Attention modeling using inputs from a Brain Computer Interface and user-generated data in Second Life

A model of attention in computer-based assessment exercise in Second Life is presented. Attention is measured considering psychometric inputs based on Electro Encephalogram (EEG) readings using NeuroSky technology. The model of attention considers the readings and combines them with user-generated, performance data [1] (giving-up, answer correctness and time spent) to determine states of attention and trigger strategies to improve or sustain an optimal level of attention. The novelty of this approach is in using NeuroSky technology to read attention levels and in combining this input with user-generated data taken from interaction. This model of attention is based on the ARCS [2,3] model of motivation and can be later integrated into a model of motivation [4] for virtual worlds learning. The paper discusses the feasibility of using attention to complement existing models of motivation [4] and outlines work for the future

Learning programming at the computational thinking level via digital game-play

This paper outlines an innovative game model for learning computational thinking (CT) skills through digital game-play. We have designed a game framework where students can practice and develop their skills in CT with little or no programming knowledge. We analyze how this game supports various CT concepts and how these concepts can be mapped to programming constructs to facilitate learning introductory computer programming. Moreover, we discuss the potential benefits of our approach as a support tool to foster student motivation and abilities in problem solving. As initial evaluation, we provide some analysis of feedback from a survey response group of 25 students who have played our game as a voluntary exercise. Structured empirical evaluation will follow, and the plan for that is briefly described

Preacher\u27s Magazine Volume 62 Number 01

STUDIES IN PHILIPPIANS MIND THE SAME THING: Christian Unity in Philippians, Jirair Tashjian PAUL AS A MODEL FOR PASTORAL LEADERSHIP, Lyle P. Flinner EXEGETICAL STUDIES IN PHILIPPIANS, Roger L. Hahn WORKING OUT YOUR SALVATION, Wesley L. Harmon THE POURED-OUT LIFE: The Kenosis Hymn in Context, Dennis R. Bratcher KENOSIS IN HISTORICAL PERSPECTIVE, Stephen Gunter THE PHILIPPIAN FILE: Sermon Outlines from Philippians, Derl G. Keefer MONDAY MORNING DEVOTIONS FOR MINISTERS, Lyle P. Flinner FEATURE ARTICLES Protect Yourself from Sexual Sin, Keith Drury The Ministry of Example, Raymond C. Kratzer How I Prepare to Preach, Stephen G. Green Pastoral Visitation: A Perspective on Motivation, Peter G. Hargreaves Dealing with Difficult People, Pat and Bill Bouchillon How to Buy a Church Computer, Wallace W. Wagner John Wesley as Educator, Robert A. Mattke John Wesley’s Sermons, reviewed by Timothy L. Smith Serving Joyfully, Anna Marie Lockard The Abortion Issue, John A. Knight, Sr. REGULAR FEATURES Suitable for Framing We Get Letters Editorial FINANCE: Charitable Donation Deduction Increase for 1986 The Preacher’s Exchange Today’s Books for Today’s Preacher The Idea Mart Sermon Outlines Sermon Illustrations New Testament Word Studies Ark Rockerhttps://digitalcommons.olivet.edu/cotn_pm/1642/thumbnail.jp

Scholarly collaboration across time zones

The barriers to global collaboration of yesteryear were, for example, country boundaries and time zones. Today however, in a world where communication is thriving on new technologies, these barriers have been overcome, not only by the technology itself, but also by the collaborators in a desire (and need) to extend knowledge, seize opportunities and build partnerships. This chapter reports on one such collaboration: a case study where the focus is the writing of a scholarly article between authors from Australia, England and South Africa. The challenges of different time zones, academic calendars, and managing the collaboration are outlined in this chapter. Findings from the case study suggests that the key elements of success are related to the individuals and project management techniques, and not the technology per se. The constructivist learning theory as well as the e-Moderation model are supported by this work and thus extend their application to the academic writing process

Using a simulated student to repair difficulties in collaborative learning

We describe the use of a simulated student in a synchronous but distributed collaborative learning environment in the domain of programming. The role of the simulated student is to detect and repair difficulties in collaborative learning amongst the human students, for example when a human student is too passive or when the students start chatting about off-topic conversations. The simulated student intervenes by posting messages in the shared "chat" window, just like the human students and was believed to be another human student by them. The paper describes the rules by which the simulated student operates and briefly outlines an evaluation of the system with university first year programming students. The system proved to be successful both in detecting a range of difficulties and in intervening effectively

Taking Afrobarometer Data Everywhere

According to statistics gathered by research group Afrobarometer, many countries in Africa lack infrastructure and basic necessities. In fact, Afrobarometer knows the specific rates of need and availability sampled across thirty-six countries but more prosperous African countries do not know these numbers. These more developed countries are in a position to help their less fortunate neighbors if only made aware of the social and economic climate in the respective areas. Our partnership with Afrobarometer will allow us to advertise these statistics through the use of a mobile application. The data will be displayed in a way that is easy for the average reader to digest and understand. By exposing a larger African audience to the results from these public opinion surveys, Afrobarometer hopes to inspire these people to take action and make donations to the appropriate social benefit groups. The countries represented by the surveys can then receive help in the areas expressing need

Reviews

Sally Brown, Steve Armstrong and Gail Thompson (eds.), Motivating Students, London: Kogan Page, 1998. ISBN: 0–7494–2494‐X. Paperback, 214 pages. £18.99

Gurus on Leadership: A Book Review

Author Mark A. Thomas examines in his best seller Gurus on Leadership the many styles and contributions associated with noted leaders and experts on leadership throughout history. Rao’s review points out the salient features of each style and reasserts the author’s desire for the principled leader to choose the best characteristics and managerial traits offered from this vast repertoire of experiences and philosophies

The adoption of open sources within higher education in Europe : a dissemination case study

For some time now, the open-source (OS) phenomenon has been making its presence felt; disrupting the economics of the software industry and, by proxy, the business of education. A combination of the financial pressure Higher Education Institutions (HEIs) find themselves under and the increasing focus on the use of technology to enhance students' learning have encouraged many HEIs to look towards alternative approaches to teaching and learning. Meanwhile, the "OS" has challenged assumptions about how intellectual products are created and protected and has greatly increased the quantity and arguably the quality of educational technologies available to HEIs