bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025_split huggingface dataset:
A discourse analysis technique for charting the flow of micro‐information behavior
Authors: Nahl Diane 
Published: April 2007

PurposeThe purpose of this research is to describe a discourse analysis technique which can be used to analyze text or speech that is produced by people when discussing their information practices.Design/methodology/approachThe method involves coding the phrases and sentences of this interpretive discourse into the three domains of behavior investigated in psychology and education, namely, the affective domain of evaluating and intending, the cognitive domain of appraising and planning, and the sensorimotor domain of noticing, perceiving, and executing or acting.FindingsSamples of discourse from independent published sources were categorized and coded. In every case people's self‐descriptions of their information practices are shown to contain references to their activities in these three domains. A model is presented to depict how information behavior can be represented as a continuous processing flow of satisficing and optimizing behavior. These mental behavioral procedures are practiced by individuals in information settings as members of a group or culture, and are reflected in the verbal accounts they construct about their information behavior.Research limitations/implicationsThe model of ecological constructionism, upon which the coding technique is based, needs to be tested in many more diverse contexts. Second, the model needs to address differences in types of information behavior such as searching, computing, blogging, etc., as well as different information settings and purposes of use, e.g. online shopping, doing job tasks with the computer, etc.Practical implicationsThe technique can theoretically be automated and applied to the processing of large volumes of text produced daily in the online environment. The results yield a type of average digital code that can serve as an index of people's information behaviors in these diverse settings with regard to their affective, cognitive and sensorimotor activities.Originality/valueThe model or theory was constructed by integrating the concepts of “satisficing” and “optimizing” in decision making with research in information behavior, human ecology, social cognitive theory and ethnomethodology. The model is comprehensive and general enough to provide a potentially useful common topical reference chart for human studies in information science.
Information resources used by children at an English secondary school
Authors: Madden Andrew D. , Ford Nigel J. , Miller David 
Published: April 2007

PurposeThe purpose of this research is to study the information‐seeking habits of children at an English secondary school. Data from two different research exercises were collated in order to provide an insight into how students perceived and used a range of information resources.Design/methodology/approachIn the first research exercise, groups of children from each academic year were asked to discuss a set of information resources and to rank them according to perceived usefulness. In the second, students were asked to report, throughout the school year, on the resources they used to complete homework assignments.FindingsThe findings from these two exercises are best interpreted by using them to provide the answers to three questions: Which information resources did students consider to be the most useful? Which information resources did students use the most? When an information resource was referred to, how likely was it that students found it to be useful? The rankings differed considerably, depending on which question was being asked.Originality/valueThe results gave an insight into how different information resources were used for different subjects. They also provide evidence of the fact that students' reliance on other people as an information source begins to decline as they get older, and there is a corresponding increase in their use of books and electronic information sources.
Practical potentials of Bradford's law: a critical examination of the received view
Authors: Nicolaisen Jeppe , Hjørland Birger 
Published: April 2007

PurposeThe purpose of this research is to examine the practical potentials of Bradford's law in relation to core‐journal identification.Design/methodology/approachLiterature studies and empirical tests (Bradford analyses).FindingsLiterature studies reveal that the concept of “subject” has never been explicitly addressed in relation to Bradford's law. The results of two empirical tests (Bradford analyses) demonstrate that different operationalizations of the concept of “subject” produce quite different lists of core‐journals. Further, an empirical test reveals that Bradford analyses function discriminatorily against minority views.Practical implicationsBradford analysis can no longer be regarded as an objective and neutral method. The received view on Bradford's law needs to be revised.Originality/valueThe paper questions one of the old dogmas of the field.
About the performance of some viscosity index improvers in a synthetic oil of ester type
Authors: Gospodinova N.N. , Pavlov D.J. , Glavchev I.K. 
Published: April 2007

PurposeThis paper seeks to investigate the influence of chemical structure of ester basestock (trimethylolpropane pelargonate) on the viscosity characteristics of formulations obtained and the operating mechanism of two widely used viscosity index improvers – poly(butadiene‐styrene) and poly(alkyl methacrylate).Design/methodology/approachOil formulations of trimethylolpropane pelargonate and poly(butadiene‐styrene)/poly(alkyl methacrylate) as viscosity index improvers are prepared. Their kinematic viscosity at different temperatures is measured. Relative, intrinsic and characteristic viscosities are calculated from the experimental data.FindingsThe thickening ability of linear polymers from butadiene‐styrene and alkyl methacrylate in a synthetic oil of ester type (trimethylolpropane pelargonate) is clarified. The conformation of these polymers is studied. Results of comparative tests about the influence of the type of polymer and solvent on characteristic and intrinsic viscosity are presented. It has been established that with the increasing of temperature the quality of used synthetic oil decreased and the characteristic viscosity decreased for both polymers. At lower temperatures the intermolecular interaction between the polymeric macromolecules becomes bigger than their interaction with the molecules of solvent. Molecule associates have been possibly formed at low temperature. These associates increase the viscosity of solutions and this increase is bigger at low temperatures in comparison with high temperatures.Practical implicationsViscosity index improvement of poly(butadiene‐styrene) and poly(alkyl methacrylate) is determined. The information about concentrations and viscosity is of practical interest.Originality/valueThe combination of these synthetic basestock and viscosity index improvers is a new one. The data obtained may have value for the oil production.
Modified determination of fluid resistance for membrane‐type restrictors
Authors: Kang Yuan , Shen Ping‐Chen , Chen Cheng‐Hsign , Chang Yeon‐Pun , Lee Hsing‐Han 
Published: April 2007

PurposeThis paper seeks to modify the determinations of flow rate and fluid resistance, which can be realized and confident from the measurements of flow rates in experiments.Design/methodology/approachAccording to coupled physics of solid membrane and lubrication fluid, finite element method is used simultaneously to determine membrane deflection and film thickness. Several cases are simulated by traditional method, finite element method and compared with experimental method for the flow rates and fluid resistances to present the modification of determination results.FindingsThe FEM results for the fixed eight‐section are approximated to actual flow rate and are consistent with the modified determination of the flow rates, and so the modified determinations of the flow rates are verified. When a computer of P4 with 1.8 GHz CPU and 512 MB RAM is utilized, time needed for traditional method or modified formula is fewer than one second. However, more than 4 h is required for FEM by using the same computer.Originality/valueThis study provides the modified method for the determinations of flow rate and fluid resistance in membrane‐type restrictors by using FEM. The FEM results can increase the determination accuracy of the flow rate and restriction coefficient in the design of membrane‐type restrictors.
Energy savings through use of advanced biodegradable lubricants
Authors: Lea Cliff 
Published: April 2007

PurposeThis paper seeks to outline the technical characteristics of certain biodegradable lubricants which can lead to potential energy savings.Design/methodology/approachReviews the reasons for introduction of biodegradable lubricants, and describes the outcome of development and establishment of suitable range of lubricants for almost all applications.FindingsPlant‐based lubricants have low toxicity, they are derived from crop resources, they are recognised as safer to use, and are rapidly biodegradable when spilled on to open land or into water. As such they break down to reduce pollution burden and are favoured by the Environment Agency when used near watercourses. Products have been developed now for almost all applications including hydraulics, engines, transmissions, compressors, metalworking, turbines, and for use in all industry sectors. Latest generation biolubricants, however, give additional advantages above and beyond the original concept to reduce pollution: the latest products have high levels of performance in terms of both loading and temperature. In particular, their frictional characteristics have been shown to be considerably more favourable than those for mineral oil, offering energy reduction during use.Research limitations/implicationsThe paper is restricted to findings based on ester‐based synthetic lubricants where the esters have been derived principally from renewable resources.Practical implicationsQuite apart from their environmental attributes, reduced energy consumption and therefore lower variable costs are now possible, and the concept of use of these oils to give distinct savings is becoming recognised.Originality/valueThis study emphasises that distinct advantages for synthetic lubricants, particularly for biodegradable synthetic ester lubricants derived from renewable resources, are now being realised.
Between a rock and a hard place
Authors: Edmond Nadia , Hillier Yvonne , Price Mark 
Published: April 2007

PurposeThe purpose of this article is to explore how higher education (HE) institutions are responding to the workforce remodelling agenda of public services and the emergence of “para‐professions” within traditionally low paid/low status employment.Design/methodology/approachWith reference to recent research, the article reviews the authors' experience of foundation degrees (FDs) in education and explores tensions in managing the competing needs of the varying stakeholders.FindingsA model of work‐based learning (WBL) results from the study, which includes consideration of the following key areas: employer engagement; CPD and professional bodies – external validation and professional recognition; progression into HE through the workforce; and pedagogy of WBLResearch limitations/implicationsThis article identifies a need for the systematic examination of the issues raised by the implementation of FDs as CPD for employed staff. The assumption that FD provision for employees results in more effective WBL is challenged. The importance of FDs in accreditation for a range of occupations in the Children's Workforce also suggests a need for research into the ”professionalisation” of these occupations.Practical implicationsThe issue of employer engagement is fundamental and that paper argues that HE has a crucial role to play but that ensuring employer engagement requires responsiveness on the part of university structures, as well as the capacity to stimulate employer engagement and/or sanction lack of employer engagement at the level of individual programmes.Originality/valueThis article provides information about the new phenomenon of implementation of FDs to support workforce development.
Work‐based learning and continuing professional development
Authors: Sobiechowska Paula , Maisch Maire 
Published: April 2007

PurposeThe purpose of this paper is to provide an evaluation of the key features of a work‐based, competency‐led curriculum model of continuing professional development for social workers and to present a revised model, which addresses the issues that arise for learners pursuing continuing professional and academic development (CPD) within a work‐based curriculum.Design/methodology/approachReflections on and evaluation of both undergraduate and post graduate, work‐based curricula with employers, tutors and learners led to significant revisions to further models of work‐based learning for CPD. These changes are presented in the form of a revised model, which addresses the tensions between work‐based, competency‐led curricula and the issues that arise for learners pursuing continuing professional and academic development in full‐time employment.FindingsThe paper makes explicit the struggle in developing and delivering work‐based, competency‐led curricula while also trying to address the pragmatic issues that arise for learners pursuing professional and academic development in full‐time employment. In order to resolve some of the tensions a revised model of CPD in the workplace is proposed.Research limitations/implicationsThe study is based on the evaluation of two CPD programmes in post‐qualifying social work at one university, over a ten‐year period. However in this sense the study is limited to the experience of the tutors in a particular context.Practical implicationsThe importance of considering the workplace as a learning environment for CPD is emphasised, as are the tensions that arise for learners meeting the demands of academia in full‐time employment.Originality/valueThis paper presents valuable lessons learned from ten years of pedagogic experience developing and delivering work‐based CPD programmes.
Engaging with employers in work‐based learning
Authors: Benefer Richard 
Published: April 2007

PurposeThis paper aims to describe the work of Staffordshire University in engaging with local employers and local further education colleges in the development of a Foundation Degree in Applied Technology.Design/methodology/approachFollowing an outline of current government policy in employer engagement, the paper identifies – from the literature and recent quality reviews of provision – some issues for higher education institutions in developing a work‐based learning curriculum with industry. It then outlines a case study of the Foundation Degree in Applied Technology – a collaborative venture between Staffordshire University (the awarding body), Burton College (the deliverer of the award) and JCB (the employer). In conclusion, the paper evaluates the case study.FindingsEvaluation of the case study suggests that the Foundation Degree in Applied Technology, as designed by Staffordshire University and delivered at JCB by Burton College, is a model of good practice in employer engagement.Originality/valueThe value of this paper is that the case study illustrates key success factors, for higher education institutions and further education partnerships, in engaging with industry to design and deliver a foundation degree for a major manufacturing employer in the private sector.
Delivering distance education for modern government: the F4Gov programme
Authors: Talbot Jon 
Published: April 2007

PurposeThe purpose of the paper is to describe the development and operation of an innovative, work based, distance delivered foundation degree developed by the University of Chester and the British Civil Service. The paper is both a case study in its own right but also the basis for a further quantitative and qualitative evaluation of the programme.Design/methodology/approachThe paper describes the development of the programme in the broader context of UK Civil service modernisation and the application of the University of Chester's established Work Based and Integrative Studies (WBIS) framework. Important features of the programme are described including academic content, learner support, assessment and management.FindingsThe paper concludes by identifying three areas for formal evaluation. These are: the implications of employer involvement in the design and management of the programme; the differential nature of the learner experience and the factors underlying performance and the impact of the programme in meeting employer goals.Research limitations/implicationsThere are limitations in generalising from a particular case study. No formal research questions are posed in the paper or method suggested. Further work is necessary to develop a strategy for evaluation of the programme.Practical implicationsThe conclusions are exploratory, awaiting formal evaluation.Originality/valueThe case study is of interest to educators engaged in flexible and distance work based learning. The issue of employer involvement in programme design, management and delivery is of considerable interest to those developing and delivering Foundation degrees and similar programmes. The issues in relation to the student experience are also of considerable interest to those engaged in workplace delivery. The organisational impact of the programme is of interest to employers and educators alike.
Reorganising UNISON within the NHS
Authors: de Turberville Simon 
Published: April 2007

PurposeThis paper aims to explore the rationale underpinning the national development of UNISON's organising strategy and its implementation at regional and branch levels.Design/methodology/approachThe author used non‐participant observation case studies in three National Health Service (NHS) UNISON branches of 92, 49 and 17 per cent density and 45 interviews with non‐members, members, branch activists (key‐stewards and stewards), full‐time officers and managers.FindingsUNISON aimed to devolve financial resources to branches whilst encouraging participation supported by training and increased in‐fill recruitment. Initial regional support diminished because of managerial opposition. Individual attempts by regional staff to resurrect the strategy met with significant resistance within branches as key‐stewards regarded it as largely inappropriate.Research limitations/implicationsConcentration on a single union region, which experienced specific problems, could exaggerate poor articulation of strategy. Small numbers of interviews with full‐time officers may ignore alternative viewpoints within the national and regional levels.Originality/valueRather than using the union organising model as a yardstick against which to measure the impact of change, this work examines the incremental development of national strategy and explores the problems of implementation throughout the union to branch level.
A model for analyzing the competitive strategy of health plan insurers using a system of competitive intelligence
Authors: Auxiliadora do Nascimento Mélo Maria , Dumke de Medeiros Denise 
Published: April 2007

PurposeThe purpose of this research is to present a formulation of the System of Competitive Intelligence that is up‐to‐date and responsive to an area of study which enables the constant upgrading and improvement of business management practices, so that a competitive edge may be maintained and a market differentiation established.Design/methodology/approachThis comprises a study of the existing literature and a review of articles of criticism related to the particularities of competitive strategy, systems of competitive intelligence, and the quality of service rendered by health insurance companies of health services, with a view to identifying the main elements needed to attain competitive advantage. From the results gathered, the construction of the model will be started and its strong and weak points commented upon.FindingsIt was observed that the Model of System of Competitive Intelligence can guarantee the survival of a company, through analyzing information quickly and in an integrated way, thus permitting well‐founded decisions to be made in real time.Research limitations/implicationsThe model was based on literary research and it was directed only to one sector of service industry. The suggestion is that this model should be applied to confirm its effectiveness.Originality/valueThis work will go towards making it possible for health insurers in the City of Recife – Brazil to obtain competitive advantage in the health service, through service provided with greater quality, that satisfactorily meets the needs of their clients, besides promoting technological advances in this sector. It will also assist other companies in the health area who wish to adopt the model proposed.
Determining the essential characteristics of Six Sigma Black Belts
Authors: Antony Jiju , Douglas Alex , Jiju Antony Frenie 
Published: April 2007

PurposeThe purpose of this research is to evaluate essential characteristics of Six Sigma Black Belts (SSBBs) in UK manufacturing organisations. Six Sigma Black Belt(s) are considered as high potential employees who work full‐time as a leader of process and quality improvement projects after extensive training.Design/methodology/approachA pilot survey was undertaken to assess the key attributes of SSBBs. The results of this study are primarily based on descriptive statistics.FindingsThe key attributes of SSBBs identified from this pilot study include: effective communicators, change agents, customer advocators, team builders, results‐driven mindset personnel, positive thinkers, etc. The findings of this study will be extremely beneficial in designing the curriculum of SSBBs citing the key attributes required for a typical SSBB to be successful.Research limitations/implicationsThe study was primarily focused on manufacturing companies in the UK. The next phase of the study will be to compare the SSBB characteristics between manufacturing and service organisations. One of the authors will also be executing semi‐structured interviews with SSBBs in various manufacturing and service companies to obtain a greater understanding of the essential attributes or characteristics that SSBBs in manufacturing and service companies must possess.Originality/valueAlthough the characteristics of SSBBs are cited widely in various textbooks and professional articles, no empirical study has been carried out to compare the theory and practice. This paper makes an attempt to identify essential characteristics of SSBBs in UK manufacturing companies.