Assessment of an ePortfolio : developing a taxonomy to guide the grading and feedback for personal development planning

This paper describes the rationale for, and the design, implementation and preliminary evaluation of a taxonomy to guide the grading and feedback of ePortfolio assessment of personal development planning (PDP) in a module where PDP is integrated into the curriculum. Conventional higher education assessment methods do not adequately address the requirements of this innovative approach to learning and assessment, and a new assessment tool was felt to be necessary. Drawing on recent theories in the fields of constructive alignment, reflective practice and assessment for learning, a criteria-based taxonomy was designed with the aims of articulating criteria for achievement aligned with the learning outcomes of the module, and of ensuring valid and reliable evaluation of student achievement. Analysis of student and tutor feedback and statistical comparison of marks achieved after the pilot study have produced encouraging results. While this taxonomy was designed to be used in specific circumstances, it is capable of being adapted for use by others who deliver modules or courses where PDP embedded in the curriculum is supported and assessed by means of an ePortfolio

The New Year

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Illuminating and measuring personal development: the impact of this work on learning and teaching

This short article gives an overview of a small-scale case study research project based on a 2nd year cohort of students from the Business Information Systems area of the School of Computing, Engineering and Information Sciences at Northumbria University. The aim of this employability module is to prepare students for the recruitment process for their placement year in industry and to inculcate proper professional attitudes and behaviour. The teaching strategy uses the precepts of PDP, and an eportfolio is the vehicle for learning and assessment

Introduction

This introduction sets out the context for the special feature on gender and deindustrialization. It briefly outlines the development of research in this field and the contribution made by the articles included in this issue, before pointing to some directions for future research

What is EDI Anyway?

EDI? BIPOC? He/His vs They/Them? Want to build an inclusive community for all patrons but not sure where to start? The NDLA Equity, Diversity, and Inclusion Committee will share the purpose of the committee and how the work can positively impact patrons at your institutions. Presenters will answer common questions from those seeking to expand their knowledge of EDI issues and offer concrete examples from North Dakota libraries.https://commons.und.edu/cfl-lpp/1016/thumbnail.jp

Patterns of Poverty: A Regional Exploration of Poverty in America

Existing research on American poverty largely focuses on the national average experience of poverty, offering sweeping conclusions. This article describes regional differences in poverty outcomes, challenging the notion that there is a nearly singular experience of poverty. For example, while some research argues poverty occurs most commonly in minority communities, this research provides evidence for, and descriptions of, poverty in mostly white areas on average. 725 counties were grouped into four distinct regions based on proximity, and Census definitions of US Regions. K-means clustering was leveraged across each of the regions, producing two clusters per region. One cluster presented a notably higher mean poverty rate than the other in all cases. Employment, health, and sociodemographic cluster means varied, revealing unique patterns of poverty-relevant outcomes. The relationship of cluster and poverty was validated against an external measure reflective of poverty using Analysis of Variance (ANOVA). The relationship was found to be significant in two of four regions. Tukey’s post-hoc testing further detailed significant pairwise cluster differences. These results offer support for the utility of smaller-scale state or local anti-poverty policy, and support the hypothesis that poverty manifests differently across relatively small geographic regions

DNA extraction from formalin-fixed tissue: new light from the Deep-Sea

DNA samples were extracted from ethanol and formalin-fixed decapod crustacean tissue using a new method based on Tetramethylsilane (TMS)-Chelex. It is shown that neither an indigestible matrix of cross-linked protein nor soluble PCR inhibitors impede PCR success when dealing with formalin-fixed material. Instead, amplification success from formalin-fixed tissue appears to depend on the presence of unmodified DNA in the extracted sample. A staining method that facilitates the targeting of samples with a high content of unmodified DNA is provided

Technology for hearing loss - as We Know it, and as We Dream it

PURPOSE : Worldwide demand for accessible hearing health technology continues to increase while the numbers of hearing healthcare specialists are grossly inadequate to meet this demand. Proliferation of innovative technology and the advent of greater access to global connectivity are providing an opportunity to identify and harness new resources that may change current audiological service delivery methods to maximize access, efficiency and impact. METHODS : By searching through the most current literature and engaging in discussions with industry experts, it is possible to identify avenues that could increase services to those who have hearing loss with innovative healthcare technology. This article aims to review the current state as well as future trends of hearing health technology by addressing: Technology as We Know it; and Technology as We Dream it. RESULTS : Some of the newer technologies we have recently witnessed include: micro processors; personalized computing devices (e.g. smartphones); web-based applications; an expanding clinical repertoire with integrated test equipment; and globalization of telecommunications that opens the door to telehealth; and self-fitting of hearing aids. Yet, innovation continues scaffolding on recent successes with innovations for hearing healthcare expected to increase into the future. CONCLUSION : As technology and connectivity continue to evolve so should the practice of audiology adapt to the global needs by capitalizing on these advances to optimize service delivery access and sustainability.http://informahealthcare.com/journal/dre/2015-04-30hb201

Expanding audiology services through telehealth enabled partnerships

Hearing loss is a widespread health condition affecting millions of people worldwide. Unfortunately, there is a severe shortage of formally trained hearing professionals to identify and treat the increasing needs. Audiologists and otolaryngologists are both involved in the diagnosis of hearing loss and balance disorders and their respective treatments. These professions have established a close and collaborative relationship over many decades to support the best possible patient-centered care and outcomes. Just like any medical physician, otolaryngologists can offer medical diagnoses and treatment plans. Meanwhile, audiologists are recognized for their capacity to provide audiological diagnoses and treatments that are specific to each patient’s hearing and balance abilities, as well as personalized remediation measures. Unfortunately, access remains a major challenge for affected persons requiring unique solutions that involve partnering with multiple professions outside the audiology and hearing fields.https://journals.lww.com/thehearingjournal/pages/default.aspxhj2023Speech-Language Pathology and AudiologyNon