Volume 1, Issue 4, October 2008 Edition
Technology Change Management in the Department of Higher Education,
State of Madhya Pradesh, India
Kishor John
Abstract
The main purpose of this study is to provide a rationale for the process of change and how change is implemented in reference to technology change management (TCM) in Department of Higher Education in State of Madhya Pradesh (i.e. a State of the Republic of India). This study evaluates the steps taken by the department to bring technology change in the field of higher education. This case study based on the primary data collected from 10 government colleges of Indore Division, information has been collected from the colleges through structured questionnaire and the data further been validated through personal interview of the employees. After analyzing the collected data some inferences and suggestions have been drawn to tackle technology change management in the higher education sector. A major finding shows that TCM has been implemented forcibly, but TCM has brought excellence into the department.
Key words: e-governance, higher education, human resource management, technology change management, Madhya Pradesh (India)
Use of Indigenous Knowledge as a Strategy for Climate Change Adaptation among Farmers in sub-Saharan Africa: Implications for Policy
E. N. Ajani1, R. N. Mgbenka and M. N. Okeke
Abstract
The study discusses use of indigenous knowledge as a strategy for climate change adaptation among farmers in sub-Saharan Africa. The local farmers in this region through the indigenous knowledge systems have developed and implemented extensive adaptation strategies that have enabled them reduce vulnerability to climate variability and change over the years. However, this knowledge is rarely taken into consideration in the design and implementation of modern mitigation and adaptation strategies. This paper highlights some indigenous adaptation strategies that have been practiced in sub- Saharan Africa and the benefits of integrating such indigenous knowledge into formal climate change adaptation strategies. The study recommends the need to incorporate indigenous knowledge into climate change policies that can lead to the development of effective adaptation strategies that are cost-effective, participatory and sustainable.
Key words: Indigenous; knowledge; adaptation; strategy; climate change; farmers; sub- Saharan Africa
A Comparative Study of Students Performance in Technology based Theory and Practical Subjects in Nigerian Universities
Uwaifo, V.O
Abstract
It is usually believed by most employers of labor that university graduates in the practical based program in Nigeria lack enough practical potentials and capabilities required to contend with the demand of the labor force, this according to them is because less emphasis is placed on practices compared to their knowledge in theory during their training programs. This study attempt to investigate the relationship between the students’ theory and practical performance in Technology based subjects of students in the Ambrose Alli University, Ekpoma, Nigeria. The sample consisted of 75 students. Using the Pearson Product Moment Correlation Coefficient, the Coefficient of Correlation obtained are 0.61, 0.52, 0.44, for Technical Drawing, Metal-Work Technology and Wood-Work Technology subjects respectively, as a result of which the null hypotheses were rejected. The result showed that there is a statistically significant relationship between students’ theory and practical performance. Thus the theory knowledge acquired by the students has influenced their performances in the practical exercises. In the light of this, it is suggested that more of this type of study should be done to constantly bridge the gap between theory and practice at all levels of our educational endeavor.
Key words: Technology education, technology theory and practice
Autonomy, Conformity and Organizational Learning
Nobuyuki Hanaki and Hideo Owan
Abstract
There is often said to be a tension between the two types of organizational learning activities, exploration and exploitation. The argument goes that the two activities are substitutes, competing for scarce resources when firms need different capabilities and management policies. We present another explanation, attributing the tension to the dynamic interactions among search, knowledge sharing, evaluation and alignment within organizations. Our results show that successful organizations tend to bifurcate into two types: those that always promote individual initiatives and build organizational strengths on individual learning and those good at assimilating the individual knowledge base and exploiting shared knowledge. Straddling the two types often fails. The intuition is that an equal mixture of individual search and assimilation slows down individual learning, while at the same time making it difficult to update organizational knowledge because individuals’ knowledge base is not sufficiently homogenized. Straddling is especially inefficient when the operation is sufficiently complex or when the business environment is sufficiently turbulent.
Key words: organizational learning; exploration; exploitation; complexity; turbulence; NK landscape; ambidexterity
Relationship between Leadership and Characteristics of Learning Organizations in Deployed Military Units: An Exploratory Study
Raffaella Di Schiena, Geert Letens, Eileen Van Aken, and Jennifer Farris
Abstract
Previous research has shown that military units operating in the context of risky missions display the characteristics of a Learning Organization. The present work provides preliminary exploratory evidence about the association between Learning Organization characteristics and leadership styles used by military leaders in the field. Based on the literature, we hypothesized that higher Learning Organization characteristics would be associated with a more transformational style of leadership that inspires followers. With this purpose, the five characteristics of a Learning Organization as defined by Peter Senge (Systems Thinking, Team Learning, Shared Vision, Mental Models, and Personal Mastery) and leadership styles as defined by the multifactor leadership model of Bass and Avolio (Transformational, Transactional, and Passive-Avoidant), were measured among commanding officers who had recently served in a mission abroad. Associations with organizational outcomes (Extra-Effort, Effectiveness, and Satisfaction) were also investigated for both Learning Organization characteristics and leadership styles. The correlations showed that Learning Organization characteristics were highly related to Transformational leadership dimensions, and also with Transactional leadership based on Contingent Rewards; meanwhile no association was found with a Passive-Avoidant leadership. Organizational outcomes were also related to Transformational leadership, Contingent Rewards and to various characteristics of a Learning Organization. Implications of these results, as well as avenues for future research, are also discussed.
Key words: leadership; military; learning organization
Functional Perspectives on Emotion, Behavior, and Cognition
Heather C. Lench, Kathleen E. Darbor and Logan A. Berg
Abstract
This Editorial reviews the challenges and advantages posed by a functional perspective on the relationships among emotion, behavior, and cognition. We identify the core themes among the articles published as part of this Special Issue. The articles generally address two important questions: (1) are emotions functional and what is their impact on behavioral and cognitive processes, and (2) how do the interactions among emotion, cognition, and behavior play out in particular situations that present adaptive challenges? We also identify two core questions raised by the articles included in this Special Issue. Future research must address the extent to which emotions are best represented as discrete emotional constructs (e.g., anger, sadness, fear) versus emotions that vary along dimensions, such as valence and arousal. Functional perspectives would also be facilitated by identification of situations or environments that are likely to elicit particular emotions and reactions.
Key words: emotion; behavior; cognition; functional perspectives
Community Perceptions of Air Pollution and Related Health Risks in Nairobi Slums
Thaddaeus Egondi , Catherine Kyobutungi, Nawi Ng, Kanyiva Muindi, Samuel Oti, Steven van de Vijver, Remare Ettarh, and Joacim Rocklöv
Abstract
Air pollution is among the leading global risks for mortality and responsible for increasing risk for chronic diseases. Community perceptions on exposure are critical in determining people’s response and acceptance of related policies. Therefore, understanding people’ perception is critical in informing the design of appropriate intervention measures. The aim of this paper was to establish levels and associations between perceived pollution and health risk perception among slum residents. A cross-sectional study of 5,317 individuals aged 35+ years was conducted in two slums of Nairobi. Association of perceived score and individual characteristics was assessed using linear regression. Spatial variation in the perceived levels was determined through hot spot analysis using ArcGIS. The average perceived air pollution level was higher among residents in Viwandani compared to those in Korogocho. Perceived air pollution level was positively associated with perceived health risks. The majority of respondents were exposed to air pollution in their place of work with 66% exposed to at least two sources of air pollution. Less than 20% of the respondents in both areas mentioned sources related to indoor pollution. The perceived air pollution level and related health risks in the study community were low among the residents indicating the need for promoting awareness on air pollution sources and related health risks.
Key words: perceived air quality; air pollution; perceived health risk; urban slum
Youth Gang Members: Psychiatric Disorders and Substance Use
Toi Blakley Harris, Sara Elkins, Ashley Butler, Matthew Shelton, Barbara Robles, Stephanie Kwok, Sherri Simpson, Dennis W. Young, Amy Mayhew, Ayanna Brown, and Albert John Sargent
Abstract
Approximately 260,000 of youth in the United States are gang-affiliated. There is a paucity of data available to identify the prevalence of mental health disorders in this population. Gang members share many of the features of “at risk” or juvenile justice involved youth who deny gang membership. The authors identified rates of psychiatric disorders within a juvenile justice population delineated in three categories: gang members, friends of gang members, and non-gang members. Methods: A retrospective review of records obtained by a juvenile probation department. A large detention center conducted mental health screenings on 7,615 youth aged 13–17. The mental health screenings were performed by either a master level or doctoral level mental health professional. Odds ratios were computed as an effect size for gender, race/ethnic differences, and gang-membership associations with self-reported psychiatric and substance use disorders. Logistic regression was used to evaluate the risk for psychiatric and substance use disorders among gang-members and friends of gang members. Diagnostic information was generated through a clinical interview and flexible battery. Results: Of the 7,615 youth in this study, ~50% had contact with gangs; 11% were self-identified gang-members, and 38% acknowledged having at least one friendship with a gang member. Similar to other studies, being male was a risk-factor for gang-membership (2.31 odds). In this multi-racial and ethnic study, Latinos had a greater affiliation with gang membership and association with gang members as friends (1.44 odds). Gang members were found to have increased rates of post-traumatic stress disorder (1.77 odds), current substance abuse (2.58 odds), oppositional defiant disorder, (1.24 odds) and conduct disorder (4.05 odds); however, they were less likely to have an adjustment disorder than non-gang members (0.70 odds). Conclusions: Juveniles who received a mental health assessment in this study were found to have differences in rates of psychiatric disorders and substance use based upon gang-affiliation or association. Current data is limited and inconsistent in the delineation of individual, family, peer, school and community characteristics specific to gang members. These differences warrant further investigation for intervention and treatment.
Key words: youth gang; mental health; substance use
Kishor John
Abstract
The main purpose of this study is to provide a rationale for the process of change and how change is implemented in reference to technology change management (TCM) in Department of Higher Education in State of Madhya Pradesh (i.e. a State of the Republic of India). This study evaluates the steps taken by the department to bring technology change in the field of higher education. This case study based on the primary data collected from 10 government colleges of Indore Division, information has been collected from the colleges through structured questionnaire and the data further been validated through personal interview of the employees. After analyzing the collected data some inferences and suggestions have been drawn to tackle technology change management in the higher education sector. A major finding shows that TCM has been implemented forcibly, but TCM has brought excellence into the department.
Key words: e-governance, higher education, human resource management, technology change management, Madhya Pradesh (India)
 [Abstract-PDF]
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[References]
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1.4.10.2008.1
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Use of Indigenous Knowledge as a Strategy for Climate Change Adaptation among Farmers in sub-Saharan Africa: Implications for Policy
E. N. Ajani1, R. N. Mgbenka and M. N. Okeke
Abstract
The study discusses use of indigenous knowledge as a strategy for climate change adaptation among farmers in sub-Saharan Africa. The local farmers in this region through the indigenous knowledge systems have developed and implemented extensive adaptation strategies that have enabled them reduce vulnerability to climate variability and change over the years. However, this knowledge is rarely taken into consideration in the design and implementation of modern mitigation and adaptation strategies. This paper highlights some indigenous adaptation strategies that have been practiced in sub- Saharan Africa and the benefits of integrating such indigenous knowledge into formal climate change adaptation strategies. The study recommends the need to incorporate indigenous knowledge into climate change policies that can lead to the development of effective adaptation strategies that are cost-effective, participatory and sustainable.
Key words: Indigenous; knowledge; adaptation; strategy; climate change; farmers; sub- Saharan Africa
| [Abstract-PDF]
|
[References]
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1.4.10.2008.2
|
A Comparative Study of Students Performance in Technology based Theory and Practical Subjects in Nigerian Universities
Uwaifo, V.O
Abstract
It is usually believed by most employers of labor that university graduates in the practical based program in Nigeria lack enough practical potentials and capabilities required to contend with the demand of the labor force, this according to them is because less emphasis is placed on practices compared to their knowledge in theory during their training programs. This study attempt to investigate the relationship between the students’ theory and practical performance in Technology based subjects of students in the Ambrose Alli University, Ekpoma, Nigeria. The sample consisted of 75 students. Using the Pearson Product Moment Correlation Coefficient, the Coefficient of Correlation obtained are 0.61, 0.52, 0.44, for Technical Drawing, Metal-Work Technology and Wood-Work Technology subjects respectively, as a result of which the null hypotheses were rejected. The result showed that there is a statistically significant relationship between students’ theory and practical performance. Thus the theory knowledge acquired by the students has influenced their performances in the practical exercises. In the light of this, it is suggested that more of this type of study should be done to constantly bridge the gap between theory and practice at all levels of our educational endeavor.
Key words: Technology education, technology theory and practice
| [Abstract-PDF]
|
[References]
|
1.4.10.2008.3
|
Autonomy, Conformity and Organizational Learning
Nobuyuki Hanaki and Hideo Owan
Abstract
There is often said to be a tension between the two types of organizational learning activities, exploration and exploitation. The argument goes that the two activities are substitutes, competing for scarce resources when firms need different capabilities and management policies. We present another explanation, attributing the tension to the dynamic interactions among search, knowledge sharing, evaluation and alignment within organizations. Our results show that successful organizations tend to bifurcate into two types: those that always promote individual initiatives and build organizational strengths on individual learning and those good at assimilating the individual knowledge base and exploiting shared knowledge. Straddling the two types often fails. The intuition is that an equal mixture of individual search and assimilation slows down individual learning, while at the same time making it difficult to update organizational knowledge because individuals’ knowledge base is not sufficiently homogenized. Straddling is especially inefficient when the operation is sufficiently complex or when the business environment is sufficiently turbulent.
Key words: organizational learning; exploration; exploitation; complexity; turbulence; NK landscape; ambidexterity
| [Abstract-PDF]
|
[References]
|
1.4.10.2008.4
|
Relationship between Leadership and Characteristics of Learning Organizations in Deployed Military Units: An Exploratory Study
Raffaella Di Schiena, Geert Letens, Eileen Van Aken, and Jennifer Farris
Abstract
Previous research has shown that military units operating in the context of risky missions display the characteristics of a Learning Organization. The present work provides preliminary exploratory evidence about the association between Learning Organization characteristics and leadership styles used by military leaders in the field. Based on the literature, we hypothesized that higher Learning Organization characteristics would be associated with a more transformational style of leadership that inspires followers. With this purpose, the five characteristics of a Learning Organization as defined by Peter Senge (Systems Thinking, Team Learning, Shared Vision, Mental Models, and Personal Mastery) and leadership styles as defined by the multifactor leadership model of Bass and Avolio (Transformational, Transactional, and Passive-Avoidant), were measured among commanding officers who had recently served in a mission abroad. Associations with organizational outcomes (Extra-Effort, Effectiveness, and Satisfaction) were also investigated for both Learning Organization characteristics and leadership styles. The correlations showed that Learning Organization characteristics were highly related to Transformational leadership dimensions, and also with Transactional leadership based on Contingent Rewards; meanwhile no association was found with a Passive-Avoidant leadership. Organizational outcomes were also related to Transformational leadership, Contingent Rewards and to various characteristics of a Learning Organization. Implications of these results, as well as avenues for future research, are also discussed.
Key words: leadership; military; learning organization
| [Abstract-PDF]
|
[References]
|
1.4.10.2008.5
|
Functional Perspectives on Emotion, Behavior, and Cognition
Heather C. Lench, Kathleen E. Darbor and Logan A. Berg
Abstract
This Editorial reviews the challenges and advantages posed by a functional perspective on the relationships among emotion, behavior, and cognition. We identify the core themes among the articles published as part of this Special Issue. The articles generally address two important questions: (1) are emotions functional and what is their impact on behavioral and cognitive processes, and (2) how do the interactions among emotion, cognition, and behavior play out in particular situations that present adaptive challenges? We also identify two core questions raised by the articles included in this Special Issue. Future research must address the extent to which emotions are best represented as discrete emotional constructs (e.g., anger, sadness, fear) versus emotions that vary along dimensions, such as valence and arousal. Functional perspectives would also be facilitated by identification of situations or environments that are likely to elicit particular emotions and reactions.
Key words: emotion; behavior; cognition; functional perspectives
| [Abstract-PDF]
|
[References]
|
1.4.10.2008.6
|
Community Perceptions of Air Pollution and Related Health Risks in Nairobi Slums
Thaddaeus Egondi , Catherine Kyobutungi, Nawi Ng, Kanyiva Muindi, Samuel Oti, Steven van de Vijver, Remare Ettarh, and Joacim Rocklöv
Abstract
Air pollution is among the leading global risks for mortality and responsible for increasing risk for chronic diseases. Community perceptions on exposure are critical in determining people’s response and acceptance of related policies. Therefore, understanding people’ perception is critical in informing the design of appropriate intervention measures. The aim of this paper was to establish levels and associations between perceived pollution and health risk perception among slum residents. A cross-sectional study of 5,317 individuals aged 35+ years was conducted in two slums of Nairobi. Association of perceived score and individual characteristics was assessed using linear regression. Spatial variation in the perceived levels was determined through hot spot analysis using ArcGIS. The average perceived air pollution level was higher among residents in Viwandani compared to those in Korogocho. Perceived air pollution level was positively associated with perceived health risks. The majority of respondents were exposed to air pollution in their place of work with 66% exposed to at least two sources of air pollution. Less than 20% of the respondents in both areas mentioned sources related to indoor pollution. The perceived air pollution level and related health risks in the study community were low among the residents indicating the need for promoting awareness on air pollution sources and related health risks.
Key words: perceived air quality; air pollution; perceived health risk; urban slum
| [Abstract-PDF]
|
[References]
|
1.4.10.2008.7
|
Youth Gang Members: Psychiatric Disorders and Substance Use
Toi Blakley Harris, Sara Elkins, Ashley Butler, Matthew Shelton, Barbara Robles, Stephanie Kwok, Sherri Simpson, Dennis W. Young, Amy Mayhew, Ayanna Brown, and Albert John Sargent
Abstract
Approximately 260,000 of youth in the United States are gang-affiliated. There is a paucity of data available to identify the prevalence of mental health disorders in this population. Gang members share many of the features of “at risk” or juvenile justice involved youth who deny gang membership. The authors identified rates of psychiatric disorders within a juvenile justice population delineated in three categories: gang members, friends of gang members, and non-gang members. Methods: A retrospective review of records obtained by a juvenile probation department. A large detention center conducted mental health screenings on 7,615 youth aged 13–17. The mental health screenings were performed by either a master level or doctoral level mental health professional. Odds ratios were computed as an effect size for gender, race/ethnic differences, and gang-membership associations with self-reported psychiatric and substance use disorders. Logistic regression was used to evaluate the risk for psychiatric and substance use disorders among gang-members and friends of gang members. Diagnostic information was generated through a clinical interview and flexible battery. Results: Of the 7,615 youth in this study, ~50% had contact with gangs; 11% were self-identified gang-members, and 38% acknowledged having at least one friendship with a gang member. Similar to other studies, being male was a risk-factor for gang-membership (2.31 odds). In this multi-racial and ethnic study, Latinos had a greater affiliation with gang membership and association with gang members as friends (1.44 odds). Gang members were found to have increased rates of post-traumatic stress disorder (1.77 odds), current substance abuse (2.58 odds), oppositional defiant disorder, (1.24 odds) and conduct disorder (4.05 odds); however, they were less likely to have an adjustment disorder than non-gang members (0.70 odds). Conclusions: Juveniles who received a mental health assessment in this study were found to have differences in rates of psychiatric disorders and substance use based upon gang-affiliation or association. Current data is limited and inconsistent in the delineation of individual, family, peer, school and community characteristics specific to gang members. These differences warrant further investigation for intervention and treatment.
Key words: youth gang; mental health; substance use
| [Abstract-PDF]
|
[References]
|
1.4.10.2008.8
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