Modes of soft skills learning: a case of university information professionals’ in Pakistan

2017 ◽  
Vol 66 (8/9) ◽  
pp. 711-725 ◽  
Author(s):  
Sajjad Ahmad ◽  
Kanwal Ameen ◽  
Midrar Ullah
Keyword(s):  
Quantitative Research ◽  
Online Courses ◽  
Soft Skills ◽  
Test Results ◽  
Content Type ◽  
Face To Face ◽  
Collection Data ◽  
Information Professionals ◽  
Skills Learning ◽  
The University

Purpose The purpose of this paper is to investigate the university information professionals (UIPs) preferred modes of soft skills learning and differences in their opinions based on gender, designations and experience. Design/methodology/approach Quantitative research design using a questionnaire was used for data collection. Data were analyzed through SPSSS version 20.0, using descriptive and inferential statistics. The population of the study included all the UIPs working in the central libraries of the general public sector 33 universities in Pakistan, with nearly a population of 560. Findings The major findings showed that “mentoring sessions by experts” was the most preferred mode of soft skills learning followed by “learning from colleagues”. It showed that UIPs preferred to learn soft skills from experts and colleagues. Independent-samples t-test results found that “mentoring session by experts” was more preferred by females than males. A one-way ANOVA results found significant differences of opinion regarding the “mentoring session by experts” method between librarians and assistant librarians (p = 0.044). Results were statistically significant also between more experienced and less experienced regarding “real project/assignment-based method” and “mentoring session by experts”. In addition, for “formal online courses” and “self-training through reading books”, results were statistically significant between experienced groups of 1-5 years and 11-15 years. Overall results indicated that from UIPs’ perspective, soft skills should be taught to them using face-to-face methods. Originality/value This is the first study in Pakistan that dealt with the preferred modes of soft skills learning of UIPs by using a large group (N = 372) of respondents.

scholarly journals Prediction of Students’ Performances Using Course Analytics Data: A Case of Water Engineering Course at the University of South Australia

2019 ◽  
Vol 9 (3) ◽  
pp. 245 ◽  
Author(s):  
Faisal Ahammed ◽  
Elizabeth Smith
Keyword(s):  
Online Courses ◽  
South Australia ◽  
Systems Design ◽  
Test Results ◽  
Domestic Students ◽  
Water Resources Systems ◽  
Face To Face ◽  
Online Engagement ◽  
The University ◽  
One Way Anova

An association between students’ learn-online engagement and academic performance was investigated for a third-year Water Resources Systems Design course at the University of South Australia in 2017. As the patterns of data were non-parametric, Mann-Whitney and Kruskal-Wallis tests were performed using SPSS. It was revealed from the test results that distributions of students’ logins to learn-online site for all categories and sub-categories including gender, international/domestic students and grades were almost similar. Therefore, it is relatively unrealistic to use lean-online engagement data to predict students’ performances. A correlation test was further performed to validate the hypothesis testing results and a weak relationship (Pearson’s r = 0.29) between login to learn-online site and grade was observed. The smaller F ratios of one way ANOVA also validated the test results. Mann-Whitney and Kruskal-Wallis tests can be applied to course analytics data for face-to-face and online courses to understand a better picture about the uses of learn-online engagement data.

Digital tools to promote remote lesson study

2021 ◽  
Vol ahead-of-print (ahead-of-print) ◽  
Author(s):  
Joanna C. Weaver ◽  
Gabriel Matney ◽  
Allison M. Goedde ◽  
Jeremy R. Nadler ◽  
Nancy Patterson
Keyword(s):  
Teacher Education ◽  
Lesson Study ◽  
Online Courses ◽  
Digital Tools ◽  
Teacher Education Programs ◽  
Education Programs ◽  
Teacher Isolation ◽  
Content Type ◽  
Face To Face ◽  
Using Data

PurposeThe authors propose that a digital instructional delivery format of lesson study (LS) may have the potential to amplify particular aspects of traditional, face-to-face LS.Design/methodology/approachThis is a qualitative case study, using data triangulation, member checking and an inductive approach to open-coding utilizing grounded theory to identify codes and themes.FindingsDigital tools promoted LS and learning, allowing for rigorous collaboration, synchronous observations, data collection and feedback, leading to deeper understanding.Research limitations/implicationsDigital tools used in the online LS process changed how instructional planning can be researched, analyzed and written collaboratively and impacted the fluidity of a lesson, the ease of observation and reflection, student engagement and the researchers' and students' ability to share ideas in real time.Practical implicationsLS can be integrated into online teacher education programs to engage students in online learning and promotes engagement, peer interaction and student voice. The use of these digital tools is not restricted just to remote instructional contexts.Social implicationsLS reduces teacher isolation, builds a collaborative community of teachers and increases instructional motivation. Educators across schools, universities or districts can integrate online LS into remote teacher education programs and online courses.Originality/valueThis study is original work that has not been published elsewhere.

Customer care practices at the University of Nairobi (UON), Jomo Kenyatta Memorial Library (JKML), Kenya

2019 ◽  
Vol 40 (3/4) ◽  
pp. 142-154 ◽  
Author(s):  
Josephine Orayo ◽  
Jane Maina ◽  
Jotham Milimo Wasike ◽  
Felicitas Ciabere Ratanya
Keyword(s):  
Sampling Technique ◽  
Simple Random Sampling ◽  
Target Population ◽  
Content Type ◽  
Face To Face ◽  
Customer Care ◽  
Care Practices ◽  
Library Staff ◽  
Ict Infrastructure ◽  
The University

Purpose The purpose of this paper is to provide an analysis of the customer care practices at the University of Nairobi, Jomo Kenyatta Memorial Library (JKML), Kenya. Design/methodology/approach A descriptive research design was used. Simple random sampling technique was used to derive at an appropriate sample from the target population. A structured questionnaire and face-to-face interview was used to collect both quantitative and qualitative data. A total of 384 questionnaires were distributed to students and library staff. Face-to-face interview was conducted among five section heads. Data were analyzed using Microsoft Excel and presented in tabulated summaries and figures. Findings JKML had not only put in place customer care practices but had also provided reliable services with notable professionalism among staff. Users were satisfied with the attention and information resources provided. Challenges encountered related to inadequate ICT infrastructure, lack of a written policy, lack of customer care skills among library staff and lack of managerial support. The study recommended inclusion of customer care in the mainstream of the strategic plan of the university. Research limitations/implications The major implication for this study is that sustainable customer care self-assessment needs to be explored in national and private libraries in Kenya. Practical implications This study provides a significant practical outlook on marketing-savvy approaches toward customer care and efforts made toward the achievement of the goals of the university. Originality/value This study provides insights on good practices on customer care which can be emulated by other academic libraries and adds value to the knowledge base.

Using energy profiles to identify university energy reduction opportunities

2016 ◽  
Vol 17 (2) ◽  
pp. 188-207 ◽  
Author(s):  
Nandarani Maistry ◽  
Harold Annegarn
Keyword(s):  
South Africa ◽  
Energy Efficiency ◽  
Energy Consumption ◽  
Quantitative Research ◽  
Electricity Consumption ◽  
Working Hours ◽  
Content Type ◽  
Academic Calendar ◽  
The University

Purpose – The purpose of this paper is to outline efforts at the University of Johannesburg, a large metropolitan university in Gauteng province, to examine energy efficiency within the context of the green campus movement, through the analysis of electricity consumption patterns. The study is particularly relevant in light of the cumulative 230 per cent increase in electricity costs between 2008 and 2014 in South Africa that has forced institutions of higher education to seek ways to reduce energy consumption. Design/Methodology/Approach – A quantitative research design was adopted for the analysis of municipal electricity consumption records using a case study approach to identify trends and patterns in consumption. The largest campus of the University of Johannesburg, which is currently one of the largest residential universities in South Africa, was selected as a case study. Average diurnal consumption profiles were plotted according to phases of the academic calendar, distinguished by specific periods of active teaching and research (in-session); study breaks, examinations and administration (out-of-session); and recesses. Average profiles per phase of the academic calendar were constructed from the hourly electricity consumption and power records using ExcelTM pivot tables and charts. Findings – It was found that the academic calendar has profound effects on energy consumption by controlling the level of activity. Diurnal maximum consumption corresponds to core working hours, peaking at an average of 2,500 kWh during “in-session” periods, 2,250 kWh during “out-of-session” periods and 2,100 kWh during recess. A high base load was evident throughout the year (between 1,300 and 1,650 kWh), mainly attributed to heating and cooling. By switching off the 350 kW chiller plant on weekdays, a 9 per cent electricity reduction could be achieved during out-of-session and recess periods. Similarly, during in-session periods, a 6 per cent reduction could be achieved. Practical implications – Key strategies and recommendations are presented to stimulate energy efficiency implementation within the institution. Originality Value – Coding of consumption profiles against the academic calendar has not been previously done in relation to an academic institution. The profiles were used to establish the influence of the academic calendar on electricity consumption, which along with our own observation were used to identify specific consumption reduction opportunities worth pursuing.

Cognitive needs and use of social media: a comparative study of gratifications sought and gratification obtained

2020 ◽  
Vol 48 (2) ◽  
pp. 79-90
Author(s):  
Ashfaq Hussain ◽  
Ghulam Shabir ◽  
Taimoor-Ul-Hassan
Keyword(s):  
Social Media ◽  
Quantitative Research ◽  
Media Use ◽  
Social Media Use ◽  
Content Type ◽  
Uses And Gratification ◽  
Uses And Gratification Theory ◽  
Information Professionals ◽  
Use Of Social Media ◽  
Information Comprehension

Purpose The purpose of this study is to compare the gratification sought and gratification obtained for cognitive needs from social media among information professionals in the limelight of uses and gratification theory. Cognitive needs are related to knowledge, acquiring information, comprehension etc., and gratification sought and gratification obtained are two distinct components of the uses and gratification theory. Design/methodology/approach For this quantitative research study, a self-administered survey questionnaire was used to collect data from the participants of the study. Sample of this study was 700 information professionals who are necessarily users of social media. Findings Finding of this study depicted that gratification obtained and gratification sought from social media for cognitive needs are different from each other, and information professionals need to revisit their social media use for cognitive needs. Research limitations/implications The present study is limited to gratification sought and gratification obtained for cognitive needs among information professionals. Practical implications This study has determined that information professionals need to revisit their social media use for cognitive needs, as the obtained gratifications are different from gratification sought from social media. Social implications Social media provides versatility of information in different forms and large numbers of information professionals are the users of social media around globe. Perceived use of social media for cognitive needs has been resulted into destructed gratifications. This study has brought the actual outcome of the use of social media to the audience so that they may rectify their social media use. Originality/value This study is a significant contribution for information professionals to review the gratifications sought and obtained from social media for cognitive needs. It has been established in this study that gratifications sought are significantly different from gratifications obtained from social media among information professionals.

Interaction and reputation in Airbnb: an exploratory analysis

2019 ◽  
Vol 13 (4) ◽  
pp. 370-383 ◽  
Author(s):  
Nisamar Baute-Díaz ◽  
Desiderio Gutiérrez-Taño ◽  
Ricardo Díaz-Armas
Keyword(s):  
Social Interaction ◽  
Quantitative Research ◽  
Point Of View ◽  
Exploratory Analysis ◽  
Content Type ◽  
Face To Face ◽  
Online Ratings ◽  
Negative Comments ◽  
Depth Interviews

PurposeThe purpose of this paper is to study the role of social interaction and reputation when reviewing experiences on the Airbnb platform. Recent studies have suggested that social interaction and aspects related to reputation may encourage positive bias in the case of online ratings and comments.Design/methodology/approachA qualitative research method was used. In total, 20 semi-structured in-depth interviews were conducted with non-professional Airbnb hosts and guests resident on the island of Tenerife (Canary Islands).FindingsFace-to-face interaction between the host and guest could lead to the moderation or omission of negative comments by guests. Reputation is a relevant factor that affects the behaviour of the users on the platform. Users are expected to behave in accordance with certain conventions learned when using the platform.Research limitations/implicationsThe exploratory analysis must be complemented by other quantitative research. The hosts interviewed are not professional hosts.Practical implicationsIt is recommendable for hosts offering average accommodation to pay special attention to welcoming and assisting their guests, with the aim of boosting their reputation on the platform.Originality/valueThis is the first qualitative study to deal with the effect of social interaction and reputation from the point of view of hosts and guests when reviewing experiences on the Airbnb platform.

Investigating different options in course delivery – traditional vs online: is there another option?

2018 ◽  
Vol 35 (4) ◽  
pp. 230-239 ◽  
Author(s):  
Ashley Hass ◽  
Mathew Joseph
Keyword(s):  
Online Education ◽  
Undergraduate Students ◽  
Liberal Arts ◽  
Online Courses ◽  
Content Type ◽  
Liberal Arts University ◽  
Face To Face ◽  
Traditional Courses ◽  
Southwest Region ◽  
Southwest Usa

Purpose The purpose of this paper is to examine students’ perceptions of online vs traditional (face-to-face) course offerings at the business school of a liberal arts university in southwest USA. The research compares perceptions of students who have been subjected to online education along with those who have not been exposed to online education and examines likelihood to take online courses. Design/methodology/approach Paper and pencil surveys were distributed in different classes in business classes at a university in southwest USA. The target group was undergraduate students. Findings The results indicate that overall, students have neutral perceptions about online courses, while favorable perceptions are strongly associated with likelihood to take online courses. Moreover, prior exposure with online courses is not a significant factor in forming favorable perceptions about online courses. Research limitations/implications The present research is limited in generalizability and the institution surveyed in the southwest region is new to online courses offering in their curriculum and not all the participants had prior experience with online courses. Originality/value Although this paper compares online education with traditional, another option for methods of education include hybrid models incorporating both. A possible third option not discussed through this research is a hybrid or blended learning course, a combination of both online and traditional courses. This opens the options for the student, as hybrid courses can be built with many different options. One includes using technology for “screencasts” or lectures online.

Your place or mine? Face‐to‐face reference services across campus

2007 ◽  
Vol 108 (5/6) ◽  
pp. 247-262 ◽  
Author(s):  
Darcy Del Bosque ◽  
Kimberly Chapman
Keyword(s):  
Academic Librarians ◽  
Content Type ◽  
University Of Texas ◽  
Face To Face ◽  
Outreach Programs ◽  
Reference Services ◽  
Outreach Services ◽  
Library Users ◽  
The University

PurposeThe purpose of this paper is to present a case study which describes reference and instruction outreach programs promoted by the University of Texas at San Antonio (UTSA) Library. Direct‐2‐U Reference, Crash Courses, and Drop‐In Tours reached out to students in innovative ways to encourage non‐library users to see what they were missing and to give current library users even more choices. Direct‐2‐U Reference provided opportunities for students to get research help on their own turf. Librarians offered assistance at several locations across campus, combining the benefits of face‐to‐face reference with the convenience of getting help without going to the physical library. Library Crash Courses promoted subject‐specific assistance without the formality of in‐class instruction. Drop‐In Tours allowed curious students to figure out the layout of the library and get answers to their questions.Design/methodology/approachThis case study describes researching alternative services, and includes practical information on how services were implemented. Information is presented about ongoing evaluation of the outreach programs that improved the direction, marketing, and overall success of the programs.FindingsThe outreach programs promoted by the library reached additional users, provided more options for patrons, and improved the visibility of the library campus‐wide.Originality/valueThis case study will be of interest to other academic librarians wanting to provide library services outside the library. It builds on the existing literature regarding library outreach services.

Facilitating professional development of mobile and eTextbook technologies

2015 ◽  
Vol 7 (1) ◽  
pp. 55-67 ◽  
Author(s):  
Aimee deNoyelles ◽  
Ryan Seilhamer
Keyword(s):  
Professional Development ◽  
Sense Of Community ◽  
Curriculum Design ◽  
Teaching Practices ◽  
Single Case ◽  
Content Type ◽  
Face To Face ◽  
Active Involvement ◽  
Online Spaces ◽  
The University

Purpose – While the integration of mobile and eTextbook technologies is rapidly growing throughout higher education learning environments, these technologies are often challenging to implement across the university landscape. Professional development tailored to these fluid and evolving technologies is essential to supporting effective classroom integration. The purpose of this paper is to describe and evaluate a special interest group approach to professional development regarding mobile and eTextbook technologies implemented by one university in the USA. Issues such as recruitment of members, selection of face-to-face and online spaces, and curriculum design are addressed. Design/methodology/approach – To evaluate effectiveness, a survey was given to the participants that asked about sense of community, perceived increase in knowledge and teaching practices, and overall satisfaction with the experience. Findings – The interrelated factors of sense of community, knowledge, and teaching practices were identified as valuable, along with group organization. Survey results revealed that participants highly valued the opportunity to share best practices with others they typically would not, and benefitted from the expertise of guest speakers. Online spaces were found to serve as a repository of on-demand resources and dissemination of information, while face-to-face meetings capitalized on interactivity and nurtured community. Sharing the work of the members with the university and beyond was critical to incentivizing members to produce, and also built further professional networks. The planning team identified a tension between encouraging active involvement from instructors and offering it in convenient ways given their other commitments. Originality/value – Although this is a single case, this analysis suggests generalizable strategies that may create and sustain a community interested in mobile and eTextbook technologies.

scholarly journals Pengaruh Promosi Go-pay Terhadap Keputusan Pengguna Aplikasi Transportasi Online Di Ruang Lingkup Universitas Pamulang

2020 ◽  
Vol 4 (2) ◽  
pp. 192-198
Author(s):  
Hadijah Febriana ◽  
Intan Sari Budhiarjo
Keyword(s):  
Quantitative Research ◽  
Coefficient Of Determination ◽  
Test Results ◽  
University Management ◽  
Study Program ◽  
Quantitative Research Methods ◽  
Transportation Services ◽  
The University ◽  
The Relationship ◽  
Transportation Applications

Research purposes This study aims to determine the effect of go-pay promotion on the decisions of users of online transportation applications within the scope of the University of Pamulang. The research method used is quantitative research methods. The population in this study were students of the 7th semester of the Pamulang University management study program. The sample in this study were 200 respondents in the population. The analytical method used is quantitative analysis. Partially Go-pay promotion variable (x) has a tcount of 11.966 > ttable 1.65259 with a significant value of 0.00, it can be concluded that Go-pay promotion has a positive and significant effect on user decisions. Based on the test results the coefficient of determination (R square) shows the number 0.420 which means that the relationship between Go-pay promotion and user decision is 42%, while the remaining 58% is influenced by other variables not examined in this study. Promotion has a positive and significant effect on Go-pay users' decisions to use online transportation at Pamulang University. This means that the higher and more varied the promotions offered by the company, the greater the chance for users to decide to use online transportation services, especially at Pamulang University. Abstrak Penelitian ini bertujuan untuk mengetahui pengaruh promosi Go-pay terhadap keputusan pengguna aplikasi transportasi online di ruang lingkup Universitas Pamulang. Metode penelitian yang digunakan adalah metode penelitian kuantitatif. Populasi dalam penelitian ini adalah mahasiswa/mahasiswi semester 7 prodi manajemen Universitas Pamulang. Sampel dalam penelitian ini adalah 200 responden yang terdapat dalam populasi. Metode analisis yang digunakan adalah analisis kuantitatif. Secara parsial promosi Go-pay (x) memiliki thitung sebesar 11,966y > ttabel 1,65259 dengan nilai signifikan 0,00 maka dapat disimpulkan promosi Go-pay berpengaruh positif dan signifikan terhadap keputusan pengguna. Berdasarkan hasil uji koefisien determinasi (R square) menunjukkan angka 0,420 artinya hubungan promosi Go-pay dengan keputusan pengguna sebesar 42%, sedangkan sisanya 58% dipengaruhi oleh variabel lain yang tidak diteliti dalam penelitian ini. Promosi berpengaruh secara positif dan signifikan terhadap keputusan pengguna Go-pay dalam menggunakan trasnportasi online di Universitas Pamulang. Artinya semakin tinggi dan semakin bervariasi promosi yang ditawarkan oleh pihak perusahaan, maka semakin besar peluang pengguna memutuskan untuk menggunakan jasa transportasi online khususnya di Universitas Pamulang. Kata Kunci : Promosi, Go-Pay, Keputusan Pengguna

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