Open University of Catalonia

About: Open University of Catalonia is a education organization based out in Barcelona, Spain. It is known for research contribution in the topics: Context (language use) & Higher education. The organization has 1943 authors who have published 4646 publications receiving 64200 citations. The organization is also known as: Universitat Oberta de Catalunya & UOC.

Employment Flexibility and Job Security as Determinants of Job Satisfaction: The Case of Polish Knowledge Workers

Abstract: A number of empirical studies have shown a positive influence of employment stability on job satisfaction. Employment stability, usually measured by the type of contract an individual has, may affect one’s job satisfaction directly, as well as through its impact on other relative variables, such as job security, since a stable position seems to bring individuals a sense of security. The aim of our research is to investigate the relationships between job security, employment stability and job satisfaction of workers in Poland. In the study, we strive to show how these factors impact knowledge workers and other workers differently. In order to conduct analysis, we propose two logistic models, separate for these two groups, with job satisfaction as a dependent variable and type of contract and three items denoting different dimensions of job insecurity: an insecure source of income, too many duties to cope with and being treated unjustly at the workplace, as independent variables. The robustness of the models has been defended by the introduction of the time dimension. The results show that job insecurity is the most influential factor in the model of job satisfaction for all employees. However, this impact differs depending on the employment arrangements. Flexible workers are much more vulnerable to job insecurities in terms of job satisfaction. Another finding is that the job satisfaction of knowledge workers is more influenced by job security.

Using LTE in Unlicensed Bands: Potential Benefits and Coexistence Issues

Abstract: Using LTE in unlicensed bands will allow operators to access additional spectrum to meet the increasing demand for mobile services. In this article, we provide an overview of the different approaches currently being considered for LTE operation in unlicensed bands and their interaction with WiFi networks. In summary, LTE-Unlicensed with carrier sense adaptive transmission is likely to be available in the short term, but cannot be used in all regions due to regulatory restrictions. License assisted access is intended for use more widely, so it will include listen-before-talk and other features required to conform with, for example, European and Japanese regulations. However, this will require changes to the LTE standards, so license assisted access is likely to take longer to deploy. In addition to describing the trade-offs between these approaches, we also discuss the issue of fair coexistence with existing unlicensed band users, especially WiFi devices.

Mathematical e-learning: state of the art and experiences at the Open University of Catalonia

Abstract: In this article we present a review of the state of the art in mathematical e-learning and some personal experiences on this area developed during the last eleven years at the Open University of Catalonia (UOC), a completely online university located in Spain. The article discusses important aspects related to online mathematics courses offered in higher education programs, including: benefits and challenges, universities offering this type of education, methodological considerations, emergent technologies, learning projects and environments, etc. Also, key aspects of the UOC mathematical e-learning model and its historical evolution are described and analysed. Special attention is paid to mathematical curricula in computer sciences degrees, where a lot of work needs to be done in order to adapt mathematics courses to the continuously changing educational necessities of students. A curricula design proposal, based on a top-down approach, is presented as a best practice. Finally, some trends and future perspectives on the subject are suggested.