Showing papers by "University of North Carolina at Greensboro published in 1990"

Alternative reinforcement increases resistance to change: pavlovian or operant contingencies?

Abstract: Two multiple-schedule experiments with pigeons examined the effect of adding food reinforcement from an alternative source on the resistance of the reinforced response (target response) to the decremental effects of satiation and extinction. In Experiment 1, key pecks were reinforced by food in two components according to variable-interval schedules and, in some conditions, food was delivered according to variable-time schedules in one of the components. The rate of key pecking in a component was negatively related to the proportion of reinforcers from the alternative (variable-time) source. Resistance to satiation and extinction, in contrast, was positively related to the overall rate of reinforcement in the component. Experiment 2 was conceptually similar except that the alternative reinforcers were contingent on a specific concurrent response. Again, the rate of the target response varied as a function of its relative reinforcement, but its resistance to satiation and extinction varied directly with the overall rate of reinforcement in the component stimulus regardless of its relative reinforcement. Together the results of the two experiments suggest that the relative reinforcement of a response (the operant contingency) determines its rate, whereas the stimulus-reinforcement contingency (a Pavlovian contingency) determines its resistance to change.

Citizen Satisfaction with Local Governance: A Test of Individual, Jurisdictional, and City-Specific Explanations

Abstract: What are the sources of citizen satisfaction with local government? Our answers to this question remain fragmentary due to limits in our tools of investigation which have not been well suited for disentangling individual- and jurisdictional-level determinants of citizens' evaluations and distinguishing these from city-specific effects. We employ a comparison group design to jointly assess three theoretical accounts of the source of satisfaction. The results point to a very understandable account of satisfaction with local government. On the individual's side of the relationship, we find an important role for local government efficacy and attachment to the local community. And on the government,s, our model points to what officials actually do for citizens: provision of some level and quality of services.

Firm Size, University Based Research, and the Returns to R & D

Abstract: This paper compares university-based research relationships between small and large firms as an explanation for the difference in innovative activity across firm sizes. We test the hypothesis that there are diseconomies of scale in producing innovations in large firms due to the inherent bureaucratization process which inhibits both innovative activity as well as the speed with which new inventions move through the corporate system towards the market. By utilizing university-based research relationships, small firms are able to avoid bureaucratic inefficiencies.

Competition, Negotiation, or Cooperation: Three Models for Service Contracting

Abstract: Contracting for public services from public or private suppliers is now a common prescription to improve government efficiency. The competitive bidding model is usually viewed as the ideal contracting process. However, this article explains that two other approaches—the negotiation model and the cooperation model—may be more appropriate under certain conditions. The primary factors that are likely to determine which of the three approaches is most suitable are (a) the characteristics of the external environment (especially the number of service suppliers), (b) the level of organizational resources (e.g., personnel, funds, time, and expertise), and (c) the degree of uncertainty about funding, future events, service technologies, and causal relationships between service outputs and desired outcomes. The main point is that there is no one best way to contract for services; rather, government units should adapt their contracting procedures to both internal external conditions to implement service contracting in an effective manner.

Hemispheric asymmetry, cardiac response, and performance in elite archers.

Abstract: Previous sport research on elite athletes has shown systematic changes in psychophysiological measures, such as heart rate (HR) deceleration and hemispheric asymmetries in EEG activity, in the few seconds prior to executing a motor response. These changes are believed to be due to a more focused attention on the external environment. Using archery (an attentive state), this investigation was designed to examine: (a) whether hemispheric asymmetry and HR deceleration would occur during the aiming period, and (b) if they did, whether this would affect performance. HR and left and right temporal EEG were recorded from 28 right-handed elite archers for 16 shots. The results indicated that (a) there was no HR deceleration; (b) during the aiming period, EEG alpha activity formed the dominant frequency and this was significantly greater in the left than in the right hemisphere; (c) there were no significant right hemisphere EEG changes in spectral power from 3 s before the shot to arrow release, but ther...

Weight loss, dietary carbohydrate modifications, and high intensity, physical performance

Abstract: Well trained subjects (N = 12) were studied before and after losing approximately 6% of body weight to determine whether physical performance could be maintained while consuming a hypocaloric, high percentage carbohydrate diet. During a 4-d period of weight loss, subjects were randomly assigned to a high carbohydrate (HC) or low carbohydrate (LC) diet. A crossover design was used; subjects were measured before (PRE) and after (POST) weight loss on both diets for a 6-min bout of high intensity arm cranking, weight, skinfold thickness, and profile of mood states (POMS). Hemoglobin, hematocrit, and glycerol concentrations were analyzed for resting blood samples, while lactate, pH, and base excess were analyzed for blood samples drawn at rest and 1, 3, and 5 min after arm cranking. A three-way ANOVA of sprint work revealed a weight loss effect, a diet by weight loss interaction, and an order by diet by weight loss interaction (P less than 0.05). Total sprint work (mean +/- SE) PRE and POST HC was 37.7 +/- 2.1 kJ and 37.4 +/- 2.2 kJ, respectively. Sprint work was higher for PRE LC vs POST LC, with mean values of 37.4 +/- 2.1 kJ and 34.4 +/- 2.2 kJ, respectively. Post-arm cranking lactate was significantly higher PRE compared to POST for both HC and LC. Post-exercise blood pH was lower (P less than 0.05) at PRE vs POST, with no diet effect. Regardless of the diet, POMS variables tension, depression, anger, fatigue, and confusion were significantly elevated from PRE to POST; vigor was significantly lower.(ABSTRACT TRUNCATED AT 250 WORDS)

Nurses and shiftwork: effects on physical health and mental depression.

Abstract: An examination was made of relationships between the physical health and mental depression of nurse shiftworkers and their scores on relevant social and work-related variables. Nurses on the day, afternoon, night and rotating shifts from five hospitals (n = 463) were surveyed using a mail-back questionnaire. Two alternative models were examined in the study. The first model suggests that shift work influences the physical health and mental depression of nurses, which in turn affect social and work-related variables including: family relations; formal and informal social participation; solitary activities; job performance; and job-related stress. Shiftwork's disturbance of the body's circadian rhythm would exert a direct affect on nurses' physical health and mental depression, which in turn would then affect other aspects of the nurses' lives. The second model suggests instead that shift work primarily affects social and work-related variables, which then influence physical health and mental depression. Circadian rhythm desynchronization, while still being a consequence of shiftwork, might not directly affect physical health and mental depression. Contrary to either of the two models proposed for the study, shiftwork was not found to be significantly related to either the nurses' physical health or mental depression. However, certain factors, when considered in conjunction with the unique shift-related job characteristics of nursing, may help to explain the study's unexpected findings.

Counseling Supervisors: Standards for Preparation and Practice

Abstract: The emergence of counseling supervision as a professional specialty is reviewed, the need for standards of training and practice is explained, and the process by which the “Standards for Counseling Supervisors” came into existence is described. Current and potential options for their implementation are discussed.

Long Latency Auditory Event-Related Potentials from Children with Auditory Processing Disorders

Abstract: The purpose of this study was to evaluate auditory event-related potentials, and related long latency components, in children with auditory processing disorders, and to compare these results with a normal group matched for age, intelligence, and gender. Results showed a significant latency increase for the N1, P2, and P3 components in the processing disordered group. Furthermore, the interpeak latency interval P2-P3 was significantly longer in the clinical group. In terms of amplitude measures, only P3 amplitude differed significantly between groups. These results suggest that the long latency potentials may be useful in the assessment of children with processing disorders.

Plasma beta-endorphin concentration: response to intensity and duration of exercise.

Abstract: Twelve college-age men exercised on a bicycle ergometer to VO2max and at 60, 70, and 80% VO2max for 30 min to determine the effects of exercise intensity on plasma beta-endorphin (B-EP). The time course for alterations in B-EP and the relationship to lactate were also examined. Following the VO2max test, the three submaximal intensities were completed on separate days using a counter-balanced design. Blood was sampled from an indwelling venous catheter at rest during exercise and recovery to assess the time course response. B-EP content was determined by radioimmunoassay (Immunonuclear) with less than 5% cross-reactivity to B-LPH. At rest, B-EP content was similar across visits, 4.34 +/- 0.36 pmol.l-1. The 60% intensity did not elevate B-EP at any time measured. B-EP content increased by 15 min at 70% VO2max with a further increase at 30 min. B-EP remained elevated during the 20 min recovery. At 80% VO2max B-EP content increased by 5 min. B-EP continued to increase during the exercise and peaked at 21.91 +/- 2.03 pmol.l-1 5 min into the recovery. Lactate showed a mild correlation with B-EP (r = 0.43) at 80% VO2max. A significant correlation (r = 0.78) between lactate and B-EP did occur with the VO2max test. It is concluded that an exercise intensity of at least 70% VO2max for 15 min is needed to increase plasma B-EP. Furthermore, the higher the exercise intensity the more rapid the onset for increases in plasma B-EP.

Influence of Type of Judge, Normative Information, and Discussion on Standards Recommended for the National Teacher Examinations

Abstract: There are few empirical investigations of the consequences of using widely recommended data collection procedures in conjunction with a specific standardsetting method such as the Angoff (1971) procedure. Such recommendations include the use of several types of judges, the provision of normative information on examinees' test performance, and the opportunity to discuss and reconsider initial recommendations in an iterative standard-setting procedure. This study of 236 expert judges investigated the effects of using these recommended procedures on (a) average recommended test standards, (b) the variability of recommended test standards, and (c) the reliability of recommended standards for seven subtests of the National Teacher Examinations Communication Skills and General Knowledge Tests. Small, but sometimes statistically significant, changes in mean recommended test standards were observed when judges were allowed to reconsider their initial recommendations following review of normative information and discussion. Means for public school judges changed more than did those for college or university judges. In addition, there was a significant reduction in the within-group variability of standards recommended for several subtests. Methods for estimating the reliability of recommended test standards proposed by Kane and Wilson (1984) were applied, and their hypothesis of positive covariation between empirical item difficulties and mean recommended standards was confirmed. The data collection procedures examined in this study resulted in substantial increases in the reliability of recommended test standards.

Computers in Early Education: Issues Put to Rest, Theoretical Links to Sound Practice, and the Potential Contribution of Microworlds

Abstract: Over the years, since computers were first introduced to early childhood education, much debate and research has centered on the issue of appropriateness. In spite of recent gains in understanding, the debate rages on. The purpose of this article is threefold. First, research evidence is presented taking issue with a number of the most often cited reasons for not including computers in preschool environments. Secondly, a theoretical base for computer use in early childhood is developed which includes: Papert, Piaget, Erikson, and competence development. Finally, direction for software development is offered through review and description of successful microworld programs. It is concluded that the microcomputer, when coupled with appropriate software, has the potential to empower the development of young children.

Perceptual identification, fragment completion, and free recall: concepts and data

Abstract: The effects of orthographically distinctive and orthographically common words were compared on tests of free recall, fragment completion, perceptual identification, and lexical decision. Orthographic distinctiveness is argued to effect data-driven processing and, in light of recent theory, should have little effect upon free recall but substantial effects upon fragment completion and perceptual identification. The results showed superior recall and fragment completion of orthographically distinctive words but more accurate perceptual identification of orthographically common words. Latency of lexical decision was longer for orthographically distinctive than for orthographically common words. The visual complexity of orthographically distinctive words may require more extensive sensory processing than is possible within the temporal constraints of perceptual identification tests. The effect of orthographic distinctiveness upon free recall reveals a certain inadequacy in the notion of transfer-appropriate processing. Language: en

Nutrition knowledge and dietary practices of college coaches.

Abstract: The objectives of this study were to measure nutrition knowledge of college coaches, to identify educational and demographic factors that affect nutrition knowledge of college coaches, to describe dietary practices recommended by these coaches, and to identify major sources of nutrition information used by coaches. Questionnaires were mailed to 296 coaches of senior and junior colleges in North Carolina using a listing from the National Directory of College Athletics. Coaches of the following sports were included: track and field, cross country, swimming, tennis, basketball, gymnastics, golf, football, and wrestling. The response rate was 36%. Seventy percent of the 15 nutrition knowledge test items were answered correctly; however, only one-third of the coaches indicated a high degree of certainty for the correctness of their responses. There were no significant relationships between nutrition knowledge and sex, age, collegiate conference, course work in nutrition, win/loss record, and years of coaching experience. Major dietary problems of college athletes reported by coaches were consumption of "junk food," poor eating habits, and consumption of an unbalanced diet. The authors recommend an annual workshop for coaches, trainers, and dietitians to develop criteria for nutrition assessment and body composition for college athletes and to develop training diets. Special workshops for foodservice personnel are also recommended.

Teenagers, behavioral problems, and preferences for heavy metal and rap music: A case study of a southern middle school.

Abstract: The purpose of this research was to examine the relationship between musical preference, commitment to popular music and behavior problems of teenagers in an optional middle school. This research tested three hypotheses. 1) Musical preference is related to race, 2) Musical preference can predict behavior problems, and, 3) Commitment to popular music, measured in hours, can predict behavior problems. Data were gathered from a survey distributed to 80 students, school records, and participant observation. Results indicated that musical preference can predict race but can not predict identification as a behavior problem. Commitment to particular types of popular music did not predict behavior problems.

Teacher as Mother: curriculum theorizing in the life histories of contemporary women teachers

Abstract: (1990). Teacher as Mother: curriculum theorizing in the life histories of contemporary women teachers. Cambridge Journal of Education: Vol. 20, No. 3, pp. 301-320.

Political conflict or professional advancement

Abstract: The departure of the city manager constitutes a major leadership change in city government. Two reasons for managerial turnover have been advanced: political factors which push managers out and per...

Self-efficacy and AIDS prevention for pregnant teens.

Abstract: AIDS education, the only immediate solution to containment of AIDS, encourages active risk reduction among high-risk populations. Self-efficacy is a construct that can measure the likelihood preventive behaviors will be performed, and thus could be applied to identify specific areas where AIDS education should be augmented. In this study, pregnant, mostly black, teens (N = 58) attending an alternative school in a large, midwestern city completed a self-efficacy scale to identify self-perceived areas of vulnerability to participating in preventive behaviors and avoiding high-risk behaviors concerning AIDS. The AIDS Self-efficacy Scale identified four areas of greatest vulnerability: using condoms, discussing previous homosexual activity, discussing previous bisexual activity, and telling a partner about an experience with a bisexual. The last three situations result from an inability to discuss a partner's past sexual history, indicating a need to be very specific in these areas. School health interventions should recognize and deal with issues sexually active teens have identified as most difficult, particularly specific aspects of sexual histories, and provide these adolescents with prevention skills necessary to reduce high-risk behaviors.

Accuracy of College Students' Perceptions of Their Sat Scores, High School and College Grade Point Averages Relative to Their Ability:

Abstract: This research assessed accuracy of college students' perceptions of their grade point averages (GPA) as well as college students' accuracy in perceiving their SAT scores which, heretofore, has not been examined. Also, accuracy of college students' perceptions of GPAs and SAT scores was related to their ability. A substantial positive correlation between actual (university records) and reported (students' perceptions) GPAs should be similar to earlier work (1, 2, 4), but would also be noted for actual and reported SAT scores. Based upon previous research (1, 2, 3) that slight overestimations between reported and actual GPAs for lower adueving students, overestimations between perceived and actual GPAs were expected for lower achieving students and also between perceived and actual SATs. Data were analyzed for lower (below the median) and hlgher (at or above the median) achievers, men vs women, and sophomore and freshman college students totaling 313 of the 534 students who returned questionnaires containing additional demographic data for another study administered in three residence halls of this moderate size university. Present results support previously observed positive correlauons between perceived and actual GPAs (range .70 to .88, p s . 0 0 1 ) and added that correlations between perceived and actual SAT scores were high and positive (range .74 to 2 5 , P S ,001). Also, instead of finding only a slight tendency for lower achieving college students to overestimate GPAs, this research yielded 25 of 36 significant ( p ~ .05) overestimations of GPAs and SATs by both higher and lower achieving college students whether they were men or women, freshmen or sophomores. Generally greater overestimations were noted for men than for women and for sophomores more than for freshmen. Two anomahes of these patterns surfaced. One was that college freshmen overestimated their high school GPAs more than the sophomores and the other anomaly was that both male and female high achievers underrather than overestimated their SAT Mathematics results. This research provides further evidence that researchers are at risk when they rely upon college students' perceptions of past achievements. Research along these lines should be conducted to assess the perceptual accuracy of juniors and seniors and also for other information college students, freshmen through seniors, are asked to report.

Story Composition Skills of Middle-Grade Students with Learning Disabilities:

Abstract: This study examined the story composition abilities of learning disabled (LD) and normally achieving young adolescents as indicated by measures of writing category, cohesion, and fluency. Findings suggest that although adolescents with learning disabilities have a rudimentary knowledge of story form, this knowledge is less well developed than that of their nondisabled peers. Students with learning disabilities also had greater coherence problems in their writing and were less fluent writers. Several important age trends were noted when results of this investigation were compared with outcomes from a similar investigation involving younger students.

An affective-cognitive model of mother-child aggression

Abstract: This article reviews literature that explains the development and maintenance of aggressive mother-child interactions using operant learning theory, highlighting limitations in its explanatory power. We also review research on the association between perceptions and the maintenance of aggressive interactions. An integrative, multipathway model of mother-child aggression is presented in which the affective-cognitive biases of mothers and children and measures of their coerciveness help explain and predict subsequent coercive interactions. We conclude with implications for intervention.

Effect of generation on a word-identification task

Abstract: The generation of words from word fragments, both with and without context cues, was used as an encoding operation for investigating contributions to word (perceptual) identification.

Leisure, Health, and Disability: A Review and Discussion

Abstract: There is growing evidence that leisure is an important aspect of people's lives. The satisfactions gained from leisure often outweigh those gained from employment or other work activities. Individuals with disabilities are no exception to this phenomenon. Opportunity to engage in leisure activities of one's choosing is paramount to a disabled person's health and well-being. The purposes of this article are to: (a) describe the potential benefits of participation in recreation and leisure to individuals with disabilities, (b) describe what is currently known about leisure and disability, and (c) suggest research directions. An enabling model of leisure and mental health is offered.

Atypicality and the Natural Vacancy Rate Hypothesis

Abstract: This paper formulates and tests a model of rent change based on the natural vacancy rate hypothesis. It incorporates the Haurin [6] hypothesis in which the natural rate for particular units is determined by their atypicality. Estimates of the model indicate a natural rate of 6.5%. However, the rate is shown to vary systematically across individual units: the more atypical an apartment unit, the higher the natural rate.