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Helpful Abstraction, Barrier to Urgency, or Both? A Critical Examination of the Effects of Psychological Distance on Climate Change Perception
Get PDFIn recent years, there has been an increase in research activity around the psychological distance of climate change, often investigated through the lens of Construal Level Theory (CLT). However, recent commentaries and reviews have started to point out the inconsistent evidence produced by this research field and have questioned whether CLT is indeed the most appropriate approach for investigating distance and place in the climate change context. The aim of this thesis was to critically investigate research on psychological distance and, if necessary, to produce a more suitable way forward for research into distance-related climate perceptions. To achieve this aim, we first present a systematic review of studies around psychological distance of climate change, which documents the many different approaches and methodologies employed by researchers. We argue that CLT is indeed not effective in tackling relevant research questions because it is unable to address the complexity of climate change. Instead, we propose that researchers tackle distance-related research questions in a bottom-up manner, building a descriptive evidence base before selecting or building confirmatory theory. We apply this process to the location of climate change impacts, first collating existing knowledge from adjacent fields into a new framework of place affinity. In a cross-sectional study we find that place affinity towards places impacted by climate change predicts concern, but not worry about climate change. In an experimental study, we apply the framework of place affinity to media reports of extreme weather events and find that participants reading about a flooding in a high-affinity versus a low-affinity country differ in their emotional reactions, but not their resulting risk perception, policy support or behaviour. We discuss the implications of our findings for research on psychological distance, and more broadly, for investigations of place- and distance-related perceptions around climate change
Overcoming policy gaps for effective plastic waste management: A case study of Dikkowita Fishery Harbour, Sri Lanka
No full textThis study focuses on plastic waste management in the Dikkowita fishery harbour in Sri Lanka. Plastic bottles and
polythene packaging are identified as the primary sources of plastic waste accumulation. Inadequate waste disposal
methods are also observed. The study reviews successful policy frameworks worldwide, including extended
producer responsibility, plastic bag bans, and Pay-As-You-Throw systems. Insights from case studies in other harbours
and ports are incorporated. The study explores implementing a circular economy approach, considering Sri
Lanka's specific challenges. The recommendations aim to guide policymakers and stakeholders in effectively
managing plastic waste, reducing its negative impacts, and promoting sustainable resource utilisation. Further
details on the study methodology, key findings (such as specific amounts of plastic waste), and policy measures
for improving plastic waste management in fishery harbours could be incorporated for a more comprehensive
study presentation
Parents’ use of digital technology for social connection during the COVID‐19 pandemic: A mixed‐methods study
Get PDFIntroduction
The COVID-19 pandemic (2020–2021) resulted in isolation due to social distancing rules and lockdowns, during which technology was used to enable families and friends to maintain contact. Despite loneliness being high in parents, little is known about which parents are more likely to experience loneliness and strategies to support them.
Method
This mixed-methods study examines which parents were lonely during the pandemic and how digital technologies were used to reduce loneliness and social isolation. Data were collected during the first UK lockdown from May to July 2020 via an online survey (N = 145) and follow-up interviews (n = 13).
Results
Loneliness reported during lockdown was greater than retrospective reporting of loneliness for all respondents, but it was higher in single parents, those caring for children with specific needs, and those with lower household incomes before and during lockdown. Parents rapidly adapted to and experimented with using technology for social connection during the lockdown, which helped to reduce feelings of isolation and loneliness. Video calling was found to be useful for making connections and enhancing social presence, but parents also experienced anxieties and difficulties with its use. There were mixed views about technology use; some were keen to continue using technology for socializing after the lockdown ended, but for others, it was only a temporary measure.
Conclusion
Although technology was invaluable during the pandemic, it was not a panacea, and the way parents used it was influenced by their approach to technology and existing social behaviors and networks
NeuroRehabilitation OnLine: Description of a regional multidisciplinary group telerehabilitation innovation for stroke and neurological conditions using the Template for Intervention Description and Replication checklist
Get PDFBackground: Providing recommended amounts of rehabilitation for stroke and neurological patients is challenging. Telerehabilitation is viable for delivering rehabilitation and an acceptable adjunct to in-person therapy. NeuroRehabilitation OnLine (NROL) was developed as a pilot and subsequently operationalised as a regional innovation embedded across four National Health Service (NHS) Trusts. Objective: To describe the NROL innovation to assist future implementation and replication efforts. Methods: The Template for Intervention Description and Replication (TIDieR) checklist, with guidance from the TIDieR-Telehealth extension, was used to describe NROL. The description was developed collaboratively by clinical academics, therapists, managers and researchers. Updated Consolidated Framework for Implementation Research domains were used to describe the context in which the innovation was delivered. Results: NROL delivers online group-based real-time neurorehabilitation with technology assistance. It incorporates multidisciplinary targeted therapy and peer support to complement existing therapy. Procedures, materials and structure are detailed to demonstrate how NROL is embedded within a healthcare system. NROL uses existing NHS therapy workforce alongside dedicated NROL roles, including an essential technology support role. Selection of NROL groups is dependent on patient needs. The NROL innovation is tailored over time in response to feedback. NROL described here is successfully integrated within a regional stroke and neurorehabilitation network, aligns with local and national strategies and capitalises on an existing clinical–academic partnership. Conclusion: This comprehensive description of a regional NROL innovation, and clarification of core components, should facilitate other healthcare settings to adapt and implement NROL for their context. Continuous evaluation alongside implementation will ensure maximal impact for neurorehabilitation
The Edifying Impact of Blending Game-Based Learning with Educational Robotics: A Systematic Review of Empirical Evidence
No full textGame-based learning is an effective pedagogical approach with a demonstrated capacity to activate learner engagement, inspire motivation, and enhance the overall learning experience. The application of educational robotics has also attracted a lot of attention in recent years across educational levels and domains. Despite their appeal and the positive learning outcomes associated with such innovative pedagogies, the synergistic edifying impact of blending them remains largely unexplored. The aim of this study is to present a synthesis of empirical evidence on game-based learning and educational robotics. A systematic literature review is conducted focusing on empirical research published between 2019 and 2023. The analysis reveals prevalent methodological approaches and pedagogical theories framing learning and instruction, as well as the most widely employed robotics and gaming platforms. The study sheds light not only on the benefits of embracing game-based learning and educational robotics, but also on the barriers and challenges associated with adopting such innovative pedagogies. Ultimately, the study attempts to portray the impact of these approaches on learning and transferable skills development
Disfluency in Speech and Gestures: Windows into Metacognitive Processes
No full textSpeech disfluency refers to errors, pauses, or repetitions in speech production (Maclay & Osgood, 1959). Earlier studies suggest that speech disfluencies signal one’s certainty such that those with lower confidence in their answers produce more disfluencies (Smith & Clark, 1993; Swerts & Krahmer, 2005). Language is multimodal, involving cues, including hand gestures (Bortfeld et al., 2001; Fröhlich et al., 2019). Co-speech gestures are shown to precede lexical affiliates (Ferré, 2010; Seyfeddinipur, 2006; TerBekke et al., 2024) and increase performance monitoring (Çapan et al., 2023), suggesting a metacognitive involvement. However, up to date no study investigated the relationship between speech disfluencies, hand gestures and metacognitive processes. Furthermore, speech disfluencies and co-speech gestures change as a function of listener visibility: People produce more gestures (Alibali et al., 2001; Cohen & Harrison, 1973; Kraus et al., 1995) and fewer disfluencies (Alibali et al., 2001; Kasl & Mahl, 1965; Oviatt, 1995; Rimé, 1982) when they can see the listener. Here, we ask whether (1) disfluencies and gestures act as metacognitive cues in speech and (2) they serve varying functions in different communicational settings. Fifty participants (32 female, Mage = 21.16, SD = 1.46) responded to trivia questions either with a visible or a nonvisible listener, and they audibly elaborated on their answers, during which we measured the frequency and the type of disfluencies and co-speech gestures. Then, participants rated their confidence in their answers (i.e., metacognitive judgment) on a 4-point Likert scale. We predict confidence ratings will change as a function of speech disfluency and co-speech gestures produced by the participants. We also expect the rate of disfluencies and gestures to change depending on the conversational setting. To test these hypotheses, we will analyze the data using linear mixed effect models to account for the variability resulting from different subjects answering questions with varying difficulties. Preliminary analyses showed that among 40 questions, participants answered 16.9 questions correctly on average (SD = 4.01, Range = 10-27), and the mean confidence ratings were 2.08 (SD = 0.39, Range = 1.25-2.85). Further coding for the rate of speech disfluencies and hand gestures is in progress. Our findings will contribute to understanding the multimodal nature of language and the role of metacognition in speech and gesture production
Anaemia prevention among pregnant women: Views and experiences of pregnant women and antenatal care providers in Accra, Ghana
Get PDFBackground and Objective
Anaemia among pregnant women is a public health challenge in Ghana. Although there is a national programme of routine iron-folic acid (IFA) supplementation, coverage is
suboptimal. The current study explored experiences and perceptions of anaemia prevention, and IFA use among pregnant women and antenatal care providers at two hospitals in Accra, Ghana, for enhancing the supplementation programme.
Methods
Utilizing a qualitative approach, 6 focus group discussions with 48 purposively selected pregnant women, and 10 in-depth interviews with care providers in two hospitals were
conducted. Interviews were transcribed verbatim. Using both deductive and inductive approaches, priori themes that informed the design of the interview guides, and emerging
codes from transcripts were used in data analysis.
Results
In both hospitals, pregnant women reported awareness of anaemia and identified poor quality diets and failure to take IFA as the predominant causes. Regular IFA supplementation, and consumption of fruits, vegetables, and animal-source foods were indicated as the main anaemia remedies by the pregnant women. Turkey berry, beetroot,
and hibiscus flower were also reported as therapeutic remedies for anaemia. IFA use was linked with improved appetite, haemoglobin, and health status of mothers and their fetus. Both providers and pregnant women indicated that IFA is freely accessible through government facilities but may also be purchased. IFA supplements are recommended to be taken three times daily; however, non-adherence to the recommended frequency was reported. This was attributed to adverse reactions including nausea and vomiting,
unanticipated cost of increased appetite, forgetfulness to take IFA, misperceptions about adverse effects of IFA, transportation cost to access IFA, and long waiting time at
hospitals. Community-level focused antenatal care, follow-up visits, and phone calls were reported by providers as strategies to improve IFA uptake. Community sensitization,
enhanced access to IFA, and participatory approach to ANC services were suggested by pregnant women as strategies for improving IFA uptake.
Conclusions
Food insecurity and misperceptions about IFA should be addressed as part of efforts to address low IFA adherence and high maternal and child anaemia rates in Ghana
Mental health coping strategies and support needs among marginalised further and higher education students in the UK: A cross-sectional study
Get PDFStudents who are marginalised based on varying identities, backgrounds and characteristics are highly vulnerable to mental health challenges, but many do not receive appropriate support from healthcare services. Several barriers have been identified, including cultural and systemic factors. Therefore, everyday coping strategies and support in different settings are vital. This study examines the mental health coping strategies and support needs among marginalised students in the United Kingdom (UK). We analysed qualitative and quantitative data from a cross-sectional survey conducted between December 2021 and July 2022. Statistical analysis was conducted on data obtained using the abbreviated version of the Coping Orientation to Problems Experienced Inventory (Brief-COPE). Qualitative content analysis was applied to data collected using open-ended questions. From a subsample of 788 further and higher education students, 581 (73.7%) students (M = 25 years, SD = 8.19) were categorised as marginalised based on ethnicity, sex/gender, sexuality, religious beliefs, first language, birth country, age (i.e., mature students), and having special education needs/disabilities. Marginalised students had significantly higher scores for problem-focused, emotion-focused and avoidant coping strategies/practices compared to other students. Coping strategies included talking to friends and family, practising religion or spirituality, engaging in creative/innovative activities like hobbies, using entertainment as a distraction, waiting to see if things improve and isolating. Students expressed a need for improved or tailored services, additional academic support, and appropriate social support. These included contemporary approaches to support mental health, such as online provisions, regular mentor/personal tutor meetings, lowered academic pressures and opportunities for organised peer support. The findings from this study highlight significant and timely evidence on coping strategies and support needs among a wide range of marginalised student groups in the UK. This study provides important knowledge that is useful to inform personalised culturally appropriate mental health support that can be offered in education settings
Earthworm records and habitat associations in the British Isles
Get PDFThe National Earthworm Recording Scheme (NERS) is the most comprehensive national database of earthworm species occurrence records for the British Isles, and possibly for any individual country in the world. Utilising the NERS database, we sought to update the current knowledge of earthworm species occurrences in the UK, Ireland and Channel Islands; identify species-specific habitat and microhabitat associations; reveal any biases and complementarities between amateur naturalist and research-related earthworm record collection; and inform how future earthworm sampling can be better focussed to improve our knowledge of earthworm ecology. We found that the most commonly occurring earthworm species were present in farmland and woodland, and recovered via soil pit sampling, the most common habitat-sampling protocol combinations. However, several earthworm species showed specificity to alternative habitats (such as trees, wetlands, and compost), and association with microhabitat (non-soil) sampling. There were clear disparities between scientific researchers and amateur naturalist recorders in terms of habitat types visited and sampling protocols/microhabitats used in the collection of earthworm records. Most importantly, we found that earthworm species currently considered to be nationally ‘rare’ in the British Isles are significantly associated with the most under-represented habitat-protocol/microhabitat combinations (forest deadwood and other microhabitats, in addition to scrubland, wetland and heathland habitats), and thus may not be rare, only under-sampled. We therefore encourage earthworm researchers and recorders to give greater attention to these situations, to gain new insights into these earthworm species' ecologies and distributions. Finally, we would like to promote the establishment of earthworm recording schemes in other countries, to enable national and global collaborative monitoring of earthworm responses to environmental change
Environment, Climate Change, and Football
No full textFootball both impacts, and is impacted by, climate change and environmental decline. The sport's position as the ‘global game’ makes this particularly noteworthy and there is the potential for it to play a leading role in how society responds. The current reaction of football organisations is, however, insufficient for the magnitude of the problem, and undermined by attempts to expand activity: bigger tournaments, more matches, increased travel. There is no co-ordinated strategy to tackle an issue that could overwhelm the game, instead it is left to individuals to voice concerns and try to mobilise action. This must change