scholarly journals The quantity-quality tradeoff: a cross-national, longitudinal analysis of national student-faculty ratios in higher education

2020 ◽  
Author(s):  
Elizabeth Buckner ◽  
You Zhang
Keyword(s):  
Higher Education ◽  
Low Income ◽  
Low Income Countries ◽  
Faculty Roles ◽  
Factors Associated ◽  
The Past ◽  
Enrollment Rates ◽  
National Trends ◽  
Shed Light ◽  
Cross National

Abstract This article analyzes cross-national trends in national student-faculty ratios (SFRs) over the past five decades. In descriptive analyses, we find that SFRs have increased globally, driven by particularly large increases in low-income countries. We analyze two cross-national datasets to examine factors associated with national SFRs. We find that national SFRs are positively associated with gross tertiary enrollment rates and particularly so in low-income countries. In contrast, both the female share of faculty and research spending are associated with having lower national SFRs. The findings shed light on how national higher education systems are responding to massification pressures and suggest that differentiating faculty roles is one way that countries curb their rising SFRs as enrollments grow.

scholarly journals A North–South-South partnership in higher education to develop health research capacity in the Democratic Republic of the Congo: the challenge of finding a common language

2021 ◽  
Vol 19 (1) ◽  
Author(s):  
Christiane Horwood ◽  
Sphindile Mapumulo ◽  
Lyn Haskins ◽  
Vaughn John ◽  
Silondile Luthuli ◽  
...  
Keyword(s):  
Higher Education ◽  
Low Income ◽  
Health Research ◽  
Democratic Republic ◽  
Academic Staff ◽  
Research Capacity ◽  
Nutritional Epidemiology ◽  
Low Income Countries ◽  
Republic Of The Congo ◽  
English Speaking

Abstract Background Globally, increasing numbers of higher education institutions (HEIs) in non-English-speaking countries have adopted English as a medium of instruction (EMI), because of the perception that this provides opportunities to attract high-calibre students and academic staff, and engage with the international research community. We report an evaluation of a North–South-South collaboration to develop health research capacity in the Democratic Republic of the Congo (DRC) by establishing a postgraduate programme in nutritional epidemiology at the Kinshasa School of Public Health (KSPH), where EMI was adopted. We report experiences and perceptions of stakeholders, facilitators and students about using EMI. Methods In-depth qualitative interviews were conducted between October and December 2019 among convenience sampled stakeholders (8), facilitators (11) and students (12) involved in the programme from all three partner institutions (University of Kinshasa; University of KwaZulu-Natal, South Africa; University of Bergen, Norway). Interviews were conducted in participants’ language of preference (English or French), audio-recorded, transcribed verbatim and translated into English when required. Analysis employed a thematic approach. Results Most participants viewed EMI positively, reporting that studying in English created opportunities to access relevant literature, improve interactions with the scientific community and advance their careers. As a result of adopting EMI, some students had opportunities to present research findings at international conferences and publish their research in English. English-speaking researchers from partner institutions were able to participate in supervision of students’ research. However, inadequate English competency, particularly among students, was challenging, with some students reporting being unable to understand or interact in class, which negatively affected their academic performance. Further, EMI created barriers at KSPH among academic staff who were not proficient in English, leading to poor participation among non-English-speaking staff and lack of integration with other postgraduate programmes. Participants suggested additional English language support for EMI. Conclusion Partnerships between HEIs could be a powerful tool to develop research capacity in low-income countries in line with United Nations Sustainable Development Goals. EMI could be a solution to language barriers faced by many such partnerships, but wide-ranging support to develop English proficiency among staff and students is essential to ensure that the challenges do not outweigh the benefits.

scholarly journals Prevalence and associated factors of neurodevelopmental disability among infants in eastern Uganda: a population based study

2019 ◽  
Vol 19 (1) ◽  
Author(s):  
Gertrude Namazzi ◽  
Helena Hildenwall ◽  
Paul Mubiri ◽  
Claudia Hanson ◽  
Christine Nalwadda ◽  
...  
Keyword(s):  
Low Income ◽  
Social Behaviour ◽  
Assessment Tool ◽  
Statistical Significance ◽  
Low Income Countries ◽  
Fine Motor ◽  
Neurodevelopmental Outcomes ◽  
Factors Associated ◽  
Neurodevelopmental Disability ◽  
Eastern Uganda

Abstract Background Neurodevelopmental disability (NDD) is increasingly acknowledged as one of the important causes of disease burden in low income countries. None the less, there is a dearth of data on the burden of NDD and its determinants in these settings. We aimed to establish the prevalence and factors associated with NDD among infants in Eastern Uganda. Methods We assessed 487 infants aged 9–12 months within Iganga-Mayuge Health Demographic Surveillance Site in Eastern Uganda using the Malawi Developmental Assessment Tool. The tool has four domains: gross motor, fine motor, language and social domains. An infant failed a domain if she/he failed more than two parameters of the expected at his/her age. We interviewed mothers on factors that could influence the infants’ neurodevelopmental outcomes. Data were analysed using STATA version 14. We used odds ratios and 95% confidence intervals to assess statistical significance of associations. Results Of the 487 infants, 62(12.7%) had an NDD in at least one of the domains. The most affected was social behaviour where 52(10.7%) infants had an NDD. Severe impairment was seen among 9(1.8%) infants with NDD in either three or four domains. Factors associated with NDD at multivariate logistic regression included: parity of more than three children (aOR = 1.8, 95% CI: 1.02–3.18); failure to cry at birth (aOR = 3.6, 95% CI: 1.46–9.17) and post-neonatal complications (aOR = 4.15, 95% CI: 1.22–14.10). Low birth weight, immediate and exclusive breast feeding were not significantly associated with NDD. Conclusion We found a high NDD burden among infants particularly in the social behaviour domain. To optimise the socio-neural development of infants, programs are needed to educate and work with families on how to engage and stimulate infants. Existing immunisation clinics and community health worker strategies provide an excellent opportunity for stemming this burden.

Impact of Social Isolation on Physical Activity and Factors Associated With Sedentary Behavior in Older Adults During the COVID-19 Pandemic

2021 ◽  
pp. 1-5
Author(s):  
Giovana Z. Mazo ◽  
Felipe Fank ◽  
Pedro S. Franco ◽  
Bruna da Silva Vieira Capanema ◽  
Franciele da Silva Pereira
Keyword(s):  
Physical Activity ◽  
Older Adults ◽  
Sedentary Behavior ◽  
Social Isolation ◽  
Low Income ◽  
Low Income Countries ◽  
Moderate Physical Activity ◽  
Cross Sectional ◽  
Factors Associated ◽  
The Impact

The objective was to analyze the impact of social isolation on moderate physical activity and factors associated with sedentary behavior of older adults during the COVID-19 pandemic. This was a cross-sectional study involving 111 older adults (aged 71.0 ± 6.87 years). The data were collected at two time points: in November 2019 and in June 2020. There was a decline in moderate physical activity when the minutes/week were compared before and during social isolation (p < .001). Sedentary behavior was associated with the condition of living alone. Older adults who lived alone were 3.29 times more likely to spend 4 hr or more in sedentary behavior than those who lived with a partner (95% confidence interval [1.01, 10.74]). Government agencies must establish PA-related health promotion strategies, especially in developing and low-income countries. Therefore, home exercises need to be encouraged to prevent the consequences of this pandemic period.

Enhancing Financial Sector Surveillance in Low-Income Countries - Financial Deepening and Macro-Stability

Policy Papers ◽  
2012 ◽  
Vol 2012 (27) ◽  
Author(s):  
Keyword(s):  
Low Income ◽  
Financial Stability ◽  
Low Income Countries ◽  
Financial Deepening ◽  
Macroeconomic Policies ◽  
Risk Return ◽  
Inherent Risk ◽  
Analytical Tools ◽  
Shed Light

This paper aims to widen the lens through which surveillance is conducted in LICs, to better account for the interplay between financial deepening and macro-financial stability as called for in the 2011 Triennial Surveillance Review. Reflecting the inherent risk-return tradeoffs associated with financial deepening, the paper seeks to shed light on the policy and institutional impediments in LICs that have a bearing on the effectiveness of macroeconomic policies, macro-financial stability, and growth. The paper focuses attention on the role of enabling policies in facilitating sustainable financial deepening. In framing the discussion, the paper draws on a range of conceptual and analytical tools, empirical analyses, and case studies.

scholarly journals Structural Factors Associated with Higher Education Access for First-Generation Refugees in Canada: An Agenda for Research

Refuge ◽  
2012 ◽  
Vol 27 (2) ◽  
pp. 79-88 ◽  
Author(s):  
Martha K. Ferede
Keyword(s):  
Higher Education ◽  
Low Income ◽  
Tertiary Education ◽  
Empirical Literature ◽  
Structural Factors ◽  
Academic Preparedness ◽  
Higher Education Access ◽  
Education Access ◽  
Post Secondary ◽  
Factors Associated

Refugees are the least educated migrants upon arrival to Canada. Yet, they invest in Canadian higher education at lower rates than other newcomers. Why might this be? This paper enters this emergent conversation through a review of the Canadian-based empirical literature on the structural factors associated with refugees’ tertiary education access. Research indicates that as part of the low-income population, refugees are likely to misperceive the cost and benefits of higher education and be deterred by high tuition costs. Academic preparedness and tracking in high schools also pose additional constraints. The gap in the literature exposes a need for inquiry into the ways in which pre-arrival experiences influence refugees’ participation in Canada’s post-secondary institutions. The paper concludes by underscoring the need for qualitative research that discerns the lived experiences of refugees outside of the aggregate immigrant grouping typical in education research.

scholarly journals Prevalence and Associated Risk Factors for Anaemia Among Pregnant Women Attending Ante-Natal Clinic, Eswatini

2021 ◽  
Author(s):  
Rumbidzai Dodzo ◽  
Ropo Ebenezer Ogunsakin ◽  
Themba G. Ginindza
Keyword(s):  
Pregnant Women ◽  
Low Income ◽  
Cross Sectional Study ◽  
Low Income Countries ◽  
Health Concern ◽  
Cross Sectional ◽  
Neonatal Deaths ◽  
Factors Associated ◽  
Anaemia In Pregnancy ◽  
Associated Risk Factors

Abstract Background: Anaemia is one of the most common nutritional deficiency diseases observed globally and it affects about a third of the world’s population. Anaemia in pregnant women is a worldwide public health concern that has severe consequences for both mothers and infants, including maternal death and foetal and infant mortality. In Low-income countries (LICs), 25% of indirect maternal mortality and 30% of neonatal deaths are due to anaemia in pregnancy. Therefore, this study aimed to determine the prevalence of anaemia and assess associated factors among pregnant women attending ante-natal care (ANC) clinic in the Kingdom of Eswatini, which might help for screening, prevention and treatment of anaemia and ultimately prevent its adverse effects. Method: A total of 550 pregnant women between 15 and 49 years from three health facilities were randomly enrolled using a cross-sectional study design, from January to March 2021. Non-probability sampling approach was used to select the appropriate study unit. A face-toface interview was done using a structured questionnaire to collect data. Multiple logistic regression was performed to assess the factors associated with anaemia among the women.Results: The overall anaemia prevalence among pregnant women was 43.1% (95% CI: 38.947.3). The mild, moderate and severe cases of anaemia were 21.3% (95%CI: 17.9-24.9); 21.1% (95%CI: 17.8-24.7) and 0.7% (95%CI: 0.2-1.9), respectively. The prevalence of anaemia was high among women aged 20-24 (11.1%, 95%CI: 8.6-14.0) and 25-29years (11.1%, 95%CI: 8.6-14.0). Factors associated with anaemia included living in the urban area (OR=1.8, 95%CI: 1.19-2.72, p=0.005) and having anaemia 6 months before pregnancy (OR=4.64, 95%CI: 1.1518.71, p=0.031). Additionally, gestational age at first ANC also was positively associated with anaemia: 3rd trimester (OR=10.42, 95%CI: 4.27-25.4, p<0.001) and 2nd trimester (OR=1.62, 95%CI: 1.02-2.60, p=0.043) Conclusion: Anaemia remains prevalent among pregnant women in Eswatini. Thus, a comprehensive anaemia prevention program would be justified and could lower the country’s burden of anemia.

scholarly journals Levelling the playing field: the future of the FRCS (Tr & Orth) exam

2008 ◽  
Vol 90 (10) ◽  
pp. 344-345
Author(s):  
B Caesar ◽  
L David
Keyword(s):  
Higher Education ◽  
Medical Students ◽  
Formal Assessment ◽  
Playing Field ◽  
The Past ◽  
The Future ◽  
The Uk ◽  
Orthopaedic Trainee ◽  
Shed Light

The processes of formal assessment and examination in the UK have become increasingly convoluted over the past few years, whether at school, in higher education, or as a senior orthopaedic trainee sitting the ISB examination at fellowship level in trauma and orthopaedics. Although rationalising the ever-expanding methods of assessment inflicted upon medical students and postgraduate doctors by various government departments is not within our remit, we can endeavour to shed light on the current issues surrounding the FRCS (Tr & Orth) examination.

scholarly journals COVID-19, Australia: Epidemiology Report 15: Reporting week to 2359 AEST 10 May 2020

2020 ◽  
Vol 44 ◽  
Author(s):  
Keyword(s):  
Public Health ◽  
Low Income ◽  
Case Fatality Rate ◽  
Case Fatality ◽  
International Travel ◽  
Low Income Countries ◽  
Fatality Rate ◽  
Public Health Action ◽  
The Past ◽  
Global Rate

Confirmed cases in Australia notified up to 10 May 2020: notifications = 6,971; deaths = 98. The incidence of new cases of COVID-19 has reduced dramatically since a peak in mid-march. The reduction in international travel, social distancing measures and public health action have likely been effective in slowing the spread of the disease, in the Australian community. Cases of COVID-19 continue to be notified by jurisdictions, albeit at a slowed rate. Testing rates over the past week have increased markedly, with a very low proportion of people testing positive. These low rates of detection are indicative of low levels of COVID-19 transmission. It is important that testing rates and community adherence to public health measures remain high to support the continued suppression of the virus, particularly in vulnerable high-risk groups and settings. In the past reporting week new cases in Australia are mostly considered to be locally acquired, consistent with the drop in international travel. Most locally-acquired cases can be linked back to a known case or cluster. Although the proportion of locally-acquired cases has increased, the overall rate of cases, regardless of place of acquisition, continues to decrease. The crude case fatality rate in Australia remains low (1.4%), compared with the WHO reported global rate (6.9%). The low case fatality rate is likely reflective of high case detection and high quality of health care services in Australia. Deaths from COVID-19 in Australia have occurred predominantly among the elderly and those with comorbidities, with no deaths occurring in those under 40 years. The highest rate of COVID-19 continues to be among people aged 60-79 years, with a third of these cases associated with several outbreaks linked to cruise ships. The lowest rate of disease is in young children, a pattern reflected in international reports. Internationally, cases continue to increase, with some areas such as Brazil and India showing a dramatic rise in reported cases. Although some low-income countries have currently reported few cases, it is possible that this is due to limited diagnostic and public health capacity, and may not be reflective of disease occurrence.

scholarly journals Factors associated with the preference of institutional delivery after antenatal care attendance in Northwest Ethiopia

2019 ◽  
Vol 19 (1) ◽  
Author(s):  
Araya Mesfin Nigatu ◽  
Kassahun Alemu Gelaye
Keyword(s):  
Health Education ◽  
Antenatal Care ◽  
Low Income ◽  
Institutional Delivery ◽  
Statistical Significance ◽  
Health Facilities ◽  
Low Income Countries ◽  
Contributing Factors ◽  
Place Of Delivery ◽  
Factors Associated

Abstract Background Even though maternal mortality during the time of delivery can be prevented with proper medical care in the health facilities with skilled healthcare professionals, unexpectedly death is still high and is a persistent challenge for low-income countries. Therefore identifying factors affecting the preference of institutional delivery after antenatal care service attendance is a key intervention to reduce maternal morbidity and mortality. Method A community-based cross-sectional study was conducted using face to face using interviewer-administered questionnaire from a total of 528 women who gave their last birth within 12 months prior to the study period who attended antenatal care (ANC) services. Descriptive statistics, bivariable and multivariable logistic regressions analysis were performed. Statistical significance was considered at p < 0.05 and odds ratio with 95% CI were calculated to examine factors associated with institutional delivery. Results Of the 528 pregnant women attending ANC services, 250 (47.3%) gave birth in health facilities (95% CI: 43.2, 51.7%). Urban residence [AOR = 7.8, 95% CI: 4.1, 15.6], four or more ANC visits [AOR = 4.5, 95% CI: 1.6, 12.3], those who got health education on ANC [AOR = 2.9, 95% CI: 1.5, 5.6] and decision on place of delivery with her partner agreement [AOR = 3.3, 95% CI: 1.3, 8.7] were found to be contributing factors for the preference of institutional delivery. Conclusion Institutional delivery was not adequate. Residence, number of antenatal care visits, health education, decisions making on a place of delivery and having awareness of the difference of place of delivery were contributing factors for the preference of institutional delivery.

scholarly journals THE NATURE OF INNOVATION ECO-SYSTEM OF THE WESTERN KAZAKH STATE UNIVERSITY

2020 ◽  
Vol 9 (4) ◽  
pp. 254
Author(s):  
Liliya Mergaliyeva
Keyword(s):  
Higher Education ◽  
Low Income ◽  
Low Income Countries ◽  
State University ◽  
Education Development ◽  
Frugal Innovation ◽  
Innovation Culture ◽  
New Business ◽  
The University

It was a strong belief that higher education institutions are notoriously resistant to change. However, during the COVID-19 pandemic, universities have quickly and effectively moved millions of students and educators online despite huge logistical and technological challenges. There are very few industries that have reacted in this way. In future leading universities will look for a new business model and apply disruptive innovations into the leaning process.Today is a right time for planning a long term innovation strategy. In recent years Kazakh higher education development has been accompanied by intensive economic growth and raising demand for high qualifies employers. The aim of this research is to reveal the ways of implementing high innovation and creativity approach in universities under example of Western Kazakhstan State University. This study examines the factors determining conditions for development of innovation culture across the university and industry. The methodology is based on expert interviews, reflective experiences; surveying research for innovation, incorporating the information on innovation landscape map, university infrastructure, human resources, PESTEL analysis as well as industry overview. The results show that WKSU needs frugal innovation, as it provides a new entrepreneurial landscape for companies in low-income countries with limited resources to develop innovations.

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