R&P Entries
Articles in Journals
Mitchual, S. J. (2015). Enhancing the physical properties of briquettes from sawdust of Piptadenia africana through combination with Ceiba pentandra. British Journal of Applied Science and Technology, 6,
Abstract
This study sought to determine the effect of combining sawdust of Piptadenia africana with Ceiba pentandra on the physical and mechanical properties of briquettes produced at room temperature using low compacting pressure without a binder. Briquettes were produced from a mixture of sawdust of Piptadenia africana and Ceiba pentandra. Particle size of sawdust used for this study was 1mm or less. The two materials were combined at mixing proportions: 80 : 20, 60 : 40, 40 : 60 and 20 : 80 (Piptadenia africana : Ceiba pentandra). The results indicated that the relaxed density of briquettes produced from the mixed materials ranged from 534 to 766 kg/m3 whilst that of compressive strength in cleft ranged from 12.46 to 60.28 N/mm. At compacting pressure levels between 30 and 50 MPa, all the briquettes produced from the mixed materials had adequate compressive strength in cleft. The impact resistance index of briquettes from the mixed materials was adequate and ranged from 128 to 500%. The compressive strength in cleft and impact resistance index of all the briquettes produced from the mixed species were better than those produced from Piptadenia africana only. Additionally, at 5% level of significance, the relaxed density, compressive strength in cleft and impact resistance index of briquettes were significantly affected by the biomass raw material and compacting pressure. Thus, the addition of sawdust of Ceiba pentandra to that of Piptadenia africana could significantly improve the physical and mechanical properties of briquettes produced from sawdust of Piptadenia africana. Therefore, production of briquettes from mixed timber species should be encouraged.
This study sought to determine the effect of combining sawdust of Piptadenia africana with Ceiba pentandra on the physical and mechanical properties of briquettes produced at room temperature using low compacting pressure without a binder. Briquettes were produced from a mixture of sawdust of Piptadenia africana and Ceiba pentandra. Particle size of sawdust used for this study was 1mm or less. The two materials were combined at mixing proportions: 80 : 20, 60 : 40, 40 : 60 and 20 : 80 (Piptadenia africana : Ceiba pentandra). The results indicated that the relaxed density of briquettes produced from the mixed materials ranged from 534 to 766 kg/m3 whilst that of compressive strength in cleft ranged from 12.46 to 60.28 N/mm. At compacting pressure levels between 30 and 50 MPa, all the briquettes produced from the mixed materials had adequate compressive strength in cleft. The impact resistance index of briquettes from the mixed materials was adequate and ranged from 128 to 500%. The compressive strength in cleft and impact resistance index of all the briquettes produced from the mixed species were better than those produced from Piptadenia africana only. Additionally, at 5% level of significance, the relaxed density, compressive strength in cleft and impact resistance index of briquettes were significantly affected by the biomass raw material and compacting pressure. Thus, the addition of sawdust of Ceiba pentandra to that of Piptadenia africana could significantly improve the physical and mechanical properties of briquettes produced from sawdust of Piptadenia africana. Therefore, production of briquettes from mixed timber species should be encouraged.
Amoah, M., Dadzie, P. K., Bih, F. K. and Wiafe E. D. (2015). Consumer preferences and purchase intentions for rattan furniture. Wood and Fiber Science, 47,
Abstract
Although research on consumer preference and purchase intentions has received significant attention, little research has been performed with respect to furniture products, particularly in the area of empirical hypothesis testing. This study used regression models to test hypotheses relating to positional goods consumption and environmental and sustainable consumption theories to investigate consumers’ preference for rattan cane furniture and their intentions to purchase the product. A questionnaire was administered to 750 staff and students from universities, polytechnics, and research institutions in Ghana. The results showed that social status, modernity, and environmental safety supported the preference and purchase intentions for rattan cane furniture, whereas mixed results emerged from sustainable consumption. The most important driver of preference for rattan cane furniture was modernity, followed by environmental safety, social status, and sustainable consumption. In the case of purchase intentions, social status emerged as the most important factor, followed by modernity, and then environmental consumption. Building a positive social, environmental, and sustainable image of rattan cane furniture will enhance the product’s value and this will culminate in increasing consumers’ preference for the product and their intentions to purchase the product. The study concluded that through market segmentation, manufacturers, and marketers of rattan cane furniture can target consumers who are pro-environmentalists and those who want to use the product to enhance their social image, thereby attracting a price premium.
Although research on consumer preference and purchase intentions has received significant attention, little research has been performed with respect to furniture products, particularly in the area of empirical hypothesis testing. This study used regression models to test hypotheses relating to positional goods consumption and environmental and sustainable consumption theories to investigate consumers’ preference for rattan cane furniture and their intentions to purchase the product. A questionnaire was administered to 750 staff and students from universities, polytechnics, and research institutions in Ghana. The results showed that social status, modernity, and environmental safety supported the preference and purchase intentions for rattan cane furniture, whereas mixed results emerged from sustainable consumption. The most important driver of preference for rattan cane furniture was modernity, followed by environmental safety, social status, and sustainable consumption. In the case of purchase intentions, social status emerged as the most important factor, followed by modernity, and then environmental consumption. Building a positive social, environmental, and sustainable image of rattan cane furniture will enhance the product’s value and this will culminate in increasing consumers’ preference for the product and their intentions to purchase the product. The study concluded that through market segmentation, manufacturers, and marketers of rattan cane furniture can target consumers who are pro-environmentalists and those who want to use the product to enhance their social image, thereby attracting a price premium.
Amoah, M. and Boateng, R.K. (2014). Addressing illegal logging in Ghana: Do value, social identity,and corporate social responsibility theories matter?. International Forestry Review, 16,
Abstract
Even though several researchers have advanced reasons underlying the prevalence of illegal logging in the tropics, the use of socialization, social identity and corporate social responsibility theories to explain this phenomenon is rare. This study examined whether value, social identity, and corporate social responsibility theories can be used to explain why illegal logging is prevalent in four forest communities in Ghana. Drawing on these theories, it was hypothesized that the chainsaw operators (CSO) are using their social responsibility activities and community solidarity to solicit support from the forest communities in which they operate. Using systematic and convenience sampling techniques, 95 households and 380 individuals were sampled, respectively, for the study. It is evident from the study that the strong attachment of the chainsaw operators to the communities in which they operate has enabled them to galvanize support from the communities and this support appears to have been strengthened by the perceived social, environmental, and economic benefits derived from the chainsaw operations. Among the corporate social responsibility factors, higher compensation rates paid to farmers for crops damage by CSO and the perception that chainsaw operations are more environmentally benign than those of large-scale timber harvesting firms appear to be the most significant factors influencing farmers’ decision to support CSO. The paper concludes that the question of who should own trees on farmlands and what economic benefits should be accrued to farmers for keeping commercial trees on their farms needs rethinking. Strengthening the policy regime on compensation payments and strong adherence to timber harvesting rules could also help reduce the incidence of illegal logging, at least, at the community level.
Even though several researchers have advanced reasons underlying the prevalence of illegal logging in the tropics, the use of socialization, social identity and corporate social responsibility theories to explain this phenomenon is rare. This study examined whether value, social identity, and corporate social responsibility theories can be used to explain why illegal logging is prevalent in four forest communities in Ghana. Drawing on these theories, it was hypothesized that the chainsaw operators (CSO) are using their social responsibility activities and community solidarity to solicit support from the forest communities in which they operate. Using systematic and convenience sampling techniques, 95 households and 380 individuals were sampled, respectively, for the study. It is evident from the study that the strong attachment of the chainsaw operators to the communities in which they operate has enabled them to galvanize support from the communities and this support appears to have been strengthened by the perceived social, environmental, and economic benefits derived from the chainsaw operations. Among the corporate social responsibility factors, higher compensation rates paid to farmers for crops damage by CSO and the perception that chainsaw operations are more environmentally benign than those of large-scale timber harvesting firms appear to be the most significant factors influencing farmers’ decision to support CSO. The paper concludes that the question of who should own trees on farmlands and what economic benefits should be accrued to farmers for keeping commercial trees on their farms needs rethinking. Strengthening the policy regime on compensation payments and strong adherence to timber harvesting rules could also help reduce the incidence of illegal logging, at least, at the community level.
Dadzie, P. K., Amoah, M., Boampong, E., and Frimpong-Mensah, K. (2015). Effect of density and moisture content on biological durability of stem and branch wood of Entandrophragma cylindricum (sapele). Journal of the Indian Academy of Wood Science, 12,
Abstract
Branch wood is being promoted as supplement to stem wood but its natural durability is scarcely studied. This study compared the biological durability of branch wood of Entrandophragma cylindricum (sapele) to its stem wood for ground or other outdoor applications like garden furniture at two moisture levels (i.e., 9 ± 3 and 14 ± 2 % using kiln-drying and air-drying methods, respectively). The study followed a field test method according to EN 252-1989 in combination with percentage weight loss. Branch and stem wood samples were extracted from two natural forests in Ghana. Results indicated that branch wood of sapele was marginally denser than its stem wood. Percentage weight loss of branch wood compared to its stem wood was significantly higher by approximately 108 % at 14 ± 2 % moisture content (MC) but significantly lower by 53 % at 9 ± 3 % MC. The stem and branch woods at 14 ± 2 % MC were classified respectively as moderately durable and non-durable, but at 9 ± 3 % MC both were classified as moderately durable. Visual rating indicated that at 9 ± 3 % MC branch wood could have a better service life than stem wood. Density and MC correlated positively and negatively respectively with weight loss but the association was marginally stronger for stem wood (R2 = 0.86 %) than branch wood (R2 = 0.82 %). In conclusion, sapele branch wood material dried to 9 ± 3 % MC appeared more durable than branch wood at 14 ± 2 % MC or stem wood at either 9 ± 3 or 14 ± 2 % MC. Wood products manufacturers and users should consider using well dried branch wood of sapele to supplement stem wood for ground applications. Further research is encouraged to assess other properties of the branch wood in comparison with its stem wood for a firmer conclusion to be drawn on their utilization.
Branch wood is being promoted as supplement to stem wood but its natural durability is scarcely studied. This study compared the biological durability of branch wood of Entrandophragma cylindricum (sapele) to its stem wood for ground or other outdoor applications like garden furniture at two moisture levels (i.e., 9 ± 3 and 14 ± 2 % using kiln-drying and air-drying methods, respectively). The study followed a field test method according to EN 252-1989 in combination with percentage weight loss. Branch and stem wood samples were extracted from two natural forests in Ghana. Results indicated that branch wood of sapele was marginally denser than its stem wood. Percentage weight loss of branch wood compared to its stem wood was significantly higher by approximately 108 % at 14 ± 2 % moisture content (MC) but significantly lower by 53 % at 9 ± 3 % MC. The stem and branch woods at 14 ± 2 % MC were classified respectively as moderately durable and non-durable, but at 9 ± 3 % MC both were classified as moderately durable. Visual rating indicated that at 9 ± 3 % MC branch wood could have a better service life than stem wood. Density and MC correlated positively and negatively respectively with weight loss but the association was marginally stronger for stem wood (R2 = 0.86 %) than branch wood (R2 = 0.82 %). In conclusion, sapele branch wood material dried to 9 ± 3 % MC appeared more durable than branch wood at 14 ± 2 % MC or stem wood at either 9 ± 3 or 14 ± 2 % MC. Wood products manufacturers and users should consider using well dried branch wood of sapele to supplement stem wood for ground applications. Further research is encouraged to assess other properties of the branch wood in comparison with its stem wood for a firmer conclusion to be drawn on their utilization.
Dadzie, P. K. and Amoah, M. (2015). Density, some anatomical properties and natural durability of stem and branch wood of two tropical hardwood species for ground applications. European Journal of Wood and Wood Products, ,
Abstract
As wood resources deplete, branch wood is being promoted to supplement stem wood in Ghana, but its natural durability, which indicates its service life and can influence its acceptance and use is scarcely studied. This study compares the natural durability and some anatomical properties of branch wood and stem wood of Entandrophragma cylindricum (sapele) and Khaya ivorensis (mahogany) using Ceiba pentandra stem wood as control. Natural durability test followed field test method according to European Standard EN 252 1989 in combination with percentage weight losses while the anatomical investigations followed IAWA Committee 1989 recommendations. For each species, two branch logs were cut from each of two sampled trees from two natural forests in Ghana. Stem wood was also obtained from the same forest reserves as the branches. All sample groups were tested at air-dried moisture content of 14 ± 2 % as specified in the standard. Branch wood of both species were denser than their stem wood, but in addition to mahogany stem wood they were rated ‘‘non-durable’’, while sapele stem wood was rated moderately durable. Thus at 5 % significance level, natural durability of mahogany branch wood appeared comparable to that of its stem wood whereas sapele branch wood was significantly less durable than its stem wood but more durable than Ceiba stem wood. Branch wood and stem wood vessels diameter and proportion also were significantly different (p\0.1). Expectedly, density correlated positively with natural durability, but the correlation among anatomical properties, natural durability and density were stronger in stem wood than in branch wood. In conclusion, stem and branch wood of mahogany are both nondurable but sapele stem wood appears better than its branch wood for ground applications. Anatomical properties of stem wood influenced natural durability more than those of branch wood. For better acceptance of branch wood of the species for wood products manufacturing, further research would be necessary for additional data on their toxic extractive levels, mechanical properties and durability at different sites or/and using other drying methods.
As wood resources deplete, branch wood is being promoted to supplement stem wood in Ghana, but its natural durability, which indicates its service life and can influence its acceptance and use is scarcely studied. This study compares the natural durability and some anatomical properties of branch wood and stem wood of Entandrophragma cylindricum (sapele) and Khaya ivorensis (mahogany) using Ceiba pentandra stem wood as control. Natural durability test followed field test method according to European Standard EN 252 1989 in combination with percentage weight losses while the anatomical investigations followed IAWA Committee 1989 recommendations. For each species, two branch logs were cut from each of two sampled trees from two natural forests in Ghana. Stem wood was also obtained from the same forest reserves as the branches. All sample groups were tested at air-dried moisture content of 14 ± 2 % as specified in the standard. Branch wood of both species were denser than their stem wood, but in addition to mahogany stem wood they were rated ‘‘non-durable’’, while sapele stem wood was rated moderately durable. Thus at 5 % significance level, natural durability of mahogany branch wood appeared comparable to that of its stem wood whereas sapele branch wood was significantly less durable than its stem wood but more durable than Ceiba stem wood. Branch wood and stem wood vessels diameter and proportion also were significantly different (p\0.1). Expectedly, density correlated positively with natural durability, but the correlation among anatomical properties, natural durability and density were stronger in stem wood than in branch wood. In conclusion, stem and branch wood of mahogany are both nondurable but sapele stem wood appears better than its branch wood for ground applications. Anatomical properties of stem wood influenced natural durability more than those of branch wood. For better acceptance of branch wood of the species for wood products manufacturing, further research would be necessary for additional data on their toxic extractive levels, mechanical properties and durability at different sites or/and using other drying methods.
Edwards, A. K. & Baafour A. A. (2015). Kingship (leadership) for Multicultural Integration in Ghana: Ashantis and the Golden Stool.. Journal of African Arts and Culture., 2,
Abstract
The study is about the significance of chieftaincy as a traditional leadership in a multicultural society of Ghana. Chiefs in Ghana influence people in relation to situations. The leadership has a socio-historical, socio-cultural context of African system that the rest of the world has to understand. For example, the study showed that the stability of the Ashanti Kingdom in Ghana is anchored on the hierarchical kingship pedigree (led by the Otomfuor Asantehene) and the ‘leading with souls’ (spirituality) enshrined by the Golden Stool mythology. Based on the theoretical framework of Hierarchical and spirituality leadership the Ashantis applied these concepts practically. Chiefs are obliged to pursue excellence in justice, vision, communication, and socio-moral values. The paper was a to investigate how the chiefs led for the ‘good of the society’. The methodology involved a desk review and concept development to highlight indigenous systems, use of imagery (mythology) and hierarchical structure for contributing to deontological leadership. The study is a significant contribution to scholarship on intercultural integration, democratic dialogue, and deontology. Recommendations include the entrenched constitutional roles of traditional chiefs, the use of indegious knowledge and imagery such as the Golden Stool in explaining complex concepts in traditional societies, and the appreciation of traditions and culture in Ghana as both historical and contemporary contribution to global knowledge.
The study is about the significance of chieftaincy as a traditional leadership in a multicultural society of Ghana. Chiefs in Ghana influence people in relation to situations. The leadership has a socio-historical, socio-cultural context of African system that the rest of the world has to understand. For example, the study showed that the stability of the Ashanti Kingdom in Ghana is anchored on the hierarchical kingship pedigree (led by the Otomfuor Asantehene) and the ‘leading with souls’ (spirituality) enshrined by the Golden Stool mythology. Based on the theoretical framework of Hierarchical and spirituality leadership the Ashantis applied these concepts practically. Chiefs are obliged to pursue excellence in justice, vision, communication, and socio-moral values. The paper was a to investigate how the chiefs led for the ‘good of the society’. The methodology involved a desk review and concept development to highlight indigenous systems, use of imagery (mythology) and hierarchical structure for contributing to deontological leadership. The study is a significant contribution to scholarship on intercultural integration, democratic dialogue, and deontology. Recommendations include the entrenched constitutional roles of traditional chiefs, the use of indegious knowledge and imagery such as the Golden Stool in explaining complex concepts in traditional societies, and the appreciation of traditions and culture in Ghana as both historical and contemporary contribution to global knowledge.
Tete-Mensah, I. & Edwards, A. K. (2014). Faculty Access and Use of Educational Technology: A Case of University of Education, Winneba. International Journal of Education, Research and Development (IJERD), 3,
Abstract
This paper was generated from a baseline study conducted to access the knowledge level on the state of educational technology at University of Education, Winneba (UEW). This was significant for determining strategic directions, commissioned by UEW management and South African Institute for Distance Education (SAIDE). Meanwhile there is very little evidence of research on faculty access and usage of Information and Communication Technology (ICT) and Educational Technology. The study employed the exploratory mixed cross-sectional design with a convenient study sample of 97 faculty members. Data were collected using questionnaires and semi-structured interviews. Results indicated that most academic departments had Internet via a 1GB fibre optic backbone. However, challenges identified include (i) access to Internet connectivity especially for distance education centres, (ii) limited number of computers, ICT laboratories, and Internet Cafés, and (iii) a committed technical support. Recommendations are include for strategic planning.
This paper was generated from a baseline study conducted to access the knowledge level on the state of educational technology at University of Education, Winneba (UEW). This was significant for determining strategic directions, commissioned by UEW management and South African Institute for Distance Education (SAIDE). Meanwhile there is very little evidence of research on faculty access and usage of Information and Communication Technology (ICT) and Educational Technology. The study employed the exploratory mixed cross-sectional design with a convenient study sample of 97 faculty members. Data were collected using questionnaires and semi-structured interviews. Results indicated that most academic departments had Internet via a 1GB fibre optic backbone. However, challenges identified include (i) access to Internet connectivity especially for distance education centres, (ii) limited number of computers, ICT laboratories, and Internet Cafés, and (iii) a committed technical support. Recommendations are include for strategic planning.
Edwards, A. K. & Friko, E. L. (2014). The Influence of Islamic Religion on Girl-Child Education in Northern Ghana.. Ghana Journal of Education and Teaching, 7,
Abstract
The purpose of this study was to highlight the influence of Islamic religion on girl-child education in the Northern part of Ghana for policy consideration. Using the descriptive survey approach we designed questions and interview items to explore opinions from 200 participants on girl-children education in vast Muslim communities. Data were gathered from teachers (n=50), guardians/parents (n=50), and students (n=100). Data showed that many student participants (29.0%) have an indifferent opinion on the extent to which Islamic religion affects girl-children’s completion of JHS. This affects interventions to get students back to school and higher education. However, many were optimistic and looking for ways to change traditional perceptions. Though there are several interventions in the region, these are severely challenged by Islamic influences. In general the Muslim communities in the Northern Ghana still need encouragement and campaign against negative attitudes and perceptions. More importantly, many are still hopeful that girls are equally capable of going for tertiary education if the support is raised and made easily accessible.
The purpose of this study was to highlight the influence of Islamic religion on girl-child education in the Northern part of Ghana for policy consideration. Using the descriptive survey approach we designed questions and interview items to explore opinions from 200 participants on girl-children education in vast Muslim communities. Data were gathered from teachers (n=50), guardians/parents (n=50), and students (n=100). Data showed that many student participants (29.0%) have an indifferent opinion on the extent to which Islamic religion affects girl-children’s completion of JHS. This affects interventions to get students back to school and higher education. However, many were optimistic and looking for ways to change traditional perceptions. Though there are several interventions in the region, these are severely challenged by Islamic influences. In general the Muslim communities in the Northern Ghana still need encouragement and campaign against negative attitudes and perceptions. More importantly, many are still hopeful that girls are equally capable of going for tertiary education if the support is raised and made easily accessible.
Edwards, A. K. & Aboagye, S. K. (2015). Otherness development model for assessing multicultural competencies for educational leadership. International Leadership Journal,, 7,
Abstract
This article presents a model for assessing otherness development levels among individuals in educational leadership. The otherness development model (ODM) emerged from examining certain social theories and humanistic concepts that are intertwined in a pentagonal form—the “3Rs and 2Ss” constructs—that serve as important values for social functionalism. The article proposes practical ways of categorizing and measuring individual otherness development (IOD). The ODM is a significant contribution to otherness leadership, as it utilizes innovative ways to promote learning to value differences. The ODM is also recommended for baseline studies, an institutional readiness index, teaching tolerance, and training and development.
This article presents a model for assessing otherness development levels among individuals in educational leadership. The otherness development model (ODM) emerged from examining certain social theories and humanistic concepts that are intertwined in a pentagonal form—the “3Rs and 2Ss” constructs—that serve as important values for social functionalism. The article proposes practical ways of categorizing and measuring individual otherness development (IOD). The ODM is a significant contribution to otherness leadership, as it utilizes innovative ways to promote learning to value differences. The ODM is also recommended for baseline studies, an institutional readiness index, teaching tolerance, and training and development.
Edwards, A. K. & Aboagye, S. K. (2015). Assessing School Leadership Challenges in Ghana Using Leadership Practices Inventory. International Journal of Education and Practice., 3,
Abstract
The study looked at challenges facing Ghana Education Service (GES) in school leadership and how to improve potentials for transformation. The issue is that there are potentials in GES school leadership who can be nurtured to bring the needed transformation. The purpose of this study was to discuss self-reported leadership practices inventories (LPI) of participants to highlight their transformational leadership potentials. The study participants (N=213) were conveniently sampled from two Ghanaian public universities; University of Education, Winneba and University of Cape Coast with similar mandate to raise teachers and school leaders. Data from the self-reported LPI scores indicated a strong sense of self-belief and the leadership potentials (M=48.93, sd=6.47). Gender differences showed no statistical significance (t=-0.93, df=198, p=0.07), and the same with institutional differences (t=-.99, df=198, p=.38). However, the only statistical differences came from gender groups’ report on “Enable Others to Act” (t=-1.72, df=198, p=.01). Discussions focused on the need for a more futuristic thinking, people-focused skills, enablement, and avoidance of discrimination against women in school leadership. Five recommendations were made for transformational leadership in GES including INSET leadership contents and a national certification policy.
The study looked at challenges facing Ghana Education Service (GES) in school leadership and how to improve potentials for transformation. The issue is that there are potentials in GES school leadership who can be nurtured to bring the needed transformation. The purpose of this study was to discuss self-reported leadership practices inventories (LPI) of participants to highlight their transformational leadership potentials. The study participants (N=213) were conveniently sampled from two Ghanaian public universities; University of Education, Winneba and University of Cape Coast with similar mandate to raise teachers and school leaders. Data from the self-reported LPI scores indicated a strong sense of self-belief and the leadership potentials (M=48.93, sd=6.47). Gender differences showed no statistical significance (t=-0.93, df=198, p=0.07), and the same with institutional differences (t=-.99, df=198, p=.38). However, the only statistical differences came from gender groups’ report on “Enable Others to Act” (t=-1.72, df=198, p=.01). Discussions focused on the need for a more futuristic thinking, people-focused skills, enablement, and avoidance of discrimination against women in school leadership. Five recommendations were made for transformational leadership in GES including INSET leadership contents and a national certification policy.
