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Better than expected : A qualitative study on how the employer brand is shaped, communicated and experienced.
No full textTidigare forskning visar att employer branding (arbetsgivarvarumärket) är ett vidsträckt koncept med många tillämpningsområden. Arbetet med arbetsgivarvarumärket påverkar inte bara organisationens struktur, kultur eller rykte, utan har även en direkt effekt på arbetsgivarens förmåga att attrahera och behålla personal. Denna kandidatuppsats hade syftet att utifrån strategiskt ansvarig personal och nyanställdas upplevelser öka förståelsen för hur arbetsgivarvarumärket utformas och kommuniceras i ett kommunalägt energibolag. Empirin samlades in genom fyra individuella intervjuer med nyanställda och fyra strategiskt ansvariga. För att fördjupa förståelsen kompletterades dessa åtta intervjuer med en fokusgrupp. Det insamlade materialet har sedan analyserats och tematiserats med stöd av tre tematiska analyser. Resultatet visar att det bolaget har kommunicerat utåt överensstämmer, till och med att det är ”bättre än förväntat” mot den förväntansbild de nyanställda haft sedan innan anställning. Slutsatsen i denna studie är att det kommunalägda energibolagets arbetsgivarvarumärket har en potentiell styrka vid både nyrekryteringar och hållbar personalstyrka över tid, det sträcker sig alltså både extern såsom internt. Därav är det avgörande att fortsätta detta viktiga arbete med ett inifrån-och-ut-perspektiv, då fokus på det interna arbetsgivarvarumärket bevisligen har gett god effekt utifrån denna studie. Previous research shows that employer branding is a broad concept with many areas of application. The work with employer branding does not only affect the organization's structure, culture or reputation, but also has a direct effect on the employer's ability to attract and retain staff. This bachelor's thesis aimed to increase understanding of how the employer brand is shaped and communicated within a municipally owned energy company, based on the experiences of strategically responsible personnel and new hired employees. Empirical evidence has been collected through four individual interviews with newly hired employees and four with strategic responsibility roles. To deepen the understanding, these eight interviews were supplemented with a focus group. The collected material has then been analyzed and thematized with the support of three thematic analyses. The results show that the company has communicated externally consistently, even "better than expected" with the expectations that the newly hired employees had prior to their employment. The conclusion of this study is that the municipally owned energy company´s employer brand has a potential strength for both new recruitment and sustainability workforce over time, it extends both externally and internally. Therefore, it is crucial to continue this important work from an inside-out perspective, as the focus on internal employer branding has proven to have a good effect according to this study
Familiar according to pupils
No full textDenna studie jämför vad sex elever i femteklass i svenska grundskolan i centrala Dalarna anser som elevnära i engelskämnet med vad som framhålls som elevnära i deras engelsklärobok GoodStuff 5 GOLD. Detta görs utifrån det sociokulturella perspektivet för att skapa en förståelse för hur termen elevnära ser ut i engelskaklassrum samt hur detta påverkar utbildningen. Det framgår att det finns ytterst lite forskning om termen elevnära men Skolverket har en brukbar definition där termen bryts ner i aspekterna anpassning, erfarenhetsvärld och intresse. Genom fenomenografi samt en kombinerad kvantitativ och kvalitativ textanalys så påvisas det att elevnära enligt eleverna och läroboken är när innehållet rör vänner, familj, djur och vanliga sporter och aktiviteter. Skillnaderna är vilka sporter och aktiviteter som pekas ut. Ytterligare skiljer elever och lärobok sig åt genom att eleverna beskriver rutiner som inte finns med alls il äroboken som istället tar upp sociala och vetenskapliga koncept. Elevnära enligt eleverna inkluderar även en bredare lingvistisk svårighetsgrad än lärobokens. Detta medför att hur elevnära läroboken är eleverna som brukar den har en stark påverkan på elevernas utbildning.‘Familiar to pupils’ is a widely used term defined by The Swedish National Agency for Education as the amalgamation of support, world of experience, and interests. This thesis compares what six fifth-grade pupils in the Swedish compulsory school in central Dalarna think of as ‘familiar to pupils’ with what is considered ‘familiar to pupils’ in their English textbook Good Stuff 5 GOLD. A mixed-methods strategy – phenomenography and qualitative and quantitative text analysis – was used to examine the meaning of the term from the viewpoints of both pupils and the textbook. Through sociocultural analysis the term touches on friends, family, animals, and sports or activities. However, there are differences between pupils and the textbook when it comes to the sports and activities chosen. Furthermore, only the pupils describe routines, while the textbook talks about social and scientific concepts. ‘Familiar to pupils’ according to pupils also includes a broader range of linguistic challenges. The analysis also indicate that how familiar the textbook is to the pupils who use it has a strong effect on the pupils’ education.Engelska</p
Ett andra liv för batterier inom gruvindustrin : En simuleringsfallstudie av de tekno-ekonomiska och miljömässiga effekterna av att återanvända elbilsbatterier i off-grid förnybara mikronät för gruvor
No full textThe mining sector is currently shifting toward more sustainable operations and with over half of the world's mines relying on on-site power generation, renewable microgrids (MGs) with battery energy storage systems (BESSs) have become a crucial part of this transition. However, as industries move away from fossil fuels, the demand for rare earth elements and other critical minerals needed for electrification continues to rise. To support a more sustainable and circular approach, this study investigates the techno-economic and environmental performance of repurposing a second-life electric vehicle battery as a BESS in an off-grid hybrid MG for mining operations. Using HOMER Pro simulation software, a comparative case study was conducted based on real energy data from the off-grid hybrid MG of the DeGrussa copper mine in Australia. The MG comprised 19 MW of diesel generators, 10.6 MW of solar PV, and a 6 MW/1.8 MWh BESS. Primary data on the 0.501 MW/0.982 MWh second-life BESS were provided directly by the battery manufacturer. Three different configurations were simulated and evaluated based on the impact of the second-life BESS on renewable energy share (RF), greenhouse gas (GHG) emissions, and economic performance in comparison to the mine’s existing BESS. The results indicate that the second-life BESS can slightly increase RF and reduce both GHG emissions and energy costs compared to the current system. In the fully optimized scenario – where all MG components, including diesel generator and solar PV capacities, were re-dimensioned – the second-life BESS achieved the highest RF (92%), the greatest GHG reduction (56,000 tCO₂eq annually), and significant cost savings. These findings suggest that second-life BESSs can be a viable, cost-effective solution for boosting renewable energy integration in remote, energy-intensive industries. The study also emphasizes the importance of system design and dispatch strategies in maximizing performance. Den globala gruvindustrin står inför en omställning mot mer hållbara verksamheter, samtidigt som över hälften av världens gruvor är beroende av lokal elproduktion. Förnybara mikronät med batterilagringssystem (BESS) har därmed blivit en nyckelkomponent i industrinshållbarhetsomställning. Utöver det, har samhällen börjat minska sin användning av fossila bränslen, vilket kraftigt ökat efterfrågan på sällsynta jordartsmetaller och andra kritiska mineraler som är avgörande för den hållbara energiomställningen. För att bidra till en hållbar utveckling och cirkulär ekonomi, undersöker denna studie hur återanvända elbilsbatterier kan integreras i off-grid förnybara mikronät inom gruvindustrin, med fokus på tekniskekonomiska och miljömässiga fördelar. Studien använder simuleringsprogrammet HOMER Pro och baseras på energidata från DeGrussa koppargruva i Australien, vars mikronät består av 19 MW dieselgeneratorer, ett 10,6 MW solcellssystem och ett BESS på 6 MW/1,8 MWh. I studien simuleras ett återanvänt litiumjärnfosfatbatteri med en kvarvarande kapacitet på 0,501 MW/0,982 MWh. Tre scenarier modellerades för att utvärdera hur det återanvända batteriet påverkar andelen förnybar energi, växthusgasutsläpp och energikostnader jämfört med gruvans befintliga BESS. Resultaten visar att återanvända batterier kan öka andelen förnybar energi, minska växthusgasutsläpp och sänka energikostnader. En direkt ersättning av det befintliga BESS gav en begränsad förbättring av dessa parametrar. Däremot resulterade en omdimensionering av hela systemet, inklusive dieselgeneratorer och solcellssystem, i betydande fördelar. I det optimerade scenariot med det återanvända BESS uppnåddes en förnybar energiandel på 92 %, en minskning av växthusgasutsläpp med 56 000 ton koldioxidekvivalenter per år och betydande kostnadsbesparingar. Dessa resultat understryker att återanvända batterier kan vara en kostnadseffektiv och miljömässigt hållbar lösning för den energikrävande gruvindustrin. Studien framhåller även vikten av noggrann systemdesign och effektiv styrning för att maximera prestandan hos sådana system.
Evaluating Static Reconfiguration at the Cell Level as an Alternative Solution to Issues with Partial Shading of PV Systems
No full textThe growing interest for the renewable energy source solar energy has made the different photovoltaic techniques develop at a rapid pace. One of the greatest challenges to overcome when it comes to solar energy, is that it is weather dependent and highly affected by shading. Various techniques exist to reduce the impacts of shading. To prevent damage of cells caused by hotspots, bypass diodes could be connected. The shingle and half-cut modules are under great development and better at handling the losses from shading than conventional modules. In arrays of modules, the choice of interconnection between modules can affect the performance of the system during partial shading. Alternative interconnections are also the foundation of static reconfiguration algorithms. Modules are repositioned while the electrical wiring remains the same, dispersing the shade on the array and reducing mismatch losses. This can theoretically also be used for cells in a module, to make a module more resistant towards shading. This was simulated and confirmed with experiments in this study. The findings are that static reconfigurationon cell-level gave a higher power output than un-reconfigured modules, in theory. However, even though it would be practically possible it would require complicated connections between cells and long cables
Samspelet mellan interna och externa faktorer i praktiken : En kvalitativ studie om faktorer som påverkar företagens hållbarhetsarbete i praktiken
No full textSyfte: Syftet med studien är att undersöka och förklara hur interna och externa faktorer samverkar för att påverka företags hållbarhetsarbete i praktiken. Genom att analysera hur företag prioriterar och formar sitt hållbarhetsarbete utifrån faktorerna, syftar studien till att öka förståelsen för hur hållbarhetsstrategier formas i olika företag. Metod: Metoden som användes för denna studie var kvalitativ, med åtta semistrukturerade intervjuer med respondenter som aktivt arbetar inom hållbarhet i olika företag. Detta gjorde för att få en inblick i hur det ser ut i de olika företagen. När datan samlades in analyserade vid en från en tematisk analys för att få fram slutsatserna. Resultat: Resultatet visar att företags hållbarhetsarbete påverkas av en kombination av interna och externa faktorer. Externt spelar intressenter och institutioner en central roll, medan interna faktorer som beslutsfattande engagemang och prioriteringar är avgörande för hur hållbarhetsarbetet genomförs. Slutsats: Studien visar att företagens hållbarhetsarbete formas av en komplex samverkan mellan externa och interna faktorer. Institutionella krav som lagstiftning och EU-direktiv utgör den mest styrande och grundläggande faktorn. Därefter har intressenter en central betydelse genom krav och förväntningar. Genom att möta både institutionella krav och intressenternas förväntningar stärker företagen legitimiteten, vilket är avgörande för att behålla förtroende och långsiktig överlevnad på marknaden. Interna faktorerna formas utifrån de externa.Purpose: The purpose of the study is to investigate and explain how internal and external factors interact to influence companies' sustainability work in practice. By analyzing how companies prioritize and shape their sustainability work based on the factors, the study aims to increase understanding of how sustainability strategies are shaped in different companies. Methods: The method used for this study was qualitative, with eight semi-structured interviews with respondents who actively work within sustainability in different companies.This was done to gain insight into what it looks like in the different companies. Once the data was collected, we analyzed it from a thematic analysis to draw conclusions. Result: The results show that companies' sustainability efforts are influenced by a combination of internal and external factors. Externally, stakeholders and institutions play a central role, while internal factors such as decision-making commitment and priorities are crucial for how sustainability efforts are implemented. Conclusion: The study shows that companies' sustainability work is shaped by a complex interaction between external and internal factors. Institutional requirements such as legislationand EU directives constitute the most governing and fundamental factor. After that, stakeholders have a central importance through their demands and expectations. By meeting both institutional requirements and stakeholder expectations, companies strengthen their legitimacy, which is crucial for maintaining trust and long-term survival in the market. Internal factors are shaped based on external
English Vocabulary Learning by Young Adults : The Reported Effects of Playing The Sims 3
No full textThis thesis investigates the potential of The Sims 3 as a tool for incidental English vocabulary learning among young adult learners, drawing on theories of second language acquisition by Krashen (1981; 1982), incidental vocabulary learning by Gass (1999) and Hulstijn (2001), extramural English by Sundqvist (2009), and digital-based games in language learning by Sadoski (2005) and Prensky (2001). The study explores how simulation games can support second language (L2) development through engaging and contextualised experiences. It aims to answer three research questions, regarding (a) players’ report on their perceived vocabulary learning in L2 English through playing The Sims 3, (b) types of vocabulary frequently encountered in the game, and (c) the presentation of repetitive vocabulary in The Sims 3 that supports learning. Using a mixed-methods approach, data were collected via a questionnaire, interviews, a vocabulary recognition test, and lexical analysis of in-game content. The findings indicate that most vocabulary in The Sims 3 presents a beginner level and is often related to everyday life, careers, and interior design. Its repetitive and contextualized nature may enhance learners’ recognition and retention of English words. Although participants did not attribute their language learning primarily to gameplay, many reported increased curiosity and awareness of new words during the vocabulary test, indicating a potential for incidental vocabulary acquisition. The study concludes that simulation games like The Sims 3, when accompanied by specifically designed learning materials, hold promise as supportive tools in language education
From Cisis to Capability : Navigating Through Organizational Change
No full textThis study examines how SSAB Special Steel Division handled the organizational and structural challenges that arose because of the COVID-19 pandemic. The focus is on how strategic decisions, work processes and support functions were adapted to ensure continuity, flexibility, organizational learning and resilience. The study is based on theories of Enterprise Risk Management (ERM), institutional theory, digital transformation and learning organization to analyze how the organization implemented risk management and adapted to external institutional requirements and norms in a changing context. The study is based on a qualitative research design with an abductive approach. Primary data was collected through semi-structured interviews with key people in HR, Task Force ,communication, work environment, supply chain and market development. To strengthen the credibility of the study, triangulation was used, as the interviews were supplemented with document analysis in the form of internal reports and policy documents from SSAB Special Steel Division. The analysis was carried out thematically and with careful consideration for research ethics principles. The results show how SSAB Special Steel Division's support functions operationalized organizational learning and risk management, and how these measures contributed to strengthening the organization's long-term preparation for future crises.
Tainted by the collocates of another? What News on the Web (NOW) corpus collocates and frequencies of PALESTINIAN and HAMAS before and after 10/07/2023 might suggest about representations of these groups in news media discourse
No full textThis study looks at how two social groups are framed in news media discourse by using corpus linguistics (CL) methods to investigate collocates of PALESTINIAN and HAMAS in the News on the Web (NOW) corpus, along with their frequencies and mutual information (MI) scores. In conjunction with Framing theory and Agenda setting theory (AST), collocates are compared pre- and post-Hamas’ October 7, 2023, attack on Israel. The study aimed to see whether or to what extent there was a difference or change between each time period for each term and when compared to one another. Though the search terms did not share any collocates during the two month period prior to Hamas’ October 7, 2023, attack, they did share several negative collocates during the two-month period starting October 7, 2023. For the collocates not shared, compared to PALESTINIAN, HAMAS had generally more negative ones (in number and strength as measured by SenticNet and AFINN, two online sentiment analysis tools). Viewed through Framing theory and AST, the results offer a view of how media consumers might come to view each group/their actions based on how they were represented in the news media discourse by way of collocates. Additionally, the frequencies of the shared collocates [militant(s) and killed as well as each group name as a collocate of the other] along with the strength of the associations (as measured by MI scores) seems to show that the term PALESTINIAN was ‘tainted’ by the collocates of HAMAS.
Cooperation in healthcare for people with Dementia : a qualitative interview study
No full textBakgrund: Samverkan mellan kommunal hemsjukvård och primärvård för personer med en demenssjukdom minskar risken för vårdskador och förutsättningarna för en kvalitativ vård ökar. Trots ambitionen om personcentrerad vård visar studier att vården av personer med demenssjukdom präglas av organisatoriska barriärer och bristande kommunikation mellan primärvården och den kommunala hemsjukvården. Syfte: Syftet var att undersöka sjuksköterskans erfarenheter kring samverkan mellan primärvård och kommunal hemsjukvård för personer med en demenssjukdom. Metod: En empirisk intervjustudie med deskriptiv kvalitativ design med en induktiv ansats. Data från 10 sjuksköterskor som arbetar inom kommunal hemsjukvård i tre olika kommuner i Mellansverige har använts. Under analysen har en kvalitativ manifest innehållsanalys använts. Resultat: Sjuksköterskornas erfarenheter är att de tar ett större ansvar för patienterna än vad hemsjukvårdsuppdraget innebär. De olika journalsystemen som skiljer verksamheterna åt och en begränsad tillgång till patientens planering och sjukdomshistorik skapade svårigheter för en personcentrerad vård. Kontinuitet krävs för att möjliggöra den personcentrerade vården och för att samverkan för personer med demenssjukdom ska fungera optimalt. Slutsats: Det finns ingen tydlig samverkansrutin för personer med en demenssjukdom. Sjuksköterskorna i hemsjukvården får ofta ta ett större ansvar än vad uppdraget innebär. Läkarkontinuiteten är viktig för en god samverkan och en personcentrerad vård, det har dock visat sig att den är bristfällig. En personcentrerad vård kräver teamarbete där olika journalsystem försvårar kommunikationen.Background: By cooperation between home health municipal care and primary care for people with dementia, the risk for care injuries is reduced and the conditions for a more qualitative care is increased. Despite the ambition of a person-centered care and cooperation, studies shows that the care of people with dementia is characterized of organizational barriers and lack of communication between primary care and municipal home health care. Aim: To explore nurses experiences about cooperation between the primary care and the municipal home health care of people with dementia. Method: Employing an empirical interview study with a descriptive qualitative design with an inductive approach. Data were collected from 10 nurses in the municipal home health care from three communities in the middle of Sweden. A qualitative manifest content analysis has been used to analyse the result. Results: The nurses' experience is that they take a greater responsibility for the patients than what the home health assignment entails. The different journal systems that separate the both branches and an excluded insight into the patient's planning but also the medical history created difficulties for person-centred care. Continuity and accessibility are required to enable person-centred care and for a collaboration for people with dementia to work. Conclusions: There is no clear collaboration routine specifically for people with dementia. The nurses in home health care often have to take on greater responsibility than what the assignment entails and that doctor continuity is important for good collaboration and person-centered care. This study showed that the doctor continuity was inadequate. Working in a person-centred manner requires team-based care, where different record systems for the two operations make communication between the staff difficult
Guardians’ views on digital tools in preschool
No full textThis paper presents a discourse analysis of responses to a survey conducted with guardians of children from three Swedish preschools. Two questions are elaborated on: (1) What Discourses occur in guardians’ communication about digital tools in preschool? and (2) What are the implications of these Discourses for mathematics education in preschool? Four construed Discourses show diverse views on digital tools, with most guardians taking a positive view as long as these tools are used in such a way that children become producers of content, not consumers. This is in line with research highlighting the importance of focusing on how digital tools are used rather than on for how long. The study shows the importance of preschools clearly communicating when, how, and why digital tools are used in preschool