scholarly journals An Investigation of Teachers’ Perceptions of the Implementation of the Big Results Now Initiative in Tanzanian Education Sector

2015 ◽  
Vol 7 (2) ◽  
pp. 176
Author(s):  
Sotco Claudius Komba ◽  
Joyce Nimrod Sigala
Keyword(s):  
Social Sciences ◽  
Focus Group ◽  
Quantitative Data ◽  
Qualitative Data ◽  
Computer Software ◽  
Education Sector ◽  
Successful Implementation ◽  
Focus Group Discussions ◽  
Group Discussions ◽  
Teachers Perceptions

<p>This study was conducted in order to investigate teachers’ perceptions of the implementation of<br />the Big Results Now (BRN) initiative in Tanzanian education sector. The specific objectives of<br />the study were to examine teachers’ perceptions of the implementation of the BRN initiative in<br />Tanzanian education sector and recommend ways for improving the implementation of the<br />initiative. The study involved 120 teachers from six government secondary schools in Njombe<br />Region, one of the regions of Tanzania. The data were collected using a set of questionnaire<br />and focus group discussions. The quantitative data were analyzed using computer software,<br />Statistical Package for Social Sciences, version 18, in which frequencies and percentages of<br />responses on teachers’ perceptions of the implementation of the BRN initiative in Tanzanian<br />education sector were computed. In addition, the qualitative data were analysed using content<br />analysis. The findings indicated that there was lack of understanding of the objectives of the<br />BRN initiative in Tanzanian education sector among the majority of teachers. Moreover, the<br />teachers were not involved in the plans to implement the BRN initiative and conditions in<br />schools were not supportive for the successful implementation of the initiative. On the ways to<br />improve the implementation of the BRN initiative in Tanzanian education sector, teachers<br />recommended, among others, that they should be educated on the objectives of implementing<br />the initiative as they are the cornerstone in making the initiative a success.</p>

scholarly journals Mobile Phone Influence on Sexual Behaviour of Undergraduate Students: A Case Study of Jomo Kenyatta University of Agriculture and Technology, Kenya

2021 ◽  
Vol 6 (2) ◽  
pp. 17-41
Author(s):  
Ondicho Machuki ◽  
Joan Mutua
Keyword(s):  
Focus Group ◽  
Undergraduate Students ◽  
Mobile Phones ◽  
Sexual Behaviour ◽  
Quantitative Data ◽  
Qualitative Data ◽  
Safe Sex ◽  
Focus Group Discussions ◽  
Group Discussions

Purpose: The study sought to examine the influence of mobile phone use on sexual behaviour of university students: a case study of Jomo Kenyatta University of Agriculture and Technology, Kenya. The study specifically, sought to examine the effect of characteristics of mobile phones users, uses and gratification of mobile phones and the frequency of using mobile phones on sexual behaviour of university students in Jomo Kenyatta University of Agriculture and Technology, Kenya. Methodology: The research design that was adopted was descriptive in nature. The study also used both quantitative and qualitative data obtained from the respondents using questionnaires and Focus Group Discussions (FGDs) guides. Quantitative data was collected using questionnaires while qualitative data was collected using Focus Group Discussions. The study adopted a stratified random sampling technique to select the sample size from the three strata, which are the various Faculties in JKUAT. The study then used Fisher’s formula to arrive at an adequate scientific sample size of 384 students who were targeted using convenient sampling, that is those that are ready to respond to the questionnaires and the Focus Group Discussions (FGDs). The quantitative data in this research was analyzed using descriptive statistics and inferential statistics using SPSS v22.0. Results: It was concluded that male students are more likely to use protection consistently compared to female students. In addition, the findings imply that consistency in condom use is a factor that is dependent on the age of the individual. In addition, relationship status is a contributor to the behaviour of the students sexually. For those that are in serious relationships, their use of protection declines due to the build-up of emotional and intimate trust towards each other. The findings likewise indicate that the student’s usage of mobile phones correlates significantly with the consistent use of protection for safe sex. Those students who have had their phones since they joined Campus are more likely to practice safe sex. In addition, heavy users of mobile phones are likely to practice safe sex including those who browse the internet for news updates. Unique contribution to theory, policy and practice: The study recommends the media practitioners need to step up the production of morally acceptable media content and offer a platform for advertising and campaigning for sexual conduct by encouraging and stressing the use of protection. The Ministry of Health and Ministry of Education should actively involve the undergraduate students in reproductive information awareness campaigns for ensuring positive attitudes towards responsible sexual behaviour and promoting best sexual practices.         

scholarly journals Social-ecological influences on unhealthy dietary behaviours among Moroccan adolescents: a mixed-methods study

2020 ◽  
Vol 23 (6) ◽  
pp. 996-1008
Author(s):  
Abdelghaffar El-Ammari ◽  
Hicham El Kazdouh ◽  
Siham Bouftini ◽  
Samira El Fakir ◽  
Youness El Achhab
Keyword(s):  
Mixed Methods ◽  
Focus Group ◽  
Quantitative Data ◽  
Qualitative Data ◽  
Snack Food ◽  
Focus Group Discussions ◽  
Group Discussions ◽  
Dietary Behaviours ◽  
Social Ecological ◽  
Modifiable Factors

AbstractObjective:To identify the prevalence of unhealthy dietary behaviours and their social-ecological influences in adolescents.Design:The study used a sequential explanatory mixed-methods design, which begins with the collection of quantitative data, followed by the collection of qualitative data to explain and enrich the quantitative findings. Quantitative data were collected via a global school-based student health survey and were analysed using quantitative approaches. Qualitative data were obtained via focus group discussions and were analysed thematically.Setting:Middle and high secondary schools in Taza city, Morocco.Participants:Our quantitative analyses included 764 students (14–19 years). For the qualitative part, seventeen focus group discussions were conducted with 100 participants (fifty-six adolescents, twenty-six parents and eighteen teachers).Results:Of total student participants, 46·1 % skipped breakfast, 60·6 % had inadequate intake of fruits and vegetables (F&V), 39·4 % consumed soft drinks and 28·0 % consumed fast foods. All of these dietary behaviours could coexist in the same person except for inadequate intake of F&V. Gender, academic performance, age, perceived family income and education level of mother were associated with unhealthy dietary behaviours. Qualitative findings identified seven themes regarding social-ecological influences on adolescents’ dietary behaviours: cognitive, affective/biological, lifestyle, outcome expectation, social network, accessibility/availability and macro-level influences.Conclusions:The prevalence of unhealthy dietary behaviours in our study group is a concern. Dietary behaviours are the result of inseparable interactions among social-ecological influences. Modifiable factors identified may be useful when designing a future intervention aimed at improving breakfast and F&V consumption and reducing fast/snack-food consumption among adolescents.

scholarly journals Nursing and midwifery students’ experiences and perception of their clinical learning environment in Malawi: a mixed-method study

BMC Nursing ◽  
2020 ◽  
Vol 19 (1) ◽  
Author(s):  
B. C. Mbakaya ◽  
F. W. Kalembo ◽  
M. Zgambo ◽  
A. Konyani ◽  
F. Lungu ◽  
...  
Keyword(s):  
Focus Group ◽  
Learning Environment ◽  
Quantitative Data ◽  
Qualitative Data ◽  
Task Orientation ◽  
Clinical Learning ◽  
Clinical Learning Environment ◽  
Focus Group Discussions ◽  
Group Discussions ◽  
Poor Relationship

Abstract Background The clinical learning environment is an important part of the nursing and midwifery training as it helps students to integrate theory into clinical practice. However, not all clinical learning environments foster positive learning. This study aimed to assess the student nurses and midwives’ experiences and perception of the clinical learning environment in Malawi. Methods A concurrent triangulation mixed methods research design was used to collect data from nursing and midwifery students. Quantitative data were collected using a Clinical Learning Environment Inventory, while qualitative data were collected using focus group discussions. The Clinical Learning Environment Inventory has six subscales of satisfaction, involvement, individualisation, innovation, task orientation and personalisation. The focus group interview guide had questions about clinical learning, supervision, assessment, communication and resources. Quantitative data were analysed by independent t-test and multivariate linear regression and qualitative data were thematically analysed. Results A total of 126 participants completed the questionnaire and 30 students participated in three focus group discussions. Satisfaction subscale had the highest mean score (M = 26.93, SD = 4.82) while individualisation had the lowest mean score (M = 18.01, SD =3.50). Multiple linear regression analysis showed a statistically significant association between satisfaction with clinical learning environment and personalization (β = 0.50, p = < 0.001), and task orientation (β =0.16 p = < 0.05). Teaching and learning resources, hostile environment, poor relationship with a qualified staff, absence of clinical supervisors, and lack of resources were some of the challenges faced by students in their clinical learning environment. Conclusion Although satisfaction with clinical learning environment subscale had the highest mean score, nursing and midwifery students encountered multifaceted challenges such as lack of resources, poor relationship with staff and a lack of support from clinical teachers that negatively impacted on their clinical learning experiences. Training institutions and hospitals need to work together to find means of addressing the challenges by among others providing resources to students during clinical placement.

scholarly journals Nursing and midwifery students’ experiences and perception of their clinical learning environment in Malawi: A mixed method study

2020 ◽  
Author(s):  
Balwani Chingatichifwe Mbakaya ◽  
Fatch Welcome Kalembo ◽  
Maggie Zgambo ◽  
Alice Konyani ◽  
Florence Lungu ◽  
...  
Keyword(s):  
Focus Group ◽  
Learning Environment ◽  
Quantitative Data ◽  
Qualitative Data ◽  
Task Orientation ◽  
Clinical Learning ◽  
Clinical Learning Environment ◽  
Focus Group Discussions ◽  
Group Discussions ◽  
Poor Relationship

Abstract Background The clinical learning environment is an important part of the nursing and midwifery training as it helps students to integrate theory into clinical practice. However, not all clinical learning environments foster positive learning. The aim of this study was to assess the experiences and perception of the clinical learning environment by nursing and midwifery students of in Malawi.Methods A mixed-methods approach was used to collect data from nursing and midwifery students. Quantitative data were collected using a Clinical Learning Environment Inventory, while focus group discussions were used to collect qualitative data. The interview guide had questions about clinical learning, supervision, assessment, communication and resources. The Clinical Learning Environment Inventory has six subscales of satisfaction, involvement, individualisation, innovation, task orientation and personalisation. Quantitative data were analysed by independent t-test and multivariate linear regression and qualitative data were thematically analysed. Results A total of 126 participants completed the questionnaire and 30 students participated in the focus group discussions. Satisfaction subscale had the highest mean score (M = 26.93, SD = 4.82) while individualisation had the lowest mean score (M = 18.01, SD =3.50). Multiple linear regression analysis showed a statistically significant association between satisfaction with clinical learning environment and personalization (β = 0.50, p = < 0.001), and task orientation (β =0.16 p= < 0.05). Teaching and learning resources, hostile environment, poor relationship with a qualified staff, absence of clinical supervisors, and lack of resources were some of the challenges faced by students in their clinical learning environment.Conclusion Although satisfaction with clinical learning environment had the highest scores, nursing and midwifery students encountered multifaceted challenges such as lack of resources, poor relationship with staff and a lack of support from clinical teachers that impacted negatively on their clinical learning experiences. Training institutions and hospitals need to work together to find a means of providing resources to students during clinical placement.

scholarly journals Nursing and midwifery students’ experiences and perception of their clinical learning environment in Malawi: A mixed method study

2020 ◽  
Author(s):  
Balwani Chingatichifwe Mbakaya ◽  
Fatch Welcome Kalembo ◽  
Maggie Zgambo ◽  
Alice Konyani ◽  
Florence Lungu ◽  
...  
Keyword(s):  
Focus Group ◽  
Learning Environment ◽  
Quantitative Data ◽  
Qualitative Data ◽  
Task Orientation ◽  
Clinical Learning ◽  
Clinical Learning Environment ◽  
Focus Group Discussions ◽  
Group Discussions ◽  
Poor Relationship

Abstract Background The clinical learning environment is an important part of the nursing and midwifery training as it helps students to integrate theory into clinical practice. However, not all clinical learning environments foster positive learning. The aim of this study was to assess the experiences and perception of the clinical learning environment by nursing and midwifery students in Malawi.Methods A concurrent triangulation mixed methods research design was used to collect data from nursing and midwifery students. Quantitative data were collected using a Clinical Learning Environment Inventory, while qualitative data were collected using focus group discussions. The Clinical Learning Environment Inventory has six subscales of satisfaction, involvement, individualisation, innovation, task orientation and personalisation. The focus group interview guide had questions about clinical learning, supervision, assessment, communication and resources. Quantitative data were analysed by independent t-test and multivariate linear regression and qualitative data were thematically analysed. Results A total of 126 participants completed the questionnaire and 30 students participated in three focus group discussions. Satisfaction subscale had the highest mean score (M = 26.93, SD = 4.82) while individualisation had the lowest mean score (M = 18.01, SD =3.50). Multiple linear regression analysis showed a statistically significant association between satisfaction with clinical learning environment and personalization (β = 0.50, p = < 0.001), and task orientation (β =0.16 p= < 0.05). Teaching and learning resources, hostile environment, poor relationship with a qualified staff, absence of clinical supervisors, and lack of resources were some of the challenges faced by students in their clinical learning environment.Conclusion Although satisfaction with clinical learning environment had the highest scores, nursing and midwifery students encountered multifaceted challenges such as lack of resources, poor relationship with staff and a lack of support from clinical teachers that impacted negatively on their clinical learning experiences. Training institutions and hospitals need to work together to find means of addressing the challenges by among others providing resources to students during clinical placement.

Understanding Factors Related to Prolonged Trial of Detained Defendants in the Philippines

2017 ◽  
Vol 62 (8) ◽  
pp. 2461-2487 ◽  
Author(s):  
Raymund E. Narag
Keyword(s):  
Focus Group ◽  
Qualitative Data ◽  
The Philippines ◽  
Cultural Dynamics ◽  
Focus Group Discussions ◽  
Group Discussions ◽  
Western Literature ◽  
Loosely Coupled ◽  
Official Data

Utilizing a combination of jail official data and qualitative data gathered through Focus Group Discussions and interviews with inmates, court actors, and jail officers, this article investigates the factors related to prolonged trial of detained defendants in the Philippines. Sensitizing concepts derived from Western literature are utilized to understand individual, court, and jail-level variations to prolonged detention. Results from official jail data show the magnitude and extent of the problem. The narrative data suggests the salience of organizational and cultural dynamics that lead to the delay of cases for detained defendants. Specifically, courts that are loosely coupled and subscribe to workgroup culture that condones leniency are more likely to be delayed. Implications to theory and policy are discussed.

Exploring the experience and challenges of maternity waiting homes in Jimma, southwest Ethiopia

2021 ◽  
pp. 1-11
Author(s):  
Woubishet Girma ◽  
Dessalegn Tamiru ◽  
Mirkuzie Woldie ◽  
Ayantu Kebede ◽  
Zewdie Birhanu ◽  
...  
Keyword(s):  
Focus Group ◽  
Rural Areas ◽  
Healthcare Providers ◽  
Computer Software ◽  
Obstetric Care ◽  
Focus Group Discussions ◽  
Group Discussions ◽  
Transportation Services ◽  
Care Access ◽  
Maternity Waiting Homes

Background Establishing maternity waiting homes is a key strategy to address the geographic barrier to obstetric care access among women living in rural areas. In Ethiopia, maternity waiting homes have been in use for several years, with a sharp increase in the number of such facilities recently. However, there is little empirical evidence detailing the experiences and challenges faced by women during the implementation of this initiative in Ethiopia. Methods This study used a multiple case study design with qualitative data collection methods, and was conducted from October to November 2016. Data were collected using focus group discussions, in-depth interviews and direct observation of each maternity waiting home. All interviews and focus group discussions were recorded using a digital voice recorder. Data were transcribed and translated into English. The coding process and formation of thematic structure was assisted by Atlas ti7.5 computer software. Results The participants reported that they were satisfied and comfortable with the services at the maternity waiting homes, as were their husbands and community leaders. Facility, social and environmental challenges were identified as common barriers to the utilisation of maternity waiting homes by stakeholders at different levels. Healthcare providers reported common challenges at maternity waiting homes include a lack of basic utilities (water and electric supply), and overcrowding because of a shortage of space and lack of medical supplies. Some women reported that poor transportation services and the distance to facilities hindered the utilisation of maternity waiting homes. Conclusions There are social and facility challenges related to the use of maternity waiting homes in Ethiopia. Policymakers and health managers should work with relevant sectors to mitigate the effect of facility, social and environmental barriers and maximise the use of maternity waiting homes.

Methods and Techniques for Qualitative Data Gathering

2016 ◽  
Author(s):  
Bridget Ogharanduk ◽  
Darren Jubb ◽  
Sean Lochrie ◽  
Ross Curran ◽  
Kevin D O&apos;Gorman
Keyword(s):  
Focus Group ◽  
Qualitative Data ◽  
Data Gathering ◽  
Focus Group Discussions ◽  
Group Discussions ◽  
Methods And Techniques ◽  
Research Findings

This chapter discusses three main methods for gathering qualitative data. These methods are interviews, focus group discussions and ethnography. Important steps and procedures for gathering qualitative data using these methods are highlighted with examples to enable users to conduct their own data gathering. The chapter also provides potential challenges that users may encounter while using these methods and suggestions to manage these challenges or minimise the effect on the data and overall research findings.

scholarly journals Effects of Public Expenditure Management Practices on Service Delivery in the Public Sector: The Case of District Assemblies in Ghana

2019 ◽  
Vol 9 (2) ◽  
pp. 71
Author(s):  
George Kojo Scott
Keyword(s):  
Focus Group ◽  
Service Delivery ◽  
Quantitative Data ◽  
Management Practices ◽  
Public Expenditure ◽  
Focus Group Discussions ◽  
Group Discussions ◽  
The Public ◽  
Public Expenditure Management ◽  
District Assemblies

This research analysed how the public expenditure management as practiced in the District Assemblies of Ghana affect service delivery. The research adopted a mixed-method research approach where qualitative and quantitative data were gathered using questionnaires, interviews, focus group discussions and document analysis. Multistage sampling was used to pick the respondents for the questionnaires, key interview informants and the participants in the focus group discussions. Thirty four out of 170 district assemblies which existed by 2008 were sampled. Participants in the study included 612 District Assembly (DA) officials, 1020 citizens, 28 national/regional officials and 20 participants in focus group discussions. Quantitative data, measured by using scaled-items, were analysed using descriptive statistics and regression while qualitative data were examined thematically. The study established that expenditure management practices had positive significant influence on service delivery. The study recommends that, the DAs should prioritize expenditures to key service delivery areas such as; those that enhance poverty reduction, improve on Human Capital index and strengthen Innovations practices. DAs should strengthen electronic, automation and appropriate technologies for better expenditure management and service delivery. There should be laws to ensure stiffer penalties and enforcement of sanctions on those involved in malpractices in public expenditure management practices, while persistent efforts are made to implement recommendations of Auditor General’s reports on DAs expenditures management practices.

Effects of Alcohol Consumption and Abuse Among Younger Adults in Nsukka, Nigeria

2020 ◽  
Vol 7 (10) ◽  
pp. 612-625
Author(s):  
Anthony Obinna Iwuagwu ◽  
Christian Chiedozie Iyiani ◽  
Christopher Ndubuisi Ngwu ◽  
Stanley Emeka Agholor ◽  
Brian Obue Eyang ◽  
...  
Keyword(s):  
Alcohol Consumption ◽  
Focus Group ◽  
Alcohol Abuse ◽  
Random Sample ◽  
Qualitative Data ◽  
Focus Group Discussions ◽  
Group Discussions ◽  
Younger Adults ◽  
Multi Stage ◽  
Depth Interviews

Globally, there has been availability and misuse of alcohol among youths and the consequences have been a thing of serious concern. This study investigates the effects of alcohol consumption and abuse among younger adults in Nsukka, Nigeria. The study used a multi stage random sample of 110 younger adults aged 17-40 years. They were interviewed using in-depth interviews (10) and Focus Group Discussions (10 FGD) that elicited information on the effects of alcohol consumption and abuse among younger adults. The qualitative data generated were analyzed in themes. Results indicate that majority of the respondents negatively perceived alcohol consumption to be depraved due to its health, religious and social implications, especially when it is abused. However, they conserved that many positive benefits are inherent in alcohol consumption if it is not abused. Given the rate of alcohol abuse among younger adults as findings show, there is the urgent need for policies and programmes that will help regulate alcohol consumption and abuse. This will go a long way in sensitizing, rehabilitating and reintegrating alcohol addicts and the at-risk persons to the larger society and the findings has potentials to influence policies on alcoholism.

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