scholarly journals Co-Designing a New Yoga-Based Mindfulness Intervention for Survivors of Stroke: A Formative Evaluation

2021 ◽  
Vol 14 (1) ◽  
pp. 1-10
Author(s):  
Tharshanah Thayabaranathan ◽  
Maarten A. Immink ◽  
Susan Hillier ◽  
Rene Stolwyk ◽  
Nadine E. Andrew ◽  
...  
Keyword(s):  
Formative Evaluation ◽  
Complex Interventions ◽  
Training Manual ◽  
Group Discussions ◽  
Multiple Data ◽  
Essential Components ◽  
Included Review ◽  
Mindfulness Interventions ◽  
Inductive Thematic Analysis ◽  
Formal Meeting

Movement-based mindfulness interventions (MBI) are complex, multi-component interventions for which the design process is rarely reported. For people with stroke, emerging evidence suggests benefits, but mainstream programs are generally unsuitable. We aimed to describe the processes involved and to conduct a formative evaluation of the development of a novel yoga-based MBI designed for survivors of stroke. We used the Medical Research Council complex interventions framework and principles of co-design. We purposefully approached health professionals and consumers to establish an advisory committee for developing the intervention. Members collaborated and iteratively reviewed the design and content of the program, formatted into a training manual. Four external yoga teachers independently reviewed the program. Formative evaluation included review of multiple data sources and documentation (e.g., formal meeting minutes, focus group discussions, researcher observations). The data were synthesized using inductive thematic analysis. Three broad themes emerged: (a) MBI content and terminology; (b) manual design and readability; and (c) barriers and enablers to deliver the intervention. Various perspectives and feedback on essential components guided finalizing the program. The design phase of a novel yoga-based MBI was strengthened by interdisciplinary, consumer contributions and peer review. The 12-week intervention is ready for testing among survivors of stroke.

scholarly journals Developing a complex intervention to support pregnant women with mild to moderate anxiety: application of the Medical Research Council framework

2020 ◽  
Author(s):  
Kerry Evans ◽  
Helen Spiby ◽  
Jane C Morrell
Keyword(s):  
Pregnant Women ◽  
Maternity Care ◽  
Public Involvement ◽  
Complex Interventions ◽  
Psychological Theory ◽  
Intervention Component ◽  
Group Discussions ◽  
Mrc Framework ◽  
Care Systems ◽  
In Pregnancy

Abstract Aim: To design and develop an intervention to support women with symptoms of mild to moderate anxiety in pregnancy.Methods: The development followed the MRC framework for complex interventions, utilising psychological theory, review level evidence and professional and public involvement. Two systematic reviews were completed which helped identify potentially beneficial intervention components. The theory underpinning the components was explored to consider the potential benefit for women with mild to moderate anxiety symptoms in pregnancy. Methods of delivering the intervention within maternity services were explored. The intervention comprised: group discussions, one to one support and assisted self-help resources. Midwives were identified as ideally placed to facilitate the intervention supported by midwifery support workers. A bespoke training package was provided by subject experts to prepare the facilitators. Discussion: The absence of established interventions and a paucity of evidence based approaches for pregnant women with symptoms of mild to moderate anxiety indicated the need for a rigorous and systematic approach to the intervention design. This approach led to the development of an intervention feasible for implementation in maternity care systems tailored to the needs of pregnant women. The involvement of a multi-professional advisory team and active engagement of service users helped to consider the acceptability of the intervention for women and the feasibility of delivering the intervention in the context of maternity care. Conclusion: The MRC Framework provided useful overarching guidance to develop a midwife facilitated intervention for women with symptoms of anxiety in pregnancy. The framework assisted the development of a robust rationale for each intervention component and considered the processes of evaluation and implementation into maternity care systems.

scholarly journals Endogenous conflict resolution mechanisms of the San people at Platfontein

2014 ◽  
Vol 10 (4) ◽  
Author(s):  
M Y Gebregeorgis
Keyword(s):  
South Africa ◽  
Conflict Resolution ◽  
Focus Group ◽  
Thematic Analysis ◽  
The State ◽  
Focus Group Discussions ◽  
Group Discussions ◽  
The Impact ◽  
Inductive Thematic Analysis

The objective of this study was to explore the endogenous conflict resolution mechanisms and practices of the San people at Platfontein, South Africa. To this end, data were collected from 304 interviews and 26 focus group discussions. The collected data were analysed through Inductive Thematic Analysis. The findings show that the San people have endogenous conflict resolution mechanisms which basically aim at restoring peace and harmony within the community. The endogenous mechanisms were found to be fairly participatory and supplementary to the state machineries that work for justice, peace and harmony. However, the conflict resolution mechanisms of the San people are currently weakening due to the impact of modernisation and the leadership dispute among the sub-groups of the community.

scholarly journals Why Do Farmers Grow Tobacco? A Qualitative Exploration of Farmers Perspectives in Indonesia and Philippines

2019 ◽  
Vol 16 (13) ◽  
pp. 2330 ◽  
Author(s):  
Adriana Appau ◽  
Jeffrey Drope ◽  
Firman Witoelar ◽  
Jenina Joy Chavez ◽  
Raphael Lencucha
Keyword(s):  
Institutional Factors ◽  
Interpretive Description ◽  
Focus Group Discussions ◽  
Group Discussions ◽  
Middle Income ◽  
Access To Credit ◽  
Middle Income Countries ◽  
Alternative Livelihood ◽  
Qualitative Exploration ◽  
Inductive Thematic Analysis

Tobacco supply remains a pressing challenge to tobacco control. Tobacco remains a dominant cash crop in many low- and middle-income countries, despite the evidence suggesting that it is not as profitable as industry claims and is harmful to health and the environment. In order to implement successful and sustainable alternative livelihood interventions, it is important to understand why farmers continue to grow tobacco. This study explores this question from the perspective of farmers in Indonesia and Philippines. This study was informed by interpretive description methodology. Data was collected through focus group discussions (FGDs) (n = 7) with farmers (n = ~60). The FGDs were audio recorded, transcribed verbatim, and then translated into English. An inductive thematic analysis of the data was conducted to identify and categorize the reason provided by participants. We identified two overarching themes: (1) perceived viability (profitability, ready market, and environmental factors) and (2) financial context. Financial context included lumpsum payments and access to financial loans and credit facilities in light of their lack of capital. These results highlight that, in addition to identifying viable alternatives to tobacco, institutional factors such as improved access to credit and well-developed supply chains are key to the successful uptake of alternative livelihoods.

Using Patients and Their Caregivers Feedback to Develop ENABLE CHF-PC: An Early Palliative Care Intervention for Advanced Heart Failure

2018 ◽  
Vol 34 (2) ◽  
pp. 103-110 ◽  
Author(s):  
Imatullah Akyar ◽  
J. Nicholas Dionne-Odom ◽  
Marie A. Bakitas
Keyword(s):  
Heart Failure ◽  
Palliative Care ◽  
Formative Evaluation ◽  
Controlled Trial ◽  
Nyha Class ◽  
Complex Interventions ◽  
Class Iii ◽  
Early Palliative Care ◽  
Care Intervention ◽  
Care Assessment

Objective: Models of early, community-based palliative care for individuals with New York Heart Association (NYHA) class III/IV heart failure and their families are lacking. We used the Medical Research Council process of developing complex interventions to conduct a formative evaluation study to translate an early palliative care intervention from cancer to heart failure. Method: One component of the parent formative evaluation pilot study was qualitative satisfaction interviews with 8 patient–caregiver dyad participants who completed Educate, Nurture, Advise, Before Life Ends Comprehensive Heartcare For Patient and Caregivers (ENABLE CHF-PC) intervention. The ENABLE CHF-PC consists of an in-person palliative care assessment, weekly telehealth coaching sessions, and monthly follow-up. Subsequent to completing the coaching sessions, patient and caregiver participants were interviewed to elicit their experiences with ENABLE CHF-PC. Digitally recorded interviews were transcribed and analyzed using a thematic approach. Results: Patients (n = 8) mean age was 67.3, 62.5% were female, 75% were married/living with a partner; caregivers (n = 8) mean age was 56.8, and 87.5% were female. Four themes related to experiences with ENABLE CHF-PC included “allowed me to vent,” “gained perspective,” “helped me plan,” and “gained illness management and decision-making skills.” Recommendations for intervention modification included (1) start program at diagnosis, (2) maintain phone-based approach, and (3) expand topics and modify format. Conclusion: Patients and caregivers unanimously found the intervention to be helpful and acceptable. After incorporating modifications, ENABLE CHF-PC is currently undergoing efficacy testing in a large randomized controlled trial.

scholarly journals A Review of The Role of Mindfulness-based Interventions in the Treatment of Addiction

2015 ◽  
Vol 2 (1) ◽  
pp. 13-23
Author(s):  
Lindsay Dragland
Keyword(s):  
Relapse Rate ◽  
Health Problems ◽  
Preventative Measure ◽  
Essential Components ◽  
Growing Body ◽  
Mindfulness Practices ◽  
Mindfulness Interventions ◽  
The Relationship

Mindfulness involves the nonjudgmental awareness and observation of one’s feelings, thoughts, and behaviours. Mindfulness-based interventions are becoming increasingly popular, as the growing body of research suggests promising implications regarding mindfulness as an approach to treat a wide variety of health problems. Specifically, mindfulness practices have been utilized in the treatment of addiction, and are shown to significantly reduce the relapse rate for individuals struggling with addiction. This paper reviews the research on mindfulness and addiction, describing the conceptualization and measurement of mindfulness, as well as various mindfulness-based interventions. An overview of addiction, including its determinants and treatments, is also provided. The relationship between mindfulness and addiction is examined and conclusions are drawn about the effectiveness of mindfulness interventions, how these interventions address the essential components of recovery, and the extent to which mindfulness may be utilized as a preventative measure.

scholarly journals Cyber-Innovation in the STEM Classroom, a Mixed Reality Approach

2020 ◽  
Author(s):  
Anggi Cecilia Safaningrum
Keyword(s):  
Augmented Reality ◽  
Data Streams ◽  
Formative Evaluation ◽  
Mixed Reality ◽  
Mediated Learning ◽  
Multiple Data ◽  
Digital Modeling ◽  
Computer Based ◽  
Modeling Data ◽  
World Environment

In this article, we present a formative evaluation of an ongoing NSF-sponsored research project in classroom innovation using augmented reality (AR) to enhance STEM education. Exposing students to advances in digital modeling, data visualization and performative software prepares them for new pathways for decision-making in the AEC professions. Recent research shows that Technology Mediated Learning Environments (interacting with computer-based tools) can enhance learning. Augmented Reality (AR) or the ability to augment the real-world environment with computer-generated information is bringing a new dimension to learning and designing using multiple data streams.

scholarly journals Developing a complex intervention to support pregnant women with mild to moderate anxiety: application of the Medical Research Council framework

2020 ◽  
Author(s):  
Kerry Evans ◽  
Helen Spiby ◽  
Jane C Morrell
Keyword(s):  
Pregnant Women ◽  
Maternity Care ◽  
Public Involvement ◽  
Complex Interventions ◽  
Psychological Theory ◽  
Intervention Component ◽  
Group Discussions ◽  
Mrc Framework ◽  
Care Systems ◽  
In Pregnancy

Abstract Background: To design and develop an intervention to support women with symptoms of mild to moderate anxiety in pregnancy.Methods: The development followed the MRC framework for complex interventions, utilising psychological theory, review level evidence and professional and public involvement. Two systematic reviews were completed which helped identify potentially beneficial intervention components. The theory underpinning the components was explored to consider the potential benefit for women with mild to moderate anxiety symptoms in pregnancy. Methods of delivering the intervention within maternity services were explored. The intervention comprised: group discussions, one to one support and assisted self-help resources. Midwives were identified as ideally placed to facilitate the intervention supported by midwifery support workers. A bespoke training package was provided by subject experts to prepare the facilitators.Results: The absence of established interventions and a paucity of evidence based approaches for pregnant women with symptoms of mild to moderate anxiety indicated the need for a rigorous and systematic approach to the intervention design. This approach led to the development of an intervention feasible for implementation in maternity care systems tailored to the needs of pregnant women. The involvement of a multi-professional advisory team and active engagement of service users helped to consider the acceptability of the intervention for women and the feasibility of delivering the intervention in the context of maternity care.Conclusion: The MRC Framework provided useful overarching guidance to develop a midwife facilitated intervention for women with symptoms of anxiety in pregnancy. The framework assisted the development of a robust rationale for each intervention component and considered the processes of evaluation and implementation into maternity care systems.

scholarly journals Aligning the Language Criteria of a Group Oral Test to the CEFR: The Case of a Formal Meeting Assessment in an English for Occupational Purposes Classroom

2021 ◽  
Vol 29 (S3) ◽  
Author(s):  
Priscilla Shak ◽  
John Read
Keyword(s):  
English Language ◽  
Language Education ◽  
Group Discussions ◽  
English Language Education ◽  
Assessment Task ◽  
Language Functions ◽  
Audio Recordings ◽  
Oral Group ◽  
English For Occupational Purposes ◽  
Formal Meeting

The Malaysian Education Blueprint (MEB) 2015-2025 has set in motion efforts from all stages of education to align programs, courses, and syllabuses to the Common European Framework of Reference (CEFR) benchmark. This exercise has brought on major revamps in all aspects of English language education in the nation. This study will present such an undertaking in a public university in Malaysia and detail how the language criteria for an oral group test of an English for Occupational Purposes course have been aligned to the stipulated CEFR level. The actual assessment task involved groups of four or five students conducting a meeting of their established company. Data for the study came from an analysis of the audio recordings of nine group meetings, along with post-assessment interviews and focus group discussions involving three EOP instructors. Based on the data analysis, this study recommends a revised set of language criteria for the assessment. Furthermore, it demonstrates how an alignment of the scoring criteria with the descriptors of the targeted CEFR scale can be achieved through a systematic comparison of the language functions (LFs) produced in the meeting task to the targeted CEFR descriptor scales. The revised language component for the meeting assessment could help ease instructors’ assessment of students interactional skills and allow them to gauge better their students’ attainment of the skills required in a formal meeting context.

scholarly journals Developing a complex intervention to support pregnant women with mild to moderate anxiety: application of the Medical Research Council framework

2020 ◽  
Vol 20 (1) ◽  
Author(s):  
Kerry Evans ◽  
Helen Spiby ◽  
C. Jane Morrell
Keyword(s):  
Pregnant Women ◽  
Maternity Care ◽  
Public Involvement ◽  
Complex Interventions ◽  
Psychological Theory ◽  
Intervention Component ◽  
Group Discussions ◽  
Mrc Framework ◽  
Care Systems ◽  
In Pregnancy

Abstract Background To design and develop an intervention to support women with symptoms of mild to moderate anxiety in pregnancy. Methods The development followed the MRC framework for complex interventions, utilising psychological theory, review level evidence and professional and public involvement. Two systematic reviews were completed which helped identify potentially beneficial intervention components. The theory underpinning the components was explored to consider the potential benefit for women with mild to moderate anxiety symptoms in pregnancy. Methods of delivering the intervention within maternity services were explored. The intervention comprised: group discussions, one to one support and assisted self-help resources. Midwives were identified as ideally placed to facilitate the intervention supported by midwifery support workers. A bespoke training package was provided by subject experts to prepare the facilitators. Results The absence of established interventions and a paucity of evidence based approaches for pregnant women with symptoms of mild to moderate anxiety indicated the need for a rigorous and systematic approach to the intervention design. This approach led to the development of an intervention feasible for implementation in maternity care systems tailored to the needs of pregnant women. The involvement of a multi-professional advisory team and active engagement of service users helped to consider the acceptability of the intervention for women and the feasibility of delivering the intervention in the context of maternity care. Conclusion The MRC Framework provided useful overarching guidance to develop a midwife facilitated intervention for women with symptoms of anxiety in pregnancy. The framework assisted the development of a robust rationale for each intervention component and considered the processes of evaluation and implementation into maternity care systems.

scholarly journals Eliciting and reconstructing programme theory: An exercise in translating theory into practice

Evaluation ◽  
2019 ◽  
Vol 25 (4) ◽  
pp. 469-476 ◽  
Author(s):  
Penelope Siebert ◽  
Puja Myles
Keyword(s):  
Public Health ◽  
Formative Evaluation ◽  
Group Formation ◽  
Complex Interventions ◽  
Evaluation Process ◽  
Programme Theory ◽  
Multiple Partners ◽  
Public Health Initiative ◽  
Starting Point ◽  
Sphere Of Influence

The importance of evaluation to demonstrate the effectiveness of policies, programmes and interventions is widely recognised. Evaluation in the context of public health and healthcare is viewed as a complicated exercise, particularly when dealing with complex interventions involving multiple partners, multiple components and multiple outcomes. Eliciting the programme theory is an important starting point of an evaluation process to enable the link between theory and action to be articulated. This article gives a pragmatic account of the practicalities of working with stakeholders as they embark on a formative evaluation of a complex public health initiative, using a using a theory-based approach. Drawing on the principles of Leeuw’s strategic assessment, we planned a workshop to reflect the four stages of this approach–group formation, assumption surfacing, dialectical debate and synthesis. Stakeholders took part in four activities–Free Listing, Sphere of Influence, Beattie’s Theoretical Framework and Programme Concept Mapping. We found that our elicitation approach was particularly suited to reconstructing the programme theory in a non-threatening and playful environment, bringing about an alignment of programme theories by consensus and reducing anxiety.

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