scholarly journals Perceived Causes and Diagnosis of Febrile Convulsion in Selected Rural Contexts in Cape Coast Metropolis, Ghana

2021 ◽  
Author(s):  
Bernard Afriyie Owusu
Keyword(s):  
Rural Communities ◽  
Phenomenological Study ◽  
Cultural Beliefs ◽  
Febrile Convulsion ◽  
Health Conditions ◽  
Snowball Sampling ◽  
Cape Coast ◽  
Traditional Health ◽  
Behavioural Factors ◽  
The University

Abstract Background: Febrile convulsion (FC) in children under age five is a common childhood condition especially in deprived communities. In 2015, the Ghana Health Service (GHS) attributed about 30% of all under-five mortality cases to FC. Although, the perceived causes and diagnosis of FC are significant in determining treatment approaches, such evidence is limited in the literature. Objective: This study explored the perceived causes and diagnosis of FC in selected rural communities in the Cape Coast Metropolis, Ghana. Methods: A descriptive phenomenological study design underpinned the study at five selected communities located not more than 2 Kilometres from the University of Cape Coast Hospital. Purposive and snowball sampling techniques were used to interview 42 participants made up of 27 parents, two grandmothers, seven registered traditional health practitioners, four herbalists, and two faith healers in the communities. The data was analysed using QSR NVivo 12.Results: Three perceived causes of FC were identified – biological, social/behavioural, and spiritual. Biological causes include genetic abnormalities and other underlying health conditions. The behavioural factors include poor childcare practices and nutrition. Spiritual causes include harm caused by evil spirits. The diagnosis of FC entails pre-attack, attack and post-attack stages. The former is largely associated with high body temperature. The attack stage is often associated with extreme body jerking. Post-attack diagnosis of FC include deafness, dumbness and paralysis.Conclusion: The perceived causes of FC are interplay of complex natural, social and spiritual factors that are deep-rooted in local socio-cultural beliefs and FC experiences. Unlike the attack stage, pre-attack diagnosis were usually missed, or misconstrued to mean other health conditions.

Academic Advising and Student Retention in Distance Learning: The Case of University of Cape Coast, Ghana

2017 ◽  
Vol 7 (3) ◽  
pp. 25-37
Author(s):  
Vera Arhin ◽  
Tabitha Wang’eri ◽  
Edward Kigen
Keyword(s):  
Distance Learning ◽  
Student Retention ◽  
Academic Advising ◽  
Sampling Technique ◽  
Structured Interview ◽  
Snowball Sampling ◽  
Sampling Frame ◽  
Cape Coast ◽  
The University ◽  
The Impact

AbstractThis research investigated the impact of academic advising on student retention in distance learning at the University of Cape Coast, Ghana. Explanatory sequential mixed methods design was adopted for the study. The multistage sampling technique was used to sample 727 student participants from a sampling frame of 8731. Four academic advisors and three counsellors at the College of Distance were purposively selected for the study. Further, 16 students who had dropped out from the college were sampled using the snowball sampling technique. A researcher-self constructed questionnaire and a semi-structured interview guide were used to collect data. Quantitative data were analysed using descriptive and inferential statistics. Analyses of qualitative data were done using Merriam analytical coding process. At an alpha level of .05 academic advising made a non-significant contribution to prediction (p = .10) which implies that academic advising is not a significant predictor of student retention in distance learning. The study concluded by recommending that academic advisory services should be provided in a practical manner to address the specific needs of students at the College of Distance Education of the University of Cape Coast.

Experiential Learning in Graduate Archival Education at the University of Botswana

Mousaion ◽  
2019 ◽  
Vol 37 (1) ◽  
Author(s):  
Olefhile Mosweu
Keyword(s):  
Experiential Learning ◽  
Work Experience ◽  
Real Life ◽  
Opportunity To Learn ◽  
Theory And Practice ◽  
Records Management ◽  
Archival Theory ◽  
Snowball Sampling ◽  
The Real ◽  
The University

Most curriculum components of archival graduate programmes consist of contextual knowledge, archival knowledge, complementary knowledge, practicum, and scholarly research. The practicum, now commonly known as experiential learning in the global hub, is now widely accepted in library and information studies (LIS) education as necessary and important. It is through experiential learning that, over and above the theoretical aspects of a profession, students are provided with the opportunity to learn by doing in a workplace environment. The University of Botswana’s Master’s in Archives and Records Management (MARM) programme has a six weeks experiential learning programme whose purpose is to expose prospective archivists and/or records managers to the real archival world in terms of practice as informed by archival theory. The main objective of the study was to determine the extent to which the University of Botswana’s experiential learning component exposes students to real-life archival work to put into practice theoretical aspects learnt in the classroom as intended by the university guidelines. This study adopted a qualitative research design and collected data through interviews from participants selected through purposive and snowball sampling strategies. Documentary review supplemented the interviews. The data collected were analysed thematically in line with research objectives. The study determined that experiential learning does indeed expose students to the real world of work. It thus helps to bridge the gap between archival theory and practice for students without archives and records management work experience. For those with prior archival experience, experiential learning does not add value. This study recommends that students with prior archives and records management experience should rather, as an alternative to experiential learning, undertake supervised research, and write a research essay in a chosen thematic area in archives and records management.

Ethical Issues in Private Practice: A Phenomenological Investigation of Music Therapy Business Owners

2021 ◽  
Author(s):  
Kyle Wilhelm ◽  
Lindsey Wilhelm
Keyword(s):  
Music Therapy ◽  
Private Practice ◽  
Phenomenological Study ◽  
Ethical Issues ◽  
Ethical Dilemmas ◽  
The United States ◽  
Business Owners ◽  
Snowball Sampling ◽  
Structured Interviews ◽  
Music Therapists

Abstract As a music therapy private practice is both a business and a healthcare service, it should adhere to ethical standards from both disciplines. However, this topic has rarely been examined in the music therapy literature. The purpose of this phenomenological study was to explore ethical dilemmas experienced by music therapy business owners (MTBOs) in their private practice and how MTBOs avoid or address ethical dilemmas. Utilizing convenience and snowball sampling techniques, 21 MTBOs in the United States were interviewed using semi-structured interviews. To answer the two areas of inquiry, we identified three themes and 12 subthemes: (1) Ethical issues related to client welfare, (2) Ethical issues related to business relationships and operation, and (3) Strategies to address or avoid ethical dilemmas. MTBOs also shared how they ensure ethical behavior in themselves, with their employees or independent contractors, and when interacting with professionals outside the private practice. These findings provide a better understanding of MTBOs’ lived experiences of ethics in their private practice and may benefit other music therapists who are in private practice or are wanting to go into private practice. Limitations and recommendations for further research are provided.

scholarly journals What are the factors influencing the aversion of students towards reptiles?

2021 ◽  
Vol 17 (1) ◽  
Author(s):  
Moacyr Xavier Gomes da Silva ◽  
Franciany Braga-Pereira ◽  
Mikaela Clotilde da Silva ◽  
José Valberto de Oliveira ◽  
Sérgio de Faria Lopes ◽  
...  
Keyword(s):  
Human Society ◽  
Mathematics Students ◽  
Biology Students ◽  
Conservation Policies ◽  
University Mathematics ◽  
Reptile Species ◽  
Before And After ◽  
Paraphyletic Group ◽  
Behavioural Factors ◽  
The University

Abstract Background Reptiles form a paraphyletic group with significant roles for human society, including species that are considered important for food, medicinal and mystical use and as pets. Some species are considered to be aversive, whereas others are captivating among people. Aversion is an important factor which should be considered in the conservation policies of these animals. As such, here, we investigate the demographic, educational, perceptives and behavioural factors of students related to their aversion and non-conservationist attitudes directed towards different reptile species and evaluated the effect of educational exhibition of animals as a strategy of mitigating these attitudes. Methods The data were obtained through forms on the aversion and conservation of reptiles represented by three species, a chelonian, a snake and a lizard. The form was given in two instances, before and after a visit to a private zoo (Museu Vivo Répteis da Caatinga), where the students had contact with the aforementioned species. A total of 133 students participated in the study, among these, 43 from elementary school (21 females and 22 males), 29 from high school (16 females and 13 males), 37 from university biology students (22 females and 15 males) and 24 university mathematics students (6 females and 18 males). Results Among all evaluated species, snakes were considered to be the most aversive species. The aversion attitudes differed between the three evaluated species when correlated to age and type of university courses. However, this pattern did not differ between student sexes. Older students had a lower aversion to the chelonian compared to the younger ones, but for snakes and lizards, the aversion was high among students of all ages. The university biology students had a lower aversion compared to the university mathematics students for the three species. The recognition and handle of the tested species and previous visits to educational exhibitions of animals were negatively related to aversion. The comparative analysis of the forms applied before and after the visit to the Museu Vivo Répteis da Caatinga showed that this visit influenced the decrease of aversion, but not in non-conservationist attitudes, for which the attitude scores had always been low. Conclusions We conclude that reptile aversion varies in accordance with the taxon, being snakes the most disliked by students. The visit to the educational exhibition of animals contributed to the reduction of the observed aversion. This is especially true when the acquisition of educational information about species is associated with practical activities which includes contact with the animals. Finally, the fact that non-conservationist attitudes had been low towards all species perhaps demonstrates a conservationist tendency even for the most aversive species.

Cultural Beliefs, Perceptions, and Experiences on Female Genital Mutilation Among Women and Men: A Qualitative Analysis

2021 ◽  
pp. 088626052110152
Author(s):  
Alba González-Timoneda ◽  
Antonio Cano Sánchez ◽  
Marta González-Timoneda ◽  
Vicente Ruiz Ros
Keyword(s):  
Female Genital Mutilation ◽  
Cultural Beliefs ◽  
Sampling Technique ◽  
Snowball Sampling ◽  
Traditional Practice ◽  
Genital Mutilation ◽  
The United Kingdom ◽  
Lack Of Information ◽  
Data Saturation ◽  
Female Genital

The practice of female genital mutilation (FGM) is a deeply-rooted tradition that affects predominantly regions of Africa and Asia. Because of migration flows, FGM is an issue of increasing concern worldwide. FGM is now carried out in Europe, North America, Australia and New Zealand, and more specifically among immigrant communities from countries where it is common. This study aims to assess the experience, knowledge, attitudes, and beliefs related to FGM of migrant women and men from FGM-affected countries residing in Spain and the United Kingdom. A phenomenological qualitative approach was used. Participants (n=23) were recruited by using the snowball sampling technique until data saturation was reached. Data were collected through 18 open-ended interviews and a focus group. Of the 23 participants, 20 women had undergone FGM. The following five themes were generated from interviews: (a) FGM practice development, (b) knowledge about the practice, (c) reasons for performing FGM, (d) attitudes toward continuing or abandoning the practice, and (e) criminalization of FGM. The study here presented identifies a lack of information, memory, and knowledge about the practice of FGM and typology among women with FGM. The justification of the practice seems to be based on a multifactorial model, where sociocultural and economic factors, sexual factors, hygienic-esthetic factors, and religious-spiritual factors take on a greater role in the analysis of the interviews carried out. The participants practically unanimously agree to advocate the abandonment and eradication of this harmful traditional practice. The knowledge displayed in this study may provide a basis for improving awareness and healthcare in such collectives, aiming the eradication of this harmful traditional practice.

Enhancing the professional dignity of midwives: A phenomenological study

2017 ◽  
Vol 26 (4) ◽  
pp. 1062-1074 ◽  
Author(s):  
Christelle Froneman ◽  
Neltjie C van Wyk ◽  
Ramadimetja S Mogale
Keyword(s):  
Research Design ◽  
Phenomenological Study ◽  
Tertiary Hospital ◽  
Ethical Considerations ◽  
Optimal Care ◽  
Team Members ◽  
University Of Pretoria ◽  
Phenomenological Research Design ◽  
The University ◽  
Depth Interviews

Background: When midwives are not treated with respect and their professional competencies are not recognised, their professional dignity is violated. Objective: This study explored and described how the professional dignity of midwives in the selected hospital can be enhanced based on their experiences. Research design: A descriptive phenomenological research design was used with in-depth interviews conducted with 15 purposely selected midwives. Ethical considerations: The Faculty of Health Sciences Research Ethics Committee of the University of Pretoria approved the study. The research was conducted in an academic tertiary hospital with voluntary participants. Findings: To dignify midwives it is essential to enhance the following: ‘to acknowledge the capabilities of midwives’, ‘to appreciate interventions of midwives’, ‘to perceive midwives as equal health team members’, ‘to invest in midwives’, ‘to enhance collegiality’, ‘to be cared for by management’ and ‘to create conducive environments’. Conclusion: The professional dignity of midwives is determined by their own perspectives of the contribution that they make to the optimal care of patients, the respect that they get from others and the support that hospital management gives them. With support and care, midwives’ professional dignity is enhanced. Midwives will strive to render excellent services as well as increasing their commitment.

scholarly journals Building and Mobilizing Social Capital: A Phenomenological Study of Part-time Professors

2016 ◽  
Vol 8 (2) ◽  
pp. 57-70
Author(s):  
Sarah Jamieson ◽  
Jenepher Lennox Terrion
Keyword(s):  
Social Capital ◽  
Social Networks ◽  
Qualitative Methods ◽  
Phenomenological Study ◽  
Phenomenological Approach ◽  
Part Time ◽  
Barriers To Communication ◽  
The University

This paper explores the experiences of new part-time professors (instructors hired on a semester-by-semester basis that have been working at the institution for less than five years) and considers the phenomenon of how they connect with peers. It examines whether a lack of connection exists among part-time professors at the University of Ottawa and how this may affect their experience (i.e. teaching and career), lead to barriers to connection, and affect their social capital (i.e., their ability to access or use resources embedded in their social networks). Using Moustakas’ (1994) phenomenological approach for collecting and analyzing data and Creswell’s (2007) approach for establishing validity, we uncovered several thematic patterns in participants’ experience that indicate barriers to connection and affect the ability to access and mobilize social capital: Feeling uncertain or impermanent, isolated, overwhelmed, and like second-class citizens. The paper concludes that inadequate social capital may not only influence part-time professors – it may also have problematic implications for students, the department, and the University as a whole. Keywords: Social capital, barriers to communication, phenomenology, qualitative methods, part-time professors

scholarly journals Personal, Socio-Cultural and Environmental Factors Associated with Smoking Among Female Students at University of Lusaka, Zambia

2021 ◽  
Vol 3 (1) ◽  
pp. 93-103
Author(s):  
Francesca Chishimba Kasonka ◽  
◽  
Diana Mannan ◽  
Theresa Lesa Chisoso ◽  
Brian Chanda Chiluba ◽  
...  
Keyword(s):  
Environmental Factors ◽  
Peer Influence ◽  
Premature Death ◽  
Female Students ◽  
Family Influence ◽  
Snowball Sampling ◽  
Adverse Health Effects ◽  
Younger Age ◽  
The University

Tobacco use is one of the most preventable causes of premature death globally, yet statistics show that there has been an increase of female smokers. Hence a need to understand why smoking prevalence continues despite the overwhelming data on adverse health effects. The aim of this study was to explore personal, socio-cultural, and environmental factors that are associated with smoking among female university students of University of Lusaka. A qualitative case study design was conducted with a sample 12 female students from the University of Lusaka. Snowball sampling was utilized. Female students smoking tobacco were predominantly associated with the desire for personal gratification, to feel accepted by their peers who smoke, to express female independenceand freedom and exposure to a male family member who smokes at younger age. Socio-cultural factors such as such as peer influence, family influence and female modernity in society were the major influencers of smoking in the female students, and environmental factors such as the lack of responsiveness to Zambia’s anti-smoking campaigns and a gap in the enforcement of anti-smoking legislation in Zambia also played an indirect role in facilitating smoking among female student. Anti-smoking campaigns could try and consider evaluating interventions from a male and female perspective respectively.

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