scholarly journals COVID-19 and Politics of Representation: A CSA of Pakistani Print Media Semiotic Discourses

2021 ◽  
Vol 9 (3) ◽  
Author(s):  
Dr. Sajid Akbar ◽  
Memoona Nazir ◽  
Muhammad Tayyab ◽  
Kiran Shehzadi
Keyword(s):  
Print Media ◽  
Research Approach ◽  
Vaccine Production ◽  
Semiotic Analysis ◽  
Focus Group Discussions ◽  
Group Discussions ◽  
Health Ministry ◽  
Integrated Research ◽  
Oil Crisis ◽  
Media Discourses

Print media discourses are highly polarized. Different linguistic and meta-linguistic moves are employed to represent the same issue under different socio-political themes. This study decodes the semiotic discourses of two (02) Pakistani English and Urdu newspapers (Dawn & Jang) about the representation of COVID-19 related issues. This has been done to broaden the canvas of the research by including English and Urdu newspapers’ readership.  The time span for data collection ranges from March 15, 2020, to May 15, 2020. The integrated research approach used in the study has been devised by drawing upon Kress (2010) and Krueger (2001) to analyze the data at linguistic and semiotic levels. The findings of semiotic analysis have been validated through focus group discussions on the selected cartoons from English and Urdu newspapers.  The findings of the research reveal that the representation of COVID- 19 related issues varies in English and Urdu newspapers.  The most frequently occurred themes in English newspapers about the representation of covid19 related issues include economic downfall, danger to the worlds’ economy, the clash between America and China, delays in vaccine production, and food and health insecurity at national and international levels. On contrary, the Urdu newspapers highlighted the issues related to corruption, the oil crisis, a satire on the general masses for not observing SOPs, a satire on health ministry, and poverty increase because of lockdown policies. The research contends that semiotic discourses are the best sites for ideological investment and are designed keeping in view the target audience.

scholarly journals Post 9/11 American Footprints in Pakistani Media: A Critique of Semiotic Discourses of Pakistani Newspapers

2020 ◽  
Vol 6 (1) ◽  
pp. 125-133
Author(s):  
Muhammad Akbar Sajid ◽  
Sajid Waqar ◽  
Rabia Mohsin ◽  
Muhammad Javaid Jamil
Keyword(s):  
Critical Discourse Analysis ◽  
Print Media ◽  
Critical Discourse ◽  
Semiotic Analysis ◽  
Focus Group Discussions ◽  
Group Discussions ◽  
The People ◽  
Linguistic Analyses ◽  
Media Discourses ◽  
Target Readership

This paper highlights the power of image in shaping perception of the people regarding post 9/11 American representation in Pakistani print media discourses.  The study deconstructs the semiotic discourse(s) of Pakistani English newspaper Dawn (daily) from September 2018 to February 2019 to argue that linguistic and semiotic devices and techniques work discursively to shape the readers’ perception regarding American foot-prints in Pakistani print media.  It employs Multimodal Critical Discourse analysis approach by drawing upon Machin (2007), Van Leeuwen framework for recontextualization (2008) and Fairclough’s (2003) for visual and linguistic analyses to lay bare embedded ideologies propagated through word-picture conjunction. The levels of analysis include participants, settings, poses, objects, metaphor, inclusion, exclusion and discourse. Moreover, the researchers have validated the findings of their   semiotic analysis by conducting two focus group discussions among the students of linguistics and other disciplines. The findings reveal that print media semiotic discourses provide an appropriate use of language in graphic form.  The findings reveal that no use of language is ideology free and words and pictures work in conjunction to propagate desired ideology to the target readership. Additionally, the study notices the visible change that has taken place regarding American representation from superordinate to back foot and ready-to-hold dialogue through semiotic discourses of mentioned newspaper.

scholarly journals America in Pakistani Print Media: A Semiotic Discourse Analysis based Study of Pak-Us Relationship

2020 ◽  
Vol 9 (4) ◽  
pp. 71
Author(s):  
Muhammad Akber Sajid ◽  
Muhammad Riaz Khan
Keyword(s):  
Qualitative Research ◽  
Focus Group ◽  
Data Collection ◽  
Print Media ◽  
Time Span ◽  
Research Model ◽  
Semiotic Analysis ◽  
Focus Group Discussions ◽  
Group Discussions ◽  
Qualitative Research Design

Print media semiotic discourses are one of the best sites for ideological investment and their role is very significant in the production and dissemination of certain ideology. The aim of the present study is to critically decode the semiotic discourse(s) of Pakistani English newspaper DAWN (daily) with special reference to the representation of Pak- Us relationship through the analysis of the semiotics discourses. The data for the present research has been collected from the mentioned newspaper. The time span for data collection ranges from October 2018 to December 2018. Out of ten (10) caricatures which represent Pakistan attempting to survive at its own rather than depending on America one was purposively selected for linguistic and semiotic analyses. The study is descriptive and utilizes qualitative research design. For this purpose, the researchers have devised an amended research model by drawing upon Fairclough (1995), Kress (2010) and Kruger’s (2000) research models to analyse linguistic, semiotic and focus group discussions data. The semiotic analysis has also been validated by incorporating the remarks of focus group participants. Based on the analysis of data the study concludes that noting is absolute in politics as far as Pak- Us relations through semiotic discourses are concerned. Additionally, the research reveals that print media semiotic discourses work insidiously to represent socio- political changes by employing linguistic and meta-linguistic devices and techniques.

Disability and Social Exclusion

2017 ◽  
Vol 29 (1) ◽  
pp. 22-43 ◽  
Author(s):  
Elina I. Tobias ◽  
Sourav Mukhopadhyay
Keyword(s):  
Qualitative Research ◽  
Focus Group ◽  
Social Exclusion ◽  
Lived Experiences ◽  
Research Approach ◽  
Focus Group Discussions ◽  
Group Discussions ◽  
Daily Lives ◽  
Community Activities ◽  
Individual Interviews

This article explores the experiences of social exclusion of individuals with visual impairment (IWVI) as they negotiate their daily lives in their homes and societal settings in the Oshana and Oshikoto regions of Namibia. Employing qualitative research approach, this research tried to better understand the lived experiences of IWVI. Nine IWVI with ages ranging from 30 to 90 years were initially engaged in focus group discussions, followed by semi-structured in-depth individual interviews. The findings of this research indicated that IWVI experience exclusion from education, employment and social and community participation as well as relationships. Based on these findings, we suggest more inclusive policies to address social exclusion of IWVI. At the same time, this group of individuals should be empowered to participate in community activities to promote interaction with people without visual impairments.

scholarly journals Understanding Cognitive Dissonance of Indian Customers for Financial Products: A Multi-Dimensional Scale Development Approach

2020 ◽  
Vol 4 (1) ◽  
pp. 20-32 ◽  
Author(s):  
Brajesh Bolia ◽  
Sumi Jha ◽  
Manoj K Jha
Keyword(s):  
Cognitive Dissonance ◽  
Measurement Scale ◽  
Research Approach ◽  
Focus Group Discussions ◽  
Group Discussions ◽  
Financial Products ◽  
Two Factors ◽  
Development Approach ◽  
Financial Concern ◽  
Post Purchase

The aim of the study was to understand the dynamics of cognitive dissonance in the context of financial product purchase. A mixed methodology research approach was undertaken to explore the attitudinal and behavioural dimensions (qualitative) and subsequent empirical validation (quantitative) with a sample of customers of financial products. Qualitative research was conducted through focus group discussions to arrive at a pool of 99 items which were then pruned and validated with the help of academic and industry experts. The items were empirically tested and validated with the help of appropriate statistical tools to arrive at a “5 factor and 25 items” measurement scale for cognitive dissonance. The study found two factors “Emotional Gain” & “Financial Concern” as distinguishing factors emerging out as key findings. The arousal of cognitive dissonance after the purchase decision taken by consumer can be a major concern for marketers as it might result in order cancellations, loss of trust for the brand as well as loss of loyal customers. Measuring dissonance in financial product context post purchase can help marketers devise appropriate strategies to reduce dissonance, thereby retaining and attracting customers.

scholarly journals Teacher-Centered vs. Student-Centered

2019 ◽  
Vol 11 (2) ◽  
pp. 16-40 ◽  
Author(s):  
Lawrence Muganga ◽  
Peter Ssenkusu
Keyword(s):  
Focus Group ◽  
Educational Philosophy ◽  
Research Approach ◽  
Learning Approaches ◽  
Focus Group Discussions ◽  
Group Discussions ◽  
Student Centered ◽  
Teaching Activities ◽  
Course Content ◽  
Teacher Centered

Wright (2011) distinguishes between teacher-centered and student-centered learning approaches along a spectrum of five dimensions: power balance, course content function, teacher and student roles, responsibility for learning, and assessment purposes and processes. Based on Wright’s framework, this study explores students’ perceptions of their experience with teaching methods at Uganda’s Makerere University. Specifically, the investigation uses a mixed-methods research approach that combines survey data with focus group discussions. A total of 82 students volunteered, with 54 returning questionnaires. From among the 54 students, eight were chosen for focus group discussions. Students provided information about course content, educational philosophy, and teaching activities. In the area of course content, students reported that course completion and examination results outweighed skill development. The results for educational philosophy showed that the preparation of compliant citizens took precedence over the development of self-reliant individuals. Finally, the findings for teaching activities indicated that while teacher-centered tasks still predominated, several students had been exposed to some student-centered activities.

scholarly journals Nexuses between Malnutrition, Social Exclusion of Children and Human Capital: A Qualitative Study

2020 ◽  
Vol 6 (2) ◽  
pp. 415-422
Author(s):  
Uzma Niaz ◽  
Nazia Malik ◽  
Sadaf Mahmood ◽  
Zahira Batool
Keyword(s):  
Human Capital ◽  
Social Exclusion ◽  
Research Approach ◽  
Focus Group Discussions ◽  
Group Discussions ◽  
Academic Achievements ◽  
Malnourished Children ◽  
Interview Guide ◽  
The Government ◽  
Socially Excluded

The present study describes the parents’ attitude towards malnutrition, social exclusion of children, and human capital in three districts of South Punjab, Pakistan. The qualitative research approach is applied with three Focus Group Discussions (FGDs) with parents of children. The interview guide was used to collect data and thematic analysis approach was done. It was concluded that malnutrition made the children socially excluded by damaging their health, academic achievements, and losing their interests in games. It was also concluded that no education and skills of malnourished children become socially excluded from their workplaces. Finally, it was concluded that this situation of malnutrition leads them toward social exclusion. Therefore, this social capital of the future in the shape of social exclusion of children increases the economic burden of family and ultimately nation. To overcome this issue, steps should be taken by the government and community level.

scholarly journals The Development Of Election Smart House As A Tool Of Political Education Based On Local Wisdom

2019 ◽  
Vol 35 (1) ◽  
pp. 69-77
Author(s):  
Al Rafni ◽  
Suryanef Suryanef
Keyword(s):  
Lesson Plan ◽  
Political Education ◽  
Research Approach ◽  
Focus Group Discussions ◽  
Group Discussions ◽  
Community Based ◽  
Model Research ◽  
Smart House ◽  
Election Commission ◽  
Depth Interviews

Election Smart house that established by the General Election Commission in every province is the innovative effort in providing the facility for political education in society. The problem is RPP has not been used optimally by users and still needs to be institutionalized as a tool of political education based on local wisdom. This paper aims to elaborate on the forms of political education activities, especially voter education contained in the RPP, even how the model for the development of RPP as a tool of political education based on local wisdom. The research approach uses a more intensive qualitative approach through focus group discussions/ FGDs and in-depth interviews. While to build the model, Research and Development (R & D) are used. The results of the study show that the political education services contained in the lesson plan need to be developed by standardizing services and supporting facilities that can be a model for political education facilities for the community based on local wisdom.

scholarly journals Working with Adolescents to Understand Bullying and Self– Exclusion from School

2020 ◽  
pp. 1-11
Author(s):  
Anna Dadswell ◽  
Niamh O’Brien
Keyword(s):  
Institutional Factors ◽  
Future Research ◽  
Support Needs ◽  
Research Approach ◽  
Second Phase ◽  
Focus Group Discussions ◽  
Group Discussions ◽  
Shared Experiences ◽  
Key Issues ◽  
The Uk

Self-exclusion from school is a significant issue in the UK and increasingly associated with bullying. However, there is little research into this relationship and the experiences and support needs of adolescents who experience bullying leading to self-exclusion are unknown. Using participatory methodology, we worked with adolescents who had self-excluded from school and the staff supporting them, to identify key issues on experiences and support needs and design the research approach which was carried into a second phase of research involving four focus group discussions with other self-excluded young people. Fifteen adolescents were involved in total (11 female, 4 male, aged 13– 16). Data was analysed thematically and findings suggest anxiety underpins self-exclusion due to bullying, which was shaped by friendship dynamics, issues around seeking support, and institutional factors in schools. This led to gradual withdrawal from school, and eventually self-exclusion. These shared experiences, knowledge, and insight go beyond the current literature, thus providing a strong rationale for adolescents’ involvement in future research.

scholarly journals The Management of Waqf Universities in Selangor, Malaysia

2020 ◽  
Vol 6 (1) ◽  
pp. 45-60
Author(s):  
Mohd. Ali Muhamad Don ◽  
Muhamad Rahimi Osman
Keyword(s):  
Qualitative Research ◽  
Focus Group ◽  
Model Theory ◽  
The State ◽  
Research Approach ◽  
Focus Group Discussions ◽  
Group Discussions ◽  
The University ◽  
The Impact ◽  
Management Issues

In Malaysia, waqf management including those in universities, is under the authority of the State Islamic Religious Council as a sole trustee waqf. This is to protect the waqf assets from any interventions by the heirs. Even so, one Malaysian university is said to manage the waqf scheme without the supervision of the Islamic Council which contradict with the provision of the State of Islamic Religious Council (SIRC) as the sole trustee of waqf. Thus, this study explores the management of waqf by several universities in Selangor and relation to SIRC as the sole trustee of waqf. A qualitative research approach was employed to collect data from focus group discussions and interviews with selected participants from the Selangor Islamic Religious Council (Selangor IRC), selected universities and waqf experts in Malaysia. The findings show that University Kebangsaan Malaysia and University Putra Malaysia waqf funds are managed under the Selangor IRC monitoring while University Islam Antarabangsa Malaysia endowment or waqf fund is managed privately by the university. The impact of this is that several waqf management issues arose. Hence, the authors recommend the Model theory of al-wilayah to be applied in the management of waqf in the universities. Through this model, SIRC and the university can play a more significant role in the management of waqf, thereby promoting the development of waqf in Malaysia.

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