Development and evaluation of a biomechanics concept inventory

To help instructors in evaluating innovations in biomechanics instruction, a standardised test of the key concepts taught in the introductory biomechanics course was developed. The Biomechanics Concept Inventory (BCI) consists of 24 questions that test four prerequisite competencies and eight biomechanics competencies. Three hundred and sixty seven students from ten universities throughout the United States took the test at the beginning and the end of the introductory biomechanics course. Analysis of a sub‐sample of the students showed that the BCI was reliable with typical errors in internal consistency and test‐retest conditions of 1.4 and 2.0 questions, respectively. Mean pre‐test scores (8.5 ± 2.0) significantly (p < 0.0001) improved to 10.5 ± 3.2 in the post‐test (n = 305). Typical biomechanics students could correctly answer half of the prerequisite questions on the pre‐test. Instruction resulted in a mean normalised gain (g) of 13.0% of maximum possible improvement that was consistent with research on traditional instruction in introductory physics courses. It was concluded that the BCI could be an effective tool to evaluate the overall effect of pedagogical strategies on student learning of key biomechanical concepts in the introductory biomechanics course.     

Trait verbal aggression,sports fan identification,and perceptions of appropriate sports fan communication

This study attempted to further the preliminary research in the area of sports and communication. Specifically, communication constructs including verbal aggression and context appropriateness were applied to the sports setting. Participants (n ‐ 407) completed questionnaires based on a team sporting event that they had recently watched. It was found that fans who were high in trait verbal aggression were (a) more likely to see verbal communication directed at the players and coaches during sporting events as appropriate, and (b) less likely to see fan display of support for their teams as an appropriate form of communication at sporting events. Participants who were high in fan identification were more likely to see displaying the team's insignia and verbal communication toward players and coaches as appropriate. Limitations and future directions for the area of sports communication are discussed.     

Workplace changes and workplace learning: advantages of an educational micro perspective

This paper analyses two perspectives, a macro and a micro perspective, on changes in the workplace in relation to workplace learning. It critically evaluates what kind of phenomena both perspectives can account for. Research from a macro perspective focuses on changes in economy or on organisational change. It helps to explore the role of lifelong learning and workplace learning in society as well as to define required competences in different professions. Research from a micro perspective focuses on individual reactions to changes in one’s own workplace. It helps to explain how changes in daily work affect knowledge and skills on the individual or group level. It is argued that the micro perspectives is advantageous if educational goals are pursued which aim at fostering workplace learning and competence development. Examples for empirical research are provided which illustrate the potential of a micro perspective on workplace changes and workplace learning.     

Diffusion of Computer‐based Technologies: getting the best start

ABSTRACT

The issues surrounding the diffusion of technology within our public schools are wide‐ranging and as diverse as the student populations which we seek to influence. Designing efficient and effective teacher training for classroom technology applications is, consequently, an important consideration for ‘school reformers.’ This paper addresses, in significant detail, the instructional design process which was utilized for the development and delivery of one successful teacher technology training effort for a medium‐sized school district. Special emphasis was placed on the results of extensive learner analyses throughout the design effort.