Changes in consumer behavior are forcing companies to rapidly shift their distribution channels toward an omnichannel model. In the case of the ophthalmology sector, however, the purchase of contact lenses and prescription glasses requires professional examination by a trained eye specialist. This peculiarity of the sector affects the shift toward omnichannel. This paper is novel in that it addresses a research gap by studying the distribution channels for regulated products and services such as health products that required a closer professional service. This paper addresses the transformation of companies toward an omnichannel model using a common scientific forecasting method (i.e., the Delphi method) to identify trends and problems. In this scenario of high complexity and uncertainty where there is insufficient relevant quantitative information for decision making, the Delphi method is applied to ensure a consensual decisionmaking process. Consensus was reached by a panel of 11 experts on the Spanish ophthalmology sector after three rounds of questioning. The final set of indicators involve 19 different criteria grouped into four categories (1) current situation of the distribution channel, (2) changes in distribution channels, (3) trends and near future of the distribution channel, and (4) consequences and adaptations for supply chain agents. The results from each round of consultation were then analyzed by means of statistical analysis with SPSS and discussed for each category. The results confirm that traditional intermediaries face difficulties to avoid being squeezed out of the sector because of shortening distribution channels and the entry of new online intermediaries with service integration models. We identify future scenarios and define actions that different agents can take to enhance their competitiveness in the short and long term. The arrival of omnichannel distribution is inevitable in the ophthalmology sector, entailing a major transformation from a rigid traditional distribution model to a more complex and flexible model following the entry of new online intermediaries.
El presente trabajo, desarrollado dentro de la Red Educativa para el Desarrollo y Evaluación Profesional Docente (Redepd), analiza las sinergias de la sistematización de experiencias educativas y el modelo Deca con el objetivo de proponer una metodología para la innovación y la evaluación docente. La Sistematización de Experiencias Educativas (SEE) conlleva a la construcción de conocimiento y a favorecer el empoderamiento y la transformación partiendo del contexto actual de los agentes participantes. Asimismo, el Modelo para el Desarrollo y Evaluación de Competencias Académicas (M-Deca), desarrollado en el marco de la red Redeca (Red para el Desarrollo y Evaluación de Competencias Académicas), es una propuesta para desarrollar y evaluar competencias desde una perspectiva crítica y a través de procesos de reflexión docente. Ambos, en manos de los docentes, se convierten en potentes herramientas para generar un proceso de reflexión y análisis crítico de sus actuaciones en el aula para mejorar su práctica docente en base a los niveles de excelencia y calidad educativa que exige el Espacio Europeo de Educación Superior.
Purpose: This paper aims to research the strengths and weaknesses of service-learning programs in order to identify the challenges of their application, the educational possibilities of service-learning and the impact on students.Design/methodology: An observational case study model was used, through a qualitative research approach based on participant observation. Additional data collection tools were used before and after the service-learning methodology; these included personal interviews, field diaries and videos. Data analysis was performed using Atlas.ti7 qualitative software.Findings: This paper shows the relevant educational possibilities of service-learning. Students have the potential to take action in response to social problems, using the professional skills they have learned in their degree program, encouraging their critical awareness through reflection processes and promoting their involvement as citizens engaged in their own reality. This work reveals both the strengths and weaknesses of service-learning programs, including the needs assessment, project-based learning, and partnership engagement, all of which are outlined as challenges in terms of their application. Research limitations/implications:The findings of this qualitative paper pertain to one single case, but they are generalizable to related theories. Practical implications:This research could be used to a guide to begin or improve service-learning projects in higher education. Social implications:The findings on the social impact of service-learning for all the agents involved show the positive value of service-learning. Moreover, it shows service-learning is an efficient tool to introduce sustainability and the SDGs in the students' curriculum.Originality/value: This research reveals the importance of the promotion and evaluation of servicelearning in an area where little research has been done in this regard.
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