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Roger Kowalski's poem ‘L'autre face’, published in 1960, was set to music by Jean-Claude Risset some two decades later in a piece with the same title for soprano and computer-generated tape. The poem is a powerfully self-reflexive piece, foregrounding its status as a work on paper, in which the voice of the poet becomes audible only through an imaginative act of interpretation. This relationship between paper, voice, and interpretation is fundamental to the aesthetic tradition which the poem belongs. Risset's soprano part, like classical music generally, is similarly a work on paper, awaiting a voice; but his computer-generated tape is not. Does this mean we cannot interpret it in the same way? This essay argues that Kowalski's work and Risset's, despite the latter's new medium, both belong to a high art tradition in which ghostly voices emerge from beyond the physical substance of the work—whatever that substance may be. [ABSTRACT FROM PUBLISHER]

This paper reports on the results of a study of English children's performance on a computer mathematics assessment compared with a pencil-and-paper assessment. Two matched samples of children were each assessed on one of two mathematics pencil-and-paper tests and assessed a month later on a cloned computer test. The performance scores were better on the computer tests than on the pencil-and-paper tests, although this was not statistically significant in every case. The paper goes on to discuss some of the differences between performance and approach to the question between the two media, and explores possible reasons for these differences. In conclusion, the computer tests were found to have an overall positive effect on children's performance, although not for every child and, in some instances, the computer assessment limited the way in which a question could be answered. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Computers are now widely used by children. Tablet computers are becoming widely available and promoted for use by school children. The primary objective of this study was to compare the posture and muscle activity of children using a tablet computer to the posture and muscle activity of children using a desktop computer and paper technology. Eighteen children (mean age 5.6 years) performed a colouring-in task in tablet, desktop and paper conditions. 3-D posture and muscle activity around the neck and shoulder was assessed. Tablet computer use was similar to paper use, with less neutral spinal posture, more elevated scapular posture and greater upper trapezius and cervical erector spinae activity. This was offset by greater variability of posture and muscle activity. Tablet computer use clearly results in different musculoskeletal stresses than desktop computer use. Computer use guidelines need to be appropriate to traditional and emerging technologies. Tablet computers are being promoted for use by adults and children. However, the physical impact of using this type of technology is not known. The findings of this study provide the first tablet-specific evidence to inform guidelines on wise use of tablet computers by children. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Objective: Comorbid substance misuse and mental health difficulties are recognized as a leading contributor to disease burden worldwide. Amid cuts to health care services, computer-based interventions may provide support for patients experiencing these difficulties. The aims of this systematic review were to identify and investigate the efficacy of these computer-based interventions at improving substance misuse and mental health outcomes. Methods: A systematic search was conducted of CINAHL Plus, PsycARTICLES, PsycINFO, Medline, Web of Science, and the Cochrane Library. Gray literature was also searched for relevant papers. Data were extracted from 33 papers, which met eligibility criteria by reporting a computer-based intervention designed to treat substance misuse and mental health in adults. Quality assessments were conducted on these papers. Results: Computer-based interventions generally led to an improvement of substance misuse and mental health outcomes within groups and when compared against waitlist control and psychoeducation. Computer-based interventions were effective at improving dual diagnosis outcomes, and improvements to mental health outcomes specifically were maintained for up to nine months. However, the combined effect of computer-based interventions and therapist support was found to be more effective than the effects of computer-based interventions alone. Conclusions: Many papers were limited by high attrition rates commonly attributed to "digital" interventions. Future research should consider systematically recruiting a range of participants, including those potentially affected by the digital divide, and incorporating methods within research to maintain engagement. This review was also limited by the heterogeneity of the papers reported, many of which differed between targeting dual diagnosis and targeting either substance misuse or mental health respectively, with outcomes investigating other difficulties out of curiosity. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This paper provides a qualitative meta-analysis of the literature on the use of serious games to assist learners with intellectual and developmental disabilities. It aims to identify the research trends and the possible directions for future research. The study begins with a preliminary online search and selection of a sample of articles to identify the main categories of disabilities. This is followed by a detailed analysis of a selection of articles chosen on the basis of their relevance, year of publication and representation of the studies carried out in this field. The preliminary analysis of articles published in recent years showed that the majority of the articles dealt with the use of digital games to support learners with intellectual disabilities. The findings revealed reports of participants' higher engagement levels and motivation when learning with serious games, in addition to improved competence or performance in domains of language learning and numeracy. Nevertheless, most researchers acknowledged the need for more rigour in validating the effectiveness of the new games as learning tools. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The past decade has seen the expansion of personal digital technologies into schools. With many students and teachers now possessing smartphones, tablets, and laptops, schools are initiating one-to-one and ‘Bring Your Own Device’ (BYOD) policies aiming to make use of these ‘personal devices’ in classrooms. While often discussed in terms of possible educational benefits and/or organisational risks, the actual presence of personal devices in schools tends to be more mundane in nature and effect. Drawing upon ethnographic studies of three Australian high schools, this paper details ways in which the proliferation of digital devices has come to bear upon everyday experiences of school. In particular, the paper highlights the ways in which staff and students negotiate (in)appropriate technology engagement; the ordinary (rather than extraordinary) ways that students make use of their devices in classrooms; and the device-related tensions now beginning to arise in schools. Rather than constituting a radically ‘transformational’ form of schooling, the paper considers how the heightened presence of personal technologies is becoming subsumed into existing micro-politics of school organisation and control. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This paper reports on an investigation of semiotic mechanisms mediating collaborative activity during pair/group work interaction at the computer. The study is informed by sociocultural theory. The participants were university students of L2 Spanish performing three tasks in two modes of implementation: computer vs. paper-based. The questions addressed relate to the degree and functions of repetition, L1 and reading aloud deployed during interaction in both media. The findings suggest there is a high degree of variation in the use of these semiotic tools. No significant medium-related difference was found in the degree to which these mechanisms were deployed by the participants, but a significant difference was found between the use of the three mechanisms overall. The functions for which the mechanisms were used provide some interesting insights into the nature of semiotic mediation during interaction in general and into the role of the computer in the L2 classroom, in particular. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

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This paper describes the contemporary use of information technology devices by children in a socio-educationally advantaged school. A sample of 924 children (50% girls) from grades 5 to 12 (ages 10-19 years) completed an online survey in class. Total daily technology use was high and similar for girls (mean 219 (SD 148) mins/day) and boys (207 (142), p=.186). Tablet computer was the dominant device used in grades 5-9, with laptop computer the dominant device in grades 10-12. Patterns of exposure were influenced by gender, device, grade and purpose of use interactions. For example, girls used mobile phones more than boys for social purposes for grades 10 and 11, but not grade 12. Whilst children’s attitudes to technology use were positive, musculoskeletal and visual symptoms were commonly reported. Hours/day tablet and phone use was related to neck/shoulder discomfort (OR = 1.07; 1.13) and visual symptoms (OR = 1.10; 1.07). Practitioner Summary: Technology use by children appears to be quite different now to a decade ago. This paper describes contemporary school children’s use of various devices for various purposes. The survey of >900 children found high technology use, dominated by new mobile technologies, and associations with musculoskeletal and visual symptoms. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: The aim of this study was to determine the repeatability of an automated-ETDRS (Early Treatment Diabetic Retinopathy Study) near and intermediate visual acuity measurement in subjects with normal visual acuity and subjects with reduced visual acuity. The agreement of automated-ETDRS with gold standard chart-based visual acuity measurement was also studied.Methods: Fifty-one subjects were tested (aged 23 to 91 years; 33 subjects with normal visual acuity: 6/7.5 or better; 18 subjects with reduced visual acuity: 6/9 to 6/30). Near and intermediate visual acuity of one eye from each subject was measured with an automated tablet-computer system (M&S Technologies, Inc.) and Precision Vision paper chart in a random sequence. Subjects were retested one week later. Repeatability was evaluated using the 95 per cent limits of agreement (LoA) between the two visits.Results: Average difference between automated-ETDRS near visual acuity and near visual acuity by paper chart was 0.02 ± 0.10 logMAR (p > 0.05). Agreement of near visual acuity between automated-ETDRS and paper chart was good, with 95 per cent LoA of ±0.19 logMAR. Furthermore, automated-ETDRS near visual acuity showed good repeatability (95 per cent LoA of ±0.20). Mean difference between automated-ETDRS intermediate visual acuity and intermediate visual acuity by paper chart was 0.02 ± 0.10 logMAR (p > 0.05). Agreement of intermediate visual acuity between automated-ETDRS and paper chart was good, with 95 per cent LoA of ±0.20 logMAR. In addition, automated-ETDRS intermediate visual acuity had good repeatability (95 per cent LoA of ±0.16).Conclusion: Automated-ETDRS near and intermediate visual acuity measurement showed good repeatability and agreement with the gold standard chart-based visual acuity measurement. The findings of this study indicate the automated visual acuity measurement system may have potential for use in both patient care and clinical trials. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This paper discusses improvisatory musical interactions between a musician and a machine. The focus is on duet performances, in which a human pianist and the Controlling Interactive Music (CIM) software system both perform on mechanized pianos. It also discusses improvisatory behaviours, using reflexive strategies in machines, and describes interfaces for musical communication and control between human and machine performers. Results are derived from trials with six expert improvising musicians using CIM. Analysis reveals that creative partnerships are fostered by several factors. The reflexive generative system provides aesthetic cohesion by ensuring that generated material has a direct relationship to that played by the musician. The interaction design relies on musical communication through performance as the primary mechanism for feedback and control. It can be shown that his approach to musical human-machine improvisation allows technical concerns to fall away from the musician's awareness and attention to shift to the musical dialogue within the duet. [ABSTRACT FROM PUBLISHER]

There is scientific evidence confirming the effectiveness of e-learning within resuscitation, however, there is not enough research on modern examination techniques within the scope. The aim of the pilot research is to compare the exam results in the field of Advanced Life Support in a traditional (paper) and interactive (computer) form as well as to evaluate satisfaction of the participants. A survey was conducted which meant to evaluate satisfaction of exam participants. Statistical analysis of the collected data was conducted at a significance level of α = 0.05 using STATISTICS v. 12. Final results of the traditional exam (67.5% ± 15.8%) differed significantly (p < 0.001) from the results of the interactive exam (53.3% ± 13.7%). However, comparing the number of students who did not pass the exam (passing point at 51%), no significant differences (p = 0.13) were observed between the two types exams. The feedback accuracy as well as the presence of well-prepared interactive questions could influence the evaluation of satisfaction of taking part in the electronic test. Significant differences between the results of a traditional test and the one supported by Computer Based Learning system showed the possibility of achieving a more detailed competence verification in the field of resuscitation thanks to interactive solutions. [ABSTRACT FROM PUBLISHER]

This paper explores Apple and Microsoft television commercials from the last 25 years and argues that they visualize three phases of the human-computer relationship through the changing positions of the computer and the human body. The three phases are: disembodied cyberspace, embodied hybridity and ubiquity. Ultimately, what becomes apparent is the extent to which these television commercials demonstrate what Henry Jenkins calls a 'cultural convergence' in relation to the human-computer relationship and why this convergence experienced a shift from phase one to phase two around the turn of the millennium. The paper ends by examining more recent Apple and Microsoft television commercials in order to explore the possibility of a new, third phase in the human-computer relationship. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This paper addresses how information technology can be used effectively in program evaluation. Four evaluation planning prerequisites derived from the program evaluation experience of the authors are presented: (1) organizational and program commitment to the evaluation, (2) the why, when and how of the evaluation, (3) specification of goals and objectives of the evaluation and (4) retrievability of information needed for evaluation. A description of a number of “field-tested” technologies which have been used in a collaborative planning process are outlined. In recent times, the majority of external stakeholders have insisted upon higher levels of accountability and more rigorous outcome evaluations (Hudson & Lowe, 2004; Reedy, Luiselli & Thibadeau, 2001; Schoech et al 2001; Southon, 1999). The need for social work practitioners to show practice effectiveness to meet ever increasing levels of public accountability makes evidence based program evaluation using information technology an emerging concern for practitioners and administrators. Advance planning and design considerations are emphasized as a means of overcoming organizational, managerial and staff resistance to implementation of information technology. Finally, the paper concludes with recommendations directed at program coordinators and evaluators and contends that the use of such information technology results in more credible, hence accountable, program evaluations for all stakeholders involved in the process. [ABSTRACT FROM PUBLISHER]

Social service organizations are commonly asked to account for services, and increasingly, to measure the outcomes of the work with vulnerable populations. Since the advent of the personal computer, software and hardware to assist professionals in collecting both process and outcomes data have improved exponentially. Yet, in mahy cases, organizations implement computerized management information systems which are underutilized or poorly utilized. The reasons that social service organizations do not use MISs are not well understood. Using a case example of the development of a computerized management information system, this paper suggests that understanding MIS utilization involves examining specific aspects of leadership, technical capacity and systems readiness in the real-world settings of social service organization [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The rapid increase in the number of low-cost computers, the proliferation of user-friendly software, and the development of electronic networks have created the "informatics era." The Internet is a rapidly growing communication resource that is becoming mainstream in the American society. Computer-based electronic political advocacy by social workers attempting to influence public policy has proliferated in recent years. Advocacy using high-tech lobbying tools has spread to all social policy debates. Despite this exploration of electronic advocacy, scholars have made little effort to study this area. This paper will discuss the following four dimensions: (1) definition of computer-based electronic advocacy, (2) advantages of computer-based electronic advocacy, (3) challenges of computer-based electronic advocacy, and (4) incorporating computer-based electronic advocacy into social welfare policy education. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This paper proposes a new evaluation and prediction method for computer usability. This method is based on our two previously proposed information transmission measures created from a human-to-computer information transmission model. The model has three information transmission levels: the device, software, and task content levels. Two measures, called the device independent information measure (DI) and the computer independent information measure (CI), defined on the software and task content levels respectively, are given as the amount of information transmitted. Two information transmission rates are defined as DI/T and CI/T, where T is the task completion time: the device independent information transmission rate (R DI), and the computer independent information transmission rate (R CI). The method utilizes the R DI and R CI rates to evaluate relatively the usability of software and device operations on different computer systems. Experiments using three different systems, in this case a graphical information input task, confirm that the method offers an efficient way of determining computer usability. [ABSTRACT FROM PUBLISHER]

Conservation expertise required for software-based art varies depending on the nature and function of its components. Our focus in this study is technology, specifically related to the impact of changes and upgrades to the operating environment that can adversely impact future exhibition of software-based art. In our research to date, we found that each specific work requires individual analysis and conservation strategies due to unique technical risks. We also concluded that artist-generated source code is a primary risk for software-based works. We then devoted the next phase of our research to a closer examination of risks associated with source code. The purpose of the research reported in this article is to investigate whether examining and documenting the source code can inform conservation practice. A corollary second goal is to define relevant best practices for documenting source code for software-based art. In order to address these questions, we selected two artworks at the Museum of Modern Art for a collaborative study using students and faculty from both the Museum Studies and Computer Science departments at New York University. This collaboration helped ensure that technology skills complemented a deep understanding of art history in the museum context. We based the methodology for our study on current software engineering practices and composed diagrams and narrative documents to reflect what we found in the source code. We also relied on artist interviews to explore the requirements and goals of the system, and user manuals to assist in understanding the implementation and physical installation of the works. It was our hypothesis that once the behavior of software-based art is understood by combining a standard software engineering approach with considerations specific to artist and museum needs, conservators and programmers will be better prepared to address changes in the operating environment. Based on our experience, we found this to be true. We conclude this paper with plans for our next phase of research. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Personalised feedback constitutes an important component of E- and M-mental health applications (E = electronic and M = mobile computing and communication technologies) for disease prevention and management. It can be used to increase motivation, highlight risks, change attitudes and counterbalance the lack of personal contact in computerised health interventions. Research suggests that compared with targeted or generic feedback, personalised feedback is a more effective intervention component. Aims: To discuss challenges and options for the generation and delivery of personalised feedback in E- and M-mental health interventions. Suggestions for the development of normative, summative and ipsative feedback are provided. Results: We demonstrate how information from (multiple) assessments and/or data from comparable samples can be integrated into statistically supported and user-friendly feedback without including test scores. Conclusion: Proposals made in this paper need to be the subject of empirical studies and should be tested in terms of their feasibility, acceptability and efficacy. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Educational technology is becoming more pervasive in Indonesian vocational higher institutions, yet there is limited research available about Indonesian teachers' perceptions of this innovation. This paper sets out to contribute to this gap in the research literature and reports on a study that investigated the factors which supported and constrained the use of educational technology at an Indonesian polytechnic. Data were gathered from 10 teachers working full-time at the polytechnic using semi-structured interviews and were analysed using thematic analysis strategy. The findings confirm previous research in Western countries which suggest that factors including teachers' beliefs and attitudes, organizational culture and external influences can have a significant influence on the integration of educational technology to support learning and teaching. The study also identified that factors such as skills, workload, strategic planning, ownership, resources, professional development and leadership require attention as they can have a negative influence on successful integration. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

In this study, we investigated whether computer familiarity could regulate the efficacy of a computer-based memory training intervention in an Italian sample of older adults. Participants were randomly assigned to either the training or the waiting-list control group and were tested on four computerized neuropsychological memory tasks and one paper-pencil task. Computer familiarity measures included a computer questionnaire, reaction times in a pointing task and mouse use ability. Only the training group was taught and practised two memory strategies on three computerized neuropsychological tasks during three training sessions. Compared to the waiting-list control group, participants in the training condition showed significant benefits after the intervention in the practiced tasks and they generalized training effects to the transfer tasks. Furthermore, no link resulted between computer familiarity and memory benefits. These findings support the application of the computer-based memory training with older adults, independently of them being computer users or not. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The current health care delivery system increasingly relies upon information technology (IT) to more effectively and efficiently meet patient needs. This paper reports findings from an observational field study that examined the relationship of computer self-efficacy, computer anxiety, and perceived computer usefulness to behavioral performance utilizing IT programs by clinical staff in a hospital-based social work and nursing case management department. The results indicated significant relationships between observed behavioral proficiency on a computer resource directory search task and self-reported ratings of computer self-efficacy and computer anxiety. Higher task proficiency was associated with higher computer self-efficacy ratings. Lower task proficiency was associated with higher computer anxiety. More frequent self-reported use of the computer resource directory was significantly associated with higher ratings of computer usefulness. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This essay investigates key moments in the history of personal digital assistant (PDA) marketing to women. Analyzing promotional texts for three PDAs that received considerable press coverage from 1999 to 2001, this essay explores the cultural significance of the convergence of anxieties about women's place in the gendered division of labor with the computer industry's changing marketing imperatives. Drawing on an array of promotional texts, including news articles, press releases, promotional Web sites, and ads appearing in newspapers and magazines, this paper tells the story of how the computer industry aimed to sell smaller, faster computing devices to women while promising to mediate and thus reproduce women's overwork as paid and familial laborers. After experimenting with the PDA as a sexy fashionable gadget for working women, marketers approached women as mothers with “Audrey,” an Internet appliance designed for the kitchen. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The US construction industry has witnessed a drop in real wages since 1970. The decline in real wages may be attributed to a combination of socio-economic factors like migrant labourers, fringe benefits, safety procedures, union membership and worker skills. Another factor that may be impacting construction real wages is technological changes over the past couple of decades, including technological changes in construction equipment. This paper examines the relationship between changes in equipment technology and changes in construction wages with the help of five factors of equipment technology change: control, energy, ergonomics, functionality and information processing. Furthermore, data from the US Bureau of Labor Statistics' Current Population Survey is used to examine the effects of computer usage on wages among US hourly workers in construction. The research findings show significant relations exist between changes in equipment control, functionality and information processing with wages among non-supervisory workers. Another finding indicated that although non-supervisory construction workers who use computers at work earn higher hourly wages, there was no added wage benefit after controlling for the effects of experience, education and age. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This paper reviews telemedicine and its recent expansions within diabetes management. Diabetes mellitus continues to be one of the major chronic diseases with up to 11% of national health care expenditure, when all late complications are taken into account. Over and above this, the incidence of diabetes is increasing in pandemic fashion. Diabetes has been the focus of telemedicine and information technology over the past two decades. Useful applications supporting high quality treatment exist in clinical management, education, decision support and modelling. Development of high-speed networks enables transmission of good quality photographs making consultations from distant locations possible. Databases and data analysis are fundamental to diabetes outcome research. Less successful has been the development of electronic medical records although this is a dream of many. Evidence of improved clinical outcome using telemedical applications still awaits the breakthrough. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Objectives:To estimate the efficacy of computer-based cognitive interventions for improving cognition in people with dementia (PWD). Method:Online literature databases were searched for relevant studies. Interventions were categorised as follows: cognitive recreation, cognitive rehabilitation, cognitive stimulation or cognitive training. A systematic review, quality assessment and meta-analyses were conducted. Results:Twelve studies were identified. Their methodological quality was acceptable according to Downs & Black criteria, the weakest methodological area being the external validity. The meta-analyses indicated cognitive interventions lead to beneficial effects on cognition in PWD (SMD −0.69; 95% CI = −1.02 to −0.37;P< 0.0001;I2= 29%), depression (SMD 0.47; 95% CI = 0.16 to 0.78;p= 0.003;I2= 0%) and anxiety (SMD 0.55; 95% CI = 0.07 to 1.04;P< 0.03;I2= 42%). They benefited significantly more from the computer-based cognitive interventions than from the non-computer-based interventions in cognition (SMD 0.48; 95% CI = 0.09 to 0.87;P= 0.02;I2= 2%). Conclusion:Computer-based cognitive interventions have moderate effects in cognition, and anxiety and small effects in depression in PWD. No significant effects were found on activities of daily living. They led to superior results compared to non-computer-based interventions in cognition. Further research is needed on cognitive recreation and cognitive stimulation. There is also a need for longer-term follow-up to examine the potential retention of treatment effects, and for the design of specific outcome measures. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Employability is a set of achievements – skills, understandings, and personal attributes – that makes graduate students more going to benefit from work. It well values it for several students to get a degree in computer science. For decades, traditional information sources and methodologies were too expensive and cumbersome to obtain the finer details of learning processes that digital trace amounts of student behavior could provide, and decision-making skills are the basic challenges. Hence the proposed model Amalgamation of Computer Majors based on Data Mining (ACM-DM) is employed to satisfy the challenges discussed above. Training investigators in instructional data science methodologies and balancing the need to protect personal information with sharing data are challenges. As a result, the proposed model helps achieve data, performance, accuracy, interoperability, and security analysis compared to other majors if included in colleges based on data mining. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Human perceptions influence attitudes and intentions, and can predict actions. Despite the popular use of technology for English language teaching, and the association between learner factors and technology use, little is known about language learners' use of technology for personal and interpersonal learning activities, and whether there is a discrepancy between intention and actual adoption in this specific domain. The study adds to the existing literature by testing the association between university English learners' intention to use technology to achieve personal and interpersonal English learning purposes, attitude towards technology, and perceived usefulness of technology. It examined predictive paths between intended and actual technology use by university learners. With reference to 539 returned questionnaires collected from four language and education disciplines in a private university in Hong Kong, the respondents showed a positive attitude and perceptions towards the use of technology for English language learning. However, their actual adoption of technology to achieve personal or interpersonal learning purposes was not commensurate with the two key learner factors and intention. Students' discipline and level of study mediated the two learner factors, resulting in different actual English learning behaviours. Recommendations for practitioners to maximise and support technology use by students for learning are given. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The integration of technology into educational systems has brought about changes in the style of teaching and learning. Nowadays, educational institutions are adopting technologies such as computers, and the Internet to enhance teaching and learning activities. However, the use of technologies has not served the intended purpose due to the digital divide. The digital divide refers to the gap between individuals with access and skills to use technology and those without such access and skills. Students who grew up using computers and related technologies are often at an advantage because they have sufficient technological skills to capitalize on technology for learning purposes. This study investigated the factors affecting students' computer self-efficacy prior to joining the university as well as the challenges faced by first-year students while using technology for learning purpose. It examined the effects of the apartheid legacy and other factors contributing to the digital divide in the South African context. A quantitative methodology was employed, and 370 questionnaires were distributed to first-year students at the University of KwaZulu-Natal. The result showed that the timing of access to technology and computer anxiety have a direct relationship with a student's computer self-efficacy. The result also showed that students from disadvantaged schools experience challenges with the hardware components of computers and application programmes. The article concludes with recommendations on how these challenges could be managed. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

To examine the effectiveness of self-directed, off-the-shelf information and communications technology (ICT)-based interventions in improving the quality of life, physical and psychosocial outcomes of community-dwelling stroke survivors and their support persons (SP). Medline, EMBASE, CINAHL and Cochrane databases were searched (2006–19th June 2020) for randomized controlled trials, controlled trials, controlled before and after studies, or interrupted time series studies that met the eligibility criteria. The quality of included studies was assessed. Interventions effectiveness was narratively synthesized, as was participant adherence and acceptability. Seventeen studies were eligible. Three studies were rated as low risk of bias across all methodological review criteria. Nine studies reported on interventions delivered using self-directed computer programs, two studies utilized internet or web-based support programs and six studies used mobile phone interventions. Few studies reported on intervention acceptability or adherence. Those that did generally reported good acceptability, although adherence was variable. Fifteen studies reported significant positive effects for at least one outcome examined including stroke-specific outcomes, physical outcomes, behavioural outcomes and health service use. No studies found an effect for psychosocial wellbeing. ICT-based interventions are likely to provide benefit to stroke survivors and their SPs. However, there is a need for further robustly designed intervention studies that include larger sample sizes, longer follow-up, and outcomes for SPs. ICT-based interventions with minimal clinician supervision are likely to provide some benefits to stroke survivors and their SPs. There is insufficient evidence to allow recommendations to rehabilitation professionals regarding the type, length and intensity of ICT-based interventions for specific targeted outcomes. Rehabilitation professionals should use professional judgement prior to recommending ICT-based interventions to stroke survivors and their SPs. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The current focus on libraries as place involves the collaborative needs of library users for features such as movable furniture, group work areas, and amenities such as coffee shops. Additional attention needs to focus on how the technology infrastructure can support collaborative work in academic libraries. The one-user-one-machine setup common in many academic libraries does not do this. A collaborative workstation that is inexpensive and readily assembled is described along with equipment needs and costs. The impact of such a collaborative workstation for both reference work and public use is discussed. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Internet methodologies are often overlooked in research. This review presents evidence that using the Internet to recruit participants and collect data is not only feasible, but may also be less expensive and time-consuming than traditional data collection methods. Additionally, Internet data collection can yield a more representative participant sample than more traditional data collection methods, while retaining equivalent, if not better, psychometric properties. Different areas of research that could benefit from the use of the Internet-based methods are explored. Overall benefits of Internet-based data collection, and practical limitations and how to overcome them, are discussed. [ABSTRACT FROM PUBLISHER]

The following interview delves into Lee Felsenstein's upbringing in a bohemian communist family and his path as an engineer and technologist in the San Francisco Bay Area. He discusses his role as technician of the Berkeley Free Speech Movement, co-creator of Community Memory and moderator of the Homebrew Computer Club. Felsenstein also shares his vision of "community", "convivial tools" as defined by Ivan Illich and technology as an "invisible force". He proves how his political activism has guided his technological creative process, making and sharing tools that will contribute to build convivial, open and informed communities. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Parental control is considered important in preventing drug use among adolescents. This study aimed to explore the association between the perception of parental monitoring of computer use and drug use among adolescent students. A cross-sectional school-based study was conducted in 2012 among 2,980 students aged 12-17 years from Southern Brazil. The outcomes investigated were the use of tobacco, alcohol, cannabis, and other illicit drugs in the previous year. The main exposure was the self-reported perception of parental monitoring of computer use. Poisson regression with robust variance was used for the multivariable analysis. The prevalence rates of drugs used were 48.3% (95% confidence interval[CI]: 46.5–50.0) for alcohol, 9.7% (95%CI: 8.7–10.7) for tobacco, 5.1% (95%CI: 4.3–5.9) for cannabis, and 8.7% (95%CI: 7.7–9.7) for other illicit drugs. The absence of monitoring of computer use was reported by 44.3% (95%CI: 42.5–46.1) of the students. After adjusting for potential confounders, we found that students aged 12 to 14 years who reported no parental monitoring of computer use had a higher probability of alcohol (Prevalence Ratio[PR] = 1.26, 95%CI:1.07–1.49) and cannabis use (PR = 3.25, 95%CI:1.11–9.53). In addition, a higher consumption of tobacco was observed among students aged 15 to 17 years who reported no parental monitoring of computer use (PR = 1.75, 95%CI:1.17–2.63). In both age groups, psychiatric morbidity was a covariate significantly associated with drug use throughout analysis. Parental monitoring of computer use was significantly associated with adolescent drug use, suggesting its importance in preventing drug use. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Recent trends in the construction industry indicate continued use of alternative procurement methods such as design-build, construction management, build-operate-transfer, and privatization. Increased use of these evolving methods produces higher levels of uncertainty with respect to long term performance and profitability. The uncertainties inherent in implementing new procurement methods necessitate investigation of enhanced methods of pre-project planning and analysis. This is particularly true for revenue dependent privatization projects such as toll roads. Poor initial performance of toll road projects suggests traditional methods of project analysis are inadequate. Sustaining investor and stakeholder support of privatized revenue dependent projects is dependent upon successful financial performance. Enhanced risk analysis tools provide improved information for pre-project decision making and performance outcome. One such risk analysis method is the Monte Carlo. Monte Carlo methods are especially useful in evaluating which of several uncertain quantities most significantly contributes to the overall risk of the project. This paper demonstrates a Monte Carlo risk assessment methodology for revenue dependent infrastructure projects. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: With the evolution of contemporary occupations mediated by digital technologies (DTs), there is a need for occupational therapists to develop and structure knowledge on how to support older adults' engagement in occupations and social participation in a digitalised society. Objective: The objective of this study is to explore how tailoring to support older adults' engagement in DT-mediated occupations could be schematised. Material and methods: The study employed a multiple case study methodology. There were nine cases, with each case involving an older adult undergoing a collaborative process to support engagement in DT-mediated occupations. The collaborative process was initiated through questionnaires, observations, and dialogues. Meetings and tailoring strategies were documented in fieldnotes and memos on tailoring, respectively. Semi-structured interviews concluded data collection. Cross-case synthesis was used in data analysis. Results: The result is a proposed scheme for tailoring to support older adults' engagement in digital technology-mediated occupations, wherein strategies undertaken in the collaborative processes were synthesised and described. Conclusion and significance: The proposed scheme for tailoring could contribute to occupational therapists' knowledge on how to support older adults' engagement in contemporary occupations. Testing the model in various practice settings is recommended in order to enhance occupational therapy practice. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This article tracks the historically specific articulations of gender, religion and class in Hyderabad's computer education centres. I show how embodied forms of gender play critical roles in lower-middle-class Muslim women's aspirations to find work in a technology-centric labour market. My work demonstrates how computer education for these women produces practices of being modern, gendered, Indian subjects that may begin with digital literacy, yet extend far beyond this initial goal. I call these women's practices at the peripheries of Silicon India 'aspirational labour' and argue that this labour produces multiple and non-teleological aesthetic rubrics for being modern and professional in Hyderabad today. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Those who sit in front of the computer nowadays are unlikely to be doing precisely that in front of a German computer – at least not in front of hardware with its origin in German mass production. This also applies to mobile devices which for the most part have the capability of telephoning: With a few minor exceptions, the majority of our little helpers usually come from China, Korea, Taiwan or North America. All of those who have been exposed to German computer history at one point might have observed that none of the erstwhile big names of the German computer industry or the German computer pioneers embellish today's hardware components – or do you own a Zuse notebook, a Nixdorf smartphone, let alone a tablet by Telefunken? It appears to be quite different when you consider the software market and its companies: both big names and small manufacturers exist in a vast variety of all branches and forms of company, partly ones that just entered the market and partly those who have been in business for a long time. But what exactly happened to the German manufacturers and why is current hardware labelled with the erstwhile big names associated with the German market nowhere to be found? To identify corresponding reasons and expand my knowledge about the German computer industry, I initiated a search – a search that, besides the globally experienced crisis and mistakes that have been made, also unveiled several outstanding features as well as an astonishing variety in the German market. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This article explores the history of the relations between computer science, information technology, and the art of dance. In the early years of computer choreography, scientists envisaged the development of visual displays and software tools to help in choreographic design. They used random number generators to create a variety of spatial displacements and body movements for the dancers—work that suggested that computer programs could be customized to suit the preferences of the individual choreographer. Such projections fell woefully short of what a large number of choreographers, computer scientists, digital artists, and professionals from different fields eventually achieved during the last half-century, not to mention what we might expect in the future. The convergence of dance creation and performance with advances in information science and technology constitutes a privileged ground on which to explore deep philosophical implications of our embodied mind. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background and aims: Clinical data suggest that the quality of optical diagnoses of colorectal polyps differs markedly among endoscopists. The aim of this study was to develop a computer program that was able to differentiate neoplastic from non-neoplastic polyps using unmagnified endoscopic pictures. Methods: During colonoscopy procedures polyp photographies were performed using the unmagnified high-definition white light and narrow band image mode. All detected polyps (n = 275) were resected and sent to pathology. Histopathological diagnoses served as the ground truth. Machine learning was used in order to generate a computer-assisted optical biopsy (CAOB) approach. In the test phase pictures were presented to CAOB in order to obtain optical diagnoses. Altogether 788 pictures were available (602 for training the machine learning algorithm and 186 for CAOB testing). All test pictures were also presented to two experts in optical polyp characterization. The primary endpoint of the study was the accuracy of CAOB diagnoses in the test phase. Results: A total of 100 polyps (of these 52% neoplastic) were used in the CAOB test phase. The mean size of test polyps was 4 mm. Accuracy of the CAOB approach was 78.0%. Sensitivity and negative predictive value were 92.3% and 88.2%, respectively. Accuracy obtained by two expert endoscopists was 84.0% and 77.0%. Regarding accuracy of optical diagnoses CAOB predictions did not differ significantly compared to experts (p = .307 and p = 1.000, respectively). Conclusions: CAOB showed good accuracy on the basis of unmagnified endoscopic pictures. Performance of CAOB predictions did not differ significantly from experts’ decisions. The concept of computer assistance for colorectal polyp characterization needs to evolve towards a real-time application prior of being used in a broader set-up. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

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In Taiwan, teaching focuses around lecturing, with students having little opportunity to interact with each other. Problem-based learning (PBL) is a means of instruction where students learn the subject by being active participants in the pedagogical process, with the emphasis on problem-solving. In this study, the authors investigated whether PBL would enhance self-efficacy better than common lecturing with children who had little access to technology outside of school. Two sixth-grade computer classes, both with 32 students in each and both located in the mountainous regions of eastern Taiwan, served as participants. A quasi-experimental, non-equivalent control group design was used with one class utilizing PBL principles, while the other used traditional lecturing. A pre-/posttest was administered, using the General Self-Efficacy Scale with data analysis employing the Mann–Whitney test and Pearson Goodness-of-Fit. The results indicated that PBL is superior to lecturing, with respect to an increase in computer self-efficacy. [ABSTRACT FROM PUBLISHER]

Copyright of Italianist is the property of Taylor & Francis Ltd and its content may not be copied or emailed to multiple sites or posted to a listserv without the copyright holder's express written permission. However, users may print, download, or email articles for individual use. This abstract may be abridged. No warranty is given about the accuracy of the copy. Users should refer to the original published version of the material for the full abstract. (Copyright applies to all Abstracts.)

There has been a rapid increase in the development of technological innovations to reduce the escalation and impact of alcohol problems among adolescents and adults. Technology-based interventions offer the possibility of reaching individuals who otherwise might not seek treatment, (e.g., those in remote areas, those not perceiving a need for treatment, or others who might resist treatment). This article describes 4 case examples of technology-based interventions for risky drinking: (a) a freely available and interactive Web site that provides individualized feedback and information on risky drinking patterns; (b) a brief intervention for adolescents that provides individualized feedback to teens regarding their alcohol use; (c) a computer-delivered screening and brief intervention for alcohol use among pregnant women; and (d) a simulation program for training social workers in screening and brief intervention. These case examples highlight how technology could have a role in addressing the Alcohol Misuse Grand Challenge. [ABSTRACT FROM PUBLISHER]

Working memory impairments are prevalent among patients with acquired brain injury (ABI). Computerised training targeting working memory has been researched extensively using samples from healthy populations but this field remains isolated from similar research in ABI patients. We report the results of an actively controlled randomised controlled trial in which 17 patients and 18 healthy subjects completed training on anN-back task. The healthy group had superior improvements on both training tasks (SMD = 6.1 and 3.3) whereas the ABI group improved much less (SMD = 0.5 and 1.1). Neither group demonstrated transfer to untrained tasks. We conclude that computerised training facilitates improvement of specific skills rather than high-level cognition in healthy and ABI subjects alike. The acquisition of these specific skills seems to be impaired by brain injury. The most effective use of computer-based cognitive training may be to make the task resemble the targeted behaviour(s) closely in order to exploit the stimulus-specificity of learning. [ABSTRACT FROM PUBLISHER]

The usability of interactive whiteboards vs. computers was evaluated on three dimensions (visibility, legibility and comprehension) in the secondary school pupils. The visibility assessment consisted in detecting a visual stimulus varying in luminance using a staircase procedure, legibility was assessed with a target-search task, and we administered narrative and explanatory texts with or without illustrations to evaluate comprehension. The results of the visibility test showed that pupils found the light signal easier to detect on the IWB. For the legibility test, we observed differences in error rates and discriminability according to medium, font size and congruence between target and the distractor letters. Performances in the comprehension test were similar for both explanatory and narrative texts. Moreover, the presence of illustrations does not improve comprehension. These results could be related to the hierarchical structure of the texts, which facilitate comprehension. [ABSTRACT FROM PUBLISHER]

The current aim was to examine the effectiveness of behaviour change techniques (BCTs), theory and other characteristics in increasing the effectiveness of computer-delivered interventions (CDIs) to reduce alcohol consumption. Included were randomised studies with a primary aim of reducing alcohol consumption, which compared self-directed CDIs to assessment-only control groups. CDIs were coded for the use of 42 BCTs from an alcohol-specific taxonomy, the use of theory according to a theory coding scheme and general characteristics such as length of the CDI. Effectiveness of CDIs was assessed using random-effects meta-analysis and the association between the moderators and effect size was assessed using univariate and multivariate meta-regression. Ninety-three CDIs were included in at least one analysis and produced small, significant effects on five outcomes (d+ = 0.07–0.15). Larger effects occurred with some personal contact, provision of normative information or feedback on performance, prompting commitment or goal review, the social norms approach and in samples with more women. Smaller effects occurred when information on the consequences of alcohol consumption was provided. These findings can be used to inform both intervention- and theory-development. Intervention developers should focus on, including specific, effective techniques, rather than many techniques or more-elaborate approaches. [ABSTRACT FROM PUBLISHER]

Purpose: High-intensity language therapy has been shown to provide greater outcomes for people with aphasia (PWA). Unfortunately, a number of issues including the ageing population and a lack of rurally-based clinicians prevent high-intensity interventions. Computer-based therapies are a potential solution to the issues of intensity and accessibility; however, this service delivery model is not commonly used. A possible reason behind the poor uptake is that current computer-based aphasia therapy (CBAT) programs may not meet the needs of speech-language pathologists (SLPs). This study investigated the preferences of SLPs with regard to the features desired in their ideal CBAT program. Method: Phenomenological research methodology was used to explore the preferences of 10 SLPs. Data were analysed using qualitative thematic analysis. Result: Desired features were grouped into five themes: therapy activities, stimuli, cues, access and progress data. A range of sub-themes were also identified. Conclusion: The wide range of desirable features found in this study may reflect the extent to which current CBAT programs are considered to be useful, but perhaps do not meet the needs of users. The study's findings provide useful information for future CBAT developers to create programs with high clinician usability. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: Studies of verb anomia therapy in poststroke aphasia are rare, even though verbs are central to speech. In the great majority of studies, a traditional face-to-face setting with phonological, semantic, and/or sensorimotor cues is used to enhance lexical access. Technology-based therapy is expanding rapidly and has the potential to help individuals with aphasia improve verb retrieval abilities. Aims: This study aimed to assess the treatment outcome of and satisfaction with a therapy for verb anomia in chronic poststroke aphasia using a tablet for self-administered treatment at home. Methods & Procedures: Single-case studies were conducted with two participants who presented with chronic poststroke verb anomia. The following four phases were completed: (1) baseline measures; (2) training on the use of the tablet; (3) self-administered therapy with the tablet; and (4) follow-up, generalisation, and rating of the therapy measures. Twenty self-administered sessions were completed. Outcomes & Results: A significant improvement in verb naming was observed for the two participants following therapy. No generalisation was found for untreated verbs or for treated verbs in a novel task. Both participants were very satisfied with the self-administered treatment using a tablet. Conclusions: The use of tablet-based therapy to improve verb naming could be an interesting way to enhance rehabilitation of acquired language deficits. New technologies are promising and further studies are needed to demonstrate their usefulness and determine the pros and cons of using them in clinical settings. [ABSTRACT FROM PUBLISHER]

This study investigated early childhood teachers’ beliefs about information and communications technology (ICT) and play in preschool, as well as their confidence in integrating ICT in the classroom. A 28-item questionnaire was compiled and administered to 190 early childhood teachers in Greece. Although ICT play (which can provide learning opportunities) has largely replaced traditional childhood play, in Greece, there is inadequate integration of ICT in early childhood education. In this study, two factors were extracted: ‘playing with ICT as an effective mode of learning and developing children's technological competence’ and ‘ICT use as free play’. The fewer the years of teaching experience and the higher the teachers’ computer self-efficacy, the stronger was the view that ICT play is not just free play. Teachers’ beliefs and confidence affect their classroom practices and, consequently, the children's learning. Viewing ICT as a mode of learning that should be embedded in the curriculum is expected to lead to ICT integration in a teacher's daily practices. The implications for in-service teacher training are therefore discussed. [ABSTRACT FROM PUBLISHER]