Toward metrics and model validation in web-site QEM

In this work, a conceptual framework and the associated strategies for metrics and model validation are analyzed regarding website measurement and evaluation. Particularly, we have conducted three case studies in different Web domains in order to evaluate and compare the quality of sites. For such an end the quantitative, model-based methodology, so-called Web-site QEM (Quality Evaluation Methodology), was utilized. In the assessment process of sites, definition of attributes and measurements, preference criteria for elementary evaluation, and an aggregation model of attributes and characteristics for global evaluation have intervened. Hence, in the present paper, the validation framework and the theoretical validation of some used Web metrics and model for assessment purpose are discussed considering the representational theory of measurement.Área: Ingeniería de Software - Bases de Dato

Toward metrics and model validation in web-site QEM

In this work, a conceptual framework and the associated strategies for metrics and model validation are analyzed regarding website measurement and evaluation. Particularly, we have conducted three case studies in different Web domains in order to evaluate and compare the quality of sites. For such an end the quantitative, model-based methodology, so-called Web-site QEM (Quality Evaluation Methodology), was utilized. In the assessment process of sites, definition of attributes and measurements, preference criteria for elementary evaluation, and an aggregation model of attributes and characteristics for global evaluation have intervened. Hence, in the present paper, the validation framework and the theoretical validation of some used Web metrics and model for assessment purpose are discussed considering the representational theory of measurement.Área: Ingeniería de Software - Bases de DatosRed de Universidades con Carreras en Informática (RedUNCI

Toward metrics and model validation in web-site QEM

In this work, a conceptual framework and the associated strategies for metrics and model validation are analyzed regarding website measurement and evaluation. Particularly, we have conducted three case studies in different Web domains in order to evaluate and compare the quality of sites. For such an end the quantitative, model-based methodology, so-called Web-site QEM (Quality Evaluation Methodology), was utilized. In the assessment process of sites, definition of attributes and measurements, preference criteria for elementary evaluation, and an aggregation model of attributes and characteristics for global evaluation have intervened. Hence, in the present paper, the validation framework and the theoretical validation of some used Web metrics and model for assessment purpose are discussed considering the representational theory of measurement.Área: Ingeniería de Software - Bases de DatosRed de Universidades con Carreras en Informática (RedUNCI

Toward metrics and model validation in web-site QEM

In this work, a conceptual framework and the associated strategies for metrics and model validation are analyzed regarding website measurement and evaluation. Particularly, we have conducted three case studies in different Web domains in order to evaluate and compare the quality of sites. For such an end the quantitative, model-based methodology, so-called Web-site QEM (Quality Evaluation Methodology), was utilized. In the assessment process of sites, definition of attributes and measurements, preference criteria for elementary evaluation, and an aggregation model of attributes and characteristics for global evaluation have intervened. Hence, in the present paper, the validation framework and the theoretical validation of some used Web metrics and model for assessment purpose are discussed considering the representational theory of measurement.Área: Ingeniería de Software - Bases de DatosRed de Universidades con Carreras en Informática (RedUNCI

A theoretical model for the application of Web 2.0 in e-Government

Government organisations in many countries have started embracing modern technologies such as second generation web (Web 2.0) in an attempt to maximize on the benefits of these technologies as well as keeping up with the current trend. Nevertheless, the advancement and the adoption of these of technologies is in its initial stages in the public sector. Therefore, the research problem is that the literature surrounding the application of Web 2.0 is still highly tentative and exploratory. In particular, there is a lack of research exploring the application of Web 2.0 technologies in the context of local e-Government. This study aims to address this research problem by presenting a comprehensive decision-making tool to aid the effective application of Web 2.0 technologies amongst local government authorities (LGAs). In doing so, resulting in the development of a theoretical model that is underpinned by information systems evaluation criteria and impact factors of Web 2.0 from an internal organizational perspective. By addressing the research problem, this study will make a significant contribution to the normative literature by providing new insights of Web 2.0 technologies within the public sector. This will be of specific relevance to scholars, policy makers, LGAs and practitioners who are interested in the adoption of Web 2.0 technologies in an e-Government context. This paper presents the proposed theoretical model and is largely devoted to an explanation on the development of the model

Web Engineering: A Quantitative Methodology for Quality Evaluation and Comparison of Web Applications

This research is aimed at defining and discussing a quantitative methodology, the one integral, robust and flexible, for the quality evaluation and comparison of Web sites and applications (WebApps). The approach, from now on called Web-site Quality Evaluation Methodology (Web-site QEM) is intended to perform an engineering contribution proposing for such an end a systematic, disciplined and quantitative strategy customized to the evaluation, comparison, and analysis of the quality of somewhat complex WebApps. We analyze their phases and activities, we describe the produced deliverables, and we present models, methods, procedures, principles and tools to apply in these activities. We outline the approach and its solutions, using along the thesis two case studies for WebApps, and other carried out field studies. In addition, we present a conceptual framework for metric validation and we discuss the theoretical validation of some utilized metrics in the evaluation process. Finally, we describe thoroughly an evaluation process model which Web-site QEM adheres. In this report, just the main methodology’s steps are shown. Besides, some specific models, criteria and procedures to apply in these activities are discussed by quoting case studies already performed (e.g., in the academic domain as well as in museums and e-commerce domain, i.e., international e-bookstores ).Sociedad Argentina de Informática e Investigación Operativ

What would learning in an open world look like? A vision for the future

The pace of current technological advancement is phenomenal. In the last few years we have seen the emergence of ever more sophisticated gaming technologies, rich, immersive virtual worlds and new social networking services that enable learners and teachers to connect and communicate in new ways. The pace of change looks set to continue as annual Horizon reports testify (http://www.nmc.org/horizon). Clearly new technologies offer much in an educational context, with the promise of flexible, personalised and student-centred learning. Indeed research over the past few years, looking at learners' use of technologies, has given us a rich picture of how learners of all ages are appropriating new tools within their own context, mixing different applications for finding/managing information and for communicating with others (Sharpe and Beetham, forthcoming)

Profiling and understanding student information behaviour: Methodologies and meaning

This paper draws on work conducted under the Joint Information Systems Committee (JISC) User Behaviour Monitoring and Evaluation Framework to identify a range of issues associated with research design that can form a platform for enquiry about knowledge creation in the arena of user behaviour. The Framework has developed a multidimensional set of tools for profiling, monitoring and evaluating user behaviour. The Framework has two main approaches: one, a broad‐based survey which generates both a qualitative and a quantitative profile of user behaviour, and the other a longitudinal qualitative study of user behaviour that (in addition to providing in‐depth insights) is the basis for the development of the EIS (Electronic Information Services) Diagnostic Toolkit. The strengths and weaknesses of the Framework approach are evaluated. In the context of profiling user behaviour, key methodological concerns relate to: representativeness, sampling and access, the selection of appropriate measures and the interpretation of those measures. Qualitative approaches are used to generate detailed insights. These include detailed narratives, case study analysis and gap analysis. The messages from this qualitative analysis do not lend themselves to simple summarization. One approach that has been employed to capture and interpret these messages is the development of the EIS Diagnostic Toolkit. This toolkit can be used to assess and monitor an institution's progress with embedding EIS into learning processes. Finally, consideration must be given to integration of insights generated through different strands within the Framework

Ritual performances and collective intelligence: theoretical frameworks for analyising activity patterns in Cloudworks

This paper provides an overview of emerging activity patterns on Cloudworks, a specialised site for sharing and debating ideas as well as resources on teaching, learning and scholarship in education. It provides an overview of activities such as 'flash debates', 'blended workshops' and 'open reviews' and seeks to situate dialogic interchanges and structures of involvement within the following theoretical frameworks: a) Goffman's notions of 'face-work' and 'ritual performance�; and b) and secondly, notions of collective intelligence. The paper argues that these perspectives can offer a unique contribution to the study and analysis of sociality (Bouman et al, 2007) bounded in the context of technologically mediated networked learning, with wider implications for understanding matters of participation, self-representation, reflection and expansion in education

Application of Web 2.0 technologies in e-government: A United Kingdom case study

Electronic government (e-Government) has endured significant transformation over the last decade and currently, it is making further leaps by incorporating modern technologies such as second generation web (Web 2.0) technologies. However, since the development and use of this kind of technology is still at its early stages in the public sector, research about the use of Web 2.0 in this domain is still highly tentative and lacks theoretical underpinning. This paper reports the preliminary findings of an in-depth case study in the United Kingdom (UK) public sector, which explore the application of Web 2.0 technologies in the local government authority (LGA). The findings elicited from the case study offer an insight into information systems (IS) evaluation criterions and impact factors of Web 2.0 from both a practical setting and an internal organisational perspective. This paper concludes that a combined analysis of the evaluation and impact factors rather than a singular approach would better assist the decision making process that leads to effective application of Web 2.0 technologies. It also highlights the significant impact and perceived effect of adoption of such technologies