Volume 5, Issue 4, October 2012 Edition
The Communication Impact on the Productivity Growth of Human Resources
Ioan Bordean and Daniela Monica Robu
Abstract
In the work process the communication plays an essential role in any system that assumes the existence of an information flow that enables its operation as a whole. Communication is vital, it enables the organization's performance. The features and complexity of human resource are tricky for managers of all levels, so their management is an important aspect of the enterprise. Successful initiation and development of various organizations’ activities dependent overwhelmingly on the degree to which it is understood, motivated and coordinated the human factor. The quality and functionality of communication depends on how resources are used and the organization's goals are achieved. None of the managerial functions can exist without communication; they assume complex activities and decisions, which are, by definition, activities of information processing.
Key words:communication; information flow; organizational relationships; motivation; performance
Effects of Interdependence and Social Interaction-Based Person-Team Fit
David J. Glew
Abstract
The match between employees and their vocations, jobs and organizations has been the focus of the majority of past person-environment fit research. The compatibility between individuals and their work team environments is a more recently recognized, but much less studied, type of fit. Person-team fit is conceptualized here along two fundamental dimensions of team environments: interdependence and social interaction. Results from a study involving 209 cross-functional team members indicate that person-team fit has an impact on satisfaction, commitment, trust and performance.
Key words:person-team fit; work teams; interdependence
Unlocking the Black Box: Exploring the Link Between High-Performance Work Systems and Performance
Jake G. Messersmith and Pankaj C. Patel
Abstract
With a growing body of literature linking systems of high-performance work practices to organizational performance outcomes, recent research has pushed for examinations of the underlying mechanisms that enable this connection. In this study, based on a large sample of Welsh public-sector employees, we explored the role of several individual-level attitudinal factors—job satisfaction, organizational commitment, and psychological empowerment—as well as organizational citizenship behaviors that have the potential to provide insights into how human resource systems influence the performance of organizational units. The results support a unit-level path model, such that department-level, high-performance work system utilization is associated with enhanced levels of job satisfaction, organizational commitment, and psychological empowerment. In turn, these attitudinal variables were found to be positively linked to enhanced organizational citizenship behaviors, which are further related to a second-order construct measuring departmental performance.
Key words:high-performance work systems, organizational citizenship behavior, job satisfaction, organizational commitment, empowerment
The Disconnect Between Green Marketing And Green Consumption: A Case Study Of Kisii County, Kenya
Fred Ongisa
Abstract
The purpose of this paper is to analyse the link or lack of it between green marketing and green consumerism in Kenya. The paper examines the concepts of green marketing, green purchasing and green consumerism in order to identify the disconnect between the theory and practice. The study found that consumers pay little attention to eco-labelling, eco-advertising. To this end, product characteristics such as recyclability and easy disposal are rarely considered when making purchases. There are few studies on the role both consumers and firms Kenya can play towards sustainable development. It is the intention of this paper to inform a debate on Kenya’s place towards global green economy.
Key words:green purchasing; green consumption; green marketing; sustainable development
Parental Perception of the Teaching of Sex Education to Adolescent in Secondary School in Cross River State, Nigeria
Elizabeth G. Akpama
Abstract
This study was an ex-post facto research, design to determine parental perception of the teaching of introducing sex education to adolescents in secondary schools in Cross River State, as the area of study. Two null hypotheses were formulated on the basis of the identified major independent variables of nature of parental perception and parental literacy status. A 15-item questionnaire was developed, validated and tested for reliability. It was then administered to 400 respondents (parents – 200 male, 200 female) from 20 churches in the entire state (7 churches from central, 7 from south and 6 from north senatorial districts). The sample was selected by stratified cluster and simple random procedure. Data was analysed using the independent t-test. Results revealed that parental perception of the teaching of sex education to adolescents in secondary schools is significantly negative; no significant difference exists between literate and illiterate parents in their perception of the teaching of sex education to adolescents in secondary schools. It was concluded that parental perception of the teaching of sex education to adolescents in secondary schools is generally negative in Cross River State. Some recommendations were enhanced as the way forward.
Key words:Adolescents, Education, Parents, Perception, School, Secondary, Teaching
The Use of Augmented Reality Pop-Up Book to Increase Motivation in English Language Learning For National Primary School
Nor Nashirah Nor Mahadzir1 and Li Funn Phung
Abstract
This research study describes the use of Augmented Reality (AR) as an emerging form of experience in which the real world is enhanced by computer-generated content. AR pop-up books for instance will help students bridge the gap between the digital and physical world. Students are able to use the AR pop-up book as the primary interface, changing perspective or direction by moving the book through their webcam where a marker detection which is a two-dimensional patterns to carry information that are attached to the book page. AR technology is adopted in this research study because it has the potential to motivate and support students in English language learning. In learning a second language, research has established that it is utmost important that students receive maximum support in terms of supportive and conducive learning environment. The AR pop-up book is developed using ZooBurst tool and the design is incorporated with a problem solving approach which is Keller’s ARCS model: Attention, Relevance, Confidence, and Satisfaction. The development process is enhanced using Keller’s ARCS model of motivational design. The result of the study is obtained from observations of Year One primary school students using the AR pop-up book and followed by semi-structured interview.
Key words:ARCS model, ARCS model of motivational design, Augmented Reality pop-up book, English language learning, Motivation
''A Pierced Bottle leaks not!?'' the Heuristic-branched out e-model of animated ''Science School'' in Year 4
Slavoljub Hilcenko
Abstract
Animated learning types have proven their superiority over the traditional forms of learning. Do we know of any child who does not like to watch animated films? For such content one needs not to be further encouraged! In the same light, it is a rewarding form of learning in primary grades. If we upgrade this form of learning with direct manipulation of animated objects and we present it in the context of heuristic branched out e-model of learning, we can extend its educational purposes and its foundation. The purpose of this paper is to present the heuristic branched out e-model of learning applied to animated films with direct manipulation of animated content. Our assumption is that the presented example of an animated scientific task ''Science School'' will also encourage and develop pupils’ functional thinking skills, and as a model (approach) it is also applicable to all curriculum areas in the first grades of primary school.
Key words:Animated film, heuristic branched out e-model of learning, direct manipulation with animated content, motivation + wide applicability, functional thinking skills
Influence of the Academic Library on US University Reputation: A Webometric Approach
Enrique Orduña-Malea and John J. Regazzi
Abstract
A previous study conducted through a survey of academic libraries at 100 US universities with the highest total expenditures on academic libraries according to data presented by the National Center for Education Statistics (NCES). The results pointed out an unexpectedly weak correlation among web variables, concluding that the complex online structure of US academic libraries was the main driver of this effect. The present study replicates this research applying the same web indicators but at the university level, to check whether the weak compactness among web indicators persists. Additionally, the percentage (in terms of web data) of academic libraries at universities is analyzed. Finally, the correlation among web and economic indicators (research expenditures, student population, and reputational rank position) for universities is calculated to check for a possible relationship. Results confirm a strong correlation among university web indicators. Otherwise, the strength of academic libraries at universities is moderate in terms of page count, but weak in terms of visits. Finally, the correlation among university web indicators and research expenditures depends on student population.
Key words:university rankings; academic libraries; United States; webometric techniques; spending indicators
The Communication Impact on the Productivity Growth of Human Resources
Ioan Bordean and Daniela Monica Robu
Abstract
In the work process the communication plays an essential role in any system that assumes the existence of an information flow that enables its operation as a whole. Communication is vital, it enables the organization's performance. The features and complexity of human resource are tricky for managers of all levels, so their management is an important aspect of the enterprise. Successful initiation and development of various organizations’ activities dependent overwhelmingly on the degree to which it is understood, motivated and coordinated the human factor. The quality and functionality of communication depends on how resources are used and the organization's goals are achieved. None of the managerial functions can exist without communication; they assume complex activities and decisions, which are, by definition, activities of information processing.
Key words:communication; information flow; organizational relationships; motivation; performance
 [Abstract-PDF]
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[References]
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5.4.10.2012.1
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Effects of Interdependence and Social Interaction-Based Person-Team Fit
David J. Glew
Abstract
The match between employees and their vocations, jobs and organizations has been the focus of the majority of past person-environment fit research. The compatibility between individuals and their work team environments is a more recently recognized, but much less studied, type of fit. Person-team fit is conceptualized here along two fundamental dimensions of team environments: interdependence and social interaction. Results from a study involving 209 cross-functional team members indicate that person-team fit has an impact on satisfaction, commitment, trust and performance.
Key words:person-team fit; work teams; interdependence
| [Abstract-PDF]
|
[References]
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5.4.10.2012.2
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Unlocking the Black Box: Exploring the Link Between High-Performance Work Systems and Performance
Jake G. Messersmith and Pankaj C. Patel
Abstract
With a growing body of literature linking systems of high-performance work practices to organizational performance outcomes, recent research has pushed for examinations of the underlying mechanisms that enable this connection. In this study, based on a large sample of Welsh public-sector employees, we explored the role of several individual-level attitudinal factors—job satisfaction, organizational commitment, and psychological empowerment—as well as organizational citizenship behaviors that have the potential to provide insights into how human resource systems influence the performance of organizational units. The results support a unit-level path model, such that department-level, high-performance work system utilization is associated with enhanced levels of job satisfaction, organizational commitment, and psychological empowerment. In turn, these attitudinal variables were found to be positively linked to enhanced organizational citizenship behaviors, which are further related to a second-order construct measuring departmental performance.
Key words:high-performance work systems, organizational citizenship behavior, job satisfaction, organizational commitment, empowerment
| [Abstract-PDF]
|
[References]
|
5.4.10.2012.3
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The Disconnect Between Green Marketing And Green Consumption: A Case Study Of Kisii County, Kenya
Fred Ongisa
Abstract
The purpose of this paper is to analyse the link or lack of it between green marketing and green consumerism in Kenya. The paper examines the concepts of green marketing, green purchasing and green consumerism in order to identify the disconnect between the theory and practice. The study found that consumers pay little attention to eco-labelling, eco-advertising. To this end, product characteristics such as recyclability and easy disposal are rarely considered when making purchases. There are few studies on the role both consumers and firms Kenya can play towards sustainable development. It is the intention of this paper to inform a debate on Kenya’s place towards global green economy.
Key words:green purchasing; green consumption; green marketing; sustainable development
| [Abstract-PDF]
|
[References]
|
5.4.10.2012.4
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Parental Perception of the Teaching of Sex Education to Adolescent in Secondary School in Cross River State, Nigeria
Elizabeth G. Akpama
Abstract
This study was an ex-post facto research, design to determine parental perception of the teaching of introducing sex education to adolescents in secondary schools in Cross River State, as the area of study. Two null hypotheses were formulated on the basis of the identified major independent variables of nature of parental perception and parental literacy status. A 15-item questionnaire was developed, validated and tested for reliability. It was then administered to 400 respondents (parents – 200 male, 200 female) from 20 churches in the entire state (7 churches from central, 7 from south and 6 from north senatorial districts). The sample was selected by stratified cluster and simple random procedure. Data was analysed using the independent t-test. Results revealed that parental perception of the teaching of sex education to adolescents in secondary schools is significantly negative; no significant difference exists between literate and illiterate parents in their perception of the teaching of sex education to adolescents in secondary schools. It was concluded that parental perception of the teaching of sex education to adolescents in secondary schools is generally negative in Cross River State. Some recommendations were enhanced as the way forward.
Key words:Adolescents, Education, Parents, Perception, School, Secondary, Teaching
| [Abstract-PDF]
|
[References]
|
5.4.10.2012.5
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The Use of Augmented Reality Pop-Up Book to Increase Motivation in English Language Learning For National Primary School
Nor Nashirah Nor Mahadzir1 and Li Funn Phung
Abstract
This research study describes the use of Augmented Reality (AR) as an emerging form of experience in which the real world is enhanced by computer-generated content. AR pop-up books for instance will help students bridge the gap between the digital and physical world. Students are able to use the AR pop-up book as the primary interface, changing perspective or direction by moving the book through their webcam where a marker detection which is a two-dimensional patterns to carry information that are attached to the book page. AR technology is adopted in this research study because it has the potential to motivate and support students in English language learning. In learning a second language, research has established that it is utmost important that students receive maximum support in terms of supportive and conducive learning environment. The AR pop-up book is developed using ZooBurst tool and the design is incorporated with a problem solving approach which is Keller’s ARCS model: Attention, Relevance, Confidence, and Satisfaction. The development process is enhanced using Keller’s ARCS model of motivational design. The result of the study is obtained from observations of Year One primary school students using the AR pop-up book and followed by semi-structured interview.
Key words:ARCS model, ARCS model of motivational design, Augmented Reality pop-up book, English language learning, Motivation
| [Abstract-PDF]
|
[References]
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5.4.10.2012.6
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''A Pierced Bottle leaks not!?'' the Heuristic-branched out e-model of animated ''Science School'' in Year 4
Slavoljub Hilcenko
Abstract
Animated learning types have proven their superiority over the traditional forms of learning. Do we know of any child who does not like to watch animated films? For such content one needs not to be further encouraged! In the same light, it is a rewarding form of learning in primary grades. If we upgrade this form of learning with direct manipulation of animated objects and we present it in the context of heuristic branched out e-model of learning, we can extend its educational purposes and its foundation. The purpose of this paper is to present the heuristic branched out e-model of learning applied to animated films with direct manipulation of animated content. Our assumption is that the presented example of an animated scientific task ''Science School'' will also encourage and develop pupils’ functional thinking skills, and as a model (approach) it is also applicable to all curriculum areas in the first grades of primary school.
Key words:Animated film, heuristic branched out e-model of learning, direct manipulation with animated content, motivation + wide applicability, functional thinking skills
| [Abstract-PDF]
|
[References]
|
5.4.10.2012.7
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Influence of the Academic Library on US University Reputation: A Webometric Approach
Enrique Orduña-Malea and John J. Regazzi
Abstract
A previous study conducted through a survey of academic libraries at 100 US universities with the highest total expenditures on academic libraries according to data presented by the National Center for Education Statistics (NCES). The results pointed out an unexpectedly weak correlation among web variables, concluding that the complex online structure of US academic libraries was the main driver of this effect. The present study replicates this research applying the same web indicators but at the university level, to check whether the weak compactness among web indicators persists. Additionally, the percentage (in terms of web data) of academic libraries at universities is analyzed. Finally, the correlation among web and economic indicators (research expenditures, student population, and reputational rank position) for universities is calculated to check for a possible relationship. Results confirm a strong correlation among university web indicators. Otherwise, the strength of academic libraries at universities is moderate in terms of page count, but weak in terms of visits. Finally, the correlation among university web indicators and research expenditures depends on student population.
Key words:university rankings; academic libraries; United States; webometric techniques; spending indicators
| [Abstract-PDF]
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[References]
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5.4.10.2012.8
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