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1 – 10 of 56This chapter explores the role that birdwatching plays in The Archers. It demonstrates some significant similarities between the way that birdwatching is portrayed in present-day…
Abstract
This chapter explores the role that birdwatching plays in The Archers. It demonstrates some significant similarities between the way that birdwatching is portrayed in present-day Ambridge, and the way it was presented in both fictional and non-fictional literature of the 1940s. These similarities suggest that birdwatching in Ambridge is an activity that tends to perpetuate traditional class and gender divisions. Particularly in terms of gender, this is a surprising discovery, given the many strong female characters in the show, and suggests that cultural assumptions about gender and birdwatching run deep in UK society today. The chapter warns that a failure to recognise these assumptions not only hampers the progress of women who aspire to be taken seriously as ornithologists, but also risks reinforcing dualistic thinking about humans and nature at a time when the environmental crisis makes it more important than ever to recognise the ecological interconnectedness of human and nonhuman worlds. However, the recent development of Kirsty Miller’s storyline, in which she is rediscovering her earlier love of the natural world, not only offers hope of a shift away from this traditional bias but also opens a space for a more nuanced examination of the importance of birds in human–nature relations.
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Vicky Standing, Colm Fearon and Tim Dee
In response to an increasingly high level of exclusion rates for boys within secondary school in the UK, this study seeks to explore the value of restorative practice and justice…
Abstract
Purpose
In response to an increasingly high level of exclusion rates for boys within secondary school in the UK, this study seeks to explore the value of restorative practice and justice for changing student behaviour.
Design/methodology/approach
As a piece of action research, the authors aimed to look at how methods of restorative practice could work with one student in a secondary school, following a whole school's move towards a personal responsibility charter. The focus of this research remained on the individual male subject, rather than the educational institution. It is based upon a process of reflecting upon key events that happened throughout the study. This research will use qualitative data gained from observing the student at school, as well as interview and written feedback from the subject himself and school staff. The paper is designed to offer real and informative insight into the value of restorative justice and practices.
Findings
Restorative practices had little overall impact on improving the subject's behaviour in school. He was able to have a mature discussion with an adult about the behaviour he was demonstrating. Nevertheless, when put back in the classroom situation he was unable to make a conscious decision to alter his negative behaviour. However, his skills in conferencing to resolve conflict were developed through the authors' involvement with him, as well as other school staff, and he was able to understand the school's new charter.
Originality/value
This paper contributes to restorative justice and practice literature and is insightful because of the action research approach taken.
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Tim Grayson, Yuet Hung Tsang, Dee Jolly, Kate Karban, Phillip Lomax, Claire Midgley, Ian O' Rouke, Caroline Paley, Jill Sinson, Kim Willcock and Paul Williams
This paper aims to discuss the experiences of a group of eight user and carer researchers from learning disability and mental health services who worked together in a research…
Abstract
Purpose
This paper aims to discuss the experiences of a group of eight user and carer researchers from learning disability and mental health services who worked together in a research project. The research was to find out about the changes that took place as over 300 people moved from hostel accommodation into independent tenancies. These moves were part of a three year project involving a partnership between a local authority and a housing association.
Design/methodology/approach
The evaluation was based on a model of user participation.
Findings
User involvement in research can mean different things with different levels of involvement, from consultation through to user‐controlled research. In this paper the authors discuss some of the challenges in doing this kind of evaluation study, as well as the opportunities that came from involving users and carers in the research. This includes how the researchers got involved and some of the activities they did.
Research limitations/implications
The authors also describe some of the difficulties that were faced, including payments and criminal record checks. The ways in which people were trained and supported to take part and stay involved are outlined as well as how the group feel that they have learnt new skills and increased their confidence.
Originality/value
This paper adds the voices of the co‐researchers to the literature and provides “lessons learned” for other researchers in this area.
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Reading the political and the familial in The Americans illuminates central features of the New Right. In particular, The Americans provides an opportunity to reconsider the…
Abstract
Reading the political and the familial in The Americans illuminates central features of the New Right. In particular, The Americans provides an opportunity to reconsider the significance of the ‘pro-family’ label to New Right organising, the importance of mothering to the ‘pro-family’ narrative offered by the New Right, and the relationship between this account of mothering and democratic citizenship more broadly. This paper argues: first, the ‘pro-family’ label served to weaponise American families against equality and egalitarian public institutions; second, that this weaponisation of the family was accomplished through a rhetorical and real elevation of the moralised work of mothers in the home; and third, this account of mothering is incompatible with democratic citizenship not only because it reproduces inequality but also because it presents families, particularly mothers, as surrounded by enemies. Surrounded by enemies, their children appear endangered or dangerous should they become products of enemy forces. The pro-family rhetoric of the New Right – with its emphasis on the labour of women, particularly mothers – concealed an insurgent factional bid for power just as the Jennings family concealed an insurgent operation inside the United States. The displacement of law in The Americans mirrors the displacement of law in American conservative politics in the 1980s and law’s replacement by the ideal of sanctified families that the guard republic. The Americans both recognises this reversal in American conservative politics and parodies the reversal of the idea that law protects the family.
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Entrepreneurial profits flow from differences in expectations between buyers and sellers regarding the future value of resources. This article investigates whether differences in…
Abstract
Entrepreneurial profits flow from differences in expectations between buyers and sellers regarding the future value of resources. This article investigates whether differences in expectations can be influenced by an entrepreneur to produce greater profits. It is argued that there are several points in the entrepreneurial process where such interventions can occur and that the use of these techniques should be associated with superior wealth creation. The article also explores the ethical implications of influencing stakeholders in this way.
Charquinta J. Mims and Brian H. Kleiner
Looks at the issue of homosexual harassment in the workplace. Defines sexual harassment according to the (US) Equal Employment Opportunity Commission guidelines. Provides some…
Abstract
Looks at the issue of homosexual harassment in the workplace. Defines sexual harassment according to the (US) Equal Employment Opportunity Commission guidelines. Provides some background history of traditional sexual harassment in the workplace, extending this, in the 1990s, to also encompass homosexual harassment. Describes what is meant by “quid pro quo” and “hostile working environment” harassment, providing examples of what would constitute unacceptable behaviour. Reports on the findings of some surveys of homosexual harassment in the workplace. Offers some helpful tips for employers to follow to prevent and/or protect against homosexual harassment occurring within their organization.
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Isaac Lyne, Chanrith Ngin and Emmanuel Santoyo-Rio
This paper critically assesses Western views on the social economy in contrast to everyday realities in a low-income country, and challenges ethnocentric epistemologies in the…
Abstract
Purpose
This paper critically assesses Western views on the social economy in contrast to everyday realities in a low-income country, and challenges ethnocentric epistemologies in the discourse of social enterprise and social entrepreneurship that is prevalent in international development. It charts the changing trajectory of the social economy and different influences.
Design/methodology/approach
Qualitative data is used to explore views of members of social enterprises in Northern Cambodia. Three enterprises with different characteristics were selected. Semi-structured interviews and a group discussion took place in each case, exploring motivation, values, empowerment, participation, equity, innovation and risk appetite.
Findings
The important roles social enterprises play in rural community development are sometimes at odds with the reasoning of Western development agencies. The social economy in Cambodia is undergoing change with the advancement of capitalist market forces. This suits formal businesses but could exacerbate the exclusion of various community actors.
Research limitations/implications
Three case studies are in close proximity in Northern Cambodia, and the situated dynamics may not transfer well to other contexts. Some limitations are offset by the selection of different types of social enterprises.
Practical implications
The study gives insights of value to the designers of programmes or projects to support social enterprise who work within international development agencies and non-government organisations. For academics, it offers critical insight into assumptions about social enterprise that emanate from Western management literature.
Originality/value
This paper meets the need for close-up inter-disciplinary work on social enterprise development in under-represented contexts.
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A random sample of UK veterinary practitioners was surveyed and interviewed on behalf of the Royal College of Veterinary Surgeons Wellcome Library to identify key issues in…
Abstract
A random sample of UK veterinary practitioners was surveyed and interviewed on behalf of the Royal College of Veterinary Surgeons Wellcome Library to identify key issues in veterinary information use (IU) and information seeking behaviour (ISB).1 A greater proportion of respondents used the Internet for veterinary information than used a veterinary library. However, conventional journals, textbooks and conferences were the main information sources used. Some variations in information source use by practice size and type and information type were identified. The majority of library users and non‐users wanted enhanced library access via the Internet, especially to full‐text journals.
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The following is an introductory profile of the fastest growing firms over the three-year period of the study listed by corporate reputation ranking order. The business activities…
Abstract
The following is an introductory profile of the fastest growing firms over the three-year period of the study listed by corporate reputation ranking order. The business activities in which the firms are engaged are outlined to provide background information for the reader.
Develops an original 12‐step management of technology protocol and applies it to 51 applications which range from Du Pont’s failure in Nylon to the Single Online Trade Exchange…
Abstract
Develops an original 12‐step management of technology protocol and applies it to 51 applications which range from Du Pont’s failure in Nylon to the Single Online Trade Exchange for Auto Parts procurement by GM, Ford, Daimler‐Chrysler and Renault‐Nissan. Provides many case studies with regards to the adoption of technology and describes seven chief technology officer characteristics. Discusses common errors when companies invest in technology and considers the probabilities of success. Provides 175 questions and answers to reinforce the concepts introduced. States that this substantial journal is aimed primarily at the present and potential chief technology officer to assist their survival and success in national and international markets.
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