University Faculty Research Articles

Motivational Factors Affecting the Educational Performance of Faculty Members

Background: Motivation of university faculty members can be defined as general processes that initiate, sustain, and regulate goal-directed behaviors by faculty members. Objectives: This study aimed to determine the motivational factors affecting the educational performance of faculty members of Kermanshah University of Medical Sciences (KUMS). Methods: This cross-sectional study was conducted on 177 faculty members of KUMS in western Iran who were randomly selected samples. The data were collected through self-reporting using a standard questionnaire. The t-test and Pearson correlation were performed using SPSS software version 16 to analyze the data. Results: The average age of academic members was 40.43 years (SD = 7.99), and the average job history was 11.96 years (SD = 9.40). The average score for motivational factors was 63.75 (95% CI: 61.53 - 65.98), with scores ranging from 18 to 90. "Working with competent colleagues" and "inherent interest in teaching" received the highest average score among external and internal motivational factors, respectively. Conclusions: This study identified two key factors that significantly affect the teaching performance of professors: Working with competent colleagues and inherent interest in teaching. These findings are valuable for university administrators to develop effective motivation programs for faculty members.

De-ethnicizing Ethiopian higher education leadership: the quest for merit-based governance

Background This study examines the growing trend of ethnicized leadership in Ethiopian higher education institutions and advocates for a shift toward merit-based governance to improve institutional integrity and performance. Since 1991, with the introduction of ethnic federalism, leadership appointments in Ethiopian universities have increasingly been based on ethnic identity rather than qualifications. This has led to governance challenges, weakened academic standards, and reduced institutional efficiency. The study highlights the need for governance reforms prioritizing meritocracy to enhance the quality and sustainability of Ethiopia’s ethnically diverse higher education system. Methods The study utilizes a qualitative research approach, combining both primary and secondary data. Primary data were collected through semi-structured interviews with university administrators, faculty, and governance experts, while secondary data were gathered from institutional reports, government policies, and academic literature. Institutional theory, principal-agent theory, and meritocratic theory frame the analysis, providing insights into how ethnic-based leadership appointments affect university governance and performance. Results The findings reveal that ethnicized leadership has eroded governance structures, lowered academic quality, and compromised institutional efficiency. Leadership appointments based on ethnicity rather than merit have led to poor decision-making, weakened accountability, and reduced transparency. In contrast, merit-based governance improves accountability, decision-making, and institutional performance. The study emphasizes that transitioning to a meritocratic leadership model is vital for restoring institutional integrity and academic excellence in Ethiopian universities. Conclusions Ethnic federalism, while initially designed to empower regions, has politicized federal institutions, including universities, reducing them to regional entities rather than national institutions. This system of ethnicized leadership has fostered a culture of favoritism, rampant corruption, and ineffective governance, ultimately weakening Ethiopia’s higher education system. Recommendations Governance reforms that prioritize merit-based appointments are urgently needed. Legal reforms, transparent leadership selection processes, depoliticization efforts, and capacity-building initiatives are recommended to foster a meritocratic culture and improve institutional performance in Ethiopian universities.

One of the Shining Stars of Ankara University Faculty of Medicine, the Founder of Pediatric Hematology and Oncology in Türkiye: Prof. Dr. Ayhan (Okçuoğlu) Çavdar

One of the Shining Stars of Ankara University Faculty of Medicine, the Founder of Pediatric Hematology and Oncology in Türkiye: Prof. Dr. Ayhan (Okçuoğlu) Çavdar

Performance of Basilan State College faculty: Metrics on commit, Knowledge, Teaching Prowess, and learning management

This study examined the teaching performance of faculty at Basilan State College, focusing on commitment, subject matter expertise, fostering independent learning, and managing the learning process. The study involved 147 faculty members, both permanent and non-permanent, during the 2008-2009 academic year, from four campuses: Isabela City, Sta. Clara, Lamitan, and Maluso. A stratified random sampling method was used to select 107 teachers, which included 44 permanent and 63 non-permanent staff. A survey was conducted to collect socio-demographic information such as age, gender, marital status, ethnicity, education, teaching experience, subject area, and employment type. Faculty performance in the specified areas was assessed using the NBC-461 Standard Performance Rating Form. Results indicated that faculty performance was rated as Outstanding by teachers, peers, and supervisors, while students rated it as Very Satisfactory. Notable differences were found in ratings from various evaluators, with teachers generally rating themselves higher than their peers, supervisors, and students. The study showed that performance levels remained consistent across age, gender, employment type, or subject area, but were significantly influenced by educational qualifications and teaching experience, with higher levels of both leading to better performance. These insights suggest that focused strategies at both the departmental and institutional levels could improve teaching effectiveness and support the achievement of educational objectives.

Utilization of Computed Tomography at the Aydin Adnan Menderes University Faculty of Veterinary Medicine Research and Application Hospital: An Analysis of Preliminary Results on Patient Demographics and Case Distribution

This study examines the distribution of computed tomography (CT) usage at Aydin Adnan Menderes University Faculty of Veterinary Medicine Research and Application Hospital between 2023 and 2024. CT, a widely adopted diagnostic tool in veterinary medicine, allows for detailed imaging of internal organs and anatomical structures, enhancing the diagnosis of complex cases. The study analyzed data from 143 animals, including dogs, cats, and other species, to assess the frequency of CT scans based on species, age, sex, breed, and imaged anatomical regions. A total of 350 CT scans were reviewed, with dogs (n=87) undergoing the majority of scans (200), followed by cats (n=50) with 175 scans, and other species accounting for 26 scans. Cranium, thorax, and abdomen were the most frequently imaged regions across all species. The study found that older animals, particularly large-breed dogs and male cats, required more imaging, while younger animals (0-6 months) underwent fewer CT scans. The findings emphasize the need for tailored diagnostic approaches based on species, age, and sex to improve early detection and treatment outcomes in veterinary practice. Furthermore, the study highlights the potential for expanding CT use in non-traditional veterinary species, with the goal of improving diagnostic precision. The results provide important insights for enhancing veterinary services through the strategic application of CT imaging.

Adapting to a New Normal: Peruvian University Faculty’s Experiences with Techno-Stress Post-COVID-19

Background Technology enhances teaching and learning quality, yet when educators lack tech proficiency, it hinders effective education and leads to frustration, lower confidence, and self-doubt. This study aims to investigate the experiences of university faculty members in relation to the impact of technology on their mental well-being. Methods Using a qualitative approach (grounded theory), ten university faculty members were selected for in-depth interviews based on criteria such as teaching experience, tenure, specific courses or subjects taught, and active engagement during the research period. The guiding research question, “What are the experiences and perceptions of university faculty members concerning techno-stress?” directed the study’s focus. The instrument (interview guide) that measured techno-stress consisted of 12 items and was administered virtually. Data were analyzed thematically to uncover common stressors, adaptive strategies, and institutional challenges faced by faculty in adapting to technology’s demands and work overload. Additionally, the study identified four subcategories: work overload, social and emotional interaction, adaption to new technologies, and expectations and teaching quality. Results Techno-stress is a composite of emotional and physical reactions triggered by the improper use of technology. Faculty members’ encounters with techno-stress have substantial implications for their quality of life. Conclusions This research highlights technology’s positive impact on higher education but notes faculty struggles with techno-stress, emphasizing the need for training, support, and boundaries to maintain work-life balance and enhance educational quality.

The didactic features of James Summers’s (1828–1891) research on Chinese*

Abstract James Summers (1828–1891) is distinguished as the first professor of Chinese in Britain to conduct systematic research on the Chinese language. During his tenure as a Chinese professor, Summers’s research on the Chinese language demonstrated a pronounced didactic emphasis. This was evident in his departure from rigidly following linguistic theories, his adoption of diverse linguistic ideas and methodologies from scholars of varied backgrounds, and his inclusion of multiple varieties of Chinese as target languages, particularly Nanjing Mandarin. Summers’s early missionary work in China, along with his role at King’s College London, where he trained student interpreters for the British Foreign Office, greatly shaped his pedagogical focus. The didactic feature of his works aligns with the broader pragmatic approach of British sinology, reflecting the trend of recruiting retired missionaries and diplomats with experience in China into European university faculties after the mid-19th century.

Teachers' Perceptions of Integrating ChatGPT in Nepalese Classrooms

This article explores teachers' perceptions of integrating ChatGPT in Nepalese classrooms. Using a qualitative research design, the study examines the viewpoints and experiences of teacher participants to gain an understanding of context, meanings, and subjective perspectives using ChatGPT. In-depth interviews were conducted with five teacher educators and five school teachers, capturing insights from both university and school classroom environments. Purposive sampling ensured the deliberate selection of participants from the Faculty of Education, Tribhuvan University and schools in the Kirtipur municipality. The data analysis involves transcription, translation, coding, decoding, and the creation of themes, sub-themes, and categories, enabling an exploration of the study's issues. The study found that teachers perceive ChatGPT as a useful tool for deepening classroom instruction, particularly in providing personalized learning experiences. However, concerns were raised regarding the potential over-reliance on the technology, emphasizing the need for proper training and guidelines to ensure its effective integration in Nepalese educational settings. This study contributes valuable insights for educators and teachers interested in integrating ChatGPT into educational settings, with the ultimate goal of informing the development of strategies for the effective use of this technology in Nepalese classrooms.

Employment of young people with disabilities: The potential of social partnership of universities, municipalities and the labor market of Ukraine.

This study analyzed the existing global experience of university and labor market partnerships concerning the employment of youth with disabilities. It was found that current cooperation models are implemented locally, in a fragmented manner, and are limited to interactions between universities and large enterprises. The research aimed to explore the current state of meeting the needs of students with disabilities in terms of providing educational services and employment opportunities and to analyze the interaction between universities, municipalities, and the labor market to improve employment opportunities for young people with disabilities. The study considered a survey of three target groups from different regions of Ukraine (105 students with disabilities, 321 university faculty members, and 102 enterprise managers) conducted to study the current state of needs satisfaction in providing educational services and employing people with disabilities. The findings indicated a lack of coordination among stakeholders, an absence of systematization, and organization in addressing the issue of improving the employment of youth with disabilities. The research enabled the identification of existing and desired connections between the subjects of social partnership. A social partnership model between universities, municipalities, and the labor market was developed to improve the employment of youth with disabilities. The study results are promising, as implementing the social partnership model will broadly impact society.

Spatial-Temporal Distribution of 12-Year Periodontal Disease Prevalence in a Large Population Using Geographical Information Systems: A Longitudinal Study.

Periodontal diseases, commonly linked to dental biofilm and affecting adults, were studied using Geographic Information Systems (GIS) and Kernel Analyses with epidemiological data. This paper presents a hybrid method for use in epidemiological studies by evaluating the spatiotemporal distribution of disease prevalence. This study analy ed 47,757 patients from the Department of Periodontology out of 662,351 visitors to University Faculty of Dentistry (2012 to July 2023). The central districts of Kayseri in Turkey were selected as the study areas. Periodontitis prevalence was assessed through radiographic evidence and clinical examination. Point-based location data, including gender, age, and disease type, matched household data, creating building-based spatial data. Kernel Density (KD) and Average Nearest Neighbor (ANN) analyses examined patient concentration and disease types in specific regions. Accordingly, standard deviation ellipses were prepared by year to assess the spatial changes in the regions where patients resided. The study found higher periodontitis prevalence in males, increasing with age, while gingivitis decreased. After 2017, periodontitis prevalence notably declined. Location-based data exhibited clustering in patient distribution. KD maps showed similar patient distributions over the years, with more applications from areas closer to the Faculty of Dentistry. The spatial distribution of the patients applying has remained consistent over the last 5 years. Through GIS, KD maps reveal the spatial-temporal distribution of periodontitis patients. This aids in identifying high-prevalence regions and guiding strategic healthcare facility placement. Implementing preventive programs in high-demand areas, particularly in family health centers (local health facilities), can reduce community-wide periodontal disease prevalence.

Methodology for 3D Management of University Faculties Using Integrated GIS and BIM Models: A Case Study

Three-dimensional virtual modeling is one of the tools being rapidly implemented in the construction industry, leading to the need for strategies based on intelligent 3D models of cities and/or digital twins, which allow simulation by interacting with their real physical counterparts, anticipating the outcomes of decision making. In practice, problems arise when creating and managing these twins, as different data, models, technology, and tools must be used, and they cannot all be combined as desired due to certain incompatibilities. On the other hand, today’s traditional building management demands a more optimized process to prevent errors and enable timely reactions to failures and defects. Managing and using a large amount of complex and disparate data are required, which is why the use of CMMS-type software is common (Computerized Maintenance Management System). However, such software is rarely designed for management in a 3D format, often due to the absence of three-dimensional models of the assets. This research aims to contribute to the technological development of the digitalization of the built environment, providing a simple methodology for generating and managing 3D models of cities. To achieve this, the tools and information useful for generating an integrated GIS 3D and BIM model, and for Computer-Aided Maintenance Management in a three-dimensional format (CMMS-3D), are identified. The final model obtained is used to optimize the three-dimensional management of a classroom building on the “Campus de Las Llamas” at the University of Cantabria in Spain. The results demonstrate that it is possible to integrate digital models with simple linking mechanisms between the existing tools, thus achieving an optimal three-dimensional management model.

The Nonprofit Veterinarian Shortage: Who Will Care for the Pets Most in Need?

Introduction: The national shortage of veterinarians, and the technicians and assistants who support them, has affected private practices, emergency and specialty clinics, agricultural practices, public health departments, and veterinary college faculty. The purpose of this study was to determine the impact of the veterinary workforce shortage on veterinary care provided at two types of public practice: (1) veterinary care for cats and dogs housed temporarily in animal sheltering organizations (ASOs) and (2) veterinary clinics aimed at increasing access to care for animals in the community. Methods: A novel survey was disseminated to 333 ASOs receiving a minimum of 2,500 animals annually and 118 access to care clinics (ATCCs) that partner with or receive grants from the national animal welfare nonprofit Petco Love. Surveys included questions about staffing and vacant positions for veterinarians and veterinary support staff, current hiring efforts for veterinarians, and delays in animal care. Results: A total of 179 ASOs completed the survey (54% response rate). Most reported being short-staffed for veterinarians (130/179; 73%) and for veterinary support staff (132/179; 74%). Of the 143 ASOs answering a question about spay/neuter surgeries, 130 (91%) reported having a backlog with a combined total of 18,648 animals awaiting surgery. A total of 57 ATCCs responded to the survey (48% response rate). Of these, 41 (72%) reported being short-staffed for both veterinarians and veterinary support staff. As a result, clients were waiting longer than usual for care at 45 clinics (79%), with delays of 2 months or more at 28 clinics (51%). Conclusion: This study highlights the critical impact of severe veterinary workforce shortages on nonprofit organizations responsible for medical care for the most vulnerable cats and dogs. These shortages pose substantial risks to animal welfare, the human–animal bond, and public health.

Community-school-university partnerships: possibilities for activism and racial justice

Critical school-community-university partnerships are central to activism for racial justice. Drawing on the scholarship of anti-racist activist leadership and community-school-university partnerships, this critical co-constructed auto-ethnographic comparative case study explores two such cases in Toronto, Ontario, Canada: the York University Faculty of Education Summer Institute (FESI) and the Nubian Book Club (NBC). As insiders-outsiders, the authors analyze various forms of data, such as informal observations, structured conversations between them, and program documents to understand the knowledges and possibilities that emerge in critical community-school-university partnerships and how leadership in these partnerships influence education for racial justice. Both cases resist, refuse, and subvert hegemonic educational discourses, legitimize fugitive and other marginalized knowledges, and imagine future possibilities for racial justice in schooling. This study concludes with recommendations for school districts, universities, and communities to engage in an activism-learning-action trifecta towards racial justice in education.

Barriers perceived by university faculty in implementing interprofessional education: a scoping review protocol

Interprofessional Education (IPE) enhances collaboration among health professionals and improves patient care. Despite its benefits, university implementation of IPE is limited due to various barriers perceived by faculty members. Identifying these barriers is crucial for developing strategies to integrate IPE into higher education curricula. This scoping review protocol outlines a study to map and synthesize literature on barriers perceived by university faculty in implementing IPE, aiming to inform future interventions and research. Following the Joanna Briggs Institute methodology and adhering to PRISMA-ScR guidelines, a comprehensive search will be conducted across databases including PubMed, Embase, CINAHL, Scopus, Web of Science, and Google Scholar without time restrictions. All types of publications focusing on faculty-perceived barriers to IPE will be included. Data extraction and analysis will involve thematic synthesis and advanced topic modeling using the OCTIS framework to identify key themes and patterns. The review will provide an overview of the types of barriers faced by faculty, their causes, and proposed strategies to overcome them, offering valuable insights for enhancing IPE integration in university settings.•The scoping review will map existing literature on faculty-perceived barriers to implementing Interprofessional Education.•Advanced topic modeling with the OCTIS framework will be utilized to analyze and synthesize findings.•The outcomes aim to inform strategies for effective IPE integration in higher education curricula.

Multivariate analysis of blood parameters for predicting mortality in patients with hip fractures.

The present retrospective cross-sectional study aimed to evaluate the predictive value of blood parameters and ratios for predicting mortality in patients with hip fractures. In total, 758 patients with hip fractures attending the Department of Orthopedics and Traumatology, Kütahya Health Sciences University Faculty of Medicine (Kütahya, Turkey) between January 2016 and January 2023 were included in the present study. Patients were then divided into two groups, namely the mortality (n=464; 61.2%) and survivor (n=294; 38.8%) groups. Patients in the mortality group were further sub-divided into the following three subgroups: i) Those who succumbed in <1 month (n=117; 25.2%); ii) those who succumbed between 1 and 12 months (n=185; 39.9%); and iii) those who succumbed >12 months later (n=162; 34.9%). In addition, the RDW coefficient of variation, mean platelet volume (MPV), MPV/platelet ratio, neutrophil-to-lymphocyte ratio, monocyte-to-lymphocyte ratio, platelet-to-lymphocyte ratio (PLR), mean platelet volume-to-lymphocyte ratio and monocyte-to-eosinophil ratio means were all found to be significantly higher in the mortality group (P<0.05). MPV (P<0.01), HGB (P<0.05), eosinophil, EOS (P<0.01), HRR (P<0.01), and PLR (P<0.05) were all revealed to exert significant effects on mortality. An age cut-off of 74.50 years had a sensitivity of 81.5% and specificity of 37.1%, whereas an MPV cut-off of 8.85 yielded a sensitivity of 73.5% and specificity of 36.1%. By contrast, an HGB cutoff of 11.05 had a sensitivity of 55.6% and specificity of 35.7%, an eosinophil cut-off of 0.065 had a sensitivity of 47.6% and specificity of 35.4%, whilst a HRR cut-off of 0.7587 had a sensitivity of 55.2% and specificity of 30.3%. Furthermore, a PLR cut-off of 152.620 had a sensitivity of 67.2% and specificity of 41.8% for hip fracture-associated mortality. An age cut-off of 79.50 years had a sensitivity of 70.9% and specificity of 41.5%, while an age cut-off of 83.50 years had a sensitivity of 46.2% and specificity of 64.0% for mortality occurring <1 month after hip fractures. To conclude, results from the present study suggested that HRR has potential predictive value for hip fracture-associated mortality and 30-day mortality, whereas the PLR could only predict hip fracture-associated mortality.

A methodological proposal for midwifery education: Asking, Learning, Telling, and Embracing Diversity (ALTE)

ObjectiveThis study addressed the imperative for educational methodologies that effectively cultivate an understanding of diverse cultures within midwifery education curricula, particularly focusing on culture-based practices in the professional milieu. The primary objective was to develop a comprehensive methodology for the integration of cultural competence acquisition into midwifery undergraduate education. This study endeavoured to introduce and critically assesses an educational approach tailored to facilitate the acquisition of cultural competence and sensitivity among midwifery students. DesignThe Asking, Learning, Telling, and Embracing Diversity (ALTE) method, which was developed for use in the “History and Philosophy of Midwifery” course curriculum, was evaluated within the framework of instructor experiences and feedback from students. SettingX University Faculty of Health Sciences, Department of Midwifery in Türkiye. ParticipantsA cohort of midwifery students enrolled in the History and Philosophy of Midwifery course between 2011 and 2016 (N=95). FindingsThe ALTE method, which is characterized by a student-cantered approach and active participation facilitation, presents an opportunity to enhance student engagement and foster active learning. Student feedback underscored that ALTE, emphasizing active participation, is perceived as an instructive and enriching educational approach, diverging from conventional didactic teaching methods. The ALTE method has emerged as an effective instrument for instilling cultural competence within midwifery education. Key conclusionsThe implementation of the ALTE method empowered midwifery students from diverse geographical backgrounds to discern varied cultural codes and traditional practices. This methodology facilitated the identification of commonalities across regions, exploration of preserved cultural values, and scrutiny of potential advantages, disadvantages, and risks associated with such practices concerning maternal and neonatal well-being. Notably, ALTE exhibited commendable efficacy in fostering cultural sensitivity, active learning, acquisition of communication and presentation skills, peer learning, development of cultural competence, and critical thinking skills.

Post-Torakotomi Ağrı Sendromu: İnsidans, Nöropatik Bileşen ve Risk Faktörleri

Objective: Pain that recurs or persists at least two months after thoracotomy is defined as post-thoracotomy pain syndrome (PTPS), and neuropathic pain (NP) is expected to develop in approximately half of these patients. This study aimed to examine the frequency of PTPS, the neuropathic component of pain, and the effecting risk factors in patients who underwent thoracotomy. Methods: 862 patients who underwent thoracotomy were monitored between January 2010 and May 2013 at Gazi University Faculty of Medicine Hospital. The study continued with 277 patients who could be contacted by phone at least three months after the operation. In these patients, the presence of pain was questioned, if present, the severity of pain, NP and affecting risk factors were investigated. The pain severity and NP component were evaluated using the Numeric Rating Scale (NRS) and Douleur Neuropathique 4 (DN4) questionnaires, respectively. Results: Severe PTPS frequency after thoracotomy was found to be 19.1 % and NP was present in 53% of patients with NRS 3-10. As the severity of pain increased, the frequency of NP and analgesic drug consumption increased (p&lt;0.05). As risk factors gender, age, operation duration and epidural analgesia application did not significantly affect the frequency and severity of PTPS and NP. As the time after the operation increased; PTSP frequency, neuropathic pain frequency and pain intensity were decreased (p&lt;0.05). Conclusion: Severe PTPS is detected in approximately one in five patients who undergone thoracotomy and half of them had NP. The neuropathic component of pain increases as pain intensity increases and decreases as time passes after surgery. The development of PTPS and NP should be reduced by providing effective analgesia. Keywords: Thoracotomy, chronic pain, post-thoracotomy pain syndrome, neuropathic pain

Psychological factors and retirement planning behavior among Chinese university faculty members: The mediating effects of retirement planning intention

ABSTRACT Informed retirement planning impacts the wellbeing of individuals and broader society. However, the current related literature contains a limited understanding of the challenges faced by Chinese university faculty members concerning retirement planning. This study developed a model that combines social cognitive theory (SCT) and the theory of planned behavior (TPB) to investigate the effect of attitude toward retirement planning, social group support, perceived financial knowledge, and future time perspective on retirement planning intention, as well as the mediating influence of retirement planning intention. Data collection was conducted from 514 faculty members of public universities in China through an online questionnaire survey. The findings indicated that perceived financial knowledge demonstrated the strongest positive influence on retirement planning intention, followed by future time perspective and social group support, with retirement planning intention as a mediator. This research offers implications for policymakers, retirement benefits consultants, and financial institution practitioners. It suggests that implementing financial education workshops and personalized planning services could promote retirement planning behavior.

Hispanic Faculty Trends in U.S. Medical Schools: A 50-Year Perspective

The U.S. Hispanic population has grown substantially over the past 50 years, and simultaneously, the number of U.S. medical schools and medical school faculty has increased. This study examines the trends for Hispanic faculty in clinical and basic science departments at U.S. medical schools. Method This retrospective, cross-sectional observational study analyzed data from the Association of American Medical Colleges Faculty Roster for faculty at all LCME-accredited medical schools from 1973 to 2022. Proportions of faculty were compared according to department, sex, rank, and Hispanic status using a 2-independent-sample t-test and simple linear regressions. Results The percentage of Hispanic medical school faculty increased from 1.7% in 1973 to 5.4% in 2022, with similar rates of increase in basic science and clinical departments. In 2022, departments with the highest representation of Hispanic faculty included family medicine and obstetrics and gynecology. The departments with the lowest representation of Hispanic faculty were orthopedic surgery and otolaryngology. In 2022, only 1.5% and 3.1% of all full professors were Hispanic females and males, respectively. Conclusion There was a minimal increase in the percentage of Hispanic faculty in medical schools over the last 50 years, and the rank was disproportionally higher at the Assistant Professor level, particularly for females. The combination of a rapid increase in the U.S. Hispanic population and a slow increase in Hispanic faculty has resulted in Hispanic medical school faculty being more underrepresented in academic medicine in 2022 than in 1973.

Community Co-creation through knowledge (Co)Production: The engagement of universities in promoting rural revitalization in China

The global discourse on the role of universities in rural revitalization has gained significant attention. The proposition is to leverage university expertise and resources to support rural development, including knowledge (co)production, community co-creation, and volunteerism – a practice that essentially bridges local actors and their knowledge with external actors and their knowledge. As advocated by UN Habitat III, the collaboration between universities and rural communities is an initiative exemplified by China's “Jointly Create a Beautiful Environment and a Happy Life” to enhance the built environment. This study aims to comprehensively investigate the implementation and outcomes of the “Rural Four Small Gardens” projects, which serve as a vital community development initiative within the Hongtang Village in Fengqing County, Yunnan Province, China. The research discusses those processes, observing opportunities for knowledge (co)production across diverse stakeholders in line with neo-endogenous rural development thinking. By exploring the co-creation approach employed in these projects, we seek to unravel how academia and local communities collaborate to address multifaceted challenges in rural areas. We argue that: 1) The engagement of rural communities through collaborative planning workshops serves as the fundamental cornerstone for university paired-up assistance; 2) the co-creation model for improving rural settlement necessitates the collective efforts of multiple stakeholders; 3) university faculty and students play pivotal roles during the process of service learning, practice research, and knowledge (co)production with villagers; and 4) Knowledge (co)production entails a dynamic process of co-construction, co-governance, and resource sharing, exemplified by co-creation initiatives of home development, farmyard enhancement, and infrastructure projects. The research offers insights for global universities seeking to engage in similar paired-up assistance initiatives, underscores the significance of co-creation in rural development, and enlightens planning education in practice and service.