Paper Title, Authors, Abstract (Issue 1, Volume 2, 2008)

Pages

Video recording in university teachers training: benefits and limitations
M. Blasco, M. L. Fenollosa, L. Fuster, E. Garcia, P. Sanchis, L. A. Tortajada, J. Lloret

Abstract: The video recording technique is considered an important and effective strategy to improve university teaching in novel lecturers. This technique is used in many areas to improve the skills of the people that are recorded. This technique allows to analyze and to evaluate the performance of lecturers in their classroom thus improving their teaching skills and contributing to their professional training. In this work, an experience of video recording in more than 200 lecturers of the Universidad Politécnica de Valencia is reported. It is investigated how video recording helps to identify problems, to analyze the diction and the structure of the lecture and, which is more important, how the lecturer may observe its own action and the perception that students have of him. Furthermore, the common features and implications that were observed in the carried out video recordings are described and discussed.
 

A two-group evaluation to e-note
Shaista Rashid and Dimitris Rigas

Abstract: This paper comparatively analyses the traditional method of learning as opposed to electronic. Insight has been provided into learning parameters within the area of note-taking. Research regarding the capture and recording of notes have been covered providing explanations into different note-taking techniques. The stages involved in note-taking including encoding and reviewing have been analysed. Factors influencing note-taking skills and performance were explored. Pedagogical principles a part of the design and construction of an e-learning environment were derived. Influential stimuli metaphors including multimodality were researched stating the significance they provide to learning. A twogroup study between two e-learning platforms, one an adaptation of the paper-based Cornell and the second En-AISR a platform comprising of multimodality have been developed and tested. Variables independent and dependent have been defined, restricting confounding factors where possible. Results of the experiment show statistical significance in favour of En-AISR in terms of usability parameters; effectiveness, efficiency, and subject satisfaction.
 

Patterns of Reflection for Problem-Solving in a Mobile Learning Environment
Jung-Chuan Yen & Ming-Puu Chen

Abstract: This study explored the nature of students’ reflections on solving a given problem in a mobile technology enhanced learning environment of a computer networks course. Participants were 143 college freshmen taught by the same instructor. A process and content analysis method were employed to explore learners’ reflective patterns during and after problem-solving tasks. The results suggested 4 conclusions: (a) participants’ reflection-in-action declined slightly across lab sessions, and reflection-on-action increased slightly across lab sessions, (b) participants generated more reflection-in-action and reflection-on-action during the early stages of problem-solving with the help of mobile technology, (c) providing learners with sufficient training on the use of mobile technology prior to the tasks is critically important to enhancing learning, and (d) learners with high prior-knowledge revealed higher frequency in reflection. Finally, it was suggested to examine the relationships between participants’ flections on given problems and learning performance in a explicitly manner.
 

Enhancing ICT Skills Learning through Peer Learning: Perspectives of Learning Style and Gender
Li-Chun Wang & Ming-Puu Chen

Abstract: In the present study, peer learning was implemented to enhance secondary school learners’ learning process and performance in a collaborative ICT project. There were 139 8th graders, 72 males and 67 females, participated in the experimental instruction. Participants’ learning styles were identified based on the perspective of Verbal-Imaginal information processing. Peer learning process was implemented to support and enahnce the collaborative learning process. The results revealed that (a) the female learners achieved higher comprehension and application performance than the males, (b) the female learners also perceived the employed peer learning to be more “compensation” than the male learners, (c) the “enhancement” effect of peer learning on learning style was found for the imaginal learners on comprehension performance, (d) the “compensation” effect of peer learning on learning style was found for the verbalizer on application performance, and (e) the gender difference effect was significant on learners’ performance, learning progress and attitudes.
 

Administration of Faculties by Information and Communication Technology and Its Obstacles
Hossein Zainally poor

Abstract: Information and communication technology (ICT) provides several facilities and possibilities for educational administrators to do their tasks .Using ICT by dean of faculties lead to effectiveness and productivity of higher education in competitive world. How much deans of faculties in Iranian governmental Universities use this technology to perform their managerial duties and tasks? And which obstacles do they encounter to use ICT in their faculties? This research evaluated the extent use of ICT by dean of faculties in governmental Universities and studied the obstacles that they encounter in using ICT. Research method is descriptive and a questionnaire has been used for collecting data. Participants include 20 deans of faculties of selected governmental Universities during second semester in 2003-2004. Research findings show that head of faculties use this technology in planning function. It was used by them in Data collecting, decision making, operational planning, budget planning and classroom programming. It was used high extent by dean of faculties in executive affairs such as: academic affairs, student affaires, research affaires administrative and financial affairs. Also they have used it at high level in supervision and evaluation of student affairs, research affairs and academic affairs, financial affaires and administrative affairs. Moreover it is applied in developing human recourse knowledge and ability as much to increase scientific level of faculty members, students and staffs, and it was used too in communication function in favourable level. They have used ICT in low extent in staff and academic member performances evaluation and supply department affairs. The important obstacles to using this technology to do managerial duties are low level of staff specialized knowledge, lack of professional human resources and lack of financial resource and budget.
 

Survey on Professors and Students’ Attitude about Virtual Learning in Iran Universities
Ali Akbar Shaikhi Fini

Abstract: Although virtual learning is seen as a desirable phenomenon and has been increasing rapidly among colleges in Iran but there are still few researches in this area. The goal of this study is to survey the attitude of professors and students in the Iranian colleges. For this purpose 95 and 161questioners were provided and sent to professors and students, respectively. Results show that professors have positive attitude to virtual learning as an effective instructional tool. For students results indicate that factors such as independency, guidance of professors and multimedia instruction are the most effective variables in using virtual learning. For both professors and students it has been noticed that self-sufficiency and self-acceptance are the most important factors of using virtual learning.
 

Administration of Faculties by Information and Communication Technology and Its Obstacles
Hossein Zainally Poor

Abstract: Information and communication technology (ICT) provides several facilities and possibilities for educational administrators to do their tasks .Using ICT by dean of faculties lead to effectiveness and productivity of higher education in competitive world. How much deans of faculties in Iranian governmental Universities use this technology to perform their managerial duties and tasks? And which obstacles do they encounter to use ICT in their faculties? This research evaluated the extent use of ICT by dean of faculties in governmental Universities and studied the obstacles that they encounter in using ICT. Research method is descriptive and a questionnaire has been used for collecting data. Participants include 20 deans of faculties of selected governmental Universities during second semester in 2003-2004. Research findings show that head of faculties use this technology in planning function. It was used by them in Data collecting, decision making, operational planning, budget planning and classroom programming. It was used high extent by dean of faculties in executive affairs such as: academic affairs, student affaires, research affaires administrative and financial affairs. Also they have used it at high level in supervision and evaluation of student affairs, research affairs and academic affairs, financial affaires and administrative affairs. Moreover it is applied in developing human recourse knowledge and ability as much to increase scientific level of faculty members, students and staffs, and it was used too in communication function in favourable level. They have used ICT in low extent in staff and academic member performances evaluation and supply department affairs. The important obstacles to using this technology to do managerial duties are low level of staff specialized knowledge, lack of professional human resources and lack of financial resource and budget.
 

Definition of a Formal and Unified Model for a Smart Card based European-wide Electronic Seaman's Book
Fabrizio Lamberti, Simonetta Bettiol, Manuela Mallia, Andrea Sanna, and Claudio Demartini

Abstract: The current scenario of sea transports is characterized by an ever increasing growth of people moved and wares exchanged, accompanied by significant advancements in employment and business opportunities. Unfortunately, education and training in the maritime field did not follow the same trend. Thus, on one hand, the sector is today characterized by a shortage of qualified workers. On the other hand, present training programs, certification instruments and competence standards are specifically managed at the national level, with a consequent lack of interoperability among international frameworks. Within the O.R.S.A. M.I.NO.R.E. project, the above issues have been addressed from a formal point of view, with the aim of defining a European-wide framework for the certification of seamen's learning and training outcomes. Given the transnational scope of the project, a unified modeling strategy based on an distributed Seaman’s Book archive has been defined to homogenize the existing national experiences within a formalized electronic tool. Moreover, taking into account end users’ mobility and security requirements, smart card technology has been integrated into the overall architecture, in order to allow seamen for a continuous access to their sensitive data. In this paper, project's results are presented, by showing the reference architecture, and providing details related to its two supporting components, namely the distributed electronic archive, and the smart card-based secure communication framework.
 

Machine Elearning – Learning Agents and UML for Elearning Settings
Aboubekeur Hamdi-Cherif

Abstract: We study the interplay between machine learning, agents and object-oriented design, based on the Unified Modeling Language. The application setting is electronic learning or elearning. While extending our previous object-oriented experiences, we show how these diversified technologies can be integrated and applied to elearning settings. Thus we propose to describe an early attempt of bridging the gap between web-based learning and agents capable of learning from experience. The ultimate goal sought is the development of a fully-automated multiagent environment capable of assisting in the elaboration and delivery of highly-personalized educational material effectively for anyone, anywhere at any time while taking into account each elearner’s personal profile and dynamic behavior during the elearning process. We rely on software engineering paradigm to describe strategies that go from early principles to fully-developed systems. For the time being, and as far as this paper is concerned, the attempt is to concentrate on the interaction between two core fields namely Unified Modeling Language (UML) and agents. The tangible results remain the integration of agents for elearning based on machine learning methods such as Decision Tree Learning, AdaBoost, and Ensemble Learning. An emphasis is made on fuzzy agents as a special case of soft computing methods used for profile personalization. Prospectively, much effort is still required to meet the actual challenges so as to scale up to real-life problems of any significant complexity.
 

Carriage road pursuit based on statistical and fractal analysis of the texture
Dan Popescu, and Radu Dobrescu

Abstract: The images from a camera unit which is placed on an intelligent vehicle are divided in equivalent small squared regions by matrix partition. In order to pursue the carriage road, the reference region (an asphalt one) is compared with all others image regions. Then, the textured region similarity is measured and the regions with a different texture are detected and localized. Some types of statistical texture feature are analyzed: features extracted from cooccurrence matrix, edge density per unit of area, and grey level histogram of the difference image. On the other hand, we investigate how the fractal dimension is used for textured image classifications. In order to measure the similarity of a textured region pair, the fractal dimensions of both regions are computed by the box-counting algorithm utilizing. It is proposed two new features from the estimation of the fractal dimension: the mean fractal dimension and the effective fractal dimension. For the proper region identification and classification, we introduced the notion of average co-occurrence matrix, which is quasi-invariant to image rotation and translation. Texture recognition is based on decision theoretic method. The algorithm is implemented in Visual C++ and MATLB and allows the simultaneously display of the investigated region, the Euclidian distance between them and a reference image region, and the segmentation map. The basic texture (reference) is considered an asphalt one and the different textures are considered the grass and the pebble. The result is the classification of the tested texture in road and non-road type. Based on the classification algorithm, a segmentation process of road images is accomplished. The segmentation finesse depends on the image resolution and the texture finesse. Our experimental results indicate the fact that the selected features have a good discriminating power.
 

Carriage road pursuit based on statistical and fractal analysis of the texture
Dan Popescu, and Radu Dobrescu

Abstract: The images from a camera unit which is placed on an intelligent vehicle are divided in equivalent small squared regions by matrix partition. In order to pursue the carriage road, the reference region (an asphalt one) is compared with all others image regions. Then, the textured region similarity is measured and the regions with a different texture are detected and localized. Some types of statistical texture feature are analyzed: features extracted from cooccurrence matrix, edge density per unit of area, and grey level histogram of the difference image. On the other hand, we investigate how the fractal dimension is used for textured image classifications. In order to measure the similarity of a textured region pair, the fractal dimensions of both regions are computed by the box-counting algorithm utilizing. It is proposed two new features from the estimation of the fractal dimension: the mean fractal dimension and the effective fractal dimension. For the proper region identification and classification, we introduced the notion of average co-occurrence matrix, which is quasi-invariant to image rotation and translation. Texture recognition is based on decision theoretic method. The algorithm is implemented in Visual C++ and MATLB and allows the simultaneously display of the investigated region, the Euclidian distance between them and a reference image region, and the segmentation map. The basic texture (reference) is considered an asphalt one and the different textures are considered the grass and the pebble. The result is the classification of the tested texture in road and non-road type. Based on the classification algorithm, a segmentation process of road images is accomplished. The segmentation finesse depends on the image resolution and the texture finesse. Our experimental results indicate the fact that the selected features have a good discriminating power.
 

Curriculum development on grid computing
Maozhen Li and Marios Hadjinicolaou

Abstract: The computational grid is rapidly evolving into a large-scale computing infrastructure that facilitates scientists and engineers to solve data and computationally intensive problems by utilizing various resources over the Internet. This paper presents the curriculum design of a one-year taught MSc course in Distributed Computing Systems Engineering currently running at Brunel University in the Unite Kingdom. It reports the design rationale and practice in introducing grid computing to the MSc course. A case study is given to demonstrate how grid computing can be used to speed up the process in solving data and computationally intensive problems.
 

Examining Postgraduate Students’ Perceived Competency In Statistical Data Analysis And Their Attitudes Toward Statistics
Z. Mahmud and M.S. Zainol

Abstract: This paper examined postgraduate students’ competency in statistical data analysis and their attitudes toward statistics. Students’ attitudes toward statistics (ATS) were measured across 28-Likert scale items across four dimensions, namely Affect, Cognitive Competence, Value and Difficulty and their competency in data analysis were assessed using DaComp instrument. The findings revealed two facets of students’ attitudes toward statistics, i.e., positive or negative. Students’ attitudes toward statistics varied between the four ATS dimensions with Difficulty items been highly mentioned as the factors that influence their attitudes toward statistics. In examining students’ perceived competency in statistical data analysis, it was found that those with little background in statistics had difficulty in identifying the relevant and approroaite statistical tools for their study. The significant results of the study were used to benchmark the quality of research output of postgraduate students. This includes, among others, students’ ability to match analytical tools with research objectives which will later be matched with core knowledge objectives required for data analysis.
 

An Integrated Mathematical Programming Approach and Artificial Intelligence Techniques for Optimizing Learning Elements in E-Learning Based Educational Systems
Iraj Mahdavi, Hamed Fazlollahtabar and Narges Yousefpoor

Abstract: The increasing use of an internet improved internet technologies as well as web-based applications. Also, increasing effectiveness of the e-Learning has become one of the most practically and theoretically important issues in both educational engineering and information system fields. The online training environment enables learners to undertake customized training at any time and any place. Therefore the costs and benefits in implementation is of significance. There is a competence set consisting of ideas, knowledge, information, and skills for solving a decision problem. In order to effectively acquire the needed skills in the competence set to solve the problem, finding appropriate learning sequences of the needed skills for decision makers should be taken into account. This paper concerns with identification of varied cost elements in e-learning educational system and optimization by the means of mathematical programming. Then an effective method to estimate the learning cost between any two skills by using the grey relational analysis and a radial basis function network is proposed.
 

Development of a Surgical Simulator to training Laparoscopic procedures
Christian A. Diaz, Daniel Posada, Helmuth Trefftz and Jorge Bernal

Abstract: The training process for laparoscopic surgeons is currently based on interacting with experienced surgeons during procedures in a surgical room. During this interaction, the expert surgeon provides feedback based on qualitative appreciations about the performance to the trainee, and based on this evaluation, the expert surgeon determines the level competence of the trainee to carry out the surgical procedure. The development of specific skills involved in laparoscopic surgery, however, claims for new training methods and tools, as well as for means for quantitative evaluation of the surgeon’s performance.
 

    Paper Title, Authors, Abstract (Issue 2, Volume 2, 2008)

Pages

Application of Rasch Model in validating the construct of measurement instrument
Azrilah Abd Aziz, Azlinah Mohamed, NoorHabibah Arshad, Sohaimi Zakaria, Azami Zaharim, Hamza Ahmad Ghulman and Mohd Saidfudin Masodi

Abstract: The development of Rasch Measurement Model in social science educational measurement has rapidly expanded to other areas of education including technical and engineering fields. Originally, there was substantial controversy between those who saw Rasch Model as a relevant method of measurement in technical fields and those who saw them as essentially different. This paper is an attempt of a paradigm shift in testing and validating a process towards bio-based Rasch Model. It is believed compatibility exist with the fundamental measurement currently used based on Kuhn’s explanation on the role of measurement in physical science particularly in measuring competency which is categorised as latent trait. These cannot be gleaned from textbooks in computer engineering or statistics. Taking the paradigm shift, many technical faculties in Institutions of Higher Learning has embarked on the application of Rasch Model to measure the achievement of it’s program Learning Outcomes (LO). Face validity tests were conducted subsequent to rigorous
 

Nanotechnology in Education and General Framework of Nanomanufacturing
S.Ozel and Y.Ozel

Abstract: The emerging field of nanoscience and nanotechnology are becoming more and more popular everyday. Nanotechnology is truly interdisciplinary; it involves manipulating and controlling individual atoms and molecules to design and create new materials, nanomachines, and nanodevices for application in all aspects of our lives. Recent advances and envisioned developments in enabling nanotechnology provide challenges to academia in educating and training a new generation of skilled engineers and competent scientists. These engineers and scientists should possess the ability to apply knowledge of mathematics, science, and engineering in order to design, analyze and fabricate nanodevices and nanosystems, which are radically different when compared with traditional technological systems. In this paper, the current status of the progress and developments in nanotechnology and nanoeducation is briefly reviewed, from the perspective of its applications. Strategies for teaching nanotechnology are also presented with a few basic samples. Also this paper represents brief introduction on nanotechnology and introduces a general framework for nano-manufacturing. Note that, the development of nano-manufacturing leads to produce new nano technological products. Also note that nano-manufacturing describes approaches and methods to product nano scale materials that can be basically define top-down and bottom-up
 

Patterns of Reflection for Problem-Solving in a Mobile Learning Environment
Jung-Chuan Yen, Ming-Puu Chen

Abstract: This study explored the nature of students’ reflections on solving a given problem in a mobile technology enhanced learning environment of a computer networks course. Participants were 143 college freshmen taught by the same instructor. A process and content analysis method were employed to explore learners’ reflective patterns during and after problem-solving tasks. The results suggested 4 conclusions: (a) participants’ reflection-in-action declined slightly across lab sessions, and reflection-on-action increased slightly across lab sessions, (b) participants generated more reflection-in-action and reflection-on-action during the early stages of problem-solving with the help of mobile technology, (c) providing learners with sufficient training on the use of mobile technology prior to the tasks is critically important to enhancing learning, and (d) learners with high prior-knowledge revealed higher frequency in reflection. Finally, it was suggested to examine the relationships between participants’ flections on given problems and learning performance in a explicitly manner.
 

Enhancing ICT Skills Learning through Peer Learning: Perspectives of Learning Style and Gender
Li-Chun Wang & Ming-Puu Chen

Abstract: In the present study, peer learning was implemented to enhance secondary school learners’ learning process and performance in a collaborative ICT project. There were 139 8th graders, 72 males and 67 females, participated in the experimental instruction. Participants’ learning styles were identified based on the perspective of Verbal-Imaginal information processing. Peer learning process was implemented to support and enahnce the collaborative learning process. The results revealed that (a) the female learners achieved higher comprehension and application performance than the males, (b) the female learners also perceived the employed peer learning to be more “compensation” than the male learners, (c) the “enhancement” effect of peer learning on learning style was found for the imaginal learners on comprehension performance, (d) the “compensation” effect of peer learning on learning style was found for the verbalizer on application performance, and (e) the gender difference effect was significant on learners’ performance, learning progress and attitudes.
 

Enhancement of hospital libraries and information services through an e-support system for lifelong learning quality methodologies and tools
P.A. Kostagiolas, S.Zimeras

Abstract: Quality is indeed a multifaceted concept entailing multiple consequences for the overall management of healthcare services. Quality methods and tools are designed to be simple and effective in identifying, organizing, quantitative and qualitative operational healthcare data. Healthcare professionals are empowered through the use of such tools and methods. Furthermore, quality methods and tools are essential; hence they must “communicate” efficiently to the healthcare professionals. This work is providing a Library and Information Services (LIS) framework for the development of a professional-centered e-support system for learning quality methods and tools. The approach is based on taxonomy for studying the contributions of hospital LIS as well as British Standards and in particular the BS 8423-2003 “a code of practice for e-support in e-learning systems”. Moreover, novel methods for teaching quantitative statistical methods as well as qualitative approaches for quality in healthcare are considered. Therefore, the role and the contributions of a modern hospital library are exhibited for providing the information services required for the most excellent learning experience .
 

Active and Interactive Learning Processes: A General Model using Expert Systems Approach
Edson Pacheco Paladini; Fabrícia Gonçalves de Carvalho

Abstract: This paper shows how Expert Systems support can be used in active and interactive learning processes. “Active” means that students really take part and contribute to the process. “Interactive” is in the sense they create a collaborative and dynamic set of mechanisms to stimulate their own learning. Initially the interactive teaching processes are shown. The basic presupposition of this process is that there is much efficiency in learning if the student adopts an active, energetic posture during information transmission. The hardware mechanisms for interactive teaching are then described. As the software devices for the model, a set of expert systems is considered. They involve general areas of Engineering Courses, like manufacturing processes, quality management and supply areas. Finally, the evaluation of the whole experiment is discussed.
 

Using XML messages in communication between elements of the eLearning system
Krzysztof Tokarz, Piotr Jedrychowski

Abstract: This paper presents the eLearning system developed at the Silesian University of Technology. The system consists of four parts: streaming server, client applet, control application and presentation application. The main purpose of the system is providing lectures for handicapped persons. The teacher can present the lecture in traditional classroom with concurrent transmission to remote students using the Internet. System uses audio, video and text messages channels in both directions, from teacher to students and reverse and in this manner it is similar to videoconference. The system has been designed to allow implementation of additional features needed by handicapped persons especially additional data streams. XML has been used for communication between element of the system. This paper describes these elements and presents usage of XML messages for communication between system modules.
 

Using Patents as a Tool for Reinforcing Constructivist Learning Environment in Engineering Education
Tarik Ozkul

Abstract: One of the senior year elective courses that is taught in Computer Science and Engineering Department has been modified in such a way that, the projects assigned in the course are based on recently published patents rather than classical textbook type projects. The intention of the experiment was twofold: to observe the change in the motivation level of students through this change and to observe the effect of shifting emphasis from instructive to constructive approach. According to Self-determination theory of learning, as the motivation of the course gets shifted from extrinsic motivation to intrinsic motivation, students get more benefit of the course. By the changes implemented, collaborative and constructivist approaches are applied to the course and motivation level of students has been increased. The paper explains the methodology of selecting patent topics, the way course is administered and the results of the survey.

    Paper Title, Authors, Abstract (Issue 3, Volume 2, 2008)

Pages

Assessment of the Impact of IT Outsourcing on IT Education in Malaysian Institutions of Higher Learnings
Abdul Rahman Ahlan, Mohd Adam Suhaimi, Husnayati Hussin, Yusri Arshad

Abstract: Malaysia is aggressively promoting its shared services and outsourcing (SSO) business models across vertical industries as a preferred hub in Asia. It is projected for multiple growths in demand for IT graduates to fulfill this IT outsourcing phenomenon by 2012. This poses a question to the Institutions of Higher Learnings (IHLs) in Malaysia. Can the present IT curriculum equip the graduates with skills and knowledge for different vertical industries and produce knowledge workers? In this study, we not only examined and reviewed available literature, newspaper and web articles, companies’ websites and press releases but also sought in-depth insights and experiences from senior executive managements in service provider firms in Klang Valley on the skills and capabilities requirements of fresh IT graduates to fulfill the market needs of IT outsourcing in Malaysia. In addition, a CEO roundtable discussion was held in International Islamic University Malaysia which also discussed on the topic. The research team found that technical, soft and problem-solving skills are the main areas of concerns necessary to develop knowledge workers that meet the requirements of the SSO industry.

Towards A Multi-Agent Based Model of Argumentation and Dialogue for E-Learning
Asma Moubaiddin, Nadim Obeid

Abstract: Argumentation and dialogue play an important role in promoting successful E-learning activities. Usually, students need to interact with a learning facilitator at some point, in order to ask for clarification, obtain guidance and explanations. A successful E-learning model is expected to provide the E-Tutor with an insight of what learners need and learners with the knowledge, experiences and insights which they need to achieve their learning objectives. The adaptive role of an E-Tutor is essential to learning because E-resources, such as online databases and/or World Wide Web resources are not often able to satisfactorily address a particular group or individual's learning requirement. Therefore, an E-Tutor has to avail the learner timely access to what it needs and it can understand. Furthermore, argumentation and dialogue have an important role to play in shaping learners’ conceptual change and developing learners’ reasoning skills. In this paper we make a first step towards developing a multi-agent based model of argumentation and dialogue for E-learning. We discuss the notion of a successful E-learning system and the need for communication, argumentation and dialogue in E-Learning. We also discuss some of the aspects of knowledge representation for an E-learning system. We finally present a formal model of argumentation and dialogue.

Instructional Efficiency of Utilization of Autograph Technology Vs Handheld Graphing Calculator for Learning Algebra
Rohani Ahmad Tarmizi, Ahmad Fauzi Mohd. Ayub, Kamariah Abu Bakar, Aida Suraya Md. Yunus

Abstract: Learning mathematics is a major focus of educational institution at all levels. There is plenty of evidence that teaching secondary or college level mathematics with dynamic software can be effective, more efficient and above all it creates more enjoyable teaching and learning environment. Conceptually and pedagogically, technology-assisted learning has provided positive impact on mathematical learning. Technology-assisted approach helps move mathematic teaching and learning out of its “stand and deliver” mode to active group learning developing individuals’ potential as effective problem solvers and critical thinkers. The new technologies such as computers or calculators might affect the education system hence if used strategically the technologies provide learners the power of controlling what they are learning. This study aimed to investigate the instructional efficiency index of an interactive software Autograph and a hand-held graphing calculator in comparison to the conventional way for teaching algebra. The Autograph has 2D and 3D graphing capabilities for topics such as functions, transformations, conic sections, vectors, slopes and derivatives. On the other hand, graphing calculator is a handy device that can be use for teaching mathematics which is able to create geometric figures, graph functions, inequalities or transformations of functions. The Paas Mental Effort Rating Scale developed by Paas and Merrienboer, 2004 were used to measure instructional efficiency of the three teaching modes utilized in the study. Hence a true-experimental research design was used for this study with students selected at random to be assign to three groups. Four phases were conducted: 1) Introduction to Software, 2) Introduction to quadratic Functions, 3) Integrated teaching and learning using software, 4) Testing using Achievement Test and the Paas Mental Effort Rating Scale. The data were analyzed using ANOVA and post-hoc analyses. Teaching and learning utilizing the graphing calculator was found to be instructionally efficient significantly, F (2, 98) = 11.1, p < .000 compared to the conventional and Autograph mode. Conventional strategy incurs low mental effort and high performance compared to used of Autograph. Graphing calculator condition thus far imposed relative low mental effort with high performance. Autograph condition imposes high mental effort with low performance. Each of these technology utilizations with their associated instructional efficiency may be useful for instructional researchers and educators in improving mathematical performance as well as in the utilization of technology in teaching and learning.

A Comparison of Malaysian Secondary Students Perceived Ease of use and Usefulness of Dynamic Mathematical Software
A. F. Mohd Ayub, R. Ahmad Tarmizi, K. Abu Bakar, A. S. Mohd Yunus

Abstract: Technology is becoming important in the lives of school students. The integration of technological tools has been widely practiced in teaching and learning mathematics in order to enhance students’ understanding of mathematics. Teaching and learning mathematics can be beneficial through the use of dynamic software. Learning mathematics on computer screens can be some sorts of visual entertainments for students. The teaching process is absolutely no longer about the interaction between the teacher and the students but also it can be the interaction between the student and the software itself. Therefore, institutions should attempt to utilize dynamic software in order to add value to the education process. The use of Geometer’s Sketchpad (GSP), Autograph and the Graphing Calculator (GC) had been implemented for the learning of mathematics in Malaysian secondary schools. This paper will discuss how students perceived the ease of use and usefulness of using Autograph and GSP and GC during learning Quadratic Functions. A total of 124 secondary school students in Malaysia participated in the study. They were randomly assigned into three different groups. Each group underwent instruction utilizing either one of the software. Findings showed that students’ mean scores of perceived ease of use of the graphing calculator is higher compared to the use of Autograph and GSP. However, there was no significant difference in the mean scores of perceived ease of use and perceived usefulness of the three software. These findings have shown promising implications for the use of mathematical software and graphic calculator in teaching mathematics at Malaysian secondary school level.

Effect of eBusiness Solutions and eLeadership: Impact Analyses on Higher Educational Institutions and Their Organizational Leadership
Wilhelmina Djoleto

Abstract: Enterprise eBusiness solutions have exploded in leaps and bounds in recent years. Literature has shown a significant surge in the investment in Electronic Business (eBusiness) solutions by Higher Educational Institutions (HEIs) globally and these HEIs are interested in having a lucid understanding on the returns on their investments. However, there exists little or no research on the successes and failures of these eBusiness solutions at these institutions, especially Historically Black Colleges and Universities (HBCUs). Furthermore, no known research has been conducted on the effect of these eBusiness solutions on organizational leadership/hierarchies at HEIs, especially, when this is considered to be vital to institutions’ strategic mission and planning. We present, in this paper, a comprehensive impact analysis of eBusiness solutions at Historically Black Colleges and Universities. We reconnoitre the effects of eBusiness solutions on different operational constructs of the institutions. HBCUs were chosen for their uniqueness and their numerous roles in providing education for minorities. We utilized cross-sectional quantitative approach, surveying a significant spectrum of such institutions in the United States of America. The impact of eBusiness solutions on institutional leadership including efficiency and effectiveness of leadership, student enrolment, investment, image and reputation, student’s satisfaction, student learning and other optional activities, are delineated in this paper. The sample contained higher level administrators including presidents/chancellors, vice presidents/chancellors, associate/assistant vice presidents/chancellors, deans and associate/assistant deans.

    Paper Title, Authors, Abstract (Issue 4, Volume 2, 2008)

Pages

Strategic Framework for IT Education and Research at Sofia University
M. Nisheva, E. Gourova, P. Ruskov, Y. Todorova, A. Antonova

Abstract: Purpose: The paper focuses on the challenges for Faculty of Mathematics and Informatics (FMI) of Sofia University. It tries to provide an answer to the main questions – how to use the best practice of a leading universities in order to link the main research and academic faculty goals to specific problems to be planed and implemented; how to support the faculty executives for making better decisions, and resource allocation choices. The purpose of the paper is to present the FMI approach and the FMI strategy maps for research and education. Design/methodology/approach: The authors examined several scientific methods and techniques used in strategic management, and created their own approach for modeling, design and implementation in education and research environment, which is presented in the paper. Findings: The main findings of a SWOT analysis, modeling and environmental survey are given in the paper. It presents the strategic priorities and the challenges for FMI to keep its position as a leading research and education centre in ICT in Bulgaria and to compete in the global educational environment. Practical implications: The authors believe that the described model and strategy will support FMI and its staff to take strategic management decisions, to focus their efforts on the most relevant topics, and to create competitive educational and research environment. Originality/value: The paper shows how to develop the faculty strategy. It demonstrates clearly that academic research and education processes can achieve significant improvements in cost, quality and service using a strategic management approach. The added value of the FMI strategy is in integrating knowledge, experience, best practices and tools within one new master program design. The FMI approach described in the paper can be used for strategic management in universities and research organisations.

Integrative Action Process in Perspective of the Three Metaphors of Learning
R. Pirinen

Abstract: The main contribution of the Integrative Action and Process Model is the creation of a sustainable and linear framework for cyclic innovation activities. The object of integrative action is to continuously integrate the three statutory tasks of universities of applied science in Finland: education, research and development and regional development. The proposed integrative applications and learning practices of integrative implementations of the three tasks were developed, tested and used in master’s and bachelor’s degree programs in Services, Service Design, Security and ICT at Laurea University of Applied Sciences between 2001 and 2008. Laurea is a research and development-oriented university of applied sciences focusing on service innovations and producing high-quality professional competence. Its specific task is to foster collaboration, international competitiveness and regional development in the Helsinki metropolitan area. The concept of integrative action and the approach and framework of Learning by Developing (LbD) were created as a way for implementing the three tasks in practice within integrative processes, while fostering sustainability and international cooperation with the employment sector. In this study, the focus of implementation of the integrative process is the transformative full duplex usage of cyclic innovation activities and linear development orientations, with quality and relevance as the perspectives of action, where learning is briefly approached through three metaphors of learning: (1) knowledge acquisition, (2) participation, and (3) knowledge creation.

Using Electronic Collaborative Media in Knowledge Sharing Phases: Case Study in Jordan Hospitals
Mohammad Al-Ma'Aitah

Abstract: Integrated groupware can assemble people of various skills around the globe to share their knowledge while working on a project. Internet, intranet, and other groupware technologies, such as Lotus-Notes, video conferencing and e-mail can be used to distribute and share individual experience and innovation throughout the organization. Therefore, Organizations especially those adapting to rapidly changing environments, face the challenge of being able to use these technologies, in order to gain knowledge sharing effectively within highly constrained timeframes. This study came to explore the effect of using electronic collaborative media on knowledge sharing phases. This study investigated a sample formed of (180) individuals operating in a number of hospitals within the Jordanian health sector; using the electronic collaborative system, to perform its different duties. In order to achieve this purpose the study proposed the following hypotheses: using of electronic collaborative media is positively influences on the knowledge sharing phases. The study concluded some important results such as that among the most important electronic collaborative media used in knowledge sharing in the hospitals subject to research are the E- mail and video conferencing, and existence of a significant effect between using the electronic collaborative media and the knowledge sharing process in the researched hospitals.

Parents' Views about Internet Use of their Children
I. Kabakci, H. Ferhan Odabasi, Ahmet N. Coklar

Abstract: Parents' views are primarily important for children's effective and secure use of Internet and protecting them against the threats of Internet. Therefore, this study aims at determining the views of parents about the Internet use of their children who attend a private elementary school in Turkey. Carried out through the qualitative research method, the research data of the study were collected from 33 parents and were analyzed by running descriptive analysis, which is one of the qualitative data analysis methods. As a result of the analysis, it was revealed that parents regard Internet as the most developed technology, a window opening to the whole world, and as a tool to attain information. Moreover, parents reported that Internet has positive and negative effects together. Parents stated that Internet use of their children has positive effects in terms of providing support to education, attaining information, establishing communication, and entertainment, while it has negative effects in terms of content and of individual, psychological and physical aspects. Based on parents' views, this study provides some suggestions regarding how children can use Internet safely.