bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025_split huggingface dataset:
The decline in book borrowing from Britain's public libraries: a small scale Scottish study
Authors: Breslin Frances , McMenemy David 
Published: September 2006

PurposeTo discuss and investigate the reasons for the decline in book borrowing in UK public libraries.Design/methodology/approachThe paper presents an extensive literature review and a small scale survey.FindingsThe reasons why adults were not borrowing as many books from public libraries as the past were many faceted, including intrinsic and extrinsic reasons. Some of these reasons include an increased level of buying books as opposed to borrowing, lack of time to visit the library, the opening hours of the library, stock selection, and restrictive borrowing periods and fines.Research limitations/implicationsAs a small scale survey the results are of limited impact, however they do inform as to some of the reasons why adults are not borrowing from public libraries and as such are of value to policy makers and researchers in the area.Practical implicationsResults are of value to public librarians and policy makers in understanding why adults are not borrowing books from libraries in the levels of the past.Originality/valueThe paper builds on other work in the field to offer an insight into a specific challenge facing public libraries in the 21st century.
“Technostress” A literature survey on the effect of information technology on library users
Authors: Sami Lalitha K. , Pangannaiah N.B. 
Published: September 2006

PurposeThe purpose of the present paper is to review the impact of information technologies on users of libraries and to understand the problems encountered in their information technology (IT) usage by reference to the concept of “technostress”, the inability to cope with the new computer technologies in a healthy or positive manner.Design/methodology/approachA literature review was undertaken to further our understanding of the influence of IT based services on the users of libraries.FindingsThe paper provides a literature derived set of information about library users who initially find it difficult to cope with the new technology and experience anxiety (termed “IT anxiety”, “technostress” or alternatively “technophobia”). This is bound to affect their adoption of IT technologies negatively. They may eventually begin to avoid contact with computers. Since this avoidance strategy is highly impractical in the modern IT dependent world, the various causes of technostress must be analysed, so that users can be trained to overcome technophobia.Research limitations/implicationsThe conclusions in the present paper are based on articles from different sources and not on any field study.Practical implicationsBeing a review article, it reflects the problems encountered by a range of users in different countries. The paper also pragmatically provides factors to be considered in designing a training module.Originality/valueThe paper organises information collected from different sources and presents a consolidated picture of the problems encountered by users in exploiting computers in libraries, while suggesting the means to overcome these problems.
Agricultural information systems: a national case study
Authors: Kizilaslan Nuray 
Published: September 2006

PurposeThe purpose of the paper is to investigate the agricultural information system in Turkey, with particular reference to the effectiveness of this system for farmers.Design/methodology/approachA case study based on a review of the literature, established knowledge and national experience to date.FindingsThat, in Turkey, there is insufficient connection between the publishing activities of research institutions and other institutions active in the field. This lack of coordination causes an incomplete distribution of agricultural information to farmers. In particular, this creates an information system in which there is no effective feedback in the “research–publishing–farmer” triangle. Yet distribution of agricultural information to users and reciprocal user feedback is vital, because it is the essential mechanism by which a consistently reliable and effective distribution of information can be maintained.Research limitations/implicationsAlthough the central thesis of the paper is not advanced by reference to original research on the part of the authors, it is based on pre‐existing, well respected research which is intelligently interpreted and authoritatively synthesized by them.Practical implicationsTo solve problems of agricultural information flow, the lack of coordination among the various organizations concerned has to be dealt with effectively, and a single organization has to be set up where information is collected in and distributed from the center. Non‐public publishing and research services have to be supported and encouraged in parallel with this.Originality/valueThe paper advances a clear plan of action for improving the information system in an area of great relevance to all developing countries.
Towards a complexity theory of strategy
Authors: Pina e Cunha Miguel , Vieira da Cunha Joao 
Published: September 2006

PurposeThe purpose of this paper is to contribute to the creation of a complexity theory of strategy by integrating a number of ideas that have previously been explored independently in the strategy literature, namely improvisation, minimal structures, simple rules, dynamic capabilities, bricolage, and organizational resilience.Design/methodology/approachOrganizations are taken as complex adaptive systems that align with their environments through interaction and response rather than analysis and planning. The paper discusses how Schumpeterian environments influence organizations in the direction of simpler, minimally‐structured designs and considers why Schumpeterian environments create the need for strategic improvisation and minimally‐structured designs.Research limitations/implicationsThe paper articulates recent concepts in the management literature. The integration of these new concepts may be relevant to explore the way they relate with each other in the emerging organizational configurations. A model is proposed for further empirical testing.Originality/valueThis contribution challenges the old representation of the strategic process as one involving complex organizations with simple people (except at the top), to one where simple organizations enable complex and professional people to create the strategy in an intentional, even if not always planned, response to the concrete world.
Complexity theory and organizing form dualities
Authors: Smith Aaron C.T. , Graetz Fiona 
Published: September 2006

PurposeThe purpose of this paper is to describe how order‐generated rules applied to organizing form dualities can assist in creating the conditions for emergent, self‐organized behavior in organizations, thereby offering an operational deployment of complexity theory.Design/methodology/approachThe paper begins by showing that the concept of dualities is consistent with complexity‐thinking. In addition, when applied to organizing forms, dualities represent a practical way of affecting an organization's balance between chaos and order. Thus, when augmented with order‐generating rules, organizing form dualities provide an access point for the practical instigation of edge of chaos conditions and the potential for emergence.FindingsThe paper maintains that many attempts to “manage” complexity have been associated with changes to organizing forms, specifically toward new forms of organizing. It is suggested that organizing form dualities provide some management guidance for encouraging the “edge of chaos” conditions advocated in complexity theory, although the details of self‐organization cannot be prescribed given the assumptions of non‐linearity associated with complexity theory perspectives. Finally, it is proposed that organizing dualities can elucidate the nature and application of order‐generating rules in non‐linear complex systems.Practical implicationsDualities offer some guidance toward the practical implementation of complexity theory as they represent an accessible sub‐system where the forces for order and chaos – traditional and new forms of organizing respectively – are accessible and subject to manipulation.Originality/valueThe commonalities between dualities and complexity theory are intuitive, but little conceptual work has shown how the former can be employed as a guide to managing organizing forms. Moreover, this approach demonstrates that managers may be able to stimulate “edge of chaos” conditions in a practical way, without making positivistic assumptions about the causality associated with their efforts.
Applying a fuzzy‐morphological approach to complexity within management decision making
Authors: Sharif Amir M. , Irani Zahir 
Published: September 2006

PurposeNoting the scarcity of complexity techniques applied to modelling social systems, this paper attempts to formulate a conceptual model of decision‐making behaviour within the information systems evaluation (ISE) task, against the backdrop of complexity theory.Design/methodology/approachComplexity theory places an emphasis on addressing how dynamic non‐linear systems can be represented and modelled utilising computational tools and techniques to draw out inherent system dynamics. In doing so, the use of fuzzy cognitive mapping (FCM) and morphological analysis (MA) (hence a fuzzy‐morphological approach), is applied to empirical case study data, to elucidate the inherent behavioural and systems issues involved in ISE decision making within a British manufacturing organisation.FindingsThe paper presents results of applying a combined FCM and MA approach to modelling complexity within management decision making in the ISE task: both in terms of a cognitive map of the key decision criteria; a matrix of constraint criteria; and a synthesised model that provides an indication of the linkages between technology management factors and organisational imperatives and goals. These findings show the usefulness of viewing the topic in complexity science terms (emergent behaviour, non‐linearity and chaotic response).Research limitations/implicationsThis research is limited in applying the given technique to a single case study organisation in the UK manufacturing sector, where the sample size is limited. Since this is the first time that such a combined MA‐FCM technique has been used in this field known to the authors, future research needs to validate and explore the implications of this approach in a wider context (multiple organisations and viewpoints).Practical implicationsThe paper highlights the need for those involved in analysing managerial decision making to include aspects of complexity theory in their evaluations – namely uncovering inherent inter‐relationships that may exist between stakeholders, processes and systems. In doing so, expanding the manager's understanding of how to achieve congruence between driving forces and factors, which may exhibit non‐linear, chaotic or feedback behaviour.Originality/valueThe given research brings together both artificial intelligence and operational research techniques, applied in the socio‐technical milieu of information systems evaluation, within the context of complexity theory, in order to describe the rich detail within the ISE decision‐making task.
Impact of household food security and nutrition programme on the nutritional status of children in Oyo state, Nigeria
Authors: Lawal B.O. , Jibowo A.A. 
Published: September 2006

PurposeThe purpose of this paper is to assess the impact of household food security and nutrition programme (HFSN) on the nutritional status of children (0–5 years) in Oyo state, Nigeria.Design/methodology/approachPre‐tested structured and unstructured questionnaires were used to elicit information from 201 programme and 201 non‐programme women participants. The participants who are farmers were selected using systematic random sampling technique from each of the six local government areas covered by the programme, while non‐participants were selected using simple random sampling technique. Also, anthropometry technique was used to assess the nutritional status of the children of both groups. Descriptive statistics such as frequency counts, percentages and means were used to describe the findings while analysis of variance (ANOVA) was used to determine the significant difference in the nutritional status of the children of the two groups.FindingsThe results show that the women farmers who participated in programme activities possessed some personal and household characteristics which influenced the nutritional status of the children. The participants utilized most of the prograrmme recommendations and significant differences existed in the weight for age and height for age indices of their children.Originality/valueThe results indicate the need for constant surveillance and collaborative effort of the health, agricultural extension and education departments in providing women farmers with the education and training needed to reduce the incidence of malnutrition and food insecurity.
The performance of cutting fluids when machining aluminium alloys
Authors: Mendes O.C. , Ávila R.F. , Abrão A.M. , Reis Pedro , Paulo Davim J. 
Published: September 2006

PurposeThe knowledge over the performance of cutting fluids when applied under different machining conditions (such as distinct work material and cutting parameters) is critical in order to improve the efficiency of most machining operations. This paper is concerned with the performance of cutting fluids employed under two distinct machining operations involving aluminium alloys: drilling of AA 1050‐O aluminium applying cutting fluid as a mist and turning of AA 6262‐T6 aluminium alloy using cutting fluids (as a flood) with distinct extreme pressure additives (chlorine, sulphur and phosphor).Design/methodology/approachThis work reports on a experimental study of the performance of cutting fluids when machining aluminium alloys.FindingsThe results indicated an increase in the flow rate of the mist led to lower feed forces but higher torque, power consumption and specific cutting pressure in the drilling operation (AA 1050‐O aluminium). The surface finish was not drastically affected by the cutting fluid flow rate. When turning AA 6162‐T6 aluminium alloy, in general, best results were observed using 10 per cent fluid concentration applied at the tool‐workpiece interface. The cutting fluid containing chlorine as extreme pressure additive produced lower cutting forces and better surface finish at high cutting speed and low feed rate and depth of cut.Originality/valueThe novel element of this paper is the use of minimal lubrication (drilling) and cutting fluids with distinct extreme pressure (turning).
A problem‐based learning approach to entrepreneurship education
Authors: San Tan Siok , Ng C. K. Frank 
Published: September 2006

PurposeWhile it is generally acknowledged that entrepreneurship can be taught, many differ in their opinions about the appropriate methodologies to teach and equip students with the requisite entrepreneurial skills. This paper presents a case to suggest that a problem‐based learning (PBL) approach practised at the Republic Polytechnic in Singapore could be an effective pedagogical approach for entrepreneurship education.Design/methodology/approachUsing case study method, the performance of a pioneer batch of students who took up the entrepreneurship programme (designed using PBL) was monitored and documented.FindingsIt is found that problems that simulate entrepreneurial situations within the classroom environment contribute to enhancing students' appreciation and capacity for entrepreneurship. The findings generally support the notion that PBL, premised upon an active learning and multi‐solution approach, shares many similar characteristics as the interdisciplinary and “learning‐by‐doing” approach of entrepreneurship education.Research limitations/implicationsFurther, research to track and measure the post‐programme outcomes of the students' entrepreneurial development is needed to determine the efficacy of entrepreneurship education using the PBL approach.Originality/valuePedagogical practices may not have been significantly considered as viable means of increasing the efficacy of entrepreneurship education. This case study signals to entrepreneurship educators and researchers that more emphasis could possibly be placed on developing innovative practices for entrepreneurship education.
Modern apprenticeships in English professional football
Authors: Monk Des , Olsson Cliff 
Published: September 2006

PurposeThis paper will examine the two year modern apprenticeship undertaken by trainees in the English professional football industry.Design/methodology/approachRepresentatives of seven clubs were interviewed in the summer of 2005; all of them were responsible for youth development in their club. These interviews were the first of what will be three rounds of a longitudinal study, tracking the progress of some 126 apprentices.FindingsThe results of this empirical investigation fall under four headings; the rationale for youth development; the scale of the youth development operation; an analysis of the off‐the‐job training provided and the use of internal labour markets in football.Practical implicationsThis paper argues that trainees will typically leave the industry having finished their apprenticeship, with heavily constrained options in the general labour market because the off‐the‐job training that is given to them is not, for the most part, appropriateOriginality/valueAlthough a number of articles have been published concerning the physiology of training young sportsmen and women, very little has been done by way of examining the resource allocations associated with the training given to young apprentices in one of the UK's key sporting industries.
Work‐based learning in the UK: scenarios for the future
Authors: Mohamud Mohamed , Jennings Chris , Rix Mike , Gold Jeff 
Published: September 2006

PurposeAims to consider scenarios created by work‐based learning (WBL) providers in the Tees Valley in the UKDesign/methodology/approachThe context of WBL is examined in relation to the notion of the skills gap. The method of scenario development is describedFindingsA key task of WBL is to raise the skills levels of young people. WBL providers who deliver over 80 per cent of work‐based, vocational learning across the UK. However, the future of such providers is becoming very uncertain and already their numbers are declining as funding cuts and quality inspections begin to bite. The context of WBL is examined in relation to the notion of the skills gap. Four scenarios are presented of the future of WBL with implications for the present.Practical implicationsOf major concern is the persistence of the low skills equilibrium in UK which will continue to affect the attitudes of learner and the decisions of employers. It becomes necessary to work with employers to consider how skill formation can be deepened.Originality/valueThis paper provides an insight into the views of WBL providers, caught between government requirements to tackle the UK skills problem and employers who define the skills required.
Communication apprehension and maths anxiety as barriers to communication and numeracy skills development in accounting and business education
Authors: Joyce John , Hassall Trevor , Luis Arquero Montaño José , Donoso Anes José Antonio 
Published: September 2006

PurposeTo establish the existence of barriers to communication and numeracy skills development and to establish the levels of these exhibited by accounting and business students at the commencement of their courses in higher education.Design/methodology/approachUses questionnaires to establish the levels of communication apprehension (CA) and maths anxiety (MA) in students at the commencement of their accounting and business courses in higher education. Establishes the underlying factors that are influential in determining the levels of apprehension and anxiety in individual students. An analysis of the underlying demographic variables such as age, previous educational background, etc. is also undertaken.FindingsIdentifies the existence of high levels of CA in accounting students and MA in business studies students at the beginning of their courses.Practical implicationsWhere high levels of CA in accounting students and MA in business studies students are shown to exist consideration must be given to relevant curriculum design and delivery, and the use of techniques designed to reduce apprehension/anxiety in the students concerned. Because the apprehension/anxiety is present on entry to higher education it may be that specific courses appear to be recruiting students whose perception of their longer term vocational skills requirements may be inappropriate to their chosen career area.Originality/valueIdentifies specific differences in the areas of CA and MA between differently focused vocational courses, which have syllabus overlap, within a business school.
The next generation at work – business students' views, values and job search strategy
Authors: Ng Eddy S.W. , Burke Ronald J. 
Published: September 2006

PurposeThe purpose of the paper is to explore the views, career expectations, and job search behaviours among a sample of business students. It also aims to examine the role of campus career services in shaping students' careers and how cooperative education influences their expectations and aspirations.Design/methodology/approachA field survey involving 20,771 students across Canada was conducted by a strategic consulting firm. This research is a part of a broader research project commissioned by a consortium of large Canadian companies to understand better the views of university students on jobs, organisations, careers and perceptions of their organisation.FindingsThe study found that cooperative students appear to have more realistic expectations, have better self‐insights into their own abilities and desires, and report higher self‐confidence. They also placed greater emphases on the “people” and “work” dimensions of a firm. Students with higher abilities also reported similar characteristics and preferences to those of cooperative students. These characteristics are important because they have been linked to greater recruitment success. Additionally, the job search process among students appears to have shifted from more traditional approaches to electronic channels such as the internet.Practical implicationsUniversity students continue to be a significant source of hiring for professional and managerial jobs. Employers should connect with university students to understand their views, expectations, and job search process. Employers are also well advised to create a familiarity with university students, and to participate in cooperative education since it can highlight the realities of job and careers in contemporary organisations. These strategies in combination can assist employers with greater recruitment success and long‐term organisational performance.Originality/valueThis research, based on a large field survey of university students, builds on Cable and Turban's employer knowledge framework, and provides valuable insights into the workforce of the future and strategies for greater recruitment success.