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Understanding 'success' and 'failure' in two case studies of collaborative technology: contexts, narrative and lenses.
Get PDFAfter first setting the scene for the development of IMS Learning Design (LD), this thesis details the creation of a LD test environment, along with interviews carried out with some of those involved in the development, implementation and research use of the specification. The creation of SPONGE (the Simplest Possible ONline Grouping Environment), a new software platform developed in response to the LD interview findings, is then documented. The rejection of SPONGE by teachers in a school environment provides the catalyst for an in-depth exploration of that school and the (largely non-technological) reasons for SPONGE's apparent failure. MegaTech and MiniTech, two explanatory lenses based on the work of van Langenhove and Harré, Heidegger, and Popper, are then created and used to revisit the rejection of LD and SPONGE (as two examples of functionally sound educational technologies) by practitioners.
This research uses a multi-methodology (Mingers) approach, informed by Case Study (Yin), Realistic Evaluation (Pawson and Tilley) and Narratives (Clough). In addition, reflective elements are embedded at key moments in the thesis to facilitate a personal discussion of the challenges faced by this author and which prompted a significant change in research direction.
This research makes the following contributions to knowledge.
C1 A new analysis of why LD has not been widely adopted beyond the research community. [Chapters 5, 7, 8 and 9]
C2 The initial validation of the analysis in C1 through its application in a contrasting educational and technical context (Hazelmere School). [Chapters 7, 8 and 9]
C3 The in-depth picture of the use of educational technology in an extremely demanding environment (Hazelmere School). [Chapters 7 and 9]
C4 The creation of MegaTech and MiniTech as explanatory lenses. [Chapter 8]
C5 The application of MegaTech and MiniTech to more clearly explain the fate of LD and SPONGE. [Chapters 8 and 9]
C6 The creation of SPONGE as a homogenous and open-standards compliant toolbox that focuses on immediacy and facilitates the spontaneous use of collaborative tools. [Chapter 6]
C7 The creation of a self-contained and easily deployed LD test environment. [Chapter 4
Philosopher, magician and musical scientist Lee ‘Scratch’ Perry (Rainford Hugh Perry)
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A strategic framework managing challenges of integrating lean construction and integrated project delivery on construction megaprojects, towards global integrated delivery transformative initiatives in multinational organisations
Get PDFBuilt environment encounters substantial risks and challenges in its evolution towards sustainable development. International businesses, and multinational engineering organisations face global connectivity challenges between business units, especially during the outbreak of novel coronavirus pandemic (COVID-19) which has profoundly disrupted the construction industry throughout the world. That raises the need to manage global connectivity as a main strategic goal of multinational architecture, engineering, and construction (AEC) organisations. This research aims to develop a strategic framework managing challenges of integrating lean construction (LC) and integrated project delivery (IPD) on construction megaprojects (CMPs) towards global integrated delivery (GID) transformative initiatives in multinational AEC organisations.
‘Mixed research methods’ involving a two-stage quantitative and qualitative research approach is adopted. The qualitative research methodology consists of a literature review to assess challenges to integrate LeanIPD&GID on CMPs. There is an assessment of conceptualisation of LeanIPD&GID and GID strategy placements, development of LeanIPD&GID integration framework, and future of work (FOW) global initiatives with multiple validations. The analysis involved semi-structured interviews and focus group techniques. Stage two consisted of an empirical questionnaire survey that shaped the foundation of analysis and findings of 190 respondents from 23 countries with an extensive cosmopolitan experience of megaprojects in construction. The survey examined a set of 20 challenges to integrate LeanIPD&GID on CMPs resulting from a detailed analysis of extant literature after validation. Descriptive and inferential statistical tests were exploited for data analysis, and percentage score analysis.
The research conceptualised LeanIPD&GID principles, proposed GID strategy placements, a framework for managing challenges of LeanIPD&GID transformative initiatives, FOW global initiatives and key performance indicators (KPIs). It concluded that the most significant challenges to integrate of LeanIPD&GID on CMPs are ‘lack of governmental incentives, policies, regulations or legal frameworks,’ ‘lack of client’s awareness and IPD experience amongst key stakeholders,’ ‘lack of organisation’s senior-management and client’s commitment to IPD approaches,’ ‘resistance of industry to change from traditional procurement to IPD,’ and ‘lack of integrated synergies between LC, IPD working towards LeanIPD&GID.’ Awareness of building BIM in the MENA region is higher than LC, and LC awareness is higher than IPD knowledge. While BIM adoption in the MENA region is higher than LC, LC is still taking its first steps and IPD has little implementation. LeanBIM is slightly integrated, while LeanIPD integration is almost not present.
The research findings, conclusions and recommendations provide a proposed framework for implementation, KPIs, and GID strategy placements for LeanIPD&GID transformative initiatives to integrate LeanIPD&GID on CMPs and FOW global initiatives. This will allow project key stakeholders to place emphasis on managing LeanIPD&GID challenges identified in this research and commence GID strategies. The study has provided effective practical strategies for enhancing integration of LeanIPD&GID transformative initiatives on CMPs
Next generation IoT and blockchain integration
Get PDFThe Internet of Things (IoT) refers to the interconnection of smart devices to collect
data and make intelligent decisions. However, a lack of intrinsic security measures makes Next
generation IoT more vulnerable to privacy and security threats. With its “security by design,”
Blockchain (BC) can help in addressing major security requirements in IoT. Blockchain is an
ever-growing list of records that are linked and protected using cryptographic methods. It offers
its users the flexibility to conduct transactions with lower costs and faster speeds. Blockchain
ledgers are also decentralized and a ledger is maintained at each node in the network.
Blockchain’s security and adaptability helps in making even entire systems on it a much easily
task with the benefit of decentralization. BC capabilities like immutability, transparency,
auditability, data encryption and operational resilience can help solve most architectural
shortcomings of IoT. In the vision of the Internet of Things, traditional devices are becoming
smarter and more autonomous. This vision is becoming reality as technology advances but
there are still challenges to be resolved. This is especially true in a security domain like data
trust & with the expected evolution of the IoT in the coming years, it is important to ensure
that this great source of data arrives.This paper began with an overview of blockchain and IoT,
as well as explore the IoT blockchain application challenges.This article also focuses review
the most relevant tasks to analyse how IoT blockchain can be improved and examined current
research concerns and developments in the use of blockchain-related techniques and
technologies in the context of IoT security in depth. One of the best parts of working or learning
about blockchain and its application is the curiosity about how it can impact the things that we
have been accustomed to without trying to improve and make things more efficient and
productive
The pursuit of happiness within Islam: a systematic review of two decades of research on religiosity and happiness in Islamic groups
Get PDFThis systematic literature review examines research on religiosity and
happiness within the Muslim population. Earlier investigations
predominantly focused on Christianity and happiness in Western
countries and found a significant positive association. This
literature review was conducted to investigate research exploring
the relationship between religiosity and happiness among Muslims.
A literature search identified 59 papers examining this relationship
between the years 2000 and 2020. Standard quality assessment
criteria were used to assess the quality of the selected papers. Each
paper was scored by two independent researchers and several of
the papers were excluded due to not meeting inclusion criteria or
scoring below .55 in the quality assessment. Some 49 studies were
included in this literature review, which found a positive correlation
between happiness and religiosity within the Muslim population.
Furthermore, most studies posited a significant relationship
between the variables. This paper explores this suggested positive
correlation further, highlights the limitations of the research, and
discusses the implications of the findings
The role of management in improving internal corporate social responsibility among Islamic financial institutions in Saudi Arabia
Get PDFThe evolving landscape of the business world continually underscores the significance of
Corporate Social Responsibility (CSR) as a vital link between corporate endeavours and
societal imperatives. In the ever-evolving context of Islamic financial institutions in Saudi
Arabia, CSR is not a mere afterthought but deeply rooted in fundamental Islamic principles,
including Tawheed, Vicegerency, and Fardh. This comprehensive study delves deeply into the
intricate intersection of CSR and management within Islamic banks in Saudi Arabia. Utilizing
the "Research Onion Framework," we employed a balanced blend of qualitative and
quantitative methodologies. Data was gathered from a substantial sample of 161 employees
spanning four major Islamic banks in the country. Additionally, in-depth interviews with
managers from 15 organisations provided qualitative insights, enriching the study's
multifaceted approach.
One of the noteworthy revelations of this research was the profound appreciation and
understanding of CSR among bank employees. It transcended mere terminology; they
recognized CSR as a cornerstone in shaping the institution's broader strategy and enhancing its
reputation in the marketplace. This realization reflects the cultural and religious significance
attributed to CSR within this organisations. The study's findings not only acknowledged this
importance but also underscored a clear link between effective management and the successful
integration of CSR practices. Ethical conduct, transparency, and alignment with core tenets of
Islamic finance emerged as distinctive characteristics. Furthermore, these banks exhibited a
holistic approach in intertwining CSR with human resource initiatives, fostering not only an
enriched work environment but also elevating overall job satisfaction.
Another nuanced distinction highlighted by the research was the contrast in CSR perspectives
between conventional Western financial models and Saudi Arabia's Islamic banks. While the
former often base their CSR initiatives on Western theories, the latter perceive CSR as a duty
rooted in Islamic teachings. This inherent alignment with religious principles sets these Islamic
institutions apart, making them genuinely socially responsible entities.
Beyond these pivotal findings, the research also sheds light on the proactive role of the Saudi
Arabian government in reinforcing CSR practices, reflecting its commitment to nurturing
socially responsible corporate behaviour This commitment aligns with the nation's vision,
particularly the goals outlined in Saudi Vision 2030, which aims to empower various segments
of society, including a significant focus on women.
To solidify and advance these practices, the study proposes robust recommendations. These
include establishing independent CSR divisions within banks, implementing transparent
reporting mechanisms, and encouraging cross-sector collaborations. These suggestions are
designed to amplify the already significant impact of CSR on employees, stakeholders, and
society at large.
In conclusion, this comprehensive exploration offers a panoramic view of management's
pivotal role in fostering CSR within Saudi Arabia's Islamic financial institutions. The insights
gained underscore CSR's profound influence on employee satisfaction, societal advancement,
and its alignment with Sharia principles. These findings serve as a valuable knowledge
repository for practitioners, policymakers, and academics, urging them to envision a future
where corporate responsibility is not merely an obligation but a duty infused with deep cultural
and religious significance
Psychological skills training and perfectionism: a single-subject multiple baseline study
Get PDFPsychological skills training (PST) is a common and effective form of support provided by sport psychologists. Nevertheless, its use in helping support athletes with perfectionism and some of the problematic issues they can face is unknown. The purpose of the present study was to assess the effectiveness of PST in reducing perfectionistic cognitions and improving emotion experiences in athletes. Using a single-subject multiple baseline research design, we recruited five national level basketball players (M = 21.8 years) based on their concerns over mistakes (a key dimension of perfectionistic concerns). All participants received eight, one-to-one PST sessions over a four-week period. Participants completed self-report measures of perfectionistic cognitions, cognitive appraisals, pre-competition emotions, and performance satisfaction on a weekly basis, before, during, and after the intervention, as well as three-months later. Results suggested that PST improved at least some of the cognitive appraisals, pre-competition emotions and performance satisfaction in most participants. Minimal changes were observed for perfectionistic cognitions. The findings support the general use of PST but other interventions may be required to reduce perfectionistic cognitions
Enhanced supported living for people with severe and persistent mental health problems: A qualitative investigation
Get PDFSupported living has been shown to improve functioning and social inclusion in people with severe and persistent mental health problems, reduce hospitalisation and provide secure accommodation in a population where housing needs are often unmet. Conversely, living in supported accommodation has been depicted by some as depersonalising, marginalising and an ordeal to survive. Discussions regarding housing and support often lack a thorough consideration of individual experiences, with a reliance on quantitative surveys. The question remains how to assure that supported accommodations actually are supportive of the residents' ongoing recovery process. The present study sought to shed light on the experiences of residents in an enhanced supported living service in the United Kingdom. Semi‐structured interviews were conducted with nine residents of the service between July 2020 and February 2021. Transcripts were analysed using thematic analysis and indicated three superordinate themes of experiences considered valuable to residents: (1) support from care staff which was readily available; (2), a sense of community and daily activity offered by the residence and on‐site activities; and (3) the experience of supported living as a stepping‐stone in an ongoing recovery process. Findings indicate the power of comprehensive care with supportive staff, peer‐relations, autonomy and fostering hope in empowering individuals in their ongoing recovery
Technology and entrepreneurship education : adopting creative digital approaches to learning and teaching
No full textBridges the gap between academia and practice by offering research on successful implementation practices
Considers the impact of Covid-19 and digital models of teaching and learning
Includes contributions from Australia, the U.A.E, Europe, the Middle East and Asi
An exploration of the implications of human resources analytics for workforce planning
Get PDFWorkforce is a tangible and talent-driven asset for high-performing organisations in today's global economy. Arguably, if workforce is not adequately planned, it impacts the effective execution of future business strategies. This research uses Standard Chartered and HSBC Holdings as a case study. A sample size of 60 participants is selected and descriptive data analysis employed to examine the online survey questionnaire. The findings indicate that HRA helps organisations to develop and sustain high-quality planning and eliminates the conventional obstacles HRA provides. It aligns strategic planning by head counting and establishing a clear view of talent demand and supply problems. It is a useful tool used to evaluate the impact of their decision and prioritise future investments in the workforce. Key identifiers include: Control, employee production efficiency, and structure. The study recommends organisations combine demand planning and internal supply analysis to identify workforce gaps and plan accordingly