Research Korner

Nature and scope of environmental geography

Nature and scope of environmental geography   Environmental geography, one of the branches of geography, is the study of interlinkages between human and natural systems.  This discipline comes in parts of human geography and physical geography.  It generates new understanding of the ways the environment and human society are intertwined.  Understanding the way human societies conceptualize the environment, geology, meteorology, hydrology, biogeography, ecology, and geomorphology is important to environmental geography.  The studies from environmental geography provide a critical set of analytical tools for assessing the impact of human presence on the environment by measuring the result of human activity on natural landforms and cycles.  (Wikipedia)  This area of geography has seen very ardent interest and growth in the last few decades because of the acceleration of human induced environmental degradation. Environmental geographers are familiar with how natural systems function, but they also know that humans are a dominant agent of change in nature. They realize that it is not possible to understand environmental problems without understanding the physical processes as well as the demographic, cultural, and economic processes that lead to increased resource consumption and waste. Environmental geographers fan out along a variety of academic paths, and these paths will cross, mingle, or converge with those of other disciplines. By its very nature geography is a discipline that seeks to integrate and synthesize knowledge. Therein lays its strength. The geographer’s world is your world: it is the earth as the home of humans.  (Concordia University) Environmental geographers ask a diverse set of questions such as: ·         Can the global environment cope with anticipated population growth? ·         What will be the extent and impact of global warming? ·         Should we protect tropical forests and why are they being destroyed? ·         What causes famine and why do people die from it? ·         Should we allow Hydro Quebec to dam the rivers entering James Bay? Much of what happens in our daily lives is influenced by events beyond our ‘local world’ – events often beyond our borders and outside the control of our national governments. As the world’s nations and environment become more interdependent, the need to understand how our lives are interconnected across the globe increases. With it the role of geography and employment opportunities for geographers will continue to grow.  (Concordia University) Two areas are growing rapidly at the moment, creating hundreds of new jobs: Geographic Information Systems and Environmental Studies. Maps are the basic tools geographers use to present information. Computers have revolutionized mapmaking and placed geography on the forefront of research. Many employers are looking for people trained in high-tech sub-fields such as computer assisted cartography, remote sensing and GIS. Environmental problems have become the concern of government officials and citizens alike. Because of catastrophes involving toxic waste, air and water pollution, loss of biodiversity and habitat, and soil erosion, great care is now being taken to monitor the delicate balance between nature and the human use of the earth. Every major project now requires an assessment of its social and environmental impact, creating a large demand for geographers able to integrate the work of specialists in both the social and natural sciences.  (Concordia University) The future of Environmental Geography is huge.  From natural disasters like the current earthquake and tsunami that happened in Japan to finding alternate sources of energy, environmental geographers have a future.  National Geographic featured an article on Fuel Cells which was featured in Ohio Wesleyan’s Environmental Geography magazine.  National Geographic reported: Fuel cells can power almost any portable device or machine that uses batteries. Unlike a typical battery, which eventually goes dead, a fuel cell continues to produce energy as long as fuel and oxidant are supplied. Laptop computers, cellular phones, video recorders, and hearing aids could be powered by portable fuel cells. Fuel cells have strong benefits over conventional combustion-based technologies currently used in many power plants and cars. They produce much smaller quantities of greenhouse gases and none of the air pollutants that create smog and cause health problems. If pure hydrogen is used as a fuel, fuel cells emit only heat and water as a byproduct. Hydrogen-powered fuel cells are also far more energy efficient than traditional combustion technologies. An environmental geographer’s interest in this is that it is the future of sustainability.   References: Concordia University.  Environmental Geography.  Department of Geography, Planning & Environment.    Retrieved 24 May, 2011 from http://gpe.concordia.ca/programs/bsc_eg/ Environmental geography.  Retrieved 24 May, 2011 from http://en.citizendium.org/wiki/Environmental_geography Fuel Cells.  National Geographic Online.  Retrieved 24 May, 2011 from http://environment.nationalgeographic.com/environment/global-warming/fuel-cell-profile/

Nature and scope of environmental geography

Nature and scope of environmental geography Environmental geography, one of the branches of geography, is the study of interlinkag...

RESEARCH PROPOSAL ON CORPORATE MERGER: HOW THEY IMPACT INTERNAL TEAM AND INDIVIDUAL PERFORMANCES WHILE WORKING TOWARDS COMMON GOAL IN THE FIELD OF SOFTWARE DEVELOPMENT

CORPORATE MERGER: HOW THEY IMPACT INTERNAL TEAM AND INDIVIDUAL PERFORMANCES WHILE WORKING TOWARDS COMMON GOAL IN THE FIELD OF SOFTWARE DEVELOPMENT   INTRODUCTION:   According to the article “Mergers Mania-human and economic effects” (Abassi, et.al, 1991), the merger wave of the 1980’s in America wrecked havoc among affected American workers, which changed their lives forever. There were shattered careers, disrupted job patterns and endangered future security. The article also implies that mergers may have negative impact on the morale and productivity of the targeted workforce, which may lead to the withdrawal of employees from their jobs literally (they may seek work elsewhere) or psychologically.   If this is one possible scenario on mergers, must mergers in the field of software development be encouraged?   STATEMENT OF THE PROBLEM: This researcher finds it necessary for a study that will specifically tackle corporate merger in the field of software development. The general objective of the study is to identify the impact of corporate merger on the internal team and individual performances while working towards a common goal. Specifically, the study will try to answer the following queries: 	<li class="MsoNormal"> 	 	What are the reasons for 	the corporate merger? </li> 	<li class="MsoNormal"> 	 	What are the existing 	corporate cultures of the software companies involved in the merger? How 	will these corporate cultures be incorporated into one to be able to work 	towards a common goal?</li> 	<li class="MsoNormal"> 	 	How is the merger 	perceived by employees of the concerned companies? </li> 	<li class="MsoNormal"> 	 	How will the merger 	change the work situation of employees? How will the merger affect the 	careers, rewards and daily activities of employees?</li> 	<li class="MsoNormal"> 	 	What will the acquiring 	company do to ensure employees’ sense of commitment?</li> 	<li class="MsoNormal"> 	</li> NATURE AND SIGNIFICANCE OF THE STUDY:   Although a lot of studies have already been advanced in corporate mergers, the writer feels that there are only a few studies that had been advanced, in particular, in the field of software development. Thus, the researcher of this study feels a need to fill this gap for more information on corporate merger in the field of software development so as to establish more effective guidelines that are more applicable in the field. METHODOLOGY: A number of employees, both males and females, from the two merging software development companies will be surveyed and interviewed to get the relevant data needed for this study. Their cooperation will be eagerly sought after. If possible, they will be visited and observed in their work. The object is to find out how the corporate merger affects their performances toward the common goal formed by the merger. On the other hand, a descriptive analysis (with the strictest confidence) of the organizations will be done so as to get the nature and cultures existing in both companies. This will be acquired from the CEO of the companies. The data needed will be coming from accomplished questionnaire and interviews.   REFERENCES: Alkhafaji, Abbass F. (1990). Restructuring American Corporations: Causes, Effects,  and Implications. New York: Quorum Books. Abbasi, Sami M., Hollman, Kenneth W., and Murrey, Joe H. Jr. (1991). Merger mania: human and  economic effects. In Review of Business. Volume: 13.             Issue: 1-2. Ravenscraft, David J. (1987). Mergers, Sell-Offs and Economic Efficiency. Washington, DC: The Brookings Institution.

RESEARCH PROPOSAL ON CORPORATE MERGER: HOW THEY IMPACT INTERNAL TEAM AND INDIVIDUAL PERFORMANCES WHILE WORKING TOWARDS COMMON GOAL IN THE FIELD OF SOFTWARE DEVELOPMENT

CORPORATE MERGER: HOW THEY IMPACT INTERNAL TEAM AND INDIVIDUAL PERFORMANCES WHILE WORKING TOWARDS COMMON GOAL IN THE FIELD OF SOFTWARE DE...

Body Art & Suggestive Dressing: The Issue of Promiscuity and Delinquency

Body Art & Suggestive Dressing: The Issue of Promiscuity and Delinquency Introduction The issue of promiscuity and delinquency is popular among the adolescents, especially when they are touched with the peers and the liberalization of entertainment. One of the signs that can be detected is the increasing number of adolescent pseudo who dresses like the people they idolizes. Most of them even get a body art like tattooing and body piercing which distastes the parents. Therefore, various studies are launched pertaining to the issue of promiscuity and delinquency. Theories One group of theories, for example, emphasizes the importance of peer group influences on delinquency. These theories, called social learning theories, address how delinquent behavior is learned in the context of peer group relations (The Study of Juvenile Delinquency, 2005). The delinquency is hypothesized to start at the very young age. Childhood exposure to violence against females and male-modeled antisocial behavior were examined as risk factors for sexual aggression, and nonsexual aggression and delinquency. As hypothesized, youth who sexually offended against prepubescent children manifested greater deficits in psychosocial functioning, committed fewer offenses against strangers, and demonstrated less violence in their sexual offending than offenders against pubescent females. Findings are discussed within the context of two major evolutionary psychological concepts for explaining human sexual behavior: intrasexual selection and intersexual selection. There are three potential mediators of risk were examined: Hostile Masculinity, Egotistical– Antagonistic Masculinity, and Psychosocial Deficits. Hostile Masculinity has been shown to be a significant predictor of self-reported sexual aggression and likelihood to rape age-group peer or adult women. Egotistical/Antagonistic Masculinity reflects a stereotypically masculine sex role orientation, and high “mating effort,” or a heightened emphasis on aggressive dominance in sexual competitions with other males. Males who score high on this factor tend to be hypermasculine and egocentric, and prefer casual sex to long-term commitments in relationships with females. Egotistical/Antagonistic Masculinity has been shown to predict both juvenile delinquency and early adolescent promiscuity. Deficits in social competency have been shown to be associated with an increased risk of interpersonal aggression in juveniles (Hunter, 2004). The Study on Promiscuity and Delinquency Delinquency, upon the investigation of the medical settings and the law, might lead to criminal behaviors. The transition from childhood to adulthood in an increasingly complexity might follow the trend of delinquent behavior. Young people who are at risk of becoming delinquent often live in difficult circumstances. Children who for various reasons—including parental alcoholism, poverty, breakdown of the family, overcrowding, abusive conditions in the home, the growing HIV/AIDS scourge, or the death of parents during armed conflicts—are orphans or unaccompanied and are without the means of subsistence, housing and other basic necessities are at greatest risk of falling into juvenile delinquency. The problem of juvenile delinquency and promiscuity is becoming more complicated and universal, and crime prevention programmes are either unequipped to deal with the present realities or do not exist. Many developing countries have done little or nothing to deal with these problems, and international programmes are obviously insufficient. Developed countries are engaged in activities aimed at juvenile crime prevention, but the overall effect of these programmes is rather weak because the mechanisms in place are often inadequate to address the existing situation (World Youth Report, 2003). Many researchers considered the effects of the different factors in honing the delinquency and promiscuity among adolescents that even extends though the investigation of the role of individual factors, including biological characteristics and personality, situational and routine dimensions like the trends in the environment, and the importance of social relationships, especially family relations and school experiences, in controlling delinquency. The previous studies also addresses the effects of the increasing number of delinquencies in the structure of the society and how societal characteristics motivate individual behavior (The Study of Juvenile Delinquency, 2005). Conclusion and Recommendation Juvenile delinquency and the linked issue of promiscuity is a problem which, despite different and varied cultural backgrounds, is found with common characteristics universally (Choueiri, Choueiri, & Choueiri, 2004). The young population including the children, adolescents, and young adults are affected by these problems because they are the population who are the main target. Therefore, a rehabilitation system should be provided among the countries that can be helpful in setting up the thorough development of the child and the entire young population. In addition, through the effective approaches and measures for preventing juvenile delinquency are detailed, with particular attention given to the development of educational, professional development and community programmes, improvements in family relations and parenting skills, and the value of restorative justice for both perpetrators and victims. References: Choueiri, E.M., Choueiri, B.M., & Choueiri, B.M., (2004) Juvenile Delinquency -An International Case Study, The Correctional Trainer (Winter) [Online] Available at: http://www.iactp.org/pdf/Juvenile%20Delinquency%20-%20International%20Case%20Study.pdf [Accessed 12 October 2010]. Hunter, J.A., (2004) Developmental Pathways in Youth Sexual Aggression and Delinquency: Risk Factors and Mediators, Journal of Family Violence, 19(4). [Online] Available at: http://www.u.arizona.edu/~ajf/pdf/Hunter%20et%20al%202004.pdf [Accessed 12 October 2010]. The Study of Juvenile Delinquency (2005) [Online] Available at: http://www.jblearning.com/samples/0763736287/Chapter_01.pdf [Accessed 12 October 2010]. World Youth Report, (2003) Juvenile Delinquency [Online] Available at: http://www.un.org/esa/socdev/unyin/documents/ch07.pdf [Accessed 12 October 2010].

Body Art & Suggestive Dressing: The Issue of Promiscuity and Delinquency

Body Art & Suggestive Dressing: The Issue of Promiscuity and Delinquency Introduction The issue of promiscuity and delinquency is ...

The Impact of Globalization

Actually, the topic and requirement of the assignment is as followed:- Language policy in the global context During the seminar, we have discussed the impact of globalization on the world's language, with particular reference to English. With reference to Hong Kong, write a report discussing the impact of globalization in terms of language. In your report, discuss the pros and cons of various possible scenarios, and make recommendations regarding an appropriate language policy for the country/region. Your report must balance the economic needs with the society and culture of the country/region in question. In fact, I've written and handed a progress report (as the file attached) regarding to this assignment and some materials are also found. But the professor thinks it is not enough (and my poor written English, of course!). Anyway, the reference list is at the end of the progress report (which I'm not very sure are they really relevant to my topic or not!) Therefore, other than the reference I already have, I'm expecting some more from you.

The Impact of Globalization

Actually, the topic and requirement of the assignment is as followed:- Language policy in the global co...

CHANGE IN INSTITUTIONAL ARRANGEMENTS FOR CORRUPTION CONTROL IN MACAU RESEARCH PROPOSAL PAPER

CHANGE IN INSTITUTIONAL ARRANGEMENTS FOR CORRUPTION CONTROL IN MACAU   BACKGROUND AND RATIONALE        Currently, Macau has been facing a serious corruption problem. One of the biggest corruption cases was with a Macau Official who was found guilty of corruption. (Ex-official, 2008) This only shows that the corruption in Macau seems to be growing in rate. According to a news article, Macau has exceeded Las Vegas by becoming the world’s gambling capital. It was also stated that Macau seems to be enjoying their rapid growth in terms of gambling and has had violent clashes on the International Labor Day. This is an indicator that Macau is becoming socially ill. (Gambling, 2007)             Although Macau is still not yet listed in the top most corrupt nations, the increasing number of corrupt issues in the country is becoming a concern. Corruption is known to halt the economic growth of a nation. And the major factor that creates corruption are problems with laws against it. (Corruption, 2003)             Thus, the current pressing problem with corruption in Macau may have some something to do with the laws that bind the institutional arrangements and economic partnerships of business establishments and the government.             According to a research, there are three basic reasons that hinder that development of the country because of corruption. Those are poorly designed anti-corruption laws and mechanisims, lackadaisical enforcement of existing laws and mechanisms and the evolution cultural norms that accept corruption as a way of life and doing business. (Design, 2003)             Thus, it is important to analyze the laws that bind the business sector and the government in terms of incentive compatibility.             CACC or Commission against Corruption is a public entity dedicated to fight corruption. This entity also carry out the function of the Ombudsman. The organization was founded since December 20th, 1999. The organization mainly promotes several programs. Those are anti-corruption, prevention, proposal of the enactment of normative acts and education”.  (CACC, 2008)             The rationale of this study basically aims to look into the bottom of the institutional structures and analyze whether the framework used by the business institutions of Macau are compatible to them.               RESEARCH QUESTIONS:             This study will answer the following questions: <li class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: 200%"> Where is Macau in terms of the corruption rate around the world?</li> <li class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: 200%"> What are the actions of the government to address corruption?</li> <li class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: 200%"> What is incentive compatibility?</li> <li class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: 200%"> How is Macau different from Taiwan, Mainland and HongKong in terms of corruption history?</li> <li class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: 200%"> Which of those countries are successful in countering corruption?</li> <li class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: 200%"> Is it related with the incentive compatibility?</li>   RESEARCH OBJECTIVES:             This study will answer the following objectives: <li class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: 200%"> To determine the place of Macau, in terms of the overall ranking of most corrupt nations in the world. </li> <li class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: 200%"> To identify the actions of the government to address corruption. </li> <li class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: 200%"> To define incentive compatibility.</li> <li class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: 200%"> To determine the difference of Macau different from Taiwan, Mainland and HongKong in terms of corruption history.</li> <li class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: 200%"> To determine Which of those countries are successful in countering corruption. </li> <li class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: 200%"> To identify whether the incentive compatibility is related to the success of those countries in combating corruption.  </li>     METHODOLOGY: The study will basically be comparative in nature since it will use other countries as comparisons such as Taiwan, Mainland, Hong Kong and Macau. The history of corruption of the mentioned countries will be scrutinized and compared and contrast to one another to properly find out the differences of their Institutional arrangements and economic partnerships.   After the comparison, this study aims to evaluate which among the countries are successful and failure in combating the corruption problems in their nation. The successful and failure will be assessed based on “incentive compatibility.” On the conclusion, this study aims to come up with a particular recommendation on the ideal business structure and partnership that would possibly work on Macau, based on incentive compatibility.  Those nations who are successful in evading corruption are considered incentive compatible while those who are not are considered incentive incompatible. Incentive compatible is when the sanctions are fair to each participant. For example, Czech’s anti-corruption law is called “incentive incompatible.” It is because under certain conditions, the law allows someone who offered or promised a bribe to report the situation to the police and he or she can get out of it with out any sanction. However, the person who accepted the bribe might stay in prison for a considerable time. (Designing, 2003) This study will be beneficial to Macau, specifically and to other countries as well who are facing the same problem.     REFERENCES Ex-official in Macau, guilty of corruption. (2008) [Online Source] Available at http://www.taipeitimes.com/News?pubdate=2008-01-31     CACC. (2008) http://www.ccac.org.mo/en/ last update 03-11-2008   Designing and Testing  Incentive-compatible and Effective Anti-Corruption Measures. (2003) Regional Research Competition. [Online Source] Available at http://home.cerge-ei.cz/ortmann/PAPERS/GDNgrantprop2003.PDF   Gambling and corruption accused of ruining Macau. (2007) Ecumenical News International. [Online Source] Available at:  http://www.ekklesia.co.uk/node/5238

CHANGE IN INSTITUTIONAL ARRANGEMENTS FOR CORRUPTION CONTROL IN MACAU RESEARCH PROPOSAL PAPER

CHANGE IN INSTITUTIONAL ARRANGEMENTS FOR CORRUPTION CONTROL IN MACAU BACKGROUND AND RATIONALE Currently, Macau has been fa...

Australian Taxation Practice

Reflection on the article “Labor plans three-tiered tax system” By reducing the proposed tax cut for the wealthy bracket, the opposition wanted to modify the initial tax plan of the coalition.  There are two arguments in evaluating the effect of the move.  On one hand, it can contribute in minimizing the disparity between rich, working and poor families as wealthy people will have to pay more taxes slightly higher than the original tax cut.  On the other, it can adversely affect investor’s appetite for creating new jobs through stock investment as the new proposal sustain few tax burdens that initially planned to incentive them.  The argument of the opposition about increasing the original tax cut is to accumulate savings and use them in information technology like purchase of computers and health care particularly elective surgery.  However, these are mainly attributed to short-term benefits compared to long-term view of increasing employment.  Parents may buy their children with computers and connect on the internet but there is a loophole in sustaining this kind of lifestyle for long.  The number of immigrants in the country as well as its population is rising in recent years.  When corporations fail to support the economy through job creation by opening new factories and sites, the same families that could afford technology education may trade-off their digital future with underlying tenure risks.       Opposition’s proposal can also gain ground when seen in the lens of the public welfare and governance.  With more tax being collected from wealthy people, more funds can circulate the economy to support basic needs.  Poorer people are assured that their welfare will be addressed because the government is responsible for allocating tax collection.  If the coalition’s proposal is to be followed, tax collection will be reduced with no assurance that the wealthy people or companies that benefit from the tax cut will really invest in creating new employment opportunities.  It is the issue on the level of concern that influential entities are known for especially when it comes to the welfare of the working and poor families.  Corporate strategies have the main goal of profiting while public service is accountable for public trust.  Modifying the original proposal from the coalition has its various dimensions that require value judgment and vision in order to optimize positive impact.  As the coalition’s representative said, the opposition’s plan is derived from theirs 91.5% of it.  This means that 8.5% difference is largely on numbers but the same concept of improving the national tax system is at its core.  Due to this, it can be argued that opposition’s follow-up on the original tax cut is meant to employ politics on the issue.  Specifically, it is meant to send the message that the opposition has its own version of how to change national tax system.  To put color on opposition’s proposal, it is apparent that the idea of how will it impact technology education and healthcare is inserted.     Reflection on “Senior Australians tax offset” As tax offset enables a taxpayer to receive more income than without offset, this incentive is very compatible to the public status of senior Australians.  In the article, there are four required conditions that should be met by them to be eligible.  In condition 1, the minimum age for older men and women is quite high which in turn may not result to enjoyment of the tax offset if they pass.  When one gets old, things he or she can do generally decreases and large portion goes to healthcare.  If the tax incentive is really directed towards their welfare, the age would be pretty much lower.  This is particularly true with war veterans and widowers whose emotional and physical characteristics may not be averagely healthy when running on old age.              In condition 3, the requirement becomes more rigid as the combined taxable income of spouses should not exceed a limit of $59,244.  This provision reduces the motivation of older people to work and act as a regular wage-earner.  If their earning will serve as a bottleneck to receive an easier way to get money, they would prefer to work minimally or even be laid-off.  All sources of taxable are within the requirement such as superannuation, investments and pensions which when combined will definitely reach the taxable income limit.  In condition 2, the bias on war veterans are eminent.  Although the incentive is very fit for brave men and women in the past, the term senior Australians is obviously not exclusive for them.  The requirement should have been open to all older people.             Out of the four conditions, condition 4 or “not in prison” is seemingly the most valid requirement especially if the issue of being a senior Australian is considered.  Being old, still much is expected from senior Australians such as keeping tradition, telling history and guiding the newer generation towards the path of patriotism and love for the country.  However, there are older people that also still want to act normal people.  If this requirement for tax offset can only remind them of their old age, it would be better if they will not bother an effort for filing for the benefit.  They are more concerned for the quality of life as well as “giving the last round a clean, exciting and fair fight”.

Australian Taxation Practice

Reflection on the article “Labor plans three-tiered tax system” By reducing the proposed tax cut for the wealthy bracket, the oppositio...

A Research Paper on Impact of Applying Computer-Aided Instruction (CAI): Perspective of Experienced and Inexperienced Adult Learners in Bronx Adult Learning Center

Running head: UNIT 4 – CONDUCTING RESEARCH   Impact of Applying Computer-Aided Instruction (CAI): Perspective of Experienced and Inexperienced Adult Learners in Bronx Adult Learning Center       Abstract This research studies the perspective of familiar and unfamiliar adult learners towards the impact and effectiveness of Computer-Aided Instruction. It uses data gathered from 20 participants which is consists of 10 males and 10 females. Questionnaires were consisted of 18 questions which tackles the background and perception of the respondents regarding the application and impact of CAI in their learning process.  It also included different studies that have been explored and analyzed by other authors or researchers regarding the issue of application of CAI in adult learning environment and process.     Introduction This study focused on the perspective of the adult learners in Bronx Adult Learning Center regarding the importance and impact of the Computer-Aided Instruction (CAI) in their learning process. The said topic is important because of the problems regarding the preferences and perspective of the adult learners towards application of new technologies, primarily in the field of education. Thus, the issue regarding the feelings and reaction of the adult learner who are unfamiliar with the different new technologies are important in the process of planning and implementing different educational policies and lessons. The research question of the study focuses on the perception of the adult learners towards computerized learning approach as an effective teaching method, as well as the different advantages and disadvantages of CAI in their learning process. There are two important variables that are involved in the study, CAI as the independent variables, and the adult learning as the dependent variables.   Review of Literature Computer – Aided Instruction or CAI or also known as computer-assisted instruction is considered as a diverse and rapidly expanding field of computer technologies that support the teaching and learning process (Arnold, 2008). However, there are ongoing debates and discussions regarding its effectiveness, in the entire process of learning. Throughout the entire 20th century, changes in different technologies had affected soCAIl and economic aspect of the world (Imel, 1998). Thus, it has a great impact on the field of education. It has a positive impact, particularly the aid of the Internet, because it is much easier for the students to retrieve and access different information, thus enables some learning activities more interesting than the traditional teaching approach. However, it is important to consider the important impact of technology in adult learning. In connection, the role of technology in the aspect of adult learning, adult educators and learners are facing different challenges and dilemmas which include process of how to respond to the different technologies, at the same time how to exploit it without diminishing the learning experience (Field, 1997). Thus, it is important to consider the different approaches that will integrate technology into the adult learning: technology as curriculum, delivery mechanism, complement to instruction and instructional tool (Ginsburg, 1998).             The study by Winslen et all gather information from 66 subjects and included in three groups: traditional lecture, IATEC and control and uses checklist as research instrument. The result of the study shows that application of CAI is an effective approach of teaching and training, but it is not enough in order to educate student in the cognitive knowledge (Winsten et al., 1998). Furthermore, the action research project that was conducted by the Somerset Country Adult Literacy Council which aimed to determine if a blended learning approach that introduced CAI into the traditional adult education classroom would positively impact retention and goal achievement. The study focused on the case of 10 respondents. The result shows that 5 have enrolled in the post secondary training and all had increased attendance in the adult education classroom (Barron 2004). On the other hand, the result of the study by Ross & Schulz (2002) shows the opposite or negative result. The explanatory study investigated the impact of learning styles on human-computer interaction by gathering data from 70 learners who have enrolled in a large urban post-secondary institution. As a result, based on the primary and secondary data gathered, the authors concluded that CAI many not be the most appropriate method of learning for all students. In connection, the theoretical study of Lowe & Holton (2005) shows critical components that can affect the effectiveness of CAI for adults which explain and predicts the effective learning by adults using a desktop computer.   Methodology Primary data were gathered from 20 respondents or adult learners, composed of 10 males and 10 females in the Bronx Adult Learning Center class located in 500 Grand Concourse, Room B-208, Bronx New York by using survey questionnaire and interview. Thus, it uses qualitative method in order to gather data. The said method s much more objective compare to quantitative because it is vitally systematic and based on the positivism perspective, at the same time, attempt to explain different soCAIl changes by using objective measures and statistical analysis by focusing on the procedures, methodologies as well as statistics. As a result, objectives can be measured so that comparisons can be made (LAMP, n.d.). The respondents are grouped by 2: the first one have their past experience or encounter of CAI, while the other group are those inexperienced or not familiar with CAI. The respondents were asked to answer 18 questions which is consists of 2 parts: background information and the actual questions about the impact of CAI in their learning process (answerable by Yes, No, Maybe).   Results Background 	 		 		 		Age 		 		 		N 	 	 		 		 		21 – 		30 		 		 		5 	 	 		 		 		31 – 		40 		 		 		7 	 	 		 		 		41 – 		50 		 		 		2 	 	 		 		 		51 – 		60 		 		 		4 	 	 		 		 		61 – 		70 		 		 		2 	 	 		 		 		Sex 		 		 		N 	 	 		 		 		Male 		 		 		10 	 	 		 		 		 		Female 		 		 		10 	 	 		 		 		 		Experienced/Familiar 		 		 		N 	 	 		 		 		Yes 		 		 		10 	 	 		 		 		No 		 		 		10 	 	 		 		 		 		Educational Attainment 		 		 		N 	 	 		 		 		 		Illiterate 		 		 		  	 	 		 		 		 		Elementary 		 		 		4 	 	 		 		 		 		Secondary 		 		 		6 	 	 		 		 		 		Tertiary (Bachelor) 		 		 		5 	 	 		 		 		 		Masters 		 		 		3 	 	 		 		 		 		Doctoral 		 		 		2 	 	 		 		 		 		Working? 		 		 		  	 	 		 		 		Yes 		 		 		17 	 	 		 		 		No 		 		 		3 	               Table above shows the result of the study regarding the background information of the respondents. Like what have mentioned in the first part of the paper, half or 10 of the respondents are male and female, experienced or familiar and unfamiliar with CAI. It can be seen that majority of the respondent came from the age group of 31 – 40. Furthermore, majority of the respondents had attained secondary education. Above all, most of them are working.   CAI – Perspective   	 		 		 		  		 		 		Yes 		(3) 		 		 		No 		(2) 		 		 		Maybe 		(1) 	 	 		 		 		  		 		 		*F 		 		 		*N 		 		 		*F 		 		 		*N 		 		 		*F 		 		 		*N 	 	 		 		 		1. 		Computer-Aided Instruction will help me to learn more quickly 		 		 		  		 		7 		 		 		  		 		2 		 		 		  		 		3 		 		 		  		 		4 		 		 		  		 		0 		 		 		  		 		6 	 	 		 		 		2. 		Computer-Aided Instruction will enable me to work at my own speed 		 		 		  		 		9 		 		 		  		 		3 		 		 		  		 		0 		 		 		  		 		2 		 		 		  		 		1 		 		 		  		 		5 	 	 		 		 		3. 		Computer-Aided Instruction will make it easier for me to learn than with 		the traditional (teacher) approach 		 		 		  		 		  		 		5 		 		 		  		 		  		 		3 		 		 		  		 		  		 		2 		 		 		  		 		  		 		4 		 		 		  		 		  		 		3 		 		 		  		 		  		 		3 	 	 		 		 		4. I 		am more comfortable in sitting and working alone 		 		 		7 		 		 		6 		 		 		1 		 		 		2 		 		 		2 		 		 		2 	 	 		 		 		5. I 		will recommend Computer-Aided Instruction to other adult learners like 		me. 		 		 		  		 		6 		 		 		  		 		2 		 		 		  		 		1 		 		 		  		 		2 		 		 		  		 		3 		 		 		  		 		6 	 	 		 		 		6. It 		would be easier to learn by computer compare to other traditional 		learning instrument such as film and slide 		 		 		  		 		  		 		5 		 		 		  		 		  		 		2 		 		 		  		 		  		 		2 		 		 		  		 		  		 		3 		 		 		  		 		  		 		3 		 		 		  		 		  		 		5 	 	 		 		 		7. I 		am afraid I could not learn to use computer very well. 		 		 		  		 		10 		 		 		  		 		7 		 		 		  		 		0 		 		 		  		 		1 		 		 		  		 		0 		 		 		  		 		2 	 	 		 		 		8. I 		would need a teacher as I work on the computer 		 		 		2 		 		 		10 		 		 		8 		 		 		0 		 		 		0 		 		 		0 	 	 		 		 		9. 		Computer-Aided Instruction gives me an idea of having a friendly teacher 		 		 		  		 		10 		 		 		  		 		6 		 		 		  		 		0 		 		 		  		 		2 		 		 		  		 		0 		 		 		  		 		2 	 	 		 		 		10. 		Computer-Aided Instruction will go too fast 		 		 		2 		 		 		7 		 		 		8 		 		 		0 		 		 		0 		 		 		3 	 	 		 		 		11. I 		would not mind if I missed a question while I am working on my lessons 		and my computer because no one would be watching me 		 		 		  		 		  		 		8 		 		 		  		 		  		 		7 		 		 		  		 		  		 		2 		 		 		  		 		  		 		1 		 		 		  		 		  		 		0 		 		 		  		 		  		 		2 	   *F = familiar with CAI *N = unfamiliar with CAI             The table above shows the result of the 11 questions that have been gathered from the 20 respondents. It shows the total number of responses per question, answered both by the familiar and unfamiliar to CAI. Based on the table, it can be observed that most of the unfamiliar with the CAI are not that confident with the said learning approach, which is opposite from those who are already familiar.   References   Arnold, D. (2008). Computer-Aided Instruction. Retrieved from MSN Encarta March 3, 2009, from Encarta MSNwebsite: http://encarta.msn.com/encyclopedia_761553343/computer-aided_instruction.html   Baron, J 2004, The Impact of Introducing a Blended Learning Approach in the Adult Literacy Classroom, Pensylvannia Action Research Network, Retrieved March 5, 2009, from PDE website: http://www.pde.state.pa.us/able/lib/able/lfp/lfp04barron.pdf.     Field, J. (1997). ‘Passive or Proactive?’ ADULTS LEARNING,  8 (6), 160-161.     Ginsburg, L. (1998) ‘Integrating Technology into Adult Learning.’ In TECHNOLOGY, BASIC SKILLS, AND ADULT EDUCATION: GETTING READY AND MOVING FORWARD, INFORMATION SERIES No. 372, edited by C. Hopey, pp. 37-45. Columbus: ERIC Clearinghouse on Adult, Career, and Vocational Education, Center on Education and Training for Employment, College of Education, The Ohio State University.   Imel, S. (1998). Technology and Adult Learning: Current Perspectives. ERIC Digest No. 197, Retrieved March 3, 2009, from ERIC Digest website: http://www.ericdigests.org/1999-2/current.htm   LAMP. Research Methods, Retrieved March 3, 2009, from LAMP website: http://lamp.ac.uk/mit/pdf/report6.pdf   Lowe, J. & Holton, E. (2005). ‘A Theory of Effective Computer-Based Instruction for Adults’, Human Resource Development Review, 4(2), 159-188.   Ross, J. & Schulz, R. (2002). ‘Can Computer-Aided Instruction Accommodate All Learners Equally?’, British Journal of Educational Technology, 30(1), 5 – 24.   Winsten, D. L., Antonio, K., Buxton, B. (1998). ‘The Effectiveness of an Interactive Computer Program Versus Traditional Lecture in Athletic Training Education’. Journal of Athletic Training. 33(3), 238 – 243, Retrieved February 11, 2009, from PubMedCentral website: http://www.pubmedcentral.nih.gov/picrender.fcgi?artid=1320430&blobtype=pdf

A Research Paper on Impact of Applying Computer-Aided Instruction (CAI): Perspective of Experienced and Inexperienced Adult Learners in Bronx Adult Learning Center

Running head: UNIT 4 – CONDUCTING RESEARCH Impact of Applying Computer-Aided Instruction (CAI): Perspective of Experienced and ...