bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Metamodeling Architectures and Interoperability of Web-Enabled Information Systems
Authors: Terrasse Marie-Noella , Becker George , Savonnet Marinette
Published: May 2011

Metamodeling, which is extensively used in information system analysis & design, provides modelers with two complementary mechanisms for abstraction: abstraction by projection and abstraction by conceptualization. Metamodeling architectures are becoming a backbone of modeling environments in which modeling is carried out through a two-stage process: first, defining a convenient metamodel for the application domain, and second, describing the model of the application as an instantiation of the application-domain metamodel. We propose to use metamodeling —and its abstraction mechanisms— for modeling of web-enabled information systems and achieving their interoperability. Abstraction by projection allows us to describe user-specific features of web-enableb information systems and their security aspects more accurately. Abstraction by conceptualization allows us to define abstract bases of agreement for interoperability of web-based information systems.
XML Schema Integration to Facilitate E-Commerce
Authors: Lane Louise , Passi Kalpdrum , Madria Sanjay , Mohania Mukesh
Published: May 2011

XML has become the de facto standard for Information Exchange protocol for e-commerce and many workgroup applications such as Enterprise Resource Planning (ERP). The availability of large amounts of heterogeneous distributed web data necessitates the integration of XML data from multiple XML sources for many reasons. Currently, there are many e-commerce companies, which sell similar products but represent them using different XML schemas with possibly different ontologies. When any two such companies merge, there is a need for a uniform schema integration methodology. In some applications like comparison-shopping, there is a need for an illusionary centralized homogeneous information system. In this chapter, we propose an XML Schema integration methodology. We define an object-oriented data model called XSDM (XML Schema Data Model) and present a graphical representation of XML Schema for the purpose of schema integration. We use a three-layered architecture for XML Schema integration, with each layer presenting an integrated view of the concepts that characterize the layer below. The three layers included are namely pre-integration, comparison and integration. During pre-integration, an analysis of the schemas to be integrated occurs. During the comparison phase of integration, correspondences as well as conflicts between elements are identified. During the integration phase, restructuring and merging of the initial schemas takes place to obtain the global schema. We define integration policies for integrating element definitions as well as their data types and attributes. The policies are also applicable in integrating DTD schemas with other DTD/XML Schemas.
The Design of the DEAFIN Web-Geographical Information System
Authors: Schreiber Fabio A. , Belussi Alberto , De Antonellis Valeria , Fugini Maria G. , Tanca Letizia , Tosi Luca
Published: May 2011

The design of a Web-geographical information system strongly requires methodological and operational tools to deal with information distributed in multiple, autonomous and heterogeneous data sources, and a uniform data publishing methodology and policy over Internet web sites. In this chapter, we describe our experience for the activities of requirement analysis and conceptual design of the DEAFIN Web-geographical information system whose objective is to improve the quality and the comparability of information about available industrial vacant sites, coming from different regional data sources. Heterogeneity and web availability requirements have been taken into account in the system architecture design. The DEAFIN system is thus conceived as a federated web-based information system, capable of managing and providing access to all the regional relevant information in an integrated and complete fashion. Furthermore, since the data available by a given DEAFIN region partner can be both spatial data and alphanumeric data, for each regional component system in the DEAFIN system, a Web-GIS system is defined.
Load Balancing Distributing File System Servers
Authors: Glagoleva Alexandra , Sathaye Archana
Published: May 2011

In  this  paper,  we  present  a  new  methodology  for managing read-write filesets  across  multiple  file servers of a Distributed File System, thus balancing  the  load  of  file access requests across servers. The proposed methodology is based on a rule-based data mining technique and graph theory algorithms.   The  rule-based technique generates rules from access request data  to  identify  present file access patterns in the system. We then use the  rules,  graph  analysis and statistical information (usage and size of the  filesets) to relocate the filesets between different file servers. The algorithm for fileset relocation is based on the graph coloring problem. We tested our algorithms on data collected for five months on DFS file servers in  a  production  environment.   Experiments  with  the data show that our methodology  can  make intelligent decisions about file system transfers in order to balance the access request load across DFS servers.
Using Hierarchical Nearest Neighbor Analysis and Animation to Investigate the Spatial and Temporal Patterns of Raccoon Rabies in West Virginia
Authors: Curtis Andrew , Leitner Michael , Hanlon Cathleen
Published: May 2011

One of the most powerful uses of GIS in the field of public health is as an exploratory data analysis tool. By combining the three post-input defining components of a GIS (data manipulation, data investigation, data analysis), the spatial understanding of a disease can be furthered by identifying patterns of cases, or associations between disease and other spatial phenomena (such as elevation). This chapter sets the groundwork for one such exploratory tool that could be used to identify the spatial and temporal patterns of an infectious disease. The disease in question is raccoon rabies in West Virginia during 1999-2000. The exploratory tool, animation, has the potential to give insights into an evolving disease pattern that current spatial cluster techniques could miss. The current raccoon rabies epizootic presents a complex spatial surface as multiple disease foci may be present. Added to this could be a residual “background” or enzootic level of rabies. In order to reduce the impact of multiple foci, an appropriate “scale” of animation is needed. This scale has to be of a small enough geographic area that only one disease focus is considered, and is of practical use so that other meaningful spatial information (such as land cover or elevation) can be interpreted. The purpose of this chapter is to decide on an appropriate method of identifying this scale of animation for an infectious disease of this type. This chapter will select one commonly used technique, Nearest Neighbor Hierarchical (NNH) spatial clustering, to identify the correct scale and location on which to perform an animation. NNH spatial clustering will be applied to three combinations of Raccoon Rabies data for West Virginia, for 1999, 2000 and both years combined. NNH cluster analysis will also be performed on a four-county area identified as having the highest intensity of rabies cases in the state. These results will then be compared to a preliminary animation of rabies cases in West Virginia from which subjects were asked to identify dynamically evolving disease clusters. An animation was also run for the same area of high disease intensity. Cluster and animation results were compared for similarities. It was found that a spatial cluster technique, such as NNH spatial clustering, provides an adequate means of identifying the scale and location on which a more sophisticated animation can be based. The chapter concludes with a discussion of how, once a scale has been decided, a more sophisticated animation can be constructed and ultimately used to guide the placement of interventions such as oral vaccine barriers.
Using GIS with Publicly Available Data for Hospital Market Share Analysis
Authors: Wolarsky Evan R.
Published: May 2011

Publicly available data of all hospital discharges has been available since Medicare changed to a case-based reimbursement system. A non-confidential version of this dataset contains a Zip Code identifier for each discharge, in addition to diagnoses, procedures, payer information, hospital charges and basic demographic data. The method for converting the raw data into a useful marketing database is described. An application of this database in conjunction with GIS is presented here. In this application, the market share of a community hospital is analyzed. A series of maps shows that geography plays an important role in hospital choice, and a linear regression model provides quantitative evidence of this pattern. Finally, bivariate maps are used for more complex analysis.
The Economic and Social Impact of Electronic Commerce in Developing Countries
Authors: Vinaja Roberto
Published: May 2011

The chapter addresses the potential benefits of Electronic Commerce to developing countries. Electronic commerce has many potential benefits for developing countries (DC). In this chapter, the author describes the potential benefits of Electronic Commerce for developing nations and he provides case examples that illustrate this trend. The widespread adoption of electronic commerce is especially important for developing countries.
The Theory Behind the Economic Role of Managing the Strategic Alignment of Organizations while Creating New Markets
Authors: Lubbe Sam
Published: May 2011

Over the past couple of years, the Internet has taken off and organizations will soon reap economic benefits on it. E-commerce will therefore hopefully emerge as an efficient yet effective mode of creating new markets although most managers still doubt the economic impact and profitability it has. Enabled by global telecommunication networks and the convergence of computing, telecom, entertainment and publishing industries, e-commerce is supplanting (maybe replacing) traditional commerce. In the process, it is creating new economic opportunities for today’s businesses, creating new market structures. Managers of tomorrow must therefore understand what e-commerce is; how the approach to this concept will be; and how it will affect the economic position of the organization.
Towards a Classification Framework for Mobile Location Based Services
Authors: Giaglis George M. , Kourouthanassis Panos , Tsamakos Argiros
Published: May 2011

The emerging world of mobile commerce is characterized by a multiplicity of exciting new technologies, applications, and services. Among the most promising ones will be the ability to identify the exact geographical location of a mobile user at any time. This ability opens the door to a new world of innovative services, which are commonly referred to as Mobile Location Services (MLS). This chapter aims at exploring the fascinating world of MLS, identifying the most pertinent issues that will determine its future potential, and laying down the foundation of a new field of research and practice. The contribution of our analysis is encapsulated into a novel classification of mobile location services that can serve both as an analytical toolkit and an actionable framework that systemizes our understanding of MLS applications, underlying technologies, business models, and pricing schemes.
Mobile Portals
Authors: Clarke III , Flaherty Theresa B.
Published: May 2011

The proliferation of mobile Internet devices is creating an unparalleled opportunity for mobile commerce. Factors composing a productive M-commerce portal development strategy are investigated to improve a company’s strategy. Also explored are the nonpareil benefits of mobile applications to introduce a five-step approach for developing an effective mobile portal strategy.
Mobile Data Technologies and Small Business Adoption and Diffusion
Authors: Van Akkeren Jeanette , Harker Debra
Published: May 2011

The technological environment in which contemporary small- and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs) operate can only be described as dynamic. The exponential rate of technological change, characterised by perceived increases in the benefits associated with various technologies, shortening product life cycles and changing standards, provides for the SME a complex and challenging operational context. The primary aim of this research was to identify the needs of SMEs in regional areas for mobile data technologies (MDT). In this study a distinction was drawn between those respondents who were full-adopters of technology, those who were partial-adopters, and those who were non-adopters and these three segments articulated different needs and requirements for MDT. Overall, the needs of regional SMEs for MDT can be conceptualised into three areas where the technology will assist business practices; communication, e-commerce and security.
A Perspective on M-Commerce
Authors: Lee Mark S.
Published: May 2011

Several statistics from several industry sources have forecast staggering growth for m-commerce over the next five years. But assuming we believe the statistics, marketers need to understand the dynamics of mobile usage and position themselves to take advantage of this substantial opportunity. While most marketers understand that wireless consumers have different application needs and usage patterns than standard online users, many may be perplexed in finding a logical starting point for developing a marketing approach to m-commerce. This chapter outlines some of the key differences in online consumer behavior and provides a perspective on how marketers might use mobile commerce to stimulate consideration and purchase of their products and services. The chapter shares an approach and an existing application used by The Coca-Cola Company to provide a reference point and to help other marketers understand and leverage mobile commerce as another viable tool in their marketing arsenal.
Wireless in the Classroom and Beyond
Authors: Dominick Jay
Published: May 2011

The deployment of wireless data networks at American institutions of Higher Education has increased dramatically since the establishment of the 802.11 standards by the IEEE. These networks are generally deployed as extensions of the campus network to provide additional functionality to an increasingly mobile student population. As these networks become ubiquitous, they will increasingly be used for both classroom management and business m-commerce applications. Institutions with or considering wireless networks are advised to establish policies for the cooperative management of bandwidth, spectrum and security. Over time, the deployment of ubiquitous, standards-based networks will enable the deployment of an entirely new set of applications that will be useful throughout the university.
From Human Decision Making to DMSS Architecture
Authors: Pomerol Jean-Charles , Adam Frederic
Published: May 2011

In this chapter we begin by featuring the main characteristics of the human decision process. Then, from these traits, we separate the decision process between diagnosis and look-ahead. We explain why DMSSs are mainly look-ahead machines. We claim that look-ahead is generally performed via heuristic search and “what-if analysis” at different cognitive levels. This leads to a functional definition of DMSSs and to different architectures adapted to heuristic search and moreover, paves the way for an analysis of the decision support tools.
Intelligent Support Framework of Group Decision Making for Complex Business Systems
Authors: Chandra Charu , Smirnov Alexander V.
Published: May 2011

As firms compete in global markets, they design and implement complex business systems, such as Supply Chain, Virtual Enterprise, Web-Based Enterprise, Production Network, e-Business, and e-Manufacturing. Common traits of these systems are (i) co-operation to implement shared goals, (ii) global distributed product development and manufacturing, and (iii) co-ordination of strategies and communication of information, among enterprise partners. Information in this complex business system can be shared via the Internet, Intranet, and Extranet. One of the goals of Internet-Based Management (e-management) is to facilitate transfer and sharing of data and knowledge in the context of business collaborations. It offers the platform for design and modeling of diverse implementation strategies related to the type of agreement, optimisation criteria, decision mode, organisation structures, information sharing mechanisms, and business policies for this system. “A General Framework of E-Management” that integrates (i) intelligent information support, (ii) group-decision making, and (iii) agreement modeling for a complex business system is proposed. A generic methodology of e-management information support based on “Ontology-Driven Knowledge Management” and “Multi and Intelligent Agents Technologies” for distributed decision making in scalable business systems is described. It is based on the premise that knowledge management should emphasize synergistic use of knowledge from multiple sources.
Quality Factors for DMSS Assessment
Authors: Webb Harold W. , Yadav Surya B.
Published: May 2011

The objective of this chapter is to demonstrate the use of a decision support systems research (DSSR) framework to improve decision making support systems (DMSS) quality. The DSSR Framework, which was developed to integrate theoretical constructs from various information systems areas into a coherent theme, can serve as a tool for DMSS developers. Developed to provide a unified reference to theoretical constructs used in theory building and testing, the DSSR framework can also be used as the basis for the identification and selection of a hierarchy of factors potentially affecting the quality of DMSS development. The chapter proposes that a unified set of quality factors derived from the DSSR framework be used in tandem with the generic software quality metrics framework specified in IEEE Standard 1061-1992. The integration of these two frameworks has the potential to improve the process of developing high-quality decision making support systems and system components. The usage of these frameworks to identify system quality factors is demonstrated in the context of a military research and development project.
Electronic Customer Relationship Management (eCRM) in a Business-to-Business Marketing Setting
Authors: Bettis-Outland Harriette , Johnston Wesley J.
Published: May 2011

This chapter focuses on the concept of Electronic Customer Relationship Management (eCRM) in the context of a business-to-business marketing environment. An overview of business-to-business marketing is offered; business-to-business marketing is compared to consumer-based marketing, specifically regarding buyer behavior. These comparisons include differences in revenues, the intended customer and the buying process. Market orientation is described, as is its emphasis on responding to customer needs in both consumer and industrial markets. The concepts of supply chain management, services marketing and channel management are introduced. Lastly, Electronic Customer Relationship Management (eCRM) is presented. The discussion centers on the integration of eCRM into business operations, analytical capabilities facilitated by eCRM and collaboration improvements provided by eCRM. The chapter concludes with a comparison of eCRM and relationship marketing.
Customer Service in Electronic Commerce Applications
Authors: Griese Joachim
Published: May 2011

Methods and techniques used to support customer service in the information, negotiation and delivery phase of the purchasing transaction will first be described; specifically these are customization of offerings, enhanced partnership, creation of communities and extending customer service into the after-sales phase. Best-in-class examples from different industries illustrate these methods and techniques.
Expert Database Web Portal Architecture
Authors: Scime Anthony
Published: May 2011

The volume of data available on the World Wide Web makes it difficult for a domain novice to find reliable, accurate information. Such a novice may call upon a domain expert for information and advice. On the Web, this expert advice can be organized as an expert database behind a Web portal for the domain. The creation of such a database requires an architecture that captures the expert’s domain knowledge and finds and evaluates applicable Web pages from which data is extracted. This chapter outlines the components of an expert database Web portal, its design, and population.
Retrieval of Multimedia Data on the Web
Authors: Moharrum Mohammed A. , Olariu Stephan , Abdel-Wahab Hussein
Published: May 2011

The objective of this chapter is to introduce the reader to a general architectural framework for a broad array of retrievals of multimedia data required by various applications. This framework contains more than the traditional client/server architecture and even more than the existing three-tier architectures. This chapter introduces the reader to many critical issues involved in multimedia retrieval over the Internet. A new architectural framework is proposed to cover a variety of multimedia applications over the Internet and the World Wide Web. This framework has the three main objectives of (1) proposing a layered architecture to facilitated design and separate different issues, (2) covering a large number of multimedia applications, and finally, (3) making use of existing and well-established technology, such as Mobile Agents, SQL databases, and cache managements schemes. The proposed architectural framework separates issues involved in multimedia retrieval into five layers, namely: keyword searching and data servers, proxy servers, domain and department archives, mobile user agents, and the users. Through these five layers, various customized solutions to a large array of problems will be proposed and applied. The chapter offers, but is not limited to, solutions for different problems that arise in retrieval of multimedia data. A list of important open problems is identified at the end of the chapter.
System Development Methodologies for Web-Enabled E-Business
Authors: Knight Linda V. , Steinbach Theresa A. , Kellen Vince
Published: May 2011

The fast-paced, rapidly changing e-business environment, coupled with its emphasis on brand image and the human-computer interface, and the creative nature of Web development teams combine to require changes in traditional system development methodologies. This chapter explores the fit between typical Web-based information system characteristics and existing development methodologies, from the traditional System Development Life Cycle (SDLC) to some of the newer rapid-response models. It concludes that, contrary to common practice in most organizations, one standardized development methodology is not best suited for all, or even most, e-business projects. Fifteen variables that are key to identifying the best methodology for a given e-business project are distilled, and a framework is constructed to aid development teams in the process of formulating a customized development methodology to serve as a basis for project management and control. Projections are made concerning the future of e-business system development methodologies.
Customisation of Internet Multimedia Information Systems Design through User Modelling
Authors: Chen Sherry Y. , Angelides Marios C.
Published: May 2011

Internet multimedia information systems have become widespread in business and educational settings. However, much remains to be identified about how different users perceive such systems. Therefore, it is essential to build robust user models to illustrate how multimedia features are experienced by different users. Multimedia research suggests cognitive and interpersonal styles have a significant effect on the users’ navigation patterns and interaction behaviour. In particular, gender difference, prior knowledge, and cognitive styles have been extensively examined in previous studies. The findings of the research review that has been done as part of this chapter are classified into three themes: (a) content information and presentation, (b) information space navigation and accessibility, and (c) user interfaces and support. A user model is then developed as a result of the analysis of the findings. Finally, implications for the design of Internet multimedia information systems are discussed.
Integrated E-Marketing-A Strategy-Driven Technical Analysis Framework
Authors: Poon Simpson , Altas Irfan , Fellows Geoff
Published: May 2011

E-marketing is considered to be one of the key applications in e-business but so far there has been no sure-fire formula for success. One of the problems is that although we can gather visitor information through behaviours online (e.g., cookies and Weblogs), often there is not an integrated approach to link up strategy formulation with empirical data. In this chapter, we propose a framework that addresses the issue of real-time objective-driven e-marketing. We present approaches that combine real-time data packet analysis integrated with data mining techniques to create a responsive e-marketing campaign. Finally, we discuss some of the potential problems facing e-marketers in the future.
Modeling and Querying Web Data
Authors: Terzi Evimaria , Hacid Mohand-Said , Vakali Athena
Published: May 2011

The efficient and sophisticated representation of the structure of the documents being circulated over the Internet allows for effective querying and reasoning over them. This is a major goal for large information resources like the World Wide Web (WWW). Constraints are a valuable tool for managing information. In this work, we consider how constraint-based technology can be used to query and reason about semistructured data represented using the constraint-logic implied representation models. The constraint system, FT£ , provides information-ordering constraints interpreted over feature trees. Based on this approach, we show how a generalization of FT£ combined with path constraints can be used to formally represent and state constraints and reason over semistructured data. The proposed query language is extended to facilitate query relaxation when the exact solution to the query cannot be obtained from the data repository. The applicability of the above framework, proposed for semistructured data, is examined for a particular case regarding XML documents circulated and stored over the Web.
A Survey of Bayesian Data Mining
Authors: Arnborg Stefan
Published: May 2011

This chapter reviews the fundamentals of inference, and gives a motivation for Bayesian analysis. The method is illustrated with dependency tests in data sets with categorical data variables, and the Dirichlet prior distributions. Principles and problems for deriving causality conclusions are reviewed, and illustrated with Simpson’s paradox. The selection of decomposable and directed graphical models illustrates the Bayesian approach. Bayesian and EM classification is shortly described. The material is illustrated on two cases, one in personalization of media distribution, one in schizophrenia research. These cases are illustrations of how to approach problem types that exist in many other application areas.
Data Mining Based on Rough Sets
Authors: Grzymala-Busse Jerzy W. , Ziarko Wojciech
Published: May 2011

The chapter is focused on the data mining aspect of the applications of rough set theory. Consequently, the theoretical part is minimized to emphasize the practical application side of the rough set approach in the context of data analysis and model-building applications. Initially, the original rough set approach is presented and illustrated with detailed examples showing how data can be analyzed with this approach. The next section illustrates the Variable Precision Rough Set Model (VPRSM) to expose similarities and differences between these two approaches. Then, the data mining system LERS, based on a different generalization of the original rough set theory than VPRSM, is presented. Brief descriptions of algorithms are also cited. Finally, some applications of the LERS data mining system are listed.
Query-By-Structure Approach for the Web
Authors: Johnson Michael , Fotouhi Farshad , Draghici Sorin
Published: May 2011

This chapter presents three systems that incorporate document structure information into a search of the Web. These systems extend existing Web searches by allowing the user to request documents containing not only specific search words, but also to specify that documents be of a certain type. In addition to being able to search a local database (DB), all three systems are capable of dynamically querying the Web. Each system applies a query-by-structure approach that captures and utilizes structure information as well as content during a query of the Web. Two of the systems also employ neural networks (NNs) to organize the information based on relevancy of both the content and structure. These systems utilize a supervised Hamming NN and an unsupervised competitive NN, respectively. Initial testing of these systems has shown promising results when compared to straight keyword searches.
Data Mining in Information Technology and Banking Performance
Authors: Chen Yao , Zhu Joe
Published: May 2011

Information technology (IT) has become the key enabler of business process expansion if an organization is to survive and continue to prosper in a rapidly changing business environment while facing competition in a global marketplace. In the banking industry, a large amount of IT budgets are spent with the expectation that the investment will result in higher productivity and improved financial performance. However, bank managers make decisions on how to spend large IT budgets without accurate performance measurement systems on the business value of IT. A survey on managing technology in the banking industry found that 55% of the 188 senior executives surveyed stated that the returns on their investments in IT were either good or excellent. However, 50% of the senior executives also stated that they did not have any formal systems in place to measure the return on investment. This illustrates a need for a proper data-mining technique that can examine the impact of IT investment on banking performance. It has been recognized that the link between IT investment and banking performance is indirect, due to the effect of mediating and moderating variables. This chapter presents a methodology that measures the efficiency of IT utilization and the impact of IT on banking performance when intermediate measures are present. A set of banks is used to illustrate how we (1) characterize the indirect impact of IT on banking performance, (2) identify the best practice of two principal value-added stages related to IT investment and profit generation, and (3) improve the financial performance of banking.
Package Selection
Authors: Asprey Len , Middleton Michael
Published: May 2011

This chapter covers the typical procurement processes for selecting an IDCM solution and contains useful techniques for validating various solutions against requirements and negotiating a contract with a supplier. Our objectives for this chapter are as follows: • Discuss the requirements for developing a procurement (or contract) strategy and review the various procurement options that enterprises might use to select an IDCM solution. • Discuss the requirement for an Evaluation Strategy as a methodology for reviewing proposals from suppliers, and provide an example Evaluation Plan template. • Discuss the benefits of conducting a Benchmark Assessment as a method of helping to discern the most appropriate IDCM solution for the enterprise, and provide an example Benchmark Specification template. • Consider the types of functional gaps that might be identified between requirements and offered solutions. • Discuss the importance of reference site checks and the added benefits of reference site visits. • Consider the types of issues that may need to be considered when determining final selection, and the submission of a Selection Report. • Discuss the requirement for the development and execution of a comprehensive contract as a strategy to facilitate successful implementation.
Web Mining
Authors: Lee Roderick L.
Published: May 2011

This chapter presents an overview of web mining. The three areas of web mining—Web content mining, Web usage mining, and Web structure mining—are identified. In this chapter specific attention is paid to Web structure mining, which is the study of the link topology. The link topology of the Web is analyzed in the context of a cyber-community in order to explore the connection between the link topology and conferral of authority. Millions, soon to be billions, of people are annotating Web documents, which results in an abundance of information. Herein lies the problem: topic distillation—searching through the sea of documents for relevant information. To address the problem of overabundance and relevancy, models are needed that can assist in creating order at the local level. The hub and spoke model identified in this chapter takes a proactive approach to creating an online community in a centralized or planned fashion and provides control over the architecture of the Web graph. In the end users can be assured with a certain level of confidence that the Web content contained in a hyperlinked community is both accurate and relevant.
Survey Research, Focus Groups, and Information Technology in Research and Practice
Authors: Vasu Michael L. , Vasu Ellen Storey
Published: May 2011

The integration of computing into survey research and focus groups in research and practice in public administration and related fields is the focus of this chapter. Coverage applies to other social science disciplines as well. This chapter reviews uses of computers in computer-assisted information collection (CASIC), computer-assisted telephone interviewing (CATI), computer-assisted personal interviewing (CAPI), and transferring survey research methods onto the Web. A second portion of the chapter gives special attention to continuous audience response technology (CART). An example of a citizen survey focused on growth issues combined with a focus group dealing with the same topic in Cary, North Carolina, is also discussed.
Toward an Information Technology Research Agenda for Public Administration
Authors: Garson G. David
Published: May 2011

Research questions are outlined, forming the dimensions of a research agenda for the study of information technology (IT) in public administration. The dimensions selected as being the most theoretically important include the issue of the impact of information technology on the distribution of power; the issue of information resource equity and the “digital divide”; the issue of the use of IT as symbolic action; the issue of the impact of IT on discretion; the issue of the impact of IT on organizational culture; the issue of privatization; the issue of decentralization; the issue of remote work; the issue of implementation success factors; the issue of persuasiveness of governmental websites; the issue of regulation of social vices mediated by IT; and other regulatory issues.
Web-Based Learning
Authors: Clulow Val , Brace-Gowan Jan
Published: May 2011

In this chapter, a synthesis of work from several evaluative studies that the authors have undertaken on the different experiences professionals and students have had with Web-based education is provided. Provided are perspectives from undergraduate and postgraduate students and from academic staff members who have experienced learning and teaching in a Web-based environment. Reflection on these sources of experience provides a number of indicators for improvements to approaches to staff development for online teachers, for the preparation of students for an online learning environment, and for student-centered Web-based design.
Web Design Studio
Authors: Sauter Vicki L.
Published: May 2011

Reported in this chapter is an action research project using Theory of Planned Behavior (TPB) to help manage the process of encouraging faculty to utilize Internet tools in the implementation of their classes. The research provides an in-depth examination of an innovative experiment to impact the process of faculty website development, faculty training, and faculty support, reflected in terms of the TPB framework. These results will be of interest to managers in need of encouraging autonomous decision makers, such as faculty, who need to structure, reengineer, and innovate their business processes in terms of an Internet component. Recommendations about incentives and support are provided.
Forum Performance in WBE
Authors: Benrud Erik
Published: May 2011

This chapter combines research into student performance in finance courses and student performance in Web-based courses. The chapter explores how a priori characteristics of individual students can serve as predictors of success in a 100% Web-based course in finance. The statistical models developed in the chapter explain up to 31% of the variation in students’ final grades. The models have significant explanatory power for variation in performance on individual grade-components such as quizzes, tests, and projects. The models have much less predictive power for student performance in the on-line discussion. Yet, there is a strong relationship between the performance in the on-line discussion and the other grade components. This finding suggests that developing on-line discussion skills prior to the start of the course will enhance student performance in other areas of Web-based courses such as introductory corporate finance.
Integrating Online Educational Activities in Traditional Courses
Authors: Klobas Jane , Renzi Stefano
Published: May 2011

This chapter presents a case study of how a university responded to educational and technological change. After an introduction to Bocconi University (an Italian private business university) and the recent changes in the Italian university system, the case describes the initiation and management over three years of a project to integrate Web-enhanced learning (WEL) into classroom-based courses. The case includes identification of profiles of WEL adoption and description of the technology choice, how the teachers adopted the innovation and how students responded. The project is presented as organizational innovation and compared with the stages of the Rogers’ model of diffusion of innovations. Two groups of conditions for success were identified. Conditions common to IS innovation included top management commitment, a supportive environment, and appropriate ICT infrastructure. Conditions specific to WEL included teacher preparedness, appropriate use, appropriate scale, and flexibility.
Introduction
Authors: Berg Gary A.
Published: May 2011

I come to the subject of this book from a very different path than most of those thinking about the use of computers in educational environments. My formal education focused originally on literature and film studies, and film production at the University of California at Berkeley, San Francisco State University, and the University of California at Los Angeles. I became professionally involved in educational administration through the backdoor of continuing education focused first on the entertainment industry, and then more broadly. It was after this combined experience of studying film and television and working in adult education that I began research in education and earned a doctorate in the field of higher education from Claremont Graduate University, with a special emphasis on distance learning. I hope that the different point of view I have developed from my eclectic background gives me the ability to make something of a unique contribution to this evolving new field. What follows is an attempt to spark a discussion that will lead to answers to the question of what are the most effective techniques for the design of computer learning environments. This is not a how-to book—we are too early in the evolutionary process of the medium to give such specific guidance. Rather, my intention is to offer some theories to elevate the thinking bout computers in education. Because the subject is interdisciplinary, combining science with the humanities, the theoretical discussion draws from abroad range of disciplines: psychology, educational theory, film criticism, and computer science. The book looks at the notion of computer as medium and what such an idea might mean for education. I suggest that the understanding of computers as a medium may be a key to re-envisioning educational technology. Oren (1995) argues that understanding computers as a medium means enlarging human-computer interaction (HCI) research to include issues such as the psychology of media, evolution of genre and form, and the societal implications of media, all of which are discussed here. Computers began to be used in educational environments much later than film, and I would have to agree with others who claim that the use of computers instructionally is still quite unsophisticated.
Computer Tools for Learning
Authors: Berg Gary A.
Published: May 2011

I come to the subject of this book from a very different path than most of those thinking about the use of computers in educational environments. My formal education focused originally on literature and film studies, and film production at the University of California at Berkeley, San Francisco State University, and the University of California at Los Angeles. I became professionally involved in educational administration through the backdoor of continuing education focused first on the entertainment industry, and then more broadly. It was after this combined experience of studying film and television and working in adult education that I began research in education and earned a doctorate in the field of higher education from Claremont Graduate University, with a special emphasis on distance learning. I hope that the different point of view I have developed from my eclectic background gives me the ability to make something of a unique contribution to this evolving new field. What follows is an attempt to spark a discussion that will lead to answers to the question of what are the most effective techniques for the design of computer learning environments. This is not a how-to book—we are too early in the evolutionary process of the medium to give such specific guidance. Rather, my intention is to offer some theories to elevate the thinking bout computers in education. Because the subject is interdisciplinary, combining science with the humanities, the theoretical discussion draws from abroad range of disciplines: psychology, educational theory, film criticism, and computer science. The book looks at the notion of computer as medium and what such an idea might mean for education. I suggest that the understanding of computers as a medium may be a key to re-envisioning educational technology. Oren (1995) argues that understanding computers as a medium means enlarging human-computer interaction (HCI) research to include issues such as the psychology of media, evolution of genre and form, and the societal implications of media, all of which are discussed here. Computers began to be used in educational environments much later than film, and I would have to agree with others who claim that the use of computers instructionally is still quite unsophisticated.
From the Technical Change to Socio-Technical Change
Authors: Doherty Neil F. , King Malcolm
Published: May 2011

The organisational application of information technology commonly evokes a wide variety of impacts upon the enterprise as a whole, and the individual members of staff affected by it. However, there is much evidence to suggest that the identification and management of such impacts, which is typically referred to as the treatment of organisational issues, is poorly handled in practice. The primary aim of the research project, described in this chapter, was to develop a proactive approach to the analysis of organisational impacts. The aim of the approach, which is presented as a flow diagram, is to clearly articulate the sequence of activities that have to be undertaken and the decisions that need to be addressed to ensure that all organisational issues are treated effectively. This approach has been formulated from an extensive review of the literature, and the authors’ experience working in this domain for the past six years. It is argued that this approach may well succeed, where many of its predecessors have failed, as it complements, rather than replaces, existing development tools and methods. Moreover, as this approach adopts a common-sense perspective, it should be relatively easy to learn and apply. Finally, it benefits from adopting a proactive, flexible and coherent approach to the treatment of organisational issues.
Information Technology in Construction
Authors: Koskela Lauri , Kazi Abdul Samad
Published: May 2011

Advancement in the utilisation of computers has, in recent years, become a major, even dominating research and development target in the architecture, engineering and construction industry. However, in empirical investigations, no major benefits accruing from construction IT have been found. Why do the many IT applications, which when separately analysed seem so well justified, fail to produce positive impacts when the totality of the construction project is analysed? The objective of this chapter is to find the explanation for this paradox and to provide initial guidelines as to what should be done to correct the situation.
Improving Usability of an Online Learning System by Means of Multimedia, Collaboration and Adaptation Resources
Authors: Furtado Elizabeth , Vasco Furtado Joao Jose , Mattos Fernando Lincoln , Vanderdonckt Jean
Published: May 2011

This paper describes an adaptive and collaborative environment for helping problem solving. The main user of the environment is a teacher, here called teacher-student, who accesses the environment aiming at solving difficulties he/she encounters in the classroom. In order to improve the usability of the system during the problem-solving process, the environment provides the teacher-student with adaptive assistance by identifying what information should be provided and how it should be shown on the screen according to characteristics of the teacher-student, domain and context of use. Moreover, the teacher-student has a collaborative support that allows him/her to interact with other teacher-students.
Heuristic Evaluation of Web-Based ODL Programs
Authors: Karoulis Athanasis , Pombortsis Andreas
Published: May 2011

In this chapter we describe the evaluation of Web-based open and distance learning programs in a more technical manner. First of all we discuss some general theoretical issues that are of importance regarding Web-based ODL environments, such as the communication channel between the participating entities, the issue of learnability and the overall evaluation of such an environment. Then we introduce the principles of educational evaluation, of interface evaluation in general and of expert-based approaches in particular, and we compare the empirical and expert-based methodologies. Finally we present the heuristic evaluation, in its initial form as well as in its Web-adapted variation. The main objectives of the chapter are to prove the applicability of the method in the Web in general and in ODL environments in particular and to investigate the appropriate heuristic list, which can assess the usability and the learnability of such an environment.