A lack of mess? Advice on undertaking video-mediated participant observations

2021 ◽  
Vol ahead-of-print (ahead-of-print) ◽  
Author(s):  
Ea Høg Utoft ◽  
Mie Kusk Søndergaard ◽  
Anna-Kathrine Bendtsen
Keyword(s):  
Design Methodology ◽  
High Quality ◽  
High Quality Research ◽  
Content Type ◽  
Online Ethnography ◽  
Teaching Activities ◽  
The People ◽  
Object Of Study ◽  
Practical Implications ◽  
Over Time

PurposeThis article offers practical advice to ethnographers venturing into doing participant observations through, but not about, videoconferencing applications such as Zoom, for which the methods literature offers little guidance.Design/methodology/approachThe article stems from a research project about a BioMedical Design Fellowship. As the COVID-19 pandemic hit, the Fellowship converted all teaching activities to online learning via Zoom, and the participant observations followed along. Taking an autoethnographic approach, the authors present and discuss concrete examples of encountered obstacles produced by the video-mediated format, such as limited access and interactions, technical glitches and changing experiences of embodiment.FindingsChanging embodiment in particular initially led the authors to believe that the “messiness” of ethnography (i.e. misunderstandings, emotions, politics, self-doubts etc.) was lost online. However, over time the authors realized that the mess was still there, albeit in new manifestations, because Zoom shaped the interactions of the people the authors observed, the observations the authors could make and how the authors related to research participants and vice versa.Practical implicationsThe article succinctly summarizes the key advice offered by the researchers (see Section 5) based on their experiences of converting on-site ethnographic observations into video-mediated observations enabling easy use by other researchers in relation to other projects and contexts.Originality/valueThe article positions video-mediated observations, via e.g. Zoom, which are distinctly characterised by happening in real time and having an object of study other than the online sphere itself, vis-à-vis other “online ethnography” methods. The article further aims to enable researchers to more rapidly rediscover and re-incite the new manifestations of the messiness of ethnography online, which is key to ensuring high-quality research.

scholarly journals Knowledge representation for missing persons investigations

2017 ◽  
Vol 19 (1/2) ◽  
pp. 138-150
Author(s):  
Mark Taylor ◽  
Denis Reilly
Keyword(s):  
Knowledge Representation ◽  
Design Methodology ◽  
Situation Calculus ◽  
Content Type ◽  
Missing Persons ◽  
State Changes ◽  
Changes Over Time ◽  
Investigation Process ◽  
Practical Implications ◽  
Over Time

Purpose This paper aims to present the application of situation calculus for knowledge representation in missing persons investigations. Design/methodology/approach The development of a knowledge representation model for the missing persons investigation process based upon situation calculus, with a demonstration of the use of the model for a missing persons example case. Findings Situation calculus is valuable for knowledge representation for missing persons investigations, as such investigations have state changes over time, and due to the complexity of the differing investigation activities applicable to different situations, can be difficult to represent using simpler approaches such as tables or flowcharts. Research limitations/implications Situation calculus modelling for missing persons investigations adds formalism to the process beyond that which can be afforded by the current use of text, tables or flowcharts. The additional formalism is useful in dealing with the uncertainty present in such investigations. Practical implications The implications are a simplification of the application of the current police guidelines, and thoroughness in the application of such guidelines for missing persons investigations via situation calculus modelling. Social implications This paper supports the management of missing person investigations, by using the most critical variables in a missing persons investigation to determine relevant investigation and search activities applicable to the circumstances of a given case. Originality/value The novelty of the knowledge representation approach is the application of situation calculus via state and action vectors and a matrix of fluents to the process of missing persons investigations.

Framing the development and directions of business sustainability efforts

2016 ◽  
Vol 16 (4) ◽  
pp. 709-725 ◽  
Author(s):  
Nils M. Høgevold ◽  
Göran Svensson
Keyword(s):  
Qualitative Study ◽  
Design Methodology ◽  
Business Networks ◽  
Convenience Sample ◽  
Content Type ◽  
Business Sustainability ◽  
The Status ◽  
Practical Implications ◽  
Over Time

Purpose The purpose of this paper is to frame the development and directions of business sustainability efforts. Design/methodology/approach A qualitative study was undertaken with respect to a convenience sample of reputable companies in Norway, which have implemented significant business sustainability efforts within their organisations, their business networks, the marketplace and in the society, beyond the level of mere compliance. Findings Different directions are associated with the development of corporate efforts in connection with business sustainability. Business sustainability efforts are not static, but dynamic and based upon continuous flexibility to changes and adaptations over time. Research Limitations/implications The current study highlights the need for further research into the development and directions of corporate efforts in connection with business sustainability in the marketplace and society. A key suggestion for further research is to further explore the existence of other directions. Practical Implications The directions reported, provide a framework to assess the development or the status of companies’ business sustainability efforts in the marketplace and society. Corporate efforts in connection with business sustainability develop over time as experiences are gained and personal impressions move the identified directions forward. Originality/value This study contributes to seven interconnected directions of corporate efforts in connection with business sustainability that are both relevant and potentially fruitful to both scholars and practitioners.

Initiating, challenging and improving knowledge in organizational contexts

2018 ◽  
Vol 41 (3) ◽  
pp. 278-295 ◽  
Author(s):  
Stefania Mariano
Keyword(s):  
Design Methodology ◽  
Organizational Knowledge ◽  
Current Debate ◽  
Improve Performance ◽  
Content Type ◽  
Organizational Contexts ◽  
Managerial Practices ◽  
Practical Implications ◽  
Over Time

Purpose The purpose of this study is to investigate how organizational knowledge interacts with artifacts and what determinants, driving processes and outcomes govern these interactions in organizational contexts. Design/methodology/approach A case study is used and data collected is from a US engineering and consulting company. Findings Findings suggested three major driving processes specifically initiating, challenging and improving and several related determinants and outcomes that governed the interaction between organizational knowledge and artifacts over time. Research limitations/implications This study has limitations related to the nature and dimension of the case selected. Practical implications This study provides a means to explain how organizations hold existing knowledge and what determinants, driving processes and outcomes govern the interactions between knowledge and artifacts to assist managerial practices and improve performance. Originality/value This paper contributes to the current debate on organizational knowledge and provides some empirical evidence of how knowledge interacts with artifacts in organizational contexts.

Paying a premium for an accounting crime

2021 ◽  
Vol ahead-of-print (ahead-of-print) ◽  
Author(s):  
Lita – Dharmayuni ◽  
Lita – Dharmayuni
Keyword(s):  
Design Methodology ◽  
Third Parties ◽  
Literature Study ◽  
Content Type ◽  
Future Studies ◽  
The Public ◽  
Law And Legislation ◽  
Accounting Reports ◽  
Practical Implications ◽  
Over Time

Purpose This study aims to look at how the intention of a person when facing a dilemma to choose a good outcome (utilitarian) or a good and ethical process regardless of the outcome (deontological) by raising the case of PT. Asuransi Jiwasraya (Jiwasraya). Design/methodology/approach This study was conducted using a literature study method where researchers will analyze through previous research and news related to ethics, psychology and Jiwasraya cases. Findings In the Jiwasraya case, it can be said that the deontology principle has been violated, but the utilitarian principle also cannot provide benefits to the parties who should benefit, namely, the premium payers and the owners of third parties funds. In terms of intentions, at first, Jiwasraya’s management may intend to save and provide benefits to customers and the public who deposit funds at Jiwasraya (utilitarian principle). However, over time, managers choose to “allow” conditions to occur and even begin to engage in activities to take advantage of certain parties and groups by taking policies that are not by the rules (violating deontological principles) for personal gain. Research limitations/implications This study only discusses the Jiwasraya case through financial and accounting reports. Future studies can continue this research by looking at the Jiwasraya case through the law and legislation to obtain a complete picture. Practical implications With this research, it is hoped that the authors can better understand that the dilemma the author faces is rooted in the limitations of the abilities as humans; the ethics will influence all intentions for the choices the authors make. Originality/value This research uses case studies that occurred in Indonesia, the discussion is carried out using a utilitarian and deontological approach that has never been discussed regarding the Jiwasraya case before.

Innovation lessons in the dynamic art of smart city branding

2020 ◽  
Vol 36 (3) ◽  
pp. 33-35
Keyword(s):  
Design Methodology ◽  
Reading Time ◽  
City Branding ◽  
Content Type ◽  
The People ◽  
Pertinent Information ◽  
Creative Climate ◽  
Conceptual Paper ◽  
Creativity And Innovation ◽  
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 conceptual paper concentrates on the capacity of creativity and innovation to convincingly influence the strategic branding of a city as “Smart.” Providing a participatory creative climate generates innovation, which in turn builds competitive advantage in a city that can valuably serve business-building, tourism, and individual aspirational lifestyle agendas. This creativity reinforces a city's ecosytem-like capacity to manage uncertainty as it adapts to the changing demands of the people it attracts for varying lengths of time. Originality/value The briefing saves busy executives, strategists 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.

Localized learning

2019 ◽  
Vol 33 (6) ◽  
pp. 38-40
Keyword(s):  
Organizational Culture ◽  
Case Studies ◽  
Design Methodology ◽  
Reading Time ◽  
Cutting Edge ◽  
Content Type ◽  
The People ◽  
Pertinent Information ◽  
Localized Learning ◽  
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 his/her own impartial comments and places the articles in context. Findings One of the more light-hearted interpretations of how to define organizational culture is to simply say. “It’s the way we do things around here”. This is illuminating and frustrating in equal measure, as while it does contain a kernel of truth - understanding how and why people take the positions and actions they do is central to the question of culture – it is also rather glib and is simply true of everywhere you might ask that question. It also points to a certain wariness and even defiance on behalf of the people answering the question in such a way, as if to challenge the newcomer into accepting how their world operates, and that it is never going to change. Practical implications This 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.

Eye and vision problems associated with learning disabilities

2019 ◽  
Vol 24 (3) ◽  
pp. 126-134
Author(s):  
J. Margaret Woodhouse
Keyword(s):  
Learning Disabilities ◽  
Visual Impairment ◽  
Design Methodology ◽  
Learning Opportunities ◽  
Refractive Errors ◽  
Content Type ◽  
The People ◽  
Eye Problems ◽  
Visual Problems ◽  
Practical Implications

Purpose The purpose of this paper is to educate professionals, families and supporters about the importance of ensuring regular eye examinations for the people with learning disabilities. Design/methodology/approach This is a general review of the type and prevalence of visual problems of which people with learning disabilities are most at risk. Findings Eye problems in people with learning disabilities are common but are often over-looked. Practical implications Uncorrected refractive errors mean that people are unnecessarily denied experiences and learning opportunities. Spectacles are a simple solution, and most people can be supported to wear them. Cataracts and keratoconus are conditions that can lead to visual impairment, but which are now treatable and learning disabilities should not be a contra-indication to treatment. Untreatable eye conditions mean lifelong visual impairment, but if this is not recognised, care may be inappropriate or the learning disability assumed to be greater than it is. Originality/value The review describes how families and supporters can organise successful eye examinations, to ensure that no-one with learning disabilities has an eye condition that is not managed appropriately.

A poisoned Chalice: homophobia and codes of conduct

2020 ◽  
Vol 62 (6) ◽  
pp. 557-576
Author(s):  
Jurgen Poesche
Keyword(s):  
Design Methodology ◽  
Codes Of Conduct ◽  
Additional Research ◽  
Social Implications ◽  
Literature Study ◽  
Hybrid Identities ◽  
Content Type ◽  
Practical Implications ◽  
Over Time

Purpose The purpose of this paper is to develop an understanding of requirements for firms’ codes of conduct when addressing homophobia in the context of continued colonialism and coloniality. Design/methodology/approach This paper is a literature study. Findings First, occidental firms’ codes of conduct are shown to endanger indigenous homosexual individuals by endangering the protection offered by their indigenous ethics and society. Second, it is shown that tackling homophobia in firms’ codes of conduct on the foundation of occidental ethics forces homosexual individuals to conform to occidental homosexual identities in a world of a multitude of indigenous and hybrid homosexualities and identities render firms’ codes of conduct expressions of continued colonialism and coloniality. Third, a sole reliance on occidental conceptualizations of homophobia is shown to potentially camouflage unethical nationalistic and xenophobic intents. Research limitations/implications Additional research is needed on the dynamics of coexisting multiple indigenous homosexual identities, and reliable ways to determine the substance of indigenous homosexual identities need to be developed in the context of continued colonialism and coloniality. Practical implications Firms need to be cognizant of conflicting identities, hybrid identities and changing identities over time while avoiding to use purported protection against homophobia as a camouflage for nationalistic and xenophobic purposes. Social implications The paper ways to address the protection against homophobia in firms' codes of conduct in the context of continued colonialism and coloniality. Originality/value This paper closes a gap in the literature by considering firms’ codes of conduct as favouring homophobia as a result of continued colonialism and coloniality.

Sustainable financing and anti-squandering measures in Rastin banking

2017 ◽  
Vol 59 (6) ◽  
pp. 939-949
Author(s):  
Bijan Bidabad ◽  
Mahshid Sherafati
Keyword(s):  
Sustainable Development ◽  
Design Methodology ◽  
Financial Resources ◽  
Social Implications ◽  
Content Type ◽  
The Sustainable Development ◽  
Investment Projects ◽  
The People ◽  
Practical Implications ◽  
Sustainable Financing

Purpose This paper aims to define a set of anti-squandering guideposts to improve the sustainability and efficiency of allocating financial resources to investment projects. Design/methodology/approach A set of sustainable financing and anti-squandering measures are proposed for a better allocation of the bank’s financial resources. These measures were derived from the doctrine of “ethic economics”, humanitarian principles and Islamic teachings. Rastin banking provides a base to apply these measures. Findings A draft of the regulations for sustainable financing and anti-squandering measures was compiled for Rastin banking operations, which is briefly presented in this paper and can be used as a basis for the codification of the respective laws. Research limitations/implications Such kinds of regulations are novel and need to be deeply discussed in the first place. After adaptation, adjustment and performing the necessary modifications, the text of the law can be codified. Practical implications Banks through granting loans, credits and other financial facilities can affect the investment projects in such a way to prevent the extravagant consumption of financial resources in investment projects and consider the sustainable development guidelines. Social implications The proposed guideposts can be detailed and adopted in other countries, especially those that are inefficient in their banking and financial operations. Originality/value Wasteful allocation of financial resources leads to the wastage of resources and reduction of productivity and provides benefit neither for the people nor for the society. Hence, the present paper tries to practically solve the problem for financial operations.

Finding the sparkle: storytelling in the lives of people with learning disabilities

2015 ◽  
Vol 20 (1) ◽  
pp. 29-36 ◽  
Author(s):  
Nicola Grove
Keyword(s):  
Learning Disabilities ◽  
Social Relationships ◽  
Design Methodology ◽  
Independent Research ◽  
Self Advocacy ◽  
Content Type ◽  
Subjective Perceptions ◽  
The People ◽  
The Impact ◽  
Practical Implications

Purpose – The ability to tell a story, whether personal or fictional, is a skill which can enable people to build a sense of identity, friendship, community and self-advocacy. However, narrative is rarely prioritised in services. The paper aims to discuss these issues. Design/methodology/approach – This paper describes two approaches to the development of storytelling for people with learning disabilities used by the charity Openstorytellers. Reflections from interviews are used to illustrate how individuals view their experiences as storytellers, and the benefits that come in the wake of learning to tell and listen to stories. Findings – Storytelling led to an increased sense of purpose, confidence, communication and value. The findings are based on subjective perceptions by the people concerned, and were not obtained through independent research. However, they represent a first step towards evaluating the impact of multidimensional interventions. Practical implications – Services need to consider how they enable their members to participate actively in the sharing of experience, and imaginative and creative activities. Storytelling, both mythic and personal, can help to develop social relationships and active participation in one's community. Originality/value – Both of the approaches described here (Learning to Tell; StorysharingTM) are innovative approaches which are new in the field of learning disabilities.

Sign in / Sign up

Export Citation Format

Share Document