Lean for education

2017 ◽  
Vol 25 (1) ◽  
pp. 74-90 ◽  
Author(s):  
Paul G. LeMahieu ◽  
Lee E. Nordstrum ◽  
Patricia Greco
Keyword(s):  
Quality Improvement ◽  
Design Methodology ◽  
Quality Improvements ◽  
Education Systems ◽  
Content Type ◽  
Core Concepts ◽  
The Usa ◽  
Theoretical Foundations ◽  
Continuous Problem

Purpose This paper is one of seven in this volume that aims to elaborate different approaches to quality improvement in education. It delineates a methodology called Lean for Education. Design/methodology/approach The paper presents the origins, theoretical foundations, core concepts and a case study demonstrating an application in US education, specifically dealing with the problem of improving technology supports and services for instructional purposes in a school district system. Findings An approach borrowed from manufacturing, Lean is aimed at creating and delivering the greatest value to the clients or “customers” in education systems while consuming the fewest resources and eliminating waste. Simultaneously, the method engages the organization in continuous problem solving, learning and making quality improvements with Plan-Do-Check-Act cycles. The core concepts that organize the Lean for Education approach are: continuous improvement and respect for people (Emiliani, 2005). Originality/value Few theoretical treatments and demonstration cases are currently available on commonly used models of quality improvement in other fields that might have potential value in improving education systems internationally, such as large grade kindergarten-to-12 education systems in the USA. This paper fills this gap by elucidating one promising approach. The paper also derives value as it permits a comparison of the Lean for Education method with other quality improvement approaches treated in this volume.

Deliverology

2017 ◽  
Vol 25 (1) ◽  
pp. 43-57 ◽  
Author(s):  
Lee E. Nordstrum ◽  
Paul G. LeMahieu ◽  
Karen Dodd
Keyword(s):  
Quality Improvement ◽  
Design Methodology ◽  
Department Of Education ◽  
Education Systems ◽  
Content Type ◽  
The Core ◽  
Potential Value ◽  
The Usa ◽  
Theoretical Foundations

Purpose This paper is one of seven in this volume elaborating different approaches to quality improvement in education. This paper aims to delineate a methodology called Deliverology. Design/methodology/approach The paper presents the origins, theoretical foundations, core principles and a case study showing an application of Deliverology in the Kentucky Department of Education in the USA. Findings The core principles underlying the approach are embodied in its guiding questions: What is our system trying to do? How are we planning to do it? At any given moment, how will we know whether we are on track to succeed? and If we are not on track, what are we going to do about it? Originality/value Few theoretical treatments and demonstration cases are currently available on commonly used models of quality improvement in other fields that might have potential value in improving education systems internationally. This paper fills this gap by elucidating one promising approach. The paper also derives value, as it permits a comparison of the Deliverology approach with other quality improvement approaches treated in this volume.

Positive deviance: learning from positive anomalies

2017 ◽  
Vol 25 (1) ◽  
pp. 109-124 ◽  
Author(s):  
Paul G. LeMahieu ◽  
Lee E. Nordstrum ◽  
Dick Gale
Keyword(s):  
Quality Improvement ◽  
Dropout Prevention ◽  
Design Methodology ◽  
Action Learning ◽  
Positive Deviance ◽  
Added Value ◽  
Content Type ◽  
Success Stories ◽  
Theoretical Foundations

Purpose This paper is one of seven in this volume, each elaborating different approaches to quality improvement in education. The purpose of this paper is to delineate a methodology called positive deviance. Design/methodology/approach The paper presents the origins, theoretical foundations, core principles and a case study demonstrating an application of positive deviance in US education, specifically dealing with the problem of high school dropout prevention in a California school district. Findings The six phases of this “asset-based” improvement approach are: define the organizational or community problem and desired outcomes; determine common practices relevant to the problem; discover uncommon but successful behaviors and strategies that solve the problem (the positive deviants), through inquiry and observation; design an action learning initiative based on findings; discern (monitor) progress of the initiative by documenting and evaluating regularly; and disseminate results through sharing, honoring and amplifying success stories. Originality/value Few theoretical treatments and demonstration cases are currently available on commonly used models of quality improvement from business, manufacturing and other fields that have potential value in improving education systems internationally. This paper fills this gap by elucidating one promising approach. By facilitating a comparison of the positive deviance approach to other quality improvement approaches treated in this volume, the paper provides added value.

Networked improvement communities

2017 ◽  
Vol 25 (1) ◽  
pp. 5-25 ◽  
Author(s):  
Paul G. LeMahieu ◽  
Alicia Grunow ◽  
Laura Baker ◽  
Lee E. Nordstrum ◽  
Louis M. Gomez
Keyword(s):  
Quality Improvement ◽  
Social Systems ◽  
New Teacher ◽  
Added Value ◽  
Content Type ◽  
Public School Systems ◽  
The Usa ◽  
Theoretical Foundations

Purpose The purpose of this paper is to delineate an approach to quality assurance in education called networked improvement communities (NICs) that focused on integrating the methodologies of improvement science with few of the networks. Quality improvement, the science and practice of continuously improving programs, practices, processes, products and services within organized social systems, is a still-evolving area in education. This paper is the first of seven elaborating upon different approaches to quality improvement in education[1]. It delineates a new methodology called the NICs model. Developed by the Carnegie Foundation for the Advancement of Teaching, the approach is aimed at continuously improving the quality of practices, processes and outcomes in targeted problem areas in education systems. Design/methodology/approach The paper presents the historical development, theoretical foundations, core principles and adaptation of key elements of the NICs model for quality improvement in education. A case study specifically examines the problem of fostering new teacher effectiveness and retention in large public school systems in the USA. Findings The six principles underlying the NICs model are as follows: make the work problem-specific and user-centered, focus on variation in performance, see the system that produces outcomes, improve at scale what you can measure, use disciplined inquiry to drive improvement and accelerate learning through networked communities. Originality/value Few theoretical treatments and demonstration cases are currently available that examine the application of common models of quality improvement in education. This paper elaborates on one promising approach. In addition to examining the NICs model, the paper derives added value by allowing comparisons with seven widely used quality improvement approaches treated in this volume.

Implementation Science

2017 ◽  
Vol 25 (1) ◽  
pp. 58-73 ◽  
Author(s):  
Lee E. Nordstrum ◽  
Paul G. LeMahieu ◽  
Elaine Berrena
Keyword(s):  
Quality Improvement ◽  
Implementation Science ◽  
Design Methodology ◽  
University Partnerships ◽  
Content Type ◽  
The Core ◽  
Potential Value ◽  
Science Approach ◽  
Theoretical Foundations

Purpose This paper is one of seven in this volume elaborating upon different approaches to quality improvement in education. This paper aims to delineate a methodology called Implementation Science, focusing on methods to enhance the reach, adoption, use and maintenance of innovations and discoveries in diverse education contexts. Design/methodology/approach The paper presents the origins, theoretical foundations, core principles and a case study showing an application of Implementation Science in education, namely, in promoting school–community–university partnerships to enhance resilience (PROSPER). Findings Implementation Science is concerned with understanding and finding solutions to the causes of variation in a program’s outcomes relating to its implementation. The core phases are: initial considerations about the host context; creating an implementation structure; sustaining the structure during implementation; and improving future applications. Originality/value Few theoretical treatments and demonstration cases are currently available on commonly used models of quality improvement in other fields that might have potential value in improving education systems internationally. This paper fills this gap by elucidating one promising approach. The paper also derives value, as it permits a comparison of the Implementation Science approach with other quality improvement approaches treated in this volume.

scholarly journals Quality function deployment: more than a design tool

2019 ◽  
Vol 11 (2) ◽  
pp. 142-166 ◽  
Author(s):  
Nadiye Ozlem Erdil ◽  
Omid M. Arani
Keyword(s):  
Quality Improvement ◽  
Quality Function Deployment ◽  
Design Tool ◽  
Quality Improvements ◽  
Literature Study ◽  
Quality Function ◽  
Content Type ◽  
Study Approach ◽  
Design Activities

Purpose This paper aims to investigate to what extent quality function deployment (QFD) can be used in quality improvement rather than design activities. Design/methodology/approach A framework was developed for implementation of QFD as a quality improvement tool. A case study approach is used to test this framework, and quality issues were analyzed using the framework in a ceramic tile manufacturing company. Findings The results showed considerable improvements in the critical quality characteristics identified and sales rates, demonstrating the potential of QFD to be used in assessing and prioritizing areas of improvement, and converting them into measurable process or product requirements. Research limitations/implications One case study was completed. More studies would be beneficial to support current findings. Practical implications This framework provides structured approach and guidelines for practitioners in adapting QFD for quality improvements in existing products or processes. Originality/value This study proposes a new framework to use QFD in quality improvement activities, expanding its application areas. Moreover, the results of the literature study performed provide a valuable collection of practical QFD implementation examples.

scholarly journals The ShaRInK framework: a holistic perspective on key categories of influences shaping individual perceptions of knowledge sharing

2015 ◽  
Vol 19 (4) ◽  
pp. 770-790 ◽  
Author(s):  
Alexander Schauer ◽  
Ana Cristina Vasconcelos ◽  
Barbara Sen
Keyword(s):  
Knowledge Sharing ◽  
Design Methodology ◽  
Content Type ◽  
Individual Level ◽  
Individual Perceptions ◽  
Information Technology Services ◽  
Technology Services ◽  
The Usa ◽  
The Uk

Purpose – This paper aims to present a holistic framework, termed ShaRInK (Sharer, Relations, Institution, Knowledge), that depicts key categories of influences that shape individual perceptions of knowledge sharing within an organisational setting. Design/methodology/approach – An exploratory and qualitative case study strategy in which empirical data were gathered from 24 interviewees that were based in four different branches (i.e. China, The Netherlands, the UK and the USA) of a single information technology services organisation. Findings – The findings led to a holistic framework that depicts four key categories of influences that shape knowledge sharing from an individual perspective: attitudes and characteristics of the sharers, relations between the sharers, institutions which act as a united entity on sharer perceptions and knowledge itself. Furthermore, the four key influences not only shape knowledge sharing independently but are intertwined and have a synergistic effect. The ShaRInK framework is formed by combining these. Originality/value – The findings indicate that knowledge sharing from an individual-level perspective is a more complex phenomenon than currently portrayed in the literature. All four key influences, each being fundamentally different in nature, and their relationships should be taken into account. Equally, the ShaRInK framework can be applied by organisations when developing a knowledge-sharing strategy or auditing existing strategies.

Georgia rural hospital authorities as “shadow governments”

2018 ◽  
Vol 21 (2) ◽  
pp. 98-112
Author(s):  
Mary Eleanor Rawlings Wickersham ◽  
Robert Yehl
Keyword(s):  
Local Government ◽  
Design Methodology ◽  
Descriptive Analysis ◽  
Public Information ◽  
Content Type ◽  
The Public ◽  
Private Interests ◽  
The Usa ◽  
Special District

Purpose The tenuous financial viability of many of Georgia’s rural hospitals has driven increased scrutiny of the hospital authorities (HAs) that own and govern them. HAs are a type of “special district” established in state law to allow for specialization of function, while evading statutes that can limit local government borrowing and multi-year contracts. The paper aims to discuss this issue. Design/methodology/approach This paper uses a case example to introduce transparency and accountability in one local Georgia hospital and expands to include a descriptive analysis of transparency measures in 29 rural Georgia HAs. Findings Findings indicate that, like many other special districts in Georgia and the USA, Georgia’s rural HAs often act more like private entities than the public organizations they are. The lack of transparency demonstrated in this sector limits access to public information and reduces opportunities for citizen engagement, a necessary component of representative institutions. Research limitations/implications This case study is limited to Georgia HAs; however, the data support the lack of accountability and transparency found in many special district governments. Originality/value The lack of transparency in all of the organizations reviewed in this study demonstrates blurred lines between between public matters and private interests and raises questions of transparency, a key value in democracies.

scholarly journals Literature on organizational innovation: past and future

2018 ◽  
Vol 15 (1) ◽  
pp. 2-19 ◽  
Author(s):  
Marlon Fernandes Rodrigues Alves ◽  
Simone Vasconcelos Ribeiro Galina ◽  
Silvio Dobelin
Keyword(s):  
Research Agenda ◽  
Design Methodology ◽  
Web Of Science ◽  
Organizational Innovation ◽  
Future Research ◽  
Content Type ◽  
Current Trends ◽  
Literature Reviews ◽  
Core Concepts ◽  
Theoretical Foundations

Purpose The purpose of this paper is to examine what are both the main theoretical basis and the recent perspectives within the organizational innovation literature. Design/methodology/approach The authors have conducted a bibliometric analysis reviewing the research on organizational innovation from 460 articles published in the period from 2007 to 2016 and indexed in the Web of Science through co-citation and bibliographical coupling analyses. Findings The clusters analysis results show that the main theoretical foundations are learning and evolution; implementation of innovation; and leadership, creativity and learning. Regarding recent perspectives, the clusters indicate studies on core concepts, knowledge and capability, learning for resource development and human resources for innovation. Originality/value This study organizes the knowledge basis for future research on organizational innovation, and, unlike most literature reviews, this study provides the current trends on the topic and presents a comprehensive research agenda.

scholarly journals Providing healthcare through “value shops”: impact on professional fulfilment for physicians and nurses

2020 ◽  
Vol 25 (2) ◽  
pp. 127-136
Author(s):  
Christian Gadolin ◽  
Thomas Andersson ◽  
Erik Eriksson ◽  
Andreas Hellström
Keyword(s):  
Design Methodology ◽  
Healthcare Professionals ◽  
Qualitative Case Study ◽  
Quality Care ◽  
Healthcare Setting ◽  
Positive Outcomes ◽  
Care Provision ◽  
Quality Improvements ◽  
Content Type

PurposeThe purpose of this paper is to empirically explore and demonstrate the ability of healthcare professionals to attain professional fulfilment when providing healthcare inspired by “value shops”.Design/methodology/approachA qualitative case study incorporating interviews and observations was conducted.FindingsThe empirical data suggest that the professional fulfilment of both physicians and nurses is facilitated when care is organized through “value shops”. Both groups of professionals state that they are able to return to their “professional core”.Originality/valueThe beneficial outcomes of organizing healthcare inspired by the “value shop” have previously been explored in terms of efficiency and quality. However, the professional fulfilment of healthcare professionals when providing such care has not been explicitly addressed. Professional fulfilment is vital in order to safeguard high-quality care, as well as healthcare professionals' involvement and engagement in implementing quality improvements. This paper highlights the fact that care provision inspired by the “value shop” may facilitate professional fulfilment, which further strengthens the potential positive outcomes of the “value shop” when utilized in a healthcare setting.

Building brand awareness with a bowl of cherries

2015 ◽  
Vol 7 (1) ◽  
pp. 113-132 ◽  
Author(s):  
Alberto Guenzi
Keyword(s):  
Twentieth Century ◽  
Marketing Strategy ◽  
Design Methodology ◽  
Content Type ◽  
Legal Context ◽  
Manufactured Products ◽  
The Usa ◽  
Medium Enterprises ◽  
Changes Over Time

Purpose – This paper aims to approach the issue of premium offers in Italy by discussing the case study of Fabbri, a firm operating since 1905 in the business of liqueurs, syrups and semi-manufactured products for ice cream. Design/methodology/approach – The research takes into analysis three marketing schemes, all related to direct premium promotions, adopted by Fabbri at various times during the twentieth century. The evolution of the company’s marketing strategy is outlined drawing on several types of sources: archive documents, posters and labels and audiovisual material. It is analysed in the socio-economic and legal context of twentieth century Italy, and in comparison with premium offers in the USA and Europe. Findings – The study argues that direct premium may represent a long-lasting and efficient marketing strategy when a firm is able to adapt it to a context that changes over time. Fabbri not only used premium offers to launch its products but also to consolidate its brand image. Research limitations/implications – By showing that innovative promotions are not necessarily connected to large firms, Fabbri’s case suggests that further research should be carried out to outline marketing policies carried out by small to medium enterprises. Originality/value – Much has been written on premium offers in the USA and in Europe, but very little on such types of promotions in Italy, especially with reference to direct premiums. This study fills this gap and documents that a small family-owned firm was able to carry out innovative marketing policies as far as in the 1920s.

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