scholarly journals Professional training in organic food production: a cross-country experience

2017 ◽  
Vol 34 (3) ◽  
pp. 259-273
Author(s):  
Raquel Guiné ◽  
Daniela Costa ◽  
Paula Correia ◽  
Cristina Costa ◽  
Helena Correia ◽  
...  
Keyword(s):  
Distance Learning ◽  
Design Methodology ◽  
Professional Training ◽  
Agricultural Activity ◽  
Content Type ◽  
Training Activities ◽  
Cross Country ◽  
Level Of Significance ◽  
Past Experiences ◽  
Practical Implications

Purpose The purpose of this paper is to characterize the agricultural activities and past experiences in professional training in the context of mobile learning in different countries (Portugal, Spain, Slovakia, Hungary, UK, Italy and Turkey). Design/methodology/approach For the survey, a questionnaire was prepared in English and Portuguese and then translated into the languages of the participating countries. It was delivered electronically for answering online by adults only. The participation was voluntary and in the end 133 consented valid questionnaires were obtained. For the treatment of the data, SPSS was used and basic descriptive statistics tools were applied, together with tests, namely, crosstabs and χ2 tests, considering a level of significance of 5 percent. Findings The results showed that the majority of the participants presently have some agricultural activity and one-third is thinking about starting one in the future. Most of the participants want to produce food organically, with significant differences among the countries studied in this paper. Most of the participants were enrolled in training activities in agriculture, especially those with higher education. This participation showed significant differences between countries as well as according to the dimension of the farms owned by the participants. A significant association was found between being a teacher in forming activities related to agriculture and being a farmer. When compared to distance learning, the training activities in classroom were the most frequent, with significant differences among the countries. Practical implications This study allowed characterizing the learning activities in the field of organic agriculture and established vision for planning of future training programs, in different countries, with maybe different social, educational and cultural realities. Originality/value Because the study included the participation of people from several countries all around Europe, the results obtained enrich the scientific area of training in organic farming, in view of distance learning vs classroom learning on a more global basis.

The changed paradigm of business progress: a moral step forward for humanity

2018 ◽  
Vol 26 (3) ◽  
pp. 181-193
Author(s):  
Joan Marques
Keyword(s):  
Design Methodology ◽  
Management Practices ◽  
Leadership Skills ◽  
First Century ◽  
Competitive Environment ◽  
Business Leadership ◽  
Content Type ◽  
The Past ◽  
Past Experiences ◽  
Practical Implications

Purpose Through an overview of the perceptional evolution of progress over the past two centuries, this paper aims to review a changed, yet constructive paradigm that has emerged in business leadership. Design/methodology/approach The paper is a general review-based deliberation presenting standards of the twentieth century, the need for a shift in paradigms and the shift as it unfolds in the twenty-first century. Findings Focusing on optimal stakeholder inclusion, yet not disregarding the concept of progress in a competitive environment, this paper presents a set of interrelated leadership skills and characteristics, including a discussion about their applicability and ways to develop them. Research limitations/implications While globally applicable, the views in this paper are primarily based on the American performance environment. Practical implications Management practices would not have evolved to today’s level if we did not have the past experiences to learn from. The deliberations and insights shared in this article should be seen as a way of evaluating the path that led us to our current, multi-tiered leadership paradigm. Social implications The model presented in this article should be seen as a useful, yet incomplete set of skills and characteristics to be considered by today’s and future leaders to ensure greater stakeholder inclusion. Originality/value Within the framework of focusing on the management horizon, this paper places the driving motives of two centuries that influenced our current society alongside each other and contemplates on the necessary shifts needed to move forward.

scholarly journals Competences in higher education tourism internships

2019 ◽  
Vol 62 (1) ◽  
pp. 64-80 ◽  
Author(s):  
Raquel Ferreras-Garcia ◽  
Jordi Sales-Zaguirre ◽  
Enric Serradell-López
Keyword(s):  
Design Methodology ◽  
Descriptive Analysis ◽  
Hotel Industry ◽  
Hospitality Management ◽  
Job Market ◽  
Content Type ◽  
Training Activities ◽  
The Subject ◽  
Tourism And Hospitality ◽  
Practical Implications

Purpose The purpose of this paper is to examine the level of correspondence between the academic training received by students and the demands of the job market. This was achieved by analysing the competences that are developed in internships to provide useful information for universities, students and tourism companies. Design/methodology/approach A quantitative analysis was carried out using questionnaires administered to the supervisors of students on curricular internships. The level of tourism competences of students on the bachelor degree in Tourism and Hospitality Management at the School of Tourism and Hospitality Management Sant Ignasi was assessed. A descriptive analysis and comparisons of means were carried out to investigate differences in competences between students undertaking internships, according to the hotel department and category. Findings The results of the study indicate that students undertaking internships improve their competences. Whether they undertake internships in one department or another does not affect the level of achievement of most competences. However, the category of a hotel does influence the level of development of the acquired competences. Research limitations/implications A questionnaire should be administered to students on their perceptions of the achievement of competences, as this could be compared with the supervisors’ perceptions. Practical implications The study generates extremely valuable information for companies, universities and students, as it reveals which competences are attained and to what extent. Based on these results, universities can adapt their training activities and the hotel industry will have information on learning processes during internships. Originality/value The analysis provides an innovative research, a real assessment by employers of the competences attained. It also identifies the need for more research on the subject related to employers’ perceptions of the level of competences that students develop in the workplace.

How HR practitioners must keep on learning

2016 ◽  
Vol 24 (1) ◽  
pp. 21-23
Keyword(s):  
Professional Development ◽  
Design Methodology ◽  
Professional Training ◽  
Business Management ◽  
Continuing Professional Development ◽  
Formal Learning ◽  
Learning Mechanisms ◽  
Content Type ◽  
Pertinent Information ◽  
Practical Implications

Purpose – This paper aims to review the latest management developments across the globe and pinpoint practical implications from cutting-edge research and case studies. Design/methodology/approach – This briefing is prepared by an independent writer who adds their own impartial comments and places the articles in context. Findings – In business management, no one emerges fully formed from their professional training. A serious issue in human resource might sometimes be a tendency for future development to be erratic. Traditionally, continuing professional development is all about formal experiences, the sort of things that practitioners meet up with over the years by turning up to do their job. There is, however, a growing view that non-formal learning mechanisms have a part to play. At the same time, continuing professional development has to be broader than conventional courses – a combination of both formal and non-formal learning experiences are surely required. Practical implications – The paper provides strategic insights and practical thinking that have influenced some of the world’s leading organizations. Originality/value – The briefing saves busy executives and researchers hours of reading time by selecting only the very best, most pertinent information and presenting it in a condensed and easy-to-digest format.

Adult online education

2018 ◽  
Vol 32 (3) ◽  
pp. 31-34
Keyword(s):  
Distance Learning ◽  
Adult Learning ◽  
Online Education ◽  
Case Studies ◽  
Design Methodology ◽  
Reading Time ◽  
Learning Theories ◽  
Content Type ◽  
Pertinent Information ◽  
Practical Implications

Purpose This paper aims to review the latest management developments across the globe and pinpoint practical implications from cutting-edge research and case studies. Design/methodology/approach This briefing is prepared by an independent writer who adds their own impartial comments and places the articles in context. Findings This paper looks at four learning theories and how they can be applied to adult online and distance learning. No single theory encapsulates adult learning, but using the theories in conjunction can aid instructors to design effective and engaging courses which will then lead to improved and successful learning. Practical implications The paper provides strategic insights and practical thinking that have influenced some of the world’s leading organizations. Originality/value The briefing saves busy executives and researchers hours of reading time by selecting only the very best, most pertinent information, and presenting it in a condensed and easy-to-digest format.

Designing training in organic farming on a multinational basis

2016 ◽  
Vol 33 (2) ◽  
pp. 99-114
Author(s):  
Raquel P.F. Guiné ◽  
Daniela V.T.A Costa ◽  
Paula M.R. Correia ◽  
Cristina A. Costa ◽  
Helena E. Correia ◽  
...  
Keyword(s):  
Organic Farming ◽  
Design Methodology ◽  
Training Programs ◽  
Target Population ◽  
North Central ◽  
Content Type ◽  
On Line ◽  
Level Of Significance ◽  
Training Opportunities ◽  
Practical Implications

Purpose – The purpose of this paper is to obtain information to characterize potential trainees seeking training programs about organic farming in the form of mobile learning. This information is expected to allow for establishing a set of guidelines to design mobile training opportunities that could match the potential clients’ wishes. Design/methodology/approach – For this survey an on-line questionnaire was used, translated into the languages of the participating countries (Portugal, Spain, Slovakia, Hungary, UK, Italy and Turkey), and in the end 133 consented valid questionnaires were obtained. The data analysis was made with SPSS and included basic descriptive statistics, crosstabs and χ2 tests, considering a level of significance of 5 per cent. Findings – The results obtained in the present study indicate that designing training programs in organic farming for a wide target population should attend to the differences between countries, which showed to significantly influence the preferences of the possible clients for this type of training. Practical implications – This study provided valuable information for use in the preparation of training programs for adults who want to expand their knowledge on organic farming, in order to prepare courses more in accordance with their preferences. Originality/value – The fact that the study was undertaken in several countries, including North, Central and South Europe, is a positive indicator that globally accepted courses could be implemented successfully. To the knowledge no such work was undertaken up to the present, thus confirming the originality of the study presented.

Bank service quality

2019 ◽  
Vol 31 (1) ◽  
pp. 28-51 ◽  
Author(s):  
Reza Shayestehfar ◽  
Bita Yazdani
Keyword(s):  
Service Quality ◽  
Service Provision ◽  
Design Methodology ◽  
Banking Industry ◽  
Developed Countries ◽  
Cross Cultural ◽  
Content Type ◽  
Two Samples ◽  
Cross Country ◽  
Practical Implications

PurposeThe purpose of this paper is to compare the perceptions of Bank Saderat Iran’s (BSI) customers in Isfahan and Dubai to find the probable differences in BSI service quality in these cities.Design/methodology/approachThe required data were collected by adapted Bank Service Quality (BSQ) questionnaire from two samples of BSI customers (300 in Isfahan and 100 in Dubai). In this research, BSQ was measured by seven dimensions, including Bahia and Nantel (2000) BSQ dimensions, and globalization of bank services as the added dimension. The factor analysis was used to analyze the data, independent-samplest-test for comparing the means and Friedman test for ranking of the BSQ dimensions and items.FindingsThe results of this research revealed a relative satisfaction of customers with BSI service quality in both cities; however, the respondents in Dubai perceived a higher service quality. The most important dimensions were access and effectiveness and assurance in Isfahan and reliability and tangibles in Dubai. In addition, although these cities are located in developing countries, the respondents’ perceptions were similar to those in developed countries.Practical implicationsIt is proposed that BSI managers should eliminate the barriers to prompt service provision, review service charges, integrate decision-making systems, decrease the bureaucratic factors and provide training programs to increase the personnel’s’ interactive skills in Isfahan.Originality/valueA few studies have been conducted in the field of BSQ in Iran banking industry, and none has measured BSQ using a cross-country and cross-cultural method. No research has been conducted on BSI service quality in Isfahan and Dubai, and this is the first research in both cities. Furthermore, it is one of the few times that a specific tool is used for measuring BSQ in Iran banking industry.

YouTube channels influence on destination visit intentions

2020 ◽  
Vol 12 (1) ◽  
pp. 23-42
Author(s):  
Neelika Arora ◽  
Suman Lata
Keyword(s):  
Structural Equation ◽  
Design Methodology ◽  
Equation Modeling ◽  
Research Model ◽  
Content Type ◽  
Source Expertise ◽  
Indian Context ◽  
Past Experiences ◽  
Practical Implications ◽  
Information Adoption

Purpose With the usage of social media and Web 2. 0, YouTube channels currently play a pivotal role in supporting a traveler’s destination visit. Travelers create their YouTube channels and share their past experiences in the form of videos, which helps other potential travelers to support their destination visit. The purpose of this paper is to understand how travelers adopt information through YouTube channels and how it influences the traveler’s intention to visit a destination. Design/methodology/approach A research model was constructed and empirically tested by using a sample of 486 respondents who watch YouTube channels before visiting a destination. Further, the hypotheses of this study were validated with the help of structural equation modeling using partial least squares. The respondents in this study were from Delhi. Findings This paper found comprehensiveness, relevance, timeliness, source expertise and attitude as the most significant predictors of a traveler’s destination visit intention through YouTube channel adoption. Further, source trustworthiness and accuracy were not found to be statistically significant. Research limitations/Implications The findings of this paper were based on data taken from the local respondents in Delhi. Further, it analyzed the influence of only seven dimensions on destination visit intention, which could have excluded some important factors that influence tourists’ destination visit intention. Practical implications This paper has provided implications for YouTube vloggers and tourists. The result proves that while making decisions regarding destination visit, tourists thinks critically and scrutinize the content of YouTube channels prior to deciding a destination. So, vloggers should provide relevant, comprehensive and accurate destination information through their videos to tourists. Originality To the best of authors’ knowledge, this paper is the first in the Indian context to examine the adoption of YouTube channels before visiting destinations through information adoption models with additional constructs.

Rethinking corruption on fiscal decentralization and global competitiveness Nexus

2020 ◽  
Vol 30 (5) ◽  
pp. 507-527
Author(s):  
Tengku Munawar Chalil
Keyword(s):  
Design Methodology ◽  
Fiscal Decentralization ◽  
Positive Contribution ◽  
Content Type ◽  
Global Competitiveness ◽  
Decentralization Policy ◽  
Cross Country ◽  
Country Competitiveness ◽  
Practical Implications ◽  
Fiscal Authority

Purpose This study investigates the effects of fiscal decentralization on global competitiveness through the level of corruption. This study aims to clarify the causal impacts of fiscal decentralization policy on the achievement of competitiveness rank considering the degree of corruption in a country. Design/methodology/approach The paper uses an empirical study using both cross-country arithmetic mean and panel data, covering ten-year period (2005-2014). The analysis uses both linear and non-linear specification in search of actual intermediating effects of corruption with controlling the possible endogeneity. Findings The paper provides empirical insights about corruption effects of fiscal decentralization on global competitiveness. It suggests that increasing level of fiscal decentralization has a positive contribution to competitiveness for the less-corrupt countries. The adverse effects appear for corrupt countries where the delegation of fiscal authority should endanger the country competitiveness. Research limitations/implications This research exploits the well-known measurement of fiscal decentralization, the degree of corruption and competitiveness. Therefore, this measurement might be challenged for representing the real concept of decentralization, corruption and competitiveness, furthermore its relationship. Despite the limitation, this research explores the entanglement of fiscal decentralization, corruption and competitiveness. Practical implications The paper provides the implications for the national policymakers about decentralizing the fiscal authority to achieve higher competitiveness level, through assessing their state of corruption. Originality/value The research provides additional comments for Oates’ (1972) decentralization theorem in connection to competitiveness, by adding corruption level as pre-requisite condition.

scholarly journals Innovative assignment rubrics for ODL courses: design, implementation and impact

2018 ◽  
Vol 13 (2) ◽  
pp. 117-129
Author(s):  
Rames Mariapan
Keyword(s):  
Distance Learning ◽  
Design Methodology ◽  
Learning Outcome ◽  
Performance Expectations ◽  
Significant Drop ◽  
Content Type ◽  
Open And Distance Learning ◽  
The University ◽  
Common Understanding ◽  
Practical Implications

Purpose The purpose of this paper is to propose a new standard of assignment rubrics to minimize various interpretations and confusing expectations of the assignment outcome among all stakeholders and enhance the assignment rubrics to function not only as a grading tool but also as an assignment guiding tool for self-managed learning among open and distance learning (ODL) learners. Design/methodology/approach The paper looks into the problems and issues related to assignment rubrics such as various interpretation, confusing expectations and the need to have appropriate descriptions in the rubrics in order to reflect proper learning outcome among the assignment stakeholders. To solve these issues, the paper explores the new and improved requirements which were imposed to support the new assignment rubrics for courses in the university via a self-guided manual known as Rubrics Formulation Guide. Findings Based on the feedback received from university’s lecturers, who also functioned as moderators, it was indicated that the time taken to moderate the assignment rubrics had drastically reduced and in terms of grading, the clarity of the assignment performance expectations among the learners showed improvement, whereby as compared to the previous semester, there was significant drop for the application of remarking of assignments among May 2014 semester learners. Practical implications The paper includes implications of developing innovative rubrics that enhance common understanding and consistent expectation of what the final outcome of the assignment should be. Originality/value This paper fulfills the purpose of expanding the potential of assignment rubrics which is to guide and grade.

A research-based approach for evaluating resources for transitioning to teaching online

2020 ◽  
Vol 121 (5/6) ◽  
pp. 301-310
Author(s):  
Stephen J. Aguilar
Keyword(s):  
Distance Learning ◽  
Content Knowledge ◽  
Design Methodology ◽  
Technological Literacy ◽  
Educational Technologies ◽  
Educational Resource ◽  
Content Type ◽  
Teaching Online ◽  
Instructional Needs ◽  
Practical Implications

Purpose This paper provides a research-based approach for evaluating resources for transitioning to teaching online. Design/methodology/approach This paper uses Davies’ (2011) discussion of technological literacy; Koehler and Mishra’s (2009) Technology, Pedagogy and Content Knowledge (TPACK); Leacock and Nesbit’s (2011) Learning Object Review Instrument; and Reynolds and Leeder’s (2018) expanded notion of “technology stewardship” to underpin an approach that educators can use to evaluate educational resources for transitioning to teaching online. Findings This paper introduces and applies an approach focused on evaluating the source of a given educational resource, as well as how it can be implemented. Research limitations/implications This paper synthesizes frameworks relating to qualities of educational technologies and frameworks relating to qualities of educators, and introduces two criteria for evaluating resources for transitioning to distance learning. Practical implications This paper provides readily applicable criteria for evaluating resources in a time of emergency distance learning. Social implications This approach enables educators to evaluate resources in a time of emergency distance learning. Originality/value The synthesis of four approaches to evaluating educational technologies, and applying the approach to four resources that have emerged to address COVID-19-related instructional needs.

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