title: Robust mathematical programming for natural resource modelling under parametric uncertainty

authors: Doole, Graeme J.

subjects: parameter uncertainty

abstract: Inaccurate specification of model coefficients can lead to false or distorted findings in modeling investigations of natural resource management. Hence, this paper outlines a decision framework for optimization problems in which only the bounded set of outcomes for uncertain parameters is known. These models can be solved with standard mathematical programming software and are no larger than their deterministic equivalent. The robust approach is contrasted against deterministic analysis and is demonstrated for two applications regarding the management of natural resources. Deterministic plans are infeasible in at least 40% of cases when parameters vary from their point estimates. Inclusion of robust constraints immunizes against this infeasibility, thereby removing errors arising from false certainty. Additionally, incorporation of bounded parameters in the objective function yields interval-valued sets containing potential outcomes. However, this increase in the general relevance of model output introduces some degree of suboptimality as deterministic plans are buffered to proactively account for potential variability. The cost of robustness increases with the simulated spread of uncertain coefficients but may be reduced through accounting for the uncertainty aversion of decision makers.

text: Robust mathematical programming for natural resource modelling under parametric uncertainty Inaccurate specification of model coefficients can lead to false or distorted findings in modeling investigations of natural resource management. Hence, this paper outlines a decision framework for optimization problems in which only the bounded set of outcomes for uncertain parameters is known. These models can be solved with standard mathematical programming software and are no larger than their deterministic equivalent. The robust approach is contrasted against deterministic analysis and is demonstrated for two applications regarding the management of natural resources. Deterministic plans are infeasible in at least 40% of cases when parameters vary from their point estimates. Inclusion of robust constraints immunizes against this infeasibility, thereby removing errors arising from false certainty. Additionally, incorporation of bounded parameters in the objective function yields interval-valued sets containing potential outcomes. However, this increase in the general relevance of model output introduces some degree of suboptimality as deterministic plans are buffered to proactively account for potential variability. The cost of robustness increases with the simulated spread of uncertain coefficients but may be reduced through accounting for the uncertainty aversion of decision makers.

year: 2010

title: Exploring the methods of autophotography and photointerviews: children taking pictures of science and technology.

authors: Moreland, Judy

subjects: primary children

abstract: In this paper we discuss the methods of auto-photography and photo-interviews. The benefits and disadvantages of using these methods with young children are examined in relation to a photographic study we conducted in a rural two-teacher primary school (years 1-8) to explore children's perceptions of science and technology (Moreland & Cowie, 2004). Combined, the photographs and the photo-interviews provided a unique insight into children's thinking about science and technology. They proved useful for accessing different viewpoints, as children took photographs at school, at home and in their communities. As methods, auto-photography and photo-interviews newly exposed the issues and challenges inherent in qualitative research, especially the need for the research process and the researcher to be open to the unexpected and surprising.

text: Exploring the methods of autophotography and photointerviews: children taking pictures of science and technology. In this paper we discuss the methods of auto-photography and photo-interviews. The benefits and disadvantages of using these methods with young children are examined in relation to a photographic study we conducted in a rural two-teacher primary school (years 1-8) to explore children's perceptions of science and technology (Moreland & Cowie, 2004). Combined, the photographs and the photo-interviews provided a unique insight into children's thinking about science and technology. They proved useful for accessing different viewpoints, as children took photographs at school, at home and in their communities. As methods, auto-photography and photo-interviews newly exposed the issues and challenges inherent in qualitative research, especially the need for the research process and the researcher to be open to the unexpected and surprising.

year: 2005

title: Decolonizing Lamanite Studies – A Critical and Decolonial Indigenist Perspective

authors: Simon, Hemopereki

abstract: The emergence of Lamanite Studies exemplifies the need for decolonial and Indigenous-centered reevaluations of Mormon–Indigenous relations. This article advocates for the reclamation of Indigenous identity independent of the constraints imposed by Mormon doctrine. The incorporation of Indigenous genealogies into Mormon theology results in epistemic violence, disconnecting Indigenous peoples from their ancestral identities and substituting the latter with the settler/invader colonial construct of “Lamanite”. This paper advocates for the decolonization of Indigenous identities within Mormonism, emphasizing the need for a radical intervention that prioritizes Indigenous sovereignty and self-definition over the maintenance of colonial categories. I present approaches and scholarship in Lamanite Studies that align with Indigenous land and spiritual repatriation, promoting the restoration of Indigenous epistemologies to Indigenous communities. Theoretical colonialism must be supplemented by grassroots initiatives that empower Indigenous communities to reclaim their spiritual and cultural identities.

text: Decolonizing Lamanite Studies – A Critical and Decolonial Indigenist Perspective The emergence of Lamanite Studies exemplifies the need for decolonial and Indigenous-centered reevaluations of Mormon–Indigenous relations. This article advocates for the reclamation of Indigenous identity independent of the constraints imposed by Mormon doctrine. The incorporation of Indigenous genealogies into Mormon theology results in epistemic violence, disconnecting Indigenous peoples from their ancestral identities and substituting the latter with the settler/invader colonial construct of “Lamanite”. This paper advocates for the decolonization of Indigenous identities within Mormonism, emphasizing the need for a radical intervention that prioritizes Indigenous sovereignty and self-definition over the maintenance of colonial categories. I present approaches and scholarship in Lamanite Studies that align with Indigenous land and spiritual repatriation, promoting the restoration of Indigenous epistemologies to Indigenous communities. Theoretical colonialism must be supplemented by grassroots initiatives that empower Indigenous communities to reclaim their spiritual and cultural identities.

year: 2025