Research Unit on Governance, Competitiveness and Public Policy

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Organizational Unit

Publications

Backpackers' space–time behavior in an urban destination: the impact of travel information sources

Publication . Martins, Márcio Ribeiro; Costa, Rui Augusto; Moreira, António Carrizo

This research aims to identify the information sources used by backpackers before and during the visit to an urban destination and its influence on the movements performed. It uses a questionnaire survey combined with a GPS app to track the movements of backpackers to identify backpackers' spatiotemporal behavior. A bivariate analysis using non-parametric tests was used to examine the relationships between variables. This study concludes that the consulting online information before the visit has a great deal of influence on the spatiotemporal behavior of the backpackers, namely on the linearity and intensity of the visit. If online information sources are very important due to the intense use of information by backpackers, word of mouth from other travelers should not be disregarded as an important information source. This research can contribute to the definition of more informed and differentiating tourism marketing strategy considering the information sources used and its influence on the movements performed during the visit.

2022Journal article

Open access

The potential of blockchain technology in higher education as perceived by students in Serbia, Romania, and Portugal

Publication . Kuleto, Valentin; Bucea-Manea-Țoniş, Rocsana; Bucea-Manea-Țoniş, Radu; Ilić, Milena P.; Martins, Oliva M.D.; Ranković, Marko; Coelho, Ana Sofia

Lifelong learning approaches that include digital, transversal, and practical skills (i.e., critical thinking, communication, collaboration, information literacy, analytical, metacognitive, reflection, and other research skills) are required in order to be equitable and inclusive and stimulate personal development. Realtime interaction between teachers and students and the ability for students to choose courses from curricula are guaranteed by decentralized online learning. Moreover, through blockchain, it is possible to acquire skills regarding the structure and content while also implementing learning tools. Additionally, documentation validation should be equally crucial to speeding up the process and reducing costs and paperwork. Finally, blockchains are open and inclusive processes that include people and cultures from all walks of life. Learning in Higher Education Institutions (HEI) is facilitated by new technologies, connecting blockchain to sustainability, which helps understand the relationship between technologies and sustainability. Besides serving as a secure transaction system, blockchain technology can help decentralize, provide security and integrity, and offer anonymity and encryption, therefore, promoting a transaction rate increase. This study investigates an alternative in which HEI includes a blockchain network to provide the best sustainable education system. Students’ opinions were analyzed, and they considered that blockchain technology had a very positive influence on learning performance.

2022Journal article

Open access

Social innovation ecosystem - focus on public policy - a case study of the Aveiro Region, Portugal

Publication . Pereira, Ana Rita; Bittencourt, Bernadete de Lourdes

Social innovation has progressively occupied a prominence place in supranational, national, and increasingly regional and local political action. It is with this scenario by the literature review and research by national, regional, and local strategic documents that the profile of public policy support in the Aveiro Region (NUTSIII) is obtained. In the Central Region, the University of Aveiro and other entities has been working in partnership with the Regional and Local Authorities to promote the Social Innovation Ecosystem, however, without the expected intensity in the involvement and training of the local community.

2022Conference object

Open access

Integrating Sustainability and Certification Requirements in Management Control Systems: Insights from the Construction Sector in Portugal

Publication . Gomes, João; Leite, Joaquim; Carmo, Cecília

The objective of this study was to investigate the integration of sustainability and certification within management control systems (MCS) in construction companies. This exploration addressed the need to align corporate practices with sustainability goals and certifications. A thorough literature review covered key concepts of certification, sustainability, and MCS. The research adopted a qualitative approach, centering on a case study of a Portuguese construction company. The methodology involved analyzing qualitative data from two primary sources: the company’s website and an interview with its sustainability manager. Findings highlighted several innovative practices aimed at sustainability, including the implementation of key certifications, development of eco-friendly products, utilization of green and recycled materials, and the adoption of advanced techniques like eco-concrete and rainwater harvesting. Additionally, the company emphasized monitoring water and energy consumption as part of its sustainable strategy. This study not only demonstrated how these practices are implemented but also explained their purpose in achieving broader sustainability goals. The research findings provide valuable insights for other construction companies seeking to incorporate sustainability into their MCS. By outlining practical methods and certifications, this study offers a roadmap for businesses to enhance their environmental and operational performance. Ultimately, the research underscores the importance of integrating sustainability and certification into MCS as a strategic imperative for the construction sector, paving the way for more eco-conscious and efficient business practices.

2025Journal article

Open access