bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Portfolio design for investment companies through scenario planning
Authors: Hanafizadeh Payam , Kazazi Abolfazl , Jalili Bolhasani Azam
Published: May 2011

Purpose

Scenario planning has significant applications in the field of strategic management and facilitating decision making under uncertainty, and hence this study aims to integrate scenario planning and the preference ranking organisation method for enrichment evaluations (PROMETHEE) method to propose a new methodology to design a portfolio.

Design/methodology/approach

The methodology has been designed in two stages, the first of which identifies the investment environment in Iran and defines possible scenarios for the future based upon the opinion of experts and uncertainties established in the identified environment. In the second stage, the views of experts are elicited on business area performance within each scenario. The business areas are subsequently ranked based on their final performance scores in each scenario area using the PROMETHEE method. Through use of a linear programming model, the percentage of investment in each business area is then determined according to the net flow of the area (i.e. the priority of a certain area relative to others).

Findings

The portfolio design in an Iranian investment company has been considered as a case study. The building industry and cement industry have been selected as preferable strategic business areas based on hypothetical scenarios for investment environment in Iran over five years (2008‐2012) and the strategies of the investment company.

Originality/value

The integration of scenario planning and multi‐criteria decision analysis (MCDA) holds great potential for strategic decision support due to the complementary nature of these two approaches. In this article, the authors provide a methodology to apply scenario planning alongside other MCDA methods to portfolio design, focusing on an innovative use of the PROMETHEE method with scenario planning.
Innovation speed and radicalness: are they inversely related?
Authors: Banu Goktan A. , Miles Grant
Published: May 2011

Purpose

The objective in this study is to examine the relationship between innovation speed, and radical product and process innovations.

Design/methodology/approach

A survey of firms in the high‐tech (semiconductor, audio video equipment and computer hardware) industries was conducted. Hypotheses were tested using a hierarchical multiple regression analysis.

Findings

The results revealed a significant positive relationship between innovation speed and both radical product and radical process innovations. Radical product and process innovations were highly correlated in the sample.

Research limitations/implications

Response rate was relatively low to the survey, however, control variables were included to ensure accuracy of results. This study empirically tested inter‐innovation relationships within the high‐tech industry.

Practical implications

Findings suggest that firms should not avoid radical innovations with the fear of being late to market. In addition, based on these results, product and process innovations are closely linked to one another, and to innovation speed.

Originality/value

This is one of the few studies to examine inter‐innovation relationships at the firm level.
A robust optimization approach to allocation of marketing budgets
Authors: Albadvi Amir , Koosha Hamidreza
Published: May 2011

Purpose

The main purpose of this research is to find an optimal allocation of marketing budgets which maximizes customer equity in an uncertain environment. Since markets are naturally uncertain environments, the aim is to incorporate uncertainty into the model.

Design/methodology/approach

Researchers have developed a mathematical programming model which employs customer equity as an objective function in order to allocate marketing budgets. The robust optimization approach is employed to tackle the proposed model, which deals with uncertainty.

Findings

The solution of the robust model is shown to be feasible and satisfactory in all uncertain situations. The robust solutions (of the presented model) are stable in volatile situations; while if the solution of deterministic models is used, it may be suboptimal or even infeasible. Sensitivity analysis of the deterministic solution only describes how stable is the suggested solution, but a robust optimization approach always provides a stable solution.

Research limitations/implications

The presented model will be most effective where uncertainty is high; if uncertainty is not a matter of concern or estimates are reliable, deterministic models are also effective.

Practical implications

Companies periodically decide on marketing budgets in order to achieve predefined marketing targets in future periods. The results of this research may be useful and applicable in marketing departments for allocating marketing budgets, especially in uncertain environments.

Originality/value

The main contribution of this research lies in providing an approach to allocate marketing budgets in uncertain environments. Unlike previous studies, the presented method takes into account the uncertainty of parameters in a systematic way. Hence, in case of high degrees of uncertainty, the use of robust optimization is strictly recommended.
Strategic management of business model transformation: lessons from Nokia
Authors: Aspara Jaakko , Lamberg Juha‐Antti , Laukia Arjo , Tikkanen Henrikki
Published: May 2011

Purpose

This paper aims to offer a conceptualization of how and why corporate level strategic change may build on historical differentiation at business unit level.

Design/methodology/approach

Methodologically, an historical case study of Nokia Corporation's drastic business model transformation between the years 1987 and 1995 is reported.

Findings

The conceptual and historical work results in a process model of business model change, demonstrating how central business units feed strategic alternatives and capabilities to the corporate‐level transformation process.

Practical implications

The results highlight the importance of corporate level “market mechanisms' that allow promising strategic alternatives to emerge and select out inferior options. In this process, a key mechanism is the exchange of executives and cognitive mindsets between business units and corporate headquarters (CHQ).

Originality/value

The reported research offers an original contribution by showing the dynamic interplay of cognitive and organizational change processes, and highlighting the importance of building on existing capabilities and competencies despite the pressure to demonstrate strong turnaround activities.
Management indecision
Authors: Brooks Margaret E.
Published: May 2011

Purpose

Indecision is not the hallmark of a great manager, but what do we know about when and why managers avoid or postpone decisions? The purpose of this paper is to discuss the limited research on indecision.

Design/methodology/approach

This article reviews research from judgment and decision making, psychology, management, and marketing literatures to assemble what we already know about indecision. The review spans situational and personal determinants of indecision, highlighting what we know about when and why people experience indecision as well as who is predictably indecisive.

Findings

Decisions are avoided when people are asked to justify them, when options are similar in attractiveness, and when there are a large number of options to consider. Indecision may sometimes be a result of systematic biases (i.e. omission bias and status quo bias), and indecisive people may be more prone to confirmation bias. Finally, indecisiveness is related to numerous other individual differences, many of which are negative.

Practical implications

Specific recommendations for managers include evaluating options separately rather than comparing options, structuring incentive systems to reward decisive action, and explicitly considering the risk of lost opportunity when deciding whether to put off making a decision.

Originality/value

The literature reviewed in this paper spans diverse disciplines and perspectives. This paper provides a starting point for managers and researchers interested in understanding indecision: when and why it occurs, who is likely to be most indecisive, and what we might do to counter indecision.
Enhancing decisions with criteria for quality
Authors: Rausch Erwin , Anderson Charles
Published: May 2011

Purpose

This paper is intended to offer a practical perspective on how to achieve high quality of decisions.

Design/methodology/approach

The paper uses an inductive approach by looking at all the issues that deserve consideration in one or more of the steps in the decision‐making process to ensure that none are overlooked that are relevant to the respective decision. It suggests eight guidelines for decision‐makers for this purpose. The guidelines apply primarily to the non‐technical (soft) aspects of decisions.

Findings

Eight guidelines are described. When considered in every significant decision they will bring considerable assurance that the outcome of the decision will be as close as possible to the desired one. The primary conclusion is that development of the habit to use guidelines, either those provided by the paper, or similarly comprehensive ones, help to ensure high quality decisions because they help the decision maker ensure that few if any relevant issues are ignored.

Practical implications

The practical implications of the regular use of meaningful guidelines lies with the decision quality they enhance.

Social implications

Better decisions throughout society.

Originality/value

Unique approach to ensuring highest possible quality of decisions.
A new fast, reliable filtering method for multiple criteria decision making
Authors: Walk Steven R.
Published: May 2011

Purpose

This paper aims to introduce a new method for the evaluation and selection (filtering) of alternatives in a complex multi‐criteria decision environment.

Design/methodology/approach

The method uses an original modified outranking methodology to select optimal opportunities among competing alternatives for adoption.

Findings

The process has application in scenarios such as wherein an executive or manager of a technology‐intensive enterprise faces the significant challenges of making effective investment decisions for new business processes and product technology.

Practical implications

As applied in an enterprise technology decision‐making environment, the method reduces uncertainty in the process of filtering and selecting the best technology opportunities evaluated against multiple criteria or business objectives.

Originality/value

The value of the method is in its simplicity and expediency to identify, assess, and then isolate the most appropriate technology opportunities among many.
Growth and diffusion of e‐journal usage in universities of the western Himalayan region of India
Authors: Sharma Dhirendra , Sharma Hemant , Singh Vikram
Published: May 2011

Purpose

The purpose of this paper is to study and analyse the information communication technology‐based growth and diffusion of research using e‐journals for two universities belonging to different states in the western Himalayan region of India.

Design/methodology/approach

The paper uses an assessment period for the analysis of usage of e‐journals of 36 months from 2007‐2009. It demonstrates a relative comparison of the usage of e‐journals within the framework of a logistic model and the S‐curve. In the process, the status of internet users, from international level to national and university level, is also analysed.

Findings

Owing to the rapid technological growth and its phase‐wise development, the “Replacement hypothesis” does not permit the expectation of a smoother behaviour in the cumulative growth in internet users and consequently the usage of e‐journals in these universities. A simple statistical analysis of the usage was also undertaken. The coefficient of variation shows a wide fluctuation for four out of 12 publishing houses. Compound growth rate was also calculated and analysed for the two universities. A typical case of usage of e‐journals from one publishing house was also analysed more thoroughly with a likely future projection.

Research limitations/implications

This analysis reflects the limitations inherent in the logistic model, particularly the linear growth rate and the appearance of the inflection point at Xs/2 in the S‐curve.

Originality/value

The paper presents an in‐depth analysis of growth and diffusion of usage of e‐journals in two universities located in the western Himalayan region of India, for the first time. It also projects the usage of e‐journals, reflecting research progress, until the time of saturation in the S‐curve of each of the universities in the region.
The nutritional properties and health benefits of eggs
Authors: Ruxton C.H.S. , Derbyshire E. , Gibson S.
Published: May 2011

Purpose

Advice about the role of eggs in the diet has changed several times over the decades. The purpose of this paper is to evaluate published evidence reporting associations between egg consumption, egg nutrients and health.

Design/methodology/approach

The scientific literature was searched using Medline and key words relevant to eggs and egg nutrients. In addition, a new secondary analysis of the UK National Diet and Nutrition Survey (NDNS) was undertaken to examine nutritional and health differences between consumers and non‐consumers of eggs.

Findings

Eggs are a rich source of protein and several essential nutrients, particularly vitamin D, vitamin B12, selenium and choline. Emerging evidence suggests that eating eggs is associated with satiety, weight management and better diet quality. In addition, antioxidants found in egg yolk may help prevent age‐related macular degeneration. The secondary analysis showed that regular egg consumers with a low red and processed meat (RPM) intake ate healthier diets and had a better micronutrient status than those who did not eat eggs but who had a high RPM intake. It was concluded that egg consumption, at a range of intakes, was associated with nutrition and health benefits.

Research limitations/implications

More research on eggs, and egg nutrients, is needed to confirm the health benefits. Future studies should control for other dietary and lifestyle factors.

Originality/value

This paper develops knowledge about egg consumption beyond cholesterol content and provides new evidence from a secondary analysis of a large national dietary database.
Influence of external horizontal vibration on the coefficient of friction of aluminium sliding against stainless steel
Authors: Asaduzzaman Chowdhury Mohammad , Muhammad Nuruzzaman Dewan , Lutfar Rahaman Mohammad
Published: May 2011

Purpose

The present paper aims to experimentally investigate the effect of external horizontal vibration on friction property of an aluminium disc sliding against stainless steel pin.

Design/methodology/approach

To do so, a pin‐on‐disc apparatus having facility of vibrating the test samples at horizontal direction was designed and fabricated. In the study, a dimensional analysis is done to correlate the friction coefficient of aluminium with sliding velocity, frequency and amplitude of vibration.

Findings

At 100 Hz frequency of vibration, it is seen that during the starting, value of friction coefficient is 0.39 which remains constant for few seconds then increases almost linearly up to 0.45 over a duration of 15 s of rubbing and after that it remains constant for the rest of the experimental time. Similar trends of behavior are observed for transverse vibration. These findings are in agreement with the findings of Chowdhury and Helali.

Originality/value

It is expected that the applications of these results will contribute to the improvement of different concerned mechanical systems.
Analysis of capillary compensated hydrostatic journal bearing operating with micropolar lubricant
Authors: Verma Suresh , Jadon Vijay Kumar , Gupta K.D.
Published: May 2011

Purpose

The paper seeks to study, theoretically, the performance characteristics of capillary compensated multi‐recessed hydrostatic journal bearings operating with micropolar lubricant. The finite element method is used to solve the modified Reynolds' equation governing the micropolar lubricant flow in the clearance space of a hydrostatic journal bearing. The performance characteristics of bearing operating with micropolar lubricant are presented and compared with that of Newtonian lubricant, for a wide range of non‐dimensional load, capillary restrictor design parameter and micropolar parameters.

Design/methodology/approach

The modified Reynolds' equation governing the flow of the micropolar lubricant is solved along with restrictor flow equation by finite element method so as to obtain fluid‐film pressures. The iterative procedure is repeated until the converged solution for the fluid‐film pressure field is obtained.

Findings

A study of four‐pocket hydrostatic journal bearing system capillary compensated and operating with micropolar lubricant is presented. The following conclusions are made from the results presented in this study: at a constant load, pocket pressures and minimum film thickness, stiffness coefficients and, the damping coefficients increase with increase in micropolar effect of lubricant as compared to the Newtonian lubricant; the influence of the micropolar parameters of lubricant is more significant upon the minimum fluid‐film thickness at higher values of load and lower values of restrictor design parameter; the non‐dimensional flow decreases with increase in the micropolar effect of the lubricant a given values of restrictor design parameter and load; and the stiffness coefficient in the direction of load is found to be influenced by the micropolar parameters and more significantly at lower values of restrictor design parameter and load.

Originality/value

Studies of capillary compensated multi‐recess hydrostatic journal bearing operating with micropolar fluid/lubricant are not available in the existing literature to the best of authors' knowledge. Although, such bearing has been studied with Newtonian lubricant and available in open literature. Therefore, this paper is an original piece of work in the area of micropolar lubrication and compensated hydrostatic bearings.
The tribological behaviour of a novel triazine derivative and its combination with ZDDP as additive in mineral oil
Authors: Peng Lulu , Li Jianchang , Ren Tianhui , Wu Hua , Ma Chenyan
Published: May 2011

Purpose

The purpose of the research was to test whether the novel synthesized additive TEAT can be a substitution for the traditional additive ZDDP partly or entirely in mineral oil.

Design/methodology/approach

The extreme pressure, antiwear (AW) and friction reducing property of TEAT was examined, the tribological property of the combination of TEAT and ZDDP was also examined. The worn surfaces of the steel balls were observed using a polarizing optical microscope and x‐ray absorption near edge structure spectroscopy.

Findings

The results show that: TEAT can enhance the PB value of the base oil obviously; TEAT shows better AW performance than ZDDP in high load and a wide range of concentration, it shows better friction‐reducing performance than ZDDP in high load and all the concentration tested; TEAT alone can provide a better AW and friction reducing property than ZDDP and the combination of TEAT and ZDDP; and the tribochemical reaction occurs between novel compound and metallic surface, generating sulfur containing layer mainly exists in the form of FeS.

Originality/value

These findings indicate that TEAT presents better tribological properties than ZDDP in a wide range of practical conditions. TEAT may be a substitute for ZDDP in the future.
Student‐community engagement and the changing role and context of higher education
Authors: Millican Juliet , Bourner Tom
Published: May 2011

Purpose

The purpose of this Editorial is to introduce key themes in the area of student‐community engagement (SCE) and the papers included in this special issue.

Design/methodology/approach

The paper discusses dominant trends in the current context.

Findings

The selection of papers in this issue represent the range of programmes that have been developed over the past five or so years and indicate what they have, and have not been able to achieve. However, the recent context indicates an acceleration of the expectations placed on higher education to develop socially responsible citizens and to create graduates who will be able to solve the complex problems of an increasingly complex world.

Originality/value

The paper provides a background to SCE and the changing role and context of higher education.
Dublin Institute of Technology's Programme for Students Learning With Communities
Authors: Gamble Elena , Bates Catherine
Published: May 2011

Purpose

This paper aims to focus on the process of critically evaluating Dublin Institute of Technology's Programme for Students Learning With Communities after its first year of operation. The programme supports and promotes community‐based learning/service‐learning across DIT.

Design/methodology/approach

The paper is presented in the form of a case study, wherein the context for the work is outlined, addressing both strengths and weaknesses of the practice to date, and comment briefly on wider implications.

Findings

After nine months an evaluation of the programme was carried out. It identified four main areas where it was felt there was potential for improvement: reflection on learning; the nature and quality of student, staff and community engagement on projects; project evaluations; student involvement in project planning and recruitment to community‐based research projects. Each area is addressed in turn and the actions taken to date to enhance the service delivery is described. Some initial thoughts on the implications of the work are given.

Originality/value

This paper will be of value to students, educators and community partners interested in the possibilities inherent in students learning with communities, and in the process of reflection on this work.
Both‐and, not either‐or: knowledge and service‐learning
Authors: Casile Maureen , Hoover Kristine F. , O'Neil Deborah A.
Published: May 2011

Purpose

The purpose of this paper is to expand the understanding of outcomes of service‐learning/community engagement. The current study explored the efficacy of service‐learning as a pedagogical tool to support content mastery by undergraduates in a management class.

Design/methodology/approach

The study involved a classroom experiment with 120 students randomly assigned to complete a service‐learning or a research project as a class requirement. Data regarding mastery of course content was collected through a multiple‐choice assessment at the end of the course, and analyzed using statistical methods.

Findings

Results showed that service‐learning can be a better mechanism for student mastery of course concepts than a traditional research project. However, the benefits of service‐learning appeared to accrue disproportionately to women.

Research limitations/implications

Results suggest that educators should incorporate service‐learning into their classrooms to enhance content mastery, and that future research should examine the specific elements of service‐learning that contribute to both female and male students' learning. The findings are limited to traditional undergraduate students in a face‐to‐face management course.

Originality/value

This research study directly addresses some of the tensions between service‐learning/student‐community engagement and traditional university education. Service‐learning has been shown to support student development of socially valuable outcomes. Inclusion of service‐learning in college curricula can be particularly challenging, when a desire for ethical development must be balanced with course content mastery. According to the findings of the current study, service‐learning produces both service to the community and service to the students, as an effective pedagogical tool for content mastery.
University‐community engagement: a case study using popular theatre
Authors: Feagan Robert , Rossiter Katherine
Published: May 2011

Purpose

The purpose of this paper is to examine the use of popular theatre (PT) as a pedagogical tool around which a community service learning (CSL) senior undergraduate course was oriented, specifically assessing the university student learning experience from this work relative to PT processes and CSL objectives.

Design/methodology/approach

This paper presents a case study based on participant observations made by the course instructor, and reflective journal entries written by the university student participants.

Research limitations/implications

Educational partnership efforts of this nature require that they be tailored to contingent circumstances: locale, time constraints, spaces of interaction, willingness, effort and abilities of the group partners, and other particularities of community. Given this, we see learning outcomes as replicable, though shaped in various ways by the circumstances of specific situations.

Practical implications

The paper demonstrates that by recognizing and relying upon the often unnoticed and neglected, strengths of differently‐abled community members – both students from the university, and the clients from the partner social agency – this kind of community service learning team project transforms and enriches traditional academic outcomes.

Findings

This paper reports on the outcomes of this experience from the student perspective, and highlights themes of boundary‐breaking, pedagogical risk‐taking and changes in understanding of community through the analysis of the student service‐learning diaries and instructor participation. It also highlights some specific difficulties regarding group dynamics and student concerns that can emerge under learning environments like this, where course expectations, direction and outcomes may not be clearly defined at the outset.

Originality/value

This paper describes a unique fusion of two alternative teaching and learning methods: CSL and PT. This fusion contributed significantly to student creativity and innovation, to their sense of accomplishment and confidence, and especially to their understanding of diversity and connection to community, all of which they take into the world beyond the university. This fusion of pedagogies is seen as a fruitful direction for institutions of higher education seeking innovative paths to learning, while noting that facilitators need to pay close attention to the unique dynamics of such learning environments.
Assessing learning from a student community engagement project
Authors: Jung Jessica
Published: May 2011

Purpose

The purpose of this paper is to chart developments in a community engagement scheme run by two Universities in the North East, offering students academic credit in return for work within the local community. The particular focus is on how learning has been assessed from this work experience, within the requirements of higher education courses, and the introduction of a new and innovative practice of assessing students by interview.

Design/methodology/approach

This paper provides a critical reflection on the practice and the rationale behind changes and developments that have been made to this. It includes some of the theoretical background in relation to the benefits of undertaking work experience, and to assessment methods within higher education.

Findings

Using an assessed interview for all students taking work experience modules has compared favourably with other assessment methods used in the past. Although there have been some adjustments to the process in the three years since its introduction, it has been successful in providing greater authenticity of experience for students, without significantly increasing investment of staff time in the assessment process.

Originality/value

This paper will be of value to practitioners involved with, or wishing to set up, community engagement or work experience schemes offering students or pupils academic accreditation in exchange for this experience, as well as those interested in novel practice within higher education assessment.
Civic education in research universities: leaders or followers?
Authors: Hollander Elizabeth L.
Published: May 2011

Purpose

Research‐intensive universities have special challenges in providing their students with civic education, particularly education that is rooted in the curriculum. Their efforts are important to the overall effort to promote education “for the common good” at colleges and universities because of their stature within the higher education community. This paper aims to address the particular needs and challenges of research universities in fostering civic education and strengthening their leadership contributions.

Design/methodology/approach

This article provides a snapshot of how 15 American research university campuses, which are part of a “learning community”, approach their goal of educating their students to promote the common good. Based on survey self‐reports conducted in the spring of 2009, it documents their civic education work.

Findings

The survey confirms, while research universities are being creative and assertive in expanding their civic education work, there is ample room to extend and improve their efforts, and it frames an agenda for continued improvement. All surveyed campuses are committed to civic education and provide domestic and international engagement experience to undergraduates. Most provide curricular engagement experiences. In‐depth opportunities for a select group of students are common, university‐wide opportunities are not. Many want to improve the integration of curricular and extra‐curricular engagement.

Research limitations/implications

The research is based on self‐reports of a small sample.

Practical implications

These campuses face two major challenges to fostering civic education: generating greater faculty buy‐in, and overcoming the difficulties of program development at large decentralized institutions. Opportunities for program improvement include: better measurement of outcomes, more use of theory, and more student involvement in institutional governance.

Originality/value

These findings provide unique insight into the work of some of the most able practitioners of civic education at American research universities.
Student volunteering in England: a critical moment
Authors: Darwen Jamie , Grace Rannard Andrea
Published: May 2011

Purpose

The purpose of this paper is to present the current state of student volunteering in English universities, and show how it contributes to some of the core activities of higher education, including teaching and learning, employability, and public engagement. The paper goes on to describe challenges currently faced by student volunteering, and opportunities for its future development.

Design/methodology/approach

This viewpoint article utilises the experiences and observations of two former higher education community engagement practitioners who are now working at a national level to raise the profile of student volunteering, and reviews recent policy and practice related to this subject area.

Findings

Although student volunteering has a long tradition in English universities and there has been investment in the provision over the last decade, student volunteering is currently at a critical point. Without stronger evidence of impact, continued funding and an integrated approach to its development, student volunteering will not meet its full potential for higher education.

Practical implications

The paper has implications for higher education senior management, employers, community and employer engagement practitioners within higher education, and students. It advocates that integrated approaches are needed at national and institutional level to support the development of student volunteering.

Originality/value

The paper utilises the unique experience of former practitioners who now work in national roles, exploring a wide range of contemporary sources.
Transformative learning through service‐learning: no passport required
Authors: Bamber Phil , Hankin Les
Published: May 2011

Purpose

This paper aims to explore student learning within a local service‐learning initiative that forms part of an Education Studies undergraduate programme at an HEI in the UK with a history of international service‐learning programmes.

Design/methodology/approach

This paper outlines the context for this form of community engagement in the UK and reflects on the experiences of student participants and the nature of their learning. Ethnographic research into the student experience of international service‐learning (ISL) provides a useful framework for this study.

Findings

This research draws on transformational learning theory to describe how students experience a shifting of their world‐view through service‐learning locally. It reveals that challenges to stereotypes and personal values, as well as other previously accepted presuppositions, in a domestic context, are not dissimilar from those experienced by students involved in international service‐learning initiatives.

Research limitations/implications

The framework presented here is used to explore the dynamic relationship between local and international volunteering and student learning. This particular case study has the potential to add to our understanding of critical pedagogy theory in practice.

Originality/value

This article presents evidence of the complexity of identifying transformative learning. In order to elevate the outcomes of service‐learning towards their transformative potential, the opportunities for learning that are afforded by such ventures must be pursued with vigour. The authors advocate a model of community engagement that embeds local service‐learning within the curriculum.
Now for the science bit: implementing community‐based learning in chemistry
Authors: McDonnell Claire , Ennis Patricia , Shoemaker Leslie
Published: May 2011

Purpose

The purpose of this paper is to contribute to the understanding of student learning from community engagement by critically assessing the implementation of this pedagogical approach in the context of teaching and learning chemistry and also evaluating the role of personal development in student‐community engagement.

Design/methodology/approach

A case study on the implementation since 2007 of community‐based learning (also called service‐learning) projects in an academic department in Ireland is presented. Analysis of assessment grades, student reflective accounts and evaluation questionnaires informs this work, as does a recently completed self‐assessment of our activities using Shumer's Self‐Assessment for Service‐Learning.

Findings

A marked improvement in student engagement and confidence, and their appreciation of how their subject is applied in real‐world situations, is reported. Some difficulties arise however, in relation to the level of critical thinking and self‐awareness evident in reflective writing assignments, as the students were generally not experienced in reflection on personal experiences. The extent to which it has been demonstrated that genuine community needs are being met is also an issue in some instances.

Originality/value

The paper describes some innovative practices, as CBL is not well established in the discipline concerned, chemistry, and it has also not often been applied to the benefit of small local businesses. A critical analysis of the process followed when CBL activities were implemented in an institution without an existing, well‐established culture of applying this pedagogical approach is provided, as this is a perspective not often explored in the literature.
High commitment performance management: the roles of justice and trust
Authors: Farndale Elaine , Hope‐Hailey Veronica , Kelliher Clare
Published: May 2011

Purpose

The purpose of this paper is to explore the relationship between employees' perceptions of a particular subsystem of HRM practices (performance management) and their commitment to the organisation. In addition, the study seeks to examine the mechanisms by which these perceptions translate into employee attitudes and behaviours.

Design/methodology/approach

A total of 524 questionnaire responses were collected from four organisations in the UK.

Findings

The findings show that the link between employee experiences of high commitment performance management (HCPM) practices and their level of commitment is strongly mediated by related perceptions of organisational justice. In addition, the level of employee trust in the organisation is a significant moderator.

Research limitations/implications

This is a cross‐sectional study based on self‐report data, which limits the reliability of the findings. The findings may also be specific to a particular context. However, the results by company support their generalisability.

Practical implications

The findings lead one to believe that it is essential to observe the actual experiences of HCPM practices and outcomes at employee level, and to consider the broader organisational context, if one is to understand their effects on performance.

Originality/value

When exploring the impact of high commitment work practices on firm performance, little attention has been paid to the employee perspective: employees ultimately are the recipients of an organisation's HRM practices, and as such their perceptions of these practices affect their attitudes and behaviour in the workplace.
Perceptions of the presence and effectiveness of high involvement work systems and their relationship to employee attitudes
Authors: Mendelson Morris B. , Turner Nick , Barling Julian
Published: May 2011

Purpose

Prior research has demonstrated the positive effects of high involvement work systems on various outcomes but none to date has conducted a comparative test of alternative, plausible models of these systems. This paper aims to address this issue.

Design/methodology/approach

A test of five high involvement work system models was conducted. The models were tested using employee perceptions of the presence and effectiveness of the organizational practices included in these systems, whereas a majority of prior studies have measured high involvement work practices based on managers' perceptions only. Measures of eight high involvement work practices (i.e. employment security, selective hiring, extensive training, contingent compensation, teams and decentralized decision making, information sharing, reduced status distinctions, transformational leadership) were used to compare the fit of these five models using confirmatory factor analysis. 317 non‐management employees from five Canadian organizations participated. Participants rated both the extent to which they perceived their organizations to have implemented each of the practices and the perceived effectiveness of these practices. Participants' work attitudes (i.e. affective commitment, continuance commitment, job satisfaction) were used to assess the concurrent validity of the tested models.

Findings

For both the perceived presence and effectiveness models, confirmatory factor analyses suggested the superiority of a second‐order model, demonstrating concurrent validity with participants' positive (i.e. affective commitment, job satisfaction) and negative (i.e. continuance commitment) attitudes.

Originality/value

This is the first study to conduct a comparative test of five alternative models of high involvement work systems and one of the few studies to address employee perception of these practices.
Justice and trust as antecedents of careerist orientation
Authors: Crawshaw Jonathan , Brodbeck Felix
Published: May 2011

Purpose

This paper aims to explore the antecedents of careerist orientations to work. Hypotheses are drawn from referent cognitions theory. First, it is proposed that trust mediates the relationship between an individual's perceptions of procedural justice and their careerist orientations to work. Second, perceptions of distributive justice, regarding the allocation of career development opportunities, will moderate the relationship between trust and careerist orientations to work.

Design/methodology/approach

A total of 325 employees of a large UK financial institution completed a structured questionnaire. Regression analysis (using SPSS version 11) was used to test the presented hypotheses.

Findings

All hypotheses were confirmed. However, the interaction effect observed was different from that hypothesised. It appears that trust only matters, in terms of the development of careerist orientations to work, when individuals feel that they are receiving equitable career development opportunities.

Research limitations/implications

Much more research is required in different organisational contexts if one is to fully confirm and understand these relationships. However, these findings suggest that employers will only reduce the development of careerist attitudes in their workforce if they ensure the fair distribution of career development opportunities and engender trusting relations through the implementation of fair decision‐making procedures.

Originality/value

This paper adds much needed empirical research to the literature on new career realities and careerist orientations to work. Moreover, referent cognitions theory is presented as a new theoretical framework for understanding the cognitive processes involved in an individual's development of careerist attitudes.
Virtual question changes: reference in evolving environments
Authors: Arendt Julie , Graves Stephanie J.
Published: May 2011

Purpose

As virtual reference and online discovery tools evolve, so do interactions with patrons. This study aims to describe how synchronous virtual reference transactions changed over a six‐year period at a university library.

Design/methodology/approach

Transcripts from October and February from October 2004 to February 2010 were coded for question type, interlibrary loan discussions, and referrals. Subcategories for holding types and referrals were also recorded.

Findings

The number and types of questions changed with the virtual reference platform used, both increasing and decreasing. The number of questions more than doubled from the beginning to the end of the six‐year study period. The number of holdings questions at the end of the study period was six times higher than the number at the beginning. Patterns relating to interlibrary loan discussions and referrals were noted.

Research limitations/implications

The study examined transcripts from one university library. Findings cannot be generalized but provide examples that may be similar in other libraries.

Practical implications

The number and type of online reference questions that a library receives can change dramatically in a short time. Libraries should monitor question transactions, especially after software changes. Libraries also should consider how the placement of chat widgets changes the quantity and nature of questions and train staff appropriately.

Originality/value

This study examines transcripts across a longer time span than previous studies. It is unique in its examination of virtual reference widgets embedded in proprietary databases and link resolvers.
Closing the assessment loop using pre‐ and post‐assessment
Authors: Swoger Bonnie J.M.
Published: May 2011

Purpose

The purpose of this study was to determine what skills students already possessed as entering first‐year students, in order to define appropriate goals and objectives for library instruction sessions occurring in the first‐year writing and critical thinking course.

Design/methodology/approach

A pre‐test was administered during the first two weeks of the fall 2008 semester. After one‐shot library instruction, students took a post‐test during the final exam period of the fall 2008 semester. Librarians worked collaboratively to evaluate the results of the assessment and determine the implications for the session goals and objectives.

Findings

The original goals and objectives for the library instruction sessions were out of sync with student skills. Assessment also revealed that the original goals and objectives were out of sync with librarian priorities. The results of the assessment were used to refine the goals and objectives through a collaborative process.

Practical implications

Instruction librarians need to evaluate their course goals and objectives as one part of the assessment cycle. Assessment can be a useful tool for aligning librarian priorities and pre‐existing student skills.

Originality/value

This study explains how the results of assessment can be used to close the assessment loop, concentrating on parts of the assessment cycle seldom discussed in the literature.
Best practices for serving students with disabilities
Authors: Samson Sue
Published: May 2011

Purpose

This study aims to establish a set of best practices that reflect the spirit of the 1990Americans with Disabilities Act(ADA) and comply with the new 2010 Department of Justice regulations.

Design/methodology/approach

At each of eight academic libraries in four Rocky Mountain states, the librarian most directly responsible for library services to students with disabilities was interviewed, comprehensive criteria to physical facilities, services, management practices, and investments were used, access leading to and within the library was considered, and data and observations to place each library in the framework of the diametrically opposed reactive or universal access service models were analyzed.

Findings

Self‐reporting students with disabilities were the largest minority group at three campuses and the second largest minority group at another three campuses. Five libraries based their services primarily on reaction to complaints, and three libraries incorporated most elements of universal access. No consistent approach or set of best practices to serve students with disabilities existed across the eight participating libraries.

Practical implications

The best practices identified in this research provide academic libraries the resources to meet the spirit of theADAand comply with the new Department of Justice regulations to be implemented in 2012.

Originality/value

No other recent study documents the broad spectrum of service needs that can be proactively addressed by academic libraries for students and faculty with disabilities. This study underscores the value of universal access to information as a civil right of this user group while also improving services for all.