scholarly journals Factors Influencing the Choice of Higher Education Establishment for Marketing Strategies of Higher Education

2015 ◽  
Vol 27 (1) ◽  
pp. 76-80 ◽  
Author(s):  
Glorija Sarkane ◽  
Biruta Sloka
Keyword(s):  
Higher Education ◽  
Academic Research ◽  
Marketing Strategies ◽  
Focus Group Discussions ◽  
Group Discussions ◽  
Scientific Publications ◽  
Factors Influencing ◽  
The World ◽  
Study Programs ◽  
Descriptive Statistical Analysis

Abstract The world-wide competition of higher education programs makes education institutions to seek for most efficient ways to attract students. The presented academic research is devoted also to the issues on motives and influencing factors for the choice of study programs. The methods applied in the current paper are as follows: analysis of scientific publications, focus group discussions, surveys of possible future students. For the evaluation of different aspects of choice a scale of 1-10 was used. For the data analysis of the survey descriptive statistical analysis, cross tabulations and correlation analysis, as well as analysis of variance (ANOVA) and factor analysis were applied.

scholarly journals Employers’ Needs and Expectations for Qualified Employees (Case Study on the Opinions in One of the Regions in Latvia)

2015 ◽  
Vol 27 (1) ◽  
pp. 69-75
Author(s):  
Biruta Sloka ◽  
Ināra Kantāne ◽  
Ilze Buligina ◽  
Ginta Tora ◽  
Juris Dzelme ◽  
...  
Keyword(s):  
Factor Analysis ◽  
Statistical Test ◽  
Teaching Staff ◽  
Focus Group Discussions ◽  
Group Discussions ◽  
Scientific Publications ◽  
Competence Motivation ◽  
Parametric Statistical Test ◽  
Descriptive Statistical Analysis

Abstract Qualified, loyal and motivated employees are highly demanded by employers and business promoters. The paper deals with employers’ needs and expectations for qualified and loyal employees, and investigates cooperation of employers, educators and municipalities. The following methods were used: analysis of scientific publications; focus group discussions; surveys of employers, teaching staff, students and graduates of VEI. For survey data analysis descriptive statistical analysis, non-parametric statistical test of Kruskal-Wallis and factor analysis were applied. The main findings indicate that besides professional skills and competence, social competence, motivation to work and responsibility are requested as well.

scholarly journals Hizkuntzen erabilera malgutzen ingeles bidezko ikasgaian: translanguaging Euskal Herriko Unibertsitatean (UPV/EHU)

2021 ◽  
pp. 96-115
Author(s):  
Beñat Muguruza Aseguinolaza
Keyword(s):  
Higher Education ◽  
Classroom Observation ◽  
Basque Country ◽  
Focus Group Discussions ◽  
Group Discussions ◽  
Medium Education ◽  
Language Difficulties ◽  
The World ◽  
The University ◽  
Different Parts

English medium education is spreading in different parts of the world even in higher education. Here we focused on an EMI course offered at the University of the Basque Country (UPV/EHU). We analysed a course from Social Education for two academic years, and a total number of 77 students took part. In order to avoid language difficulties due to the low level of English, the teacher allowed the use of Basque and Spanish. Based on the data gathered through classroom observation, focus group discussions and diaries students had to write, students managed to face the course better thanks to translanguaging pedagogies. They did not work much on their English productive skills, but being allowed to use either Basque or Spanish to participate in class and to write assignments has given them confidence and has lowered their language anxiety.

scholarly journals Supporting Student Transition into Professional Practice

2017 ◽  
Vol 5 (2) ◽  
Author(s):  
Donna Jacqueline Dey ◽  
Angela Lindsay ◽  
Patricia Thomson
Keyword(s):  
Higher Education ◽  
Professional Practice ◽  
Local Authority ◽  
Early Years ◽  
Initial Teacher Education ◽  
Focus Group Discussions ◽  
Group Discussions ◽  
Student Transition ◽  
Student Focus ◽  
Student Transitions

Transitions can affect students throughout their time at university. This study aims to show the potential of an additional, non-assessed placement in supporting MA3 Initial Teacher Education (ITE) students with skills thought to benefit transitions. Much of the research around student transitions focuses upon transitions into and out of higher education. In addition, within the MA ITE programme, students perceive challenges in transitioning into Professional Practice during their four year programme. A pilot study was undertaken to support third year MA ITE students in developing skills and attributes associated with the enhancement theme of student transitions in higher education: self-efficacy; reflection; and connectedness. The study involved MA3 students visiting an Early Learning and Childcare (ELC) setting in one local authority, one afternoon a week for eight weeks, the aim of the placement being for them to gain experience in playing and communicating with younger children, prior to their official early years placement. Initial findings from student focus group discussions suggest that students perceived that the study did help to support them in further developing transition skills and attributes.

Exploring the educational needs of adult learners: A study of three universities in Ghana

2018 ◽  
Vol 24 (2) ◽  
pp. 165-187 ◽  
Author(s):  
Yaw Owusu-Agyeman ◽  
Magda Fourie-Malherbe ◽  
Liezel Frick
Keyword(s):  
Higher Education ◽  
Adult Learners ◽  
Mixed Method ◽  
Higher Education Institutions ◽  
Educational Needs ◽  
Focus Group Discussions ◽  
Group Discussions ◽  
Knowledge And Skills ◽  
Educational Challenges ◽  
Method Approach

Adult learners have unique educational needs that require attention from Higher Education Institutions, facilitators and industry. While several theories and policies have been developed to address the bourgeoning educational challenges confronting adult learners in Higher Education Institutions, not much has been achieved in the wake of growing knowledge and skills demands of employers. Using a mixed method approach, a survey (n = 200) and focus group discussions (n = 27) were conducted among adult learners who were also professionals studying engineering programmes in three diverse universities in Ghana. Additionally, interviews were conducted with representatives from industry and from the three engineering departments in the three universities. The study revealed that while the development of separate programmes for adult learners in Higher Education Institutions is not plausible in meeting the educational needs of adult learners, a different pedagogy could be used in addressing the unique knowledge and skills needs of adult learners. We present the implications of our study in relation to theory, practice and further research.

The need for civic engagement and competency in higher education in Lebanon

2017 ◽  
Vol 4 (4) ◽  
pp. 186-194
Author(s):  
Nadine Joudi ◽  
Ghada Chehimi
Keyword(s):  
Higher Education ◽  
Civic Engagement ◽  
National Security ◽  
The Political ◽  
Exploratory Research ◽  
Focus Group Discussions ◽  
Group Discussions ◽  
University Curriculum ◽  
Research Outcomes ◽  
Security Levels

Lebanon has always been unstable on the political and the national security levels. The youth in Lebanon did not have the privilege of stability to engage in civic activities and become active citizens. The youth need to collaborate with adults to explore different issues and opportunities to develop civic engagement in their own society. This study is an exploratory research which reveals the need for constructive plans in higher education in Lebanon that will lead youth to civic engagement and competence. It also focuses on exploring the existence of university curriculum that fosters the actual implementation of civic engagement and civic competency programmes. Data were collected using a qualitative framework. University students’ civic competency, knowledge, skills, participation in civic engagement, attitudes and efficacy are assessed by using focus group discussions with students and instructors. The research outcomes provide a foundation for the sustainable interventions through the development of a university curriculum.   Keywords: Civic engagement, civic competency, Lebanon.  

scholarly journals Youth Perspectives of Healthcare in Central Mexico: An Application of Massey’s Critical Health Literacy Framework

2019 ◽  
Vol 16 (5) ◽  
pp. 896 ◽  
Author(s):  
Steven Hoffman ◽  
Heidi Rueda ◽  
Lauren Beasley
Keyword(s):  
High School Students ◽  
Health Literacy ◽  
Focus Group ◽  
Health Clinic ◽  
Central Mexico ◽  
Local Health ◽  
Focus Group Discussions ◽  
Group Discussions ◽  
Critical Health Literacy ◽  
The World

Attention to health literacy is essential more now than ever given the recognition, attention, and resources being dedicated to addressing health disparities throughout the world. Unfortunately, health literacy research is scarce in many parts of the world, particularly among youth. Using focus group discussions with junior high school students (N = 98) in a rural town of Central Mexico, we sought to learn about their experiences utilizing healthcare services at a local health clinic. The themes that naturally emerged from focus group discussions aligned with Massey’s framework on critical health literacy among US youth, and included problems navigating the health system, embarrassment speaking to doctors about sensitive issues, and minimal importance being placed on preventative care. This suggests that Massey’s framework may be appropriate to use when seeking to understand and promote health literacy among youth in Mexico. Furthermore, the challenges faced by adolescent participants in this study suggest that additional research is needed to assess how youth in other areas of Mexico are faring in efforts to understand and access their new and evolving universal healthcare system.

scholarly journals A Traditional Closed-Loop Sanitation System in a Chronic Emergency: A Qualitative Study from Afghanistan

Water ◽  
2019 ◽  
Vol 11 (2) ◽  
pp. 298 ◽  
Author(s):  
Sayed Mohammad Nazim Uddin ◽  
Jean Lapegue ◽  
Jutta Gutberlet ◽  
Jan Franklin Adamowski ◽  
Caetano C. Dorea ◽  
...  
Keyword(s):  
Rural Areas ◽  
Urban Areas ◽  
Closed Loop ◽  
Focus Group Discussions ◽  
Group Discussions ◽  
The World ◽  
Smart Community ◽  
Urban And Rural Areas ◽  
Sanitation Systems

The use of closed-loop sanitation systems (CLSS), or reuse-oriented sanitation systems, has increased in recent years, and such systems have been successfully implemented in many parts of the world. However, no research has explored Traditional CLSS (T-CLSS) for a long-term humanitarian situation. This study explores the strengths, weaknesses, opportunities and threats (SWOT) of T-CLSS in peri-urban and rural contexts in three different provinces in Afghanistan (the first study of its kind in Afghanistan). Participatory research tools, such as transect walks, focus group discussions, smart community gatherings and interactive workshops, were applied to assess the SWOT associated with T-CLSS. The results indicate that T-CLSS has been practiced historically in both peri-urban and rural areas using local and traditional knowledge, skills and technologies. The socio-cultural acceptance of the system in both rural and peri-urban areas is an important strength of this established system. However, due to chronic development challenges in the study regions, T-CLSS may possibly lead to exposure to microbial contaminants. It is recommended that the feasibility of an improved CLSS be assessed and implemented in light of the issues that are inherent in the use of T-CLSS in Afghanistan.

scholarly journals Student Pathways in South Africa

2018 ◽  
pp. 24-26
Author(s):  
Rebecca Schendel
Keyword(s):  
Higher Education ◽  
South Africa ◽  
Academic Research ◽  
Institutional Policy ◽  
Policy And Practice ◽  
Student Protests ◽  
Relative Lack ◽  
The World ◽  
A Priority

The recent student protests in South Africa highlight a disconnect between academic research on higher education and institutional policy and practice. One reason for this impasse may be the “siloing” of research focused on different “moments” along a student’s pathway through higher education; another is the relative lack of research focused on less-resourced institutions. Addressing these challenges is a priority, not only in South Africa but also around the world.

scholarly journals Critical Thinking among Post-Graduate Diploma in Education Students in Higher Education: Reality or Fuss?

2016 ◽  
Vol 6 (2) ◽  
pp. 13 ◽  
Author(s):  
Bakadzi Moeti ◽  
Rabson Killion Mgawi ◽  
Waitshega Tefo Smitta Moalosi
Keyword(s):  
Higher Education ◽  
Critical Thinking ◽  
Focus Group ◽  
Teacher Educators ◽  
Group Discussion ◽  
Focus Group Discussions ◽  
Group Discussions ◽  
Learning And Teaching ◽  
Teacher Trainees ◽  
Programme Content

Critical thinking is recognised as an influential attribute to achieve quality learning and teaching in higher education institutions world over. This interpretive research study explored the critical thinking among PGDE students at the University of Botswana. The aim of the study was to identify factors contributing to the application of critical thinking among teacher trainees. Data was collected from Cohort 2015/16 PGDE students, through one on one interview with 59 students and 2 focus group discussions comprising five students in each focus group between April to June 2016. The findings revealed that the teacher trainees had a lower description of critical thinking during interviews, but refined during focus group discussions; however, the students were wide aware of factors influencing their inabilities to think critically during their training. These finding clearly indicated that most students were not applying critical thinking during their training. Through the interviews and focus group discussion, the study also identified strategies to promote the application of critical thinking in areas of programme content, teaching and assessment methods and techniques, programme logistics and personal attributes. The findings are instrumental to various key stakeholders. Specifically, the findings inform education institutions, teacher educators and students on how to promote critical thinking during teacher training. The study was qualitative, as such the findings will not be generalised. As such a similar study is recommended among the PGDE and other students but using quantitative and or mixed methods to allow inferences and generalisations.

Identifying Iranian Consumers’ Preferences towards Functional Dairy Products

2016 ◽  
Vol 9 (1) ◽  
pp. 54
Author(s):  
Marjan Bazhan ◽  
Naser Kalantari ◽  
Nastaran Keshavarz-Mohammadi ◽  
Hedayat Hosseini ◽  
Hassan Eini-Zinab ◽  
...  
Keyword(s):  
Focus Group ◽  
Social Marketing ◽  
Sampling Technique ◽  
Marketing Strategies ◽  
Focus Group Discussions ◽  
Group Discussions ◽  
Dairy Foods ◽  
Purposeful Sampling ◽  
Employed Women ◽  
Promotion Strategies

<p><strong>INTRODUCTION:</strong> During the past few decades, production and marketing of functional foods has increased in many countries including Iran. Considering the fact that consumers’ preferences play an important role in the success of marketing a product to increase consumption, this study was conducted in Iran to fill the knowledge gap in this regard.</p><p><strong>METHODS: </strong>The theory of social marketing served as the framework of this study. Qualitative data were collected via eight semi-structured focus group discussions, between May and September 2014. Participants were 65 women (44 housewives and 21 employed women), aged 23–68 years, selected by purposeful sampling technique, considering maximum diversity. All focus group discussions were audio recorded and transcribed verbatim. Analysis of the qualitative content of the data was conducted using MAXQDA<sup>® </sup>software.</p><p><strong>RESULTS:</strong> The findings showed that there were quite diverse preferences among studied women in regards to different aspects of a product and its social marketing strategies. The preferences towards functional dairy were categorized in 4 main groups: (i) characteristics of products including sensory and non-sensory characteristics; (ii) price; (iii) place of the product supply; and (iv) promotion strategies of products categorized in three subgroups of informing and educating, advertising, and recommending.</p><p><strong>CONCLUSION: </strong>This diversity should be considered both in production of dairy foods and their promotion plans. This understanding can contribute to success of interventions to increase consumption of these products among consumers.</p>

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