Northampton Community College

About: Northampton Community College is a education organization based out in Bethlehem, Pennsylvania, United States. It is known for research contribution in the topics: Population & Poison control. The organization has 3410 authors who have published 4582 publications receiving 130398 citations. The organization is also known as: Northampton County Area Community College.

On the gap between the quadratic integer programming problem and its semidefinite relaxation

Abstract: Consider the semidefinite relaxation (SDR) of the quadratic integer program (QIP): ** where Q is a given symmetric matrix and D is diagonal. We consider the SDR gap **. We establish the uniqueness of the SDR solution and prove that ** if and only if γr:=n−1max{xTVVTx:x ∈ {-1, 1}n}=1 where V is an orthogonal matrix whose columns span the (r–dimensional) null space of D−Q and where D is the unique SDR solution. We also give a test for establishing whether ** that involves 2r−1 function evaluations. In the case that γr<1 we derive an upper bound on γ which is tighter than **. Thus we show that `breaching' the SDR gap for the QIP problem is as difficult as the solution of a QIP with the rank of the cost function matrix equal to the dimension of the null space of D−Q. This reduced rank QIP problem has been recently shown to be solvable in polynomial time for fixed r.

Validating software measures

Abstract: There are two distinct notions of validation for software measures. On the one hand there is the informal notion that a measure is only valid if it is useful and practical. Although this view of validation is important, it is almost impossible to test. On the other hand there is a formal notion of validation of measures and it is this view which is addressed here. By considering software measures in the context of measurement theory, and by considering a classification of software entities into products, processes and resources the paper describes what the authors believe are the necessary but not sufficient activities required for validation, and show how far this deviates from the 'accepted' view of validation.

Workplace learning and the employment relationship in the public sector

Abstract: Training that is relevant to employers is not necessarily enriching for employees, especially those on the lower salary scales. The authors argue that the analysis of training and development needs to be understood in the context of the employment relationship. Drawing on reasearch evidence from six case studies in the public sector, the article examines the impact of changes in work organisation on workplace learning, managers' and employees' own strategies towards it and the limitations of tools such as appraisal. Since employees' existing qualifications are poorly utilised and their development needs often frustrated, issues concerning job design, occupational progression routes and employee entitlements need to be addressed.

Speech perception by students with cochlear implants using sound-field systems in classrooms.

Abstract: Cochlear implants support deaf students' language development through the improved use of audition in the classroom. Unfortunately, the acoustics of typical classrooms greatly reduce auditory speec...

Evaluation of workplace learning

Abstract: Reports on an effort to implement good practices in learning evaluation. Reviews learning evaluation practices and gathers data using a dedicated software system. Demonstrates learning takes place within complex social systems populated by a multiplicity of factors that influence perceptions of learning and performance outcomes. Argues that technology enables cost‐effective evaluations to be implemented that encompass a broad spectrum of influencing variables and acknowledge the empowered status of the learner. Discusses the implications for evaluation methodologies and the role of trainers within organisations.