Connecting Representations and Ways of Thinking about Slope from Algebra to Calculus

While slope is a topic in the algebra curriculum, having a robust understanding of slope is needed for students to truly understand several single and multivariable calculus topics with any depth. We begin with a review of the topic of slope and present what is known from its existing corpus of literature. We then outline the tenets of APOS theory. Building from there, we suggest what a robust, flexible understanding of slope involves, as well as how slope is used, with the APOS-slope framework acting as a theoretical lens. This is followed by the cases of two hypothetical students built from amalgamations of research and experience to emphasize why moving easily between different ways of thinking about and the various uses of slope is vital to successfully transition into calculus. We offer suggestions as to how university instructors might consider slope understanding when teaching calculus, then conclude with suggestions for future research on slope

Philosophical Foundations of Information Systems (PFIS) Doctoral Workshop

This IS and Philosophy mini-track, now in its tenth year, continues very successfully from its beginnings within the inaugural 1996 AMCIS/AIS conference in Phoenix, Arizona. This mini-track is now included in the track sponsored by the SIG “Philosophy and Epistemology of IS”created in 2002. Many leading IS scholars from Europe, UK, USA, and Australia, have, over the years, participated in this mini-track. Over the last 2 years, at AMCIS Tampa and New York, this mini-track has examined its history with a view to moving forward and creating new opportunities for participants to explore ideas and areas relevant to PFIS. As a result of requests by our PhD student group members at AMCIS Tampa and New York, this workshop addresses the theme of “Philosophical Understanding of Research Approaches in the Field of Information Systems/Technology”. Students participating in this workshop have submitted a position paper of 1000 words (based on the student’s understanding of how PFIS is relevant to the research approach used within current dissertation work) and it is these papers that have formed the basis of the workshop theme, direction and structure. The workshop was devised and led by the PFIS mini-track co-chairs (Prof. James Courtney, Prof. John Haynes & Dr Deborah Bunker). This workshop was designed and structured to generate a dialog with students about their understanding of how philosophy underpins their dissertation research. The workshop has also been recorded and a working paper on important areas of focus for students in this area, is available for general distribution from Prof. J. Courtney ([email protected]). Philosophy is an established and vast field, as compared to our fledgling area of information systems and many of the PFIS group student members have expressed an interest in better understanding the philosophical underpinnings of their work. This workshop has been founded on the belief that we have hardly begun to tap the potential of philosophy in our work, especially in developing a more robust foundation for what we do. Our students are the future of our work and as such, should have the opportunity to explore ideas in PFIS with each other and more experienced researchers

Conceptualizing Human Microbiota: From Multicelled Organ to Ecological Community

The microbiota of a typical, healthy human contains 10 times as many cells as the human body and incorporates bacteria, viruses, archea, protozoans, and fungi. This diverse microbiome (the collective genomes of the microbial symbionts that inhabit a human host) is essential for human functioning. We discuss the unstated assumptions and implications of current conceptualizations of human microbiota: (1) a single unit that interacts with the host and the external environment; a multicelled organ; (2) an assemblage of multiple taxa, but considered as a single unit in its interactions with the host; (3) an assemblage of multiple taxa, which each interacts with the host and the environment independently; and (4) a dynamic ecological community consisting of multiple taxa each potentially interacting with each other, the host, and the environment. Each conceptualization leads to different predictions, methodologies, and research strategies

Philosophical Foundations of Information Systems: A Review of the First 10 Years

This paper updates and extends the work by Bunker, et al. (2004) that reviewed developments in the Philosophical Foundations of IS (PFIS) mini-track from 1996 through 2003. We first describe the history of the mini-track, concentrating on 1996, when C. West Churchman served on a PFIS panel and presented a luncheon address. His work on inquiring systems continues to be the basis for many of the papers in the mini-track. Papers in 2004 and 2005 are reviewed briefly and some trends and themes are noted. Unfortunately, one trend is a declining number of papers submitted. We discuss factors that may have led to this and hope that next year’s conference venue may lead to an increase in submissions. For convenience, the chronology published in Bunker, et al.’s 2004 paper is included as an appendix

Determining and addressing obstacles to the effective use of long-lasting insecticide-impregnated nets in rural Tanzania

<p>Abstract</p> <p>Background</p> <p>The objective of this project was to achieve high, sustainable levels of net coverage in a village in rural Tanzania by combining free distribution of long-lasting insecticide-impregnated nets (LLINs) with community-tailored education. In Tanzania, malaria is the leading cause of morbidity and mortality. Although malaria bed nets have a well-established role in reducing disease burden, few rural households have access to nets, and effective use depends on personal practices and attitudes.</p> <p>Methods</p> <p>Five practices and attitudes inconsistent with effective LLIN use were identified from household interviews (n = 10). A randomized survey of villagers (n = 132) verified local prevalence of these practices and attitudes. Community leaders held an educational session for two members of every household addressing these practice and attitudes, demonstrating proper LLIN use, and emphasizing behaviour modification. Attendees received one or two LLINs per household. Surveys distributed three weeks (n = 104) and 15 months (n = 104) post-intervention assessed corrected practices and attitudes. Project efficacy was defined by correction of baseline practices and attitudes as well as high rates of reported daily net use, with statistical significance determined by chi-square test.</p> <p>Results</p> <p>Baseline interviews and surveys revealed incorrect practices and attitudes regarding 1) use of nets in dry season, 2) need to retreat LLINs, 3) children napping under nets, 4) need to repair nets, and 5) net procurement as a priority, with 53- 88.6% incorrect responses (11.4-47% correct responses). A three-week follow-up demonstrated 83-95% correct responses. Fifteen-month follow-up showed statistically significant (p < 0.01) corrections from baseline in all five practice and attitudes (39.4-93.3% correct answers). 89.4% of respondents reported using their nets every night, and 93.3% affirmed purchase of nets as a financial priority.</p> <p>Conclusions</p> <p>Results suggest that addressing community-specific practices and attitudes prior to LLIN distribution promotes consistent and correct use, and helps change attitudes towards bed nets as a preventative health measure. Future LLIN distributions can learn from the paradigm established in this project.</p