Current Search: Jones, Daniel (x)
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- Title
- WOMEN'S EXPERIENCES WITH DISTANCE EDUCATION.
- Creator
-
Moody, Jane Elizabeth, Jones, Daniel, University of Central Florida
- Abstract / Description
-
This thesis examines issues that affect women in online learning, and discusses four women's particular experiences in the University of Central Florida's distance learning program. Online education involves aspects of support and communication that may affect women's learning experiences either positively or negatively. Distance learning may also allow women to pursue their education while still taking care of their families and outside work. In order to get a better idea of how distance...
Show moreThis thesis examines issues that affect women in online learning, and discusses four women's particular experiences in the University of Central Florida's distance learning program. Online education involves aspects of support and communication that may affect women's learning experiences either positively or negatively. Distance learning may also allow women to pursue their education while still taking care of their families and outside work. In order to get a better idea of how distance learning impacts women, I discuss several studies that examine how distance learning affects women in particular. I identify three areas from this literature that seem to be particularly important in order for women to have a successful distance learning experience: social support, technical support, and awareness of differences in discussion style.After reviewing the existing literature, I discuss how this literature applies to four women's experiences here at UCF. I talk with them about how they perceive their online learning experiences, and about how they feel that the issues identified in the literature are reflected in their own lives. I discuss their issues with support, technical support, and online discussions, and relate these to existing literature in order to come up with areas that may need further exploration or improvement.I conclude the study by providing suggestions and recommendations for professors who deal with women in their online classes. I also suggest areas for further exploration in the field of women's distance education.
Show less - Date Issued
- 2004
- Identifier
- CFE0000086, ucf:46146
- Format
- Document (PDF)
- PURL
- http://purl.flvc.org/ucf/fd/CFE0000086
- Title
- The Gender Gap in Technical Communication: How Women Challenge the Predominant Objectivist Paradigm.
- Creator
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Bower, Nathan, Jones, Daniel, Jones, Anna, Flammia, Madelyn, University of Central Florida
- Abstract / Description
-
Women are currently underrepresented in the Science, Technology, Engineering, and Mathematics (STEM) fields. The purpose of this thesis is to explore how this underrepresentation translates to a gender gap in the field of technical communication and how this gap causes women to challenge the predominant objectivist paradigm in the field. Through an investigation of peer-reviewed journal articles, periodicals, critical theory, and articles published in online magazines such as Slate, I...
Show moreWomen are currently underrepresented in the Science, Technology, Engineering, and Mathematics (STEM) fields. The purpose of this thesis is to explore how this underrepresentation translates to a gender gap in the field of technical communication and how this gap causes women to challenge the predominant objectivist paradigm in the field. Through an investigation of peer-reviewed journal articles, periodicals, critical theory, and articles published in online magazines such as Slate, I identify the gendered nature of modern technology and discuss to what extent a shift in the predominant paradigm has occurred in the professional arena. In looking at several theoretical approaches and contemporary examples, I conclude that a significant paradigm shift has not in fact occurred due to an underlying, culturally promoted sexism. Additionally, I conclude that neither new approaches in the technical communication classroom, nor attempts to increasingly include women in the technological fields will result in a significant paradigm change by themselves. I also point to a need for further meaningful research in how sexism influences the professional world as well as a more thorough conversation regarding a fundamental shift in workplace relations between the genders.
Show less - Date Issued
- 2012
- Identifier
- CFE0004523, ucf:52878
- Format
- Document (PDF)
- PURL
- http://purl.flvc.org/ucf/fd/CFE0004523
- Title
- A Study of the Grant Writing Policies and Practices of Municipalities in Polk County Florida Having a Population Less Than 25,000.
- Creator
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Carter, Michael, Jones, Daniel, Flammia, Madelyn, Cameron, Jody, University of Central Florida
- Abstract / Description
-
The purpose of this study is to identify the grant writing policies and practices of the fifteen municipalities in Polk County, Florida having a population less than 25,000, compare these findings qualitatively, and to present the data in a form usable by any city in Polk County so each city can make any needed adjustments to their grant writing strategy that will increase their success of grant funding. This study is needed now because smaller cities are continuing to feel the effects of the...
Show moreThe purpose of this study is to identify the grant writing policies and practices of the fifteen municipalities in Polk County, Florida having a population less than 25,000, compare these findings qualitatively, and to present the data in a form usable by any city in Polk County so each city can make any needed adjustments to their grant writing strategy that will increase their success of grant funding. This study is needed now because smaller cities are continuing to feel the effects of the recession, a slumping housing market, and a reduction of real estate property values which means lower tax revenue. City managers and staff need to sharpen their grant writing skills to maximize the success of their grant applications. Both quantitative and qualitative research methodology were used in this study. The quantitative research data was gathered with the aid of a survey sent to each city manager of the selected cities. The qualitative research data consists of follow-up interviews with the fifteen city managers. Fourteen of the fifteen cities responded and all returned surveys were 100% complete. The results of the survey include respondent demographics, a lengthy discussion of each city's attitudes and history with grant application and administration, and the training level of staff involved in grant writing. The chapter goes on to analyze and discuss the policy of local elected officials regarding grants and concludes on the topic of challenges facing Polk County municipalities and possible solutions that may increase their grant writing success. The final chapter brings the study to a conclusion with a summary and a review of the findings from the survey. Several recommendations are offered that, if implemented, could increase the success rate cities are currently achieving with grant applications. Several implications are offered of possible outcomes if no changes are made, and finally, specific areas of future research and study are discussed.
Show less - Date Issued
- 2011
- Identifier
- CFE0004092, ucf:49129
- Format
- Document (PDF)
- PURL
- http://purl.flvc.org/ucf/fd/CFE0004092
- Title
- Gender Composition of Online Technical Communication Collaborations.
- Creator
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Wardell, Erika, Jones, Daniel, Cavanagh, Thomas, Applen, John, University of Central Florida
- Abstract / Description
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Online collaborations are more prevalent in society due to electronic communication allowing students and professionals to communicate with each other, without needing to spend time or money traveling. The lack of visual cues in electronic communication means writing styles primarily set the tone of a message. A group member's gender can affect his or her writing style and what he or she assumes about the message. The differing writing styles and potential gender bias can cause...
Show moreOnline collaborations are more prevalent in society due to electronic communication allowing students and professionals to communicate with each other, without needing to spend time or money traveling. The lack of visual cues in electronic communication means writing styles primarily set the tone of a message. A group member's gender can affect his or her writing style and what he or she assumes about the message. The differing writing styles and potential gender bias can cause misunderstandings, which delay projects and sometimes lead to ostracizing a group member. The gender composition of an online collaboration, therefore, can have a positive or negative effect on a project. This study helps technical communicators understand how to manage online collaborations effectively to produce a successful project. The study explains how the effects of gender composition on a project are influenced by electronic communication, gender roles, and online collaborations. Society-imposed gender roles include differing writing styles for each gender causing gender bias in both writing and reading electronic messages. Group members, monitors, and project managers must take care in managing online collaborations due to the differences in each gender's communication style, and differences in gender roles and expectations for multinational online collaborations. The study shows mixed-gender collaborations have increased chances of misunderstandings because of the differing communication styles of each gender compared to same-gender collaborations. However, the advantages of mixed-gender collaborations outweigh the disadvantages due to the variety of ideas, motivations, and expectations. Technical communicators understanding how all the major topics relate together to influence a collaboration are better able to manage an online collaboration and reduce the chances of misunderstandings to create a successful project.
Show less - Date Issued
- 2011
- Identifier
- CFE0004176, ucf:49041
- Format
- Document (PDF)
- PURL
- http://purl.flvc.org/ucf/fd/CFE0004176
- Title
- Technology Implementation in K-12 Schools: A Research Study of Perceptions and Practice.
- Creator
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Martinez, Kaitlin, Flammia, Madelyn, Jones, Daniel, Applen, John, University of Central Florida
- Abstract / Description
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According to the National Center for Education Statistics, even though 97% of classrooms have at least one instructional computer available, only 40% of teachers in public schools (including elementary and secondary) report using computers in the classroom often. My project aims to illustrate the barriers that are keeping K-12 teachers from integrating technology in their classrooms, such as the lack of availability for training, teacher's lack of knowledge or schooling, or a lack of IT...
Show moreAccording to the National Center for Education Statistics, even though 97% of classrooms have at least one instructional computer available, only 40% of teachers in public schools (including elementary and secondary) report using computers in the classroom often. My project aims to illustrate the barriers that are keeping K-12 teachers from integrating technology in their classrooms, such as the lack of availability for training, teacher's lack of knowledge or schooling, or a lack of IT support. It also discusses possible solutions to the problem, such as teacher training and better resources. By assessing the Level of Technology Integration, or LoTi, we can learn how much or how often a teacher is using technology in a classroom. My project consists of conducting a research study that will aim to reinforce the hypothesis that the LoTi in K-12 schools is lower than expected, considering the availability of computers and technology. By learning the severity of the obstacles teachers face, we can work on possible solutions. The findings of this study were that teachers face barriers that inhibit them from implementing technology no matter what type of school environment they are in. These barriers come from lack of time, access, but most strongly from the self-efficacy of the teachers. Teachers need professional development and training to develop their skills and confidence, which will positively impact students, the school, and the overall education system.
Show less - Date Issued
- 2012
- Identifier
- CFE0004503, ucf:49279
- Format
- Document (PDF)
- PURL
- http://purl.flvc.org/ucf/fd/CFE0004503
- Title
- Gender Bias in the Technical Disciplines.
- Creator
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Campbell, Jessica, Jones, Daniel, Flammia, Madelyn, Marinara, Martha, University of Central Florida
- Abstract / Description
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This study investigates how women are affected by gender bias in the workplace. Despite the increasing numbers of women in the workforce, women are still under-represented and under-valued in workplaces, which, in part, is due to their gender stereotype. This study demonstrates how gender bias in the workplace has been proven to limit women in their careers and potential in their occupational roles. The media's negative depiction of women in their gender stereotype reinforces and perpetuates...
Show moreThis study investigates how women are affected by gender bias in the workplace. Despite the increasing numbers of women in the workforce, women are still under-represented and under-valued in workplaces, which, in part, is due to their gender stereotype. This study demonstrates how gender bias in the workplace has been proven to limit women in their careers and potential in their occupational roles. The media's negative depiction of women in their gender stereotype reinforces and perpetuates this image as a cultural norm in society. Women both conform and are judged and evaluated according to their weak and submissive gender stereotype. Women face challenges and problems in the workplace when they are evaluated and appraised by their female gender stereotype. Women have been prevented from acquiring jobs and positions, have been denied promotions and advancements, failed to be perceived as desiring of and capable of leadership or management positions, as well as typically receive lower paid than their male counterparts. Furthermore, women's unique, indirect, and congenial conversational methods are perceived as unconfident, incompetent, and thus, incapable in the masculine organizational culture of most workplaces. Through the investigation of gender bias in the workplace, professionals and employers will gain an awareness of how gender bias and socially-prescribed gender roles can affect the workplace and interfere with women's success in their career. Technical communicators and other educators will have a better understanding of how to overcome gender stereotyping and be encouraged to teach students on how to be gender-neutral in their communications in the workplace, perhaps striving for a more egalitarian society.
Show less - Date Issued
- 2012
- Identifier
- CFE0004248, ucf:49538
- Format
- Document (PDF)
- PURL
- http://purl.flvc.org/ucf/fd/CFE0004248
- Title
- Simulations for Financial Literacy.
- Creator
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Hamilton, Angela, Jones, Daniel, Flammia, Madelyn, Metcalf, David, University of Central Florida
- Abstract / Description
-
Financially literate consumers are empowered with the knowledge and skills necessary to make sound financial decisions that ensure their long-term economic well-being. Within the context of the range of cognitive, psychological, and social factors that influence consumer behavior, simulations enhance financial literacy by developing consumers' mental models for decision-making. Technical communicators leverage plain language and visual language techniques to communicate complex financial...
Show moreFinancially literate consumers are empowered with the knowledge and skills necessary to make sound financial decisions that ensure their long-term economic well-being. Within the context of the range of cognitive, psychological, and social factors that influence consumer behavior, simulations enhance financial literacy by developing consumers' mental models for decision-making. Technical communicators leverage plain language and visual language techniques to communicate complex financial concepts in ways that consumers can relate to and understand.Simulations for financial education and decision support illustrate abstract financial concepts, provide a means of safe experimentation, and allow consumers to make informed choices based on a longitudinal comparison of decision outcomes. Technical communicators develop content based on best practices and conduct evaluations to ensure that simulations present information that is accessible, usable, and focused on the end-user. Potential simulation formats range from low- to high-fidelity. Low-fidelity simulations present static data in print or digital formats. Mid-fidelity simulations provide digital interactive decision support tools with dynamic user inputs. More complex high-fidelity simulations use narrative and dramatic elements to situate learning in applied contexts.
Show less - Date Issued
- 2012
- Identifier
- CFE0004318, ucf:49489
- Format
- Document (PDF)
- PURL
- http://purl.flvc.org/ucf/fd/CFE0004318
- Title
- Intercultural Communication in the Global Age: Lessons Learned from French Technical Communicators.
- Creator
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Tallman, Nicole, Flammia, Madelyn, Bowdon, Melody, Jones, Daniel, University of Central Florida
- Abstract / Description
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This thesis explores the cultural considerations American technical communicators must address when working with French colleagues and when creating technical documentation for French audiences. A review of the literature on intercultural communication theory was conducted, along with a review of the limited research on technical communication in France and the needs of French audiences. A qualitative online survey of French technical communicators was also conducted. Through this survey,...
Show moreThis thesis explores the cultural considerations American technical communicators must address when working with French colleagues and when creating technical documentation for French audiences. A review of the literature on intercultural communication theory was conducted, along with a review of the limited research on technical communication in France and the needs of French audiences. A qualitative online survey of French technical communicators was also conducted. Through this survey, French technical communicators reported on their intercultural beliefs, experiences, and practices, and information, language, and cultural needs.Survey responses were analyzed using inductive thematic analysis. Two main themes were developed as a result of this analysis: the importance of adapting content to French audiences, and the cultural differences between French and American information needs and communication styles. Survey findings were combined with theoretical and practical literature to offer American technical communicators guidance for successful intercultural interactions. This thesis concludes with suggestions for future practice and research in intercultural technical communication.
Show less - Date Issued
- 2013
- Identifier
- CFE0004944, ucf:49604
- Format
- Document (PDF)
- PURL
- http://purl.flvc.org/ucf/fd/CFE0004944
- Title
- Technical Communicators and Writing Consultants: Identity and Expertise.
- Creator
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Cepero, Nichole, Young, Beth, Jones, Daniel, Marinara, Martha, University of Central Florida
- Abstract / Description
-
This paper examines the roles of technical communicators and writing center consultants in regards to their identities and the expertise that they bring to what they do. Both fields have struggled with alack of understanding surrounding what their positions entail and more importantly how they perform in their roles. With this in mind, the goal of this paper is to analyze how the growth of each field andthe variations of each position contribute to the issue of identity. Furthermore, as a...
Show moreThis paper examines the roles of technical communicators and writing center consultants in regards to their identities and the expertise that they bring to what they do. Both fields have struggled with alack of understanding surrounding what their positions entail and more importantly how they perform in their roles. With this in mind, the goal of this paper is to analyze how the growth of each field andthe variations of each position contribute to the issue of identity. Furthermore, as a result of the identity problem that faces each position, I suggest using the theory of liminality, communication theory, and genre theory to examine more closely how technical communicators and writing center consultants approach the work they do.Technical communicators and writing center consultants perform very similar roles in their respective fields. Both positions have the ability to contribute to various fields through the work that they do. Technical communicators have the ability to communicate in multiple areas without necessarily being subject matter experts in the areas they participate in. The same holds true forwriting center consultants who may, in one day, assist students in multiple subjects without necessarily having specific disciplinary knowledge of each area addressed. Outsiders do not understand how technical communicators and writing consultants can communicate within anunfamiliar field, which creates a main area of controversy for both roles. Using the three theories mentioned above, I make an argument for just how it is possible for them to perform in this capacity.By focusing on how technical communicators and writing center consultants perform in their roles instead of on their writing, their identity and expertise becomes clear and confusion surrounding each field can be banished. Although technical communicators and writing consultants both face similarchallenges, their responsibilities differ in ways that affect how these theories apply. Still, all three theories illuminate how rhetoric provides the basis for expertise in both technical communication and writing centers.
Show less - Date Issued
- 2014
- Identifier
- CFE0005146, ucf:50706
- Format
- Document (PDF)
- PURL
- http://purl.flvc.org/ucf/fd/CFE0005146
- Title
- On Copyright Law: What Technical Communicators Need to Know.
- Creator
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Chao, Mariana, Jones, Daniel, Cavanagh, Thomas, Flammia, Madelyn, University of Central Florida
- Abstract / Description
-
Copyright law, in general, is a multi-faceted and sometimes difficult to understand process. Although it is law, it is often not straight-forward and cannot be applied universally. While the concepts of copyright infringement and plagiarism may sometimes overlap, many confuse one for the other or think they are the same offense. This thesis is intended to serve as a primer to some basic aspects of copyright law for technical communicators, including issues surrounding public domain works, the...
Show moreCopyright law, in general, is a multi-faceted and sometimes difficult to understand process. Although it is law, it is often not straight-forward and cannot be applied universally. While the concepts of copyright infringement and plagiarism may sometimes overlap, many confuse one for the other or think they are the same offense. This thesis is intended to serve as a primer to some basic aspects of copyright law for technical communicators, including issues surrounding public domain works, the fair use doctrine, the copyright clearance process, as well as why we should be concerned about our current copyright laws.Over the past few decades, Congress has increased the number of copyright extensions, and these extensions are pushing out works that were to expire into the public domain. This thesis provides details about the growing copyright reform movement to explore the possibilities of making our culture more egalitarian and democratic when it comes to the exchange of ideas and information. Those who support copyright reform believe current copyright laws increasingly favor corporations and special interest groups rather than the public, and insist on a balance in copyright laws to loosen some of the restrictions.This thesis illustrates the importance of the knowledge of copyright and its associated laws for technical communicators especially in these current times. With the growth of the Internet within the last 20 years, some of the core concepts of how copyright works for the analog age present some challenges when translated into our digital age. Young professionals (-) particularly those working in web-based media (-) are faced with some contradicting ideas on copyright, sharing, and piracy, especially when surrounded by peers who perpetuate incorrect notions about these topics. Technical communicators also need to be aware of the risks they run if they choose to ignore the law (or choose to remain ignorant of it), but, on a deeper level, they also need be prepared to deal with the philosophical and ethical inquiries that tie into the concept of copyright. This thesis also provides practical applications of the knowledge of copyright laws for technical communicators.
Show less - Date Issued
- 2014
- Identifier
- CFE0005147, ucf:50700
- Format
- Document (PDF)
- PURL
- http://purl.flvc.org/ucf/fd/CFE0005147
- Title
- Female Bias in Technical Communication and an Exploration of Pedagogical Strategies for Reversing the Bias.
- Creator
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Beeson, Rebecca, Applen, John, Jones, Daniel, Bowdon, Melody, University of Central Florida
- Abstract / Description
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This thesis explores technical communication and seeks to establish that females outnumber males in the field while also holder more high-level positions. It further seeks to show why a field does not benefit from having one sex outnumber the other. The benefits of having an equal number of females and males contributing to the growth and expansion of the field are discussed. Finally, this thesis discusses potential pedagogical strategies which could be employed at the college level as a...
Show moreThis thesis explores technical communication and seeks to establish that females outnumber males in the field while also holder more high-level positions. It further seeks to show why a field does not benefit from having one sex outnumber the other. The benefits of having an equal number of females and males contributing to the growth and expansion of the field are discussed. Finally, this thesis discusses potential pedagogical strategies which could be employed at the college level as a means of attracting more young men to the field and allowing for maximum growth of technical communication as a field of study and work. The thesis begins by exploring the history of technical communication as a means of understanding how it came to be a field where women outnumber men. It then briefly explores the differences between the learning styles of females and males as a means of demonstrating the importance of including both sexes equally. Lastly, using research from other, related fields pedagogical strategies are suggested for drawing more young males into the study and practice of technical communication.The conclusions drawn in this thesis are as follows: 1.) Women currently outnumber men in both the study and practice of technical communication. 2.) Research indicates that any field will benefit the most from including the skills and experiences of both sexes. 3.) Pedagogy may be effectively used as a means to help attract more young males into the field, thus increasing the growth and development of technical communication.
Show less - Date Issued
- 2014
- Identifier
- CFE0005131, ucf:50680
- Format
- Document (PDF)
- PURL
- http://purl.flvc.org/ucf/fd/CFE0005131
- Title
- Technical Illustration: The Changes and Challenges Presented by Advancements in Technology.
- Creator
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Caudill, Cindy, Jones, Daniel, Flammia, Madelyn, Young, Beth, University of Central Florida
- Abstract / Description
-
This thesis investigates the changes and challenges technology has created in the field of technical illustration. Technical illustration includes the fields of technical drawing as well as scientific and medical illustration. Previously, technical illustrators learned and used traditional illustration methods, without the aid of computers. However, technology has rapidly entered the field and has changed the education, work environment, skills, and role of the technical illustrator. I note...
Show moreThis thesis investigates the changes and challenges technology has created in the field of technical illustration. Technical illustration includes the fields of technical drawing as well as scientific and medical illustration. Previously, technical illustrators learned and used traditional illustration methods, without the aid of computers. However, technology has rapidly entered the field and has changed the education, work environment, skills, and role of the technical illustrator. I note both the benefits and disadvantages that current technical illustrators are facing in their work. I explore both sides of the digital media and traditional art debate while focusing on the technical illustrator's role, tools and methods used in the illustration process, education, idea-generation, and the future of technical illustration. By emphasizing the issues associated with the incorporation of digital media into traditional methods, I hope to bring awareness to the transformation of technical illustration and the future of this discipline.
Show less - Date Issued
- 2014
- Identifier
- CFE0005145, ucf:50681
- Format
- Document (PDF)
- PURL
- http://purl.flvc.org/ucf/fd/CFE0005145
- Title
- Narrative in Technical Communication.
- Creator
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Fenn, James, Applen, John, Cavanagh, Thomas, Jones, Daniel, University of Central Florida
- Abstract / Description
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The focus of this research is on the involvement of narrative learning within technical communication and the benefits that such an involvement can bring to the field. I analyze literature from within technical communication to determine how narrative is perceived, as well as the traditions in technical communication that made the field resistant to the use of narrative in the past. These findings are considered with respect to the history and definition of narrative, as well as to how...
Show moreThe focus of this research is on the involvement of narrative learning within technical communication and the benefits that such an involvement can bring to the field. I analyze literature from within technical communication to determine how narrative is perceived, as well as the traditions in technical communication that made the field resistant to the use of narrative in the past. These findings are considered with respect to the history and definition of narrative, as well as to how narrative can improve learning outcomes when compared to expository learning approaches commonly used in technical documentation.While narrative is not a new concept to technical communication, this thesis offers new insights through a multidisciplinary approach that considers the work of philosophers and narratologists that are relatively unknown to the field. Philosophers Daniel Dennett and Jerome Bruner, as well as narratologists Gerard Genette, David Rudrum, and David Darby, show that narrative forms the basis for the construction of reality and that all human learning is based on the stories that we construct to give meaning to the world. Research studies conducted on the efficacy of narrative based learning are discussed in detail and an analysis of the areas where narrative use would most benefit technical communication is provided. Recommendations are made for the future use of narrative in technical documentation and for further research on the implementation and cost of narrative solutions.
Show less - Date Issued
- 2014
- Identifier
- CFE0005163, ucf:50687
- Format
- Document (PDF)
- PURL
- http://purl.flvc.org/ucf/fd/CFE0005163
- Title
- A Thomistic Critique of the Ethics of Alasdair MacIntyre.
- Creator
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Otte, Marcus, Jones, Donald, Marien, Daniel, Strawser, Michael, University of Central Florida
- Abstract / Description
-
Alasdair MacIntyre argues in favor of a historicist Thomism in ethics and political philosophy. In his theory, sociological categories take up much of the space traditionally occupied by metaphysics. This peculiar feature of MacIntyre's Thomism, and its merits and demerits, is already a subject that has been taken up by many critics. In this thesis, these criticisms are supplemented and unified by identifying what is perhaps the most fundamental difficulty with MacIntyre's ethics: his version...
Show moreAlasdair MacIntyre argues in favor of a historicist Thomism in ethics and political philosophy. In his theory, sociological categories take up much of the space traditionally occupied by metaphysics. This peculiar feature of MacIntyre's Thomism, and its merits and demerits, is already a subject that has been taken up by many critics. In this thesis, these criticisms are supplemented and unified by identifying what is perhaps the most fundamental difficulty with MacIntyre's ethics: his version of Thomism is problematic because it treats epistemology as first philosophy. This misstep compromises MacIntyre's ability to provide a defense of moral objectivity, while also undermining his theory's usefulness in deriving moral rules. The result is an ethics of doubtful coherence. If Thomism is to offer a viable alternative to Enlightenment morality and Nietzschean genealogy, it must defend the priority of metaphysics with respect to epistemology.
Show less - Date Issued
- 2014
- Identifier
- CFE0005537, ucf:50322
- Format
- Document (PDF)
- PURL
- http://purl.flvc.org/ucf/fd/CFE0005537
- Title
- Virtual Teams and Intercultural Ethics: Preventative Measures for Ethical Dilemmas.
- Creator
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Blanton, Rebecca, Flammia, Madelyn, Jones, Daniel, Dombrowski, Paul, University of Central Florida
- Abstract / Description
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This thesis examines the ethical challenges faced by technical communicators working in global virtual teams. Virtual teams usage are becoming increasingly more popular and diverse. As a result, it is valuable for technical communicators to understand and recognize the challenges that are faced within global virtual teams in order to find solutions and preventive measures for these challenges. The ethical challenges present in global virtual teams were determined by examining the literature...
Show moreThis thesis examines the ethical challenges faced by technical communicators working in global virtual teams. Virtual teams usage are becoming increasingly more popular and diverse. As a result, it is valuable for technical communicators to understand and recognize the challenges that are faced within global virtual teams in order to find solutions and preventive measures for these challenges. The ethical challenges present in global virtual teams were determined by examining the literature on virtual teams and intercultural ethics and conducting a survey of practicing technical communicators who have experience in virtual teams. The purpose of the survey was to determine the ethical challenges that are present for technical communicators and how these issues were resolved. The survey results reveal valuable approaches to resolving and preventing ethical challenges in virtual teams. This thesis contributes to a better understanding of virtual teams and intercultural ethics and examines the ethical challenges that are faced by technical communicators. Furthermore, the thesis presents preventive measures for addressing ethical challenges. Finally, the thesis also provides suggestions for future research into the ethical challenges that are faced within global virtual teams, particularly those related to cultural differences.
Show less - Date Issued
- 2013
- Identifier
- CFE0004653, ucf:49887
- Format
- Document (PDF)
- PURL
- http://purl.flvc.org/ucf/fd/CFE0004653
- Title
- Creating and Examining an Online Advising Module for Graduate Students: A Usability Study.
- Creator
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Mitchell, Leah, Flammia, Madelyn, Jones, Daniel, Dombrowski, Paul, University of Central Florida
- Abstract / Description
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Advisors are always examining best practices when serving students with technology. Online instruction has become a popular choice for students in higher education, and educators and other student personnel are looking to further accommodate their students by including academic services as part of a virtual environment.This study examines the usefulness of an online advising module geared at graduate students. I conducted a usability study of an online advising module created for graduate...
Show moreAdvisors are always examining best practices when serving students with technology. Online instruction has become a popular choice for students in higher education, and educators and other student personnel are looking to further accommodate their students by including academic services as part of a virtual environment.This study examines the usefulness of an online advising module geared at graduate students. I conducted a usability study of an online advising module created for graduate students in the College of Education and Human Performance (CEDHP) at the University of Central Florida. The online advising module was presented to current graduate students in the CEDHP. They were asked to make observations and provide feedback about their interactions with the online advising module. The final part of the usability test included giving students a survey to rate their overall satisfaction with the module.Results of the study showed that graduate students did benefit from viewing the online advising module. Participants reported an overall strong satisfaction rate with the module.
Show less - Date Issued
- 2014
- Identifier
- CFE0005212, ucf:50621
- Format
- Document (PDF)
- PURL
- http://purl.flvc.org/ucf/fd/CFE0005212
- Title
- Investigating compositional variations of S-complex near-Earth asteroids: (1627) Ivar.
- Creator
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Jones, Jenna, Fernandez, Yan, Britt, Daniel, Campins, Humberto, Howell, Ellen, University of Central Florida
- Abstract / Description
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We seek to investigate the complexity and heterogeneity of the surfaces of near-Earth asteroids (NEAs). In particular, we are studying the S-complex NEAs, which account for a large portion of the observed near-Earth objects. Here we present our results for (1627) Ivar, an Amor class NEA with taxonomic type Sqw. In 2013, Ivar's large size and close approach to Earth (minimum distance 0.32 AU) provided an opportunity to observe the asteroid over many different viewing angles for an extended...
Show moreWe seek to investigate the complexity and heterogeneity of the surfaces of near-Earth asteroids (NEAs). In particular, we are studying the S-complex NEAs, which account for a large portion of the observed near-Earth objects. Here we present our results for (1627) Ivar, an Amor class NEA with taxonomic type Sqw. In 2013, Ivar's large size and close approach to Earth (minimum distance 0.32 AU) provided an opportunity to observe the asteroid over many different viewing angles for an extended period of time. We collected delay-Doppler radar images and Doppler spectra using the Arecibo Observatory's 2380 MHz radar, and, by incorporating an extensive lightcurve collection, we have constrained the shape and spin state. In addition, we observed Ivar using NASA's IRTF's SpeX mode to gather rotationally resolved reflected and thermal spectra in the near-IR regime. We have created a high-resolution shape model, and we have found Ivar to have a sidereal period of 4.7951689 (&)#177; 0.0000026 hours with a pole at ecliptic longitude and latitude 336(&)deg;, +37(&)deg; ((&)#177; 6(&)deg;) respectively. We also show that Ivar is more elongated than previous studies suggests, with dimensions along the principal axis 15.15 x 6.25 x 5.66 (&)#177; 10%. This model has been incorporated into our thermal modeling code, SHERMAN, in order to determine which reflective, thermal, and surface properties best reproduce our numerous and rotationally resolved spectra. Primarily, we vary thermal inertia, geometric albedo, and crater fraction (surface roughness) although SHERMAN has many parameters that are allowed to vary. Our findings show that Ivar's thermal observations cannot be reproduced with a homogeneous model, but rather a heterogeneous model with a thermal inertia spot, and possibly different crater fraction values, needs to be applied in order to reproduce all of the spectra. Due to the variations in observing geometry for our thermal spectra, the properties of this spot are well constrained. We find that, with this spot, that the values of thermal inertia, geometric albedo, and crater fraction are 80 (&)#177; 20 J m-2 s-1/2 K-1, 0 (-) 0.3, and 0.27 (&)#177; 0.02, respectively. This work shows the advantage of having many datasets for deep study of an individual NEA, and with these results, we will learn more about the detailed regolith and surface properties of Ivar and how those properties compare to those of other NEAs.
Show less - Date Issued
- 2018
- Identifier
- CFE0007022, ucf:52044
- Format
- Document (PDF)
- PURL
- http://purl.flvc.org/ucf/fd/CFE0007022
- Title
- Narrative Transportation and Virtual Reality: Exploring the Immersive Qualities of Social Justice in the Digital World.
- Creator
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Raffel, Sara, McDaniel, Rudy, Jones, Natasha, Salter, Anastasia, Rettberg, Jill, University of Central Florida
- Abstract / Description
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This dissertation explores the potential applications for virtual reality (VR) stories in support of social justice causes, examining whether digital games historically been successfully leveraged for social justice purposes, and determining which components of VR technology can most encourage narrative transportation of participants in VR stories.The first chapter examines theories of simulation, virtual reality, narrative, and interactivity, as well as concepts of immersion from various...
Show moreThis dissertation explores the potential applications for virtual reality (VR) stories in support of social justice causes, examining whether digital games historically been successfully leveraged for social justice purposes, and determining which components of VR technology can most encourage narrative transportation of participants in VR stories.The first chapter examines theories of simulation, virtual reality, narrative, and interactivity, as well as concepts of immersion from various disciplines and settles on narrative transportation, a theory from cognitive psychology, as the most useful in measuring the effect of VR stories on participants.The second chapter examines ethnographic practices, activist games, and modes of reclaiming digital spaces as a way to encourage digital social justice and ensure traditionally marginalized communities have meaningful access to technology(-)or, the tools to use it, create with it, and critique it.The third chapter presents the result of a play study conducted to measure participants' transportation in a recent VR narrative and finds VR interactive narratives to be more transportive and engaging than their two-dimensional counterparts.The fourth chapter interrogates some of the fears of VR technology, namely that it will be used to further current societal injustices and as a potentially powerful propaganda tool.The final chapter presents five recommendations for designers seeking to experiment in virtual reality narratives. The ultimate aim of this work is to encourage scholars, designers, and participants to make ethical decisions in the creation and use of virtual societies.
Show less - Date Issued
- 2018
- Identifier
- CFE0007080, ucf:52015
- Format
- Document (PDF)
- PURL
- http://purl.flvc.org/ucf/fd/CFE0007080