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Multiple external representations (MERs) play an important role in the learning field of mathematics. Whereas the cognitive theory of multimedia learning and the integrative text and picture comprehension model assume that the heterogeneous combination of symbolic and analogous representations fosters learning; the design, functions, and tasks framework holds that learning benefits depend on the specific functions of MERs. The current paper describes a conceptual replication study of one of the few studies comparing single representations, heterogeneous, and homogeneous MERs in the context of mathematics learning. In a balanced incomplete block design, the participants were provided single representations (a graphic, text, or formula) or a heterogeneous (e.g., text + graphic) or homogeneous (text + formula) combination of these to solve linear system of equations problems. In accordance with previous research, performance was superior in conditions providing MERs compared to single‐representation conditions. Moreover, heterogeneous MERs led to time savings over homogeneous MERs which triggered an increase in cognitive load. Contrary to previous research, text was the least fixated representation whereas the graphical representation proved to be most beneficial. With regard to practical implications, experts should be fostered through more challenging homogeneous MERs whereas novices should be supported through the accessible graphic contained in heterogeneous MERs. Lay Description: What is already known about this topic: Providing multiple instead of single representations can foster mathematics learning.However, some combinations of representations hamper the performance of novice learners.The classical multimedia view explains the positive effect of combining text with picture.Recent research suggests the combination of multiple symbolic representations (text and formula). What this paper adds: The study replicated the effect of multiple symbolic representations for equation solving.In contrast to former research, each representation (text, formula, and graphic) was functionally equivalent.Tasks with differently coded representations were solved faster and with less mental effort.Gaze behavior indicated that students mostly used the graphical representation. Implications for practice and/or policy: Beginners should be supported with a graphic when solving equations.Experts should be challenged with a combination of symbolic representations to benefit the most. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Some methods for synthesizing a protocol specification from a given service specification have been proposed using various computational models. However, the existing methods cannot treat service specifications including both complex control flows and system variables. In this paper, we propose a method for synthesizing a protocol specification automatically from a pair consisting of a service specification and a resource allocation. In our method, service specifications are described in an extended model of Petri nets, which can treat system variables. We have developed a pair consisting of a synthesis system and an execution system, and applied them to CSCW (Computer Supported Cooperative Work). © 1998 Scripta Technica, Electron Comm Jpn Pt 3, 81(8): 18–26, 1998 [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

In the last few years coalition formation algorithms have been proposed as a possible way of modeling autonomous agent cooperation in multi-agent systems. This work is based on a previously proposed coalition formation model founded on game theory for a class of task-oriented problems that guarantees an optimum task allocation and a stable profit division. In this paper we study two properties of the model that are very important for application in real-life scenarios: robustness and tolerance to an agent's misbehavior. First, we study the robustness of this model as regards the effect the agent's failure has on the resultant profits of the coalition formation. Secondly, we also study the coalition formation model in the presence of misbehaving agents. Agents have some kind of execution autonomy, and they can deceive or mislead each other when they reveal their information, if they believe this will give them more profits. Copyright © 2005 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

In addition to the common analysis of the Kauffman NK model where the value of K and the structure of interaction are given, the aim of this paper is to study what the values of these two parameters would be if they were endogenized. Thus, a model is proposed where firms and business schools coordinate to search for high peaks in their respective landscapes using evolutionary algorithms. The main result coming from the analysis of the model is that agents, using evolutionary algorithms, attempt to simplify the problems of coordination and this, over time, produces the existence in the economy of agents using many different strategies. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

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