Reading Library and Knowledge Discussion Blog

Mathemtical Function on Microsoft Excel for beginner

2009-02-25T15:13:00.001+07:00

Excel is a table program that has the extraordinary functions. Every accounting process runs well using excel. Although still newbe, I create a fun video tutorial excel, on the add, reduction, and multiplication function. For the other functions i’ll make soon

Technorati Tags: excel tutorial,excel mathematical function,excel for beginner

Catch the criminal, in door game for school

2009-02-23T10:53:00.001+07:00

The article of this bold is to acquisition the perpetrator of a crime.

Send one being out of the room. This being will be the detective. While the being waits alfresco the room, anticipate of a simple crime. An archetype of a abomination ability be that addition blanket the teacher’s lunch. Addition archetype ability be that addition bankrupt the classroom CD player. Anniversary of the acceptance in the allowance charge anticipate of an account for area they were or what they were doing. It can be asinine or serious.

Before the detective comes aback into the room, accept a criminal. The bent charge anticipate of addition alibi, altered from the aboriginal one, but agnate abundant to be confusing. For example, if one account is, “I was bistro chips at the Burger Barn,” the additional account ability be, “I was bistro chips at Burger King.”

Have the detective appear into the room. The detective moves about the room, allurement anniversary apprentice to accompaniment their alibi. The detective can ask acceptance their alibis up to three times. All acceptance except the bent charge echo their alibis absolutely the aforementioned every time. The bent charge "lie" and change her account anniversary time she is asked.

If the detective suspects addition of committing the crime, he can allege that student. If he guesses correctly, he wins that round, and he gets to accept the abutting detective. If he doesn’t win, the bent confesses, and she becomes the abutting detective.

Technorati Tags: in door activity,school tips,school game

About Our Brain And Autism

2009-02-21T05:05:00.001+07:00

How is a memory or memories formed, and kept in mind in the brain? It’s a difficult question, except for the experts in the brain. So far, the development of brain science and psychology are still talking about the functions in the brain such as thalamus, amygdala, sensory cortices, working memory, the brain cortex, and others.
Questions about autism and other disorders is still on the discussion on brain. Neuroscientist, can answer its question easily, but how am I. Basically, I don’t agree that brain most closely connected to autism in Learning for Teachers training, however. I agree that educator or learner can make over the brain which is potential in autism or not. Brain that is located below the visual cortex and are responsible for most faculty, motor control and coordination. In his book, How to study Brain, David Sousa mentions that recent studies show the brain limbic system also supports the function and cognitive processes in the frontal lobe. (PS - amygdala, located in the limbic system)
There is also research that autism is also available to connect to the dysregulation certain amygdala function. Specifically, the research shows that the amygdala is less responsive with autism. This helps us understand the social impairments often seen in autism.
We explore some of limbic system from the Quantum Level 3 Learning more clarification so that hopefully will come later. We will see the role of the hippocampus (yes, that really what's called) and the role in the brain's limbic Sytem. Also has some connection to autism.

Technorati Tags: brain,amygdala,learning

Scholarship Programs on University of Amsterdam Faculty of Economics and Business

2009-02-21T04:40:00.001+07:00

PhD Position in Accounting
University of Amsterdam Faculty of Economics and Business / Amsterdam Business School
Amsterdam, 1018WB (Noord-Holland) , hours per week
Job description
The project is entitled: The Construction of Assurance Expertise on Sustainability
The past decade has seen the emergence of practice in assurance on sustainability reports (‘sustainability assurance’) with high profile professional accountancy bodies such as the International Auditing and Assurance Standards Board, placing the development of a sustainability assurance standard near the top of its strategic agenda. This in-depth longitudinal field study aims to enhance our theoretical and empirical understanding of the processes surrounding the emergence of sustainability assurance. Empirically, the study will examine the role and focus of key actors in the emergence of assurance concentrating on: how competing claims to professional expertise in sustainability assurance have been constructed and legitimized; the dominant and shifting assurance discourses; and how target audiences have reacted to these discourses. Theoretically, the study will draw on frameworks derived from Actor Network Theory and neo-institutional theory. The study calls for a broad range of research methods competencies, particularly in qualitative methods, an excellent ability think conceptually, competence in research liaison with organizations and high level individuals, and excellent external presentation skills.

Requirements

Required education/skills: University Graduate
* Master’s (MSc) in the area of accounting (or equivalent) with excellent examination results in both course work and the MSc thesis component;
* Interest and experience in field research (for example, in the MSc thesis);
* Demonstrated Mastery of both written and spoken English;
* Conviction to complete the requirements toward a PhD degree within four years.

Job type: Research / Advising

Workfield(s) :
- Teaching & Research(Scientific discipline: Economics)

Organization
University of Amsterdam
Faculty of Economics and Business / Amsterdam Business School
The University of Amsterdam (UvA) is a university with an internationally acclaimed profile, located at the heart of the Dutch capital. As well as a world center for business and research, Amsterdam is a hub of cultural and media activities. The University of Amsterdam is a member of the League of European Research Universities.
The Faculty of Economics and Business (FEB) at the Universiteit van Amsterdam (UvA) provides academic courses in accounting, finance, management, marketing, economics, and econometrics. It also conducts international research in these areas. The Amsterdam Business School and the Amsterdam School of Economics form part of the FEB.
Conditions of employment
Employment basis: Temporary for specified period

Duration of the contract: see below

Additional conditions of employment:
The appointment will initially be for 18 months, to be extended to a total of 4 years upon excellent performance (an evaluation will be held after 14 months). The salary will be in accordance with the University regulations for academic personnel, and will range from € 2,000 (first year) up to a maximum of € 2,558 (final year) gross per month. The collective employment agreement of the Dutch universities will be applicable. The PhD thesis should be finalized within four years. In this period, the candidate will also be expected to do some teaching (20% of the time).
Additional Information
Additional information about the vacancy can be obtained from:
Professor Brendan O’Dwyer
Telephone number: 31 20 525 4260
E-mail address: b.g.d.odwyer@ uva.nl
Or additional information can be obtained through one of the following links:
* About the organization (http://www.uva. nl/start. cfm/la=en/ th=main)
* About the department (http://www.abs. uva.nl/)
* About the function (http://www.uva. nl/vacatures/ vacatures. cfm/6FFD1F92- 1321-B0BE- 6890350BCDF7D43B)
Application
You can apply for this job before 21-11-2008 (dd-mm-yyyy) by sending your application to:
University of Amsterdam Business School, Personnel Department
Bernadette Clemens
Roetersstraat 11
1018 WB Amsterdam
The Netherlands
E-mail: applications- feb@uva.nl
When applying for this job always mention the vacancynumber AT 08-5037.

Technorati Tags: scholarships,programs,uiversity,amsterdam

Shinawatra University of Thailand offers Scholarship Programs

2009-02-21T04:26:00.001+07:00

100%
GPAX ≥ 3.00
Ranking in Top 20% of High School Program
Ranking in Top 10% in Mathematics and English

75% Ranking in Top 25% ± 2%
University Preparation Courses are required.
First Year Achievement :
- 1st semester ≥ 2.75
- 2nd semester ≥ 2.75
After completion of the above points, students are entitled for the continuing scholarships.
In case of incompletion of either one of conditions of the above points, the university reserves the right to reduce the scholarships.

50% Ranking in Top 50% ± 5%
University Preparation Courses are required.
First Year Achievement :
- 1st semester ≥ 2.75
- 2nd semester ≥ 2.75
After completion of the above points, students are entitled for the continuing scholarships.
In case of incompletion of either one of conditions of the above points, the university reserves the right to reduce the scholarships.

25%

Ranking in Top 50% of High School Program

* Subject to change without prior notices.

Download Scholarships Form

Letter of Ranking Certification (English)

Letter of Ranking Certification (Thai)

Graduate Programs

*Subject to approval from SIU graduate scholarship committee, thesis track compulsory
100% of tuition fee for student who have first-class honors or are ranked in the top 10 % of their fields of study
75 % of tuition fee for student who are ranked in the top 20 % of their fields of study

*Offered Automatically

50% of tuition fee for students who are ranked in the top 40% of their fields of study, and for government officials, state enterprise employees and SC Asset Corporation and Thaicom PCL employees.

25% of tuition fee for students who are ranked in the top 50% of their fields of study, or thosewho have worked at least 2 years in an area related to their selected options.

Download Scholarships Form

Letter of Ranking Certification (English)

Letter of Ranking Certification (Thai)

Technorati Tags: scholarships,thailand scholarships,programs,certification

Health Science Professional Scholarship in Malaysia

2009-02-20T00:39:00.001+07:00

International Medical University (IMU) has recognized that there are abounding Malaysian acceptance who aspire to be a health sciences professional. For assorted reasons, some of these acceptance are not able to accomplish their life-long ambition, including those acceptance whose families do not accept the banking assets to abutment them for access into an all-embracing academy like the IMU.

In appearance of this, the IMU has accustomed a cardinal of scholarships to be awarded to:

Two acceptance to accompany the undergraduate medical advance in Malaysia arch to the MBBS (IMU).
Two acceptance to accompany the absolute eight (8) semesters of the twinned undergraduate pharmacy advance arch to the MPharm (Hons) amount (in accord with the University of Strathclyde).
One apprentice to accompany the Bachelor of Pharmacy programme to be conducted wholly in IMU, arch to the BPharm (Hons).
Two acceptance to accompany the Bachelor of Nursing amount arch to the BNursing (Hons).

Students who ambition to administer charge accept accomplished bookish accomplishments calm with added qualities, including able extra-curricula activities and who, for banking reasons, would contrarily be clumsy to accompany a career in medicine, pharmacy or nursing.

These celebrated scholarships are accustomed to reflect the IMU’s addition to society. It additionally is an basic allotment of the University’s agents development arrangement to benedict adolescent individuals with aerial abeyant to be allotment of the approaching IMU adroitness for training of medical, pharmacy and affiliated bloom professionals. This is in band with our nations strive appear arete in apprenticeship and healthcare in the 21st century.

For more informations go to imu.edu.my or email to: enquiry@imu.edu.my

Technorati Tags: scholarships,health science,medical scholarship,professional scholarship

University Scholarship Award From Shell Petrolium

2009-02-20T00:08:00.001+07:00

The Shell Petroleum Development Company of Nigeria Limited (SPDC), operator of the NNPC / Shell / Total / Agip Joint Venture), invites applications from suitably qualified Nigerians for the 2008/2009 Shell Nigeria University Scholarship Awards. The awards, aimed at promoting academic excellence and manpower development in Nigeria, are tenable in Nigerian Universities only.

The Scholarship is in two categories - the National Merit Award (NM) and the Areas of Operation Merit Award (i.e. East [OE] or West [OW]).

National Merit Award (NM) - who can apply?
The National Merit Award (NM) University Scholarship is open to all Nigerian first year full-time degree students in Nigerian universities who are NOT indigenes of Shell's operational areas. Apply in writing using the application format below, and send in an envelope clearly marked NM 2008/2009 to:

The Head, Tertiary Scholarships,
The Shell Petroleum Development Company of Nigeria Limited
P. O. Box 230, Warri, Delta State

Areas of Operation Merit Award, East (OE) - who can apply?

The Areas of Operation Merit Award, East (OE) University Scholarship is open to first year full-time degree students in Nigerian universities who are indigenes of Shell's operational areas in Abia, Akwa Ibom, Imo Rivers and Bayelsa States (excluding indigenes of Ekeremor and Sagbama Local Government Areas).
Apply in writing using the format below, and send in an envelope clearly marked OE 2008/2009 to:

The Head, Tertiary Scholarships,
The Shell Petroleum Development Company of Nigeria Limited
P. O. Box 230, Warri, Delta State

Areas of Operation Merit Award, West (OW) - who can apply?

The Areas of Operation Merit Award, West (OW) University Scholarship is open to first year full-time degree students in Nigerian universities who are indigenes of Shell's operational areas in Bayelsa (i.e indigenes of Ekeremor and Sagbama Local Government Areas), Delta and Edo States. Apply in writing using the format below, and send in an envelope clearly marked OW 2008/2009 to:

The Head, Tertiary Scholarships,
The Shell Petroleum Development Company of Nigeria Limited
P. O. Box 230, Warri, Delta State

Those who did not gain admission during the 2008/2009 academic session should not apply.

Method of Application (PDF opens in a new window – 121kb)
Candidates who meet the above entry qualifications should apply by submitting a One-Page Resume (Curriculum Vitae) containing the information listed, with copies of relevant certificates.

Technorati Tags: scholarships,programs,awards,apply,applications

Bachelor of Science in Textile Engineering Scholarship

2009-02-18T23:55:00.001+07:00

The activity offers all-embracing acceptance the achievability to accept a scholarship and added allowances to alum from the Politecnico di Torino accessory a Bachelor of Science (BS) affairs in Textile Engineering at the Biella campus.

The action is answer by the Politecnico di Torino and is accurate by Camera di Commercio di Biella, Fondazione Cassa di Risparmio di Biella and Unione Industriale Biellese.

General advice on the Bachelor of Science in Textile Engineering program

Location: Biella (Città Studi university campus)

Language in which the courses are held: English

Length: 3 years

The activities will activate in September 2009.

For added advice on the Biella university campus, amuse appointment the Città Studi website.

Requirements

1. Accepting not Italian citizenship or actuality an Italian aborigine who has acquired a accessory academy authority abroad

2. Actuality at least 18 years old (by 01/09/2009)

3. Meeting the minimum requirements for the acceptance to Italian university. For added information, amuse appointment the Entry requirements page.

4. In the countries area it is required, accepting auspiciously anesthetized the state-level university acceptance assay (e.g. Gao Kao in China)

5. Ability of the English language, finer approved by an all-embracing acceptance (students who do not accommodate such acceptance may be asked to conduct a blast annual to analysis their ability of English)

6. Not accepting enrolled in a Bachelor of Science affairs of the Politecnico di Torino afore the 2009/2010 bookish year

7. Not actuality the almsman of added scholarships, Italian or foreign.

Scholarships Selection criteria

Applicants will be called based on their antecedent bookish career and on their Curriculum Vitae.

Amount of the scholarship

The gross bulk of the Biella Campus scholarship is 10.000 Euro per year (30.000 Euro for the complete period). The exact net sum is abased aloft the alone tax altitude of anniversary student, which can be absolute alone aloft the accession of the student. The bulk of the scholarship will not be added in case the apprentice will charge added time to alum than indicated.

The allocation of the scholarship is abased aloft the submission, aural 10 canicule from the accession in Italy of the student, of the aboriginal documentation, which charge accord with the affidavit absorbed to the online anatomy (see the “Selection outcomes” area below). Payment of the scholarship occurs periodically. The aboriginal instalment is abased aloft the control of the accordant affidavit (residence permit, Italian budgetary code, and coffer annual in the name of the scholarship recipient), all achievable aloft accession in Italy; for this reason, the aboriginal instalment is not paid at the moment of accession at the Politecnico di Torino, but in the advance of the afterward months (most apparently November).

Requirements to advance the scholarship

Given that it is not accessible to amalgamate the allowances accustomed from added than one scholarship, acceptance who are assigned addition abstraction acceptance while accepting the Biella Campus scholarship charge promptly acquaint the Politecnico di Torino. Payment of the scholarship will be abeyant if the bookish achievement of the almsman does not accommodated a satisfactory level.

How to apply

To apply, acceptance must, beneath the amends of actuality afar from the alternative process:

COMPLETE THE ONLINE APPLICATION FORM

Deadlines:

Application deadline: 8 p.m. (Italian time) on March 22nd, 2009.

Method: ample in the online appliance anatomy by aboriginal registering and accouterment your biographical information, logging in and allotment your akin and amount program, and afterwards appointment the application. Acceptance charge additionally accommodate advice on their antecedent educational career, accent abilities and assignment experience, and they charge attach the all-important affidavit in pdf format. Afterwards accepting completed these steps, the appliance for a scholarship will be advised complete.

N.B. The scholarship or activity for which the appellant is acceptable is not defined in the appliance form, back the Politecnico will automatically appraise your accommodation for the Biella Campus scholarship based on the advice you provide. At the end of the alternative process, the Politecnico di Torino will acquaint you if you accept been called for a Biella Campus scholarship (see the “Selection outcomes” area below).

The afterward affidavit charge be absorbed in pdf architecture to the online appliance form: Accessory Academy Diploma*

For acceptance from the countries area it is required, a affidavit assuming that the state-level university acceptance assay (e.g. Gao Kao in China) has been passed**

For acceptance from a civic academy arrangement in which preuniversity apprenticeship lasts for beneath than 12 years: a archetype that demonstrates that all the exams in the student´s affairs of abstraction accept been anesthetized (1 or 2 years, depending on whether the civic academy arrangement lasts for 11 or 10 years, respectively) OR, for acceptance who accept enrolled in a post-secondary institution, a affidavit that demonstrates the accomplishment of a post-diploma degree

Curriculum Vitae, anachronous and active (in English if possible) - best 3 pages

Letters of advertence (optional - 2 maximum)

A claimed addition letter (written by the applicant)

Optional English accent certificate

The aloft abstracts charge be rendered in English (preferably) , Italian, French, or Spanish.

* Applicants who accept not yet acquired a authority by March 22nd, 2009 charge in any case abide their appliance aural the said deadline; afterwards this date, they will be accustomed to re-enter the appliance anatomy alone to attach the affidavit and ample in the fields apropos to the authority up until July 15th.

** Applicants who accept not yet acquired such a affidavit by March 22nd, 2009 charge in any case abide their appliance aural the said deadline; afterwards this date, they will be accustomed to re-enter the appliance anatomy alone to attach this affidavit and ample in the fields apropos to the civic state-level university acceptance assay up until July 15th.

We emphasize that the abstracts apparent in the abstracts charge accompany with those amid in the online appliance form. Moreover, abortion to attach alike one of the aloft abstracts will aftereffect in exclusion from the alternative process.

Technorati Tags: scholarships,bachelor,science,textile egineering

Information Technology and Biosciences Scholarship in Rhode Island

2009-02-18T23:27:00.001+07:00

The Industry Partner for Information Technology and Biosciences in Rhode Island, recently announces it is accepting applications for two Doug Schwinn - Tech Collective Scholarship awards. The two scholarships will be awarded at $1,000 anniversary to changeable or boyhood aerial academy acceptance entering IT or Computer Science studies.

According to a abstraction conducted by the National Science Foundation, women comprised of alone 22% of Computer Science undergraduate degrees accepted in 2004-2005. In the workforce, statistics appearance alone 1 in every 4 women authority IT roles. Figures abatement for minorities. A 2008 address by the National Action Council for Minorities in Engineering begin that African Americans, Latinos and Native Americans represented 30% of academy attendees, but comprised of alone 12% of undergraduate STEM (science, technology, engineering and mathematics) degrees.

“The gender and ancestral gap in Rhode Island’s high-wage and high-tech career opportunities is a austere problem,” said Jo Ann Johnson, administrator of adolescence and apprenticeship programs for the Tech Collective. “The Doug Schwinn - Tech Collective Scholarships are advised to advance industry acquaintance as able-bodied as changeable and boyhood captivation aural it. We charge added assortment aural the IT industry, and we charge to accord acceptance who feel they ability not commonly accord in or allow to access IT fields the assets to do so. The Tech Collective would additionally like to admit the advance and generosity of Mr. Doug Schwinn for allotment these scholarships.”

Doug Schwinn is the above CIO of Hasbro and Treasurer of Tech Collective’s Board of Directors. His contributions to the Tech Collective accept been in several capacities and accommodate board participation, advocacy and a acute administration role in the operations of the organization.

Applications for the scholarship charge be submitted by March 30, 2009, with awards to be appear in May or June and broadcast for Fall 2009 semesters. Applicants charge be acknowledged Rhode Island affiliation and accessory a Rhode Island academy or university. Scholarship applications and added advice are accessible through the Tech Collective website (www.tech-collective.org) as able-bodied as at bounded aerial academy advice offices.

About Tech Collective:

Tech Collective is the technology industry affiliation of Rhode Island. Focusing on Association Building and Workforce Development, we are active technology growth, addition and abundance by chain industry, government and education. Tech Collective builds and strengthens association by creating partnerships, alms absorbing forums and acclimation state-wide accord in contest like Forward Thinking, Bio Ed, GRRL Tech and Technology Laureate’s Night. In announcement and developing a highly-skilled Rhode Island workforce, Tech Collective drives technology-based apprenticeship and training programs for acceptance in grades K -16 as able-bodied as for bounden and transitioning workers. For added advice about Tech Collective initiatives and events, appointment www.tech-collective.org.

Tech Collective

Giselle LaFrance, 401-829-8321

glafrance@tech-collective.org

Technorati Tags: scholarship,information technology,bioscience,applications,awards,advocacy,administration,college

Scholarship Program for adolescence from NOHVCC

2009-02-18T00:20:00.001+07:00

The National Off Highway Vehicle Attention Council (NOHVCC) afresh started a fresh affairs alive with adolescence account and attention corps. In addition, adolescent men and women who are absorbed in a career in OHV amusement administration accept a fresh befalling to added their education.

"The abstraction abaft this fresh affairs is twofold," explains the NOHVCC Executive Director Russ Ehnes. "It gives the adolescence of our country an befalling to apprentice about, and conceivably acquisition a career in, OHV recreation. On the added duke the affairs helps get the chat out to OHV acreage managers and clubs that there is this huge, primarily beginning ability that can be acclimated to advice them body and advance aisle systems. If the NOHVCC Adolescence Scholarship Affairs works as planned, it will be win-win for anybody involved."

At the beginning of the scholarship affairs is a cruise to the NOHVCC Annual Appointment in March for adolescent adults (18-25) who accept afresh alternate in OHV amusement projects. For 2009, the aboriginal year of the scholarship, Eric Hughes from the Western Colorado Attention Band and Carith Kamermans and Kristen Courtney from the Southwest Attention Band will be accessory the Appointment in Houston and giving a presentation on how adolescence band and OHV organizations and acreage managers can assignment together. In 2009, their costs will be adjourned as allotment of appointment abutment from the Federal Highway Administration's (FHWA) Recreational Trails Affairs (RTP).

Christopher Douwes of the FHWA wants to accomplish it accepted to NOHVCC Partners and supporters that RTP funds can be acclimated to armamentarium adolescence band alive on automatic aisle projects. "I would adulation to see automatic groups such as the NOHVCC advance an advancing alive accord with adolescence band organizations throughout the country to accumulate our OHV trails in prime condition. And if some of these adolescent bodies acquisition they get pleasure actuality complex with OHV amusement and end up advancing a career in that field, all the better."

Which brings us to the additional appearance of the NOHVCC Adolescence Scholarship Program. When a adolescent man or woman with acquaintance on OHV projects shows an absorption in advancing a career in OHV management, the scholarship affairs can accommodate the apprentice with charge for on-line or on-campus Marshall University (West Virginia) OHV Amusement Administration courses. The Nick J. Rahall II Appalachian Transportation Institute and the NOHVCC are currently allotment the Marshall University scholarship.

For added advice on youth, account and attention corps, the Recreational Trails Program, and how this workforce and allotment affairs can appear calm to account the approaching of affection OHV recreation, see beneath (all of this advice can additionally be begin on the Corps Network website.)

Technorati Tags: young education,scholarship,programs,youth scholarship

Critical Discourse Analysis Theory for Language Research

2009-02-12T15:09:00.001+07:00

Following the postgraduate lecture yesterday was very interesting, it gave to me a spirit to complete my Thesis, also get a lot of information from my colleagues. We attended the same seminar for our classmates, Sufiana Annur. This seminar was interesting because they used English-speaking seminars.

Sufianan Annur Thesis Proposal discussed one of the 19th century novel. She analyze the concept of racism of novel using Critical discourse Analysis (CDA), its a recent novel critic method and interesting to use as a theoretical research base. In Indonesia, the CDA is still new. Erianto's book that discusses the CDA, is strong enough to help spreading this theory in Indonesia. This theory was only limited to certain circles such as Students philosophy, art, and students of media publication.

Philosophy students are actually only those who follow the latest trend in the world theory. Most of those who have face and use CDA theory, is also use some current theories, such as Postmodern, Post-colonial, Semiology Barthes, Content Analysis, and the CDA. Several theories have new figures that complement each other, like M. Foucault, R. Barthes, Derrida, Gadamer, Y. Kristeva, etc.. This theory focus on the concepts of Culture, Arts, and Language

On the opportunity to fill this blog, I try to write a simple research using the CDA, Amin

Technorati Tags: CDA,Critical Discourse Analysis,Novel,Seni,Kebudayaan,Foucault,Barthes,Bahasa,Gadamer,Derrida,postmodern

Phd Position at Ghent University in Phonology, Psycholinguistics

2009-01-22T00:55:00.001+07:00

Deadline: 05-Feb-2009
Open to: candidates holding Master’s or equivalent degree in linguistics
Institution/ Organization: Ghent University
Department: German Language/Linguistics
Level: PhD
Specialty Areas: Phonology; Psycholinguistics

Description:
Applications are invited for a 4-year half-time Ph.D. position in the field of visual word recognition and/or reading acquisition at the German Department at Ghent University (salary 28.400 Euro per year).

The successful candidate will work in the project “Interactions of phonology and rthography in German visual word recognition” funded by the Flemish FWO. In this project, we are investigating the interaction of phonology and orthography in beginning readers of German and how this interaction develops over time as reading proficiency grows. The relevant data will be collected in Germany
(Cologne, Bonn, and Bielefeld).

The successful candidate will plan and conduct psycholinguistic experiments (reaction-time, eye-tracking) and analyse data. S/he will write a Ph.D. thesis on a topic related to this research at Ghent University.

Profile of the candidate:
- Master’s or equivalent degree in linguistics (i.e. e.g. General Linguistics, German Linguistics, Psycholinguistics, or Clinical Linguistics) ,
- Background in experimental psycholinguistics and statistical data analysis,
- Good knowledge in at least one of the following areas: phonology, reading acquisition, visual word recognition,
- Good command of English and German.

The grant starts during spring 2009. Application letters including a short statement of interest, a full CV, a copy of the required diploma, and the names of two academic referees should be sent by 5 February 2009.

More information can be obtained by e-mail from Prof. Dr. Martina Penke.
Application Deadline: 05-Feb-2009

Mailing Address for Applications:
Attn: Prof. Martina Penke
Faculteit Letteren en Wijsbegeerte, Vakgroep Duits
Blandijnberg 2
Gent 9000
Belgium

Contact Information:
Prof. Martina Penke
Martina.Penke@UGent.be

Source: Phd Position at Ghent University in Phonology, Psycholinguistics

Language Structure (Modernism Concept)

2008-08-07T01:28:00.003+07:00

To get comprehension about postmodern concept

To recognize farther about postmodern concept, better precede with understanding of about modernisme. By comprehending modernisme, we will be more easy to comprehend postmodernisme later, as previously showed in my post -how to critic bellesletters with postmodern analysis-, postmodernisme is idea which criticize many modernisme concepts.

Modernisme Conception have been long enough become rationale in so many matters, and have become think concept of commons. In language context, modernisme have got very strong base with structuralisme of Ferdinand Saussure. Language structuralisme makes language can be analyzed with more theoretical and is not mixed with other concepts outside language.

Language Structuralisme relates differention of language element in 3 big elements; Langue, Parole, Langage. Parole is language of indifidul which depend on each specification of indifidual term. Broader Langue than Parole, namely language at a certain social concept which have been arranged and comprehended in social region. While Langage embosom both language concept, namely all kinds of language symptom that happened, either through individually and also social.

Besides 3 divisions which was mentioned, structuralisme define sign concept by dividing it become two shares; signified and signifier. Signified is existing concept in individual brain, while Signifier is something (can word, sign, and also index) used to mark existing concept in individual brain. Both this shares can not be dissociated and each other is related or relevant, with existence of both attachment, hence language system become stable.

(The first step to understand postmodern)

Go aboard with Inlaks Scholarships

2008-08-02T03:17:00.003+07:00

Inlaks Scholarships provide the opportunity to young people with exceptional talent in any field to broaden their vision abroad and improve their skills to operate in society, thus making them a future vehicle of change in their environment. The scholarships are of two types: university courses and specific programs.

University Courses
Scholarships for up to 2 years at top American, European and UK institutions, for degrees in all kind of subjects, except Engineering, Computer Science, Urban Planning, Business Studies, Medicine, Public Health, Indian Studies and History. Candidates must have admission to their proposed course of studies before applying.

Specific Programs Proposed by the Candidate
Scholarships for research, training or professional improvement to be carried out abroad either independently, or attached to a leading institution. Candidates are expected to provide full details of their proposed programs, including time and travelling plans, a full breakdown of costs, and evidence of agreement with such institutions if required.

Eligibility

Scholarships are open to all Indian citizens of either sex who hold a good degree from a recognised university and are resident in India at the time of application.
It is essential to have prior admission to the institution and course chosen. The Foundation will not consider candidates without admission or pending admission. The institutions concerned must only be top rank.
Candidates must be below 30 years of age on the first of July in the year of application. Preference will be given to candidates who have not yet studied abroad. Candidates who are already studying or have started their program abroad are not eligible.
The award of other grants, teaching assistantships and support from other sources for the proposed programme will be regarded by the Foundation as a positive factor. The Foundation also encourages applications from young people currently employed.

How We Decide

The Inlaks Foundation has been awarding scholarships to deserving young Indian since 1976. Few other foundations have during this period, given as many scholarships in as many and such varied fields.
The key to Inlaks is flexibility. We look for the unusual, we search out a special talent and we spot people with flair. And once we are convinced that we have found it, we will do everything possible to accommodate a worthy candidate.
It is perhaps for this reason that a list of Inlaks alumni reads like a "Who's Who" of young India.

So what should you be concerned about?

Your achievements, academic and otherwise. We will need proof that you are an achiever.
Your potential. We pride ourselves on judging potential as much as performance. It isn't just what you have already achieved; it's what we can help you achieve in the future.
The suitability of your course, project or programme. You must persuade us that the course/ programme is right for you and that you are right for it.

Application and Selection Procedure
Application forms are available from the 10th of January to 15th of April from Inlaks Foundation, P.O. Box 2108, Delhi - 110 007. They must be completed by the Candidate and submitted at the same address by 15th of April. They must include:

Evidence of admission to a university or a course, and full details of the institute's financial requirements.
One self - addressed stamped, (Rs. 6.00) envelope (4" X 9").
Candidates in architecture, fine and applied arts, and related subjects must submit twelve colour transparencies of recent creative work in a plastic folder, giving the size of the original, the material used and the date of completion. This material will not be returned. Candidates for Film, Dance and Acting must submit videocassette or CD, which will be returned. Candidates for Music should submit tapes/scripts.
Evidence of any outstanding achievements in extra-curricular activities in any field.
Do not send copies of academic certificates with the completed form. These will be needed only at the time of the final interviews. An independent Inlaks Selection Committee carries out the selection.

Applications received are analysed and evaluated, and the Committee subsequently calls the most interesting candidates for interviews. All applicants must be available for interviews in India. They usually take place in Delhi at the end May, in two stages: preliminaries, and for those who make it, finals. Candidates short-listed for the interviews will have to arrange for their own travel and accommodation. Candidates who do not receive any communication by 1st of June must assume that their applications have not been successful.

Terms of the Scholarship
The duration of the scholarship is up to 2 years. It covers for the period granted tuition fees, adequate living expenses and one-way travel. In case of specific programs the financial coverage will be discussed directly with the candidate. Those opting for courses lasting for more than 2 years (i.e. Ph.D.) will have to seek funding from other sources. Acceptance of other scholarships, teaching assistantships and part time jobs are welcome after approval from the Foundation.

Scholarship will not be awarded to candidates whose proposed course of study or specific project requires field trips back to India during tenure.

Scholarships are awarded in June generally for commencement in subsequent September and October.

Application Form
Download Application Form (.doc format)

Source: Inlaks Scholarships Abroad

Standard Journalist Question in testing reading comprehension for student

2008-07-19T02:56:00.000+07:00

Improvement of reading quality is one of purpose in education. Students will be able to master their reading material if they are supported with quality of good reader. Reading comprehension is hardly required to assist student improvement in their learning.

Actually, teacher has had separate tips in assessing reading comprehension, but sometimes untapped optimally.

There are tips drawn from Alvimann & Morgue article to assist teacher in assessing reading comprehension, that is using questions which is often applied by journalist in interview.

Reading comprehension is easily catched and assessed by giving 5 W & 1 H questions. Yes, questions of standard journalist interview, What, Who, When, Why, Where, and How.

Question of "What" is applicable to open what's going on the reading materials. Question of “Who” is applied to ask whosoever involving in the reading material. “Where” is applied to know case existence or places in reading material. “When” is applied to know time nuance or time of a case in reading material. “Why” is applicable to ask circumstantial questions, like opening case causality in reading material. And the last, How is applied to express farther reading comprehension based on the text material.

Doctoral Opportunities for Clinicians and Scholarships (DOCS) Program

2008-07-17T22:40:00.001+07:00

Are you a clinician or a therapists? if so, you can catch this opportunity to improve your education grade. This program was established id 1979, and every year the program give foundation award to 25 Phisical Therapists. You can get $292,500 In Doctoral Scholarships. This year, The Foundation for Physical Therapy Board of Trustees recently awarded a total of $292,500 in Promotion of Doctoral Scholarships (PODS I & II) to 25 physical therapists.

Therapists or physical therapist assistants who have completed at least two full semesters or three full quarters of their coursework toward a doctorate can promote their researches to the programs. If the research has been approved, you will gain the tuitions.

For further information and support you can go online at http://www.FoundationforPhysicalTherapy.org.

Get $500 per semester tuitions on Automatic Transfer Scholarship

2008-07-16T22:43:00.002+07:00

Automatic Transfer Scholarship program is given to students who are transferring as new. The student can apply the transfer and scholarship application to University of Houston-Clear Lake from a community college or other university, and you may be eligible to receive the scholarship.

Qualified transferred student get scholarship value at $500 per semester. You should have 3.00 or higher cumulative grade point average (GPA). Don’t worry if you cannot gain this average point, if you have lower, you will get $400 per semester with 2.75-299 cumulative GPA for nine or more semester hours.

Visit www.uhcl.edu/scholarships/transfer to applay, and get the opportunity for your study. For more information, call 281-283-2500 to speak to an enrollment management counselor.

How to Critic Belles-Letters with Postmodern Analysis

2008-07-16T04:29:00.001+07:00

By Kang Bull

Art is the product of idea, writer can pour all his idea and desire. On this side, in the process of writing, writer is the king of his inspiration. However, after the production has handed by the reader, all cannot deny the reader involvement in comprehending and interpreting the masterpiece.

Belles-lettres in this decade peep out many new idea. Among others is postmodern, namely form the idea which have based on modernity. However, it critics the modernity itself. The postmodern critic has the unique characteristic and tends to refuse all regularity which exists in modernism. Although postmodernism is basically based on modernism, assuming postmodernism as enlargement from modern principles is not correct matter and too hasty. Principally, this new concept, step by step find its type and have the tendency to critic its grand philosophy; modernism.

Conducting critic to literature by postmodern principle is a continuous new matter which still developed. So that the effort in criticizing belles-lettres is the effort to search postmodern principles in belles-lettres. As other concept, postmodern also have the philosophic spirit of which able to be made as assessment base to a belles-lettres. There are many indicators and philosophical lines to critic belles-lettres on kinds of side. I will list and study it on the next post.

Finding Good Translation Program

2008-07-12T20:51:00.002+07:00

By Kang Bull

I have just looked around to find any translation program on the net. I got many, but the translation programs or tools are too limited. Some give dictionary tool and we take our word there and we get the result, but it is just words or phrases that give me more confuses. Some dictionary tool or translation tool may give phrases translation but without any interpretation or local mean. I think it is useless for working on complex sentences, because of its lack of truth and matching interpretation. Before I am getting saturated, I than search for translation program with human processing interpretation, still on the net.

I fall on a site, Out of the blue! My eyes focus on the words on the site "We respond to 95% of all emails within 1 hour" they said. I am shagging than, how does it work? The site provides translation and interpretation on many languages. As I mean, the site I need must base on human worker to translate than the result become more reliable. Ya, this site has many translator workers that work on the job separately as fast as possible and give more choices on translation result model such as subtitling, DTP, etc. This site (www.iaflindia.com) can do the translation jobs in many ways. By just sending an email contains article or application or sistem requirement will to translate, and we get the result without wasting time.

If you have many translation jobs like me, and need to translate on Asian language, you can go to the site to help you, and the benefit is for you, because its site gives you reliable translation fast. One thing I like this site is its providing many Asian language translations, such as India translation", "Arabic translation", "Farsi translation" or "Hindi translation". You can try this site for your translation job, and may give you more opportunity to do other jobs while waiting your translation result. Good luck!

Why is education important

2008-07-11T03:28:00.000+07:00

By Kang Bull

Why is education important ? It may be a question from our daily life, but everybody has their special reason to answer it, so am I. I just mean that importance of education is the efficiency to know our life need. Education is not just so called “school, collage, doctoral or etc. Education is our daily growing life, and we get everything benefit from our environment. So, think that our life is education it self, and it is the real education purpose. I have some reasons why our life is education it self.

Education is a real important thing in human life. Education aims to point and guides man to be adult, at least it is the definition and philosophy of education from WJ. Langveld. A man can Interact with others of course requires morale peripheral and human capability, causing good social interaction. Without education, someone will become awkward and cannot interact carefully with others.

Since baby, humans always gets education and knowledge from their environment. Baby can record and imitate what was done by adult, and later will very useful in process of their further life. He can differ which one is his father or his mother, and it just an early sex education for baby on how to know and differ his parent sexuality (I will discuss later on other post about an elementary sex education). To get guidance to appropriate knowledge, they require matching education of environmental requirement and the morale law of the environment. Concordance with the moral environment is the basic need why education is so importance.

With education, one can be grouped on the social strata of his social environment. Education also functions to give knowledge about life efficiency. Someone would easily break his problems --social, finance, family-- if he has efficiency and knowledge required. a Tailor of course has efficiency and knowledge about sewing, he gets money by sewing, his monetary and family need can be fulfilled with tailoring.

It is just a few logical idea, why education is so important in life. The last think of education for me is; “Education makes someone can easily get what he wants.” Life, grow, develop, your life by social learning! Don’t let your school become the only one knowledge developer!

Contextual Translation tips

2008-07-11T03:03:00.002+07:00

By Kang Bull

Traveler, Student and Businessman sometimes faces linguistic problem when relating to the foreign language context. If you have a plan to go to aboard, the first question you will think would be the location and its language. How to buy, how to book a room, etc. and basically you have chance to prepare your language before going. As a second language, foreign language needs a good learning technique, and more times. You may take a fast course to get little functional and applied language. Some of you may have a guidance or friend there and you will learn there step by step. Whatever your way to get foreign language learning is up to the target of your need but the time problem on learning foreign language is the basic bearer for who don’t have any time to take course.

How if your time don’t compromise with you? Or you don’t have time to study the language because you have to fill your application now. Facing problem like this, you should think smart and quickly. When you late, your opportunity will lose. I have some tips to brake it. As my experience on this problems, the first I should think is “dictionary”, of course if I have dictionary on the language I mean. To read dictionary, firstly I open the grammar guide in the dictionary, than I choose the word one by one as grammar guide, distinguish noun and verb, and how to place it, and don't forget about the collocation as its contextual meaning. It can be done easily when you have little bit of knowledge about language and its culture. If you haven’t anything about language you wish to translate, don’t try it or your language formation become funny or become magic spell (mantra).

You will need the third party agent to fill it. Open your laptop or computer and go online, there are many translation programs which can help you as fast as possible. You can go http://www.iaflindia.com and you can put your homework on English translator online programs if you wish to translate to English, word by word or sentences. Even If you want to translate your need in west Asian language, like India language, Arabic language, or Persian language having word difficult enough, you can get your result within less than an hour and of course contextual. Just amazing online program!

Hong Kong-Vincennes University Scholarship

2008-07-01T02:32:00.003+07:00

Vincennes University offers tuition/housing grants ranging from $3,000 to $6,000 per year.

Qualifications

* Hong Kong resident
* Qualify for admission
* Preference given to math, science, and business majors
* Amount of award is based on GPA and English proficiency
* Submit a completed application packet
* Submit a maximum 500-word essay that describes your academic interest and why you would like to study at VU

Deadline
Application and all supporting documents must be received by July 1. Consideration will be given to late applications if funds are still available.

Submit application materials before July 1 to:
Institute of International Education/China - Hong Kong
Room 601 General Commerce Building
156-164 Des Voeux Road Central, Hong Kong

Submit application materials after July 1 to:
Admissions Office
Vincennes University
1002 N. First Street
Vincennes, IN 47591

FAX: 812-888-5707

Email: vuadmit@vinu.edu

Source: http://www.vinu.edu

2008 Chinese Government Scholarship and Xiamen University Scholarship

2008-07-01T02:16:00.004+07:00

I. Introduction to the scholarship

The Chinese Government Scholarship is a full scholarship set up by the Ministry of Education of China to enable foreign students to study in China. The purpose of the scholarship is to encourage and support international educational exchanges, and to establish internationally first-class Chinese universities.

Xiamen University (XMU) is a national key university affiliated to the Ministry of Education. XMU is to begin independent enrolment of foreign students under this scholarship as from the beginning of the 2008 academic year. Welcome foreign students to apply for the master's or doctoral programmes, whether taught in English or in Chinese.

Exemption from registration fees, tuition fees, cost of basic learning materials and accommodation;

Living allowance issued monthly by XMU to each scholarship student:

Master's students: 1,100 per month Doctoral students: 1,400 per month

One-off settlement subsidy: 600 per person

Textbooks and other materials: 500 person per year

Comprehensive medical insurance: for details of cover see http://www.csc.edu.cn

Eligibility: Full-time master's and doctoral candidates starting in the 2008 academic year.

Programme start: September 2008

Scholarship duration:

2-3 years for master's programmes,

3-4 years for doctoral programmes,

(1-2 years Chinese language foundation studies)

Xiamen University (XMU) Scholarship: recipients will have their tuition fees covered,

Eligibility:

Full-time bachelor's, master's and doctoral candidates starting in 2008 academic year.

Programme start: September 2008

Scholarship duration:

4-5years for undergraduate programmes,

2-3years for master's programmes,

3 years for doctoral programmes,

The recipients' academic performance will be assessed each year and only those achieving the required standard will have their scholarship renewed for the following year.

II. Academic disciplines

As a way of enhancing the internationalisation of the university, XMU has launched several master's programmes open to outstanding foreign students. The programmes are taught in English, with the aim of fostering talented international students with both professional competence and knowledge of Chinese culture and society.

Master's programmes taught in English (2 years full-time)

School	Programme	Degree Awarded
Humanities	Chinese Culture	Master of Arts
Law	Chinese Civil and Commercial Law	Master of Law
International Relations	Asian-Pacific International Relations	Master of Law
Economics	Chinese Economy	Master of Economics
Oceanography and Environmental Science	Marine Affairs	Master of Science
Life Sciences	Biochemistry and Molecular Biology	Master of Science
Chemistry and Chemical Engineering	Chemical Engineering	Master of Engineering

Programmes taught in Chinese ( full-time)

Most programmes at XMU are taught in Chinese. Currently, XMU offers doctoral programmes in 134 disciplines, master's programmes in 217 disciplines, undergraduate programmes in 79 disciplines.

Undergraduate programmes available for applicants please see the web:

http://admissions.xmu.edu.cn/website.aspx?language=en&website_id=3

Master's programmes available for applicants, please see the web:

http://admissions.xmu.edu.cn/website.aspx?language=en&website_id=27

Doctoral programmes available for applicants please see the web:

http://admissions.xmu.edu.cn/website.aspx?language=en&website_id=33

Note: Applicants applying for postgraduate programmes taught in English except the 8 master's programmes mentioned above should contact with supervisors of the school first.

III. Candidate requirements:

1. Bachelor's candidates (only for XMU Scholarship) should be with a high school diploma and must be in a good state of health;

2. Master's candidates should be with a Bachelor's Degree or equivalent or higher and must be in a good state of health;

3. Doctoral candidates: should be with a Master's Degree or equivalent or higher and must be in a good state of health;

4. Chinese Proficiency for Chinese-language-taught programmes ：

• Humanities candidates, including Economics, Management, Law or the Arts: Minimum level of HSK Secondary Grade C (Level 6)

• Science candidates: Minimum level of HSK Elementary Grade C (Level 3)

• In order to meet the language requirements for their specific course, candidates with no previous knowledge of Chinese are required to take a foundation course in the Chinese language at the XMU Overseas Education College, XMU, and pass the appropriate HSK test held in April, June and December each year before starting their course.

5. English Proficiency for programmes taught in English: TOEFL or IELTS with a minimum requirement of 550 points or above for TOEFL (80 points or above for New TOEFL), grade 5.5 or above for IELTS, or on presentation of a certificate from some other approved test of English proficiency. Native English speakers are exempt from this requirement.

IV. Application documents: ( Two set of application documents which are completed correctly and truthfully are needed if apply both the two scholarship)

1. XMU Scholarship: Application Form for International Students XMU, Application Form for Xiamen University Scholarship, down-loadable from http://admissions.xmu.edu.cn, completed in Chinese or English.

2. Chinese Government Scholarship: Application Form for Chinese Government Scholarship, down-loadable from http://www.csc.edu.cn , in one original and one photocopy, completed in Chinese or in English.

3. Notarised photocopy of current highest diploma. Currently-enrolled students should provide a certificate of student status. Diploma documents in languages other than Chinese or English must have Chinese or English translations attached.

4. Certified copy of academic transcript or mark sheet for undergraduate or postgraduate studies as appropriate.

5. Appropriate HSK certificate or English Proficiency Test certificate.

6. A study or research plan of at least 800 words written in Chinese or English.

7. Two original academic references from either professors or associate professors, written in Chinese or English. (Recommendation letter from supervisors of Xiamen University will be given prior consideration)

8. Photocopy of Foreigner Physical Examination Form , down-loadable from http://www.csc.edu.cn , completed in English. The medical examination must cover all the items listed in the form .

9. Photocopy of a valid foreign passport.

V. How to apply?

Application deadline for Chinese Government Scholarship: May 15 th , 2008

Application deadline for Xiamen University Scholarship : July 15th, 2008

The full set of completed application documents should be mailed to the admissions office of Xiamen University before the deadline, as evidenced by postal franking.

Address: Admissions Office of Xiamen University

Xiamen University, 361005 Fujian Province, P.R. China

Tel: +86 592 218 4792

Fax: +86 592 218 0256

Email: admissions@xmu.edu.cn

VI. Approval and notification

Prospectus students can apply for both Chinese Government Scholarship and Xiamen University. The admissions office is responsible for reviewing the application materials.

The Chinese Government Scholarship awardees will be notified before the mid of June ， 2008.

The Xiamen University Scholarship awardees will be notified before the mid of August, 2008

Attachments

Application Form for International Students XMU

Application Form for Xiamen University Scholarship

Application Form for Chinese Government Scholarship

Foreigner Physical Examination Form

In order to increase mutual understanding and friendship between the Chinese people and the peoples of the world, and develop bilateral exchanges and cooperation, the Chinese government provides a series of scholarship programmes to support overseas students and scholars undertaking advanced study and research in Chinese institutions of higher learning and research institutes.

These scholarship programmes include the Great Wall Scholarship, the Scholarship for Excellent Overseas Students, the Scholarship for HSK Winners, the Short-term Advanced Study Programme for Foreign Teachers of Chinese Language and the Research Programme for Chinese Culture.

Xiamen University welcomes students with China scholarship. Such students should contact the University at the appropriate time, and apply directly to the departments, institutes or schools dealing with overseas study affairs in their home country, or the Chinese Embassy or consulate general. For more detailed information go to:

Address:A3 Building2,No.9 Chegongzhuang Street,Beijing 100044,P.R.China

Postcode:100044

Tel:+86 10 88393619 66093916-3926

Fax:+86 10 66093915

E-mail: laihua@csc.edu.cn

网址：http://www.csc.edu.cn

Source: http://admissions.xmu.edu.cn/website.aspx?language=en&website_id=24

Fast Reading Skill

2008-06-29T01:17:00.002+07:00

By Kang Bull

Fast reading skill is one of learning elements. If you a teacher, you should have the correct tips on how to make your pupil enjoy their reading materials and give them ability to read fast. Fast reading is very important to the pupil, with it they can get more information and subject capability through their short learning time. On the other hand, Fast reading skil gives more valuable matters in order to get and catch a lot of subject material on school. It has right affective side to student, and brings them more chances to finish their learning on time.

There are many ways how to be a fast reader. I may give some tips an explanation on it: When read, don’t busy your self with the order of alphabets on the words. just read the word not the alphabets. It is called block read tip. Word by word, not the alphabet. With this tips you should able to read the sentence without knowing all alphabets of it, ya, just read like reading your short massaging service (SMS). "i lek u bceus u re vyr btufll" can you read the example before? Just with this tips, you must able to read five times than usual. I will shear other tips next time.

Assistive Technology for Students with Mild Disabilities

2008-06-18T14:40:00.001+07:00

Author: Behrmann, Michael M.

Technology is bursting into the classroom at all levels, as a tool for teachers to develop, monitor, and provide instructions, and for students to access and engage in learning. P.L. 100-407, The Technology-Related Assistance for Individuals with Disabilities Act of 1988 (Tech Act) was designed to enhance the availability and quality of assistive technology (AT) devices and services to all individuals and their families throughout the United States.

WHAT ARE ASSISTIVE TECHNOLOGY (AT) DEVICES?
The Tech Act defines AT devices as any item, piece of equipment, or product system (whether acquired off the shelf, modified, or customized) that is used to increase, maintain, or improve functional capabilities of individuals with disabilities. AT devices may be categorized as high technology and low technology. Many low-tech devices can be purchased at a hardware store, selected from a catalog, or fabricated using tools and materials found in home workshops (Franklin, 1991). Examples might be note-taking cassette recorders, pencil grips, NCR paper/copy machine, simple switches, head pointers, picture boards, taped instructions, or workbooks. High-tech devices frequently incorporate some type of computer chip, such as a hand-held calculator or a "talking clock." Examples might be optical character recognition (OCR) calculators, word processors with spelling and grammar checking, word prediction, voice recognition, speech synthesizers, augmentative communication devices, alternative keyboards, or instructional software.

HOW CAN AT BE APPLIED IN INSTRUCTION?
Lahm and Morrissette (1994) outlined seven areas of instruction where AT could assist students with mild disabilities. These areas include organization, note taking, writing assistance, productivity, access to reference materials, cognitive assistance, and materials modification. A number of approaches are available to assist students with mild disabilities in these areas of instruction.

ORGANIZATION: Low-tech solutions include teaching students to organize their thoughts or work using flow charting, task analysis, webbing or networking ideas, and outlining. These strategies can be accomplished using graphic organizers to visually assist students in developing and structuring ideas. A high-tech solution might be the outline function of word processing software, which lets students set out major ideas or topics and then add subcategories of information.

NOTE TAKING: A simple approach is for the teacher to provide copies of structured outlines for students to use in filling in information. A high-tech approach might include optical character recognition, which is software that can transform typewritten material into computer-readable text using a scanner.

A teacher's typewritten notes can be duplicated using either NCR paper (carbonless copies) or a copy machine. A slightly more high-tech method is to use microcassette recorders. Or, notes can be read by a voice synthesizer, allowing students with reading difficulty to review the notes much the same as reviewing a tape recording. Recorders are beneficial for students with auditory receptive strength, but they may be less useful for those needing visual input. Videotaping class sessions may be helpful for visual learners who pick up on images or body language, or for students who are unable to attend class for extended periods of time.

Laptop or notebook computers can provide high-tech note taking for many students with disabilities. An inexpensive alternative to a full-function portable computer is the portable keyboard. The limitations of these keyboards are in formatting information and a screen display limited to four lines of text.

WRITING ASSISTANCE: Word processing may be the most important application of assistive technology for students with mild disabilities. Many of these students have been identified as needing assistance in the language arts, specifically in writing. Computers and word processing software enable students to put ideas on paper without the barriers imposed by paper and pencil. Writing barriers for students with mild disabilities include mechanics: spelling, grammar and punctuation errors; process: generating ideas, organizing, drafting, editing, and revising; and motivation: clarity and neatness of final copy, reading ability, and interest in writing.

Grammar/spellcheckers, dictionaries, and thesaurus programs assist in the mechanics of writing. Macros, a feature that allows keystrokes to be recorded in a file that can be used over and over, also assist in mechanics. Macros can be used for spelling difficult text, for repetitive strings of words, or for formatting paragraphs and pages. Macros also save time for students who have difficulty with either the cognitive or motor (keyboarding) requirements of writing. Word prediction is assistive software that functions similarly to macros. If a student has difficulty with word recall or spelling and cannot easily use the dictionary or thesaurus feature, then word prediction software offers several choices of words that can be selected.

Teachers can use the editing capabilities of the word processor during the writing process, making electronic suggestions on the student's disk. If the computer is on a network, students can read each other's work and make comments for revision. Painter (1994) indicated that peer feedback was an effective way to assist students in generating and revising text. Computer editing also reduces or eliminates problems such as multiple erasures, torn papers, poor handwriting, and the need to constantly rewrite text that needs only minor modifications. The final copy is neat and legible.

Motivation is often increased through the desktop-publishing and multimedia capabilities of newer computers. A variety of fonts and styles are available, allowing students to customize their writing and highlight important features. Graphic images, drawings, and even video and audio can be added to the project to provide interest or highlight ideas. Multimedia often gives the student the means and the motivation to generate new and more complex ideas.

PRODUCTIVITY: Assistive productivity tools can be hardware-based, software-based, or both. Calculators, for example, can be the credit-card type or software based, which can be popped up and used during word processing. Spreadsheets, databases, and graphics software also offer productivity tools, enabling students to work on math or other subjects that may require calculating, categorizing, grouping, and predicting events. Productivity tools also can be found in small, portable devices called personal digital assistants (PDAs). Newer PDAs can be used as notetaking devices via a small keyboard or graphics-based pen input. Some PDAs can translate words printed with the pen input device to computer-readable text, which can then be edited with the word processor and transmitted to a full function computer.

ACCESS TO REFERENCE MATERIALS: Many students with mild disabilities have difficulty gathering and synthesizing information for their academic work. In this arena, telecommunications and multimedia are providing new learning tools for the students.

A computer and a modem can transport students beyond their physical environment to access electronic information. This is particularly appropriate for individuals who are easily distracted when going to new and busy environments such as the library. Telecommunications networks offer access to the information superhighway. Students can establish "CompuPals" with other students, which often motivates them to generate more text and thus gain more experience in writing. Students can also access electronic encyclopedias, library references, and online publications. However, these experiences should be structured, because the information highway is complex and it is easy to get distracted or lost as opportunities are explored.

Multimedia-based tools are another way in which information can be made accessible to students. Multimedia's use of text, speech, graphics, pictures, audio, and video in reference-based software is especially effective in meeting the heterogeneous learning needs of students with mild disabilities.

COGNITIVE ASSISTANCE: A vast array of application program software is available for instructing students through tutorials, drill and practice, problem-solving, and simulations. Many of the assistive technologies described previously can be combined with instructional programs to develop and improve cognitive and problem-solving skills.

Multimedia CD-ROM-based application programs offer another tool for assisted reading. Similar to talking word processors, CD-based books include high-interest stories that use the power of multimedia to motivate students to read. These books read each page of the story, highlighting the words as they are read. Additional clicks of the mouse result in pronunciation of syllables and a definition of the word. When the student clicks on a picture, a label appears. A verbal pronunciation of the label is offered when the student clicks the mouse again. These books are available in both English and Spanish, so students can read in their native language while being exposed to a second language.

MATERIALS MODIFICATION: Special educators are familiar with the need to create instructional materials or customize materials to meet the varied needs of students with disabilities. Today there are powerful multimedia authoring and presentation tools that educators can use to develop and modify computer-based instructional materials for students with mild disabilities, providing a learning tool that these students can access and use to balance their weak areas of learning with their strong areas.

Authoring software allows teachers and students to develop instructional software that can incorporate video, pictures, animation, and text into hypermedia-based instruction. Multimedia authoring software is very easy to learn and use. In fact, authoring software packages are even available for young children. For example, if the objective is to teach map reading, an image of a local map can be scanned in and specific locations can be made into buttons that the students can click on, causing a short video clip playing of the familiar location. A set of questions might be asked using both text and synthesized speech to have students give directions on how to get the location shown on the video. Students could then write directions (or draw their own map). Digitized pictures of landmarks could also be incorporated into the directions. These directions, along with the images, could then be printed for use in completing the assignment. Without the ability to author and incorporate multimedia easily into instructional software, such computer-based training would be impossible because of the need to incorporate the shared learning concepts inherent in local environments into the assisted-learning process. Such instruction can make learning more efficient and certainly more real for students for whom abstract learning and generalization may be difficult.

REFERENCES
Franklin, K.S. (1991). Supported employment and assistive technology--A powerful partnership. In S.L. Griffin & W.G. Revell (Eds.), Rehabilitation counselor desktop guide to supported employment. Richmond, VA : Virginia Commonwealth University Rehabilitation Research and Training Center on Supported Employment.

Lahm, E., & Morrissette, S. (1994, April). Zap 'em with assistive technology. Paper presented at the annual meeting of The Council for Exceptional Children, Denver, CO.

Painter, D.D. (1994). A study to determine the effectiveness of computer-based process writing with learning disabled students under two conditions of instruction: Peer collaborative process model and nonpeer collaborative process model. Unpublished doctoral dissertation, George Mason University, Fairfax, VA.

ADDITIONAL RESOURCES

Asen, S. (1994). Teaching and learning with technology. Alexandria, VA : Association for Supervision and Curriculum Development.

Johnson, L.J., Pugach, M.C., & Devlin S. (1990). Professional collaboration. TEACHING Exceptional Children, 22, 9-11.

U.S. Congress, Office of Technology Assessment. (1988). Power on! New tools for teaching and learning (OTA-SET-379). Washington, DC: U.S. Government Printing Office.

ELECTRONIC RESOURCES
Digests published by the ERIC Clearinghouse on Disabilities and Gifted Education are available for downloading or online reading on the AskERIC Virtual Library .

The following Internet sites provide additional information on assistive technology for students with disabilities:

Gopher sites: gopher sjuvm.stjohns.edu

St. John's University

Electronic Rehabilitation Resource Center

gopher hawking.u.washington.edu

University of Washington

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From Behrmann, M. (1994). Assistive technology for students with mild disabilities. "Intervention in School and Clinic," 30(2), 70-83. Adapted by permission.

Source: ERIC Clearinghouse on Disabilities and Gifted Education Reston VA