Journal articles on the topic 'Post-project sustainability evaluation'
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Myers, Bronwyn, Rohan Fisher, Sam Pickering, and Stephen Garnett. "Post-project evaluation of the sustainability of development project outcomes: a case study in eastern Indonesia." Development in Practice 24, no. 3 (April 3, 2014): 379–89. http://dx.doi.org/10.1080/09614524.2014.899320.
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Qi, Jian Xun, Shu Liang Liu, and Zhao Ying Sun. "Study on Post-Evaluation for the Power Transmission and Transformation Project Based on AHP-Fuzzy Comprehensive." Advanced Materials Research 756-759 (September 2013): 2668–72. http://dx.doi.org/10.4028/www.scientific.net/amr.756-759.2668.
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On the basis of the basic theory of post evaluation of power transmission and transformation project in this paper, it selects the multi-level fuzzy comprehensive evaluation method to evaluate the project. Take the Qian Fangzi power transmission and transformation project as an example;It has carried on the empirical research. From the process of the project implementation, economic benefits, the influence of the project, sustainability evaluation and so on, it has achieved good results and proved the effectiveness of the proposed evaluation model.
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Kourtzanidis, Konstantinos, Komninos Angelakoglou, Vasilis Apostolopoulos, Paraskevi Giourka, and Nikolaos Nikolopoulos. "Assessing Impact, Performance and Sustainability Potential of Smart City Projects: Towards a Case Agnostic Evaluation Framework." Sustainability 13, no. 13 (July 1, 2021): 7395. http://dx.doi.org/10.3390/su13137395.
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We report on a novel evaluation framework to globally assess the footprint of smart cities and communities (SCC) projects, being also expandable to the case of smart grid related projects. The uniform smart city evaluation (USE) framework is constructed upon three complementary evaluation axes: the first one aims to weigh up the success of a SCC project based on performance metrics against pre-defined project-specific target values. The second axis focuses on the project’s impact towards the sustainability of a city and it is bench-marked against national and international key objectives arising from strategic plans. This bench-marking feeds the third axis which provides a more inclusive evaluation against four pre-defined and widely acclaimed sectors of interest. The steps to be followed for the uniform evaluation of each axis and corresponding index are presented in detail, including necessary key performance indicator (KPI) normalization, weighting, and aggregation methods. The resulting indices’ scores for each axis (namely project performance index, sustainability impact index, and sustainability performance index) can be post-processed with adequate data processing and visualization tools to extract important information on the extent to which the range of success of a SCC project contributes to the city sustainability progress. Illustrative examples from an on-going SCC project are provided to highlight the strengths of the approach. The proposed framework can be used to compare multiple projects within a city and sustainability and project performance in different cities, evaluate the interventions chosen per project against city needs, benchmark and design future projects (with, e.g., reverse engineering, projections), as well as evaluate various spatial and temporal scales.
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Gruenberg, Katherine, Dorie Apollonio, Conan MacDougall, and Tina Brock. "Sustainable Pharmacy: Piloting a Session on Pharmaceuticals, Climate Change, and Sustainability within a U.S. Pharmacy Curriculum." INNOVATIONS in pharmacy 8, no. 4 (October 12, 2017): 3. http://dx.doi.org/10.24926/iip.v8i4.929.
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Objective: To design and assess an innovative session for pharmacy students that addresses the role of pharmaceuticals with climate change and sustainability.
Innovation: One hundred and sixteen third-year students at the University of California, San Francisco School of Pharmacy participated during their required Health Policy course. This 3-hour session included guided pre-course activities, an interactive lecture, a panel of healthcare professionals discussing complex decision-making and small group case-based learning. Curricular assessment was conducted through pre-/post-test measures of knowledge acquisition, student evaluations, and course projects.
Critical Analysis: One hundred and two students (response rate 88%) completed the pre-test and 115 students (response rate 99%) completed the post-test assessment. We identified a significant increase in the proportion of correct answers on post-test questions addressing drug disposal legislation (75% pre-test vs 91% post-test, p=0.002) and the predicted effects of climate change on health (55% pre-test vs 90% post-test, p < 0.001). The session was also well received; average student evaluation scores were above 4 in all areas of course evaluation (where 5=ideal). In addition, 17% of student groups (relative to 0% in 2015) proposed a sustainability-related policy as their final coursework project.
Next Steps: The development and implementation of this brief session resulted in knowledge gain and favorable student response. This project is feasible for other Schools of Pharmacy to adapt and implement.
Conflict of Interest: None
Type: Note
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Koch, Christian, and Niels Haldor Bertelsen. "Learning from Demonstration? Developing Construction for Sustainability." Open Construction and Building Technology Journal 8, no. 1 (January 24, 2014): 9–17. http://dx.doi.org/10.2174/1874836801408010009.
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Demonstration projects are often used in the building sector to provide a basis for using new processes and/or products. The climate change agenda implies that construction is not only required to deliver value for the customer, cost reductions and efficiency but also sustainable buildings. This paper reports on an early demonstration project, the building of a passive house dormitory in the Central Region of Denmark in 2006-2009. The project was supposed to deliver value, lean design, prefabrication, quality in sustainability, certification according to German standards for passive houses, and micro combined heat and power using hydrogen. Using sociological and business economic theories of innovation, the paper discusses how early movers of innovation tend to obtain only partial success when demonstrating their products and often feel obstructed by minor details. The empirical work encompasses both an evaluation of the design and construction process as well as a post-occupancy evaluation. Process experiences include the use of a multidisciplinary competence group and performance measurement. The commencement of the project was enthusiastic, but it was forced into more traditional forms of control, driven by such challenges as complying with cost goals, the need to choose a German prefab supplier, and local contractors. Energy calculations, indoor climate, issues related to square meter requirements, and the hydrogen element became problematic. The aim to obtain passive house certification prevailed over realizing a good indoor climate, which included sufficient heating. Project management must be able to handle quantitative complexity where simple issues add up to major challenges.
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Sarmiento, Juan-Pablo, Philip Gelman, Gustavo Jordão, and Patricia Bittner. "Post-project review in urban disaster risk reduction." Disaster Prevention and Management: An International Journal 26, no. 2 (April 3, 2017): 148–61. http://dx.doi.org/10.1108/dpm-10-2016-0205.
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Purpose The purpose of this paper is to provide an analysis of a post-project review (PPR) method designed to verify the accomplishments of urban disaster risk reduction-neighborhood approach (DRR-NA) projects after at least one year of project closeout. The PPR revisited the essential processes identified during project implementation and analyzed the sustainability of project gains. Design/methodology/approach The first section focuses on a literature review of the evaluation methods after project implementation, and the second describes the urban risk PPR design, its implementation, and findings. Findings The proposed framework for the PPR was clear and uniform and at the same time offered the necessary flexibility to adapt to the different DRR-NA projects and contexts. The PPR methodology sought to determine the conditions of the physical works, social and environmental gains, and progress in institutional arrangements associated with the NA projects. Factors that contribute and impede success in DRR-NA projects were identified. Practical implications Allowing at least one year between the completion of the NA projects and the PPR is both convenient and challenging. On the positive side, this approach allows for the verification of project outcomes after an extended period of time. However, there are also challenges, such as the need to seek additional financial resources to carry out the review; generate new contractual mechanisms; and assign human resources to review a project already closed. Originality/value The changes introduced into the PPR methodology to obtain a participative and self-conducted process resulted in a truly collective learning experience, becoming an act of accountability and social commitment.
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Zidane, Youcef J.-T., Agnar Johansen, Bassam A. Hussein, and Bjørn Andersen. "PESTOL - Framework for «Project Evaluation on Strategic, Tactical and Operational Levels»." International Journal of Information Systems and Project Management 4, no. 3 (February 2, 2022): 25–41. http://dx.doi.org/10.12821/ijispm040302.
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The paper focuses on the development of the ex-post conceptual holistic framework for Project Evaluation on Strategic, Tactical and Operational Levels, the PESTOL model, by reviewing different definitions of project success and/or failure and combining the findings with the logic framework. The model reflects the project life cycle by considering all project phases, such as identification and conception. To demonstrate the relevance of the developed model, the authors applied it to a project case, the Algerian East–West Highway megaproject. The project has attracted media attention and a number of media discussions of the project have been limited to the completion of the project in a short-term perspective. In this regard, the discussions have been notably associated with delays and expenditures coming in over budget, referring to project efficiency. One reason for the media focus on these aspects alone is that they can easily be measured. The relevance of the project and its effects - whether it attains its goals and objectives measured in terms of effectiveness, including impact and sustainability - can only be verified at a later stage, after the project has delivered its results. These are much broader aspects and are therefore difficult to measure.
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Yang, Yunjeong. "Gaps in post-disaster community changes in “building back better” in Ayeyarwaddy, Myanmar." Disaster Prevention and Management: An International Journal 29, no. 4 (August 3, 2020): 523–39. http://dx.doi.org/10.1108/dpm-08-2019-0262.
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Purpose The purpose of this paper is to assess the effectiveness of disaster risk reduction (DRR) projects carried out by a Korean NGO in Ayeyarwaddy, Myanmar. The paper discusses project effectiveness, community participation and sustainability in disaster preparedness as well as the “build back better” concept. Design/methodology/approach The findings are drawn from a mixed methods approach consisting of focus groups, interviews of key stakeholders and a cross-sectional community household survey comparing project and neighbouring villages. Findings Project villages were better prepared in terms of increased awareness and participation in DRR activities. However, the qualitative data showed a low level of participation, facilitating limited changes and leaving the element of sustainability in question. Most activities were responsive rather than preventive. Research limitations/implications The study faced unavoidable constraints. The author was invited to assess the project only after implementation, precluding a controlled trial. With time at the site limited, an alternative systematic post hoc evaluation strategies were not feasible. The triangulation of data manages these methodological challenges to the extent possible. Still, that the positive findings on preparedness and capacity changes derive from self-assessment should be kept in mind. Practical implications Where appropriate, DRR projects should include measurable evaluation tools from the project design stage. DRR as a goal in of itself is not adequate to transform the region. Instead, DRR projects should consider “development-centred disaster resilience” as the ultimate goal to aim toward. Originality/value There have been virtually no assessments of regional DRR project effectiveness in Myanmar. The study applies the Sendai Framework as an analytical framework to assess community-based DRR, which could also be applied to other contexts.
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Gallou, Eirini, and Kalliopi Fouseki. "Applying social impact assessment (SIA) principles in assessing contribution of cultural heritage to social sustainability in rural landscapes." Journal of Cultural Heritage Management and Sustainable Development 9, no. 3 (August 5, 2019): 352–75. http://dx.doi.org/10.1108/jchmsd-05-2018-0037.
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Purpose The purpose of this paper is to propose the use of social impact assessment (SIA) principles to evaluate the contribution of cultural heritage to social sustainability, supporting both a people-centered and socially responsible approach to heritage management. Design/methodology/approach Specifically, the paper explores SIA as a methodological tool for post-project evaluation, used to define projects’ contributions to aspects of social sustainability through analyzing impacts of participation in a rural context case study, that of the Scapa Flow landscape heritage scheme in Orkney Islands, Scotland, UK. Findings Based on research findings from the thematic analysis of 40 semi-structured interviews on impacts (with heritage managers, planners and participants in the scheme), the paper proposes a combination of heritage value assessment process with social impact identification to achieve a context-relevant assessment of social sustainability. Existing research around social capital and sense of place supports the analysis of relevant impacts and heritage values. Findings support overlaps between socio-environmental impacts, when looking at the role of heritage for community well-being in rural contexts. Research limitations/implications The qualitative approach allows for a context-relevant, bottom up impact assessment and allows for multiple stakeholders perceptions to be included. Practical implications The proposed methodological approach has greater implications for the work of institutions and professionals involved in project evaluations that can inform participatory heritage project planning, ensuring high social relevance. Social implications Application of SIA principles in heritage sector can increase social benefits of heritage projects and enable wider community participation in processes of heritage management. Originality/value Through this case study, the effectiveness of SIA principles when applied in cultural heritage project evaluation is discussed, reflecting on a novel methodology for impact assessment in heritage.
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Odalović, Marina, Jelena Parojčić, Dragana Vasiljević, Danijela Đukić Ćosić, and Ljiljana Tasić. "Reinforcement of the Framework for Experiential Education in Healthcare in Serbia: Post-Implementation Project Review within Pharmacy Education." Pharmacy 7, no. 3 (July 15, 2019): 92. http://dx.doi.org/10.3390/pharmacy7030092.
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Background: The Erasmus+ project “Reinforcement of the Framework for Experiential Education in Healthcare in Serbia” (ReFEEHS) has been undertaken with the aim to: (i) reinforce and modernize experiential education (ExEd) in the health sciences curricula, (ii) introduce interprofessional education (IPE), and (iii) promote teaching competency development of academic staff and teacher practitioners/clinician educators. The aim of this paper is a post-implementation review of the project activities and outcomes with the emphasis on the impact and sustainability in pharmacy education. Methods: Project Logical framework matrix has been employed as planning, monitoring and evaluation tool which summarizes the main project objectives, project outcomes, relevant activities, indicators of progress, sources of verification, assumptions and risks. Results: The key project outcomes are: (i) update of competency-based curricula and development of quality assurance framework for students professional practice placements; (ii) development and introduction of interprofessional teaching and learning activities through joint curriculum delivery; and (iii) development and implementation of Teaching Certificate in Health Professions Education (TCinHPE) study program. The short-term impact of project activities and outcomes has been assessed based on the feedback received from relevant stakeholders, as well as self-evaluation of participants enrolled in new/updated curricula. Sustainability of project results is necessary in order to achieve long-term impact envisioned as increased level of professional competency of health science students; increased level of teaching competency of academic staff and teacher practitioners; improved patient healthcare and harmonisation with the EU practice and policies. Conclusions: The project outcomes contributed to building capacity at the Serbian universities involved in terms of collaboration between the healthcare professions and, in curriculum and academic staff development. It is expected that improved curricula will positively impact professional competency development of pharmacy students, graduates employability and increased workforce mobility. Meeting the quality standards of the European Higher Education Area will contribute to visibility of Serbian universities and their internationalisation, which is one of the strategic aims of improvement.
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Halámek, Petr, Radka Matuszková, and Michal Radimský. "Modernisation of Regional Roads Evaluated Using Ex-Post CBA." Sustainability 13, no. 4 (February 8, 2021): 1849. http://dx.doi.org/10.3390/su13041849.
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The aim of this evaluation is to verify the telling value of the Cost and Benefits Analysis (CBA) of regional roads modernisation based on an ex-post evaluation of the investments and their impacts on the incidence of traffic accidents. A set of 144 projects were the subject of evaluation. The analysis of the actual investment costs confirmed the assumption that the majority of projects were planned with a sufficient provision. When compared with the costs foreseen for the entire set of projects, the total reduction of actual costs spent was over 11%. The investigation of project impacts on traffic accidents was based on an analysis done prior to and after construction by using the Czech Police database. The measurement results show only minimum changes in the incidence of traffic accidents in the scenario prior to and after project completion. This however strongly contradicts the project goals declared, because the projects were anticipating almost zero accidents with a fatality and a 50% reduction of accidents with health consequences. However, a slight increase in road fatalities and in light and serious injuries was measured. These facts have a significant impact on the Net Present Value (NPV) and the weighted profitability index for the entire set of projects dropped from 16.7% to −2.8%. The key recommendation is to eliminate the impact on traffic accidents in the case of project evaluations processed ex-ante for projects focused only on a reconstruction or modernisation of existing roads.
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Schwartz, Abby, Alice Richman, Mallary Scott, Haiyong Liu, Weyling White, and Caroline Doherty. "A MIXED METHODS EVALUATION OF PROJECT TRIP: KEY FINDINGS AND EXPANSION." Innovation in Aging 6, Supplement_1 (November 1, 2022): 176–77. http://dx.doi.org/10.1093/geroni/igac059.707.
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Abstract Project TRIP is an innovative individualized transportation program for low-income adults in rural eastern North Carolina (eNC), that aims to increase access to healthcare and reduce health disparities. This paper presents results from a 3-year grant which sought to evaluate TRIP and expand it to a neighboring eNC county. The concurrent mixed methods findings from the process/implementation, outcome/effectiveness, and economic evaluation, and qualitative interview data with TRIP stakeholders (N=40) will be presented. Findings include relationships between pre and post TRIP enrollment health data indicating improvements in health outcomes and decreases in health care utilization, including estimated costs savings of Project TRIP. Qualitative interview data will be discussed in substantiating the quantitative evaluation data. Interviews with stakeholders in the TRIP replication and expansion county site will also be presented including pilot test data in that county. The presentation will conclude with implications for sustainability and further expansion of TRIP.
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Zvingule, Laura, Silvija Nora Kalnins, Dagnija Blumberga, Julija Gusca, Marija Bogdanova, and Indra Muizniece. "Improved Project Management via Advancement in Evaluation Methodology of Regional Cooperation Environmental Projects." Scientific Journal of Riga Technical University. Environmental and Climate Technologies 11 (December 1, 2013): 57–67. http://dx.doi.org/10.2478/rtuect-2013-0008.
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Abstract The financial mechanism within the European Union that is accessible for environmental issues is a tool by which it is possible to maintain and improve the state of the environment in the Baltic Sea region countries. However, the accessibility and use of finances cannot be considered indicators which mark the success of a programme. There are various evaluation types which can be conducted, such as ex ante to assess the impact desirable to help gauge what projects best to support. Ex post evaluations can also be applied to pool lessons learned to make recommendations for further development. Evaluation is important for checking progress, to further support successful initiatives and to avoid financing activities which do not produce results. Evaluation of environmental projects can be particularly difficult due to their diversity in approaches and applied technologies, however currently there is a risk to limit the assessment of projects to the activity-level (what outputs have been produced, such as number of seminars and publications or campaigns, technologies installed), rather than on the primary goal - specific impacts made on the environment. The goal of this research is to develop a methodology and set of indicators for the evaluation of environmental projects to improve the evaluation of project efficiency, impact and sustainability. Regional Cooperation Environmental Projects are selected and an evaluation is conducted on these projects.
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Cho, Jungwon, Sangmi Shin, Youngmi Jeong, Eunsook Lee, Soyeon Ahn, Seunghyun Won, and Euni Lee. "Healthcare Quality Improvement Analytics: An Example Using Computerized Provider Order Entry." Healthcare 9, no. 9 (September 9, 2021): 1187. http://dx.doi.org/10.3390/healthcare9091187.
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Evaluation of sustainability after quality improvement (QI) projects in healthcare settings is an essential part of monitoring and future QI planning. With limitations in adopting quasi-experimental study design in real-world practice, healthcare professionals find it challenging to present the sustained effect of QI changes effectively. To provide quantitative methodological approaches for demonstrating the sustainability of QI projects for healthcare professionals, we conducted data analyses based on a QI project to improve the computerized provider order entry system to reduce patients’ dosing frequencies in Korea. Data were collected for 5 years: 24-month pre-intervention, 12-month intervention, and 24-month post-intervention. Then, analytic approaches including control chart, Analysis of Variance (ANOVA), and segmented regression were performed. The control chart intuitively displayed how the outcomes changed over the entire period, and ANOVA was used to test whether the outcomes differed between groups. Last, segmented regression analysis was conducted to evaluate longitudinal effects of interventions over time. We found that the impact of QI projects in healthcare settings should be initiated following the Plan–Do–Study–Act cycle and evaluated long-term effects while widening the scope of QI evaluation with sustainability. This study can serve as a guide for healthcare professionals to use a number of statistical methodologies in their QI evaluations.
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Shabani, Josephine Michael, Iddagiovana Kinyonge, Hadija Kweka, Selemani Mbuyiya, Ahmed Makemba, and Godfrey Mbaruku. "Sustainability of health benefits: Challenges faced by councils health management teams in sustaining comprehensive emergency care services after project phase out. The case of Rufiji, Kilombero and Ulanga districts." Journal of Hospital Administration 4, no. 4 (April 28, 2015): 1. http://dx.doi.org/10.5430/jha.v4n4p1.
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Background: Attention to the sustainability of health intervention programs is increasing not only in developing countries but also in developed countries together with international development agencies. However, consensus on operational definitions of sustainability and determinants of sustainability is still at an early stage. While much progress has been made in the development of successful interventions to promote health, too few interventions achieve long term sustainability. Implementation of EMPOWER project in collaboration with World Lung Foundation (WLF) have increased accessibility of comprehensive emergency obstetric care (CEmOC) by upgrading health centers which were formerly not providing CEmOC services in the three rural districts in Tanzania. Although the WHO standards of CEmOC coverage in the project districts was above the requirement, but accessing these health facilities which provides CEmOC was so difficult due to various factors like geographical (mountains, rivers, seasonal roads), locations of these health facilities (like in one district the it was located at a corner of the district), unreliable referral system and poor functionality of these health facilities especially in terms of emergency preparedness etc. all these factors lead to less/poor accessibility to CEmOC. The upgraded facilities include Kibiti in Rufiji district, Mlimba in Kilombero district, Mwaya and Mtimbira in Ulanga district. Objective: To explore challenges of sustaining upgraded health centers and impact on service utilization after project phase out among rural communities in Tanzania.Methods: Purposeful criterion-based selection of the upgraded health centers (those providing CEmOC) was used in the three districts two years after project phase-out. Secondary data analysis of the quantitative data which was collected during and after the project was done. The following services were assessed; total number of facility deliveries, average number of cesarean section (CS), ante natal care (ANC) attendance, post natal care (PNC) attendance, family planning (FP) use and partograph to monitor the progress of labor. Qualitative data involved key informant interviews of council health management teams (CHMT) and facility in charges.Monitoring data, evaluation and observation of various CEmOC and MNCH related indicators were also done. Four upgraded health centers (Mwaya, Mtimbira, Mlimba and Kibiti) were used as case studies to generate learning reported in this paper.Results: Two years post project, the utilization of most of the services like number of deliveries and CS performed better and were maintained in upgraded health centers which receive regular assistance (Mwaya and Mlimba) than Kibiti health center which received minimal support. Health workers remained committed to sustain the practices promoted in the interventionsdespite of the noted challenges.Conclusions: Benefits of introduced health innovations such as upgrading of health centers for CEmOC can only be sustained if a sustainability strategies are integrated at early stages of project design and carried forward in routine district health planning processes.
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Wang, Meng, and Dongxiao Niu. "Research on project post-evaluation of wind power based on improved ANP and fuzzy comprehensive evaluation model of trapezoid subordinate function improved by interval number." Renewable Energy 132 (March 2019): 255–65. http://dx.doi.org/10.1016/j.renene.2018.08.009.
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Longwe, B., M. Mganga, and N. Sinyiza. "Review of sustainable solar powered water supply system design approach by Water Mission Malawi." Water Practice and Technology 14, no. 4 (November 20, 2019): 749–63. http://dx.doi.org/10.2166/wpt.2019.079.
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Abstract Water Mission's extensive experience in designing, constructing and supporting solar-powered pumping solutions demonstrates the technological viability and cost effectiveness for delivering safe water to people, particularly in rural areas. Water Mission follows a unique design approach that uses conventional but relatively unique engineering specifications in terms of hydraulics, power requirement, water treatment and distribution, having tested them in different geographical environments. Water Mission incorporates a community-managed sustainability model into the design to ensure a longer life span for the project by promoting a well-defined maintenance and sustainability plan. This approach was applied to ten projects in 2015 in Kasungu, Lilongwe and Blantyre districts where installation, monitoring and evaluation were done and subjected to Water Mission's standards for qualification to hand them over to the beneficiary communities at the end of one year post installation. The paper is a review and discussion of the steps that Water Mission follows in its design process to come up with a sustainable project with solar energy. The paper also illustrates the non-compromise stand by Water Mission when it comes to the hand-over criteria for its projects by following and respecting the results of the prescribed evaluation test. It highlights detailed advantages and disadvantages of the design approach and presents recommendations. It is concluded that the approach can be replicated elsewhere in Malawi as a solution to water supply.
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Nhiakao, Kongyang, Helmut Yabar, and Takeshi Mizunoya. "Cost-Benefit Analysis of the Nam Che 1 Hydropower Plant, Thathom District, Laos: An Ex-Post Analysis." Sustainability 14, no. 6 (March 8, 2022): 3178. http://dx.doi.org/10.3390/su14063178.
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Hydropower construction is accompanied by both biodiversity loss and creation of livelihood opportunities for community members. The Nam Che 1 Hydropower Project (NCH1HP), intended to support the economic development of Laos, was subjected to an initial environmental examination that yielded a feasibility report. This feasibility report focused on financial analysis rather than detailed and comprehensive socio-economic and environmental analysis. However, the project development affected the hydrological landscape, leading to significant environmental and social impacts, and called into question the project’s actual costs and future benefits. Therefore, we conducted an ex-post economic evaluation of the NCH1HP. Specifically, we used cost-benefit analysis to evaluate the NCH1HP, considering the environmental and economic ripple effects of its long-term economic impact. In this study, we found that while the NCH1HP could be beneficial according to the financial analysis only, it may have a negative side effect when considering the environmental impact after the dam construction. However, a comprehensive long-term economic analysis that also took into account the spillover effects of the project showed that the project was beneficial. Policymakers need to be aware of the potential environmental impacts and economic spillovers when evaluating such projects and the NCH1HP should be re-evaluated taking them into account in a comprehensive manner.
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Sabogal, Raquel I., Elizabeth Medlin, Gonzalo Aquino, and Richard J. Gelting. "Sustainability of water, sanitation and hygiene interventions in Central America." Journal of Water, Sanitation and Hygiene for Development 4, no. 1 (October 21, 2013): 89–99. http://dx.doi.org/10.2166/washdev.2013.130.
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The American Red Cross and U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention collaborated on a sustainability evaluation of post-hurricane water, sanitation and hygiene (WASH) interventions in Central America. In 2006 and 2009, we revisited six study areas in rural El Salvador, Guatemala, Honduras and Nicaragua to assess sustainability of WASH interventions finalized in 2002, after 1998's Hurricane Mitch. We used surveys to collect data, calculate indicators and identify factors that influence sustainability. Regional sustainability indicator results showed there was a statistically significant decline in access to water. The presence of sanitation facilities had not changed since the beginning of the project; however, maintenance and use of latrines declined but continued to meet the goal of 75% use after 7 years. The hygiene indicator, hand washing, initially declined and then increased. Declines in water access were due to operational problems related to storm events and population changes. Sanitation facilities were still present and sometimes used even though they reached or surpassed their original design life. Changes in hygiene practices appeared related to ongoing hygiene promotion from outside organizations. These results provide useful input for making WASH programs more sustainable and informing future, more in-depth research into factors influencing sustainability.
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Asojo, Abimbola, Hoa Vo, and Suyeon Bae. "The Impact of Design Interventions on Occupant Satisfaction: A Workplace Pre-and Post-Occupancy Evaluation Analysis." Sustainability 13, no. 24 (December 8, 2021): 13571. http://dx.doi.org/10.3390/su132413571.
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Understanding how occupants perceive the built environment is a growing interest in sustainability research. This article looks into how design interventions in a workplace renovation project impact occupants’ satisfaction through a pre-and post-occupancy survey. In two years (from 2016 to 2018), an interdisciplinary research team from the University of Minnesota administered online occupancy surveys at the headquarters of the Cuningham Group, a national renowned design firm in Minnesota. The surveys included 12 indoor environmental quality categories (with 26 criteria on a 7-point Likert scale) that measured how occupants perceived their existing workplace and the renovated environment. Mann–Whitney U tests and Chi-square tests were conducted for 12 indoor environmental quality categories between the pre-and post-surveys. Results showed that occupants’ satisfaction significantly increased with the design interventions in the renovated workplace. Perceived work performance and health also improved in the post-survey. Among 12 indoor environmental quality categories, occupants perceived the biggest improvements in lighting such as adjustability and quality of task lighting. Design interventions in electric lighting, especially improved ease of control, effectiveness of automatic systems, plus visual and acoustic comfort, contributed to occupants’ satisfaction. Overall, the pre-and post-occupancy evaluation survey analysis confirmed the positive impact of the renovated Cuningham Group facility. The article presents a comprehensive measure of the impact of the data-driven design interventions derived from pre-and post-occupancy evaluation surveys on occupant satisfaction.
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Fan, Guangyu, Yanru Wang, Bo Yang, Chuanxiong Zhang, Bin Fu, and Qianqian Qi. "Characteristics of Wind Resources and Post-Project Evaluation of Wind Farms in Coastal Areas of Zhejiang." Energies 15, no. 9 (May 4, 2022): 3351. http://dx.doi.org/10.3390/en15093351.
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As the onshore wind farm technology matures, offshore wind energy has attracted increasing attention. Zhejiang has coastal areas with massive potential for wind resources because of its geographical location. Therefore, understanding the wind resources in these areas can lay a foundation for future development and utilization. On this basis, this study used the measured wind field data of a wind farm along the coast of Zhejiang from March 2014 to February 2015 and from March 2016 to February 2018 to investigate and compare the characteristics of wind energy resources, including average wind speed, Weibull shape and scale factors, wind direction variation, and wind energy density. Then, the capacity coefficient of a wind turbine predicted using the wind farm data was compared with the actual capacity coefficients of two wind turbines in the wind farm in 2019. Results revealed the following observations: The overall variations in the evaluation indicators followed clear patterns over the 3 years. For example, the main wind direction in the same season was the same, and the variations in the monthly average wind speed, the monthly wind power density, and the theoretical capacity factors were highly similar. The time-series data indicated that the difference in the indicators between summer and autumn was significantly larger than that between other seasons, with the maximum difference in monthly average wind speed of 1.46 times and the maximum difference in monthly wind power density of 1.5 times. The comparison results of the capacity coefficient showed that the theoretical and actual capacity coefficients were extremely close when the monthly average wind speed was less than 6 m/s, with the average difference being less than 9%. When the monthly average wind speed was greater than 6 m/s, the proximity between the theoretical and actual capacity coefficients was reduced, with an average difference of more than 9% and a maximum value of 28%. In general, the overall characteristics of wind resources in coastal areas of Zhejiang exhibited similar trends but fluctuated considerably in some months. Wind energy forecasts had significant discrepancies from the actual operation indicators of the wind farm when the wind speed was high.
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Djukić, Aleksandra, Jelena Marić, Branislav Antonić, Vladimir Kovač, Jugoslav Joković, and Nikola Dinkić. "The Evaluation of Urban Renewal Waterfront Development: The Case of the Sava Riverfront in Belgrade, Serbia." Sustainability 12, no. 16 (August 15, 2020): 6620. http://dx.doi.org/10.3390/su12166620.
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Belgrade is the only capital in the world at the confluence of two major international rivers navigable for global shipment—the Danube and the Sava River. However, it was only after the unification of all riversides within Yugoslavia in 1918 that Belgrade started to develop its riverfront; initially, as green recreation areas during the socialist era. Since the post-socialist transition, this trajectory has sharply changed in order to create new urban nodes along the riverfront. The best example is the newest project of the urban renewal of waterfront development at the Sava River, the “Belgrade Waterfront Project.” This mega-project has sparked a lot of attention. The aim of this research is to present, evaluate, and spatially determine this attention before and after the project inauguration. This observational study is conducted by using two methods from social discourse: a survey, as a traditional method, and analysis based on social network data (Twitter) as a newer, “smarter” one. Comparing and mapping their results, this research offers recommendations on how to harmonize and modernize the development of this crucial potential of Belgrade.
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Gonçalves, Djanny Klismara de Oliveira, Érico Masiero, Luis Bragança, and Francis Massashi Kakuda. "Qualitative and Quantitative Assessment of Urban Sustainability in Social Housing Using the Casa Azul Label and SBTool Urban in Brazil." Applied Sciences 10, no. 18 (September 9, 2020): 6246. http://dx.doi.org/10.3390/app10186246.
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The sustainability potential of Brazilian social housing (SH) needs to be assessed, considering the impacts on the population’s quality of life and urban systems. One of the main weaknesses of Casa Azul Label refers to the absence of a procedure that quantifies the measures for assessing urban sustainability. Based on the post-occupation analysis of an SH project implemented in Araraquara, São Paulo state, Brazil, evaluation of urban sustainability was developed, using a multi-method approach combining the Casa Azul Label and Sustainable Building Tool (SBTool) Urban certification tools. It was proposed to apply the calculations established in SBTool Urban according to the Casa Azul Label certification requirements, as well as insert a national benchmark as a reference for the analysis and normalizing results. These procedures made it possible to base an improvement framework on a Brazilian environmental certification system, including a quantification system to evaluate the efficiency of the applied measures regarding urban sustainability. The multi-method approach, associated with the SBTool Urban procedures, could significantly help to improve the application of a sustainable assessment system in social housing in developing countries. The high number of residential units produced in recent years could be qualitatively evaluated, improving both the construction procedures and the criteria for the urban insertion of human settlements.
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Ahmed, Abdullahi, Monica Mateo-Garcia, Andrew Arewa, and Kassim Caratella. "Integrated Performance Optimization of Higher Education Buildings Using Low-Energy Renovation Process and User Engagement." Energies 14, no. 5 (March 8, 2021): 1475. http://dx.doi.org/10.3390/en14051475.
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Building performance improvement through low-energy renovation traditionally involves building performance diagnostics of the existing building, technology evaluation, selection and implementation. Effective building performance diagnostics, post-retrofit assessment and user engagement are essential to deliver performance as well as achieving socio-economic and environmental benefits at every stage of the renovation project life cycle. User’s views are often ignored when renovating a building, causing sub-optimal energy performance, user comfort and wellbeing. This paper seeks to critically evaluate the low-energy renovation process and the role of user and stakeholder engagement in the strategic implementation of low-energy retrofit technologies for performance improvement of higher education buildings. The research focuses on renovation methodology, innovative materials/systems and end-user engagement throughout the renovation project phases (pre-renovation, the renovation process and post renovation). A mixed research method was adopted, which includes building performance modelling, monitoring and user evaluation questionnaires pre and post-renovation. The research is part of European Union (EU)-funded project, targeting 50% reduction in energy consumption using innovative materials and technologies in existing public buildings. The surveys allow comparative analysis of comfort levels and user satisfaction as an indicator of the efficacy of renovation measures. A new renovation process and user engagement framework was developed. The findings suggest that there is a direct relationship between retrofit intervention, improving energy performance of low-carbon buildings and the comfort of occupants. The technologies and strategies also appear to have different impacts on user satisfaction.
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Rains, Caroline, Alyssa Auvinen, Lacy Stephens, and Sara Benjamin-Neelon. "Increasing Capacity for Farm to Early Care and Education in Maryland and Washington: Study Protocol." Current Developments in Nutrition 4, Supplement_2 (May 29, 2020): 267. http://dx.doi.org/10.1093/cdn/nzaa043_118.
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Abstract Objectives Farm to early care and education (farm to ECE) incorporates local food purchasing; on-site gardens; and food, nutrition, and agriculture education into ECE settings to advance child health and well-being, engage families and communities, and enhance ECE quality. This project aims to advance capacity for farm to ECE training and implementation in Maryland and Washington by (1) measuring uptake and sustainability of farm to ECE activities at two demonstration sites; and (2) testing the feasibility of a train-the-trainer model, which includes training professionals who offer technical assistance to ECE providers to incorporate farm to ECE into existing training models. Methods For this demonstration study, researchers will work in partnership with each site to determine interests, needs, and capacity and develop a plan for integrating farm to ECE activities. Evaluation will consist of process and outcome components, including: (1) Semi-structured interviews with site administrators and educators to determine site needs and priorities (pre), progress and on-going needs (mid) and feedback on process, challenges, successes, and program sustainability (post); and (2) pre and post implementation assessment of ECE program quality (e.g., child nutrition, family engagement, learning environment). For the train-the-trainer model, researchers will utilize pre, post, and follow up surveys to assess changes in knowledge, attitudes, and self-efficacy regarding delivery and implementation of farm to ECE activities and participant uptake and implementation of training content. Results N/A. Conclusions Farm to ECE has the potential to promote healthier ECE environments and healthier community food systems. This project aims to examine impacts of expanding farm to ECE through state training and individual site level activities, with the goal of identifying best practices to support expansion of sustained and comprehensive farm to ECE initiatives. Funding Sources Bloomberg American Health Initiative Collaboration Awards; Lerner Center for Public Health Promotion, Johns Hopkins Bloomberg School of Public Health.
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Di Giuseppantonio Di Franco, Paola, Mark Winterbottom, Fabrizio Galeazzi, and Mike Gogan. "Ksar Said: Building Tunisian Young People’s Critical Engagement with Their Heritage." Sustainability 11, no. 5 (March 5, 2019): 1373. http://dx.doi.org/10.3390/su11051373.
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This paper describes the work undertaken as part of the ‘Digital Documentation of Ksar Said’ Project. This project, funded by the British Council, combined education, history, and heritage for the digital preservation of tangible and intangible aspects of heritage associated with the 19th century Said Palace (Ksar Said) in Tunis. We produced an interactive 3D model of Ksar Said and developed learning resources to build Tunisian students’ critical engagement with their heritage through inquiry learning activities within the 3D model. We used a user-centred approach, based on pre-assessment (i.e., co-creation of contents), mid-term evaluation (i.e., feedback on contents and preliminary design of virtual activities), and post-assessment design (i.e., user trial). Our results demonstrate the potential of this novel approach to virtual learning and inform future co-design, evaluation and implementation choices for improving the generative power of three dimensional virtual replication of heritage sites in the cultural heritage sector.
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Oh, Jooseok, and Minho Seo. "Measuring Citizens-Centric Smart City: Development and Validation of Ex-Post Evaluation Framework." Sustainability 13, no. 20 (October 18, 2021): 11497. http://dx.doi.org/10.3390/su132011497.
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This research aims to present a standardized evaluation system to review and further enhance users’ levels of satisfaction with technologies, facilities, and services of a modern smart city at a time when the smart city paradigm has shifted from the focus of its infrastructural features to citizens. The study also seeks to verify the standardized system, so as to explore the possibility of its future application. For the goals, this research established the Structural Equation Model (SEM) based upon the basic structure of the Customer Satisfaction Index, which is a widely used ex-post assessment model, and upon implications of related studies. To verify the SEM, this study chose two cities, which are located far away from one another and employ different business methods, and conducted a survey of 212 and 197 residents, respectively, with the results being applied to the model for analysis to ascertain if the SEM is reliable and adequate. The analysis results showed that the model secures explanatory power in statistical terms, partially proving that it can be developed into a post-evaluation system for a citizens-centric smart city down the road. However, as meaningful differences were spotted in accordance with characteristics of each urban project, this study tried to come up with the background information of and reasons for such variations, to present implications for urban planning.
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Caniza, Miguela A., Maysam Homsi, Miriam Gonzalez, Daniel C. Moreira, Li Tang, Elisabeth Adderson, and Carlos Rodriguez-Galindo. "Development, Implementation, and Outcomes of a Global Infectious Disease Training Course." Journal of Medical Education and Curricular Development 8 (January 2021): 238212052110152. http://dx.doi.org/10.1177/23821205211015290.
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Background: Skilled healthcare professionals are critical for providing quality healthcare for children with cancer globally. Training curricula addressing the knowledge needs in infection care and prevention (ICP) in cancer are scarce. Program description: We implemented a 10-week blended course in ICP. The distance learning had four 2-week modules: Infectious Complications, Quality in Infection Care, Quality in Infection Prevention, and Sustainability, Research, and Dissemination. Each module had pre- and post-tests and weekly webinars. The 2-week in-person learning had lectures, group exercises, clinical observations, hospital and laboratory tours, and ended in an annual conference. An individual project developed during the distance learning was presented in the in-person workshop. Course attendance criteria were English language proficiency and participants’ role in ICP at their institutions. Program evaluation and results: Twenty-two students from 17 hospitals in 10 countries completed the course, developed a project, and answered surveys covering knowledge assessments and satisfaction, and 6-month course and 1-year project follow-ups. Pretest and post-test scores revealed knowledge improvement ( P < .001). Participants rated the distance learning as outstanding (63%) or good (28%); and the in-person as outstanding (87%). In the follow-up survey, graduates felt more comfortable at managing infections and participated more in quality improvement and academics at their institutions. Seventeen participants (77%) took steps to implement their study projects, and 9 were successful. Collaboration and networking of trainees were notable outcomes. Discussion: The ICP course is a resource to improve knowledge, engage graduates in network collaborations, and a reliable model to develop other thematic healthcare global training programs.
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Brioso, Xavier, and Wilder Patricio. "Identificación y evaluación del grado de satisfacción en la etapa de post-ocupación de los proyectos de viviendas económicas desde la perspectiva de los usuarios: estudio de caso peruano = Identification and evaluation of satisfaction degree in the post-occupation phase of the economic housing projects from the perspective of the users: Peruvian case study." Anales de Edificación 3, no. 2 (September 21, 2017): 17. http://dx.doi.org/10.20868/ade.2017.3568.
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ResumenEl objetivo principal de esta investigación es identificar cuáles son las necesidades más relevantes, entre ellas, las relacionadas a la sostenibilidad, que deben tomarse en cuenta en los proyectos de viviendas económicas, y evaluar el grado de satisfacción de los usuarios finales que ya habitan en este tipo de vivienda. Se describe las estrategias, herramientas, técnicas y prácticas necesarias para su identificación, para lo cual se recolecta la información de la etapa del post ocupación, en el marco del sistema Lean Project Delivery System. Para cumplir lo anterior, se siguieron los siguientes pasos: (1) Se recopiló la información de la problemática que engloba el déficit de vivienda y el planeamiento urbano existente en la zona de estudio; (2) Se diseñaron y realizaron las encuestas a la población que ya vive en viviendas sociales típicas identificando las necesidades no cubiertas, con énfasis en criterios de sostenibilidad; y (3) Se comparó los resultados de las encuestas con las necesidades de los usuarios obtenidas previamente mediante el uso de la herramienta del árbol de problemas, obteniendo conclusionesAbstractThe main objective of this research is to identify the most relevant needs, including those related to sustainability, which should be taken into account in low-income housing projects, and to assess the degree of satisfaction of the end users already living in this type of housing. It describes the strategies, tools, techniques and practices necessary for its identification, for which information is collected from the post-occupation stage, within the framework of the Lean Project Delivery System. In order to comply with the above, the following steps were followed: (1) Information was collected on the problems that comprise the housing deficit and urban planning in the study area; (2) Surveys were designed and conducted for the population that already lives in typical social housing, identifying unmet needs, with emphasis on sustainability criteria; and (3) The results of the surveys were compared with the needs of the users obtained previously through the use of the problem tree tool, obtaining conclusions and recommendations on this type of project. The case study was the typical social housing of Metropolitan Lima.
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Santaolalla, Elsa, Belén Urosa, Olga Martín, Ana Verde, and Tamara Díaz. "Interdisciplinarity in Teacher Education: Evaluation of the Effectiveness of an Educational Innovation Project." Sustainability 12, no. 17 (August 20, 2020): 6748. http://dx.doi.org/10.3390/su12176748.
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Interdisciplinary projects play an important role in the development of a student profile based on the 21st century skills. Nevertheless, the implementation of an interdisciplinary approach is a challenge for both teachers and teacher educators. The aim of this study is to create an interdisciplinary model for teacher education, and to provide an empirical study which analyses its impact on learning. An educational innovation project was carried out with preservice teachers who experienced and subsequently designed a Problem Based Learning with interdisciplinary activities including Mathematics and Social Sciences, using the National Archaeological Museum as an educational resource. The proposals were implemented amongst children to evaluate the project’s effectiveness, considering two aspects: (a) improved teaching skills for preservice teachers (N = 26) and (b) improved learning for Mathematics and Social Sciences content amongst primary school children (N = 58). In the case of the student teachers, the variance analysis implemented showed sufficient empirical evidence of the improvement between the pre and post treatment, in different dimensions of the teaching skills and competences. On the primary school students, some significantly statistic progresses were found concerning the learning of both subjects, as well as their perception of museums as place for learning.
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McAndrew, S., T. Warne, and P. Mulongo. "Female Genital Mutilation [FGM] and Emotional Support: A Research Study Exploring the Value and Sustainability of Offering Emotional Support to Women Exposed to FGM." European Psychiatry 41, S1 (April 2017): S229. http://dx.doi.org/10.1016/j.eurpsy.2017.01.2233.
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IntroductionGlobal estimates suggest over 130 million girls and women have undergone FGM. While practiced in Africa, Asia and the Middle East, due to immigration trends it is now prominent in Western society. While studies have focused on physical health consequences, post-2000 a small but growing number of studies have reported on the psychological impact of FGM. This paper reports on a project exploring the mental health consequences of FGM, the effectiveness of therapeutic support, and the sustainability of a new service through training peer mentors.ObjectivesTo establish and evaluate 3 drop-in clinics, offering emotional support to women who have experienced FGM. Build capacity through training peer mentors to continue the work of supporting women.MethodCommunity-based participatory research (CBPR) was used for this two-part project. In part 1, 30 women participated, data being collected via the Warwick-Edinburgh Mental Well-being Scale (WEMWS) and follow-up interviews. Part 2 involved the training of 12 peer mentors. Data was analysed using descriptive statistics and thematic analysis and evaluation respectively.ResultsImprovement was found in the women's mental well-being, with themes (1) Speaking the unspoken (2) Emancipation of emotion (3) Harnessing hope, being identified. Of the 12 peer mentors successfully completing the course, 9 are now volunteering.ConclusionMental health professionals are best placed to enable women to address FGM traumas and improve their mental well-being. Additionally, they can raise public and professional awareness and, through research, can help develop more appropriate and sensitive services for migrant women from practicing communities.Disclosure of interestThe authors have not supplied their declaration of competing interest.
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Long, Katrina M., Shiva Vasi, Susannah Westbury, Sandy Shergill, Chloé Guilbert-Savary, Ashley Whitelaw, I.-Hao Cheng, and Grant Russell. "Improving access to refugee-focused health services for people from refugee-like backgrounds in south-eastern Melbourne through the education sector." Australian Journal of Primary Health 27, no. 2 (2021): 93. http://dx.doi.org/10.1071/py20233.
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People from refugee-like backgrounds living in Australia face substantial health challenges that benefit from access to health and social services. Many people from refugee-like backgrounds have frequent contact with education sector staff, who have the potential to act as conduits to health and social services. The aim of this project was to improve access to refugee-focused health services for people from refugee-like backgrounds in south-eastern Melbourne by codesigning and delivering a 1-day education forum to education sector staff. Evaluation of the forum used mixed-methods analysis of data from pre-post and follow-up surveys (n=11; administered before, immediately after and 1 month after the forum respectively), post-forum interviews (n=4) and one school’s referral records. The forum improved attendees’ refugee-focused health service referral knowledge, confidence and behaviour. This was supported by the qualitative findings of high staff motivation, high forum satisfaction and evidence of outcome sustainability. Education staff are an important complement to an integrated model of health care for recently resettled people from refugee-like backgrounds. These results show that a straightforward local intervention can improve the ability of education staff to act as conduits to health services, increasing access to health services for people from refugee-like backgrounds.
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Martín-Sánchez, Alberto, David González-Gómez, and Jin Su Jeong. "Service Learning as an Education for Sustainable Development (ESD) Teaching Strategy: Design, Implementation, and Evaluation in a STEM University Course." Sustainability 14, no. 12 (June 7, 2022): 6965. http://dx.doi.org/10.3390/su14126965.
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The continuous deterioration of the environment is one of the major concerns that societies are facing nowadays. As a response to this challenging situation, the general assembly of the United Nations (UN) created the 2030 Agenda, proposing 17 Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) to foster sustainable development. Thus, the significance of educating in values related to sustainability and care for the environment must acquire a relevant importance in the education system to provide an Education for Sustainable Development (ESD) in Science, Technology, Engineering and Mathematics (STEM). Therefore, it is necessary to incorporate teaching methodologies that are able to connect with students and to generate enriching experiences. In this regard, it can promote knowledge of the environment and provide a service to the community to ensure sustainable development. This research presents the design, implementation and evaluation of a Service Learning (SL) methodology as an ESD strategy in a university course. Precisely, it describes the development and evaluation of an SL project implemented in a general science subject during a 2020/2021 course taught at the Teacher Training College of the University of Extremadura (Spain). A total of 46 students participated in the study on a voluntary basis. A pre- and post-test methodology was used to assess the suitability of SL as an ESD strategy, resulting in a significant increase in the students’ knowledge about the innovative teaching strategies to work with suitable contents after the project, as well as in their knowledge about SDGs. Moreover, the students’ participation in the SL project made them aware of the community implications in maintaining the environment and generating benefit for the whole community. In addition, this research shows how the SL teaching methodology is an important tool for the achievement of both curricular competences and environmental awareness, since theoretical knowledge is applied to tangible work to perform a real community service, and therefore is a very suitable teaching strategy to be applied in EDS.
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Kauko, Tom. "END IN SIGHT? ON THE (UN)SUSTAINABILITY OF PROPERTY DEVELOPMENT IN THE BUDAPEST REGION / ARTĖJA PABAIGA? APIE (NE)DARNIĄ NT PLĖTRĄ BUDAPEŠTO APYLINKĖSE." International Journal of Strategic Property Management 16, no. 1 (April 12, 2012): 37–55. http://dx.doi.org/10.3846/1648715x.2011.600781.
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Sustainable development is defined in environmental, social and economic terms. In the post-socialist countries the sustainability of urban property developments has experienced various destinies amid changing institutional circumstances. Since the regime changes of 1990 the tendency of the land use and real estate economy in Hungary has been an extreme variant of neoliberal, opportunistic and large-scale developments together with project planning. As a result of this, urban regeneration in metropolitan Budapest is almost exclusively based on private investment, with the possible exception of ‘mega-projects’ where government has an interest in securing the provision of infrastructure. In this contribution, first the proposition of flexible and context dependent government intervention in the property development is outlined. After that a description of urban regeneration and other property development in the Budapest region is provided. A brief review of comparable post-socialist cities is also provided. The paper concludes with an evaluation of sustainability and a critical comment on the state of affairs in this context. Santrauka Darni plėtra apibrėžiama aplinkosaugos, socialiniais ir ekonominiais aspektais. Kintant institucinėms aplinkybėms, miestų NT plėtros darna posocialistinėse šalyse buvo įvairi. 1990 m. pasikeitus režimui Vengrijoje, žemės naudojimas ir NT ekonomika paprastai buvo kraštutinis neoliberalaus, oportunistiško ir plataus masto plėtros bei projektų planavimo variantas. Dėl to miesto atnaujinimas Budapešto priemiesčiuose beveik išskirtinai remiasi privačiomis investicijomis, galbūt išskyrus ,,stambius projektus“, kai vyriausybė suinteresuota užtikrinti aprūpinimą infrastrūktua. Šiame darbe pirmiausia pasiūloma, kaip lanksčiai ir atsižvelgdama į kontekstą vryriausybė turi prisidėti prie NT vystymo. Pateikiamas miesto atnaujinimo ir kitokio NT vystymo aprašymas Budapešto apylinkėse, trumpai apžvelgiami panašūs posocialistiniai miestai. Darbas baigiamas darnos įvertinimu ir kritiniu komentaru apie padėtį šiame kontekste.
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Thomas, Tami L., Michelle Caldera, and Derrick Glymph. "Collaboration, culture and communication: Preparing the next generation to provide rural primary health care." Journal of Nursing Education and Practice 11, no. 6 (February 28, 2021): 50. http://dx.doi.org/10.5430/jnep.v11n6p50.
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Background and objective: In an ever-changing landscape of health care needs and demands, the ability to provide care for rural communities is often overwhelming. Rural health care in a new decade demands targeted programs to improve recruitment, training, and sustained employment of primary care providers. This project served to address rural primary healthcare needs by the development of a project model to recruit, train, educate and evaluate Advanced Practice Registered Nurse students (APRN) students who were rigorously selected for a rural traineeship and practiced in rural counties. The evaluation of preceptors was also done to assist in retention and increased numbers of rural preceptors and clinical sites. This program was designed collaboratively and implemented with rural community partners and rural healthcare leaders.Methods: Graduate nursing students completed both a paper application and in person interviews to be selected for a rigorous 16-week clinical traineeship in the rural communities. Qualitative data were collected during interview and feedback sessions during their traineeship. Quantitative Data were collected on Process and Outcome Measures focused on learning objectives during their rural traineeship. These data were analyzed and evaluated to measure the effectiveness of program goals, outcomes, and sustainability of the program. Results and conclusions: The results support the structured process for selecting graduate students and with an innovative program design focused on rural culture and accessing resources for patients in these same rural areas. Both students and preceptors had improved performance and satisfaction over time. The results provide a road map to recreate programs with high clinical impact and increasing numbers of rural healthcare providers. Current follow-up data with APRN post program completion demonstrated increase in employment within rural areas post-graduation.
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Rigo, Paula Donaduzzi, Graciele Rediske, Carmen Brum Rosa, Natália Gava Gastaldo, Leandro Michels, Alvaro Luiz Neuenfeldt Júnior, and Julio Cezar Mairesse Siluk. "Renewable Energy Problems: Exploring the Methods to Support the Decision-Making Process." Sustainability 12, no. 23 (December 7, 2020): 10195. http://dx.doi.org/10.3390/su122310195.
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In the current scenario of increasing energy demand and encouraging sustainable development in countries, the energy sector’s planning has become more complex, involving multiple factors, such as technical, economic, environmental, social, and political. The decision process plays a vital role in structuring and evaluating complex decision situations related to the sector, considering various criteria and objectives, encouraging adopting policies to promote energy efficiency actions by increasing research on renewable energy sources and strategic energy decisions. The high number of multi-criteria decision support methods (MCDM) available and their efficiency in solving highly complex problems results in an impasse with their selection and application in specific decision situations. Thus, the scientific community requires methodological approaches that help the decision-maker select the method consistent with his problem. Accordingly, this paper conducts a Systematic Literature Review (SLR) of renewable energy problems associated with MCDM methods based on a final set of 163 articles. We identified five categories of problems solved by MCDM techniques: Source selection, location, sustainability, project performance, and technological performance. We separate the MCDM process into five evaluation steps (alternative selection, criteria selection, criteria weighting, evaluation of alternatives, and post-assessment analyzes), and we extract the methods used in each MCDM step from papers. This paper’s main contribution is identifying the most common MCDM methods in the renewable energy area and the energy problem they solve. Accordingly, this manuscript helps energy decision-makers, entrepreneurs, investors, and policy-makers to improve their ability to choose the proper MCDM methods to solve energy problems.
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Richardson, D., I. Silver, and A. Dionne. "47. Evaluation of new implementation strategies, program effectiveness and dissemination of new pedagogical knowledge: Centre for faculty development's stepping stones teaching certificate program." Clinical & Investigative Medicine 30, no. 4 (August 1, 2007): 53. http://dx.doi.org/10.25011/cim.v30i4.2807.
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This evaluation of the integrated Stepping Stones (SS) Teaching Certificate program, including its instructional development (workshops) and theory review (journal club) components, will inform further program development. Results of this project will also add to the limited amount of scholarly work in the area of faculty development program evaluation.
Faculty development literature in the area of organized program assessment reveals use of either quantitative OR qualitative methods. In this project, a novel method combining both techniques was used to explore program impact. Participants completed 2 questionnaires to identify skill-set knowledge gaps in teaching effectiveness. Pre- and post-program quantitative gaps were generated. Focus groups were used for qualitative exploration. Areas explored pre-program included: a) motives for enrollment, b) program expectations and c) prior teaching preparation. Post-program discussion explored: the impact of the program on a) participant’s perceived gaps, b) teaching behaviour change, and c) its influence on their career in education.
We believed the program’s interprofessional environment would foster development of a learning community having impact on faculty knowledge, skills and attitudes related to teaching, and potentially elicit behavioural change in teaching practices. Results from a 2004-2005 cohort of participants have identified a variety of benefits for faculty and their teaching practice. Results from a second separate cohort, 2005-2006 participants, validated the initial findings. Remarkable harmonization in the results of the qualitative analysis between the two cohort samples was evident. Statistically significant differences (p < 0.05) were found in each of the domains examined qualitatively.
Both qualitative and quantitatively, program effectiveness was demonstrated immediately following completion of the program. Follow up to assess the sustainability of the effects is ongoing. The analysis of the quantitative discrepancy (gaps) data has lead to a possible technique to assist in identifying unperceived educational needs.
McLeod PJ, Steinert Y, Nasmith L, Conochie L. Faculty Development in Canadian medical schools: a 10-year update. CMAJ 1997; 156(10):1419-23.
Hewson MG, Copeland HL, Fishleder AJ. What’s the use of faculty development? Program evaluation using retrospective self-assessments and independent performance ratings. Teach Learn Med 2001; 13(3):153-60.
Moore EM. A Framework for Outcomes Evaluation in the Continuing Development of Physicians, in: The Continuing Professional Development of Physicians. Eds. Davis D, Barnes BE, Fox R. AMA Press, 2003.
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Rosasco, Paolo, and Giampiero Lombardini. "Urban requalification and economic sustainability: the case of the Genoa levante waterfront [Riqualificazione urbana e sostenibilità economica: il caso del waterfront di levante di Genova]." Valori e Valutazioni 27 (December 2020): 39–51. http://dx.doi.org/10.48264/vvsiev-20202705.
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After the season of major projects and major urban maintenance, completed with the event of Genoa, European Capital of Culture of the now distant 2004, the urban redevelopment project of the Genoese urban waterfront in the Levante sector (ie the area that physically connects the Expo area with the Fiera del Mare complex) is the largest project involving the Genoese urban structure of the last few years. The complex vicissitudes linked to a highly complex design process (on the area in question overlook very different functions ranging from the naval industry to the yachting port, up to the fair pavilions), create a scenario in which differentiated interests arise and where the balance between costs and benefits is important to the success of the operation. The Municipality of Genoa has started the process for the redevelopment of the area through a design competition for the selection of the best proposal to be made to an interested party to be selected in a subsequent public selection. The urban impacts on the infrastructural system, on the allocation of new public spaces, on the location of new “valuable” functions, as well as the overall urban redevelopment effect will affect a large area in which the patrimonial benefits deriving from the post project operation will undoubtedly be relevant. The amount of public finances in the operation and the complexity of the design choices that must be made require careful assessment not only of the quality of the proposal but also of its economic and financial sustainability. Considering the high costs of demolition of existing buildings and structures, it must guarantee adequate margins of profitability for the investor, otherwise the operation will be unsuccessful. The economic evaluation therefore assumes a strategic role in identifying the best design solution. This contribution deals with the case study of the urban redevelopment project of the area of the former Genoa Fair started by the Municipality of Genoa in 2016 through a design competition called “BluePrint”. In addition to the analysis of the urban aspects, a verification of the economic feasibility of the intervention has been developed, starting from the checks presented by the participants in the competition. The objective is to determine - for some significant variables (cost of the areas) - what are the conditions of sustainability for the operator who will carry out the intervention
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Mushori, James, Charles Mallans Rambo, and Charles Misiko Wafula. "Evaluation of Contractors’ Financial Ability: A Remedy for Performance of Road Construction Infrastructural Projects for Sustainable Cities." Journal of Sustainable Development 13, no. 6 (October 31, 2020): 86. http://dx.doi.org/10.5539/jsd.v13n6p86.
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Construction of roads in Kenya, particularly done by local contractors, has adversely been faced with serious issues to do with cost overruns, longer periods in completion and above all poor quality upon completion. However, performance of roads in the post-delivery or post construction stage has not keenly been assessed or studied despite poor workmanship. Although financial aspect has been associated with completion road construction projects, studies have not used this predictor variable to study performance. The aim of the study was to establish the influence of financial ability of contractors and performance of road construction infrastructural projects in Nairobi County, Kenya. Both descriptive survey research and correlation research designs were adopted in this study. A target population of 460 comprising all public service vehicle drivers plying Eastern Bypass, and Outer-ring roads in Nairobi, as well as the contractors and engineers from the construction firms in Nairobi County. A sample of 210 was drawn from both categories of respondents and served with interview schedules out of which 153 were returned representing 72.8%. Results from the simple linear regression model revealed that contractors’ financial ability, explains 44.7% total variation in the performance of road construction infrastructural projects. This relationship was established to be lineally positive and strong (r=0.669) and also significant (P=0.000<0.05). The study findings play a vital role in construction project management during evaluation process of selecting effective contractors for better road performance.
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Jacobs, Ginny, Kristen Stevens Hobbs, Keith Crawford, Waseem Hussain, Claire Jean-Simon, Roxanne Leiba Lawrence, Patrice Lazure, Laura Lee Hall, and Pam McFadden. "Promoting prostate cancer screening equity: Findings from a quality improvement education initiative implemented in 3 sites." Journal of Clinical Oncology 40, no. 28_suppl (October 1, 2022): 112. http://dx.doi.org/10.1200/jco.2022.40.28_suppl.112.
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112 Background: Prostate cancer (PC) screening guidelines differ in recommended age at screening and varying emphasis on risk factors (e.g., race, family history), leading to lack of clarity among healthcare providers (HCPs). Research has highlighted a higher risk for Black patients, and the importance for at-risk patients to undergo screening at an earlier age and receive appropriate follow-up. A system-based Quality Improvement Education (QIE) intervention was developed to increase screening and referrals for PC especially among higher risk subgroups. The QIE aimed to increase awareness of the burden and consequences of racial disparities while mobilizing a team-focused approach. Methods: QIE intervention was deployed at 3 practice sites that provide community-based primary care services to Black populations (72% Black patients). The sites differed in patient capacity, staff, challenges faced, and pre-intervention screening practices. Practice assessments were completed pre-intervention by site representatives (n = 3) and individual baseline surveys were filled out by HCPs (n = 24). The 12-week intervention included educational materials from Prostate Health Education Network (PHEN) and deployment of an updated screening protocol within each clinic to raise PC awareness to staff and patients. Post-intervention evaluation was based on qualitative interviews (n = 5) and feedback from the QIE coaches. Patient data from electronic health records (EHR) on PC screening and referrals was collected post-initiative and divided a posteriori into 3 sub-groups, pre, during and post-intervention (n = 6662). Results: QIE led to increased awareness of barriers to access faced by patients from diverse communities. The QIE also led to increased awareness among team members regarding the need for screening at-risk groups at an earlier age and the importance of follow-up with patients. Online education materials made available to HCPs raised patient awareness. Table highlights an increase in PC screening during the intervention, but limited sustainability post-intervention. Interviewees reported increases in patient education, referrals and follow-up action. Conclusions: Increase in percentage of patients screened during the intervention phase was potentially due to added attention during the initiative, while limited sustainability post-intervention might be due to the brief intervention period, reliance on retrospective data and inability to fully leverage EHR data. Based on this projects learnings, similar initiatives should seek organizational support for data analytics and process documentation to ensure consistent data standards and overall success.[Table: see text]
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Tota-Maharaj, K., and D. E. Meeroff. "Evaluation of Solar Photosensitised River Water Treatment in the Caribbean." International Journal of Photoenergy 2013 (2013): 1–10. http://dx.doi.org/10.1155/2013/487890.
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An economical supply of hygienic potable water is one of the most pressing public health issues facing developing countries in the Caribbean region today. This project investigates the performance of a novel solar photochemical reactor for disinfecting river water. The prototype photochemical reactor was designed, constructed, and tested for the microbiological degradation of faecal coliform present in River Water. The experiments evaluated the efficacy of two photosensitive dyes (malachite green and methylene blue) as agents for detoxification with concentrations ranging from 0.5 to 3.0 mg/L. The photochemical reactor operated in a single-pass mode and compared the disinfection rates with direct photolysis. The photosensitizers showed a high efficacy rate using natural sunlight with microbial reduction ranging from 97 to 99% for concentrations as low as 0.5 mg/L of dye. The sensitizers were found to be photobleaching and were very effective at lower concentrations (<2.0 mg/L). Direct photolysis inactivation rate constants were 0.034 and 0.046 min−1, whilst degradation rates using methylene blue ranged from 0.057 to 0.088 min−1and for malachite green from 0.057 to 0.086 min−1, respectively. One-way ANOVA was tested between the inflow and outflow pH, as well as the degradation rates constants for both photosensitisers withP>0.01. Post-solar disinfection included the use of a coconut fiber filter which polished the water removing residual dye concentrations and bacterial contaminants.
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García-Perales, Ramón, and Ascensión Palomares-Ruiz. "Education in Programming and Mathematical Learning: Functionality of a Programming Language in Educational Processes." Sustainability 12, no. 23 (December 4, 2020): 10129. http://dx.doi.org/10.3390/su122310129.
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(1) Background: It is becoming more common to incorporate education in programming into educational environments. (2) Methods: In order to show the benefits of including teaching programming, we present an investigation carried out with a group of Spanish schoolchildren in the fifth year of primary education (ages 10–11). We demonstrate an integrated experience in the ordinary curriculum connecting technology to mathematics education. We created a work project for students to use Scratch and to assess its benefits, created two groups of students, an experimental and a control group, with a sample of 3795 individuals. They were administered the online version of the Battery of Mathematical Competence Evaluation (BECOMA On) at two timepoints, the pretest (the beginning of the project) and the post-test (the final stage). (3) Results: The results showed statistically significant differences between groups and timepoints, with the experimental group scoring higher, demonstrating the effectiveness of the education in programming program for mathematics. (4) Conclusions: Education systems face a challenge in the sphere of the consolidation of technologies in education with the consequent need to change didactic designs to enhance quality, equitable, sustainable education processes.
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Salih, Sayeed, Samah Abdelsalam, Mosab Hamdan, Ashraf Osman Ibrahim, Anas W. Abulfaraj, Faisal Binzagr, Omayma Husain, and Abdallah Elhigazi Abdallah. "The CSFs from the Perspective of Users in Achieving ERP System Implementation and Post-Implementation Success: A Case of Saudi Arabian Food Industry." Sustainability 14, no. 23 (November 29, 2022): 15942. http://dx.doi.org/10.3390/su142315942.
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Enterprise resource planning (ERP) systems have a major impact on the functioning of organizations and the development of business strategy. However, one of the main reasons that cause failure in ERP implementations to achieve the expected benefits is that the system is not fully accepted by end users. User rejection of the system is the second reason after time and budget overrun, while the fourth barrier to ERP post-implementation. Most studies have focused on ERP adoption and installation while neglecting post-implementation evaluation, which omits insights into the priority of ERP systems and CSFs from the stance of ERP users. Therefore, this study identified factors that led to user acceptance of the use of ERP systems at both implementation and post-implementation stages (after installation). In addition, this study assessed the interrelationship between the factors and the most influential factors toward user acceptance. A survey was conducted among pioneers of the food industry in Saudi Arabia, which included 144 ERP system users from assembly and manufacturing, accounts, human resources, warehouse, and sales departments. The descriptive-analytical approach was deployed in this study. As a result, project management, top management support, and user training had significant impacts on the efficacy of ERP system implementation. On the contrary, support for technological changes in new software and hardware, managing changes in systems, procedures, and work steps already in place within the organization, as well as user interfaces and custom code, displayed a direct impact on user acceptance of ERP systems post-implementation. This study is the first research that provides a rating of CSFs from the perspective of its users in Saudi Arabia. It also enables decision makers of food industries to better assess the project risks, implement risk-mitigation methods, create appropriate intervention techniques to discover the strengths and limitations of the ERP users, and value the “best of fit” solutions over “best practice” solutions when determining the most appropriate option for food industries.
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Lu, Shih-Yun, Chu-Lung Wu, and You-Ming Huang. "Evaluation of Disabled STEAM -Students’ Education Learning Outcomes and Creativity under the UN Sustainable Development Goal: Project-Based Learning Oriented STEAM Curriculum with Micro:bit." Sustainability 14, no. 2 (January 8, 2022): 679. http://dx.doi.org/10.3390/su14020679.
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This research aims to discuss the impact of the STEAM curriculum on students with learning disabilities and their learning outcomes and creativity. Teaching for creative thinking is the strategy to deliver a STEAM-structured curriculum and to reach the SDG4 targets. The content is designed in line with project-based learning (PBL), while the micro:bit and paper cutting are used as materials to support it. Methods and Procedures: The single-case research approach (A-B-M) was applied to study three students with special educational needs in primary school. The entire curriculum takes up to 10 weeks with 12 STEAM lessons with activities. The independent variable was the PBL-oriented STEAM curriculum, and the dependent variables were the learning outcomes and TTCT results of pre-tests and post-tests for creativity. There were immediate learning outcomes and retention effects found on the three participants. This paper addresses that the STEAM curriculum had a positive impact on their creativity, which gives affirmative feedback on the curriculum. Conclusion: This PBL-oriented STEAM curriculum under the SDG4 targets gave students with disabilities creativity competency and positive learning outcomes in these case studies. These teaching materials enable teachers to deliver the STEAM curriculum to students with learning disabilities.
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Lindbergh, Lars, Thomas Olofsson, Jimmy Vesterberg, Staffan Andersson, and Timothy L. Wilson. "Reflections on sustainable Ålidhem." Property Management 36, no. 2 (April 16, 2018): 203–20. http://dx.doi.org/10.1108/pm-04-2016-0017.
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Purpose This work is initiated under the premise that reliable evaluation methods are necessary to ensure investments in energy conservation, and the purpose of this paper is to contribute to that literature. It describes some pilot changes and their impact in an actual field study oriented toward upgrading municipal public housing (MPH) units. Design/methodology/approach The research for this paper was connected to an MPH refurbishment project situated in northern Sweden. The overall energy efficiency goal within the project was a 40-50 percent reduction in the supplied energy for central electricity, domestic hot water and space heating. In order to evaluate if these goals were feasible, a measurement system was installed in a pilot building and in a neighboring building used as a reference. The evaluation was conducted by comparing the post-retrofit performance of the pilot building with the performance of the reference building when it was kept in its initial state (a comparison possible because both buildings had initial similarities). Findings Impacts could be quantified insofar as a reference (control) building in the same environment was sustained for comparison purposes. A 43 percent improvement was observed in energy utilization in the pilot building compared to its reference companion (99.8 vs 174.5 kWh/m2 per year). When the approach described herein was applied to new construction, the present goal of 65 kWh/m2 was approached as measured by Swedish standards. Practical implications Results should be of interest to academics in the housing field, professionals involved in refurbishment and residents themselves, renting MPH flats. Originality/value This study is unique in the following ways: first, it really was a field experiment with a control, thus it did not have any exogenous interference in interpreting results. To the best of our knowledge, this is the first study of its kind. The second interesting characteristic was that results were subsequently used in the refurbishment of other buildings in the complex and in the construction of others. The major value of the paper may be associated with its timing. It comes at a time when the Kyoto agreement has raised concerns about sustainability, but also at a time when many buildings are facing a need for refurbishment.
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Zhou, Jia, Aifang Guo, Yutao Chen, and Jin Chen. "Original Innovation through Inter-Organizational Collaboration: Empirical Evidence from University-Focused Alliance Portfolio in China." Sustainability 14, no. 10 (May 19, 2022): 6162. http://dx.doi.org/10.3390/su14106162.
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A university-focused alliance portfolio is a manifestation of industry–university–research cooperation and has become an important path to realize original innovation in science and technology. Unlike traditional technological innovation, original innovation particularly emphasizes new ideas and research areas never covered before. This paper integrates resource-based theory, alliance portfolio theory, and innovation theory, and aims to scientifically establish an evaluation index system of original innovation performance from the three dimensions of initiate research, technology breakthrough, and research breakthrough. The work explores how a university can select partners to realize collaborative innovation in the context of inter-organizational scientific research cooperation with multiple innovation subjects for nationwide research institutes and universities in mainland China. The empirical results show that resource complementarity has a significant positive effect on innovation performance. Three typical universities in the “2011 project” are selected as post-interview cases for enriching empirical evidence. This study contributes to original innovation literature by introducing the concept of resource complementarity in a university-focused alliance portfolio, and further provides implications for original and science-driven innovation studies and suggests directions for university and research institutes.
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Ola, Idris, Aishat Shoyinka, Olufunmilayo Ayinuola, and Loveth Ariomaghwa. "Evaluating the Effectiveness of a Hybrid Model for Mobilization of Women for Cervical Cancer Screening; A Preliminary Report of a Pilot Project in Lagos, Nigeria. A Case Study of the Blue-Pink Center for Women's Health, Nigeria." JCO Global Oncology 8, Supplement_1 (May 2022): 12. http://dx.doi.org/10.1200/go.22.18000.
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PURPOSE Cervical cancer is the second commonest cancer in Nigeria, accounting for 14.8% of all cancer-related deaths in Nigeria. Studies have demonstrated poor knowledge and attitude of women toward cervical cancer, with screening rates as low as 0.7% among Nigerian women. Besides poor awareness and poverty, lack of easy access to cancer education and screening is among the biggest barriers to its effective prevention and control. Our project aimed to increase access to cervical cancer education and screening among rural and suburban women in Lagos, Nigeria. METHODS We introduced an integrated approach to mobilize women for cervical cancer screening (using Visual Inspection with Acetic Acid [VIA]) in four local councils in Lagos. This model involved a hybrid of a facility- and community-based provision of screening services. Daily, skilled nurses and community health extension workers actively mobilize community women for screening through a purpose-built screening center and regular community outreaches to mirror organized and opportunistic screening. Extensive community stakeholders engagement was used to mobilize women groups. Women were charged up to $2.92 to identify if putting a price deters willingness to screen and to evaluate the model's sustainability. Project evaluation was conducted by a mixed method of quantitative and qualitative assessments. RESULTS Within nine months of the pilot, 13,892 women received cancer education, 1,250 women had VIA, and 181 had cryotherapy. Knowledge about cervical cancer rose from an average of 13.7% in our pre-participation survey to 80% in the post-participation surveys. Increased trust in the screening was the commonest theme in the qualitative survey which increased service uptake. CONCLUSION Our preliminary findings show that this hybrid model increased access to, and uptake of, cervical cancer screening, even when a cost was attached. Provision of screening services in an organized and strategic people-oriented manner may yield better and sustained outcomes in resource-poor settings than either opportunistic screening or screening offered only as part of routine hospital services.
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Li, Jie, Heng Luo, Leilei Zhao, Min Zhu, Lin Ma, and Xiaofang Liao. "Promoting STEAM Education in Primary School through Cooperative Teaching: A Design-Based Research Study." Sustainability 14, no. 16 (August 19, 2022): 10333. http://dx.doi.org/10.3390/su141610333.
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The COVID-19 pandemic has highlighted the importance of students’ information literacy, computer skills, and research competencies for self-regulated learning and problem solving. STEAM education, with interdisciplinary knowledge building and higher-order thinking development as its main purpose, is considered essential for students’ sustainable development in the post-pandemic era. However, STEAM education in China’s K-12 schools is facing several problems, such as insufficient qualified teachers, unsustainable development, and difficulty in achieving meaningful discipline integration. To address these problems, this study proposes an innovative STEAM education model supported by cooperative teaching and theories of project-based learning and collaborative learning. After two iterations of design, evaluation, and revision, the proposed STEAM education model and a set of instructional design principles were validated. The resulting model features a multi-teacher cooperative strategy, detailed and diverse scaffolding, familiar themes for students, the integration of STEAM education into formal curricula, and extended instruction hours. The study results suggest that cooperative teaching can facilitate meaningful discipline integration and can alleviate the STEAM faculty shortage. This study produced five proven instructional design principles for conducting STEAM education supported by cooperative teaching in primary schools.
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Petrescu, Letitia, Dora-Andreea Chisalita, Calin-Cristian Cormos, Giampaolo Manzolini, Paul Cobden, and H. van Dijk. "Life Cycle Assessment of SEWGS Technology Applied to Integrated Steel Plants." Sustainability 11, no. 7 (March 27, 2019): 1825. http://dx.doi.org/10.3390/su11071825.
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The environmental evaluation of the sorption-enhanced water–gas shift (SEWGS) process to be used for the decarbonization of an integrated steel mill through life cycle assessment (LCA) is the subject of the present paper. This work is carried out within the STEPWISE H2020 project (grant agreement No. 640769). LCA calculations were based on material and energy balances derived from experimental activities, modeling activities, and literature data. Wide system boundaries containing various upstream and downstream processes as well as the main integrated steel mill are drawn for the system under study. The environmental indicators of the SEWGS process are compared to another carbon capture and storage (CCS) technology applied to the iron and steel industry (e.g., gas–liquid absorption using MEA). The reduction of greenhouse gas emissions for SEWGS technology is about 40%. For the other impact indicators, there is an increase in the SEWGS technology (in the range of 7.23% to 72.77%), which is mainly due to the sorbent production and transportation processes. Nevertheless, when compared with the post-combustion capture technology, based on gas–liquid absorption, from an environmental point of view, SEWGS performs significantly better, having impact factor values closer to the no-capture integrated steel mill.
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Peng, Zhou, Xiaochun Xiao, Ye Lv, Xiaoyan Guan, and Wei Wang. "A Large-Scale Investigation of the Status of Out-Resettlers from the Three Gorges Area Based on the Production–Living–Social Security–Social Integration–Satisfaction Perspective." Sustainability 14, no. 23 (November 24, 2022): 15613. http://dx.doi.org/10.3390/su142315613.
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Monitoring the living and production standards of resettlers due to hydraulic engineering is at the core of the evaluation of the effectiveness of resettlement and providing post-relocation support. In the past two decades, 0.196 million individuals were relocated outside of the reservoir area (out-resettlers) because of the construction of Three Gorges Dam. In 2019, large-scale tracking and monitoring of resettlers in 1371 households in 122 villages and 12 provinces was conducted by using the methods of stratified sampling, equidistant random sampling, and simple random sampling. The status of out-resettlers from the Three Gorges Reservoir area was compared with that of local residents in resettlement areas and nearby-resettlers based on the production–living–social security–social integration–satisfaction perspective. The results show that the living and production conditions of out-resettlers have significantly improved, and their income and consumption were positively correlated with the development level of the resettlement area. More than 90% of out-resettlers have adapted to local languages, cultural customs, and living habits. Out-resettlers have the highest satisfaction with infrastructure construction and public service facilities, at more than 90%, and the lowest satisfaction with the availability of arable land, at approximately 80%. This study can provide a reference for follow-up work on the Three Gorges Project.