Towards a personality understanding of information technology students and their IT learning in UAE university

This research investigates the personality characteristics of Information Technology students (CIT) in UAE University (UAEU) and how such features impact their IT learning. To achieve this objective, this research attempts to explain the impact of the Big-5 factors on learning using survey research. Results from 179 respondents suggested that agreeableness, extraversion, openness, and conscientiousness respectively were the most important strategies adopted by CIT students. However, neuroticism scored the lowest. Such results could be attributed to personal as well as to cultural reasons as highlighted in this research. The research highlights theoretical as well as professional contributions and implications. Some of challenges in this research could be addressed by designing programs aiming at enhancing student’s learning ability from the perspective of their personal traits.     

Neural network approach to predict mobile learning acceptance

The proliferation of mobile computing technologies is playing major role in the growth of mobile learning (M-learning) market around the globe. The purpose of this paper is to develop a research model in the lines of commonly used models the Unified Theory of Acceptance and Use of Technology (UTAUT) and Technology Acceptance Model (TAM) by incorporating constructs namely flexibility learning, social learning, efficiency learning, enjoyment learning, suitability learning, and economic learning that can predict M-learning adoption in a developing country. The data were collected from 388 students from all major universities/colleges in the capital city (Muscat) of Oman. The neural network modeling was employed to predict M-learning adoption. The neural network modeling results showed that flexibility learning, social learning, efficiency learning, enjoyment learning, suitability learning, and economic learning variables have significant influence on the intention of students to accept mobile learning. The key outcomes of this study suggest important determinants that can assist academic administrators and telecommunication service providers to enhance the adoption of M-learning with the help of suitable strategy.     

Visual motor integration as a screener for responders and non-responders in preschool and early school years: implications for inclusive assessment in Oman

Visual motor integration (VMI) is the ability of the eyes and hands to work together in smooth, efficient patterns. In Oman, there are few effective methods to assess VMI skills in children in inclusive settings. The current study investigated the performance of preschool and early school years responders and non-responders on a VMI test. The full range test of visual motor integration (FRTVMI) was administered to a sample of 359 children from preschool and elementary school settings in Oman. A two-way analysis of variance showed that there are statistically significant differences in VMI between preschool and early school non-responders. Gender did not show any effect on preschool children's performance on the FRTVMI, whereas it had an effect on elementary school children's performance. Results of the study are discussed in relation to the use of VMI assessment in screening for responders and non-responders in preschool and elementary school settings. Implications for psycho-educational assessment of children who struggle academically in inclusive settings are presented.     

Probabilistic analysis of linear elastic cracked structures

This paper presents a probabilistic methodology for linear fracture mechanics analysis of cracked structures. The main focus is on probabilistic aspect related to the nature of crack in material. The methodology involves finite element analysis; sta- tistical models for uncertainty in material properties, crack size, fracture toughness and loads; and standard reliability methods for evaluating probabilistic characteristics of linear elastic fracture parameter. The uncertainty in the crack size can have a significant effect on the probability of failure, particularly when the crack size has a large coefficient of variation. Numerical example is presented to show that probabilistic methodology based on Monte Carlo simulation provides accurate estimates of failure prob- ability for use in linear elastic fracture mechanics.     

Effectiveness of antigraffiti treatments in connection with penetration depth determined by different techniques

The elimination of spray paint using traditional (chemical and mechanical) methods inevitably entails altering surface characteristics. Hence, the impact and deterioration caused by graffiti in heritage buildings and monuments have led to the development and application of preventive systems in the form of antigraffiti coatings (which prevent paint from seeping into the pores of the surface material and facilitate cleaning). The effectiveness of two of these treatments, a commercial product (fluoroalkyl siloxane, protectosil, marketed by Degussa) and a hybrid organic-inorganic material (Ormosil), was evaluated in five construction materials (limestone, granite, cement mortar, lime mortar and brick), in terms of their penetration into the substrate. A number of techniques were used to determine the penetration depth (SEM/EDX, micro-Raman and LIBS), because a comparative analysis showed that none was universally valid for all types of treatments. The results show that the presence of the coating on the surface of less porous materials only ensures effective cleaning when the surface is fairly smooth. In granite, for instance, the CF₃ terminals in the fluorinated treatment hinder spray paint bonding more effectively than Ormosil, but not efficiently enough to ensure complete removal of the paint from granite surfaces.