Understanding Of Practices Research Articles

Information Technology Governance Between Iso 38500, Risk It and Val It in Private University

This study explores the application of the ISO 38500, Risk IT, and Val IT frameworks in improving IT governance at the university. ISO 38500 provides general guidance for IT management by boards of directors, while Risk IT focuses on IT risk management and Val IT focuses on managing the value of IT investments. Qualitative research methods were used, including interviews with key stakeholders at Pamulang University. The research results show that the integration of the ISO 38500, Risk IT, and Val IT frameworks has helped universities optimize strategic decision-making regarding IT. Implementation of this framework increases transparency, accountability and holistic IT risk management across the university. However, challenges faced include a lack of deep understanding of the framework and the need to ensure consistency in implementation. Recommendations for the university include more intensive training for staff, strengthening communication between different units, and developing performance metrics that align with the university's strategic goals. This research makes an important contribution to the practical understanding of implementing effective IT governance in higher education environments, by highlighting the benefits and challenges of integrating the ISO 38500, Risk IT, and Val IT frameworks.

Evaluation of seed sett ages and stem segment position on sugarcane yield and yield related traits

Sugarcane (Saccharum officinarum L.) plays a vital role in tropical and sub-tropical economies due to its high sucrose content, bioenergy potential, and drought resistance. This study aimed to comprehensively investigate the effects of different seed sett (seed material) ages and variations in stem position of the seed setts on both yield and yield related traits of sugarcane cv. Khon Kaen3 (KK3). The experiment was laid out by 3×3 factorial in randomized complete block design (RCBD) with three replications. Factor A represented sugarcane seed sett ages (8, 9 and 10 months old), factor B represented different stem positions where seed setts segments were sectioned out (basal, mid and top part) and- used as planting material (clones). Agronomic management was administered at recommended rates and the growth, development and yield traits were observed. The results showed that seed sett ages influenced the number of tillers at specific growth stages, while different segments affected leaf area (LA) and stalk fresh weight. Seed sett age and position showed significant interactions for some traits. Notably, juice yield was significantly affected by both seed sett ages and segments, with the combination of 10-month-old seed setts and the middle segment yielding the highest juice. Brix value, a crucial trait for sugar production, remained unaffected by these factors. Dry matter accumulation was inconsistent, with seed sett ages impacting stalk dry weight. In conclusion, the results showed that most growth and development traits were not influenced by seed sett ages and stem position segments, but most importantly juice yield at maturity was influenced by seed sett age and position of stem segments. These findings enhance our understanding of sugarcane cultivation practices, offering valuable insights for optimizing planting strategies in the sugarcane industry.

DNA metabarcoding and macroremains from coprolites reveal insights into Middle and Late Holocene inhabitants of Bonneville Estates Rockshelter, Nevada

The analysis of coprolites provides direct evidence of resources consumed and may be paired with ethnographic data to elucidate the dietary and medicinal use of plants in archaeological communities. This article combines and contrasts the macroscopic analysis and DNA metabarcoding of 10 coprolites from Bonneville Estates Rockshelter, Nevada, USA. While the results from both methods confirm previous understandings of subsistence practices at the site, minimal overlap in identified taxa suggests that each accesses different components of the consumed material. The two methods should therefore be seen as complementary and employed together, where possible.

Online language teaching in times of change: a CALL to action for language teachers and educators

Abstract Change, whether slowly developing over decades or rapid change caused by worldwide crises, affects education and educators profoundly. This article argues for a change in language teacher education embracing the changing world of online communication, and emphasising the epistemological awareness language teachers need to bring to the online classroom. Based on Computer-Assisted Language Learning (CALL) research and best practice examples from across the world, the paper outlines past changes, contextualises online language teaching in the wider area of online communication and describes progress in practice, theory and epistemological understanding of online teaching. It culminates in a series of evidence-based suggestions for future training and education of language teachers that will integrate adequate pedagogy and an enhanced epistemological understanding.

An Italian Delphi Consensus on the Triple inhalation Therapy in Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Disease.

The management of chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD) lacks standardization due to the diverse clinical presentation, comorbidities, and limited acceptance of recommended approaches by physicians. To address this, a multicenter study was conducted among Italian respiratory physicians to assess consensus on COPD management and pharmacological treatment. The study employed the Delphi process using the Estimate-Talk-Estimate method, involving a scientific board and expert panel. During a 6-month period, the scientific board conducted the first Delphi round and identified 11 broad areas of COPD management to be evaluated while the second Delphi round translated all 11 items into statements. The statements were subsequently presented to the expert panel for independent rating on a nine-point scale. Consensus was considered achieved if the median score was 7 or higher. Consistently high levels of consensus were observed in the first rating, allowing the scientific board to finalize the statements without requiring further rounds. Topics generating substantial discussion included the pre-COPD phase, patient-reported outcomes, direct escalation from a single bronchodilator to triple therapy, and the role of adverse events, particularly pneumonia, in guiding triple therapy prescriptions. Notably, these topics exhibited higher standard deviations, indicating greater variation in expert opinions. The study emphasized the significance that Italian pulmonologists attribute to managing mortality, tailoring treatments, and addressing cardiovascular comorbidities in COPD patients. While unanimous consensus was not achieved for all statements, the results provide valuable insights to inform clinical decision-making among physicians and contribute to a better understanding of COPD management practices in Italy.

Understanding Researchers’ Perspectives on Work Tasks in Digital Humanities and Computational Social Sciences

The usefulness of research infrastructures (RIs) for digital humanities (DH) and computational social sciences (CSS) depends on their capability to support research work tasks. RIs can provide more effective support and services when they have a clear understanding of the work practices and specific tasks researchers are engaged in. This paper explores the ways of working of social sciences and humanities (SSH) scholars to develop resources that truly endorse their data-intensive research processes. Particularly, the study investigates how SSH scholars interact with digital tools and materials to both determine their information needs and how to better support them. A qualitative analysis of 21 semi-structured interviews with potential end-users of a national RI for the DH and CSS that is currently under development revealed three themes: digitizing SSH research, meeting the information needs related to DH/CSS, and supporting DH/CSS research. Based on our findings, we were able to create an understanding of the work task-based requirements of SSH scholars that can be used to inform designs for improved RIs. Suggestions for enhancing the sustainability of resources and services in SSH are also put forth, emphasizing the importance of understanding and accommodating the unique scholarly practices within these fields.

Feasibility Analysis on Tempe Industrial Home (Case in Tempe Yayan Industrial Home, Lebaksiuh Village, Ciawi District, Kuningan Regency)

This study aims to evaluate the financial viability of tempeh home industry businesses by analyzing how production costs affect profitability. The design used in this study is a quantitative descriptive method with a technical survey approach. The data collection techniques include observation, interviews, and questionnaires (questionnaires). The results of this study are as follows: (1) Total production BEP and BEP business price of Tempe Yayan's home industry business in Lebaksiuh Village, Ciawi District, Kuningan Regency, were analyzed. (2) The R/C ratio analysis was used to analyze the profit and loss of the home industry. (3) The total profit of this home industry was calculated as a function of production costs, BEP price, and total profit. (4) Based on the results of the research and discussion conducted regarding the Profit and Loss Analysis of the Tempe YaYan Home Industry Business, future research could focus on a comparative analysis of financial performance and profitability across different tempay home industry ventures in various regions. The research would provide a broader understanding of best practices and challenges faced by similar businesses, offering valuable insights for both entrepreneurs and policymakers. (5) The research could explore the impact of government support and interventions on the growth and success of home industry enterprises, particularly in terms of capital access, production efficiency, and marketing effectiveness.

Level of Maturity in Sustainable Innovation Practices: an Application of the Eco-Mi Model in a Red Ceramics Company

Objective: To identify the level of maturity with sustainable innovation practices of a company in the red ceramics segment in the state of Paraíba, according to the concept and application of the Eco-Mi model. Theoretical Framework: The thematic contextualization recalls the concepts of sustainable development, innovation, sustainability and sustainable innovations. In this sense, (BARBIERI et al., 2010) defends the importance of considering the understanding of sustainable innovation practices, fully incorporated into the company's strategic objectives. The better this relationship between sustainable development through sustainable innovation practices and company objectives is defined, the greater the likelihood of success. Method: This is a descriptive and exploratory study conducted in the form of a case study, using a descriptive statistics approach with quantitative data extracted by applying a questionnaire. The type of sampling is defined as non-probabilistic by intentionality. SPSS (Statistical Package for Social Sciences) was used to analyze the data. Results and Discussion: The evolution of the level of maturity weighs up quantitative and qualitative aspects, since the author herself, who designed the Eco-Mi Model, warns that there are some limitations, mainly of a qualitative nature due to the participants' self-assessment, since the analysis requires knowledge of strategy, structure, resources and organizational culture. These limitations highlight promising directions for future research and for consolidating the model and spreading knowledge about eco-innovation. Based on the results obtained from the research, it is possible to conclude that it was possible to answer the research problem by showing that, among the 4 dimensions analyzed, the company moves through levels of maturity evolving between scale 2 and 5. The Strategy and Structure dimensions are not satisfactory, and the Resources and Culture dimensions are more satisfactory. In this case, the company needs to review its choices and practices of sustainable innovation, seeking greater homogeneity in the dimensions of the model used. The field of knowledge still offers ample scope for further research and consolidation of the Eco-Mi maturity model. Research Implications: The practical and theoretical implications of this research are discussed, providing insights into how the results can be applied to or influence actions in the field of sustainable innovation. These implications can cover the organizational areas of companies in the context of sustainable innovation practices. Originality/Value: This study contributes to the literature, as the topic of sustainability has incorporated the role of humans as equally responsible as industries, in a way that seeks to balance the relationship between human society (consumption and waste), natural resources, the current mode of production and the socio-economic system. The relevance and value of this research is evidenced by the results of the level of maturity perceived by the four dimensions studied: strategy, structure, resources and culture. The result reflects on the company's performance from the moment it characterizes in detail the levels of maturity according to the Eco-Mi model.

Regulating in-between (in)formality: institutionalising the private rental market in China’s urban villages

The governance of informal settlements in China – primarily urban villages – remains a persistent challenge. Recently, some urban village houses have been transformed into long-term rental apartments (LRAs). This highlights a potentially novel approach to addressing the longstanding informality issue, but how the rental market in urban villages has thus been reshaped remains unknown. Examining the case of Shenzhen’s Yuanfen Village through the lens of regulating informality, this paper reveals that (1) new renovations are facilitated by the intermediary management of LRA companies with government consent; (2) the renovation into LRAs involves a balancing process among stakeholders but leaves the illegal aspects untouched; and (3) while the renovation improves the living environment, low-income households are inevitably displaced. This study contributes to a theoretical and practical understanding of regulating informality by challenging the monolithic formal-informal dichotomy and connecting the conceptualization and materialization of continuous and dynamic property rights that enable new possibilities for effective and inclusive management of urban growth.

Connecting Education and Nature: The Benefits of Direct Contact with the Natural Environment for the Holistic Development of Ninth-Grade Students at the Municipal School Prof. Dr. Amaro Fernandes de Oliveira Sobrinho

This study examined the benefits of direct contact with nature for ninth-grade students at Escola Municipal Prof. Dr. Amaro Fernandes de Oliveira Sobrinho. It emphasized hands-on experiences, such as visits to farms, the establishment of vegetable gardens, and the revitalization of existing gardens. These activities were designed to enhance academic learning and promote the holistic development of students. Interaction with the environment provided a deeper understanding of ecosystems and sustainable practices, enabling students to directly engage with concepts such as natural cycles and environmental impacts. In addition to the academic advantages, outdoor experiences have been shown to improve students' emotional well-being by reducing stress and fostering a sense of overall wellness. The activities also cultivated social skills, including communication and collaboration, by involving students in group projects. Immersion in nature contributed to a more collaborative and inclusive atmosphere, while sustainability practices heightened environmental awareness. The findings underscore the importance of integrating natural experiences into the school curriculum to facilitate more meaningful learning and prepare students to become responsible and well-rounded citizens in an increasingly urban and digital world.

Systemic Failings or “Isolated Incidents”? A Discourse Analysis of Corporate Blame Avoidance for the Mistreatment of Immigration Detainees

This article draws on data from a major public inquiry in the UK to examine how the multinational corporation G4S sought to avoid blame for the mistreatment of immigration detainees in its care. Our analysis is based on a critical discourse analysis of oral and written evidence given by G4S and one of the company’s managing directors to the Brook House Inquiry. We show how discursive strategies of blame avoidance were prominent features of this evidence, including the scapegoating of individual custody officers, the legitimation of the profit-seeking management of immigration detention and the de-legitimation of those who brought the mistreatment of detainees to light. The article contributes to our understanding of the discursive practices employed by powerful actors to limit corporate responsibility for systemic failings.

How can exposure assessment for pesticides in epidemiological studies be improved? Insights from the IMPRESS project

The IMPRoving Exposure aSSessment Methodologies for Epidemiological Studies on Pesticides (IMPRESS) project (http://www.impress-project.org/) aimed to further the understanding of the performance of pesticide exposure assessment methods (EAMs). To achieve this the IMPRESS project used two approaches to assess EAM performance, using existing and newly collected data from five studies from three different countries and use of published secondary data to undertake three meta-analyses for selected chronic health outcomes. Based on the findings of the IMPRESS project we provide in this paper insights on the overarching research question “How can exposure assessments for pesticides in epidemiological studies be improved”? Exposure assessment is a critical component of pesticide epidemiological studies. EAMs used and epidemiological practices employed need to reflect the changing nature and complexities of pesticide exposure in various occupational settings. To properly assess the association between exposure and selected health outcomes, the choice of EAM should provide a clear exposure contrast within the study population. Acquiring a practical understanding of the pesticide use practices is crucial to determine whether factors such as frequency or intensity of exposure have to be considered in planned analyses. Biomonitoring may be more beneficially applied intensively in a focussed exposure assessment analysis of a particular cohort, which can be used to determine the most relevant exposure factors within that cohort-specific context. Overall, improving pesticide exposure assessment in epidemiological studies requires a multi-disciplinary approach. A next step for the wider scientific community may be to consider the development of a decision tree to aid the selection of suitable EAMs. Such a decision tree would need to consider and be based on multiple parameters including, but not limited to, study type, health endpoint, socio-demographic context, farming system, pesticide used, and application methods.

The Value of Small Samples to Groups and Teams Research: Accumulating Knowledge across Philosophies of Science

The large increase in the average sample size of team studies published in premier management journals over the past decade is concerning. A strict focus on large samples suppresses the study of many teams, particularly less prominent ones; for example, teams in small or medium-sized enterprises, teams in unique contexts, teams containing underrepresented minorities, and teams adopting new technologies. It also impedes our collective understanding of teams by devaluing work relying on philosophies of science that do not prioritize large samples. Large samples allow positivists to establish relationships between constructs. Yet, contextualized, rich data from as few as just one team can help constructivists uncover lived experiences or could be studied by critical realists to identify mechanisms underlying social systems of active agents. In this paper, we review how these three philosophies of science view sample size, addressing how and when small samples are beneficial. Importantly, research from all three traditions is necessary to build an in-depth, practical understanding of teams. We also describe five specific ways small sample research can contribute to team science and lay out four general recommendations for assessing the value of sample size in team research. Throughout, we maintain that scientific progress is collective and pluralistic. A sole reliance on large samples threatens this goal.

River and drain: Ambiguity in the waterways of Accra

This article analyses a range of diverse and often conflicting practices in and around a waterway in Accra, Ghana, emphasising the ambiguity of their politics. Urban political ecology approaches have demonstrated how flows of (waste)water reveal power dynamics across scales. I extend such insights by developing an understanding of practices that are more ambiguous, complexifying otherwise linear dynamics of power. I do this by centring the narratives of those living and working in the waterway. Through providing needed attention to the everyday and micro-level interactions, this approach makes room for situated ambiguities within wider power dynamics. The argument is based on qualitative research along one primary waterway in Accra, along which people live, farm, dump waste and manage flood risk. These diverse practices suggest that, in addition to distributing risks in an often uneven fashion, the waterway also affords connection, solidarity and adaptability across urban divides. I argue that accounting for these practices does not deny the inequalities of the waterway's geography; rather, it encourages the development of a vocabulary to understand situated processes, even where they appear ambiguous. Embracing the ambiguities of the waterway allows us to fully consider the complex forms that power takes in different settings.

Secondary school EFL teachers' awareness for formative assessment for effective learning

The aim of this study was to examine the extent to which English as a Foreign Language (EFL) teachers in secondary schools were aware of formative assessment for effective learning, and whether this awareness level differed based on their teaching experience. The study used a survey design, collecting both quantitative and qualitative data from 167 participants, and analyzed the data using various statistical and analytical techniques. The results of the study indicated that EFL teachers had limited knowledge of formative assessment and that their practical understanding of the topic had not been addressed in teacher education curriculums or training programs. The study recommends that educational authorities, such as the Ministry of Education (MOE), teacher education institutions, and universities, take steps to promote the practicality of formative assessment in teacher education programs and on-the-job learning initiatives. The findings of this study can also serve as a reference point for further research and interventions to improve the effectiveness of EFL teacher education in different contexts.

Predicting land use and environmental dynamics in Argentina's Pampas region: An agent-based modeling approach across varied price and climatic scenarios.

This study, employing the AGRODEVS Agent-Based Model (ABM), systematically examined land use dynamics in Argentina's Pampas Region. Simulations under diverse scenarios highlighted the significant role of economic determinants, particularly crop price relationships, in influencing maize or wheat/soybean double cropping prevalence. Maize-dominated landscapes consistently achieved carbon sequestration goals, while wheat/soybean landscapes faced challenges, notably in ecotoxicity. Scenarios encompassed varying climatic conditions and soybean/maize price ratios, providing insights into the interplay shaping agricultural land use decisions among individual agents. The AGRODEVS model's robust performance underscored its effectiveness in integrating economic and environmental factors, contributing to a practical understanding of sustainable land use planning complexities.

‘Facilitating change from within’: investigating students’ experiences of using core reflection in physical education teacher education

ABSTRACT Background Reflection plays a pivotal role in professional development, particularly in physical education teacher education (PETE). Research shows that student reflections in PETE often remain at a superficial level, focusing mainly on technical aspects of teaching. However, there's a need for PETE students to engage in deeper reflections, encompassing social, moral, ethical, or political aspects of teaching. Research goal This study investigates how PETE students experience core reflection as a pedagogical intervention for their professional development. Theory Core reflection, a concept developed by Fred Korthagen, bridges the gap between theory and practice in teacher education. It encourages using personal teaching experiences as starting points for reflection, focusing on personality development and the utilization of one's inner potential. This approach is believed to help student teachers find their personal and authentic teaching style. Method The study involved 38 PETE students who participated in both theoretical and practical sessions, including a swimming course. These sessions incorporated tasks for facilitating core reflection, based on personal teaching experiences. The data comprised individual written reflections from these students, analyzed using Eggebø's ‘collective qualitative analysis’ procedure. Results The analysis revealed four key themes: (1) ‘Same Intentions, Varied Experiences’: This theme highlights the differences in depth and detail of core reflection among students, despite similar initial intentions. (2) ‘A Tool for Awareness’: The tool was found to be effective in helping students develop awareness and recognize their personal strengths and weaknesses. (3) Peer Feedback Helps Understanding Core Qualities’: This theme underscores the importance of peer feedback in identifying personal strengths and bolstering confidence. (4) ‘Being Situated in Realistic Context makes Core Reflection (more) Meaningful’: The findings emphasize the value of learning core reflection within realistic settings, such as school practicums and peer-teaching, to facilitate practical understanding and application. Discussion and conclusion Core reflection is an effective tool within PETE for promoting systematic reflection, self-awareness, and professional growth. However, it requires sustained effort and integration into educational programs. Future research should explore the long-term effects of core reflection in PETE, especially regarding the development of professional competencies aligned with individual core qualities.

Building Safer Workplaces: Unveiling the Impact of Safety Leadership Styles in the Construction Industry

This study investigates the most effective leadership style for enhancing safety performance in the construction industry. Through a scientometric analysis of 114 research papers and a meta-analysis of 13 studies involving 7220 participants, it uncovers a growing body of research on safety leadership in construction and identifies safety-specific transformational leadership as the most impactful style for improving safety outcomes. The research highlights the increasing importance of safety leadership in the construction sector and reveals a trend towards safety-specific transformational leadership as the preferred approach. This leadership style emphasizes empowering and motivating employees to prioritize safety through shared values, vision, and goals. The study also emphasizes the need for enhanced collaboration among researchers and institutions, and advocates for the inclusion of studies from developing countries to ensure a comprehensive understanding of safety leadership practices globally. Additionally, the findings align with the Sustainable Development Goals 3, 8, and 11, underscoring the significance of fostering safe and secure working environments and promoting sustainable urbanization. This research serves as a valuable resource for construction industry stakeholders seeking to implement effective safety leadership strategies, and it lays the groundwork for further exploration in this critical area.

Reverse Logistics Analysis of Chips Products Towards Green Supply Chain Management in MSMEs

The food industry has the nature of perishable goods, so there is always the possibility of products being returned to the manufacturer, namely reverse logistics. Reverse logistics include collection, sorting, recycling, redistribution, and disposal. One of the main challenges MSMEs face is accumulating unsold or damaged products. Chip products not sold out in the stores where they are kept often have to be recalled, resulting in a buildup of products in the warehouse. This study aims to analyze the practice of reverse logistics of banana chip products in one MSME called A3 and evaluate the extent to which they are based on Green Supply Chain Management (GSCM). The research method used is descriptive qualitative; data collection is done through interviews, direct observation, and analysis of related documents. The results showed that A3 had implemented reverse logistics practices by considering environmental aspects such as production waste management. However, some areas can still be improved further to maximize the contribution to Green Supply Chain Management. The implication of this study is to provide a deeper understanding of reverse logistics practices in the context of MSMEs and provide recommendations for other MSMEs to improve the conformity of their practices with the concept of Green Supply Chain Management.

Science literacy in the twenty-first century: informed trust and the competent outsider

ABSTRACT A primary justification of teaching science to all young people is to develop students to become “critical consumers” of science. This worthy goal, however, is hampered by a flawed premise that school science is sufficient to develop intellectual independence. In contrast, we start from the premise that we are all epistemically dependent on the expertise of others. Hence, any science education for all must develop the capabilities to become a “competent outsider” capable of making judgements not of the science itself, but whether the source is credible. Essential to developing such informed epistemic trust are: (1) a basic understanding of the social practices that enable the production of reliable knowledge; and (2) a familiarity with the major explanatory theories and styles of reasoning that guide the work of scientists. These elements provide a framework for the non-expert necessary to interpret and understand the work of scientists and the claims they make. We show how such an education would address three of the four primary aims of science education outlined by Rudolph (2022). To achieve this goal a substantial reduction of existing standards to an essential, but fundamentally different, core is required, while returning significant autonomy to classroom professionals.