Capital Theory Research Articles

Typology and impact of follower responses to social media influencer “promotional crisis”

AbstractThis study introduces a typology of follower responses to seemingly deceptive promotional content by a social media influencer (SMI) and the effects of those responses on observers. Through a large‐scale, mixed‐methods analysis of an influencer's “promotional crisis” in early 2023, popularly known as “Mascaragate” on TikTok, we identified follower engagement types that potentially harm both SMI and the promoted brand. The crisis sparked an unusually high level of network activity, providing valuable insights into the ripple effects of follower reactions. Drawing on parasocial relationship theory and social capital theory, we proposed that interactions between influencers and their followers, as well as among followers, evolve systematically through linguistic and social cues. These interactions can shift the original meaning of the influencer's message, leading to unintended consequences for both SMI and the brand. Through netnography and k‐means cluster analysis, we identified three distinct clusters of followers with unique attitudes toward the post and SMI. One group (i.e., “Type 1”) was particularly adept at reshaping the meaning of the SMI post through rational engagement with other followers. A subsequent experiment assessed the impact of each group's comments on the observers within a broader community network, focusing on credibility, skepticism, and the impact of social media dependency. The findings offer practical tools for brands and SMIs to analyze follower comment patterns and suggest strategies for addressing crises stemming from SMI‐linked promotional content, ultimately helping to preserve brand reputation and trust.

Building Readiness to Change in Organization through the Role of Affective Commitment and Personal Characteristics

Human capital theory focuses on human development as the main capital in an organization. Individuals as important agents in an organization are based on the existence of Personal Characteristics (PC), which facilitate the achievement of Self-Efficacy (SE) and Job Satisfaction (JS) to increase Readiness to Change (RTC). This study aims to offer the Affective Commitment (AC) variable in bridging the gap between SE on RTC and JS on RTC. The results of empirical testing using SEM instruments processed with AMOS software revealed that AC can play its role in mediating JS fully (B = 0.614) on RTC. However, AC only partially utilizes SE (B = 0.390) on RTC.

AN ASSESSMENT OF THE PARENTAL INVOLVEMENT CONTRIBUTION ON THE PRIMARY SCHOOLS’ ACADEMIC PERFORMANCE IN TANZANIA

Parental involvement is very important in student’s learning and academic progress in primary schools. However, the combined impact of various factors, including poverty, illiteracy in some families, lack of time, language, and lack of knowledge about the curriculum, especially among the parents, makes their effective involvement in their children’s education challenging. This study utilized the social capital theory developed by Pierre Bourdieu and the community participation theory by Sherry Arnstein to have a clear understanding of the study. The combination of the two theories provided an understanding of parental involvement in primary school education in the study area. The study employed a descriptive research design that used both qualitative and quantitative approaches. The targeted population consisted of public primary school students, teachers, head teachers, ward education officers, and school-going students' parents. Questionnaires, interview guides and documentary reviews were used to collect information about parental involvement in public primary schools. Qualitative data was analyzed mainly through thematic analysis, and SPSS software was used to analyze the quantitative data. Simple statistics have been presented in tables and figures to depict the frequencies, percentages and means in relation to the findings of the study. The study found that parental involvement contributes much to the lives of schools. Without it, it could be hard to run the school’s activities. This is because the schools are better managed through the collective efforts of both teachers and parents, as well as other educational stakeholders in the community. Therefore, the government should educate parents about the necessity of their involvement in schools so as to be ready to take responsibility for supporting their children in different ways.<p> </p><p><strong> Article visualizations:</strong></p><p><img src="/-counters-/soc/0704/a.php" alt="Hit counter" /></p>

Effectiveness of TVET Training in Harnessing Skills Development amongst the Youths in Kisumu County, Kenya

The global challenge of TVET is ensuring that vocational education systems are inclusive, industry-relevant and aligned with the needs of the 21st-century labor market. Without addressing issues like funding, perception and curriculum development, TVET systems may continue to fall short in equipping young people with the skills needed for employment, entrepreneurship and sustainable economic development. For this reason, this study sought to examine effectiveness of TVET Training in Harnessing Skills Development Amongst the Youths in Kisumu County, Kenya. The founding theoretical frameworks were: Human capital theory, social learning theory and empowerment theory. Descriptive survey was used. Target population was 20,857 comprising of 20,814 TVET students, 42 Heads of TVET institutions and 1 County Education Officer in Kisumu County Government. A sample size of 379 was determined using Krejcie and Morgan (1970) model. Disproportionate stratified random sampling was used to select respondents. Data was collected using structured questionnaires and interview guide. Data was analyzed through content analysis, descriptive and inferential statistics. Pearson`s Correlation analysis was used to determine linear relationships between variables. For the coefficient of correlation (r) of 0.96, it implied a very strong positive relationship between TVET training and skill development. Government as policy-maker was recommended to institute regular reform for reviewing the existing TVET curricula in order to incorporate feedback from students and adapt to emerging dynamics of demographic dividends.

Determinants of Willingness to Pay for Community-Based Health Insurance in Ethiopia: National Household Survey

The existing evidence on households' participation in Ethiopia's community-based health insurance (CBHI) scheme is limited, lacks representativeness, and lacks disaggregation. Thus, this study aims to assess households' willingness to pay (WTP) for CBHI membership and identify the factors that influence their decision to enroll. From February to May 2020, a nationwide cross-sectional household survey was conducted involving CBHI member and non-member households. The primary theories that informed this study were utility theory, social capital theory, and the health belief model. Sample included 5,976 households from 166 EAs—118 in CBHI regions and 48 in non-CBHI regions. A two-stage stratified cluster sampling used to select enumeration areas (EAs) and households from within these areas. The maximum amount of money at which participants responded "yes" in the bidding game exercise was used to measure WTP. Data were analyzed using STATA Version 16. Household expenditure was adjusted for key factors. Analyses explored WTP for CBHI by region, membership, and livelihood, with WTP based on mean maximum values. Linear regression identified influencing factors. The findings reveal that 30.9% of participants were active CBHI members. The average WTP increased with each additional family member, both in rural (AMD = 9.3 [6.8, 11.9]) and urban areas (AMD = 7.2 [1.0, 13.4]). In urban areas, WTP was also positively associated with the ability to pay (ATP) for CBHI (AMD = 64.1 [6.3, 121.8]). Male respondents and those who were literate in urban areas had higher mean WTP values of AMD = 39.8 [13.1, 66.4] and AMD = 56.8 [26.1, 87.4], respectively. Additionally, holding leadership positions in health and women's development initiatives positively influenced WTP. The study found that 30.9% of participants were active CBHI members. WTP for CBHI was higher among larger families. In urban areas, WTP was positively associated with the ability to pay (ATP) for CBHI, particularly among male and literate respondents. Community leadership roles in health and women's development also positively influenced WTP. To improve the CBHI scheme, adjustments should be made to premiums based on households' ability to pay. Community engagement should be strengthened, service quality enhanced, regional disparities addressed, and performance regularly monitored.

Measuring the community dream: A social capital lens of capacity building initiatives

ABSTRACT In 2010, San Antonio leaders sought to leverage networks and collective action to create a future in which each resident was responsible to the whole community in helping to reach a shared vision for 2020 to become a world-class city. In doing so, city administrators applied social capital theories to utilize the active networks in a social capital-rich community, which creates a wider capacity for dynamic actions and more opportunity for community practitioners to meet development goals. This case study compiles secondary sources from publicly distributed data sets, utilizing data mining techniques and social network analysis to describe community capacity building outcomes. This case study examines community development outcomes through a social-network analysis of organizational leadership, combined with an examination of diversity, civic engagement, and participation within the decade-long initiative, to provide insights for other leaders seeking to utilize a social capital theory approach to capacity building.

The influence of Uganda women’s entrepreneurship program on livelihoods and cultural dynamics in Amolatar, Northern Uganda

This article examines the influence of women’s economic empowerment initiatives under Uganda Women Entrepreneurship Programme (UWEP) on livelihoods and cultural dynamics in Amolatar Sub-Region, Northern Uganda. The study focused on how UWEP has contributed to improving women’s economic status and their roles within the cultural practices in the region. A Qualitative interpretive framework as well phenomenological research design was employed in this study involving in-depth and key informant interviews as well as focus group discussion with 28 participants. The study is grounded in Agency theory by Kabeer and Cultural Capital Theory by Bourdieu, which emphasise women’s participation in entrepreneurship to transform their economic lives and well-being within existing social structures. This research indicates that, UWEP greatly contributes to women’s active agency, allowing them to challenge obstacle within the communities, particularly gender inequality and social stratification. In addition, women’s participation in entrepreneurship coupled with the positive shifts in cultural attitudes in Amolatar sub-region have improved their livelihoods through self-employment. This study emphasise the significance of continuous support by Uganda government through Ministry of Gender, Labour, and Social Development (MoGLSD) for UWEP. Constant support is important to further empower women as well as improve their economic status and well-being within their families and communities.

Choice of financial audit firm and ESG assurance firm: The role of board of director characteristics

Corporations increasingly seek assurance on their published environmental, social, and governance (ESG) reports. Some companies use their audit firm to assure ESG reports, while others seek assurance services from a different firm. This paper investigates the influence of boardroom-based factors – female directors and multiple directorships – on companies' choice of ESG assurance provider. Using a sample of 438 Australian company-year observations from 2010 to 2020 we find that companies with more female directors and busy boards (i.e., boards with directors having at least three concurrent directorships) are more likely to choose a Big-4 audit firm different from their incumbent financial auditor to assure their ESG reports. Based on agency, social capital and resource dependence theories, we explain this ESG assurance procurement strategy as deliberate to address the potential ethical dilemma of engaging the same audit firm for assurance of financial and non-financial information. Our findings suggest that companies with more female directors and busy boards are likelier than their counterparts to apply this ethical stance in choosing their financial auditors and ESG assurers. Implications for policymakers and regulators in designing board diversity guidelines or rules and companies in setting board diversity criteria and policies are discussed.

Firm Characteristics, Interest Rate And Financial Performance Of Microfinance Banks In Kenya

Microfinance Banks gives the forte to improve the economic activity of low-income individuals and eliminate poverty, resulting in economic progress. However, microfinance's Banks financial performance in Kenya has declined over time. The objective of this study is to investigate firm characteristics, interest rate and financial performance of microfinance banks in Kenya. The study was grounded on buffer capital, efficiency structure and interest rate parity theories. The study research methodology rested on positivism research philosophy. Research design was explanatory non-experimental design. Secondary panel data was utilized. 13 microfinance banks in Kenya were target. Information was gathered using secondary data sources from microfinance banks accounting report from 2016 to 2022. Data was analysed using descriptive and inferential statistics. The study used multiple regressions and Pearson’s Product Moment Correlation analysis. All ethical considerations were appropriately observed. Findings indicated that adequacy of capital exerts a notable and direct effect on financial performance, underscoring the importance for microfinance banks in Kenya to prioritize maintaining sufficient capital levels to support their overall stability and financial outcomes. Conversely, quality of asset demonstrates a significant and adverse influence on performance financially, highlighting the need for microfinance banks to enhance their credit assessment processes to ensure the quality of their loan portfolios. The research revealed that efficiency of management has an insignificant direct influence on financial performance of Microfinance banks. To address this, microfinance banks are advised to invest in comprehensive management training programs and capacitybuilding initiatives to improve operational effectiveness and decision-making processes. Earning ability, on the other hand, exhibits a considerable and direct influence on financial performance. Microfinance banks should thus focus on continuous innovation of their products and services to enhance their earning potential and overall financial outcomes. Liquidity levels exhibit an insignificant and inverse effect on the financial performance outcomes. To mitigate potential risks, microfinance banks should establish comprehensive policies and procedures to monitor and manage liquidity effectively. Interestingly, the study reveals that the connection concerning firm-level attributes and financial outcomes for microfinance institutions in Kenya does not appear to be subject to a substantial moderating influence from interest rate movements. Therefore, the survey recommends that microfinance banks concentrate on improving governance structures, operational efficiency, risk management practices, and asset quality. This can be achieved through capacity-building programs, training initiatives, and adopting best practices from successful microfinance institutions. Strengthening these firm characteristics will enable microfinance banks to enhance their financial performance, irrespective of interest rate fluctuations

A theoretical framework for value co-creation analysis in carbon sink projects

With the maturation of the carbon market, carbon sink projects have become a thriving business model, and the value co-creation of carbon sink has become a hot topic in interdisciplinary research. However, the theoretical foundation for value co-creation of carbon sink is limited, and existing theoretical frameworks do not fully cover resource allocation, power dynamics, and interaction mechanisms among different actors in project operations. Therefore, this study, based on the theory of value co-creation and supplemented by residual rights theory and circuit of capital theory, has established a comprehensive theoretical framework to consistently understand the driving factors, co-creation process, and outcomes of resource transformation in projects. Using the Forest Ecological Bank in Fujian Province, China as a case study, we applied our theoretical framework for analysis. The results show that our theoretical framework can depict the complete process of value co-creation of carbon sink, reveal the roles played by diverse actors, and capture the project's dynamic changes. The research findings can provide guidance for the sustainable development of carbon sink projects in areas such as strengthening cooperation and partnerships, creating incentive mechanisms, and enhancing the role of third-party institutions.

Critical analysis of Rwanda’s Digital skills and entrepreneurship training toward solving youth unemployment

This study critically examines the role of digital skills and entrepreneurship training in addressing the persistent issue of youth unemployment in Rwanda. The paper primarily anchors on the Human Capital Theory and Entrepreneurship Theory to provide a solid theoretical framework, tying together education, skill development, and entrepreneurial activity as vital drivers of productivity, job creation, and economic development. By employing a qualitative methods approach that utilises qualitative stakeholder interviews, this research evaluates the effectiveness of the various policies and programs aimed at fostering digital and entrepreneurship skills to young people in Rwanda, to promote employment. The research unveils that these programs hold significant potential in equipping the Rwandan youth with relevant skills and nurturing an innovative and entrepreneurial culture. However, it also highlights key areas requiring attention: the lack of robust follow-up mechanisms and the need for continued support post-training. It advocates for policymakers and program implementers to prioritize these aspects to maximize their initiatives' impact. The implications of this study extend beyond Rwanda's borders as countries worldwide grapple with similar challenges. Therefore, the insights gleaned from Rwanda's approach could guide other nations in leveraging digital skills and entrepreneurship training to combat youth unemployment in the digital age. It concludes by recommending future research directions, including maintaining program relevance in the ever-evolving digital landscape and instituting more effective support mechanisms for venture sustainability.

IMPROVING THE EFFICIENCY OF PUBLIC SERVICE THROUGH STRATEGIC HUMAN CAPITAL MANAGEMENT: A COMPREHENSIVE REVIEW OF THE LITERATURE

The article provides an overview of the literature on human capital management in the public sector with an emphasis on theoretical foundations, modern practices and problems. Human capital management is critical for the effectiveness of government organizations. The main theories are the resource-based approach and the theory of human capital, which emphasize the importance of staff development. Literature analysis identifies key practices such as technology adoption, training programs, and strategic alignment of reward systems, as well as problems in their implementation, including bureaucratic resistance and financial constraints. The article highlights the importance of strategic human capital management for the success of the public sector and suggests directions for future research.

Effect of Economic Policies on Income Inequality: A Comparative Study of Switzerland and Bolivia

Purpose: The aim of the study was to examine the effect of economic policies on income inequality: a comparative study of Switzerland and Bolivia. Methodology: This study adopted a desk methodology. A desk study research design is commonly known as secondary data collection. This is basically collecting data from existing resources preferably because of its low cost advantage as compared to a field research. Our current study looked into already published studies and reports as the data was easily accessed through online journals and libraries. Findings: Switzerland, with its advanced economy, implements progressive tax policies, robust social welfare programs, and equitable education systems, contributing to relatively low income inequality. In contrast, Bolivia, a developing nation, faces challenges in reducing income inequality due to less effective economic policies, limited social safety nets, and a larger informal sector. The study underscores that while Switzerland's policies effectively mitigate income disparities, Bolivia's efforts are hindered by structural economic issues and policy limitations. Unique Contribution to Theory, Practice and Policy: The Kuznets curve theory, the human capital theory & the social stratification theory may be used to anchor future studies of climate change on risk management practices in agriculture in Switzerland. From a practical perspective, the study provides actionable insights for improving the design and implementation of economic policies. The study offers several policy recommendations for both developed and developing economies. Policymakers in Switzerland should consider revising tax policies to address the increased burden on higher-income individuals and improve the overall equity of the system.

진주지역 다실(茶室)과 차인회 고찰 - 문화자본 이론을 중심으로

This study explores the multifaceted value of tea culture in Jinju, Gyeongsangnam-do, with a focus on its revitalization in contemporary society. By applying cultural capital theory, this research illustrates that tea rooms and tea societies not only serve as custodians of tradition but also play a pivotal role in reinforcing cultural heritage, social cohesion, and communal identity within local contexts. Furthermore, the study underscores the growing significance of tea rooms as wellness spaces in the post-pandemic era, suggesting that traditional tea culture holds considerable potential as a cultural and economic asset in modern society. The findings highlight the strategic potential of integrating tea culture into regional tourism initiatives, thereby contributing to local economic revitalization and the sustainability of cultural practices, while providing new perspectives on the contemporary application and preservation of traditional culture.

Effect of Technical and Vocational Education and Training Institutional Learning Outcomes on Job Creation and Innovation in Rwanda: A Case of Kicukiro District

This study aims to investigate the effect of TVET institutional learning outcomes on job creation and innovation in Rwanda, specifically the case of Kicukiro district. The study has three specific objectives which are to assess the TVET learning and training outcomes in Kicukiro district, Rwanda, to identify factors influencing the effectiveness of TVET programs in driving innovation and job creation in Kicukiro district, Rwanda, to evaluate the relationship between TVET learning outcomes and Job creation in Kicukiro district, Rwanda. This research was supported and underpinned by two theoretical frameworks: the human capital theory, by Gry Becker and Theodore Schultz, and the transformation learning theory, developed by Jack Mezirow in 2000. A descriptive survey design for data collection was implied in the study. The respondents were 437 respondents made of 138 TVET trainers, 23 headteachers and 276 TVET graduates from different TVET schools in Kicukiro district, Rwanda. A variety of methods, including simple random and purposive sampling methods were used to choose the study participants. Guided interviews and questionnaires were used to collect date. Specifically, the questionnaires were made for TVET graduates and TVET trainers, while interview guides were designed for school head teachers. Interview guides collected quantitative date which were thematically analyzed. Each item from the questionnaires was analyzed using IBM SPSS 22.0 software. And the data were presented and discussed using tables and figures. The study's findings showed that 78.8% of respondents strongly agreed or agreed that TVET programs equipped them with necessary technical skills, while 73.5% combined strongly agreed and agree that problem-solving abilities were enhanced. Findings also revealed that 68.2% of graduates combined strongly agreed and agreed on the relevance of the TVET curriculum to industry needs, though concerns about access to modern technology persisted. Finaly results of the study revealed that 71.2% of graduates strongly agreed that TVET skills contributed to employment, while 68.9% highlighted problem-solving skills as enhancing their job performance and career prospects. Based on the findings, the research recommended Rwanda Polytechnic to update the TVET curriculum to better match industry needs, focusing on technology and entrepreneurship. Strengthening industry partnerships for hands-on experience is crucial, and trainers should seek continuous professional development. Students are encouraged to fully engage in both theoretical and practical learning to boost job readiness and innovation.

Implementation Of Tourism Policies In The Development Of Jerowaru Tourism Village, East Lombok

Alternative tourism through the development and empowerment of village communities is one solution to address poverty in coastal areas. Jerowaru Tourism Village is one of the villages implementing this policy. A case study method and Woolcock’s social capital theory are used to assess the extent of the policy's success, particularly regarding community participation in tourism village development. Data were collected through observation, interviews with community informants and stakeholders, as well as field documentation. The analysis results, through reduction and conclusion drawing, indicate that the implementation of policies, particularly for tourism villages, refers to the Tourism Law, Regional Autonomy Law, Regulation No. 10 of 2020, the Long-Term Development Plan, local regulations, and the NTB Governor's Regulation of 2021. Several important aspects support the implementation of the tourism village policy. First, there is the aspect of tourism policy implementation in Jerowaru, which includes coordination, communication, and disposition. Second, there is the aspect of community awareness and involvement, particularly the role of tourism awareness groups, especially among the youth. Third, there is the aspect of initiation. The initiation of tourism village development is driven by the tourism awareness community as a manifestation of independence and awareness in developing potential and ensuring sustainable environmental protection.

Exploring the effectiveness and equity of English-medium instruction on self-efficacy development: A pre-post study of business students in Vietnam

In response to the global expansion in English-medium instruction (EMI) within business education, this study investigates its impact on self-efficacy among Vietnamese business students over 2 years. Drawing on Bourdieu’s capital theory, data from 105 students were analyzed to explore the influence of socio-demographic factors. Surprisingly, EMI participation was associated with a negative change in self-efficacy, with no significant impact observed from social, economic, or cultural backgrounds. The findings suggest a mismatch between students’ expectations and academic performance, emphasizing the need for tailored interventions to support self-efficacy development in EMI programmes.

Bridging Cultural Divides: The Role of Public Libraries in Taiwan in Enhancing Cultural Capital and Promoting Social Inclusion

ABSTRACT Drawing on cultural capital theory, this study investigates the activities of the National Taiwan Library (NTL) to understand how public libraries promote social inclusion by providing access to cultural resources that enhance individual and community cultural capital. The research examines how NTL contributes to the accumulation of cultural capital through its collections, programs, and services tailored to diverse groups. The findings highlight the transformative potential of public libraries in addressing societal inequalities by empowering individuals with the knowledge and cultural competence needed for active participation in society. The study underscores the importance of public libraries in bridging cultural divides and fostering a more inclusive community through strategic cultural capital development.

Enriching the professional capital of primary school teachers to assess play and learning through play

ABSTRACT This paper explores the significance of a tailored professional learning program (PLP) for transforming primary school teachers’ practices through fostering the development of professional capital; specifically human capital. The focus of the PLP was on assessing play and learning through play for Foundation teachers (the first year of formal schooling) in Victoria, Australia. Drawing from professional capital theory, the study engages with a significant issue through a mixed methods approach. Findings showed that the tailored PLP enhances teachers’ abilities to not only implement play-based learning but also to assess children’s play abilities and learning through play. The study underscores the importance of professional learning in facilitating teachers’ capacity to integrate play-based approaches into the curriculum effectively, while also identifying the tensions between teachers’ learning about assessment through play and navigating this approach in the classroom with competing external and mandated school policies. The paper adds to existing literature highlighting the pivotal role of professional learning when situated as a social practice in shaping teachers’ practices and confidence. It provides ways to promote reflective dis[positions which impact professional learning opportunities and processes, while also pointing to the transformative conditions of social arrangements and personal aspects that enable agency, collegiality and deliberation.

The effect of essential skills on perceived employability: a case of Malaysian undergraduates in energy-focused universities

PurposeThe purpose of this study is to examine the effect of technical skills, soft skills and social mobility skills on the perceived employability of Malaysian undergraduates in energy-focused universities. This study also aims to investigate the moderating effects of academic performance on such relationships.Design/methodology/approachTo accomplish these objectives, this study employed partial least squares-structural equation modelling (PLS-SEM) to analyse data obtained from 247 Malaysian undergraduates from public and private energy-focused universities across Malaysia. The Human Capital Theory served as the overarching theoretical framework for the study.FindingsThe study reveals that even if an undergraduate has stellar grades, they will not help him/her to land a job if they lack basic technical and computing skills. This study also indicates that undergraduates’ current academic performance affects their perceived employability despite already possessing the necessary soft skills. Along with academic performance, social mobility skills can be a determining factor in how graduates see their own employability. This is because social mobility has a significant impact on graduates’ chances of finding gainful employment.Research limitations/implicationsThis study provides insights into how technical skills, soft skills and social mobility skills influence the perceived employability of Malaysian undergraduates, especially in energy-focused universities, and the role of various parties involved. These parties, such as higher education institutions, are the key players that can initiate strategies to enhance specific skills and steer a public conversation towards a more methodical strategy for boosting graduates’ employability for future employment. This research also sheds light on how to better prepare for emerging job opportunities in the energy sector.Originality/valueThe study examines the effect of technical skills, soft skills and social mobility skills on the perceived employability of Malaysian undergraduates in energy-focused universities for future employment among Malaysia’s universities’ graduates. By providing a multidisciplinary viewpoint, this study paves the way for future research partnerships among experts in higher education, researchers in related fields and career researchers.