Sustainability and Technology Diffusion in Small, Isolated Communities in the Developing World: an Applied Ethnographic Study

Developing countries have placed information and communication technologies (ICTs) high on their national development agenda. The assumed model has been one in which ICTs are the means to deliver an information society, which is itself a means to economic and social development. Anthropologists theorize that small, isolated communities with limited local expertise innovate and adopt more sophisticated technologies as a reaction to perceived survival risk and to enable risk-buffering. We view the adoption and evolution of Information and Communication Technology (ICT) in remote communities in the developing world as a continuation of this anthropologic process. In our Research-in-Progress paper, we describe how we plan to use Applied Ethnography to produce a more granular understanding of the complex social, cultural and political dynamics that constrain or enable ICT interventions within small remote communities in the developing world. We will add to the body of knowledge by investigating how individual’s attitudes towards technology are influenced by their prior experience of high profile ICT projects such as One Laptop per Child. Our results will inform the discipline and provide avenues for future research

Improving Research Practices through User Insights of Qualitative and Mixed Methods Data Analysis Technology

This study examined current social science qualitative and mixed methods research practices in the adoption and use of data management and analysis technology with three questions: 1) who uses technology for qualitative and mixed methods data analysis? 2) what can be learned by knowing who these researchers are? and, 3) how might current perceptions inform improvements in future research practices? A mixed methods design encompassed a two-stage process for data gathering. A select group of international experts in the use of technology were recruited. Feedback from the experts informed the refinement of a survey instrument which was distributed to participants representing 29 countries (n=355). Results from the study identified a critical need for the combination of greater technological and methodological support from universities. Such support and advanced research training can enhance our understandings that technological confidence should not be confused with methodological competence. This call for improved methodological training in the appropriate use of digital tools in turn will benefit educational research quality and the teaching of higher education research

Students and Social Networking Sites: A Model of Inappropriate Posting

Social networking sites have become one of the most widely used social media applications, especially among college students. Unfortunately, students often post content on these sites which could be viewed as inappropriate. This is especially true when considering that employers now use social networking sites to perform background checks on job candidates. Although research has shown that students are aware employers may be viewing their profiles, they continue to post inappropriate content despite the possible negative consequences. This “posting paradox” needs to be examined so we can better understand the factors behind the phenomenon. Towards that goal, this paper draws on existing research to propose a new model of inappropriate posting. The model describes how time to graduation, online image concern, privacy concern, and trust in technology affect a student’s decision to post inappropriate content. After developing the model, the paper ends with a discussion of areas for future research

Don't Blame the Software: Using Qualitative Data Analysis Software Successfully in Doctoral Research

In this article, we explore the learning experiences of doctoral candidates as they use qualitative data analysis software (QDAS). Of particular interest is the process of adopting technology during the development of research methodology. Using an action research approach, data was gathered over five years from advanced doctoral research candidates and supervisors. The technology acceptance model (TAM) was then applied as a theoretical analytic lens for better understanding how students interact with new technology. Findings relate to two significant barriers which doctoral students confront: 1. aligning perceptions of ease of use and usefulness is essential in overcoming resistance to technological change; 2. transparency into the research process through technology promotes insights into methodological challenges. Transitioning through both barriers requires a competent foundation in qualitative research. The study acknowledges the importance of higher degree research, curriculum reform and doctoral supervision in post-graduate research training together with their interconnected relationships in support of high-quality inquiry. URN: http://nbn-resolving.de/urn:nbn:de:0114-fqs160311

Online Social Networking across cultures: an exploration of divergent and common practices

Building on the authors' prior studies that investigate uses and perceptions of online social networks, this study critically explores the emerging social networking culture. In doing so, the research seeks to identify possible constructs that can be use

Introduzione alla matematica finanziaria

This paper discusses the application of qualitative theory in finance research. Six qualitative theoretical orientations are presented to demonstrate a range of philosophical perspectives which a researcher may consider when conducting qualitative inquiry. Finance examples are provided for applied ethnography, content analysis, social constructivism, grounded theory, systems theory, and critical change theory. By aligning and bringing theory into practice, researchers engaged in qualitative inquiry may investigate specific social actions so as to make credible sense of complex circumstances

The Importance of liminal space for doctoral success : exploring methodological threshold concepts

10 page(s