bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Text Warehousing
Authors: Badia Antonio
Published: May 2011

Data warehouses, already established as the main repository of data in the enterprise, are now being used to store documents (e-mails, manuals, reports, etc.) so as to capture more domain information. In order to integrate information in natural language (so-called unstructured data) with information in the database (structured and semistructured data), existing techniques from Information Retrieval are being used. In this chapter, which is part overview and part position paper, we review these techniques and discuss their limitations. We argue that true integration cannot be achieved within the framework of Information Retrieval and introduce another paradigm, based in Information Extraction. We discuss the main characteristics of Information Extraction and analyze the challenges that stand on the way of this technology being widely used. Finally, we close with some considerations on future developments in the general area of documents in databases.
Pattern Management
Authors: Catania Barbara , Maddalena Anna
Published: May 2011

Knowledge intensive applications rely on the usage of knowledge artifacts, called patterns, to represent in a compact and semantically rich way huge quantities of heterogeneous raw data. Due to pattern characteristics of patterns, specific systems are required for pattern management in order to model, store, retrieve and manipulate patterns in an efficient and effective way. Several theoretical and industrial approaches (relying on standard proposals, metadata management and business intelligence solutions) have already been proposed for pattern management. However, no critical comparison of the existing approaches has been proposed so far. The aim of this chapter is to provide such a comparison. In particular, specific issues concerning pattern management systems, pattern models and pattern languages are discussed. Several parameters are also identified that will be used in evaluating the effectiveness of theoretical and industrial proposals. The chapter is concluded with a discussion concerning additional issues in the context of pattern management.
The Development of a Web Strategy in a Healthcare Organization
Authors: Memmola Massimo
Published: May 2011

Many writers have described the advantages that the Internet can bring to a health-care organization in terms of consistent improvements in efficiency and efficacy, the reduction of access time to services, and an improved awareness of these. Bankruptcy costs and devastating failures of investments in technology would have us believe that the go-to Internet has taken place, at least in the healthcare field, with a certain improvisation and without a thorough knowledge of the full potential that the Internet offers. This chapter presents a way to define a Web strategy by aligning a company’s corporate strategy, in which there is an acceptance and awareness of the possibilities that the Internet offers by the principal company stakeholders, with a general strategy of utilization of information and communication technology.
Bringing Secure Wireless Technology to the Bedside
Authors: Turner Dawn-Marie , Hazari Sunil
Published: May 2011

Wireless technology has broad implications for the healthcare environment. Despite its promise, this new technology has raised questions about security and privacy of sensitive data that is prevalent in healthcare organizations. All healthcare organizations are governed by legislation and regulations, and the implementation of enterprise applications using new technology is comparatively more difficult than in other industries. Using a configuration-idiographic case-study approach, this study investigated challenges faced by two Canadian healthcare organizations. In addition to interviews with management and staff of the organizations, a walk-through was also conducted to observe and collect first-hand data of the implementation of wire-less technology in the clinical environment. In the organizations under examination, it was found that wireless technology is being implemented gradually to augment the wired network. Problems associated with implementing wireless technology in these Canadian organizations are also discussed. Because of different standards in this technology, the two organizations are following different upgrade paths. Based on the data collected, best practices for secure wireless access in these organizations are proposed.
Servlets
Authors: Polgar Jana , Braum Robert Mark , Polgar Tony
Published: May 2011

Servlets are server side programs that respond to requests from browsers. They run in the Web environment. Portal technology grew from the servlets, and each portal page ends up as a servlet. Servlet technology is the foundation of Web application development using the Java programming language. Therefore, understanding servlet technology and the Web server architecture is important.
Brief Overview Portal Application Platforms
Authors: Polgar Jana , Braum Robert Mark , Polgar Tony
Published: May 2011

Portal engines come in several implementations. We do not attempt to discuss them all in this book. We provide a high level overview of three architectures: WebSphere Portal for Multiplatforms 5, Apache Open source portal servers (Pluto and Jetspeed), and Sun Microsystems Sun ONE Portal Server.
How Mobile Technologies Enable Best Business Practice
Authors: Kadyte Vaida
Published: May 2011

Within the last 10 years, a number of sophisticated mobile devices have become available to assist not only in managing appointments and contacts but also to provide a tool for enhancing user experience and introducing new collaborative ways of doing business. However, little conceptual thought and empirical illustration has been given to how industrial organisations are using the potential offered by mobile technology. This chapter is based on putting into practice the main conceptual ideas of the Freedom Economy in the domain of mobile business applications through action research methodology. We present an in-depth case study on implementing mobile solutions in the fine-paper industry and aim to investigate to what extent mobile technologies pose a challenge to contemporary industrial life and how they will eventually enable firms to achieve the best business practice.
Adoption of Mobile E-Health Service
Authors: Han Shengnan , Mustonen Pekka
Published: May 2011

This study investigates physicians’ willingness to adopt a professional medical SMS news service in the Finnish healthcare sector. A concise survey using SMS mobile technology was conducted on March 5, 2003. Two hundred and fifty-nine out of 685 responded within 24 hours, and 90% of these answers were received within 6 hours after the survey was sent out. The response rate was 38%. Findings from this simple SMS survey showed that physicians had positive perceptions of the SMS news service. Nearly 60% of the respondents have used it. Some of the answers included spontaneous feedback about the SMS news service, which revealed valuable comments and suggestions regarding further improvements to it. The SMS survey as a new data collection technique needs academic attention. Implications and future research are briefly discussed.
High-Pressure Die-Casting Process Modelling Using Neural Networks
Authors: Khan M. Imad , Nahavandi Saeid , Frayman Yakov
Published: May 2011

This chapter presents the application of a neural network to the industrial process modeling of high-pressure die casting (HPDC). The large number of inter- and intradependent process parameters makes it difficult to obtain an accurate physical model of the HPDC process that is paramount to understanding the effects of process parameters on casting defects such as porosity. The first stage of the work was to obtain an accurate model of the die-casting process using a feed-forward multilayer perceptron (MLP) from the process condition monitoring data. The second stage of the work was to find out the effect of different process parameters on the level of porosity in castings by performing sensitivity analysis. The results obtained are in agreement with the current knowledge of the effects of different process parameters on porosity defects, demonstrating the ability of the MLP to model the die-casting process accurately.
The Algos Center
Authors: Chinn Susan J. , Pryor Charlotte A. , Voyer John J.
Published: May 2011

Two systems faculty from a university was contracted to perform an analysis of information systems at the Algos Center, a small non-profit charitable organization which provides support for children and their families facing losses. The Center specifically requested help in integrating its fundraising and accounting software packages or exploring alternative software solutions. It also needed to generate reports required by the Board of Directors and United Way. Finally, the Center requested help in designing a family database to capture and track statistics about the families receiving services. As the team analyzed the Center, they discovered many under lying issues that would form part of their recommendations to the staff. This case makes two contributions. First, it reveals many problems facing small non-profit organizations, which primarily expend their resources on mission-critical activities, and allows readers to supply possible courses of action. Second, it provides an opportunity to evaluate how a consulting experience was handled and to make recommendations to ensure successful project implementation.
LIBNET
Authors: Hooper A. S.C.
Published: May 2011

In any cooperative database the participants contribute their data for their own as well as the benefit of the other members, usually with incentives from the database administrators. A South African library network company (LIBNET) provided a networked service to participating libraries. Member benefits included conversion of their catalogues into machine-readable form, significantly reduced costs through cooperative cataloguing and more efficient interlibrary loans through a union catalogue of the holdings of the participant libraries. This case study explores some of the issues influencing tariff determination in a cooperative database. Questions of data ownership and the provision of incentives for the uploading of data also raise legal and ethical issues. The case study provides a basis for exploring business strategy in collaborative database management.
STEP-NC to Complete Product Development Chain
Authors: Xu Xun W.
Published: May 2011

This chapter addresses the issue of product development chain from the perspective of data modeling and streamlining. The focus is on an emerging ISO standard, informally known as STEP-NC, and how it may close the gap between design and manufacturing for a complete, integrated product development environment. This new standard defines a new generation of NC programming language and is fully compliant with STEP. There is a whole suite of implementation methods one may utilize for development purposes. STEP-NC brings richer information to the numerically-controlled machine tools; hence, intelligent machining and control are made possible. Its Web-enabled feature gives an additional dimension in that e-manufacturing can be readily supported. A case study toward the end demonstrates a STEP compliant, Web-enabled manufacturing system.
Critical Success Factors for IT Projects
Authors: Brandon Daniel M.
Published: May 2011

A key factor leading to the continued failure in IT projects is the lack of identification and appreciation for all the major components of project success. Critical success factors are those things that must be done or handled properly for a project to be successful. A comprehensive model of critical success factors for IT projects permits the development of better management plans, processes, and metrics, particularly for risk, quality, and performance control. In this chapter, general critical IT success factors are identified and techniques for the management of those factors are introduced; later chapters then detail those techniques.
The Software Engineering Discipline
Authors: Brandon Daniel M.
Published: May 2011

Software engineering is vital for the proper planning of IT projects, although it is not a formal part of project management. The software engineering embedded in the acquired products will significantly affect long-term project success factors, even for IT projects that primarily involve software acquisition and integration instead of software development,. In this chapter I review software engineering and its relation to IT project management.
Developing the Schedule and Cost Plan
Authors: Brandon Daniel M.
Published: May 2011

The Project Management Institute (PMI) project management process groups include initiation, planning, execution, control, and closing. In practice, however, the initiation processes of a project are often not part of a project for budgeting and control issues, but rather are charged to management and administration (M&A) or operations and maintenance (O&M) general ledger accounts. In some organizations, these charges are later reversed back to a project after it is decided to move forward with that project. Thus, only the planning, execution, and control processes become part of the project for accounting purposes; sometimes detail planning is part of a project but not overall planning. Similarly, the closing process group may or may not be a formal part of the project, and sometimes those processes are performed by an independent organization. This chapter is concerned with detail project planning, particularly the schedule and cost plan.
Procurement and Outsourcing
Authors: Brandon Daniel M.
Published: May 2011

Many IT projects involve the purchasing of goods and/or services, and some IT projects are mostly procurement activities, at least from a cost perspective. Between one quarter and one third of all U.S. software projects involve contractors or subcontractors (Jones, 1994). With the increase in IT outsourcing and of outsourcing offshore, there is an increasing need for very formal procurement management.
Software Systems for Project Management
Authors: Brandon Daniel M.
Published: May 2011

A vast amount of project management software is available today in a wide variety of capabilities, applicability, platform requirements, and prices. These software products significantly enhance the PM’s job of managing a project in almost all aspects, including selection, planning, scheduling, execution, control, risk, and communications. PMs should therefore be aware of the types of tools available and the features and applicability of those tools. In this chapter, types of software products and some specific products are identified and discussed.
Helping Close the Digital Divide for Financially Disadvantaged Seniors
Authors: Mizell Al P.
Published: May 2011

The Internet has become an essential element of all society today. Those who can access the World Wide Web have become active participants in the Information Age. Unfortunately, many individuals throughout the world do not have ready access to the needed technology. Furthermore, they do not have the required knowledge and skills to use the technology and cannot participate actively. As a result, this has created a world of information haves and have-nots. In this chapter, after examining the concept of the digital divide, data is presented that shows that those with low incomes and those who are older have little access to technology and the use of computers. Low-income seniors are especially limited in their opportunities to own a computer, and they seldom have the skills needed to use one for e-mail, search the Internet, and so forth, even if they visit a public library where they could use a computer without any cost. Various approaches being used to help seniors learn how to use computers are described, andthen the chapter focuses on two projects that have proved to be successful in this effort. SeniorNet is a national organization that helps establish learning centers around the country. The approach used at one such center, located at Nova Southeastern University in South Florida, requires seniors to pay for their courses. A second project is known as SeniorComp and is supported by private foundation funds. Ten low-income senior citizens are selected for each group of seniors in this project. They are given a complete Dell computer system, and their tuition is paid to take four of the SeniorNet courses. At the end of the fourth course, ownership of the computer system is turned over to the individual participant. To date, the completion rate has been 100%. The approaches used can serve as models for others to modify and use in their own communities. By adopting a similar approach, the impact of the digital divide can be significantly reduced for those low-income seniors that participate in the project. In this way, this portion of the marginal community can be empowered.
The Internet as a Fundraising Tool for Marginal Communities in South Africa
Authors: Farouk Fazila , Barnard David
Published: May 2011

This chapter discusses the challenges facing social justice organisations working in the South African non-profit sector in their attempts to harness new technologies to promote their causes as well as their sustainability. The chapter uses online fundraising as a medium to elaborate on the difficulties that social justice organisations face engaging with an online audience that is racially skewed and not close to its issues. It goes into length discussing the limitations of a sector that is further hamstrung by a lack of appreciation for the online platform and which is not being driven into adopting ICT solutions due to the sluggish transformation of the ICT policy landscape.
Team Effectiveness in Virtual Environments
Authors: Shachaf Pnina , Hara Noriko
Published: May 2011

This chapter attempts to address the need for more research on virtual team effectiveness and outlines an ecological theoretical framework that is applicable to virtual learning environments (VLE).  Prior empirical studies on virtual team effectiveness used frameworks of traditional team effectiveness and mainly followed Hackman’s normative model (input-process-output). We propose an ecological approach for virtual team effectiveness that accounts for team boundaries management, technologyuse, and external environment in VLE, properties which were previously either nonexistent or contextual.   The ecological framework suggests that three components — external environment, internal environment, and boundary management — reciprocally interact with effectiveness.   The significance of the proposed framework is a holistic perspective that takes into account the complexity of the external and internal environment of the team. Furthermore, we address the needs for new pedagogical approaches in VLE.
Virtual Study Groups
Authors: Northcraft Gregory B. , Griffith Terri L. , Fuller Mark A.
Published: May 2011

Groups and teams are critical to modern organizations, and consequently management education has incorporated groups as a centerpiece of both content (the study of group process) and process (the use of study groups and group projects). Unfortunately, working-adult educational programs appear to have yet to take an important final step — acknowledging that study groups often interact virtually and then providing support for virtual study group interaction. We provide both theory and data concerning the use of study groups as virtual teams. We believe that there are important benefits to be gained when study groups make educated decisions about the design and process of their virtual interaction.
Principle-Based Engineering
Authors: George Susan Ella
Published: May 2011

This chapter discusses a new conception of computation. The conception is one of constraints rather than rules. In contrast to the rule-based approach of Turing machines, Post systems and lambda calculus, the constraint-based approach “models” the constraints in operation in the system, and between the system and the environment. There are similarities with Putnam’s idea that “everything is computation” because (1) computation must be “situated” in a profound way, embedded in its environment, but, there is also (2) a move away from the intuitive idea of “algorithm” as a step-by-step procedure, modellling the behaviour of the system in its environment, requiring a mapping of the abstract “algorithm” states to the physical states of “reality.”
Defining Online Assessment for the Adult Learning Market
Authors: Bergstrom Betty , Fryer Jim , Norris Joel
Published: May 2011

Learning for many adult professionals culminates in some form of assessment. Doctors, cosmetologists, private detectives, insurance agents, real estate brokers, plumbers, contractors, electricians, nurses, roofers, dietitians, and many others are trained in a variety of programs from community colleges to graduate programs, and increasingly their education and testing is conducted wholly or in part via e-learning platforms. Online assessment provides educators with the ability to measure learning needs, assess the results of learning activity, and speed learners toward professional credentialing by leveraging the efficient delivery framework of the Internet. In this chapter, we describe several low- to high-stakes online test delivery methods, which, when coupled with e-learning systems, can offer education providers with valuable opportunities for enriching the validity and credibility of their programs. We discuss the relationship of online assessment models in the context of e-learning, as well as distinguish between the types of testing technologies used to deliver them. We conclude by discussing the advantages and disadvantages of offering assessments online and the future of online assessment systems in general.
Ten Key Qualities of Asessment Online
Authors: Morgan Chris , O’Reilly Meg
Published: May 2011

Student assessment belongs in the centre of our teaching and learning considerations—it is the engine that drives and shapes student learning. In online contexts, it is argued that although teaching and learning has been dramatically reconceptualised, assessment practices are lagging, and more likely to imitate conventional practices such as end of term exams that encourage rote learning and the dissemination of fixed content. The authors argue that it is essential for online educators to bring the same innovation to their assessment practices that they have to their other online teaching practices. Ten key qualities of good online assessment are offered for consideration and discussion, namely: 1. A clear rationale and consistent pedagogical approach 2. Explicit values, aims, criteria, and standards 3. Relevant authentic and holistic tasks 4. Awareness of students’ learning contexts and perceptions 5. Sufficient and timely formative feedback 6. A facilitative degree of structure 7. Appropriate volume of assessment 8. Valid and reliable 9. Certifiable as students’ own work 10. Subject to continuous improvement via evaluation and quality enhancement
Challenges in the Deisgn, Development, and Delivery of Online Assessment and Evaluation
Authors: Hickman Clark J. , Bielema Cheryl , Gunderson Margaret
Published: May 2011

This chapter introduces online assessment and evaluation and explores strategies to overcome challenges in their design, development, and delivery in online settings. It argues that both assessment and evaluation are process-driven, involving many stakeholders including faculty, administrators, and students. This process includes needs assessment, strategies for asking good questions, knowing where to find information, and how to communicate findings in persuasive ways. By developing a comprehensive system, one based on reliable research principles, faculty and administrators can harvest considerable data that enable stakeholders to refine educational programs and maximize learning.
Value-Satisfaction Grid of E-Learning Systems
Authors: Levy Yair
Published: May 2011

This chapter provides the rationale of the first of three tools suggested in this book to assess value and satisfaction of e-learning systems in order to provide an assessment of the effectiveness of such systems. The other two tools are presented in the following chapter. The first tool proposed by the conceptual model is the Value-Satisfaction grid which aggregates the learners’ value and satisfaction with e-learning systems in order to indicate the learners’ perceived effectiveness of e-learning systems. The Value-Satisfaction grid also helps indicate the action and improvement priorities that are needed for the characteristics and dimensions of an e-learning system under study. A proposed method of aggregation of learners’ perceived value of e-learning systems and satisfaction with e-learning systems to construct the Value-Satisfaction grid and the two tools presented in the following chapter is also presented in this chapter. The understanding of the Value-Satisfaction grid provides the first building block toward a complete set of assessment tools of learners’ perceived effectiveness of e-learning systems. The development of this set of tools is a significant achievement as scholars have suggested that prior research in technology mediated learning (TML) lacked the overall system approach and concentrated only on one or two dimensions at a time (Alavi & Leidner, 2001a, p. 9).
Ontologies and Contracts in the Automation of Learning Object Management Systems
Authors: Sanchez-Alonso Salvador , Sicilia Miguel-Ángel , Garcia-Barriocanal Elena
Published: May 2011

Current standardized e-learning systems are centred on the concept of learning object. Unfortunately, specifications and standards in the field do not provide details about the use of well-known knowledge representations for the sake of automating some processes, like selection and composition of learning objects, or adaptation to the user or platform. Precise usage specifications for ontologies in e-learning would foster automation in learning systems, but this requires concrete, machine-oriented interpretations for metadata elements. This chapter focuses on ontologies as shared knowledge representations that can be used to obtain enhanced learning object metadata records in order to enable automated or semi-automated consistent processes inside Learning Management Systems. In particular, two efforts towards enhancing automation are presented: a contractual approach based on pre- and post-conditions, and the so-called process semantic conformance profiles.
Research Styles and the Internet
Authors: Mann Bruce L.
Published: May 2011

This chapter aims to encourage you to write about your own online research interests. Two types of research are covered here, idea-based research (IBR) which usually takes the form of a proposal, and data-driven research (DDR) which usually takes the form of a report to a committee.
Narrowing the Focus
Authors: Reid Scott
Published: May 2011

This chapter presents the path that one researcher followed in choosing a topic for his Ph.D. dissertation and the decisions he made about how to conduct the research. The research being conducted involves a qualitative case study of how professors at one university adopt the use of Web-based courses. The questions which the researcher asked himself in this process of narrowing the focus are presented to provide insight into his reflective thought process. Insight is gained into how this researcher: chose a topic, decided what conceptual framework to use, approached the literature review, chose research methods, and collected and analyzed data. The importance of reflective thought and the judgement of the researcher are emphasized.
Case Study Research and Online Learning
Authors: Mann Bruce L.
Published: May 2011

As a research methodology, case study is very popular among researchers doing investigations of Internet-supported teaching and learning. This chapter will discuss considerations for conducting case study research in online and blended (on-site and online) learning environments.
Experimental Research and the Internet
Authors: Mann Bruce L.
Published: May 2011

Throughout the 1950s and 1960s experimental research played a major role in audio-visual research and development (Reiser, 1987, 2002). Experiments were published on the effects of slide-tape presentations, educational television, programmed learning, teaching machines, and audio-tutorial instruction. During the 1970s and 1980s, the experimental focus shifted from audio-visual research to instructional technology research on whole programs, such as PLATO, CAL, microworlds and Internet Hunts. It seems that today we have returned to the experimental investigations of audio-visual communication. Over the years, experimental evidence of audio-visual communication has become the basis of current models and theories, including: Baddaley’s (1992) model of working memory, Paivio’s (1986) dual coding theory, Penney’s (1989)separate streams hypothesis, Chandler and Sweller’s (1991) split-attention theory, Mayer and Moreno’s (1998) dual processing theory of working memory, Mayer’s (1997) theory of multimedia learning, and Mann’s Structured Sound Function (SSF) Model (Mann, 1992, 1995a, 1997a), and others. This chapter will discuss these models as a platform for conducting experimental research of online teaching and learning.
Can Seventh Graders Learn Fractions from a Web-Based Pedagogical Agent? Using Comparison Groups Thre Times Over Several Weeks
Authors: Adams Shannon , Mann Bruce L. , Schulz Henry
Published: May 2011

In this study, a Web-based pedagogical agent presented 7th grade students (n = 91) with examples and practice questions involving the multiplication and division of fractions. Pedagogical agents are animated, talking characters that can be made to introduce, guide or otherwise enhance educational Web sites. It was expected that school-age students using moving and talking pedagogical agents would retain more and find more creative solutions to problems than students in the other treatment conditions. A repeated measures-by-occasion research design was used to determine if the movement and or talking by the agent helped them learn to multiply and divide fractions. Results of the analyses showed that students learned from the pre-test to immediate post-test. But there were no effects for either modality (speech vs. text) or agent animation (movement vs. no movement). Consistent with a previous study with 7th grade students using educational multimedia (Mann, Newhouse, Pagram, Campbell, & Schulz, 2002) positive findings from using speech in educational multimedia may only be generalizable to adults and older adolescents. Implications are discussed regarding the instructional design of educational Web sites.
Assistant Tool for Instructors Teaching Computer Hardware with the PBL Theory
Authors: Chang Maiga , Cheng Kun-Fa , Chang Alex , Chen Ming-Wei
Published: May 2011

Students often get a good score in written exams but fail to apply their knowledge when trying to solve real-world problems. This is applies particularly to computer hardware courses in which students are required to learn and memorize many key terms and definitions. Also, teachers often find it difficult to gauge students’ progress when teaching computer hardware fundamentals. These problems are related to the learning process, so it is necessary to find an appropriate instructional model to overcome these problems. This chapter describes a Web-based tool called the assistant tool, which is based on problem-based learning (PBL) theory and not only assists instructors in teaching computer hardware fundamentals but also overcomes the above-mentioned problems.
The Gender Ledger Cycle
Authors: Deshmukh Ashutosh
Published: May 2011

The general ledger cycle consists of posting of entries from special journals, subsidiary ledgers, and general journal to general ledger; as well as generating financial, managerial and special reports. Accounting transactions are first recorded in special and general journals from source documents and posted to subsidiary and general ledgers. At the end of the accounting period, an unadjusted trial balance is prepared. Then adjusting entries are made based on information from the controller and treasurer. The general ledger can then be used to generate required reports. Once the financial statements are finalized, accounting books are closed via closing entries, and a post-closing trial balance is prepared. The traditional use of a general ledger has been for generating financial reports for investors. Every student of accounting knows this.
Dimensions of Diversity in the IT Classroom Onground and Online
Authors: Bhattacharya Madhumita , Jorgensen Lone
Published: May 2011

This chapter introduces the dimensions of diversity in a cultural context with special reference to IT education. The authors justify that globalization of education in a true sense cannot be achieved only by establishing accessibility and developing cost effective technologies. The debate concerning the influence of IT on the diversity and global culture issues will be colored by how technology is being used. The authors argue that the ideal is not possible within present IT usage unless the underpinning culture of the IT curriculum is acknowledged, openly discussed and adjusted for. They develop a model in phases to discuss the difficulties in engaging the technology and thus finding ways to increase its usage, particularly in the education sector.
Dimensions of Sustainable Diversity in IT
Authors: Stockard Russell , Akbari Ali , Damooei Jamshid
Published: May 2011

This chapter acknowledges that diversity issues in the IT field go beyond racial and ethnic measures to include disability and age, to name but two of the numerous possibilities, and a global playing field. While the chapter examines the different forces that affect the career aspirations and opportunities of individuals of color, women, the disabled and the young as they make decisions relating to the IT field, it is not fundamentally driven by data, but by a need to develop and expand a definition and the dimensions of diversity. In doing so, we hope to provoke readers to view the issue of diversity and IT from a number of perspectives. We assert that diversity should be viewed globally with the understanding that the globalization process has begun to change the dynamics of the diversification phenomenon. Finally, in an effort to show the impact of career aspirations and what may influence the development of such aspirations among minority and nontraditional students, we report the findings of some studies that have recently been conducted. This study looks at the experiences, opportunities, attitudes and aspirations with respect to mathematics, science, computer science and information technology of underrepresented students in the federally funded Upward Bound and Math/Science Upward Bound programs. We conclude with a brief discussion of the role of social and cultural creativity and innovation, arguing that these are essential components of a notion of sustainable diversity.
Integrating E-Learning Technology
Authors: Uden Lorna , Beaumont Chris
Published: May 2011

Information technology has been used in teaching, learning, and assessment for many years, from programmed learning and on-line tutorials, which are teaching-centred, at one end of the spectrum, to computer-supported collaborative environments, which are learning-centred. The term e-learning has developed over recent years to subsume these and related terms. The UK Joint Information Systems Committee (JISC) provides the following useful explanation: E-Learning can cover a spectrum of activities from supporting learning, to blended learning (the combination of traditional and e-learning practices), to learning that is delivered entirely online. Whatever the technology, however, learning is the vital element. (JISC, n.d.) A number of specifications and standards are starting to emerge around e-learning. For example, relating to the Communication Interface: how resources communicate with other systems or meta-data; how to describe e-learning resources in a consistent manner and packaging; and how to gather resources into useful bundles. Organisations such as the IMS Global Learning Consortium 1 help contribute specifications in this area.
Case Study
Authors: Sessums Christopher D. , Irani Tracy A. , Telg Ricky , Robers T. Grady
Published: May 2011

To enhance quality, faculty and student satisfaction, and learning outcomes, an academic working group comprising University of Florida faculty members proposed a project to develop a valid, reliable course evaluation tool for distance education courses and programs. Components of the project included institutional benchmarking, stakeholder input, instrument development, and instrument testing. The project resulted in a course evaluation tool that is more reflective of the actual course experience than what was previously being used. The chapter concludes with a brief list of recommendations and lessons learned from the project.
Developing Enjoyable Second Language Learning Software Tools
Authors: Ang Chee S. , Zaphiris Panayiotis
Published: May 2011

This chapter attempts to examine computer game theories — ludology and narratology— that explain computer games as play activities and storytelling media. Founded onthis theoretical explanation, a game model that incorporates gameplay and narrativesis presented. From the model, two aspects of learning in the game environment areidentified: gameplay-oriented and narrative-oriented. It is believed that playingcomputer games involves at least one of these types of learning; thus, this game’s naturecan be used in designing engaging educational software. In addition, based onMalone’s theoretical framework on motivational heuristics, there are two methods ofapplying computer games in language learning: extrinsic and intrinsic, depending onthe integration of game designs and learning materials. Then, two cases of language-learning games are scrutinized, using the game model, in order to demonstrate the useof computer games in language learning.
Culture-Based Language Learning ObjectsL A CALL Approach for a Ubiquitous World
Authors: Lambropoulos Niki , Christopoulou Martha , Vlachos Kosmas
Published: May 2011

This chapter presents culture-based language-learning objects (CLLOs) in computer-assisted language learning (CALL), supported by user-centered interaction design.CLLOs’ design has been drawn on (a) social constructivist pedagogical theories, (b)self-organised strategies in social contexts, and (c) Scandura’s structural analysis andGange’s instructional events.This chapter discusses culture-based language-learningprinciples and the rationale on which the construction and use of CLLOs are foundedon. It also makes suggestions about the ways CLLOs can be constructed by second/foreign language (L2) teachers. A CLLO example was designed and presented for thecontext of the Greek Diaspora in the United Kingdom (UK). Furthermore, this chapterintroduces the combination of norm-based and culture-based language learning inCALL, the grey zone as the distance between second and foreign language learning,the open nature in Learning Objects with the use of forums or chats. Lastly, it suggestsCLLOs networks use in the age of ubiquitous computing.
Situated Task Analysis in Learner-Centered CALL
Authors: Farmer Roderick A.
Published: May 2011

This chapter describes the modelling of learner interaction in computer-assistedlanguage learning (CALL) environments. Here, I call for the development and adoptionof situated task analysis frameworks in CALL system design and evaluation. Theintegration of existing CALL, human-computer interaction (HCI) and softwareengineering techniques constitutes a primary concern for the future of CALL softwaredevelopment. As such, this chapter describes the application of learner-centred designand situated task analysis principles within a flexible and integrative meta-framework:Cognition, Activity, Social Organisation and Environment (CASE). Finally, thischapter demonstrates how application of the CASE framework in CALL contexts leadsto the development of more fit-for-purpose and personalized CALL systems.
'Ears before Eyes'
Authors: de los Arcos Beatriz , Sanchez Inmaculada Arnedillo
Published: May 2011

This chapter considers how the absence of certain aspects of non-verbal behaviouraffects interaction in audio-graphical learning environments. The authors introducestrategies to deal with turn-taking, time lag and other incidences, while observing thedifficulty in applying the communicative approach to language teaching in thesesettings. By highlighting the limited validity of an extrapolation of methodologiesbetween face-to-face and virtual classrooms, we call for research to address the needfor a new course of action; one that takes full advantage of the technology in its ownright.
Integrated Micro Learning During Access Delays
Authors: Gstrein Silvia , Hug Theo
Published: May 2011

Time pressure and lack of motivation are often seen as obstructive factors in second-language (L2) learning. In fact, L2 learning is much more of an ongoing process thanjust taking a course. In response, a new approach to learning has been developed,called integrated micro learning (IML), based on a patent-pending technology thatallows integrating language learning into a learner’s daily routine with the help ofelectronic devices. It thus helps to envisage a new mode of information technology-assisted L2 learning as part of vocational and educational training. In this chapter,we introduce the concept of IML in general and with regard to L2 learning in particular.We also report on the first prototypical representation as well as the first experience.1
Reading and Learning from Screen
Authors: Schcolnik Miriam , Kol Sara
Published: May 2011

Electronic texts are playing an increasing role in education in general and in languagecourses in particular. Computer-assisted language learning (CALL) tasks utilizingauthentic texts on the Web require extensive screen reading. The flexible nature ofelectronic text encourages customization, which is important for effective screenreading and learning. For users to read comfortably and effectively, attention must bepaid to the way electronic text is presented. Presentation includes factors related tothe screen (e.g., contrast), to the reader (e.g., familiarity with the medium) and to thetext layout (e.g., number of lines per screen). Navigation method (e.g., scrolling orpaging) may also affect reading and learning from screen. Two studies conducted bythe authors show that not everyone performs well with the same presentation mode andthat preferences also vary. Designers of user-centered CALL materials should, therefore,allow for choice of presentation mode.
An Introduction to GIS (All Things Data)
Authors: Curtis Andrew , Leitner Michael
Published: May 2011

One of the purposes of this book is to introduce community health groups to the potential of GIS, a technology that can help in understanding the spatial landscape of prenatal risk. Therefore, one of the first steps is to provide a brief overview of GIS. This introduction will be split over the next two sections, with this chapter focused on data issues associated with using a GIS, while the next presents an introduction to the functions of a GIS that make it so powerful: the ability to analyze and visualize spatial data. These two chapters are not meant for experienced GIS users (though even for these a few points and references from the non-geographic literature may prove to be useful). It is also not meant to be a comprehensive introduction to the science; there are several other excellent texts serving that need. These next two chapters are meant to give a basic understanding, and inform enough to encourage the adoption of a GIS approach. Most people reading this book will probably be using a vector GIS. There are, however, two basic GIS formats, raster being the other type. Raster GIS is best suited for surface or complete coverage data (for example, vegetation cover) because the spatial surface is transformed into a grid, with each cell or pixel containing a relevant geographic attribute (such as 1 = water, 2 = forest, etc.). These pixels are fixed in space, allowing multiple layers at a single location to be compared and analyzed. Vector GIS, which is a more useful GIS format for the type of investigation likely to be performed by a health unit, contains points, lines, and areas. Unlike in a raster GIS, each spatial object has its own geography.
An Introduction to GIS (All Things Spatial)
Authors: Curtis Andrew , Leitner Michael
Published: May 2011

The last chapter provided an introduction to two of the key components in a GIS: getting the data in, and then manipulating them to answer questions. This chapter considers how these data can be visualized and analyzed. The analysis section in this chapter will be fairly simplistic, as this topic is revisited again in Chapters V and VI with the introduction of increasingly more sophisticated measures. The chapter will end with a discussion of an important topic integral to urban area analysis but which is often missed when discussing the GIS: What exactly is a neighborhood and how should it be spatially defined?
The Geography of Health Risks
Authors: Curtis Andrew , Leitner Michael
Published: May 2011

This book has so far provided an introduction to GIS in terms of its use as part of a community health program. Subsequent chapters will describe a selection of more detailed GIS techniques and approaches. This chapter can be considered as an interlude, an attempt to set the scene by painting a backcloth of risks facing many city neighborhoods and the pregnant women living in them. Of course, at the risk of repeating oneself, there have been whole books written about single risk factors, so the task of compressing all risks into a single chapter is extremely difficult. This is made even harder because many of the situations described are not directly related to pregnancy outcomes, but instead are classed as neighborhood risks, contributing to the overall vulnerability of a person living in these environments. Although some may question why not concentrate solely on pregnancy-related risks, a more holistic understanding of the social environment can help place context into data, a movement away from the earlier criticized “structural functionalism” approach (Litva & Eyles, 1995). At this point it might be worth briefly mentioning that debate continues within the field of medical geography as to the degree in which pure analytical approaches ignore the social relevance of actions (a political economy approach), or how an individual’s experience shapes his or her actions (Dorn & Laws, 1994). For a review of these critical literatures in association with infant mortality see Gesler, Bird, and Oljeski, (1997).