Multiple-criteria analysis of the employee satisfaction level at healthcare facilities during the pandemic

Due to the pandemic, the entire staff employed in healthcare institutions were directly exposed to longer working hours and unstable working conditions. Based on these facts, the research in this article aims to find out more about employees' satisfaction with working conditions and management's engagement in preserving their health and safety. Thus, a multiple-criteria decision analysis (MCDA) model based on the analyzed attitudes and opinions of employees was formed to reveal the interdependencies between working conditions resulting from the undertaken management activities, employee satisfaction and workplace safety. The results show that both nurses and drivers were least satisfied with working conditions during the pandemic while indicating those workplaces to be the most endangered. Additionally, the proposed model can be successfully applied to any type of organization to identify insufficiently effective management activities, address them accordingly and thereby improve the level of employee satisfaction.

ChatGPT in medical libraries, possibilities and future directions: An integrative review

BACKGROUND

The emergence of the artificial intelligence chatbot ChatGPT in November 2022 has garnered substantial attention across diverse disciplines. Despite widespread adoption in various sectors, the exploration of its application in libraries, especially within the medical domain, remains limited.

AIMS/OBJECTIVES

Many areas of interest remain unexplored like ChatGPT in medical libraries and this review aims to synthesise what is currently known about it to identify gaps and stimulate further research.

METHODS

Employing Cooper's integrative review method, this study involves a comprehensive analysis of existing literature on ChatGPT and its potential implementations within library contexts.

RESULTS

A systematic literature search across various databases yielded 166 papers, with 30 excluded for irrelevance. After abstract reviews and methodological assessments, 136 articles were selected. Critical Appraisal Skills Programme qualitative checklist further narrowed down to 29 papers, forming the basis for the present study. The literature analysis reveals diverse applications of ChatGPT in medical libraries, including aiding users in finding relevant medical information, answering queries, providing recommendations and facilitating access to resources. Potential challenges and ethical considerations associated with ChatGPT in this context are also highlighted.

CONCLUSION

Positioned as a review, our study elucidates the applications of ChatGPT in medical libraries and discusses relevant considerations. The integration of ChatGPT into medical library services holds promise for enhancing information retrieval and user experience, benefiting library users and the broader medical community.

A New Normal: A Case Study on Changing Strategies in Technology Engagement at an Academic Health Sciences Library

As academic libraries shift services to meet the changing needs of patrons after the COVID-19 pandemic, educational technologies and services to support them require updating. Patrons using technology that was once associated with hands-on learning and in-person interactions are preferring flexible and hybrid iterations. In this case study, the authors describe and analyze the pivot of three technology services at the Spencer S. Eccles Health Sciences Library in the post-COVID-19 environment. Technologies discussed include a multimedia studio, virtual reality (VR), and a three-dimensional (3D) printing service. This case study utilizes available usage stats and survey data to demonstrate and provide rationale for the changing strategy in services for each technology "hub." The multimedia studio has been dismantled in favor of the equipment being available for checkout, VR is now available in a staff-supported classroom, and a 3D printing service has been fully automated through an online submission platform. These examples, and the rationale behind changing them, can help offer ideas for other libraries to help find solutions that meet the demands of a changing learning environment.

"Tremendous burdens often unveil enormous gifts": The experiences of South African caregivers implementing speech and language teletherapy for children with cerebral palsy during COVID-19

PURPOSE

In accordance with South Africa's restrictions to mitigate the spread of COVID-19, some speech-language pathologists (SLPs) attempted to engage in novice teletherapy regimes to ensure continuity of care for children with cerebral palsy (CP). This study aimed to explore the experiences of caregivers of children with CP implementing SLP teletherapy during COVID-19 in South Africa. The goal was to shed light on how these families can be better supported and how teletherapy practices can be adjusted for this population.

METHODS

This study employed a qualitative phenomenological research design using in-person and virtual semi-structured interviews with 18 purposively sampled participants with children with CP who received speech and language teletherapy during COVID-19. The data was evaluated using an inductive thematic analysis approach whereby themes elicited from the caregivers' narratives were analyzed.

RESULTS

Interviews (n = 18) unveiled the significant understanding caregivers gained by becoming integral and active stakeholders in the provision of teletherapy. Caregivers were able to meaningfully communicate and bond with their children with CP. However, caregivers also assumed the burden that teletherapy placed on them, as they had to renegotiate their role during the pandemic in order to provide routine teletherapy.

CONCLUSION

Findings indicated the need for person-centered SLP teletherapy interventions that utilize contextually and culturally responsive techniques and resources.

The role of mentoring and coaching of healthcare professionals for digital technology adoption and implementation: A scoping review

Objective

Mentoring and coaching practices have supported the career and skill development of healthcare professionals (HCPs); however, their role in digital technology adoption and implementation for HCPs is unknown. The objective of this scoping review was to summarize information on healthcare education programs that have integrated mentoring or coaching as a key component.

Methods

The search strategy and keyword searches were developed by the project team and a research librarian. A two-stage screening process consisting of a title/abstract scan and a full-text review was conducted by two independent reviewers to determine study eligibility. Articles were included if they: (1) discussed the mentoring and/or coaching of HCPs on digital technology, including artificial intelligence, (2) described a population of HCPs at any stage of their career, and (3) were published in English.

Results

A total of 9473 unique citations were screened, identifying 19 eligible articles. 11 articles described mentoring and/or coaching programs for digital technology adoption, while eigth described mentoring and/or coaching for digital technology implementation. Program participants represented a diverse range of industries (i.e., clinical, academic, education, business, and information technology). Digital technologies taught within programs included electronic health records (EHRs), ultrasound imaging, digital health informatics, and computer skills.

Conclusions

This review provided a summary of the role of mentoring and/or coaching practices within digital technology education for HCPs. Future training initiatives for HCPs should consider appropriate resources, program design, mentor-learner relationship, security concerns and setting clear expectations for program participants. Future research could explore mentor/coach characteristics that would facilitate successful skill transfer.

Developing Climate Change and Health Impact Monitoring with eHealth at the South East Asia Community Observatory and Health and Demographic Surveillance Site, Malaysia (CHIMES)

Background

Malaysia is projected to experience an increase in heat, rainfall, rainfall variability, dry spells, thunderstorms, and high winds due to climate change. This may lead to a rise in heat-related mortality, reduced nutritional security, and potential migration due to uninhabitable land. Currently, there is limited data regarding the health implications of climate change on the Malaysian populace, which hinders informed decision-making and interventions.

Objective

This study aims to assess the feasibility and reliability of using sensor-based devices to enhance climate change and health research within the SEACO health and demographic surveillance site (HDSS) in Malaysia. We will particularly focus on the effects of climate-sensitive diseases, emphasizing lung conditions like chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD) and asthma.

Methods

In our mixed-methods approach, 120 participants (>18 years) from the SEACO HDSS in Segamat, Malaysia, will be engaged over three cycles, each lasting 3 weeks. Participants will use wearables to monitor heart rate, activity, and sleep. Indoor sensors will measure temperature in indoor living spaces, while 3D-printed weather stations will track indoor temperature and humidity. In each cycle, a minimum of 10 participants at high risk for COPD or asthma will be identified. Through interviews and questionnaires, we will evaluate the devices' reliability, the prevalence of climate-sensitive lung diseases, and their correlation with environmental factors, like heat and humidity.

Results

We anticipate that the sensor-based measurements will offer a comprehensive understanding of the interplay between climate-sensitive diseases and weather variables. The data is expected to reveal correlations between health impacts and weather exposures like heat. Participant feedback will offer perspectives on the usability and feasibility of these digital tools.

Conclusion

Our study within the SEACO HDSS in Malaysia will evaluate the potential of sensor-based digital technologies in monitoring the interplay between climate change and health, particularly for climate-sensitive diseases like COPD and asthma. The data generated will likely provide details on health profiles in relation to weather exposures. Feedback will indicate the acceptability of these tools for broader health surveillance. As climate change continues to impact global health, evaluating the potential of such digital technologies is crucial to understand its potential to inform policy and intervention strategies in vulnerable regions.

A sense of connectedness, transcendent experiences, and insights for compassionate action emerge through an international collective labyrinth walk with a shared intention during the COVID-19 pandemic

Introduction

Labyrinth walking is an integrative contemplative practice that aims to engage the body, heart, mind, and spirit. In this article, qualitative findings from the first year of a mixed methods study on collective labyrinth walking with a shared intention are described. This form of labyrinth walking is distinct in that it is a social contemplative practice. It expands upon most of the labyrinth walking research to date which has been focused upon the individual. More specifically, practitioners walk labyrinths together in solidarity with the same intention in mind during collective labyrinth walking. This practice can be used locally (i.e. practitioners walk the same labyrinth together for the same reason) or non-locally (i.e. practitioners walk different labyrinths for the same reason together in different locations). The study is unique in that it took place at the height of the COVID-19 pandemic which was a time in recent history that evoked fear, uncertainty, grief, isolation, and disconnectedness for many persons around the world.

Methods

This sample in this study was comprised of 461 participants from 19 countries who collectively walked labyrinths together with a shared intention on World Labyrinth Day 2021. Most participants were women in middle to later life from the United States. Data was collected through an anonymous online survey and analyzed using the qualitative methodology of interpretive phenomenological analysis.

Results

Three predominant themes emerged from practitioners' narrative accounts of their lived experiences: (1) multiple forms of connectedness (i.e., intrapersonal, interpersonal, transpersonal, labyrinth connection) were cultivated through collective labyrinth walking with a shared intention; (2) practitioners reported qualities associated with "transcendent" experiences during this experience (i.e., boundlessness, ultimacy, transcendence, connectedness, positive emotions); and (3) practitioners had insights for compassionate action.

Discussion

Findings suggest that collective labyrinth walking with a shared intention can contribute to individual and group flourishing during times of distress. Quasi-experimental and experimental research designs are needed to build on this exploratory developmental research and are described in this article.

Mapping of Iranian midwifery curriculum according to the International Confederation of midwives competencies

BACKGROUND

Evaluating the curriculum based on its success rate in preparing skilled midwives proficient in performing professional skills is a fundamental component of the midwifery education system. This study aimed to evaluate the content, strengths, and weaknesses of the midwifery curriculum in Iran based on the most recent ICM midwifery education standards in all competence areas, as well as to obtain expert feedback on the necessary courses or lessons for the curriculum using the Delphi method.

METHODS

This research was conducted in two phases: comparative analysis and the Delphi method. In the comparative analysis, the curriculum mapping tool was used to compare Iran's midwifery curriculum for bachelor's degrees to the international standards for midwifery education proposed by ICM in 2019 by a four-point Likert scale (adequate- relatively adequate- relatively inadequate- inadequate). Two individuals evaluated the curriculum independently for the presence of theoretical and clinical courses for attaining each relevant competency. In case of disagreement, the opinion of a third person was used. After identifying the academic deficiencies and weaknesses of the curriculum, the Delphi technique was used with the cooperation of the midwifery board members and directors of midwifery groups from across the country to collect feedback about new courses or lessons that need to be incorporated into the curriculum.

RESULTS

After a comparative analysis, 24 out of 315 essential competencies for ICM in the midwifery curriculum were found to be inadequate or relatively inadequate based on the three experts' opinions after reviewing the programmatic courses and lessons in the curriculum. In 79.5% of the knowledge area and 71.6% of the skill area, the curriculum for midwifery in Iran corresponded to ICM essential competencies. After surveying expert members during multiple Delphi rounds, the members agreed to add some lessons to the midwifery curriculum, design a new course, and hold related workshops to cover the competencies identified as inadequate or relatively inadequate in the comparative analysis.

CONCLUSION

The Iranian midwifery curriculum for acquiring 24 items of ICM essential competencies was deemed inadequate or relatively inadequate. Therefore, it seems in addition to revising Iran's midwifery curriculum following ICM competencies, providing midwifery policymakers with infrastructure and additional support to develop and implement effective midwifery training programs is necessary to ensure that midwives are trained and equipped with the necessary competencies for practice.

The Human Library and the development of cultural awareness and sensitivity in occupational therapy students: a mixed methods study

Introduction

Monash university in Australia has adopted the Human Library as a teaching activity aimed at enhancing occupational therapy (OT) students' cultural awareness and sensitivity; however, its effect on cultural competence in healthcare profession students has not been previously investigated.

Aim

To examine whether participation in a Human Library can facilitate the development of OT students' cultural awareness and sensitivity and to understand the factors contributing to changes in cultural competence from the students' perspective.

Method

This is a mixed-method study. Quantitative data was collected by participant characteristic survey and pre/post-Human Library cultural competence assessment (CCA). The quantitative data was used to inform the selection of participants and questions for the second qualitative phase. Quantitative data were analyzed using independent samples and paired t-tests, analysis of variance and Pearson correlation. Qualitative data were analyzed using coding reliability thematic analysis.

Results

Statistically significant increases were noted in CAS, CCB and overall CCA scores from pre- to post-Human Library. Participant characteristics such as gender, work experience in aged care and the health sector had a positive effect on pre-Human Library CCA results. Qualitative data demonstrated that participants perceived they had a level of cultural competence prior to attending the Human Library however, still made gains in cultural awareness and sensitivity and were motivated and inspired to provide culturally congruent healthcare.

Conclusion

The Human Library can be considered for inclusion within a suite of learning methods for healthcare professional student curricula as a cost-effective, flexible teaching method for the development of competencies for culturally congruent healthcare.

Reading Primary Scientific Literature: Approaches for Teaching Students in the Undergraduate STEM Classroom

Teaching undergraduate students to read primary scientific literature (PSL) is cited as an important goal for many science, technology, engineering, and math (STEM) classes, given a range of cognitive and affective benefits for students who read PSL. Consequently, there are a number of approaches and curricular interventions published in the STEM education literature on how to teach students to read PSL. These approaches vary widely in their instructional methods, target student demographic, required class time, and level of assessment demonstrating the method's efficacy. In this Essay, we conduct a systematic search to compile these approaches in an easily accessible manner for instructors, using a framework to sort the identified approaches by target level, time required, assessment population, and more. We also provide a brief review of the literature surrounding the reading of PSL in undergraduate STEM classrooms and conclude with some general recommendations for both instructors and education researchers on future areas of investigation.

At your service: supportiveness of servant leadership, communication frequency and communication channel fostering job satisfaction across generations

Introduction

The present study contributes to the conversations on the role of 'autonomy supportive' factors in employee wellbeing in remote work contexts by examining the relationships between servant leadership, communication frequency - overall and via synchronous (i.e., individual video-calls, individual telephone calls) and asynchronous communication channels (i.e., e-mail messages, and WhatsApp) - on the one hand, and job satisfaction, on the other, and the moderating role of generation (Baby Boomers and Gen X versus Gen Y) in these relationships.

Method

Building on self-determination theory, incorporating insights from servant leadership, telework, and media richness and synchronicity literatures, we developed hypotheses that were tested via multilevel analysis (273 employees nested in 89 managers).

Results

In line with expectations, servant leadership had a positive relationship with job satisfaction. Total communication frequency, however, was not related to job satisfaction. Further analyses per communication channel showed that only level 2 e-mail communication frequency was positively related to job satisfaction. In contrast to expectations, the relationships studied were not moderated by generation.

Discussion

We concluded that, for all generations, both servant leadership and frequent (e-mail) communication can be regarded as 'autonomy supportive' factors in employee wellbeing. Paradoxically, whereas servant leadership, considered as a human-centric leadership style, suggests close trust-based employment relationships, employees valued frequent asynchronous communication (via e-mail). Having access to information and knowledge when needed may satisfy employees' need for autonomy (and perhaps for flexibility to engage in work and non-work activities). The insights gained in our study can inform organizations, managers, and employees, particularly in future remote work contexts.

Evaluation of a Culturally Adapted Online Basic Psychosocial Skills Training Program for International Frontline Workers in Under-Resourced Contexts During the COVID-19 Pandemic

OBJECTIVE

Frontline workers report negative mental health impacts of being exposed to the risk of COVID-19, and of supporting people struggling with the effects of the virus. Uptake of psychological first-aid resources is inconsistent, and they may not meet the needs of frontline workers in under-resourced contexts. This study evaluates a culturally adapted basic psychosocial skills (BPS) training program that aimed to meet the needs of frontline workers in under-resourced settings.

METHODS

A cross-sectional survey administered to frontline workers who completed the program between 2020 and 2022, investigated their perceived confidence, satisfaction, and skill development, as well as their views on relevance to context and accessibility of the program.

RESULTS

Out of the 1000 people who had undertaken the BPS program, 118 (11.8%) completed the survey. Participants reported high levels of satisfaction and improved confidence in, and knowledge of, psychosocial skills. Participants reported that the BPS program was culturally and contextually relevant, and some requested expansion of the program, including more interactivity, opportunities for anonymous participation, and adaption to other cultural contexts, including translation into languages other than English.

CONCLUSION

Findings indicate a need for free, online, and culturally adapted psychosocial skills training program that is designed with key stakeholders to ensure relevance to social and cultural contexts.

The role of gamified learning strategies in student's motivation in high school and higher education: A systematic review

Gamification, defined as the integration of videogame components to promote a gameful experience, is increasingly being implemented in education with the aim of enhancing students' engagement and motivation. Accordingly, since 2010 it has constituted an area of growing interest for researchers and teachers. Following PRISMA 2020's methodology, a systematic review (SR) was conducted in November 2022 seeking to explore the influence of gamification strategies on students' motivation to learn. Having identified 548 articles, 40 studies were chosen based on the selection criteria set and analyzed to reveal that game elements such as points, badges and rankings are widely used to motivate students. From a theoretical perspective, gamification studies focus on the dichotomy of intrinsic and extrinsic motivation. The results suggest a positive influence of gamification strategies on students' motivation, although in the long run, such motivation can decline. Furthermore, the influence of a novelty effect and extrinsic rewards on motivation is identified, which can lead to greater motivation in the short term, followed by a decrease with further exposure to gamification. Future studies should focus on the influence of students' individual traits (e.g., gaming experience, openness to competition and cooperation) on gamification strategies. Moreover, long-term exposure to gamification as well as the novelty effect should be explored.

"The library is so much more than books": considerations for the design and implementation of teen digital mental health services in public libraries

BACKGROUND

Adolescence is a vulnerable developmental period, characterized by high rates of mental health concerns, yet few adolescents receive treatment. Public libraries support adolescents by providing them with access to teen programming, technological resources, and have recently been providing mental health services. Digital mental health (DMH) services may help libraries provide scalable mental health solutions for their adolescent patrons and could be well positioned to address the mental health needs of historically underrepresented racial and ethnic (HURE) adolescents; however, little research has been conducted on the compatibility of DMH services with adolescent patron mental health needs or resource needs of library workers supporting them.

METHODS

The research team formed a partnership with a public library, which serves a large HURE adolescent population. We conducted needs assessment and implementation readiness interviews with 17 library workers, including leadership, librarians, and workers with specialized areas of practice. Interview questions focused on library infrastructure, as well as library needs and preferences around the design and implementation of DMH services for adolescents. We used the Consolidated Framework for Implementation Research as guiding implementation determinant framework to code and analyze the interview transcripts.

RESULTS

Our findings revealed library workers play an important role in guiding patrons to desired resources and share a goal of implementing adolescent DMH resources into the library and elevating marginalized adolescents' voices. Existing library resources, such as the library's role as a safe space for adolescents in the community, close relationships with external and community organizations, and availability of no-cost technological resources, could help facilitate the implementation of DMH services. Barriers related to community buy-in, mental health stigma, and library worker confidence in supporting adolescent mental health could affect service implementation.

CONCLUSIONS

Our findings suggest public libraries are highly promising settings to deploy DMH services for adolescents. We identified important determinants that may impact the implementation of DMH services in public library settings. Special considerations are needed to design services to meet the mental health needs of HURE adolescent populations and those adolescents' most experiencing health inequities.

Faculty-Librarian Collaboration to Enhance Information Literacy Skills in an Online Nursing Course

ABSTRACT

This article describes an exemplary collaboration in which a librarian was fully embedded in beginner undergraduate nursing courses in a baccalaureate nursing program. The goal was to increase academic help-seeking behaviors and information literacy skills. Students benefited from the intervention and increasingly demonstrated the use of better sources for their evidence-based practice assignments. Library tutorials were permanently integrated into the courses. A collaborative approach to designing research assignments allowed the librarian and nursing faculty to lay a foundation of information literacy in the nursing program and encourage academic help-seeking behaviors.

Work-related burnout among public secondary school teachers is significantly influenced by the psychosocial work factors: a cross-sectional study from Ethiopia

Introduction

Work-related burnout (WRB) is the degree of physical and psychological fatigue and exhaustion perceived by individuals as related to their work. Even though the condition is widespread across various occupations, teachers inevitably experience high levels of burnout in their work, which can have long-term effects on their health and well-being. However, in developing countries such as Ethiopia, the lack of reliable data on psychosocial hazards, including work-related burnout, often encumbers officials from planning preventive measures. This study investigated the prevalence and contributing factors of work-related burnout among public secondary school teachers in Gondar City, northwestern Ethiopia.

Methods

An institution-based cross-sectional study was conducted from May to June 2022. A sample of 588 teachers was recruited using simple random sampling. Work-related burnout was assessed using a standardized seven-item Copenhagen Burnout Inventory (CBI). The data were collected through a self-administered questionnaire. The collected data were entered into EpiData and analyzed using SPSS. A multivariable logistic regression analysis was used to identify factors associated with work-related burnout.

Results

The overall response rate was 94.05% (N = 553). The majority of participants, 356 (64.4%), were male. The mean (±SD) age of the participants was 38.74 (±7.65) years. This study demonstrated that the prevalence of work-related burnout among school teachers in the past 12 months was 37.4% (n = 207). High job demands, job stress, job dissatisfaction, low role clarity, and student demotivation were found to be the psychosocial work factors that significantly influenced the prevalence of work-related burnout among school teachers.

Conclusion

This study highlights the high prevalence of work-related burnout among public secondary school teachers. Psychosocial work factors such as job demands, job stress, job satisfaction, role clarity, and student demotivation were significant factors influencing work-related burnout. To reduce the condition, it is recommended to take measures to cope with high job demands, improve stress management skills, promote job satisfaction strategies, clarify teachers' responsibilities, and use effective teaching practices to motivate students. In general, addressing psychosocial work factors needs to be central to efforts to prevent teacher burnout.

Crossing the 'flaky bridge' - the initial transitory experiences of qualifying as a paramedic: a mixed-methods study

Introduction

Newly qualified paramedics (NQPs) may experience emotional turbulence as they transition to professional practice. This may negatively affect confidence and have an adverse effect on attrition. This study highlights the initial transitory experiences of NQPs.

Methods

The study utilised a mixed-methods convergent design. Qualitative and quantitative data were collected simultaneously and triangulated to more fully interpret participants' experiences. A convenience sample of 18 NQPs from one ambulance trust was used. The Connor-Davidson Resilience 25-point Scale questionnaire (CD-RISC25) was administered and analysed using descriptive statistics. Semi-structured interviews were conducted simultaneously and analysed using Charmaz's constructivist grounded theory approach. Data were collected from September to December 2018.

Results

There was a range of resilience scores, with a mean of 74.7/100 (standard deviation 9.6). Factors relating to social support were scored highly, and factors relating to determinism and spirituality were scored lower. Qualitative data constructed a process whereby participants were navigating a new identity across three spheres simultaneously: professional, social and personal identity. Attending a catalyst event such as a cardiac arrest was a trigger for starting to navigate this process. Participants had different pathways through this transitional period. Participants who found this process particularly turbulent seemed to have lower resilience scores.

Conclusion

The transition from student to NQP is an emotionally turbulent time. Navigating a changing identity seems to be at the centre of this turbulence, and this is triggered by a catalyst event such as attending a cardiac arrest. Interventions which support the NQP in navigating this change in identity, such as group supervision, may improve resilience and self-efficacy and reduce attrition.

Food Insecurity in Higher Education: A Contemporary Review of Impacts and Explorations of Solutions

Food insecurity is a global phenomenon which impacts a variety of social, economic, and life-stage groups. One such group affected by food insecurity is college students, who tend to experience food insecurity at a prevalence which exceeds the average of their local communities. The impacts of food insecurity in this population are multifaceted and have implications for their college experience and beyond. Food insecurity has been observed to have negative effects on college student academic performance, physical health, and mental health. This review explores the impacts of and solutions for food insecurity in this population globally, with particular emphasis on the United States, and specifically California.

Examining undergraduate student perceptions and engagement during the second year of the COVID-19 pandemic

The objectives of this study were to understand undergraduate students' overall experiences with the transition to remote learning and understand students' level of involvement with online and in-person campus programs at the start of the COVID-19 pandemic. This paper presents the findings from a series of library focus groups conducted with undergraduate students in the summer 2021. Findings showed that students experienced parallel benefits and challenges to that of remote learning when attending online campus programs. Based on these findings this paper provides student-driven recommendations for library programming. Understanding the levels of student involvement across different types of engagement and different campus stakeholders allows for articulation of the greater implications for developing library student engagement efforts.

Students supporting students: evaluating the impact of the COVID-19 pandemic on resident assistant mental health

OBJECTIVE

To examine the impact of the novel coronavirus SARS-CoV2 (COVID-19) pandemic on Residents Assistants (RA) at a public university in the Midwest.

PARTICIPANTS

Sixty-seven RAs that had been offered an RA position for the '20-'21 academic year.

METHODS

An online cross-sectional survey measuring socio-demographics, stress, and well-being was fielded. MANCOVA models evaluated the impact of COVID-19 on well-being of Current RAs and compared to the non-current RA groups.

RESULTS

Sixty-seven RAs provided valid data. Overall, 47% of RAs had moderate-severe anxiety and 86.3% had moderate-high level of stress. Current RAs perceiving a great impact of COVID on life had significantly more stress, anxiety, burnout, and secondary traumatic stress than those who did not. RAs who started then quit experienced significantly higher secondary trauma compared to Current RAs.

CONCLUSIONS

Further research is needed to better understand the experiences and of RAs and to develop policies and programs to support RAs.

Misstrauen, Perfektionismus und die dunkle Seite der Sinnhaftigkeit

Der Beitrag setzt sich vor dem Hintergrund eigener Erfahrungen als Führungskraft mit den Herausforderungen auseinander, die im Umfeld wissenschaftlicher Bibliotheken bei der Etablierung von New-Work-Modellen erwartet werden. Es werden verschiedene Elemente von bibliothekarischer Arbeitskultur und bibliothekarischem Selbstverständnis aufgezeigt, die eine nachhaltige Implementierung von New Work nach Meinung der Autorin derzeit noch behindern. Der Beitrag schließt mit zehn Thesen, die eine Utopie der Bibliothek 2040 beschreiben.

Challenges and possible solutions for accessing scholarly literature among medical and nursing professionals and students in low-and-middle income countries: A systematic review

BACKGROUND

Access to high quality research literature is essential for educating nursing and healthcare students to promote evidence-based practice. Within Low- and Middle-Income countries (LMICs) access is limited due to financial and structural constraints within countries and institutions. Reduced access to research literature limits the achievement of the Sustainable Development Goals through its impact on the education of healthcare staff and on the development of contextually appropriate evidence for practice.

OBJECTIVE

To identify the challenges and possible solutions for accessing scholarly literature among medical and nursing professionals and students in low-and-middle income countries.

DESIGN

Systematic review.

DATA SOURCES

Searches were conducted in MEDLINE, CINAHL PLUS, ERIC, ASSIA, EMBASE, and Google Scholar.

REVIEW METHODS

Five bibliography databases were searched using relevant search terms, from January 2002 to July 2022. Additional searches were carried out in Google Scholar. Titles, abstracts, and full texts were independently screened by at least two authors, based on predefined eligibility criteria. Pertinent data were extracted from included studies, and critical appraisal was undertaken. Data were analysed and presented in a narrative approach.

RESULTS

Five papers met the inclusion criteria and were included. Three aspects of challenges at different levels emerged: infrastructure and institutional level factors, individual factors, and lack of contextually appropriate evidence. Three solutions were identified: capacity development opportunities, improving Internet access, and increasing awareness of free resources.

CONCLUSION

This review provides an overview of common barriers medical and nursing professionals and students encounter whilst accessing scholarly literature in LMICs and identifies some possible solutions to address them. The findings can be used to guide institutions, as well as national and international decision makers to elicit policy which can promote the uptake of research in LMICs. Further research should focus on how these solutions could be harnessed to address the problems identified in this review.

Teaching Designing for Additive Manufacturing: Formulating Educational Interventions That Encourage Design Creativity

As additive manufacturing (AM) processes become more ubiquitous in engineering, design, and manufacturing, the need for a workforce skilled in designing for additive manufacturing (DfAM) has grown. Despite this need for an AM-skilled workforce, little research has systematically investigated the formulation of educational interventions for training engineers in DfAM. In this article, we synthesize findings from our experiments with 596 engineering design students to inform the development of educational interventions-comprising content presentations and design tasks-that encourage student learning and creativity. Specifically, we investigated the effects of four variations of DfAM educational interventions by manipulating the following: (1) the content of DfAM information presented, (2) the order of presenting the DfAM content, (3) the definition of the AM design task, and (4) the competitive structure of the AM design task. The effects of these variations were experimentally tested by comparing changes in students' DfAM self-efficacy and the creativity of students' design outcomes. Validated measures were also developed as part of our studies to help mature the nascent field of DfAM education. Based on the findings of our experiments, we discuss how task-based educational interventions can be formulated to (1) increase students' DfAM self-efficacy, (2) encourage students to generate ideas of high AM technical goodness, and (3) encourage students to generate more creative ideas when using AM. The novel synthesis of our findings in this article will help educators formulate effective DfAM educational interventions and tasks to foster a workforce skilled in DfAM.

Authentic leadership, organizational culture and the effects of hospital quality management practices on quality of care and patient satisfaction

AIM

To examine the influence of hospital culture and authentic leadership on the effects of quality improvement practices on patient satisfaction.

BACKGROUND

Nurses in formal leadership roles shape and are shaped by organizational culture to achieve high performance standards to influence quality of care.

DESIGN

Using structural equation modelling, we tested a model on quality improvement practices across three participant groups that differed based on authentic leadership and hospital culture.

METHODS

We used survey data from a cross-sectional study conducted in 2015 measuring nurse. Managers' perceptions of authentic leadership, implementation of quality improvement, and organizational culture in Canadian hospitals.

RESULTS

226 nurse managers participated. Our model estimations fit for the high-relational group and mixed group. Our model explained 50.7% and 39.5% variance in our outcome variable of patient satisfaction for the high-relational group and mixed group, respectively. Our model failed to fit the low-relational group.

CONCLUSION

Authentic leadership and developmental/group hospital cultures improve quality management practices, quality of care and patient satisfaction. In organizations with low authentic leadership and hierarchical/rational cultures, strategies should target increasing authentic leadership and shifting to developmental cultures. Organizations with high authentic leadership and/or developmental/group cultures should target employee engagement, autonomy and teamwork.

IMPACT

We examined how different combinations of authentic leadership and hospital culture influence the effects of quality management practices on quality improvement and patient satisfaction. Findings demonstrate that having both high authentic leadership and developmental or group hospital cultures are essential for quality improvement practices to enhance the quality of care and patient satisfaction. These organizations would benefit the most from systemic programs aimed at standardizing quality management practices as they have the culture and leadership to support these practices. For hospitals with hierarchical/rational cultures and/or low authentic leadership, enhancing hospital culture and leadership through leadership training and accreditation programs is critically needed.

PATIENT OR PUBLIC CONTRIBUTION

The College and Association of Registered Nurses of Alberta contributed to this study by facilitating data collection and supporting the conduct of the study through messaging to its members.

Academic libraries' leaders' decision-making during the COVID-19 crisis

During the COVID-19 crisis, leaders of academic libraries had to make various decisions to retain library relevance and maintain essential services. The COVID-19 crisis raised the question of libraries' value to their universities more than ever. Libraries were facing financial difficulties but also operational challenges due to the services built around physical libraries. This paper uses a mixed methods approach to investigate academic library leaders' decision-making during the first year of the COVID-19 crisis. It combines quantitative and qualitative data from previous studies with primary data collected by the author to determine what kind of decisions university library leaders faced during the crisis and why. These studies show that leaders were concerned about the following main challenges: lack of access to physical services and collections, the safety of staff and patrons, new ways of working, and the library's role during the crisis. The results show that library leaders made decisions in smaller groups or some cases, individually due to the lack of time or information. While there have been numerous studies on libraries' response to the COVID-19 crisis in the past three years, this paper focuses mainly on academic library leaders and their decision-making to solve the crisis for their libraries.

Why did people avoid information during the COVID-19 pandemic? Understanding information sources' dynamics among Pakistani Z generation

Purpose

Grounded in the stressor-strain-outcome model, this study aims to examine the impact of different information sources on information behavior among the Pakistani Z generation during the pandemic.

Design/methodology/approach

The study was quantitative, with 344 responses collected from Gen Z (those born in the late 1990s) using an online survey. The proposed structural model was tested with the help of SmartPLS 3.3. Information sources were divided into four categories, i.e. conventional media, personal networks, social media and Internet use through official health websites.

Findings

In the Pakistani context, conventional media was found to develop information overload among Zers, whereas social media and personal networks were positively associated with information anxiety. However, Internet use (official and medical websites) for health-related information-seeking significantly reduced information anxiety among people. None of these information sources are the reason for information avoidance but the sources affect either the independent predictor of information avoidance or the mediators. Whereas information overload is a predictor of information anxiety and information, anxiety is a mediator between information overload and avoidance behavior.

Research limitations/implications

To avoid the negative consequences of abundant information, the authors need to promote and encourage the use of authentic information sources to make Gen Z skeptical, independent, critical and scientific thinkers.

Originality/value

Information sources' dynamics in terms of negative consequences of abundant information has not been explored previously at this magnitude, particularly from the perspective of a developing country.

I do not want to be perfect: investigating generation Z students' personal brands on social media for job seeking

Purpose

This research aims to explore generation (Gen) Z's personal branding on social media when job seeking.

Design/methodology/approach

Gen Z students, in their final year of university, were interviewed about personal branding, as well as recruiters and career advisors to gain insights into the recruitment process and expectations of online personal brands. Before interviewing, Gen Z students' LinkedIn profiles were examined, and then fed into the interview process.

Findings

Using impression management theory, the findings show that Gen Z perceive online personal brands as a crucial tool to gain more advantage in job markets. A gap was found between desired and perceived selves in Gen Z's online personal brands. Strategies such as effective self-reflection, authentic communication, self-promotion processes, awareness of risks and constantly controlling digital footprints were suggested to build stronger and more coherent personal brands. Gen Z are in favour of a more dynamic, interactive, work-in-process of authentic personal brands.

Originality/value

This research demonstrates the importance of authentically building online personal branding strategies and tactics to bridge the divide between Gen Z's desired and perceived images in personal branding on social media when job seeking.

Use of scientific journals in Spanish universities: analysis of the relationship between citations and downloads in two university library consortia

We analyse the relationship between downloads of electronic journals included in four big deal bundles subscribed to by public university libraries affiliated to two library consortia in Spain (Castile and León and Galicia) and citations of the same journals by researchers at these universities. Download data on the big deals analysed (Emerald, ScienceDirect, Springer and Wiley) were obtained from COUNTER Journal Reports 1, and citation data were obtained from the bibliographic references given in articles indexed in Scopus between 2010 and 2017. The results show that only a low percentage of the subscribed journals was used in the scientific output of the universities’ researchers, with values ranging from 15 to 50%, and that there was a strong correlation between the universities’ volume of scientific production and the percentage of cited journals. We also found a strong correlation between downloads and citations, which was higher in the case of universities with a higher scientific output.

Operation, development, opportunities and challenges of a human library in Taiwan

Purpose

Human libraries are special libraries that give access to real persons known as “human books.” Readers “check out” human books by attending reading sessions organized by the human library. The majority of previous studies focus on reporting the achievement of human libraries, especially on reducing prejudice and promoting social inclusion. There is a dearth of research to investigate how a human library serves and interacts with society. In this regard, this study aims at examining the operation, development, opportunities and challenges of the New Taipei City Human Library (NTCHL), the first and largest human library in Taiwan.

Design/methodology/approach

This study adopts a triangulation methodology to collect and analyze a multitude of data. Participatory observation intends to understand the operation of the NTCHL. In-depth interview is conducted to collect the opinions of the staff of the NTCHL to identify the challenges and opportunities of the human library. Content analysis on relevant documents is performed to review the development and performance of the NTCHL.

Findings

Results indicate that the NTCHL has successfully developed a good collection of human books. The NTCHL not only provides an alternative channel of learning, but also helps build connections between community members. The number of book loans and readers has substantially increased since NTCHL' inception, indicating an increasing demand for human library services in Taiwan. While the NTCHL strives for providing readers with better and diversified services, the issues of limited involvement and commitment of human books, heavy workload and the difficulty to establish a good collection of human books need to be addressed.

Research limitations/implications

This study investigates a human library in Taiwan, but human libraries in different places are different in some aspects because those human libraries' social contexts are different. Future studies are recommended to compare the similarities and differences between different human libraries systematically. Furthermore, this study identifies the benefits of the human library but human library's effectiveness is not quantified and evaluated. Future studies may conduct quantitative assessments to fill the research gap.

Practical implications

Human libraries must strive for providing better and diversified services to readers, but there are implications for workload and administration. The experience of the NTCHL may cast light on the future development of human libraries in Taiwan and other countries around the world.

Social implications

This study shows that the NTCHL has brought a couple of benefits to the society of Taiwan. First, the NTCHL provides readers with an alternative experience of reading. This is an effective way to transmit informal or tacit knowledge. Second, building connections between community members was another benefit of the NTCHL. As modern people are becoming more accustomed to virtual life on the internet which suppresses interpersonal communication, the NTCHL represents an effective platform for communication and sharing of interpersonal experiences.

Originality/value

The novelty of this study is the use of triangulation methodology to investigate the operation, development, opportunities and challenges of the first and largest human library in Taiwan. The findings of this study may cast light on the future development of human libraries in Taiwan and other countries.

The experience of nurses participating in peer group supervision: a qualitative systematic review

AIM

This systematic review will identify, appraise, and synthesise the best available qualitative studies exploring nurses' experiences of peer group supervision. The review purpose draws from the synthesised evidence recommendations to enhance policy and implementation of peer group supervision in practice.

BACKGROUND

Clinical Supervision is increasing in acceptance as a means of professional and best practice support in nursing. Peer group supervision is a non-hierarchical, leaderless model of clinical supervision delivery and is an option for implementation by nursing management when prioritising staff support with limited resources. This systematic review will provide a synthesis of the qualitative literature regarding the nursing peer group supervision experience. Understanding the experience of peer group supervision from those participating may provide constructive insights regarding implementation of this practice to benefit both nurse and patient driven outcomes.

DESIGN

Included are peer reviewed journals focused on nurses' experiences of participating in peer group supervision. Participants are registered nurses of any designation. Qualitative articles, written in English and relating to any area of nursing practice and/or speciality are included. The standards of the Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Review and Meta-Analysis (PRISMA) Statement were used to guide the review. Two investigators independently screened titles, abstracts and selected full text studies describing the experience of peer group supervision. Pre-designed data extraction tools were utilised, and the review followed the Joanna Briggs Institute qualitative meta-aggregation approach with a hermeneutic interpretive analysis.

RESULTS

Results identified seven studies that met the inclusion criteria. A total of 52 findings that described the experiences of nursing peer group supervision are synthesised into eight categories. Four overarching synthesised findings resulted: 1. facilitating professional growth 2. trusting the group 3. professional learning experience and 4. shared experiences. Benefits such as sharing of experiences whilst receiving feedback and support were identified. Challenges identified related to group processes.

CONCLUSIONS

The paucity of international research into nursing peer group supervision poses challenges for nurse decision makers. Significantly, this review provides insight into the value of peer group supervision for nurses regardless of clinical context and setting. The ability to share and reflect with nursing peers enhances both personal and professional aspects of practice. The worth of the peer group supervision model varied across studies however the outcomes provided important insights into facilitating professional growth, enabling a space to share experiences and reflect, and to build teams where trust and respect develops in groups.

Library services enriching community engagement for dementia care: The Tales & Travels Program at a Canadian Public Library as a case study

Growing dementia-friendly library services are contributing to community-based dementia care. Emerging community programs in libraries and museums provide notable opportunities for promoting engagement and inclusivity, but these programs have yet to receive in-depth assessments and analyses to guide future research and practice. This paper presents a case study examining a social and storytelling program for people with dementia run by a Canadian public library. It investigates two research questions: How can public library programs contribute to community-based dementia care? And what are public libraries' strengths and challenges in running programs for people with dementia? The study involves participant observations of the program and semi-structured interviews with people with dementia, caregivers, and program facilitators (librarians and Alzheimer Society coordinators). Through thematic analysis of fieldnotes and transcripts, the study reveals how this inclusive platform supports engagement, fosters relationships, helps caregivers, and reaches broader communities. This research further uncovers the librarians' diversified roles as demonstrated through their collaboration with professionals, preparation and research, and facilitation of the sessions. This paper advances librarianship research on enriching community-based dementia care, including furthering inclusivity and engagement and extending accessible library services. By analyzing library programming for the dementia community and assessing its strengths and challenges, the paper highlights librarians' awareness of the community's evolving needs and their collaboration with other professionals. It offers practical insights on useful resources and emerging best practices that will hopefully inspire other initiatives in which information professionals can help improve the well-being of vulnerable populations.

Introducing peer-to-peer reference services in a community college library

Purpose

The authors discuss the challenges and successes in implementing a peer reference service model in a community college library.

Design/methodology/approach

The authors present a case study about the development of a peer reference service at a community college library. The article includes a chronological overview of the program, a brief literature review, the authors’ own observations, interviews with student employees, comments from librarians working with the students and reference service data. They reviewed local reference service data, conducted a limited review of the literature, interviewed librarians at a university with a peer reference assistance program and incorporated their own observations to create the Pellissippi Ambassadors for Library Success program.

Findings

Findings suggest that peer reference services benefit student employees, student researchers and librarians.

Research limitations/implications

The article does not include a comprehensive literature review.

Originality/value

The study discusses peer reference services in a community college library setting and can be of use to librarians implementing peer reference services.

Indicators for Modernising the LIS Internship: Evidences from a systematic literature review

This systematic literature review was conducted to analyse the existing literature on the internship programme in library and information science (LIS) education. The review was guided by the RAMESES (Realist and Meta-Narrative Evidence Syntheses: Evolving Standards) method. The data source was Scopus, Web of Science and Google Scholar. In addition to the three main phases of the review process, mainly identification, screening, and eligibility, data abstraction and analysis are also reported. Findings reveal that studies on LIS internship have focused on satisfaction, educational benefits, educational setting, programme design and roles of the stakeholders involved in internship programmes. Modernising the LIS Internship programme requires a focus on the design of the programme structure with an emphasis on the learning outcomes relating to career readiness. Collaborative learning, service-learning and personal objectives are found to be beneficial. However, there is also an increasing demand for needs of the stakeholders and not just the student-centred learning. Further works into the assessment of the learning outcomes is recommended by the literature.