bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Comparison of four commercial dose calculation algorithms in different evaluation tests
Authors: Rostami Aram , Neto Aluisio Jose De Castro , Paloor Satheesh Prasad , Khalid Abdul Sattar , Hammoud Rabih
Published: June 2023

Background: Accurate and fast dose calculation is crucial in modern radiation therapy. Four dose calculation algorithms (AAA, AXB, CCC, and MC) are available in Varian Eclipse and RaySearch Laboratories RayStation Treatment Planning Systems (TPSs). Objectives: This study aims to evaluate and compare dosimetric accuracy of the four dose calculation algorithms applying to homogeneous and heterogeneous media, VMAT plans (based on AAPM TG-119 test cases), and the surface and buildup regions. Methods: The four algorithms are assessed in homogeneous (IAEA-TECDOCE 1540) and heterogeneous (IAEA-TECDOC 1583) media. Dosimetric evaluation accuracy for VMAT plans is then analyzed, along with the evaluation of the accuracy of algorithms applying to the surface and buildup regions. Results: Tests conducted in homogeneous media revealed that all algorithms exhibit dose deviations within 5% for various conditions, with pass rates exceeding 95% based on recommended tolerances. Additionally, the tests conducted in heterogeneous media demonstrate high pass rates for all algorithms, with a 100% pass rate observed for 6 MV and mostly 100% pass rate for 15 MV, except for CCC, which achieves a pass rate of 94%. The results of gamma index pass rate (GIPR) for dose calculation algorithms in IMRT fields show that GIPR (3% /3 mm) for all four algorithms in all evaluated tests based on TG119, are greater than 97%. The results of the algorithm testing for the accuracy of superficial dose reveal variations in dose differences, ranging from –11.9% to 7.03% for 15 MV and –9.5% to 3.3% for 6 MV, respectively. It is noteworthy that the AXB and MC algorithms demonstrate relatively lower discrepancies compared to the other algorithms. Conclusions: This study shows that generally, two dose calculation algorithms (AXB and MC) that calculate dose in medium have better accuracy than other two dose calculation algorithms (CCC and AAA) that calculate dose to water.
Digital Literacy Skills of Teachers: A Study on ICT Use and Purposes
Authors: Chama Arnold , A Subaveerapandiyan
Published: June 2023

PURPOSE - This paper examines the challenges encountered in teaching digital competencies among school students in Zambia at the secondary level from a teacher’s perspective. Based on this paper’s key research objectives.

DESIGN/METHODOLOGY/APPROACH - The data were solicited from 20 schools in Lusaka. The paper employed a survey design in which a sample of 281 teachers was selected. A questionnaire was used to gather data from teachers, whose findings were analysed using SPSS's latest version.

FINDINGS - The findings show that while teachers in Zambia have access to digital devices and possess moderate to high levels of digital literacy skills, there are challenges in effectively integrating technology into the curriculum and instruction. The lack of alignment, high cost, and limited availability of technology are vital obstacles. Addressing these challenges will require comprehensive policies, infrastructure development, and professional development programs to enhance teachers' digital competencies and ensure equitable access to technology for all students.

LIMITATIONS - The study was limited to only Lusaka Province in Zambia.

ORIGINALITY/VALUE - This study is helpful to the ICT educators and the government of Zambia to know the challenges teachers face in adopting digital technology in their classroom scenarios.
Public Health Student Internship: An Opportunity to Explore System, Self, and Society
Authors: Trivedi Mayur , Jadaun Shivani , Mahesh Ananya
Published: June 2023

Emerging public health challenges require attention to self and society, beyond the classroom and exposure to the health system. The sensitisation of the future public health community is crucial to cover the last mile of the marginalized population. However, in general, public health education focuses on the health system and sciences and lacks a central focus on community-based internships. This short essay is an amalgamation of immersive field experiences of two young public health students with a renowned non-governmental organization called Self Employed Women’s Association (SEWA) in Gujarat, India. It argues that immersive internships can help students rise above the need of advancing job prospects and revisit their very purpose of learning by realizing their accountability as future members of the PH community. This perspective of a developing country like India would be immensely valuable to the global community elsewhere too.
Management
Authors:   State University of Land Use Planning, Kokorev Alexander Sergeevich ,   Academy of the State Fire Service EMERCOM of Russia
Published: June 2023

The textbook is intended for students of higher educational institutions in the direction of training "Management", teachers to prepare for theoretical and practical classes, young scientists.
ЯКІСТЬ АТМОСФЕРНОГО ПОВІТРЯ ЗА ВМІСТОМ ТВЕРДИХ МІКРОЧАСТИНОК (PM 2,5) У МІСТАХ УКРАЇНИ В УМОВАХ КАРАНТИНУ ТА ВОЄННОГО СТАНУ
Authors: Grynchyshyn N. N.
Published: June 2023

Вступ. Забруднення повітря є однією з найбільших екологічних небезпек для здоров'я людини та причиною мільйонів смертей і втрачених років здорового життя щорічно. Тверді мікрочастинки діаметром 2,5 мікрона та менше (PM 2,5) визначено основними антропогенними забруднювачами повітря, що мають значний ризик для здоров’я людини. Проблема забруднення атмосферного повітря РМ 2,5 особливо актуальна для урбанізованих територій.З 12 березня 2020 року в Україні був запроваджений карантин, а з 24 лютого 2022 року, в зв'язку зі збройною агресією росії, введений військовий стан. Дослідження якості атмосферного повітря за таких умов становить значний науковий інтерес та необхідне для управління його якістю.В роботі вперше представлено результати дослідження якості атмосферного повітря за вмістом твердих мікрочастинок РМ 2,5 з оцінкою ризику для здоров’я в умовах карантину та воєнного стану в Україні. 

Мета. Визначити зміни якості атмосферного повітря за вмістом твердих мікрочастинок (PM 2,5) в містах України в умовах карантину та воєнного стану.Матеріали та методи. В досліджені було використано індекси якості атмосферного повітря (AQI) для РМ 2,5, розраховані на основі вимірювань твердих мікрочастинок постами громадського моніторингу атмосферного повітря в містах України. Дослідження проведене з використанням методів системного аналізу, порівняння, узагальнення.Результати. Забруднення повітря дрібними мікрочастинками PM 2,5 в містах України має сезонну динаміку. Найбільші значення індексів забруднення повітря для PM 2,5 спостерігаються у холодний період через викиди від спалювання викопного палива для обігріву приміщень. Якість повітря в окремі дні холодного періоду є небезпечною для здоров’я людини. Запровадження карантину позитивно вплинуло на якість атмосферного повітря за вмістом РМ 2,5 в містах на початковому етапі. Умови воєнного стану мають різний вплив на якість атмосферного повітря за вмістом РМ 2,5. Встановлено, що вагомим чинником забруднення атмосферного повітря PM 2,5, який суттєво впливає на якість атмосферного повітря в містах, є пожежі в природних системах.
SOSOALISASI TANTANGAN USAHA KECIL DI ERA DIGITAL PADA PELAKU USAHA KECIL DI KELURAHAN KENTEN PALEMBANG
Authors: Sari Rafika , Sayadi Hamdan , Komariah Siti
Published: June 2023

Kementerian Koperasi dan UKM mengakui Usaha Mikro Kecil Menengah (UMKM) jadi tulang punggung perekonomian di ASEAN, berkontribusi pada GDP, penyerapan tenaga kerja dan pembangunan negara, harus siap menghadapi era digital. Tantangan UMKM dalam era transformasi digital ekonomi adalah rendahnya kemampuan sumber daya manusia (SDM) menghadapi metode perdagangan dari cara berbisnis secara konvensional menjadi online bisnis. ransformasi digital yang setiap hari makin maju dan canggih memang memiliki banyak sekali manfaat untuk perkembangan dunia bisnis saat ini. Teknologi dapat menghemat waktu, tenaga, serta biaya dengan hasil yang cukup maksimal. Namun, transformasi ini bisa menjadi sebuah tantangan yang cukup berarti apabila bisnis yang dijalankan tidak dapat mengikutinya. Apalagi, adanya ketakutan untuk mengubah cara-cara lama akan menimbulkan kekhawatiran apabila transformasi yang dilakukan tidak sesuai dengan yang diharapkan atau justru gagal. Hal ini perlu disikapi dengan rasa optimis yang tinggi dan pantang menyerah. Sebuah bisnis harus bisa menyesuaikan diri dengan teknologi yang terus berkembang. Pemilik bisnis akan dituntut untuk terus belajar dan belajar. Memang terdengarnya akan menguras waktu dan tenaga, namun apabila berhasil nantinya akan sangat mempermudah jalannya bisnis.
ANALISIS TREN HARGA TELUR AYAM RAS DI KOTA BENGKULU
Authors: Reflis Reflis
Published: June 2023

Telur ayam ras merupakan salah satu jenis telur yang paling banyak diproduksi oleh peternak di bengkulu. harga telur ayam ras murni sangat terjangkau dibandingkan dengan jenis telur lainnya. permintaan untuk telur ras akan terus berkembang seiring dengan bertambahnya jumlah penduduk.  riset ini bertujuan untuk mengetahui pola perkembangan harga telur ayam ras di kota bengkulu, dan untuk mengetahui tren harga telur ayam ras di kota bengkulu. riset ini menggunakan analisis tren dengan metode regresi linier sederhana. suatu estimasi yang dilakukan atau peramalan pada masa yang akan datang dengan metode analisis statistika. memerlukan berbagai macam data (informasi) yang cukup banyak dan terlihat dalam rentang waktu yang cukup signifikan untuk membuat alat ukur, sehingga setiap komponen yang mempengaruhi perkembangan sampai seberapa banyak perubahan yang terjadi dapat dilihat dengan menggunakan penelitian ini. informasi yang digunakan diperoleh dari badan pusat statistik  kota bengkulu. hasil yang diperoleh yaitu kecenderungan (tren) positif dimana garis perkembangan harga yang tergambar meningkat secara terus menerus. kecenderungan yang terus meningkat dipengaruhi oleh beberapa hal yang terjadi dalam kurun waktu satu tahun, diantaranya yaitu: hari raya idul adha, hari natal dan juga tahun baru. garis tren linierny adalah y = 1942.9 + 3.96 x + e dimana  = 0,5661.
PENGELOLAAN MANAJEMEN KEUANGAN RUMAH TANGGA DI TENGAH PANDEMI COVID – 19 DI LINGKUNGAN DESA BATURSARI KECAMATAN MRANGGEN, KABUPATEN DEMAK
Authors: Artiningsih Suci , Izzaty Khairina Nur , Suparwati Yohana Kus , Kristanto Rudi Suryo , Rachmansyah Yanuar
Published: June 2023

Tujuan dari kegiatan pengabdian masyarakat ini adalah meningkatkan pengetahuan yang berkaitan dengan pengelolaan manajemen keuangan ibu-ibu rumah tangga di tengah pandemi covid-19 di lingkungan desa Batursari, Kecamatan Mranggen, Kabupaten Demak. Kegiatan pengabdian masyarakat ini dilaksanakan di Desa Batursari, Kecamatan Mranggen, Kabupaten Demak dan diikuti oleh 36 peserta dari wilayah  Desa Batursari, Kecamatan Mranggen, Kabupaten Demak. Metode yang digunakan dalam kegiatan pengabdian ini adalah dengan melakukan sosialisasi dan diskusi yang berkaitan dengan pengelolaan manajemen keuangan di masa pandemi covid-19. Hasil dari kegiatan ini adalah para peserta dapat lebih memahami pengetahuan tentang strategi dan pengelolaan manajemen keuangan di masa pandemi covid-19
Pelatihan Kewirausahaan, Bagi Pelaku UMKM Di Kelurahan Sentosa Kecamatan Seberang Ulu II
Authors: Astrina Feny , Afrida Anggrelia , Welly Welly , Ningsih Nurul Hutami , Yanti Darma , Yuliachtri Saekarini
Published: June 2023

Pemberdayaan UMKM secara umum diarahkan untuk mendukung upaya penanggulangan kemiskinan dan kesenjangan, memberikan kontribusi dalam peningkatan pendapatan masyarakat berpendapatan rendah , menciptakan kesempatan kerja guna mengurangi tingkat pengangguran. Namun UMKM yang ada saat ini ternyata belum mampu menekan tingkat pengangguran khususnya di Kelurahan Sentosa, sehingga diperlukan penanaman jiwa wirausaha kepada pelaku UMKM. Penanaman jiwa wirausaha ini dapat dilakukan dengan memberikan pelatihan wirausaha kepada pelaku UMKM dan kelompok ibu-ibu PKK di Kelurahan Sentosa dengan membarikan Pelatihan proses pembuatan produk atau asesoris bandana bayi dengan memanfaatkan pita, kain perca, aplikasi bunga dari rajutan serta bros rajut. Serta memberikan pengetahuan bagi pelaku UMKM dalam memasarkan produk yang dihasilkan dengan memanfaatkan media social online. Yang tidak kalah penting dalam menunjang Keberhasilan UMKM dalam menjalankan usahanya tidak terlepas dari kemampuan UMKM mengelola keuangan.
PENINGKATAN KEMAMPUAN MAHASISWA DALAM MENGANALISIS DATA PENELITIAN MENGGUNAKAN APLIKASI SPSS
Authors: Candera Mister , Hidayat Randy , Marcel Kusuma Gumulya Sonny
Published: June 2023

Penelitian merupakan salah satu bagian yang sangat penting bagi setiap mahasiswa. Sebelum mahasiswa memperoleh gelar akademiknya, maka setiap mahasiswa diwajibkan untuk melakukan penelitian. Analisis data menjadi komponen utama dalam penelitian dan hal ini menjadi momok yang cukup menyulitkan bagi sebagian besar mahasiswa. Seiring perkembangan teknologi, mahasiswa dituntut untuk terus melakukan peningkatan kemampuannya dalam menganalisis data melalui aplikasi komputer SPSS (Statistikal Package for the Social Sciens). Oleh karena itu maka perlu dilakukan pendampingan kepada mahasiswa dalam rangka meningkatkan kemampuan mahasiswa dalam mengalisis data khususnya menggunakan SPSS tersebut. Hasil dari pengabdian ini adalah mahasiswa berpartisipasi aktif dalam mengikuti pendampingan analisis data serta kemampuan mahasiswa dalam menggunakan aplikasi SPSS semakin meningkat
Edukasi Pencegahan Penyebaran Covid-19 Bagi Warga Desa Tegalmojo Kecamatan Tegalsiwalan Kabupaten Probolinggo
Authors: Seger Seger Priantono , Sugeng Agus Cahyanto Sugeng
Published: June 2023

Kurangnya pemahaman masyarakat di Desa Tegalmojo Kabupaten Probolinggo mengenai pencegahan virus covid-19 dikarenakan masih ada beberapa masyarakat menganggap bahwa virus covid-19 tidak berbahaya. Sebagian besar masyarakat masih menjalankan aktivitas seperti biasanya untuk memenuhi kebutuhan hidupnya. Mereka belum membiasakan diri untuk mencuci tangan setelah melakukan kegiatan di luar, selain itu masih terdapat warga yang tidak memakai masker saat keluar rumah. Pelaksanaan pengabdian kepada masyarakat ini menggunakan metode edukasi pencegahan. Kegiatan edukasi secara terus-menerus dilakukan sebagai bentuk upaya pencegahan penyebaran covid-19. Edukasi dilakukan dengan sosialisasi melalui pembagian poster edukasi tentang covid-19. Poster yang dibuat dan dibagikan memuat informasi pengenalan covid-19, gejala-gejala yang ditimbulkan, cara penyebaran dan penularan virus, cara pengobatan yang benar serta langkah-langkah pencegahan terhadap covid-19. Dengan adanya edukasi pencegahan penyebaran covid-19, pemahaman warga bertambah untuk menerapkan protokol kesehatan dalam kehidupan dan aktivitas sehari-hari. Kegiatan pengabdian edukasi ini berupa penggunaan masker, menjaga jarak, cuci tangan, pembagian hand sanitizer dan masker disambut baik oleh warga Desa Tegalmojo.
A Quantitative Investigation of Factors Influencing Binge Drinking Behavior amongst Undergraduate University Students in Johannesburg, South Africa
Authors: Bayane Percyval
Published: June 2023

The paper investigates factors influencing binge drinking behavior among university undergraduate students. Data is drawn from a quantitative survey conducted on undergraduate students’ perceptions of peer pressure, students living arrangement, socio-economic status and binge drinking at a South African university. 330 students participated in the study by completing a paper-based survey. The study found a statistically significant correlation between factors of peer pressure, students staying off-campus, high socio-economic status and binge drinking. Female students engage in binge drinking more than male students. Students with friends who drink were more likely to engage in binge drinking than those with friends drinking less. Students living off campus were more likely to engage in binge drinking of alcohol than those staying on campus. Students with high socioeconomic status were more likely to engage in binge drinking than those with low socioeconomic status. The paper makes an empirical contribution to future studies to explore binge drinking behavior amongst university students.
History and Analysis of the Relationship Between the Seventh-day Adventist Church and Several Independent Churches in the Kasai Province of Zaire, 1972-1985
Authors:   ,   Andrews University, McKey F. Duane
Published: June 2023

Religious ferment in the Kasai Province of Zaire in the decades preceding and following independence gave rise to a number of independent religious movements, some of which were overtly political. In an effort to control these movements, the Zairian government passed a law in 1971 which restricted the religious practice of these independent groups. As a direct result of these legal disabilities, a considerable number of independent movements in the Kasai sought affiliation with the Seventh-day Adventist Church. This study surveys the history of the relationships between the Seventh-day Adventist Church and the above independent churches from 1972 to 1985 and attempts to analyze both the successes and the failures of the SDA Church in its efforts to accommodate, incorporate and institutionalize them. This study is motivated by a concern to document the experience of the Seventh-day Adventist Church with the independent churches in the Kasai. As such it is an historical study which seeks to survey what happened in a broad sweep in chronological succession. The data is drawn largely from sources within the Seventh-day Adventist Church. The data includes: articles published in denominational papers, correspondence between Church officials and the parties involved in the Kasai experience, statistical records, and two sets of questionnaires. Personal interviews were conducted with members of the Kasai expatriate missionary and Zairian pastoral staffs. It is concluded that the Adventist Church did not maximize the possibilities of incorporating into its membership those independent churches wnich requested affiliation. This was largely due to a lack of adequate understanding of the independent churches, an unrealistic evaluation of the dynamics involved, the failure to adequately accommodate styles of worship and leadership, lack of continuity in leadership and strategy, and the general unpreparedness of the Church to cope logistically with the situation. The utility of the study lies in the idea that this analysis of the Kasai movement should provide a basis for some understanding of similar movements, and should help to equip the Church with ways of working with them.
The Influence of a Series of Sermons on the Attitudes and Attendance of the Crossroads Seventh-day Adventist Church in New York
Authors:   ,   Andrews University, Martin Linford
Published: June 2023

Problem. A very important concern felt by the pastoral staff and lay leadership at the Crossroads Seventh-day Adventist Church, New York City, was that of building and maintaining the attendance at weekly worship services. The purpose of this study was to investigate the influence of a specially prepared series of sermons dealing with worship-related topics on the attendance and attitudes of those who assemble regularly to worship at this church. Method. A series of eight sermons on worship was prepared and presented at the church during a one-week period. A pretest questionnaire was administered to members and visitors shortly before the series commenced. Three months after the series, a post-test questionnaire with basically the same questions was administered to the same group to check whether significant changes in attitude and/or attendance habits had been experienced by the test group. The study was prescriptive, descriptive, and suggestive, rather than empirical and definitive. Data gathered through the questionnaires provided information but did not supply any basis for quantitative factors involved. During the series members were encouraged to invite acquaintances. Subcommittees were entrusted with managing the technical details of actual planning and conducting of the meetings. The desire of the church and its leadership to build its attendance was appropriately coupled with their varied talents and combined concern for the spiritual welfare of attending visitors. Results. The sermon series,the center of this project, made definite impact on attendees. Post-test responses indicate many changed their views and attitudes on a number of aspects of worship. Tangible evidence of the evangelistic impact of this project is found in the number of individuals whose first contact with the Seventh-day Adventist Church is directly traceable to the worship sermon series. Conclusions. Certain conclusions were reached from this project. Generally, a positive awareness of worship attendance was awakened among all concerned. It provided a learning experience for the preacher and for those who attended. More specifically, many who attended began to consider more seriously their attendance habits, and their attitude towards worship. For the first time, many have begun to realize the significance of worship in the context of the Advent message.
Developing and Implementing a Training Program in Public Evangelism: for Lay Members of the Hispanic Seventh-day Adventist Churches of the Wisconsin Conference
Authors:   ,   Andrews University, Modad Miled
Published: June 2023

Problem. A need for increased involvement and training in public evangelism of the Hispanics Seventh-day Adventist Churches in Wisconsin prompts one to discover different methods and ways by which laity could be educated and well-equipped to fulfill their ministry. Many programs for training laity for evangelism have been activated in Latin America, but the notably different cultural conditions of North America suggest that Hispanic people familiar with Latin American programs may need retraining if they are to be effectively Involved in evangelistic work in Wisconsin. Method. A training program in public evangelism was designed and implemented for a selected group of lay members of the Central Hispanic S.D.A. Church of Milwaukee. They received theoretical and practical instruction during a seven-week evangelistic campaign. Results. This project, conducted from October through November of 1987, proved effective in the involvement of lay members in public evangelism. Twenty-five new converts were baptized, and a new congregation was organized as a result of lay work. The same program was applied for the church in 1988 and a new congregation of thirty members was organized. Conclusions. Even though not all church members are gifted with the gift of evangelism, all Christians are called to be witnesses. It is the collective responsibility of all members, ministry and laity alike, proclaim the Gospel to others.
Nurturing the Pastor's Spiritual Discipline of Prayer Through the Dynamic of Spiritual Direction
Authors:   ,   Andrews University, Morris Derek
Published: June 2023

Problem Current research demonstrates that we cannot assume that seminarians have received sufficient guidance in spiritual formation prior to the completion of their Seminary training. Therefore, there is a great need to explore ways of nurturing spiritual formation for those involved in pastoral ministry. It was the purpose of this present study to explore the potential of spiritual direction as a dynamic for nurturing the pastor's spiritual discipline of prayer. Method A spiritual friend, who had received training in spiritual direction, was selected with guidance from Shalem Institute for Spiritual Formation. A twelve-month case study was established with the author of the present study as the directee. The experience was recorded in a spiritual journal. Results The process of spiritual direction proved to be a powerful dynamic in nurturing the spiritual discipline of prayer in the directee. The spiritual journal records a process of significant spiritual formation. Conclusions While no normative conclusions can be drawn, the recorded experience of the author is a testimony to the potential of spiritual direction as a dynamic for nurturing spiritual life in ministry.
Preaching To An Institutional Congregation: An Analysis Of The Needs And Expectations For Preaching In The Newbury Park Adventist Church
Authors:   ,   Andrews University, Smith Daniel
Published: June 2023

Purpose The impetus for the research was a transfer from a rural parish to the Newbury Park Seventh-day Adventist Church on the campus of Newbury Park Adventist Academy. Because a majority of the congregation are employed by denominational institutions, it was presumed that the institutional character of the congregation would influence their needs and expectations for preaching. Therefore the research was designed to ascertain those needs and expectations, and to find any difference between institutional and noninstitutional members. The Case for a Congregational Analysis The study presents a case for congregational analysis. The first line of argument is based upon the belief that preaching is a human process God utilizes through the Spirit in His endeavor to reconcile man to relationship with Himself. The categories of systematic theology reveal that God consistently shapes His ministry to the specific needs and capabilities of the human race. If preaching is to contribute to God's redemptive ministry, it must take the needs of its listeners seriously. A second line of argument suggests that Scriptural models provide a precedent that preachers must contextualize the historic kerygma in terms that are relevant to the modern hearer. A third line demonstrates the consensus from homileticians that dialogical preaching and communication theory mandate greater people-centeredness. Principles and Methods of Congregational Analysis A review of homiletical literature brought to light methods that preachers can utilize in order to become aware of the perspectives and felt needs the congregation brings to the rpeaching event. The Project in the Newbury Park Church Methods of congregational analysis were applied in the Newbury Park Church. The information from the questionnaires, interviews, and sermon groups was compiled and used to inform the preparation of eight sermons from Luke which were presented during December 1985 to January 1986. Feedback was then elicited from the congregation. Conclusion The central conclusion of the research was that while the felt needs and expectations for preaching are common to members of every type of congregation, the perceived need for particular issues to be addressed is felt more intensely by institutional members of the Newbury Park church.
A Study of Factors Related to the Numerical Growth of the Seventh-day Adventist Church in Iceland from 1950 to 1980
Authors:   ,   Andrews University, Thordarson Steinthor
Published: June 2023

Problem The rate of growth in the Seventh-day Adventist Church in Iceland has not been previously analyzed. This study was undertaken to discover, through historical and numerical analysis, what may have contributed to or hindered growth in the church since 1950, and to analyze the programs of the church and the patterns of growth. Method A survey of records of the Iceland Conference of Seventh-day Adventists, i.e., the church paper, executive minutes, constituency reports, membership lists, and accounts of outreach emphasis for several decades, presents a clear picture of the methods used in an attempt to achieve church growth. In addition, a survey was conducted in all the churches in the conference in an attempt to discover the self-understanding of church members concerning their role and function in the church; their involvement in and satisfaction from the church services, and their conception of the community perception of the SDA Church. Results Records show that the work of the SDA Church in Iceland has been conducted in two main stages of evangelism. The rather vigorous evangelistic program conducted during the first part of this century led to the organization of fourteen churches and companies. During the second stage the church concentrated upon Christian education. This has served the church well in biological growth, but has not been effective as means of outreach. A new SDA church has not been organized during the last thirty-two years. The membership tenure in the SDA Church in Iceland has steadily increased for several decades. Presently, almost two-thirds of the church members under sixty-six years of age are second and third generation Adventists. Conclusions It is concluded that a change in strategy in evangelism is necessary in order to improve the rate of growth in the SDA Church in Iceland. therefore a reordering of priorities is recommended in which more of the resources of the church are channelled towards more direct forms of outreach involving the training and participation of the members of the church.
Suggestive Guidelines For The Ministerial Internship Training program In The West Indonesia Union Mission Of Seventh-Day Adventists
Authors:   ,   Andrews University, Dompas Boaz
Published: June 2023

Problem The ministerial internship program is an important part of ministerial education in the West Indonesia Union Mission of Seventh-day Adventists. The absence of official guidelines for the ministerial internship training program in this area has resulted in the uncertainty of some, if not many, of the supervisors and the supervisees regarding their proper roles in the internship program. Method For the development of guidelines for ministerial internship training, data and information from the following areas have been studied: (1) The undergirding philosophy and the theological principles of supervision based upon the Bible and the relevant literature on field education; (2) a questionnaire to validate the need for guidelines for ministerial internship program sent to the mission presidents of the West Indonesia Union Mission of Seventh-day Adventists; (3) interviews and correspondence with the leaders of the Seventh-day Adventist church in North America, the Far Eastern Division of the General Conference of Seventh-day Adventists, and the West Indonesia Union Mission of Seventh-day Adventists. Recommendations The project suggests the need for well defined criteria of ministerial internship training program and the need for the understanding by the entire church organization including the school, the local mission, the supervisor, and the local parish of the ministerial internship program as a cooperative undertaking.
The Training Of Lay Persons For Careproviding Ministries Among Hispanics
Authors:   ,   Andrews University, Castanon Eliezer
Published: June 2023

This study attempted to develop a program that would provide Hispanic laypersons with skills and techniques for careproviding. Laypersons should be able to identify their gifts and particular ministries and use behavioral methods to minister to the members of the church and their respective community. Laypersons have been well-trained to do traditional evangelism, but no one has developed a program to train Hispanic laypersons in the careproviding ministry. Many pastors have multichurch districts, so their time to counsel and care for the flock is limited. In addition, pastors are not usually accessible. Laypersons, who live in the immediate area, once they are trained, could be a significant help to the pastor and to those who need someone to minister to them.
Designing And Implementing A Curriculum For Developing The Prayer Life Of The Piedmont Park Church Congregation
Authors:   ,   Andrews University, Tochterman Frank
Published: June 2023

Problem While prayer is vital to every aspect of the Christian life, both laity and clergy fail in its practice. This may be due, in part, to a lack of understanding its importance, potential, and meaning. A study of the nature of prayer reveals that its primary intent is communion with God, not merely the means of registering requests. The task of this project was to lead the members of the Piedmont Park Church into developing stronger habits of personal prayer. To achieve this objective, a curriculum was designed and implemented to communicate four aspects of prayer: importance, meaning, potential, and practice. An attempt was made to measure change resulting from the study. Method A seven-part prayer curriculum, comprised of the following, was applied during a six—month period: Proclamation of the Word, Meditation on Prayer, Prayer Partners, Mid-Week Service, Parish Week of Prayer, the ABC School of Prayer Video Presentation, and Systematic Prayer for the Membership. Both the Piedmont congregation and a comparison group (who did not receive the curriculum) were surveyed before and after the application of the curriculum. The purpose of this was to ascertain change, if any, within each group. Results The response to the surveys revealed an ironic twist. While the Piedmont congregation indicated an increase in understanding the importance, potential, and meaning of prayer, it indicated decline in actual practice. Conversely, the comparison group who did not receive the curriculum indicated a decline in understanding prayer but an increase in practice. Conclusions Weaknesses of the project were the length of the prayer curriculum and lack of "hands-on" involvement by the majority of the members. A maximum of ten or twelve weeks is recommended for a future prayer curriculum, along with definite steps to involving a majority of the congregation in prayer experiences.
Church Discipline As Restoration: Guidelines For Its Implementation In The Seventh-Day Adventist Churches In The Caribbean Union
Authors:   ,   Andrews University, King George
Published: June 2023

Problem Church discipline is an important function of the church. In the Caribbean Union of Seventh-day Adventists there is the need to administer discipline in such a way that the restoration of the erring member is ensured. This is expressed by the presidents and some ministers of the conferences there. It was the purpose of this study to develop some guidelines that will facilitate the restoration process. It is hoped that this study will assist in the development of an understanding of discipline as restoration and the providing of guidelines for its implementation, especially in the Caribbean Union. Method A comprehensive study was made of discipline in the New Testament--identifying incidents and admonitions regarding church disciplinary actions. The information obtained was used to develop the concept of discipline as restoration. This is a view of the church as a teaching, caring, and reforming community. A letter was sent to the presidents of the five conferences of the Caribbean Union, to assist in determining the pastoral attitudes toward discipline. For purposes of illustration, a sampling of three case studies was taken from the Caribbean Union. The information was obtained by interviewing three pastors. They were asked to give an example of church discipline in which they were involved, a rationale for their decision, and an idea of their concept of church discipline then and now. The case studies were evaluated by the New Testament teaching on church discipline. The aim was to draw up some guidelines that will facilitate the restoration of disciplined members. Conclusion An approach to "church discipline as restoration" can benefit the Seventh-day Adventist churches in the Caribbean Union because it emphasizes dealing with the member in a loving and caring way in order to facilitate his repentance. It is people-oriented. Therefore, when the church and the pastor see their mission as a caring community, the emphasis in church discipline will be the restoration of the member.
A Study Of The Causes Of Membership Dropout Among Selected Churches In The East Jamaica Conference Of Seventh-Day Adventists
Authors:   ,   Andrews University, Russell Horace
Published: June 2023

This project attempts to investigate the causes of membership dropout among selected churches in the East Jamaica Conference of SDA. Several New Testament examples are explored in an effort to determine the church's responsibility in behalf of the missing member. The role and function of the church as a loving, caring community in reclaiming and restoring dropouts is discussed. Paul's teachings in 1 Corinthians, Romans, and Ephesians concerning the church as a body and Christ the head also are examined. A review of literature gives an overview of the dropout problem from the perspective of various Christian churches in an effort to find possible suggestions for reducing the dropout rate. The descriptive method used in the study is based upon 176 responses to a questionnaire and personal interviews with persons who have dropped out of the church. The responses were evaluated by the Research and Statistics Department of Andrews University. The respondents cited a number of reasons for dropping out of the church. The first ten factors are as follows: (1) Violated the commandment on adultery, 45.2 percent; (2) personal spiritual life declined, 42.2 percent; (3) working on Sabbath, 33.3 percent; (4) lack of support in time of crisis, 24.0 percent; (5) members too proud, 23.3 percent; (6) influenced by non-Adventist association, 22.1 percent; (7) lack of fellowship, 18.4 percent; (8) drastic financial change, 18.2 percent; (9) inadequately prepared for baptism, 17.6 percent; (10) members to inconsistent, 16.9 percent. The responses indicated that 47.9 percent are very likely to become regular active members of the church. This indicates that given the proper encouragement, care, nurturing and visitation, these individuals would return to active membership. Consequently, the findings of this study suggest that the church needs to give serious consideration to the factors responsible for membership dropout among selected churches in the East Jamaica Conference of SDA. It is anticipated that the recommended suggestions will be implemented to bring about a significant reduction in the dropout rate.
Koinonia In The New Testament With An Investigation Of The State Of Koinonia In Seven Korean Seventh-day Adventist Churches In United States
Authors:   ,   Andrews University, Shin Hyun Chul
Published: June 2023

It is the purpose of this study (1) better to understand the New Testament concept of koinonia: the Biblical and theological meanings, as well as the experience of koinonia in the life of the saints in the New Testament community; (2) to contribute to the understanding of the meaning of Biblical fellowship, communication, participation, sharing, contributions, and common life as the meanings of Biblical koinonia; (3) to discover the life style of true Christian community as it relates to divine fellowship, liturgy, and sharing on the human level within the church, the body of Christ; and (A) to point out applications relevant to contemporary Christian life of the fellowship, togetherness, involvement, unity, and Christian warmth reflected in relevant Biblical passages. The second study is a comparison of the community life in the early church in the New Testament with that of several immigrant Korean churches in the United States. Its first objective is to investigate the atmosphere of fellowship in these Korean churches. The resulting information should be of help to those who counsel, preach to, and interact with the members of the Korean churches in the United States. Its second objective is to further the church leadership's understanding of the dynamics of church community and the best possible ways to improve it. If pastors, lay leaders, and church members all engage in planning, encouraging, and promoting Christian koinonia, then this study will be able to provide them with the insight and the techniques that will enable them to carry out the work of preparing a truly unified church for the second coming of Jesus.
A Needs Assessment Of A Continuing Education Program For Korean Pastors In The North American Division Of Seventh-day Adventists
Authors:   ,   Andrews University, Shin Kei Hoon
Published: June 2023

Problem Continuing education for NAD Korean SDA pastors' ministry has been conducted since 1981. To make this continuing education program relevant a needs assessment was necessary. This study attempted to assess the specific needs of Korean pastors in knowledge and professional skills. Method All Korean SDA pastors in the NAD were included. Data were gathered through a written questionnaire. A graphic comparison method and other complementary instruments were adopted in terms of a discrepancy model. Results Among ten general subject-matter areas, the results from the survey show the area of biblical knowledge as most in need of continuing education. This is followed by evangelism/church growth and biblical/- historical/systematic theology. Though biblical backgrounds is strongly discrepancy-oriented, preaching/- worship/ceremonies seems to rank more highly in needs. SDA heritage and pastoral care place adequately in the middle range. Church administration placed higher than church history/comparative religion and biblical languages. An interpretation of discrepancy-oriented or importance-oriented must be accounted for. The pastors assigned as their highest priority of need to their spouses and children—except for personal spiritual growth and professional development. Pastors with graduate education gave evidence of greater doctrinal-biblical knowledge and a small advantage in ministerial skills. The top five motivations for continuing education were: (1) increased knowledge and skills for ministry, (2) meeting self-expectation, (3) spiritual refreshing, (4) fellowship and mutual support, and (5) meeting church members' expectation. The top four deterrents were: (1) contentment with previous education, (2) a lack of encouragement and financial support from conference officers, (3) a lack of time, (4) inconvenient schedule. Respondents show a preference for 4- to 7-day seminars or workshops at the SDA Theological Seminary in Michigan during September or June. Most preferred the present program with some changes and improvement. Almost 90 percent evaluate the present program as effective. Conclusions and Recommendations Nineteen specific recommendations were drawn from the conclusions. These fell into six categories: (1) the need of continuing education, (2) the subject- matter for continuing education, (3) learning situations, (4) changes and improvement, (5) pastors with and without graduate education, and (6) developing support systems for pastors. Eight recommendations were presented for further study.
Child Discipline : A Workshop For Christian Parents
Authors:   ,   Andrews University, Logan Lloyd
Published: June 2023

Purpose of the Project It is the purpose of this project to prepare and field-test for pastoral use a series of six workshop presentations for parents on child training and discipline. Description of the Project The project consists of two papers: A theological position paper and a professional-application paper. In the theological position paper a study was made of selected ways and methods God used to discipline and correct the waywardness of the human family. Biblical principles of child training advocated by leading evangelical scholars and writers are compared with Scripture and the writings of Ellen G. White and theologically evaluated. The professional-application paper describes the development of the workshop on child discipline. It includes actual manuscripts of the workshop lectures. Each lecture is preceded by an outline and a statement of objectives. Reconmendations and observations growing out of the project are also included. :The workshop was field tested in both the Niles, Michigan, and South Bend, Indiana, Seventh-day Adventist Churches. An effort was made to involve the volunteer participants in the active use of the principles being taught through activities and take-home assignments. A pre-test and a post-test evaluation of participants' understanding of disciplinary methods was conducted.
The Introduction Of Management By Objectives Into the Buchanan, Michigan, Seventh-day Adventist Church
Authors:   ,   Andrews University, Johnston Oliver
Published: June 2023

The most urgent concern of the twentieth-century church is building an effective working team composed of pastor and laymen (or lay people) that will be responsive to the commission of carrying the gospel to the world. Methods must be discovered so that intentional pastors can help bring intentional congregations into being. In the context of management by objectives, self-assessment and goal setting may be the means by which intentional congregations are created. If this is true, the pastor needs to know how to apply the concept of management by objectives to his ministry. To develop guidelines for the introduction of a system of management by objectives into the local church, models have been studied and literature surveyed in the areas of (1 ) theology of the church as an institution in need of management, (2 ) management by objectives in modern profit organizations, (3) management by objectives in non-profit organizations. In addition, surveys were conducted among members of one congregation to discover the degree of change that could be attributed to the introduction into the church of management by objectives. The study of Scripture reveals that the church is an institution in need of organization and management. Literature in the management field was found to be rich in sound theoretical principles that can be adapted to effective management of the church. The management-by-objectives plan introduced into the Buchanan, Michigan, Seventh-day Adventist church sought to implement these principles arid ideals into the everyday life of the church members. The interest and participation of the congregation suggest that the same program could be used with some modification in other congregations. Some areas should be expanded and others shortened or adjusted to include additional strategies. An oral and written survey conducted among the members of the congregation showed generally favorable responses to the facilitative style of church management which is a broad management-by-objectives concept. Church growth, increased attendance, and improved stewardship each attest to the favor with which the project was accepted by the congregation. While a new pastor naturally effects some changes in a congregation, the introduction of a new well-developed plan of management into the church effects greater and more long-range changes. The employment of modified objectives and goals each year using the principles of management by objectives will help the congregation become a better witness to the community in which it lives, and in the process the congregation and pastor become united by their common goals. There was an enthusiastic response when sixty members of the Buchanan congregation met to evaluate the 1978 program and set their goals for 1979. In this meeting laymen led in the goal-setting process and the pastor served as secretary.