bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Optimum Shape Design of Rotor Shafts Using Genetic Algorithm
Authors: Byung Gun Choi  , Bo Suk Yang
Published: March 2007

In general, the dynamic design of a rotor system is to optimize the system in stability at the operating speed, unbalance response in the vicinity of the rotor critical speeds, and minimize the system weight considering economics. This paper deals with the optimum shape design of the rotor shaft to change the critical speeds under the constraints of the constant mass. As to the design procedures, the genetic algorithm was applied to find the optimum diameters of a rotor shaft so that the optimized rotor system can yield the critical speeds as far from the operating speed as possible. Genetic algorithm is a search algorithm based on the natural world, which states that the individual with the superior character creates the superior descendant because of having excellent adaptability, high survivability, and more crossing chance, and the natural genetics that repeatedly perform the process of reproduction, crossover, and mutation. The results show that the critical speeds of the rotor-bearing systems can be significantly improved by slight modification of the shaft diameters, even without increasing the total mass of a rotor system.
Phase Delay Control of a Cantilever Beam
Authors: Hwang J.K. , Choi C.-H. , Song C.K.
Published: March 2007

This paper addresses a phase delay control for controlling low-frequency vibrations of a lightly damped beam using a piezoelectric actuator and a piezoelectric sensor. This controller is designed to behave like the velocity feedback controller at the frequencies of modes to be controlled. This controller is composed of a lowpass filter, a highpass filter, and all-pass filters. The lowpass and the highpass filters arc supplemented for the robust stability of uncontrolled modes. The highpass filter also suppresses the amplification of the vi bration around the frequency zero in the control system. The all-pass filters are designed to give desirable phase delay at the natural frequencies. The phase delay control is applied to vibration suppression of a can tilever beam with a piezoelectric actuator and a piezoelectric sensor. Experimental results show that the phase delay control works well.
Self-Excited Oscillations of Dual Cylindrical Flexible Weir Shells Due to Overflow Fluid
Authors: Tanaka Shigehiko , Kaneko Shigehiko , Watanabe Tatsuo
Published: March 2007

Self-excited oscillations of the structure coupled with inner fluid occurred in the insulation wall cooling system of the fast breeder reactor Super-Phenix-1 (SPX-1) in France during test operations. In this system, lower temperature sodium going up along the inside of the main vessel in a feeding plenum brims over a cylindrical flexible weir shell and flows into a restitution plenum. It is reported that the self-excited oscillations were found to occur at the same natural frequency of the sloshing in the restitution plenum, the free surface of the fluid in both feeding and restitution plenums oscillated at large amplitudes, and the cylindrical shell was found to oscillate with an oval vibration mode instability. Such an instability is called a coupled sloshing mode. In this study, the authors analyzed and performed experiments on the instability of a multiple cylindrical structure system that has dual flexible weir shells. They measured self-excited oscillations changing various parameters such as discharge flow rate, difference of the liquid heights between feeding and restitution plenums, and so on. In the experiment, it was found that dual cylindrical shells oscillate in and out of phase with each other with an oval vibration mode under the specific conditions. Comparison between theoretically and experimentally obtained instability regions was made showing good agreement.
Control of Low-Velocity Impact Response in Composite Plates
Authors: Yigit Ahmet S. , Christoforou Andreas P.
Published: March 2007

An active control strategy for controlling impact response in composite plates is proposed. A linear quadratic regulator (LQR) controller is designed based on a reduced-order model that captures the essential dynamics of the system. Simulations results show that the proposed controller reduces the energy transferred to the structure. Thus, the possibility of impact-induced structural damage is reduced for a wide range of impact conditions. Implementation issues are discussed and some practical limitations are identified.
A Clear-Box Adaptive System for Flexible Spacecraft Identification and Disturbance Rejection
Authors: Goodzeit Neil E. , Phan Minh Q.
Published: March 2007

This paper presents an automatic system for identification and rejection of unknown periodic dis turbances applicable to real-time control of flexible spacecraft. The system adaptively performs system iden tification, monitors and tracks disturbance frequencies if they are present, detects the emergence of new distur bance frequencies, predicts the contribution of each disturbance frequency on the system response, determines which disturbance frequencies should be targeted for cancellation and which should be ignored by taking into account actuator constraints, and synthesizes the necessary feed-forward control for selective disturbance cancellation. No direct measurement of the disturbances is required. New system identification results are extensively used to bring out detailed information about the system dynamics and the disturbance environ ment that is normally hidden or left unused in standard black-box approaches, hence the descriptive term clear-box is used. Intelligent decision-making logic can be built into this information-rich architecture so that selective cancellation of the disturbance frequencies can be achieved. This paper derives all the relevant re cursive expressions for multi-input multi-output clear-box system and disturbance identification and control signal synthesis. A detailed simulation study is used to illustrate the application of the proposed scheme on a high-fidelity 52-state flexible spacecraft model, followed by an extensive discussion on the lessons learned.
Vibration Suppression in Bladed-Disk Assemblies With Deliberate Mistuning via Magnetic Bearings
Authors: Szász György , Flowers George T.
Published: March 2007

This work is a study of bladed-disk vibration control using magnetic bearings. A simulation model consisting of a shaft/bladed-disk assembly supported by two radial magnetic bearings and a thrust bearing is considered. A simplified model is developed and used to identify controllable vibration modes. This information is then used to discuss the potential effectiveness and limitations of bladed-disk vibration control using shaft-based actuators (the magnetic bearings) on symmetric rotors. A control strategy based on using deliberate bladed mistuning is presented for such systems in light of this discussion.
Identification of Nonlinear Damping Using Energy Balance Method with Random Pulse Excitation
Authors: Kulisiewicz Maciej , Piesiak Stanislaw , Bocian Miroslaw
Published: March 2007

This paper presents the application of the energy balance equation to the identification of nonlinear damping in complex multi-degree-of-freedom systems subjected to excitations in the form of a random series of impulses. It is proven that the proposed procedure makes it possible to determine damping characteristics irrespective of the form of purely elastic interactions and the occurrence of the so-called mixed term. The procedure was verified experimentally, using a system with two degrees of freedom. The effect of the intensity with which impulses appear (pulse rate) on the quality of the obtained results is examined. The presented method can be applied to investigate the damping of vibrations of selected elastodamping elements in real vibrating systems.
Predictive Time-Delay Control of Vehicle Suspensions
Authors: Vahidi Ardalan , Eskandarian Azim
Published: March 2007

A predictive control methodology is introduced for active vehicle suspension control, taking into account the effect of time delay as an inherent characteristic of active systems in the absence of preview information. In this method, at each time instant, the control signal is calculated by minimizing a perfor mance index, based on the predicted response in a finite prediction horizon. The discrete predictive method ology, compared with the widely used linear quadratic regulator method, is easier to formulate and results in a discrete-time control algorithm suitable for digital control, and time delays can be more easily introduced in the formulation. In this paper, predictive control simulation results are compared with passive control re sults. It is shown that this method is capable of improving ride performance of the single-degree-of-freedom quarter-car model for a wide range of input frequencies in the presence of time delay, while in the meantime it maintains the maximum suspension travel below the maximum of passively controlled suspensions.
Response of a Parametrically Excited System to a Nonstationary Excitation
Authors: Neal Harold L. , Nayfeh Ali H.
Published: March 2007

The response of a single-degree-of-freedom system to a nonstationary excitation is investigated by using the method of multiple scales as well as analog- and digital-computer simulations. The unexcited system has one focus and two saddle points. The system can be used to model rolling of ships in head or follower seas. The method of multiple scales is used to derive equations governing the modulation of the amplitude and phase of the response. The modulation equations are used to find the stationary solutions and their stability. The response to nonstationary excitations is found by integrating the original governing equation as well as the modulation equations. There is good agreement between the results of both approaches. For some frequency and amplitude sweeps, the nonstationary response found from integrating the original governing equation exhibits behaviors that are analogous to symmetry-breaking bifurcations, period-doubling bi furcations, chaos, and unboundedness present in the stationary case. The maximum response amplitude and the excitation amplitude or frequency at which the response becomes unbounded are found as functions of the sweep rate. The results of the digital-computer simulations are verified with an analog computer.
Modal Interaction in the Response of Antisymmetric Cross-Ply Laminated Rectangular Plates
Authors: Hadian J. , Nayfeh A.H. , Nayfeh J.F.
Published: March 2007

A higher-order shear-deformation theory is used to analyze the interaction of two modes in the response of thick laminated rectangular plates to transverse harmonic loads. The case of a two-to-one au toparametric resonance is considered. Four first-order ordinary differential equations describing the modula tion of the amplitudes and phases of the internally resonant modes are derived using the averaged Lagrangian when the higher mode is excited by a primary resonance. The fixed-point solutions are determined, and their stability is analyzed. It is shown that besides the single-mode solution, two-mode solutions exist for a certain range of parameters. It is further shown that, in the multimode case, the lower mode, which is indirectly excited through the internal resonance, may dominate the response. For a certain range of parameters, the fixed points lose stability via a Hopf bifurcation, thereby giving rise to limit-cycle solutions. It is shown that these limit cycles undergo a series of period-doubling bifurcations, culminating in chaos.
Spherical Elastic-Plastic Waves
Authors: Ziegler Franz , Irschik Hans , Holl Helmut
Published: March 2007

By examining the micro-mechanical foundation of thermoplasticity and ductile damage, an indica tion of its continuum effects, which are to be considered as material imperfections of the ideal linear elastic background structure, is given. This approach, originally developed for structural vibrations, was recently extended to include uniaxial propagating waves. This method suggests pursuing the initially elastic wave until it produces plastic deformation, which means a distortion and thus a source that emits elastic waves. Since the spherical waves in such a procedure must be derived from nondispersive D'Alembert wave functions, nonlocal sources extending from each of the plastic sources to infinity are ignited as well and contribute to the elastic wave pattern. The contribution of thermal stresses resulting from the rapid changes of temperature that are produced under adiabatic conditions by the dissipated energy are included in the general analysis, but the material parameters are kept constant. In terms of the control theory of distributed parameter time variant systems, a typical feedback mechanism is constructed. By dividing space into sufficiently small cells, the dis tortion may be kept constant during a yielding event, and by superposition of all the waves, the exact solution, including plastic wave fronts, is obtained. By means of the constitutive relations, strength and distribution of the internal sources are updated after each time step. One major aspect of the procedure is the consideration of the constitutive relations at a late stage of the solution routine. Yet all the merits of the elastic dynamic Green's function are taken into account. The nonlinear spherical wave problem resulting from an explosion in a cavity is solved for the special case of an ideal elastic plastic material under isothermal conditions and without any ductile damage to check the resulting wave pattern by comparison with previously published ones.
On Direct Methods for Constructing Nonlinear Normal Modes of Continuous Systems
Authors: Nayfeh Ali H.
Published: March 2007

A direct method based on the method of normal forms is proposed for constructing the nonlinear normal modes of continuous systems. The proposed method is compared with the method of multiple scales and the methods of Shaw and Pierre and King and Vakakis by applying them to three conservative systems with cubic nonlinearities: (a) a hinged-hinged beam resting on a nonlinear elastic foundation, (b) a model of a relief valve (linear elastic spring attached to a nonlinear spring with a mass), and (c) a simply supported linear beam with nonlinear torsional springs at both ends. In the absence of internal resonance, the constructed nonlinear modes with all four methods are the same. The method of multiple scales seems to be the simplest and the least computationally demanding. The methods of multiple scales and normal forms are applicable to problems with and without internal resonances, whereas the present forms of the methods of Shaw and Pierre and King and Vakakis are not applicable to problems with internal resonances.
Robustness of Adaptive Unbalance Control of Rotors with Magnetic Bearings
Authors: Knospe C.R. , Hope R.W. , Tamer S.M. , Fedigan S.J.
Published: March 2007

Rotor unbalance in the primary cause of unacceptable vibration in rotating machinery. Over the last decade, researchers have explored different methods of taking advantage of the active nature of magnetic bearings to attenuate unbalance response including both feedback and adaptive open loop methods. An important issue in the application of this technology to industrial machines is the robustness of the unbalance control algorithm. The stability and performance robustness of a promising adaptive open loop control algorithm is examined. Expressions are derived for a number of unstructured uncertainties. Experimental results are then presented, which evaluate the algorithm's robustness with respect to three variations: gain schedule errors, random additive errors, and feedback loop gain. The robustness exhibited in these tests was quite good and, along with the excellent vibration attenuation obtained, recommend the algorithm for further testing and industrial application. The experimental results indicate that the theoretical robustness expressions do provide an upper bound on actual performance, however this bound is not tight. Although the conservatism in the results is partly due to the variations considered and the worst-case nature of the performance robustness guarantees, the results also indicate that further research is needed on unstructured performance robustness for this method of rotor vibration control.
On The Response of Linear Time-Periodic Systems Subjected to Deterministic and Stochastic Excitations
Authors: Spires J.M. , Sinha S.C.
Published: March 2007

In many situations, engineering systems modeled by a set of linear, second-order differential equations, with periodic damping and stiffness matrices, are subjected to external excitations. It has been shown that the fundamental solution matrix for such systems can be efficiently computed using a Chebyshev polynomial series solution technique. Further, it is shown that the Liapunov-Floquet transformation matrix associated with the system can be computed, and the original time-periodic system can be put into a time- invariant form. In this paper, these techniques are applied in finding the transient response of periodic systems subjected to deterministic and stochastic forces. Two formulations are presented. In the first formulation, the response of the original system is computed directly. In the second formulation, first the original system is transformed to a time-invariant form, and then the response is found by determining the response of the time-invariant system. Both formulations use the convolution integral to form an expression for the response. This expression can be evaluated numerically, symbolically, or through a Chebyshev polynomial expansion technique. Results for some time-invariant and periodic systems are included, as illustrative examples.
Tuned Vibration Absorbers For Floating Bodies
Authors: Dimentberg M. , Chen S. , Hou Z. , Noori M.
Published: March 2007

A preliminary feasibility study is made of the efficiency of tuned vibration absorbers for reducing response of floating bodies, such as offshore platforms, barges, and so on, to random ocean waves. The absorbers are submerged spring-loaded flaps, with stiffnesses of the springs being adjusted for tuning to any specific (rigid-body) mode of the platform (heaving, pitching, etc.), whereas actual design of the flaps should provide the desired amount of drag-induced damping. Mean square response analysis of the system is made for the case of a narrow-band random excitation due to ocean waves by using method of moments in conjunction with statistical linearization (with Gaussian closure) for quadratic damping term. Extensive parametric study is made of the efficiency of vibration control through the use of absorbers, as represented by the root-mean-square (RMS) response reduction factor. In particular, the efficiency increases with the absorber/platform mass ratio, and it may be of some practical importance even at values of this ratio as small as 1%. The importance of the excitation bandwidth is demonstrated. It is shown that, whereas optimal damping of the absorber depends on the level of wave excitation, the RMS response reduction factor is fairly constant within a rather broad range of (nonlinear) damping, so that adjusting absorber damping for storm level may not be necessary.
Comparative Accuracy of Shallow and Deep Shell Theories for Vibration of Cylindrical Shells
Authors: Lim C.W. , Kitipornchai S. , Liew K.M.
Published: March 2007

This paper investigates the limits and range of application of the shallow shell theory for vibration of singly curved cylindrical panels. The significance of neglecting tangential displacements in bending and twist in the Donnell-Mushtari-Vlasov shallow shell theory is examined. The Ritz stationary energy principle, with a class of geometrically oriented two-dimensional polynomial functions (p-Ritz method), is employed to determine the frequency parameters. A comparison of numerical results from the shallow and deep shell theories is presented. The paper concludes that the limits of the shallow shell theory are dependent on the aspect ratio and boundary condition. The conclusion regarding limitation for a cantilevered shallow shell available in the literature cannot be directly extended to other types of boundary conditions. For shells with unit aspect ratio, shallow shell solutions are practically accurate even for relatively large subtended angles, but the results could be otherwise for long shells. In general, the shallow shell theory is relatively accurate for shells with a subtended angle of not more than 40°.
On-the-Edge Finishing of Curved Planar Parts
Authors: Starr Gregory P. , Powell Mark A.
Published: March 2007

In this paper, edge-finishing automation using an active position/force control system is discussed. The architecture for a robust edge-finishing control system is developed, and the implementation of this con trol system on an xy table for the purpose of finishing planar parts is discussed. The control system combines position/force control with a fuzzy logic controller to compensate for part tolerance and fixturing errors. The cutting process is modeled using an empirically derived set of equations that relate tool contact forces and variances to the final chamfer depth that results on the part. The paper demonstrates that tangential force and normal position control is the preferred method for task-level control of edge-finishing processes because kinematic instability that develops when finishing highly curved parts can be avoided. Motion planning at the task level preserves spatial accuracy and prevents this phenomenon from developing. Experimental eval uation of the system on a sample workpiece shows the system is capable of consistent edge finishing in the presence of workpiece position uncertainty.
Parameter Identification, Estimation, and Dynamometer Valida tion of the Nonlinear Dynamics of an Automotive Spark-Ignition Engine
Authors: Hariri B. , Shenton A.T. , Dorey R.E.
Published: March 2007

The identification is described of a nonlinear mathematical model of a modem four-cylinder four- stroke spark-ignition automotive engine for idle-speed control applications. The primary outputs are engine speed and inlet-manifold pressure, and the primary inputs are mass air/fuel ratio, spark timing, air bleed valve duty cycle, and disturbance torque. The model can be used for simulating and predicting the dynamic response of the engine system for control algorithm development as a tool to evaluate various engine control concepts. The nonlinear mathematical engine model is obtained using an assumed nonlinear model structure, and a sequential least squares identification algorithm is used to estimate the model parameters. The model formulation, which is based on nonlinear continuous differential equations, consists of four state variables with 15 parameters to represent the engine dynamics. The model contains representations of the idle air bypass valve, manifold plenum, engine-pumping phenomena, brake output torque, and rotational dynamics. The model structure and identified parameter set are validated using experimental data from an engine in an electric dynamometer. The results indicate the suitability of the model structure and nonlinear identification technique for general engine idle-speed control model applications in both off-line and on-line implementations.
Feedback Through Steady-State Target Optimization for Nonlinear Model Predictive Control
Authors: Meadows Edward S. , Badgwell Thomas A.
Published: March 2007

Model predictive control (MPC) algorithms use an explicit process model to predict future plant behavior and select an optimal control sequence based on a user-defined objective function. The optimal sequence is implemented until new data are available, at which time the data are incorporated as feedback and the calculation is repeated. One of the defining features of MPC is the repeated optimization of an objective that incorporates the most recent feedback from the process. Since most MPC algorithms used in industry are based on input-output models, state feedback is rarely used in practice. Feedback is usually incorporated by including an output error term in the objective function that includes the effects of disturbances and model mismatch. When internal states are included in the process model, other feedback options become available. This paper presents a promising new feedback approach in which the output error term is used to precalculate steady-state targets for state and control variables by means of an initial nonlinear program. The target values are then used to formulate the dynamic MPC objective. Results show that the new approach can provide stability and robustness properties equivalent to those of conventional MPC feedback formulations, with as much as an order of magnitude decrease in overall computation time. This makes nonlinear, state-based MPC much more attractive for on-line implementation.
Nonlinear Vibration of a Rotating System With an Electromagnetic Damper and a Cubic Restoring Force
Authors: Kligerman Y. , Gottlieb O. , Darlow M.S.
Published: March 2007

The nonlinear dynamics and stability of a rotating system with an electromagnetic noncontact damper are investigated. The rotating system model includes a cubic restoring force representing nonlinear behavior of shaft supports at the boundaries. Analysis of the rotor equilibrium state reveals that the system becomes unstable via a Hopf bifurcation when reaching a specific supercritical angular velocity. A closed-form solution for the radius of the limit cycle and the frequency of the self-excited oscillation are obtained. Forced vibration induced by the rotating system unbalance is investigated by a numerical simulation. System response includes periodic and quasi-periodic solutions. Analysis of the nonlinear rotating system enables a possible explanation of the aperiodic phenomena documented for rotors controlled by an electromagnetic eddy-current damper in high-speed operation.
Dynamic Stability of an Elastic Cylindrical Shell Being in External Contact With an Elastic Isotropic Medium With Respect to Nonstationary Excitations
Authors: Rossikhin Y.A. , Shitikova M.V.
Published: March 2007

The problem of nonstationary vibrations of an infinitely long cylindrical shell of constant thickness, whose internal side is suddenly subjected to tangential and normal displacement velocities but its external side is in welded or smooth contact with an elastic medium, is considered. The shell is kept under uniform ax ial pressure. Nonstationary excitation to the shell gives rise to two types of cylindrical shock waves in the contacting elastic isotropic medium. The solution behind the wave front up to the contact boundary is con structed by using ray series. Coefficients of the ray series are found from recurrent differential equations of the ray method within the accuracy of arbitrary functions dependent on angular and axial coordinates. Arbi trary functions, in their turn, are determined from the conditions of continuity for displacements and stresses on the contact boundary of the shell and the medium, as well as from the initial conditions. Calculations have been carried out with due account of five terms of the ray series for the functions to be found. The time depen dence of the tangential and normal components of the displacement vector for the cylindrical shell has been obtained. It has been shown that, in time, the behavior of the shell's normal displacement is dependent on the magnitude of the axial pressure: under axial pressure in excess of the critical value, the normal displacements of some set of points belonging to the shell may increase essentially in a short time.
Professional Insights: I'd Rather Be A Nurse!
Authors: Billings Carolyn V.
Published: March 2007

Professional Progress Notes reports innovations, ideas, and insights relevant to the advancement of psychiatric nursing. Readers are encouraged to contribute their observations about front line issues, new approaches to care, and other related matters for inclusion in this regular feature.
A National Perspective on Prescriptive Authority for Advanced Practice Psychiatric Nurses
Authors: Kaas Merrie J. , Markley Jill M.
Published: March 2007

Advanced practice psychiatric nurses (APPNs) are expanding their roles to include pre scriptive authority. This expanded role provides new opportunities to define APPNs as autonomous mental health providers who can offer comprehensive services that inte grate psychotherapies and psychopharmacological interventions. Unfortunately, these opportunities are often restricted by state statutes and rules regulating prescriptive authority. This article describes prescriptive authority for APPNs, state by state, and dis cusses major issues that must be addressed to ensure that APPNs have the opportuni ties to practice consistent with their educational and clinical qualifications. (J Am Psychiatr Nurses Assoc [1998]. 4, 190-198)
Ethical Preferences among Business Leaders: Implications for Business Schools
Authors: Conaway Roger N. , Fernandez Thomas L.
Published: March 2007

Since 1976, the American Assembly of Collegiate Schools of Business (AACSB) has encouraged business schools to include ethics in their curricula. Because lan guage is the means for conveying values, including ethical values, business com munication faculty play an important role in deciding what should be taught, and how. But until very recently, most researchers failed to look specifically at actual practices and perceptions in the workplace. To address that need, we conducted a survey of 250 business leaders concerning their ethical preferences and compared our results with an earlier study of business faculty and students. The survey, adapted from one used in the Arthur Andersen Business Ethics Program, consists of 20 narratives which presented respondents with the need to judge the impor tance of certain issues and their approval or disapproval of the action or decision described. We found no significant differences in responses to the 14 items which addressed ethical issues in such areas as creating health and environmental risks, taking credit when credit is not due, focusing on disability issues, deceiving cus tomers with products and services, and using insider information to gain personal advantage. We did find significant differences in responses to six narratives focused on ignoring wrongdoing in the workplace, doing special favors for others to gain personal advantage, and covering up flaws in merchandise or operations. Our results, and the survey instrument itself, provide useful tools for the business com munication classroom.
Adapting an American-based Simulation to a Hong Kong Classroom
Authors: Du-Babcock Bertha , Babcock Richard D.
Published: March 2007

Case studies tend to embed the language and values of the culture in which they are created. To use an American-based behavioural simulation, Looking Glass Inc., in Hong Kong, we needed to adapt it to the students' language environment and proficiency, their culturally derived behaviours, and their understanding of the context of American business. In Hong Kong, the norms prescribing language use are complex and contradictory; English is a major business, government, and legal language, but Cantonese and sometimes Mandarin have a continuing presence, especially in oral communication. The English in the simulation, however, reflect ing the authors' emphasis on realism, included slang and idiomatic expressions that were confusing even to students otherwise fluent in the language, and thus we had to modify materials to aid comprehension. We also had to adjust our administra tion of the materials to account for cultural differences between the individualistic and low power distance dimensions of the American scene represented in the sim ulation and the collectivistic and high power distance environment our students found more comfortable. Our strategy in adapting the simulation was to stimulate participants in Looking Glass Inc. to act authentically in their roles, negate reac tive and promote proactive behaviour at all four organisational levels, and encour age the thoughtful and complete analysis of the simulation, not something that came naturally. Finally, we had to make explicit several elements of American business assumed by the authors but not known to the students, including Ameri can geography and transportation systems, laws and administrative bodies, and race and gender issues.
Using Experiential Learning Theory and the Myers-Briggs Type Indicator in Teaching Business Communication
Authors: Goby Valerie Priscilla , Lewis Justus Helen
Published: March 2007

As more emphasis is placed on groupwork in business environments, management students need to be aware of the psychological underpinnings of communication. They also benefit from understanding how people learn because they are likely to have to incorporate such understanding when, as managers, they implement orga nizational change. Moreover, they have to become life-long learners themselves as they adapt to new business environments. Business communication classes can perform an important role in preparing students to meet these challenges by intro ducing them to the Myers-Briggs Type Indicator and Kolb's experiential learning cycle.
Interpersonal Communication for Police Officers: Using Needs Assessment to Prepare for Skeptical Trainees
Authors: Woods Marilyn J.
Published: March 2007

The philosophy of community policing emphasizes interpersonal communication skills for police officers. However, trainee police officers may be wary of training conducted by someone outside of law enforcement. This article lends support for using a needs assessment that helps trainers overcome organizational and personal boundaries in such a training class. In teaching interpersonal communication for groups of 8 to 12 police officers in two-hour training sessions, I learned that strate gically using the results of a needs assessment could encourage trainees to have a vested interest in the class and help the trainer feel competent and comfortable.
Writing Across the Curriculum in a College of Business and Economics
Authors: Plutsky Susan , Wilson Barbara A.
Published: March 2007

A recent study examined how written communication concepts and skills have been integrated into core courses in the College of Business and Economics at California State University, Northridge. Writing-across-the-curriculum programs have met with mixed success. We wanted to see how elements of such a program were working at our university. Through a survey of faculty, we found the pres ence of both formal and informal writing policies, differences in standards for writ ing in upper-division core courses, differences in assignments, differences in assess ment strategies and in the results of such assessments, and, finally, differences in perceptions about whether WAC is a good idea. In general, faculty do provide opportunities for students to write, but many feel students write poorly and thus can handle only easy assignments, and many faculty consider themselves ineffec tive teachers of writing. Based on this study we recommend the implementation of team-taught, interdisciplinary courses; the development of standards for writing and assessment ; and training programs for faculty who want to integrate writing into their courses.
Collaborative Peer Evaluation: Best Practices for Group Member Assessments
Authors: Gueldenzoph Lisa E. , May Gary L.
Published: March 2007

As collaborative or team-based projects become more popular in both secondary and post-secondary classrooms, instructors are looking for ways for group mem bers to effectively evaluate one another. Constructing effective evaluation tools can be a daunting task. As shown by a review of literature, best practices include (1) building a foundation in the classroom that supports collaborative evaluation, (2) creating effective evaluation tools by articulating specific criteria and ensuring honest student participation (3) implementing formative feedback during the col laborative experience, (4) formulating summative feedback at the conclusion of the experience, and (5) assessing the collaborative evaluation process.
Strengthen Your Business Communication Program with an Alumni Advisory Board
Authors: Penrose John M.
Published: March 2007

Faculty, departments, and colleges are being pressured by state legislatures, boards of trustees, and re-accreditation organizations to assess themselves and their prod uct aggressively. Assessment may deal with demographics, such as number of stu dents per class; perceived quality, such as the nurnber of publications by faculty; or by outcomes, such as who hires the graduates and how well the graduates per form. External advisors are helpful in conducting such evaluations. One such group is an alumni advisory board, which can be established and operate with min imal effort and cost, yet can yield many benefits. The Alumni Board of the Infor mation and Decision Systems Department at San Diego State includes recent graduates nominated by faculty, is targeted at about 75 members, and is queried several times a year on issues related to curriculum, new topics of interest to the classroom, and job trends.
Companies Can Apologize: Corporate Apologies and Legal Liability
Authors: Patel Ameeta , Reinsch Lamar
Published: March 2007

Discussions of corporate apologies frequently state or imply that apologies create legal liabilities for the apologist and, therefore, that corporate attomeys routinely recommend against apologies. A review of formal ("black letter") and common law indicates that apologies generally do not constitute evidence of guilt and that, in fact, they sometimes have positive consequences for the apologist. Persons who practice (or teach) crisis communication should avoid the mistake of relying on an over-simplified and inaccurate understanding of the legal issues surrounding corpo rate apologies.
Grammatik 5® for Windows: Random Thoughts from a White, Male, Middle-Class German-Canadian
Authors: Mende Richard
Published: March 2007

In this potentially controversial article, the author expresses grave concerns about Grammatik 5 for Win dows, both as a teaching tool and as a subtle means of propagating a political perspective. His objections to the software are on four grounds: lexicological, grammatical, structural, and political. The software presents users with feedback that is often wrong, frequently confusing, and sometimes irrelevant. Of particular interest is his discov ery that Grammatik 5 has been programmed to encourage "political correctness."
Written Communication Skills of International Business Persons
Authors: Casady Mona , Wasson Lynn
Published: March 2007

To determine written communication skill requirements, responsibilities, and deficiencies of employees in interna tional businesses, a nationwide survey of key personnel administrators in selected companies was conducted. The findings indicate that (a) major writing responsibilities exist in various departments within international compa nies, (b) the variety of documents produced are similar to those in domestic businesses, (c) most written do cuments are produced at the keyboard or in longhand, and (d) the major writing deficiency is mechanics. Screening tech niques employed to assess writing abilities before hiring individuals most often include a review of the application materials. Most reported that no specific communication problems exist because nearly all business is conducted in English. Yet the representatives who were interviewed had recommendations for ensuring successful international written communications.
Group Writing: Student Perceptions of the Dynamics and Efficiency of Groups
Authors: Winter Janet K. , Neal Joan C.
Published: March 2007

Understanding student perceptions of group work should help educators prepare students to be effective group members in the classroom and at work. This study ascer tained student perceptions of their learning and achievement in group situations. The following correlations were determined: (a) There was a relationship between student grades and perceptions of the writing quality as well as perceptions of the amount learned about group processes; (b) there was no correlation between grades and student opinions of the quantity of work achieved, the type of person who hindered the group the most, and whether the student enjoyed the group work.
Enhancing Communication and Interactional Effectiveness with Mexican-American Trainees
Authors: Carson Kerry D. , Carson Paula Phillips , Irwin Charles
Published: March 2007

Applying an international framework of work-related values, we offer practical suggestions for improving the effectiveness of training initiatives directed at Mexican- Americans. Specifically, it is recommended that those who train workers of Mexican descent (a) emphasize considerate behavior, (b) use encouragement techniques, (c) avoid public confrontation, (d) maintain a respectful distance with trainees, (e) foster participation, (f) offer collaborative team projects, (g) inspire ongoing education, (h) formally recog nize program completion, (i) allow ample time for topic coverage, (j) be sensitive to the status of women, (k) avoid blaming students for training failures, (l) settle conflicts amicably, and (m) provide guidance and structure for the participants. Since productive organizations must assume the responsibility for training employees when the prepara tory education system fails, implications for universities serving Mexican-American populations are also offered.
Communication Instruction in MBA Programs: A Survey of Syllabi
Authors: Bogert Judith , Butt David
Published: March 2007

A survey of syllabi of MBA communication courses suggests that the "typi cal" MBA course focuses on skill development and integrates both speaking and writing, often with emphasis on speech. It builds problem solving and strategic communication skills through experiential learning gained in work shops, case studies, or field experiences. Current trends favor integration of communication courses into a unified core.
Graduate Business Students' Preferences for the Managerial Communication Course Curriculum
Authors: Hynes Geraldine E. , Bhatia Vinita
Published: March 2007

The purpose of this study was to determine graduate business students' pref erences for the business communication course curriculum. Two hundred fifty- five graduate business students who had taken a core course in managerial communication were surveyed, 86% of whom are employed. The most highly rated course topics were making presentations, writing memos and letters, lis tening and interpersonal communication, impromptu speaking, and business report formats. The topics rated least important were international business communication, using technology, and managing diversity. The most fre quently suggested additional topics were job interviews, team building, writing manuals/policies/procedures, and ethics.
Personnel Administrators' Preferences for Résumé Content: Ten Years After
Authors: Hutchinson Kevin L. , Brefka Diane S.
Published: March 2007

With the heavy reliance upon restcmes for securing employment, instructors are called upon both formally and informally to teach résumé design. The pre sent research was conducted in response to the observation that limited empir ical research exists on résumé content. More specifically, the research extends from and compares to a study of a decade ago (Hutchinson, 1984) to detect potential changes in the preferences for résumé content of personnel adminis trators in Fortune 500 organizations. Based upon responses to questionnaires, the present research draws comparisons between the 1984 research and the present survey to enhance the information available to teachers of résumé design.
A Critical Analysis Of USAir's Image Repair Discourse
Authors: Benoit William L. , Czerwinski Anne
Published: March 2007

Faced with a crisis, what can a business say? Crisis communication literature tends to focars on what to do before and after a crisis and on the kinds of crises corporations face. Less attention is given to the options available within mes sages about a crisis. The theory of image restoration provides a useful key to composing such messages. This article applies the theory to one case study in image repair discourse: USAir's response to media coverage of the crash of one of its aircraft in Pittsburgh in 1994. Introducing such case studies in the classroom helps students to understand the basic tenets of persausion in the highly charged context of repairing a corporate reputation after an attack.
Enhancing Connections Between Students and Instructors: African-American Students' Use of Computer-Mediated Communication
Authors: Griffin Frank W. , Anderton-Lewis Lillie
Published: March 2007

The move to incorporate computer-mediated communication (CMC) into the business curriculum is driven by job market demands for information technol ogy skills. Business instructors may discover, however, a pedagogical bonus: more communication with their students outside the classroom. We studied the perceptions and practices of 138 students in business communications at one of the historically black colleges and universities who used e-mail and the Internet to complete assignments. The results indicate that CMC encouraged students to become active learners and to contact instructors. Anecdotal evi dence suggests that e-mail helps African-American students to see instructors as facilitators, though it does not necessarily become a rhetorical "safe house," where students engage in vernacular discourse. Nevertheless, e-mail fosters an informal rhetorical relationship that rewards openness and collaboration among students and instructors within the formal academic setting.
Dear ???: Understanding British Forms of Address
Authors: Scott James Calvert
Published: March 2007

Since Britons historically have placed a high value on the use of correct fortns of address, those who write to and speak with them should be familiar with their generally accepted address-related customs. In relatively formal commu nication settings, the use of titles and surnames is generally sanctioned, although there are some notable exceptions. In relatively informal communi cation settings, the use of first names or appropriate substitute expressions is generally sanctioned. Business communication teachers can incorporate infor mation about British forms of address into both general business communica tion and specialized international business communication courses as the provided examples suggest.
Empirically Based Guidelines for Developing Teaching Materials on the Web
Authors: Karuppan Corinne M. , Karuppan Muthu
Published: March 2007

A recent study showed that Web-based materials enhanced teaching and learning in an introductory operations management course. Evidence gained from the study provides the basis for several guidelines concerning the early stages of implementing such a course. Faculty should understand why students visit the Website, time the availability of materials to match usage patterns, and provide information in appropriate detail and in an appropriate format. The Website facilitated students' note taking and studying, enhanced class discussion, and aided retention; it did not encourage students to miss class, as some faculty feared. Students tended to print out materials from the site, so that printing costs for courses were not reduced, just transferred from an academic department to the computer lab or the students. While traditional "chalk and talk" approaches will continue in the short term, students will increasingly see such an approach as outdated and find the Web their instructional medium of choice.