bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Vitamin E and mineral fortification in fresh‐cut apples (Fuji) using vacuum impregnation
Authors: Zhao Yanyun , Park Su‐il , Leonard Scott W. , Traber M.G.
Published: January 2007

Purpose

This study aims to evaluate the use of vacuum impregnation (VI) for developing vitamin E fortified fresh‐cut apples (Fuji).

Design/methodology/approach

A 20 per cent high fructose corn syrup (HFCS) or edible coating materials of 1 per cent hydroxypropyl methylcellulose (HPMC) and 1 per cent calcium caseinate (CC) were used to make VI solutions, and 0.4 per cent α‐tocopherol acetate, 7.5 per cent gluconal cal\tf="Pi3" \char"31 (GC) and 0.04 per cent zinc lactate (ZL) were incorporated into the VI solutions. Vitamin E content, color, and selected physicochemical properties of fortified fresh‐cut apples were analyzed.

Findings

Results showed that VI treatment with 20 per cent HFCS solution containing 0.4 per cent α‐tocopherol acetate increased vitamin E content up to 21.8 mg in 100 g of fresh‐cut apples, while 12.0 mg and 20.2 mg vitamin E were achieved when using 1 per cent HPMC or 1 per cent CC as VI solutions, respectively. Calcium and zinc content were also increased to 146.6 mg and 1.7 mg in 100 g of apples, respectively, when adding 7.5 per cent GC and 0.04 per cent ZL along with the vitamin E into the VI solutions. Use of HFCS, HPMC and CC as VI solutions resulted in different effects on the physiochemical properties of fresh‐cut apples. While HFCS is promising for vitamin E fortification and retention of natural apple color, HPMC and CC can be used to achieve similar vitamin E fortification with the least impact on the soluble solids and moisture contents of apples.

Originality/value

The study demonstrates that there is great potential for developing high quality, vitamin E and minerals fortified fresh‐cut apples using vacuum impregnation technology, thus further enhancing the health benefit of the apples.
Phytonutrients: experimental effects on gastric lesions in rats exposed to acute repetitive restraint stress
Authors: Azlina Mohd Fahami Nur , Mohd Ismail Nafeeza , Bin Abdul Kadir Khalid
Published: January 2007

Purpose

This study seeks to investigate the effect of palm‐based phytonutrient complex (PPC) on stress‐induced gastric lesions and accompanying changes in the gastric acidity and gastrin level.

Design/methodology/approach

A total of 40 rats were divided between a control group that was given a vitamin E deficient diet and a treatment group that was given a vitamin deficient diet with oral supplementation of PPC at 60 mg/kg body weight for 28 days. At the end of the treatment period half of the number of rats were subjected to restraint‐stress for two hours for four consecutive days. Following stress exposure, blood was taken for measurement of gastrin level, after which all the rats were disposed of. The gastric acid was collected for measurement of acid concentration, while the stomachs were opened along the greater curvature and examined for lesions.

Findings

Rats exposed to stress developed hemorrhagic gastric lesions. PPC supplemented rats had fewer gastric lesions compared with their respective control group. Stress without supplementation with PPC also caused a reduction in the gastric acid concentration and the serum gastrin levels. Compared with their corresponding controls, the pre‐ and post‐values of gastric acid and serum gastrin concentration in rats with PPC supplementation remained comparable.

Originality/value

Stress is an identified risk factor for the development of gastric lesions. The current study showed that PPC was able to reduce the development of gastric lesions induced by stress and blocks the stress‐induced changes in the gastric acid concentration and gastrin level. It is possible that part of the protective effect of PPC in stress is through maintenance of the normal gastrin level, which results in the maintenance of gastrin trophic action in the gastric mucosa.
Oil extraction from rice industrial waste and its effect on physico‐chemical characteristics of cookies
Authors: Sharif Kamran , Sadiq Butt Masood , Huma Nuzhat
Published: January 2007

Purpose

Aims to extract Rice bran oil (RBO) from Pakistani cultivar Basmati‐385 for efficient use of local rice industrial waste, i.e. rice bran to reduce the import of edible oil and to evaluate the suitability of RBO in baked products by making cookies.

Design/methodology/approach

RBO was extracted from stabilized rice bran by solvent extraction. The RBO obtained was analyzed for different quality parameters and further applied into baked products such as cookies at various levels, i.e. 0, 25, 50, 75 and 100 per cent, by gradually replacing normal shortening to check its suitability as a shortening and its effectiveness in extending the shelf life of product due to its natural antioxidants. Five treatments of RBO and normal shortening (NS) (T1 = 100 per cent NS + 0 per cent RBO, T2 = 75 per cent NS + 25 per cent RBO, T3 = 50 per cent NS + 50 per cent RBO, T4 = 25 per cent NS + 75 per cent RBO and T5 = 0 per cent NS + 100 per cent RBO) were used to prepare cookies and 45 days, storage study was conducted.

Findings

Various treatments and storage have a highly significant effect on moisture, fat and NFE content of cookies. Protein content of cookies remained unaffected by changing treatments. During 45 days, storage moisture, protein, fat and NFE content decreased significantly. Physical studies revealed increase in width and spread factor of cookies, while thickness was reduced, gradually with the proportionate increase of RBO. There was significant decrease in quality score of cookies for color, taste, flavor, crispness, texture and overall acceptability. Treatment T3 (50 per cent NS + 50 per cent RBO) got the highest score for all the sensory attributes.

Practical implications

The present study suggests that T3 (50 per cent NS + 50 per cent RBO) can produce superior quality cookies to prove the effectiveness of RBO as bakery shortening.

Originality/value

Although Pakistan is an agricultural country, unfortunately 71 per cent of the country's edible oil requirements are met through the import of edible oil. In the present project the possibility of RBO extraction from local variety was evaluated. In this way, if fully explored, RBO can become the fourth indigenous source of edible oil.
Nutritional profile of Indian rural preschoolers
Authors: Khetarpaul Manu , Khetarpaul N.
Published: January 2007

Purpose

This study aims to report on the nutritional profile of preschool children of 4 to 5 years.

Design/methodology/approach

The data on raw food intake of the randomly selected subjects were collected by 24hr recall method for three consecutive days and the mean was taken. Daily intake of various nutrients by each subject was calculated using MSU Nutriguide and this was further compared with RDA recommended by ICMR to assess the adequacy of their diets.

Findings

The analysis revealed that the intake of protein, fat, calcium, thiamine, folic acid and vitamin B12 was more than or equal to Recommended Dietary Allowances (RDAs) as recommended by the Indian Council of Medical Research, while the intake of energy, iron, vitamin C, niacin and riboflavin was less than their respective RDAs. The intake of β‐carotene was marginally adequate. Boys consumed significantly more amount of energy and folic acid than girls.

Research limitations/implications

A large number of samples could not be taken owing to practical difficulties.

Originality/value

The study is original and innovative. The findings are useful for the policy makers and nutritionists who have to implement supplementary feeding programmes.
Diabetes risk factors and chromium intake in moderately obese subjects with type 2 diabetes mellitus
Authors: Juturu Vijaya , Daly Anne , Geohas Jeff , Finch Manley , Komorowski James R.
Published: January 2007

Purpose

Many foods naturally contain dietary Cr, but lost during processing and cooking. Type 2 diabetes mellitus (T2DM) has been associated with poor glycemic control and low Cr status. The objectives of the current study were to evaluate the dietary Cr intake and its relationship with diabetes risk factors in moderately obese subjects with T2DM.

Design/methodology/approach

Thirty‐six subjects (age: 26–65 years) were recruited through local advertisements. Subjects were taking stable doses of oral antidiabetic medication(s) excluding concomitant insulin. Subjects had HbA1c ≥7 per cent, persistent impaired glucose control (2 hour glucose >200 mg dL−1) and at least a one‐year history of T2DM. Demographic characteristics, blood pressure, body mass index (BMI), family and medical history were recorded. Three‐day dietary intakes were collected and evaluated for Cr and nutrient content using Nutritionist V software. Plasma glucose, circulating insulin and lipid profile were analyzed. Homeostatic model assessment insulin resistance (IR), beta cell function (BCF) and derived ratios were calculated. Morning void urinary chromium levels were also measured.

Findings

It was observed that mean dietary Cr intake of adults (30 mcg) was below the suggested recommended daily intake (RDI) of 120 mcg day−1. These estimates correspond to approximately 16.4 μg Cr per 1000 Kcals. A significant correlation was observed between dietary Cr and fasting insulin (p<0.05), total‐C (p<0.05), LDL‐C (p<0.01), triglycerides (p<0.05), BCF (p<0.05), TG/HDL‐C ratio (p<0.01), HOMA BCF (p<0.05) and with atherogenic index in plasma (p<0.05).

Originality/value

In this study, the consumption of chromium is less than the RDI. Overall the results suggest that the US diets are inadequate in the essential metal chromium. Further studies are required to explore the relationship of Cr absorption with dietary Cr intake and risk factors in T2DM.
Effects of calcium supplementation on iron bioavailability from spirulina
Authors: Peng Loh Su , Omar Hishamuddin , Salam Abdullahl Abdul , Ismail Maznah
Published: January 2007

Purpose

The purpose of this study is to determine the effect of calcium supplementation on the iron bioavailability from spirulina (SP) and ferrous sulphate (FE) as reference in iron deficient rats.

Design/methodology/approach

Sixty‐four weanling male Sprague‐Dawley rats were first depleted of iron by giving low iron diet for a period of 28 days. The anaemic rats were repleted with iron sources from SP, spirulina+CaCO3 (SPC), FE, FeSO4+CaCO3 (FEC), normal diet (ND), normal diet+CaCO3 (NDC) for 21 days. Iron level of FE supplementation was twice the level of that in SP supplementation. Haematological variables were measured on the last day of preexperimental period and at the end of the repletion period.

Findings

Paired samples t‐test at P<0.05 showed that haemoglobin (Hb) and haematocrit (Ht) was increased in all the groups. The diet with added calcium did not significantly inhibit haemoglobin repletion after 21 days in SP and FE. The haemoglobin repletion efficiency (HRE) was significantly higher in rats fed with SP compared to FE (P>0.05). The presence of calcium did not significantly reduce the HRE of these groups.

Originality/value

This paper provides information on effects of additional calcium on iron bioavailability from SP as the intake of dietary supplementation is increasing worldwide.
Effect of process time on the tribological properties of boronized GGG‐80 ductile cast iron
Authors: Sen Ugur , Sen Saduman , Yilmaz Fevzi
Published: January 2007

Purpose

Wear behavior of boronized GGG‐80 ductile cast iron were studied against WC‐Co ball for determining the effect of boronizing time and temperature.

Design/methodology/approach

Ball on disk arrangement was used for determination of tribological properties of boronized ductile cast iron depending on process time and temperature. Boronizing treatment was performed on GGG‐80 ductile cast iron using salt bath immersion boronizing technique at 850 and 950°C for 2‐8 h. Friction and wear tests were carried out at dry test conditions under 2, 5 and 10 N loads with 2.5 m/min sliding speed.

Findings

The result showed that the friction coefficient values ranged from 0.12 to 0.2 depending on the process parameters. The higher the treatment temperature and the longer the treatment time, the thicker the boride layer, the more the FeB phase and the higher the specific wear rate became. The specific wear rate of boronized ductile cast irons depending on process time, temperature and applied load against WC‐Co ball ranged from 1.25 × 10−5 to 42.45 × 10−5 mm3/Nm. Values of coefficient of boronized ductile cast irons increases with increase in load in the wear test and increase in boronizing time and temperature.

Research limitations/implications

The study deals with only ductile cast irons and their tribological properties.

Practical implications

The results are very useful for practical applications and academic study. There is a little number of studies on the boronizing of cast irons. This study will be helpful for the researcher studied on boronizing of cast irons.

Originality/value

The properties of the tribological properties of ductile cast irons have not explained detail in the earlier study. There are new results in this study on the tribological properties of boronized ductile cast irons. Because of this, the paper is original.
Online condition monitoring of engine oil
Authors: Kumar Saurabh , Mukherjee P.S. , Mishra N.M.
Published: January 2007

Purpose

Engine oil degrades in quality during its use and after certain period of time the oil needs to be changed depending upon its condition. The purpose of this paper is to design and develop an online condition monitoring device for engine oil.

Design/methodology/approach

Based on the previous works in this line and some testing of used oils in the laboratory, the correlation of change in colour with other properties were identified. An optical colour sensor was then designed and developed which can transform the darkness of oil colour into electrical resistance. A series of tests were undertaken to calibrate the system for its correctness.

Findings

This type of sensor provides the information about the condition of the oil and also can inform about the probable time for drain‐off of the oil.

Practical implications

Engine oil changes are normally done by schedules which are highly conservative and cost the user as the oil is changed when it could be still used for some time. Use of an online sensor will minimize the cost on lubricants to some extent.

Originality/value

The device is of great value to the users of IC engines as it not only reduces the cost on lubricants but also informs the user about the present condition of the oil.
The gendered nature of apprenticeship
Authors: Fuller Alison , Beck Vanessa , Unwin Lorna
Published: January 2007

Purpose

Gender segregation has been a persistent feature of apprenticeship programmes in countries around the world. In the UK, the Modern Apprenticeship was launched ten years ago as the government's flagship initiative for training new entrants in a range of occupational sectors. One of its priorities was to increase male and female participation in “non‐traditional” occupations, that is, those normally practised by just one sex. However, recent figures show that the programme has failed to achieve its aim and this has prompted an investigation by the Equal Opportunities Commission. This paper aims to report the research as part of this investigation.

Design/methodology/approach

This paper presents quantitative and qualitative evidence on the attitudes of young people (aged 14 and 15) and employers to non‐traditional occupational choices. It also explores the factors affecting the decisions of young people to train in a non‐traditional occupation and the recruitment decisions of employers from “traditional sectors”, such as engineering, the construction trades and child care.

Findings

The research provides evidence of the deeply entrenched nature of occupational stereotypes and the psychological and social barriers that have to be overcome if a more evenly balanced workforce is to be created. It also reveals that none of the institutions and organisations which act as gatekeepers between young people and employers is, as yet, taking responsibility for challenging their perceptions and decision‐making processes.

Originality/value

The paper concludes by highlighting the implications of the research findings to stakeholders and suggesting a holistic approach to tackling gender segregation.
The National Directorate of Employment's Open Apprenticeship Scheme in Nigeria
Authors: Evawoma‐Enuku Usiwoma , Mgbor Mike
Published: January 2007

Purpose

The paper aims to review the National Open Apprenticeship Scheme and how it has fulfilled its mandate of promoting skill acquisition and youth employment in Nigeria, in the 17 years since the inception of the National Directorate of Employment (NDE).

Design/methodology/approach

Site visits to trainers’ workshops were carried out to observe the programme in practice and examine documents and annual report(s) made available at the NDE Office in Benin City, Edo State, Nigeria.

Findings

The paper finds that master craftsmen and women operate both the traditional apprenticeship system and the NDE scheme using the same training methods. It reveals that there are no Saturday Theory classes due to lack of funds. It also finds that apprentices have low educational background, no evaluation and certification at the end of training; they get an equivalent of about €3 a month and are paid in arrears of three to six months. It is found that there is a shortage of tools and drop‐out rate is high.

Research limitations/implications

The latest annual report available was for year 2000, which may not be very current. The paper focuses on only one out of 36 states, although the programme is centrally controlled from Abuja, Nigeria's capital and may have similar features.

Practical implications

The paper provides insight for stake‐holders involved in providing vocational skills geared towards solving unemployment problems in Nigeria.

Originality/value

There is a dearth of literature in the area of vocational skills in Nigeria. This paper tries to contribute to the body of knowledge in this area, especially after 17 years of NDE existence.
Exploring the notion of retention in apprenticeship
Authors: Harris Roger , Simons Michele
Published: January 2007

Purpose

Proposes to provide a description of the factors that underlie retention and to develop a model of the process of retention.

Design/methodology/approach

A qualitative study was conducted in a selected number of occupational areas. Interviews were conducted with apprentices and trainees employed under a contract of training; apprentices/trainees who had recently completed their contract of training; employers/workplace supervisors and teachers/trainers.

Findings

Provides information about a range of factors and how they combined to shape the process of retention. Recognises that some of the identified factors are more amenable to interventions to enhance retention than others.

Research limitations/implications

The study did not attempt to cover all occupations in which apprentices are employed, or to provide any ranking of importance of factors in relation to the retention process. The study encourages a holistic understanding of the process of retention and emphasises the dynamic nature of this process over the period of a contract of training.

Practical implications

A useful source of information for those concerned with designing interventions that target factors that are most amenable to promoting enhanced retention in apprenticeships.

Originality/value

This paper addresses the often neglected process of retention and offers some guidance in the design of interventions to promote retention in apprenticeships.
Problem‐based learning in tertiary education: teaching old “dogs” new tricks?
Authors: Yeo Roland K.
Published: January 2007

Purpose

The paper sets out to explore the challenges of problem‐based learning (PBL) in tertiary education and to propose a framework with implications for practice and learning.

Design/methodology/approach

A total of 18 tertiary students divided into three groups participated in the focus group discussions. A quantitative instrument was used as triangulation to gather data on 15 statements through Likert scale ratings. In addition, semi‐structured interviews were conducted with eight tertiary PBL facilitators.

Findings

Quotes from the participants are used to support the key themes and issues that have emerged from the data. Quantitative data in the form of numerical figures and bar charts are used to support certain important issues.

Research limitations/implications

The main limitation is that this study was carried out within a single context – the Temasek Engineering School. The data collected might be restricted to PBL experiences in the engineering field. However, this study provides implications for further research, including comparative studies.

Practical implications

The successful development of PBL will depend on re‐establishing the strategic direction of PBL within a certain context, evaluating the social and learning structures associated with power distribution, and providing non‐routine rigorous educational systems to enhance learning.

Originality/value

The value is the balanced approach adopted in this study with outcomes that are of concern to a variety of people, including students, teachers and administrators. The PBL framework is constructed based on both educational and organisational learning theories.
Australian small business participation in training activities
Authors: Webster Beverley , Walker Elizabeth , Brown Alan
Published: January 2007

Purpose

This purpose of this paper is to investigate the use of on‐line training by small businesses in Australia. It explores the relationship between the owner's acceptance and use of the internet, and their current participation in training opportunities.

Design/methodology/approach

A sample of small businesses which had participated in an Australian government scheme aimed at improving the participation of this business sector in training, were surveyed using a mailed questionnaire. The scheme provided training vouchers to businesses to fund training activities for the owner managers.

Findings

Findings suggest that business characteristics can affect the participation in training, with those having plans more likely to engage in training. The use of the internet for training has improved accessibility for small businesses and offers some potential as a delivery medium, however, the findings also highlight the lack of e‐literacy of many small business owners.

Research limitations/implications

Given the increasing importance of small business in Australia, it is necessary to continuously promote and encourage the role of training and skills development for owners and their employees. This study highlights a relationship between growth and the need for training, however, acknowledges that many small business owners are reluctant to participate in skill development and training.

Originality/value

This paper highlights the need for small business owners and their staff to recognise their training needs, and to have a broader understanding of the importance of their training and development needs.
The determinants of training in Australian manufacturing SMEs
Authors: Jones Janice T.
Published: January 2007

Purpose

The purpose of this article is to examine the factors influencing the provision of increased training in Australian manufacturing small and medium‐sized enterprises (SMEs) that have embarked upon different growth development pathways.

Design/methodology/approach

The longitudinal panel data employed in this research are drawn from the business longitudinal survey conducted by the Australian Bureau of Statistics over the four financial years 1994‐1995 to 1997‐1998.

Findings

The results indicate that organisational change, in the form of major change in production technology and/or new or substantially improved product or process technology, and the introduction of business improvement programmes, are influential, and relatively consistent drivers of increased training in SMEs following each of the growth development pathways, and, over time. The findings also suggest that innovation distinguishes high growth SMEs from their lower growth counterparts.

Research limitations/implications

This investigation used a single item measure of training. Future research could utilise multi‐dimensional measures of training.

Practical implications

The findings suggest that the reasons SMEs provide training depend closely on the particular business needs of relevance to the enterprise, and as such, may be of interest to policy‐makers. To date, there has been a paucity of research examining the demand side of SME training.

Originality/value

The study focuses exclusively on SMEs that have embarked upon different growth development pathways, and adopts a longitudinal research design, enabling the study of the determinants of training over time, in SMEs exhibiting different levels of business growth.
Managing human resource capabilities for sustainable competitive advantage
Authors: Khandekar Aradhana , Sharma Anuradha
Published: January 2007

Purpose

The purpose of this article is to examine the role of human resource capability (HRC) in organisational performance and sustainable competitive advantage (SCA) in Indian global organisations.

Design/methodology/approach

To carry out the present study, an empirical research on a random sample of 300 line or human resource managers from nine Indian and foreign global organisations, from New Delhi (the National capital region of India) is carried out. The principal research method employed included the sample and measurements tools, and data analysis concerning the human resource capabilities for organisational performance and sustainable competitive advantage by using SPSS package 12.

Findings

The findings of the study reveal that human resource capabilities are positively correlated to organisational performance. Furthermore, human resource capability was found to be a significant predictor of sustainable competitive advantage.

Research limitations/implications

More samples from different Indian companies, especially middle and small scale industries, can enrich the current study.

Practical implications

This study contributes to the existing theory about the strategic importance of human capital for organisational performance and sustainable competitive advantage from resource‐based view of the firm in the Indian context.

Originality/value

The study will contribute to the understanding of Indian human resource management (HRM) as an imperative for strategic HRM and international human resource management. Business organisations will get an insight into the Indian business scenario and can chalk out their strategic policies and human resource planning with this perspective.
Training programmes for stress management in small businesses
Authors: Treven Sonja , Potocan Vojko
Published: January 2007

Purpose

The purpose of this paper is to present: the problem of stress employees might encounter; the individual inclination to stress; the individual methods for reducing stress; and the authors' model of training for stress prevention.

Design/methodology/approach

The paper uses both descriptive and analytical approaches to research and dissemination. Within the descriptive approach various methods are applied, including compilation, descriptive and comparative techniques; the analytical approach involves inductive and deductive methods.

Findings

It emerges that individuals vary considerably in their ability to manage stress. Self‐perception, locus of control, type A or B behavioural patterns and flexibility or rigidity, all appear to influence stress management abilities.

Practical implications

Some organisations might choose to assist individuals to manage stress by providing relevant training programmemes.

Originality/value

The paper develops a model of training for stress prevention. This model could be customised to the specific needs of small, medium and large organisations.
Embedding new entrepreneurship programmes in UK higher education institutions
Authors: Smith A.J. , Collins L.A. , Hannon P.D.
Published: January 2007

Purpose

The purpose of this paper is to develop the understanding of the challenges and considerations of how new and innovative entrepreneurship education programmes may be inculcated into UK higher education institutions (HEIs).

Design/methodology/approach

The paper employs an action research approach to provide insights into entrepreneurship education andragogy in the first instance and in the second instance evaluate the success of such a programme then discuss the challenges of embedding it within universities.

Findings

The paper provides substantial evidence for the effectiveness of innovative programmes and concludes that it would be difficult to embed such a programme within HEIs in the UK due to: resource limitations; lack of training in synergistic methods; keeping the freshness alive; finding suitable entrepreneurs to take part in the programme; finding the right space in academic timetable and curriculum.

Research limitations/implications

In this paper the evidence for the success of the programme comes from one cohort of students who were followed for a 12‐month period and the assessment of suitability for embedding in universities is based on this one experience.

Practical implications

The paper shows issues about the structural problems of embedding entrepreneurship programmes that employ new pedagogic methodology seem significant. The question of whether or not universities should make the effort to try to embed new learning and teaching methods is broached and the conclusion is that it is unlikely that any such programmes could be adopted in any substantial way.

Originality/value

The paper has developed a tripartite approach to delivering entrepreneurship education, which involves new synergistic learning techniques. The paper broadens the discussion about the challenges of bring such programmes into UK HEIs.
An inter‐industry comparison of VET in Australian SMEs
Authors: Jones Janice
Published: January 2007

Purpose

The purpose of this paper is to compare and contrast the extent and nature of Vocational Education and Training (VET) vis‐à‐vis other forms of training in three size categories of small‐to‐medium‐sized enterprises (SMEs) from two industry sectors.

Design/methodology/approach

The longitudinal panel data employed in this paper are drawn from the Business Longitudinal Survey (BLS) conducted by the Australian Bureau of Statistics (ABS) over the four financial years 1994‐1995 to 1997‐1998.

Findings

The results indicate that less than half of the enterprises in the three‐size categories provide apprenticeship training and traineeships – and in the case of micro‐ and small business, VET in any other field for that matter ‐ or used any of the widely recognised providers of accredited VET. While there is a positive association between enterprise size and the implementation of VET, nonetheless, the results demonstrate that small business investment in structured VET is minimal. The results also show that significant size‐related and industry differences exist in training provision, methods, fields and providers in small business, with substantive differences occurring between small and medium‐sized firms.

Research limitations/implications

This paper relied upon a secondary data source, and is limited by the VET variables available in the BLS.

Practical implications

The findings in the paper indicate that, at the micro‐end of firm size, only the minority of firms provide training, suggesting that no matter what definition of VET is adopted, the majority of micro‐businesses do not provide training.

Originality/value

The paper focused exclusively on VET in SMEs in Australia, adding to the very few longitudinal inter‐industry studies conducted to date that have explicitly examined the nature and extent of VET relative to other forms of training in small business.
Performance of distance learning students in a small business management course
Authors: Kotey Bernice , Anderson Phil
Published: January 2007

Purpose

The purpose of the paper is to compare the performance of distance‐learning students in a Small Business Management (SBM) course with that of internal (on‐campus) students, and to examine students' demographics and information processing systems for their moderating effects on performance of each student group.

Design/methodology/approach

MANOVA were used to investigate differences between the two student groups on performance and information processing, and chi‐square tests employed for differences in demographics. Associations among the three variables were examined by Pearson correlation analyses.

Findings

The paper finds that distance‐learning students performed as well as internal students on the multiple learning objectives for the course in spite of the impediments associated with distance‐learning. Work experience and rational information processing were positively associated with performance for distance‐learning students but not internal students.

Research limitations/implications

The findings in this paper cannot be generalised due the unique characteristics of the SBM course investigated and the absence of objective data on the amount of time each student devoted to studying the course.

Practical implications

The paper shows that online interactions between the two student groups should motivate distant students to increase their performance. Internal students would gain by learning from the work experiences of distant students.

Originality/value

The paper found a positive association between age and student performance and argued that maturity is beneficial to the learning process.
Organizational learning and performance
Authors: Khandekar Aradhana , Sharma Anuradha
Published: January 2007

Purpose

The purpose of this paper is to show that the role of organizational learning is increasingly becoming crucial for organizational performance. Based on the study of three Indian global firms operating in National Capital Region of Delhi, India, this study explores the correlation of organizational learning with organizational performance in the Indian scenario.

Design/methodology/approach

The sample of the study comprised of three Indian global organizations chosen through purposive sampling technique. A total of 100 senior managers were interviewed from these firms, out of which 72 were HR and 28 were line managers. The data collected from these managers were analyzed using SPSS 12 version.

Findings

The paper finds that the organizational learning, which largely gets reflected through HRM activities, has a positive correlation with organizational performance.

Research limitations/implications

The paper shows more samples from private, public and governmental Indian organizations could have made the study more interesting and would have presented Indian scenario better.

Originality/value

This paper will be useful to MNCs/global business organizations looking for investing and expanding in India, besides contributing to the understanding of organizational learning and organizational performance in Indian firms in present day global economic context.
Tourism skills delivery: sharing tourism knowledge online
Authors: Braun Patrice , Hollick Mary
Published: January 2007

Purpose

The purpose of this paper is to share the authors' initial insights into tourism industry capacity building via flexibly delivered online skilling and knowledge sharing.

Design/methodology/approach

An online research survey approach was employed, involving a sample of 64 micro tourism operators.

Findings

The paper finds that the major benefits perceived by operators across the pilot region, were the time saving aspects demonstrated in the smart form concept. Operators were also drawn in by the best practise examples and direct links to the online resources to bring and keep them up to date with industry information and developments.

Research limitations/implications

The data presented in this paper represent initial findings of the pilot project. The project has since been completed.

Practical implications

The model used for the pilot in this paper has been adopted by the Tourism Accreditation Board of Victoria and is now being considered for national rollout across Australia. The model is a practical and replicable capacity building model for micro tourism operators anywhere.

Originality/value

The paper adopts a collaborative learning network approach to micro business capacity building and training.
Researching entrepreneurship and education
Authors: Matlay Harry
Published: January 2007

Purpose

This paper is the second in a series of conceptual, contextual and empirical contributions that, individually and cumulatively, seek to analyse, develop and link two important fields of research: “entrepreneurship” and “entrepreneurship education”. Part 2 aims to provide a critical evaluation of entrepreneurship education and its impact upon graduate entrepreneurship in the UK.

Design/methodology/approach

A comprehensive literature review and a structured evaluation of current knowledge on topics related directly and indirectly to “entrepreneurship education” in the UK.

Findings

It appears that conceptual, contextual, design and delivery differences can have a considerable influence upon entrepreneurship education courses delivered in the UK. There are significant definitional as well as conceptual and contextual issues affecting the design of relevant programmes and the delivery of the chosen curriculum. Consequently, a number of actual and perceived barriers need to be overcome in order to facilitate a better understanding of stakeholder needs and learning patterns.

Research limitations/implications

The evaluation and interpretation of relevant research results represent the author's own perception and experiences, and should therefore be viewed with caution. It is suggested that the content of this paper is subject to the usual bias and singular perspective generally attributable to “viewpoint” articles.

Practical implications

The paper measures the outcomes of entrepreneurship education is still proving difficult and inconclusive. More in‐depth research is needed on current UK entrepreneurship education provision and initiatives in order to gain a better understanding of the scope and limitations of a wide range of entrepreneurship education programmes.

Originality/value

This paper provides a critical evaluation of entrepreneurship education in the UK.
The death of corporatism? Managing change in the fire service
Authors: Fitzgerald Ian
Published: January 2007

Purpose

To demonstrate how government policy on fires service reform was initially challenged by a stubbornly resistant fire service corporatism but finally dismantled following the 2003 fire service White Paper.

Design/methodology/approach

The paper is based on longitudinal case study data that includes 50 semi‐structured interviews with key fire service personnel at regional and national levels.

Findings

This paper examines the roots of corporatism at national and local levels and demonstrates how the Fire Brigades Union (FBU) had significant levels of influence on management decision‐making. This was strongly reflected in the key role of the FBU in the industrial relations process that enabled the union to protect “entrenched” working practices. However, at a local level longstanding corporatist partnerships began to break down as a financial crisis arose and management took a more proactive approach. Corporatist structures at a national level, though, remained and it was not until the Labour government's second term of office that these national structures were overhauled following a White Paper and legislation.

Originality/value

This paper demonstrates that whilst fire service management has consolidated its position under the Labour administration it has proved a disaster for the FBU.
360° feedback: a critical enquiry
Authors: Morgan Arthur , Cannan Kath , Cullinane Joanne
Published: January 2007

Purpose

The underpinning assumption in the adoption of 360° feedback is that it heightens an individual's self‐awareness by highlighting differences between how participants see themselves and how others see them. This statement implies that awareness motivates development and improves performance. This paper critically examines the introduction of 360° feedback in the civil service, drawing on the experiences of the Patent Office and taking account of the wider context of civil service modernisation.

Design/methodology/approach

The case study gathered data through a series of interviews and questionnaires. It sought the perceptions and experiences of management and participants in relation to the implementation process and the outcomes of the scheme.

Findings

At an organisational level the use of 360° feedback, as a performance management tool, failed to develop the self‐awareness anticipated. Neither was it found to be aligned with other development plans or the organisation's core competencies. At an individual level some participants believed that they achieved little from the process overall and this may be related to an expectation that the organisation's HRM system would be more proactive in planning development action on their behalf.

Practical implications

This research reflects the situation in one organisation. It is argued that the findings will have relevance for the wider civil service as the agenda for organisational efficiency, target setting, and performance improvement gathers momentum.

Originality/value

This paper takes a critical perspective on whether HR developments such as 360° feedback have a deep‐seated strategic rationale. It also explores the relationship between 360° feedback and the new public management.
UK public sector reform and the “performance agenda” in UK local government
Authors: Harris Lynette
Published: January 2007

Purpose

To examine how an external performance review process introduced as part of the public sector modernisation agenda in England and Wales has impacted on HR service provision and processes in local government and the extent to which it has acted as a catalyst for the development of more integrative and innovative HR practices to support organisational performance.

Design/methodology/approach

A case study analysis of the Best Value Review (BVR) process of HR services at two county and two unitary authorities generated data from multiple sources including interviews, focus groups, consultative meetings as well as internal documentation. This approach was adopted to offer perspectives from different stakeholders in the employment relationship.

Findings

There was found to be a frequent lack of synergy between organisational goals, departmental plans and the performance objectives of individuals combined with an absence of shared understandings about human resourcing priorities or commitment to the processes needed to strategically integrate HR policies.

Research limitations/implications

Whilst providing insights into the Best Value (BV) approach to public sector modernisation, a wider generalisation of the findings cannot be drawn from four case studies.

Practical implications

Line management and the HR function need to share better understandings concerning the HR practices needed to support the modernisation agenda and their respective HR responsibilities.

Originality/value

This paper reveals that the BV performance regime was not encouraging, and even limiting, a corporate approach to the HR policies and practices required to develop longer term organisational capability.
Teleworking and workplace flexibility: a study of impact on firm performance
Authors: Martínez Sánchez Angel , Pérez Pérez Manuela , de Luis Carnicer Pilar , José Vela Jiménez Maria
Published: January 2007

Purpose– The purpose of this article is to explore the relationship between teleworking adoption, workplace flexibility, and firm performance.Design/methodology/approach– Empirical survey of a representative sample of 479 small‐ and medium‐sized firms. Data gathered through interviews with company managers using a structured questionnaire. A t‐test used to analyse the mean differences of flexibility dimensions between companies, and a regression analysis used to study the impact of teleworking and other flexible workplace practices on firm performance.Findings– Firm performance is positively related to the use of teleworking, flexitime, contingent work and spatial decentralisation. Teleworking firms use more flexitime, have more employees involved in job design and planning, are more intensively managed by results, and use more variable compensation. The relationship of teleworking and external workplace flexibility is not so conclusive. Measures of external flexibility like subcontracting or contingent work are not associated with teleworking but spatial decentralisation is positively associated.Research limitations/implications– A limitation of this research is the measurement of flexibility at the firm level and the use of cross‐sectional data. To the extent that organisations may obtain functional and numerical flexibility by means of their relations to other organisations in networks, the most appropriate unit of analysis may be the network which it has implications for future longitudinal studies.Practical implications– Flexibility is a source of competitive advantage. Enhancing flexibility may be costly in the short run, but it gets easier over time. Firms become more flexible because their managers emphasise the importance of flexibility and because they practice being flexible. A self‐reinforcing process then begins. The relationships between the different forms of flexibility are important to understand the interaction between the dynamic control capacity of management and the responsiveness of the organisation.Originality/value– The article analyses the relationship between teleworking adoption and other flexibility dimensions.
Turning full circle? Changing industrial relations in the magazine industry in Britain
Authors: Gall Gregor
Published: January 2007

Purpose

The purpose of this article is to examine the processes and outcomes under which employers in the magazine industry in the UK ended the collective bargaining agreements for journalists with the National Union of Journalists (NUJ) and instituted a unilateral‐based regime in the employment relationship.

Design/methodology/approach

The research data were generated primarily via interviews with lay office holders and full‐time paid officials of the NUJ.

Findings

The journalists' union maintained a presence despite employer hostility and has been able to use this as a basis to regain collective bargaining agreements. Nonetheless, the relative weakness of the NUJ has meant that it has been unable to date to force the magazine employers into conducting genuine collective bargaining. This represents a case of impeded but not dissipated “union renewal”, suggesting the union renewal could be termed as being of a “stunted” nature.

Research limitations/implications

The findings of the research should be taken as being preliminary given that the NUJ has only recently regained union recognition and begun conducting collective bargaining again. A longer timescale will allow more definitive judgements to be made.

Practical implications

The paper indicates the significant challenges that trade unions face to reassert themselves in the workplace in the face of employer ambivalence and hostility despite regaining formal union recognition rights.

Originality/value

This paper provides empirical evidence of how trade unions are progressing after regaining union recognition.