bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
The Effect of Dataset Limitation on the Diabetes Risk Factors
Authors: Ma Yueyang
Published: October 2024

Diabetes research is an important topic in the medical domain. However, the research on diabetes risk factors always restricts objects to a certain category. This research wants to figure out the effect of such limitations. The result of this study could give guidance in this field. A dataset built by the Center of Disease Control and Prevention, which has been cleaned is used in this study. The binomial logistic regression analysis is applied to this research and the decision tree model is used for testing. The results suggest that many environmental factors are associated with diabetes. However, taking these risk factors together did not accurately predict diabetes. By analyzing and comparing, limitations on the dataset could increase the accuracy of prediction. The result states that limitations during the study on diabetes risk factors could lead to high-accuracy correlation results. This study provides a good guide for other research on diabetes risk factors to investigate people with more common points in their daily lifestyle.
Current situation and dilemma of hospice and palliative care in the aging context
Authors: Wang Haitian
Published: October 2024

With the deepening of the aging of society, the management of serious diseases is becoming more and more important. Therefore, the need for hospice and palliative care is growing rapidly these years. As a kind of well-rounded way of caring, hospice and palliative care can not only relieve patients pain physically, but also support them psychologically and make them fit in society. Effective care can enhance the quality level of patients daily lives to ensure their dignity and respect their wishes at the last stage of their lives. Many countries are taking measures to develop hospice and palliative care to improve peoples life quality. Different strategies have been used to reduce patients pain and improve their life quality. However, dilemmas still exist at the level of patients, providers, and policy. This article comprehensively analyzes the current situation and dilemma of hospice and palliative care in the aging context and provides potential solutions.
The Current Treatment for Neurodegenerative Diseases
Authors: Li Zihao
Published: October 2024

Neurodegenerative diseases (NDs) refer to dysfunction of central nerve system, characterized by progressive loss of neuronal structure and function, ultimately resulting in decline in patients memory, motor ability, language and intelligence. The typical NDs include age related diseases like Aleimers disease (AD) and genetic diseases such as Huntingtons diseases (HD) and amyotrophic lateral sclerosis (ALS). NDs impose heavy economic burden and suffer to the enormous patients over the world, however, many types of NDs do not have a cure; existing treatments only aim to improve their symptoms. Under that condition, Gene therapy has shown potential for transporting some genetic products into the cells and correct faulty genes. Over the years, research have highlighted the promise of gene therapies using AAV vector in treating NDs. At the same time, a number of emerging therapeutic technologies for neurodegenerative diseases, such as epigenetic interventions through acetylation/deacetylation, gene therapies that target specific mRNAs or non-coding RNAs, and photo biomodulation therapies that can act on brain tissue, are also being studied. In this discussion, we explore the historical, present, and future outlook of gene therapies for neurodegenerative conditions.
mRNA vaccines: A powerful tool in cancer treatment
Authors: Wang Shiran
Published: October 2024

As an emerging immunotherapy, cancer vaccine is a method of introducing tumor antigens, genes encoding tumor antigens, immune cells and molecules into the body to activate specific immune responses to kill tumors. In April 2010, the world's first related drug, previz, was approved for marketing in United States. The drug extracts peripheral blood mononuclear cells from patients' autoimmune cells, activates them in vitro and then infuses them back into the treatment of asymptomatic or mildly symptomatic hormone-refractory advanced prostate cancer. mRNA vaccines have attracted much attention because of their high efficacy, specificity, versatility, ability to develop rapidly on a large-scale, low-cost production potential and safety. The mRNA vaccines and nano-agent delivery technology are considered to have great potential in cancer immunotherapy. In recent years, developments in the design and delivery methods of mRNA vaccines have accelerated the development and use of mRNA vaccinations against cancer in clinical settings. This review introduces optimization strategies of mRNA vaccinations against cancer, including coding and non-coding region optimization, and emphasizes mRNA vaccine delivery systems. Multiple nanoparticle vectors have currently been developed to improve mRNA stability and administration efficiency. At the same time, we discuss the applications of cancer therapy with mRNA vaccinations, its limitations and future challenges.
A Financial Analysis and Valuation of Netflix
Authors: Su Xuan
Published: October 2024

As the streaming competition has intensified in recent years, Netflix has maintained its highest subscriber base since its inception, and research has shown that Netflix's success has had a significant impact on investors making the right investment decisions. This paper examines why Netflix, a streaming platform, outperforms its competitors. Choose Comcast; the other four most prominent companies in the entertainment industry, Walt Disney, Paramount Global, and WBD, perform a comparative analysis of financial data on liquidity, solvency, and profitability. The conclusion is that Netflix has plenty of liquidity, significant even available funds, robust debt management, and excellent profitability. Based on valuation analysis, it can be seen that Netflix has managed both its _A and financial performance well and has a range of operational strategies. However, considering the unknown market changes (such as stronger competitors and a possible slowdown in its user growth), its stock price is considered to be overvalued when taking all factors into account.
Market Demand, Policy Environment, and Future Trends: Analysis of New Energy Vehicle Industry in China
Authors: Li Zhulin
Published: October 2024

Under the complex and ever-changing global economic situation, the sales of new energy vehicles in China are facing many development opportunities and practical challenges. Market demand and policy environment impact the development of China's new energy vehicle industry. This research takes the new energy vehicle industry in China as the research object, adopts a combination of literature review and case analysis methods by combing and analyzing relevant literature, combined with practical cases, deeply discusses the development status and problems of China's new energy vehicle industry, and proposes improvement suggestions from two dimensions: market demand and policy environment. Research shows that insufficient market demand, insufficient technological innovation, and an unstable policy environment are the main factors that restrict industrial development. To solve these problems, measures need to be taken, such as increasing government support, enhancing technological innovation capabilities, and promoting reforms and innovations in marketing and other aspects, aiming to inspire China's new energy vehicle industry to go global.
Green Supply Chain Technology Innovation and Enterprise Synergy in the Context of Sustainable Development: Challenges and Strategie
Authors: Jiang Jialan , Wang Jingyu , Zhang Jingtong
Published: October 2024

This study explores the synergistic development between technological innovation and enterprises in green logistics supply chains from the sustainable development perspective. The study first introduces the latest progress of China's environmental policies and technological innovation and analyses the importance and necessity of green logistics supply chain management. Subsequently, through case studies and theoretical research, this paper discusses the policies and regulations of green supply chain management, collaborative management among enterprises, and the development path of technological innovation. It further analyses the contents of policies and regulations, enterprise collaboration management, and technological innovation in green logistics supply chain management. It proposes strategies and suggestions to solve problems by combining cases and theories. Finally, this study summarises the development status of green logistics supply chain management. It looks forward to future development trends, emphasizing that more enterprises should strengthen cooperation to jointly promote green logistics supply chains, environmental protection, and sustainable economic and social development.
Revolutionizing Inventory Management: The Role of Data Mining in Industry 4.0
Authors: Huo Zehao , Zhan Xinran
Published: October 2024

In the era of Industry 4.0, with the rapid development and application of technologies such as the Internet of Things (IoT), Big Data and Artificial Intelligence (AI), the manufacturing industry is undergoing unprecedented changes. In this context, data mining technology has become integral to inventory management practices in all industries. This study examines the profound impact of data mining on inventory management efficiency. By leveraging advanced analytics and machine learning algorithms, data mining enables organizations to accurately forecast demand, optimize inventory levels, and improve supply chain transparency. Through real-world case studies and comprehensive analysis, this research highlights how data mining techniques, such as central object-based clustering algorithms, can be successfully applied to optimize material classification, warehouse space utilization and operational efficiency. In addition, this study explores the broader applications of data mining beyond inventory management, including marketing, financial risk management, healthcare, transportation, social media, and cybersecurity. Overall, this study provides valuable insights into how data mining can reshape inventory management practices and drive business growth in the digital age.
Internet Technology for Efficiency and Resilience in Ocean Transportation Supply Chain Management: A Case Study of China Ocean Shipping Group
Authors: Liu Ziming , Yao Rui , Yue Qiyue
Published: October 2024

With the global maritime transport industry has faced many challenges in recent years, such as market volatility, environmental requirements and technological upgrading. The wide application of Internet technology has changed the management mode of the marine shipping industry and brought new opportunities for its development. Taking China Ocean Shipping Group as a case study, this study aims to explore the use of Internet technology to solve the problems faced by the ocean shipping supply chain and to discuss the importance of Internet technology in the ocean shipping supply chain, its areas of application, and the changes it may bring. Currently, the main problems faced by the marine transport supply chain include human resource costs, logistics information technology level, port and route selection, and shipping market uncertainty, which seriously affect the efficiency and flexibility of marine transport and operating costs. This study discusses Internet technologies to solve practical problems and specific supply chain management measures, including supply chain efficiency, flexibility and operating costs.
Optimizing the Agricultural Supply Chain Through the Internet + Model: Enhancing Efficiency with a Case Study of TikTok
Authors: Fan Xipeng , Qian Bingcheng
Published: October 2024

This study uses the TikTok platform as a case study to explore the application of the Internet+ model in the agricultural supply chain and analyses the impact of Internet+ model on improving supply chain efficiency and reducing costs. With the development of science and technology, Internet+ has become an important trend in modern industry, which deeply integrates traditional agriculture with information technology and promotes the innovation and efficiency of supply chain management. This study not only discusses the practical application of the Internet + model in agriculture but also proposes to solve the bottlenecks in the traditional agricultural supply chain using logistics informatization, intelligent scheduling system, cold chain monitoring and intelligent warehouse management. Through case studies, the effectiveness of Internet technology in optimizing the supply chain, improving the circulation efficiency of agricultural products and reducing costs are verified, providing theoretical and case study support for promoting the development of agricultural modernization.
The Impact of Marketing Methods on Consumer Behavior in the Era of New Media
Authors: Zhao Zitong
Published: October 2024

With the development of the new media era, marketing methods have undergone tremendous changes, therefore, consumers have a wider range of ways to obtain information. Previously, information could only be obtained from TV advertisements, newspapers, and magazines. Today, using social media and the Internet to transmit information is more rapid and convenient, which has a profound impact on consumers' cognition and behavior. Therefore, studying the impact of marketing methods on consumer behavior in the era of new media is of great significance and has profound practical value. The theme of this study is to explore how various marketing methods have an impact on consumer purchasing decisions, processes, and behaviors in the era of new media, and to find the connection between new media marketing and consumer behavior. This study adopts literature analysis and case analysis methods to explore. From the research results, it can be concluded that new media marketing methods have a significant impact on consumer behavior. On the one hand, it improves consumer understanding of product information and increases product awareness. On the other hand, it promotes communication among consumers, changes their purchasing decisions, and affects their purchasing preferences and behaviors. From this, it can be seen that in the era of new media, enterprises should fully consider consumer psychology, formulate relevant marketing strategies, attach importance to consumer needs, and enhance product visibility and diversification, to better meet consumer preferences.
The Influence of Green Advertising and Emotional Factors on Green Consumption
Authors: Du Yumeng
Published: October 2024

The advanced ideas concerning the protection of the environment, the principles of sustainable consumption have underscored the importance of emotions in consumers actions. This essay looks at the effect of green ads and emotions on green purchasing with the aim of improving the application of marketing strategies in sustainability. The emphasis is made on the interdisciplinary framework that examines the connection between green ads and emotional appeals triggering consumers green purchase intentions. The information gathered about the green advertising and the analysis of impact of emotional variables on consuming eco-products is provided through the literature review. The result also suggests that green advertising, green consumption and emotional factors are highly correlated. Positive emotions affect consumer responses and enhance communications leading to making higher purchase of green products through advertising. The use of appeals in green advertising is helpful in the encouragement of green consumption. Future research should incorporate long-term analyses and cross-cultural research to gain a better understanding of the role of affect in green purchasing decisions.
Evaluating the Economic Impact of Marijuana Legalization: A Difference-in-Differences and Regression Analysis of Household Expenditures in Colorado and Utah
Authors: Fu Haoran
Published: October 2024

The legalization of marijuana in Colorado in 2014 marked a significant policy shift with potential economic implications. This study examines the impact of this legalization on household expenditures using Utah as a control group. The research employs a Difference-in-Differences (DiD) methodology, analyzing data from the Consumer Expenditure Survey (CEX) from 2012 to 2016. The findings indicate a significant increase in household expenditures in Colorado relative to Utah following marijuana legalization. The DiD estimate reveals an approximate increase of $898 in total household expenditures post-legalization. These results are supported by regression models that account for various household characteristics, ensuring robustness. In conclusion, marijuana legalization in Colorado has led to a measurable increase in household spending. This study provides valuable insights for policymakers and contributes to the understanding of the economic effects of marijuana policy changes. For household departments, it's essential to consider the potential shifts in budget allocation due to increased discretionary spending. Government agencies should monitor these economic impacts closely to inform future regulatory decisions and ensure balanced economic growth.
Analysis of Financial Fraud Based on the GONE TheoryA Case Study of Hangzhou Century Co., Ltd.
Authors: Wang Ruotong
Published: October 2024

Convertible bonds allow creditors to convert their claims into company shares under certain conditions. Because of this debt-equity conversion feature, the issuance conditions, pricing and conversion value of convertible bonds are highly susceptible to financial information. Increasing the market value of a company's stock by exaggerating earnings or concealing debt may lead to convertible bond investment decisions based on misinformation, which in turn affects investors and the healthy operation of the market. Based on the GONE theory, this paper analyses the motivation of financial fraud in convertible bond documents and proposes corresponding preventive measures for its characteristics. Through the research and analysis of this type of financial forgery, the preventive governance of financial forgery can be further strengthened, which not only helps to protect the company's reputation and ensure the accuracy and reliability of the financial report, but also helps to attract and maintain the trust of investors, avoid possible legal risks and economic losses, and create a transparent and honest financial environment for the market to promote the efficiency of the market and the fair competition of enterprises.
Application of artificial intelligence in construction
Authors: Lyu Yunmiao
Published: October 2024

This paper mainly introduces the application and assistance of artificial intelligence in architecture and construction cost, as well as the future prospects and development trends. The study adopts a quantitative research design of survey research and data collection method of literature analysis. In addition, it can further explore the innovative applications of artificial intelligence in architectural design, such as spatial planning optimization based on big data analysis and simulation experience through virtual reality technology. At the same time, it can also deeply explore the role of artificial intelligence in the automated management of construction processes, material selection optimization, etc., and give detailed explanations with specific cases. In addition, when discussing the future prospects and development trends, it can consider the prediction of the impact of the continuous evolution of artificial intelligence technology on the construction industry, such as the wider application of machine learning algorithms in project management, the gradual maturity of intelligent sensor systems in building equipment monitoring. At the same time, it can also analyze the profound impact of artificial intelligence on the future development of the construction industry from economic, social and environmental angles, and put forward corresponding solutions.
Research and analysis of camera-based robot ranging technology
Authors: Huang Bohan
Published: October 2024

In todays society, with the progress of science and technology, robots are increasingly being applied in all walks of life. As a result, there is an increasing need for robots to accurately measure distances in different aspects of life and work. This paper explores the principles, applications, and methods of camera-based robot ranging technology through reference and research. The research shows that different ranging principles and various methods have their advantages and disadvantages, and their applicable scenarios are also very different. This article can promote the optimization of robot ranging technology and provide valuable insights for its application in more diverse scenarios.
A review of research on the utilization of deep learning in adaptive learning 2014-2024
Authors: Yuan Qingye
Published: October 2024

Deep learning is a highly popular and rapidly advancing technology in today's world. Adaptive Learning based on learners individual needs shed lights in education. The combination of them may be the pivotal point in the future. This is a review mainly concerns the application of deep learning(DL) in adaptive learning(AL). The search is carried on Web of Science and Scopus. The author proceeds the research by asking several questions regarding the category of deep learning application in Adaptive Learning, the strength and weakness of those publications and the gap for future scientific research concerning deep learning in AL. This study finds some patterns in research category, figure out the most of the current researches resides in KT. One of the key advantages of deep learning is its capacity to closely mimic the structure and operational mechanisms of the brain. While it has weakness in computation cost, hardness in interpretation and data collection and so forth. This study points out the gap of research may lie in how to use deep learning to find the representation and leverage LLM in adaptive learning.
Exploring the application of synchronous analysis of physiological signals and facial expressions in emotion recognition
Authors: Wang Langxuan
Published: October 2024

In today's increasingly frequent human-computer interaction, the accurate recognition and response of intelligent systems to human emotions has become the key to improving the user experience. This paper aims to explore the application of physiological signals and facial expression synchronization analysis in emotion recognition. This paper adopts the method of literature review, and summarizes the acquisition techniques of physiological signals and facial expressions, synchronous analysis methods, and their application cases in emotion recognition. At the same time, the limitations and challenges of the existing technology are discussed. The review shows that the synchronous analysis of physiological signals and facial expressions has important application value in the field of emotion recognition, especially in mental health monitoring, educational feedback, and customer service automation. However, the practical application of the technology still faces many challenges, including the real-time nature of data collection, the adaptability of individual differences, and other identification problems. Therefore, future research needs to further optimize data acquisition technology and develop more accurate and personalized analysis algorithms.
ECOLOGICAL - CENOTIC AND BIOLOGICAL CHARACTERISTICS OF SALVIA TESQUICOLA KLOKOV & POBED ON THE TERRITORY OF THE RIGHT BANK OF THE SARATOV REGION
Authors: Babenko D. A. , Sedova O. V.
Published: October 2024

The article presents the results of research on Salvia tesquicola Klokov & Pobed as a promising medicinal plant. The study was conducted during the growing seasons 2020-2023. on the territory of the right bank of the Saratov region. In the communities with the participation of steppe sage, 119 species of higher flowering plants belonging to 28 families were noted. The leading place in the number of species is occupied by the family Asteraceae (25.6 %). Comparison of phytocenoses using the Jaccard coefficient showed a high degree of heterogeneity in their species composition. Among the coenomorphs, the most numerous are ruderants (45% of the number of species of the studied flora) and stepants (35 %), hygromorphs - xeromesophytes (49 %), trophomorphs - mesotrophs (58 %). On the territory of the Saratov region, S. tesquicola is characterized by habitats with moderately fertile soils and a dryish-fresh moisture regime. This species prefers anthropogenically disturbed areas, where an increase in its phytomass is observed. The yield value was 183.6±0.04 g/m2. Aqueous extracts from the above-ground organs of S. tesquicola have allelopathic activity and negatively affect the germination of seeds of dicotyledonous plants and the development of monocotyledonous seedlings. When comparatively assessing the data obtained by the spectrophotometric method, it was found that elements such as Cd and Cu exceed the normal concentration. At all sampling points, an excess of the toxic concentration of Cr is also observed, since S. tesquicola is an active accumulator of this element. This type of plant is often used in folk medicine but due to the revealed data on the accumulation of some heavy metals, it is necessary to carefully select the place where raw materials are collected.
THE STUDY OF THE RELATIONSHIP BETWEEN DEPTH, METHODS OF SOIL CULTIVATION AND POTATO YIELD IN THE MOUNTAINOUS ZONE OF THE REPUBLIC OF NORTH OSSETIA-ALANIA
Authors: Ikoeva L. P.
Published: October 2024

Depth and methods of soil cultivation for potatoes are among the most important agrotechnical techniques that allow increasing the yield of tubers without significant additional costs. The studies were conducted from 2020 to 2023, in the mountain-meadow subalpine zone in the Dargavs basin of the Republic of North Ossetia-Alania at an altitude of 1450 m above sea level (Dargavs village). The soil of the experimental site belongs to the mountain-meadow subalpine leached with a humus-illuvial horizon loamy on the eluvium of clay shale. Meteorological conditions during the years of the studies were noted as contrasting. Temperature conditions in the spring were relatively favorable, but during the flowering phase a decrease in air humidity and an increase in air and soil temperature were noted. Potatoes of the Farn variety were planted in the first ten days of May, harvested in the second ten days of September. Moldboard-less tillage methods do not significantly affect soil moisture, accumulation of available nutrients, crop yield and its quality compared to moldboard ones, but weed infestation increases. Plowing of mountain chernozems of the Republic of North Ossetia-Alania should be carried out to a depth of no more than 25 cm. Increasing the plowing depth to 35 cm or decreasing it to 15 cm causes a decrease in crop yield (subsoil tillage). Economic efficiency with moldboard plowing to a depth of 25 cm: profit from sales per 1 ha amounted to 283.1 thousand rubles. Increasing the plowing depth to 35 cm reduced profit to 56.1 thousand rubles, and decreasing it to 15 cm to 52.2 thousand rubles. The level of economic profitability amounted to 141.4; 165.7 and 147.2 %, respectively. When applying fertilizers at a dose of N60P60K60 and cultivating the soil with a flat cutter to a depth of 25 cm, the profit amounted to 247.1 thousand rubles per 1 ha with an economic profitability of 152.2 %.
Exploring the Effects of Using AI Technologies in Higher Education Institutions in UAE
Authors: Khadragy Saada , Selim Nadeen , Hassan Dalia , Hegazy Asmaa , Ali Sajjad
Published: October 2024

This study aimed to explore the effects of using artificial intelligence (AI) technologies in higher education institutions in UAE on students and faculty members. Through designing a survey on Google Form and adopting a descriptive analytical approach, the intended goals were met. This survey employs the five point Likert scale and includes two main parts. The first part collects data about (gender, name of the university, and academic rank). The second part targets two areas. The first area is the effects of using AI technologies in higher education institutions in UAE on students and the second area is the effects of using AI technologies on faculty members. The researchers shared the survey link on several WhatsApp groups that target faculty members in eight universities in UAE. The survey was filled by 244 faculty members. Thus, the purposive sampling method was used. SPSS program was used for conducting an analysis for the collected data. It was found that using AI technologies in higher education institutions in UAE has positive effects on students and faculty members. In terms of students using AI technologies develops the critical thinking, research, critical thinking and time management skills of students.
Evaluating a new approach to learning design
Authors: Conole Gráinne , Mundin Paul , Galley Rebecca
Published: October 2024

Technologies, and in particular social and participatory media, provide rich opportunities to support a range of pedagogies and enable learners to communicate and collaborate with their peers. However, despite this technologies are not being used extensively. A new research theme, learning design, has emerged in recent years, which aims to address this gap between the potential and actual use of technologies. This paper argues that designing for learning is the key challenge faces education today. Practitioners need guidance on how to make informed design decisions about how to harness the characteristics of new technologies. Learning design tools and resource have been created that can both guide practitioners through the design process and enable them to make their designs explicit so that they can be shared and discussed. Learning design as a term has being used in a number of different ways, for the purposes of this paper it is defined as follows:
A methodology for enabling teachers/designers to make more informed decisions in how they go about designing learning activities and interventions, which is pedagogically informed and makes effective use of appropriate resources and technologies. This includes the design of resources and individual learning activities right up to curriculum-level design. A key principle is to help make the design process more explicit and shareable. Learning design as an area of research and development includes both gathering empirical evidence to understand the design process, as well as the development of a range of resource, tools and activities.
Learning design is distinct from, but related to other research areas, such as: instructional design, pedagogical patterns and Open Educational Resources (OER). The paper draws in particular on the development of a learning design methodology as part of the OU’s learning design initiative. The paper will describe the evaluation of this new learning design methodology as part of an EU-funded project, Design Project. The methodology will be described, along with the learning design resources, tools and activities that have been developed. The methodology has been trialled in the UK, Cyprus and Greece and the paper will report on the evaluation of a series of trials carried out in the UK.
Supporting older adults in using technology for lifelong learning
Authors: Eynon Rebecca , Davies Chris , Holmes Wayne
Published: October 2024

In the past, many technological initiatives have failed to engage adult learners in any significant way in part due to the lack of technological initiatives that build on people's existing interests but also because of an insufficient focus on designing co-operative technologies that can be used effortlessly. In this paper we provide our experiences of the use of Wizard of Oz (WOz) studies in order to develop a technological tool to support older adults' use of the Internet for learning, where we aimed to achieve a more learner centred approach to design. Wizard of Oz simulation is a research method common in Human-Computer Interface (HCI), Natural Language Processing (NLP) and other human factors/computer usability research where researchers conceal themselves from research participants and use communications technology to pretend that a prototype or incomplete computer-based conversational system is fully functioning. The purpose of a WOz simulation is usually to investigate and inform the development of a technology that has yet to be developed, or to learn more about how people interact with the system in order to improve the design. In this paper we outline the understandings we developed using this technique, highlighting the methodological and conceptual value of using this approach. Based on conducting Wizard of Oz simulations with 20 older adults with a diverse range of educational backgrounds and technological expertise we ask: what are the methodological benefits and challenges of using Wizard of Oz simulations in studies of learning and the Internet? In this paper, we argue that the use of Wizard of Oz approach could be a valuable method to employ for a wider range of research that examines networked learning in formal or informal settings. This is particularly the case as one (unanticipated) effect of the study was how the use of this technique developed our understandings of the everyday experiences older adults have with computers and the Internet when trying to learn new things. In addition we argue that the use of this method is important in the current context where a common criticism of technologies that are designed to support learning tend not to be fit for purpose, as they have either been developed initially for commercial uses or developed without a strong understanding of the learner in mind.
Information Aggregation in Networked Learning
Authors: Kop Rita
Published: October 2024

The Web is changing and emergent technologies on the Web provide new options for learners to aggregate and engage with information. Learners can take control over their information steam and be proactive in the search for valuable information. The abundance of information makes that choices need to be made about what is valuable and what not, while the low level of teacher presence on open online networks increases the self-directed nature of this task for learners. Learning technologists started the research, design and development of personal learning environments (PLEs) that include predictive technologies to aid learners with the management of their learning in an open networked environment. Designers and developers are working on information recommender systems, using learning analytics and visualization techniques, to present learners with information relevant to their learning. Questions are being raised, however, about the usefulness of these systems for the advancement of learning.  The low level of teacher presence on open networked learning networks will influence the level of reflection and critical engagement with information by learners, and is seen as a challenge to depth of learning. It is argued that to counter balance this, critical factors in information gathering would be the level of serendipity and human mediation.This paper will highlight some challenges and opportunities in the shaping of information streams effective to learning. The aim of our research was to find out how people might position themselves at the centre of their information gathering process and how microblogging tool Twitter, in combination with RSS, shaped by human connections and interactions, might provide them with a reflection-inducing stream of information, in order to at times surprise and challenge them. We will highlight these aspects through the lens of research carried out during a Massive Open Online Course on Personal Learning Environments Networks and Knowledge (PLENK2010) in the fall of 2010. This paper will use a small case-study in the use of Twitter on PLENK2010 to investigate how human interaction might aid the increase of levels of serendipity in open networked learning. Special consideration will be given to serendipity in algorithm-based recommender systems for learning.
Emerging Technologies and New Learning Ecologies
Authors: Saadatmand Mohsen , Kumpulainen Kristiina
Published: October 2024

The emergence of networking technologies and social media is changing the way we work, collaborate and learn. This has resulted in new forms of learning practices, more participatory ways of creating and representing knowledge and new global learning networks.  In the current era, learning and educational practices are becoming more open, digital and networked. Open and networked technologies provide the opportunities for online learning to offer kind of more open and flexible online learning opportunities which can bring together such a greater number of geographically-dispersed learners to experience kind of networked and collective learning mediated by online and web applications. Such open and free learning opportunities for instance are the growing interest in offering open online courses in higher education nowadays which attract many people. This paper discusses the learning activities and experiences of the participants of some open online courses who are coming from different parts of the world to online networked environments and integrate various tools and digital application in the process of their learning and interactions. This paper presents the preliminary findings of a research in progress on leaning ecologies in web 2.0 and emerging technologies and personal learning environment (PLE). The main research question for this paper is: what is the nature of learning in open and networked learning environments and what learning activities and experiences result from participating in these environments? The findings are based on an online survey, semi-structured interviews and public online contents of the participants in open online courses. This study adapted a virtual auto-ethnographic method to get involved more closely to the culture and phenomena of learning in such open online environments in which researcher was able as a learner to participate in the various activities of the courses, interact with participants to explore the processes of learning and interaction. For the purpose of data analysis and understanding the nature of learning and interactions in such open and networked environments, by reflection on socio-cultural theoretical frameworks such as social constructivism, communities of practice and connectivism, we used a rhizomatic approach to learning in networks and communities (Cormier, 2008, Engestrom, 2007, Tella, 2000) to look at different emergent and multi-directional learning activities take place in the context of such open environments and to explain how open-digital-networked technologies are used by participants of open online courses.
Work-Based Networked Learning
Authors: Schreurs Bieke , De Laat Maarten
Published: October 2024

Networked learning is an important driver for informal professional development and workplace learning based on social relationships. However powerful networked learning may be, there is a problem when it comes to making it a real asset within organizations. This may seem as a paradox, but networked learning activities are mostly invisible to others, sometimes the learners themselves might not even be aware of the learning that occurs. As a consequence networked learning in organizations goes undetected, remains off the radar of HR departments and is therefore hard to asses, manage and value (Wenger, Trayner, & De Laat, 2011). Bearing this in mind we acknowledge a great need for empirical research and tools that can raise awareness about networked learning activities to make it visible, amplify the benefits of it and strengthen the social relations through which it occurs. Through our research practice we have experimented with several visualization methods of informal learning networks (De Laat, 2011; Haythornthwaite & De Laat, 2012) and developed a research methodology around this practice, We will present the results of a descriptive study conducted with 22 teachers in a secondary school in the Netherlands alongside the design guidelines for a research practice to visualize (personal) professional development networks driven by networked learning issues. The goal of this paper is to increase our understanding of how we can make networked learning activities visible and as a consequence help organisations to support a bottom-up approach to stimulate professional development amongst teachers.
Social Tools for Networked Learning
Authors: Sie Rory L. L. , Berlanga Adriana J. , Rajagopal Kamakshi , Pannekeet Kees , Drachsler Hendrik , Fazeli Soude , Sloep Peter B.
Published: October 2024

Whereas the Web 1.0 was mainly driven by static content and web pages linked by hyperlinks, the social web, or Web 2.0, has opened up new ways of connecting to not just resources, but also to people. The connections that are made through the use of Social Media, contribute to a complex, but also promising network of people and resources. In an educational context, this is called a learning network, and both learning networks by themselves and the Social media by which they are constructed require that we rethink the ways we learn, our view on learners, tutors and learning, and the way we support learners and tutors. Numerous opportunities have emerged with the introduction of social media for learning, but so have numerous problems, ranging from awareness issues via (meta-)cognitive limitations and difficulties to affective and motivational problems.
This paper addresses the above issues by providing an overview of the current research we perform. The research we do is based on three themes: Peer support, Learner support and Online Learner Identity. Peer support describes the way peers may help each other through effective and efficient use of a learning network. It uses 1) natural language processing to, for instance, analyse communication between learners, 2) mine learner profiles to adapt to their individual circumstances and identity and 3) social network analysis extended by game theoretic solution concepts to recommend suitable peers for cooperative learning. Learner support focuses on how we may lead the learner through the jungle of learning resources. It uses recommender techniques to filter out unnecessary learning resources and provides concise sets of candidate resources for learning. Finally, Online Learner Identity focuses on rethinking how we construct our online identity, how to analyse such, and how to profit from the differences with offline learning. It may use multi-agent systems technology to simulate the identity of learners and their interaction in a learning network, but also semantic technology to capture the meaning of online learner identities.
The paper also describes the main techniques that we use in our research efforts to enhance networked learning. Furthermore, an overview of current projects within the themes is provided. We conclude that the results of our current research efforts will provide valuable insights to advance further on research and development of social tools for networked learning.
Aggregate, then Curate
Authors: Whitworth Andrew , Garnett Fred
Published: October 2024

MOSI-ALONG is a project which investigates how formal and non-formal educational institutions can use social networking and media to help communities learn about, and thus nurture, online informational resources. It brings the curatorial and content creation expertise of a range of formal, informal and non-formal educational providers, which we term ‘digital learning champions’ (DLCs), to bear on processes of community inquiry. DLCs are engaged with through a range of offline and online media, helping communities develop resources that are relevant to their learning needs and interests. Community members judge the quality of their learning processes, and their use of technology, based on relevance, need, informal collaborative learning processes, individual skills and capacities. DLCs act as stewards (Wenger, White and Smith 2009) for the community’s resources, providing training, advice, content (pre-existing, or new), technologies and, ultimately, accreditation.
We present the ‘Aggregate-then-Curate’ model as a 7-step framework for how learning processes can be networked, using social media and face-to-face techniques. The process can be entered or left at various points, and a range of media can come into play at each stage. There are many reasons why individuals or communities might be motivated to engage with the process, including the desire to solve problems in a community, learn skills, gain some kind of accreditation or funding, or just through personal interest. Community identities may even be formed through such work.
Essentially then, the model is a description of how social media can enable the creation of community-defined, object-centred and good-quality collections of informational resources. The model could be picked up and used in other such connections between formal and informal learning processes, whether partners be community groups, museums, libraries, schools, universities or other digital learning champions.
Mobile Learning and Immutable Mobiles
Authors: Wright Steven , Parchoma Gale
Published: October 2024

How are mobile devices used to support learning in informal settings? The majority of m-learning research to date has focussed on formal or professional learning contexts and is marked by controlling the devices used and the tasks to be completed. Studying learning and practice in an informal context provides an insight into how mobile devices are used when the device, applications, and practices are determined by the participant rather than a research agenda.
In this observational study we draw on multi-site and focussed ethnographic approaches to trace the connections between practices, calculation, evaluation, a learning community and the central role of an iPhone in forming these connections in two craft breweries. An actor-network theory (ANT) sensibility provides the vocabulary and focus for a consideration of the agency of the heterogeneous actants in the breweries.We use ANT to consider not only the human and non-human actants observed, but also the processes of calculation and qualitative evaluation which are brought together in the concept of ‘qualculation’. We introduce the challenge of ANT to conventional notions of the process of learning, drawing on the work of Steve Fox (2001), and note the limits of this work in setting out the challenge but not what would show evidence of learning in an actor-network.
We trace how a recipe is transformed from originating beer through both physical and calculated transformations and show the role of the iPhone in achieving these in two breweries. A novice brewery expends significant effort in attempting to maintain the immutability of the recipe and to conform to its predicted outcomes. We consider in detail moments of breakdown and mistranslation and show how the recipe remains mobile but immutable while the brewery itself becomes the location of change and development. An experienced brewery transforms and changes the recipe with the help of the iPhone to make rapid calculations and alterations. The recipe here is a fluid object with experience used in making substitutions and adjustments.
Our conclusions do not put forward ANT as an account for learning or a theory of learning. Rather we seek to illustrate the application and potential of ANTs sensibility in attending to the processes of  socio-material practice. We also seek to extend the understanding of how learning can be seen in actor-network terms through providing evidence of learning’s transformative effects in the assemblage of a actor-network.