bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025_split huggingface dataset:
Benchmarking learning and teaching: developing a method
Authors: Henderson‐Smart Cheryl , Winning Tracey , Gerzina Tania , King Shalinie , Hyde Sarah 
Published: July 2006

PurposeTo develop a method for benchmarking teaching and learning in response to an institutional need to validate a new program in Dentistry at the University of Sydney, Australia.Design/methodology/approachAfter a collaborative partner, University of Adelaide, was identified, the areas of teaching and learning to be benchmarked, PBL approach and assessment, were established. A list of quality indicators for these aspects of teaching and learning were first developed conceptually and then validated by the literature. Then, using a quality enhancement framework, levels of achievement for each indicator were developed.FindingsThe findings are represented as a set of tables. These were mutually developed with the benchmarking partner and represent an agreed model for a benchmarking project to progress to the next stages of implementation and evaluation.Practical implicationsThis model can be adapted for any benchmarking project in all levels of education; primary, secondary, tertiary and continuing.Originality/valueThe issue of benchmarking is high on the educational agenda, especially in higher education. The literature reports on a number of projects but with no clear explanation of a method for benchmarking. The fact that this model is evidence‐based in its approach and that it focuses on learning and teaching, also marks it as original and a significant development in this area.
What did you get? A faculty grade comparison
Authors: Cavanaugh Joseph K. 
Published: July 2006

PurposeThis study investigates how the increased use of part‐time and nontenure‐track instructors may result in grade inflation.Design/methodology/approachThis research uses ten years of registrar data at a Midwest State (USA) institution to perform a multiple regression grade analysis.FindingsEvidence is found that part‐time and nontenure‐track instructors give higher grades even after accounting for many alternative explanations for grade differences.Research limitations/implicationsThe source for the data used for the study is one public institution. Additional studies from a wider range of institution types would be necessary before more definite conclusions can be drawn.Originality/valueThis paper extends the work performed by a number of other authors by analyzing a significantly longer‐time period and by using data not specific to a particular discipline. In addition, this study expands upon past studies by including full‐time nontenure‐track faculty whose numbers are increasing rapidly in higher education. A multiple regression analysis is also used that provides for more robust results and controls for many alternative explanations of grade differences.
IT governance, architectural competency, and the Vasa
Authors: Brown William C. 
Published: July 2006

PurposeAims to discuss the role of information technology (IT) governance in corporate strategy.Design/methodology/approachExamines the four elements of IT governance, including value delivery, managing risk, maintaining accountability, and measurement of ongoing programs and activities, in the context of a case study of a warship, the Vasa, commissioned by King Gustavus, that sank shortly after it sailed.FindingsThe legacy of the Vasa helps in understanding the elements of value, risk, and measurement in the broader context of governance and management. The Vasa illustrates the significance of alignment and architectural competency to an enterprise.Originality/valueShows that managements' commitment and involvement with IT development at the senior management level, the IT management level, and the project management level significantly enhances the probability of success.
Formulating information systems risk management strategies through cultural theory
Authors: Tsohou Aggeliki , Karyda Maria , Kokolakis Spyros , Kiountouzis Evangelos 
Published: July 2006

PurposeThe purpose of this paper is to examine the potential of cultural theory as a tool for identifying patterns in the stakeholders' perception of risk and its effect on information system (IS) risk management.Design/methodology/approachRisk management involves a number of human activities which are based on the way the various stakeholders perceive risk associated with IS assets. Cultural theory claims that risk perception within social groups and structures is predictable according to group and individual worldviews; therefore this paper examines the implications of cultural theory on IS risk management as a means for security experts to manage stakeholders perceptions.FindingsA basic theoretical element of cultural theory is the grid/group typology, where four cultural groups with differentiating worldviews are identified. This paper presents how these worldviews affect the process of IS risk management and suggests key issues to be considered in developing strategies of risk management according to the different perceptions cultural groups have.Research limitations/implicationsThe findings of this research are based on theoretical analysis and are not supported by relevant empirical research. Further research is also required for incorporating the identified key issues into information security management systems (ISMS).Originality/valueIS security management overlooks stakeholders' risk perception; for example, there is no scheme developed to understand and manage the perception of IS stakeholders. This paper proposes some key issues that should be taken into account when developing strategies for addressing the issue of understanding and managing the perception of IS stakeholders.
Issue report on business adoption of Microsoft Passport
Authors: Raymond Choo Kim‐Kwang 
Published: July 2006

PurposeThe purpose of this paper is to examine the feasibility and desirability of using the Microsoft Passport service for client authentication and authorization. It aims to present the business benefits of using Microsoft Passport, an overview (logical) description of the work involved in adopting Microsoft Passport into a business site, and a functional description of how Microsoft Passport works in conceptual terms.Design/methodology/approachAn analysis of the level of business adoption of passport is then presented.FindingsThe paper concludes that business adoption of Microsoft Passport appears to be losing ground due to lack of trust, control, and privacy; and the proliferation of other identity management paradigms. This issue report is prepared from the perspective of a business analyst and is pitched in terminology suitable for a business audience.Practical implicationsThis work provides organisations investigating the feasibility/desirability of using the Microsoft Passport, a fundamental understanding of passport, how passport works in conceptual terms, and the current business adoption status for passport services.Originality/valueOffers a significant analysis of the feasibility and desirability of using the Microsoft Passport service for client authentication and authorization and its current business adoption.
Trust, privacy, and security in electronic business: the case of the GCC countries
Authors: Karake Shalhoub Zeinab 
Published: July 2006

PurposeThe lack of trust in online transactions is one of the main reasons for the relatively low electronic commerce adoption, especially in developing and emerging economies such as those of the countries of the Gulf Cooperation Council (GCC).Design/methodology/approachThe author conducts a content analysis of the privacy policies and security mechanisms of a sample of companies from the six countries of the GCC which are engaged in electronic commerce transactions.FindingsIt is found that a large percentage of sites with privacy statements address the issue of notice and awareness, while none of the sites has a provision to inform users in case of any complaint, as to whom they should address their complaint, what is the arbitration and settlement methods, who is the enforcement body and finally what are the penalties and sanctions applicable.Originality/valueThe paper has a number of value adding characteristics; first, it attacks a subject that has been close to being ignored in the literature, that is the issue of electronic commerce in developing economies; second, the paper is unique in that it addresses the use of electronic commerce in the six countries of the GCC (the author knows of no other study done on the region); and, third, the paper concludes with a set of recommendations to policy makers in the GCC, to help them increase consumer trust in online transactions and increase the rat of electronic commerce diffusion in their economies.
E‐supply chain management: an evaluation of current web initiatives
Authors: Lancaster Sean , Yen David C. , Ku Cheng‐Yuan 
Published: July 2006

PurposeTo provide an overview of E‐supply chain management (E‐SCM) initiatives, focusing on the evolution and technological drivers of moving to the web. This paper also provides a framework and analysis of current efforts in the automotive, financial services, retail, technology, and transportation sectors.Design/methodology/approachThe paper uses a qualitative experimental design, case‐study approach. Companies are compared across a variety of factors affecting E‐SCM.FindingsThere is little evidence to support that the size of a firm's revenues correlate to the effectiveness of their E‐SCM efforts.Research limitations/implicationsThe research uses a limited number of companies. Additionally, the web sites were evaluated only to the extent which they were made publicly available.Practical implicationsAn overview and discussion of E‐SCM is presented. This paper also analyzes selected companies' current web initiatives in the automotive, financial services, retail, technology, and transportation sectors.Originality/valueThis paper uses an original framework to analyze E‐SCM initiatives. Its conclusions would be of interest to individuals with a practical and research interest in E‐SCM.
From bureaucratic organizations to learning organizations
Authors: Jamali D. , Khoury G. , Sahyoun H. 
Published: July 2006

PurposeTo track changes in management paradigms from the bureaucratic to the post‐bureaucratic to the learning organization model, highlighting core differentiating features of each paradigm as well as necessary ingredients for successful evolution.Design/methodology/approachThe article takes the form of a literature review and critical analysis.FindingsThe complexity of the learning organization necessitates gradual evolution. The successful integration of the characteristics of post‐bureaucratic firms – empowerment, teamwork, trust, communication, commitment, and flexibility – coupled with an emergent systems perspective can provide improved understanding of how the learning organization disciplines may actually materialize.Originality/valueLinking two traditionally encapsulated areas of research namely post‐bureaucratic organizations and learning organizations, highlighting an interesting roadmap for successful convergence of post‐bureaucratic organizations towards learning organizations.
Strategy and the learning organization: a maturity model for the formation of strategy
Authors: Kenny John 
Published: July 2006

PurposeTo develop a theoretical model for strategic change that links learning in an organization to the strategic process.Design/methodology/approachThe model was developed from a review of literature covering a range of areas including: management, strategic planning, psychology of learning and organizational learning. The process of forming and implementing strategy in an organization was looked at critically and then the links between learning and strategy were explored, particularly in relation to innovation and radical strategic change.FindingsThe degree of correspondence found across various strands of the literature implies a general principle: that the development of strategy is closely linked with learning. The paper proposes that, if appropriately designed, purposeful strategic activity will help to develop an organizational learning culture. As the strategic planning process is widely accepted across all sectors of the economy, it has the potential; to provide an effective means of directing resources in order to achieve desirable learning within an organization towards its long‐term viability.Originality/valueThe paper develops a theoretical model of strategy formation, called “The maturity model for strategy formation”, which describes a developmental continuum for strategy based on the application of appropriate strategic approaches which are linked to suitable learning approaches and a consideration of the roles of management and staff in the change process.
Knowledge management and the competitive strategy of the firm
Authors: Halawi Leila A. , McCarthy Richard V. , Aronson Jay E. 
Published: July 2006

PurposeKnowledge management (KM) has emerged as a strategy to improve organizational competitiveness. Our purpose is to identify the relationship between KM and the firm's competitive advantage.Design/methodology/approachWe review the existing literature on KM and strategy formulation. We utilize the resource‐based view approach as a lens for fitting KM with strategic planning. The concept of strategy and KM integration is introduced.FindingsWe relate KM strategies to business strategy through a thorough review of the literature.Research limitations/implicationsFuture research should investigate the circumstances under which KM can create a sustainable competitive advantage within the framework of the RBV. Another area involves the investigation of the degree of integration between the competitive strategy and KM strategy.Practical implicationsA very useful source of information for practitioners to refine their thinking about KM and the firm strategic resources. It offers the practitioner a framework for understanding strategy concepts while illustrating how we can derive business results from KM.Originality/valueThis paper offers practical help for corporate executives and practitioners embarking in a KM initiative or program.
We will teach you the steps but you will never learn to dance
Authors: Turner Jane , Mavin Sharon , Minocha Sonal 
Published: July 2006

PurposeTo critique individual learning experiences in organization, explore the role people play in inhibiting learning in organization and explore theories of individual learning as “theories in use”, drawing on a metaphor of steps and dance.Design/methodology/approachBased on a subjective qualitative approach engaging in semi‐structured interviews with individual participants and narrative data analysis. A metaphor of “steps” and “dance” is used to analyse narrative data and theories “in use”; the “steps” imply a fixed form which constrains the individual within the confines of the job role, while the “dance” relates to a fluidity and flexibility which enables individuals to express movement and therefore learning.FindingsEmpirical data reveal a level of “not learning” in practice and raise the significance of both upward and downward feedback and questioning in learning levels. Results highlight the management‐employee relationship and the crucial role of managers in unlocking or inhibiting individual learning. In “Scriptorg” individuals are trapped in a cycle of “not learning” or at best single loop learning; new steps are inhibited by the management approach and there is no evidence of “dancing” in learning terms.Originality/valueThe paper examines theoretical insights in practice through case study exploration to highlight the significance of managers in inhibiting individual learning in organization and reinforces that practitioners should focus on interventions that unlock managerial learning, addressing the psychological and behavioural characteristics of managers, consequently enabling individuals to dance.
Improving inter‐spatial comparison of construction costs
Authors: Walsh Kenneth D. , Sawhney Anil , Vachris Michelle A. 
Published: July 2006

PurposeThe purpose of this paper is to compare construction costs between nations, which is an important part of international economic statistics. Methods employed for these comparisons to date have yielded questionable results. The paper presents a summary of the problem and the results of proof‐of‐concept testing for a new method.Design/methodology/approachPrices were estimated for a simple basket of two construction components using cost‐estimating guides for several nations. Both developed and developing nations were included. The prices were obtained for the components installed in the field, including labor, equipment, and materials. Purchasing power parities (PPPs) were calculated from the baskets.FindingsThe results indicate that the basket of construction components approach provides construction sector results much more in keeping with the overall consumption PPPs for the countries tested. This result suggests that the values obtained from this method provide a reasonable measure of construction price differentials. The method also requires substantially fewer resources than previous project‐based approaches.Originality/valueBecause the construction sector represents a significant fraction of global economic activity, it is important to incorporate this sector into the overall process accurately. The construction sector is difficult to compare, but ironically is often a large share of economic activity in developing countries, where comparison is most important. This paper presents a potential solution to a vexing problem in construction econometrics.
Strategies for managing environmental issues in construction organizations
Authors: Fergusson H. , Langford D.A. 
Published: July 2006

PurposeThe purpose of this research is to study the strategies used by construction organizations in dealing with environmental issues. It identifies the factors which govern a firm's performance in respect of environmental management and explores the management strategies which are used to generate good environmental performance. The paper also seeks to consider the techniques adopted in pursuit of these strategies and to compare their effectiveness.Design/methodology/approachThe research reviews the strategic management and environmental management and then proceeds to a case study investigation of six construction organizations. The case studies seek to uncover the variables that influence strategies for managing environmental issues. A cross‐case analysis provides an indication of the characteristics of those companies that demonstrate a higher environmental concern.FindingsAs environmental strategies are developed, the competencies in managing environmental issues will grow and lead to improved business performance. The growth in an organization's environmental competence provides the opportunity for increased competitive advantage.Originality/valueA model is developed which illustrates the relationship between environmental management, business strategy and competitive advantage.
A knowledge‐based automated development permit approval process in the housing industry
Authors: Al‐Hussein M. , Kumar J. , Sharma V. , Mah D. 
Published: July 2006

PurposeThe residential construction industry has a major share in Canada's GDP. In spite of huge spending and technical advances in the residential construction sector, the current permit approval process still adheres to traditional manual permit approval process. Consequently, this has contributed to project delays and increased monetary costs to the stakeholders associated with the process. The research presented in this paper seeks to explore key issues related to the current housing development permit approval process.Design/methodology/approachThis paper describes a proposed methodology for the automation of the residential construction development permit approval process. The proposed methodology has been incorporated into a computer system that integrates a knowledge‐based expert system (KBES), database management system (DBMS), and computer‐aided design (CAD). Various concepts related to the database structures, system architecture, process flow and user interfaces are introduced and described in the context of the development permit approval process.FindingsThis paper presents a knowledge‐based prototype for the development permit approval process that can be customized as per the needs of various cities. A case study is also presented in order to demonstrate the effectiveness of the proposed method and to illustrate the implementation of the research.Research limitations/implicationsThe prototype is application‐independent and may be implemented anywhere in the AutoCAD environment. The research paves the way for the setting of drafting standards for the residential industry.Originality/valuePrototype provides significant gains in productivity and accuracy over the current practices by minimizing the redundancies involved in the development permit approval process.
Consumer‐perceived appearance tolerances in construction quality management
Authors: Forsythe Perry 
Published: July 2006

PurposeTo develop a method for measuring consumer‐perceived tolerances concerning the appearance of unitised construction finishes (e.g. tiling, brickwork, paving, jointed façades).Design/methodology/approachConsumer perceptions were converted into physical tolerances by drawing on an area of the behavioural sciences known as psychophysics. In particular, Weber's Law was used, which applies a formulaic approach to creating perception‐based constants. A trial of this approach was undertaken on floor tiling in 50 residential properties. Tiling was chosen because it was considered representative of situations where the appearance of the finished work was important to consumer perceptions. In particular, consistency of tile joint width was measured, which had the advantage of tapping into tiles laid askew, in poor alignment or affected by variable tile sizes.FindingsWeber's Law offers an appropriate means of objectifying consumer perceptions into physically measurable tolerances. It was found that joint width in tiling can vary up to 70 per cent before consumers find the work beyond their threshold of acceptance – causing them to think the work “ugly”. Saturation of such joints can occur up to three times per 5m2 area without causing consumers to complain.Practical implicationsSuch an approach can be easily applied to any unitised construction element where the regularity of appearance is important.Originality/valueThe study provides a new and more balanced approach to the assessment of construction quality by ensuring THAT consumer expectations are taken into account, as well as the normal emphasis on technical quality standards.