publisher:("University of Bedfordshire")

1. Ramkissoon, Sharvaani Devi. A pedagogically-informed model of Massive Open Online Courses (MOOCS) for Mauritian higher education.

Degree: PhD, 2017, University of Bedfordshire

URL: http://hdl.handle.net/10547/622698

► The purpose of this research was to determine how MOOCs (Massive Open Online Courses) can be introduced and implemented in Higher Education institutions in Mauritius.… (more)

▼ The purpose of this research was to determine how MOOCs (Massive Open Online Courses) can be introduced and implemented in Higher Education institutions in Mauritius. The study explored the perspectives of students, teachers and educational leaders using an exploratory case study approach, and involved the implementation of short MOOC-based courses in three areas of higher education in Mauritius. While much of the existing literature on MOOCs has used quantitative data to explore patterns of enrolment and retention, this study explicitly focused on student experience, and used Garrison, Anderson and Archer’s (2000) Community of Inquiry (COI) model to explore patterns of ‘presence’ and pedagogical preferences and needs of learners. In order to explore how these preferences, together with other contextual factors might affect the adoption of MOOCs in Mauritius, Venkatesh and Davis’s (2000) Technology Acceptance Model2 (TAM2) was used. The COI and TAM2 models were used both as analytical frameworks, but also to develop a new composite model that also can function as a boundary object (Bowker and Star, 1999; Fox, 2011) enabling different stakeholders to understand each other’s needs and expectations and communicate better with each other. For Mauritian learners, teaching presence in online environments is of critical importance: this is reflected in different scenarios of MOOC implementation identified, and in a proposed staged model for MOOC adoption across the HE sector in Mauritius. This involves further pilots and preliminary research (stage 1), integration of MOOCs into practice (stage 2), customisation and development of MOOCs (stage 3) and a MOOC for Mauritius (stage 4), with each stage informing the implementation of subsequent stages as part of a broad action research framework. The original contributions made by the research to the knowledge base of its possible audiences include: providing models of practice for teachers and educational leaders; informing the educational leaders and policy makers about how MOOCs can be successfully implemented in Mauritius; providing detailed case studies on MOOCs to the academic audience interested in MOOCs specifically; and proposing a new composite, pedagogically-informed, technology acceptance model to those academics who are interested in online pedagogy and technology acceptance. The results of this PhD research can also inform the introduction and effective implementation of MOOCs in other less-economically developed countries.

Subjects/Keywords: 378.1; online pedagogy; technology acceptance models; MOOCs; massive open online courses; e-learning; boundary object; X300 Academic studies in Education

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APA (6^th Edition):

Ramkissoon, S. D. (2017). A pedagogically-informed model of Massive Open Online Courses (MOOCS) for Mauritian higher education. (Doctoral Dissertation). University of Bedfordshire. Retrieved from http://hdl.handle.net/10547/622698

Chicago Manual of Style (16^th Edition):

Ramkissoon, Sharvaani Devi. “A pedagogically-informed model of Massive Open Online Courses (MOOCS) for Mauritian higher education.” 2017. Doctoral Dissertation, University of Bedfordshire. Accessed April 21, 2021. http://hdl.handle.net/10547/622698.

MLA Handbook (7^th Edition):

Ramkissoon, Sharvaani Devi. “A pedagogically-informed model of Massive Open Online Courses (MOOCS) for Mauritian higher education.” 2017. Web. 21 Apr 2021.

Vancouver:

Ramkissoon SD. A pedagogically-informed model of Massive Open Online Courses (MOOCS) for Mauritian higher education. [Internet] [Doctoral dissertation]. University of Bedfordshire; 2017. [cited 2021 Apr 21]. Available from: http://hdl.handle.net/10547/622698.

Council of Science Editors:

Ramkissoon SD. A pedagogically-informed model of Massive Open Online Courses (MOOCS) for Mauritian higher education. [Doctoral Dissertation]. University of Bedfordshire; 2017. Available from: http://hdl.handle.net/10547/622698

2. Aleem, Sadia. Bereavement in childhood and the role of attachment.

Degree: PhD, 2018, University of Bedfordshire

URL: http://hdl.handle.net/10547/622704

► The purpose of this research was to utilise attachment theory in understanding the experience of bereavement in childhood. Research objectives were addressed by using a… (more)

▼ The purpose of this research was to utilise attachment theory in understanding the experience of bereavement in childhood. Research objectives were addressed by using a mixed method design. Study One explored how experience of bereavement in childhood relates to current attachment style in adulthood. This was a qualitative interview-based study utilising thematic analysis and a quantitative assessment of attachment styles. Twenty-four participants were employed. The established Experience in Close Relationships (ECR) questionnaire was used. The results through the thematic analysis indicated that people with different attachment styles provide different narratives about their childhood bereavement. This study provides evidence that this was so. Study Two was a co-relational study employing 121 participants who experienced loss of caregiver in childhood. Four established questionnaires were used: Inventory of Complicated Grief (ICG; Prigerson et al., 1995), Experience in Close Relationships Questionnaire-Revised (ECR; Fraley, Waller, & Brennan, 2000), Separation Anxiety Symptom Inventory (SASI; Silove, Manicavasagar, O’Connell, Blaszczynski, Wagner, & Henry, 1993) and Parental Bonding Instrument (PBI; Parker, Tupling, & Brown, 1979). The results showed that complicated grief was related to parental care and overprotection, separation anxiety, and adult attachment style. Anxious attachment style fully mediated the effects of parental bonding on complicated grief. Study Three was a quantitative co-relational study to compare two groups of parents (with and without a bereaved child) on child behavioural differences and links between child behavioural problems and parental characteristics. Two hundred and forty participants were employed: 139 parents of children with bereavement experience and 101 without bereavement experience. Five established questionnaires were used: Child Stress Questionnaire (CSQ), Strengths and Difficulties Questionnaire (SDQ), The Parenting Scale (PS), Inventory of Complicated Grief (ICG), and Experience in Close Relationships Questionnaire-Revised (ECR-R). The results showed that child problems were closely associated to parental qualities. It is proposed that this research can make a contribution towards utilising attachment theory in understanding the experience of bereavement in children.

Subjects/Keywords: 155.9; bereavement; attachment; attachment style; parenting; parenting style; unresolved grief; grief; childhood behaviour problems; C800 Psychology

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APA (6^th Edition):

Aleem, S. (2018). Bereavement in childhood and the role of attachment. (Doctoral Dissertation). University of Bedfordshire. Retrieved from http://hdl.handle.net/10547/622704

Chicago Manual of Style (16^th Edition):

Aleem, Sadia. “Bereavement in childhood and the role of attachment.” 2018. Doctoral Dissertation, University of Bedfordshire. Accessed April 21, 2021. http://hdl.handle.net/10547/622704.

MLA Handbook (7^th Edition):

Aleem, Sadia. “Bereavement in childhood and the role of attachment.” 2018. Web. 21 Apr 2021.

Vancouver:

Aleem S. Bereavement in childhood and the role of attachment. [Internet] [Doctoral dissertation]. University of Bedfordshire; 2018. [cited 2021 Apr 21]. Available from: http://hdl.handle.net/10547/622704.

Council of Science Editors:

Aleem S. Bereavement in childhood and the role of attachment. [Doctoral Dissertation]. University of Bedfordshire; 2018. Available from: http://hdl.handle.net/10547/622704

3. Bennett, Ashley. Acupuncture's efficacy in the treatment of psychological and somatic distress : an exploration of potential mechanisms from an attachment research perspective.

Degree: PhD, 2016, University of Bedfordshire

URL: http://hdl.handle.net/10547/622702

► This thesis examines the effectiveness of acupuncture therapy in the treatment of psychological and somatic distress in the context of medically unexplained symptoms (MUS). Also,… (more)

▼ This thesis examines the effectiveness of acupuncture therapy in the treatment of psychological and somatic distress in the context of medically unexplained symptoms (MUS). Also, it explores the role of psychological attachment and experiential avoidance in an effort to explain potential mechanisms of acupuncture’s effect. Existing literature demonstrates some level of effectiveness of acupuncture therapy for the treatment of depression, anxiety and somatic symptoms. However, a lack of experimental rigor in methodology means that existing results cannot be shown to be superior to a placebo and thus current treatment protocols for patients with MUS do not include a recommendation of acupuncture therapy. MUS are defined as any set of symptoms that cannot be explained by organic disease, these clusters of symptoms are theorised to be of psychological aetiology. Sufferers of MUS find themselves stuck in a perpetual loop of secondary care referrals with little or no treatment options being made available. Whilst there is some evidence that talking therapies, such as cognitive behavioural therapy, are effective, their availability, efficacy and stigma mean they are often not desired by patients who suffer with MUS. Previous research has shown that insecure attachment predicts higher instances of, psychological and somatic distress, as well as MUS. Previous work undertaken by the author of this thesis also suggests that there may be a moderating effect of attachment in acupuncture therapy outcomes. In order to investigate acupuncture’s efficacy a double-blind randomised control trial was undertaken; 63 participants were randomised to receive either five treatments of genuine acupuncture or a non-penetrating sham form of acupuncture using the Park sham acupuncture device. A rigorous procedure ensured participant and practitioner blinding to group allocation. Primary measures of psychological (GHQ) and somatic (BSI) distress were taken at pre, post and follow-up time points (8 weeks). Secondary measures included general attachment (RQ), experiential avoidance (MEAQ) and client attachment to therapist (CATS). Results showed a significant effect of acupuncture over placebo in the reduction of both psychological (GHQ) and somatic distress (BSI). This therapeutic effect was maintained at 8-week follow-up. Further results showed moderation effects of secure attachment on somatic symptoms in the treatment group but not placebo group. Experiential avoidance also moderated somatic symptom outcomes in the treatment but not placebo group. A subsequent study utilising a quasi-experimental multi-centre methodology, which used identical measures to the previous experiment, revealed the same significant reduction of both psychological and somatic distress. This study consisted of 184 participants across five clinics, each participant receiving five sessions of acupuncture. Similar results were observed regarding moderation effects of secure attachment on treatment outcomes of somatic symptoms. Results also showed differences in moderation…

Subjects/Keywords: 615.8; B343 Acupuncture; acupuncture; psychological attachment; somatic symptoms; psychological distress; medically unexplained symptoms

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APA (6^th Edition):

Bennett, A. (2016). Acupuncture's efficacy in the treatment of psychological and somatic distress : an exploration of potential mechanisms from an attachment research perspective. (Doctoral Dissertation). University of Bedfordshire. Retrieved from http://hdl.handle.net/10547/622702

Chicago Manual of Style (16^th Edition):

Bennett, Ashley. “Acupuncture's efficacy in the treatment of psychological and somatic distress : an exploration of potential mechanisms from an attachment research perspective.” 2016. Doctoral Dissertation, University of Bedfordshire. Accessed April 21, 2021. http://hdl.handle.net/10547/622702.

MLA Handbook (7^th Edition):

Bennett, Ashley. “Acupuncture's efficacy in the treatment of psychological and somatic distress : an exploration of potential mechanisms from an attachment research perspective.” 2016. Web. 21 Apr 2021.

Vancouver:

Bennett A. Acupuncture's efficacy in the treatment of psychological and somatic distress : an exploration of potential mechanisms from an attachment research perspective. [Internet] [Doctoral dissertation]. University of Bedfordshire; 2016. [cited 2021 Apr 21]. Available from: http://hdl.handle.net/10547/622702.

Council of Science Editors:

Bennett A. Acupuncture's efficacy in the treatment of psychological and somatic distress : an exploration of potential mechanisms from an attachment research perspective. [Doctoral Dissertation]. University of Bedfordshire; 2016. Available from: http://hdl.handle.net/10547/622702

4. Tuttle, James Alexander. Novel intervention to confer cellular tolerance : applications & mechanisms.

Degree: PhD, 2014, University of Bedfordshire

URL: http://hdl.handle.net/10547/622707

► Exercise in hot environments decreases the temperature gradient for heat loss to the external environment increasing internal heat storage. Work completed decreases and exertional heat… (more)

▼ Exercise in hot environments decreases the temperature gradient for heat loss to the external environment increasing internal heat storage. Work completed decreases and exertional heat illness risk increases. Heat acclimation (HA) programmes which last between 7 -10 d improve heat tolerance by reducing rectal temperature (Tre) during exercise. Thermotolerance is also improved. These adaptations enable work to be maintained for longer periods of time. Exertional heat illness risk is also decreased. However, HA is not logistically feasible during rapid redeployment of military, athletic, occupational and emergency worker populations to hot environments. Therefore, developing an acute preconditioning trial to enhance heat tolerance and thermotolerance could be advantageous. This thesis first determined the effect of treadmill gradient (flat or downhill running) and environmental conditions (temperate~ 20oe, 50 % relative humidity (RH) or hot conditions; 30°C, 50 % RH) on heat shock protein 72 mRNA (Hsp72 mRNA), heat shock protein 90 alpha mRNA (Hsp90a mRNA), glucose regulated protein 78 mRNA, glucose regulate protein 94 mRNA, exercising Tre and HR, Study 2 investigated whether an acute trial combining downhill running and hot environmental conditions (Hot downhill) elevated basal HSP72 concentrations, attenuated exercising Tre• HR, vastus lateralis (VL) and leukocyte Hsp72 mRNA and Hsp90a mRNA responses during an identical trial 7 d later. Downhill running and hot environmental conditions increased leukocyte Hsp72 mRNA, leukocyte Hsp90a mRNA, exercising Trc and DOMS further than flat running and temperate environmental conditions. Increased Hsp72 mRNA and Hsp90a mRNA were mainly exercising Tre and metabolic strain dependent. Exercising Tn; (at 30 min) and DOMS were reduced during or following the second hot downhill trial. Attenuated Hsp72 mRNA and Hsp90a mRNA responses within the VL and leukocytes also occurred. Basal VL HSP72 increased after the second hot downhill trial In conclusion, an acute hot downhill trial decreases exercising Tn: and DOMS during an identical trial 7 d later but basal HSP72 concentrations are not affected. Leukocyte Hsp72 mRNA and Hsp90a mRNA are valid surrogates of the VL response.

Subjects/Keywords: 612; C600 Sports Science; exercise; heat tolerance; thermotolerance

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APA · Chicago · MLA · Vancouver · CSE | Export to Zotero / EndNote / Reference Manager

APA (6^th Edition):

Tuttle, J. A. (2014). Novel intervention to confer cellular tolerance : applications & mechanisms. (Doctoral Dissertation). University of Bedfordshire. Retrieved from http://hdl.handle.net/10547/622707

Chicago Manual of Style (16^th Edition):

Tuttle, James Alexander. “Novel intervention to confer cellular tolerance : applications & mechanisms.” 2014. Doctoral Dissertation, University of Bedfordshire. Accessed April 21, 2021. http://hdl.handle.net/10547/622707.

MLA Handbook (7^th Edition):

Tuttle, James Alexander. “Novel intervention to confer cellular tolerance : applications & mechanisms.” 2014. Web. 21 Apr 2021.

Vancouver:

Tuttle JA. Novel intervention to confer cellular tolerance : applications & mechanisms. [Internet] [Doctoral dissertation]. University of Bedfordshire; 2014. [cited 2021 Apr 21]. Available from: http://hdl.handle.net/10547/622707.

Council of Science Editors:

Tuttle JA. Novel intervention to confer cellular tolerance : applications & mechanisms. [Doctoral Dissertation]. University of Bedfordshire; 2014. Available from: http://hdl.handle.net/10547/622707

5. Garcia, Rebecca. Perinatal mortality in Pakistani, Bangladeshi and White British mothers, in Luton.

Degree: PhD, 2017, University of Bedfordshire

URL: http://hdl.handle.net/10547/622733

► Addressing modifiable factors in perinatal mortality is a key priority for commissioners and service providers, aiming to improve birth outcomes and reduce preventable deaths (Department… (more)

▼ Addressing modifiable factors in perinatal mortality is a key priority for commissioners and service providers, aiming to improve birth outcomes and reduce preventable deaths (Department of Health, 2016; National Maternity Review, 2016). Luton, a town with a plural population, experiences higher rates of perinatal mortality than the national average (CDOP, 2015). Figures show an ethnic variation; Pakistani and Bangladeshi mothers experience higher rates of perinatal mortality in England compared with White British mothers, and the reasons for this are unclear. Much of the existing literature approaches the problem by examining individual risk factors quantitatively or exploring South Asian women’s experiences qualitatively. There is little research considering how Pakistani, Bangladeshi and White British women’s health beliefs impact on their health behaviour through the maternity care pathway, in Luton, and how this might contribute to perinatal mortality. This study takes an intersectional approach, using a convergent mixed-methods research design, reviewing retrospective secondary data (2008-2013) from the Luton and Dunstable Hospital NHS Foundation Trust’s Circona Maternity information System, to identify risk factors for perinatal mortality in Luton. Additionally, focus groups were conducted with lay women (aged over 16, living in LU1-LU4, who had experienced a live birth, at 37 weeks of gestation in the previous 6-24 months), and face-to-face interviews were held with bereaved mothers (aged over 16, who suffered an infant bereavement in the preceding 6-24 months, living in LU1-LU4). Health care professionals working on the maternity care pathway also took part in focus groups or interviews, providing their views on the service needs of Pakistani, Bangladeshi and White British women. The results/findings showed that risk factors varied according to ethnicity. Pakistani mothers had a greatest number of risk factors i.e. birthweight, diabetes, gestational diabetes, BMI < 18kg/m2, parity two, three and four and later booking (> 12 weeks). Deprivation featured in 81% of all deaths in 2014. The findings with the mothers revealed mostly similarities among women, regardless of their ethnicity; the majority of women wanted more pregnancy-related information, especially in respect of stillbirth and adverse outcomes. Similarly, bereaved mothers regardless of their ethnicity also reported mostly similarities, which included experiencing intuition when things were not right with the pregnancy. A few differences according to ethnicity were also identified, which focused on cultural or religious needs, such as cultural therapies (mostly dietary restrictions) undertaken by Pakistani and Bangladeshi women. The intersectional approach allowed simultaneous and aggregated factors (i.e. heritable, socio-economic status, structural factors and health beliefs and health behaviours) to be exposed; staff believed Pakistani and Bangladeshi women were not proactive in seeking pregnancy-related information, relying on verbal information…

Subjects/Keywords: 618.3; maternity; ethnic minorities

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APA (6^th Edition):

Garcia, R. (2017). Perinatal mortality in Pakistani, Bangladeshi and White British mothers, in Luton. (Doctoral Dissertation). University of Bedfordshire. Retrieved from http://hdl.handle.net/10547/622733

Chicago Manual of Style (16^th Edition):

Garcia, Rebecca. “Perinatal mortality in Pakistani, Bangladeshi and White British mothers, in Luton.” 2017. Doctoral Dissertation, University of Bedfordshire. Accessed April 21, 2021. http://hdl.handle.net/10547/622733.

MLA Handbook (7^th Edition):

Garcia, Rebecca. “Perinatal mortality in Pakistani, Bangladeshi and White British mothers, in Luton.” 2017. Web. 21 Apr 2021.

Vancouver:

Garcia R. Perinatal mortality in Pakistani, Bangladeshi and White British mothers, in Luton. [Internet] [Doctoral dissertation]. University of Bedfordshire; 2017. [cited 2021 Apr 21]. Available from: http://hdl.handle.net/10547/622733.

Council of Science Editors:

Garcia R. Perinatal mortality in Pakistani, Bangladeshi and White British mothers, in Luton. [Doctoral Dissertation]. University of Bedfordshire; 2017. Available from: http://hdl.handle.net/10547/622733

6. Zakher, Maged Sobhy Mokhtar. The use of sacred texts as tools to enhance social research interviews.

Degree: PhD, 2018, University of Bedfordshire

URL: http://hdl.handle.net/10547/622699

► Background – Enhanced social research interviews seek to engage interviewees in extended conversation-like dialogues where they are empowered to produce output by discussing themes of… (more)

▼ Background – Enhanced social research interviews seek to engage interviewees in extended conversation-like dialogues where they are empowered to produce output by discussing themes of relevance to them. Photos, videos, vignettes and other enhancing tools have been used before in social sciences research interviews to contextualise the interview interaction. Initial Assumption – Sacred texts (such as excerpts from the Bible and the Quran) enjoy some features that make them potential tools to enhance research interviews. This study set out to answer the Research Question: ‘What are the benefits and challenges of using sacred texts as tools to enhance social research interviews?’ Methodology – Selected Biblical and Quranic verses were used in three sets each, to start social discussions with fifteen Christian and thirteen Muslim participants, respectively, in semi-structured interviews. Findings – The findings of this empirical study show that using sacred texts was perceived favourably by the participants, enhanced the dynamics of the interviews and provided a platform to produce data that are rich, varied and nuanced. Conclusion – This research points out the usefulness of sacred texts – as enhancing tools – when used in social research interviews to produce natural conversations that, in turn, lead to rich, nuanced data. This suggests that sacred texts can be added to the qualitative research interview-enhancing toolbox especially with exploratory studies that are open for emerging themes during interview settings. Research areas where sacred texts can be used in interviews include: ethics, social relations, gender roles, psychology, moral choices, cultural studies and spirituality, among other social sciences disciplines. Researchers as well as participants will be expected to have a degree of familiarity with the sacred book or texts to make both interviewers and interviewees interested enough in discussing it in an open and respectful setting.

Subjects/Keywords: 306; sacred texts; interviews; research methodology; prompts; research methods; X210 Research skills

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APA · Chicago · MLA · Vancouver · CSE | Export to Zotero / EndNote / Reference Manager

APA (6^th Edition):

Zakher, M. S. M. (2018). The use of sacred texts as tools to enhance social research interviews. (Doctoral Dissertation). University of Bedfordshire. Retrieved from http://hdl.handle.net/10547/622699

Chicago Manual of Style (16^th Edition):

Zakher, Maged Sobhy Mokhtar. “The use of sacred texts as tools to enhance social research interviews.” 2018. Doctoral Dissertation, University of Bedfordshire. Accessed April 21, 2021. http://hdl.handle.net/10547/622699.

MLA Handbook (7^th Edition):

Zakher, Maged Sobhy Mokhtar. “The use of sacred texts as tools to enhance social research interviews.” 2018. Web. 21 Apr 2021.

Vancouver:

Zakher MSM. The use of sacred texts as tools to enhance social research interviews. [Internet] [Doctoral dissertation]. University of Bedfordshire; 2018. [cited 2021 Apr 21]. Available from: http://hdl.handle.net/10547/622699.

Council of Science Editors:

Zakher MSM. The use of sacred texts as tools to enhance social research interviews. [Doctoral Dissertation]. University of Bedfordshire; 2018. Available from: http://hdl.handle.net/10547/622699

7. Hashempour, Faramarz. Use of cognitive measurement tools in prediction of psychological wellbeing.

Degree: PhD, 2016, University of Bedfordshire

URL: http://hdl.handle.net/10547/622694

► Prediction of psychological wellbeing was investigated utilising a specific set of cognitive measures. This study considered a mixed method approach, progressing in three main phases.… (more)

▼ Prediction of psychological wellbeing was investigated utilising a specific set of cognitive measures. This study considered a mixed method approach, progressing in three main phases. First study (the pilot study) involved (n=147) participants where data analysis was conducted using ANOVA, multiple regression and Structural Equation Modelling (SEM). The Pilot study considered six measures of thinking Style or Dysfunctional Attitude Scale (DAS-24), Attributional Style Questionnaire (ASQ-6 negative), Meta-cognitive Awareness Questionnaire (MAQ), Mastery/control, Cybernetic Coping Scale (CCS-15) and Beck Depression Inventory BDI-II. The correlation analysis showed positive association between variables with predictive approximation of 30% for depressive symptoms. The pilot study’s confirmatory factor and path analysis results produced supporting evidence of predictive quality with a good fit with model. The second phase comprised of a two-wave panel survey which included most of the measures from study one but added a 12-item version of Eysenck’s Personality Inventory, while the Patient Health Questionnaire (PHQ-9) and General Anxiety Disorder (GAD-7) measures replaced the BDI-II. Regression analysis indicated that approximately 50% of the variance in PHQ scores could be predicted with DAS-24, mastery, ASQ and Neuroticism being the strongest predictors. A second regression analysis predicted 65% of the variance in GAD7 scores with DAS success and perfectionism sub factor being the strongest predictor. A series of confirmatory factor analysis was conducted as well as regression and covariance analysis of the identified variables. Longitudinal path analyses were performed indicating that approximately 74% of the variance in PHQ9 scores and 71% of the variance in GAD7 scores at time two could be predicted, with the time one well-being measures the strongest predictors. The most striking findings related to the role of Neuroticism in prediction of psychological wellbeing. Third phase of this mixed method study considered qualitative approach, using framework analysis. Participants were twelve clinicians who currently working with clients with depressive or anxiety based difficulties. The main findings indicated that all previously identified independent variables of thinking style, perception, control and though awareness contributing towards psychological wellbeing. Other notable observation included participant’s clinical training modality that influenced the choice of responses. Overall tested hypotheses in both modalities of studies provided additional knowledge and understanding by offering a unique theoretical perspective, where the correlation between psychological wellbeing and cognitive processes could be predicted when utilising specific sets of measures.

Subjects/Keywords: 616.89; dysfunctional attitudes; coping; longitudinal study; psychological wellbeing; neuroticism; cognitive measurement; C800 Psychology

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APA · Chicago · MLA · Vancouver · CSE | Export to Zotero / EndNote / Reference Manager

APA (6^th Edition):

Hashempour, F. (2016). Use of cognitive measurement tools in prediction of psychological wellbeing. (Doctoral Dissertation). University of Bedfordshire. Retrieved from http://hdl.handle.net/10547/622694

Chicago Manual of Style (16^th Edition):

Hashempour, Faramarz. “Use of cognitive measurement tools in prediction of psychological wellbeing.” 2016. Doctoral Dissertation, University of Bedfordshire. Accessed April 21, 2021. http://hdl.handle.net/10547/622694.

MLA Handbook (7^th Edition):

Hashempour, Faramarz. “Use of cognitive measurement tools in prediction of psychological wellbeing.” 2016. Web. 21 Apr 2021.

Vancouver:

Hashempour F. Use of cognitive measurement tools in prediction of psychological wellbeing. [Internet] [Doctoral dissertation]. University of Bedfordshire; 2016. [cited 2021 Apr 21]. Available from: http://hdl.handle.net/10547/622694.

Council of Science Editors:

Hashempour F. Use of cognitive measurement tools in prediction of psychological wellbeing. [Doctoral Dissertation]. University of Bedfordshire; 2016. Available from: http://hdl.handle.net/10547/622694

8. Al-Surmi, Abdulrahman Mohamed. The impact of triadic strategic alignment on organisational performance in Yemen.

Degree: PhD, 2016, University of Bedfordshire

URL: http://hdl.handle.net/10547/622701

► To survive and succeed in the very competitive business environment, firms should have a clear business strategy supported by appropriate information technology (IT) and marketing… (more)

Subjects/Keywords: 658.4; strategic; strategy; alignment; IT; information technology; marketing; performance; organisational performance; Yemen; N120 International Business studies

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APA · Chicago · MLA · Vancouver · CSE | Export to Zotero / EndNote / Reference Manager

APA (6^th Edition):

Al-Surmi, A. M. (2016). The impact of triadic strategic alignment on organisational performance in Yemen. (Doctoral Dissertation). University of Bedfordshire. Retrieved from http://hdl.handle.net/10547/622701

Chicago Manual of Style (16^th Edition):

Al-Surmi, Abdulrahman Mohamed. “The impact of triadic strategic alignment on organisational performance in Yemen.” 2016. Doctoral Dissertation, University of Bedfordshire. Accessed April 21, 2021. http://hdl.handle.net/10547/622701.

MLA Handbook (7^th Edition):

Al-Surmi, Abdulrahman Mohamed. “The impact of triadic strategic alignment on organisational performance in Yemen.” 2016. Web. 21 Apr 2021.

Vancouver:

Al-Surmi AM. The impact of triadic strategic alignment on organisational performance in Yemen. [Internet] [Doctoral dissertation]. University of Bedfordshire; 2016. [cited 2021 Apr 21]. Available from: http://hdl.handle.net/10547/622701.

Council of Science Editors:

Al-Surmi AM. The impact of triadic strategic alignment on organisational performance in Yemen. [Doctoral Dissertation]. University of Bedfordshire; 2016. Available from: http://hdl.handle.net/10547/622701

9. Kuegel, Christina. Creating a functional play framework for children with autism and severe learning difficulties.

Degree: PhD, 2017, University of Bedfordshire

URL: http://hdl.handle.net/10547/622700

► Play is an important contributor to children’s development: it reflects, reinforces, and results in development (Johnson, Christie, Wardle, 2005). However, the tools available to support… (more)

▼ Play is an important contributor to children’s development: it reflects, reinforces, and results in development (Johnson, Christie, Wardle, 2005). However, the tools available to support planning and measurement of play are not sufficiently detailed or focused on children with autism and severe learning difficulties (SLD). Play for children with autism is consistently identified as restrictive and repetitive. Although extensive research examines symbolic play, the content and structure of functional play, which is considered a valuable precursor of symbolic play, is rarely the subject of focused research (Williams, 2003; Lifter, Foster-Sanda, Arzamarski, Briesch, & McClure, 2011). Given the developmental potential that play presents, the aim of this study was to examine the functional play presented by children with autism and SLD, with a view to designing a play framework that enables teachers to support functional play development in the classroom. A pragmatic mixed methods approach was adopted across a three-stage study in three schools. Study 1 provides the background for creating a functional play framework, while Study 2 focuses on the creation of the framework through objective observations of the play activity of a total of 27 children with autism and SLD, as well as interviews with nine classroom teachers. Study 3 was a process of trialling the framework in two schools and collaborating with eight teachers to finalise the functional play framework, in particular by considering its usability. Data collected across the three studies provided a description of functional play that suggests it is more complex than traditionally defined. Four key areas of functional play were identified: interacting with one object; interacting with two (or more) objects; interacting with self; and interacting with the environment. Additionally, 12 subcategories were established as components related to functional play. Teachers reported that they could use the framework to baseline play, set targets and measure play progression for children with autism and SLD. The framework was also identified as a tool that supports classroom management and continuing professional development. The proposed framework facilitates the identification of small increments of progress and extends on other available play frameworks. By developing detailed descriptions of the play that children with autism and SLD present, the framework provides a greater ability to identify precise deficits and, more specifically, to target support in the area of play. Additionally, the collaborative approach with classroom teachers provides diverse viewpoints but also begins to merge the gap between researchers and practitioners in order to ensure a useful resource. Recommendations for further descriptive accounts, greater involvement of classroom professionals in the development of resources and additional trials of the framework are acknowledged.

Subjects/Keywords: 371.94; autism; Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD); autistic spectrum disorder; severe learning difficulties; play; functional play; C812 Educational Psychology

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APA (6^th Edition):

Kuegel, C. (2017). Creating a functional play framework for children with autism and severe learning difficulties. (Doctoral Dissertation). University of Bedfordshire. Retrieved from http://hdl.handle.net/10547/622700

Chicago Manual of Style (16^th Edition):

Kuegel, Christina. “Creating a functional play framework for children with autism and severe learning difficulties.” 2017. Doctoral Dissertation, University of Bedfordshire. Accessed April 21, 2021. http://hdl.handle.net/10547/622700.

MLA Handbook (7^th Edition):

Kuegel, Christina. “Creating a functional play framework for children with autism and severe learning difficulties.” 2017. Web. 21 Apr 2021.

Vancouver:

Kuegel C. Creating a functional play framework for children with autism and severe learning difficulties. [Internet] [Doctoral dissertation]. University of Bedfordshire; 2017. [cited 2021 Apr 21]. Available from: http://hdl.handle.net/10547/622700.

Council of Science Editors:

Kuegel C. Creating a functional play framework for children with autism and severe learning difficulties. [Doctoral Dissertation]. University of Bedfordshire; 2017. Available from: http://hdl.handle.net/10547/622700

10. Leal, Diogo Luis Campos Vaz. The use of acute responses of endocrine and immune biomarkers to highlight overreaching.

Degree: PhD, 2017, University of Bedfordshire

URL: http://hdl.handle.net/10547/622695

► The action of overtraining may lead to the different states of overreaching or the overtraining syndrome (OTS). Chronic maladaptation in endocrine and immune mechanisms, and… (more)

▼ The action of overtraining may lead to the different states of overreaching or the overtraining syndrome (OTS). Chronic maladaptation in endocrine and immune mechanisms, and performance decrements occur with the incidence of these states. Circulating cortisol and testosterone have been proposed as endocrine markers of overreaching/OTS. Salivary measurements of these hormones have been used as a non-invasive surrogate for circulating levels. Chapter 4 (study 1) on this Thesis examined the influence of consuming water 10 min, 5 min and 1 min before providing a saliva sample in diluting saliva and consequently providing invalid salivary cortisol and testosterone concentration levels. No trial effect was found. However, exercise-induced salivary cortisol and testosterone significantly elevated in response to the 10 min and 5 min trials only, with lower absolute-changes observed in the 1 min trial. No differences were found in the resting samples. It was suggested that consuming water up to 5 min before providing a saliva sample does not appear to influence the hormone concentrations at rest and during exercise. However, the recommended guidelines for saliva collection have been followed in the subsequent studies. Chapter 5 (study 2) examined the reproducibility of salivary cortisol and testosterone responses to a 30-min cycle named as the 55/80. This test has been proposed as a suitable indicator of hormonal alterations associated with overreaching/OTS. Reproducibility of salivary cortisol and testosterone to the 55/80 was confirmed by determining intra-individual coefficients of variation (CVi). However, the 55/80 is a cycle test and therefore, may not be appropriate for runners. Chapter 6 (study 3) focused on designing a 30-min, running bout (i.e. the RPEtreadmill) to reproduce the effects of the 55/80. The RPEtreadmill is a self-paced test and therefore, will not require aVO2maxtest to determine exercise intensities. An acute elevation of plasma and salivary testosterone, but not cortisol was observed in response to the RPEtreadmill. These responses have been shown to be reproducible. The data from Chapter 6 suggest that the RPEtreadmill may be a suitable tool to indicate hormonal alterations associated with overreaching/OTS. This led to the design of study 4 (Chapter 7). Plasma and salivary cortisol and testosterone responses were examined before and after a 12-day intensified-training period. Immunity markers (specifically salivary immunoglobulin A (SIgA), leucocyte subset proliferation and phagocytic activity) were examined before and after training. Plasma and salivary cortisol were unaffected by acute exercise and training. However, testosterone elevated to the RPEtreadmill Pre-Training, and these responses were reduced Post-Training. Total leucocytes and mucosal immunity were unaffected by exercise and training. However, increased upper respiratory tract infection symptoms were found Post-Training. Baseline phagocytic function was 47% lower Post-Training. This Thesis suggests that testosterone may be a more…

Subjects/Keywords: 616.07; C600 Sports Science; endocrine biomarkers; immune biomarkers; overtraining

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APA (6^th Edition):

Leal, D. L. C. V. (2017). The use of acute responses of endocrine and immune biomarkers to highlight overreaching. (Doctoral Dissertation). University of Bedfordshire. Retrieved from http://hdl.handle.net/10547/622695

Chicago Manual of Style (16^th Edition):

Leal, Diogo Luis Campos Vaz. “The use of acute responses of endocrine and immune biomarkers to highlight overreaching.” 2017. Doctoral Dissertation, University of Bedfordshire. Accessed April 21, 2021. http://hdl.handle.net/10547/622695.

MLA Handbook (7^th Edition):

Leal, Diogo Luis Campos Vaz. “The use of acute responses of endocrine and immune biomarkers to highlight overreaching.” 2017. Web. 21 Apr 2021.

Vancouver:

Leal DLCV. The use of acute responses of endocrine and immune biomarkers to highlight overreaching. [Internet] [Doctoral dissertation]. University of Bedfordshire; 2017. [cited 2021 Apr 21]. Available from: http://hdl.handle.net/10547/622695.

Council of Science Editors:

Leal DLCV. The use of acute responses of endocrine and immune biomarkers to highlight overreaching. [Doctoral Dissertation]. University of Bedfordshire; 2017. Available from: http://hdl.handle.net/10547/622695

11. Graham, Margaret. Being available, becoming student kind : a nurse educator's reflexive narrative.

Degree: PhD, 2014, University of Bedfordshire

URL: http://hdl.handle.net/10547/576352

► This thesis is a story of how I came to construct and illuminate a reflexive narrative as a journey of self-inquiry and transformation towards personal… (more)

▼ This thesis is a story of how I came to construct and illuminate a reflexive narrative as a journey of self-inquiry and transformation towards personal realisation. It shares a view of reflection as lived in being and becoming a reflective nurse educator in higher education. My narrative draws upon, autoethnography, critical social theory and hermeneutic perspectives. Johns (2010) six dialogical movements have been used to give structure to my narrative. Nineteen reflections generate the reflexive narrative in a hermeneutic spiral, as each text informs the other along the journey. Insights become clearer through guidance, dialogue, and engagement with the literature. Early reflections show anxiety, emotional distress and entanglement as I tried to solve student problems. Maternalism influenced my approach to being with distressed and struggling students. Gradually these feelings give way to being available, becoming student kind as an enabling relationship with students. Becoming student kind is framed through my adaptation of the Being Available Template (Johns 2013). It is realised through; listening, presence, caring, empathy, compassion and emotional intelligence. Poise, a self-management practice ensures that personal concerns and tensions do not hinder my relationships with students. Mindfulness expressed as spirituality sustains this process. This path to becoming student kind creates a learning space for student growth and development. In so doing, students are enabled to enter into a nurse patient relationship through being available. I express my empowerment through a dialogical voice, transforming my practice with individual students, in the classroom and beyond. Understanding the tensions within the complexity of university culture influencing nurse education, informs collaboration with colleagues towards a shared vision of nurse education. I turn to reflect on a journey of constructing a reflexive narrative. Five stepping stones for dialogue in advancing guided reflection as a foundation for nurse education are offered. My inquiry weaves a story of reflection as testimony to a fusion of practice and theory. I reveal practice wisdom, informing my day to day work in being available becoming student kind in relationships with students. I explore the contribution to knowledge, my practice and future research, considering the strengths and challenges therein.

Subjects/Keywords: 610.73071; reflexive narrative; nursing education; reflective practice; B790 Nursing not elsewhere classified

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APA (6^th Edition):

Graham, M. (2014). Being available, becoming student kind : a nurse educator's reflexive narrative. (Doctoral Dissertation). University of Bedfordshire. Retrieved from http://hdl.handle.net/10547/576352

Chicago Manual of Style (16^th Edition):

Graham, Margaret. “Being available, becoming student kind : a nurse educator's reflexive narrative.” 2014. Doctoral Dissertation, University of Bedfordshire. Accessed April 21, 2021. http://hdl.handle.net/10547/576352.

MLA Handbook (7^th Edition):

Graham, Margaret. “Being available, becoming student kind : a nurse educator's reflexive narrative.” 2014. Web. 21 Apr 2021.

Vancouver:

Graham M. Being available, becoming student kind : a nurse educator's reflexive narrative. [Internet] [Doctoral dissertation]. University of Bedfordshire; 2014. [cited 2021 Apr 21]. Available from: http://hdl.handle.net/10547/576352.

Council of Science Editors:

Graham M. Being available, becoming student kind : a nurse educator's reflexive narrative. [Doctoral Dissertation]. University of Bedfordshire; 2014. Available from: http://hdl.handle.net/10547/576352

12. Factor, Fiona. Reclaiming youth work : from evidence-based practice to practice-based evidence.

Degree: PhD, 2016, University of Bedfordshire

URL: http://hdl.handle.net/10547/623340

► An abiding criticism of youth work is the inability of its practitioners either to articulate the theoretical basis of their practice or evidence its practical… (more)

▼ An abiding criticism of youth work is the inability of its practitioners either to articulate the theoretical basis of their practice or evidence its practical impact (House of Commons, Services for Young People: Third Report of Session 2010-12). This study explores whether, and to what extent, youth workers can articulate their practice wisdom in a form that can generate a body of 'practice-based evidence'; sufficiently robust to persuade both those responsible for formulating youth work policy and those commissioning services of its efficacy. It develops a model which aims to assist youth workers in this endeavour, designed to support them in contributing to critical debates about the nature of their practice. This thesis is based upon a case study undertaken with a large voluntary sector youth organisation in the north of England. A number of research methods were used in the study including the design of an Economic and Social Research Council (ESRC) funded knowledge exchange event, the administration of questionnaires to student youth workers at the University of Bedfordshire and semi-structured interviews with practitioners. The study uses Interpretative Phenomenological Analysis (IPA) as the lens through which the findings are derived from the data. The findings suggest that youth workers are able to conceptualise and articulate their practice wisdom and that the opportunity to engage in knowledge transfer activities is methodologically extremely helpful. It appears that practice-based evidence can be generated via such a process which helps to make explicit the nature of the work and its impact upon young people. On the basis of these findings, the author presents a model describing the key prerequisites for the generation of practice-based evidence in youth work. However, the current social, political and economic climate in England has meant that the applicability of such a model is entirely dependent upon the political and administrative context in which youth work is practiced. The imposition of tightly demarcated targets and narrowly defined outcomes, together with the individualisation of much service provision for young people requiring case work interventions, has meant that youth work's phronetic intentions have become obscured, and for some organisations, lost. This is against the backcloth of the needs of the young people being targeted by youth services becoming more complex, requiring a more specialist, therapeutic intervention. The author suggests that the time has come for bolder initiatives utilising critical social pedagogy as a threshold concept which, she asserts may allow the profession to embark upon a process of 'reclaiming' its professional roots.

Subjects/Keywords: practice-based evidence; youth work; reclaiming youth work; L500 Social Work

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APA (6^th Edition):

Factor, F. (2016). Reclaiming youth work : from evidence-based practice to practice-based evidence. (Doctoral Dissertation). University of Bedfordshire. Retrieved from http://hdl.handle.net/10547/623340

Chicago Manual of Style (16^th Edition):

Factor, Fiona. “Reclaiming youth work : from evidence-based practice to practice-based evidence.” 2016. Doctoral Dissertation, University of Bedfordshire. Accessed April 21, 2021. http://hdl.handle.net/10547/623340.

MLA Handbook (7^th Edition):

Factor, Fiona. “Reclaiming youth work : from evidence-based practice to practice-based evidence.” 2016. Web. 21 Apr 2021.

Vancouver:

Factor F. Reclaiming youth work : from evidence-based practice to practice-based evidence. [Internet] [Doctoral dissertation]. University of Bedfordshire; 2016. [cited 2021 Apr 21]. Available from: http://hdl.handle.net/10547/623340.

Council of Science Editors:

Factor F. Reclaiming youth work : from evidence-based practice to practice-based evidence. [Doctoral Dissertation]. University of Bedfordshire; 2016. Available from: http://hdl.handle.net/10547/623340

13. Deekue, Sam Neekpoa. A strategic framework for e-government security : the case in Nigeria.

Degree: PhD, 2016, University of Bedfordshire

URL: http://hdl.handle.net/10547/622496

► Countries across the globe are striving towards full-scale implementation of e-government. One of the issues arising with the efforts to this realization is the assurance… (more)

▼ Countries across the globe are striving towards full-scale implementation of e-government. One of the issues arising with the efforts to this realization is the assurance of secure transactions while upholding high privacy standards. In order to engage citizens in the process, there must be transparency and confidence that the e-government systems they are using are reliable and will deliver the services with integrity, confidentiality and accountability. Different systems require different levels of security according to the services they provide to their users. This research presents an investigation into reasons why e-government security frameworks developed by researchers with the claim that it is one-size-fits-all issue may not hold true, particularly in the case of Nigeria, based on certain identified realities. The claim of a generalized framework appears very challenging because there seem to be much diversity across different governments. Countries differ in one or more of the following characteristics: political systems, legal systems, economic situation, available technological infrastructure, Internet and PC penetration, availability of skills and human resources, literacy levels, computer literacy levels, level of poverty, leadership, and ethnic diversities in terms of norms, languages, and expertise. Security measures implemented in e-government projects in some developed countries, beginning with more established e-government systems around the world, were evaluated and a strategic framework for e-government security proposed which considers both technical and non-technical factors that involve people, processes and technologies. The framework is proposed to advance the rapid adoption of practices that will guarantee e-government security. It seeks to provide a flexible, repeatable and cost-effective approach to implementing e-government security. This research examines the issues of enclosure in the implementation of e-government from the perspective of security and ultimately survivability.

Subjects/Keywords: Nigeria; e-government; strategy; privacy; security; L231 Public Administration

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APA (6^th Edition):

Deekue, S. N. (2016). A strategic framework for e-government security : the case in Nigeria. (Doctoral Dissertation). University of Bedfordshire. Retrieved from http://hdl.handle.net/10547/622496

Chicago Manual of Style (16^th Edition):

Deekue, Sam Neekpoa. “A strategic framework for e-government security : the case in Nigeria.” 2016. Doctoral Dissertation, University of Bedfordshire. Accessed April 21, 2021. http://hdl.handle.net/10547/622496.

MLA Handbook (7^th Edition):

Deekue, Sam Neekpoa. “A strategic framework for e-government security : the case in Nigeria.” 2016. Web. 21 Apr 2021.

Vancouver:

Deekue SN. A strategic framework for e-government security : the case in Nigeria. [Internet] [Doctoral dissertation]. University of Bedfordshire; 2016. [cited 2021 Apr 21]. Available from: http://hdl.handle.net/10547/622496.

Council of Science Editors:

Deekue SN. A strategic framework for e-government security : the case in Nigeria. [Doctoral Dissertation]. University of Bedfordshire; 2016. Available from: http://hdl.handle.net/10547/622496

14. Banton, Amanda Louise. Making sense of cranial osteopathy : an interpretative phenomenological analysis.

Degree: PhD, 2019, University of Bedfordshire

URL: http://hdl.handle.net/10547/623359

► Purpose: This study arose from a praxial problem: how best to communicate with patients about the mechanism of cranial osteopathy. The problem was explored in… (more)

▼ Purpose: This study arose from a praxial problem: how best to communicate with patients about the mechanism of cranial osteopathy. The problem was explored in a way that presented cranial osteopathy as a complex, multi-faceted phenomenon in the domain of healthcare practice. The resulting research question was phenomenologically inflected and was articulated as 'What sense do osteopaths and their patients make of the phenomenon of cranial osteopathy?' The concept of 'sense-making' was applied to both the manner in which osteopaths and their patients experience and understand cranial osteopathy and also the meaning that emerges in the course of giving or receiving cranial osteopathic treatment. Method: Interpretative Phenomenological Analysis (IPA) was used to explore cranial osteopaths' understanding and lived experience of their practice and to simultaneously explore patients' understanding and lived experience of cranial osteopathy. Four cranial osteopaths who were Fellows of the Sutherland Cranial College of Osteopathy participated, as did a patient each of theirs. The cranial osteopath participants were experienced practitioners and the patient participants were people who had had positive experiences of cranial osteopathy. The participants were interviewed about their lived experience and understanding of the phenomenon of cranial osteopathy. The semi-structured interviews were audio-recorded, transcribed and analysed by the researcher. The researcher kept a reflexive diary and an account of her theoretical fore-structure, in order to understand and audit the influences on her hermeneutic analysis of the data. From the data analysis, ongoing reflexion on praxis and a reading of the theoretical literature emerged three Super-Ordinate Themes and a hermeneutic model of cranial osteopathy. Findings: The IPA revealed that both patients and practitioners establish epistemological grounds for their sense-making about their embodied experience of cranial osteopathy (Super-Ordinate Theme 1: Making sense of sense-making), that they use embodied metaphor and linguistic meta-metaphor to understand their lived experience of cranial osteopathy (Super-Ordinate Theme 2: Metaphors for mechanisms), and that the mechanism of cranial osteopathy is considered by both patients and practitioners to arise from the therapeutic relationship (Super-Ordinate Theme 3: The meaningful osteopathic relationship). Conclusions: The main outcome of the study is a hermeneutic model of cranial osteopathy, which posits that the shared, embodied therapeutic relationship facilitates a collaborative rapport which enables the osteopath and the patient to come to an understanding of the source of the patient's malady, and that furthermore this understanding supports the mobilisation of the physiological mechanisms of healing to 'unconceal' health. iv ongoing reflexion on praxis and a reading of the theoretical literature emerged three Super- Ordinate Themes and a hermeneutic model of cranial osteopathy. Findings: The IPA revealed that both patients and…

Subjects/Keywords: cranial osteopathy; phenomenology; enactive sense-making; embodied cognition; metaphor; B340 Alternative Medicine

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APA (6^th Edition):

Banton, A. L. (2019). Making sense of cranial osteopathy : an interpretative phenomenological analysis. (Doctoral Dissertation). University of Bedfordshire. Retrieved from http://hdl.handle.net/10547/623359

Chicago Manual of Style (16^th Edition):

Banton, Amanda Louise. “Making sense of cranial osteopathy : an interpretative phenomenological analysis.” 2019. Doctoral Dissertation, University of Bedfordshire. Accessed April 21, 2021. http://hdl.handle.net/10547/623359.

MLA Handbook (7^th Edition):

Banton, Amanda Louise. “Making sense of cranial osteopathy : an interpretative phenomenological analysis.” 2019. Web. 21 Apr 2021.

Vancouver:

Banton AL. Making sense of cranial osteopathy : an interpretative phenomenological analysis. [Internet] [Doctoral dissertation]. University of Bedfordshire; 2019. [cited 2021 Apr 21]. Available from: http://hdl.handle.net/10547/623359.

Council of Science Editors:

Banton AL. Making sense of cranial osteopathy : an interpretative phenomenological analysis. [Doctoral Dissertation]. University of Bedfordshire; 2019. Available from: http://hdl.handle.net/10547/623359

15. Hussain, Ammar. Effect of store environment and website characteristics on impulse buying behaviour of university students.

Degree: PhD, 2018, University of Bedfordshire

URL: http://hdl.handle.net/10547/623246

► Consumer behaviour is determined by various factors, therefore it is considered as very complex and difficult to predict. This study is an attempt to explore… (more)

▼ Consumer behaviour is determined by various factors, therefore it is considered as very complex and difficult to predict. This study is an attempt to explore and establish the relationships between various factors that result in impulse buying behaviour during online and offline buying. A preliminary qualitative study was carried out to understand the various situations in which impulse buying takes place. For the preliminary study data was collected by conducting semi-structured interviews. A thematic analysis approach has been used for data analysis. The results of the study reveal that in the offline buying store environment, presence of others and crowding plays a vital role, while in online buying website quality, visual appeal and usability of the website increases the chances of impulse buying. In addition it has been found that situational factors such as mood, sales promotion, availability of time and availability of money also have an influence. Important literature was reviewed first and a conceptual framework consisting of the different hypotheses was proposed; then those hypotheses were empirically tested. Quantitative data was collected for the main study by using questionnaires and a self-administrative technique; a total of 312 respondents took part in this study, for which a pilot study was carried out to refine the final questionnaire. Confirmatory Factor Analysis was used to evaluate the model fit and for further refinement of the constructs. Data was analysed by using structured equation modelling and this approach was used for testing the hypothesized relationship between independent variables (store environment, website characteristics) and dependent variable (impulse buying behaviour). Results of the mediating test shows that situational factors fully mediate the relationship between store environment and impulse buying behaviour. While on the other hand situational factors partially mediate between website characteristics and impulse buying behaviour. The results further reveal that apparel products are impulsively purchased by females most of the time. Food and food items are purchased impulsively by most of the respondents (140) most of the time, whereas a very small number of respondents mentioned that they purchase books impulsively. Results also reveal that situational factors partially mediate between store environment, website characteristics and impulse buying behaviour.

Subjects/Keywords: impulse buying; store environment; web characteristics; online purchasing; N240 Retail Management

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APA (6^th Edition):

Hussain, A. (2018). Effect of store environment and website characteristics on impulse buying behaviour of university students. (Doctoral Dissertation). University of Bedfordshire. Retrieved from http://hdl.handle.net/10547/623246

Chicago Manual of Style (16^th Edition):

Hussain, Ammar. “Effect of store environment and website characteristics on impulse buying behaviour of university students.” 2018. Doctoral Dissertation, University of Bedfordshire. Accessed April 21, 2021. http://hdl.handle.net/10547/623246.

MLA Handbook (7^th Edition):

Hussain, Ammar. “Effect of store environment and website characteristics on impulse buying behaviour of university students.” 2018. Web. 21 Apr 2021.

Vancouver:

Hussain A. Effect of store environment and website characteristics on impulse buying behaviour of university students. [Internet] [Doctoral dissertation]. University of Bedfordshire; 2018. [cited 2021 Apr 21]. Available from: http://hdl.handle.net/10547/623246.

Council of Science Editors:

Hussain A. Effect of store environment and website characteristics on impulse buying behaviour of university students. [Doctoral Dissertation]. University of Bedfordshire; 2018. Available from: http://hdl.handle.net/10547/623246

16. Asllani, Alban. Measuring the size and development of the informal economy in the countries of the Balkan Peninsula using structural equation modelling approach.

Degree: PhD, 2018, University of Bedfordshire

URL: http://hdl.handle.net/10547/623264

► This thesis presents estimates and analysis of the informal economy for ten countries in the Balkan Peninsula region. It is the first attempt to study… (more)

▼ This thesis presents estimates and analysis of the informal economy for ten countries in the Balkan Peninsula region. It is the first attempt to study the size and development of the informal economy in these southeastern European countries from 1996 to 2014 using a special case of the Structural Equation modelling, which is the MIMIC model. There is currently a gap in the literature focusing on measuring the size of the informal economy in the Balkan countries especially after social, economic, political and judiciary reforms that the region has undergone. Such reforms are likely to influence the trend of the informal economy, and hence it is important to study the development of the informal economy. Different from existing literature, this research uses policy-driven indicators as well as macroeconomic variables in the model to estimate the size of the informal economy in this part of the world. The estimates indicate that there is a declining trend in the size of the informal economy in most of these countries. The yearly average size of the informal economy in these ten countries started from around 31 percent in 1996 and dropped to around 26 percent in 2014. However, the overall average size of the informal economy in these Balkan countries remains high relative to GDP, and it is just over 30 percent. The results indicate that countries, where the overall average size of the informal economy is found to be the highest as a proportion to their GDP, are FYR Macedonia, Bosnia and Herzegovina, Albania and Turkey with 38.4 percent, 33.3 percent, 33.0 percent, and 32.1 percent, respectively. Countries with the lowest informal economy, on the other hand, are Slovenia and Greece, with 25 percent and 26.9 percent, respectively. The average size of the informal economy in Serbia, Romania, Bulgaria, and Croatia approximates to slightly under or slightly over 30 percent. The analysis also reveals that the key driving causes of the informal economy in these countries are the regulation burden, level of corruption, the dominance of the agriculture sector, degree of urbanisation, macroeconomic developments and the size of the government. This research concludes with some recommendations.

Subjects/Keywords: informal economy; Balkan countries; structural equation modelling; MIMIC model; shadow economy; L160 International Economics

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APA (6^th Edition):

Asllani, A. (2018). Measuring the size and development of the informal economy in the countries of the Balkan Peninsula using structural equation modelling approach. (Doctoral Dissertation). University of Bedfordshire. Retrieved from http://hdl.handle.net/10547/623264

Chicago Manual of Style (16^th Edition):

Asllani, Alban. “Measuring the size and development of the informal economy in the countries of the Balkan Peninsula using structural equation modelling approach.” 2018. Doctoral Dissertation, University of Bedfordshire. Accessed April 21, 2021. http://hdl.handle.net/10547/623264.

MLA Handbook (7^th Edition):

Asllani, Alban. “Measuring the size and development of the informal economy in the countries of the Balkan Peninsula using structural equation modelling approach.” 2018. Web. 21 Apr 2021.

Vancouver:

Asllani A. Measuring the size and development of the informal economy in the countries of the Balkan Peninsula using structural equation modelling approach. [Internet] [Doctoral dissertation]. University of Bedfordshire; 2018. [cited 2021 Apr 21]. Available from: http://hdl.handle.net/10547/623264.

Council of Science Editors:

Asllani A. Measuring the size and development of the informal economy in the countries of the Balkan Peninsula using structural equation modelling approach. [Doctoral Dissertation]. University of Bedfordshire; 2018. Available from: http://hdl.handle.net/10547/623264

17. Thomas, Susan. Children first, offenders second : an aspiration or a reality for youth justice in Wales.

Degree: PhD, 2015, University of Bedfordshire

URL: http://hdl.handle.net/10547/622111

► England and Wales have the same criminal justice system, but devolution in Wales has created some differences between the two countries. In Wales all child… (more)

▼ England and Wales have the same criminal justice system, but devolution in Wales has created some differences between the two countries. In Wales all child and young person related services, with the exception of youth justice, are devolved to the Welsh Government. It is claimed by some that devolution has resulted in youth justice policy in Wales diverging from that of England. This is because of the Welsh Government’s adoption of the United Nations Convention on the Rights of the Child, which has been incorporated into its domestic legislation. This is not mirrored in England, as the UK Government’s youth justice policies during the New Labour period have been characterised as punitive, risk-led and managerialist. Although attitudes and approaches changed during the Coalition Government’s administration, the fundamental features of the system have not. Youth justice in Wales has been described as taking a ‘children first, offenders second’ approach to children and young people in trouble with the law, which by inference suggests the opposite for youth justice in England. The purpose of this study is to examine whether there is a different youth justice in Wales. This was done by scrutinising a range of evidence that included the policies of the Youth Justice Board for England and Wales and the Welsh Government and the interface and relationship between them, to determine what youth justice in Wales looks like and how it compares to youth justice in England. This was supported by an analysis of YJB data about the operation of the system, which disaggregated information about Wales from national statistics, to establish if outcomes for young people in Wales differed from their counter-parts in England. Finally, the perspectives of practitioners in two youth offending teams in England and two in Wales were explored to establish what their practice cultures looked like and the extent to which practitioners had similar or different views about how the system should and does operate, whether a ‘children first’ philosophy is dominant in Wales and how this relates to the policy positions of the respective governments.

Subjects/Keywords: 364.36; L400 Social Policy; L500 Social Work; L530 Youth Work; youth justice; Wales; young offenders

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APA (6^th Edition):

Thomas, S. (2015). Children first, offenders second : an aspiration or a reality for youth justice in Wales. (Doctoral Dissertation). University of Bedfordshire. Retrieved from http://hdl.handle.net/10547/622111

Chicago Manual of Style (16^th Edition):

Thomas, Susan. “Children first, offenders second : an aspiration or a reality for youth justice in Wales.” 2015. Doctoral Dissertation, University of Bedfordshire. Accessed April 21, 2021. http://hdl.handle.net/10547/622111.

MLA Handbook (7^th Edition):

Thomas, Susan. “Children first, offenders second : an aspiration or a reality for youth justice in Wales.” 2015. Web. 21 Apr 2021.

Vancouver:

Thomas S. Children first, offenders second : an aspiration or a reality for youth justice in Wales. [Internet] [Doctoral dissertation]. University of Bedfordshire; 2015. [cited 2021 Apr 21]. Available from: http://hdl.handle.net/10547/622111.

Council of Science Editors:

Thomas S. Children first, offenders second : an aspiration or a reality for youth justice in Wales. [Doctoral Dissertation]. University of Bedfordshire; 2015. Available from: http://hdl.handle.net/10547/622111

18. Wu, Qiang. Developing dynamic capabilities for corporate sustainability : the role of knowledge transfer between supply chain partners.

Degree: PhD, 2017, University of Bedfordshire

URL: http://hdl.handle.net/10547/622543

► Persistent differences in corporate commitments to sustainability have led to an increasing debate. However, reasons behind such differences still lack a generic theorization. To address… (more)

▼ Persistent differences in corporate commitments to sustainability have led to an increasing debate. However, reasons behind such differences still lack a generic theorization. To address this research gap, the purpose of this study is to: 1) explicate key organizational functions and process underpinning dynamic capabilities for corporate sustainability; 2) explore the relationship between supply chain knowledge transfer and the development of dynamic capabilities for corporate sustainability. For such a purpose a theoretical framework is established with proposed hypotheses deriving from existing literature. Then a two-stage, mixed method is designed to test the model. In Stage One, a case study and a large-scale archival analysis are performed to elaborate the microfoundations, i.e. key organizational functions and process underpinning dynamic capabilities for corporate sustainability. In Stage Two, a largescale survey is conducted among about 2,500 CILT members. The validity and reliability of the collected data are then verified through a series of tests. Finally the empirical data are fitted into a Structural Equation Model (SEM) to test proposed hypotheses. The findings of the research are twofold. The result of Stage One study suggests that three types of dynamic capabilities for corporate sustainability, namely scanning, sensing, and reconfiguration capabilities, underpin a firm’s competence to successfully respond to the environmental and social concerns of various stakeholders and mobilize internal resources to make strategic change towards sustainability. Moreover, key organizational functions and process underpinning dynamic capabilities for corporate sustainability show commonalities among firms across various industrial sectors and geographic regions. In Stage Two study, the empirical finding is that supply chain knowledge transfer positively impacts the development of firm's scanning capability and sensing capability. However, the impact patterns vary significantly between focal firms' upstream and downstream supply chain partnerships. The research contributes to knowledge from three perspectives. To theory, as an early attempt to extend Dynamic Capabilities View (DCV) to the area of corporate sustainability, the research not only introduces the concept of dynamic capabilities for corporate sustainability to the literature, but also examines how these capabilities can be developed through supply chain knowledge transfer. It thus contributes to the theories of both DCV and corporate sustainability. To research, the empirical findings of the research indicate that the effect of inter-firm knowledge transfer on capabilities development of supply chain customers tends to be underestimated by previous studies, thus providing a new potential research direction. To practice, professionals could possibly use the theoretical framework developed in the study to better understand what types of dynamic capabilities should be developed to more effectively overcome emerging sustainability challenges, and how to…

Subjects/Keywords: corporate sustainable development; supply-chain partnership; knowledge transfer

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APA (6^th Edition):

Wu, Q. (2017). Developing dynamic capabilities for corporate sustainability : the role of knowledge transfer between supply chain partners. (Doctoral Dissertation). University of Bedfordshire. Retrieved from http://hdl.handle.net/10547/622543

Chicago Manual of Style (16^th Edition):

Wu, Qiang. “Developing dynamic capabilities for corporate sustainability : the role of knowledge transfer between supply chain partners.” 2017. Doctoral Dissertation, University of Bedfordshire. Accessed April 21, 2021. http://hdl.handle.net/10547/622543.

MLA Handbook (7^th Edition):

Wu, Qiang. “Developing dynamic capabilities for corporate sustainability : the role of knowledge transfer between supply chain partners.” 2017. Web. 21 Apr 2021.

Vancouver:

Wu Q. Developing dynamic capabilities for corporate sustainability : the role of knowledge transfer between supply chain partners. [Internet] [Doctoral dissertation]. University of Bedfordshire; 2017. [cited 2021 Apr 21]. Available from: http://hdl.handle.net/10547/622543.

Council of Science Editors:

Wu Q. Developing dynamic capabilities for corporate sustainability : the role of knowledge transfer between supply chain partners. [Doctoral Dissertation]. University of Bedfordshire; 2017. Available from: http://hdl.handle.net/10547/622543

19. Kanamgotov, Aslan. A framework for immersion in virtual reality.

Degree: PhD, 2015, University of Bedfordshire

URL: http://hdl.handle.net/10547/622482

► The purpose of this research is the creation of the framework for immersive Virtual Worlds (VW) development and evaluation of factors affecting user’s immersion experience… (more)

Subjects/Keywords: virtual reality; virtual worlds; H674 Virtual Reality Engineering

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APA (6^th Edition):

Kanamgotov, A. (2015). A framework for immersion in virtual reality. (Doctoral Dissertation). University of Bedfordshire. Retrieved from http://hdl.handle.net/10547/622482

Chicago Manual of Style (16^th Edition):

Kanamgotov, Aslan. “A framework for immersion in virtual reality.” 2015. Doctoral Dissertation, University of Bedfordshire. Accessed April 21, 2021. http://hdl.handle.net/10547/622482.

MLA Handbook (7^th Edition):

Kanamgotov, Aslan. “A framework for immersion in virtual reality.” 2015. Web. 21 Apr 2021.

Vancouver:

Kanamgotov A. A framework for immersion in virtual reality. [Internet] [Doctoral dissertation]. University of Bedfordshire; 2015. [cited 2021 Apr 21]. Available from: http://hdl.handle.net/10547/622482.

Council of Science Editors:

Kanamgotov A. A framework for immersion in virtual reality. [Doctoral Dissertation]. University of Bedfordshire; 2015. Available from: http://hdl.handle.net/10547/622482

20. Eldaly, Mohamed Khaled. Effects of the new regulations of the audit profession on the audit firms' strategies.

Degree: PhD, 2012, University of Bedfordshire

URL: http://hdl.handle.net/10547/294283

► The audit firms play an important role in the capital markets by verifying that auditors provide reliable information to the decision makers. However, trust in… (more)

Subjects/Keywords: 657; N420 Accounting Theory; auditing; accounting; accounting information; audit regulation; financial institutions; financial regulation

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APA (6^th Edition):

Eldaly, M. K. (2012). Effects of the new regulations of the audit profession on the audit firms' strategies. (Doctoral Dissertation). University of Bedfordshire. Retrieved from http://hdl.handle.net/10547/294283

Chicago Manual of Style (16^th Edition):

Eldaly, Mohamed Khaled. “Effects of the new regulations of the audit profession on the audit firms' strategies.” 2012. Doctoral Dissertation, University of Bedfordshire. Accessed April 21, 2021. http://hdl.handle.net/10547/294283.

MLA Handbook (7^th Edition):

Eldaly, Mohamed Khaled. “Effects of the new regulations of the audit profession on the audit firms' strategies.” 2012. Web. 21 Apr 2021.

Vancouver:

Eldaly MK. Effects of the new regulations of the audit profession on the audit firms' strategies. [Internet] [Doctoral dissertation]. University of Bedfordshire; 2012. [cited 2021 Apr 21]. Available from: http://hdl.handle.net/10547/294283.

Council of Science Editors:

Eldaly MK. Effects of the new regulations of the audit profession on the audit firms' strategies. [Doctoral Dissertation]. University of Bedfordshire; 2012. Available from: http://hdl.handle.net/10547/294283

21. Oliver, Chantal. Redefining borders : exploring narrative stance, intertextuality, ideology and reader positioning in radical crossover fiction.

Degree: PhD, 2014, University of Bedfordshire

URL: http://hdl.handle.net/10547/565814

► The huge popularity of J.K. Rowling’s Harry Potter novels and Philip Pullman’s challenging trilogy His Dark Materials flagged up a widening audience and increasing status… (more)

▼ The huge popularity of J.K. Rowling’s Harry Potter novels and Philip Pullman’s challenging trilogy His Dark Materials flagged up a widening audience and increasing status for children’s literature in the West. As Sandra Beckett (2009) notes, children’s fiction is now being embraced with enthusiasm by adult readers, writers, critics and publishers. From this increased profile there has emerged the distinct publishing category of ‘crossover’ fiction. In contrast to earlier children’s novels with broad audience appeal, contemporary crossover works are noted for their contextually radical resistance to conventions and bold innovations in content, style and form. Whilst this has given rise to greater critical interest, however, the focus in general has been on adult authored fiction, rather than the now growing body of work being produced and promoted by children and adolescents themselves. In effect, adult critics and reviewers either exclude or take for granted young authors’ fictions as being formulaic and/or lightweight. The purpose of this study has been to investigate the implications of this stance. Drawing on Mikhail Bakhtin’s (1965) theory of carnival and its associated concepts, I have conducted a comparative analysis of published fiction by adult and teenage authors whose works have been identified as subversive and/or marketed as crossover texts. A Bakhtinian perspective on style, structure and themes in each confirms, or otherwise, their radical status before consideration is given to the implications of any differences in approach. Given John Stephens’ (1999) observation that boundaries between children’s and adults’ fiction are more fundamentally blurred in the fantasy and sub-fantasy modes, the influence of genre has been investigated too. My findings indicate that radical texts with broad audience appeal can, in fact, arise through a variety of narrative forms and writing styles and regardless of authorial age. At the same time, characteristic differences in ‘perspectives’ are shown to mark off adolescent from adult authors’ works. I conclude that the young writers’ near-perspectives can produce hybrid fictions which might be understood as breaking new ground. The fresh insights this study contributes, then, demonstrate that any comprehensive account of the vibrant and ever-shifting contemporary literary scene must encompass broader and altogether more considered critical review of young adults’ input than has been offered to-date.

Subjects/Keywords: 823.009; narrative stance; crossover fiction; fiction; children's literature; narrative; Q323 English Literature by topic

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APA (6^th Edition):

Oliver, C. (2014). Redefining borders : exploring narrative stance, intertextuality, ideology and reader positioning in radical crossover fiction. (Doctoral Dissertation). University of Bedfordshire. Retrieved from http://hdl.handle.net/10547/565814

Chicago Manual of Style (16^th Edition):

Oliver, Chantal. “Redefining borders : exploring narrative stance, intertextuality, ideology and reader positioning in radical crossover fiction.” 2014. Doctoral Dissertation, University of Bedfordshire. Accessed April 21, 2021. http://hdl.handle.net/10547/565814.

MLA Handbook (7^th Edition):

Oliver, Chantal. “Redefining borders : exploring narrative stance, intertextuality, ideology and reader positioning in radical crossover fiction.” 2014. Web. 21 Apr 2021.

Vancouver:

Oliver C. Redefining borders : exploring narrative stance, intertextuality, ideology and reader positioning in radical crossover fiction. [Internet] [Doctoral dissertation]. University of Bedfordshire; 2014. [cited 2021 Apr 21]. Available from: http://hdl.handle.net/10547/565814.

Council of Science Editors:

Oliver C. Redefining borders : exploring narrative stance, intertextuality, ideology and reader positioning in radical crossover fiction. [Doctoral Dissertation]. University of Bedfordshire; 2014. Available from: http://hdl.handle.net/10547/565814

22. Al-Moosa, Hadil. An analysis of the narratives of Omani women entrepreneurs.

Degree: PhD, 2018, University of Bedfordshire

URL: http://hdl.handle.net/10547/623344

► This is a study of 29 Omani women entrepreneurs' narratives in Oman. Entrepreneurship has been officially sanctioned as an activity since January 2013 in Oman;… (more)

▼ This is a study of 29 Omani women entrepreneurs' narratives in Oman. Entrepreneurship has been officially sanctioned as an activity since January 2013 in Oman; thus the concept of being an entrepreneur is still is very new. Based on my experience, I realised the way Omani women understand and practise entrepreneurship is quite different to the Western understanding of the concept. Indeed, more critical entrepreneurship research has recognised that the Western literature of entrepreneurship is inadequate to represent the experience of non-Western women entrepreneurs; and this research calls for more culturally relevant studies. Therefore, this study takes a social constructionist narrative approach to exploring first, to explore how the concept of entrepreneurship is understood by these women; and second, to explore their practices and their understanding of the perceived contextual influences that shape their doings of entrepreneur-ing. Interviews with 29 women were carried out and analysed using narrative approach and the results supported the view that Western literature is inadequate to represent the experience of Omani women entrepreneurs. Key findings were that understandings of the concept of entrepreneurship are rather confused and contradictory; which reinforces the idea of newness. However, the newness seems to be in the term, but not the activity. Thus, entrepreneurship is perceived as equivalent to traditional home-business, which reinforces gender stereotypes; and although entrepreneurship is perceived as gender-neutral, it is not so in practice. Also, the perceived key contextual influences that are identified are: first, tribalism, which seems to overshadow gender and qualification; second, government interventions, which have shaped how entrepreneurship is practised; third, family, which evolves around the male relatives' involvement in women's entrepreneurship; and finally, religion/culture, which are embodied mainly in terms of fate and appearance (attire). The conclusions are: the areas that are identified in this study are mostly new insights and have not been recognised in the current mainstream Western literature, such as tribalism. Some areas contradict the Western studies, such as the notion of fatalism; while some areas are recognised in the current mainstream literature, such as family - but the way in which it plays out in Omani women entrepreneurs' experience differs from the Western women's entrepreneurship in the mainstream literature.

Subjects/Keywords: women's entrepreneurship; entrepreneurship; entrepreneuring; Oman; Arab Muslim women; N120 International Business studies

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APA (6^th Edition):

Al-Moosa, H. (2018). An analysis of the narratives of Omani women entrepreneurs. (Doctoral Dissertation). University of Bedfordshire. Retrieved from http://hdl.handle.net/10547/623344

Chicago Manual of Style (16^th Edition):

Al-Moosa, Hadil. “An analysis of the narratives of Omani women entrepreneurs.” 2018. Doctoral Dissertation, University of Bedfordshire. Accessed April 21, 2021. http://hdl.handle.net/10547/623344.

MLA Handbook (7^th Edition):

Al-Moosa, Hadil. “An analysis of the narratives of Omani women entrepreneurs.” 2018. Web. 21 Apr 2021.

Vancouver:

Al-Moosa H. An analysis of the narratives of Omani women entrepreneurs. [Internet] [Doctoral dissertation]. University of Bedfordshire; 2018. [cited 2021 Apr 21]. Available from: http://hdl.handle.net/10547/623344.

Council of Science Editors:

Al-Moosa H. An analysis of the narratives of Omani women entrepreneurs. [Doctoral Dissertation]. University of Bedfordshire; 2018. Available from: http://hdl.handle.net/10547/623344

23. Eze, Sunday Chinedu. Understanding dynamic process of emerging ICT adoption in UK service SMEs : an actor-network approach.

Degree: PhD, 2013, University of Bedfordshire

URL: http://hdl.handle.net/10547/301101

► Although literature reveals that significant efforts have been made to study ICT adoption and diffusion, the diversity of research in terms of theory and methodology… (more)

▼ Although literature reveals that significant efforts have been made to study ICT adoption and diffusion, the diversity of research in terms of theory and methodology is very low. Most studies have relied on traditional adoption theories (e.g., TAM and DOI) and these theories are not capable of providing rich explanantion on how the adoption and post-adoption develop over time. It is argued here that ICT adoption involves multi-dimensional and complex issues. These issues range from how various roles played by actors in emerging ICT are accounted for to ensuring successful adoption. Therefore, this research aims to advance our understanding of emerging ICT adoptions in SMEs from a dynamic process perspective. The specific objectives of this research are to: establish the stages of the dynamic process, identify the key actors and their roles, explore the critical factors affecting the emerging ICT adoption process, identify the challenges and provide recommendations and implications for stakeholders in promoting future adoption and diffusion in UK SMEs. The research adopts a social-technical approach that challenges the ideas of the mainstream thinkers. More specifically, it adopts Actor Network Theory (ANT). The key ANT concepts that influenced the empirical investigation are inscription, translation, framing and stabilisation. The research adopted a qualitative method using face to face interviews. Two rounds of data collection were undertaken. The first round started with a theoretical review, the analysis of relevant literature, and unstructured interviews mainly with small business managers. Eleven interviews were carried out. The second round of interviews was semi-structured with key human actors identified in the first round of interviews. A total of fifteen interviews were conducted. They included the small business manager; SMEs service sector customers, government agencies, SMEs consultants, and IT vendors. The aim was to further explore the dynamic adoption process, the roles and challenges of actors and to validate the outcomes of the findings. The analysis was guided by a hybrid approach of thematic analysis using NVivo software. The study proposed and validated a conceptual framework that illustrates the dynamic process of emerging ICT adoption in SMEs from the Actor Network Theory perspective. This framework helps to understand the adoption process, actors involved, actors’ roles and interactions, and the critical factors. Using the key concepts of ANT as the basis of the investigation, the findings identify a number of key activities associated with the adoption process. These activities include: problem assessment and evaluation, concept generation and evaluation, concept specification, product outsourcing /role delegation, misalignment and alignment of interests, product trial, product modification, adaptation, and impact and problem redefinition. These activities reveal that adoption of emerging ICT in a small business context is not constant, straightforward and certain; instead it is…

Subjects/Keywords: 658.4; G440 Human-computer Interaction; ICT adoption; computers in business; ICT; small to medium-sized enterprises; SMEs; small business

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APA (6^th Edition):

Eze, S. C. (2013). Understanding dynamic process of emerging ICT adoption in UK service SMEs : an actor-network approach. (Doctoral Dissertation). University of Bedfordshire. Retrieved from http://hdl.handle.net/10547/301101

Chicago Manual of Style (16^th Edition):

Eze, Sunday Chinedu. “Understanding dynamic process of emerging ICT adoption in UK service SMEs : an actor-network approach.” 2013. Doctoral Dissertation, University of Bedfordshire. Accessed April 21, 2021. http://hdl.handle.net/10547/301101.

MLA Handbook (7^th Edition):

Eze, Sunday Chinedu. “Understanding dynamic process of emerging ICT adoption in UK service SMEs : an actor-network approach.” 2013. Web. 21 Apr 2021.

Vancouver:

Eze SC. Understanding dynamic process of emerging ICT adoption in UK service SMEs : an actor-network approach. [Internet] [Doctoral dissertation]. University of Bedfordshire; 2013. [cited 2021 Apr 21]. Available from: http://hdl.handle.net/10547/301101.

Council of Science Editors:

Eze SC. Understanding dynamic process of emerging ICT adoption in UK service SMEs : an actor-network approach. [Doctoral Dissertation]. University of Bedfordshire; 2013. Available from: http://hdl.handle.net/10547/301101

24. Kerner, Charlotte Lynn. Relationships between body image, motivation and physical education (PE) experiences in 13-14 year old boys and girls.

Degree: PhD, 2013, University of Bedfordshire

URL: http://hdl.handle.net/10547/315360

► Research has established that body image disturbance is associated with a number of negative physical and psychological health outcomes. It is recognised that body image… (more)

▼ Research has established that body image disturbance is associated with a number of negative physical and psychological health outcomes. It is recognised that body image is subject to situational variability, yet to date, research seems to have overlooked the explicit exploration of the stability of the construct within physical education. With this in mind the overarching aim of this thesis was to explore relationships between body image, perceptions of competence and motivation, with specific attention paid to the influence of the physical education environment upon year nine boys and girls situational body satisfaction. Secondly, the thesis explores the role that these three psycho-social constructs play in transfer of learning. The design of the research was a correlational, repeated measures study conducted across two time points, combined with focus group sessions. Quantitative data collection at time point one consisted of 620 pupils from 37 year 9 physical education classes. Time point two consisted of 461 pupils from 38 physical education classes. At both quantitative time points students responded to a questionnaire package which explored perceptions of competence towards physical education, motivation for physical education and aspects of trait and state body image. Participants at time point one also provided demographic information. Additionally, 159 pupils at time point one underwent anthropometric assessments of body fat and BMI. The findings from the thesis identify that 71%-80% of year 9 boys and girls are dissatisfied with their current body size. It was identified that the majority of variance in situational body satisfaction within physical education can be attributed to factors operating at the pupil and time level, with a smaller yet significant proportion of variance being attributed to between-class factors. Lesson content did not significantly predict variations in body satisfaction scores within physical education and evidence from the focus group sessions suggest that classroom entry factors such as the changing rooms maybe more influential that factors operating within the lesson itself. Results revealed higher levels of body satisfaction within physical education are associated with higher perceptions of competence within physical education, higher levels of autonomous towards physical education, higher transfer of learning scores and lower amotivation towards physical education scores. Collectively, the results of the thesis identify the prevalence of body dissatisfaction in 13-14 year old boys and girls and the potential implications negative body satisfaction can have for experiences of physical education. Findings of the thesis warrant further investigation of how the psychological variables explored relate to further contextual and pedagogical factors.

Subjects/Keywords: 613.7; C812 Educational Psychology; body image; physical education; motivation; gender

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APA (6^th Edition):

Kerner, C. L. (2013). Relationships between body image, motivation and physical education (PE) experiences in 13-14 year old boys and girls. (Doctoral Dissertation). University of Bedfordshire. Retrieved from http://hdl.handle.net/10547/315360

Chicago Manual of Style (16^th Edition):

Kerner, Charlotte Lynn. “Relationships between body image, motivation and physical education (PE) experiences in 13-14 year old boys and girls.” 2013. Doctoral Dissertation, University of Bedfordshire. Accessed April 21, 2021. http://hdl.handle.net/10547/315360.

MLA Handbook (7^th Edition):

Kerner, Charlotte Lynn. “Relationships between body image, motivation and physical education (PE) experiences in 13-14 year old boys and girls.” 2013. Web. 21 Apr 2021.

Vancouver:

Kerner CL. Relationships between body image, motivation and physical education (PE) experiences in 13-14 year old boys and girls. [Internet] [Doctoral dissertation]. University of Bedfordshire; 2013. [cited 2021 Apr 21]. Available from: http://hdl.handle.net/10547/315360.

Council of Science Editors:

Kerner CL. Relationships between body image, motivation and physical education (PE) experiences in 13-14 year old boys and girls. [Doctoral Dissertation]. University of Bedfordshire; 2013. Available from: http://hdl.handle.net/10547/315360

25. Moya, Mario Raul Angel. Using language learning strategies to develop ab-initio PGCE students' skills in primary modern languages.

Degree: PhD, 2014, University of Bedfordshire

URL: http://hdl.handle.net/10547/320282

► The announcements concerning the introduction of modern languages in Key Stage Two in England (https://www.education.gov.uk/schools/teachingandlearning/ curriculum/national curriculum2014, [accessed 8 March 2013]), although not a new… (more)

▼ The announcements concerning the introduction of modern languages in Key Stage Two in England (https://www.education.gov.uk/schools/teachingandlearning/ curriculum/national curriculum2014, [accessed 8 March 2013]), although not a new initiative, have renewed the need to train generalist primary teachers in teaching modern languages. Following an initial announcement of the introduction of the English Baccalaureate, the poor outcomes achieved by England in the European languages survey (COE, 2012) and the news that modern languages would be part of the primary curriculum (http://www.bbc.co.uk/news/education-18531751 [accessed 21 June 2012]) contributed to refreshing the agenda of languages in the country and the role of early second language learning appears to be slowly resurrecting. In order to provide trainee teachers with the skills necessary for teaching young learners modern languages, this study focuses on increasing subject knowledge and pedagogical competence in a short time by developing trainees’ reflective practice, broadly following the tradition of strategy-based instruction (Macaro, 2001; Cohen, 2007; Oxford, 2011), but within a social constructivist understanding of learning using collaboration. The research, which follows a mixed method case study approach, proposes and trials a teaching approach that incorporates language learning strategies in a collaborative manner. The design of a revised strategy-based approach has a three-fold purpose: (i) to enable primary trainee teachers to develop the linguistic skills necessary to teach another language through the use of the linguistic knowledge they already possess in their own mother tongue (Saville-Troike, 2012); (ii) to use self-regulation to build confidence and competence in the target language; and (iii) to enable trainees and pupils to develop their language learning autonomy. Results indicate that, within the case studies reported here, such an approach seemed to be an effective way of learning and teaching another language simultaneously for adults, as it provided ab-initio language learners with a basis for the development of linguistic skills thus increasing their capacity for languages. Whilst there is no claim to generalisation here, the studies indicate that using language learning strategies may create and sustain interest and engagement in the subject—a condition that has been identified as critical to the success of any teaching approach. Whilst the results were positive in terms of developing acceptable levels of linguistic competence in adult learners over a short time, the use of a strategy-based method with children did not prove satisfactory, perhaps because of the high metacognitive demands placed on them when they had not yet developed high level abstract thinking, particularly the amount of prior knowledge needed and the language required to verbalise complex cognitive processes.

Subjects/Keywords: 418.0071; R990 European Languages, Literature and related subjects not elsewhere; modern languages; language learning; European languages; PGCE; teacher training

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APA (6^th Edition):

Moya, M. R. A. (2014). Using language learning strategies to develop ab-initio PGCE students' skills in primary modern languages. (Doctoral Dissertation). University of Bedfordshire. Retrieved from http://hdl.handle.net/10547/320282

Chicago Manual of Style (16^th Edition):

Moya, Mario Raul Angel. “Using language learning strategies to develop ab-initio PGCE students' skills in primary modern languages.” 2014. Doctoral Dissertation, University of Bedfordshire. Accessed April 21, 2021. http://hdl.handle.net/10547/320282.

MLA Handbook (7^th Edition):

Moya, Mario Raul Angel. “Using language learning strategies to develop ab-initio PGCE students' skills in primary modern languages.” 2014. Web. 21 Apr 2021.

Vancouver:

Moya MRA. Using language learning strategies to develop ab-initio PGCE students' skills in primary modern languages. [Internet] [Doctoral dissertation]. University of Bedfordshire; 2014. [cited 2021 Apr 21]. Available from: http://hdl.handle.net/10547/320282.

Council of Science Editors:

Moya MRA. Using language learning strategies to develop ab-initio PGCE students' skills in primary modern languages. [Doctoral Dissertation]. University of Bedfordshire; 2014. Available from: http://hdl.handle.net/10547/320282

26. Alketbi, Omar. Data quality assurance for strategic decision making in Abu Dhabi's public organisations.

Degree: PhD, 2014, University of Bedfordshire

URL: http://hdl.handle.net/10547/595704

► Data quality is an important aspect of an organisation’s strategies for supporting decision makers in reaching the best decisions possible and consequently attaining the organisation’s… (more)

▼ Data quality is an important aspect of an organisation’s strategies for supporting decision makers in reaching the best decisions possible and consequently attaining the organisation’s objectives. In the case of public organisations, decisions ultimately concern the public and hence further diligence is required to make sure that these decisions do, for instance, preserve economic resources, maintain public health, and provide national security. The decision making process requires a wealth of information in order to achieve efficient results. Public organisations typically acquire great amounts of data generated by public services. However, the vast amount of data stored in public organisations’ databases may be one of the main reasons for inefficient decisions made by public organisations. Processing vast amounts of data and extracting accurate information are not easy tasks. Although technology helps in this respect, for example, the use of decision support systems, it is not sufficient for improving decisions to a significant level of assurance. The research proposed using data mining to improve results obtained by decision support systems. However, more considerations are needed than the mere technological aspects. The research argues that a complete data quality framework is needed in order to improve data quality and consequently the decision making process in public organisations. A series of surveys conducted in seven public organisations in Abu Dhabi Emirate of the United Arab Emirates contributed to the design of a data quality framework. The framework comprises elements found necessary to attain the quality of data reaching decision makers. The framework comprises seven elements ranging from technical to human-based found important to attain data quality in public organisations taking Abu Dhabi public organisations as the case. The interaction and integration of these elements contributes to the quality of data reaching decision makers and hence to the efficiency of decisions made by public organisations. The framework suggests that public organisations may need to adopt a methodological basis to support the decision making process. This includes more training courses and supportive bodies of the organisational units, such as decision support centres, information security and strategic management. The framework also underscores the importance of acknowledging human and cultural factors involved in the decision making process. Such factors have implications for how training and raising awareness are implemented to lead to effective methods of system development.

Subjects/Keywords: 658.4; data quality; assurance; strategic decision making; Abu Dhabi; public organisation; N211 Strategic Management; decision making

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APA (6^th Edition):

Alketbi, O. (2014). Data quality assurance for strategic decision making in Abu Dhabi's public organisations. (Doctoral Dissertation). University of Bedfordshire. Retrieved from http://hdl.handle.net/10547/595704

Chicago Manual of Style (16^th Edition):

Alketbi, Omar. “Data quality assurance for strategic decision making in Abu Dhabi's public organisations.” 2014. Doctoral Dissertation, University of Bedfordshire. Accessed April 21, 2021. http://hdl.handle.net/10547/595704.

MLA Handbook (7^th Edition):

Alketbi, Omar. “Data quality assurance for strategic decision making in Abu Dhabi's public organisations.” 2014. Web. 21 Apr 2021.

Vancouver:

Alketbi O. Data quality assurance for strategic decision making in Abu Dhabi's public organisations. [Internet] [Doctoral dissertation]. University of Bedfordshire; 2014. [cited 2021 Apr 21]. Available from: http://hdl.handle.net/10547/595704.

Council of Science Editors:

Alketbi O. Data quality assurance for strategic decision making in Abu Dhabi's public organisations. [Doctoral Dissertation]. University of Bedfordshire; 2014. Available from: http://hdl.handle.net/10547/595704

27. Baker, Sarah. Practitioners' perceptions of the boundaries between coaching and counselling.

Degree: PhD, 2014, University of Bedfordshire

URL: http://hdl.handle.net/10547/593037

► Counselling and coaching use specialised skills to help individuals address problems and make a positive change (Egan, 2010). Whilst sharing many commonalities with counselling, the… (more)

▼ Counselling and coaching use specialised skills to help individuals address problems and make a positive change (Egan, 2010). Whilst sharing many commonalities with counselling, the coaching industry has endeavoured to define boundaries between the helping approaches to establish discrete areas of practice. However, rather than observe theoretical boundaries, many coaches rely on personal experience to idiosyncratically define boundaries in practice (Maxwell, 2009; Price 2009). The reliance on experience to inform practice judgements has significant implications for novice coaches. Without the advantage of contextual knowledge to assist with identifying boundaries, it is important that newly trained coaches are aware of working within their competency to ensure good practice. To investigate whether clear boundaries could be identified, a mixed-methods approach was used to explore novice coaches’ and experienced coaches’ and counsellors’ experiences of working with the boundaries between the helping approaches. Study one incorporated a survey and Interpretative phenomenological analysis of interview transcripts to investigate novice coaches’ perceptions of boundaries. Study two utilised a survey design to gain a broad understanding of experienced counsellors’ and coaches’ perspectives, while Study three involved an in-depth analysis of the experiences of 20 coaches and counsellors working with boundaries between coaching and counselling in practice. Findings from the first study indicated novices’ confusion and inconsistencies when identifying the differences between the approaches. The results suggested that newly trained coaches may work beyond their competencies when working with mental health problems in practice. Results from studies with experienced practitioners indicated that there is a large overlap between the helping approaches and identified different ways of working with boundaries. Some practitioners were adamant that boundaries should be preserved between coaching and counselling. However, a third of practitioners surveyed indicated that integrating approaches would be beneficial to meet the clients’ needs. The thesis illustrates practitioners’ concerns relating to the content and provision of coach training programmes and offers recommendations that aim to encourage a review of minimum standards in coach education. In addition, collaboration between coaching and counselling professional bodies is suggested to establish ethical guidelines for coaches and counsellors who wish to blend coaching and counselling practice.

Subjects/Keywords: 158.3; practitioners; coaching; counselling; perception; B940 Counselling

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APA (6^th Edition):

Baker, S. (2014). Practitioners' perceptions of the boundaries between coaching and counselling. (Doctoral Dissertation). University of Bedfordshire. Retrieved from http://hdl.handle.net/10547/593037

Chicago Manual of Style (16^th Edition):

Baker, Sarah. “Practitioners' perceptions of the boundaries between coaching and counselling.” 2014. Doctoral Dissertation, University of Bedfordshire. Accessed April 21, 2021. http://hdl.handle.net/10547/593037.

MLA Handbook (7^th Edition):

Baker, Sarah. “Practitioners' perceptions of the boundaries between coaching and counselling.” 2014. Web. 21 Apr 2021.

Vancouver:

Baker S. Practitioners' perceptions of the boundaries between coaching and counselling. [Internet] [Doctoral dissertation]. University of Bedfordshire; 2014. [cited 2021 Apr 21]. Available from: http://hdl.handle.net/10547/593037.

Council of Science Editors:

Baker S. Practitioners' perceptions of the boundaries between coaching and counselling. [Doctoral Dissertation]. University of Bedfordshire; 2014. Available from: http://hdl.handle.net/10547/593037

28. Shea, James. Pre-service teachers' social media usage to support professional development : a communities of practice analysis.

Degree: PhD, 2016, University of Bedfordshire

URL: http://hdl.handle.net/10547/622490

► The current study was based in one higher education institution and examined pre-service teachers’ use of social media to support their own professional development whilst… (more)

▼ The current study was based in one higher education institution and examined pre-service teachers’ use of social media to support their own professional development whilst on school placement, through a community of practice lens. The trainees were registered on a one year secondary course designed to lead to a Post Graduate Certificate in Education with 60 credits at Masters Level combined with Qualified Teacher Status (QTS) for England and Wales during which the researcher repeatedly interviewed a focus group sample from each subject cohort and analysed transcripts of these interviews through the lens of Wenger’s (1998) concept of a community of practice. The research took place in a national context of review and reform of teacher education in England. Some trainees, for example those studying at the higher education establishment at question, might experience considerable challenge in the school placement. Authentic self-reflection requires a safe place in which pre-service teachers can openly articulate with others what they might see as their own failures as well as successes in the classroom in order to develop a greater sense of self-efficacy and new ideas about teaching. In some instances, such as in the area of behaviour management, the national focus on maintaining good order means that it may become even more challenging and ultimately riskier to share the experience of failure because acknowledgement of this risks the possibility of failing to achieve the requisite standard for qualified teacher status. Besides, to gain qualified teacher status a trainee must attain the Teachers’ Standards (DfE, 2013) which include a requirement that a professional teacher upholds the ethos of the school to which the trainee might not be sympathetic. Findings from this research cannot be generalised. However, in this small-scale study it was found that pre-service teachers used private social media to support each other on the course in a number of ways: to establish a group that might be viewed as a community of practice and then, as part of the core enterprise of becoming a qualified teacher, to offer or to receive shared practice or support from another pre-service teacher in the role of more knowledgeable other and to broker new ideas about teaching to each other and to schools themselves from the other communities to which they belonged. Those who networked socially as part of the community of practice were more organised around deadlines. They also more likely to manage risky and stressful situations collaboratively and present an enhanced image of “…a body of common knowledge, practices and approaches” (Wenger, McDermott and Snyder, 2007, pp. 4-5) during their school placement which was unavailable to the trainee who did not participate within the online community. The scope for openly sharing practice and the development of learning communities among pre-service teachers is potentially restricted by the current national and local context of teacher education. However, one conclusion from this study might be that…

Subjects/Keywords: X300 Academic studies in Education; pre-service teacher; teaching; social media; professional development; professional development of teachers

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APA · Chicago · MLA · Vancouver · CSE | Export to Zotero / EndNote / Reference Manager

APA (6^th Edition):

Shea, J. (2016). Pre-service teachers' social media usage to support professional development : a communities of practice analysis. (Doctoral Dissertation). University of Bedfordshire. Retrieved from http://hdl.handle.net/10547/622490

Chicago Manual of Style (16^th Edition):

Shea, James. “Pre-service teachers' social media usage to support professional development : a communities of practice analysis.” 2016. Doctoral Dissertation, University of Bedfordshire. Accessed April 21, 2021. http://hdl.handle.net/10547/622490.

MLA Handbook (7^th Edition):

Shea, James. “Pre-service teachers' social media usage to support professional development : a communities of practice analysis.” 2016. Web. 21 Apr 2021.

Vancouver:

Shea J. Pre-service teachers' social media usage to support professional development : a communities of practice analysis. [Internet] [Doctoral dissertation]. University of Bedfordshire; 2016. [cited 2021 Apr 21]. Available from: http://hdl.handle.net/10547/622490.

Council of Science Editors:

Shea J. Pre-service teachers' social media usage to support professional development : a communities of practice analysis. [Doctoral Dissertation]. University of Bedfordshire; 2016. Available from: http://hdl.handle.net/10547/622490

29. Sharp, Chloe. Examining relationships between deceased organ donation, gift exchange theory and religion : perpectives of Luton Polonia.

Degree: PhD, 2012, University of Bedfordshire

URL: http://hdl.handle.net/10547/560468

► Currently there is a critical shortage of transplantable organs in the UK. The existing evidence base highlights that cultural and religious norms can hinder familial… (more)

▼ Currently there is a critical shortage of transplantable organs in the UK. The existing evidence base highlights that cultural and religious norms can hinder familial consent and uptake of registration as an organ donor, particularly within ethnic minority groups. There is a dearth of information relating to the Polish community in the UK. Since the expansion of the European Union and the potential and consequent economic migration of Poles to the UK, this community presents a potential significant contribution to the active transplant waiting list, NHS Organ Donor Register and requests made for organs for donation on behalf of a relative. The aim of the study was to examine in depth, the perceptions of the relationship between deceased organ donation, gift exchange and religion. Due to the exploratory nature of the study, grounded theory methodology was used and one to one interviews were carried out with 31 participants who were recruited using a purposive convenience sampling strategy. This approach allowed for the collection of rich and deep data in a hitherto under-researched issue with the Polish community in the UK. To contextualise the key findings of the relationship, an in-depth analysis of settlement patterns, helping behaviour and experiences of and attitudes toward religion was conducted. The relationship between religion and gift-exchange was perceived to interact in different ways with deceased organ donation depending on the context. For the individual making an end-of-life choice, gift exchange impacted on the perception of the organ as a gift and whether reciprocity was expected, religion shaped views of the need for the body after death and social and cultural norms influenced the view of the 'typical' donor and family discussion of donation. For the relatives, social, religious and cultural norms impacted on death rituals and the conceptualisation of the dead body and experiences of a relative's death. This study contributes to an understanding of the social, cultural and religious norms toward deceased organ donation from a Polish perspective and the implications for policy, health promotion and clinical practice.

Subjects/Keywords: 362.17; L350 Religion in Society; transplantation; Poland; organ donation; gift exchange theory

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APA · Chicago · MLA · Vancouver · CSE | Export to Zotero / EndNote / Reference Manager

APA (6^th Edition):

Sharp, C. (2012). Examining relationships between deceased organ donation, gift exchange theory and religion : perpectives of Luton Polonia. (Doctoral Dissertation). University of Bedfordshire. Retrieved from http://hdl.handle.net/10547/560468

Chicago Manual of Style (16^th Edition):

Sharp, Chloe. “Examining relationships between deceased organ donation, gift exchange theory and religion : perpectives of Luton Polonia.” 2012. Doctoral Dissertation, University of Bedfordshire. Accessed April 21, 2021. http://hdl.handle.net/10547/560468.

MLA Handbook (7^th Edition):

Sharp, Chloe. “Examining relationships between deceased organ donation, gift exchange theory and religion : perpectives of Luton Polonia.” 2012. Web. 21 Apr 2021.

Vancouver:

Sharp C. Examining relationships between deceased organ donation, gift exchange theory and religion : perpectives of Luton Polonia. [Internet] [Doctoral dissertation]. University of Bedfordshire; 2012. [cited 2021 Apr 21]. Available from: http://hdl.handle.net/10547/560468.

Council of Science Editors:

Sharp C. Examining relationships between deceased organ donation, gift exchange theory and religion : perpectives of Luton Polonia. [Doctoral Dissertation]. University of Bedfordshire; 2012. Available from: http://hdl.handle.net/10547/560468

30. Hooper, Mark Alan. Leveraging contextual-cognitive relationships into mobile commerce systems.

Degree: PhD, 2018, University of Bedfordshire

URL: http://hdl.handle.net/10547/623248

► Mobile smart devices are becoming increasingly important within the on-line purchasing cycle. Thus the requirement for mobile commerce systems to become truly context-aware remains paramount… (more)

▼ Mobile smart devices are becoming increasingly important within the on-line purchasing cycle. Thus the requirement for mobile commerce systems to become truly context-aware remains paramount if they are to be effective within the varied situations that mobile users encounter. Where traditionally a recommender system will focus upon the user - item relationship, i.e. what to recommend, in this thesis it is proposed that due to the complexity of mobile user situational profiles the how and when must also be considered for recommendations to be effective. Though non-trivial, it should be, through the understanding of a user's ability to complete certain cognitive processes, possible to determine the likelihood of engagement and therefore the success of the recommendation. This research undertakes an investigation into physical and modal contexts and presents findings as to their relationships with cognitive processes. Through the introduction of the novel concept, disruptive contexts, situational contexts, including noise, distractions and user activity, are identified as having significant effects upon the relationship between user affective state and cognitive capability. Experimental results demonstrate that by understanding specific cognitive capabilities, e.g. a user's perception of advert content and user levels of purchase-decision involvement, a system can determine potential user engagement and therefore improve the effectiveness of recommender systems' performance. A quantitative approach is followed with a reliance upon statistical measures to inform the development, and subsequent validation, of a contextual-cognitive model that was implemented as part of a context-aware system. The development of SiDISense (Situational Decision Involvement Sensing system) demonstrated, through the use of smart-phone sensors and machine learning, that is was viable to classify subjectively rated contexts to then infer levels of cognitive capability and therefore likelihood of positive user engagement. Through this success in furthering the understanding of contextual-cognitive relationships there are novel and significant advances that are now viable within the area of m-commerce.

Subjects/Keywords: context-awareness; cognitive relationships; mobile commerce; disruptive contexts; user behaviour; N240 Retail Management

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APA · Chicago · MLA · Vancouver · CSE | Export to Zotero / EndNote / Reference Manager

APA (6^th Edition):

Hooper, M. A. (2018). Leveraging contextual-cognitive relationships into mobile commerce systems. (Doctoral Dissertation). University of Bedfordshire. Retrieved from http://hdl.handle.net/10547/623248

Chicago Manual of Style (16^th Edition):

Hooper, Mark Alan. “Leveraging contextual-cognitive relationships into mobile commerce systems.” 2018. Doctoral Dissertation, University of Bedfordshire. Accessed April 21, 2021. http://hdl.handle.net/10547/623248.

MLA Handbook (7^th Edition):

Hooper, Mark Alan. “Leveraging contextual-cognitive relationships into mobile commerce systems.” 2018. Web. 21 Apr 2021.

Vancouver:

Hooper MA. Leveraging contextual-cognitive relationships into mobile commerce systems. [Internet] [Doctoral dissertation]. University of Bedfordshire; 2018. [cited 2021 Apr 21]. Available from: http://hdl.handle.net/10547/623248.

Council of Science Editors:

Hooper MA. Leveraging contextual-cognitive relationships into mobile commerce systems. [Doctoral Dissertation]. University of Bedfordshire; 2018. Available from: http://hdl.handle.net/10547/623248

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Open Access Theses and Dissertations