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This study aims at understanding the role of the tools chosen throughout the processes of solving a non-routine mathematical problem and communicating its solution. In assuming that problem-solving is a synchronous activity of mathematization and expression of mathematical thinking we take our proposed Mathematical Problem Solving with Technology (MPST) model to analyze the processes of solving-and-expressing-problems. Resorting to qualitative methods for data collection and analysis, we report on the case of an 8th grader working on a covariation problem to examine the role that paper-and-pencil and digital tools play in the development of a conceptual model of the situation. We found that the resources used throughout the solving-and-expressing activity influenced the depth of the conceptual model developed, within a process of progressive mathematization. Whereas paper-and-pencil led to the emergence of a conceptual model based on exploring particular cases, the digital transformation of the solution was triggered by the process of communicating its mathematical justification and expanded the previous model. Moreover, the complexity of this activity is evidenced by its multiple sequences of processes. Finally, the integration process seems crucial as the concomitant use of technological and mathematical resources precedes major advancements in the expansion of the conceptual model.

This Paper 1 introduces a tentative Formalism, which is detailed in a separate Paper 2, and tested there on two cases studies of Time dilation. Paper 2 titles: Practical application of the composite Modeling Units, and an exercise on emulating the mathematics of Time dilation in a relative velocity or gravity situation. We touch exclusively at the way we describe the physical Objects in human terms, whilst the true Objects, as well as true Time and true Space, remain unchanged. The particular Formalism we propose is geometrically-blind, so it needs to work in parallel with regular human Observing-Modeling of the Objects. A good question is why we should complement our regular geometric picture of the Objects, and also think of them as our Formalism does. The possible advantages are: a much intuitive and practical handling of the human Nonlocal; a plain reading of human Objects and of their Relationships in terms of elementary Logics; a common Modeling frame for the formal light-like, and for the Closed and Local Massive-like Objects we have in the Model. We may also gain some independent hints on the human Observing-Modeling in general. The Geometry of our own body qualifies Closed and Local, so it is much similar to the one of regular Objects we want to Model. As a matter of fact, our body makes a concrete Observing-device, thus we qualify as a very particular case of Observer-Modeler of the physical World. We want to conserve such a concrete and well-established human position with regards to the Objects, but we want also to generalize it. Thus we attempt extending our naïve Geometric perceiving of the World, and see where it leads. Section 1 focuses on Geometry, and proposes a logically-inverted Geometry B as a natural complement of our regular Point-based Geometry A. Then we explore the idea of a composite Model Object made of both a Local and a Nonlocal part. We base on a double Point-Of-View, which reflects formally our new A-and-B Geometry. Section 2 investigates the Point-Of-Views, as a second key element on which we base any human Observing-Modeling of Objects. We propose a pragmatic Absolutism-Relativism classification of the Model Parameters. This depends plainly on where we Modelers want to set the Point-Of-View, and basically makes a practical tool for reproducing the objectivity of an Object, and the objectivity of the Observation. Section 3 checks the implications, and handles pragmatically the human conceptualizations of Time and of Space. The scope is very small-minded, and we declare openly not to know what those items are. Instead, we formalize a Model Timelike and a Model Space-like to start working practically with our Objects. This requires introducing a human notion of Time which is discontinuous, and thus very particular to our Nongeometric Modeling of Objects. Section 4 anticipates the two kinds of composite elementary Objects that we can formalize based on the components above. They are made of a geometric-like body AB, which includes a Logic A-B and a special Time-like function on board. We specify our Objects as being concrete and to conserve as usual. We can however explore the effects of the Logic, so we get a flexible Modeling Unit, which can take different configurations, and emulate different kinds of Objects. The full Procedure appears in Paper 2. Below we simply suggest a possible handy visualizing of our composite A-B Objects. We also provide a few practical indications on how they work and behave formally in the Model. The whole refers to the well-knows Point-Mass scheme. Operatively, we build an equivalent which is Nongeometric and contains two-Slabs A-B, where A emulates the solid core of a regular Object. Then we set our two key-standards, which are the elementary Model Objects of the kind of Proto1 or Proto2. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Paper 1 suggests intuitively that as humans, we must continue to investigate physical Objects by our natural Geometry. At the same time, we may want to explore a Nongeometric tool to check some other aspects. The two positions presume two distinct scopes and two independent Logics, so they are not conflictual, and we should be able to form a single consistent picture (no-strange-things criterion). In Paper 2, we enter the technique of NBM more systematically. The text below comes from a compromise, as we want to make as clear as possible any assumption which hides into the Model. At the same time, we want it to remain a very straight and practical tool, so we formulate it in term of Rules, Procedures, and lists of instructions. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Aims A discussion of partnership in the context of family-centred care in the acute paediatric setting, through a critical analysis of partnership models. Background Paediatric healthcare practitioners understand the importance of family-centred care, but struggle with how to translate the core tenets into action and are confused by several rival terms. Partnering relationships are included in definitions of family-centred care, yet less is known about strategies to fully engage or support parents in these partnerships. A rigorous examination of concepts embedded in family-centred care such as partnership may provide a better understanding of how to implement the broader concept and support exemplary care in today's clinical practice environment. Design Discussion paper. Data sources Electronic search (January 2000 - December 2014) performed on CINAHL, Medline, EMBASE, Sociological Abstracts and Psych INFO using keywords partnership, family-centred care and conceptual framework. Eligible references were drawn from the databases, reference lists and expert sources. Eight models met inclusion criteria and had currency and relevance to the acute paediatric setting. Implications for nursing Nurses should continue exploring partnership in various paediatric contexts given the wide-ranging definitions, lack of operational indicators and need for stronger relational statements in current models. An examination of key strategies, barriers and facilitators of partnership is recommended. Conclusion One partnership model had both high overall maturity and best fit with family-centred care principles. All models originate from Western and developed countries, indicating that future partnership models should be more geographically, culturally and economically diverse. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Purpose: Environmental problems, such as climate change and biosphere degradation, present new business challenges. On the one hand, companies are striving to maintain efficiency and gain a competitive advantage, while on the other, they are obligated to balance environmental, social and economic objectives. Such a new reality of business requires a rethinking of the role of leadership in taking conscious and effective ecological action by modern companies. It also calls for research efforts to develop alternative leadership models that promote sustainable development. Design/methodology/approach: The paper is theoretical and based on an in-depth review of the literature, including, on the one hand, an analysis of well-established leadership models (and how they relate to companies’ effective eco-innovation activities) and, on the other, a characterization of the new leadership theories needed to overcome the challenges of sustainable development. Findings: The paper aimed to develop a theoretical conceptualization of eco-centric leadership that complements the leadership literature and is relevant to understanding the research landscape of this new leadership style. The considerations presented in the paper point to the need for further scientific work that can use the developed conceptual framework to clarify the importance of eco-centric leadership in achieving harmony and balance between human activities and the natural world. Originality/value: The paper’s critical scientific contribution includes the developed conceptual framework, which covers five domains representing character, characteristics, people practices, institutional practices, and outcomes. This framework allows a more comprehensive characterization of this new and valuable leadership style. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Digital platform ecosystem governance refers to a platform owner's decisions and mechanisms that seek to influence complementors and users to build and sustain an ecosystem. The relevance of digital platform ecosystem governance is broadly acknowledged by researchers. However, the extant body of research is fragmented, and varied terminologies are employed, leading to challenges in identifying and recognizing results across different fields. This article provides a multidisciplinary and systematic literature review with the aim of consolidating knowledge on this important topic. Based on an analysis of 103 journal articles and conference papers, this review synthesizes the literature into a conceptual model with five building blocks of platform ecosystem governance. The model aims to create a robust foundation for researchers approaching the topic for the first time and conducting subsequent research. The conceptual model also offers practical guidance for governing ecosystems in a structured manner. Finally, this article provides a research agenda with five areas for future investigation. • Multidisciplinary, systematic literature review on platform ecosystem governance. • Synthesis of the literature into a conceptual model with five building blocks. • Robust foundation for understanding the topic and for future research. • Research agenda with five areas and questions for future investigation. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

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