The Different Dimensions of Dimensional Analysis

Checking both sides of an equation to make sure the units are right is something we tend to do as a matter of course (or should!). But as this article will try and illustrate, there is more to this routine procedure than meets the eye.     

Technological Study of the Decoration on an Erard Harp from 1818

ABSTRACT

Historical pedal harps from the early nineteenth century are highly adorned objects, decorated with various techniques such as polychromy, gilding, decoupage, and gilt composition ornaments. Even though a large number of such instruments are kept in private and public collections, until now their decorative features have not been examined systematically. Moreover, little has been written about the motives behind the choice of various decorative techniques by harp makers. This article presents results from the investigation of a double-action harp made in 1818 by Erard, the leading manufacturer of harps in Regency London, focusing on the technological aspects of its decorative features. Various analytical methods, such as visual examination, microscopy, SEM-EDX, FTIR, and Py-GC-MS, were used to identify the inorganic and organic components in the coating of the harp and to analyse its stratigraphy. Inspection with ultraviolet light revealed details of the original layers and of later additions, while radiography made the internal structure as well as damaged areas and repairs visible. The outcome of this object-based examination was complemented by archival research on the Erard firm, providing new insight into Erard’s production and marketing strategies.     

Creating teacher capacity in Early Childhood Education and Care institutions implementing an authoritative adult style

The being together intervention intends to raise teacher capacity in Norwegian Early Childhood Education and Care (ECEC) institutions and promote social and emotional development in preschoolers by implementing an authoritative (warm and predictable) adult style in the institution. An authoritative adult balances between building up high quality interactions with children, while at the same time having a predictable structure with clear norms and social expectations in the learning environment. The purpose of this study was to investigate what helped the ECEC institutions to successfully implement the program principles and core components, and what were the challenges. The staff groups of seven Norwegian ECEC institutions in different municipalities who took part in the innovation were interviewed at the beginning and before the end of the first year of implementation. Data analysis identified five success criteria in the implementation process; strong commitment to the authoritative adult style, strong focus on the implementation process, advanced support systems, highly involved leaders, and a collective orientation. These elements resulted in a shared vision and an academically grounded practice in the ECEC institutions. Staff members without formal professional training and a lack of written documentation in the ECEC institutions should be given more consideration in further improvement of the capacity building.