Search results

1 – 10 of over 4000
Open Access
Article
Publication date: 20 October 2021

Kun-cheng Zhang, Xin-chang Guo, Shi-zheng Tian, Qi Cui, Mao-chong Shi and Pei-fang Guo

Many experts suggest that the human being explore marine resources and marine new energy sources to alleviate the shortage of land resources and the ecological degradation…

Abstract

Purpose

Many experts suggest that the human being explore marine resources and marine new energy sources to alleviate the shortage of land resources and the ecological degradation. However, island coastal zones are considered to be fragile ecosystems; their geographical location and natural characteristics, their biodiversity and associated ecosystems, and their exposure to diverse land and sea conditions all make them highly vulnerable to environmental changes and human activities. Therefore, it is necessary to achieve the goals of environmental protection and sustainable development on the basis of a comprehensive evaluation and understanding of islands.

Design/methodology/approach

Due to the importance of island groups, this paper conducts evaluation studies on them. Using the Delphi, AHP and TOPSIS methods, this study evaluated quantitatively the comprehensive development level and comprehensive development potential of island groups in terms of resources, natural environment, economy and society. Innovatively using them as two subsystems, the present study combined the coupling coordination model and the obstacle factor calculation method.

Findings

The prospective index of comprehensive development was applied to the Changdao Island Group in Yantai, Shandong Province as an example, and the final evaluation revealed that the comprehensive development prospect of this island group had an upward trend from 2010 to 2017. Future efforts should be made to improve its economic and social conditions and economic development status, apart from promoting its comprehensive development by improving human resources management, increasing the GDP growth rate, and improving fresh water and electricity supply.

Originality/value

This study takes the integrated development level of the island and the integrated development potential of the island as two subsystems, and the innovative application of the coupling coordination degree model is used to calculate the integrated development index of the island to understand the development status of the island area. On the basis of this model, the obstacle factor identification method is designed to identify the main obstacle factors, and on the basis of evaluation and identification, specific measures to ensure the sustainable development of the island area are effectively proposed.

Details

Marine Economics and Management, vol. 4 no. 2
Type: Research Article
ISSN: 2516-158X

Keywords

Open Access
Article
Publication date: 18 April 2022

Longzhen Ni, Liang Fang and Wenhui Chen

The aim of this study is to depict the spatial pattern of the development level of China's state-owned forest farms, thereby providing theoretical reference and empirical evidence…

Abstract

Purpose

The aim of this study is to depict the spatial pattern of the development level of China's state-owned forest farms, thereby providing theoretical reference and empirical evidence for the improvement of the corresponding development policies.

Design/methodology/approach

A development evaluation index system was established in this paper to comprehensively measure the development level of China's state-owned forest farms based on the Pressure-State-Response (PSR) model analysis framework and the actual situation of state-owned forest farms by using the entropy weight - technique for order preference by similarity to an ideal solution (entropy weight TOPSIS) evaluation method and exploratory spatial analysis method.

Findings

Studies show that the state-owned forest farms in China are generally not well developed. The pressure system that represents the input level displays an apparent restrictive effect on provinces whose comprehensive score <0.15. The response system, which represents development dynamism, has an apparent restrictive function on the provinces whose comprehensive score is 0.35. In terms of the specific spatial characteristics, the V-shape displayed by southwest–northwest and southeast–northwest has an inward trend of gradual reduction, with high-low agglomeration and low-low agglomeration correlation effects as well as apparent basin characteristics.

Originality/value

In this paper, the development level and spatial pattern of state-owned forest farms in China were accurately depicted, and the development path support and decision-making basis were provided for improving the overall development level of state-owned forest farms in China.

Open Access
Article
Publication date: 17 December 2019

Yin Kedong, Shiwei Zhou and Tongtong Xu

To construct a scientific and reasonable indicator system, it is necessary to design a set of standardized indicator primary selection and optimization inspection process. The…

1324

Abstract

Purpose

To construct a scientific and reasonable indicator system, it is necessary to design a set of standardized indicator primary selection and optimization inspection process. The purpose of this paper is to provide theoretical guidance and reference standards for the indicator system design process, laying a solid foundation for the application of the indicator system, by systematically exploring the expert evaluation method to optimize the index system to enhance its credibility and reliability, to improve its resolution and accuracy and reduce its objectivity and randomness.

Design/methodology/approach

The paper is based on system theory and statistics, and it designs the main line of “relevant theoretical analysis – identification of indicators – expert assignment and quality inspection” to achieve the design and optimization of the indicator system. First, the theoretical basis analysis, relevant factor analysis and physical process description are used to clarify the comprehensive evaluation problem and the correlation mechanism. Second, the system structure analysis, hierarchical decomposition and indicator set identification are used to complete the initial establishment of the indicator system. Third, based on expert assignment method, such as Delphi assignments, statistical analysis, t-test and non-parametric test are used to complete the expert assignment quality diagnosis of a single index, the reliability and validity test is used to perform single-index assignment correction and consistency test is used for KENDALL coordination coefficient and F-test multi-indicator expert assignment quality diagnosis.

Findings

Compared with the traditional index system construction method, the optimization process used in the study standardizes the process of index establishment, reduces subjectivity and randomness, and enhances objectivity and scientificity.

Originality/value

The innovation point and value of the paper are embodied in three aspects. First, the system design process of the combined indicator system, the multi-dimensional index screening and system optimization are carried out to ensure that the index system is scientific, reasonable and comprehensive. Second, the experts’ background is comprehensively evaluated. The objectivity and reliability of experts’ assignment are analyzed and improved on the basis of traditional methods. Third, aim at the quality of expert assignment, conduct t-test, non-parametric test of single index, and multi-optimal test of coordination and importance of multiple indicators, enhance experts the practicality of assignment and ensures the quality of expert assignment.

Details

Marine Economics and Management, vol. 2 no. 1
Type: Research Article
ISSN: 2516-158X

Keywords

Open Access
Article
Publication date: 4 October 2019

Peide Liu, Xiaoxiao Liu and Hongyu Yang

Accurately judging the quality of marine economic development is the premise of grasping the level and status of marine economic development. In order to scientifically evaluate…

Abstract

Purpose

Accurately judging the quality of marine economic development is the premise of grasping the level and status of marine economic development. In order to scientifically evaluate the development quality of regional marine economy, the purpose of this paper is to select the marine area of Qingdao as the research object, and construct a marine economic development quality evaluation index system with 16 indicators.

Design/methodology/approach

The raw data is normalized by the range conversion method, and the weight of the index is determined by the information entropy model. Further, the grey relational analysis (GRA) method is used to evaluate the quality of marine economic development of Qingdao from 2012 to 2017.

Findings

The results show that the marine economic development capacity of Qingdao is with the generally increasing trend, the total marine economy is with on the rising trend, the marine storage and transportation capacity, and marine ecological environment are first decreased, and then increased. The utilization of marine resources is generally decreasing, and the comprehensive management of oceans varies with the changes of environment and economy. Therefore, in view of the development capacity of marine economy, the coordinated development of economy and environment should be carried out.

Originality/value

This paper uses the GRA to evaluate the quality of marine economic development and provides a reference for the development of marine economy in Qingdao.

Details

Marine Economics and Management, vol. 2 no. 1
Type: Research Article
ISSN: 2516-158X

Keywords

Open Access
Article
Publication date: 5 May 2020

Mario Arturo Ruiz Estrada and Evangelos Koutronas

The purpose of this paper is to explore the concept of pensionomics as a prospective tool for pension evaluation. This paper suggests a paradigm shift – a multi-disciplinary…

1122

Abstract

Purpose

The purpose of this paper is to explore the concept of pensionomics as a prospective tool for pension evaluation. This paper suggests a paradigm shift – a multi-disciplinary synthesis of differing perspectives in evaluating pension’s overall performance based on past work on pension evaluation – incorporating non-economic variables with significant impact on economic growth and social development.

Design/methodology/approach

This paper suggests a new analytical tool called “Pensions Consistency (PC) Index” that identifies the level of consistency and the strengths and weaknesses within any pension system. The new conceptual framework focusses on building inter-sectoral and holistic policies able to respond to the new multi-dimensional dynamic environment.

Findings

The consideration of pensionomics concept as an evaluation tool for pension schemes provides insights that are helpful in explaining performance differentials. Taking definition, classification and evaluation as a guiding principle, the new conceptual framework can be a useful point of reference for the overall evaluation of pension schemes, revealing deficiencies that traditional evaluation methods cannot detect. The multi-disciplinary approach focusses on building inter-sectoral and holistic policies that are able to respond to the multi-dimensional uncertainties of the new dynamic environment.

Research limitations/implications

The heterogeneity and complexity in event dynamics are systemic in the sense that the impact is far from linear. The idiosyncratic nature of unexpected and unpredictable events is rather a result of multi-dimensionality based, among others, on magnitude, frequency, timing, intensity and impact. It is plausible to argue that crisis episodes can destabilize critical systems of economic activity, producing economic spillovers that can directly or indirectly affect the sustainability of pension schemes. If the calculation of direct economic impact is readily traceable, the estimation of indirect economic impact can be an onerous task.

Practical implications

Pensionomics places the concept of retirement in a multi-disciplinary context. Pensionomics overcomes theoretical and empirical limitations encountered by the path-dependency perspective, developing a new research agenda to study pension schemes under historical, cultural, social, political, economic, political and environmental prism. Integrating diversified data, techniques, perspectives and concepts, pensionomics’ objective is to connect natural and man-made events with social protection mechanisms for the development of a dynamic social protection framework where individual, community and society needs are met effectively and efficiently by implementing tailored policies, closely related to their specific context.

Social implications

The concept of retirement has evolved constantly, transforming societies and shaping both income and non-income dimensions of well-being. Pension entitlement turned gradually from a political discourse to a human right discourse. Pension schemes have extended the scope of insurance coverage beyond labour markets and the lifecycle, supporting the broader needs of entire population. Furthermore, pension schemes are widely acknowledged as drivers of economic growth: they enhance labour productivity; foster smooth consumption; and create a stable economic environment for investment and innovation. Current expectations require pension schemes to adopt proactive and reactive policies to examine options for mitigation or for modification of potential consequences in anticipation of exceptional events.

Originality/value

This paper suggests a paradigm shift, a multi-disciplinary approach called pensionomics, and this “multi-disciplinary” focus builds a new analytical framework to evaluate pension’s overall performance based on past work on pension evaluation, incorporating non-economic variables with significant impact on economic growth and social development. PC-Index introduces a comprehensive evaluation tool to study the coverage, performance, efficiency, effectiveness, current trends and future possibilities of pension schemes.

Details

Journal of Economics, Finance and Administrative Science, vol. 25 no. 49
Type: Research Article
ISSN: 2077-1886

Keywords

Open Access
Article
Publication date: 1 June 2016

Abbas Zare-ee, Zuraidah Mohd Don and Iman Tohidian

University students' ratings of teaching and teachers' performance are used in many parts of the world for the evaluation of faculty members at colleges and universities. Even…

Abstract

University students' ratings of teaching and teachers' performance are used in many parts of the world for the evaluation of faculty members at colleges and universities. Even though these ratings receive mixed reviews, there is little conclusive evidence on the role of the intervening variable of teacher and student gender in these ratings. Possible influences resulting from gender-related differences in different socio-cultural contexts, especially where gender combination in student and faculty population is not proportionate, have not been adequately investigated in previous research. This study aimed to examine Iranian university students' ratings of the professional performance of male and female university teachers and to explore the differences in male and female university students' evaluation of teachers of the same or opposite gender. The study was a questionnaire-based cross-sectional survey with a total of 800 randomly selected students in their different years of undergraduate study (307 male and 493 female students, reflecting the proportion of male and female students in the university) from different faculties at the University of Kashan, Iran. The participants rated male and female teachers’ performance in observing university regulations, relationship with colleagues, and relationships with students. The researchers used descriptive statistics, means comparison inferential statistics and focus-group interview data to analyze and compare the students’ ratings. The results of one-sample t-test, independent samples t-test, and Chi-square analyses showed that a) overall, male university teachers received significantly higher overall ratings in all areas than female teachers; b) male students rated male teachers significantly higher than female students did; and c) female students assigned a higher overall mean rating to male teachers than to female teachers but this mean difference was not significant. These results are studied in relation to the findings in the related literature and indicate that gender can be an important intervening variable in university students' evaluation of faculty members.

Details

Learning and Teaching in Higher Education: Gulf Perspectives, vol. 13 no. 1
Type: Research Article
ISSN: 2077-5504

Open Access
Article
Publication date: 17 December 2019

Aiwu Zhao, Hongjun Guan and Zhenzhen Sun

High-quality development of marine economy is a new concept put forward in response to the current national strategy in China. The purpose of this paper is to thoroughly…

1268

Abstract

Purpose

High-quality development of marine economy is a new concept put forward in response to the current national strategy in China. The purpose of this paper is to thoroughly understand the connotation and significance of high-quality development of marine economy through literature review, and further analyze the prospects for further research.

Design/methodology/approach

The authors first use the information visualization technology of CiteSpace to present a systematic review of the published literature from 2010 to 2019. Then, the authors analyze the researches on high-quality development of marine economy in terms of connotation, evaluation dimension, development path and guarantee mechanism.

Findings

Analysis results show that there is still insufficient understanding of the differences and links between the high-quality development of marine economy and the construction of marine power, intelligent ocean and transparent ocean.

Originality/value

Based on a thorough understanding of the subject, this paper puts forward the direction of further research on evaluation index system, path design scheme and policy system construction for high-quality development of marine economy.

Details

Marine Economics and Management, vol. 2 no. 2
Type: Research Article
ISSN: 2516-158X

Keywords

Open Access
Article
Publication date: 18 July 2022

Martin Robinson, Michelle Templeton, Carmel Kelly, David Grant, Katie Buston, Kate Hunt and Maria Lohan

Young incarcerated male offenders are at risk of poorer sexual health, adolescent parenthood and lack opportunities for formative relationship and sexuality education (RSE) as…

1338

Abstract

Purpose

Young incarcerated male offenders are at risk of poorer sexual health, adolescent parenthood and lack opportunities for formative relationship and sexuality education (RSE) as well as positive male role models. The purpose of this paper is to report the process of co-production and feasibility testing of a novel, gender-transformative RSE programme with young male offenders to encourage positive healthy relationships, gender equality, and future positive fatherhood.

Design/methodology/approach

Using a rights-based participatory approach, the authors co-produced an RSE programme with young offenders and service providers at two UK prison sites using a sequential research design of: needs analysis, co-production and a feasibility pilot. Core components of the programme are grounded in evidence-based RSE, gender-transformative and behaviour change theory.

Findings

A needs analysis highlighted the men’s interest in RSE along with the appeal of film drama and peer-group-based activities. In the co-production stage, scripts were developed with the young men to generate tailored film dramas and associated activities. This co-production led to “If I Were a Dad”, an eight-week programme comprising short films and activities addressing masculinities, relationships, sexual health and future fatherhood. A feasibility pilot of the programme demonstrated acceptability and feasibility of delivery in two prison sites. The programme warrants further implementation and evaluation studies.

Originality/value

The contribution of this paper is the generation of an evidence-based, user-informed, gender-transformative programme designed to promote SRHR of young male offenders to foster positive sexual and reproductive health and well-being in their own lives and that of their partners and (future) children.

Details

International Journal of Prisoner Health, vol. 19 no. 3
Type: Research Article
ISSN: 1744-9200

Keywords

Open Access
Article
Publication date: 24 February 2021

Xuemei Li, Shiwei Zhou, Kedong Yin and Huichao Liu

The purpose of this paper is to measure the high-quality development level of China's marine economy and analyze corresponding spatial and temporal distribution characteristic.

1371

Abstract

Purpose

The purpose of this paper is to measure the high-quality development level of China's marine economy and analyze corresponding spatial and temporal distribution characteristic.

Design/methodology/approach

Design and optimize the index system of high-quality development level of marine economy and use entropy and TOPSIS method for comprehensive evaluation.

Findings

The research finds that from 2017 to 2019, the high-quality development tendency of China's marine economy is on the rise, but the overall level is still low. The level of each subsystem has different distribution characteristics in different provinces and cities. Guangdong, Shandong and Shanghai have a high comprehensive level. According to the comprehensive level of high-quality development of marine economy, 11 coastal provinces are divided into three types: leading, general and backward.

Research limitations/implications

This paper clarifies the temporal and spatial distribution law of high-quality development level of China's marine economy, providing basis for promoting comprehensive and coordinated improvement of coastal provinces and cities.

Originality/value

An indicator system for the high-quality development level of the marine economy has been established, including social development guarantee, marine economic foundation, marine science and technology drive and green marine sustainability.

Details

Marine Economics and Management, vol. 4 no. 1
Type: Research Article
ISSN: 2516-158X

Keywords

Open Access
Article
Publication date: 28 February 2023

Alejandro Morales-Vargas, Rafael Pedraza-Jimenez and Lluís Codina

The field of website quality evaluation attracts the interest of a range of disciplines, each bringing its own particular perspective to bear. This study aims to identify the main…

5538

Abstract

Purpose

The field of website quality evaluation attracts the interest of a range of disciplines, each bringing its own particular perspective to bear. This study aims to identify the main characteristics – methods, techniques and tools – of the instruments of evaluation described in this literature, with a specific concern for the factors analysed, and based on these, a multipurpose model is proposed for the development of new comprehensive instruments.

Design/methodology/approach

Following a systematic bibliographic review, 305 publications on website quality are examined, the field's leading authors, their disciplines of origin and the sectors to which the websites being assessed belong are identified, and the methods they employ characterised.

Findings

Evaluations of website quality tend to be conducted with one of three primary focuses: strategic, functional or experiential. The technique of expert analysis predominates over user studies and most of the instruments examined classify the characteristics to be evaluated – for example, usability and content – into factors that operate at different levels, albeit that there is little agreement on the names used in referring to them.

Originality/value

Based on the factors detected in the 50 most cited works, a model is developed that classifies these factors into 13 dimensions and more than 120 general parameters. The resulting model provides a comprehensive evaluation framework and constitutes an initial step towards a shared conceptualization of the discipline of website quality.

Details

Journal of Documentation, vol. 79 no. 7
Type: Research Article
ISSN: 0022-0418

Keywords

1 – 10 of over 4000