bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
The non‐formula funding of special collections in the humanities initiative
Authors: Mowat Ian R.M.
Published: July 2002

Reviews the initiative arising from the Follett Committee providing non‐formula funding to support specialised research collections in the humanities. The method of application for and distribution of the funds within a first phase are reviewed and the criteria adopted, although never stated, are considered. The effects on retrospective cataloguing are described and the work of the Archives Sub Committee is considered. The nature of funding of projects for the second phase is discussed and an initial assessment is provided of the overall benefits from the programme.
Irish university libraries: recent developments and future prospects
Authors: Phillips Sean
Published: July 2002

The background for university libraries in Ireland is almost identical to that in other EU countries: rapid expansion in student numbers and materials price inflation not being matched by reciprocal funding. Among positive steps to combat this EU programmes are noted and co‐operative initiatives, notably the IRIS and ALCID projects are discussed. National developments are examined, including the activities of the Information Society Commission and moves towards a national library/information policy. The effects of the Universities Act 1997 are also considered. Future strategy is discussed, particularly the pressures for collaboration and distributed systems and their relevance specifically to research libraries considered.
The Internet and acquisitions in academic libraries
Authors: Hollis Ann
Published: July 2002

That British acquisitions librarians are not significantly utilising the Internet is the major conclusion. Finds that they are satisfied with existing systems, but that there is scope for making greater use of the Internet. Research done in 1996 involved talking to staff from six academic libraries and one publisher, for a study to evaluate the effects of electronic publishing and the Internet on acquisitions work. With the ever‐changing Internet, results can quickly become out‐of‐date. This article presents librarians’ views of the facilities available in 1996 and states their ideas for improving those facilities. Indications are also given of how librarians could benefit from making greater use of the existing Internet.
Bernard Quaritch as an antiquarian bookseller
Authors: Glasgow Eric
Published: July 2002

This is a brief study of the life and work of the celebrated antiquarian bookseller Bernard Quaritch (1819‐1899). Born in Germany and having served his apprenticeship as a bookseller there, he came to London in 1842 with a letter of introduction to John Murray. After a short period in Paris he finally settled in London in 1845, setting up his own business there in 1845. This flourished and in his Victorian heyday Quaritch had an international fame, priding himself on being bookseller to many “eminent Victorians”. In 1859 he was also first to venture to publish Edward Fitzgerald’s somewhat daring “Rubaiyat of Omar Khayyam”. Quaritch had a firm and lasting influence on books and literature of his time. Apart from his enormous influence on private libraries he helped decisively to build up the collections of the British Museum and of the H.C. Folger Library in the USA. He illustrates how the book trade in Victorian England made its own forceful contributions to the advancement of literature, learning and libraries of all sorts.
Information ethics: a contemporary challenge for professionals and the community
Authors: Hannabuss Stuart
Published: July 2002

Acting ethically presents challenges to professional people in an age where there is little consensus on moral beliefs and where competitive practices are increasingly commonplace in the workplace. Professionals dealing with information face particular challenges since information is often regarded as a public good, freely available to everyone as part of a free society. However, information can also be sensitive, confidential and wrong. The dilemmas which arise in this professional area are examined with reference to the wider and deeper ethical issues involved.
I have seen the future and IT works
Authors: Batt Chris
Published: July 2002

Briefly reviews the nature of the information society and discusses its revolutionary aspects. Examines the main characteristics of the new information revolution in relation to the UK Government’s expressed policy, stressing network infrastructure, content creation and national IT training. Illustrates the nature of changes by some new developments within Croydon libraries: CD‐ROM network, public access training resources, Croydon Online. A discussion of lifelong learning leads to examination of the function of the public library and its greatly strengthened future role as an information and enabling force within the community.
Information technology and underdevelopment in the Third World
Authors: Jimba Samuel W.
Published: July 2002

Information technology is taking centre stage as the world approaches the twenty‐first century. The enormous advantages it has in easing the delivery of information around the world, as well as the central role of information in the new global economy, means that information technology will shape the dynamics of the new millennium. However, for most Third World countries, faced with the problems of illiteracy and poverty, information technology poses a danger to their fledgling economies. This paper discusses the theories of underdevelopment and applies them to information technology in a Third World context. Issues are raised about the role of information in a globalized economy and how this can become a disadvantage to developing countries. It is suggested that technology should be implemented within a social context.
Book of the century
Authors: Walker Tommy , Baynham Katie , Livingston Karen
Published: July 2002

Each of the competitors nominates their choice of the book of the century and discusses the reasons for their choice. The books discussed are: The Diary of Anne Frank; Earthways, Earthwise, edited by Judith Nicholls; and Time’s Arrow, by Martin Amis
Starting points: research triggers in historical children’s literature
Authors: Hannabuss Stuart
Published: July 2002

In a short survey of children’s literature from the eighteenth century onwards, major themes and areas for research are identified. The nature of children’s literature between 1900 and 1920 and the 1920s to the 1950s is then discussed in greater detail with reference to the children’s books of many types published during the periods. Again, themes are identified and many avenues for research in different fields of study are indicated.
Changing the management mindset: management style and coping with world‐class competition
Authors: Wright Philip C. , Szeto W.F. , Geory Gary D.
Published: July 2002

Using the Chinese, family‐owned manufacturing firm as a primary example, Asian styles of management are examined in light of their ability to compete in a free‐trade environment. It is concluded that traditional, authoritarian, relationship‐based management concepts are not likely to fare well in fast‐changing global arenas. Nevertheless, a model for expanding into international markets is presented, with the realization that most Chinese‐managed firms would be advised to adopt regional rather than global strategies.
Food safety – consumer concerns
Authors: Kidd May
Published: July 2002

Outlines the findings of a simple piece of research into consumers’ greatest concerns over food. Using the Scottish Consumer Council’s Consumer Network as a sample, each was asked to complete a questionnaire asking about the three issues which gave them greatest concern. Food hygiene standards, GM foods, and the use of chemicals, pesticides and additives came out very strongly. Other issues are also listed. Overall there was an overwhelming feeling by consumers that they did not have all the information and knowledge and there was much confusion about the facts.
Assessment of the dietary intakes of healthy adult pregnant women in Cyprus
Authors: Hassapidou M. , Papadopoulou Natali
Published: July 2002

Nutritional status and health in pregnancy are a very important matter. Several studies have shown the importance of nutrition in prenatal development. Maternal nutrition significantly affects a woman’s health and the growth, development and health of the infant she carries. Studies in developed countries have shown that the diets of pregnant women, with the exception of those with a low socioeconomic status, are likely to have adequate amounts of most nutrients. The diets of pregnant women in Greece and Cyprus, however, where the Greek‐Mediterranean diet is traditionally followed, have not been adequately studied. Aims to assess the dietary intakes of adult, healthy, pregnant women in Cyprus, and to compare the results with the rest of the Greek population. Also aims to help assess whether the present dietary recommendations are followed, and if they emphasize the appropriate issues.
Credible food safety assurance for the whole meat chain
Authors: Lindsay
Published: July 2002

The UK meat industry can now clearly demonstrate to consumers that meat and meat products can be produced to internationally‐recognised and independently‐monitored levels of food‐safety and animal‐welfare standards at all points of its production. This seamless transition of assurance, monitored by the Government‐backed, independent organisation Assured British Meat, right through the meat‐chain is intended to restore the public’s confidence in meat and the safety of the whole food industry.
The Food Risk Assessment (FORA) project
Authors: Shuker David E.G.
Published: July 2002

Describes the work of the Food Risk Assessment (FORA) project in the UK. Outlines the aims of: developing methodologies to measure exposure to and the effects of mutagens associated with diet; examining differences in individual responses to similar diets; developing approaches for the identification of protective or moderating factors in diet; and using the results to develop improved methods for food safety evaluation.
Food from Britain – helping UK companies develop business
Authors: Pyne Fiona
Published: July 2002

Food from Britain (FFB) is the UK’s leading international food and drink marketing consultancy, providing companies with a range of cost‐effective and results‐orientated marketing services. FFB’s clients are UK food and drink companies with international vision and speciality food companies keen to build a bigger UK business. FFB’s work with these companies is considered and some of its recent successes are outlined.
The broadening scope of food as a curriculum subject in higher education
Authors: Barrass Steve
Published: July 2002

The increasingly multidisciplinary nature of food in society has been reflected at South Bank University by the development of undergraduate courses in Food Science and Technology; Food, Nutrition and Health; and Food Choice and Design. The ethos of The Food Programme of courses is outlined and the structure explained. Applications from students from a wide variety of backgrounds are welcome ‐ provided they have a real interest in food.
Shelf‐life
Authors: Pegg Alice
Published: July 2002

This article highlights current research at the Leatherhead Food Research Association which is relevant to shelf‐life assessment of food products. One area is to improve the quality and safety of fish ‐ both fresh and cold‐smoked. Food MicroModel, a computer software package which aids in the prediction of the microbiological safety and spoilage potential of food products, is described. New methods capable of predicting the stability of oils and fats to oxidation, which can be a significant cause of reduced shelf‐life in fat‐containing foods, are described. Novel analytical instruments, known as electronic noses, have been shown to have potential, as has a total antioxidant activity test. Temperature control in factories is often a compromise between product safety and the need to maintain reasonable employee working conditions. This is no longer a problem with the development of glove box technology, which separates the two environments. The final study discussed in this article is the development of accelerated shelf‐life tests for chocolate products.
Contribution of “packed lunches” to the dietary intake of 11‐12‐year‐old children
Authors: Douglas Lesley
Published: July 2002

Packed lunches are a popular form of midday meal for children at school. This study of 11‐12‐year‐old children in Northern Ireland found sandwiches, crisps, chocolate and carbonated drinks to be popular items included in a packed lunch. Dairy produce and fruit were poorly represented. The nutritional quality varied with the type of lunch. The contribution of fat and saturated fatty acids to total energy intake were in all cases far in excess of recommended dietary guidelines. Such high intakes of fat militate against the reduction in the incidence of coronary heart disease in Northern Ireland. The intake of dietary fibre and several micronutrients were inadequate.
Knowledge of healthier foods was not translated into food consumption. If major diseases in the longer term are to be minimised a challenge exists for those responsible for food preparation ± parents, food processors and suppliers in the hospitality industry to produce foods which are healthier while not adversely affecting their acceptability to children.
Short test procedures versus long time tests: new aspects
Authors: Holweger Walter
Published: July 2002

Lubricants are very complex mixtures of components. To predict their behaviour over a long time it is necessary to make a lot of machinery element tests. This paper tries to give an insight into how lubricants can be estimated in their structure by IR‐microscopy and how this procedure could lead to a short prediction of their long‐time behaviour in time‐ and cost‐expansive machinery element testing.
Face‐to‐face or distance training: two different approaches to motivate SMEs to learn
Authors: Lawless Naomi , Allan John , O’Dwyer Michele
Published: July 2002

In the past, too many government sponsored initiatives have presented valuable learning resources which have been wasted because the target small business audience have failed to utilise them. This paper explores the issue of offering learning materials to small‐ to medium‐sized enterprises in a manner which recognises their working environment, mode of operation and preferred learning methods, and after addressing these, outlines differing methods at present being tested in the UK and Ireland. The two methodologies are different in that one programme is aimed at distance learning in primarily small businesses, whilst the other is aimed at face‐to‐face learning primarily in micro‐enterprises. It is the contrast between the two which we hope will indicate those common elements in the two methodologies that can specify an ideal path for educating/training micro and small enterprises – the vast bulk of EU organisations.
State Intervention in Technical Education in the UK
Authors: McBride Peter D.
Published: July 2002

Compares the “Payment by Results” system in nineteenth century British
education with recent trends. Indicates that the partnership between the
state and local authorities, which was created formerly, has been
disbanded in the Government′s desire to cut costs and centralize
control. Suggests that the expressed notion that internal markets can be
compared with free markets is a self‐deception when Government regulates
price and other variables, and concludes that Britain has a training
system which is under‐funded and significantly below the standards of
its competitors.
Integrated and Assessed Skills Development – An Emerging Model
Authors: Freeman Sue
Published: July 2002

Introduces the emerging model of skills development used in the Business
Studies Department of the Manchester Metropolitan University and shares
some of the concepts behind the model. Discusses three parts of the
model in detail: taught, experiential and assessed elements and includes
explanatory figures and diagrams. Also addresses the issues and
questions raised when the model is looked at in relation to external
factors which constantly change and impinge on the structure but not the
concept. Pertinence derives from the level and amount of debate
currently taking place in this field and the move towards
competence‐based assessment propounded by such bodies as B/TEC, MCI and
GNVQ.
Spanning the Dualisms in the Language of Knowing and Learning
Authors: Berman Brown Reva
Published: July 2002

Discusses an exercise which appears to make a contribution to the
introduction of deep learning strategies to course participants. The
exercise is based on five pairs of words concerned with knowing and
learning: learn/study; educate/train; know/understand; teach/tutor; and
student/pupil. Examines the theoretical framework on which the exercise
is based, and from which it draws its inspiration. Explains the exercise
itself, and attempts to draw out the implications of the exercise for
educators, and for those being educated. The exercise may appear
trivial, and is conducted in a light‐hearted manner but, when
successful, it can compel students to reflect, often for the first time,
on the meaning and purpose of their educational experience. Frequently,
students make explicit previously unarticulated views about the process
and content of their educational programmes.
Staff Placement Programme
Authors: Crystal Lee
Published: July 2002

Describes a policy initiative at the University of Luton to encourage
academic staff to retain/increase their links with the world of work. A
target was set in which a minimum of one academic from each school (a
grouping of circa 20 people) should spend a minimum of five days, work
shadowing an employer of their choice. The scheme was managed and set up
by the University Enterprise Unit. Twenty academics participated over a
ten‐month period, placement length varying from one week to six months.
The experiences were evaluated by questionnaire. Gives several brief
case studies and discusses outcomes of the project. While very
successful in itself, little success has been achieved in persuading
employers to work shadow within the University.
Applying service quality concepts to hospitality education
Authors: Lockwood Andrew
Published: July 2002

Despite a long involvement with quality in the manufacturing
sector, and its more recent introduction to service industries in
general, education has not been at the forefront of thinking on quality
issues. Attempts to pull together some of the key theoretical
perspectives on service quality and apply them to education with a
particular emphasis on the hospitality field. Demonstrates that these
concepts have good explanatory value for looking at educational
provision, but suggests that some of the current approaches to quality
that have been introduced to education are not founded on good quality
management practice. Finally, proposes ways in which some of the issues
could be better addressed.
Implementing a competence‐based teacher training course: an
evaluation of a partnership approach
Authors: O′Reilly Brian , McCrystal Patrick
Published: July 2002

Evaluates a partnership approach employed in the delivery and
implementation of a competence‐based approach to teacher training. The
partnership was composed of the university course team, the college
staff who carry out the work‐based assessments, and the education and
Library Boards (LEAs in England and Wales). Uses quantitative research
techniques to generate research data. Identifies the central issues as:
the additional workload placed on college staff as a result of the
work‐based assessments; the integration of work‐based competences into
staff development programmes and the liaison within the partnership.
Concludes that overall there was general satisfaction with the nature of
the course both as a teacher training course and as a programme for
professional development. Highlights the liaison between the three
bodies as being problematic. Discusses these issues with specific
recommendations being made.
Project Business (UK): lessons from the pilot programme evaluation
Authors: Hayward Geoff
Published: July 2002

Reviews the lessons learned from the evaluation of the pilot of Project Business (UK), a new programme from Young Enterprise. Suggests that major successes of the programme included involvement on the part of all course participants, approval for course materials, student learning about economic issues and personal benefits for teacher and business partners. Highlights three main challenges for Young Enterprise: programme content, differentiation and management. Discusses the problems of managing these sorts of innovatory programmes at a distance to ensure that aims, ways of working and outcomes achieved are those designed for the project rather than those more locally designed. Overall the pilot was a success and more programmes of this sort are needed to enable young people to engage in a critical discourse about the world of business.
Student case groups: electronic groups versus face‐to‐face groups
Authors: Lind Mary R.
Published: July 2002

Examines the effectiveness of teaching business cases using collaborative groups of students. A quasi‐experiment was conducted in which a class of students was randomly placed in face‐to‐face groups and given a case with questions to answer collectively. Then for a different case, these same students were randomly assigned to electronic case groups. The electronic groups conducted all their group interactions with their fellow group members in universities in the USA, Canada and Mexico via e‐mail over the Internet. The groups rated both their group experiences, face‐to‐face and electronic. Also each student completed the Myers Briggs personality typing instrument. The four dimensions of personality type were then correlated with the case ratings; and significance tests across the two subgroups, electronic and face‐to‐face, were assessed. While there were few significant differences across the electronic and face‐to‐face groups, the extroverts found the electronic groups to be a novel experience. This may be explained by the technical frustrations encountered by the students and the lack of richness of the electronic group exchange.
NVQs and the retail industry ‐ the experience of implementation
Authors: Messenger Sally J.
Published: July 2002

Remarks that, since the late 1980s, the UK government has invested significant levels of funding in the development of national competence‐based qualifications in an attempt to improve skill levels and, therefore, international competitiveness. Provides an overview of the progress which has been made by the UK retailing industry and presents the implementation experiences of five major retail companies. Concludes with an analysis of the strategic implications.
Action learning comes of age ‐ part 3: action learning for what?
Authors: Beaty John Lawson Tom Bourner Liz , O’Hara Suzanne
Published: July 2002

The third in a series of four articles that seeks to answer questions about the applicability of action learning. Aims to look at what can be learned using action learning; and seeks to identify what can be best learned by action learning and what is best learned by other methods. Concludes that action learning is most likely to produce learning that is personal, situational and emergent. It is less likely to be learning that can be closely specified in advance or is skill based. Action learning is most valuable for higher level professional development (i.e. developing excellence) and less useful for the development of foundation skills (i.e. developing competence) where instruction and training remain more important.
Learning in the restructured workplace: a case study
Authors: Houldsworth Bronwyn , O’Brien John , Butler Jim , Edwards John
Published: July 2002

Workplace restructuring implies people changing roles, leading to the deskilling of people who must learn their way back to competence. Reports the case of a person learning in a new role. The conceptual framework for the analysis is the Dreyfus model of skill development. Shows the model to be effective both for research and for individuals to understand their own development. The results enrich the understanding of workplace learning, in particular the manner in which people can be helped to learn a new role.
Acquiring skills for tomorrow today: “Cyberspace learning for kids”
Authors: Hough Jean , Ellis Dave
Published: July 2002

Considers the development of an on‐line electronic learning network , “Cyberspace learning for kids” (CL4K), for children aged 5‐16 across Europe. Examines the impact of information technology (IT) in relation to various learning environments. Focuses particular attention on schools, the incorporation of IT into the National Curriculum and the impact this has on teaching. Presents findings from an analysis of the project’s user needs, that is, those of teachers, children and parents. The main issue expressed by teachers was the lack of training received in IT skills and lack of funds available to purchase equipment necessary to be able to use IT in the classroom. A decline in general levels of communication in the classroom, at home and between pupils was another issue of concern among teachers and parents. Overall, all users perceived “Cyberspace learning for kids” to be exciting and saw the development of IT skills as an essential asset when seeking employment. The children found the use of the Internet to be a fun way of finding out information and would enjoy using it if such a resource was available in the classroom, etc. With commitment to funding for resources and training CL4K has the potential to offer a fun and stimulating means of gaining information and educating children for the future.
Developing the new Europeans: promoting transnational mobility within initial formation
Authors: Berkeley John
Published: July 2002

Presents the findings of a survey investigating the transnational mobility of over 500 young people (graduates, apprentices and other youth trainees) in full‐time training with the Rover Group UK. Aims to establish the importance they attach to gaining experience in other European Union (EU) countries and beyond and how well they have been prepared for such experience. Highlights lack of language skills and lack of knowledge of other countries as primary concerns of the interviewees, as well as insufficient preparation. Examines the European Commission’s Green Paper “The Obstacles to Transnational Mobility” arguing that while it is important to respect national differences, mobility issues should be incorporated further in to education and training. Briefly looks at the “fourth ‘R’ ” “work readiness”. Proposes the adoption of European Mobility Units; training units which focus on: competence in at least one other EU language; understanding cultures and working practices of other member states; developing life‐long learning skills; and gaining practica! experience of working in another member state.
Business and HE links: the search for meaningful relationships in the placement marketplace ‐ part one
Authors: Ellis Nick , Moon Sue
Published: July 2002

Investigates the nature of HE/business links by examining the marketplace for student placements. Explains that the rapidly changing education environment means the forming of lasting relationships requires a new approach from HE managers. Claims that there is now a need for HE to market its services to companies. Applies concepts from the fields of marketing and organisational buying behaviour to the investment in placement services by UK organisations. Reports the results of qualitative interviews and a large scale quantitative survey into the patterns of behaviour shown by client companies in the use of these “professional” services. Draws some conclusions which will be addressed in the second part of the article (in a forthcoming edition of this journal) where recommendations for the management of HE/business relationships will be made.
Sandwich placements: improving the learning experience ‐ part 1
Authors: Bourner Tom , Ellerker Mary
Published: July 2002

Supervised work experience within courses of post‐school education has grown rapidly over the last 40 years. A strong commitment to the principle of “sandwich” education has been matched in recent years by an increasing concern about how to manage the placement period to help the students involved to gain most value from the experience. Looks at the problem from the perspective of the academic institution. Specifically, it suggests an answer to the question: how can the academic institution manage the sandwich placement experience of students more effectively? Considers the application of a management development approach called action learning to support sandwich placement students and enhance their learning from the sandwich experience.
Creating a faculty intranet: a case study in change
Authors: Flowers Steve , Newton Becci , Paine Cameron
Published: July 2002

Much has been written about the implications for higher education of the Internet‐based Virtual University. This paper is an account of the development and operation of an intranet within a business school. The issues of cultural change are examined within the context of the introduction of a technological innovation, and the major lessons to be drawn from the project are identified.
Where have all the engineers gone?
Authors: Newman Simon
Published: July 2002

The engineering industry is facing a shortage of suitably educated graduates for the future. In order to find reasons why and how this problem could be overcome, a series of related investigations has been carried out by academic staff and undergraduates. The investigations covered a wide age range from young schoolchildren to final year undergraduates. Extensive consultation with the aerospace industry has provided information on what is now required of the education process. Recent developments in the engineering industry have resulted in new skills being required where the conventional, and well‐known, core disciplines must be integrated in order to create the entire aerospace vehicle. This paper describes what the investigations found and how the results and recommendations can be implemented.
Viewpoint: Lifelong learning ‐ a practitioner response
Authors: Johnston Rita
Published: July 2002

The paper gives an account of a focus group meeting set up to discuss and respond to the DfEE Green Paper The Learning Age. The participants, professional trainers and human resource managers, welcomed the government initiative in principle and approved of its agenda in general. As practitioners operating outwith the educational establishment, however, they had constructive criticism to make on both the implementation of the plans in detail and on the implicit and perhaps unintended messages which might be received by the target groups within the current and prospective workforce.
Facilitating the progression of modern apprentices into undergraduate business education
Authors: Chadwick Simon
Published: July 2002

The main focus of this paper is a case study of the progression links onto a new undergraduate business programme (Business Enterprise) that have been established for modern apprentices between Coventry Business School and Coventry and Warwickshire Chamber of Commerce, Training and Enterprise. The context of the relationship between the two is initially established and this leads to an overview of the findings generated by a research study designed to highlight the views and expectations of major stakeholders in the apprenticeship scheme. In turn, this subsequently leads to an exploration of the implications for the design of higher education programmes targeted at apprentices.
Task path theory: further pilot study results analysis
Authors: Moore David R.
Published: July 2002

Examines experimental data that forms part of an ongoing research programme focused on the issue of assessing task difficulty within construction industry processes. In this instance, the process is the task of bricklaying. The data is compared to previous data resulting from an earlier experiment, and the differences between the data sets are used to further develop task path general theory (previously referred to as tolerance requirement general theory). A forecasting equation for placing time is proposed on the basis of it “explaining” approximately 70 per cent of the factors contributing to the operative’s assessment of difficulty in completing a task. Further research is proposed in order to develop task path theory further.
Information systems management positions – a market perspective
Authors: Shi Nansi , Bennett David
Published: July 2002

Information systems (IS) managers have become key senior executives for organising the IT resources for delivering support to businesses. Understanding characteristics of IS managers’ employment positions is hence an increasingly important topic in computer personnel research. An investigation in Singapore that included a job advertisement analysis, surveys and case studies was thus conducted to investigate such aspects. This article presents the findings of the job advertisement analysis concerning what kinds of IS managers the market is seeking and what are the basic conditions for such management positions. The literature in this area asserts that job advertisements represent firms’ wishes and the nature of the conditions required of different IS personnel. The results of this analysis therefore reflect a collective market perspective about the changing IS managerial workplace. The results of the analysis benefit both firms and IS employees in formulating personnel development plans and actions, and raise issues for further research.
Tolerance requirement general theory: pilot study results analysis
Authors: Moore David R.
Published: July 2002

The paper concentrates on the analysis of data from the first of two experiments designed to examine aspects of tolerance requirement general theory. Both experiments were designed to constitute a pilot study into a possible relationship between difficulty of a task and time taken to carry it out. The objectives were to identify and eliminate any spurious relationships within the data, and to establish the form, if any, of a robust mathematical relationship between one aspect of the work activity and time taken. The aspect focused on is that of tolerance requirements, which are not seen in the context of this research as being optimum plus‐or‐minus values for tolerance sizes. Data analysis results in a re‐examination of the proposed nature of tolerance requirements. This leads to further development of tolerance requirement general theory, particularly with regard to the calculation of tolerance requirement values.
Succeeding with ergonomics in computerized offices
Authors: Attaran Mohsen , Wargo Brian D.
Published: July 2002

The advent of computer technology has meant greater flexibility and increased efficiency for office workers but has resulted in a range of health problems such as carpel tunnel syndrome, cumulative trauma disorders, and repetitive strain injuries caused by inadequate workplace design. Discusses the various factors which make a strong case for the application of ergonomic principles to workplace and system design and presents a case study of State Farm Insurance Companies in which the company applied ergonomic principles and gained significant rewards.
Mission Impossible or Paradise Regained?
Authors: Richman Joel , Wright Pam
Published: July 2002

Gives a preliminary exploration into mission statements and their impact
on nurses′ attitudes towards them. Mission statements are given much
credence by top level management, as part of the thrust towards
corporate identity. Only 15 per cent of nurses (from an opportunistic
sample of 87) acknowledged that mission statements were directly
resonant with their own practice; 75 per cent did not know the
originators of their mission statements; others were vague about their
organization possessing one. Mission statements are best considered
here as an organization rhetoric, a facet of managerial ideology. More
research is needed to evaluate critically, by case studies, the impact
of mission statements, as an organizational variable on, for example,
health treatment and budgeting. Semiotics and communication theories
offer this opportunity.
Early retirement schemes
Authors: Maule A. John
Published: July 2002

Following a brief review of research on special early retirement,
provides a summary of a recent extensive study by Maule, Cliff and
Taylor (in press) and re‐interprets the findings of this study in the
context of the development of effective early retirement schemes.
Discusses effectiveness in terms of the factors which are important in
the decision and how these should be presented, the worries and concerns
which people have about early retirement and how these should be
addressed, ways of helping people make the decision and the factors at
the point of decision that are likely to affect the quality of life in
retirement. Considers of the ways in which each of these factors affect
different groups of workers and the possibility that retirement schemes
can be targeted to be differentially attractive to different groups.
Differences in job perception
Authors: Chiu C.K. , Lai Gina , Snape Ed
Published: July 2002

Introduces the job perceptual discrepancies index (JPDI), which is based on an empirical study of social workers and their team supervisors and was created by comparing supervisors’ and subordinates’ evaluations of the levels of importance of the various tasks in the subordinates’ job. The findings indicate that while subordinates and supervisors in this particular case, generally had similar job perceptions, larger JPDI values have negative implications for subordinates’ job satisfaction and turnover intentions. Considers the utility of the JPDI for both researchers and practitioners in investigating supervisor‐subordinate differences in job perception.
Implementing quality in a small firm
Authors: Boon Stephen , Ram Monder
Published: July 2002

The issue of quality remains an integral feature of the discourse on small firm development. Unfortunately, two potentially conflicting approaches to this issue are evident. There is the essentially prescriptive “consultancy” school which often provides technical solutions uninformed by social processes inherent in the operationalisation of quality. In virtual opposition are more academic and abstract accounts that illuminate the ideological context of quality. Though not without use to practitioners, the implications for entrepreneurs seeking improved ways of working are rarely developed in this approach. The paper weaves a path through these ostensibly oppositional tendencies by explicating the processes involved in implementing a quality management system in the first author’s own organisation, Air Technology Systems (ATS). This case study is based on a collaboration between a small firm owner intent on continuous improvement and an academic institution (the base of the second author) aiming to assist in organisational development. Following an action research approach, the cross‐over between the domains of the “practitioner” and “academic” are illustrated and their contribution to enterprise development demonstrated. What becomes clear is that a systematic approach to the implementation of quality is possible. This involves developing quality recipes organically rather than imposing them from “expert” interventions. Insights from critical treatments of the subject can be drawn on to reinforce the human and social processes central to the implementation of quality systems. However, the nature of work relations is ultimately key to the operationalisation of quality.
Current Trends in the Use of the Public Library Information Centre
Authors: Swash Gill , Marsland Gillian
Published: July 2002

Asserts that public libraries are now busier than ever and are facing
higher public expectations of the services on offer. Explores some of
the possible reasons for this. Government initiatives including the
Citizens′ Charter, as well as fundamental changes in all areas of the
education systems, are highlighted as being major contributors to the
changes in usage. The introduction of the National Curriculum, the
impact of open learning courses and reduced personal and institutional
spending power within academic libraries have prompted both teachers and
students to turn in increasing numbers to the public reference library.
Discusses some of the implications for the management of these services
and outlines some possible strategies for the future.
Needed: a pathway through the swamp of management literature
Authors: Line Maurice B.
Published: July 2002

The literature of management has grown rapidly. Most of it is
written by academics or consultants. It tends to be repetitious and
overlong, and ranges between the popular and the academic. It is bought
by libraries and by individuals, but it is not clear how many read it,
or how much good it does. Critical reviews would help greatly.
Working towards the British Library′s strategic objectives for the
year 2000
Authors: Stephens Andy
Published: July 2002

In May 1993, the British Library published For Scholarship,
Research and Innovation, its statement of strategic objectives for
the year 2000. Describes the background to this, its third strategic
planning document, and summarizes its key thrusts. The corporate nature,
interdependency and pervasiveness of some of the action lines arising
from the strategic objectives required that alternative means of
pursuing implementation, other than through normal management lines, be
found. The chosen approach for achieving single point responsibility and
accountability is through the appointment of senior corporate
“champions” to develop the Library′s role in four key
performance areas: corporate collection management, corporate collection
development, user satisfaction, and access improvement. Also describes a
computer resource allocation model showing linkages between the four
areas.
A mobile robot for pressurizer inspection
Authors: Sun Rong‐Lei , Wan Xing‐Jiang , Chang Heng‐Yi
Published: July 2002

The pressurizer is one of the critical components in a nuclear reactor, whose main function is to maintain the primary system pressure within specific boundaries. The pressurizer is a large vessel that is made of carbon or low‐alloy steel shell, clad internally with a layer of stainless steel. It works with high temperature, high humidity and high pressure. The crack defects that would probably appear in the internal surface of the vessel must be detected and recorded, as well as changes to any existing known cracks. This paper presents an implementation of a mobile robot, which can sense and transmit the image of the internal surface to a remote analysis center, where the image is processed and recorded. A neural network‐based pattern classifier is employed to assist inspectors to detect the flaws that appear in the surface of the vessel. Because the real‐life defects rarely exist in the pressurizer, the training of the network becomes very difficult. A new algorithm is exploited to solve the problem. General considerations about the robot design are also presented.
High accuracy positioning system implements robotic applications with guaranteed placement accuracy
Authors: Oitzman Mike , Campbell Joe
Published: July 2002

Placement accuracy in automated production equipment has been a problem since the first automated machine assembled a product on a manufacturing line at the beginning of the industrial revolution, and the demand for machine accuracy has steadily increased since. Adept Technology, Inc. has developed an accuracy enabling software and hardware system called the High Accuracy Position System (HPS). Adept introduced the first generation of HPS in 1984, for precision assembly of through‐hole components on printed circuit boards. The HPS system provides a method whereby a robot accuracy map, a database of positional errors, is determined in the region of the assembly process. This accuracy map then provides a data resource to offset the computed assembly locations during production and compensates appropriately for any imperfections in the physical mechanism. The HPS system also includes thermal and backlash compensation to account for some of the largest error producing factors in the system.
Vauxhall develops CO2 welding in‐house
Authors: Kochan Anna
Published: July 2002

Describes how Vauxhall Motors has developed new CO2 welding applications for robots at its Ellesmere Port plant on Merseyside, UK. Outlines how, after successfully robotizing the hood welding process, Vauxhall introduced robots for CO2 welding which was difficult for operators to carry out. Explains the process and how robots were successfully developed to fulfil Vauxhall’s requirements.
Niche applications at Eurobot exhibition
Authors: Kochan Anna
Published: July 2002

Reports on the Eurobot exhibition which took place in Frankfurt, Germany in December 1996. States that in spite of being a disappointingly small event with few non‐German exhibitors the exhibition did demonstrate that robotics is still being actively researched. Describes some of the robots on display and outlines their applications and uses.
Robots help out with bricks
Authors: Kochan Anna
Published: July 2002

Describes one of the first robotic installations in a brickworks in Europe, now operating in the UK at the Warnham factory of Ibstock Building Products in Horsham. Explains how the ten Fanuc robots form part of a major investment in new machinery supplied to the UK plant by French company, Ceric, which specializes in equipment for brick and tile manufacture. Outlines the main benefits of the robots, which are used for setting and unloading operations.
The Sprite aerial robot
Authors: Austin Reg G.
Published: July 2002

Explains the raison d’être of the Sprite aerial robot and describes the system engineering, including a description of a range of interchangeable payloads to suit various mission applications. Outlines the performance and control of the robot, and discusses its special characteristics, showing its adaptability for a number of roles, military and civilian. Identifies further applications of the system, which has been trialled in a number of applications worldwide. Finally, explains its current status and indicates the first costs of the system.
HelpMate to ease hospital delivery and collection tasks, and assist with security
Authors: Kochan Anna
Published: July 2002

Obtains the impressions gained ‐ six months into a trial in a UK hospital setting ‐from using the HelpMate robot to transport materials between wards, labs and pharmacy. Shows how the 24 hours a day availability of the robot has prompted further ideas for its use, for instance, security patrolling at night when fitted with closed‐circuit TV. Also discusses the problem areas highlighted in the initial trial period.
Adaptive welding for shipyards
Authors: Ferguson C.R. , Kline
Published: July 2002

Reports on an aggressive project to develop an advanced, automated welding system, being completed at Babcock & Wilcox, CIM Systems. This system, the programmable automated welding system (PAWS), involves the integration of both planning and control technologies to address the needs of small batch robotic welding operations. PAWS is specifically designed to provide an automated means of planning, controlling, and evaluating critical welding situations in shipyard environments to improve productivity and quality. Five varieties (wall, lathe, floor mount, cantilevered, and gantry) of PAWS welding systems currently exist.
Mechanicals look to the future
Authors: Hollingum Jack
Published: July 2002

The Institution of Mechanical Engineers celebrated its 150th anniversary in a symposium on 7‐8 July at the Queen Elizabeth II Conference Centre in London. Its theme was “Visions of the Future ‐ improving the quality of life through technology”, and many senior speakers were invited from industry and academia. Reviews in summary some of the presentations of particular relevance to readers interested in technology.