scholarly journals Evaluating the impact of change orders on construction projects in Oman

2021 ◽  
Vol 10 (3) ◽  
Author(s):  
Shifaa Hamed Khalfan Al Sulaimani ◽  
Hussin Yahia
Keyword(s):  
Quantitative Data ◽  
Construction Projects ◽  
Qualitative Data ◽  
Comparative Method ◽  
Working Life ◽  
Change Orders ◽  
Design Specifications ◽  
Constant Comparative Method ◽  
Widespread Phenomenon ◽  
The Impact

Most of the construction projects are subject to change as some projects need to make some changes and modifications to the design, specifications, or any other work. These changes may be small and do not affect the duration and cost of the project, and they may be significant, resulting in increased working life and cost. Changes in construction projects have become a common and widespread phenomenon in Oman, with most government projects facing cost and time increases due to change orders. In this study, this problem was highlighted and the necessary solutions were found. The aim of this study was to assess the effect of change orders on construction projects and their causes. This study was conducted on the basis of a literature review and several methods were used to collect information and data to obtain accurate results.  interviews were conducted with all parties (clients, contractors, and consultants), and the questionnaire was also distributed electronically to 215 engineers in the private and government sectors and qualitative data (interviews) were analyzed by using the Constant Comparative method, as for quantitative data (questionnaire) by SPSS program. The research revealed many results, the most prominent of which is that change orders have a major role in increasing the duration and cost of the project. Finally, some recommendations were proposed that could contribute to the development of Omani projects and reduce the issuance of change orders.

scholarly journals Enriching Students’ Vocabulary Mastery Using Graphic Organizers

2017 ◽  
Vol 6 (1) ◽  
pp. 102
Author(s):  
Syaifudin Latif Darmawan
Keyword(s):  
Action Research ◽  
Quantitative Data ◽  
Qualitative Data ◽  
Graphic Organizers ◽  
Comparative Method ◽  
Classroom Situation ◽  
Instructional Process ◽  
Constant Comparative Method ◽  
Class B ◽  
Class C

This action research is carried out to (1) identify whether graphic organizers enrich student’s vocabulary mastery; and (2) to describe the classroom situation when graphic organizers are employed in instructional process of vocabulary.The research is conducted in two cycles from March to May 2016/2017 in the eight years of SMP Muhammadiyah Sekampung, East lampung. The procedure of the research consists of identifying the problem, planning the action, implementing the action, observing the action, and reflecting the result of the research. Qualitative data are collected through interview, observation, questionnaire, and research diary. Quantitative data are collected through test. To analyze qualitative data, the researcher used constant comparative method. It consists of four steps: (1) comparing incidents applicable to each category; (2) Integrating categories and their properties; (3) delimiting the theory; (4) Writing the theory. Meanwhile, to analyze quantitative data, the researcher employed descriptive statistic.   The result of the research shows that using graphic organizers can enrich students’ vocabulary mastery and classroom situation. The improvement on students’ vocabulary included; a) the students are able to speak English; b) the students are able to understand the meaning of the text as they have a lot of vocabularies. The improvement of the classroom situation; (a) students come on time in the class (b) students are more motivated to join the class (c) Students pay more attention in the instructional process (d) students’ participation in responding the questions are high.

scholarly journals Response to Flavored Cartridge/Pod-Based Product Ban among Adult JUUL Users: “You Get Nicotine However You Can Get It”

2020 ◽  
Vol 18 (1) ◽  
pp. 207
Author(s):  
Jessica M. Yingst ◽  
Candace R. Bordner ◽  
Andréa L. Hobkirk ◽  
Brianna Hoglen ◽  
Sophia I. Allen ◽  
...  
Keyword(s):  
Qualitative Data ◽  
Comparative Method ◽  
The United States ◽  
Amazon Mechanical Turk ◽  
Future Research ◽  
Constant Comparative Method ◽  
Before And After ◽  
United States Food ◽  
States Food ◽  
The Impact

In order to curb increasing youth electronic cigarette (e-cig) use, the United States Food and Drug Administration (FDA) banned the sale of flavored cartridge/pod-based products in February 2020. This mixed-methods study aimed to evaluate the impact of the FDA ban on adult JUUL users. The samples of current adult JUUL users were surveyed via Amazon Mechanical Turk at three time-points n = 76 (Sample 1); n = 128 (Sample 2); n = 86 (Sample 3) before and after the FDA flavored/pod ban. The participants were asked to report the JUUL flavored pod used most often and answer questions on purchasing generic pods or refilling (Quantitative). JUUL users were then interviewed in order to explore their perceptions and behaviors related to the FDA ban of flavored cartridge/pod-based products (Qualitative; n = 16). Quantitative data analysis evaluated the differences in variables by time-point. Qualitative data were coded into themes while using the constant comparative method. We found a significant decrease in the use of mint pods (43.4%, 22.7%, 16.3%) (p < 0.01), while there was a significant increase in the use of menthol pods (6.6%, 26.6%, 37.2%) (p < 0.01). Themes that emerged from the qualitative data included switching from mint to menthol pods, refilling pods, and switching to other products that are available in the desired flavors, such as generic pods or disposable e-cigs. Future research is needed in order to evaluate the impact of these behaviors on public health.

The Experience of Occupational Disruption among Student Musicians

2007 ◽  
Vol 22 (4) ◽  
pp. 140-146 ◽  
Author(s):  
Shannon McCready ◽  
Denise Reid
Keyword(s):  
Health Care Providers ◽  
Sense Of Belonging ◽  
Qualitative Data ◽  
Comparative Method ◽  
Theory Approach ◽  
Care Providers ◽  
Constant Comparative Method ◽  
Grounded Theory Approach ◽  
Depth Interviews ◽  
Major Occupation

Student musicians frequently need to take breaks from playing their instruments because of physical playing-related injuries, yet little is known about their experiences with these occupational disruptions. We conducted a qualitative study that explored student musicians' lived experiences with unplanned disruptions stemming from engagement in their major occupation of playing an instrument. In-depth interviews with seven student musicians who attended either a special arts high school or a university were conducted. Consistent with a grounded theory approach to qualitative research, the constant comparative method of qualitative data analysis was implemented. A major finding related to the theme of “being and becoming,” where student musicians expressed a strong sense of belonging to a group of other like musicians who they learned from, relied on for support, and created music with. Another theme was motivation to excel, where students expressed a strong desire and motivation to improve and master their instrument. Occupational tensions and pressures emerged as another theme. Students were aware of the need to practice and the need to care for their bodies. A constant negotiation was required in which students struggled to find a good balance between the need to practice and to respect their bodies while maintaining an identity of a musician. These findings are discussed in relation to how health care providers and educators need to understand the demands and stresses associated with playing an instrument so that they can better support these young musicians.

scholarly journals Companion Animal Type and Level of Engagement Matter: A Mixed-Methods Study Examining Links between Companion Animal Guardianship, Loneliness and Well-Being during the COVID-19 Pandemic

Animals ◽  
2021 ◽  
Vol 11 (8) ◽  
pp. 2349
Author(s):  
Heather Clements ◽  
Stephanie Valentin ◽  
Nicholas Jenkins ◽  
Jean Rankin ◽  
Nancy R. Gee ◽  
...  
Keyword(s):  
Mixed Methods ◽  
Quantitative Data ◽  
Online Survey ◽  
Qualitative Data ◽  
Companion Animals ◽  
Well Being ◽  
Companion Animal ◽  
Mixed Methods Study ◽  
The Impact ◽  
Mental Well Being

To reduce the spread of COVID-19, countries worldwide placed limitations on social interaction, which is anticipated to have severe psychological consequences. Although findings are inconsistent, prior research has suggested that companion animals may positively influence human well-being and reduce loneliness. In the context of COVID-19, this has important implications, as companion animal guardians may be less negatively affected by the pandemic. The primary aim of this research was to investigate the influence of companion animals on mental well-being and loneliness during the pandemic, with specific interest in the role of ornamental fishes. A mixed-methods study was conducted, using an international sample. Quantitative data were collected via an online survey (n = 1199) and analysed using robust hierarchical multiple regression analyses; the influence of level of engagement with companion animals was examined for dogs, cats and ornamental fishes. There was no evidence that companion animal guardianship was associated with loneliness and mental well-being during the pandemic but spending more time engaging physically or socially with dogs (and to a lesser extent cats) was generally associated with poorer outcomes. Qualitative data were collected through open-ended survey responses (n = 757) and semi-structured interviews (n = 25) and analysed using reflexive thematic analysis. Two themes were developed—one related to companion animals as providers of social and emotional support, and the other to companion animals as providers of purpose and perspective. Concerns regarding the impact of the pandemic on animal welfare were also identified. Compared to other animal types, more participants expressed indifference regarding the impact of their fishes on their well-being during the pandemic, possibly because fishes cannot provide comfort via physical touch. The findings of this study reflect the wider field of human–animal interaction; although qualitative data suggest guardians believe their companion animals are a positive influence in their lives, there is little convincing quantitative data to support these beliefs. This highlights the need to refine theories regarding which aspects of companion animal guardianship may influence human well-being; the findings from this research may be useful in the refinement of such theories.

scholarly journals Evaluating the Impact of COVID-19 Pandemic on Dental Academics and the Future of Dental Education Across India

2021 ◽  
Vol 20 (2) ◽  
Author(s):  
Rameshwari Singhal ◽  
Anil Chandra ◽  
Shuchi Tripathi ◽  
Pavitra Rastogi ◽  
Richa Khanna
Keyword(s):  
Quantitative Data ◽  
Online Teaching ◽  
Qualitative Data ◽  
Dental Education ◽  
Descriptive Statistics ◽  
The Future ◽  
Current Scenario ◽  
Dental Schools ◽  
The Impact ◽  
New Situation

Background: The outbreak of coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) pandemic has led to the transition of dental education from chair-side clinical teachings to virtual didactic lectures. The future of dental education is not clear in these uncertain times. Objectives: This survey-based study aimed to evaluate the current scenario and preparedness of dental colleges/universities and faculty in adapting to the new situation and understanding the challenges faced during this phase. The survey also explored the opinions, limitations, and possible solutions in dental academics through open-ended qualitative questions. Methods: This survey-based study utilized exploratory mixed methods through both open- and closed-ended questions. The survey was distributed electronically to the majority of dental colleges across India to be answered voluntarily by the dental academicians involved in COVID-19 planning. The survey was inspired by the pre-existing questionnaire proposed by the Association of Dental Education in Europe (ADEE), and it was modified by the committee consisting of the study authors. Validation and piloting of the study were done through in-house dental faculty. Quantitative data were analyzed using descriptive statistics and expressed in percentages. Broad themes for qualitative data were derived by two independent authors and collated by the third author to finalize the results. Results: The questionnaire was answered by 89 dental schools from all parts of the country with varying stages of COVID-19 prevalence. Quantitative data revealed 100% adaptation of dental schools to online teaching, uncertainty regarding online (31.46%) and offline (10.11%) exams, and assessment of clinical competence. Qualitative analysis indicated uncertainty, ambiguity, and lack of direction among study respondents regarding how best to deal with the current situation. Conclusions: According to our results, collaborative effort from governing bodies was urgently required at this point to prevent dental education from being divided into multi-directional, incoherent, and isolated units.

A dynamic Modelling of Labor Productivity Impacts Arising from Change Orders in Road Projects

2021 ◽  
Author(s):  
Zain Ghazi Al-Kofahi ◽  
Amirsaman Mahdavian ◽  
Amr Oloufa
Keyword(s):  
Labor Productivity ◽  
Construction Projects ◽  
Productivity Loss ◽  
Dynamic Modelling ◽  
Change Orders ◽  
Factors Affecting ◽  
Road Projects ◽  
Change Order ◽  
The Impact ◽  
Sd Model

It is vital to investigate the system dynamics (SD) between the change orders and labor productivity to identify the causes of the productivity loss of the construction projects. Most productivity loss studies were financed from the contractor’s part and rely on the contractor’s data. This research highlighted the problem of productivity loss resulting from issuance of a change order by utilizing a previously developed SD model. It conducted a sensitivity analysis to evaluate the impact of overtime, overmanning, temperature and learning on the behavior of the SD model quantifying change orders' impact on labor productivity. Based on the results, SD provides more reliable results comparing with the measured mile analysis (MMA) approach for the compensation request, considering the leading factors affecting the productivity loss other than the change order. The model developed in this study can accept or reject the responsibility of a change order for occurrence of productivity loss.

scholarly journals Care of Children With Disabilities in Rural Areas: Meanings and Impact on Everyday life and Health. Study Protocol

2020 ◽  
Vol 19 ◽  
pp. 160940692094760
Author(s):  
Pablo A. Cantero-Garlito ◽  
Juan Antonio Flores-Martos ◽  
Pedro Moruno-Miralles
Keyword(s):  
Rural Areas ◽  
Children With Disabilities ◽  
Daily Life ◽  
Comparative Method ◽  
Health Study ◽  
Structured Interviews ◽  
The Social ◽  
Maternal Caregiving ◽  
Constant Comparative Method ◽  
The Impact

The general objective of this study is to describe and analyze the meanings that participants gave to the experience related to maternal caregiving activities of children with disabilities in the rural context and their impact on daily life and health. In order to achieve this general objective, the following specific objectives were established: (1) To describe the meanings given to experiences related to caregiving activities of children with disabilities; (2) To analyze the impact on daily life and health that these mothers attribute to those activities; (3) To describe how they experience the support provided by the social and healthcare system in rural areas. An interpretative paradigm was selected, using a qualitative approach and a phenomenological design. Twelve mothers were included. Data were collected through semi-structured interviews. A discourse analysis of the narrative information was performed using open, axial, and selective coding processes and the constant comparative method.

And Then I Lost That Life: A Shared Narrative of Four Young Men with Schizophrenia

2005 ◽  
Vol 68 (10) ◽  
pp. 467-473 ◽  
Author(s):  
Alicia Gould ◽  
Sharon DeSouza ◽  
Karen L Rebeiro-Gruhl
Keyword(s):  
Research Study ◽  
Comparative Method ◽  
Young Men ◽  
Perceived Barriers ◽  
Occupational Engagement ◽  
Qualitative Research Study ◽  
Constant Comparative Method ◽  
Before And After ◽  
The Impact ◽  
Shared Narrative

A qualitative research study was conducted to explore the occupational needs and interests of young men, aged 18–30 years, who had been diagnosed with schizophrenia. Four men participated in two focus groups and described their daily occupations, both before and after diagnosis. The constant comparative method of data analysis was used to generate the categories inductively, yielding several common themes and stories. A shared narrative was subsequently identified, which best reflected the collective lost dreams, disruptions and losses resulting from a diagnosis of schizophrenia. The chapters of the participants' narrative describe a common struggle of attempting to rebuild lives in spite of persistent perceived barriers. The research sheds light upon the use of occupation in assisting young men to reclaim lost dreams and lives, as well as upon the impact of diagnosis on occupational engagement.

Modes of relating to contingency: An exploration of experiences in advanced cancer patients

2016 ◽  
Vol 15 (4) ◽  
pp. 444-453 ◽  
Author(s):  
Renske Kruizinga ◽  
Iris D. Hartog ◽  
Michael Scherer-Rath ◽  
Hans Schilderman ◽  
Hanneke Van Laarhoven
Keyword(s):  
Cancer Patients ◽  
Life Events ◽  
Advanced Cancer ◽  
Controlled Trial ◽  
Comparative Method ◽  
Real Life ◽  
Advanced Cancer Patients ◽  
Individual Care ◽  
Constant Comparative Method ◽  
The Impact

ABSTRACTObjective:Throughout their lives, people are confronted with unexpected life events, which can be difficult to incorporate into their life narratives. Such a confrontation can result in an experience of contingency. Different ways of relating to contingency have been described by Wuchterl: denying, acknowledging, and “encounter with the Other.” In the present article, we aim to trace these theoretical distinctions in real-life experiences of patients.Method:We analyzed 45 interviews using the constant comparative method with a directed content analysis approach in the Atlas.ti coding program. The interviews originated from a randomized controlled trial evaluating an assisted reflection on life events and ultimate life goals. Seven spiritual counselors from six hospitals in the Netherlands conducted the interviews from July of 2014 to March of 2016. All 45 patients had advanced cancer.Results:We found four different modes into which relating to contingency can be classified: denying, acknowledging, accepting, and receiving. With denying, patients did not mention any impact of the life event on their lives. In acknowledging, the impact was recognized and a start was made to incorporate the event into their life. In accepting, patients went through a process of reinterpretation of the event. In receiving, patients talked about receiving insights from their illness and living a more conscious life.Significance of results:Our study is the first to investigate the different ways of relating to contingency in clinical practice. The defined modes will improve our understanding of the various ways in which cancer patients relate to their disease, allowing caregivers to better target and shape individual care.

Investigation of the Impact of BIM&IPD on Change Orders Using Bayesian Network Method

2013 ◽  
Vol 397-400 ◽  
pp. 2064-2068 ◽  
Author(s):  
Mei Liu
Keyword(s):  
Bayesian Network ◽  
Construction Projects ◽  
Negative Impact ◽  
Information Modeling ◽  
Professional Relationships ◽  
Good Tool ◽  
Change Orders ◽  
Network Method ◽  
Building Information ◽  
The Impact

Change orders present one of the largest sources of cost growth on building construction projects and have negative impact on productivity, labor efficiency and building environment. Building Information Modeling (BIM) is proved a high technology that greatly benefits both design and construction, greatly promoting the design visualization and construction 4-D modeling. Driven by BIM, Integrated Project Delivery (IPD) emphasizes communication in the collaborative process by avoiding adversarial or counter-productive professional relationships to reduce waste and rework. If BIM&IPD can be properly applied in project, quite a lot change orders can be avoided and then project cost will be reduced. This paper investigates the impact of BIM&IPD on construction change orders using Bayesian Network method. Bayesian Network is a graphic model representing cause and effect relationship between change orders and BIM&IPD. In this paper, evidence reasoning and probabilistic inference analyses are conducted to indicate the causes in light of the results and forecast the results according to causes. From the analysis, Bayesian Network is proved a good tool for construction managers to make decisions.

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