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1 – 10 of 192This chapter discusses a form of pedagogy of reflection suggested to be defined as the dialogical-reflective professional-development school (DRPDS) – a framework that develops…
Abstract
This chapter discusses a form of pedagogy of reflection suggested to be defined as the dialogical-reflective professional-development school (DRPDS) – a framework that develops and empowers students by engaging them in a process of continual improvement, responding to diverse situations, providing stimuli for learning, and giving anchors for mediation. The pedagogy of reflection relates to dialogue not only from a theoretical historical context but also by way of example – that is, it offers empowering dialogues within the traditional teacher-training framework. This chapter outlines the importance of the pedagogy of reflection in the multicultural educational space of the preservice education field in Israel, analyzing the first university PDS model. The pedagogy of reflection in the context of the educational dialogue of educators is outlined as a tool for student empowerment, achieved through a community of learners who dedicate space to the development of their whole personality within the profession, taking a moral stance toward the educational discourse, minimizing judgmentalism and prejudice, creating national/gender equality with the goal of examining the fundamental question of educational performance, and reinforcing their sense of organizational belonging within the system. In these contexts, the chapter is based on the elements of dialogical philosophy exemplified in the thought of Burbules, Nelson, Isaacs, Bohm, and Heckmann and the reflective basis of educational and organizational performance exemplified in the writings of van Manen. The chapter also presents two examples from a project in which teaching units based on dialogue and reflection were developed within a dialogic community that represents in its very being collective empowerment, the possibility of coping with problems that are too large for an individual to solve on his/her own, and an alternative to sealed and alienated organizations.
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G. Heckmann, D. Hidalgo-Carvajal and J. J. Vega
With an increasing urbanization trend over the last decades, urban agglomerations are facing different challenges that affect its inhabitants: pollution, traffic congestion…
Abstract
With an increasing urbanization trend over the last decades, urban agglomerations are facing different challenges that affect its inhabitants: pollution, traffic congestion, thriving population growth rates, and economic uncertainty. In the context of Latin America, where less than 20% of its inhabitants live in rural areas and with a projection to decrease to close to 10% by the year 2030, providing solutions to reduce the impact of this increase of population, on at least one of the issues, seems logical.
This study focuses on the urban logistics component to propose a classification method for homogeneous areas, using Factor Analysis (FA) and analysis of variance (ANOVA) as the main supporting tools. The proposed methodology builds up on the square kilometer (KM2) methodology developed by MIT Center for Transportation and Logistics, applying it in a neuralgic section of the downtown area of a mid-sized city in Latin America: Córdoba, Argentina. The selection was made considering the logistic restrictions, commercial density, and the relevance of the area for the city. Our proposed methodology uses relevant variables for urban logistics to perform the statistical analysis. The main goal is to develop a data-driven methodology to identify clusters to guide Córdoba's urban logistics policy and decision-making processes.
The results suggest a clear relationship between the different commercial activities and the location inside the area, splitting the area under study clearly into two main sections with similar overall characteristics and two subsections inside each one of them, which should be considered as a basis for further urban logistic analysis and implementation of specific best practices that fit the particular needs.
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The purpose of this paper is to review the extant literature on supply chain risk management (SCRM, including risk identification, assessment, treatment, and monitoring)…
Abstract
Purpose
The purpose of this paper is to review the extant literature on supply chain risk management (SCRM, including risk identification, assessment, treatment, and monitoring), developing a comprehensive definition and conceptual framework; to evaluate prior theory use; and to identify future research directions.
Design/methodology/approach
A systematic literature review of 354 articles (published 2000-2016) based on descriptive, thematic, and content analysis.
Findings
There has been a considerable focus on identifying risk types and proposing risk mitigation strategies. Research has emphasised organisational responses to supply chain risks and made only limited use of theory. Ten key future research directions are identified.
Research limitations/implications
A broad, contemporary understanding of SCRM is provided; and a new, comprehensive definition is presented covering the process, pathway, and objectives of SCRM, leading to a conceptual framework. The research agenda guides future work towards maturation of the discipline.
Practical implications
Managers are encouraged to adopt a holistic approach to SCRM. Guidance is provided on how to select appropriate risk treatment actions according to the probability and impact of a risk.
Originality/value
The first review to consider theory use in SCRM research and to use four SCRM stages to structure the review.
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This article analyses and discusses spatial conditions contributing to confidentiality in HIV healthcare facilities carried out by two non-governmental organisations in Uganda…
Abstract
This article analyses and discusses spatial conditions contributing to confidentiality in HIV healthcare facilities carried out by two non-governmental organisations in Uganda, the AIDS Information Centre (AIC) and The AIDS Support Organisation (TASO). The provision of confidential space was found to be the most important architectural quality promoting client wellbeing, where Voluntary Counselling and Testing (VCT) as well as ongoing services to people living with HIV are provided. The study shows that confidential space is a requirement in a number of situations: when the client approaches the health centre; during the visit; and in the meeting between client, counsellor and medical staff. An unobtrusive location of the centre and separate, private counselling rooms are thus the most favourable spatial conditions.
This article is based on a qualitative, explorative case study carried out in Jinja, Uganda during four months in 2004. Direct observation, interviews, primarily with clients and staff, spatial analyses and a qualitative content analysis were carried out.
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Thomas Hofmann and Luis Möckel
This study aims to determine the differences in the involvement of pre-hospital emergency physicians (PHEPs) within the ambulance service over time and between the federal states…
Abstract
Purpose
This study aims to determine the differences in the involvement of pre-hospital emergency physicians (PHEPs) within the ambulance service over time and between the federal states and identify possible reasons for the differences.
Design/methodology/approach
The federal state-specific PHEP rates from 2012 to 2017 were analysed using publicly available data or data provided by the responsible state ministries. In addition, various correlations between PHEP rates and sociodemographic and health data were calculated.
Findings
The PHEP rates differ significantly between the 16 federal states. In 2017, Schleswig–Holstein had a PHEP participation rate of 19.00%, while in Mecklenburg-Western Pomerania the rate was 41.08%. In all surveyed states, the rate fell over time. Only in Mecklenburg-Western Pomerania, the rate increased from 37.68% in 2012 to 41.08% in 2017 (OR: 1.15 [95% CI: 1.14; 1.17]). Federal state-specific PHEP rates indicated strong deviations from the overall PHEP rate of all included federal states with ORs ranging from 0.61 (95% CI: 0,61; 0,62) for Schleswig–Holstein to 1.82 (95% CI: 1.81; 1.84) for Mecklenburg-Western Pomerania. Socioeconomic factors indicated (inverse) correlations with the federal state-specific PHEP rate.
Originality/value
The PHEP rates differ significantly between the federal states. The correlations indicate possible connections but do not show clear causes within state-specific characteristics. Consequently, the occupational autonomy of paramedics differs between the states.
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M.A. Abd El-Ghaffar, Fayza A. Kantouch, Zainn M. Mahmoud, Karima Haggag, Ahmed I. Hashem and Abdelrahim A. Ramadan
The purpose of this paper is to prepare nano size micro-emulsion co-polymer particles based on butyl acrylate (BA)/acrylic acid (AAc) with high monomer/surfactant ratio. The study…
Abstract
Purpose
The purpose of this paper is to prepare nano size micro-emulsion co-polymer particles based on butyl acrylate (BA)/acrylic acid (AAc) with high monomer/surfactant ratio. The study involved the application of the prepared micro-emulsions co-polymers as textile pigment printing binders.
Design/methodology/approach
The micro-emulsion co-polymerisations processes were carried out with different mixtures of BA and AAc using modified process. Sodium dodecyl sulphate (SDS) and potassium peroxy disulphate/glucose were used as emulsifier and redox initiator, respectively. The prepared emulsion co-polymer was characterized via spectroscopic measurements, FT-IR, 1H-NMR and transmission electron microscope (TEM), in addition to thermal analysis. The prepared micro-emulsion co-polymers were applied as binders for pigment printing process onto cotton fabric, polyester and cotton/polyester blend by using flat screen technique. The optimum curing conditions were determined, colour strength and fastness properties of pigment printed areas to light, washing, perspiration and rubbing were evaluated. In addition, stiffness of the prints was studied.
Findings
The achieved results indicated that particle size and homogeneity of the prepared micro-emulsions depend on monomers weight ratio, initiator and emulsifier concentrations. On the other hand, the prints obtained using the prepared binders with optimum conditions have satisfactory fastness, good handle and high colour yield.
Research limitations/implications
Monomers were continuously and slowly added into the polymerising system with mild stirring to avoid disturbing the stability of the micro-emulsion. Also, emulsifier and initiator concentrations should be controlled to avoid coagulation.
Practical implications
The research provides textile pigment printing binder with nano particle size within the range of 24-48 nm. Using the prepared nano binders in pigment printing enhances the stiffness, handle, and fastnesses properties of the prints.
Originality/value
The prepared co-polymer binders showed high-performance physico-mechanical properties; in addition, the ultimate goal of this study is to prepare a nano size binder with high monomer/surfactant ratio using a modified micro-emulsion process.
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Verónica León Bravo, Mariuxy Jaramillo Villacrés and Minelle E. Silva
To understand the context surrounding the sustainable supplier management (SSM) process (i.e. selection, development and evaluation), this paper aims to explore institutional…
Abstract
Purpose
To understand the context surrounding the sustainable supplier management (SSM) process (i.e. selection, development and evaluation), this paper aims to explore institutional logics existing in the Ecuadorian cocoa supply chain (SC). By considering local characteristics and sustainability practices, this study illustrates how competing logic influences SSM.
Design/methodology/approach
This paper uses a multiple-case study method for which the authors interviewed different cocoa SC members in Ecuador and used a ground-up approach to analyse the data and reveal singularities influencing sustainability management.
Findings
The analysis uncovered two main logics operating within the Ecuadorian cocoa SC SSM process: a commercial logic (e.g. potential for market access, product traceability) and a sustainability logic (e.g. local development and traditions/cultural issues). These logics address market demand requirements; however, some local producers’ needs that impact SSM remains unexplored such as the existence of a regional ancestral culture that poses sustainability as a dominant logic with meaning beyond the triple bottom line. While the two logics have influenced supplier sustainability performance, this paper finds that, of the three SSM sub-processes (selection, development and evaluation), supplier development was the most relevant sub-process receiving attention from SC managers in the studied context.
Practical implications
By understanding the differences in logic and needs, SC managers can better develop strategies for SSM.
Originality/value
The study highlighted in this paper investigated the underexplored topic of the effects that competing logic may have on SSM. This paper focusses on the supplier’s point of view regarding sustainability requirements, addressing a consistent research gap in the literature.
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Minelle E. Silva, Gustavo Picanço Dias and Stefan Gold
This paper investigates how food supply chains (SCs) introduce sustainability standards (i.e. organic and/or Fair Trade labels). The authors combined the concepts of power and…
Abstract
Purpose
This paper investigates how food supply chains (SCs) introduce sustainability standards (i.e. organic and/or Fair Trade labels). The authors combined the concepts of power and dependence with types of governance mechanisms to analyse for-profit and cooperative organisations. The authors explored nuances of how lead organisations are spreading sustainability standards.
Design/methodology/approach
Four cashew nut and honey SCs were investigated as case studies in Brazil, with data gathered through 15 interviews, secondary data and field visits. Data were examined through a content analysis process following a combined deductive and inductive approach.
Findings
Sustainability is spread driven by market pressure, mainly through the diffusion of technical information, either by lead organisations enablers or inter-organisational relations. The authors found that the type and structure of organisations impact the source of power (mediated or non-mediated) and level of mutual dependence between buyer and supplier. For instance, suppliers that hold a strategic position use direct governance mechanisms, which, in turn, lessens the power imbalance in regard to the lead organisation. The authors found in the analysis, a close relation between governance mechanisms and the spread of sustainability, which is ultimately based on strong SC relationships.
Practical implications
By recognising their role and the contingencies in spreading sustainability standards along the SC, managers of lead organisations can better design their relationships as well as create strategies to increase their supply chain sustainability (SCS) performance.
Originality/value
This paper contributes to the underexplored issue of how sustainability standards are spread throughout SCs in Latin America. Also, it shows how different types of SC rely on governance mechanisms that foster SCS.
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Sylvia Rivera-Valle and Minelle E. Silva
Grounded on resource dependence theory, the authors explored how power and dependence affect sustainability adoption in an artisanal fishing supply chain (AFSC) in Mexico.
Abstract
Purpose
Grounded on resource dependence theory, the authors explored how power and dependence affect sustainability adoption in an artisanal fishing supply chain (AFSC) in Mexico.
Design/methodology/approach
An in-depth longitudinal case study was conducted to identify relationships among fishers, a cooperative and intermediaries using a content analysis of data gathered from a combination of interviews, focus groups, observations, participatory workshops and secondary data.
Findings
As a result of the existing power imbalance among AFSC members, mediated forces (e.g. rewards for intermediary–fishers relationship) were the most prominent observed. In addition, a close and high dependence on resources affecting supply chain sustainability (SCS) adoption was identified. For example, within intermediary–cooperative relationships, a power imbalance caused mostly by financial resource dependence generated a negative impact on economic sustainability related to unfair prices and unfair trade. The results, thus, showed the detrimental influence of intermediaries among AFSC members on SCS adoption.
Practical implications
A greater understanding of power imbalance and dependence can help AFSC members to identify their weaknesses and develop actions to adopt sustainability.
Originality/value
Unlike previous research, the authors go beyond the often positive research focus of SCS studies and provide, through the resource dependence theory, a longitudinal view on how power imbalance negatively affects SCS adoption.
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