Abstract The demographic transition model represents an attempt to develop a coherent synthesis of world population history over the course of recent centuries. As this paper will demonstrate, this conceptual model suffers from the drawback of all generalizations in that it fails to explain a variety of local or individual demographic divergences from the expected norm. However, while this failing is acceptable in that it is common to all generalizations and thus may be compensated for, a discussion of its relevance to the understanding modern population will demonstrate that there are so many exceptions to its conceptual rule that it becomes useless as an analyticaltool in any respect.
Abstract This paper consists of reflections on three case studies--BJ's Bikes, Oz! toys, and ConstructWell construction--in terms of strategic planning. The paper discusses the challenges and analytictools involved in environmental scanning, creating a strategic road map, and formulating a grand strategy for these three cases.
From the Paper "The lessons learned in this scenario relative to the importance and effectiveness of environmental scanning in relation to strategic thinking are that first of all environmental scanning is only as good as the use ..."
Tags:analytictools, strategy, strategic plan, strategic road map, grand strategy, grand strategies clusters matrix, environmental scanning
Abstract The following is an essay and analysis on W.V. Quine's central arguments in his work titled "Two Dogmas of Empiricism". In particular, this paper will focus on the argument that maintains that there can be no analytic truths with out some consideration of synthetic variables as well. In short, it is argued that synthetic factors have a determining impact in shaping what we have traditionally regarded as 'analytic'. Thus, a consideration and analysis of what Quine regards as 'analytic' and 'synthetic' becomes a central concern.
Abstract This paper looks at the different factors that need to be addressed when designing hand-held power tools. The author argues that when ergonomic factors are Incorporated into their design, there are less instances of injury, less sick days, and production is increased as a result.
From the paper:
"A well-designed tool can provide a number of important advantages that can be immediately noticeable. Ergonomically designed hand-tools contribute to the prevention of injuries which will then increase productivity on a continuous basis, improve the quality of the products produced, and reduce the absenteeism in a company for health related causes. Properly controlling the ergonomic factors such as the physical loads a person exerts (through the design of the handle and trigger), vibrations, and noise of the hand tool will decrease the chances of an injury occurring on the job."
Tags: ergonomics, hand, held, power, tools, workplace, injury, design, production
Abstract This paper presents a study that structures the research around the designs of manual production tooling or integrated tooling for tolerance holding during certain types/phases of assembly. The paper limits this research to no more than 5 robotic tools.
Outline:
Purpose of the Study
Introduction
Types of Tooling Identified
Flexible and Non-Flexible Robotic Assembly
CAD, CAM & CAPP Systems
Synthesis System - Conigen
Summary
From the Paper "According to this work systems engineering over the last twenty years has "evolved to include the cost of automated machine tools as alternatives to labor and has developed several very different cost profiles; but the optimizations were still being performed at the simple part or discrete work element level. There was no large change in the process during the decade of the 1980s however, the hardware and software of today are stated to be "capable of simulating multiple, if not essentially unlimited, factory designs and equipment variations, giving the systems engineer the ability to affect both prior to a factory's construction." (Ibid) The work of Dr. David M. Anderson, P.E., CMC entitled: "Design for Manufacturability and Concurrent Engineering" states that it is very critical that "concurrent engineering of parts and tooling" are used for the purposes of minimizing "tooling complexity, cost, delivery lead-time" and in order to "maximize throughput, quality and flexibility."
Abstract Ergonomics literally means the "science of work". Because of the inadequate designs of hand tools have long been at the root-cause of lost productivity, poor quality of products, and irreversible injuries that have caused excessive absenteeism in the work force. This phenomenon can and has been lowered by relatively simple and low cost ergonomic design changes. In this paper the author examines the science of ergonomics as it relates to the design of hand tools. The writer examines the history and development of the science of ergonomics and then goes on to discuss and review current industry standards. The paper includes pictures.
Outline:
Abstract
Introduction
Ergonomic History
Diagnosis
Guidelines for Power Tools Evaluation and Solutions
Authors Note
Works Cited
From the Paper "The term Ergonomics is not new. The origins come from the Greek words ergon/ergos which translates 'work', and the word nomikos that means 'law-control and orderly assignment'. Ergonomics literally means the "science of work". "Ergonomics (or human factors) is the scientific discipline that is concerned with the understanding of the interactions among humans and other elements of a system, and the profession that applies theory, principals, data, and methods to design in order to optimize human well-being and overall system performance". (EA Executive Council 2000). For something to be truly ergonomic it must fit the user, be easy to use, improve comfort, improve performance, and improve safety/health."
Abstract This paper investigates, discusses and compares the weaknesses of the Smith & White Corporation and the Makatume Corporation. The paper also points out that while these two corporations currently make up most of the portable power tool industry, the industry is gaining strength in the Far East and if the two companies do not address their weaknesses soon, they will soon be facing some stiff competition from overseas.
From the Paper "For the last 20 years, Smith & White Corporation has been producing precision machined products. During the past seven years they have expanded their product line and now they have the most complete offering of power tools and accessories in the world. Their products reach the chip manufacturing industry, aerospace industries, packaging, electronics, gaming, and pharmaceutical industries throughout North America, Europe, and Asia."
Abstract This paper presents an overview of the decision-making tool or technique, the Six Thinking Hats. It includes a short description of the tool or technique as well as an application example. The paper also explains when one would and when one would not use the Six Thinking Hats.
From the Paper "According to Chuck Dymer writing for Successful Meetings Six Thinking Hats is an important and powerful technique used to look at decisions from a number of different points of view ..."
Tags:tools, techniques, meeting management, the six hats method, encouraging differences of opinion, emotion, intuition, positive and negative aspects
Abstract This paper investigates three of the commonly- used analyticaltools and concepts that are used to help effectuate decisions in a business environment. The types of analytical models that are investigated in this paper are probability theory and statistics, utility theory and game theory. Through investigating these tools in this three- tired framework, the reader has a greater comprehension of how analyticaltools can be used to accomplish various reforms within a business or the business sector as a whole.
Abstract The purpose of this paper is to critically examine two major schools of thought, phenomenology and analytic philosophy and how they have challenged the popular influence of science. It concludes that neither offer sufficient tools to surpass the sciences and analyzes how this has much to do with the numerous problems that exist within each school.
From the Paper "Let us now consider the school of thought that makes the most compelling case when dealing with the sciences. Analytic philosophy presents the most compelling case for the following reasons: analytic philosophy tackles the use of language, which is fundamental when attempting to convey a philosophy. Two, analytic philosophy is usually supported by systems of thought that can be thoroughly examined for clarity. Three, most analytic philosophy does not require one to "think beyond the unthinkable" (Phenomenology), this is to say, analytic philosophy is conceptually obtainable. The analytic philosophical response to the science presents one with various strategies that can be applied to obtain truth. Analytic philosophy also says, until the sciences can clear up ambitious terms and misleading concepts, the world in which we live will continue to be misinterpreted. "
Abstract A paper that answers various questions with reference to Bator's writings on "The Simple Analytics of Welfare Maximization" in the American Economic Review.
Abstract An essay on " Developing the set of ideas about the issue to identity by applying the analytical process". It analyzes the topic from several points of view: legal, cultural, religious, employment etc. It also gives the sub-classification of three of these such as psychological: maladjusted, normal, and well adjusted.
Abstract This paper does a comparative survey of the features of 3D graphics tools in Java and examines the importance and the future prospects of Java-based graphics tools. The paper gives a brief description of why some tools have become quite popular and takes a look at the compatibility of these tools with community developed Linux Operating Systems such as Ubuntu, in particular. The comparative survey of these tools deals with the features, drawbacks and the scope of their use in the future. In conclusion, a short analysis is made in terms of how the end-users can benefit from these tools and libraries, as well as analyzing the target segments for these tools.
Table of Contents:
Abstract
Introduction
Brief Introduction of Java Based 3D Graphics Tools Low Level Graphics APIs
Screen Graph based Java APIs
Conclusion
Acknowledgements
From the Paper "The major features of JOGL include proving low level bindings for OpenGL and granting full access to Open GL 2.0 Specification. Apart from this JOGL also provides hardware-supported 3D graphics for Java based applications, which gives it a significant edge over other tools. JOGL also has integrated AWT and Swing widget support integrated. The way JOGL functions is that it parses the C header files from OpenGL (which are in 'C' only) and then using the Java Native Interface (JNI) converts them to Java libraries. This enables JOGL to access OpenGL library using JNI calls. This functionality marrows down the performance gap between Java and other programming languages. However, there is one major drawback of JOGL, which is likely to be over come in the future versions. It lacks helper functions that are available in Java 3D [8]. JOGL also has the advantage of being smaller in size and also for its support to OpenGL shading technologies. JOGL is also supported by Linux (AMD64/x86) Distos, such as Ubuntu."
Abstract This paper discusses the financial status of the premier corporations the power tool industry (PEPT), which combine into billions of dollars in net sales. The strategy is to make a quality product and sell it to loyal, satisfied customers. The author points out that Black & Decker, the leader, specializes in power tools, accessories, hardware and technology-based fastening systems; Makita Electric Works, Japan's top manufacturer of portable electric power tools, includes circular saws, jig saws, planers, drills, hammers, grinders and sanders with unsurpassed quality and reliability. Bosch Corporation, a leader in the North American power tool industry, provides a complete line of corded and cordless power tools and accessories, which are durable enough to endure any professional job-site and Porter-Cable Corporation designs, manufactures and distributes electric and cordless power tools, pneumatic tools and compressors, pressure washers, generators and related accessories in the professional and consumer industries. The paper stresses that these companies, using world-class manufacturing principles, believe that safety is a priority and quality a must.
From the Paper "Quality in the manufacturing phase of their business is the most important ingredient to their success. Quality is built into all stages of production and processing beginning with the new product and continuing throughout the products life. They perform rigorous test at every stage of development and construction of the product. Porter-Cable's uses state-of -the-art machining centers and motor winding cells to produce the highest quality components possible. In addition, aluminum components are carefully constructed and processed to provide high tolerances and surface finish. The products are meticulously crafted to insure the proper fit and function. Critical gears and pinions are carefully fabricated from select cut steel and then heat treated for long lasting product life. Their industrial products are processed to provide maximum durability and strength."
Abstract This research study focuses on understanding the impact that the use of computer-supported-collaborative-learning (CSCL) tools have on the outcomes relating to the critical thinking skills of the student and the attitude that the student has toward the study of history as well as the achievement of the student in history class. This paper makes a general assessment of the impact that CSCL tools have on the development of the student's critical thinking in history education. More specifically, this research provides a cognitive map where future research efforts can be drawn so that the use of technology such as the CSCL tool will be facilitated during learning in history education. The research also specifically examines the extent of the effectiveness of scaffolding critical thinking process using a CSCL tool along with primary sources, to engage secondary school students in studying history.
Table of Content:
Problem Statement - History Education in schools
Dialogic Approach for Critical Thinking Lessons in History
Argumentation as a Dialogic Approach in History Education
Dialogic approach via Computer-Supported Collaborative Argumentation
Purpose of the Study
Research Questions
Significance of the Study
Introduction
Literature Review
Argumentation Defined
Three Perspectives of Argumentation
Argumentation - Role in Problem-Solving
Three Perspectives of Argumentation
Argumentation Role in Problem-Solving
Argumentation through Computer Supported Collaboration
Literature Review of CSCL
Online Learning Model
Assessment of Online Learning
Emergence of Theories of CSCL
Scaffolding with CSCL Tools Tools for Collaboration
Effects of CSCL on Learning and Achievement
Advances in Computer Supported Collaborative Learning
Summary of Literature Reviewed
Research Design
Research Questions
Research Approach
Data Sources, Collection and Analysis
Schedule for the Research
Proposed Schedule and Procedure
Appendixes
Pre-Test Survey/Questionnaire
Post-Test Survey/Questionnaire
From the Paper "Despite the effectiveness of rubrics in assessing students' learning, developing an adequate rubric for a given course discussion requires time and multiple revisions. Primary consideration in developing a discussion, grading rubric identifies and establishes the goal or goals of the discussion. For example, some instructors want to use on-line discussion to help students learn argumentation techniques, whereas others might be more interested in students coming to consensus on a topic. Evidently different assessment rubrics would be needed to encourage each. "
