ABSTRACT
The purpose of this study is to examine the factors that influence vaccination options, including vaccination against COVID-19, in order to develop a management algorithm for decision-makers to reduce vaccination reluctance. This paper's primary objective is to empirically determine the relationships between different variables that correlate to non-vaccination behavior of the target population, as well as the implications for public health and situational management strategies for future vaccination intentions. We created a questionnaire to investigate the personal approach to disease prevention measures in general and vaccination in particular. Using SmartPLS, load factors for developing an algorithm to manage vaccination reluctance were calculated. The results shows that the vaccination status of an individual is determined by their vaccine knowledge. The evaluation of the vaccine itself influences the choice not to vaccinate. There is a connection between external factors influencing the decision not to vaccinate and the clients' motives. This plays a substantial part in the decision of individuals not to protect themselves by vaccination. External variables on the decision not to vaccinate correlate with agreement/disagreement on COVID-19 immunization, but there is no correlation between online activity and outside influences on vaccination refusal or on vaccine opinion in general.
ABSTRACT
Initial vocational education and training (VET) has been intensely reformed in Romania. Elevating its status has been a recent concern, in the context of strong pressure from industry. However, it requires more than an ‘image makeover’ and the persuading of parents and young people. This analysis is based on a qualitative study, involving over 250 young people, and 100 teachers, employers and policymakers. The first part looks at the reforms since the fall of Communism. The second part highlights the work done to reshape the image of VET, based on the efforts of schools to fill the growing number of places, and attempts by companies to reframe perceptions of blue-collar jobs. The last part challenges the idea that the problem of VET is (mainly) one of image. The chapter discusses the mixed quality of education in VET, and questions the ambivalent role played by a range of short-term training programs. It also suggests that the dual system, despite strong policy endorsement, creates a small niche, but is not a structural remedy, as it does not commit towards social inclusion goals. The limitations of the campaigns that promote VET are also considered: the gendered nature of the ‘success stories’ and the failure to highlight the precarious nature of many employment options. © 2022, The Author(s), under exclusive license to Springer Nature Switzerland AG.
ABSTRACT
The COVID-19 virus has a predominantly respiratory transmission through aerosol and droplets;therefore, dentistry represents a medical profession with high risk-exposure, both for dental professionals and for patients. Under these circumstances, the main aim of the present study is to evaluate the perception of a group of dentists (n=67) on the recommended safety measures for preventing and limiting the transmission of this virus;moreover, the participants' point of view on the need for further scientific research on infection management protocols was assessed. Data was collected via an on-line questionnaire and statistically analysed. The results of this study highlighted that personal protective equipment is considered by 65.7% of the participants the most efficient safety measure related to COVID-19 virus, along with the careful planning of proper disinfection periods in-between scheduled patients. Most participants (89.6%) also agreed with the need for further research on these issues, mostly on the cost/benefit ratio of PPE equipment.