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Article
Publication date: 16 February 2015

Danielle Dimitrov

The purpose of this paper is to explore the way leadership influences an organization to become humane through its features and behaviors; as well as the organizational…

3943

Abstract

Purpose

The purpose of this paper is to explore the way leadership influences an organization to become humane through its features and behaviors; as well as the organizational circumstances in which humane leadership can be nurtured. The first empirical case study, in the fields of Human Resource Development (HRD) and hospitality management, to explore the way employees from different national cultures (as measured by their individualistic/collectivistic values), in a US-based hotel, perceive their workplace to be a humane organization (HO), as defined by Chalofsky (2008), was the one made by Dimitrov (2009, 2010). More specifically, the example set by leadership in the studied hospitality organization is the focus of the present descriptive manuscript. The importance of HRD concepts such as the HO for the academic study and practical development of leadership in organizations is significant, through the effects leadership has on employee satisfaction and engagement at the workplace.

Design/methodology/approach

The exploratory research mentioned above used a single embedded case study with 17 participants, selected via purposeful convenience sampling, who represented management, supervisory and professional line-level employees from a culturally diverse full-service hotel in a major metropolitan area. The instrument of Singelis et al. (1995) for horizontal and vertical individualism (I) and collectivism (C), as well as the instrument of Triandis and Singelis (1998) for I and C, was applied to every respondent to determine their cultural belonging. One-on-one interviews, written reflections and documentary analysis, as well as observations of the social and physical aspects of the participants’ workplace, were conducted.

Findings

Five leadership sub-themes were observed to the general theme “Setting the Example” of the study’s findings: company values for leadership styles and employee treatment; the legacy of one charismatic leader (the previous general manager); leader–follower communication; how the workplace feels intrinsically; and how the work environment becomes negative. The study led to the formation of two new characteristics of the HO (Dimitrov, 2009), of which one could be recommended as the main focus of leadership in an HO: being cognizant and understanding of individuals as human beings, not just as employees. The traits and behaviors of some modern leadership theories such as authentic leadership, transformational leadership and charismatic leadership were combined under the concept – humane leadership.

Research limitations/implications

The research of more culturally diverse organizations in different counties, brand cultures and economic sectors, under various research methodologies, and in the context of classical and recent leadership theories, was recommended to establish further weather I and C employees’ expectations of their leadership would make a difference for the sustenance of an HO.

Practical implications

Furthermore, organizations and HRD practitioners are encouraged to invest more time, efforts and resources into leadership development programs that create such humane leadership skills and prepare quality leaders who are well-perceived and trusted by their culturally diverse workforce.

Originality/value

The importance of HRD concepts such as the HO for the academic study and practical development of leadership in organizations is significant, through the effects leadership has on employee satisfaction and engagement at the workplace. Humane leaders can be nurtured in a humane organizational culture.

Details

European Journal of Training and Development, vol. 39 no. 2
Type: Research Article
ISSN: 2046-9012

Keywords

Abstract

Details

Pedagogies of Possibility for Negotiating Sexuality Education with Young People
Type: Book
ISBN: 978-1-78769-743-0

Article
Publication date: 31 July 2009

Thomas Crocker, Owen Johnson and Stephen King

The purpose of this paper is to examine the suitability of current care pathway modelling techniques for supporting business improvement and the development of information…

620

Abstract

Purpose

The purpose of this paper is to examine the suitability of current care pathway modelling techniques for supporting business improvement and the development of information systems. This is in the light of current UK government policies advocating the use of care pathways as part of the £12.4 billion programme for Information Technology and as a key strategy to reducing waiting times.

Design/methodology/approach

A qualitative analysis of the variety in purpose, syntax and semantics in a selection of existing care pathways is conducted.

Findings

Care pathways are typically modelled in an ad hoc manner with little reference to formal syntax or semantics.

Research limitations/implications

The research reviews a small selection of existing pathways. The feature set used for evaluation could be further refined. Future research should examine the suitability of applying existing process modelling techniques to care pathways and explore the motivations for modelling care pathways in an ad hoc manner.

Practical implications

The development of care pathways can aid process improvement and the integration of information systems. However, while syntax and semantics are not standardised the impact of care pathways in the work of Department of Health agencies, in particular Connecting for Health, is likely to be limited.

Originality/value

The results provide insight into the limitations of the state of the art in care pathway models. This highlights a significant omission in the Department of Health's approach and identifies an important direction for further development that will aid Connecting for Health, healthcare organisations and healthcare professionals to deliver more effective services.

Details

Transforming Government: People, Process and Policy, vol. 3 no. 3
Type: Research Article
ISSN: 1750-6166

Keywords

Book part
Publication date: 8 June 2020

Mhemooda Malek and Simon Newitt

This chapter aims to give an overview of key mental health policy and service provision, highlighting the need for specific attention to Black and minority ethnic children and…

Abstract

This chapter aims to give an overview of key mental health policy and service provision, highlighting the need for specific attention to Black and minority ethnic children and young people. The focus is on mental health provision in the UK provided through the statutory sector and the voluntary and community sector, the issues raised are likely to have resonance across wider geographic locations. The themes examined include: the relevance of terminology regarding race and ethnicity and related impact on the planning and provision of services; the extent to which policy and commissioning of services give due focus and attention to the mental health of Black and minority ethnic children and young people; views young people themselves have contributed on the issue; and a case study illustrating work being undertaken to redress some of the imbalances encountered by young people in accessing appropriate support. The chapter argues that the supply chain to young people receiving support that is relevant and appropriate to their needs is a long and complex one. It is fundamental to take a holistic approach and consider how the components of this chain impact specifically on the mental health of children and young people from Black and minority ethnic communities.

Child and adolescent mental health services (CAMHS) – This term refers to all services that work with children and young people to address their behavioural and emotional wellbeing needs. The services may be provided by the National Health Service (NHS), local authority, school, private sector or charitable organisation and span early intervention support through to specialist treatment.

Care Quality Commission – The independent regulator of health and social care services in England.

Commissioning – The process by which health services are procured and should be based on an up-to-date assessment and understanding of needs of the target population.

Co-production – A process for planning and delivery of health and social care services that involves partnership working and power sharing between those responsible for the planning and provision of services, service users, their family members, carers and other citizens.

National Service Framework – Ten year programmes that, until the health and social care reforms started in 2010, defined standards of care in the NHS including measurable goals within set timeframes.

Population Needs Assessments – The collection and study of relevant data to understand and estimate current and future needs of a population in order to inform the planning of services that meet identified needs.

Voluntary and Community Sector – Also referred to as the Third Sector and encompassing a diverse range of organisations, services and groups that are seen as distinct from the public (also referred to as statutory) and private sectors.

Youth Information, Advice and Counselling Services (YIACS) – Most YIACS have charitable status and provide services to young people on a range of issues, a key feature associated with YIACS is the provision of holistic, young person centred support provided under one roof.

Article
Publication date: 1 April 2005

Hana M. Kanan

The purpose of this research study was to examine the role perceptions of superintendents and their supervisors in Palestine regarding the roles and training needs of…

1004

Abstract

Purpose

The purpose of this research study was to examine the role perceptions of superintendents and their supervisors in Palestine regarding the roles and training needs of superintendents. It was part of a larger study conducted by the Department of Administration and Educational Leadership at Teachers College, Columbia University.

Design/methodology/approach

A grounded theory approach was used in this study. Data were collected by interviewing 16 superintendents and four general directors using guided qualitative interviews, in addition to examining Ministry of Education documents and archival data.

Findings

The grounded theory approach analysis revealed that superintendents and general directors held variant perceptions regarding the roles and training needs of superintendents. Most superintendents felt they were ill prepared for the job and had to rely on the Ministry of Education for support and direction. They perceived their role as a combination of educational managers and educational leaders. Their supervisors, however, perceived them as keepers of the status quo. The findings showed that superintendents in countries similar to Palestine (newly emerging) appear to experience problems similar to their counterparts in other transitional societies.

Originality/value

The findings of this research are important to new educational systems. It shows clearly the difficulties experienced by superintendents in a newly emerging system. Furthermore, superintendents in such systems may require training needs different than their counterparts in developed systems. The findings are discussed in terms of their relevancy and contributions to educational leadership theory.

Details

Journal of Educational Administration, vol. 43 no. 2
Type: Research Article
ISSN: 0957-8234

Keywords

Article
Publication date: 1 October 2004

Hilary Brown

This paper provides a brief overview of abuse and protection, with a particular focus on women with learning disabilities. Women with learning disabilities face double oppression…

Abstract

This paper provides a brief overview of abuse and protection, with a particular focus on women with learning disabilities. Women with learning disabilities face double oppression at the intersection of gender and disability, which makes them particularly vulnerable to sexual violence and exploitation. The paper reviews some useful models of abuse, to guide practice and frame further research. It also reflects guidance issued by the Department of Health in 2000 (No Secrets), which has resulted in a coherent framework for use throughout local authorities and other statutory agencies to address abuse against all vulnerable adults.

Details

Tizard Learning Disability Review, vol. 9 no. 4
Type: Research Article
ISSN: 1359-5474

Article
Publication date: 1 March 2010

Beverly B. Ray and Cynthia Lee A. Pemberton

This study explored perspectives of secondary social studies teachers, who reported using live media broad-casts to engage students in an examination of terrorism on 9/11…

Abstract

This study explored perspectives of secondary social studies teachers, who reported using live media broad-casts to engage students in an examination of terrorism on 9/11. Specifically, this study queried these teachers’ perceptions of preparedness on 9/11 to engage it as a learning event. Respondents (N=29) in one Mid-Atlantic state who were teaching in secondary social studies classrooms on September 11, 2001 (9/11), were asked to reflect on their level of preparedness to adapt and implement real-time teaching to address unfolding events. A Wilcoxon Signed Ranks Test for matched pairs revealed that respondents’ current perceptions of self-efficacy to teach about an unfolding terrorist act were positively modified by their experiences teaching about terrorism on 9/11 [Z = -4.507, p <.001 (two tailed)]. Respondents reported gains in confidence to teach about terrorism because of their teaching experiences on 9/11. Results add to the small knowledge base on the topic, even as they highlight the need for further research on the classroom response to 9/11.

Article
Publication date: 5 March 2018

Estella W. Chizhik, Alexander W. Chizhik, Catherine Close and Margaret Gallego

The researchers developed a model of mentoring student teachers, known as Shared Mentoring in Learning Environments (SMILE), to provide opportunities for classroom teachers to…

Abstract

Purpose

The researchers developed a model of mentoring student teachers, known as Shared Mentoring in Learning Environments (SMILE), to provide opportunities for classroom teachers to build shared understanding with university field supervisors. The purpose of this paper is to compare teaching efficacy of those student teachers who matriculated through the SMILE approach with mentoring student teachers who matriculated through a traditional approach to mentoring and identifying aspects of SMILE that may have contributed to the development of teacher efficacy.

Design/methodology/approach

A total of 29 student teachers participated in the SMILE model of supporting student teaching, and 29 student teachers (comparison group) were provided with a traditional support structure. At the start and end of their one-year post-baccalaureate credential program, all student teachers completed a teaching efficacy questionnaire. During the last month of the teacher-credential program, all student teachers were interviewed in focus groups regarding the quality of their student-teaching mentoring. In addition, the researchers asked classroom teachers in the SMILE cohort to complete a questionnaire, identifying specific strengths and weaknesses of the SMILE model of mentoring student teachers.

Findings

Student teachers in the SMILE cohort improved their teaching efficacy in comparison with student teachers in a traditional model of support. SMILE student teachers appreciated critical feedback, while the comparison group participants focused on whether feedback was positive or negative. In addition, SMILE student teachers attributed their development of instructional skills to the mentoring process from classroom teachers and university supervisors, while comparison group participants attributed their development as teachers mainly to their classroom teachers who modeled effective instructional strategies. SMILE classroom teachers made reference to how particular aspects of the model (e.g. sequencing and lesson study) contributed to both student- and mentor-teacher development.

Originality/value

The SMILE approach to mentoring student teachers facilitated collaboration between university field supervisors and classroom teachers in joint mentoring of future teachers into their profession, a rare occurrence in teacher education programs. Joint mentoring led to improved teaching efficacy among student teachers.

Details

International Journal of Mentoring and Coaching in Education, vol. 7 no. 1
Type: Research Article
ISSN: 2046-6854

Keywords

Article
Publication date: 6 November 2009

Fariborz Rahimnia, Yiannis Polychronakis and John M. Sharp

The purpose of this paper is to develop a comprehensive framework for assessing impeders of strategy implementation in a higher education context through an in‐depth analysis of a…

Abstract

Purpose

The purpose of this paper is to develop a comprehensive framework for assessing impeders of strategy implementation in a higher education context through an in‐depth analysis of a higher education institution in Iran.

Design/methodology/approach

A semi‐structured interview is employed with senior academic staff and managers in a particular university.

Findings

The main impeders of strategy implementation within the university as the case organisation and are found to be grouped into five main areas: planning consequences, organisational, individual, managerial and environmental. The nature and reasons for the impeders are explained and finally an analytical framework is developed.

Research limitations/implications

The paper, through the use of how and why questions during interviews, highlighted a framework which provides an in‐depth understanding of impeders. The paper's results have implications for other universities in Iran and indeed the Middle East. However, a limitation of this paper is that the results are exploratory only, given that the paper is carried out in only one Iranian university.

Practical implications

This paper provides a valuable basis for discussion on the impeders of strategy implementation. Moreover, the results of the research can be used as guidance for managers and academic staff at the strategy implementation stage in the higher education sector.

Originality/value

The findings of the paper highlight the relevant impeders of strategy implementation within a higher education environment that will be of interest to those in this field, particularly those working in Iranian universities.

Details

Education, Business and Society: Contemporary Middle Eastern Issues, vol. 2 no. 4
Type: Research Article
ISSN: 1753-7983

Keywords

Book part
Publication date: 1 June 2011

Liliana Mina

I elected to be guided by Alexander Astin's (1984, 1985, 1993) theory of student involvement in examining the experiences of first-generation African-American women in the…

Abstract

I elected to be guided by Alexander Astin's (1984, 1985, 1993) theory of student involvement in examining the experiences of first-generation African-American women in the technology-driven classroom because it is one of the most used and time-tested theory in the college student development literature (Pascarella & Terenzini, 2005). Astin's theory has established that students learn by becoming involved with their peers and instructors in educationally purposeful activities. Given the onslaught of technology-driven teaching and learning practices and the literature that supports the importance of learning through interaction, examining their interactivity with the course content, faculty, and peers is an important topic to research.

Details

Support Systems and Services for Diverse Populations: Considering the Intersection of Race, Gender, and the Needs of Black Female Undergraduates
Type: Book
ISBN: 978-0-85724-943-2

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