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Approaches to Learning Social Work Research: Insights for Social Work Educators
Full text linkThis study investigates the learning approaches of first-year full-time social work post-graduatestudents (n=56) in Chennai, focusing on the subject ‘Social Research and Statistics’. Utilizingthe Study Process Scale, the research reveals the prevalence of surface learning approachesand gender differences in learning approaches. Three-fold recommendations – to learner, toeducator and to the education system have been put forth. Future research avenues exploringinterdisciplinary insights, institutional variances, and adaptable learning environments canfurther enrich our understanding of approaches to learning in social work education. Thisresearch contributes not only to the nuanced understanding of learning approaches in thesocial work discipline but also serves as a compass for learners, educators and institutions inreflecting on the study process to foster meaningful learning experiences in the dynamiclandscape of social work education
Adapting to Climate Variability: Challenges and Interventions in Majuli, Assam
Full text linkFloods in the Brahmaputra River, one of the world’s largest rivers, pose significant threatsto life, livelihoods and property annually in the riverine island, Majuli, Assam. The islandcommunity, especially the Mishings, has historically relied on traditional innovations to copewith these challenges. However, climate change has altered rainfall patterns, making floodsmore severe and unpredictable, and has disrupted their traditional coping mechanisms. Usingqualitative research methodology, this study explores the challenges that the Majuli communityfaces in adapting to climate variability. It also identifies strengths, weaknesses and gaps inexisting governmental and non-governmental interventions to enhance disaster managementstrategies. Furthermore, it explores public perceptions to shed light on community needs andencourage meaningful engagement. This descriptive study, encompassing Majuli’s disasterresilience and sustainable development, contributes to evidence-based policies andprogrammes aimed at mitigating climate risk
Research Data Management in University Libraries: Evidence from Nigeria
Full text linkThis study provides a comprehensive assessment of Research Data Management Services(RDMS) in Nigerian University Libraries, exploring the current landscape, challenges, andprospects. Analyzing data from 55 librarians in the Niger Delta region, the study reveals avaried delivery of RDMS, with notable gaps attributed to limited librarian skills and inadequatetechnological infrastructure. While basic infrastructure exists, task-specific enhancements areneeded for robust RDMS. Additionally, the absence of widespread RDM policy frameworkssuggests a need for strategic planning. The competency level of librarians is generally high,but continuous upskilling is crucial. Perceived challenges, including funding constraints andadministrative support, mirror broader issues in technology adoption. Acknowledging studylimitations, future research should expand to a national context, offering a more nuancedunderstanding of RDMS challenges and practices
Transformational Global Learning: Instructor Practices in Short-Term Study Abroad Programmes
Full text linkThis study explores the impact of instructor practices on transformative learning in shortterm study abroad (STSA) programmes. Combining statistical analysis of competencies withcritical reflection reveals the nuanced role of instructors in fostering Civic Action, Perspectivetaking, Cultural Awareness, and more. Results from t-tests highlight significant improvements,emphasising the effectiveness of well-designed STSA initiatives. The paper identifies keypractices, including pre-trip preparation, in-country engagement, and reflective writing, asinstrumental in enhancing competencies. While acknowledging study limitations, the findingsunderscore the transformative potential of STSA when coupled with strategic instructorinterventions. This research contributes to the ongoing discourse on experiential learningand informs educators and policymakers on optimising STSA for comprehensive studentdevelopmen
Jane Bottomley, Pat Cartney, Steven Pryjmachuk, Critical Thinking Skills for Your Social Work Degree
Full text linkJane Bottomley, Pat Cartney, Steven Pryjmachuk,Critical Thinking Skills for Your Social Work Degre
Flood Relief Volunteer Management: A Case Study of Thiruvananthapuram District Administration
Full text linkIn August 2018, Kerala faced unprecedented floods, prompting a Red Alert in 13 out of 14districts. With 433 casualties and over 14 lakh displaced individuals, Thiruvananthapuramdistrict emerged as a key hub for disaster relief. Volunteer-driven initiatives played a pivotalrole, establishing numerous relief material collection centres under the District Administration.This case study delves into the operational procedures of these centres, offering aretrospective analysis of volunteers’ life experiences. Utilizing a case study approach, datawas gathered through participant observation and in-depth interviews. The findings highlightthe functioning of relief material collection centres, volunteers’ motivations, their experiencesin flood relief activities, and reflections on the transformative impact of volunteerism in theirlives. The study also underscores opportunities for professional social work interventions indisaster volunteer management
Cultivating Emotional Intelligence: The Impact of Engaging in Expressive Arts for Higher Education Students
Full text linkEmotional intelligence (EI) stands as a crucial factor in promoting mental well-being, andthe malleability of intelligence opens avenues for diverse educational interventions. This paperdelves into the transformative potential of expressive arts in augmenting EI among highereducation students. The study focused on the social work department of a college in Kerala,India, where 164 students were randomly selected from the total departmental enrollment.Among these, 122 actively engaged in expressive arts, while 42 did not participate in suchactivities. To gauge EI levels, the study employed Schutt’s Self-Report Emotional IntelligenceTest, comparing scores between students engaged in expressive arts and those who werenot. The statistical analysis utilized an independent sample t-test, revealing a significantdifference in EI measures between the two groups. These findings underscore the impactfulrole of expressive arts in cultivating emotional intelligence. Based on these outcomes, thispaper advocates for the integration of expressive arts into higher education curricula. Suchinclusion is proposed not only to foster elevated emotional intelligence but also to fortifystudents’ mental health and enhance academic performance. The study suggests thatincorporating expressive arts can contribute substantially to the holistic development ofstudents in higher education setting
From Farm to Family: Family Farms’ Contribution to Food Security in Asia-Pacific
Full text linkGlobal uncertainties in the agrifood system pose significant challenges to food security. Inthis context, family farming (FF) emerges as a critical player in ensuring food security,particularly in the Asia and the Pacific regions. Characterised by family control of land andlabour, FF encompasses a way of life, agricultural diversity, historical significance, and culturaltraditions. This paper explores the role of FF in ensuring food security in Asia and the Pacific.It also examines the key characteristics of FF, its contributions to food security and thechallenges it faces
Awareness Regarding Dyslexia Among Primary School Teachers: A Study in the Context of Social Work
Full text linkDyslexia is a condition that is covered under the specific learning disabilities (SLD) in theRights of Persons with Disabilities Act 2016 (RPwD Act, 2016). Dyslexia is characterised byinaccurate reading, poor spelling and slow reading. Objective: The objective of the studywas to ascertain the awareness regarding various aspects of dyslexia among primary schoolteachers employed in Government schools in Himachal Pradesh and Punjab. Method: Adescriptive research design was used for the present study. Respondents were selected bymultistage sampling technique. A total of 128 primary school teachers from governmentschools in HP and Punjab were included in the study by using simple random sampling. Thestructured interview schedule was used as a tool for the study. The tool was also convertedinto an online survey form using Google Forms. Collected data was then entered in MSExcel and univariate analysis was done. Findings: The study found that 89.84% ofrespondents have heard about the term ‘SLD’ and 91.40% of respondents have heard aboutthe term ‘dyslexia’. The study also found that only 11.97% of the respondents were awareabout the RPwD Act 2016, the legislation in which SLD is covered. The major source of theinformation of the respondents regarding dyslexia was mass media (42.59%) which alsoincluded movies like ‘Taare Zameen Par’. Respondents considered genetic factors,environmental factors, brain injury as causes of dyslexia. Few teachers also believed that itwas a communicable disease. Awareness about all the ‘warning signs of dyslexia’ and ‘signsand symptoms of dyslexia’ was reported by 72.65% and 71.79% of the respondents,respectively. 86.32% of the respondents stated that they can identify a child with this conditionand according to 35.90% of the respondents, at least one child with this condition was presentin their school. 78.63% of the respondents could identify the various strategies associatedwith the management of this condition. The study also found that 64.71% of respondentswere aware of the full form of ‘UDID’. Based on these findings the study makes an attemptto highlight ways in which a social worker can create awareness regarding this condition andplay a pivotal role in the holistic development of these children. This will also ensure thefulfilment of the objectives of National Education Policy 2020