Current Search: Experimental (x)
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- Title
- HOW THE SKY TASTES: EIGHT STORIES.
- Creator
-
Sinclair, Daniel, Leiby, Jeanne, University of Central Florida
- Abstract / Description
-
How the Sky Tastes is not simply a collection of stories. It is my representation of moments in life, social commentaries, bits of humor, and pure entertainment all in one. Each story, although unique and easily able to stand alone, shares qualities I find important in writing fiction. First, each story features realistically flawed, yet sympathetic characters dealing with difficulties in life. Secondly, the actual moment is important in each story--whether that moment is something shared...
Show moreHow the Sky Tastes is not simply a collection of stories. It is my representation of moments in life, social commentaries, bits of humor, and pure entertainment all in one. Each story, although unique and easily able to stand alone, shares qualities I find important in writing fiction. First, each story features realistically flawed, yet sympathetic characters dealing with difficulties in life. Secondly, the actual moment is important in each story--whether that moment is something shared between two or more characters or simply the time a certain character comes to a serious realization. Finally, the style can make or break the story. I do not believe in gimmicky writing--form must always have function--but I do feel that the writing must be representative of the characters and the stories that it serves. Experimentation is important in writing. Each story should have its own way of telling itself. All these stories can be seen as experimental in some way, but also all these stories are told the way they have to be told. The characters tell the stories themselves and the writing just follows suit. It is my hope that readers can identify with most, if not all, of these stories, and engage interest in these characters enough to care about what happens to them, even if they don't necessarily like them.
Show less - Date Issued
- 2007
- Identifier
- CFE0001973, ucf:47431
- Format
- Document (PDF)
- PURL
- http://purl.flvc.org/ucf/fd/CFE0001973
- Title
- TYPOGRAPHIC and IMAGE EXPLORATIONS.
- Creator
-
Rupp, Ben, Francis, Madison, University of Central Florida
- Abstract / Description
-
These typographic and image based designs explore multiple components of design including: legibility, manipulation, communication, and conventionalism with an emphasis on information graphics. Drawing from influences of the Futurist designers and Dadaist typography, I take the mundane details of an object such as a baseball or car to create excessive amounts of visually stimulating graphics. Through this process of gathering detailed information, I take photographs, draw by hand and scan...
Show moreThese typographic and image based designs explore multiple components of design including: legibility, manipulation, communication, and conventionalism with an emphasis on information graphics. Drawing from influences of the Futurist designers and Dadaist typography, I take the mundane details of an object such as a baseball or car to create excessive amounts of visually stimulating graphics. Through this process of gathering detailed information, I take photographs, draw by hand and scan images to fully understand and portray an objects identity until I feel satisfied that the objects visual potential has been exhausted. These personal expressions are combined to form printed material and book designs. These works explore the experimental use of type and image montage to break the rules of graphic design while keeping some of the traditional aesthetics associated with this discipline. My love for detailed subject matter may be seen in my books, The Baseball and 1 (One) which include subject matter from my childhood interests such as rare 1/1 baseball cards.
Show less - Date Issued
- 2011
- Identifier
- CFE0003689, ucf:48838
- Format
- Document (PDF)
- PURL
- http://purl.flvc.org/ucf/fd/CFE0003689
- Title
- Simultaneous Measurement of Isotope-free Tracer and Interdiffusion Coefficients in Sandwich Type Diffusion Couples.
- Creator
-
Schulz, Esin, Sohn, Yongho, Bai, Yuanli, Florczyk, Stephen, Coffey, Kevin, Orlovskaya, Nina, University of Central Florida
- Abstract / Description
-
The experimental determination of the tracer or self-diffusion coef?cient as a function of composition can be quite burdensome in alloys since separate measurements must be carried out for each alloy composition. A new formalism recently developed by I.V. Belova, N.S. Kulkarni, Y.H. Sohn and G.E. Murch, based on linear response theory combined with the Boltzmann(-)Matano method allows determination of tracer and interdiffusion coef?cients simultaneously from a single, isotope-free solid to...
Show moreThe experimental determination of the tracer or self-diffusion coef?cient as a function of composition can be quite burdensome in alloys since separate measurements must be carried out for each alloy composition. A new formalism recently developed by I.V. Belova, N.S. Kulkarni, Y.H. Sohn and G.E. Murch, based on linear response theory combined with the Boltzmann(-)Matano method allows determination of tracer and interdiffusion coef?cients simultaneously from a single, isotope-free solid to solid diffusion couple experiment. In this study, for the first time, an experimental investigation with an analytical approach based on the new formalism has been carried out in the binary Cu-Ni system. Pure Cu and Ni thin films were deposited in between several binary diffusion couples with varying terminal alloy compositions (such as Cu, Cu-25Ni, Cu-50Ni, Cu-75Ni, Ni). Diffusion couples were then annealed at 800(&)deg;C, 900(&)deg;C and 1000(&)deg;C. After annealing, the couples were water quenched, cross-sectioned, and prepared for compositional characterization. Scanning Electron Microscopy was employed to examine the interdiffusion zone. Energy Dispersive X-ray Spectroscopy was conducted to obtain concentration profiles for quantitative analysis. The superposition of the concentration profiles of thin film and interdiffusion were analyzed for the simultaneous determination of tracer and interdiffusion coefficients. The tracer diffusion coefficient of Cu, tracer diffusion coefficient of Ni and inter-diffusion coefficients simultaneously determined using the experimental methodology based on the novel formalism derived, and produced results consistent with previously reported values determined independently by radiotracer and interdiffusion experiments.
Show less - Date Issued
- 2018
- Identifier
- CFE0007368, ucf:52101
- Format
- Document (PDF)
- PURL
- http://purl.flvc.org/ucf/fd/CFE0007368
- Title
- The Effects of Assumption on Subspace Identification Methods Using Simulation and Experimental Data.
- Creator
-
Kim, Yoonhwak, Yun, Hae-Bum, Catbas, Fikret, Mackie, Kevin, Nam, Boo Hyun, Behal, Aman, University of Central Florida
- Abstract / Description
-
In the modern dynamic engineering field, experimental dynamics is an important area of study. This area includes structural dynamics, structural control, and structural health monitoring. In experimental dynamics, methods to obtain measured data have seen a great influx of research efforts to develop an accurate and reliable experimental analysis result. A technical challenge is the procurement of informative data that exhibits the desired system information. In many cases, the number of...
Show moreIn the modern dynamic engineering field, experimental dynamics is an important area of study. This area includes structural dynamics, structural control, and structural health monitoring. In experimental dynamics, methods to obtain measured data have seen a great influx of research efforts to develop an accurate and reliable experimental analysis result. A technical challenge is the procurement of informative data that exhibits the desired system information. In many cases, the number of sensors is limited by cost and difficulty of data archive. Furthermore, some informative data has technical difficulty when measuring input force and, even if obtaining the desired data were possible, it could include a lot of noise in the measuring data. As a result, researchers have developed many analytical tools with limited informative data. Subspace identification method is used one of tools in these achievements.Subspace identification method includes three different approaches: Deterministic Subspace Identification (DSI), Stochastic Subspace Identification (SSI), and Deterministic-Stochastic Subspace Identification (DSSI). The subspace identification method is widely used for fast computational speed and its accuracy. Based on the given information, such as output only, input/output, and input/output with noises, DSI, SSI, and DSSI are differently applied under specific assumptions, which could affect the analytical results. The objective of this study is to observe the effect of assumptions on subspace identification with various data conditions. Firstly, an analytical simulation study is performed using a six-degree-of-freedom mass-damper-spring system which is created using MATLAB. Various conditions of excitation insert to the simulation test model, and its excitation and response are analyzed using the subspace identification method. For stochastic problems, artificial noise is contained to the excitation and followed the same steps. Through this simulation test, the effects of assumption on subspace identification are quantified.Once the effects of the assumptions are studied using the simulation model, the subspace identification method is applied to dynamic response data collected from large-scale 12-story buildings with different foundation types that are tested at Tongji University, Shanghai, China. Noise effects are verified using three different excitation types. Furthermore, using the DSSI, which has the most accurate result, the effect of different foundations on the superstructure are analyzed.
Show less - Date Issued
- 2013
- Identifier
- CFE0004703, ucf:49822
- Format
- Document (PDF)
- PURL
- http://purl.flvc.org/ucf/fd/CFE0004703
- Title
- EFFECTS OF ADVANCE ORGANIZERS ON LEARNING AND RETENTION FROM A FULLY WEB-BASED CLASS.
- Creator
-
Chen, Baiyun, Hirumi, Atsusi, University of Central Florida
- Abstract / Description
-
The purpose of this study is to investigate the short-term and long-term effects of two kinds of advance organizers (AOs), a visual concept map and a text outline. The AOs were administered in a fully Web-based course in health care ethics. The outcome measures are students' knowledge acquisition and application in two posttests. This study was conducted through a post-test only control group design with a random assignment. The population of the study involved 166 college students who...
Show moreThe purpose of this study is to investigate the short-term and long-term effects of two kinds of advance organizers (AOs), a visual concept map and a text outline. The AOs were administered in a fully Web-based course in health care ethics. The outcome measures are students' knowledge acquisition and application in two posttests. This study was conducted through a post-test only control group design with a random assignment. The population of the study involved 166 college students who participated in this online class in their junior or senior year. The voluntary research participants were randomly assigned into the two treatment groups and one control group. The treatment of AO was administered as an integral part of a one-week-long online module on the topic of patient-physician relationships. Students of the two treatment groups were presented with one of the two AOs, while the control group was instructed to proceed to textbook reading without an AO. Then, students were tested on the subject matter with two parallel posttests. Both posttests were composed of a multiple-choice question quiz and a set of scenario-based essay questions. The students took posttest I at the end of the instructional week, and posttest II four weeks after. A survey and interviews were also conducted to supplement the quantitative results with contextual information. The findings do not demonstrate a statistically significant AO effect among the treatment groups and the control group. However, in agreement with the previous research, this study shows a positive but inconclusive benefit of using AOs for students' short-term knowledge acquisition. The students using a concept map consistently obtained higher learning achievements than individuals using a text outline. More importantly, this study reiterated the proposition that students of lower-learning abilities benefit more from using an AO for online learning than those of higher-learning abilities. The current study extends our knowledge on the use of AOs in fully Web-based educational environments. The results indicated that although AOs more often than not have small facilitative effects for learners, they are not equally effective for all learners in all learning situations. The incorporation of the instructional strategies, such as AOs, in Web-based courses and programs might benefit online learners, especially those students of lower verbal and analytical abilities, or of lower prior knowledge of the material-to-be-learned.
Show less - Date Issued
- 2007
- Identifier
- CFE0001556, ucf:47137
- Format
- Document (PDF)
- PURL
- http://purl.flvc.org/ucf/fd/CFE0001556
- Title
- OF MARTYRS AND MINSTRELS.
- Creator
-
Coleman, Trevon J, Poindexter, Carla, University of Central Florida
- Abstract / Description
-
"Our search for understanding in matters of race automatically incline us toward blackness, although that is not where these answers lie." - Nell Irvin Painter. Over the course of, and in partial fulfillment for, the degree of Bachelor of Fine Arts in Studio Art and the degree of Bachelor of Fine Arts in Film Production, I have produced a multimedia body of work. I made this body of work as a reflection and result of my processes and studies, and as a method to examine perception, and...
Show more"Our search for understanding in matters of race automatically incline us toward blackness, although that is not where these answers lie." - Nell Irvin Painter. Over the course of, and in partial fulfillment for, the degree of Bachelor of Fine Arts in Studio Art and the degree of Bachelor of Fine Arts in Film Production, I have produced a multimedia body of work. I made this body of work as a reflection and result of my processes and studies, and as a method to examine perception, and representation in relation to identity. This body of work combines drawing, painting, printmaking, ceramics, and filmmaking; utilizing each medium to scrutinize language, particularly that of the terms "black" and "white" and their cultural relationships to each other. Through this practice, my work evolved into a study of expectation, as situated through language, and conventional understanding. This work adds to the discourse on spaces and expectations of marginalized communities, art, and continues the tradition of the artists' practice as a form of research. I also position this work in relation to current mass culture iconography while using a distancing effect to explore concepts of martyrdom and minstrelsy as reflections of expectations on my own experience.
Show less - Date Issued
- 2019
- Identifier
- CFH2000510, ucf:45677
- Format
- Document (PDF)
- PURL
- http://purl.flvc.org/ucf/fd/CFH2000510
- Title
- Evaluating Teaching Grammar in Specific Constraints of Context: A Pilot Study in the Developmental Writing Program at Seminole State College.
- Creator
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Roney, Joshua, Marinara, Martha, Scott, John, McDaniel, Rudy, University of Central Florida
- Abstract / Description
-
This pilot study investigated the efficacy of a supplemental Active Learning intervention that was administered with grammar workbook software in remedial-level composition classrooms at Seminole State College. The study analyzed student response data in a pre-test and post-test instrument in four classrooms; two followed standard methods while two incorporated the additional experimental intervention. The groups are identified in this study as either (")Standard(") or (")Experimental,(")...
Show moreThis pilot study investigated the efficacy of a supplemental Active Learning intervention that was administered with grammar workbook software in remedial-level composition classrooms at Seminole State College. The study analyzed student response data in a pre-test and post-test instrument in four classrooms; two followed standard methods while two incorporated the additional experimental intervention. The groups are identified in this study as either (")Standard(") or (")Experimental,(") according to the method administered in the classroom.The intervention was designed based on five grammar topic areas which correspond with content assessed in the pre-test and post-test. The Active Learning method required students to prepare a short, guided presentation on selected grammar topics. Findings showed that there was no significant change in improvement between the pre-test and post-test among the Standard or the Experimental groups, due in part to a relatively small sample size. A positive change approaching significant level occurred in the Experimental group in topic areas related to critical thinking. No significant or near-significant change was observed in the topic areas related to memorization in either group. Recommendations were made for further sampling, modification, and future applications of the intervention used in the study and for continued testing of grammar software used for instruction in Developmental Writing classes at Seminole State College.
Show less - Date Issued
- 2012
- Identifier
- CFE0004590, ucf:49218
- Format
- Document (PDF)
- PURL
- http://purl.flvc.org/ucf/fd/CFE0004590
- Title
- A NOVEL EXPERIMENTAL APPROACH USING A RECONFIGURABLE TEST SETUP FOR COMPLEX NONLINEAR DYNAMIC SYSTEMS.
- Creator
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Rank, Aaron, Yun, Hae-Bum, University of Central Florida
- Abstract / Description
-
Experimental nonlinear dynamics is an important area of study in the modern engineering field, with engineering applications in structural dynamics, structural control, and structural health monitoring. As a result, the discipline has experienced a great influx of research efforts to develop a versatile and reliable experimental methodology. A technical challenge in many experimental studies is the procurement of a device that exhibits the desired nonlinear behavior. As a result, many...
Show moreExperimental nonlinear dynamics is an important area of study in the modern engineering field, with engineering applications in structural dynamics, structural control, and structural health monitoring. As a result, the discipline has experienced a great influx of research efforts to develop a versatile and reliable experimental methodology. A technical challenge in many experimental studies is the procurement of a device that exhibits the desired nonlinear behavior. As a result, many researchers have longed for a versatile, but accurate, testing methodology that has complete freedom to simulate a wide range of nonlinearities and stochastic behaviors. The objective of this study is to develop a reconfigurable test setup as a tool to be used in a wide range of nonlinear dynamic studies. The main components include a moving mass whose restoring force can accurately be controlled and reprogrammed (with software) based upon measured displacement and velocity readings at each time step. The device offers control over nonlinear characteristics and the equation of dynamic motion. The advantage of having such an experimental setup is the ability to simulate various types of nonlinearities with the same test setup. As a result, the data collected can be used to help validate nonlinear modeling, system identification, and stochastic analysis studies. A physical test apparatus was developed, and various mechanical, electrical, and programming calibrations were performed for reliable experimental studies. To display potential uses for the reconfigurable approach, examples are presented where the device has been used to create physical data for use in change detection and deterioration studies. In addition, a demonstration is presented of the device's ability to physically simulate a large-scale orifice viscous damper, devices commonly used for vibration mitigation in bridges and buildings. For a large-scale viscous damper, physical testing is required to ensure structural design properties. However, due to the large scale of the dampers, expensive dynamic loading tests can be carried out at a very limited number of facilities. Using the reconfigurable test setup, the dynamic signature of the large-scale viscous damper can accurately be simulated with pre-collected data. The development of a system capable of emulating the restoring force of a nonlinear device with software is a novel approach and requires further calibration for increased reliability and accuracy. A discussion regarding the challenges faced when developing the methodology is presented and possible solutions are recommended. The methodology introduced by this apparatus is very promising. The device is a valuable experimental tool for researchers and designers, allowing for physical data collection, modeling, analysis, and validation of a wide class of nonlinear phenomena that commonly occur in a wide variety of engineering applications.
Show less - Date Issued
- 2011
- Identifier
- CFE0003982, ucf:48654
- Format
- Document (PDF)
- PURL
- http://purl.flvc.org/ucf/fd/CFE0003982
- Title
- WIRES AND LIGHT.
- Creator
-
Inguanta, Ashley, Hubbard, Susan, University of Central Florida
- Abstract / Description
-
Wires and Light is an experimental story cycle composed of fiction and hybrid pieces, which blend poetry, fiction and creative nonfiction together. The characters in these pieces are propelled by uncertainty and a strong desire to be connected to places, people. If these characters do find the connections they are searching for, most of these joining moments are fleeting. A girl, straight out of high school, misses her wonder boy, befriends a woman nearly a decade older, fists her in the...
Show moreWires and Light is an experimental story cycle composed of fiction and hybrid pieces, which blend poetry, fiction and creative nonfiction together. The characters in these pieces are propelled by uncertainty and a strong desire to be connected to places, people. If these characters do find the connections they are searching for, most of these joining moments are fleeting. A girl, straight out of high school, misses her wonder boy, befriends a woman nearly a decade older, fists her in the desert while California's on fire. A woman who dives horses off the Atlantic City Steel Pier is forced to leave her glamorous, dangerous career, which has been her entire life. The same woman meets a grieving mother years later on a train, wrestles with the idea of loving this woman, tries to understand the wall between them. A boy loses his virginity and has trouble understanding the power of his body. A young girl loses her blue horse, her best friend. Years later the same girl will deal with depression and self-mutilation, and will heal on her own. She will meet a child in a coffee shop and help her heal, too. These characters yearn for love, freedom and wholeness, and although the search is painful, they must learn to find happiness by accepting the presence of pain. These pieces are intended to show how pain affects the body, how wires can bind bodies and light can burn skin, but they don't have to. Wires can be used to collect love, keep it fastened and safe, like a guiding light.
Show less - Date Issued
- 2011
- Identifier
- CFE0003699, ucf:48830
- Format
- Document (PDF)
- PURL
- http://purl.flvc.org/ucf/fd/CFE0003699
- Title
- 83 Orange Peels A Micro-Budget Experimental Documentary Feature.
- Creator
-
Hammoud, Klara, Harris, Christopher, Shults, Katherine, Danker, Elizabeth, Perez, Jonathan, University of Central Florida
- Abstract / Description
-
83 ORANGE PEELS is a feature-length film written and directed by Klara Hammoud and produced by Biddayat as part of the requirements for earning a Master of Fine Arts in Entrepreneurial Digital Cinema from the University of Central Florida. The project aims to challenge existing conventions of the documentary filmmaking on multiple levels (-) aesthetic, narrative, and technical(-) while also examining growing importance of workflow throughout all aspects of production. These challenges were...
Show more83 ORANGE PEELS is a feature-length film written and directed by Klara Hammoud and produced by Biddayat as part of the requirements for earning a Master of Fine Arts in Entrepreneurial Digital Cinema from the University of Central Florida. The project aims to challenge existing conventions of the documentary filmmaking on multiple levels (-) aesthetic, narrative, and technical(-) while also examining growing importance of workflow throughout all aspects of production. These challenges were both facilitated and necessitated by the limited resources available to the production team and the academic context of the production. This thesis is a record of the film, from concept to completion and preparation for delivery to an audience.
Show less - Date Issued
- 2017
- Identifier
- CFE0006622, ucf:51262
- Format
- Document (PDF)
- PURL
- http://purl.flvc.org/ucf/fd/CFE0006622
- Title
- From the Yellow Peril to the Model Minority: An Experimental Survey Examining Racial Attitudes towards Asian Americans.
- Creator
-
Nguyen, Jenny, Carter, J. Scott, Carter, Shannon, Anthony, Amanda, Corra, Mamadi, University of Central Florida
- Abstract / Description
-
Attitudinal research continues to show a more liberal trend in racial attitudes of Whites towards Blacks across a spectrum of issues (i.e. interracial marriage, residential integration, etc.) leading some to believe that we are moving into a post-racial society. However, a growing body of research has brought into question this utopian post-racial assertion. While Whites express support for racial equality in principle, they vehemently oppose race-targeted policies aimed to address racial...
Show moreAttitudinal research continues to show a more liberal trend in racial attitudes of Whites towards Blacks across a spectrum of issues (i.e. interracial marriage, residential integration, etc.) leading some to believe that we are moving into a post-racial society. However, a growing body of research has brought into question this utopian post-racial assertion. While Whites express support for racial equality in principle, they vehemently oppose race-targeted policies aimed to address racial inequality. This principle-policy gap has been consistently associated with persistent racial resentment; thus, contradicting the notion that of a post-racial era. Existing attitudinal research is often limited to the Black-White binary. Asian Americans in particular are often omitted from attitudinal research. Through a group threat framework, which argues that racial resentment occurs when there exists a threat to valued resources, this dissertation research examines racial attitudes towards Asian American in four domains: education, jobs, marriage, and residential integration. Given the stereotype of the model minority and the successes made by many Asian Americans, the project assesses whether there continues to be underlying racial resentment toward Asian Americans by Whites and whether the racial resentment is based in feelings of threat to valued resources. This study utilized an experimental list survey design, which addresses social desirability bias in traditional survey research. Quantitative analyses were conducted from a sample collected at a large public university. Traditional difference-in-means approach along with Ordinary Least Squares Regression were conducted to examine what factor(s) significantly predicted anger towards Asian Americans in these domains. Results suggests that group threat significantly predicted the presence of anger towards Asian Americans in the job domain, but not in the education, marriage, or residential domains. As group threat increased in the job domain, presence of anger also significantly increased. Results suggest that not every domain stimulates feelings of anger towards Asian Americans. Moreover, not every domain evokes feelings of threat to valued resources.
Show less - Date Issued
- 2016
- Identifier
- CFE0006154, ucf:51130
- Format
- Document (PDF)
- PURL
- http://purl.flvc.org/ucf/fd/CFE0006154
- Title
- Neurophenomenological Methods: Experiences of Earth and Space in Simulation.
- Creator
-
Morrow, Patricia, Reinerman, Lauren, Cash, Mason, Janz, Bruce, Gallagher, Shaun, University of Central Florida
- Abstract / Description
-
The present study explores the nature and structure of spiritual and aesthetic experiences through the interdisciplinary application of neurophenomenology (NP). This approach merges aspects of psychology, neurophysiology, and phenomenology into a unified methodology. The study is nested within a larger project, Space, Science, and Spirituality, and as such, it carries a common goal to use simulation to evoke spiritual and aesthetic responses similar to those expressed by astronauts and...
Show moreThe present study explores the nature and structure of spiritual and aesthetic experiences through the interdisciplinary application of neurophenomenology (NP). This approach merges aspects of psychology, neurophysiology, and phenomenology into a unified methodology. The study is nested within a larger project, Space, Science, and Spirituality, and as such, it carries a common goal to use simulation to evoke spiritual and aesthetic responses similar to those expressed by astronauts and cosmonauts. Careful analysis of previous work in NP provided methodological (")lessons learned("), which guided the experimental design, execution, and analysis of the present study. The data collected provides support for experience as a phenomenon that can be studied through empirical means. Further, the articulation of spiritual and aesthetic experiences akin to astronaut experiences corresponds to specific neurological and psychological indicators. Among those indicators are differences in EEG measures during simulation time relative to expressions of spiritual experience following the simulation and changes in visual processing across theta, alpha, and beta signals as correlated with self-identification. These findings support an embodied theory of experience that incorporates memory, executive function, perception, and consciousness. In addition to its academic contribution, this research holds implications for commercial space flight, long-term space missions, post-traumatic stress disorder therapies, and the entertainment industry.
Show less - Date Issued
- 2013
- Identifier
- CFE0005035, ucf:50018
- Format
- Document (PDF)
- PURL
- http://purl.flvc.org/ucf/fd/CFE0005035
- Title
- A MEASURE OF ENTREPRENEURIAL RISK PREFERENCE AND OPTIMISM USING FIELD EXPERIMENTS.
- Creator
-
Schneider, Mark, Elston, Julie, University of Central Florida
- Abstract / Description
-
Previous studies have underscored the economic importance of the role of the entrepreneur, and empirical studies testing the nature of the entrepreneur are notably lacking. This study directly addresses this issue by examining newly gathered field data which captures the decision making and risk behaviors for a group of high-technology entrepreneurs. Two decision making tasks were used to elicit risk aversion measures and to test for any 'joy of winning' or judgmental errors, possibly in the...
Show morePrevious studies have underscored the economic importance of the role of the entrepreneur, and empirical studies testing the nature of the entrepreneur are notably lacking. This study directly addresses this issue by examining newly gathered field data which captures the decision making and risk behaviors for a group of high-technology entrepreneurs. Two decision making tasks were used to elicit risk aversion measures and to test for any 'joy of winning' or judgmental errors, possibly in the form of over optimistic behavior. These elicitations were made with the use of multiple price formats and winner's curse experiments. 62 responses were collected from subjects at the 2004 national Small Business Innovation Research (SBIR) conference in Atlanta, March 2004. From these 62 responses a subject pool of 33 entrepreneurs and 29 non-entrepreneurs were identified. Statistical methods were employed to assign risk aversion measures and identify any 'joy of winning' or judgmental errors for the entrepreneur (treatment) group compared with the non-entrepreneur (control) group. Findings show that entrepreneurs exhibit less risk aversion, but show no statistically meaningful difference in judgmental errors compared to their non-entrepreneur counterparts. However, there is evidence to support the claim that both entrepreneurs and non-entrepreneurs exhibit a 'joy of winning', and that the size of the effect is larger for entrepreneurs.
Show less - Date Issued
- 2005
- Identifier
- CFE0000549, ucf:46426
- Format
- Document (PDF)
- PURL
- http://purl.flvc.org/ucf/fd/CFE0000549
- Title
- STRUCTURAL HEALTH MONITORING OF COMPOSITE OVERWRAPPED PRESSURE VESSELS.
- Creator
-
Letizia, Luca, Catbas, F. Necati, University of Central Florida
- Abstract / Description
-
This work is focusing to study the structural behavior of Composite Overwrapped Pressure Vessels (COPVs). These COPVs are found in many engineering applications. In the aerospace field, they are installed onto spaceships and aid the reorientation of the spacecraft in very far and airless, therefore frictionless, orbits to save energy and fuel. The intent of this research is to analyze the difference in performance of both perfectly intact and purposely damaged tanks. Understanding both the...
Show moreThis work is focusing to study the structural behavior of Composite Overwrapped Pressure Vessels (COPVs). These COPVs are found in many engineering applications. In the aerospace field, they are installed onto spaceships and aid the reorientation of the spacecraft in very far and airless, therefore frictionless, orbits to save energy and fuel. The intent of this research is to analyze the difference in performance of both perfectly intact and purposely damaged tanks. Understanding both the source and location of a structural fault will help NASA engineers predict the performance of COPVs subject to similar conditions, which could prevent failures of important missions. The structural behavior of six tanks is investigated by means of experimental modal analysis. Knowledge of statistical signal processing methods allows to sort out and extract meaningful features from the data as to gain understanding of the performance of the structures. Structural identification is carried out using Narrow Band and Broad Band algorithms. A comparison through correlation tables and figures presents the differences in natural frequencies, mode shapes and damping ratios of all structures. A careful analysis displays the deviation of these modal parameters in the damaged tanks, highlighting the evident structural defects.
Show less - Date Issued
- 2016
- Identifier
- CFH2000069, ucf:45514
- Format
- Document (PDF)
- PURL
- http://purl.flvc.org/ucf/fd/CFH2000069
- Title
- Noise Thinks the Anthropocene: An Experiment in Noise Poetics.
- Creator
-
Zwintscher, Aaron, Mauer, Barry, Grajeda, Anthony, Rounsaville, Angela, Schafer, Mark, University of Central Florida
- Abstract / Description
-
This dissertation is a textual experiment in noise poetics. It is an experiment in that it results from indeterminate means, alternative grammar, and experimental thinking. The outcome was not predetermined. Noise poetics is the use of noise to explain, elucidate, and evoke (akin to other poetic forms) within the textual milieu in a manner that seeks to be less determinate and more improvisational than conventional writing. This text argues that noise poetics is a necessary form for...
Show moreThis dissertation is a textual experiment in noise poetics. It is an experiment in that it results from indeterminate means, alternative grammar, and experimental thinking. The outcome was not predetermined. Noise poetics is the use of noise to explain, elucidate, and evoke (akin to other poetic forms) within the textual milieu in a manner that seeks to be less determinate and more improvisational than conventional writing. This text argues that noise poetics is a necessary form for addressing political inequality, coexistence with the (nonhuman) other, the ecological crisis, and sustainability because it approaches these issues as system of interconnected fragments and excesses and thus has the potential to reach or envision solutions in novel ways. The experiment draws quotations and fragments from a diverse collection of noise theory texts, arranged and assembled via indeterminate cut-up methods based on the work of several prominent artists and theorists (John Cage and William Burroughs among them). The experimental text (contained in full in Appendix B) was then edited and added to in order to craft the textual project into an argument for noise poetics that followed the juxtaposed lines of thought towards possible conclusions and practical applications. This project coincided with and was supplemented by bruit jouissance, a multimedia audiovisual noise project (contained and explicated in Appendix A). The two projects together are two applications of thoryvology (an articulation of noise theory created and presented within the text) and as complementary methods of viewing and understanding each other.
Show less - Date Issued
- 2017
- Identifier
- CFE0006679, ucf:51911
- Format
- Document (PDF)
- PURL
- http://purl.flvc.org/ucf/fd/CFE0006679
- Title
- Measuring Player Perceptions of Freedom and Control in Modded and Unmodded Versions of Bethesda's Skyrim: A Qualitative Play Study.
- Creator
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Kretzschmar, Mark, Salter, Anastasia, Stanfill, Mel, Janz, Bruce, Postigo, Hector, University of Central Florida
- Abstract / Description
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This interdisciplinary dissertation explores perceptions of control in modded and unmodded versions of Bethesda's sandbox video game Skyrim. Sandbox games are known for greater choice options that suggest greater perceptions of control for gamers. Sandbox games also generally encourage the use of user-generated creations called modifications (mods) that users can download to personalize their games. While we need philosophy to understand and define control as a concept, we also need...
Show moreThis interdisciplinary dissertation explores perceptions of control in modded and unmodded versions of Bethesda's sandbox video game Skyrim. Sandbox games are known for greater choice options that suggest greater perceptions of control for gamers. Sandbox games also generally encourage the use of user-generated creations called modifications (mods) that users can download to personalize their games. While we need philosophy to understand and define control as a concept, we also need psychology to understand how users perceive control in media studies. At present, qualitative academic research that measures gamer perceptions of control is non-existent as is research on how users articulate their experiences with mods. Interviews were conducted with twenty-seven individuals who identified as gamers to analyze these perceptions of control in a game like Skyrim. The first chapter is introductory and outlines key terms for the dissertation as well as the play study's methodology. The second chapter examines philosophical and psychological perceptions of control that correspond with negative freedom (freedom from) and positive freedom (freedom to). While no game can promise radical free will because they have been programmed in advance, the information here may be used to demonstrate how perceptions of control might influence game design. The third chapter continues this exploration of perceived control through genre analysis, revealing the relationship between greater perceptions of control and mod support in sandbox video games. The fourth chapter presents the first two findings from the play study that demonstrate how mods influence player perceptions of control. The fifth chapter reveals how gamers of the play study discuss their perceptions of control video games in their own words with an emphasis on positive and negative freedom and generic conventions. The final chapter provides challenges for game design and scholarly qualitative analysis for future research based on findings in the play study.
Show less - Date Issued
- 2019
- Identifier
- CFE0007479, ucf:52673
- Format
- Document (PDF)
- PURL
- http://purl.flvc.org/ucf/fd/CFE0007479
- Title
- EDUCATIONAL VIDEO GAME EFFECTS UPON MATHEMATICS ACHIEVEMENT AND MOTIVATION SCORES: AN EXPERIMENTAL STUDY EXAMINING DIFFERENCES BETWEEN THE SEXES.
- Creator
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Kappers, Wendi, Hirumi (Co-Chair: Witta), Atsusi (Co-Chair: Lea), University of Central Florida
- Abstract / Description
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An experimental research study using a mixed-method analysis to was conducted to examine educational video game effects on mathematics achievement and motivation between sexes. This study examined sex difference in a 7th grade mathematics (Mathematics 2/Mathematics 2 Advanced) classroom (n=60) learning algebra. Attributes and barriers relating to educational video game play, preference, and setting characteristics were explored. To examine achievement and motivation outcomes, a repeated...
Show moreAn experimental research study using a mixed-method analysis to was conducted to examine educational video game effects on mathematics achievement and motivation between sexes. This study examined sex difference in a 7th grade mathematics (Mathematics 2/Mathematics 2 Advanced) classroom (n=60) learning algebra. Attributes and barriers relating to educational video game play, preference, and setting characteristics were explored. To examine achievement and motivation outcomes, a repeated-measure (SPSS v14) test was used. The analysis included ethnographic results from both student and teacher interview and observation sessions for data triangulation. Results revealed a statistically significant academic mathematics achievement score increase (F =21.8, df =1, 54, p<.05). Although, mathematics class motivation scores did not present significance (F =.79, df =1, 47, p>.05), both sexes posted similar data outcomes with regard to mathematics class motivation after using an educational video game as treatment during an eighteen-week term in conjunction with receiving in-class instruction. Additionally, there was an increase in male variability in standard deviation score (SDmotivationpre=8.76, SDmotivation post=11.70) for mathematics class motivation. Lastly, self-reported differences between the sexes for this limited sample, with regard to game design likes and dislikes and observed female game play tendencies, were also investigated. The data presented customization as a unified, but most requested, game design need between the sexes. Between sex differences were found only to be superficial other than a female delay in game acceptance with regard to time and game play comfort.
Show less - Date Issued
- 2009
- Identifier
- CFE0002586, ucf:48270
- Format
- Document (PDF)
- PURL
- http://purl.flvc.org/ucf/fd/CFE0002586
- Title
- Evaluation of Real World Toll Plazas Using Driving Simulation.
- Creator
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Carroll, Kali, Abdel-Aty, Mohamed, Lee, JaeYoung, Eluru, Naveen, University of Central Florida
- Abstract / Description
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Toll plazas are becoming an essential part of the highway system, especially within the state of Florida. Many crashes reported on highways occur at toll plazas. A primary reason for many vehicle collisions happening at these facilities is the fact that each toll plaza agency has different design, signage and marking criteria. This, in turn, causes driver confusion and possible last minute weaving maneuvers. Even though the varying design of toll plazas is a clear highway safety factor,...
Show moreToll plazas are becoming an essential part of the highway system, especially within the state of Florida. Many crashes reported on highways occur at toll plazas. A primary reason for many vehicle collisions happening at these facilities is the fact that each toll plaza agency has different design, signage and marking criteria. This, in turn, causes driver confusion and possible last minute weaving maneuvers. Even though the varying design of toll plazas is a clear highway safety factor, research in the field is very limited but expanding. This study focuses on one toll plaza, in particular the Dean Mainline Toll Plaza, located in Orlando, Florida. The toll plaza is located directly between two roads that are in close proximity of each other. Because of this, the toll plaza is very close to the on- and off- ramps, which can be even more confusing and stressful for a driver entering or leaving the highway. The purpose of this study is to evaluate the safety and efficiency of the Dean Mainline Toll Plaza in order to make recommendations to improve or maintain the current toll plaza design, as well as potentially contribute to a nationally set design standard for toll plazas. Using the NADS miniSimTM Simulator, 72 subjects were recruited, and each subject was asked to drive 3 scenarios that were randomly selected from a pool of 24 scenarios. The following factors were changed in order to study the driver's behavior: signage and their location, pavement markings, distances between the toll plaza and ramps, and traffic conditions. All of these factors were altered and observed on five of the eight possible routes than can be taken through the toll plaza. The subjects were asked to complete questionnaires before and after all of the scenarios, as well as in between each driving scenario. These questionnaires included demographic characteristics, such as age, education, income, E-PASS ownership, etc. The data that were collected by the driving simulator and questionnaires were analyzed by ANOVA and multinomial logistic regression models. A positive relationship was found between non-urgent lane changing and the current real-world sign conditions prior to the toll plaza. Relationships were also found between the subjects' speed in various locations and signage before the toll plaza and segment length after the toll plaza. Along with specified recommendations for future research in toll plaza safety, recommendations for the Dean Mainline Toll Plaza include maintaining the current signs and pavement markings, as they were found to be beneficial in drivers performing safe lane changing maneuvers.
Show less - Date Issued
- 2016
- Identifier
- CFE0006085, ucf:50960
- Format
- Document (PDF)
- PURL
- http://purl.flvc.org/ucf/fd/CFE0006085
- Title
- CHARACTERIZATION OF POLYETHERIMIDE UNDER STATIC, DYNAMIC, AND MULTIPLE IMPACT CONDITIONS.
- Creator
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Zuanetti, Bryan, Gordon, Ali, University of Central Florida
- Abstract / Description
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The application of polymers in robust engineering designs is on the rise due to their excellent mechanical properties such as high fracture toughness, specific strength, durability, as well as, thermal and chemical resistances. Implementation of some advanced polymeric solids is limited due to the lack of available mechanical properties. In order for these materials to endure strenuous engineering designs it is vital to investigate their response in multiple loading rates and conditions. In...
Show moreThe application of polymers in robust engineering designs is on the rise due to their excellent mechanical properties such as high fracture toughness, specific strength, durability, as well as, thermal and chemical resistances. Implementation of some advanced polymeric solids is limited due to the lack of available mechanical properties. In order for these materials to endure strenuous engineering designs it is vital to investigate their response in multiple loading rates and conditions. In this thesis, the mechanical response of polyethermide (PEI) is characterized under quasi-static, high strain rate, and multiple impact conditions. Standard tension, torsion, and compression experiments are performed in order to distinguish the multi-regime response of PEI. The effects of physical ageing and rejuvenation on the quasi-static mechanical response are investigated. The strain softening regime resulting from strain localization is eliminated by thermal and mechanical rejuvenation, and the advantages of these processes are discussed. The dynamic fracture toughness of the material in response to notched impact via Charpy impact test is evaluated. The high strain-rate response of PEI to uniaxial compression is evaluated at rates exceeding 104/s via miniaturized Split Hopkinson Pressure Bar (MSHPB), and compared to the quasi-static case to determine strain-rate sensitivity. The elastic response of the aged material to multiple loading conditions are correlated using the Ramberg-Osgood equation, while the elastoplastic response of rejuvenated PEI is correlated using a both the Ramberg-Osgood equation and a novel model. The strain-rate sensitivity of the strength is found to be nominally bilinear and transition strains are modeled using the Ree-Erying formulation. Finally, multiple impact experiments are performed on PEI using the MSHPB and a model is proposed to quantify damage as a result of collision.
Show less - Date Issued
- 2013
- Identifier
- CFH0004531, ucf:45166
- Format
- Document (PDF)
- PURL
- http://purl.flvc.org/ucf/fd/CFH0004531
- Title
- Fiber-Reinforced Polymer (FRP) Composites in Retrofitting of Concrete Structures: Polyurethane Systems Versus Epoxy Systems.
- Creator
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El Zghayar, Elie, Mackie, Kevin, Catbas, Necati, Chopra, Manoj, University of Central Florida
- Abstract / Description
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Fiber reinforced polymer (FRP) composites have been of interest to the structural engineering society since the earliest days of FRP composites industry. The use of such systems has been implemented in both new construction and for repair and rehabilitation of existing structures. Since the 1980s, researchers have developed a significant body of knowledge to use FRP composites in infrastructure applications; however, most of this established knowledge was concentrated on the use of...
Show moreFiber reinforced polymer (FRP) composites have been of interest to the structural engineering society since the earliest days of FRP composites industry. The use of such systems has been implemented in both new construction and for repair and rehabilitation of existing structures. Since the 1980s, researchers have developed a significant body of knowledge to use FRP composites in infrastructure applications; however, most of this established knowledge was concentrated on the use of traditional epoxy (EP) systems (epoxy matrix FRPs and epoxy adhesives). FRP composites with polyurethane (PU) matrices and adhesives have recently attracted the attention of a few researchers due to their potential advantages in constructibility and mechanical properties. The deployment of these systems is currently limited by a lack of knowledge on mechanical and durability performance. The objective of this research is to quantify the mechanical behavior of PU composites utilized in externally-bonded repair of common flexural and flexural-axial reinforced concrete systems. In addition, the mechanical performance, strength, and failure modes are compared directly with an epoxy-based composite by subjecting reinforced concrete specimens utilizing each of the matrix types (EP and PU) to the same protocols. The study presented therefore allows an objective comparison (advantages and disadvantages) between the two composite system used for repair and rehabilitation of concrete infrastructure. An experimental research program was designed with different length scales. Small-scale experiments were utilized to characterize the component level properties of the materials and bond to concrete, which include the flexural behavior as well as the pure shear behavior. The results of these small scale experiments were used to calibrate analytical models of the interface behavior between FRP laminate and concrete, and paved the way for the next level of the research which studied the behavior of each composite system at larger scales. The large scale experiments included flexural retrofitting of reinforced concrete girders and retrofitting of circular columns using FRP laminates. The large-scale experimental specimens were mechanically damaged prior to FRP repair and testing, making the testing more appropriate compared to common practice of repairing undamaged specimens.
Show less - Date Issued
- 2015
- Identifier
- CFE0005942, ucf:50820
- Format
- Document (PDF)
- PURL
- http://purl.flvc.org/ucf/fd/CFE0005942