCE IN SUB COUNTY LEVEL SECONDARY SCHOOLS IN UASIN GISHU COUNTY, KENYA

School infrastructure is a key pillar for effective learning process in any educational institution. The purpose of this study was to utilization of classroom environment affect academic performance in Sub County level secondary schools in Uasin Gishu County. This study was guided by Production theory. The study was guided by pragmatism philosophy and adopts descriptive survey research design. The study area was carried out in Uasin Gishu County. The target population of the study was 18960 respondents. Stratified simple random and purposive sampling was employed to select the respondents. The sample size was 530 respondents comprising of 48 principals, 97 teachers, 384 students and a Quality Assurance and Standards Officer The data collection instruments were questionnaire, interview schedules and observation check list. A pilot study was carried out in five public schools in the neighboring Trans Nzoia County to check on the consistence of the instruments. The researcher yielded both quantitative and qualitative data. Quantitative data was analyzed using descriptive statistics that resulted in percentages and frequencies that were represented in tables, pie charts and bar graphs and inferential statistics. Qualitative data was analyzed thematically. Therefore, from the research findings based on the multiple regression models, the coefficient of determination (R squared) of 0.441 showed that 44.1% of the variation in student performance was explained by the utilization of selected school infrastructure. The study found out that the classroom environment influenced academic performance. The study concluded that the more conducive the classroom environment the higher the academic performance. The research recommended that sub county level secondary schools management in Uasin Gishu County should develop infrastructural development initiatives to solve the inadequacy of these facilities and enhance their utilization in the schools. There should be consistent routine supervision of quality of facilities in schools done by the government to ensure that schools are operating with good facilities that would help the learners. KEY WORDS: School infrastructure utilization of classroom environment, academic performance

Co-evolution, organizational capacity building, logistics capabilities and operational agility during health emergencies

PurposeGlobally, health care facilities often fail to respond quickly to health emergencies, resulting in significant deaths. Thus, the study examines the mediating effect of logistics capabilities in the relationship between co-evolution, organization capacity building and operational agility.Design/methodology/approachSmartPLS 4.0.8.3, variance-based structural equation models (VB-SEM) were used to test direct and indirect hypotheses across 45 health facilities. The respondents were 140 nurses and doctors. Disproportionate stratified simple random sampling was used based on government and private health facilities in Kampala City, Uganda.FindingsA significant and positive relationship exists between logistics capability and operational agility. However, co-evolution and organizational capacity are intimately linked to operational agility via logistics capability.Research limitations/implicationsA quantitative cross-sectional survey was conducted using self-administered questionnaires. The results did not show any variation in the operational agility of health facilities during emergency management; thus, qualitative approaches are needed.Practical implicationsDuring emergency management, health facilities need to cooperate by sharing information, building capacity to increase their responsiveness and flexibility. This should be done by sharing equipment, tools, drugs and medical supplies, and we hope to encourage joint medical research.Originality/valueA complex adaptive systems (CAS) framework is used in this study to examine how co-evolution, organizational capacity building and logistical capability relate to the operational agility of healthcare during times of emergency.