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Population and sampling procedure
This study employed a qualitative research design method. This approach captures the richness and depth of human experiences, beliefs, attitudes, and behaviours. The design was deemed appropriate in this study because the researchers aimed to uncover insights from various stakeholders involved in or impacted by LED efforts, providing a comprehensive understanding of the lessons gleaned from infusing innovation into LED in VDM. Sileyew (2019) acknowledges the significance of this strength in qualitative research. Before they participated in the study, an email was sent through the office of the Institute for Rural Development (IRD) secretary requesting them to participate in the survey. This was because they were members participating in the Innovation Champions for Local Economic Development (IC4LED) project. A purposive sampling technique was used to select 11 people. Among these were two officials from the provincial government and three local government LED managers. Six participants were academics drawn from tertiary institutions of higher learning: two from the University of Venda, two from Vhembe Technical and Vocational Education and Training (TVET) College and two from Madzivhandila Agricultural College. A purposive sampling technique was used in this study to ensure the selection of individuals with specific knowledge, expertise, and roles relevant to the research topic. By targeting provincial government officials, local government LED managers, and academic staff from tertiary institutions, the study aimed to gather rich, informed insights from key stakeholders who are directly involved in or have significant experience with LED.
Data collection methods and techniques
Data were collected through key informant interviews borrowed from Taylor and Blake (2015). Key informant interviews were deemed appropriate in this study because they provide in-depth, expert insights from individuals with specialised knowledge or first-hand experience on a particular subject, which can lead to a more comprehensive understanding of complex issues. These insights are often nuanced and context-specific, offering valuable perspectives that may not be available through other data collection methods. All participants deliberated on the same question: “What key lessons have you learned from integrating innovation into LED initiatives in the Vhembe District of South Africa?” The interviews were conducted in the IRD boardroom, in English. However, Tshivenda, the vernacular language of Vhembe District Municipality, was also used to ensure more effective communication and engagement. An interview guide was used to ensure consistency in the questions asked. During the interviews, a scribe wrote the answers in a notebook. Each interview lasted 45–60 minutes and was recorded with the consent of the participants. Field notes were also taken to capture non-verbal cues and contextual information
that might enhance the analysis. The qualitative data were consolidated afterward, ensuring all responses were recorded and stored for further processing.
Data analysis
The collected data were analysed using thematic content analysis (Creswell 2014). Thematic content analysis was deemed appropriate because it enabled scholars to systematically use various types of information. Braun and Clarke (2019) explain thematic content analysis as the interpretative identification, categorisation and elaboration based on systematic scrutiny. The recorded interviews were transcribed verbatim to facilitate detailed analysis. A thematic analysis approach was employed to identify and analyse patterns and themes within the collected data. The analysis process involved several stages, starting with familiarising with the data, which involved reading the transcripts to understand the content and context comprehensively. Key concepts and ideas were identified and coded systematically. This involved labelling segments of text that related to the themes of interest. Codes were grouped into broader themes based on their relevance and relationships. The identified themes were reviewed and refined to ensure they accurately represented the data. This included checking for consistency and coherence in the themes. The final themes were defined and named to capture the essence of the data and provide clear insights into the research questions.
Validation and reliability
Member checking was employed to ensure the findings’ validity and reliability. Participants were provided with summaries of their interview data and asked to confirm the accuracy and relevance of the interpretations. Additionally, triangulation was used by comparing data from multiple sources and perspectives to enhance the robustness of the findings.
Ethical considerations
The study adhered to ethical guidelines for research involving human subjects. Prior to its implementation, the project was approved by the University of Venda Ethics Committee and Vhembe District Municipality Council resolution. Informed consent was obtained from all participants, who were assured of the confidentiality and anonymity of their responses.
results
The nine major themes that were distilled from the participants’ responses were as follows: 1) creating multi- stakeholder engagement, 2) resistance to change and building resilience mechanisms, 3) capacity building and skill development, 4) leadership and management, 5) technological advancement, 6) entrepreneurship and economic diversification, 7) human capital and community
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