bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
An Ethnohistory of a Granny Midwife
Authors: Barry Detrice G. , Boyle Joyceen S.
Published: March 2007

This ethnohistorical study described the life health care history of Mrs. Beatrice Cody and her career as a granny midwife in rural Georgia. Mrs. Cody was a trained granny midwife who worked under the supervision of a physician to assist with births and provide care to mothers and infants in rural Georgia during the 1950s. The data were obtained through in-depth interviews and were analyzed by the constant comparative method. Two major themes are described: Surviving hard times and Serving God and others. These themes represented Mrs. Cody's account of her life health care history and shaped her career as a granny midwife.
Intergenerational Analysis of Dietary Practices and Health Perceptions of Hispanic Women and their Adult Daughters
Authors: Garcia-Maas Lillian D.
Published: March 2007

This descriptive, correlational, two-group study investigated differences between dietary practices, acculturation, and health perceptions in a convenience sample of Hispanic mothers and their adult daughters ( N = 76, 47 mother-daughter dyads). Analysis (paired t tests) of the Block Screening Questionnaire, General Acculturation Index, and Self-Rated Health Subindex of the Multilevel Assessment Instrument showed significant differences: Daughters ate more fat (p = .04) and were more acculturated than their mothers (p = .0001). The Pearson correlation yielded a significant relationship for the 76 subjects between fat intake (dietary practice) and health perception: The more fat (meat/snacks) intake, the more negatively women perceived their health status (p = .0001).
42 U.S.C. Sec. 1983 & Correctional Officials Liability: A Look to the New Century
Authors: Pellicciotti Joseph M.
Published: March 2007

Recently there has been a tremendous increase in the number of state prisoner Sec. 1983 civil rights actions against correctional officials. At the same time the Supreme Court has embarked upon a course for decreasing correctional officials Sec. 1983 liability exposure. This course will be maintained: over the next years, the Court will demonstrate an increased concern for the competing obligations of correctional administration, and the Court will be less willing to criticize in hindsight the decisions of correctional officials. In fact, by the year 2,000 we will look back to the 1980's as the historical high point for such litigation. This article considers the legal change of course and presents a potential Sec. 1983 liability standard for the next century.
The Paradigm Change in Criminal Justice: The Contribution of Political Science
Authors: Cole George F.
Published: March 2007

Criminal justice has emerged during the past twenty years as a distinct, interdisciplinary discipline with both a theoretical and applied mission. Political scientists have contributed to the discipline through their interest in law, politics, and administration. Organization theory has been one of the major conceptual frameworks used by political scientists to analyze the criminal courts, prosecution, and defense. As criminal justice takes its place with other scientific disciplines, a political perspective using organization theory and its related concepts will undoubtedly be a part of the paradigm.
Disadvantaged Hispanic College Students and Social Privation: Curricular Programming with Field Practicums for Sophistication
Authors: Stanford Rose Mary
Published: March 2007

It is a general as sumption that a college education elevates disadvantaged students so they can enter the work-world on an equal footing with other college graduates. Despite this belief, the opportunity for success is reduced by various factors. One of these is "social privation". This paperreviews the economic and cultural elements germane to "social privation" and presents a curricular strategy for criminal justice programs to address this problem. The plan presented represents an experimental practicum project developed for a predominately-hispanic criminal justice program. The premise of the project was that quality criminal justice education should not only bridge the gap between theory and practice, but should also augment the career potential of disadvantaged students.
Persistent ony Offenders in Kentucky: A Comparaison of Incarcerated Felons
Authors: Wilson Deborah G. , Gennaro F.V.
Published: March 2007

This study compares inmates convicted and incarcerated as persistent felony offenders (PFO's) to the general inmate population in Kentucky. Data on all incarcerated persistent felony offenders (N = 1,261 as of May 1, 1985) and on a ten percent random sample of other incarcerated felons (N = 356) were collected. The comparison group was subdivided into two parts: 1) first offenders (incarcerated for their first conviction, N = 125) and 2) repeat offenders (incarcerated with at least one prior conviction but not sentenced as PFO's, N = 231). The primary distinction between the PFO and repeat offender groups is the length of sentence. Although the criminal histories of the PFO's revealed that they had been involved in violent crime, it appears that the PFO statute was not consistently applied to all repeat offenders.
Mafia Memoirs: What They Tell Us About Organized Crime
Authors: Firestone Thomas A.
Published: March 2007

Researching the Mafia has become easier with the increasing number of memoirs published by ex-mobsters detailing their careers in organized crime. This body of literature helps explain 1) why people become mobsters, 2) how the Mafia is structured and 3) why so many maifiosi are breaking the mob's code of silence. Traditional criminological theories mirror and are supported by descriptions in the various memoirs of answers to these three questions. Based on this literature review, the paradox of the prisoner's dilemma, in which each conspirator manages to destroy the entire conspiracy to protect his own interests suggests that the erosion of trust and loyalty among maifiosi portends a similar fate for the organization to which they belong(ed).
Women Deputies and Jail Work
Authors: POGREBIN MARK R. , POOLE ERIC D.
Published: March 2007

This article examines the adjustment problems and work strategies of female deputy sheriffs working in four county jails and three local adult detention centers. Semistructured interviews were conducted with 108 women deputies. The findings suggest that in their role as jail officers, women experience integration difficulties predominantly imposed on them by their male coworkers; these difficulties include gender stereotyping, role conflict, and differential performance expectations. This article explores the impact of and response to these work problems.
The Differential Effects of Informal and Formal Social Controls on the Processing of Status Offenders
Authors: HERZ DENISE
Published: March 2007

Many studies have examined gender bias within juvenile court processing of delinquents, but few have examined the theoretical relationship between informal and formal social controls and a juvenile offender's disposition. This thesis integrates Black's theory of social control and feminist theory to hypothesize that a breakdown in informal controls will be more consequential for female status offenders than for male status offenders. Additionally, an offender's “disrespectability” is expected to result in harsher disposition outcomes for female status offenders. All status offenders from a midwestern state between the years 1975 and 1987 will be analyzed to determine the validity of these hypotheses.
Active Vibration Control Using NiTiNOL and Piezoelectric Ceramics
Authors: Ikegami Roy , Wilson David G. , Anderson John R. , Julien Gerald J.
Published: March 2007

The results of a study recently completed by Boeing Aerospace & Elec tronics to investigate the use of NiTiNOL Shape Memory Metals as the sensor and actua tor components of active vibration suppression systems are presented. Two different test set-ups consisting of aluminum cantilever beams with NiTiNOL wires fastened along both sides were developed. The test article for the first set-up was a very flexible, low frequency beam which utilized NiTiNOL wires for both sensing and actuation. The test article for the second set-up was a much stiffer, high frequency beam which utilized NiTiNOL wires for sensing and piezoelectric ceramics for actuation. The settling times of both beams were significantly reduced through the use of the NiTiNOL wire sensors and actuators. Analytical simulations were developed which correlated well with the experimental results. The results of the study demonstrated the feasibility of using NiTiNOL sensors and actuators for active vibration control of structural members.
Advantages of Slewing an Active Structure
Authors: Garcia Ephrahim , Inman Daniel J.
Published: March 2007

The slewing control of an active flexible structure is considered by examin ing the equations of motion of an integrated actuator/structure system containing both the actuator and structure dynamics. These equations are derived using a Hamiltonian ap proach. The system under consideration is a slewing flexible structure, a thin aluminum beam, torque driven by an armature controlled DC electric motor and actuated by a piece- wise distributed piezoceramic actuator. An improvement in performance is gained by 1) including the effects of motor actuator and beam dynamic interaction and 2) using a piezo electric device, layered on the structure, for direct vibration suppression of the structural dynamics. A comparison is made using simulations, to point out the advantages of slewing an active structure versus slewing a passive structure. This presents a multi input slewing control problem which is implemented using a standard linear quadratic regulator control design.
Effect of Joint Imperfections on Static Control of Adaptive Structures as Space Cranes
Authors: Ramesh A.V. , Utku Senol , Wada B.K. , Chen G.S.
Published: March 2007

Effect of imperfections in the joints of an adaptive structure on its slow (no inertia forces) motion along a prescribed trajectory as a space crane is studied. Two mathematical models to predict the effect of joint imperfections are proposed. The two models are used to obtain estimates of the deviations of the node of the space crane to which the end-effector is attached, from its prescribed trajectory. An application of the models to a two-section space crane is given.
Comparative Methods for the Derivation of In Flow Electrical Characteristics of Electro-Rheological Fluids
Authors: Hosseini-Sianaki A. , Firoozian R. , Peel D.J. , Bullough W.A.
Published: March 2007

Results are presented from two identification exercises which have been used to determine the resistance and capacitance values of a typical electro-rheological fluid. Simulated data, in which the parameter values are known a-priori, are employed to compare the two methods with regard to both accuracy and computational efficiency. The experimental data analysed are from a parallel plate flow mode valve restrictor. Both ap proaches produce similar results over the operating range of moderate to high excitation frequency, but yield substantially different results at low frequencies. Possible reasons for these inconsistencies and methods for resolving the problems are discussed. Amongst these problems noise on the processed signal is a major factor.
A Neural Network Applied to Sensor Signal Processing: Determination of Copper in Water
Authors: Sperring D.A. , Chow C.W. , Mulcahy D.E. , Davey D.E. , Haskard M.R.
Published: March 2007

A neural network is applied to sensor signal processing in a novel ap proach to the determination of copper in reservoir water. The neural network performed well in determining the correct total of copper concentration in water when provided with only pH and copper(II) ion-selective electrode experimental data. This task followed an initial period of network exposure to a set of experimental data triplets, which were used as examples of the required input/output data mapping.
Active Structural Control for Damping Augmentation and Compensation of Thermal Distortion
Authors: Sirlin S.W.
Published: March 2007

A large space-based interferometer (FMI) is used as a testbed for ideas de veloped in the NASA Controls and Structures Interaction (CSI) program. An end-to-end simulation of the optical performance of the system has been developed and used to dem onstrate impedance-based adaptive structural control and control of thermal disturbances. Other issues briefly addressed include integrated optical/structural modeling and a hier archical, layered control strategy.
Sealing Effect of Magnetic Fluid at a Crack
Authors: Junji Tani  , Ohtomo Kikuo
Published: March 2007

This article discusses non-leak liquid as an intelli gent material in connection with safety engineering. In this inves tigation, the magnetic fluids are tested for the constitution of a non-leakage pipeline system. The experimental results show that magnetic fluids have good characteristics for preventing leakage of a liquid in a pipeline.
Network Structure of Polystyrene Microgels and Dispersion Mechanism in an Organic Solvent
Authors: Oikawa Hidetoshi , Harasawa Masako , Ono Katsumichi
Published: March 2007

Polystyrene microgels (PSMG) were prepared by soap-free emulsion co polymerization of styrene and divinylbenzene (DVB), and then dispersed in tetrahydrofuran (THF). The apparent diffusion constant Dapp and the intrinsic viscosity [η] for PSMG were determined in THF. Dapp was measured with dynamic light scattering technique, and the hydrodynamic radius Rh of PSMG swollen in THF was estimated using the Stokes-Einstein relation. The slope of plots of Dapp vs. concentration of PSMG changed from positive to negative with decreasing DVB content. This result was interpreted by a core-shell type network structure of swollen PSMG. Formation of the network structure is also supported by the difference in reactivity ratio between styrene and DVB. The swelling ratio of PSMG, which was calculated from the ratio of Rh and the diameter of dried PSMG, showed maximum at intermediate DVB content, while [η] showed minimum around the similar DVB content. This behavior was ascribed to the aggregation of PSMG. The dispersion mechanism could be qualitatively explained by considering both steric and topological repulsive forces, to which the network structure of the core-shell type may contribute.
Thermomechanical Behavior of an Fe-Cr-Ni-Mn-Si Polycrystalline Shape Memory Alloy
Authors: Tanaka K. , Hayashi T. , Aida Y. , Tobushi H.
Published: March 2007

The thermomechanical behavior of an Fe-Cr-Ni- Mn-Si polycrystalline shape memory alloy, displaying high corro sion resistance as well as good oxidation resistance and workabil ity, was examined experimentally from the macroscopic point of view. The martensitic and reverse transformation start and finish conditions were determined in the stress-temperature plane from the isostatic strain-temperature data. The reverse transformation was shown to be strongly dependent on the prior martensitic transformation. The response of the alloy was measured under the thermomechanical cyclic loading, combined with an isothermal loading/unloading and an isostatic heating/cooling.
Heat Memory of Structures with Phase Transitions
Authors: Alekseev Aleksey K.
Published: March 2007

The sensor, which retains information about heating by means of irreversible changes of its structure, is considered. The sample of a heat conducting material with bars of temperature-indicating paints, located normally to the heated surface, is used as such a sensor. The coordinates of color change zones are stored in the sample after it is cooled. The special inverse heat conduction problem, which enables us to restore the heating history by using these coordinates, is considered. The results of numerical experiments are presented.
Design of Future Electron Devices with Intelligent Materials
Authors: Nozaki Shinji , Takahashi Kiyoshi
Published: March 2007

With increasing demand for higher speed perfor mance of computers, a new concept for electron devices is re quired for electronics in the future. Devices using intelligent materials could meet such a demand and simplify electronics so that a system made of such devices could perform more complex functions close to those of human brains and organisms. Intelligent materials are distinct from conventional materials in their charac teristics and have high potential to become the dominant electronic materials in the future because of their built-in functions. There are two ways to realize intelligent materials. One is to artificially create intelligent materials, and the other is to metamorphose exist ing materials into intelligent materials. This article will focus on the latter with two examples: ferroelectric devices and k-space en gineering, which manipulates the band structure of an existing material.
Learning Models in Dynamic Manufacturing
Authors: Tse Edison , Narongdej Pol
Published: March 2007

In a dynamic environment, continuous update of the operational knowledge is neces sary. A computer learning technology is needed to capture and update that knowledge. When the relevant knowledge of the production process and equipment is available and remains relatively stable, the expert system technology can be applied to develop an intelligent support system for monitoring, diagnosis, and recovery processes. However, many existent learning algorithms are in applicable to this case because of their slow learning rates. To improve the performance, appropriate incorporation of a human expert is required. This paper proposes such a computer learning model and describes how an expert should play the role in assisting the computer. Simulation studies using data from an actual paper making factory are carried out to compare performances of two learning strategies employing different levels of the expert's assistance.
A Dynamic Model of a Linear Actuator Based on Polymer Hydrogel
Authors: Brock David , Lee Woojin , Segalman Daniel , Witkowski Walter
Published: March 2007

The design and analysis of a series of linear actuators based on polymer hydrogel is presented. The actuators use arrays of pH sensitive gel fibers together with a fluid irrigation system to locally and rapidly regulate the composition of the solution. A dynamic model is constructed for one of the linear actuators, which includes the polymer gel, fluidic system, and transmission mechanics. Emphasis in the design and mechanical modeling of the actuators is placed on the com plete system including not only the polymer gel, but also on the containment system, irrigation scheme, and servo valving system.
The Dynamics and the Interpersonal and Intrapersonal Relations Within an Isolated Group in Extreme Environments
Authors: Peri Antonio , Barbarito Marta , Barattoni Matilde , Abraham Ada
Published: March 2007

The evolution of interpersonal and intrapersonal relations within an isolated group was investigated during two Italian Antarctic summer campaigns using the Matrix of Intra and Interpersonal Processes in the Group (MIPG). This instrument was effective in the detection of particular modifications of the underlying social-emotional dynamics taking place in the group. In the group of the first campaign, fear of revealing one’s true self decreased during the campaign, whereas idealization of the harmony and the repression of all tensions increased. In the second campaign, idealization decreased even more with time, whereas the fear of revealing the self increased at the end of the stay. An indirect confirmation of the validity of the MIPG parameters is provided by the correlation between some of its configurations and the positive aspects of individual behavior empirically assessed by the medical officers.
Damaging Experiences in Therapeutic Groups
Authors: Smokowski Paul Richard , Rose Sheldon D. , Bacallao Martica L.
Published: March 2007

Many consumers who are seeking support and affiliation are treated in a variety of group settings. Yet, even with sustained popularity, groups are not always helpful and can be dangerous. This article uses clinical case studies to delineate the transactional dynamics of damaging group experiences. Interviews with 33 individuals who met the criteria for being considered group casualties were analyzed to understand what factors precipitated dangerous group events. Three interrelated domains are discussed: individual attributes and actions that place group members at risk of becoming group casualties, group attributes and actions that create a toxic atmosphere, and leader attributes and actions that cause damaging group experiences. Damaging leader behavior, characterized by what the leader does or does not do, was the most destructive of the three domains. Implications for practitioners and guidelines for preventing damaging group experiences are suggested.
Adaptation to Self-Managing Work Teams
Authors: Thoms Peg , Pinto Jeffrey K. , Parente Diane H. , Druskat Vanessa Urch
Published: March 2007

Two studies examined the team member characteristics (Big Five personality traits and attitude toward self-managing teams) that predict successful adaptation to participation in self-managing work teams (SMWTs) as assessed by self-ratings and manager ratings. Adaptation is conceptualized as having an immediate or short-term dimension (performing the team’s task well) and an enduring or long-term dimension (full cooperation in the team and commitment to team self-management). In both studies, member conscientiousness and attitude toward SMWTs were linked significantly to member self-ratings of long-term adaptation; attitude toward SMWTs, a malleable characteristic, was the strongest predictor. Short-term adaptation did not predict member self-ratings of long-term adaptation. However, short-term adaptation was the strongest predictor of manager ratings of member long-term adaptation. Results suggest that team members focus on internal feelings to assess their long-term (i.e., full) adaptation, whereas managers focus on short-term outcomes to assess long-term adaptation. Implications are discussed.
External Activities and Team Effectiveness
Authors: Choi Jin Nam
Published: March 2007

With the emergence of new organizational forms such as team-based organizations, external activities have become a critical function for organizational teams. This article offers a theoretical framework that indicates when external activities enhance team effectiveness and explains how team-design features influence external activities. Drawing on structural contingency theory, this article proposes that the relationship between external activities and team effectiveness is moderated by a set of structural contingency factors, including environmental characteristics, external interdependence, temporal fluctuations in external demands, and task complexity. The framework also identifies a set of team characteristics, including team composition, group development, and leadership, that influences the level of external activities. The present model contributes to the group literature by identifying moderators and antecedents of external activities with respect to their effects on team effectiveness. It also suggests further issues and challenges that should guide future studies of external activities of organizational teams.
Measures of Trust and Openness
Authors: Kegan Daniel L. , Rubenstein Albert H.
Published: March 2007

Trust and openness are central concerns in humanistic psychology. A typology of trust, openness, and related variables is presented and utilized as a framework for the listing of associated research instruments. Thirteen of the instruments are suggested for current use in studies of trust and openness.
Pregroup Interactions and Bonding in Small Groups
Authors: Piper William E. , Jones Barry D. , Lacroix Renée , Marrache Myriam , Richardsen Astrid M.
Published: March 2007

This study experimentally varies conditions relating to the people with whom participants interacted prior to beginning a small learning group experience. Three conditions were estabhshed: participant-bonded, leader-bonded, and other-bonded. Rates of attending and remaining varied according to with whom participants interacted prior to the onset of the group; the best record was achieved in the participant-bonded condition. The lowest rates of attending and remaining were obtained m the leader-bonded condition. For the purpose of retaining members early in the life of a group, preliminary leader-member interactions are judged to be relatively ineffective. The conditions examined were found to be unrelated to evaluations of participant learning. Perceived personal compatibility that arises from prehminary peer interactions may help a group retain membership, but does not necessarily assure learmng or therapeutic change.
Social Deviance and Occupational Status
Authors: Gouran Dennis S. , Ketrow Sandra M. , Spear Steve , Metzger Janet
Published: March 2007

This experiment tests the interactive effects of status of the offender and severity of a deviant act on the assessment ofpenaltiesfor socially proscribed behavior. The results reveal an overall tendency for high-status offenders to receive more lenient treatment than their low-status counterparts from members of decision-making groups having the task of assigning punishment. The discrepancy is greater in cases involving seriously deviant behavior. Analysis of group members' communicative behavior shows a tendency for members to focus on different types of concerns in arriving at these discrepant decisions.
Satisfaction and Things Not Said
Authors: Wright Thomas L. , Ingraham Loring J. , Chemtob Helen J. , Perez-Arce Patricia
Published: March 2007

This is the first in a series of articles on maximizing the client benefits in small groups. Our approach to the problem derives from our dual roles as clinicians and researchers. In this article we will report our clinical observations based on the time-limited groups we have been leading and present relevant data on clinical tools that accelerate devel opment in groups.
The Male-Specific Group in Alcoholism Treatment
Authors: Van Wormer Katherine
Published: March 2007

Men in our society are culturally conditioned to be strong and independent, and to repress emotions other than anger. In working with the male alcoholic, attention to cultural/sex-role norms is essential. This article describes the introduction of a gender-based men's group to meet the special needs of the male alcoholic client
The Use and Abuse of Structure and Exercise in Ongoing Group Psychotherapy
Authors: Ettin Mark F.
Published: March 2007

Introducing specific structures and exercises within the ongoing context of the psychotherapy group most directly controls the course of events and affects the members' perceptions of the group and of the leader. Since groups are already full of ongoing issues, themes, and feelings, a successful exercise must highlight existent group processes, rather than bypassing them or creating a novel experential set Proper choice, selection, and timing of exercises enhances their effectiveness and utility, and provides for an integrated group experience. Here we present a five-step model to prepare, work with, process, generalize, and refer back to key structural interventions and exercises in group psychotherapy settings
Group Process as Diagnostic
Authors: Polley Richard Brian
Published: March 2007

As a general policy, Small Group Research does not publish articles dealing with family therapy; there are several excellent journals that deal exclusively with this topic. We have decided to include this set of articles because they are tied together by a common methodology that appears to have broader relevance for the study of groups. Because the theory and method underlying these articles may not be familiar to many of our readers, we have also decided to include a brief article that provides background information on formal methods of group process analysis. For many years, work on group process was conducted primarily in the small group laboratory. In recent years, more and more research has moved to the field. We have shifted from the development of basic theory and methodology to practical application. This brief introduction to group process summarizes the methodology and recent applications.
A Process Investigation of Self-Monitoring and Leader Emergence
Authors: Cronshaw Steven F. , Ellis Robert J.
Published: March 2007

Although previous research has shown that high self-monitors tend to emerge as group leaders, little is known about the processes by which this personality trait influences leader emergence. Extrapolating from self-monitoring theory (Snyder, 1987), it was postulated that high self-monitors emerge as group leaders because they are sensitive to, and act on, social cues regarding appropriate leader style, whereas low self-monitors emerge as leaders as a function of favorable attitudes toward leadership. Two hypotheses corresponding to these postulates were tested in a laboratory experiment conducted on 68 business students assigned to 4-person problem-solving groups in an organization simulation. Both hypotheses were supported, thus showing the value of self-monitoring theory for furthering the understanding of leader emergence within groups. The implications of these findings for selfmonitoring theory, as well as for the measurement and development of organization leadership, are explored.
Identifying Obstacles to Small Group Democracy
Authors: Gastil John
Published: March 2007

This pair of studies examines some of the obstacles groups encounter in their attempts to practice small group democracy. Through a critical case study, a number of problems are identified, including excessive meeting length, unequal involvement in the group, unequal commitment to group goals, cliques and "miniconsensus," differences in communication skills and styles, anid protracted interpersonal conflicts. The second study tests the external validity of thefirst study'sfindings, suggesting that these obstacles may, indeed4 be common and formidable barriers to small group democracy.
Entrainment of Creativity in Small Groups
Authors: Kelly Janice R. , Karau Steven J.
Published: March 2007

The present research was designed to examine both the initial and the persisting effects of time limits on group creativity. Thirty-three triads worked on an unusual-uses task during each of three time periods that increased, decreased, or stayed constant over the three trials. Various measures of creativity and of rate of use generation were used. Each use was rated on a 7-point scale for creativity and feasibility. In addition, uses were categorized into hierarchical categories. The results showed that short initial time limits led to faster rates ofperformance, but lowercreativity, than did long initial time limits. Both rate and creativity effects tended to persist over trials, even though time limits changed, leading to the surprising effect of increased creativity with increased time pressure over trials in the decreasing time limit series. The results are discussed within the context of the social entrainment model.
The Behavior and Personality of Work Group and Basic Assumption Group Members
Authors: Lion Cynthia L. , Gruenfeld Leopold W.
Published: March 2007

The purpose of this study was to examine andpredict individual workand nonwork behavior in groups, based on the personality of the individual. Personality was defined in terms of Bales 's SYMLOG character types. Work and nonwork behavior were conceptualized in terms of the Bion work group and basic assumption groups. Intelligence and gender were used as control variables. It was expected that group members observed to be task oriented and emotionally controlled, in SYMLOG terms, would be in a work group mode. The subjects in the study were participants in four academic self-study groups. Factor analysis was used to create scales describing work and nonwork activity. Scores on these scales were correlated with scores generated from SYMLOG Observations, SYMLOG Retrospective Ratings, the Culture Fair Intelligence Test, and the gender of the participants. The results of this study strongly supported the hypothesis that there is a positive relationship between work activity as defined by Bion and the SYMLOG character type of task orientation/emotional control. There were also a number of significant relationships between the various basic assumption groups modes and other SYMLOG dimensions. These results suggest that it is possible to systematically code and predict work and nonwork activity in groups based on the personality of the individuals involved. Implications forfurther research are explored.
The Contact Hypothesis
Authors: Gaertner Samuel L. , Rust Mary C. , Dovidio John F. , Bachman Betty A. , Anastasio Phyllis A.
Published: March 2007

This survey study involving 1,357 students attending a multi-cultural high school explored how thefeatures identified by the contact hypothesis reduce intergroup bias. Specifically, the study examined predictions derived from the common ingroup identity model that equal status, cooperative interdependence, interaction and egalitarian norms reduce bias, in part, because they alter cognitive representations of the student body from different groups to a more inclusive ingroup. The survey measured students'impressions of thefeatures of contact at school, their representations of the student body (e.g., as one group or different groups), and bias in their affective reactions and overall attitudinal favorability toward groups at school. In general, reductions in bias were predicted by stronger common ingroup representations, weaker representations of two groups, and ethnic/racial identities that included a superordinate American identity. Furthermore, as predicted, cognitive representations (e.g., as one group) mediated the relation between contact and reductions in bias. The findings were integrated into a more complex model in which intergroup affective reactions are conceived to be a major determinant of overall attitudinal favorability.
Understanding the Synergistic Effects of Communication in Small Groups
Authors: Salazar Abran J.
Published: March 2007

This article provides a review of the literature on the relationship between small group process and what Steiner and Collins & Guetzkow have termed, respectively, process loss and the assembly effect bonus. These models make contradictory predictions about the influence of communication variables on group decision-making performance. The extant research on group decision making has supported the validity of both models. The amount of ambiguity present in the decision-making situation is posited as a factor giving rise to instances of process gain and loss. Ambiguity is incorporated into a revised version of the path-goal model of group performance. The model outlines the types of influences that group interaction may have in a group's arriving at a process gain or loss.
Getting a Clue
Authors: Straus Susan G.
Published: March 2007

Computer-mediated communication (CMC) has been viewed as overcoming process losses in groups by fostering equal particpation in discussions. This study examines antecedents of participation and tests the hypothesis that the benefit of the equalization effect depends on how information is distributed within the group. Fifty-four 3-person groups worked on a problem-solving task either in computer conferences or inface-to-face meetings. Additional pieces of information (clues) were distributed equally across members orto single members. In contrast to ideas that electronic communication reduces inhibitions, participation in CMC was associated with individual differences in extraversion. In addition; despite more equal participation in CMC, individuals dondated in both media. Media had few effects on information sharing or performance, although CMC groups were less satisfied with the process. Results of this and other studies of group problem solving suggest that patterms of interaction andperformance in computer-mediated groups do not depart substantiallyfrom face-to-face groups, although CMC may introduce new process losses.
Examining Equality of Influence in Group Decision Support System Interaction
Authors: Scott Craig R. , Easton Annette C.
Published: March 2007

This article explores the assumption that most group decision support systems (GDSSs) tend to equalize influence in groups. Several past studies suggest that random groups interacting in a computer-mediated environment have more equal influence than face-to-face groups. This study, however, examined variations in perceived influence and communicative influence strategies among individual members of an intact group using a GDSSfor decision making. Although results indicate that perceived influence is more equal during GDSS interaction than immediately prior to such interaction, other results question the claim of equal influence. Findings suggest that historically high- and low-influence individuals are still perceived as such even in the GDSS meetings; furthermore, historically high- and low-influence members all use influence messages, but they use different tactics and employ them in varied amounts. Thesefindings question the influence equalization assumption of GDSSs.
Positive Illusions about Oneself and One's Group
Authors: Polzer Jeffrey T. , Kramer Roderick M. , Neale Margaret A.
Published: March 2007

This study examined antecedents (rewards and threats to self-esteem) and consequences (group conflict and performance) of selfand group-enhancing positive illusions. Hypotheses regarding the magnitude of these illusions were derived from attention-based and self-esteem-based explanations for why people engage in positive illusions. The authors tested these hypotheses in a laboratory experiment in which 408 subjects performed a decision-making task both individually and in a group. Results showed that threats to self-esteem affected the magnitude of illusions more than rewards, the two types of illusions differentially affected group conflict and performance, and selfand group-enhancing illusions were positively related. The authors discuss several implications of their results and of simultaneously studying illusions about both oneself and one's group.
Can Group-and Issue-Related Factors Predict Choice Shift?
Authors: Barnir Anat
Published: March 2007

The phenomenon of choice shift in group decisions has been extensively researched and documented. Existing reviews on choice shift have primarily focused on the theoretical explanations of the phenomenon, and the general prediction is that the direction of the shift will reflect the initial position of the majority of group members. The present article focuses on the effects of group-and issue-related factors on choice shift in groups discussing life dilemmas. Findings indicate that group decisions are more likely to shift toward risk when groups are large, when members do not know each other, when taking risks is socially desirable, when the decision problem provides sufficient information, and with regard to issues on which group members are knowledgeable. Group decisions are more likely to shift toward caution when the decision problem is associated with uncertainty, severe outcomes, and high potential gains. An explanation is proposed and implications for decision-making groups are discussed.
Gender Differences in the Effects of Media Richness
Authors: Dennis Alan R. , Kinney Susan T. , Hung Yu-Ting Caisy
Published: March 2007

Media richness theory argues that performance improves when team members use “richer” media for equivocal tasks. Virtually all research on media richness theory has focused on perceptions: surveys of individuals’beliefs about media rather than investigating actual performance with richer versus leaner media. This experiment studied the effects of media richness on decision making in two-person teams (all male, all female, and mixed gender) using one form of “new media” (computer-mediated communication). Participants took longer to make decisions with computer-mediated communication. Matching richness to task equivocality only resulted in better performance for the all-female teams, likely because females are more sensitive to nonverbal communication and more affected by its absence in computer-mediated communication. For remaining teams, using richer face-to-face communication did not improve performance to a greater extent for more equivocal than less equivocal tasks. Results support media richness theory only for all-female teams.
Perceived Cohesion in Small Groups
Authors: Chin Wynne W. , Salisbury Wm. David , Pearson Allison W. , Stollak Matthew J.
Published: March 2007

The six-item Perceived Cohesion Scale (PCS) was created to measure perceived cohesion in groups. However, only large groups were used to assess the validity and reliability of the measure, leaving in question the use of the PCS with small groups. This study adapts the measure of cohesion to the small-group arena. Results provide support for the validity and reliability of the adapted measure for use within the small group.
Written Debriefing: The Next Vital Step in Learning with Simulations
Authors: Petranek Charles F.
Published: March 2007

After 25 years of working with simulations, one of the author’s amazing discoveries has been that students learn much more after completig written debriefing than just oral debriefing. However, in the field of simulations, written debriefing is rarely used or even discussed. The theoretical foundation of simulation and gaming is experiential learning. The proposal in this article is to capture the excitement and energy of the simulation and oral debriefing and use it as a springboard for more learning in written debriefing. Allowing participants time to reflect on all the activity and their emotions helps them put everything in perspective. The major hurdle is the time needed to write and to evaluate the writing. However, the benefits far outweigh the costs. With written debriefing, participants can reflect about their behavior, facilitators can assess individual learning, and students can privately communicate with their professor. Written debriefing should become a major instrument in the field to promote better learning.
SITMECOM 1.0 PC
Authors: del Mar González Zamora María , Machuca José A. D. , del Castillo José Carlos Ruiz
Published: March 2007

In this article, the authors illustrate, through the description of the functions of the simulator SITMECOM 1.0 PC, a design philosophy for business simulators. They pursue three basic objectives: to promote the system dynamics approach for business management, to facilitate self-learning, and to provide a user-friendly interface that helps in attaining these goals. In the authors’ opinion, this transparent-box simulator offers clear advantages over traditional business games.
Learning as Acquisition and Learning as Interaction
Authors: Klabbers Jan H. G.
Published: March 2007

System Dynamics (SD) is an experimental, quantitative approach for designing structures of social systems and policies that are compatible with a social system’s growth and stability objectives. The experimental model approach for the design of large scale systems is the key for learning about human organizations. Before elaborating on the types of learning environments that can be designed on the basis of SD models, this article presents a social systems theory, distinguishing classical and autopoietic systems theory. Two generic models are presented, which reflect both theoretical points of view and constitute different types of learning environments. The author summarizes epistemological views on learning and growth of knowledge in the context of learning as acquisition and learning as interaction. Subsequently, by building on the actor approach of social systems, learners are embedded in learning environments. They should learn to deal with the duality of structure of social systems, that is, learn to produce and self-reproduce structures as a context for action. Finally, these views are linked to three simulation modes and to participative design of learning environments.
Cross-Cultural Considerations for Simulation-Based Learning Environments
Authors: Morgan Konrad
Published: March 2007

The author reviews some of the literature on the role of cultural background in relation to certain of the typical simulation and gaming scenarios that are popular within current interactive learning environments. It is argued that the cultural, social, and ethnic background of an individual influences many aspects of their behavior and their likely responses to environmental stimuli. It is important for the systems dynamics designer to realize that these responses include the individuals’ reactions to computer-based simulations and therefore the potential success of any interactive learning environment.
Historical Review of Algorithm Development for Computerized Business Simulations
Authors: Gold Steven C. , Pray Thomas F.
Published: March 2007

This article presents a 25-year historical review of algorithm development for computerized business simulations. The articles selected were drawn extensively from the annual proceedings of the Association for Business Simulation and Experiential Learning (ABSEL) conferences. The authors have categorized the historical review into two broad areas: functional business topics and special topics of interest. Both narrative and summary tables address marketing, accounting, finance, human resource, and production/ operations areas. The special topics of interest reviewed include the algorithms for quality and the time-based modeling concerns. The authors conclude the review with issues future modelers of business games should consider.
Multisensor Imaging and Virtual Simulation for Assessment, Diagnosis, Therapy Planning, and Navigation
Authors: Bidaut Luc
Published: March 2007

Images and data representing morphology, function, and metabolism are medically produced in the scope of specific protocols and pathologies. Although generally assessed individually, these data can also be merged together into a multidimensional digital space that simulates the reality of the patient from many different perspectives. This space can then be navigated at will along any dimension, not only for diagnosis but also to plan, simulate, or monitor surgery or other types of therapy. These approaches can be used for addressing various research or clinical needs such as the primary and secondary assessments of complex pathologies, including cancer and epilepsy. Concepts such as those presented in this article represent an adequate foundation not only for an optimum exploitation of all available information for in-vivo assessment and therapy guidance but also for a more effective assessment of the full scope and requirements of live systems simulation(s) accurate enough for supporting clinical and research developments.
Using Simulations to Investigate Management Decision Making
Authors: Prohaska Charles R. , Frank Ellen J.
Published: March 2007

Management researchers are always in search for new controlled environments from which they can gather data. This article proposes the use of total enterprise simulations as a research setting for studying management decision making. Using INTOP, the authors present examples of analyses that were conducted from a data base generated from the responses of executive MBA participants. Using a multiple regression, policy-capture approach, differences in the decision making strategies between groups are examined. Also discussed is an approach to developing a performance criterion that may be used when testing hypotheses regarding managerial decision-making effectiveness. The authors conclude that total enterprise simulations represent a research setting that warrants further exploration.
A Winner's Perspective
Authors: Biggs William D. , Morra Wayne A. , Halpin Annette L.
Published: March 2007

This article reports on the authors' experience as they participated in a business competition involving a computerized business game. The article first describes the simulation used in the competition. Second, the members of the team and their varying levels of participation are described along with the nature of the decision process. Third, the strategy adopted and some of the specific decisions made are described. The article concludes with some observations concerning why the approaches that were adopted worked.