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Amplifying mentor teachers' voices: capturing first-hand perspectives on mentoring preservice teachers during the practicum in initial teacher education
No full textThe school-based practicum is often considered the most influential component of initial teacher education (ITE) programs in developing the practical teaching skills and pedagogical knowledge of pre-service teachers. Initial teacher education institutions depend on schools and school-based mentor teachers to host pre-service teachers for the practicum. Mentor teachers provide support and guidance to pre-service teachers as they navigate working in schools and applying theoretical knowledge to classroom practice. However, the quality and effectiveness of the practicum can vary, and the literature consistently emphasises the importance of mentor teachers’ abilities and knowledge in shaping this experience for pre-service teachers. While successive Australian government reports stress the need for mentor teachers to be supported in their role through appropriate professional learning opportunities, this is not obligatory and may be one reason that practicum experiences can be variable for pre-service teachers. Professional learning is one aspect of mentoring practice that is examined in this study, but other important components of mentoring related to mentor theory, adult learning principles and mentoring practices are exposed through the literature review and through hearing from the mentor teachers themselves.
This study presents the voices, perceptions, and experiences of 12 ITE mentor teachers each with a range of teaching and mentoring experiences. To enable a deep understanding of the views and actual experiences of mentor teachers about their role and practice, qualitative research methods were employed. The study participants were sourced via social media platforms, which ensured a diverse group of mentor teachers from varied primary and secondary educational settings across Melbourne, in the Australian state of Victoria. This study gathers data from the mentor teachers via individual semi-structured interviews to gain insights into their perspectives on the mentoring process, their roles and responsibilities, and the challenges they face in mentoring pre-service teachers.
The data was analysed using both Qualtrics and manual coding methods against the research questions, enabling key themes to be revealed. This study draws on mentoring and adult learning theories and frameworks to analyse the data collected and to evaluate the actual experiences of the mentor teachers. The study also explores the impact of mentor teachers' own beliefs, values, and experiences on their mentoring practices. The data is presented in narrative accounts that describe the mentor teachers’ views and authentic experiences in mentoring pre-service teachers during practicum in their individual school settings. The mentor teachers’ stories provide an opportunity for both a snapshot of experiences at a particular time and a comparison of experiences across a range of situations.
This study regards mentor teachers as co-learners alongside their pre-service teachers during the practicum. The importance of using adult learning principles as well as mentoring theory frameworks in the development of future professional learning for mentor teachers emerges as one of the key findings. Importantly, the mentor teachers’ actual experiences, knowledge, beliefs, and attitudes are brought to the fore in this study, which alongside evidence-based theoretical frameworks provides insights as a catalyst for future change in the way mentor teachers are supported in this important role and how a mentoring identity may be supported and recognised in both the ITE sector and the broader educational landscape. The findings of this research will contribute to the understanding of the role of mentor teachers in ITE and provide insights into how supporting and recognising the role of mentor teachers can better support pre-service teachers' learning and development which ultimately will positively impact the learning outcomes of future generations of Australian school students
Metal–organic framework derived N-doped zinc oxide carbon nanocomposites for catalytic removal of dye and formaldehyde
No full textBiomass-based catalysis has drawn a gradually increased attention due to its eco-friendliness, cost-effective, and good reusability. In this work, a novel metal–organic framework (MOF) derived nitrogen-doped zinc oxide carbon (ZnO/N/C) nanocomposites were synthesized on pine cone by solvothermal and carbonization method. Scanning electron microscopy, x-ray diffractometer, and x-ray photoelectron spectroscopy were employed to confirm the presence of N-doped ZnO rod-like nanostructures on the as-prepared composites. The obtained ZnO/N/C nanocomposites were employed as catalytic materials for the decomposition of methylene blue (MB) dye and adsorption of formaldehyde (HCHO). The ZnO/N/C nanocomposites can degrade more than 90% of the MB solution within 90 min under visible light irradiation, besides, they can rapidly absorb and decompose HCHO. The high-catalytic performance of ZnO/N/C nanocomposites can be attributed to the high-superficial area of ZIF-8, the carbonization that ensures the high conductivity and high-slight absorption of carbon skeleton materials, and the accelerated transfer of photogenerated electrons. This simple and green preparation method has promoted the sustainable utilization of biomass resources with great significance for application of carbon-based porous materials in catalytic field. Highlights: MOF derived ZnO/N-doped carbon nanocomposites were successfully synthesized. Presence of N-doped ZnO rod-like nanostructures on carbon nanocomposites. ZnO/N/C nanocomposites could be used as a catalyst for MB photodegradation. ZnO/N/C nanocomposites can be readily absorption and decompose of HCHO
An Examination of the Creation and Operationlisation of Independent Oversight Institution for Accounting Professionalisation: The Case of Bangladesh
No full textThis thesis explores the professionalisation of accounting in Bangladesh, focusing on the establishment and operationalisation of the Financial Reporting Council (FRC) and its role in facilitating regulatory reforms. Addressing the gaps identified in the literature, it explores the shift from professional self-regulation to oversight mechanisms—a transition evident across both developed and developing countries (DCs). The research problem encompasses the trajectory of accounting professionalisation and scrutinises the institutional changes impacting the professional accounting landscape globally. Utilising institutional work and logics, the thesis methodically analyses the transformative influence wielded by various institutional elements, including symbolic and relational systems, routines and their interactions across layers. Special attention is paid to the roles of the state, the accounting profession and transnational agencies in fostering changes, maintaining practices and shaping or disrupting institutions. Employing an interpretive qualitative case study approach, combining interviews, document analysis, and a three-stage coding process to derive its conclusions. Through a detailed examination of the interplay between global standards and local dynamics, this study contributes to the theoretical understanding of institutional work and institutional logics in emerging economies. Specifically, the research advances institutional theory by highlighting the complex interactions between transnational pressures and local actors, offering new insights into how global standards are adapted and negotiated within unique socio-political contexts. Furthermore, the findings provide practical implications for policymakers in developing economies seeking to establish regulatory bodies that balance international requirements with local institutional realities.</p
Building Retrofitting Technologies Using an Innovative Prioritization Model for Energy Efficiency and Cost-Effectiveness
No full textExisting buildings are increasingly becoming obsolete due to technological advancements and higher expectations for the built environment. In order to attract and retain long-term tenants, building owners and facility managers must upgrade their assets and provide environmentally friendly living spaces. Retrofitting with green technology is widely recognized as a crucial method for improving existing buildings by reducing energy consumption and carbon emissions. However, many retrofitting projects fall short of meeting performance expectations due to limited knowledge and experience in designing and installing these technologies. Moreover, the absence of a systematic assessment approach and clear guidelines complicates handling uncertainties in retrofitting projects. Therefore, it is important to develop a systematic approach to enhance the performance of retrofitted technologies in existing buildings.
This research aims to develop a comprehensive and systematic framework to assist stakeholders involved in retrofitting projects. The study aims to achieve four primary objectives:
1.Identify critical parameters from social, economic, environmental, and regulatory perspectives that significantly influence clients' decision-making processes when building retrofits.
2.Identify critical factors that impact retrofitted building projects' planning, design, construction, and operation and maintenance phases.
3.Develop a prioritization model that enables the implementation of sequential retrofitting measures.
4.Create a comprehensive and systematic framework that captures the outcomes of the previous objectives. This framework will serve as a practical tool for sustainable building retrofitting projects, facilitating the achievement of the desired level of performance and ensuring that the project aligns with sustainability goals and objectives.
The primary objective of this research is to provide valuable guidance and support for stakeholders involved in retrofitting projects, with the ultimate goal of achieving more successful and sustainable outcomes in the built environment.
This research adopts a combined quantitative and qualitative approach to address the research questions and provide solutions. Key parameters and critical factors in building retrofitting projects are identified through factor analysis conducted on a sample of 157 retrofit practitioners. The critical path method (CPM) is then employed to develop a prioritization model determining the retrofitting upgrade sequence. Additionally, a systematic framework based on the project management body of knowledge (PMBOK) is created, integrating the aforementioned outcomes. This framework serves as a decision-making tool for stakeholders, assisting them in the selection and implementation of retrofitting projects.
This study contributes to the advancement of knowledge and a deeper understanding of retrofitting projects in four main areas. Firstly, it identifies four key performance parameters and five critical factors that significantly impact the performance of retrofitting projects. Secondly, it develops a prioritization model for the implementation of retrofitting projects. Thirdly, it formulates an inventory of green retrofitting technologies that can be applied to such projects. Lastly, it creates a systematic framework that guides stakeholders through the planning, design, construction, operation, and maintenance phases when integrating new retrofitting technologies into existing buildings.
The outcomes of this research are particularly relevant to the local government sector in Australia, as they provide a viable pathway towards achieving zero-carbon building refurbishment. The framework, which encompasses strategies, decision-making methods, and key retrofitting activities, outlines a systematic process for stakeholders to follow at all stages of retrofitting projects.</p
Impact of Job Quality on Construction Worker’s Health and Wellbeing: Comparison between Australia and Bangladesh
No full textThe construction industry is often regarded as a dangerous industry to work in because of its high physical and psychosocial demands. Research evidence suggests that the health and wellbeing of construction workers significantly depend on job quality. Job quality refers to those indicators of jobs that directly impact workers’ wellbeing, including their health. Job quality is a strong determinant of worker’s health status over their working life span, and it is a key factor for sustainable workforce participation. However, it is often concluded that job quality is difficult to measure as it is a contextual phenomenon and varies according to individual perception, occupations, and institutional regimes. Thus, the way job quality affects health and wellbeing in developing countries is likely to be different from that in developed countries due to different political, economic, and cultural contexts. To better understand the contextual differences, the current research aims to compare the impact of job quality factors on construction workers' health and wellbeing between Australia and Bangladesh.
An explanatory sequential mixed methods has been adopted for this study. In the first stage of the research, an extensive literature review was conducted to identify the job quality factors that potentially impact construction workers' health and wellbeing. Following that, a questionnaire survey was designed and conducted in Australia and Bangladesh aimed to understand the perceived impact of job quality factors on construction workers' health and wellbeing and compare between these two nations. In the second stage of the research, ten interviews were conducted with the construction industry stakeholders in Australia and Bangladesh to qualitatively understand the impact of job quality on construction worker’s health and wellbeing and seek practical implications on how job quality can be improved in the construction industry.
A hierarchical cluster analysis was performed on the collected quantitative data and various clusters emerged from the job quality factors. At the cluster level, the clusters of facilities and security at site, workplace safety risks, welfare factors and personal protective equipment (PPE) were identified as the most important in relation to the health and wellbeing perceived by the construction workers in Bangladesh. Among the job quality clusters, ergonomic factors, employment characteristics, demanding job factors and welfare factors were found to be the most prominent job quality issues that Australian construction workers perceive to impact their health and wellbeing. The results from quantitative study suggest that Bangladeshi construction workers perceived their health and wellbeing to be strongly affected by characteristics of the physical work environment and welfare factors. In contrast, Australian construction workers are highly concerned about psychosocial risk factors in relation to their health and wellbeing (demanding job factors and employment factors). However, they also perceive physical work demands, such as ergonomic factors to have high impact on their health and wellbeing.
The qualitative results show that the factors perceived to impact construction workers’ health and wellbeing are distinct in Bangladesh and Australia due to the differences in institutional and socio-economic contexts, including the skill training systems in construction, provision of job entitlements, OHS enforcement provisions, involvement of labour union and worker’s involvement in OHS decision makings. The results suggest that in the developing country of Bangladesh, construction workers are from low socio-economic backgrounds, lack basic physical health, and have limited access to welfare and entitlements, which is linked to weak institutional policies and enforcement in the Bangladeshi construction industry. As a result, the Bangladeshi construction industry is still at the stage where workers perceive that physical safety and welfare are major threats to their health and wellbeing. In contrast, in the developed country of Australia, the construction industry has a robust system of regulations, accreditation requirements for occupational health and safety management systems, and provision of workplace protections that ensure basic physical safety, welfare and entitlements for construction workers. Moreover, psychosocial risks that can lead to psychological and physical harm are widely discussed and there are increasing regulatory measures to promote a psychosocially safe work environment in Australia. As a result, alongside an ongoing concern about physical safety, awareness has been grown among Australian construction workers regarding the psychosocial work environment and its impact on their health and wellbeing.
Further, considering the contextual differences between countries regarding the construction job quality experience and associated impacts, the qualitative study suggested different recommendations and strategies to further improve the job quality and health and wellbeing of construction workers. While there is an urgent need to focus on improving the socio-economic conditions (i.e., providing adequate welfare and entitlement facilities) and ensuring the physical safety of Bangladeshi construction workers (i.e., providing safety and security at sites, effective law enforcement), there is an increasing emphasis on improving the psychosocial work environment for Australian construction workers (i.e., realistic timeframe in procurement, involvement of the workers in workplace decisions).
The research outcomes significantly contribute to the conceptual understanding of the different job quality factors critical to construction workers’ health and wellbeing. Further, previous research conducted on job quality and health and wellbeing has heavily focused on developed countries. It is criticised that little attention has been paid to job quality and its health and wellbeing impact in developing countries. The current study has filled this knowledge gap by examining a developing country context and providing insights into how the construction workers of developing countries perceive the impact of job quality. Moreover, the study makes a unique contribution to the body of knowledge by highlighting the socio-economic and contextual differences between countries, which contribute to the differences in job quality experiences and the associated impact on construction worker’s health and wellbeing. The extensive knowledge gained from the study provides important implications for policymakers in these two countries to take initiatives to improve the quality of jobs in the construction industry. In addition, the suggested opportunities for improvement identified in the study will help the construction stakeholders to develop context-specific strategies to increase the overall job quality of the construction industries in these two countries to protect the health and wellbeing of workers.</p
Off-site manufacture in Australia: Current state and future directions
No full textAlthough numerous reports have been produced in the UK on the state of off-site manufacture adoption, no prominent studies exist for the Australian context. This scoping study that lead to this publication is an essential component on which to build any initiatives that can take advantage of the benefits of OSM in construction. It confirms the benefits and identifies the real and perceived barriers to widespread adoption of OSM, and identifies opportunities for future investment and research.</p
Data - Faster Attention Disengagement Predicts Social Skills
No full textThis dataset includes the full sample prior to any exclusions outlined in the manuscript.</p
Super-Composite: Carbon Fiber reinforced 3D Printed Tectonics
No full textThis research has developed three fibre reinforcement strategies of 3D-printed tectonics which are presented here. The implications of application of these fibre methods are closely observed in the contribution of the research to a series of architectural projects developed within the RMIT Architecture Tectonic Formation Lab. Through the exploration of innovative 3D printing techniques and invention of carbon fibre reinforcement strategies, this research examines the relationship between robotic fabrication strategies and design implications emerging from the development of technical methods. These are three fibre reinforcement strategies developed within the body of the work of this research:1.Infused Carbon Fibre Reinforced Plastic (IFRP)2.Exposed Carbon Fibre Reinforced Plastic (EFRP)3.Tailored Fibre Placement Reinforced Plastic (TFPRP)Each of these methods were developed incrementally to facilitate the fabrication of each research project studied here. The sequential development of each project allows the research to self-reflect and respond to the limitations and opportunities which emerged from applying these fabrication methods.This research investigates the viability, feasibility, and practicality of the fibre reinforced 3D-printing strategies which are enabled by a series of 3D printing technical innovations developed within the research. Through the establishment of the three carbon fibre strategies, the 3D printing innovations and contribution to the research projects studied here, this research makes a series of contributions including:1.Elaboration of a methodological reflection on the design implications of the strategies emerging from the body of this work. 2. Articulation of the viability of fibre reinforced 3D printing strategies as a robust architectural fabrication methods.3. Contribution to the tectonic evolution of a lineage of projects within the community of practice and specifically, RMIT Architecture Tectonic Formation Lab.</p
Investigation of coatings with in-situ TiX reinforcements fabricated by additive-subtractive manufacturing: Hardness, microstructure and machinability
No full textWear resistance is essential for the long lifespan of critical components such as turbine blades in aircraft engines. Coatings reinforced by hard particles provide a highly effective means to enhance the anti-friction characteristics of these vital parts. Additive manufacturing presents a promising alternative for the fabrication of particle reinforced coatings. Nonetheless, it remains crucial to employ finishing processes on additively-manufactured parts to meet stringent quality and dimensional precision requirements before assembly. In this study, new findings on the additive-subtractive manufacturing of the coatings reinforced by in-situ TiC, TiB and TiB2 was comprehensively analyzed. The coupled influence of the fraction of WC and the laser power on the quality and properties of the coatings were explored, and the machinability of the coatings were evaluated via the finish milling. It was found that the fraction of WC was dominant on the morphology, phases, hardness, and microstructure of the laser-clad coatings; the difference in the properties of the coatings caused variance on the cutting force, surface quality and work hardening of the machined surface
Easing into Play: Creating invitations for urban play and games
No full textUrban play and games are increasingly being explored for their capacity to encourage social and community inclusion (Innocent, 2021; Chisik et al. 2022), foster connections to place (Sheahan et al. 2021, Innocent 2018) and as catalysts for cultivating the civic and cultural identities of cities and neighbourhoods (Innocent & Riley, 2022; Swanson, 2020). However urban play is a complex and often transgressive phenomena and encouraging people to step out of their customary behaviour to engage in public play-based interventions and games remains a significant challenge. How can game makers and designers evoke interest from passersby to prompt spontaneous and unplanned play