bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Dynamics of the currency exchange rates against the AUD: Analytical and risk mitigation perspectives
Authors: Imam Tasadduq , Ahmed Abdullahi D. , Tickle Kevin
Published: February 2017

In recent era, the volatility of exchange rates has drawn considerable notice, especially in the light of huge losses from foreign exchange derivatives by several major firms during the Global Financial Crisis. Australia stands out as a major economy in contemporary arena, and there have been incidents of such loss from derivatives tied to exchange rates against the Australian Dollar (AUD). Under this context, this article aims to characterize the economical aspects of Australia’s major trading partners with a view to guiding corporate governance community in respect to risk mitigation actions. The time span considered is January 1999-May 2011, and 14 major currencies are incorporated in this research. The research scrutinizes the statistical and stochastic properties of the exchange rates, and segments the Australia’s trading partners in terms of these aspects. The results further show that consideration of grouping produces a better approximation of the strength of Australian Dollar in the global context.
Self-employment intentions among the universities’ students in Malaysia
Authors: Ismail Norhazlin , Jaffar Nahariah , Hooi Tan Siow
Published: February 2017

This study aims to explore the self-employment intentions of the universities’ students in Malaysia. With the growing number of graduates every year, and growing funds created to assist small enterprises in Malaysia, self-employment may be one option available to them to start on their careers. Entrepreneurial Attitude Orientation (EAO) scale was used to measure the students’ entrepreneurial attitudes. Specifically, the EAO attitude subscales are achievement in business, innovation in business, perceived personal control of business outcomes and perceived self-esteem in business. A survey approach was adopted by sending questionnaires to 2000 students of the public and private universities that are listed under tier 5 (Excellent) in the Malaysia Quality Agency SETARA rating of year 2011. The results show that personal control, self-esteem and innovation were found to have significant and positive relationships with self-employment intention. Meanwhile achievement was found to have no significant relationship with self-employment intention. These findings provide important insight to relevant parties to embed more entrepreneurial curriculum or seminar to educate and guide universities students besides, promoting and producing a positive image of entrepreneurship as a career.
Evaluating the investment decision-making process for business expansion into Africa: A case study
Authors: Kasozi Jason
Published: February 2017

Africa is a potential domain for international business. However, numerous uncertainties characterize this environment and the challenge for multinationals remains the ability to assess the true value of an Africa-bound investment project. A telecommunications’ survey was conducted on Siemens Southern Africa (Siemens) and Mobile Telecommunications’ Network (MTN) and the following observations were made: (1) Approaches used by the businesses to value Africa-bound investments were not comprehensive and inclusive. (2) Neutrality existed to the suggestion that Africa is unique and that investment decisions should be customized to suit it. (3) Certain approaches used by the businesses were modified to suit pertaining investment circumstances thereby differing from literature, and (4), participants desired to learn new ways of improving this process suggesting dissatisfaction with the current norm. This paper presents the conflicting ideologies about the decision-making process forbusiness expansion into Africa and suggests ways of improving the process.
Partial adjustment toward target capital structure: Evidence from selected African countries
Authors: Jooma Mohammed Yaaseen Hajee , Gwatidzo Tendai
Published: February 2017

This paper investigates the firm-specific determinants of target capital structure and the speed of adjustment towards this target for industrial firms in four African countries. In addition to using a two-stage, dynamic partial adjustment model which sheds light on the dynamic nature of the adjustment process, various definitions of leverage are also used to check for robustness. The findings of the paper indicate that African firms adjust faster to short-term debt targets than they do to longterm debt targets. Furthermore, firms in Nigeria and South Africa adjust relatively faster to their target capital structures, whereas firms in Ghana and Kenya have slower speeds of adjustment, pointing to the existence of higher adjustment costs and less-developed capital markets in these countries. The speeds of adjustment obtained range from 17.9%-60.2% per year, consistent with international evidence regarding speeds of adjustment in other developing and emerging economies
A model for selecting non-executive directors: The case of South African banks
Authors: Mynhardt Ronald Henry
Published: February 2017

In the United States, an accusation was made that incompetent boards were ruining some of the once great American companies as the financial crisis of 2008 was a failure of corporate governance. The reason given was that the boards of these companies were private clubs and not representative democracies. Increasing levels of boardroom regulation and risk have also placed greater demands on the non-executive directors of companies meaning that selecting the candidates with the right knowledge, experience and skills is of the upmost importance. A study was conducted amongst South African banks and no consistent model of selecting non-executive directors was found. In this study a model is proposed to select the candidates with appropriate knowledge, experience and skills in the banking industry.
Multivariate analyses of factors affecting dividend policy of acquired European banks
Authors: Nnadi Matthias A. , Tanna Sailesh , Kabel Bariyima
Published: February 2017

Dividends, particularly of acquired banks are influenced by several structural adjustments especially after mergers. The paper evaluates the various factors affecting dividend of both acquired and non-acquired banks. Using data from 120 large mergers and acquisitions in Europe, the study finds that while the levels of liquidity, risk, composition of the financial structure are pertinent factors in the dividend policy of banks, the price earning (PE) ratio is specifically fundamental to non-acquired banks. The significance of the variable in the non-acquired banks indicates that growth in bank investments and future projects exert more aggressive impact on banks that are not acquired or less likely to merge. This finding is novel as previous studies on dividend policy do not make this distinction.
An empirical analysis of “corporate Italy”: Legal entities, financial and ownership structure and corporate governance 2004-2012
Authors: Pellegrini Carlo Bellavite
Published: February 2017

This research has a twofold target. For one extent it embraces on a wider historical period previous analyzed related to the innovative bodies of law introduced by the Vietti’s Reform in 2004, providing an overall evidence related to the Italian corporate system, ranging from consistency and dynamics of the different forms of legal entities, to their corporate governance and ownership structures. For another extent it proposes completely new data about other patterns of “Corporate Italy” which have never been enquired in a systematic way before. The paper provides a wide analysis of the ownership structures of unlisted joint stock Italian companies and of the limited liability companies describing the number of all the M&A deals or corporations’ transformation or liquidation during 2012.
Survival strategies for SMEs in hyperinflationary environments: Lessons from SMEs in Harare central business district
Authors: Chisasa Joseph
Published: February 2017

Lack of credit led to the failure of many Small to Medium Enterprises (SMEs) in Zimbabwe from 2005 to 2009 when inflation peaked at 231 million percent. The article attempted to determine how SMEs survived during this period. Survey data collected from 120 SMEs in Harare was analyzed using descriptive statistics. Results show that SMEs encountering credit constraints use illegal strategies such as hoarding of stock and converting cash sales to stable currencies in the black market. The article demonstrates that policy makers should create a stable operating environment in order to benefit from SME participation in the economy.
Corporate governance and financial performance of public listed companies: Pre and post implementation of the Malaysian code of corporate governance
Authors: Lim Kwee Pheng , Ismail Hishammudin , Eze Uchena Cyril
Published: February 2017

This study examine the impact of corporate governance and ownership structures on firm performance of 293 companies listed on the Main and Second Board of Bursa Malaysia six-years before and after the implementation of Malaysian Code of Corporate Governance (MCCG) in 2001. Institutional and foreign shareholdings were found to be significantly associated with both market and accounting performance measures before and after implementation of MCCG, implying their positive roles on performance. Contrary to the recommendation by MCCG, role duality (positions of Chairman and CEO were the same person) was observed to be negatively related to accounting performance measures but in the opposite direction for market performance measures. The result is robust with respect to controls for firm size and gearing.
Communication channels and interpersonal communication between South African and German business partners
Authors: Scheming Oleg , Mason Roger B
Published: February 2017

Good communication skills are vital, especially in business. This study investigated the role of interpersonal communications in managing South African – German business relationships. The objective of the study was to identify which communication channels South African businesses use to communicate with their German business partners, and which are perceived to be the most effective. In order to accomplish the objective, a survey was conducted by means of self-administered e-mail based questionnaires. In addition, a few depth interviews were conducted to help interpret the quantitative results of the study. In both cases, the respondents were purposively selected. Based on the findings, recommendations were provided on how communication can be made more effective to improve South African and German business relationships.
The ownership structure, the board of directors and the quality of accounting information
Authors: Ellili Nejla Ould Daoud
Published: February 2017

High quality accounting information is vital for the accuracy of the financial statements, whereas poor quality information may lead to serious economic problems. The recent financial crisis has attracted the interest of many researchers in determining the factors that may affect the quality of accounting information. In this field, our research investigates the possible impact of the ownership structure and of the make-up of the board of directors on the quality of accounting information, using annual data from 29 companies listed on the Abu Dhabi Securities Exchange in 2008 and 2009. The actual research starts by presenting an appropriate measure of the quality of the accounting information, then developing a model explaining the relationship between the ownership structure, the board of directors and the quality of the accounting information. In the light of our results, we will be able to provide recommendations for helping the companies improve the quality of their financial reporting.
Corporate social responsibility index for Ukrainian banks: The essentials for implementation
Authors: Kostyuk Alexander , Kostyuk Olena , Mozghovyi Yaroslav , Kravchenko Yana
Published: February 2017

The aim of this paper is to solve the problem of CSR performance measurement for Ukrainian banking institutions by developing a CSR index. It is done by measuring a corporate social responsibility (CSR) through 25 different indicators for 40 Ukrainian banks, which represent 80% of total banking system assets. This paper is a first attempt in Ukrainian practice to put CSR indicators into a standard metrics and develop specific methodology that would allow comparing CSR for different banks. To check the adequacy of our preliminary findings we compare CSR results for Ukrainian banks with CSR results for Swedish banks, where the level of CSR is definitely higher, since it is a socially directed developed economy. After that the weights of CSR index for Swedish banks counted by our methodology was compared to different professionally made indexes.
Critical ingredients for call centre agents’ effectiveness
Authors: Oodith Devina , Parumasur Sanjana Brijball
Published: February 2017

This study assessed the critical ingredients for call centre agents’ effectiveness (skills/knowledge/ability/attitude, interpersonal skills, training and development, remuneration/motivation, teamwork) in managing customers and their needs. The study was undertaken in Durban, South Africa, and was conducted within a Public Sector service environment which comprised of four major call centres employing a total of 239 call centre agents. A sample of 151 call centre agents was drawn using the cluster sampling technique and a 63% response rate was achieved. These call centre agents were responsible for inbound calls only. Data was collected using a self developed, precoded questionnaire whose validity and reliability were statistically determined using Factor Analysis and Cronbach’s Coefficient Alpha respectively. Data was analysed using descriptive and inferential statistics. The results indicate that remuneration/motivation, followed by teamwork, negligibly followed by training and development, interpersonal and other skills/knowledge/ability/attitudes are crucial ingredients for effectively managing customers and their needs. Based on the results of the study a model is designed and presents recommendations that, when implemented in call centre environments, have the potential to enhance agents’ effectiveness in managing customers and their needs.
The corporate governance drivers: What relations with performance and risk? Empirical evidence from Italian contex
Authors: Bernini Francesca , Mariani Giovanna , Panaro Delio
Published: February 2017

Considering a sample of Italian firms and defining a good Governance index (gGI), we investigated if there is a relation between the gGI, the performance and the default risk and which governance determinants are most responsible of these effects. To deepen the analysis, the aforementioned relations are also observed by comparing family and non-family firms and the companies more or less active in M&A. We found that the Corporate Governance quality presents some correlations with performance and risk. The non-family companies are better structured, showing a positive correlation between some Corporate Governance drivers and performance and Z-score. Furthermore, the “well-advised” firms in external strategies are able to obtain a better correlation with performance and also a good relation with Z-score.
Relationship between board independence and firm performance post Sarbanes Oxley
Authors: Kanagaretnam Kiridaran , Lobo Gerald J. , Whalen Dennis J.
Published: February 2017

We examine the relationship between board independence and firm performance over multiple years, post-Sarbanes Oxley. The enactment of the Sarbanes-Oxley Act (SOX) in July, 2002 coincided with the NYSE/NASDAQ proposals to alter their standards for listed companies. These changes included a requirement that boards be comprised of a majority of independent directors and tightened the criteria for a director to be considered “independent”. We hypothesize and find that the passage of SOX, together with the new NYSE/NASDAQ regulations, result in independent directors who are more effective monitors of management, leading to stronger firm performance. Our results should bolster investor confidence in the financial markets at a time when the NYSE/NASDAQ has strengthened the corporate governance standards for listed companies.
A comparative analysis of the effect of board characteristics and governance indices on companies’ costs of financing: the Canadian evidence
Authors: Gouiaa Raef , Zéghal Daniel
Published: February 2017

The objective of this study is to examine the effect of board of directors’ characteristics compared to that of governance indices that measure board quality, on the costs of financing Canadian firms. We find that the majority of board characteristics have an important and significant effect on the cost of equity capital, the cost of debt and the average cost of capital. On the other hand, in the case of the financing costs studied, we find that the effect of governance indices that assess the quality of boards of directors is not clearly established. Particularly, our results reveal that individual measures of the characteristics of boards of directors allow for a better explanation of companies’ costs of financing than do multi-factor commercial and academic governance indices.
Rail benchmarking – new paradigms: a South African position
Authors: Havenga Jan Hendrik , Simpson Zane P. , de Bod Anneke , Pienaar Wessel
Published: February 2017

A benchmark of South Africa’s freight rail system confirms that South Africa’s export lines compare favourably globally, but that the general freight sector of the business lags in all key indicators, and there is no clear comparison as far as a rail reform agenda is concerned. Neither a path of deregulation, rationalisation, investment and efficiency, such as in North America, nor one of a development state – network growth and high relative employment, such as in the Russian, Indian and Chinese railways – has been followed in South Africa. These countries, geographically speaking, are significantly bigger than South Africa, but the challenges are similar: long transport distances, high transport demand and spatial issues. This paper indicates how benchmark analysis can be used to inform a rail reform agenda for South Africa’s freight rail system. Although there is a separation in South Africa as to the business model that the railway is allowed to use, current railway management seems to be achieving a turnaround. A more supportive policy environment, informed by benchmarking, might improve this process.
Analyzing the potentiality of the government budget in the framework of public accountability
Authors: Puntillo Pina
Published: February 2017

The main aim of this paper is to analyze how the yearly budget of public entities may be used as a tool of social accountability. The interest in researching this topic roots in a change in management style, from a bureaucratic kind, based on the formulation of rules and limitations, and on the more formal than substantial control of the civil servants’ compliance with the former, to a “post-bureaucratic” kind of management (Maroy, 2005), essentially founded on the evaluation of how efficiently resources are exploited. In this context, the term “accountability” refers to the set of techniques which may be used to measure and evaluate the results delivered by the administrative bodies, as well as the impacts on the community (Patton, 1992). The process of accountability confers to the subjects in question the legitimization of their own behaviour. After exploring the concept of social accountability, the paper will focus on the aspects of the public budget which make it a suitable tool of social accountability, showing how the shift from the New Public Management (NPM) paradigm to the Public Governance paradigm has strengthened and more clearly defined said role.
An exploration into the branding consumption patterns of consumers residing in townships of Tshwane: a South African case
Authors: Cant Michael Colin , Wiid Jan , Sephapo Catherine Mpolokeng
Published: February 2017

The primary aim of this research paper is to investigate the branding patterns of consumers residing in townships (also referred to as underdeveloped areas/black urban areas) within the Tshwane area of South Africa. Households in black urban areas are already by far the largest group in the middle-income (LSM 5 to 8) market, where their figures continue to grow gradually (Chase, Legoete & van Wamelen, 2010:2). A quantitative approach was used for this study where a survey questionnaire was the method for collecting data. In order to satisfy research objectives of the study, a self-administered location based survey was distributed to the residents of Shoshanguve, Mamelodi and Attridgeville; black urban areas within the Tshwane region of South Africa.
Remittance-led growth hypothesis: a conceptual analysis
Authors: Tsaurai Kunofiwa
Published: February 2017

This research centered on the conceptual and empirical analysis of the remittance-led growth hypothesis. There exist four views with regard to the relationship between remittances and economic growth and these include the remittances-led growth, growth-led remittances, feedback view and the neutrality view. Remittance-led growth mentions that remittances inspire economic growth whilst the growth-led remittances view says that economic growth attracts more remittances into the country. The feedback view suggests that both remittances and economic growth promotes each other whilst neutrality hypothesis stipulates that there exists no relationship at all between remittances and economic growth. Majority of literature concur that remittances plays a significant role in boosting economic growth especially in developing countries. It is against this backdrop that this study focuses on conceptually and empirically analyzing the remittance-led growth hypothesis. Trend analysis between remittances and economic growth for Botswana as a case study was done using time series annual data ranging from 1980 to 2011. The literature conceptual framework analysis shows beyond any reasonable doubt that indeed remittances are an integral element of economic growth especially for developing countries. The study therefore recommends nations especially developing countries to make available the necessary infrastructure that attracts personal remittance inflows from its citizens working in other countries in order to boost economic growth
The overreaction hypothesis: the case of Ukrainian stock market
Authors: Mynhardt Ronald Henry , Plastun Alexey
Published: February 2017

This paper examines the short-term price reactions after one-day abnormal price changes on the Ukrainian stock market. The original method of abnormal returns calculation is examined. We find significant evidence of overreactions using the daily data over the period 2008-2012. Our analysis confirms the hypothesis that after an abnormal price movement the size of contrarian price movement is usually higher then after normal (typical) daily fluctuation. Comparing Ukrainian data with the figures from US stock market it is concluded that the Ukrainian stock market is less efficient which gives rise to opportunities for extra profits obtained from trading based on contrarian strategies. Based on results of the research we also recommend some rules of trading on short-term market overreactions.
Corporate culture and frauds: a behavioral finance analysis of the Barclays-LIBOR case
Authors: Cervellati Enrico Maria , Piras Luca , Scialanga Matteo
Published: February 2017

The aim of this paper is to use behavioral finance to explain the factors that brought Barclays Plc. to face a £290 million fine (about $440 million), having deliberately tried to manipulate the LIBOR (London Interbank Offered Rate). This sums to the £59.5 million fined by the British Financial Services Authority (FSA) – the highest fine ever imposed by this organization – and respectively £102 million and £128 million by the US Department of Justice and by the Commodity Futures Trading Commission (CFTC). We analyze the reports issued by the U.S. and the British regulatory agencies, and those of financial analysts. Even though the focus of analysis are Barclays’ actions, we compare them with what other market participants did at the time of the analyzed events, to offer a comprehensive look at the financial industry and its dominant culture. In particular, after describing LIBOR rate determination methodology and the behavior of Barclays personnel when violations occurred, we present Barclays’ failures in organizing its own control systems and establishing a proper corporate culture. Finally, we analyze the behavior of market participants and supervisory authority in evaluating Barclays’ financial and ethical performance.
Lehman Brothers and Bear Stearns: risk assessment and corporate governance differences?
Authors: Grove Hugh , Patelli Lorenzo
Published: February 2017

In mid-March, 2008, with substantial government support, JP Morgan Chase agreed to acquire Bear Stearns for $10 per share. Because Bear’s shares traded at $170 a year earlier, the market cap destruction of 94% was devastating to the once venerable investment bank and its investors. The Financial Crisis Inquiry Commission had also cited as failure the inconsistent treatment by the federal government in helping to bail out Bear Stearns in March, 2008 but letting Lehman Brothers go into bankruptcy in September, 2008. This paper investigates such inconsistencies by comparing and assessing the risk management and corporate governance practices of Bear Stearns and Lehman Brothers in their March-September, 2008.
The link between financial management, organizational capacity building and effectiveness in not-for-profit organizations: an exploratory study
Authors: Kluvers Ron
Published: February 2017

The third sector literature argues that organizational capacity is important for Not-For-Profit (NFP) organizations to achieve their missions. Financial management skills are important for the enhancement of effectiveness, accountability and viability of NFP organizations. While effectiveness is a contested concept its attainment is an important aspect of NFP management. This paper examines the relationship between financial management, the development of capacity and the encouragement of effectiveness. A survey of 67 NFP organizations affiliated with the Victorian Council of Social Services (VCOSS) was conducted and the findings establish a link between financial management and organizational capacity
The importance of branding for South African SMEs: an exploratory study
Authors: Cant Michael Colin , Wiid Johannes Arnoldus , Hung Yu-Ting
Published: February 2017

One of the most challenging micro-environmental variables that small and medium enterprises SMEs are faced with is marketing, and more particularly branding. The research study investigates the importance of branding to South African SMEs and determines whether SMEs comprehend the significance of branding in the business’ success. The objective of this paper is to determine how brand orientated SMEs are, their perceived brand distinctiveness and the barriers they are faced with. A questionnaire was conducted and judgement sampling was used to gather the responses of 43 SMEs. The research identified that SMEs are aware of the importance of branding; however some SMEs do not have to necessary resources available for it. The challenge now is to improve the skills and capabilities of SMEs to ensure effective branding, which ultimately influences their success, as they play a vital role in the South African economy
Capital structure and regulation implications for South African banks
Authors: de Wet J.H.v.H.
Published: February 2017

Past research on capital structure was spearheaded by the ground-breaking models of Nobel Prize laureates Modigliani and Miller. However, little research has been done on the application of their and other theories to banking institutions located in Southern Africa. This study analyses the determinants of the capital structure of banks in South Africa based on secondary financial data and by performing this analysis attempts to establish trends in capital structure policy and regulatory compliance. The study also identifies best practices that contribute to the overall value and performance of the banking institution. Conclusions drawn from the results and literature create greater understanding of the dynamics of capital structure and its implications for South African Banks.
An assessment of relative efficiency of banks in Sri Lanka
Authors: Seelanatha Lalith , Silva Weerasinghe Hilary Elmo
Published: February 2017

This paper examines how the financial reforms introduced throughout last 30 year period have improved the managerial efficiency of firms in the banking industry in Sri Lanka. Using non-parametric data envelopment analysis (DEA), this study estimated relative efficiency of banking firms in Sri Lanka using a sample of data collected from 20 year cross section (1989-2008). The study found that the banks in Sri Lanka have recorded relatively higher level of efficiency. Both managerial decisions and scale of operation have been equally contributed to the recorded inefficiency. We found that large banks were relatively more efficient than small banks. However, medium size banks were recorded relatively lower levels of efficiency which were mainly contributed by the managerial factor.
Ex ante efficiency of structured bargaining procedures under coordination failure among creditors
Authors: Toyofuku Kenta
Published: February 2017

We analyze the ex-ante efficiency of structured bargaining procedures, especially the absolute priority rule (APR) violations and the revocation of preferential payments (PP). We show that when creditors receive clear signals about firms, the debtor is more likely to choose a risky action if APR violations are adopted. On the other hand, when a noisy signal is transmitted to creditors, a high liquidation value may induce coordination failure among creditors. Because this also induces moral hazard on the part of the debtor, adopting APR violations may be a useful way of improving ex ante efficiency. Finally, if there is complementarity between a firm’s assets, the revocation of PP can mitigate the coordination problem and thus increase ex ante efficiency.
Assessing corporate governance in lack of assurance conditions by using fuzzy logics
Authors: Sarokolaei Mehdi Alinezhad , Zeidabadi Fatemeh Afshar , Rahimipoor Akbar , Abarghoee Sanaz Salehi
Published: February 2017

Corporate governance has changed into a very crucial investment decision making element for investors. The amount of investors’ investment increases as much as the observing of corporate governance principles increase. Thus, companies’ ranking regarding corporate governance can present valuable information for users. Corporate governance criterion is a criterion through which the amount of observing the principles of corporate governance by the companies is shown. The existence of this criterion besides company rankings can be effective for investors, auditors and the public to judge about these companies. So in this paper we will try to propose our new criterion entitled: "Fuzzy corporate governance criterion" and its fundamental concepts based on fuzzy logical theory. The methodology based on fuzzy logical theory has improved and developed inexact and vague estimates of traditional assessment methods. This methodology has presented a new type of corporate governance (CG) criterion called Fuzzy corporate governance (FCG). Transparency and disclosure, ownership structure, board of directors’ structure and owners’ equity are among key variables in corporate governance which have been unified in fuzzy model in this research to gain an acceptable criterion for assessing corporate governance.
PADA GELAHANG: SUATU PERKAWINAN ALTERNATIF DALAM MENDOBRAK KEKUATAN BUDAYA PATRIARKI DI BALI
Authors: Pursika I Nyoman
Published: February 2017

Tujuan penelitian ini adalah (1) menganalisis persepsi masyarakat terhadapperkawinan pada gelahang sebagai perkawinan alternatif di Provinsi Bali, (2) menganalisissistem pewarisan dalam perkawinan pada gelahang bagi laki-laki dan perempuan, (3)menganalisis pola pengasuhan anak dalam perkawinan pada gelahang, (4) menganalisisproses pelaksanaan perkawinan pada gelahang, (5) menganalisis persamaan danperbedaan pelaksanaan perkawinan pada gelahang dengan perkawinan nyentana.Penelitian ini menggunakan pendekatan Etnography Research dalam paradigma penelitian kualitatif. Penelitian ini dilakukan di Provinsi Bali. Persepsi masyarakat Bali terhadapperkawinan pada gelahang termasuk positif, karena dipandang sebagai realitas yang sudah ada di masyarakat, dan tidak pernah dipersoalkan. Sistem pewarisan dalam keluarga yangmelaksanakan perkawinan pada gelahang di Bali pada dasarnya menganut asas parental, yaitu sistem pewarisan yang mewarisi pihak keluarga laki-laki dan keluarga perempuan.Pola pengasuhan anak dalam keluarga yang terbentuk melalui perkawinan pada gelahang pada umumnya memilih pola asuhan demokratis yang dicirikan dengan adanya hak dankewajiban orang tua dan anak adalah sama, dalam arti mereka saling melengkapi. Prosespelaksanaan perkawinan pada gelahang tidak berbeda dengan proses perkawinan biasa, dan pada umumnya dilaksanakan dengan proses meminang, yang sebelumnya diawalidengan masa pacaran. Dalam perkawinan pada gelahang ada dua kali upacara yang relatifsama, yaitu di rumah kediaman mempelai laki-laki dan di rumah kediaman mempelaiperempuan. Persamaan perkawinan pada gelahang dengan perawinan nyentana yaitu: sama-sama merupakan perkawinan alternatif, didasarkan cinta sama cinta, ada saksiagama (banten upacara) dan saksi sosial (masyarakat) dan sama-sama ingin mendapatkanketurunan. Sedangkan perbedaannya adalah bahwa perkawinan pada gelahang status laki-laki dan perempuan tidak ada perubahan status, sehingga sering disebut parental.Kedudukan anak-anak yang dilahirkan dimiliki secara bersama-sama, kecuali ada perjanjianlain. Aspek penting dalam perkawinan pada gelahang yang jarang ditemui adalah adakesepakatan antara suami dan istri yang disaksikan oleh keluarga kedua belah pihak,perjanjian tersebut bisa tertulis dan bisa lisan.
KAJIAN ESTETIKA RAGAM HIAS TENUN SONGKET JINENGDALEM, BULELENG
Authors: Sila I Nyoman
Published: February 2017

Penelitian ini bertujuan mendeskripsikan tentang (1) komposisi penempatan ragam hias tenun songket desa Jinengdalem, Buleleng, (2) ritme/irama penataan ragam hias tenun songket desa Jinengdalem, Buleleng, (3) keharmonisan tata letak ragam hias tenun songket desa Jinengdalem, Buleleng, (4) keseimbangan penataan ragam hias tenun songket desa Jinengdalem, Buleleng, (5) variasi-varisai ragam hias yang dibuat oleh perajin pada kain tenun songket desa Jinengdalem, Buleleng. Penelitian ini menggunakan pendekatan estetika, dan etnografi. Pengumpulan data dilakukan melalui observasi, wawancara, dokumentasi, fokus group, dan dianalisis secara deskriptif kualitatif. Hasil penelitian menunjukkan (1) Kompisisi penempatan ragam hias objek utama, secara umum ditempatkan secara penuh pada bidang kain, (2) Irama penataan ragam hias ditampilkan melalui pengaturan bentuk motif hias seperti: besar, kecil, tinggi, rendah, panjang, pendek, dan juga dalam pengaturan warna yang berbeda-beda secara berulang-ulang. (3) Keharmonisan penempatan ragam hias tenun songket Jinengdalem, melalui motif-motif hias dan warna-warna yang ditampilkan secara keseluruhan dipandang dari nilai-nilai estetikanya sangat harmonis. Karena disini ada keselarasan dalam penempatan motif hias cukup terpadu, penyusunan warna pada beberapa motif hias dengan warna-warna yang komplementer dan tidak ada yang mengalami pertentangan-pertentangan. (4) Keseimbangan penempatan ragam hias pada tenun songket Jinengdalem terlihat pada keseimbangan simetris. Keseimbangan simetris merupakan pengaturan yang tidak banyak mengambil resiko, karena tidak akan menimbulkan kesan berat sebelah. (5) Penempatan ragam hias pada kain tenun songket dilakukan sesuai dengan motif hias yang dibuat. Karena masing-masing motif hias sudah ada polanya seperti misalnya motif hias tirta nadi, siapapun yang membuat motif hias tersebut polanya pasti sama sesuai pakem sebagai motif hias kain tenun songket Jinengdalem. Variasi yang dilakukan oleh perajin adalah pada pengaturan atau penempatan isian-isian dari motif tersebut. Variasi juga dilakukan pada penempatan objek-objeknya, dan juga pada penempatan hiasan pinggirnya pada kain.
MEMBACA TUBUH GUSTI AYU KADEK MURNIASIH: REPRESENTASI SEKS, KEKERASAN, DAN KUASA LAKI-LAKI
Authors: . Hardiman
Published: February 2017

Penelitian ini bertujuan untuk mengungkapkan dan mendeskripsikan bentuk dan fungsi subject matter tubuh Gusti Ayu Kadek Murniasih dalam karya lukisannya; untuk mengungkapkan dan mendeskripsikan pula makna representasi seks, kekerasan, dan kuasa laki-laki dalam lukisan karya Gusti Ayu Kadek Murniasih. Penelitian kualitatif dengan pendekatan cultural studies ini, sebagaimana yang diringkus oleh teori-teori kritis, terutama diharapkan menghasilkan pembacaan konteks dengan tetap tidak mengabaikan pembacaan teks (visual). Penelitian ini memperoleh hasil: (1) Bentuk dan fungsi lukisan I Gusti Ayu Kadek Murniasih adalah turunan dari gaya Pengosekan. Ini ditandai dengan penggunaan kontur yang tegas sebagai pembagi unit-unit objek, bentuk berjejer dan repetisi, yang secara konviguratif menghasilkan susunan ornamen yang dekoratif. Murni menemukan idioleknya sendiri yang khas. (2) Tema lukisan Murni adalah persoalan seksual yang didorong oleh realitas biografinya yang mengalami peristiwa kekerasan fisik terhadap tubuhnya. Sebuah laku kekerasan yang memosisikan perempuan sebagai objek seksual bagi laki-laki.
ORIENTALISME, PERBUDAKAN, DAN RESISTENSI PRIBUMI TERHADAP KOLONIAL DALAM NOVEL-NOVEL TERBITAN BALAI PUSTAKA
Authors: Yasa I Nyoman
Published: February 2017

Penelitian yang dilakukan berdasar pada masalah budak dan perbudakan di Indonesia dalam karya sastra dan dilakukan dengan menggunakan teknik dekonstruksi ini memiliki tujuan untuk mendeskripsikan (1) orientalisme dalam novel-novel Balai Pustaka dan (2) resistensi pribumi terhadap kolonial Belanda novel-novel Balai Pustaka. Hasil penelitian ini menunjukkan bahwa relasi antara penjajah dengan terjajah, yakni antara Belanda dengan pribumi di Indonesia (Hindia Belanda) adalah relasi yang tidak setara. Belanda mendominasi pribumi. Pendominasian Belanda terhadap pribumi diperlihatkan stereotip-stereotip kebinatangan oleh pihak Belanda kepada pribumi, dan pendiskriminasian warna kulit oleh kolonial. Belanda memandang dirinya lebih beradab daripada pribumi karena Belanda memiliki warna kulit putih, sedangkan pribumi memiliki kulit hitam, atau bukan kulit putih. Pandangan Belanda itu terkonstruksi dalam pikiran dan perilaku mereka sehingga stereotip-stereotip bahwa pribumi itu terbelakang, lamban atau malas, dan seperti binatang (kera atau beruk), muncul atau berkembang. Hal itu merupakan pandangan orientalisme colonial Belanda terhadap pribumi. Akibat pendominasian (pendiskriminasian, rasisme, dan marjinalisasi) ini membuat masyarakat pribumi melakukan resistensi. Resistensi yang dilakukan oleh budak/pribumi dalam bentuk mimikri dan mockery yang memperolok-olok kolonial Belanda dalam upaya meruntuhkan kekuasaannya.
MODEL KONSEPTUAL KINERJA INDIVIDUAL PEGAWAI PEMERINTAH DAERAH KABUPATEN YANG BERBASIS KOMPETENSI, KOMITMEN ORGANISASI, DAN MOTIVASI KERJA
Authors: Bagia I Wayan
Published: February 2017

Tujuan penelitian ini adalah untuk memperoleh temuan (1) faktor-faktor atau dimensi yang membentuk konstruk kinerja, kompetensi, komitmen organisasi, dan motivasi kerja;dan  (2) model koseptual kinerja individu pegawai yang berbasis kompetensi, komitmen organisasi, dan motivasi kerja. Penelitian ini menggunakan desain penelitian studi pustaka dan survei. Penelitian survei dilakukan pada delapan kabupaten, yaitu Kabupaten Jembrana, Tabanan, Badung, Gianyar, Bangli, Klungkung, Karangasem, dan Buleleng dengan menggunakan teknik penarikan sampel stratified random sampling. Data dikumpulkan dengan metode pencatatan dokumen, wawancara, dan kuesioner, kemudian dianalisis secara deskriptif dan menggunakan SEM (Structural Equition Modelling) untuk melakukan pengujian secra empirik. Temuan hasil analisis deskriptif dan SEM menunjukkan bahwa (1) konstruk variabel kinerja pegawai dibentuk oleh dimensi kuantitas kerja, kualitas kerja, pengetahuan kerja, kreativitas, kerja sama, inisiatif, dan kualitas personal; konstruk variabel kompetensi pegawai dibentuk oleh dimensi kompetensi intelektual, sosial, emosional dan spiritual; kontruk variabel komitmen organisasi dibentuk oleh dimensi komitmen organisasi afektif, kontinyu, dan normatif; serta motivasi kerja dibentuk oleh dimensi gaji, pekerjaan itu sendiri, promosi, rekan sekerja, dan kondisi kerja; dan (2) model konseptual kinerja individu pegawai dipengaruhi oleh kompetensi dan komitmen organisasi dengan motivasi kerja pegawai sebagai intervening.
PEMBELAJARAN BAHASA INGGRIS BERBASIS TEMA MELALUI LAGU KREASI DI SEKOLAH DASAR
Authors: Ratminingsih Ni Made , Budasi I Gede
Published: February 2017

Tujuan utama kegiatan P2M  ini adalah  untuk meningkatkan kemampuan guru bahasa Inggris di sekolah dasar khususnya di Kecamatan Suksada dalam melaksanakan pembelajaran yang berorientasi PAKEM, yaitu melalui pemanfaatan lagu-lagu kreasi (Scripted Songs). Dengan prosedur in-service training, guru dapat menciptakan lagu- lagu kreasi berbasis tema, menentukan langkah-langkah pembelajaran berdasarkan lagu yang diciptakan, dan mengimplemtasikannya dalam pembelajaran
DISEMINASI HIV/AIDS BAGI MAHASISWA DI KABUPATEN BULELENG
Authors: Sanjaya Dewa Bagus
Published: February 2017

Pengabdian ini bertujuan untuk: Mendiseminasi bahaya penyebaran HIV/AIDS sebagai penyakit   mematikan yang terus berkembang, khususnya kepada para mahasiswa di Kabupaten Buleleng. Agar mahasiswa memproleh informasi yang lebih komprehensif dalam menemukan, merumuskan, memecahkan, dan menanggulangi permasalahan HIV/AIDS. Kegiatan P2M ini dilaksanakan dengan mempergunakan metode ceramah, tanyajawab, dan diskusi Khalayak sasaran strategis dalam P2M ini adalah para mahasiswa di Kabupaten Buleleng. Diseminasi program P2M ini diawali dengan pengamatan real lapangan,  dilanjutkan dengan identifikasi masalah, need assessment, pelaksanaan langsung di lapangan, dan evaluasi kegiatan. Kabupaten Buleleng di akhir bulan Agustus 2011 menembus angka 1.200 penderita. Bahkan penyebaran virus mematikan tersebut kini bergeser dari Kecamatan Gerokgak ke wilayah Kota Singaraja. Penyebaran keganasan virus HIV tersebut dari catatan Komisi Penanggulangan Aids Daerah, KPAD Buleleng dan Yayasan Citra  Usada  Indonesia (YCUI) merata  di  9 Kecamatan  di  Kabupaten  Buleleng.  Kecamatan  Buleleng  berada  di  bagian  teratas dengan mencatat 280 penderita HIV/AIDS dan Kecamatan Gerokgak di kedua dengan jumlah 208, serta Kecamatan Sawan diurutan ke tiga dengan jumlah penderita mencapai 167. “Dalam jangka waktu sebulan terakhir, rata-rata di Buleleng dari tiga kecamatan tercatat 58 warga yang sudah positif, termasuk satu orang yang sering mangkal di dagang patokan atau dakocan. Perkembangan terkini penyebaran penyakit HIV/AIDS di Kabupaten Buleleng, Bali dari awal tahun hingga April 2012 tercatat sebanyak 1.263 warga  dinyatakan  positif. Data  menunjukkan  98%  perkembangan  HIV/AIDS  di Buleleng disebabkan oleh perilaku seks berresiko terutama hubungan seks dengan para PSK yang diduga 20% nya telah terinfeksi HIV/AIDS. Perilaku seks berresiko ini terutama melibatkan remaja dan generasi muda golongan usia 15 tahun sampai dengan 49 tahun
PENDAMPINGAN PENYUSUNAN ASESMEN FISIKA BERBASIS OSN BAGI GURU SMP DI KOTA TABANAN
Authors: Suardana I Kade , Sudiatmika AAIA Rai , Oktofa Dewi
Published: February 2017

Tujuan utama kegiatan P2M ini adalah 1) meningkatkan kemampuan guru pendamping pembina olimpiade OSN fisika di SMP di kota Tabanan dalam menyusun dan mengembangkan asesmen fisika berbasis olimpiade, dan 2) meningkatkan  respon para peserta pelatihan terhadap pelaksanaan pendampingan penyusunan dan pengembangan asesmen  fisika berbasis OSN.  Untuk mencapai tujuan di atas, telah dilakukan kegiatan pengabdian kepada masyarakat dalam bentuk pendampingan yang diselenggarakan pada tanggal 27 Oktober 2012 bertempat di SMP N 2 Tabanan. Kegiatan ini diikuti oleh 15 orang guru (sains- fisika) SMP N Kota Tabana. Data yang telah dikumpulkan dengan teknik tes, observasi, teknik angket dan wawancara, kemudian dianalisis secara deskriptif. Dari  hasil  analisis  data  dapat  disimpulkan bahwa  1)    kemampuan  guru pendamping pembina OSN fisika di SMP N di kota Tabanan dalam menyusun dan mengembangkan asesmen fisika berbasis olimpiade meningkat setelah kegiatan pendampingan, dan 2) para guru pendamping pembina OSN fisika di SMP N di kota Tabanan sebagai peserta pelatihan menunjukan respon positif terhadap pelaksanaan kegiatan pendampingan ini. Beberapa hal positif yang diperoleh setelah kegiatan pendampingan ini adalah 1) para guru pendamping pembina olimpiade fisika memperoleh pendalaman materi-materi fisika dalam tataran OSN, 2) para guru peserta pelatihan mengetahui teknik penyusunan dan pengembangan asesmen fisika berbasis OSN yang secara langsung dapat diterapkannya dalam membina kegiatan olimpiade, dan 3) tersedianya asesmen fisika  SMP berbasis OSN yang akan dapat digunakan oleh para guru pembina dan para siswa sebagai salah satu acuan sumber belajar dalam persiapan menghadapi OSN
PELATIHAN PENGEMBANGAN PENILAIAN KINERJA MENULIS BAHASA INGGRIS BAGI GURU BAHASA INGGRIS SMA KECAMATAN BULELENG
Authors: Marhaeni AAIN
Published: February 2017

Kegiatan pengabdian kepada masyarakat dalam bentuk workshop berkelanjutan ini dilaksanakan berdasarkan hasil penelitian yang dilaksanakan oleh Prof. Dr. A.A. Istri Ngurah Marhaeni, M.A (2009). Ada tiga tahap pelaksanaan kegiatan: pelatihan, implementasi, dan refleksi serat perencanaan tindak lanjut.bSecara umum, pelaksanaan P2M berjalan dengan baik, semua peserta: 17 orang guru Bahasa Inggris SMA dan 3 pengawas mata pelajaran Bahasa Inggris SMA Kecamatan Buleleng, hadir dalam setiap tahapan kegiatan. Guru-guru mampu mengimplemenasikan instrument penilaian kinerja menulis  dengan  baik  pula.  Instrument  tersebut  dapat  membantu  guru  untuk  lebih objektif  untuk  memberikan  penilaian  terhadap  kemampuan  menulis  siswa;  melatih siswa untuk bisa menjadi pebelajar mandiri, lebih teliti karena berpatokan pada instrument yang sangat rinci sehingga mereka   mampu mengevaluasi dirinya sendiri; dan adanya pemantauan dalam proses menulis membantu siswa untuk menghasilkan karya  yang lebih baik.  Namun, disisi lain, pengimplementasian instrument ini juga memiliki kelemahan. Instrumen yang rinci (analitik) terkesan rumit untuk diimplementasikan oleh beberapa orang guru pada awalnya sehingga perlu waktu yang lebih banyak untuk melakukan penskoran. Karena instrument ini digunakan juga untuk menilai proses, maka jumlah pertemuan pun jadi bertambah sedangkan keterampilan berbahasa yang lain juga harus diajarkan, dan input siswa yang rendah juga mempengaruhi kesuksesan penimplementasian instrument. Jadi disarankan, dengan kondisi  sekolah  yang  berbeda-beda,  terutama  dari  input  siswa,  guru  agar  tetap termotivasi untuk berlatih mengimplementasikan instrument tersebut agar dapat mendorong siswa untuk berprestasi. Instrumen tersebut bisa menjadi jalan keluar untuk bisa melatih diri menjadi objektif, melatih siswa untuk sadar akan dikelemahan dan kelebihan yang dimilikinya dalam menulis, serta mampu menghargai suatu proses dari pada hanya sekadar hasil.