scholarly journals Influence of Revenue Mobilization Practices on Service Delivery in Decentralized Governments: The Case of District Assemblies in Ghana

2018 ◽  
Vol 8 (4) ◽  
pp. 215
Author(s):  
George Kojo Scott
Keyword(s):  
Focus Group ◽  
Service Delivery ◽  
Financial Management ◽  
Quantitative Data ◽  
Mixed Methods Research ◽  
Legal Framework ◽  
Focus Group Discussions ◽  
Group Discussions ◽  
Multi Stage ◽  
District Assemblies

This study analyzed how revenue mobilization practices in the District Assemblies (DAs) of Ghana influence service delivery. The research adopted the mixed methods research design and gathered qualitative and quantitative data using questionnaires, interviews, focus group discussions and document analysis. Multi-stage sampling method where thirty four out of 170 districts were selected from which the study sampled 612 DA officials and 1020 citizens who responded to questionnaires. The sample also included 28 key interview informants and 20 participants in two focus group discussions. The study analyzed quantitative data using descriptive statistics and regression, while qualitative data were interpreted thematically. The study established that revenue mobilization practices at the DAs had a positive and significant effect on service delivery. The study recommends that the DA authorities should audit and review automated revenue collection tools to ensure optimal benefits from these automations. The parliament and District Assemblies are encouraged to review and consolidate the existing financial management legal framework to ensure faster transfer of funds to the district assemblies and specify sanctions on national government officials who mishandle or delay the funds.

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.

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.

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.

Supporting in an existential crisis: A mixed-methods evaluation of a training model in palliative care

2017 ◽  
Vol 16 (4) ◽  
pp. 470-478
Author(s):  
Lisa Sand ◽  
Mariann Olsson ◽  
Peter Strang
Keyword(s):  
Palliative Care ◽  
Mixed Methods ◽  
Focus Group ◽  
Mixed Methods Research ◽  
Qualitative Content Analysis ◽  
Training Model ◽  
Care Staff ◽  
Focus Group Discussions ◽  
Group Discussions ◽  
Existential Crisis

AbstractBackground:Palliative care staff often report that they lack the skills and confidence to provide support during an existential crisis. Consequently, there is a definite need for a training program in this area.Objective:Our aim was to investigate whether a training model could give palliative care staff increased knowledge, awareness, and preparedness—all useful tools for providing support.Methods:A mixed-methods research design was used. Data were collected in four hospital-based palliative homecare teams in the Stockholm area. In total, 34 staff participated, representing different palliative care team professions. Before and after the intervention, a questionnaire with a 9-point Likert-type scale was completed (n = 34). Qualitative focus group discussions were conducted a month after the intervention (25 participants). These were recorded, transcribed, and analyzed using qualitative content analysis with a manifest focus.Results:In the quantitative part of our study, the participants showed significantly increased perceived knowledge, awareness, and preparedness in every aspect (p < 0.001 for all items). The focus group discussions revealed a process that made it possible to apply new knowledge and insight. The process began with theoretical knowledge and, through care-related reflection and self-reflection, the knowledge base gradually developed and provided useful skills and increased job satisfaction.Significance of results:The team-based “TrainingModel Sand/TER” can be performed without excessive effort and contribute to improved competence in providing support during an existential crisis. It is particularly useful for staff working in clinical palliative care.

scholarly journals HIV service delivery in the time of COVID‐19: focus group discussions with key populations in India

2021 ◽  
Vol 24 (S6) ◽  
Author(s):  
Rose Pollard ◽  
Usha Gopinath ◽  
Yeruva A. Reddy ◽  
Bogam R. Kumar ◽  
Parthasarathy Mugundu ◽  
...  
Keyword(s):  
Focus Group ◽  
Service Delivery ◽  
Key Populations ◽  
Focus Group Discussions ◽  
Group Discussions

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 Students’ perceptions towards self-directed learning in Ethiopian medical schools with new innovative curriculum: a mixed-method study

2020 ◽  
Vol 20 (1) ◽  
Author(s):  
Haftom Hadush Kidane ◽  
Herma Roebertsen ◽  
Cees P. M. van der Vleuten
Keyword(s):  
Focus Group ◽  
Learning Process ◽  
Mixed Method ◽  
Quantitative Data ◽  
Focus Group Discussions ◽  
Self Directed Learning ◽  
Group Discussions ◽  
Learning Abilities ◽  
Directed Learning ◽  
Hybrid Curriculum

Abstract Background Self-directed learning (SDL) is an appropriate and preferred learning process to prepare students for lifelong learning in their professions and make them stay up-to-date. The purpose of this study was to explore preclinical students following a hybrid curriculum in Ethiopia experiences to SDL and the support of several learning activities from the curriculum on their SDL. A mixed-method research design was employed. Methods Quantitative data were collected by using a self-administered questionnaire of 80 items measuring students’ perceptions on their SDL capability as well as to explore students’ views about the influence of components of the curriculum on their SDL. Additional two focus group discussions, each containing eight participants from year-1 and year− 2 students, were conducted. The quantitative data were analyzed using SPSS. The focus group discussions were reviewed, coded, and then thematically analyzed. Results Our study showed a significant increase in SDL score on comparing students at year-1 with students at year-2 (p = 0.002). Both year-1 and 2 students rated PBL tutorial discussion and tutors had high influence on their individual learning; whereas, other curricular components such as lectures and testes had low influence on their SDL ability. PBL tutorial discussion and module objectives showed strong correlation with students’ SDL scores, r = 0.718 & r = 0.648 (p < 0.01), respectively. Besides, PBL tutorial discussion was found strongly correlated with tutors (r = 0.599 (p < 0.01)) and module objectives (r = 0.574 (p < 0.01)). Assessment was highly correlated with lectures (r = 0.595 (p < 0.01)). Findings from qualitative data showed that certain curricular components played role in promoting students’ SDL. Tutorials analyzing problems played a major role on students’ self-directed learning abilities. Conclusions Although the study implied that components of the hybrid curriculum, mainly PBL, could encourage preclinical students’ self-directed learning, the curriculum is still not free from teacher-centred culture as the majority of teachers still have high power in deciding the learning process. A further longitudinal study is needed to verify the actual level and ability of medical students’ SDL.

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 Indigenous Federation: The Case of Borana Oromo, Ethiopia

2017 ◽  
Vol 8 (1) ◽  
Author(s):  
Dejene Gemechu Chala
Keyword(s):  
Focus Group ◽  
Political System ◽  
Legal Framework ◽  
Focus Group Discussions ◽  
Group Discussions ◽  
Relative Autonomy ◽  
Governance Systems ◽  
Indigenous Governance ◽  
Democratic Political System

This article draws attention to the Borana Oromo gadaa system as an Indigenous federation. Gadaa is an Indigenous democratic political system used by the Oromo in which leaders are elected and their term in office is strictly fixed. Data for this research were generated through interviews, observations, and focus group discussions. The findings of this research indicate that the Borana have three gadaa councils at two levels: one at the center for the entire Borana and two named after two Borana clans. The later have relative autonomy under the cardinal law of the Borana gadaa. This structure has been serving as a means of managing conflict, maintaining internal unity, and ensuring better governance and power devolution. Finally, suggestions are made on how to support Indigenous governance systems, which in this case includes acknowledging the values and principles of the gadaa system, as well as designing a legal framework that retains and protects the integrity and legitimacy of the system.

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