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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.
Edwards, A. K. (2015). Developing Teachers using Human Performance Technology: Considering the Nexus Between Purpose-driven life and Curriculum Leadership. Journal of Educational Research and Entrepreneurship, 2,
Abstract
Human performance technology (HPT) literature abounds with strategies for human improvement. The purpose of this study was to examine the relationship between a purpose-driven life and curriculum leadership abilities among a sample (N=207) of Ghana Education Services teachers in order to ascertain the use of instructional and non-instructional HPT in their INSET programmes. Using the quantitative method, the study found positive correlations (e.g. r= .27) and similarities in demographic groups (ranges [t= -.23, df=205, p= .82] and [t= 1.51, df=149, p= .13]). However, the discussions focused on GES customizing instructional HPT to save the bottom line (return-on-investment). Five recommendations are forwarded regarding HPT practices for systematic INSET training, professional development, and career mentoring. For policy development, a strategic thinking into theory and practices of HPT in teacher education and the development of RME content in the entire Ghana educational system are highly recommended.
Human performance technology (HPT) literature abounds with strategies for human improvement. The purpose of this study was to examine the relationship between a purpose-driven life and curriculum leadership abilities among a sample (N=207) of Ghana Education Services teachers in order to ascertain the use of instructional and non-instructional HPT in their INSET programmes. Using the quantitative method, the study found positive correlations (e.g. r= .27) and similarities in demographic groups (ranges [t= -.23, df=205, p= .82] and [t= 1.51, df=149, p= .13]). However, the discussions focused on GES customizing instructional HPT to save the bottom line (return-on-investment). Five recommendations are forwarded regarding HPT practices for systematic INSET training, professional development, and career mentoring. For policy development, a strategic thinking into theory and practices of HPT in teacher education and the development of RME content in the entire Ghana educational system are highly recommended.
Otoo, R.
1st International Conference on Language, Literature & Communication.. UEW, Winneba, Ghana February 3-4, 2015
Paper presented:
Relevance Study in Discourse: A Study with Reference to Ga Oyiwalaᴐŋŋ.
Abstract
This study examines the various forms attributed to thank you as a discourse marker in natural conversational context in the Ga land. The work seeks to identify the different forms of thank you as a discourse marker in conversation: describe the functions and frequency of thank you and its variants in conversations and explore the factors (social and situational) affecting the different uses of thank you. The data for the work will be collected from natural conversations at work places, market, social gathering like outdooring, engagements and at home from family members. The conversations will be recorded with audio recorder from various people within the Ga state. The conversational theory of relevance; introduced by Sperber and Wilson (1986, 1995: 228-9) will be adopted for this study. We are looking at the basis for thank you and its variants as polite strategy which should not be attributed to modernization.
This study examines the various forms attributed to thank you as a discourse marker in natural conversational context in the Ga land. The work seeks to identify the different forms of thank you as a discourse marker in conversation: describe the functions and frequency of thank you and its variants in conversations and explore the factors (social and situational) affecting the different uses of thank you. The data for the work will be collected from natural conversations at work places, market, social gathering like outdooring, engagements and at home from family members. The conversations will be recorded with audio recorder from various people within the Ga state. The conversational theory of relevance; introduced by Sperber and Wilson (1986, 1995: 228-9) will be adopted for this study. We are looking at the basis for thank you and its variants as polite strategy which should not be attributed to modernization.
Caesar, R. O.
1st International Conference on Language, Literature & Communication. UEW, Winneba, Ghana February 3-4, 2015
Paper presented:
Serial Verb Construction (SVCs) in Dangme
Abstract
Verb serialization in Dangme is an area which has not been studied. This paper seeks to examine the syntactic and the semantic properties of serial verb constructions in Dangme, a language that belongs to the Kwa group of family of languages. The paper describes the nature of serial verb constructions in Dangme in the Role and Reference Grammar framework (RRG) proposed by Foley and Van Valin (1984) and their associates. The properties of the expressions to be examined are in consonance with some of the characteristics proposed in the literature, i.e argument sharing, shared aspect, mood and negation, switch-function of serial verb constructions and multiple object SVCs. In addition, the paper examines different functional types of serial verb constructions such as causatives (instrumental serial verb constructions, benefactive serial verb constructions and cause and effect serial verb constructions), comparative SVC, directional SVC and question and focus SVC. Data for the study were drawn from both primary and secondary sources.
Verb serialization in Dangme is an area which has not been studied. This paper seeks to examine the syntactic and the semantic properties of serial verb constructions in Dangme, a language that belongs to the Kwa group of family of languages. The paper describes the nature of serial verb constructions in Dangme in the Role and Reference Grammar framework (RRG) proposed by Foley and Van Valin (1984) and their associates. The properties of the expressions to be examined are in consonance with some of the characteristics proposed in the literature, i.e argument sharing, shared aspect, mood and negation, switch-function of serial verb constructions and multiple object SVCs. In addition, the paper examines different functional types of serial verb constructions such as causatives (instrumental serial verb constructions, benefactive serial verb constructions and cause and effect serial verb constructions), comparative SVC, directional SVC and question and focus SVC. Data for the study were drawn from both primary and secondary sources.
