scholarly journals The importance of university, students and students’ union partnerships in student-led projects

2019 ◽  
Vol 20 (8) ◽  
pp. 1409-1427 ◽  
Author(s):  
Sarah Jayne Briggs ◽  
Zoe P. Robinson ◽  
Rachel Louise Hadley ◽  
Rebecca Laycock Pedersen
Keyword(s):  
Qualitative Data ◽  
Single Case ◽  
Learning Opportunities ◽  
Change Agency ◽  
Single Institution ◽  
Content Type ◽  
Units Of Analysis ◽  
Key Staff ◽  
The University

Purpose This paper aims to explore a single-institution case study of partnership working between students, the University and Students’ Union, through four student-led sustainability projects. The paper analyses the role and value of these partnerships and provides advice for other institutions on effective partnership working between these stakeholders. Design/methodology/approach A single case study of partnership working with multiple embedded units of analysis (four projects) is presented based on reflections of practitioners involved in the projects who have different roles within the University and Students’ Union. Findings The longevity and effectiveness of student-led projects, and disciplinary-breadth of students engaged, can be enhanced by greater collaboration with, and integration into, University and Students’ Union systems. Partnership working between different stakeholders is key to overcoming challenges and the success of student-led projects, helped by key staff “enablers”. These projects provide myriad learning opportunities for developing change agency skills, even where projects are relatively short-lived and could be seen as failures in terms of longevity. Research limitations/implications This analysis is based solely on practitioner reflections, with limited direct quantification or qualitative data on the projects’ impacts on the students themselves. Originality/value This paper draws together the experiences and reflections of four practitioners with different roles within the University and Students’ Union across four different projects and provides advice to generate student-led sustainability projects which have longevity and impact for wider student populations and future generations of cohorts.

Online induction programme with webinar: a case study

2015 ◽  
Vol 7 (1) ◽  
pp. 123-132
Author(s):  
Sharon Warren ◽  
Patricia Black ◽  
Elizabeth Mills
Keyword(s):  
Social Interaction ◽  
Design Methodology ◽  
Structured Interview ◽  
Learning Opportunities ◽  
Student Feedback ◽  
The Other ◽  
Content Type ◽  
The University ◽  
Practical Implications

Purpose – The purpose of this paper is to describe the introduction of an online induction programme including an interactive webinar on a distance learning course and to present student feedback on the programme. It focuses on lessons learnt and implications for others implementing similar induction programmes. Design/methodology/approach – A self-completion questionnaire was sent to all students enroled on the programme, including those who did not attend the webinar or participate in the online induction programme. This was followed up with a semi-structured interview. The analysis focused on the student experience of the induction programme. Findings – Overall, students reported to be satisfied with the online programme. The webinar encouraged engagement with some elements of the online workshop and was felt to complement the other learning opportunities available online. The webinar was particularly valued for providing a “face” to the course, facilitating interactivity among tutors and students and helping the students to feel part of the University. Students also reported that the webinar had the advantage of allowing a social interaction between them. Practical implications – A number of key changes related to multiple offerings of the webinar and the timing of activities in the online workshop were highlighted to encourage participation. Greater clarity on what is required in the induction and how long it would take would also encourage participation. Originality/value – This case study is one of the few to evaluate the inclusion of webinar technology within an online induction programme and, therefore, has value in this context.

The implementation of dynamic capabilities for small and medium-sized enterprises in creating innovation

2020 ◽  
Vol ahead-of-print (ahead-of-print) ◽  
Author(s):  
Adya Hermawati ◽  
Eden Gunawan
Keyword(s):  
Design Methodology ◽  
Qualitative Data ◽  
Dynamic Capabilities ◽  
Single Case ◽  
Group Discussion ◽  
Future Research ◽  
Cross Sectional ◽  
Content Type ◽  
Collection Methods

Purpose The purpose of this paper is to analyse the adaptation process of small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs) to volatile environment supported with learning, knowledge and innovation. Design/methodology/approach This study used an inductive approach to analyse qualitative data obtained from an SME operating in the international market. Various data collection methods, including interview, focus group discussion and observation, were used to allow the researchers to undertake triangulation. Findings This study demonstrates that managers should be eager to adjust their innovation to a changing environment and continually update pre-determined plans. Learning is an ongoing process required for innovation, requiring up-to-date support from knowledge produced via learning. For this reason, learning is required in all dynamic capability processes. Research limitations/implications The single case study design offers deep and detailed insights regarding the process of how firms create innovation based on learning in an uncertain environment. Future research could investigate whether the findings of this study are generalisable using a large number of subjects and a cross-sectional method. Originality/value This study offers insight to relatively empirical evidence on how firms respond and adjust to volatile environment using an integrative perspective covering learning, knowledge and innovation. In addition, this offers insight regarding how knowledge can be developed based on learning from the environment and converted into innovation through dynamic capabilities.

Implementing the Value Scorecard

2015 ◽  
Vol 16 (3) ◽  
pp. 234-251 ◽  
Author(s):  
Stephen Town
Keyword(s):  
Performance Measurement ◽  
Balanced Scorecard ◽  
Single Case ◽  
Academic Research ◽  
It Services ◽  
Content Type ◽  
The Balanced Scorecard ◽  
Unique Framework ◽  
The University

Purpose – The purpose of this paper is to present a case study of the implementation and use of the Value Scorecard in a university library. The Value Scorecard seeks to articulate the full value of a library through a four dimensional matrix populated with data, evidence and narrative. Design/methodology/approach – The study covers two years of collection of data and evidence to populate the Value Scorecard at the University of York, UK. This is action research and development. Findings – The paper describes the success of the implementation of the framework across a broad university service including library, archives and IT services. The reporting template is outlined and the availability of relevant measures for populating each dimension are discussed, together with developments in the concepts of each dimension since the original paper on the scorecard. The paper reflects on the advances in the understanding and practice of performance measurement and assessment in libraries that the Value Scorecard offers. The strengths and omissions of other pre-existing frameworks, including the Balanced Scorecard, are discussed and absorbed into the value framework. The application of the Value Scorecard offers a practical and successful framework for library performance measurement and advocacy in a dynamic and changing landscape. Research limitations/implications – The limitations of the research are those generally applying to a single case experience. Practical implications – Nothing arises from the study to suggest that other libraries could not apply this framework, as it encompasses other previous frameworks and allows for local variations and circumstances. Some elements of the framework lack full measurement methods, and this is discussed. Originality/value – The originality and value of the paper is that it provides a unique framework for measurement of all dimensions of activity and value in an academic research library, and one that can be tailored to local requirements.

scholarly journals Practice coordination by principles: a contemporary MNC approach to coordinating global practices

2021 ◽  
Vol ahead-of-print (ahead-of-print) ◽  
Author(s):  
Alexander Kristiansen ◽  
Roger Schweizer
Keyword(s):  
Multinational Corporations ◽  
Design Methodology ◽  
Qualitative Data ◽  
Management Practices ◽  
Single Case ◽  
High Tech ◽  
Content Type ◽  
And Performance ◽  
Practical Implications

Purpose In the mainstream international business literature on multinational corporations (MNCs), an authoritative central headquarter (HQ) that transfers standardised practices to its subsidiaries remains the norm. This study aims to explore how MNCs coordinate their management practices through principles. Design/methodology/approach The paper draws on empirical findings from a qualitative in-depth single case study based on evidence-rich qualitative data including observations from how a high-tech MNC headquartered in Sweden coordinates its development practices. Findings An alternative informal coordination approach (i.e. coordination by principles) is identified. Additionally, antecedents and implications of the approach are presented. Practical implications Coordination by Principles may facilitate the internalisation of practices and be a feasible compromise between context adaptation and traditional standardisation, particularly for MNCs with highly heterogeneous research and development operations. Originality/value This paper highlights the importance of acknowledging that firm practices often are based on management ideas that HQs adopt to prevent loss of legitimacy. As such, this study contributes to the scarce literature that critically questions the assumption that HQs solely transfer practices to subsidiaries to improve subsidiary efficiency and performance.

The birth of social entrepreneurship within a Thai university

2018 ◽  
Vol 12 (2) ◽  
pp. 162-172
Author(s):  
Sutti Sooampon
Keyword(s):  
Social Entrepreneurship ◽  
Academic Entrepreneurship ◽  
Single Case ◽  
Local Society ◽  
Content Type ◽  
Study Approach ◽  
Depth Study ◽  
The University ◽  
Thai University

Purpose This study aims to investigate whether and how academic entrepreneurship can grow in less technologically advanced conditions, particularly those seen in emerging markets. The objective was to examine the pre-conditions for the birth and growth of university-based ventures in Thailand, where science commercialisation has not yet flourished. Design/methodology/approach A single case study approach was adopted for the in-depth study of the birth of an unusual entrepreneurial initiative in one academic unit within a dental school, an environment that typically focuses on academic work. Data from interviews with key members working in this unit were analysed to reveal the pre-conditions of entrepreneurship within this Thai university department, with a focus on the existing understanding of academic entrepreneurship. Findings Social conditions, rather than technology-related motives, were important for the birth of the university-based venture examined. Key triggers for academic entrepreneurship in this situation were found to closely align with a model of social entrepreneurship. Originality/value Evidence from this emerging economy can help expand the typology of academic entrepreneurship. In addition to the technology-led ventures typically seen, the results from this study call for socially oriented university-based ventures that tackle social problems in local society.

scholarly journals Grounding simulations in reality: a case study from an undergraduate Politics degree

2009 ◽  
Vol 17 (4) ◽  
pp. 296-302 ◽  
Author(s):  
Simon Usherwood
Keyword(s):  
Qualitative Data ◽  
Teaching Practice ◽  
Single Case ◽  
Continuous Process ◽  
Academic Research ◽  
Dynamic Environment ◽  
Content Type ◽  
High Level ◽  
Practical Implications

PurposeThe purpose of this paper is to address the issue of how best to reproduce realistic reproductions and outcomes in the dynamic environment of a simulated negotiation on a political theme.Design/methodology/approachUsing a case study run by the author of a university undergraduate negotiation module, qualitative data are provided to support a pragmatic model of addressing issues of realistic behaviour and outcomes.FindingsThrough a combination of elements – notably, integration of more conventional academic research, use of repeated points of contact between students and the module leader, and extensive reflection after the exercise by the student – it is possible to provide for a simulation that more closely follows real‐world outcomes than would otherwise be the case.Research limitations/implicationsThe use of a single case study clearly limits the ability to generalise and implies the need to replicate the work in new iterations and in new contexts.Practical implicationsThe paper highlights the importance of grounding simulations in reality, if they are to maximise their utility as a teaching practice. It also stresses the high level of engagement, not only on the part of the students, but also on the part of the module leader, who must be an active part of the simulation structure.Originality/valueThe consideration of a continuous process of grounding simulations in reality is one that has not been explored by the existing literature, so it offers useful insights into practice that will be of value to both practitioners and theorists in the field.

“Advocacy cheating”: teacher noncompliance in standardised literacy testing

2018 ◽  
Vol 17 (3) ◽  
pp. 168-181 ◽  
Author(s):  
Lauren Johnson
Keyword(s):  
Qualitative Data ◽  
Single Case ◽  
Small Sample Size ◽  
Small Sample ◽  
Content Type ◽  
Current Test ◽  
Literacy Testing ◽  
Practical Implications ◽  
Test Regime

Purpose The purpose of this paper is to explore teachers’ noncompliance with secondary-level standardised literacy testing in Tasmania, Australia, particularly their motivations, behaviours and justifications. This paper challenges pervasive views regarding test noncompliance, suggesting a reframing as “advocacy cheating”: noncompliance for purposes of advocating for and supporting students. Design/methodology/approach The research used a single case study design, with a simple thematic analysis of the qualitative data. The design enabled data to be collected during one iteration of the examined test regime, with depth of exploration into participants’ experiences and perspectives. Findings Findings indicate that small number of participants were engaged in test rule noncompliance at all stages of the testing regime: before, during and following the tests. This paper presents the concept of “advocacy cheating”, illustrated in these data through the motivations presented by participants for their noncompliant actions and the forms of noncompliance used. Research limitations/implications The small sample size and single site problematise drawing much broader comparisons. The age of the data means that current test processes and requirements have developed. Larger-scale studies might enable identification of ways in which this current regime has and might be improved. Practical implications This study’s findings and its focus on the classroom and teacher experience of testing provide insights into a widely debated and publicly important phenomenon. Originality/value The concept of “advocacy cheating” provides a newer way of considering and interpreting the range of ways in which teachers implement standardised tests.

Mission: studio based learning in construction. The University of KwaZulu-Natal case study

2016 ◽  
Vol 14 (1) ◽  
pp. 160-181 ◽  
Author(s):  
Nishani Harinarain ◽  
Theodore C. Haupt
Keyword(s):  
Single Case ◽  
Instructional Delivery ◽  
Content Type ◽  
Student Opinions ◽  
Study Approach ◽  
Kwazulu Natal ◽  
Project Phases ◽  
The University ◽  
Distinguishing Features

Purpose – This paper aims to present the responses of students to various aspects of a cluster of discrete modules delivered using a studio-based learning pedagogy. Design/methodology/approach – A variation of a case study approach was used that included observations and a survey of student opinions on six constructs or themes after a period of eight weeks into the semester about their experience of studio-based learning in a three-module cluster. This paper only reports on the findings of the analysis of the self-administered survey of the views of students. Findings – The student responses were analysed using SPSS (version 22). It is evident that the distinguishing features of the studio-based learning form of instructional delivery were reflected in their views despite the instructional space being far from ideal. However, given that this was their first experience they were apprehensive about the benefits of the approach to them personally especially in terms of whether their acquired knowledge base was broad enough for them to be confident about their future careers. The mapping of the learning outcomes of the modules against the project phases demonstrated that only the mode of transmission had in fact changed. Students were reticent about taking responsibility for their own learning possibly because they perceived that as being too risky. Research limitations/implications – The research is limited because the findings are based on a single case and a sample of students who had experienced eight weeks of studio-based learning of a cluster of three discrete modules in a revitalised construction program. Originality/value – The findings of this study have implications for the way construction programs are delivered at institutions of higher education.

scholarly journals Merger and post-merger integration at Oxford University Hospitals: mixed-methods evaluation and lessons learned

2022 ◽  
Vol ahead-of-print (ahead-of-print) ◽  
Author(s):  
Edward John Maile ◽  
Mahima Mitra ◽  
Pavel Ovseiko ◽  
Sue Dopson
Keyword(s):  
United Kingdom ◽  
Mixed Methods ◽  
Qualitative Data ◽  
Single Case ◽  
Hospital Setting ◽  
Lessons Learned ◽  
University Hospital ◽  
University Hospitals ◽  
Content Type

Purpose Hospital mergers are common in the United Kingdom and internationally. However, mergers rarely achieve their intended benefits and are often damaging. This study builds on existing literature by presenting a case study evaluating a merger of two hospitals in Oxford, United Kingdom with three distinct characteristics: merger between two university hospitals, merger between a generalist and specialist hospital and merger between two hospitals of differing size. In doing so, the study draws practical lessons for other healthcare organisations.Design/methodology/approach Mixed-methods single-case evaluation. Qualitative data from 19 individual interviews and three focus groups were analysed thematically, using constant comparison to synthesise and interpret findings. Qualitative data were triangulated with quantitative clinical and financial data. To maximise research value, the study was co-created with practitioners.Findings The merger was a relative success with mixed improvement in clinical performance and strong improvement in financial and organisational performance. The merged organisation received an improved inspection rating, became debt-free and achieved Foundation Trust status. The study draws six lessons relating to the contingencies that can make mergers a success: (1) Develop a strong clinical rationale, (2) Communicate the change strategy widely and early, (3) Increase engagement and collaboration at all levels, (4) Be transparent and realistic about the costs and benefits, (5) Be sensitive to the feelings of the other organisation and (6) Integrate different organizational cultures effectively.Originality/value This case study provides empirical evidence on the outcome of merger in a university hospital setting. Despite the relatively positive outcome, there is no strong evidence that the benefits could not have been achieved without merger. Given that mergers remain prevalent worldwide, the practical lessons might be useful for other healthcare organisations considering merger.

Knowledge transfer roles of subsidiaries in MNCs’ networks

2019 ◽  
Vol 29 (4) ◽  
pp. 329-346 ◽  
Author(s):  
Cigdem Baskici
Keyword(s):  
Knowledge Transfer ◽  
Single Case ◽  
Research Question ◽  
Hierarchical Structures ◽  
Knowledge Flows ◽  
Consumer Electronics ◽  
Knowledge Network ◽  
Content Type ◽  
Knowledge Based

Purpose Although there have been a considerable number of studies regarding subsidiary role typology in multinationals’ management literature, there appear to be few studies that consider knowledge-based role typology from the network-based perspective. The purpose of this study is to fill this gap and extend the study of Gupta and Govindarajan (1991). Thus, the study focuses on answering the following research question: Do subsidiaries have different roles in terms of knowledge flows within a multinational company (MNC)? Design/methodology/approach This empirical study has been carried out as an explorative single case study. An MNC with 15 foreign subsidiaries headquartered in Turkey, which operated in the manufacturing of household appliances and consumer electronics, has been selected as the case. Knowledge transfer is analyzed in this MNC from the network perspective. Findings Four role typologies are detected for subsidiaries of the MNC: collector transmitter, collector diffuser, converter transmitter and converter diffuser. Research limitations/implications Findings of this study are specific to this case. Testing the findings in a sample consisting of subsidiaries of MNCs producing transnational products may contribute to the generalizability of these roles. Practical implications This study offers potentially important findings for MNC managers to use. First, in this study, knowledge flows' route could be defined within MNCs’ dual network. Second, role typologies could inform MNC managers to design their MNCs’ knowledge network. Originality/value The suggested typologies are expected to more accurately define the roles of subsidiaries within contemporary MNCs which are accepted to be transformed from hierarchical structures to network-based organizations.

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