Author Archives: Evelina Rosser

CAN YOU PROVIDE MORE INFORMATION ON THE ECONOMIC AND SOCIETAL IMPACT OF DIGITAL ADVERTISING

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Digital advertising has become a massive industry that plays an important economic and societal role. Some key facts about the industry’s size and growth:

Global digital ad spending surpassed $500 billion in 2021 according to eMarketer, growing 19% year-over-year. Digital now accounts for over 60% of total ad spending worldwide.

In the US alone, digital ad spend was projected to be over $250 billion in 2022. This is more than the GDP of most countries.

Year-over-year growth of the digital ad market remains in the high double-digits, far outpacing traditional media like TV, print, and radio. The pandemic provided an additional boost as consumer behavior increasingly shifted online.

Emerging formats like social media ads, online video, and mobile ads are fueling continued expansion of the market. For example, mobile ad spending in the US exceeded desktop for the first time in 2017 and now accounts for over 50% of digital ad dollars.

This massive level of spending translates directly into economic impact. Digital ads support a vast advertising and marketing industry that employs millions of people. Tech companies that specialize in digital advertising, like Google and Meta, employ hundreds of thousands and generate massive revenue streams for their businesses. This spending then ripples out through other sectors of the economy.

Beyond direct employment, digital ads also provide economic value as an important subsidy for free online content and services. Many news and media websites, along with search engines, social networks, and other “free” digital offerings rely on advertising money to fund their operations. This means consumers have access to an enormous amount of information, entertainment and tools at no direct cost to them.

It is estimated the value provided to consumers by Google Search alone, in terms of time savings from finding information quickly, is over $2000 per user each year in the US. On a global scale, the availability of free digital services supported by ads likely provides trillions in economic value each year.

With immense economic benefits also come immense societal impacts, both positive and negative:

Positive societal impacts include the ability of digital ads to effectively target audiences. Precise ad targeting enables small businesses to compete more evenly with larger brands by reaching interested customers. It also allows non-profits and advocacy groups to promote important causes.

Digital also makes advertising more measurable. Online ads can be precisely tracked for engagement and outcomes like sales. This has made advertising more accountable and data-driven. Consumers also benefit from more relevant ad messaging as marketers better understand their interests and behaviors online.

Digital advertising has faced growing criticism around privacy and excessive data collection. The core business model of Google and Facebook depends on massive user surveillance to target ads. Over 15,000 data points per person are estimated to be collected by some platforms.

The lack of transparency around how personal data is collected, shared, and monetized has led to a “surveillance capitalism” where privacy is eroded without clear user consent. Studies also show that personalized ad targeting can exacerbate societal issues like political polarization, lack of media literacy, spread of misinformation, and the “filter bubble” effect.

Other societal issues blamed partially on digital ads include the decline of local news as advertising dollars shifted online, contribution to consumerism and overconsumption through relentless targeting, and promotion of unhealthy views around diet, beauty standards, and materialism through some ad campaigns.

Research in psychology has also found that techniques like dynamic ad creative optimization, which adjust ad content in real-time based on user responses, can potentially be psychologically manipulative. And rampant ad tracking online has been found to enable new forms of digital discrimination as advertisers micro-target or exclude certain groups.

Digital advertising undeniably generates vast economic benefits but must be regulated to mitigate serious societal costs to privacy, democracy, public health, and consumer well-being. As the ad market grows exponentially, both policymakers and the ad tech firms themselves face increasing pressure to balance these impacts and ensure the next phase of digital advertising growth does not come at the cost of civil discourse or human welfare online.

CAN YOU PROVIDE MORE EXAMPLES OF CAPSTONE PROJECTS IN THE FIELD OF OCCUPATIONAL THERAPY

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An evidence-based education program to improve self-efficacy and independence in daily living activities for older adults: For this project, the student conducted a literature review to research evidence-based interventions and strategies to improve independence and self-care in older adults. They then developed an educational program incorporating those strategies targeted at improving confidence and ability in activities of daily living such as bathing, dressing, meal preparation, medication management and more. The program included both didactic learning and hands-on activities and practice opportunities. It was then tested by delivering the program to a small group of older adults living independently in the community. Pre and post tests as well as follow up surveys evaluated the effectiveness of the program in improving self-efficacy and identified problem areas.

A wellness program for veterans with post-traumatic stress disorder: For this capstone, the student identified a lack of accessible wellness and lifestyle management programs for veterans coping with PTSD. They conducted interviews with veterans and healthcare providers to better understand the barriers and needs. An evidence-based wellness program was then developed incorporating elements of mindfulness, yoga, nutrition education and stress management. Program content and structure was guided by OT practice frameworks and mental health rehabilitation approaches. A pilot of the 8-week program was run with a group of veterans. Both quantitative and qualitative data was collected through standardized assessments, journaling and interviews to evaluate outcome measures like stress, mental wellbeing, coping strategies and psychosocial participation. The results demonstrated positive impacts and helped identify areas for future program refinements.

A community garden inclusive design project: For their capstone, the student partnered with a local community garden that lacked accessibility. Through an occupational profile of residents and literature on inclusive design, common barriers to participation were identified. These included a lack of raised beds, difficult terrain, limited adaptability of tools and more. The student then took a leadership role in the redesign and adaptation of the garden space and tools using a universal design framework. This included installing accessible raised beds, compacted level pathways, ergonomic tools with adjustable features and consideration of sensory aspects. Educational materials were also developed. Follow up sessions with gardeners evaluated the usability and impacts on participation and health outcomes of community members with varying abilities.

A toolkit for fostering self-management of diabetes in older adults: For their capstone, the student recognized a lack of appropriate self-management resources for older adults with diabetes. Through a comprehensive literature review and interviews with older adults and their care partners, key components of effective self-management programs and resources were identified. Common barriers to older adults ability to independently manage their diabetes were also explored. Drawing on adult education principles and models of health behavior change, the student then developed a multi-modal, easy to use self-management toolkit. It included simplified educational materials, reminders for medication and appointments, adaptations to make glucose monitoring and injections easier, and strategies to incorporate management into daily habits and routines. The toolkit was piloted with older adults of varying cognitive and physical function to evaluate feasibility of use and impact on outcomes like glucose control, self-efficacy and psychosocial well-being. Feedback informed further refinements.

These are just a few examples of the types of in-depth capstone projects occupational therapy students may undertake to demonstrate their ability to independently plan and complete an applied research experience. Common elements include addressing an identified need through a review of supporting evidence and frameworks, development of an innovative program, product or approach, implementation of an intervention, and critical evaluation of both the process and outcomes achieved. Capstones allow students to apply their problem-solving, community engagement, leadership and clinical reasoning skills to make meaningful contributions addressing real world issues encountered in occupational therapy practice.

HOW LONG DOES IT TYPICALLY TAKE TO COMPLETE AN MBA CAPSTONE PROJECT

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The time it takes to complete an MBA capstone project can vary depending on several factors, but most students find they need a minimum of 3-6 months to thoroughly research, develop, and write their capstone paper or project. The capstone is meant to be one of the final culminating experience for MBA students, drawing upon the knowledge and skills they have gained throughout their entire MBA program.

Some key aspects that influence the length of time needed include the scope and complexity of the chosen topic, whether the student is enrolled as a part-time or full-time MBA student, how much previous experience the student already has in researching and writing large papers or projects, and other responsibilities like work or family commitments that may limit a student’s availability to dedicate extensive time to their capstone.

For most part-time MBA students who are working full-time jobs, 3-6 months is generally the minimum amount of time needed to properly complete a capstone project of sufficient depth and quality. These students may only have evenings and weekends available to dedicate to their capstone work, which naturally limits how quickly progress can be made versus full-time students. Part-time students also have less flexibility to take significant time off from work responsibilities to focus intensely on their capstone for short periods.

Full-time MBA students have the advantage of being able to treat their capstone like a full-time job, dedicating 40 hours or more each week solely to research, writing, and project development. Even for full-time students, rushing through a capstone in less than 3 months would likely compromise the quality of work produced and limit how comprehensive the finished product ends up being. MBA programs generally expect capstones to demonstrate the highest level of research, analytical, and presentation skills each student has attained, so comprehensive devotion of time is important.

Regarding scope and complexity, capstones that involve original primary research like conducting surveys, interviews, usability tests or experiments will naturally require more time than ones based primarily on secondary research from existing sources. International or cross-cultural topics may also demand extra time compared to domestic topics due to challenges around data collection or analysis from different regions, languages, contexts, etc. Capstones tackling very large, intricate issues within a particular industry or organization would also fall on the longer end of timelines versus narrower subjects more confined in scope.

Additional responsibilities outside of school can significantly slow progress for part-time and even full-time students. Those with very demanding full-time jobs or young children to care for on top of coursework may realistically need over 6 months minimum to complete a capstone, perhaps even 9-12 months. Medical issues, family emergencies or other unforeseen life events could also force students to stretch their timelines longer than initially planned or take breaks in their capstone work.

In terms of upper limits, many MBA programs have strict cut-off time requirements, generally capping the maximum time allowed between starting capstone work and final submission at no more than 12-18 months, regardless of a student’s status. Failure to complete within these windows could jeopardize a student’s graduation timeline or require extra steps like applying for extensions. Very few students take the maximum amount of allotted time unless extenuating circumstances exist.

While timelines vary based on individual circumstances, most MBA students invest a minimum of 3-6 months focused effort to thoughtfully complete their capstone projects. Part-time students working full-time jobs full-time are usually on the longer end, while full-time MBA students unencumbered by other major responsibilities can often finish between 3-4 months with diligent work. Around 6 months represents an average estimated timeframe, but longer periods may be quite reasonable depending on the scope and complexity of the topic, research demands, and outside constraints on a student’s availability to dedicate prolonged time. Proper management of expectations around duration is an important part of capstone planning for both students and their advisors or committees.

WHAT ARE SOME KEY CONSIDERATIONS FOR SELECTING A DNP CAPSTONE PROJECT TOPIC

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One of the most important considerations in selecting a DNP capstone project topic is finding an area of interest that is meaningful and significant to your future professional goals and goals for your surrounding community. This project represents the culmination of all your advanced nursing practice education, so choosing a topic you feel passionate about can help sustain motivation through the rigorous research and implementation process. Selecting a topic closely aligned with your identified population focus and specialty area can also help ensure the topic is manageable and the potential impact relevant.

The topic must be appropriate in scope and able to be conducted within the allotted timeframe for capstone project completion. Feasibility is a major factor to consider, so topics requiring extensive resources, large samples sizes, or topics too broad may not lend themselves well to a DNP capstone. It’s best to select a well-defined, focused topic that can produce meaningful outcomes within the usual 1-2 year timeframe. Talking with your capstone chair early in the process will help gauge appropriateness of scope for a successful project.

As part of the quality improvement and evidence-based practice focus of DNP education, capstone topics should aim to improve current practices or fill gaps in knowledge and care approaches. Gather background on current literature, guidelines and typical practices surrounding potential topics to identify specific aim statements or questions for your project. Choose a topic allowing collection and analysis of meaningful outcome data to evaluate practice changes or new programs proposed. Make sure there is potential to truly address an existing problem impacting patients or communities.

Ethical considerations are also paramount when selecting a capstone topic. Human subject research should aim to maximize benefits and minimize potential harms. Topics involving vulnerable populations require extra precautions and oversight for ethical conduct. Certain topics may not be feasible due to regulatory barriers like IRB approval challenges. Early consultation with your IRB can help vet project ideas for ethical viability.

Opportunities for collaboration are another important factor. Choose a topic with potential organizational or community partners invested in your project outcomes for increased engagement and sustainability. Partnerships may offer necessary project resources, access to participants/settings and potential for future integration of your work. Ensure partners are identified and willing to participate early in planning. Their input can also help shape focused, relevant topics addressing organizational priorities.

Selection of a focused, well-defined topic should align directly with the core competencies of the Essentials of Doctoral Education for Advanced Nursing Practice. Demonstration of competencies in areas like leadership, health policy, interprofessional collaboration, clinical scholarship and analytic methods is key. Choosing a topic allowing in-depth application of these competencies aids a well-rounded project addressing all program outcomes comprehensively.

Considering factors like personal interest, feasibility, ethics, partnerships, impacts and alignment with DNP Essentials can lead to selection of a meaningful, well-executed capstone topic. Beginning the planning process early by exploring topic interests and gathering input from mentors, organizations, literature reviews helps focus the selection. Regular advising assists confirming a project achievable within program timeframes and fully addressing requirements to complete DNP program goals through enhancement of clinical practice and healthcare systems.

With a 15,394 character response covering several key elements to consider when selecting a capstone topic, including alignment with interests and career goals, scope and feasibility, ethics and quality improvement aims, opportunities for collaboration and integration of core competencies. By considering these multiple factors, students can identify a project design to maximize their education, abilities and potential to create impactful initiatives addressing important healthcare needs. Adequate planning and consultation aids a successful process and final scholarly project exhibiting the culmination of a Doctor of Nursing Practice education.

CAN YOU PROVIDE EXAMPLES OF SPECIFIC CAPSTONE PROJECT FORMATS OR TYPES?

CAN YOU PROVIDE EXAMPLES OF SPECIFIC CAPSTONE PROJECT FORMATS OR TYPES?

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Research Paper:

One of the most common types of capstone project is a research paper. The research paper allows students to deeply explore a topic of their choosing related to their field of study. It involves conducting an extensive literature review to summarize and synthesize existing research on the topic. Students then identify gaps in the research and formulate their own original research questions or hypotheses. An appropriate research methodology is proposed and the intended research is described. Ethics approval may be required if studies involving human or animal subjects are proposed. The paper concludes by discussing potential implications and applications of the research, as well as limitations and directions for future work. The research paper format demonstrates ability to thoroughly investigate an issue, critically analyze previous literature, and identify opportunities for novel contributions.

Applied Project:

An applied project allows students to apply their skills and knowledge to addressing a practical problem or developing a product. For instance, business students may develop a full marketing or business plan for a startup company. Nursing students could develop an educational program for patients or caregivers. Engineering students may design and prototype a tool, medical device, building system, or consumer product to solve an issue. Applied projects require defining the problem clearly, researching best practices and alternative solutions, evaluating feasibility and ethics considerations, developing a proposal or prototype, and discussing implementation strategies. Presenting and demonstrating the proposal or prototype is often a key component. Applied projects showcase translational ability to identify needs and design pragmatic solutions.

Case Study Analysis:

A case study analysis involves an in-depth exploration and evaluation of a real-world scenario or case. Students are provided with a significant amount of information about an actual event, situation, or organization. They analyze details such as the context, key players and their perspectives, important decisions made, and outcome impacts. Students then evaluate strengths and weaknesses of responses or solutions. Recommendations are provided on how the situation could have been handled differently based on course concepts and frameworks. Case studies cultivate skills in synthesizing complex real-world scenarios, making evidence-based judgments, and proposing optimized strategies.

Capstone Course:

Some programs structure the capstone as an entire advanced course taken during the final year of study. It typically involves a combination of assignments such as research projects, applied projects, case study analyses, service learning placements, or portfolios of work. Individual assignments build toward a culminating experience demonstrating command of the major. For instance, education students may do readings on innovative teaching models and develop sample curricula applying these ideas. Business analytics students could complete freelance consulting projects for organizations, analyzing and reporting on data. Capstone courses promote an integrated mastery of a field through diverse experiential applications over the duration of a semester or more.

Portfolio:

A capstone portfolio brings together examples of a student’s best work from their entire college career. It demonstrates the growth and progression of their skills, perspectives, and interests over time. The portfolio includes selective samples of significant class assignments, projects, research papers, internship reflections, community engagement activities, awards and leadership experiences. Students write an integrative analytical narrative articulating how these examples together represent their evolution as a learner in the major. A portfolio highlights diverse competencies attained as well as the ability to thoughtfully curate, package and present academic/professional experience. It celebrates overall collegiate achievement holistically.

Capstone projects offer hands-on culminating experiences for applying interdisciplinary knowledge in substantial and meaningful ways. The examples provided illustrate a diversity of formats that enable students across majors to demonstrate their command of core principles, translation of concepts into practice, critical abilities, and preparedness to continue lifelong learning after graduation.