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The influence of culture on cross-border communication strategies and negotiation in the Irish fast-fashion industry
No full textThis research analyses the effect of culture on cross-border communication approaches and negotiation of the Irish fast-fashion business. Employee views, experiences, issues, and approaches in working with overseas business associates were investigated through this research. The research onion model has been used for designing research methodology. In this study, quantitative data have been acquired by conducting an online survey. Data was gathered through a survey of 107 respondents with cross-border business experiences via a structured questionnaire. The survey significantly involves both current and ex-staff of fast-fashion chains in Ireland who had direct experience of cross-border communication and negotiation to ensure relevant and context-appropriate findings. Results indicated that differences in cultures, particularly non-verbal communication, hierarchy, and negotiating style, often generated misunderstandings. Adaptable employees and those deriving benefit from organisational cultural awareness training appeared predominant, but issues related to differences in ethical perceptions and absence of teams’ cultural competence remained an issue. Approaches involving cultural awareness schemes, knowledge of locals, translation instruments, and information technologies emerged as practiced extensively on all sides, though personal contact remained dominant. Implications of the research indicate the necessity of ongoing, locally-specific and balanced approaches towards awareness of cultures. Recommendations for organisations, employees, and policy on future improvement of intercultural awareness and enhanced international business relationships ensue
The use of Artificial Intelligence in the distribution and transport process to optimise routes, reduce operating costs and provide better customer service at the time of delivery of goods
No full textThe purpose of this study was to analyse the relevance of using Artificial Intelligence (AI) in the logistics process of goods distribution and transport, with a special focus on improving route planning to achieve a reduction in operating costs and better organisation and customer service in a timely manner for the recycling company MIRALGAR. This research mentions different theories and mathematical models, such as ‘Graph Theory’ and the ‘Execution and Replanning Surveillance Agent Model,’ to enrich and support the topic. It also analyses several applications that artificial intelligence has contributed to evolve and help the world of transport logistics, and how different companies have been implementing them efficiently. Surveys and interviews were used as research tools to evaluate the organisation of route planning within the mentioned company. The results confirmed that the company needs to improve and implement new planning methods, as it has suffered significant losses, delays and high operating costs. Therefore, it was concluded that this research was a success, as the use of surveys and interviews had a positive influence on MIRALGAR, since they reflected on their current situation and showed a high interest in starting to use artificial intelligence to help them improve this process and stand out in the logistics environment
To what extent does the adoption of hybrid working models contribute to increased employee satisfaction and organisational productivity in the post-covid era?
No full textThe rapid expansion of hybrid working arrangements accelerated by Covid-19, has reshaped organisational practices and employee expectations across sectors. While promoted for enhancing flexibility, independence and work life balance, hybrid work also presents challenges related to collaboration, digital infrastructure, organisational culture and emotional consequences such as technostress, isolation and uncertainty. Even as hybrid work becomes more widespread, the academic evidence remains inconclusive with studies offering contrasting conclusions abouts its impact of employee satisfaction and organisational productivity.
This dissertation investigates the extent to which hybrid work models contribute to employee satisfaction and organisational productivity in the post pandemic era. Grounded in Social Exchange Theory, Self Determination Theory and Job Demands Resource model, the study examines hybrid work as both a potential resource and a stressor, depending on the balance of demands, support and infrastructure.
A quantitative research design was employed, involving 120 employees across multiple sectors with a focus on the technology industry where hybrid work practices are most advanced. Validated instruments were used to assess flexible working arrangements, digital infrastructure, work life balance, innovation and related organisational outcomes. A pilot test was conducted to refine the instrument and reliability was confirmed using Cronbach’s alpha. Group differences were analysed through one-way ANOVA and mediation effects were tested using SPSS Process macro.
Findings provide insight into the conditions under which hybrid work enhances satisfaction and productivity while also identifying risk such as technology induced stress and unclear work responsibilities. The research contributes to both theory and practice by offering evidence based recommendations for organisations designing or refining hybrid work models. It further identifies limitations and proposes directions for future research, positioning hybrid work as a critical field of study in the evolving future of work
Study of sustainable strategies of waste management in real estate construction sector in Delhi – India
No full textThis study focuses on the real estate business in Delhi, aiming at gathering insights on the current techniques, stakeholders, and the way GIS is utilized to manage C&D waste, because it is in these pertinent areas that the areas of high concentration can be established. The survey of 60 industry professionals used in this research targeted policy experts, project managers, and contractors, and all of their answers were taken as the main source of data. Statistical analyses (ANOVA, correlation, and Chi-square tests) have revealed substantial correlations, linkages, and associations between stakeholder roles, regulatory efficacy, and waste severity. Mapping through the geographic information system showed places where the concentration of garbage was high, which signaled the inefficiency in the infrastructure and space. Based on the results, it is clear that a lack of adequate enforcement, inadequate recycling facilities, and insufficient coordination between the stakeholders are undermining the overall sustainability of waste management activities in the country. The suggestions include the use of improved enforcement, more decentralized recycling infrastructure, GIS-based monitoring, enhanced training of the stakeholders, and the encouragement of sustainable behavior. The analysis of this case indicates that the building industry in Delhi could take advantage of a more effective, transparent, and sustainable system of waste management when the quantitative analytics and coverage mapping are merged to provide location-specific answers
The Role of Students’ Unions in Cultivating Sustainability Awareness Among Third-Level Students in Ireland
No full textThis dissertation investigates how Students’ Unions (SUs) encourage third-level students in Ireland to care about sustainability. SUs, which are led and supported by students and exist within the culture of higher education institutions, have a strong influence on environmental and social issues on campus. The work involves looking at existing studies, studying a case of the National College of Ireland Students’ Union (NCISU), and collecting information using interviews and surveys. Research has identified important points, such as how students influence each other, the planning of sustainable activities, and the need for universities and Facilities Management to join forces. According to the research, despite having strong leadership skills, SUs’ progress is frequently stopped by short supplies, only symbolic acknowledgment, and uncertain backing. It is concluded that when institutions support and fund SUs and when the government backs them, SUs can drive important changes for a sustainable campus community
Mentoring student teachers within Ireland’s further education and training sector
No full textThis study explores the lived experiences of initial teacher education (ITE) mentors in the further education and training (FET) sector in Ireland. The literature suggests mentors support the professional formation of student teachers. However, mentoring relationships seem highly variable. At present the voice of mentors is underrepresented within Irish research. This interpretivist phenomenological analysis (IPA) study is based on semi-structured interviews with four mentors, and was underpinned by Bourdieu’s concepts of habitus, field, and capital. The findings suggest mentors perform wide ranging functions to support their student teacher, but not all mentors report actually benefit from performing the role
Food restricted alcohol consumption: prevalence and motivators among Irish college students
No full textAim: Food-restricted alcohol consumption (FRAC) is a growing concern across college campuses. Several studies have investigated the prevalence of these behaviours among college students internationally, but no such studies have been conducted in Ireland. The current study investigated the prevalence of FRAC and its motivators in an Irish student population and examined FRAC in relation to disordered eating and alcohol misuse. Gender differences between these factors were also assessed.
Method: A total of 178 participants completed online self-reported questionnaires assessing past-year FRAC, demographic characteristics, and levels of disordered eating and alcohol misuse.
Results: Fifty-four percent of participants engaged in FRAC to prevent weight gain and 50% engaged in FRAC to get drunk faster. Disordered eating, body dissatisfaction, binge eating, cognitive restraint and restricting were significantly associated with engagement with FRAC; however, alcohol misuse was not. More female students engaged in FRAC for both motivators than male students. Disordered eating was associated with engaging in FRAC more often, but alcohol misuse was not.
Conclusion: The current findings confirm the prevalence of FRAC and its relationship with disordered eating among Irish college students, particularly female individuals. Findings support the need for an increased focus on protective drinking behaviours of Irish college students, particularly for women. Routine screening of eating and drinking issues may decrease the extent of unfavourable consequences of FRAC
Chronic Stress and Cognitive Functioning: Mediation Effects on ADHD Symptomatology
No full textBackground: This study sought to broaden our understanding of ADHD symptomatology in a large sample of adults (n = 118, female = 87, male = 31), aged 18-62 years. This study investigated the mediating effects of cognitive functioning on the association between chronic stress and Attention-Deficit-Hyperactive-Disorder (ADHD). The objective was to expose a potential mechanism emphasizing the relationship between chronic stress and ADHD symptoms.
Methods: An online questionnaire was conducted consisting of three scale measures; Chronic Stress Index (CSI) Cognitive Functioning Self-Assessment Scale (CFSS) and Attention-Deficit-Hyperactive-Disorder Self-Report Scale (ASRS-v1.1).
Results: A significant indirect effect of chronic stress (X) on ADHD symptoms (Y), through cognitive functioning (M) was observed (B = 1.40, 95% BCa CI [.613, 2.29], p = .0009), while the direct effect of X on Y became non-significant (B = .686, 95% BCa CI [-.234, 1.61], p = .142), in the presence of M, indicating full mediation.
Conclusion: Findings highlight the detrimental effects that exposure to chronic stress imposes on cognitive functioning, while presenting as a fundamental influential factor in the prevalence of ADHD symptoms via indirect effects. These findings inform our knowledge and understanding of ADHD symptomatology, which may inform future clinical practice
Investigating the Influence of Social Media on Open-Mindedness & Political Bias
No full textThis current project aimed to examine the relationship between social media use, and open-mindedness & political bias. The study examined how time spent on social media, which political content is consumed and which political ideology participants identified with, associate with levels of open-mindedness and political bias. Previous research within the literature on this topic has suggested that an increase in both age and exposure to differing viewpoint on social media leads to an increase in levels of open-mindedness, while also suggesting that both left and right-wing individuals shared comparable levels of political bias. With the wish to expand on this literature, participants (n = 91) completed a set of demographic questions followed by two questionnaires: The Actively Open-minded Thinking Beliefs Scale & The Affective Polarization Scale. Responses were analysed through a standard multiple regression, which revealed that age and exposure to opposing beliefs have a relationship with levels of open-mindedness, while higher political bias levels can be predicted by individuals identifying as ideologically left-wing. These findings have provided a better understanding of both open-mindedness and political bias, and provided important information for policymakers on a key concern in todays society
A Qualitative Study of How Irish Drinking Culture Shapes and Challenges the Socialisation Experiences of Irish Muslims
No full textBackground and Aims: The aim of this study is to explore the subjective experience of Irish Muslims and their perceptions of Irelands drinking culture on their social interactions.
Methods: Employing a qualitative phenological approach, twelve semi-structured interviews were conducted with seven females and five males.
Results: Four overarching themes were identified: (i) Being the Irish non-drinker in the community; (ii) Pushed towards an alternative community; (iii) The impact of being excluded on the quality of life and (iv) Climbing the social and professional ladder, highlighting the severity of alcohol in friendships, and progressing professionally.
Major implications: The findings have shown important implications for the Irish Muslim populates in terms of experiencing exclusions when socialising in academic environments, professional fields and in social events. Increased sensitivity and awareness towards religious minorities in alcohol centric countries should be noted by fostering non-alcoholic work and educational events