bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Exploring Business Community Engagement With Educational Institutions Supporting Future Business Graduates
Authors: Tani Kawtar , Dalzell Elizabeth , Mock Andrew , Steele Anne , Wright Carin
Published: August 2018

The evolution of technology enables educational institutions to provide innovative ways to support students' learning, and as a result, there is an increasing trend in adopting business innovations such as e-learning solutions and online learning platforms. An empirical study was conducted to explore the effect of using Moodle and Facebook on business students' motivation to learn. It hypothesized that students will be more motivated to use social media Facebook over Moodle as a learning tool in tertiary education. Participants were students enrolled on the first year of a business program. Participants were given access to both the Moodle online learning platform and Facebook to use throughout the first semester of 2017. Lecturers posted questions on Moodle and Facebook on a weekly basis to which participants were asked to provide responses. Findings from this study confirmed the validity of using social media in tertiary education. Implications for the business community engagement with educational institutions are discussed.
Reality-Based Learning
Authors: Murgulets Lyudmila , Johansson Mats
Published: August 2018

This chapter describes the experience of the project on the adaptation of the Swedish model of training through entrepreneurship in the north-west region of Russia. The model was developed by the Swedish Foundation for Entrepreneurship Training and has been used in Swedish schools for over 20 years. The chapter's co-author served as the project manager in Russia from the Stockholm School of Economics. In addition, the co-author participated in the development of a short course, “Understanding the Life of Business,” for secondary school teachers. The chapter describes the concept, the specifics of its application in Russia, presents all stages of the project work, the results obtained, and the current situation.
Participation of German Business Enterprises in Educational Projects in the Field of Non-Formal and School Education
Authors: Skibinski Stanislav , Skakovskaya Ekaterina
Published: August 2018

Germany is known as a country of advanced technology and centuries-old traditions of both school and professional and university education. Obviously, this combination forms a special link between business and education. The chapter gives a brief overview of this interaction and considers one specific case of cooperation between industry and non-profit organization in educational projects. The authors write about one of the most significant German firms: the insurance company Allianz (Munich).
Nature of Geographic Knowledge Bases
Authors: Laurini Robert
Published: August 2018

In many domains such as environmental and urban planning, experts need to make reasoning and propose solutions. However marketed GIS software products are limited to store, display geographic information together with additional tools such as in spatial analysis, but they do not offer users the real functionalities which are useful for territorial intelligence. This first step is to propose novel models to represent this kind of knowledge needing not only to integrate geographic aspects, but also be independent of data acquisition technologies (satellite images, laser, crowdsourcing, etc.) and able to be used in different languages. After the definitions of geographic ontologies (to organize geographic feature vocabulary) and gazetteers (to structure toponyms in various languages), various examples will be presented in order to extract geographic semantics. A special attention will be devoted to geographic rules.
Wildlife Habitat Evaluation
Authors: Gupta Peeyush , Goyal Swati
Published: August 2018

Before an individual can evaluate wildlife habitat and make management recommendations, some basic concepts about habitat and its relationships to different wildlife species should be understood. In this chapter, some of the basic concepts will be described; mainly analyzing of habitat alterations, landscape analysis, networking and creation of corridor between protected areas, wildlife habitat suitability analysis using Remote Sensing & GIS. Since most of the contest will be based on these concepts. Like other natural resource fields, wildlife management is both an art and science that deals with complex interactions in the environment. This means that management includes art or judgment based on experience as well as sound factual information based on scientific studies.
Role of Remote Sensing in Potential Fishing Zone Forecast
Authors: Santra Abhisek , Mitra Debashis
Published: August 2018

Forecasting of Potential Fishing Zone (PFZ) is considered as economically and environmentally significant towards ensuring profitable base of economy and planning for sustenance of existing fishing pool. Changes in environmental conditions affect the distribution, abundance and availability of fish. The traditional sampling approaches for PFZ identification using boats and vessels are not only costly and time consuming but practically absurd considering the vastness of seas and oceans. In this chapter importance of alternative but effective methods of airborne and satellite remote sensing has been given. The chapter elucidates the factors for PFZ identification like thermal condition in sea controlling its thermal circulation, chlorophyll-a concentration estimated from ocean color dynamics, etc. Tools/system to prepare PFZ advisories and also the platforms for dissemination of the same, have been illustrated based on Indian scenario.
Generative Trees
Authors: Proietti Primo , Filippucci Marco , Nasini Luigi , Regni Luca , Brunori Antonio
Published: August 2018

The research integrates the study of trees with the sciences of representation, in order to investigate the relationship between morphology and light interception in a tree, starting from the case study of an olive, modeled without using automation in survey. The representation of canopy architecture, manipulated for agricultural purposes by men, describes the action of sunlight in the tree, testing the potential of advanced digital design tools, especially the generative modeling. Through the design of a specific algorithm, the tree is interpreted like a fragmented photovoltaic panel, analyzed using 14,000 control points, corresponding to each leaves. The possibility of selecting these classes of elements becomes the instrument in interpreting the canopy structure, by finding categories describing and simulating the annual radiance and illuminance.
Genetic-Based Estimation of Biomass Using Geographical Information System
Authors: Nagarajan Suresh Kumar
Published: August 2018

The utilization of relative shading size of a picture to extricate the vegetation of a study range Vellore, Tamilnadu, India was proposed. This novel hereditary based calculation utilizes the pixel guide of every picture and tries to figure out the ranges using so as to fit the right determination for vegetation Biomass the hereditary based methodology. The simplicity of execution permits any further changes to the calculation in future. Capable picture handling component permitted improved control of picture A Google Programming interface was utilized to concentrate and yield picture. It permitted simple augmentation of the work to any demographic range. The proposed calculation is superior to anything some present day devices as it is taking into account singular pixel values as opposed to layers. All the more vitally, no pre-meaning of the picture or layer is needed. Pixel control permits blending the effectively utilized procedures with other more up to date picture handling strategies that would prompt a more far reaching and multi-useful calculation. The advances utilized are between operable and can be kept as a steady stage for further up degree. The calculation does endure in computational speed and can be upgraded by utilizing better equipment offices. Parallel registering may be another choice to accelerate the handling of free pixels. Certain area methodologies can be utilized to upgrade honing of picture and better limits.
Big Data and Internet of Things for Analysing and Designing Systems Based on Hyperspectral Images
Authors: Bhargavi Peyakunta , Jyothi Singaraju
Published: August 2018

The recent development of sensors remote sensing is an important source of information for mapping and natural and man-made land covers. The increasing amounts of available hyperspectral data originates from AVIRIS, HyMap, and Hyperion for a wide range of applications in the data volume, velocity, and variety of data contributed to the term big data. Sensing is enabled by Wireless Sensor Network (WSN) technologies to infer and understand environmental indicators, from delicate ecologies and natural resources to urban environments. The communication network creates the Internet of Things (IoT) where sensors and actuators blend with the environment around us, and the information is shared across platforms in order to develop a common operating picture (COP). With RFID tags, embedded sensor and actuator nodes, the next revolutionary technology developed transforming the Internet into a fully integrated Future Internet. This chapter describes the use of Big Data and Internet of the Things for analyzing and designing various systems based on hyperspectral images.
Aerial and Remote Sensing Archaeology
Authors: Kaimaris Dimitris , Georgiadis Charalampos , Patias Petros , Tsioukas Vassilis
Published: August 2018

New techniques and methodological procedures, which would allow at a short time and at low cost for the identification of a new archaeological site, were always in the interest of archaeologists. In this paper, aerial and remote sensing archaeology issues will be analyzed, both as measuring tools for the documentation of existing archaeological structures as well as tools of archaeology prospection, which are based on the appearance of the reflection of covered structures in images, i.e. the so-called marks.
The Value and Scope of GIS in Marketing and Tourism Management
Authors: Taşçıoğlu Mertcan , Yener Dursun
Published: August 2018

Geographical information systems (GIS) are the systems that store location-based data and analyze them. GIS originated from the conventional cartographic techniques of simply drawing maps with a pencil and board. Following the adoption of computer technology, GIS further evolved as a geo-referenced dynamic information system, which can today be considered as a multi-disciplinary instrument that links different disciplines like geography, computer science, remote sensing, civil engineering, statistics, marketing, and other social and behavioral sciences. In this chapter, GIS is defined and its importance and functions are described in detail. Usage of GIS in marketing is explained, especially its development in marketing theory. Also, the value and scope of GIS in tourism management with a view to understand the spread of GIS applications in tourism is explored.
Google Earth Revisited
Authors: Kaimaris Dimitris , Patias Petros , Georgoula Olga
Published: August 2018

The interpretation of photos and the processing of Google Earth imagery which allowed the “random” discovery, as a result of a non-systematical research, of a numerous marks of buried constructions in the wide area of the city of Larisa (Thessaly, Greece) is presented in this project. Additional data as aerial photographs over time, satellite images and the digital terrain model of the same area has been used. From the numerous marks, this project mainly focuses on three positions where the positive marks (soilmarks or/and cropmarks), circular or/and linear, reveal on a satisfying level covered construction of great dimensions. The ongoing research activity of the editorial team along with this research highlights the advantages of using Google Earth imagery in an attempt to “random” mark of unknown covered constructions, or, in the frame of a systematic survey of aerial and remote sensing archaeology, as additional and not exclusive source of information.
Mapping Regional Landscape by Using OpenstreetMap (OSM)
Authors: Yang Di
Published: August 2018

A forest patterns map over a large extent at high spatial resolution is a heavily computation task but is critical to most regions. There are two major difficulties in generating the classification maps at regional scale: large training points sets and expensive computation cost in classifier modelling. As one of the most well-known Volunteered Geographic Information (VGI) initiatives, OpenstreetMap contributes not only on road network distributions, but the potential of justify land cover and land use. Google Earth Engine is a platform designed for cloud-based mapping with a strong computing power. In this study, we proposed a new approach to generating forest cover map and quantifying road-caused forest fragmentations by using OpenstreetMap in conjunction with remote sensing dataset stored in Google Earth Engine. Additionally, the landscape metrics produced after incorporating OpenStreetMap (OSM) with the forest spatial pattern layers from our output indicated significant levels of forest fragmentation in Yucatan peninsula.
Assessing Performance of Leaf Area Index in a Monitored Mountain Ecosystem on Mount Elgon-Uganda
Authors: Oyana Tonny , Kayendeke Ellen , Adu-Prah Samuel
Published: August 2018

This study investigated the performance of leaf area index (LAI) and photosynthetically active radiation (PAR) in a mountain ecosystem. The authors hypothesized that significant spatial and temporal differences exist in LAI and PAR values in the Manafwa catchment on Mt. Elgon. This was accomplished through field measurements of actual LAI and PAR values of diverse vegetation types along a ~900m altitudinal gradient (1141–2029 masl) in the catchment. In-situ measurements were obtained from 841 micro-scale study plots in 28 sampling plots using high resolution LAI sensors. The findings showed a significant positive relationship exists between elevation and observed LAI (r = 0.45, p = 0.01). A regression model further shows that elevation and curvature of the landscape slope were highly significant (p < 0.00002) predictors of LAI. Finally, the authors detected significant spatial and temporal differences in LAI and PAR values in the study area. The study provides a critical basis for setting up long-term monitoring plans to understand mountain ecosystems and global climate change.
Identification of Geospatial Objects Using Spectral Pattern
Authors: Barman Subhabrata
Published: August 2018

Solar radiation on hitting a target surface may be transmitted, absorbed or reflected. Different materials reflect and absorb differently at different wavelengths. The reflectance spectrum of a material is a plot of the fraction of radiation reflected as a function of the incident wavelength and serves as a unique signature for the material. In principle, a material can be identified from its spectral reflectance signature if the sensing system has sufficient spectral resolution to distinguish its spectrum from those of other materials. This premise provides the basis for multispectral remote sensing. Nguyen Dinh Duong (1997) proposed a method for decomposition of multi-spectral image into several sub-images based on modulation (spectral pattern) of the spectral reflectance curve. The hypothesis roots from the fact that different ground objects have different spectral reflectance and absorption characteristics which are stable for a given sensor. This spectral pattern can be considered as invariant and be used as one of classification rules.
Applications of Active Remote Sensing Technologies for Natural Disaster Damage Assessments
Authors: Rahman Muhammad Tauhidur
Published: August 2018

Immediately following a natural disaster, it is imperative to accurately assess the damages caused by the disaster for effective rescue and relief operations. Passive remote sensing imageries have been analyzed and used for over four decades for such assessments. However, they do have their limitations including inability to collect data during violent weather conditions, medium to low spatial resolution, and assessing areas and pixels on a damages/no damage basis. Recent advances in active remote sensing data collection methods can resolve some of these limitations. In this chapter, the basic theories and processing techniques of active remote sensing data is first discussed. It then provides some of the advantages and limitations of using active remote sensing data for disaster damage assessments. Finally, the chapter concludes by discussing how data from active sensors are used to assess damages from various types of natural disasters.
Land Use - Terrain Correlations in the Piedmont Tract of Eastern India
Authors: Sarkar Ashis , Patel Priyank Pravin
Published: August 2018

The Dulung River flows across West Bengal and Jharkhand in India. The geographical variables present within the basin area are categorised into groups like Physiographic, Morphometric and Land Use-Land Cover (LULC) attributes. These facets are mapped and overlain in a GIS environment and correlations drawn between them. Factor Scores obtained through Principal Component Analysis are further compared and correlated. The different variables are fused to obtain a comprehensive grouping of the above three facets that is reflective of the overall terrain attributes and its overlying LULC classes. Through this, within the Dulung River Basin, three broad Physiographic-Soil-Land Use Units (PSLUs) are identified, which comprise of the structural ridges and residual hills, piedmont plains and floodplains. For further insight into existing LULC-landform relations, select villages across the basin landscape are examined in detail. The relations derived help in suggesting possible land management practices in this region.
Geospatial Analysis of Land Loss, Land Cover Change, and Landuse Patterns of Kutubdia Island, Bangladesh
Authors: Rahman Munshi K. , Schmidlin Thomas W. , Munro-Stasiuk Mandy J. , Curtis Andrew
Published: August 2018

This study utilizes geospatial tools of remote sensing, geographical information systems (GIS), and global positioning system (GPS) to examine the land loss, land cover (LC) change, landuse of Kutubdia Island, Bangladesh. Multi-spectral Scanner (MSS), Thematic Mapper (TM), and Landsat8 OLI imageries were used for land cover change. For assessing the landuse patterns of 2012, spatial video data were collected by using contour GPS camera. Using remote sensing analysis three different land cover classes (water, trees and forest, and agriculture) were identified and land cover changes were detected from 1972 to 2013. The results show from 1972 to 2013, an estimated 9 km2 of land has been lost and significant changes have taken place from 1972 to 2013. Only an estimated .35 km2 area of accretion has taken place during the study period. Using GIS eight different landuse patterns were identified based on spatial video data.
VGI in the Geoweb
Authors: Buzzelli Michael , Brown David , Lee Kenwoo , Mullan Justin
Published: August 2018

The advent of user-generated content, crowdsourcing and other forms of lay data generation have led to opposing arguments about the quality and reliability of data in the geoweb. The main focus of this chapter is an ‘experiment' to test the quality, validity and lay monitoring of volunteered geographic information (VGI) data. Given the growing importance of VGI, in particular its very different sources and potential uses, it is important that we also consider how this movement affects the ways in which we re-envision the pedagogy of geographic education. Accordingly, a sub-theme of this paper focuses on the manner in which the VGI experiment is undertaken: the experiment is run with students as a means of complementing their otherwise technical GIS training with primary research that exposes them to the wider social issues and debates relating to geographic data. We discuss the implications of this research project both for observers of the development of VGI and the pedagogy of GIS teaching and learning.
Assessing Utilization and Effectiveness in Public Participative and Volunteered Geographic Information Systems for Environmental Data
Authors: Moreno April , Osailan Sarah
Published: August 2018

Geographic Information Systems (GIS) can serve as a planning tool to promote community health at many levels, such as the policy, organizational and public levels. The Brownfields to Healthfields (B2H) program involves creating new opportunities to support community public health, including the development of park spaces and new hospital facilities. However, there was no existing portal for organizations to access a map of brownfields data to meet the required criteria of the organization in seeking a space for transformation to a “healthfield” or other public services facility. Since the various types of community and demographic data were scattered, it was necessary to combine the data in a web application available to all stakeholders. This paper discusses the utilization of a new concept of operation, which includes participative and volunteered approaches that are addressed to include the contribution of various stakeholder groups, and to further improve planning for public health.
GIS, Spatial Analysis, and Modeling
Authors: Rouzbehani Khadijeh , Sajjadi Ghazaleh , Hatami Mohamad Rahim
Published: August 2018

Breast cancer is a major health issue in all countries affecting thousands of women. Its causes are unknown and the national and international strategies to reduce its morbidity and mortality levels are based on early detection of cancer through screening and treatment according to clinical guidelines. Thus, knowledge of which women are at risk and why they are at risk is therefore essential component of disease prevention and screening. In 2015, an estimated 231,840 new cases of invasive breast cancer are expected to be diagnosed in women in the United States, along with 60,290 new cases of non-invasive (in situ) breast cancer. The purpose of this study is to provide a more detailed analysis of the breast cancer distribution in the United States by comparing the spatial distribution of breast cancer cases against physical environmental factors using Geographic Information System (GIS). Further, it gives background information to the GIS and its applications in health-related research.
Geological and Geotechnical Investigations in Tunneling
Authors: Dalgıç Süleyman , Kuşku İbrahim
Published: August 2018

The one of important matter of the design of tunnel is that choosing of the building materials and to make away rock material from tunnel walls or surface. Another important point is that these factors are effective for the building of tunnel process. It is necessary to investigation detailed the matters such as choosing the route of tunnel, the method of excavation, design of tunnel, choosing of the building material, to preparing to application Project, revision of the Project, recycling of the rest materials etc. The one of important duty of engineer is that to realize the importance of security and economic conditions together. It isn't random the economic and timing work about this type of project, on the contrary it is definitely depending on good geotechnical and geological pre-research. The research which is along the route of tunnel supply economic and feasible work for the Project. The unit of in this book we will describe the methodology of tunnel building by using suit geotechnical and geological processes.
GIS-Based Decision Support System for Village Level
Authors: Pandian Subbu Lakshmi Esakki , Yarrakula Kiran , Chaudhury Probal
Published: August 2018

Decision support system (DSS) plays a vital role especially in rural areas to develop rural sector for sustainable development and socio-economic uplifting of the country. To make appropriate decisions and to develop village economy, decision support system is useful for the mandal revenue officer, collector, Surpanch, and different administrators. It deals both spatial and non-spatial data at village level and comprises various ancillary information including mandal maps and village-wise information of Anantapur and Kadapa districts of Andhra Pradesh such as number of houses, male and female, SC/ST/OBC/general (or) OC population, literate and illiterate population, total working and non-working population. Datasets are collected from district collector office, mandal revenue officer (MRO) and inserted in GIS database. This chapter makes an attempt to build features of various decisions at Anantapur and Kadapa districts by integrating various layers of information at village level.
Multi-Temporal Landsat Remote Sensing for Forest Landscape Fragmentation Analysis in the Yoko Forest, Kisangani, DRC
Authors: Ngamba Jean-Fiston Mikwa , Ekokinya Ewango Corneille , Luwesi Cush Ngonzo , Kahindo Yves-Dady Botula , Marie Muhogwa Jean , Seya Hyppolite Nshimba
Published: August 2018

This study assessed the impact of human activities on deforestation and sustainability of water resources and livelihoods in the Congo Basin. It mainly aimed to assess forest degradation in the Yoko reserve from 1976 to 2015 and investigate the compatibility of Landsat imagery for forest monitoring. Digital Image processing for unsupervised classification was done using ENVI software while supervised classification was done by means of ArcGIS 10. Results show that forest landscape faced large scale human induced fragmentation over the last 40 years. If these trends continue, they will affect the sustainability of water resources and livelihoods in the Congo Basin of the Democratic Republic of Congo. Hence, policy makers need to look at key drivers and address impacts that may threaten the future of Hydrological Ecosystems Services, including water and land resources in the Congo Basin. Authorities have to apply an Integrated Management of Water, Land and Ecosystems.
Coastline Change and Erosion-Accretion Evolution of the Sandwip Island, Bangladesh
Authors: Emran Al , Rob Md. Abdur , Kabir Md. Humayun
Published: August 2018

The study tries to analyze the morphological and hydrological changes and to establish their relationship in the Sandwip Island through the integration of Remote Sensing (RS) and Geographic Information Systems (GIS). The study concludes from the recent 30 years' data that the different parts of the island response different cycle of coastline change associated with hydrological dynamics. The resulted net loss of the coastline is about 6.98 km (0.23 km/y) and the net loss of the coastal area is about 23.99 km2 (0.8 km2/y). The erosion processes (increase in the water depth near shore) were active along the western and the south-western shores. This erosion of the island is facilitated by the steep slope of the bank, high tidal water pressure and loose bank materials. In contrast, the accretions (decrease in the water depth near shore) were taken place in the larger parts of the northern and the north-eastern shores of the island. This is due to the backwash sediment deposition with the favor of gentle topographic slope along shores.
Water Quality Estimation Using Combined Water Chemistry and Field Spectroscopy in the Shenandoah River, Virginia
Authors: Mbuh Mbongowo J. , Houser Paul R. , Heidari Ako
Published: August 2018

This study investigated the spatial dynamics of water quality across the Shenandoah River basin using spectroscopy and chemometrics to estimate chlorophyll (Chl), colored dissolved organic matter (CDOM) and turbidity using three band combinations and nutrients (total nitrogen and total phosphorous) in the Shenandoah River. The mean Chl a concentration for 555 nm, 560 nm and 640 nm were; 0.31 μg/l, 0.33 μg/l, and 0.51 μg/l respectively. Chlorophyll a showed strong correlations at band 640 (r = 0.92). The bands centered at 670/490 were the best in predicting CDOM and turbidity in the Shenandoah River Basin with an r2 = 0.56. Chemometrics analysis show that total phosphorous, nitrogen and turbidity can be predicted between 450 to 555nm and 670 to 710 nm, the range of wavelengths which indicated better predictability for spectroscopic analysis. The resultant concentration is used to develop predictive models to determine sensitive spectral variables for nitrogen, phosphorous, Chl-a, and CDOM.
Anomaly Detection in Hyperspectral Imagery
Authors: Ettabaa Karim Saheb , Ben Salem Manel
Published: August 2018

In this chapter we are presenting the literature and proposed approaches for anomaly detection in hyperspectral images. These approaches are grouped into four categories based on the underlying techniques used to achieve the detection: 1) the statistical based methods, 2) the kernel based methods, 3) the feature selection based methods and 4) the segmentation based methods. Since the first approaches are mostly based on statistics, the recent works tend to be more geometrical or topological especially with high resolution images where the high resolution implies the presence of many materials in the same geographic area that cannot be easily distinguished by usual statistical methods.
Leveraging Volunteered Geographic Information to Improve Disaster Resilience
Authors: Porto de Albuquerque João , Horita Flávio Eduardo Aoki , Degrossi Livia Castro , Rocha Roberto dos Santos , Camargo de Andrade Sidgley , Restrepo-Estrada Camilo , Leyh Werner
Published: August 2018

Volunteered Geographic Information (VGI) has emerged as an important additional source of information for improving the resilience of cities and communities in the face of natural hazards and extreme weather events. This chapter summarizes the existing research in this area and offers an interdisciplinary perspective of the challenges to be overcome, by presenting AGORA: A Geospatial Open collaboRative Architecture for building resilience against disasters and extreme events. AGORA structures the challenges of using VGI for disaster management into three layers: acquisition, integration and application. The chapter describes the research challenges involved in each of these layers, as well as reporting on the results achieved so far and the lessons learned in the context of flood risk management in Brazil. Furthermore, the chapter concludes by setting out an interdisciplinary research agenda for leveraging VGI to improve disaster resilience.
Addressing Digital Competencies, Curriculum Development, and Instructional Design in Science Teacher Education
Authors: DeCoito Isha
Published: August 2018

The author reports on a mixed-methods study focusing on teacher candidates' (TCs') digital competencies as they integrated digital literacies in a science methods course. The emphasis is on course assignments which incorporated digital literacies on a variety of levels as TCs developed 1) digital case studies, 2) scientific timelines, 3) concept presentations, and 4) science resource websites focusing on multimedia interactive activities. Results indicate that the explicit integration of digital literacies created and engaged learning communities while improving technological and scientific literacies in a purposeful manner. Findings include enhanced technological literacy in terms of learning about technology, awareness of the process of knowledge construction, personalized learning pedagogy, and heightened self-efficacy. There was also evidence that TCs utilized digital literacies learned in the course during their practicum.
Learner Engagement in Blended Learning
Authors: Spring Kristian J. , Graham Charles R. , Ikahihifo Tarah B.
Published: August 2018

Over a decade ago, blended learning (BL) was considered one of the most important emerging trends in higher education. It is utilized in today's society with increasing regularity and has changed the way in which instruction is provided. A recent study found that a majority of students (72%) prefer courses with some online component over traditional face-to- face (F2F) courses. Additionally, meta-analyses looking at evidence-based practices in online and blended learning have found a significant number of BL studies generally concluding that students in BL contexts performed better than those in fully online or traditional F2F contexts. Blended learning has great potential in terms of advancing student engagement and providing opportunities for researchers and practitioners to measure and cultivate that engagement and, in turn, learning outcomes.
Reflection as a Process From Theory to Practice
Authors: Bharwani Sonia , Musunuri Durgamohan
Published: August 2018

Over the years, the education system in India has been following a surface approach to learning that is characterised by lecture-based classroom teaching and rote learning. However, there is a growing clamor for intersection of theory and practice in the field of management education. A shift in focus from a teacher-centric approach to a student-centric, learning-focused approach is required. There are many learning models that enable students to develop their cognitive abilities and to learn from experience. Several of these models are based on the practice of reflection. Reflection as a process is meant to facilitate self-awareness in the context of practice. This chapter aims at understanding the significance of reflection. It also proposes to throw light on the practice of reflection as understood by students and the role of the instructor in creating a learning environment in which reflective learning is facilitated.
Screencasts and Learning Styles
Authors: Jesus Rui Alberto
Published: August 2018

Learning styles appear to explain something that is obvious: people learn in different ways. In this chapter, the emphasis is on the different sensory modalities by which students prefer to perceive stimuli from the outside. Professors can use several didactic materials to deliver instruction to their students (particularly in e-learning). One of these is screencasts, which are digital recordings of computer screen output, including audio voiceover. If well-planned and recorded, screencasts can include text, images, diagrams, audio, video, and simulations, thus aiming to reach several learning modalities. This chapter explores the relation between screencasts and sensory preferences (measured by the VARK questionnaire) in a sample of nursing students. The data was analyzed with descriptive and inferential statistics methods. The majority of these students were multimodal (61.4%), as opposed to unimodal (38.6%), and screencasts were found to be more appealing to the former, and face-to-face classes were more appealing to the latter.
Automatic Item Generation
Authors: Gierl Mark , Lai Hollis , Zhang Xinxin
Published: August 2018

Changes to the design and development of educational tests are resulting in the unprecedented demand for a large supply of content-specific test items. One way to address this growing demand is with automatic item generation. Automatic item generation is the process of using models to create test items with the aid of computer technology. The purpose of this chapter is to describe and illustrate a method for generating test items. The method is also illustrated using an example from the medical health sciences.
Computer Agent Technologies in Collaborative Learning and Assessment
Authors: Rosen Yigal
Published: August 2018

In recognition of the importance of collaborative and problem-solving skills, educators are realizing the need for effective and scalable learning and assessment solutions to promote the skillset in educational systems. In the settings of a comprehensive collaborative problem-solving assessment, each student should be matched with various types of group members and must apply the skills in varied contexts and tasks. One solution to these assessment demands is to use computer-based (virtual) agents to serve as the collaborators in the interactions with students. The chapter presents the premises and challenges in the use of computer agents in the assessment of collaborative problem solving and describes how human and computer agent collaborative assessments are used in an international learning and assessment project, Animalia.
Cost-Effective 3D Stereo Visualization for Creative Learning
Authors: Kamath R. S. , Kamat R. K.
Published: August 2018

Using a pedagogic case study of development of three dimensional (3D) stereo visualization suite, in this chapter, the authors exemplify the emerging paradigm shift of educational technology progressively from simulation to virtual reality (VR). The authors present the transformation of higher education archetypes using VR, which is poised to create a whole new meaning for the young learners. It mainly personifies the computer-generated three-dimensional environments that give the viewer an intense feeling of being immersed in an artificial world. The authors clearly demonstrate exploiting a 3D stereo visualization system in learning environment for bringing in an experiential learning experience of real industrial scenario in the classroom itself. They present the design and development of 3D visualization tool that embodies complex datasets in virtual environment. Thus, the chapter epitomizes the significance of VR in edification that impacts creative learning without using real tools on a less sophisticated technological platform.
Educational Technology and Intellectual Property
Authors: Farmer Lesley S. J.
Published: August 2018

Intellectual pursuit and the recognition of ideas is a central concept. Copyright attempts to protect the rights of intellectual creators while balancing those rights with the needs for access. As technologies have expanded, and their production has become more sophisticated, the legal regulations surrounding their use have become more complex. With the advent of interactive social media and increased resource sharing, as well as growth in distance learning opportunities, complying with the legal use of information technology can be daunting. In any case, leaders and other educators should be aware of the more important aspects of technology-related copyright laws and regulations. This chapter provides an overview of copyright law and fair use for educational research purposes. It explains different options for intellectual production and sharing, and notes administrative actions to support copyright compliance.
Leveraging Technology-Enhanced Teaching and Learning for Future IS Security Professionals
Authors: Heavin Ciara , Neville Karen , O'Riordan Sheila
Published: August 2018

The use of social media technologies to connect with peers/colleagues is prevalent amongst students and practitioners alike. These technologies are being used to share ideas, content, resources, and experiences for both social and professional purposes. However, modern learning environments do not always implement the latest technologies and are therefore failing to support the needs and career expectations of Generation 2020. The social business gaming platform considered in this chapter leverages the social networking concept in an academic environment. This study was undertaken in order to develop information systems (IS) security skillsets through the creation and facilitation of social business gaming. The game was utilized as a part of the continual assessment process to evaluate group interaction, role-playing, competition, and learning in an ISS assignment and facilitate the students to measure their own performances of understanding.
Online Academia
Authors: Bielenia-Grajewska Magdalena
Published: August 2018

The aim of this chapter is to discuss the main notions characterizing the academia of the 21st century, examining the sphere of online learning. To investigate the mentioned relations and complexities within academic learning itself, the 5S model of online academia has been discussed by this author. This model focuses the discussion about online academia on such elements as subject, situation, spirit, stakeholder, senses, and subject, and their subcategories to elaborate on the multilevel nature of universities. This framework provides an insight into the current complexities of online academia and offers an insight into its future perspectives.
The Effect of Innovative Communication Technologies in Higher Education
Authors: Kiriakidis Stavros , Kefallonitis Efstathios , Kavoura Androniki
Published: August 2018

The aim of this chapter is to (1) present a review of some innovative communication technologies in higher education and how these are implemented for organizational, marketing, and learning processes, (2) illustrate how information and communication technologies (ICTs) may drive the introduction and use of inventive activities in education. Financial cutbacks and limited government support for institutions of higher education led to (1) either a withering effect for them that made them shrink or merge in order to survive, or (2) they had to find innovative ways to survive and attract new students and audiences as potential users while making connections with the community and firms. Current trends in higher education institutions (HEIs) are associated with supplying the student with those learning methods that can lead to skills and contribute to his/her creative and individual thought. At the same time, teaching instructors need to be aware of the know-how in the communication and information technology sectors that can be further employed.
IT Solutions Supporting the Management of Higher Education Institutions in Poland
Authors: Janczyk-Strzała Elżbieta
Published: August 2018

Operating as they are on the contemporary difficult and dynamic market, higher education institutions (HEIs) should strive to ensure suitable conditions for a continuous furthering of their educational mission. Demographic changes and competition force the authorities of HEIs to effectively manage their resources and potential. It is vital then that HEIs, through the use of sophisticated information technology, draw from the opportunities offered by multi-dimensional reporting tailored to the requirements of specific customers. The chapter presents various IT solutions that can assist HEIs by supporting effective management, administration, and organization of their work. It is a result of literature studies, empirical research, and the experience of the author. This publication fills a gap as a source of information about IT solutions and their application in such specific entities as higher education institutions. It shows the great role and importance of information for HEI management purposes.
Technology Policies and Practices in Higher Education
Authors: McKenna Kelly
Published: August 2018

This chapter investigated the personal technology policies practiced and modeled in teacher preparation courses at a teaching-intensive university in the Rocky Mountain region. Both explicit and implicit classroom policies were revealed for teacher preparation classes to determine support for the allowance of technology by preservice teachers during their coursework. These teacher preparation classrooms are filled with digital learners who are mandated to integrate technology into their future teaching. But, how is personal technology assimilation being demonstrated to preservice teachers? Syllabi from all teacher preparation classes were reviewed, revealing that 45% contained an explicitly stated technology policy. Teacher education instructors were then surveyed with primarily open-ended questions to further investigate technology policies and use in the classroom. Overall integration of smart devices is not being modeled in teacher preparation classrooms at this teaching-intensive university.
E-Collaborative Learning (e-CL)
Authors: Xafopoulos Alexandros
Published: August 2018

This chapter investigates the highly topical issue of electronic collaborative learning (e-CL) in a holistic overview. First of all, a clarification of the term and context of e-CL is provided comparing it with similar concepts. Second, the human elements and communities of e-CL are examined, together with their roles and aspects. Third, the supportive learning elements—technology, pedagogy, and methodology—are visited, exploring the media, applications, environments, infrastructure, learner modelling, learning objectives, major learning theories, methodological activities, and the learning content and its modalities. Fourth, the framework elements—time, space, and society—are described and a classification of e-CL approaches according to them is provided. Fifth, the e-CL process is examined following the ADDIE model, analyzing its five phases and the design element hierarchy. Finally, future directions of e-CL are considered, and conclusions are reached. Throughout the chapter, key and significant approaches, methods, and terms are pinpointed and concisely developed.
Constructing Preservice Teachers' Knowledge of Technology Integration
Authors: Paciga Kathleen A. , Fowler Angela , Quest Mary
Published: August 2018

Technology can be an amazing tool for teachers and teaching, but only when used in developmentally appropriate ways. With nearly 300 new applications being created every day, it seems like teachers are staring into a technology-filled abyss that grows deeper and wider each minute. Teacher education programs can help preservice teachers be better prepared to consume, create, and collaborate in developmentally appropriate ways with children by 1) unpacking what developmentally appropriate practice looks, feels, and sounds like; 2) exploring ways experts like writers or musicians authentically utilize technologies in their areas of expertise; 3) providing hands-on experiences with a range of technologies across content areas to build up preservice teachers' levels of comfort just in the technology realm; and 4) requiring preservice teachers to utilize technology in developmentally appropriate ways as they work with children. This chapter provides a theoretical foundation and exemplars-in-practice for each of the aforementioned topics.
The Technological Pedagogical Content Knowledge of EFL Teachers (EFL TPACK)
Authors: Rahimi Mehrak , Pourshahbaz Shakiba
Published: August 2018

Teaching is known to be one of the most stressful occupations ever since teachers are believed to suffer from different social and political discriminations leading many of them to feel frustrated. In the 21st century, the force of technological empowerment and ICT integration in schools has multiplied the stressful nature of the profession for teachers. To make the whole process of education more successful and to protect the wellbeing of teachers, empowering teachers to handle their job appropriately is a very crucial issue. TPACK (technological pedagogical content knowledge) is the knowledge of most value in today's world, and understanding this complex knowledge is the very first step on the path of successful ICT integration into the process of teaching. With that being said, this chapter aims at investigating the concept of TPACK in terms of education in general and language teaching in particular.
Video Considerations for the World Language edTPA
Authors: Goulette Elizabeth , Swanson Pete
Published: August 2018

For decades in the United States, teacher preparation has been both a political and social focus. The development of highly effective teachers is highly scrutinized, and there is a new, nationally reviewed teacher performance assessment, edTPA, which teacher candidates must pass in order to become certified in 36 states and the District of Columbia. Research shows that teacher candidates in world language education have the most difficulty in assessing teaching and learning. In this chapter, the authors outline edTPA and present considerations regarding the use of video in conjunction with the integrated performance assessment as a means to improve novice teacher performance on this high-stakes assessment.