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Influence of Narrative Principles on Organizational Change Adoption of Blended Learning in Selected Kenyan Universities
Get PDFPurpose: The aim of the study is to analyse the influence of narrative principles on organizational change adoption of blended learning in selected Kenyan Universities.
Methodology: Data was collected through semi-structured interviews with a sample size of 18 full-time lecturers in University of Nairobi (Faculty of Arts and Social Sciences); and Kenyatta University (School of Humanities and Social Sciences) for the period between November to December 2023. In each university 9 lecturers were interviewed which is reflective of the saturation point for getting new information among respondents through interviews. Interviews were conducted face to face whereas others were conducted online through Google meet depending on the availability of respondents. Ethical considerations were followed throughout the research process which included collection of informed consent during data collection. The data was then processed using the QualCoder 3.5 software.
Findings: The study revealed that persuasive storytelling had an influence on the adoption of blended learning in selected public universities. The blended learning adoption change was noted as emergent technological change which was sparked by the prevalence of COVID-19 pandemic outbreak.
Unique Contribution to Theory, Practice and Policy: The study was anchored on Narrative Paradigm Theory. It showed modern application of the theory in learning institutions. University management need to utilize further the concept of storytelling communication in a similar and even better manner just as they did in the wake of COVID-19 pandemic to navigate resumption of learning by adopting online and blended learning
Compositional Elements of Photographic Coverage of the Westgate Mall Terrorist Attack
Get PDFPurpose: Terrorism is a global threat that has prompted extensive research, with mass media playing a crucial role in reporting such events. This study investigated the compositional elements of photographic coverage of the Westgate Mall terrorist attack in Nairobi, Kenya, on September 21, 2013.
Methodology: Photographs from the Daily Nation, Standard, and New York Times were analysed. Using qualitative descriptive research and content analysis through MaxQDA software, the study identified patterns and themes in the images, focusing on denotative, stylistic-semiotic, connotative, and ideological representations.
Findings: It was found that camera angles, shot proximity, and image sizes were strategically used by photojournalists to convey messages and emotions. Large images on front pages provided visual appeal, while medium and small images added content and facilitated sensationalized storytelling. Shot proximity varied to deliver specific messages, with few close-ups used to avoid evoking sombre emotions or aiding terrorist propaganda.
Unique Contribution to Theory, Practice and Policy: The study contributes to the existing mass media research by highlighting the importance of thoughtful image selection and composition in responsible photojournalism to balance accurate reporting with mitigating potential harm
Impact of Social Media on Mental Health and Well-Being across Different Cultures and Age Groups in Nepal
Get PDFPurpose: The aim of the study was to investigate impact of social media on mental health and well-being across different cultures and age groups
Methodology: This study adopted a desk methodology. A desk study research design is commonly known as secondary data collection. This is basically collecting data from existing resources preferably because of its low cost advantage as compared to a field research. Our current study looked into already published studies and reports as the data was easily accessed through online journals and libraries.
Findings: Social media\u27s impact on mental health and well-being varies across cultures and age groups. While it can foster social connection, information sharing, and creativity, it also contributes to negative outcomes such as social comparison, cyberbullying, and sleep disruption. Cultural norms influence how individuals engage with social media, and age-related factors shape susceptibility to its effects, highlighting the need for nuanced approaches to promoting digital well-being.
Unique Contribution to Theory, Practice and Policy: Social comparison theory, cultural learning theory & uses and gratifications theory may be used to anchor future studies on impact of social media on mental health and well-being across different cultures and age groups. Develop culturally sensitive interventions and digital literacy programs that equip individuals with the skills to navigate social media platforms in ways that promote mental well-being. Advocate for evidence-based policies that protect vulnerable populations from the harmful effects of social media while promoting digital inclusion and empowerment
Psychological Profile of Serial Killers: Analysis of Personality Traits, Motivation and Emotional Dynamics
Get PDFPurpose: This paper aims to analyze the core emotional and motivational factors influencing serial killers, particularly examining the role of traumatic childhood experiences and psychological disorders in the development of violent tendencies. The study seeks to enhance the understanding of the psychological profiles of serial killers, ultimately providing insights that can inform ethical judicial strategies for identifying and preventing serial homicides.
Methodology: A qualitative approach is employed, utilizing psychological, behavioral, and developmental models to comprehensively map the psychological profiles of serial killers. Case studies are examined, emphasizing how early trauma and psychological disorders shape behavior. A comparative analysis investigates key emotional motives and patterns, focusing on the correlation between traumatic experiences and recurrent violent behaviors. Additionally, clinical assessments and available case data are utilized to identify common patterns and individual variations in psychological disorders.
Findings: The analysis indicates that a combination of early traumas, psychological disorders, and emotional patterns, such as impulsivity, lack of empathy, and aggression, significantly prevails among serial killers. Traumatic childhood experiences not only shape individual behavior but also play a crucial role in the development of violent tendencies and complex psychological disorders. The interconnection between emotional factors and psychological disorders enables a deeper understanding of the psychological profiles of serial killers, aiding researchers and practitioners in grasping the mechanisms that drive such behavior. The analysis of specific cases reveals a correlation between traumatic experiences and criminal behavior, suggesting that emotional patterns, such as the desire for power and revenge, often reflect internal conflicts or deep-seated trauma. These findings illuminate the complex relationship between emotional dynamics and criminal behavior, providing important insights that can enhance judicial strategies. Understanding these psychological aspects can assist in the development of more effective identification and intervention methods, contributing to an ethical approach in working with individuals who have committed serious crimes.
Unique Contributions To Theory, Practice and Policy: This study makes several unique contributions to the fields of psychology and criminology by integrating the understanding of early trauma, psychological disorders, and emotional patterns into the analysis of serial killers\u27 motivations. Theoretically, it expands existing frameworks by emphasizing the interplay of these factors, thereby enriching our comprehension of criminal behavior. In practice, the findings provide valuable insights for law enforcement and mental health professionals, highlighting the importance of a nuanced understanding of the psychological profiles of serial killers. This knowledge can inform more effective investigative techniques and interventions aimed at preventing serial homicides. Policy-wise, the recommendations advocate for the incorporation of these insights into judicial strategies, fostering ethical identification and prevention measures that consider the psychological and sociocultural contexts of serial offenders. By bridging the gap between theory and practice, this study aims to contribute to more informed decision-making processes within the criminal justice system, ultimately enhancing the safety and well-being of communities
Six Month Follow up of one of the First Patients to Complete MDMA-Assisted Therapy for PTSD Outside of Clinical Trials in Australia: Implications for Translating Clinical Research to Clinical Practice
Get PDFPurpose: The goal of this case report is to illustrate the implementation of 3,4-methylenedioxymethamphetamine (MDMA)-assisted therapy for posttraumatic stress disorder (PTSD) and learning points for health professionals in the translation of psychedelic assisted therapy research into clinical practice. We present our key learnings and 6-month follow up data from one of the first patients to complete MDMA-assisted therapy for PTSD outside of clinical trials, in an Australian outpatient clinic setting.
Methodology: The patient described in this case report had chronic PTSD, depression and anxiety due to experiencing domestic violence, including sexual, physical, and psychological abuse in her adolescence. Treatment was informed by the Multidisciplinary Association of Psychedelic Studies (MAPS) MDMA-assisted therapy manual. After completing treatment, she enrolled in our weekly integration peer support group, including meditation workshops and family support sessions. Data was gathered using the Australian National University (ANU) Psychedelic-assisted therapy Australian national outcome database (https://medicine-psychology.anu.edu.au/research/research-projects/australian-interventional-pharmacotherapy-psychedelic-assisted-psychotherapy), which collates de-identified questionnaire data and outcomes from MDMA, psilocybin and ketamine assisted psychotherapy. Outcome data was gathered at baseline, the beginning of preparation, in the week after each dosing session, at the end of the program. Follow up data is collected at 3-, 6-, 9- and 12-months post-treatment. At the time of writing, she had completed 3 and 6 month follow up. Tables and figures are used to present the outcome data.
Findings: Our patient no longer met DSM-V criteria for PTSD or major depressive disorder at the end of treatment, and at 6-month follow up. Her Impact of Events Scale – Revised (IES-R) score was 61 at intake, reduced to 0 after the second dosing session and remained 0 at 3 and 6-months follow up. There were no adverse events, with the only side effect reported being loss of appetite in the first 24 hours after each dosing session. All scores on depression and anxiety measures reduced to the normal ranges after the second dosing session and remained in the normal ranges at her six month follow up. After the second dosing session reported having greater self-compassion and being less troubled by the trauma memories. After the third dosing session, she began to feel comfortable leaving her children with their father or trusted family member to run errands for the first time, and an increased sense of connectedness with herself and with others. All these gains were maintained at three- and six-months post-treatment, illustrating a case of safe and effective implementation of MDMA-assisted therapy for PTSD in an outpatient mental health service.
Unique Contribution to Theory, Practice and Policy: Our case study offers one model of clinical practice, contributing to Australian practitioner’s implementation of safe and effective MDMA-assisted therapy in mental health services. We reflect on learning points for practitioners such as whether MDMA or psilocybin would be the most effective treatment, for a patient with both PTSD and treatment resistant depression. Recommendations for practitioners include the importance of working in a dyad, accessing ongoing supervision in the early stages of implementation, and the benefits of the having had legal experience with psychedelic medicines as part of therapist training
Foreign Aid Allocation and Regime Stability: A Cross-National Study in Indonesia
Get PDFPurpose: The aim of the study was to analyze the foreign aid allocation and regime stability: a cross-national study in Indonesia.
Methodology: This study adopted a desk methodology. A desk study research design is commonly known as secondary data collection. This is basically collecting data from existing resources preferably because of its low cost advantage as compared to a field research. Our current study looked into already published studies and reports as the data was easily accessed through online journals and libraries.
Findings: The study in Indonesia revealed that foreign aid allocation plays a crucial role in regime stability. Increased foreign aid, especially directed towards economic development and infrastructure, positively impacted regime stability. Conversely, political conditionality attached to aid often led to destabilization, fostering domestic opposition and unrest.
Unique Contribution to Theory, Practice and Policy: Dependency theory, principal-agent theory & institutional theory may be used to anchor future studies on foreign aid allocation and regime stability: a cross-national study in Indonesia. By pooling resources, sharing expertise, and aligning objectives, stakeholders can leverage synergies and address governance challenges more effectively. Donor countries should adopt more coherent and principled aid allocation policies that prioritize the promotion of democratic governance, human rights protections, and inclusive development
Role of Emotional Intelligence in Managing Interpersonal Conflicts in Ethiopia
No full textPurpose: The aim of the study was to analyze the role of emotional intelligence in managing interpersonal conflicts in Ethiopia.
Methodology: This study adopted a desk methodology. A desk study research design is commonly known as secondary data collection. This is basically collecting data from existing resources preferably because of its low cost advantage as compared to a field research. Our current study looked into already published studies and reports as the data was easily accessed through online journals and libraries.
Findings: In Ethiopia, emotional intelligence is pivotal in managing interpersonal conflicts by enhancing individuals\u27 ability to understand and navigate emotions effectively. Individuals with high emotional intelligence are better at recognizing and empathizing with others\u27 perspectives, which leads to more constructive conflict resolution. These individuals can maintain composure, employ effective communication strategies, and foster a collaborative environment.
Unique Contribution to Theory, Practice and Policy: Emotional intelligence theory, social and emotional learning (SEL) theory & conflict resolution theory may be used to anchor future studies on the role of emotional intelligence in managing interpersonal conflicts in Ethiopia. Organizations should implement targeted training programs to enhance employees\u27 emotional intelligence skills, focusing on areas such as empathy, emotional regulation, and communication. Policymakers should promote and support the integration of emotional intelligence into workplace policies and practices. Policies should encourage the inclusion of EI development programs as part of professional development initiatives and performance management systems
Dilemma of African Higher Education Global Partnership on MDGS and SDGs
Get PDFPurpose: The concept of global partnership in higher education (GPHE) in relation to Millennium Development Goals (MDGs) and Sustainable Development Goals (SDGS) is a debatable topic in the 21st century. GPHE seldom addressed the MDGs and SDGs. Yet, global GPHE is expected to be a panacea to achieving MDGs and SDGs. The purpose of this study was to determine the kind of global partnerships (GP) existing in some selected accredited universities in the East Africa Community (EAC[1]) and whether they addressed the MDGs and SDGs.
Methodology: The Human Capital Theory guided the study purporting that investing in higher education produces a workforce to address global common challenges. Secondary data was collected from five accredited universities\u27 websites, hence analyzed thematically.
Findings: The results revealed that the majority (80%) of the universities were engaged in student/faculty exchange (80%), joint research (100%), scholarships (100%), capacity building/training (100%); and that their partnerships barely addressed MDGs and SDGs.
Unique Contribution to Theory, Practice and Policy: It is recommended that GPHE should incorporate the component of SDGs in their memorandum of understanding (MoU). Likewise, the EAC may consider establishing a body"”EAC Global Partnership Association"”to monitor and evaluate the implementation of global partnerships geared towards the achievement of SDGs. Overall, this study contributes to the implementation of SDGs by providing empirical evidence, insights, and recommendations for advancing GPHE to produce qualified and skilled workforce to transform the world. This study may trigger researchers to collect primary data to determine the extent to which GPHE includes and produces personnel for the achievement of SDGs.
 
Analyzing the Role of Artificial Intelligence and Machine Learning in Optimizing Supply Chain Processes in Kenya
Get PDFPurpose: The aim of the study was to analyze the role of artificial intelligence and machine learning in optimizing supply chain processes
Methodology: This study adopted a desk methodology. A desk study research design is commonly known as secondary data collection. This is basically collecting data from existing resources preferably because of its low cost advantage as compared to a field research. Our current study looked into already published studies and reports as the data was easily accessed through online journals and libraries.
Findings: Artificial intelligence (AI) and machine learning (ML) play a pivotal role in optimizing supply chain processes by enhancing demand forecasting accuracy through sophisticated algorithms. They streamline inventory management by predicting demand patterns and automating replenishment tasks, leading to reduced stockouts and excess inventory. AI-powered analytics enable real-time insights into supply chain performance, identifying bottlenecks and inefficiencies for proactive decision-making.
Unique Contribution to Theory, Practice and Policy: Theory of technology acceptance model (TAM), resource-based view (RBV) theory & dynamic capabilities theory may be used to anchor future studies on analyzing the role of artificial intelligence and machine learning in optimizing supply chain processes. Encourage supply chain stakeholders to adopt blockchain solutions for enhanced transparency, traceability, and efficiency. Advocate for regulatory frameworks that promote the adoption of blockchain technology in supply chains while addressing concerns related to data privacy, interoperability, and standardization
The Impact of Lead Time Variability on Supply Chain Management
Get PDFPurpose: The impact of lead time variability on supply chain management (SCM) is a critical factor affecting operational efficiency, cost management, and service delivery. This study examines how variations in lead time affect key aspects of supply chain performance, including inventory management, production scheduling, and order fulfillment.
Methodology: A mixed-methods approach is adopted, combining quantitative analysis through simulation modeling and qualitative insights derived from case studies of companies in the manufacturing and retail sectors. The simulation model accounts for different levels of lead time variability and its influence on stockouts, excess inventory, and overall supply chain responsiveness. Case studies are used to illustrate real-world challenges and strategies employed by businesses to mitigate the effects of lead time fluctuations.
Findings: Findings indicate that higher lead time variability leads to increased inventory costs, stockouts, and delays in product deliveries. Companies that rely heavily on just-in-time (JIT) systems are particularly vulnerable to these fluctuations, whereas firms with flexible inventory strategies or buffer stock perform better in managing variability. Additionally, the study reveals that advanced demand forecasting and more resilient supplier relationships can significantly reduce the negative impact of lead time uncertainty. The analysis also highlights the importance of integrating lead time variability into the broader risk management framework of supply chains.
Unique Contribution to Theory, Practice and Policy: Based on these findings, recommendations include implementing more robust demand forecasting systems, optimizing safety stock levels, diversifying suppliers, and using advanced inventory management technologies. Moreover, it is advised that businesses foster stronger communication and collaboration with suppliers to reduce variability and improve lead time predictability. Future research should explore the potential of real-time data and AI-driven supply chain management systems to further mitigate lead time variability\u27s impact on SCM