New university, new possibilities: higher education in Western Canada

2019 ◽  
Vol 27 (2) ◽  
pp. 87-97 ◽  
Author(s):  
David W. Atkinson
Keyword(s):  
Higher Education ◽  
British Columbia ◽  
Design Methodology ◽  
Western Canada ◽  
Content Type ◽  
Canadian Universities ◽  
The Past ◽  
Education Today ◽  
Multiple Challenges

Purpose This paper aims to examine the new teaching universities created in British Columbia and Alberta over the past 10 years in the context of the multiple challenges faced by higher education today, including issues of purpose, culture, governance, accountability and finances. Design/methodology/approach The essay provides a historic overview of the challenges universities face today. In this context, it presents the new Western Canadian universities as a possible model, even while identifying the challenges these institutions face in the future. Findings This case study concludes that universities must change if they are to meet the expectations of students and the needs of society. It outlines the challenges faced by the new universities, how they have responded, the successes they have experienced and the challenges they confront. Originality/value To the best of the author’s knowledge, this is the first study of the new Canadian universities.

Innovative sustainable methodology for managing in-house software development in SMEs

2018 ◽  
Vol 25 (3) ◽  
pp. 1085-1103 ◽  
Author(s):  
Abbas Tarhini ◽  
Manal Yunis ◽  
Abdul-Nasser El-Kassar
Keyword(s):  
Design Methodology ◽  
Development Process ◽  
System Development ◽  
Content Type ◽  
Agile Methodology ◽  
The Past ◽  
Database Technology ◽  
The Cost ◽  
Selection Of

Purpose The purpose of this paper is to present an innovative agile methodology that proposes fundamental changes in managing the development of in-house information systems in small- and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs) and benchmarks it with one of two database technologies enabling these systems to be both efficient and competitive. Design/methodology/approach The objectives are achieved by presenting an elaborated design of the agile methodology that manages the system development process by addressing three basic components: roles played by system players, process needed to fulfill the system development, and artifacts to document the project. A case study is conducted as a proof of the effectiveness of the proposed methodology and measures whether the selection of the database technology affects the effectiveness of the system development process. Findings Results show that, compared with traditional methodologies, the proposed methodology reduced the cost of system development and testing by 30 percent and enhanced the IT – business alliance. Further, this work found that the selection of a suitable database technology is strongly related to the complexity and interrelationships between the data used. Originality/value Such research did not receive the needed attention (Hunter, 2004) even in the past decade. Successful adoption of IT by companies could be in the form of customized IS which could be expensive for SMEs to adopt due to a lack in technical expertise and financial resources. The proposed methodology has the potential to promote sustainable development through helping SMEs in reducing the time and cost of IT project development.

scholarly journals Mind the gap: identifying barriers to students engaging in creative practices in higher education

2020 ◽  
Vol 12 (2) ◽  
pp. 207-220
Author(s):  
Lluís Solé ◽  
Laia Sole-Coromina ◽  
Simon Ellis Poole
Keyword(s):  
Higher Education ◽  
Design Methodology ◽  
Methodological Approach ◽  
Initial Study ◽  
Faculty Members ◽  
Intercultural Understanding ◽  
Content Type ◽  
Creative Processes ◽  
Insight Into

PurposeCreativity is nowadays seen as a desirable goal in higher education. In artistic disciplines, creative processes are frequently employed to assess or evaluate different students' skills. The purpose of this study is to identify potential pitfalls for students involved in artistic practices in which being creative is essential.Design/methodology/approachThree focus groups involving Education Faculty members from different artistic disciplines allowed for the identification of several constraints when creativity was invoked. This initial study used a quantitative approach and took place in the “Universitat de Vic” (Catalonia, Spain).FindingsFindings suggest a correlation with existing literature and simultaneously point at some nuances that require consideration: emerging aspects embedded in creative processes that may help decrease some limiting effects that being creative can generate.Research limitations/implicationsThe main limitations of this research derive from the very nature of the methodological approach. Focus group has been the single used source. Other means of collecting data, such as the analysis of programs, could be used in the future.Originality/valueThis case study, while culturally specific, offers a useful insight into the potential of further work in non-artistic disciplines but crucially across disciplines. It has tremendous value for the development of intercultural understanding in the higher education sector, specifically in terms of assessment.

Research watch: routes to marginalised students’ increased inclusion and empowerment

2021 ◽  
Vol ahead-of-print (ahead-of-print) ◽  
Author(s):  
Sue Holttum
Keyword(s):  
Design Methodology ◽  
Well Being ◽  
Black Girls ◽  
Indigenous Students ◽  
Content Type ◽  
Canadian Universities ◽  
The Past ◽  
Marginalised Groups ◽  
Working Together ◽  
Marginalised Students

Purpose The purpose of this paper was to report on recent research about how students belonging to marginalised groups can be empowered. Design/methodology/approach The author searched for articles that covered the topic of empowerment, published in the past two years. The author selected two papers that each focus on a different group and illustrate processes of empowerment applicable in their contexts. Findings The first paper deals sensitively with the topic of in-fighting amongst Indigenous students at Canadian universities and how Canada’s colonisation history contributes to this. It also illustrates how Indigenous students are working together to improve universities’ recognition of their needs and rights. The second paper describes a consciousness-raising programme for Black girls in secondary schools in Pennsylvania, USA. Black girls attending the programme valued it and felt more connected with other Black girls. There was some dropout from the programme, but those who remained appeared to benefit. Originality/value These two papers represent important illustrations of some complex challenges facing marginalised groups and how their empowerment and inclusion can increase, with implications for their mental and physical well-being.

Embracing the future while storing the past: the Joint Library Facility story

2016 ◽  
Vol 65 (6/7) ◽  
pp. 420-428 ◽  
Author(s):  
Wyoma vanDuinkerken ◽  
Joanne Romano
Keyword(s):  
Design Methodology ◽  
Electronic Materials ◽  
Medical Science ◽  
Library Services ◽  
Storage Facility ◽  
Content Type ◽  
The Past ◽  
The Future ◽  
Print Materials

Purpose The purpose of this paper is to focus on the Joint Library Facility services and how Medical Science Libraries have embraced the Resource in Common model to save service copies for their patron’s use while allowing libraries to reclaim critically needed space and develop library services that better meet the needs of their patrons. Design/methodology/approach The paper begins with a description of the Joint Library Facility and its targeted users. It will discuss how this unique library storage facility shares ownership of its material with other libraries to reduce duplication of low-use print items on library shelves. Findings Although electronic materials are more popular with library patrons, there is still scholarly value in keeping low-use print materials as service copies. Originality/value This paper is a case study of a unique library storage facility that shares ownership of its material with other libraries. Its findings will help other libraries plan and implement their own shared print repository.

Why well-being in the workplace matters

2017 ◽  
Vol 16 (1) ◽  
pp. 7-12 ◽  
Author(s):  
Beate O’Neil
Keyword(s):  
Design Methodology ◽  
Work Productivity ◽  
Well Being ◽  
Employee Benefits ◽  
Poor Health ◽  
Senior Managers ◽  
Content Type ◽  
Ageing Workforce ◽  
The Past

Purpose Over the past few years, there has been a groundswell of interest in corporate employee well-being programmes. The purpose of this study is to examine the reasons why companies should invest in well-being programmes and advise on how to implement one. Design/methodology/approach This study refers to in-depth research carried out by Punter Southall Health and Protection and Reward and Employee Benefits Association (REBA) and also includes a case study. Findings This study finds that poor health has an impact on work productivity, and that with the general population’s health in decline and an increasingly ageing workforce, it is essential for companies to have a defined well-being strategy. Originality/value This study provides HR departments and senior managers with sound examples and advice on how to ensure that their employee well-being programmes are implemented and run successfully.

Educating at scale: sustainable library learning at the University of Melbourne

2016 ◽  
Vol 37 (3) ◽  
pp. 149-161 ◽  
Author(s):  
Andrea Phillips
Keyword(s):  
Higher Education ◽  
Design Methodology ◽  
Integrated Approach ◽  
Library Services ◽  
Content Type ◽  
Key Stakeholders ◽  
Service Models ◽  
The University ◽  
Service Blueprint

Purpose – Most libraries in higher education are facing the challenge of providing valued and improved services with the same or fewer resources. Focussing on the library learning service at one university, the purpose of this paper is to consider how libraries can find new service models with contracting resources while aligning with institutional and professional values and providing value-in-use for end users and key stakeholders. Design/methodology/approach – Following a discussion of sustainability as relevant to library services, the paper presents a case study of one library’s approach to sustaining its library learning service. Findings – The sustainability of library services is aided by developing a service blueprint that provides direction and structure yet is dynamic and responsive. To be successful the approach should be grounded in resource realities, encourage scalability where possible and address the values and needs of key stakeholders. Originality/value – The paper presents a workable, integrated approach to managing a library learning service so that it delivers value and is sustainable.

Big Macs and a three-legged stool

2014 ◽  
Vol 30 (5) ◽  
pp. 25-27
Keyword(s):  
Case Studies ◽  
Design Methodology ◽  
Reading Time ◽  
Content Type ◽  
The Past ◽  
Internationalization Strategy ◽  
Pertinent Information ◽  
Practical Implications ◽  
Insight Into

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 – The case study and interview offers a unique insight into factors contributing to McDonald’s unprecedented success (it has paid an increased dividend for the past 37 years). It also sheds light on its successful internationalization strategy. 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.

Balancing between thick and thin regional identities

2014 ◽  
Vol 7 (2) ◽  
pp. 126-140 ◽  
Author(s):  
Henk Hofstede
Keyword(s):  
Content Analysis ◽  
The Netherlands ◽  
Design Methodology ◽  
Integrative Analysis ◽  
Content Type ◽  
The Past ◽  
Hybrid Nature ◽  
Thin Elements ◽  
Practical Implications

Purpose – The aim of this paper is to assess the thinning notion in a case study while acknowledging the hybrid nature of regional identities with the past. In The Netherlands, a process can be observed in which regions actively claim their uniqueness to ensure their development and relevance. It seems that regions adopt similar modern labels in their regional marketing, suggesting a so-called thinning of identities away from traditional thick identities. Design/methodology/approach – The paper is based on a content analysis of promotional texts and interviews with politicians to analyse the context, aims and perceptions of the regional marketing. It stresses an approach which sees identities as balanced between the present and the past. Findings – In line with the thinning notion, this case study shows indeed a creation of new thin elements and an exclusion of traditional thick elements in the regional marketing. However, it was also found that the marketing entails creative links between both characteristics, which suggest a tempering of the thinning notion. Practical implications – The results show that linking traditional with utilitarian elements might capacitate traditional regions to allocate the resources for regional marketing more effectively. Originality/value – Despite the fact that studies acknowledge identities as neither thick nor thin, the thinning notion seems to examine both elements as a dichotomy within regions, which does not follow the nature of identities as interconnected in time. Then, the value of this study must be found in the way it goes behind such a dichotomy by presenting an integrative analysis of thin and thick characteristics.

The challenge of work based learning: a role for academic mentors?

2014 ◽  
Vol 3 (2) ◽  
pp. 158-170 ◽  
Author(s):  
Simon Stephens ◽  
Oran Doherty ◽  
Billy Bennett ◽  
Michael Margey
Keyword(s):  
Higher Education ◽  
Design Methodology ◽  
Best Practice ◽  
Education Institution ◽  
Higher Education Institution ◽  
Undergraduate Level ◽  
Content Type ◽  
Academic Knowledge ◽  
Practical Implications

Purpose – The purpose of this paper is to explore the key challenge(s) experienced by employers, employees and academics during work based learning (WBL) programmes at undergraduate level. The idea of academic mentors is proposed as an aid to addressing the challenges common to WBL programmes. Design/methodology/approach – The case study presented in this paper involves a large multinational organisation and a higher education institution, both of which are based in Ireland. Interviews were used to explore the outcome(s) of a WBL programme. Findings – The challenges associated with WBL place demands on the design of curriculum, pedagogy and accreditation. The use of academic mentors can help translate academic knowledge into workplace practice; and address challenges which are common in WBL programmes. Practical implications – The understanding of best practice in the design of WBL programmes is enriched. A role for academics as mentors is identified and the implications explored. Originality/value – The success of WBL can be linked to the relationships that form between employers, employees and academics. There is evidence that the academic is central to the development of these relationships.

Enablers facilitating industry-academia, transnational education and university-community partnering agility in higher education

2021 ◽  
Vol ahead-of-print (ahead-of-print) ◽  
Author(s):  
Shalini Menon ◽  
M. Suresh ◽  
R. Raghu Raman
Keyword(s):  
Higher Education ◽  
Resource Sharing ◽  
Design Methodology ◽  
Matrix Multiplication ◽  
Content Type ◽  
Roles And Responsibilities ◽  
The Past ◽  
Linkage Zones ◽  
Practical Implications ◽  
Total Interpretive Structural Modelling

PurposeThe study has a two-fold purpose: first, to identify the enablers of partnering agility in higher education, and, second, to analyze the interplay between the enablers.Design/methodology/approachTotal interpretive structural modelling (TISM) was used to construct a theoretical model of partnering agility enablers, and cross-impact matrix multiplication applied to classification (MICMAC) analysis was used to rank and segregate the enablers into independent, autonomous, dependent and linkage zones on the basis of their driving and dependence power.FindingsThe study helped in identifying eight enablers that can be instrumental in driving partnering agility in higher education. According to the TISM model, clarity on roles and responsibilities of partners was found to be the most crucial and vital enabler followed by resource sharing.Practical implicationsThe conceptual model provides a new direction on how to develop and strengthen higher education partnerships. The model has prioritized all the crucial enablers that the management can work around in order to drive partnering agility in higher education institutions.Originality/valueStudies in the past have majorly focused on academia–industry partnerships. This research has tried to provide a comprehensive view of the enablers and the multidirectional interplay between the enablers that can facilitate partnerships between academia and industry, Indian and international universities, and academia and community.

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