Deep learning goes to school: toward a relational understanding of AI in education

ABSTRACT

In Applied AI, or ‘machine learning’, methods such as neural networks are used to train computers to perform tasks without human intervention. In this article, we question the applicability of these methods to education. In particular, we consider a case of recent attempts from data scientists to add AI elements to a handful of online learning environments, such as Khan Academy and the ASSISTments intelligent tutoring system. Drawing on Science and Technology Studies (STS), we provide a detailed examination of the scholarly work carried out by several data scientists around the use of ‘deep learning’ to predict aspects of educational performance. This approach draws attention to relations between various (problematic) units of analysis: flawed data, partially incomprehensible computational methods, narrow forms of educational’ knowledge baked into the online environments, and a reductionist discourse of data science with evident economic ramifications. These relations can be framed ethnographically as a ‘controversy’ that casts doubts on AI as an objective scientific endeavour, whilst illuminating the confusions, the disagreements and the economic interests that surround its implementations.     

异构平台之间无缝集成的实现

重点研究以HTTP为传输平台,以XML为数据载体实现无缝集成的相关技术,并通过具体的实现模型说明了这种无缝集成的现实意义。     

Perceptions and practices of media engagement: A global perspective

This study investigates the concept and practice of engagement via media platforms from the perspectives of brands, audience, and media. Under the premise that engagement is a multi-dimensional construct that presents a more complex, qualitative nature different from the traditional, exposure-based quantitative metrics frequently adopted for linear media, this study explores how diverse market sectors and key constituents perceive and apply engagement. In-depth interviews were conducted with 74 subjects from various sectors across 8 countries and textually analyzed using a qualitative data analysis software. Utilizing thematic analysis, the qualitative research addressed the definition, relevancy, and application of audience engagement via media platforms, especially for video content. It was found that promoting engagement is a critical strategy to combat the increasing demand for audience attention. It encompasses all three cognitive–affective–behavioral aspects, but is valued and practiced on a behavioral level most often. Engagement is a thread that links campaign phases together but it is realistically addressed only after more readily available metrics. There are significant challenges in integrating digital and linear media platforms from the perspective of engagement as individual platforms have their own unique characteristics and impacts. In practice, it is also difficult to measure media engagement with metrics that are conceptually meaningful and methodologically accessible.     

Measuring the perceived quality of an AR-based learning application: a multidimensional model

Augmented reality (AR) technologies could enhance learning in several ways. The quality of an AR-based educational platform is a combination of key features that manifests in usability, usefulness, and enjoyment for the learner. In this paper, we present a multidimensional model to measure the quality of an AR-based application as perceived by students. The model is specified by a second-order factor (perceived quality) and three dimensions: ergonomic quality, learning quality, and hedonic quality. The purpose of this model is to embody previous research into a coherent framework for the evaluation of AR-based educational platforms and to provide guidance for researchers and practitioners. The model was empirically validated on a Chemistry learning scenario and the results confirm the importance of both the learning and hedonic quality.     

新能源应用技术专业“一线四平台”人才培养模式的改革与实践

结合重点专业的建设经验，从专业设置的前瞻性、办学体制与机制改革、“一线四平台”人才培养模式改革、“双基导向”的课程体系的构建、工学结合教材建设、科技服务平台的建设等方面阐述了新能源应用技术专业人才培养模式的改革与实践。     

Navigating the MLA Bibliography—Redux: Performance Across Vendor Platforms and Discovery Tools

ABSTRACT

The authors updated their 2009 article on the MLA International Bibliography (MLAIB) by comparing it across three vendor platforms to determine if seemingly comparable searches continued to produce varying results. As much as possible, the authors tested the same searches as were tested in the original article and added additional ones for further exploration. Findings illustrate that while there are fewer differences than was the case previously, differences still exist. The authors also investigated discovery services to identify factors affecting MLAIB searches. The authors discuss the impact of their findings on users, from undergraduates to faculty researchers.     

Perception of Nigerian secondary school teachers on introduction of e-learning platforms for instruction

This paper examines the view of Nigerian secondary school teachers on the introduction and utilization of e-learning platforms （blackboard, moodle, e-college, Web CT） to support and enhance learning. Six hundred teachers were drawn from 50 different schools in all the education districts located in Lagos state, Nigeria. A 25-item, 5-point likert scale questionnaire was validated and used for the study. The result showed that there was no significant difference in perception based on gender. However, there was significant difference as a result of the school type. Findings further showed that the teachers were of the view that e-learning platforms should be utilized in schools as soon as possible to support learning. Suggestions were given on how to make this feasible in Nigerian schools despite the challenges.     

应用数字化写作平台干预大学英语写作教学的研究

在大学英语中,写作部分是最重要的组成部分之一,通过开展对写作的教学,不仅可以加强学生的书写能力,还可以帮助学生积累英语知识,整体提高英语应用水平。但是,在部分高校的英语教学中,写作部分没有得到应有的重视,致使写作教学部分出现一些问题。所以,针对出现的问题,本文描述了写作教学中应用数字化写作平台的必要性,并分析和思考了具体的应用,帮助学生提高写作水平。     

The impact of relational consequences and intimacy on the selection of interpersonal persuasion tactics: A reanalysis

This study investigated the effects of situational variables on the likelihood of use of four types of compliance‐gaining strategies: justification, exchange, manipulation and personal rejection. Subjects rated the strategies on the probability that they would actually use them to gain compliance in each of four situations that varied systematically in intimacy and relational consequences. Both situational variables were found to he significant predictors of strategy preference. Message strategy selection was concluded to be based upon an assessment of the relative risk associated with the implementation of a given strategy and on the basis of the relative importance of three communicative goals: (1) whether strategy implementation would lead to successful compliance; (2) whether strategy implementation would result in relational harm; and, (3) whether strategy implementation would result in poor management of the agent's image. Recommendations for future research were noted.     

Dimensions of Mathematics Mentoring in School‐based Initial Teacher Education

There have been significant advance in educational technology but they have not always brought about measurable shifts in user behavior. This study examined the relationship between teachers’ knowledge about a tool and their use of that tool. In many secondary schools use of a Learning Platforms (LPs) is no longer optional although the degree of engagement with the technology remains a matter of choice. However, individual decisions to use selected functionalities of these systems are not well captured in current models of technology acceptance. In a best-case scenario, self-reported possible and actual use of LPs was acquired for 50 teachers from eight technology-rich schools. Three key barriers to use were identified: the functionality of the software, workloads and personal interest. Based on teachers’ knowledge of LP functionality and perceived barriers to use, four distinct groups of teachers emerged. A low-user group identified all three barriers, showed little enthusiasm for use of this technology and had a markedly impoverished perception of the LP. There were three distinct higher use groups based on perceived barriers. While the functions used by these three groups showed less variation, with innovative functions such Blogs and Wikis remaining aspirational, there were differences in how such limitations were viewed. Whether the response was one of complacency and frustration has implications for professional development programmes.