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Article
Publication date: 3 August 2020

Conor Gilligan, Therese Shaw, Shelley Beatty, Laura Thomas, Karen Louise Lombardi and Robyn Susanne Johnston

Alcohol use by adults at school events and alcohol promotion through school fundraising activities is common, but little is known about secondary school parents' attitudes towards…

Abstract

Purpose

Alcohol use by adults at school events and alcohol promotion through school fundraising activities is common, but little is known about secondary school parents' attitudes towards these practices. Parental attitudes may influence principals' decision-making on this topic, particularly in jurisdictions where education department guidance is limited. This study explored parents' attitudes towards the consumption or promotion of alcohol in schools or at school events.

Design/methodology/approach

Parents (n = 298) from five non-government secondary schools in Western Australia completed an online survey and provided responses relating to the promotion and availability of alcohol through their child's school.

Findings

This sample of parents were evenly divided in support of alcohol consumption or support of schools as alcohol-free zones. Parents reporting higher alcohol consumption were more supportive of alcohol promotion and use through schools, and those with higher education supported use of alcohol for school fundraising. Almost 20% of parents were neutral on several measures indicating they could be swayed by social pressure. Engaging parents is an ongoing challenge for school principals and alcohol may play a part in engagement activities. The results from this small, exploratory study suggest even engaged parents may have very differing views on alcohol use in schools.

Practical implications

Education departments are encouraged to explore these issues carefully and introduce changes incrementally to assist decision-making and minimise potential parent disengagement.

Originality/value

This paper addresses a knowledge gap about parents' attitudes towards alcohol in secondary schools. These findings can support those involved in the development of school alcohol policies.

Details

Health Education, vol. 120 no. 3
Type: Research Article
ISSN: 0965-4283

Keywords

Open Access
Article
Publication date: 19 February 2018

Bríd D. Dunne, Katie Robinson and Judith Pettigrew

This paper aims to examine the relationship between psychiatry and occupational therapy in Ireland through a case study of the development of the occupational therapy department…

3317

Abstract

Purpose

This paper aims to examine the relationship between psychiatry and occupational therapy in Ireland through a case study of the development of the occupational therapy department in St. Patrick’s Hospital, Dublin, from 1935 to 1969. Patronage by psychiatrists was an important factor in the professionalisation of occupational therapy internationally.

Design/methodology/approach

Documentary sources and oral history interviews were analysed to conduct an instrumental case study of occupational therapy at St. Patrick’s Hospital from 1935 to 1969.

Findings

The research identified key individuals associated with the development of occupational therapy at St. Patrick’s Hospital, including psychiatrist Norman Moore, occupational therapy worker Olga Gale, occupational therapist Margaret Sinclair, and social therapist Irene Violet Grey. Occupational therapy was considered by the hospital authorities to be “an important part in the treatment of all types of psychiatric illness” (Board Meeting Minutes, 1956). It aimed to develop patient’s self-esteem and facilitate social participation. To achieve these objectives, patients engaged in activities such as dances, arts and crafts, and social activities.

Originality/value

This study has highlighted the contributions of key individuals, identified the links between occupational therapy and psychiatry, and provided an insight into the development of the profession in Ireland prior to the establishment of occupational therapy education in 1963. Occupational therapy practice at St. Patrick’s Hospital from 1935 to 1969 was congruent with the prevailing philosophy of occupational therapy internationally, which involved treatment through activities to enhance participation in society.

Details

Irish Journal of Occupational Therapy, vol. 46 no. 1
Type: Research Article
ISSN: 2398-8819

Keywords

Article
Publication date: 2 October 2009

Orly Shapira‐Lischshinsky

The purpose of this paper is to identify the factors that may reduce teachers' intent to leave. The paper examines differences between Israeli male and female teachers in their…

Abstract

Purpose

The purpose of this paper is to identify the factors that may reduce teachers' intent to leave. The paper examines differences between Israeli male and female teachers in their perceived organizational justice, perceived organizational commitment, and intent to leave work.

Design/methodology/approach

Participants are 1,016 school teachers from 35 high schools in Israel. Series of mixed‐model regression analyses are used to test for mediated relationships.

Findings

Multilevel analysis reveals that among female teachers, organizational commitment (affective and normative) fully mediated the relationship between intent to leave and distributive justice (fairness regarding employee outcomes), whereas among male teachers this relationship is only partially mediated. The negative relationship between intent to leave and procedural justice (fairness regarding procedures) is higher among females than among males.

Research limitations/implications

Although some precautions are used, the self‐reported measures may likely reflect same‐source bias, calling for further safeguards in future studies.

Practical implications

Schools should become aware of differences between male and female teachers' perceptions and should build an equitable school climate that considers fair rewards, opportunities, and programs to increase teachers' commitment and reduce their intent to leave.

Originality/value

This paper sheds light on the possible reasons for male and female teachers' turnover intentions through examining teachers' justice perceptions and their work commitment.

Details

Gender in Management: An International Journal, vol. 24 no. 7
Type: Research Article
ISSN: 1754-2413

Keywords

Article
Publication date: 4 July 2016

Mary Prendergast

This paper aims to explore the challenges facing Irish organisations in the training and development of non-Irish workers. It analyses the importance of fluency in the host…

Abstract

Purpose

This paper aims to explore the challenges facing Irish organisations in the training and development of non-Irish workers. It analyses the importance of fluency in the host country’s language and the approach taken by organisations in relation to language training. In-depth semi-structured interviews provide significant insights for the policies and practices of multiple stakeholders.

Design/methodology/approach

The empirical research comprised 33 in-depth interviews conducted with employers, employees, trade unions and regulatory bodies, and an objective content analysis provided insights into the challenges Irish organisations face in the training and development of non-Irish workers.

Findings

The results indicate that Irish organisations are given little advice or support regarding the development of non-Irish workers. The study concludes that organisations should re-consider current approaches to cultural diversity training and development of these workers, prioritising the provision of English language training for these workers. The study maintains that an understanding of cultural differences is a vital component in the training of this cohort of workers.

Research limitations/implications

Further research is required in this area. This could include an investigation into the levels of transfer of learning upon completion of training programmes for non-Irish workers, and an evaluation of the understanding of cultural learning styles among trainers.

Practical implications

Learning and development (L&D) initiatives are dependent on English language supports, which will ultimately be central to the successful training and development of non-Irish workers, and provision of affordable high-quality English language classes is crucial. An understanding of cultural differences, diversity and inclusion is equally important if this cohort of workers is to thrive in an Irish working environment.

Social implications

The government's role must be considered a priority, assisting organisations in relation to their strategies for L&D.

Originality/value

There has been a paucity of research on the issue of L&D for migrant workers in an Irish context. This paper contributes to the discussion and provides guidelines for employers and opinions for policymakers.

Details

European Journal of Training and Development, vol. 40 no. 6
Type: Research Article
ISSN: 2046-9012

Keywords

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