title: What can a mean-field model tell us about the dynamics of the cortex?

authors: Wilson, Marcus T.

subjects: cortical model

abstract: In this chapter we examine the dynamical behavior of a spatially homogeneous two-dimensional model of the cortex that incorporates membrane potential, synaptic flux rates and long- and short-range synaptic input, in two spatial dimensions, using parameter sets broadly realistic of humans and rats. When synaptic dynamics are included, the steady states may not be stable. The bifurcation structure for the spatially symmetric case is explored, identifying the positions of saddle–node and sub- and supercritical Hopf instabilities. We go beyond consideration of small-amplitude perturbations to look at nonlinear dynamics. Spatially-symmetric (breathing mode) limit cycles are described, as well as the response to spatially-localized impulses. When close to Hopf and saddle–node bifurcations, such impulses can cause traveling waves with similarities to the slow oscillation of slow-wave sleep. Spiral waves can also be induced. We compare model dynamics with the known behavior of the cortex during natural and anesthetic-induced sleep, commenting on the physiological significance of the limit cycles and impulse responses.

text: What can a mean-field model tell us about the dynamics of the cortex? In this chapter we examine the dynamical behavior of a spatially homogeneous two-dimensional model of the cortex that incorporates membrane potential, synaptic flux rates and long- and short-range synaptic input, in two spatial dimensions, using parameter sets broadly realistic of humans and rats. When synaptic dynamics are included, the steady states may not be stable. The bifurcation structure for the spatially symmetric case is explored, identifying the positions of saddle–node and sub- and supercritical Hopf instabilities. We go beyond consideration of small-amplitude perturbations to look at nonlinear dynamics. Spatially-symmetric (breathing mode) limit cycles are described, as well as the response to spatially-localized impulses. When close to Hopf and saddle–node bifurcations, such impulses can cause traveling waves with similarities to the slow oscillation of slow-wave sleep. Spiral waves can also be induced. We compare model dynamics with the known behavior of the cortex during natural and anesthetic-induced sleep, commenting on the physiological significance of the limit cycles and impulse responses.

year: 2010

title: The rewards of professional change: Two primary school teachers’ experiences of transforming outdoor education.

authors: Cosgriff, Marg

subjects: Professional change

abstract: Embarking on and sustaining professional change is often a challenging process for educators. This is particularly so within a broader context of rapid (r)evolution in curriculum, pedagogical and assessment-related developments in the compulsory school sector in Aotearoa New Zealand over the past decade. Teachers’ and school leaders’ accounts of professional learning and change in recent issues of this journal have suggested it can be both risky and rewarding, with a range of impacts and outcomes for all involved. In this paper I pick up on the notion of the possible rewards of professional change, drawing on the experiences of two generalist primary school teachers engaging in curriculum and pedagogical change in outdoor education within the Health and Physical Education learning area. Specifically, the contributions of outdoor-based learning in a local bush reserve to teachers’ own sense of personal wellbeing and rejuvenated sense of professional identity are explored. Here I speculate about the potentially renewing components of professional change in outdoor education in HPE for teachers themselves.

text: The rewards of professional change: Two primary school teachers’ experiences of transforming outdoor education. Embarking on and sustaining professional change is often a challenging process for educators. This is particularly so within a broader context of rapid (r)evolution in curriculum, pedagogical and assessment-related developments in the compulsory school sector in Aotearoa New Zealand over the past decade. Teachers’ and school leaders’ accounts of professional learning and change in recent issues of this journal have suggested it can be both risky and rewarding, with a range of impacts and outcomes for all involved. In this paper I pick up on the notion of the possible rewards of professional change, drawing on the experiences of two generalist primary school teachers engaging in curriculum and pedagogical change in outdoor education within the Health and Physical Education learning area. Specifically, the contributions of outdoor-based learning in a local bush reserve to teachers’ own sense of personal wellbeing and rejuvenated sense of professional identity are explored. Here I speculate about the potentially renewing components of professional change in outdoor education in HPE for teachers themselves.

year: 2017

title: Maori perspectives of the environment: Summary document

authors: Whangapirita, Laura

subjects: Maori

abstract: The Community and Economy Programme at Environment Waikato has developed a partnership with the Maori and Psychology Research Unit of the University of Waikato to further assist in strengthening its commitment to cultural research and information work. This relationship facilitated the development of the Maori and Environment project, which was conducted in two stages and produced a number of significant research reports throughout 2003. This is the summary document.

text: Maori perspectives of the environment: Summary document The Community and Economy Programme at Environment Waikato has developed a partnership with the Maori and Psychology Research Unit of the University of Waikato to further assist in strengthening its commitment to cultural research and information work. This relationship facilitated the development of the Maori and Environment project, which was conducted in two stages and produced a number of significant research reports throughout 2003. This is the summary document.

year: 2003-12