Musibau Shofoluwe - Academia.edu (original) (raw)
Papers by Musibau Shofoluwe
The need for contractor risk management practices in the construction industry cannot be overemph... more The need for contractor risk management practices in the construction industry cannot be overemphasized. There exist a strong correlation between ineffective risk management practices and underlying causes of accidents. This scoping study was conducted to quantitatively assess the risk management practices of contractors and subcontractors operating in Nigeria. A literature review was first conducted to identify and categorise different risk management practices on and off a construction site. The population for the study was determined using stratified random method of sampling. A total of 150 questionnaires were administered over a twelve month period. Emerging findings suggest that clients and contractors are risk averse even though they claimed to have formal written procedures for risk management. Consequently, their awareness of the importance of risk management in construction business is more of lip services.
This research was undertaken to investigate the extent to which employee-perceived job characteri... more This research was undertaken to investigate the extent to which employee-perceived job characteristics were related to internal work motivation and general satisfaction. Research shows that the structure of work has a significant influence on the motivation and general satisfaction of workers. A job characteristic model developed by Hackman and Oldham (1980) was used as a basis for conducting this study. The study population consisted of construction craft workers who were registered members of the bricklayers, carpenters, and electrical unions located in a mid-western state. Job diagnostic survey questionnaires were mailed to 650 craftsmen. A total of 236 (36.3%) instruments were returned. Data analysis was performed using the Statistical Package for Social Sciences (SPSS). Analysis involved cross-tabulations, mean ratings, correlation matrix, and analysis of variance. Results of the study revealed that positive correlations exist among employee-perceived job characteristics, critical psychological states, and work outcomes as predicted by the model. The motivating potential score (MPS), which represents the summary of all job core characteristics, was also significantly correlated Reproduced with permission of the copyright owner. Further reproduction prohibited without permission. with the employee-perceived job characteristics and critical psychological states. No statistically significant differences were observed in the perceptions of the craftsmen regarding the job core characteristics. Carpenters had higher growth need strength (GNS) than the electricians. Overall, construction craftsmen have GNS that are similar to those of professional-technical workers. The craftsmen did not differ in their perceptions regarding the MPS of their job. However, considering the overall means reported for all the groups, it appears that construction work is very high in motivating potential. While no statistically significant differences were observed in the general satisfaction level of the craftsmen, the results showed that carpenters had higher internal work motivation than the electricians. Therefore, considering their higher GNS, carpenters should respond more positively to a job that is high in MPS than would the electricians. The samples in this study seemed to have positive attitudes toward their jobs. Several recommendations were made, among which contractors were urged to structure their jobs to include all the job core characteristics. Recommendations were also made with respect to areas that deserve further study. Reproduced with permission of the copyright owner. Further reproduction prohibited without permission. ACKNOWLEDGEMENTS The successful completion of this dissertation was made possible through the support of several people within and outside the academic settings. Within the university, I would like to extend my special gratitude to my committee chairman and program advisor, Dr. Mohammed F. Fahmy. He gave me the best cooperation and support any graduate student could possibly hope for, not only during the conduct of this study, but throughout my entire doctoral study. His professional advice and guidance contributed significantly to the success of this study. A special recognition is extended to Dr. Bruce G. Rogers, a member of my doctoral committee, who helped me with the statistical analysis of my data. His relentless effort toward the successful completion of this research is greatly appreciated. Also, special commendations go to other members of my committee. Dr. Stephan Egger, my co-advisor, always maintained an open-door policy for consultation and advice regarding this research and other academic matters. Dr. Rex W. Pershing was very helpful to me from the first day I started working on my candidacy papers, and was always there to listen to me. I wish him a very happy retirement. Last, but not the least, special thanks also go to Dr. Dhirendra Reproduced with permission of the copyright owner. Further reproduction prohibited without permission. Vajpeyi for his support. His editorial comments and suggestions indeed contributed to the quality of this dissertation. Outside the academic setting, I would like to extend my sincere appreciation to all the union managers and/or agents who willingly cooperated with me in urging their members to participate in this study. Also, special thanks are extended to those groups of craftsmen who participated in this study. They indeed made this study a reality. Many people have inspired me to reach this far. The number one person is my wife, Idowu M. Shofoluwe. Her understanding, encouragement and endurance contributed, in part, to the success of this dissertation. I thank you for your loyalty, and I love you. A special recognition is also extended to my two sons, Olanrewaju and Ademola for their patience. These two boys also felt the heat of my doctoral work. They frequently asked, "Dad when are you going to be done"? Well, sons, it's over! Finally, I would like to extend my sincere appreciation to my parents in Nigeria for their encouragement. This dissertation is dedicated to them. Reproduced with permission of the copyright owner. Further reproduction prohibited without permission.
The need for contractor risk management practices in the construction industry cannot be overemph... more The need for contractor risk management practices in the construction industry cannot be overemphasized. There exist a strong correlation between ineffective risk management practices and underlying causes of accidents. This scoping study was conducted to quantitatively assess the risk management practices of contractors and subcontractors operating in Nigeria. A literature review was first conducted to identify and categorise different risk management practices on and off a construction site. The population for the study was determined using stratified random method of sampling. A total of 150 questionnaires were administered over a twelve month period. Emerging findings suggest that clients and contractors are risk averse even though they claimed to have formal written procedures for risk management. Consequently, their awareness of the importance of risk management in construction business is more of lip services.
Project delivery method is used for infrastructure developments based on cost effective and effic... more Project delivery method is used for infrastructure developments based on cost effective and efficient solutions to meet project requirements. This study investigated the impact of project delivery methods used by railroad organizations in 256 selected public highway rail intersection (HRI) projects that have similar scope and were completed within a period of ten years in New York State. Specifically, the study sought to assess possible difference between the total costs of HRI when design-build (DB) and design-bid-build (DBB) methods are used by railroad organizations to complete the projects. Public HRI projects are performed at locations where the railroad bisects highway that is used by the public and maintained by a municipality. Project improvements are funded by the federal government and matched by the states in the USA for safety of the public using the intersections. Available funds have almost remained the same over the years while project costs have escalated. In additio...
In the pursuit of cheaper and more sustainable building materialsto meethousing demands in develo... more In the pursuit of cheaper and more sustainable building materialsto meethousing demands in developing countries like Cameroun, the mechanicalproperties ofadobe bricks which have been stabilized with recycled sugarcane fiber waste were investigated. Laboratory experiments were conducted using sugarcanefiber waste stabilized adobe brick specimens with fiber proportions of 0%, 0.3%, 0.6%, 1.2%, 2% and 3% by weight.Fiber stabilization increased compressive strength by 58.61% for 3% bricks, reaching 4.79 MPa.Further, 3% fiber stabilized bricks shrunk by 7.49%, while the non-stabilized bricksshrunk by 12.13%. Also, 3% bricks lasted for one week before deterioration when immersed in water, while the non-stabilized bricks lasted for only a few hours. The findings confirmed that sugarcane fiber waste stabilized adobe bricks have improved strength, durability and stability. The use of abandoned sugarcane fiber waste in adobe bricks will contribute to the development of more durable, sustainab...
This research was undertaken to investigate the extent to which employee-perceived job characteri... more This research was undertaken to investigate the extent to which employee-perceived job characteristics were related to internal work motivation and general satisfaction. Research shows that the structure of work has a significant influence on the motivation and general satisfaction of workers. A job characteristic model developed by Hackman and Oldham (1980) was used as a basis for conducting this study. The study population consisted of construction craft workers who were registered members of the bricklayers, carpenters, and electrical unions located in a mid-western state. Job diagnostic survey questionnaires were mailed to 650 craftsmen. A total of 236 (36.3%) instruments were returned. Data analysis was performed using the Statistical Package for Social Sciences (SPSS). Analysis involved cross-tabulations, mean ratings, correlation matrix, and analysis of variance. Results of the study revealed that positive correlations exist among employee-perceived job characteristics, criti...
International Journal of Industrial Engineering & Production Research, 2012
New home buyers in United States are becoming more discriminating in their home buying decision. ... more New home buyers in United States are becoming more discriminating in their home buying decision. They are demanding quality construction at reasonable prices. The current state of construction market also gives construction buyers more ammunition to be more discriminate when they choose to purchase homes. To be competitive and remain in business, housing contractors and developers must meet the growing quality demands of the customers. Thus, the competition to meet the buyers’ quality demand has forced many of them to rethink the ways they build their homes. The improved designs, and construction methods and practices have resulted into award-winning quality-built homes for many of these contractors. This study was conducted to examine the quality improvement characteristics of selected award-winning residential builders and housing developers in selected counties in North Carolina, U.S.A. Through a structured questionnaire, the researchers collected information relative to their co...
1 Doctoral Candidate (Technology Management), Indiana State University, Indiana, USA. 2 Departmen... more 1 Doctoral Candidate (Technology Management), Indiana State University, Indiana, USA. 2 Department of Built Environment, College of Science & Technology, North Carolina A&T State University, Greensboro, North Carolina., USA. 3 AssociateProfessor/Interim Chair, Department of Construction Management, Morgan State University, Baltimore, Maryland, USA Corresponding Author: Dr. Musibau Shofoluwe __________________________________________________________________________________________ ABSTRACT:Construction projects require an exchange of data, information, and knowledge to solve complex problems. Oftentimes problems on one project are similar to those encountered on other projects. As a result, some construction firms seek to capture and reuse knowledge through knowledge management (KM) practices and technology systems. Small to medium sized enterprises (SME) in the United States often have fewer resources devoted to KM practices than their larger counterparts. This studyexamined select ...
A qualitative case study was conducted to investigate the perceptions of new junior tenuretrack f... more A qualitative case study was conducted to investigate the perceptions of new junior tenuretrack faculty members regarding mentoring practices at selected minority higher institutions (MHI). The main goal of the study was to assess the existence and nature of mentoring programs at MHI as perceived by the new tenure-track faculty. The primary objective was to identify and understand the nature of experiences that new tenure-track faculty face and the role of mentoring and other supports in their attainment of tenure and promotion. Study respondents were selected from two historically black universities located in the southeastern region of the United States. These respondents were presented with a structured interview protocol consisting of open-ended questionnaire designed to gather all necessary information for this study. Findings of the study show that the views of the respondents were mixed across the two institutions, although certain commonality of opinions was found. Based on ...
Advances in Physical Ergonomics & Human Factors, 2018
Rising healthcare and workers’ compensation costs due to an increase in work-related musculoskele... more Rising healthcare and workers’ compensation costs due to an increase in work-related musculoskeletal disorders (WMSDs) have made Occupational Ergonomics the focus of most organizations nationwide. These organizations are required to ensure worker safety by reducing or eliminating musculoskeletal disorders (MSDs) while complying with applicable occupational safety and health regulations. MSDs such as carpal tunnel syndrome often lead to intractable pain, repeated surgery, employee time off, low productivity, and, ultimately, higher costs for the employer. Work activities such as; loading and unloading, lifting, reaching, and workplace design factors; such as wrong work surfaces height, uncomfortable chairs and tables, and poorly designed tools; all contribute to an increased risk of MSDs. A case study on ergonomic issues was conducted to evaluate the behaviors and ergonomic injury complaints of workers from various work activities. The goal of the study was to highlight other critical aspects of occupational ergonomics, less considered by employers and workers in the manufacturing industry that could result in WMSDs. The findings revealed that employers tend to ignore some critical aspects of the job that may have high impacts on worker safety and performance. Several recommendations for improvement were offered, including improvement in the contents of the workers’ training packages, job process redesign and analysis, and involvement of ergonomics experts in the training of new employees. Feedbacks confirmed an improvement in WMSDs experience by the workers after the suggested recommendations were implemented.
Advances in Physical Ergonomics & Human Factors
Advances in Physical Ergonomics & Human Factors
2017 ASEE Annual Conference & Exposition Proceedings
is an Assistant Professor of Construction Management (CM) with the Department of Built Environmen... more is an Assistant Professor of Construction Management (CM) with the Department of Built Environment at North Carolina A & T State University. She has a Ph.D. in Technology Management, an M.Sc. in Industrial Technology, and a B.Sc. in Building Technology. Dr. Ofori-Boadu has over 20 years of relevant academic and industry experience. Her current research interests are in sustainability, bio-modified cements, and STEM education.
Journal of Medical - Clinical Research & Reviews
Wealth does not correlate with health, neither does the ability to work longer hours and the nigh... more Wealth does not correlate with health, neither does the ability to work longer hours and the night shift determine the level of one's wealth. It is important to consider health and safety first when accepting new job schedules or offers. This study investigates how night shift schedules have contributed to workers' poor well-being, quality of life and marriages. One-hundred ninety-one night shift workers voluntarily participated in the study. Respondents were grouped into three age categories: 18-34, 35-54, and 55-74. Responses were quantified and statistical analyses were run on the data. Results revealed that 24% of the respondents responded to be depressed and 57% indicated to have low energy after working a night shift schedule. The risk of divorce among the married respondents was found to be 1-person in every 5-workers. Poor appetite revealed 1 out of every 3-workers and 1 out of 2-workers have the risk of losing interest in their usual activities. Approximately seventeen percent reported having very bad quality of life, while 39% declared to have average quality of life. Thirty percent of the respondents revealed having concentration problems after working night shift. The paired t-test result revealed that a night shift schedule has a statistically significant effect on the workers' well-being who work on night shift (t = 16.13, df = 190, p < 0.0001). The level of divorce, poor quality of life, less interest in usual activities and health issues as a result of workers' schedule suggest the need for better work schedule structuring. The findings from this study highlight potential damages night shift schedule has done to human well-being and life style in general. Findings from this study could help families to better avert or handle health issues at home and with their spouses.
International Journal of Building Pathology and Adaptation
Built Environment Project and Asset Management, 2015
Purpose – The purpose of this paper is to investigate relationships between five energy efficienc... more Purpose – The purpose of this paper is to investigate relationships between five energy efficiency programs and electricity intensities in the US commercial buildings sector. Design/methodology/approach – Regression methods analyze state-level secondary data from 2006 through 2009 to identify significant energy program drivers of electricity efficiency. Findings – Combined, the five programs studied account for approximately nine percent reduction in commercial electricity intensity. Practical implications – Outcomes will inform stakeholders’ decision-making regarding adoption or continuation of energy programs. Social implications – Electricity efficiency gains will help reduce negative environmental aspects and the present dependence on foreign oil. Originality/value – Very little research has considered the impact of multiple programs on commercial electricity efficiency within their complex implementation environment.
Journal of Medical - Clinical Research & Reviews
Wealth does not correlate with health, neither does the ability to work longer hours and the nigh... more Wealth does not correlate with health, neither does the ability to work longer hours and the night shift determine the level of one's wealth. It is important to consider health and safety first when accepting new job schedules or offers. This study investigates how night shift schedules have contributed to workers' poor well-being, quality of life and marriages. One-hundred ninety-one night shift workers voluntarily participated in the study. Respondents were grouped into three age categories: 18-34, 35-54, and 55-74. Responses were quantified and statistical analyses were run on the data. Results revealed that 24% of the respondents responded to be depressed and 57% indicated to have low energy after working a night shift schedule. The risk of divorce among the married respondents was found to be 1-person in every 5-workers. Poor appetite revealed 1 out of every 3-workers and 1 out of 2-workers have the risk of losing interest in their usual activities. Approximately seventeen percent reported having very bad quality of life, while 39% declared to have average quality of life. Thirty percent of the respondents revealed having concentration problems after working night shift. The paired t-test result revealed that a night shift schedule has a statistically significant effect on the workers' well-being who work on night shift (t = 16.13, df = 190, p < 0.0001). The level of divorce, poor quality of life, less interest in usual activities and health issues as a result of workers' schedule suggest the need for better work schedule structuring. The findings from this study highlight potential damages night shift schedule has done to human well-being and life style in general. Findings from this study could help families to better avert or handle health issues at home and with their spouses.
The need for contractor risk management practices in the construction industry cannot be overemph... more The need for contractor risk management practices in the construction industry cannot be overemphasized. There exist a strong correlation between ineffective risk management practices and underlying causes of accidents. This scoping study was conducted to quantitatively assess the risk management practices of contractors and subcontractors operating in Nigeria. A literature review was first conducted to identify and categorise different risk management practices on and off a construction site. The population for the study was determined using stratified random method of sampling. A total of 150 questionnaires were administered over a twelve month period. Emerging findings suggest that clients and contractors are risk averse even though they claimed to have formal written procedures for risk management. Consequently, their awareness of the importance of risk management in construction business is more of lip services.
This research was undertaken to investigate the extent to which employee-perceived job characteri... more This research was undertaken to investigate the extent to which employee-perceived job characteristics were related to internal work motivation and general satisfaction. Research shows that the structure of work has a significant influence on the motivation and general satisfaction of workers. A job characteristic model developed by Hackman and Oldham (1980) was used as a basis for conducting this study. The study population consisted of construction craft workers who were registered members of the bricklayers, carpenters, and electrical unions located in a mid-western state. Job diagnostic survey questionnaires were mailed to 650 craftsmen. A total of 236 (36.3%) instruments were returned. Data analysis was performed using the Statistical Package for Social Sciences (SPSS). Analysis involved cross-tabulations, mean ratings, correlation matrix, and analysis of variance. Results of the study revealed that positive correlations exist among employee-perceived job characteristics, critical psychological states, and work outcomes as predicted by the model. The motivating potential score (MPS), which represents the summary of all job core characteristics, was also significantly correlated Reproduced with permission of the copyright owner. Further reproduction prohibited without permission. with the employee-perceived job characteristics and critical psychological states. No statistically significant differences were observed in the perceptions of the craftsmen regarding the job core characteristics. Carpenters had higher growth need strength (GNS) than the electricians. Overall, construction craftsmen have GNS that are similar to those of professional-technical workers. The craftsmen did not differ in their perceptions regarding the MPS of their job. However, considering the overall means reported for all the groups, it appears that construction work is very high in motivating potential. While no statistically significant differences were observed in the general satisfaction level of the craftsmen, the results showed that carpenters had higher internal work motivation than the electricians. Therefore, considering their higher GNS, carpenters should respond more positively to a job that is high in MPS than would the electricians. The samples in this study seemed to have positive attitudes toward their jobs. Several recommendations were made, among which contractors were urged to structure their jobs to include all the job core characteristics. Recommendations were also made with respect to areas that deserve further study. Reproduced with permission of the copyright owner. Further reproduction prohibited without permission. ACKNOWLEDGEMENTS The successful completion of this dissertation was made possible through the support of several people within and outside the academic settings. Within the university, I would like to extend my special gratitude to my committee chairman and program advisor, Dr. Mohammed F. Fahmy. He gave me the best cooperation and support any graduate student could possibly hope for, not only during the conduct of this study, but throughout my entire doctoral study. His professional advice and guidance contributed significantly to the success of this study. A special recognition is extended to Dr. Bruce G. Rogers, a member of my doctoral committee, who helped me with the statistical analysis of my data. His relentless effort toward the successful completion of this research is greatly appreciated. Also, special commendations go to other members of my committee. Dr. Stephan Egger, my co-advisor, always maintained an open-door policy for consultation and advice regarding this research and other academic matters. Dr. Rex W. Pershing was very helpful to me from the first day I started working on my candidacy papers, and was always there to listen to me. I wish him a very happy retirement. Last, but not the least, special thanks also go to Dr. Dhirendra Reproduced with permission of the copyright owner. Further reproduction prohibited without permission. Vajpeyi for his support. His editorial comments and suggestions indeed contributed to the quality of this dissertation. Outside the academic setting, I would like to extend my sincere appreciation to all the union managers and/or agents who willingly cooperated with me in urging their members to participate in this study. Also, special thanks are extended to those groups of craftsmen who participated in this study. They indeed made this study a reality. Many people have inspired me to reach this far. The number one person is my wife, Idowu M. Shofoluwe. Her understanding, encouragement and endurance contributed, in part, to the success of this dissertation. I thank you for your loyalty, and I love you. A special recognition is also extended to my two sons, Olanrewaju and Ademola for their patience. These two boys also felt the heat of my doctoral work. They frequently asked, "Dad when are you going to be done"? Well, sons, it's over! Finally, I would like to extend my sincere appreciation to my parents in Nigeria for their encouragement. This dissertation is dedicated to them. Reproduced with permission of the copyright owner. Further reproduction prohibited without permission.
The need for contractor risk management practices in the construction industry cannot be overemph... more The need for contractor risk management practices in the construction industry cannot be overemphasized. There exist a strong correlation between ineffective risk management practices and underlying causes of accidents. This scoping study was conducted to quantitatively assess the risk management practices of contractors and subcontractors operating in Nigeria. A literature review was first conducted to identify and categorise different risk management practices on and off a construction site. The population for the study was determined using stratified random method of sampling. A total of 150 questionnaires were administered over a twelve month period. Emerging findings suggest that clients and contractors are risk averse even though they claimed to have formal written procedures for risk management. Consequently, their awareness of the importance of risk management in construction business is more of lip services.
Project delivery method is used for infrastructure developments based on cost effective and effic... more Project delivery method is used for infrastructure developments based on cost effective and efficient solutions to meet project requirements. This study investigated the impact of project delivery methods used by railroad organizations in 256 selected public highway rail intersection (HRI) projects that have similar scope and were completed within a period of ten years in New York State. Specifically, the study sought to assess possible difference between the total costs of HRI when design-build (DB) and design-bid-build (DBB) methods are used by railroad organizations to complete the projects. Public HRI projects are performed at locations where the railroad bisects highway that is used by the public and maintained by a municipality. Project improvements are funded by the federal government and matched by the states in the USA for safety of the public using the intersections. Available funds have almost remained the same over the years while project costs have escalated. In additio...
In the pursuit of cheaper and more sustainable building materialsto meethousing demands in develo... more In the pursuit of cheaper and more sustainable building materialsto meethousing demands in developing countries like Cameroun, the mechanicalproperties ofadobe bricks which have been stabilized with recycled sugarcane fiber waste were investigated. Laboratory experiments were conducted using sugarcanefiber waste stabilized adobe brick specimens with fiber proportions of 0%, 0.3%, 0.6%, 1.2%, 2% and 3% by weight.Fiber stabilization increased compressive strength by 58.61% for 3% bricks, reaching 4.79 MPa.Further, 3% fiber stabilized bricks shrunk by 7.49%, while the non-stabilized bricksshrunk by 12.13%. Also, 3% bricks lasted for one week before deterioration when immersed in water, while the non-stabilized bricks lasted for only a few hours. The findings confirmed that sugarcane fiber waste stabilized adobe bricks have improved strength, durability and stability. The use of abandoned sugarcane fiber waste in adobe bricks will contribute to the development of more durable, sustainab...
This research was undertaken to investigate the extent to which employee-perceived job characteri... more This research was undertaken to investigate the extent to which employee-perceived job characteristics were related to internal work motivation and general satisfaction. Research shows that the structure of work has a significant influence on the motivation and general satisfaction of workers. A job characteristic model developed by Hackman and Oldham (1980) was used as a basis for conducting this study. The study population consisted of construction craft workers who were registered members of the bricklayers, carpenters, and electrical unions located in a mid-western state. Job diagnostic survey questionnaires were mailed to 650 craftsmen. A total of 236 (36.3%) instruments were returned. Data analysis was performed using the Statistical Package for Social Sciences (SPSS). Analysis involved cross-tabulations, mean ratings, correlation matrix, and analysis of variance. Results of the study revealed that positive correlations exist among employee-perceived job characteristics, criti...
International Journal of Industrial Engineering & Production Research, 2012
New home buyers in United States are becoming more discriminating in their home buying decision. ... more New home buyers in United States are becoming more discriminating in their home buying decision. They are demanding quality construction at reasonable prices. The current state of construction market also gives construction buyers more ammunition to be more discriminate when they choose to purchase homes. To be competitive and remain in business, housing contractors and developers must meet the growing quality demands of the customers. Thus, the competition to meet the buyers’ quality demand has forced many of them to rethink the ways they build their homes. The improved designs, and construction methods and practices have resulted into award-winning quality-built homes for many of these contractors. This study was conducted to examine the quality improvement characteristics of selected award-winning residential builders and housing developers in selected counties in North Carolina, U.S.A. Through a structured questionnaire, the researchers collected information relative to their co...
1 Doctoral Candidate (Technology Management), Indiana State University, Indiana, USA. 2 Departmen... more 1 Doctoral Candidate (Technology Management), Indiana State University, Indiana, USA. 2 Department of Built Environment, College of Science & Technology, North Carolina A&T State University, Greensboro, North Carolina., USA. 3 AssociateProfessor/Interim Chair, Department of Construction Management, Morgan State University, Baltimore, Maryland, USA Corresponding Author: Dr. Musibau Shofoluwe __________________________________________________________________________________________ ABSTRACT:Construction projects require an exchange of data, information, and knowledge to solve complex problems. Oftentimes problems on one project are similar to those encountered on other projects. As a result, some construction firms seek to capture and reuse knowledge through knowledge management (KM) practices and technology systems. Small to medium sized enterprises (SME) in the United States often have fewer resources devoted to KM practices than their larger counterparts. This studyexamined select ...
A qualitative case study was conducted to investigate the perceptions of new junior tenuretrack f... more A qualitative case study was conducted to investigate the perceptions of new junior tenuretrack faculty members regarding mentoring practices at selected minority higher institutions (MHI). The main goal of the study was to assess the existence and nature of mentoring programs at MHI as perceived by the new tenure-track faculty. The primary objective was to identify and understand the nature of experiences that new tenure-track faculty face and the role of mentoring and other supports in their attainment of tenure and promotion. Study respondents were selected from two historically black universities located in the southeastern region of the United States. These respondents were presented with a structured interview protocol consisting of open-ended questionnaire designed to gather all necessary information for this study. Findings of the study show that the views of the respondents were mixed across the two institutions, although certain commonality of opinions was found. Based on ...
Advances in Physical Ergonomics & Human Factors, 2018
Rising healthcare and workers’ compensation costs due to an increase in work-related musculoskele... more Rising healthcare and workers’ compensation costs due to an increase in work-related musculoskeletal disorders (WMSDs) have made Occupational Ergonomics the focus of most organizations nationwide. These organizations are required to ensure worker safety by reducing or eliminating musculoskeletal disorders (MSDs) while complying with applicable occupational safety and health regulations. MSDs such as carpal tunnel syndrome often lead to intractable pain, repeated surgery, employee time off, low productivity, and, ultimately, higher costs for the employer. Work activities such as; loading and unloading, lifting, reaching, and workplace design factors; such as wrong work surfaces height, uncomfortable chairs and tables, and poorly designed tools; all contribute to an increased risk of MSDs. A case study on ergonomic issues was conducted to evaluate the behaviors and ergonomic injury complaints of workers from various work activities. The goal of the study was to highlight other critical aspects of occupational ergonomics, less considered by employers and workers in the manufacturing industry that could result in WMSDs. The findings revealed that employers tend to ignore some critical aspects of the job that may have high impacts on worker safety and performance. Several recommendations for improvement were offered, including improvement in the contents of the workers’ training packages, job process redesign and analysis, and involvement of ergonomics experts in the training of new employees. Feedbacks confirmed an improvement in WMSDs experience by the workers after the suggested recommendations were implemented.
Advances in Physical Ergonomics & Human Factors
Advances in Physical Ergonomics & Human Factors
2017 ASEE Annual Conference & Exposition Proceedings
is an Assistant Professor of Construction Management (CM) with the Department of Built Environmen... more is an Assistant Professor of Construction Management (CM) with the Department of Built Environment at North Carolina A & T State University. She has a Ph.D. in Technology Management, an M.Sc. in Industrial Technology, and a B.Sc. in Building Technology. Dr. Ofori-Boadu has over 20 years of relevant academic and industry experience. Her current research interests are in sustainability, bio-modified cements, and STEM education.
Journal of Medical - Clinical Research & Reviews
Wealth does not correlate with health, neither does the ability to work longer hours and the nigh... more Wealth does not correlate with health, neither does the ability to work longer hours and the night shift determine the level of one's wealth. It is important to consider health and safety first when accepting new job schedules or offers. This study investigates how night shift schedules have contributed to workers' poor well-being, quality of life and marriages. One-hundred ninety-one night shift workers voluntarily participated in the study. Respondents were grouped into three age categories: 18-34, 35-54, and 55-74. Responses were quantified and statistical analyses were run on the data. Results revealed that 24% of the respondents responded to be depressed and 57% indicated to have low energy after working a night shift schedule. The risk of divorce among the married respondents was found to be 1-person in every 5-workers. Poor appetite revealed 1 out of every 3-workers and 1 out of 2-workers have the risk of losing interest in their usual activities. Approximately seventeen percent reported having very bad quality of life, while 39% declared to have average quality of life. Thirty percent of the respondents revealed having concentration problems after working night shift. The paired t-test result revealed that a night shift schedule has a statistically significant effect on the workers' well-being who work on night shift (t = 16.13, df = 190, p < 0.0001). The level of divorce, poor quality of life, less interest in usual activities and health issues as a result of workers' schedule suggest the need for better work schedule structuring. The findings from this study highlight potential damages night shift schedule has done to human well-being and life style in general. Findings from this study could help families to better avert or handle health issues at home and with their spouses.
International Journal of Building Pathology and Adaptation
Built Environment Project and Asset Management, 2015
Purpose – The purpose of this paper is to investigate relationships between five energy efficienc... more Purpose – The purpose of this paper is to investigate relationships between five energy efficiency programs and electricity intensities in the US commercial buildings sector. Design/methodology/approach – Regression methods analyze state-level secondary data from 2006 through 2009 to identify significant energy program drivers of electricity efficiency. Findings – Combined, the five programs studied account for approximately nine percent reduction in commercial electricity intensity. Practical implications – Outcomes will inform stakeholders’ decision-making regarding adoption or continuation of energy programs. Social implications – Electricity efficiency gains will help reduce negative environmental aspects and the present dependence on foreign oil. Originality/value – Very little research has considered the impact of multiple programs on commercial electricity efficiency within their complex implementation environment.
Journal of Medical - Clinical Research & Reviews
Wealth does not correlate with health, neither does the ability to work longer hours and the nigh... more Wealth does not correlate with health, neither does the ability to work longer hours and the night shift determine the level of one's wealth. It is important to consider health and safety first when accepting new job schedules or offers. This study investigates how night shift schedules have contributed to workers' poor well-being, quality of life and marriages. One-hundred ninety-one night shift workers voluntarily participated in the study. Respondents were grouped into three age categories: 18-34, 35-54, and 55-74. Responses were quantified and statistical analyses were run on the data. Results revealed that 24% of the respondents responded to be depressed and 57% indicated to have low energy after working a night shift schedule. The risk of divorce among the married respondents was found to be 1-person in every 5-workers. Poor appetite revealed 1 out of every 3-workers and 1 out of 2-workers have the risk of losing interest in their usual activities. Approximately seventeen percent reported having very bad quality of life, while 39% declared to have average quality of life. Thirty percent of the respondents revealed having concentration problems after working night shift. The paired t-test result revealed that a night shift schedule has a statistically significant effect on the workers' well-being who work on night shift (t = 16.13, df = 190, p < 0.0001). The level of divorce, poor quality of life, less interest in usual activities and health issues as a result of workers' schedule suggest the need for better work schedule structuring. The findings from this study highlight potential damages night shift schedule has done to human well-being and life style in general. Findings from this study could help families to better avert or handle health issues at home and with their spouses.