Service learning in an Indigenous not-for-profit organization

2015 ◽  
Vol 57 (7) ◽  
pp. 774-790 ◽  
Author(s):  
Suzanne Young ◽  
Tina Karme
Keyword(s):  
Service Learning ◽  
Cultural Values ◽  
International Student ◽  
Single Case ◽  
Open Communication ◽  
Content Type ◽  
For Profit ◽  
Not For Profit ◽  
Service Learning Pedagogy

Purpose – The purpose of this paper is to provide an understanding of how service learning pedagogy assists in student and organizational learning. Design/methodology/approach – The authors use case study reflection and ethnography approaches. Findings – The key to the success of the internship was time spent on relationship building between the parties, clear documentation of roles and responsibilities, the selection and matching process and open communication between all parties. Using Mezirow’s (1991) transformational learning approach, and Kolb’s (1984) learning framework, it demonstrates an example of perspective transformation where the “unfamiliar” helps participants to question the “familiar”; through embedding learning in relation to culture, values, ownership and identity. Service learning relies on collaborative pedagogy where reflection and relationships with community and educators provide a platform to test students’ values and moral reasoning and build community cultural understanding. Research limitations/implications – The paper includes a single case study and autoethnographic research methodology only. Practical implications – Community-learning activities supplement the course content and embeds learning, broadening the students’ experiences, providing them with an understanding of context, and dealing with complexity to question their own cultural values. In practical terms it provides students with different career opportunities such as in the not-for-profit sector or in advocacy work. Service learning pedagogy enhances graduate capabilities, across many areas including problem solving, values development and community engagement and thinking of the other. Originality/value – The paper reports on and analyses the learning of a service learning internship between a business school and an Indigenous organization. The paper uses a reflection methodology and is written by the University internship co-ordinator (teacher) and an international student intern, whilst drawing on reflections of the Indigenous leader of the not-for-profit organization.

scholarly journals How performance measurement influences stakeholders in not-for-profit organizations

2017 ◽  
Vol 37 (9) ◽  
pp. 1164-1184 ◽  
Author(s):  
Haley Allison Beer ◽  
Pietro Micheli
Keyword(s):  
Performance Measurement ◽  
Single Case ◽  
Institutional Logics ◽  
Performance Goals ◽  
Content Type ◽  
For Profit ◽  
Not For Profit ◽  
And Performance ◽  
The Uk

Purpose The purpose of this paper is to examine the influences of performance measurement (PM) on not-for-profit (NFP) organizations’ stakeholders by studying how PM practices interact with understandings of legitimate performance goals. This study invokes institutional logics theory to explain interactions between PM and stakeholders. Design/methodology/approach An in-depth case study is conducted in a large NFP organization in the UK. Managers, employees, and external partners are interviewed and observed, and performance-related documents analyzed. Findings Both stakeholders and PM practices are found to have dominant institutional logics that portray certain goals as legitimate. PM practices can reinforce, reconcile, or inhibit stakeholders’ understandings and propensity to act toward goals, depending on the extent to which practices share the dominant logic of the stakeholders they interact with. Research limitations/implications A theoretical framework is proposed for how PM practices first interact with stakeholders at a cognitive level and second influence action. This research is based on a single case study, which limits generalizability of findings; however, results may be transferable to other environments where PM is aimed at balancing competing stakeholder objectives and organizational priorities. Practical implications PM affects the experience of stakeholders by interacting with their understanding of legitimate performance goals. PM systems should be designed and implemented on the basis of both their formal ability to represent organizational aims and objectives, and their influence on stakeholders. Originality/value Findings advance PM theory by offering an explanation for how PM influences attention and actions at an individual micro level.

The limits to employee involvement? Employee participation without HRM in a small not-for-profit organisation

2020 ◽  
Vol ahead-of-print (ahead-of-print) ◽  
Author(s):  
Karen Philip ◽  
Jim Arrowsmith
Keyword(s):  
Decision Making ◽  
Employee Involvement ◽  
Single Case ◽  
Employee Participation ◽  
Single Case Study ◽  
Content Type ◽  
For Profit ◽  
Not For Profit ◽  
Policies And Practices

PurposeThe strategic human resource management (HRM) literature emphasises the importance of employee involvement and participation for outcomes such as job satisfaction, employee retention and organisational performance. Situational factors identified as conducive to employee participation in decision-making include small size, via less hierarchical, proximate and informal workplace relations. Ownership and mission are also important, with not-for-profit (NFP) organisations generally having more collectivist, commitment-based cultures that support open decision-making. However, such organisations often have weak HRM policies and practices. This paper examines the process and outcomes of employee participation in a small NFP through in-depth case study research.Design/methodology/approachSingle case study utilising longitudinal participant observation, interviews, reflective diary, documentary analysis.FindingsOperating as a collective, the organisation was bound by time and capacity limitations in its ability to plan strategically or even to make routine decisions. Basic HR policies and practices in areas such as staff recruitment and performance management were sub-standard or unobserved. Consequences included poor management, inconsistent training, staff burnout, high labour turnover and sub-optimal performance. The results suggest that weak managerial coordination and the absence of a dedicated HR function subvert effective people management. In such circumstances, strong forms of employee participation fail to deliver anticipated equity and efficiency outcomes.Research limitations/implicationsSingle case study.Practical implicationsSmall organisations need HR policies and dedicated support to ensure that employee involvement and participation are effective.Originality/valueThe findings demonstrate how employee involvement and participation can be subverted by inadequate HR processes, adding qualitative evidence to support theories of HR “bundling” in high-involvement work practices. The research also contributes to the neglected area of HRM in small NFPs.

scholarly journals Helping Yourself or Others? Motivation Dynamics for High-Performing Volunteers in GLAM Crowdsourcing

2020 ◽  
Vol 24 ◽  
Author(s):  
Sultana Lubna Alam ◽  
Ruonan Sun ◽  
John Campbell
Keyword(s):  
Financial Incentives ◽  
Incentive Structure ◽  
Open Communication ◽  
Non Profit ◽  
High Performing ◽  
For Profit ◽  
Not For Profit ◽  
Over Time

While most crowdsourcing (CS) cases in the literature focus on commercial organisations, little is known about volunteers’ motivation of initial and continued participation in not-for-profit CS projects and importantly, about how the motivations may change over time. It is vital to understand motivation and motivational dynamics in a not-for-profit context because a fundamental challenge for not-for-profit CS initiations is to recruit and keep volunteers motivated without any formal contract or financial incentives. To tackle this challenge, we explore high performing volunteers’ initial motivation for joining and sustaining with a GLAM (galleries, libraries, archives and museums) CS project. We situated our interpretive exploration in a case study of the Australian Newspapers CS project initiated by the National Library of Australia. Based on the case study, we found that high-performing volunteers were motivated by a combination of personal, collective, and external factors classified into intrinsic, extrinsic, and internalised extrinsic motivations. Further, we found that these motivations changed over time. Specifically, many volunteers presented substantial personal (i.e., personal interest and fun) and community-centric motivations (i.e. altruism and non-profit cause) when they initially joined the project, whereas external motivations (i.e., recognition and rewards) had a greater impact on long-term participation. Our findings offer implications for CS system design (e.g., user profiles, tagging and commenting), incentive structure (e.g., reputation-based ranking, leader boards), and relational mechanisms (e.g., open communication channels) to stimulate sustainable contributions for not-for-profit CS initiatives.

Countering extremism through service learning: narratives learned from journalism students

2019 ◽  
Vol 11 (4) ◽  
pp. 686-697
Author(s):  
Maria Robert Bou Zeid
Keyword(s):  
Higher Education ◽  
Service Learning ◽  
Single Case ◽  
Higher Education Institutions ◽  
Social Implications ◽  
Case Study Methodology ◽  
Content Type ◽  
Higher Educational ◽  
Journalism Students

Purpose The purpose of this paper is to examine the case of the Aspiration, Communication and Transformation campaign conducted by journalism students to counter extremism as a form of experiential learning in Lebanese higher educational context. It documents the views and experiences of students in a service learning (SL) project for redressing a timely social issue. Design/methodology/approach This study employed a descriptive case study methodology involving a portraiture naturalistic approach for data gathering. It conducted semi-structured interviews with three participating students to learn from their experiences in countering extremism. This was complemented by two interviews with the instructor in charge of the project and an external stakeholder. Findings Results emphasized the combination of applying the broadcast technical skills of the course to countering extremism in a volatile political context. Research limitations/implications The findings are only a mild reflection of countering extremism through SL since it focused on a single case study involving a limited number of participants. However, the study offered common sense conclusions having broader applicability. Practical implications This topic is of particular importance to higher educational institutions and communities working on countering extremism through education, particularly in contexts rife with violence and ideological indoctrination. Social implications This paper has social implications on promoting awareness about extremism as a challenging social debacle. It presents workable recommendations for fostering a stronger relationship between higher education institutions and communities to defy extremism. It shows the importance of connecting curricula to community needs. Originality/value This paper fills a gap in the literature pertaining to the role of higher education institutions in countering extremism through SL in Lebanon and the MENA region.

Entrepreneurial habits in the Kenya red cross society

2020 ◽  
Vol 10 (2) ◽  
pp. 1-18
Author(s):  
Bitange Ndemo ◽  
Benedict Mkalama ◽  
Dennis Moiro Aiko
Keyword(s):  
Learning Outcomes ◽  
Red Cross ◽  
Entrepreneurial Leadership ◽  
Basic Principles ◽  
Content Type ◽  
For Profit ◽  
Academic Level ◽  
Not For Profit ◽  
Entrepreneurship Theory

Learning outcomes The case study takes students through basic principles and applications of entrepreneurship theory as demonstrated by the story of Kenya Red Cross Society (KRCS). The case further demonstrates the significance of communicating a rallying vision in a change management situation. The case further allows the students to evaluate the concept and implication of entrepreneurial leadership thereby enhancing creativity and innovativeness in a firm. Case overview/synopsis An area that has had little interaction in the study of entrepreneurship is within the development and humanitarian agencies. This is a case study on Entrepreneurial Habits in the KRCS. The leadership of KRCS combined different entrepreneurial actions that were able to deliver commercial goals in a not-for-profit organization. The final overarching consideration was the sustainability of the changes implemented over a period of time. Complexity academic level Graduate level. Supplementary materials Teaching notes are available for educators only. Subject code CSS 3: Entrepreneurship.

Equitable public library services for Canadians with print disabilities

2018 ◽  
Vol 46 (3) ◽  
pp. 379-398
Author(s):  
Michael Ciccone
Keyword(s):  
Public Libraries ◽  
Public Library ◽  
Library Services ◽  
Publicly Funded ◽  
Content Type ◽  
For Profit ◽  
Not For Profit ◽  
Reading Materials ◽  
History Of

Purpose CELA, the Centre for Equitable Library Access, is a national not-for-profit organization whose mission is to support public libraries in providing accessible collections for Canadians with print disabilities and to champion the fundamental right of Canadians with print disabilities to access media and reading materials in the format of their choice. This paper aims to examine the history of the organization, the events that led to its creation, the issues with which it has and continues to struggle with – political, technological, structural – and the successes it has enjoyed. Design/methodology/approach This is a case study intended shine light on the development of a service sorely lacking in Canadian public libraries – consistent and sustainable publicly funded access to reading materials for Canadians with print disabilities – by providing related history and context and outlining current and future offerings. Findings The decision to centralize a service that most public libraries struggled to deliver within their own capacities was wise and has greatly benefited Canadians with print disabilities. Originality/value This paper provides a profile in determination, collaboration and the value of inclusivity in public libraries.

scholarly journals Barriers to knowledge sharing in third sector social care: a case study

2016 ◽  
Vol 20 (1) ◽  
pp. 125-145 ◽  
Author(s):  
Lyndsay Bloice ◽  
Simon Burnett
Keyword(s):  
Knowledge Sharing ◽  
Social Service ◽  
Social Care ◽  
Third Sector ◽  
Structured Interviews ◽  
Case Study Methodology ◽  
Content Type ◽  
For Profit ◽  
Not For Profit

Purpose – This paper aims to build on existing theory of knowledge sharing barriers (KSBs) by exploring the concept in the relatively under-researched context of social service not-for-profit organisations. Design/methodology/approach – In this study, case study methodology was used. Practitioner staff members took part in online questionnaires, followed by semi-structured interviews with line management and middle management staff. Secondary sources from the case study organisation were also used in the analysis. The analysis of questionnaire responses alongside responses from semi-structured interviews is compared with extant research into KSBs. Findings – The findings of this study highlight the need to re-examine the KSBs identified in the literature to reflect contexts beyond the private sector. Common barriers were identified, but some found in the case study organisation did not neatly fit into the existing definitions of KSBs. An updated list of KSBs to reflect this social service not-for-profit context is presented. Research limitations/implications – Case studies are often not generalisable; however, the KSB list developed here could be further explored and tested in other third sector organisations. Practical implications – The research raises the question of applicability of current knowledge management (KM) theory and lexicon in the third sector and social care environment. Originality/value – This study provides an insight into KM applicability in a third sector context, which is a relatively under-developed research area.

Designing CA/CM to fit not-for-profit organizations

2016 ◽  
Vol 31 (1) ◽  
pp. 87-110 ◽  
Author(s):  
Deniz Appelbaum ◽  
Stephen Kozlowski ◽  
Miklos A. Vasarhelyi ◽  
Joel White
Keyword(s):  
Design Methodology ◽  
New Technologies ◽  
Internal Controls ◽  
Continuous Auditing ◽  
Content Type ◽  
For Profit ◽  
Study Approach ◽  
Not For Profit ◽  
Practical Implications

Purpose – The purpose of this project is to undertake continuous auditing and monitoring (CA/CM) implementations working with small-to-medium-sized (SME) not-for-profit (NFP) organizations of varying sizes, business purposes and levels of technical sophistication. Design/methodology/approach – This paper discusses a project using a case study approach with an SME NFP entity. Findings – The findings support the discussions in the literature regarding CA/CM adoption in organizations, particularly regarding its implementation benefits and challenges. Research limitations/implications – The project is not complete in that additional case studies could possibly offer additional applicability to the findings. Practical implications – This case study illustrates the issues inherent with the process of adopting new technologies. It provides insights for others considering adoption of CA/CM tools or protocols. Social implications – The need for more reliable auditing has never been more urgent than it is today in the NFP environment, and this case study demonstrates how an NFP could address these critical needs of increased reporting accountability and internal controls. Originality/value – The application of CA/CM is quite interesting and relevant in this modern real-time economy. This case study provides a new area of research in the field of CA/CM and, as such, contributes to the literature.

Integrated thinking rolls! Stakeholder engagement actions translate integrated thinking into practice

2020 ◽  
Vol ahead-of-print (ahead-of-print) ◽  
Author(s):  
Alain Devalle ◽  
Melchior Gromis di Trana ◽  
Simona Fiandrino ◽  
Demetris Vrontis
Keyword(s):  
Stakeholder Engagement ◽  
Single Case ◽  
Depth Information ◽  
Single Case Study ◽  
Collaborative Partnerships ◽  
Structured Interviews ◽  
Open Communication ◽  
Content Type ◽  
Integrated Logic

Purpose This study aims to investigate the approaches to and the actions of integrated thinking (IT) based on stakeholder engagement practices to mitigate the perception of IT as an “abstract construct” and to overcome the “silos” thinking of managing, communicating and reporting. Design/methodology/approach The research develops a single case-study of a leading Italian company in the sustainability setting: Lavazza. The authors gathered in-depth information with semi-structured interviews on their approaches to IT and actions of IT and the related stakeholder engagement practices which involved over time. Findings This study addresses the concept of IT, arguing for integrated circularity as a strategic mindset, which builds upon open communication and collaborative partnerships with stakeholders for value creation. Research limitations/implications The limitations of this study stem from the nature of a single case study, thus the findings are most relevant to those companies operating in comparable sectors with similar historical and organizational characteristics. Practical implications The study provides a systematic framework of IT approaches and related actions based on stakeholder engagement practices that define a company as an integrated thinker. This can be used by managers and companies to implement an integrated logic of thinking and reporting. Originality/value This is a pioneering study in this area as there are very few ones that take into account the relationship between the IT of design and reporting from a stakeholder perspective. The more IT is embedded in the business, the fuller the consideration of key stakeholders’ interests is incorporated as a relevant part of conducting business.

Successful leadership in a rural, high-poverty school: the case of County Line Middle School

2014 ◽  
Vol 52 (4) ◽  
pp. 422-445 ◽  
Author(s):  
Hans W. Klar ◽  
Curtis A. Brewer
Keyword(s):  
Middle School ◽  
Service Learning ◽  
Low Income ◽  
Leadership Practices ◽  
Leadership Strategies ◽  
High Poverty ◽  
Content Type ◽  
School Principalship ◽  
Successful School

Purpose – In this paper, the authors present a case study of successful school leadership at County Line Middle School. The purpose of the paper is to identify how particular leadership practices and beliefs were adapted to increase student achievement in this rural, high-poverty school in the southeastern USA. Design/methodology/approach – After purposefully selecting this school, the authors adapted interview protocols, questionnaires, and analysis frameworks from the International Successful School Principalship Project to develop a multi-perspective case study of principal leadership practices at the school. Findings – The findings illustrate the practices which led to students at this school, previously the lowest-performing in the district, achieving significantly higher on state standardized tests, getting along “like a family,” and regularly participating in service learning activities and charity events. A particularly interesting finding was how the principal confronted the school's negative self-image and adapted common leadership practices to implement a school-wide reform that suited its unique context. Research limitations/implications – While the findings of the study explicate the specific ways the principal adapted leadership strategies to enhance student learning, this study also highlights the need to understand how principals become familiar with their community's needs, cultures, norms, and values, and exercise leadership in accordance with them. Practical implications – The case offers an example of the need for context-responsive leadership in schools. In particular, it illustrates how this principal enacted leadership strategies that successfully negotiated what Woods (2006) referred to as the changing politics of the rural. To realize this success, the principal utilized his understanding of this low income, rural community to guide his leadership practices. Critically, part of this understanding included the ways the community was connected to and isolated from dominant sub-urban and urban societies, and how to build enthusiasm and capacity through appeals to local values. Originality/value – While it is widely acknowledged that school leaders need to consider their school and community contexts when making leadership decisions, less research has focussed on understanding how this can be achieved. This case provides rich examples of how this was accomplished in a rural, high-poverty middle school.

Sign in / Sign up

Export Citation Format

Share Document