Rajagiri Journal of Social Development

Editorial Board

2024-03-15T10:27:50+00:00

Editorial Board

Research Data Management in University Libraries: Evidence from Nigeria

2024-03-18T06:25:55+00:00

This study provides a comprehensive assessment of Research Data Management Services
(RDMS) in Nigerian University Libraries, exploring the current landscape, challenges, and
prospects. Analyzing data from 55 librarians in the Niger Delta region, the study reveals a
varied delivery of RDMS, with notable gaps attributed to limited librarian skills and inadequate
technological infrastructure. While basic infrastructure exists, task-specific enhancements are
needed for robust RDMS. Additionally, the absence of widespread RDM policy frameworks
suggests a need for strategic planning. The competency level of librarians is generally high,
but continuous upskilling is crucial. Perceived challenges, including funding constraints and
administrative support, mirror broader issues in technology adoption. Acknowledging study
limitations, future research should expand to a national context, offering a more nuanced
understanding of RDMS challenges and practices.

Transformational Global Learning: Instructor Practices in Short-Term Study Abroad Programmes

2024-03-15T10:27:52+00:00

This study explores the impact of instructor practices on transformative learning in shortterm study abroad (STSA) programmes. Combining statistical analysis of competencies with
critical reflection reveals the nuanced role of instructors in fostering Civic Action, Perspectivetaking, Cultural Awareness, and more. Results from t-tests highlight significant improvements,
emphasising the effectiveness of well-designed STSA initiatives. The paper identifies key
practices, including pre-trip preparation, in-country engagement, and reflective writing, as
instrumental in enhancing competencies. While acknowledging study limitations, the findings
underscore the transformative potential of STSA when coupled with strategic instructor
interventions. This research contributes to the ongoing discourse on experiential learning
and informs educators and policymakers on optimising STSA for comprehensive student
development

Approaches to Learning Social Work Research: Insights for Social Work Educators

2024-03-15T10:28:04+00:00

This study investigates the learning approaches of first-year full-time social work post-graduate
students (n=56) in Chennai, focusing on the subject ‘Social Research and Statistics’. Utilizing
the Study Process Scale, the research reveals the prevalence of surface learning approaches
and gender differences in learning approaches. Three-fold recommendations – to learner, to
educator and to the education system have been put forth. Future research avenues exploring
interdisciplinary insights, institutional variances, and adaptable learning environments can
further enrich our understanding of approaches to learning in social work education. This
research contributes not only to the nuanced understanding of learning approaches in the
social work discipline but also serves as a compass for learners, educators and institutions in
reflecting on the study process to foster meaningful learning experiences in the dynamic
landscape of social work education.

Cultivating Emotional Intelligence: The Impact of Engaging in Expressive Arts for Higher Education Students

2024-03-18T06:18:19+00:00

Emotional intelligence (EI) stands as a crucial factor in promoting mental well-being, and
the malleability of intelligence opens avenues for diverse educational interventions. This paper
delves into the transformative potential of expressive arts in augmenting EI among higher
education students. The study focused on the social work department of a college in Kerala,
India, where 164 students were randomly selected from the total departmental enrollment.
Among these, 122 actively engaged in expressive arts, while 42 did not participate in such
activities. To gauge EI levels, the study employed Schutt’s Self-Report Emotional Intelligence
Test, comparing scores between students engaged in expressive arts and those who were
not. The statistical analysis utilized an independent sample t-test, revealing a significant
difference in EI measures between the two groups. These findings underscore the impactful
role of expressive arts in cultivating emotional intelligence. Based on these outcomes, this
paper advocates for the integration of expressive arts into higher education curricula. Such
inclusion is proposed not only to foster elevated emotional intelligence but also to fortify
students’ mental health and enhance academic performance. The study suggests that
incorporating expressive arts can contribute substantially to the holistic development of
students in higher education settings

Flood Relief Volunteer Management: A Case Study of Thiruvananthapuram District Administration

2024-03-18T06:27:45+00:00

In August 2018, Kerala faced unprecedented floods, prompting a Red Alert in 13 out of 14
districts. With 433 casualties and over 14 lakh displaced individuals, Thiruvananthapuram
district emerged as a key hub for disaster relief. Volunteer-driven initiatives played a pivotal
role, establishing numerous relief material collection centres under the District Administration.
This case study delves into the operational procedures of these centres, offering a
retrospective analysis of volunteers’ life experiences. Utilizing a case study approach, data
was gathered through participant observation and in-depth interviews. The findings highlight
the functioning of relief material collection centres, volunteers’ motivations, their experiences
in flood relief activities, and reflections on the transformative impact of volunteerism in their
lives. The study also underscores opportunities for professional social work interventions in
disaster volunteer management.

Ideating Innovative Learning Spaces in Social Work Institutions: Reflections of Student Social Workers

2024-03-18T06:28:36+00:00

This paper delves into the transformative potential of innovative learning spaces within social
work education, focusing on student reflections from the experiential theatre society, Arangu.
The study examines the impact on student self-perception, envisions reimagined learning
spaces within social work institutions, and underscores the benefits of student co-designing
for holistic growth. Through in-depth interviews with seven student social workers, the
research explores perceptions of innovative learning spaces and their alignment with
professional approaches. Findings reveal a profound evolution in self-perception, highlighting
the significance of spaces like Arangu in nurturing hidden talents and fostering a sense of
purpose. Students advocate for flexible, inclusive, and dynamic learning environments,
challenging traditional structures and emphasizing the need for a personalized,
interdisciplinary education. The paper concludes with implications for social work education
and practice, advocating for intentional space design to meet the diverse needs of students
and foster a socially responsible cohort

Bimalendu Bhattacharya, Migration Reshaping Human History

2024-03-18T06:31:01+00:00

Bimalendu Bhattacharya, Migration Reshaping Human History