AN OPEN CONTRACTING FRAMEWORK FOR PUBLIC SECTOR PROCUREMENT:  A SEM METHODOLOGY

2020 ◽  
Vol 8 (8) ◽  
pp. 57-68
Author(s):  
Lawson Naidoo ◽  
Vinessa Naidoo ◽  
Emmanuel Edoun
Keyword(s):  
Public Sector ◽  
South African ◽  
Structural Equation ◽  
Online Survey ◽  
Structural Model ◽  
Internal Consistency Reliability ◽  
Categorical Variables ◽  
Sufficient Information ◽  
Chi Square ◽  
Convenience Sample

AN OPEN CONTRACTING FRAMEWORK FOR PUBLIC SECTOR PROCUREMENT:  A SEM METHODOLOGY ABSTRACT The main purpose of this study was the development of a framework to implement Open Contracting in South African public sector procurement. The specific objective of this paper is to determine the relationship between the principles of Open Contracting and the pillars for Open Contracting. This was deemed important to provide some insight to the possible components of the recommended framework for the implementation of Open Contracting in public sector procurement. This study followed a quantitative approach. A questionnaire via an online survey was employed to collect the data from a convenience sample of 377 procurement practitioners employed in the South African public sector. Pearson chi-square test (ɑ = 0.05) was used to test for association between any pair of categorical variables. Cronbach’s alpha was applied to test for internal consistency reliability. Structural equation modelling (SEM) was used to test the measurement and structural models and simultaneously examine a series of interrelated dependence relationships among the measured variables. SEM was also used to test the hypotheses in this study. The structural model also indicated a good model fit through the various indices. Therefore, it can be concluded that there is a relationship between Open Contracting principles and pillars for Open Contracting. The findings relating to the research questions, therefore, provided sufficient information to design an Open Contracting Framework to facilitate the implementation of Open Contracting in public sector procurement.  

Researchers’ awareness about plagiarism and impact of plagiarism detection tools – does awareness effect the actions towards preventing plagiarism?

2021 ◽  
Vol ahead-of-print (ahead-of-print) ◽  
Author(s):  
Sk. Mamun Mostofa ◽  
Mashiat Tabassum ◽  
S.M. Zabed Ahmed
Keyword(s):  
Structural Equation ◽  
Structural Model ◽  
Personal Characteristics ◽  
Equation Model ◽  
Equation Modeling ◽  
Plagiarism Detection ◽  
Chi Square ◽  
Content Type ◽  
Reported Study ◽  
Chi Square Test

Purpose This paper aims to analyse researchers’ awareness about plagiarism and impact of plagiarism detection tools on the actions that they take to prevent plagiarism. It also employs a structural model that examines whether awareness of plagiarism and anti-plagiarism tools have any significant effect on the actions taken by the researchers to avoid plagiarism. Design/methodology/approach A survey questionnaire was distributed to researchers at a large public university in Bangladesh. The survey accumulated 184 valid responses. Descriptive statistics were obtained to assess researchers’ awareness about plagiarism and impact of plagiarism detection tools and the actions taken by them. The reasons that may cause plagiarism were also identified. The awareness of the availability of the anti-plagiarism software that was being used by the university and its actual use by the researchers was gathered through the survey. Non-parametric Mann–Whitney and Kruskal–Wallis tests were conducted to investigate the differences in awareness levels and actions in terms of gender, age, discipline and current level of research. The chi-square test was carried out to examine the relationship between awareness about the availability of the anti-plagiarism software and its use by the researchers. Finally, the survey data were analysed using structural equation modeling to examine the effects of awareness of plagiarism and anti-plagiarism software on the actions taken by the researchers. Findings The study revealed that the level of awareness regarding plagiarism and impact of plagiarism detection software is generally high among the researchers. There are some significant differences between researchers’ demographic and personal characteristics and their awareness levels and actions with regard to plagiarism. The findings indicate that almost three-quarters of the researchers were aware about the anti-plagiarism tool that is being used, whereas more than half of the researchers indicated that they used the software to assess their works. The results of the structural equation model do not show a good fit, although there is strong statistical evidence that awareness about plagiarism and anti-plagiarism software has significantly impacted researchers’ actions towards preventing plagiarism. Originality/value There is no reported study on researchers’ awareness of plagiarism and its affiliated issues in Bangladesh. The findings of this study will not only provide useful insights regarding awareness about plagiarism but also assist university authorities to formulate relevant policy and take necessary actions against plagiarism in higher education institutions.

Assessment of A Mobile Educational Coaching App

2018 ◽  
Vol 14 (1) ◽  
pp. 22-43
Author(s):  
Niousha Shahidi ◽  
Vesselina Tossan ◽  
Silvia Cacho-Elizondo
Keyword(s):  
Technology Acceptance ◽  
Technology Acceptance Model ◽  
Structural Equation ◽  
Online Survey ◽  
Causal Structure ◽  
Convenience Sample ◽  
Equation Modelling ◽  
Educational Coaching ◽  
Acceptance Model ◽  
Type Of School

This article explores which antecedents explain intentions to adopt a mobile coaching app. To that end, this study describes a coaching service designed to guide/encourage students throughout their studies in order to validate a new model of planned behavior based on the Technology Acceptance Model and the Goal-Directed Behavioral theory. The methodology included a short qualitative study and an online survey to examine the theoretical model which is based on scales tested in previous studies. The convenience sample is composed of students (Bachelor and Master/MBA) with the results analyzed using structural equation modelling to test the proposed model's causal structure. The results show different adoption patterns by gender and type of school.

Examining the factors influencing adoption of over the top (OTT) services among Indian consumers

2021 ◽  
Vol ahead-of-print (ahead-of-print) ◽  
Author(s):  
Som Sekhar Bhattacharyya ◽  
Shaileshwar Goswami ◽  
Raunak Mehta ◽  
Bishwajit Nayak
Keyword(s):  
Structural Equation ◽  
Online Survey ◽  
Structural Model ◽  
Reliability And Validity ◽  
Adoption Process ◽  
Media Industry ◽  
Content Type ◽  
Content Quality ◽  
Use Of Technology ◽  
Over The Top

Purpose The purpose of this paper is to identify and predict the key factors that influenced the usage intention of over the top (OTT) services by consumers. This was done by applying the modified unified theory of acceptance and use of technology 2 (UTAUT2) model. Design/methodology/approach An online survey questionnaire assessed the proposed motivational factors for the adoption of OTT services. Confirmatory factor analysis and structural equation modelling were conducted on collected data (n = 598) to demonstrate the reliability and validity of the measurement and structural model. Findings The model consisted of nine factors, namely, value expectancy (VE), ease of effort (EE), social influence (SI), favourable infrastructure conditions (FIC), hedonistic motivation for usage (HMU), favourable economic position (FEP), content quality (CQ), habitual behaviour (HB) and security conditions (SC). SC, VE, SI, HB and EE were the antecedent variables. FEP, CQ and FIC were the mediating variables and HMU was the dependant variable. SI and CQ of OTT services were positively associated with HMU of OTT services, FEP had no significant effects on HMU. The results also supported the explanatory strength and predictability of UTAUT2 as a model. It further extended UTAUT2 boundaries and paved the way for an extended UTAUT2 model to be developed. Originality/value The promising role of OTT services in the entertainment and media industry had gained consumer attention, however, limited empirical investigations had been conducted on explicating how user attitude and usage intention were shaped regarding the use of OTT services in the Indian context. This study served as one of the first attempts to empirically examine the adoption process, with implications for the HMU regarding OTT services. This was one of the first studies to extend the UTAUT2 theoretical model.

A varietal-specific approach to investigate wine risk perception in South Africa

2019 ◽  
Vol 31 (4) ◽  
pp. 640-659
Author(s):  
Nadia Van der Colff ◽  
Chris Pentz ◽  
Helene Nieuwoudt
Keyword(s):  
Mixed Methods ◽  
Risk Perception ◽  
South African ◽  
Mixed Methods Research ◽  
Online Survey ◽  
Statistical Significance ◽  
Research Approach ◽  
Convenience Sample ◽  
Content Type ◽  
Chenin Blanc

Purpose This study aims to describe South African consumers’ wine risk perception on varietal level with recommendations for Chenin blanc. Design/methodology/approach An exploratory mixed methods approach was followed where qualitative data were used to develop the questionnaire. Quantitative data were collected from 2,051 respondents using an online survey. ANOVA and Fischer least significance difference tests were used to indicate statistical significance. Findings Significant perceived risks (PRs) associated with Chenin blanc across age and ethnic groups were functional, time and financial risks. Risk-reducing strategies (RRS) in the white wine category were favourite brands and a trusted store, while Sauvignon blanc was also described as an RRS. Recommended Chenin blanc RRS include tastings and events with food. Research limitations/implications Measurement of PR remains challenging. This research approach can be reproduced and/or adapted to investigate other struggling varietals and/or regions-of-origin. The convenience sample limits generalisability. Practical implications Segments were identified to develop new markets for Chenin blanc. RRS emphasise the importance of real sensory experience rather than media exposure to build knowledge and familiarity. Originality/value This study is a pioneering endeavour in terms of using an exploratory mixed methods research approach to investigate and describe risk perception of a specific wine varietal. Recommendations, with implications for strategic marketing decisions, are made for South African Chenin blanc.

The moderating effect of e-bank structure on French consumers’ trust

2019 ◽  
Vol 38 (2) ◽  
pp. 501-528 ◽  
Author(s):  
Souheila Kaabachi ◽  
Selima Ben Mrad ◽  
Anne Fiedler
Keyword(s):  
Structural Equation ◽  
Online Survey ◽  
Group Analysis ◽  
Equation Modeling ◽  
Convenience Sample ◽  
Content Type ◽  
Online Trust ◽  
Bank Structure ◽  
Website Features ◽  
The Impact

Purpose The purpose of this paper is to demonstrate how an e-bank’s structure (click-and-mortar bank vs internet-only bank) influences the consumer’s evaluation of website quality, and to identify the most significant website features that influence online trust and lead to consumer loyalty. Design/methodology/approach A non-probability convenience sample of 476 online bank users (248 click-and-mortar and 230 internet-only bank users) was used in this study. An online survey was conducted. Structural equation modeling and multi-group analysis were used to analyze the data. Findings Findings suggest that e-trust and e-loyalty levels depend on the e-banking structure. Click-and-mortar-based online users were found to have more trust and loyalty in their online banks than internet-only bank users. Findings demonstrate that website features are evaluated differently according to the e-bank structure. Information design and interactivity are very important for internet-only banks, and their effect on online trust seems to be higher. On the other hand, website personalization was evaluated as more important for click-and-mortar banks and had a stronger impact on online trust. Practical implications To promote the trustworthiness of their websites and retain customers, internet-only banks should make the experience more tangible for users by developing a pleasant online experience. Personalization is an important variable that can enhance the consumer’s engagement with the brand. Click-and-mortar banks should enhance their interactivity by providing a continuous and consistent experience across different channels of distribution whether online or in-person and provide more interactive tools on their websites. Originality/value This study contributes significantly to the marketing research literature related to consumer trust as well as to the electronic banking literature. It is the first study to compare customers of click-and-mortar banks with customers of internet-only banks when evaluating website features. It also explores the impact of the e-bank model on the relationship between website features and online trust and customer loyalty.

Evaluating Structural Equation Models with Unobservable Variables and Measurement Error

1981 ◽  
Vol 18 (1) ◽  
pp. 39-50 ◽  
Author(s):  
Claes Fornell ◽  
David F. Larcker
Keyword(s):  
Measurement Error ◽  
Sample Size ◽  
Structural Equation ◽  
Structural Model ◽  
Structural Equation Models ◽  
Statistical Tests ◽  
Explanatory Power ◽  
Measurement Model ◽  
Measurement Properties ◽  
Chi Square

The statistical tests used in the analysis of structural equation models with unobservable variables and measurement error are examined. A drawback of the commonly applied chi square test, in addition to the known problems related to sample size and power, is that it may indicate an increasing correspondence between the hypothesized model and the observed data as both the measurement properties and the relationship between constructs decline. Further, and contrary to common assertion, the risk of making a Type II error can be substantial even when the sample size is large. Moreover, the present testing methods are unable to assess a model's explanatory power. To overcome these problems, the authors develop and apply a testing system based on measures of shared variance within the structural model, measurement model, and overall model.

scholarly journals Pulse Knowledge, Attitudes, Practices, and Cooking Experience of Midwestern US University Students

Nutrients ◽  
2020 ◽  
Vol 12 (11) ◽  
pp. 3499
Author(s):  
Donna M. Winham ◽  
Elizabeth D. Davitt ◽  
Michelle M. Heer ◽  
Mack C. Shelley
Keyword(s):  
College Students ◽  
Self Efficacy ◽  
Online Survey ◽  
Daily Intake ◽  
The United States ◽  
Chi Square ◽  
Convenience Sample ◽  
Attitudes And Practices ◽  
Positive Attitudes ◽  
Chi Square Analysis

Many American college students fail to meet dietary guideline recommendations for fruits, vegetables, and fiber. Pulses are a subgroup of legumes, harvested solely for dry grain seeds within a pod. Commonly consumed pulses include dry beans, dry peas, lentils, and chickpeas. Pulses are high in shortfall nutrients and could fill some nutritional gaps of college students. However, little is known about pulse intakes among young adults. The study aims were: (1) to identify knowledge, attitudes, and practices regarding pulse consumption; and (2) to describe experiences of preparing dry pulses among college students. A convenience sample of 1433 students aged 18–30 enrolled at a Midwestern university in the United States completed an online survey in April 2020. Demographic and attitude variables were compared by the monthly count of pulse types eaten using chi-square, analysis of variance, and logistic regression modeling to predict pulse type intakes. Higher numbers of pulse types eaten was associated with being White, vegetarian/vegan, higher cooking self-efficacy, positive attitudes toward pulses, and greater daily intake of fruits, vegetables, and fiber. Knowledge and experience of cooking dry pulses was low, with canned pulses purchased more often. College students may not be consuming pulses due to unfamiliarity with them, low knowledge of nutrition benefits, and a general lack of cooking self-efficacy. Increased familiarization and promotion surrounding pulses may increase their consumption.

scholarly journals Explicating the South African Psychological Ownership Questionnaire’s confirmatory factor analysis model fit: A Bayesian structural equation modelling approach

2019 ◽  
Vol 45 ◽  
Author(s):  
Pieter Schaap
Keyword(s):  
South African ◽  
Structural Equation ◽  
Measurement Model ◽  
Model Fit ◽  
Psychological Ownership ◽  
Fit Indices ◽  
Chi Square ◽  
Equation Modelling ◽  
Confirmatory Factor ◽  
Global Fit

Orientation: The rigid application of conventional confirmatory factor analysis (CFA) techniques, the overreliance on global model fit indices and the dismissal of the chi-square statistic appear to have an adverse impact on the research of psychological ownership measures.Research purpose: The purpose of this study was to explicate the South African Psychological Ownership Questionnaire’s (SAPOS’s) CFA model fit using the Bayesian structural equation modelling (BSEM) technique.Motivation for the study: The need to conduct this study derived from a renewed awareness of the incorrect use of the chi-square statistic and global fit indices of CFA in social sciences research.Research approach/design and method: The SAPOS measurement model fit was explicated on two study samples consisting, respectively, of 712 and 254 respondents who worked in various organisations in South Africa. A Bayesian approach to CFA was used to evaluate if local model misspecifications were substantive and justified the rejection of the SAPOS model.Main findings: The findings suggested that a rejection of the SAPOS measurement model based on the results of the chi-square statistic and global fit indices would be unrealistic and unfounded in terms of substantive test theory.Practical/managerial implications: BSEM appeared to be a valuable diagnostic tool to pinpoint and evaluate local CFA model misspecifications and their effect on a measurement model.Contribution/value-add: This study showed the importance of considering local misspecifications rather than only relying the chi-square statistic and global fit indices when evaluating model fit.

How CSR Affects Brand Equity of Indian Firms?

2017 ◽  
Vol 18 (3_suppl) ◽  
pp. S52-S69 ◽  
Author(s):  
Anupam Singh ◽  
Priyanka Verma
Keyword(s):  
Brand Equity ◽  
Purchase Intention ◽  
Structural Equation ◽  
Business Performance ◽  
Online Survey ◽  
Structural Model ◽  
Developing Economies ◽  
Management Strategies ◽  
Sustainable Business ◽  
Managerial Implications

Studies in the developed economies report that corporate social responsibility (CSR) has effect on brand’s performance. However, there is a dearth of such studies in developing economies like India. Therefore, this study attempts to examine the nexus of CSR and brand equity (BE) in Indian business perspective. For the purpose of this study, questionnaire-based online survey was conducted to collect the empirical data. Structural equation modelling (SEM) technique using AMOS 22.0 was utilized to test structural model. Results indicate that firm’s CSR activities have positive effect on its BE. However, brand awareness, brand image, brand loyalty and purchase intention mediate the CSR and BE relationship. This study adds to the existing CSR literature theoretically and also offers the managerial implications. The findings of this study would help the companies to renovate their management strategies from traditional profit oriented to socially responsible business approach for sustainable business performance.

Mothers’ Perceptions of the Influence of a Breastfeeding Support Group in Achieving Their Breastfeeding Goals

2020 ◽  
Vol 11 (2) ◽  
pp. 74-83
Author(s):  
JoAnne Silbert-Flagg ◽  
Deborah Busch ◽  
Joycelyne Absolu Bataille
Keyword(s):  
Support Groups ◽  
Support Group ◽  
Online Survey ◽  
Breastfeeding Support ◽  
Chi Square ◽  
Cross Sectional ◽  
Convenience Sample ◽  
Peer Support Group ◽  
Extended Duration ◽  
Duration Of Breastfeeding

ObjectiveThe study aims were to identify maternal perceptions about the influence of a hospital-based breastfeeding peer support group in addressing breastfeeding concerns, assisting them to achieve their breastfeeding goals, and providing additional benefits.MethodsA descriptive, cross-sectional, online survey was conducted with a convenience sample of women who attended a hospital's breastfeeding support group. Participants reported their breastfeeding concerns and breastfeeding goals prior to and after their attendance at the breastfeeding support group. Changes in reported breastfeeding concerns and breastfeeding goals were analyzed with chi-square statistics.ResultsAfter participating in the support group session, survey participants (N = 100) expressed less concern about latching (81%–66%), mother's milk production (77%–62%), breastfeeding while apart from infant (75%–65%), and all other reported breastfeeding concerns. Overall, participants reported the support group successfully addressed their concerns (92%, n = 89), provided adequate time for responses to their questions (87%, n = 87), and assisted them to achieve their breastfeeding goals (91%, n = 88). Over 90% of participants planned to exclusively breastfeed through 6 months.ConclusionHospital-based breastfeeding support groups can successfully address mothers’ key breastfeeding concerns and support extended duration of breastfeeding.

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