Learning from participants in field based research

This paper takes a critically reflective look at field research done in the early career of an academic and in so doing uncovers the dilemmas of a novice researcher that are rarely acknowledged in texts that address qualitative methods. It addresses issues of power in research associations surrounding different paradigms and the ways in which the study changed as boundaries were increasingly blurred. It also examines lessons learned about interviewing and challenges the notion of an un‐analytical informant as being necessary to quality and depth of data.     

The Future of English

The unity of "unitary" English, subsuming "language" and "literature", has always been a central tenet of NATE thinking and a basic assumption of most progressive practice, and is now enshrined in the National Curriculum¹. In this article, however, Chris Davies makes the scandalous proposal that the time has come when "language" and "literature", radically transformed, would be better separated.     

年代统计学:超越人口统计学的市场营销战略

长期以来，企业通常利用年龄、收入、性别与受教育程度等基本的人口统计信息来进行市场定位并制定营销战略。     

Do physical activity beliefs differ by age and gender?

Age and gender are consistently related to physical activity (PA), yet theoretical explanation for these associations is scant. The present study compared the mean values and correlations of a population sample, divided by gender and age group, with respect to theory of planned behavior beliefs (behavioral, normative, and control) and PA. Participants were a sample (N=6,739) of adults (M age=49.65, SD=16.04) who completed measures of social and health demographics, theory of planned behavior beliefs, and self-reported PA. Mean analyses identified greater perceived control over PA for seniors than for young and middle-aged adults (N>.025). Belief-behavior correlations, however, were not different across age and gender in 24 of 26 tests (q<.19). Thus, PA beliefs are invariant across age and gender with the exception of mean levels of perceived control, which are lower among younger adults than older adults. Factors such as early parenthood and career demands were considered the likely reasons for differences. Overall, the evidence suggests that adapting theoretical models for specific age groups or based on gender may not be necessary.     

Biodiversity for Beginners

Biodiversity is a difficult concept. It can be introduced to young children successfully, laying the foundations for further study in later years. This article describes one practical activity for 5‐ and 6‐year‐old children.     

Ubiquitous Computing in the Library:Indiana State University Library s Experience

1 Introduction New technologies and other developments haye changedthe information seeking behaviors of the academic communityand the general public.Nowhere is this more evident than inthe exponential growth of the World Wide Web and cellularphone usage.Responding to these user needs and newtechnologies,libraries are moving from being InformationWarehouses to becoming Information Portals.Full-text     

Creating Better Learners Through Learning Science: A Sample of Methods

This article proposes the incorporation of learning science into the programming and operation of public libraries. Learning science, a multidisciplinary field spanning cognitive science, psychology, neuroscience, economics, anthropology, and linguistics, has identified proven methods for enhancing learning at any age. The article highlights some of the tools and insights that are most relevant to libraries in their role as centers for informal learning.