32,709 research outputs found
A network model of interpersonal alignment in dialog
In dyadic communication, both interlocutors adapt to each other linguistically, that is, they align interpersonally. In this article, we develop a framework for modeling interpersonal alignment in terms of the structural similarity of the interlocutorsâ dialog lexica. This is done by means of so-called two-layer time-aligned network series, that is, a time-adjusted graph model. The graph model is partitioned into two layers, so that the interlocutorsâ lexica are captured as subgraphs of an encompassing dialog graph. Each constituent network of the series is updated utterance-wise. Thus, both the inherent bipartition of dyadic conversations and their gradual development are modeled. The notion of alignment is then operationalized within a quantitative model of structure formation based on the mutual information of the subgraphs that represent the interlocutorâs dialog lexica. By adapting and further developing several models of complex network theory, we show that dialog lexica evolve as a novel class of graphs that have not been considered before in the area of complex (linguistic) networks. Additionally, we show that our framework allows for classifying dialogs according to their alignment status. To the best of our knowledge, this is the first approach to measuring alignment in communication that explores the similarities of graph-like cognitive representations. Keywords: alignment in communication; structural coupling; linguistic networks; graph distance measures; mutual information of graphs; quantitative network analysi
The Self-Organization of Meaning and the Reflexive Communication of Information
Following a suggestion of Warren Weaver, we extend the Shannon model of
communication piecemeal into a complex systems model in which communication is
differentiated both vertically and horizontally. This model enables us to
bridge the divide between Niklas Luhmann's theory of the self-organization of
meaning in communications and empirical research using information theory.
First, we distinguish between communication relations and correlations among
patterns of relations. The correlations span a vector space in which relations
are positioned and can be provided with meaning. Second, positions provide
reflexive perspectives. Whereas the different meanings are integrated locally,
each instantiation opens global perspectives--"horizons of meaning"--along
eigenvectors of the communication matrix. These next-order codifications of
meaning can be expected to generate redundancies when interacting in
instantiations. Increases in redundancy indicate new options and can be
measured as local reduction of prevailing uncertainty (in bits). The systemic
generation of new options can be considered as a hallmark of the
knowledge-based economy.Comment: accepted for publication in Social Science Information, March 21,
201
ERIGrid Holistic Test Description for Validating Cyber-Physical Energy Systems
Smart energy solutions aim to modify and optimise the operation of existing energy infrastructure. Such cyber-physical technology must be mature before deployment to the actual infrastructure, and competitive solutions will have to be compliant to standards still under development. Achieving this technology readiness and harmonisation requires reproducible experiments and appropriately realistic testing environments. Such testbeds for multi-domain cyber-physical experiments are complex in and of themselves. This work addresses a method for the scoping and design of experiments where both testbed and solution each require detailed expertise. This empirical work first revisited present test description approaches, developed a newdescription method for cyber-physical energy systems testing, and matured it by means of user involvement. The new Holistic Test Description (HTD) method facilitates the conception, deconstruction and reproduction of complex experimental designs in the domains of cyber-physical energy systems. This work develops the background and motivation, offers a guideline and examples to the proposed approach, and summarises experience from three years of its application.This work received funding in the European Communityâs Horizon 2020 Program (H2020/2014â2020)
under project âERIGridâ (Grant Agreement No. 654113)
A model of the dynamics of organizational communication
We propose a model of the dynamics of organizational communication. Our model specifies the mechanics by which communication impact is fed back to communication inputs and closes the gap between sender and receiver of messages. We draw on language critique, a branch of language philosophy, and derive joint linguistic actions of interlocutors to explain the emergence and adaptation of communication on the group level. The model is framed by Te'eni's cognitive-affective model of organizational communication
T-government for benefit realisation
This paper proposes a model for t-Government and highlights the research agenda needed to
increase understanding of transformational government and the processes involved in
furthering the agenda of the t-Government. In particular, both an operational and a conceptual
model for the effective involvement of citizens and businesses in government functioning
have been proposed. This will help to define an agenda for t-Government research that
emerges from national UK strategy and policy for e-Government. The main threads of t-
Government encompass: (1) A citizen-centric delivery of public services or e-inclusion, (2) A
shared services culture to maximize value added to clients, (3) The effective delivery and
management of resources and skills within government or professionalism. All three threads
should be addressed principally from the perspectives of delivery, evaluation and participation
in view of benefit realisation as envisioned by Government strategic planning and policy
directives (CabinetOffice, 2005). The management of change dimension of these phenomena
have been included in the research agenda. In particular, research is needed to reshape the
discourse towards emphasising a citizen centric approach that defines, develops, and benefits
from public service. Decision makers in Government will need models of Governance that
fulfil transformational objectives. They will also need models of benefits realisation within a
strategic Governance framework. It has been argued that t-Government research should be
addressing these relative voids
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