Writing for Social Scientists: How to Start and Finish Tour Thesis,Book, or Article.

Underlined by the belief that teachers' critical awareness of their actions is a vital issue in education, this study examines the insights that evolved from a long-term collaboration among seven doctoral students. To prepare for our comprehensive examinations, we collaborated as a study group for one and one-half years. Adopting the dual roles of listener-researcher and narrator-participant, we engaged in dialogue and narrative to convey to each other the meaning of our collaborative experiences. From grounded theory analysis, four elements of collaboration emerged: logistics, social dynamics, empowerment, and change. In order to convey the meaning of our experiences, we create a multiplicity of meanings based on our diverse and lived personal narratives. Finally, our collaborative process challenges academic administrations to examine how well their current policies encourage personal autonomy and cooperative learning approaches for students involved in preparing for their comprehensive examinations.     

Using Cognitive Load to Evaluate Participation and Design of an Asynchronous Course

Abstract

This study examined the effects of cognitive load experienced by e-learners as they negotiated the tasks required for successful participation within an asynchronous course room, specifically examining the relationship between measured cognitive load and the learners' confidence in completing their course. The results indicated that learner confidence, or more specifically self-efficacy, is the single most important factor in determining the success of e-learners. It appears that insufficient time was expended orienting learners to the virtual classrooms and to the technology necessary for participation.     

Pastoral care,juvenile justice and the welfare network

This article considers the involvement of schools and teachers in schemes which develop work with young offenders as an alternative to prosecution. Data from one such experimental scheme are presented and discussed. Issues are raised about the consequences of schools’ involvement in this kind of policy initiative which begins outside the educational system and entails co‐operation with professional workers in other statutory agencies. A central theme is whether a tightening of the welfare network in this way is unambiguously in the interests of young people.     

Binding dilemma: Changing horses mid stream—Or why we stopped binding periodicals at HKBU

A review of print and print + online English serials conducted at Hong Kong Baptist University Library in 2006 revealed low usage of many print journals calling into question the age old practice of binding serials. With binding costs escalating, serials budgets being reduced, and libraries increasingly purchasing electronic titles, it was time to review current binding practices. On conclusion of the review, it was recommended that binding of more than 85% of serials cease and be replaced by the use of boxes and that usage statistics be reviewed annually with a view to effecting further reductions.