International Journal of Research in Interdisciplinary Studies (IJRIS)
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The Mechanical and Physical Properties of Coir Fiber Reinforced Gypsum Board
Get PDFThis research work focused on the use of coir fiber as reinforcement for gypsum board. The physical properties of composite ceiling board made from coir fiber and gypsum, as developed at the Chemical Engineering Laboratory of Nnamdi Azikiwe University, Awka were studied to determine their suitability for use in low-cost construction work. The results obtained showed that the flexural strength increased from 0.08 N/mm2 to 0.1 N/mm2 and modulus of elasticity from 1150 N/mm2 to 1275 N/mm2 as the percentage coir content increased from 4.26% to 17.02%. The water absorption capacity is very low and increased from 3.1% to 7.7% as the coir content increased. The thermal conductivity increased from 0.0426 KW/m K to 0.0433 KW/m K while very slight variation is observed in thermal resistivity. The results show that coir fiber can be used successfully to reinforce gypsum board
Literacy Development Among Kindergarten Learners: Experiences in Banaybanay District
Get PDFThis phenomenological inquiry explored the experiences of kindergarten teachers in developing literacy skills of learners at Banaybanay District, Division of Davao Oriental. In exploring the experiences of the ten participants, I employed the qualitative–phenomenological study of which primary instrument of data gathering was through in- depth interview. Results revealed that the themes emerged on the experiences of teachers in developing literacy skills of kindergarten learners were individualized instruction, play-based learning, and collaborative engagement with families. Furthermore, the coping mechanisms of teachers with the challenges encountered in developing early literacy skills of kindergarten learners, there were three major themes that emerged namely differentiated instruction strategies, collaborative professional development, and engaging families and communities. Finally, the following were the emergent themes on the insights of teachers namely, early literacy foundations, fostering a love for reading and learning, and assessment and progress monitoring. The study could inform teachers and school administrators about effective instructional practices for early literacy development. Insights gained from teachers\u27 experiences could lead to the refinement of teaching methods and the adoption of evidence-based strategies in kindergarten classrooms. The findings could also be used to tailor professional development programs for educators, focusing on enhancing their knowledge and skills in early literacy instruction. Teachers could benefit from targeted training that aligns with the challenges and best practices identified in the study. The research study on teachers\u27 experiences in developing kindergarten literacy skills offered practical implications for improving early literacy instruction, teacher training, and support systems to ensure that all young learners had a strong foundation in reading and writing
Mirage of African Masculinity in Migritude Literature: A Study of Unoma Azuah’s Novel Edible Bones
Get PDFThe concept of masculinity crisis has been a major motif in migritude literature. Bedevilled by the ghost of postcolonial experiences and cultural demands on the male character, the immigrant character in most of the migritude literature seesaws in a state of limbo. To most of the migrant characters, breaking from the shackles of poverty and developing an uptight economic muscle is the main determinant of their masculine identity. The protagonist in the novel Edible Bones suffers mental depression as a result of the pressure to radiate the acceptable masculine identity and the incongruity of the diasporic environment with his culture. The migration of the protagonist in the novel edible bones is motivated by a wild assumption of the west as the center of civilization, prosperity and generally the epitome of self fulfilment as espoused by the colonial master. This research paper, analyses the masculinity crisis in migritude literature, with a special reference to Unoma Azuah’s novel edible bones. Through the lenses of masculinity theory as espoused by Raewny Connel (2005), this study intends to unearth how the hyped individual and cultural expectations on immigrant characters, and the dissonance of migration environment plunge the African emigrant character into masculine crisis. Through the analysis of the migrant characters in the novel Edible Bones, this study explored the masculinity crisis the migrant character is engulfed in, as a result of the migration experience, which leaves him more vulnerable than before. The significance of this research paper is to create some awareness on mental depression prevalent in the contemporary male character in the African society in attempt to reinvent their masculine identity
Exploring the Nexus of Nursing Competency Development: Insights from Input-Process-Output Dynamics in Education
Get PDFThis study examines the nursing competency considering the input process-output involve in the academic setting. It explains how the output variable is impacted by the input and process variables. Utilizing the input variables of the study includes facilities and faculty. The curriculum design are process variables. The output variable is the core competencies expected from the nursing students. Important clinical competencies were considered: safe and quality nursing care, collaboration and teamwork, and ethico-legal responsibility. It has been established from this study that the General Systems Theory considering input-process-output explains how the variable affects the other. The study reveals that the input does not affect the output however the process variable affects the output. The outcome-based education significantly affects core competency. The use of an outcome-based education as the process and approach in the implementation of the curriculum helps in the attainment of nursing core competency. As the nursing program utilizes the competency approach, it highlights the learner performance and achievement of its outcome. It enables them to perform nursing skills competently thus aiding in positive patient health outcome
Ethnographic Research in the Changing Context: Some Reflections on Ethical Issues and Dilemma
Get PDFThis paper provides a critical review of the ethical issues and methodological advancements in ethnographic research, focusing on the complexities and dilemmas introduced observed in empirical context by different scientific studies. By synthesizing existing literature, the paper examines key ethical concerns such as maintaining ongoing consent and confidentiality, as well as the challenge of balancing researcher engagement with the field, and subjective worldview with objective reality. It also explores the impact of technological advancements and digital tools, including their role in studying online communities and diverse cultural settings. These innovations offer substantial benefits for enhancing ethnographic research but also introduce new ethical dilemmas that require thoughtful consideration. To conclude, this paper highlights the necessity for researchers to integrate these new methodologies while upholding rigorous ethical standards, offering insights into how ethnographic practice can adapt to contemporary challenges while preserving its foundational principles
Contributions of Women-Owned SMEs Entities to Economic Growth – A Case Study of Women-Led SMEs in Kilifi North Sub-County, Kilifi, Kenya
Get PDFThis study examines the impact of women-led small and medium enterprises (SMEs) on economic development in Kilifi County, Kenya. Despite the critical role of SMEs in economic growth, women entrepreneurs face unique challenges that hinder their success. The objectives were to assess the level of innovativeness, job creation, financial savings mobilization, and management efficiency among women-led SMEs. Utilizing a descriptive research design, the study employed both quantitative and qualitative methods, including questionnaires and case studies, to gather data from 160 women entrepreneurs. Major findings indicated that 40.5% of respondents believed that the development of new products or services is vital for business growth, while 34.9% recognized that innovation drives economic development. Additionally, 60.3% of women entrepreneurs were below 40 years of age, highlighting a youthful demographic in this sector. However, challenges such as limited access to training (45.2% do not save anything from their businesses) and financial resources were prevalent. The study concludes that empowering women entrepreneurs through targeted training, improved access to financial support, and enhanced networking opportunities is crucial for maximizing their contribution to economic development. Recommendations include establishing training programs to enhance skills, developing financial products tailored for women-led SMEs, and creating platforms for networking and mentorship to foster collaboration and support among women entrepreneurs. These measures can significantly enhance the sustainability and growth of women-led SMEs in Kilifi County, ultimately driving economic progress
Instructional Leadership Capacity of School Heads as a Leading Construct of Teacher Leadership in Public Elementary Schools of Davao Del Norte Division
Get PDFThis study uncovered the relationship between instructional leadership capacity of school heads and teacher leadership of public elementary teachers in Davao del Norte Division since it had never been explored specifically in the local setting. With the use of probability sampling, 150 elementary teachers in the public schools were selected as the respondents. Utilizing the descriptive-correlational survey method, the data collated were analyzed through the use of Mean and Product-Moment correlation. Results revealed that there was a very extensive instructional leadership capacity of school heads and an extensive teacher leadership. Furthermore, there was a significant relationship between the two variables. Moreover, all domains of instructional leadership capacity of school heads were found to have significantly influenced teacher leadership. Based on the findings, it was further suggested that higher officials in the Department of Education and school heads may identify means on how to help teachers to be effective leaders in the teaching-learning processes. More so, future researchers may further explore the involved variables considering other factors and research methods
Enhancing Staff Induction Training on Performance of Public Universities in Coastal Region, Kenya
Get PDFThe goal of this research was to investigate how staff induction training impacts the performance of non-teaching employees at Public Universities in the Coastal Region. The selected Universities for this research were the Main Public Universities namely Pwani University, Technical University of Mombasa, and Taita Taveta University. These universities were choses as focal points due to the absence of prior research in this area and the identification of pertinent issues within the region. The objectives focused on inclusivity of employee understanding of the University’s vision and mission, procedures and policies, technical and practical skills, and job requirements and clarity as components in the staff induction were results to better performance. The evaluation employed the theoretical frameworks of Employee Induction theory (TPI), Organizational role theory, and Kirkpatrick Four-level Model. A descriptive research design was adapted, and data collection involved both primary and secondary sources. Stratified sampling was used to capture employee groups from each university, with a total target population of 728 non-teaching staff members. However, 124 respondents were ultimately included in the study. Data collection methods included structured questionnaires and interviews, with qualitative data analysed thematically and quantitative data assessed using descriptive statistical methods in SPSS version 28. The method of probability used were stratified sampling to ensure comparability and precision. Data collection involved structured questionnaires and interviews, allowing for a comprehensive understanding of participants\u27 perspectives. Pre-testing and refinement of data collection instruments ensured validity and reliability, with a content validity index of 0.894 and a Cronbach\u27s Alpha value of 0.9, respectively. The qualitative data was subjected to thematic analysis in order to identify significant themes, and the quantitative data was assessed using descriptive statistical methods in the Statistical Package for the Social Sciences (SPSS) version 28. The findings revealed significant response rate from both questionnaire recipients (84.9%) and interviewees (50%), highlighting the relevance of the study\u27s objectives. Analysis of demographic data uncovered insights into staff demographics, tenure, and job perceptions, emphasizing the importance of effective induction programs in promoting job satisfaction and organizational commitment. The results identified aspects of staff induction that significantly boost university performance. It shows how effectively communicating the university\u27s vision and mission, streamlining policies and procedures, enhancing induction training, ensuring clarity in job descriptions fostering a supportive environment, providing necessary tools and equipment, and improving policy training and implementation. Challenges identified included gaps in policy comprehension, ineffective communication of university goals, and inadequate training on workplace systems and procedures. Recommendations focus on enhancing induction programs to integrate organizational vision, clarify roles and responsibilities, and provide practical skills for job performance. Recommendations focus on enhancing induction programs to integrate organizational vision, clarify roles and responsibilities, and provide practical skills for job performance within Public Universities in the Coastal Region of Kenya and beyond
Enhancing Educational Practices Through In-Service Training: Elementary School Teacher in Focus
Get PDFThis phenomenological study explored the experiences of the elementary teachers of Laak South District in their in-service training for professional development. In addition, the researcher wanted to explore the teachers’ experiences on how in-service training applied to improve classroom instruction and impacted on the academic progress of the learners. Qualitative – phenomenological study was employed in exploring the views of the ten (10) elementary teachers of which primary instrument of data gathering was through in- depth interview. Major findings revealed that the experiences of teachers were professional development impact, challenges and opportunities, and collaboration and networking, the tapestry of elementary teachers\u27 experiences in enhancing educational practices through in-service training unfolds, offering insights into the dynamic and evolving nature of education at its core. Likewise, three overarching themes encapsulate the multifaceted hurdles encountered by educators in their pursuit of continuous improvement: resource constraints and time limitations, adapting to educational technology, and addressing diverse learning needs. Lastly, three major themes—efficacy of tailored training approaches, fostering a collaborative professional community, and alignment of training with evolving educational trends—stand as pillars shaping the educational insights derived from this exploration. The research on enhancing educational practices through in-service training for teachers carries significant implications that resonate across educational landscapes. The findings of this study hold the potential to inform and guide educational policymakers, administrators, and institutions in the development and refinement of in-service training programs
Librarians Use of Interpersonal Communication Skills for Effective Reference Services in Academic Libraries in Southwest Nigeria
Get PDFThe study examined interpersonal communication skills as a catalyst for effective reference in service in academic libraries in southwest Nigeria. The use of verbal and non-verbal behaviour in reference interactions was investigated. A survey research design was adopted for the study using a total enumeration technique. The questionnaire was drawn on One hundred and sixty-five Librarians (respondents) covering states and Federal University libraries, out of which One hundred and thirty-three (133) questionnaires were returned and analyzed. The rate of return was 80.6%. Four research questions were developed and tested using Simple percentage, mean and standard deviation. The study found that the indiscriminate use of non-verbal cues in reference interaction posesa serious challenge to the success of reference service. The study also confirmed that inadequate acknowledgement of users is a bane to effective reference service. The study also found that eye contact, facial expression, body movement and use of hand to gesticulate during reference interaction extremely influence the effectiveness of reference service. Eye contact was highest among other forms of non-verbal cues, with a mean of 2.95. The study recommended that reference librarians must be approachable to encourage users seeking assistance; Librarians should be mindful of how they use verbal and non-verbal behaviour in communicating with users. The study concluded that the management of libraries should expose librarians to periodic training to improve their interpersonal communication skills