title: Generalised verification of the observer property in discrete event systems

authors: Bravo, H. J.

subjects: computer science

abstract: The observer property is an important condition to be satisfied by abstractions of Discrete Event Systems (DES) models. This paper presents a generalised version of a previous algorithm which tests if an abstraction of a DES obtained through natural projection has the observer property. The procedure called OP-verifier II overcomes the limitations of the previously proposed verifier while keeping its computational complexity. Results are illustrated by a case study of a transfer line system.

text: Generalised verification of the observer property in discrete event systems The observer property is an important condition to be satisfied by abstractions of Discrete Event Systems (DES) models. This paper presents a generalised version of a previous algorithm which tests if an abstraction of a DES obtained through natural projection has the observer property. The procedure called OP-verifier II overcomes the limitations of the previously proposed verifier while keeping its computational complexity. Results are illustrated by a case study of a transfer line system.

year: 2012

title: Energy cultures: A framework for understanding energy behaviours

authors: Stephenson, Janet

subjects: integrated framework

abstract: Achieving a ‘step-change’ in energy efficiency behaviours will require enhanced knowledge of behavioural drivers, and translation of this knowledge into successful intervention programmes. The ‘Energy Cultures’ conceptual framework aims to assist in understanding the factors that influence energy consumption behaviour, and to help identify opportunities for behaviour change. Building on a history of attempts to offer multi-disciplinary integrating models of energy behaviour, we take a culture-based approach to behaviour, while drawing also from lifestyles and systems thinking. The framework provides a structure for addressing the problem of multiple interpretations of ‘behaviour’ by suggesting that it is influenced by the interactions between cognitive norms, energy practices and material culture.
The Energy Cultures framework is discussed in the context of a New Zealand case study, which demonstrates its development and application. It has already provided a basis for cross-disciplinary collaboration, and for multi-disciplinary research design, and has provided insights into behavioural change in a case study community. As the conceptual basis of a 3-year research project, the framework has further potential to identify clusters of ‘energy cultures’ – similar patterns of norms, practices and/or material culture – to enable the crafting of targeted actions to achieve behaviour change.

text: Energy cultures: A framework for understanding energy behaviours Achieving a ‘step-change’ in energy efficiency behaviours will require enhanced knowledge of behavioural drivers, and translation of this knowledge into successful intervention programmes. The ‘Energy Cultures’ conceptual framework aims to assist in understanding the factors that influence energy consumption behaviour, and to help identify opportunities for behaviour change. Building on a history of attempts to offer multi-disciplinary integrating models of energy behaviour, we take a culture-based approach to behaviour, while drawing also from lifestyles and systems thinking. The framework provides a structure for addressing the problem of multiple interpretations of ‘behaviour’ by suggesting that it is influenced by the interactions between cognitive norms, energy practices and material culture.
The Energy Cultures framework is discussed in the context of a New Zealand case study, which demonstrates its development and application. It has already provided a basis for cross-disciplinary collaboration, and for multi-disciplinary research design, and has provided insights into behavioural change in a case study community. As the conceptual basis of a 3-year research project, the framework has further potential to identify clusters of ‘energy cultures’ – similar patterns of norms, practices and/or material culture – to enable the crafting of targeted actions to achieve behaviour change.

year: 2010

title: Maori-medium education: current issues and challenges.

authors: May, Stephen

subjects: Maori-medium education

abstract: This paper summarises the key issues and challenges that have emerged from a
recent major report by the authors on Maori-medium education in Aotearoa/New
Zealand. The discussion is situated within a wider international analysis of
bilingual/immersion programmes, including heritage language programmes for
indigenous peoples. Key issues explored in the paper include the negotiation of,
and occasional tension between, the wider goals of indigenous Maori language
revitalisation and the successful achievement of bilingualism and biliteracy in
Maori-medium educational contexts. Issues to do with current pedagogy, staffing
and resourcing of Maori-medium programmes are also examined. The paper
concludes with suggestions for the ongoing development and extension of Maori-medium education.

text: Maori-medium education: current issues and challenges. This paper summarises the key issues and challenges that have emerged from a
recent major report by the authors on Maori-medium education in Aotearoa/New
Zealand. The discussion is situated within a wider international analysis of
bilingual/immersion programmes, including heritage language programmes for
indigenous peoples. Key issues explored in the paper include the negotiation of,
and occasional tension between, the wider goals of indigenous Maori language
revitalisation and the successful achievement of bilingualism and biliteracy in
Maori-medium educational contexts. Issues to do with current pedagogy, staffing
and resourcing of Maori-medium programmes are also examined. The paper
concludes with suggestions for the ongoing development and extension of Maori-medium education.

year: 2005-01-01