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Refugee’s agency and coping strategies in refugee camps during the coronavirus pandemic: ethnographic perspectives
Get PDFThe global spread of the coronavirus pandemic has particularly dramatic consequences for the lives of migrants and refugees living in already marginalised and restricted conditions, whose ongoing crisis is at risk of being overlooked. But refugees are not only extremely vulnerable and at risk of infection, as several reports show, quickly develop their own protection measures like the production of hygienic products, the publication of their situation and calls for action and help. Therefore, this paper aims to research the effects of the coronavirus crisis on refugees in camp settings with a special ethnographic focus on how refugees actively deal with this crisis and if they, through already developed resilience, are capable of adapting to the restrictions as well as inventing strategies to cope with the difficult situation. To account for the variety of refugee camps as well as the different living conditions due to their locality, history and national asylum politics, we will look at three different locations, namely refugee asylum homes in Germany, hotspots on the Greek islands as well as one refugee camp in Kenya. The main questions will be how, under structurally and institutionally framed conditions of power and victimisation in refugee camps, forms of agency are established, made possible or limited. The goal is to show which strategies refugees apply to cope with the enhanced restrictions and exclusion, how they act to protect themselves and others from the virus and how they present and reflect their situation during the coronavirus pandemic. Finally, this discussion offers a new perspective to consider refugees not only as vulnerable victims, but also as actively engaged individuals
Reconstructing invisible deviating events: A conformance checking approach for recurring events
Get PDFConformance checking enables organizations to determine whether their executed processes are compliant with the intended process. However, if the processes contain recurring activities, state-of-the-art approaches unfortunately have difficulties calculating the conformance. The occurrence of complex temporal rules can further increase the complexity of the problem. Identifying this limitation, this paper presents a novel approach towards dealing with recurring activities in conformance checking. The core idea of the approach is to reconstruct the missing events in the event log using defined rules while incorporating specified temporal event characteristics. This approach then enables the use of native conformance checking algorithms. The paper illustrates the algorithmic approach and defines the required temporal event characteristics. Furthermore, the approach is applied and evaluated in a case study on an event log for melanoma surveillance
Exploring inclusive education in times of COVID-19: An international comparison of German, Austrian and Portuguese teachers
Get PDFWith the start of the Coronavirus (COVID-19) pandemic, the global education system has a faced immense challenges and disruptions resulting in and the necessity for an immediate redesign of teaching and learning in the school context. Face-to-face classroom instruction had to be replaced by ‘emergency remote teaching’, requiring teacher to adapt their daily routines to a new and unprecedented educational reality. Researchers and policymakers worldwide have agreed that, despite the fact that efforts were made to immediately adapt to emergency remote teaching, disadvantaged and vulnerable students may be especially at risk in emergency remote teaching. Given the differences in schooling organization across countries during the COVID-19 pandemic it can be expected that teachers performed inclusive instructional practices significantly different. Against the unpredictable situation, cross-country research has been urgently required to provide data that could inform education policy. Thus, this study explored teachers’ perceptions of supporting at risk students during the first COVID-19 school closures, as well as examining teachers’ inclusive teaching practices in three countries: Germany, Austria and Portugal. ANOVA results revealed important country differences. In general, it appears that teachers in Germany and Austria reported to have implemented less practices to address vulnerable and at-risk students compared to Portuguese teachers. Implications of the results, as well as further lines of research are outlined
Entretien avec des partenaires de coopération extrascolaires
Get PDFQuelles sont les expériences des organisations et initiatives extrascolaires en termes de collaboration avec les écoles ? mateneen s’est renseignée auprès de certaines d’entre elles sur la conception, les chances et les défis de leurs coopérations avec les écoles de la Grande Région
Uncritical Patriotism and Belief in COVID-19 Conspiracies
Get PDFThe outbreak of the COVID-19 pandemic has also led to many conspiracy theories. While the origin of the pandemic in China led some, including former US president Donald Trump, to dub the pathogen “Chinese virus” and to support anti-Chinese conspiracy narratives, it caused Chinese state officials to openly support anti-US conspiracy theories about the “true” origin of the virus. In this article, we study whether nationalism, or more precisely uncritical patriotism, is related to belief in conspiracy theories among normal people. We hypothesize based on group identity theory and motivated reasoning that for the particular case of conspiracy theories related to the origin of COVID-19, such a relation should be stronger for Chinese than for Germans. To test this hypothesis, we use survey data from Germany and China, including data from the Chinese community in Germany. We also look at relations to other factors, in particular media consumption and xenophobia
Pre-Shape Calculus - a Unified Framework for Mesh Quality and Shape Optimization
Get PDFIn common shape optimization routines, deformations of the computational mesh
usually suffer from decrease of mesh quality or even destruction of the mesh.
To mitigate this, we propose a theoretical framework using so-called pre-shape
spaces. This gives an opportunity for a unified theory of shape optimization, and of
problems related to parameterization and mesh quality. With this, we stay in the
free-form approach of shape optimization, in contrast to parameterized approaches
that limit possible shapes. The concept of pre-shape derivatives is defined, and
according structure and calculus theorems are derived, which generalize classical
shape optimization and its calculus. Tangential and normal directions are featured
in pre-shape derivatives, in contrast to classical shape derivatives featuring only
normal directions on shapes. Techniques from classical shape optimization and
calculus are shown to carry over to this framework, and are collected in generality
for future reference.
A pre-shape parameterization tracking problem class for mesh quality is in-
troduced, which is solvable by use of pre-shape derivatives. This class allows for
non-uniform user prescribed adaptations of the shape and hold-all domain meshes.
It acts as a regularizer for classical shape objectives. Existence of regularized solu-
tions is guaranteed, and corresponding optimal pre-shapes are shown to correspond
to optimal shapes of the original problem, which additionally achieve the user pre-
scribed parameterization.
We present shape gradient system modifications, which allow simultaneous nu-
merical shape optimization with mesh quality improvement. Further, consistency
of modified pre-shape gradient systems is established. The computational burden
of our approach is limited, since additional solution of possibly larger (non-)linear
systems for regularized shape gradients is not necessary. We implement and com-
pare these pre-shape gradient regularization approaches for a 2D problem, which
is prone to mesh degeneration. As our approach does not depend on the choice of
forms to represent shape gradients, we employ and compare weak linear elasticity
and weak quasilinear p-Laplacian pre-shape gradient representations.
We also introduce a Quasi-Newton-ADM inspired algorithm for mesh quality,
which guarantees sufficient adaption of meshes to user specification during the rou-
tines. It is applicable in addition to simultaneous mesh regularization techniques.
Unrelated to mesh regularization techniques, we consider shape optimization
problems constrained by elliptic variational inequalities of the first kind, so-called
obstacle-type problems. In general, standard necessary optimality conditions cannot
be formulated in a straightforward manner for such semi-smooth shape optimization
problems. Under appropriate assumptions, we prove existence and convergence of
adjoints for smooth regularizations of the VI-constraint. Moreover, we derive shape
derivatives for the regularized problem and prove convergence to a limit object.
Based on this analysis, an efficient optimization algorithm is devised and tested
numerically.
All previous pre-shape regularization techniques are applied to a variational
inequality constrained shape optimization problem, where we also create customized
targets for increased mesh adaptation of changing embedded shapes and active set
boundaries of the constraining variational inequality
The prosodic marking of rhetorical questions in Standard Chinese
Get PDFThe present study investigates the prosody of information-seeking (ISQs) and rhetorical questions (RQs) in Standard Chinese, in polar and wh-questions. Like in other languages, ISQs and RQs in Standard Chinese can have the same surface structure, allowing for a direct prosodic comparison between illocution types (ISQ vs RQ). Since Standard Chinese has lexical tone, the use of f0 as a cue to illocution type may be restricted. We investigate the prosodic differences between ISQs and RQs as well as the interplay of prosodic cues to RQs. In terms of f0, results showed that RQs were lower in f0, with the f0 range on the first word being expanded followed by f0 compression. RQs were further longer in duration and more often realized with non-modal voice quality (glottalized voice) as compared to ISQs. These prosodic cues were largely manipulated in tandem (illocutionary pairs with larger durational differences also showed larger differences in mean f0; voice quality, in turn, seemed to be an additional cue). We suggest three possible explanations (assertive force, focus, speaker attitude) that unite the present findings on RQs in Standard Chinese with the findings on RQs in other, non-tonal languages
Knowledge Acquisition on the Learner Level: A Meta-Analysis, a Longitudinal Study and a Second-Order Meta-Analysis on Prerequisites, Processes, and Results of Learning
Get PDFThe ability to acquire knowledge helps humans to cope with the demands of the environment. Supporting knowledge acquisition processes is among the main goals of education. Empirical research in educational psychology has identified several processes mediated through that prior knowledge affects learning. However, the majority of studies investigated cognitive mechanisms mediating between prior knowledge and learning and neglected that motivational processes might also mediate the influence. In addition, the impact of successful knowledge acquisition on patients’ health has not been comprehensively studied. This dissertation aims at closing knowledge gaps on these topics with the use of three studies. The first study is a meta-analysis that examined motivation as a mediator of individual differences in knowledge before and after learning. The second study investigated in greater detail the extent to which motivation mediated the influence of prior knowledge on knowledge gains in a sample of university students. The third study is a second-order meta-analysis synthesizing the results of previous meta-analyses on the effects of patient education on several health outcomes. The findings of this dissertation show that (a) motivation mediates individual differences in knowledge before and after learning; (b) interest and academic self-concept stabilize individual differences in knowledge more than academic self-efficacy, intrinsic motivation, and extrinsic motivation; (c) test-oriented instruction closes knowledge gaps between students; (d) students’ motivation can be independent of prior knowledge in high aptitude students; (e) knowledge acquisition affects motivational and health-related outcomes; and (f) evidence on prior knowledge and motivation can help develop effective interventions in patient education. The results of the dissertation provide insights into prerequisites, processes, and outcomes of knowledge acquisition. Future research should address covariates of learning and environmental impacts for a better understanding of knowledge acquisition processes.Die Fähigkeit, sich Wissen anzueignen, hilft Menschen, den Anforderungen der Umwelt gerecht zu werden. Die Unterstützung von Wissenserwerbsprozessen ist eines der Hauptziele von Bildungsmaßnahmen. Die empirische Forschung in der pädagogischen Psychologie hat mehrere Prozesse identifiziert, bei denen das Vorwissen Lernen beeinflusst. Die meisten Studien untersuchten jedoch die kognitiven Mechanismen, welche zwischen Vorwissen und Lernen vermitteln, jedoch wurde vernachlässigt, dass auch motivationale Prozesse den Einfluss vermitteln könnten. Darüber hinaus wurde die Auswirkung von erfolgreichem Wissenserwerb auf die Gesundheit von Patienten noch nicht umfassend untersucht. Diese Dissertation zielt darauf ab, Wissenslücken zu diesen Themen mit Hilfe von drei Studien zu schließen. Bei der ersten Studie handelt es sich um eine Metaanalyse, in der Motivation als Mediator von individuellen Unterschieden in Wissen vor und nach dem Lernen untersucht wurde. In der zweiten Studie wurde genauer untersucht, inwieweit die Motivation den Einfluss des Vorwissens auf den Wissenszuwachs bei einer Stichprobe von Universitätsstudenten vermittelt. Bei der dritten Studie handelt es sich um eine Meta-Analyse zweiter Ordnung, in der die Ergebnisse früherer Meta-Analysen zu den Auswirkungen von Patientenedukation auf verschiedene gesundheitliche Ergebnisse zusammengefasst werden. Die Ergebnisse dieser Dissertation zeigen, dass (a) Motivation individuelle Wissensunterschiede vor und nach dem Lernen vermittelt; (b) Interesse und akademisches Selbstkonzept individuelle Wissensunterschiede stärker stabilisieren als akademische Selbstwirksamkeit, intrinsische Motivation und extrinsische Motivation; (c) testorientierter Unterricht Wissenslücken zwischen Studierenden schließt; (d) die Motivation von Studierenden unabhängig vom Vorwissen bei leistungsstarken Studierenden sein kann; (e) Wissenserwerb motivationale und gesundheitsbezogene Ergebnisse beeinflusst; und (f) Erkenntnisse über Vorwissen und Motivation zur Entwicklung effektiver Interventionen in der Patientenedukation beitragen können. Die Ergebnisse der Dissertation geben Aufschluss über Voraussetzungen, Prozesse und Ergebnisse des Wissenserwerbs. Zukünftige Forschungsarbeiten sollten sich mit Kovariaten des Lernens und Umwelteinflüssen befassen, um ein besseres Verständnis von Wissenserwerbsprozessen zu erreichen
Grenzregionen in Zeiten der Covid-19-Pandemie – eine Analyse der Berichterstattung der Saarbrücker Zeitung im Frühjahr 2020
Get PDFDas Jahr 2020 hat auf vielfältige Weise scheinbare Gewissheiten infrage gestellt. Auf die Ausbreitung des Coronavirus reagierten die Nationalstaaten im globalen Maßstab in verschieden weitereichender Weise mit Freiheitsbeschränkungen und Grenzkontrollen und -schließungen. 35 Jahre nach der Unterzeichnung des Schengener Abkommens waren innerhalb der Europäischen Union erneut Binnengrenzkontrollen auf der Tagesordnung – mit unterschiedlichen Auswirkungen auf Grenzregionen. Basierend auf einer qualitativen Inhaltsanalyse der Berichterstattung der Saarbrücker Zeitung im Frühjahr 2020 zeigt das Working Paper aus der Perspektive der konstruktivistisch argumentierenden Border Studies zentrale Diskussionsprozesse mit einem räumlichen Fokus auf den grenzüberschreitenden Kooperationsraum der Großregion. Dabei überwiegen die Berichte zur Sicherung von Grenzübergängen gegenüber denen über erneute Grenzöffnungen, was als Hinweis darauf verstanden werden kann, dass die Grenzschließungen eine unerwartete Zäsur mit großen Auswirkungen auf die Bewohner*innen, vor allem die grenzüberschreitenden Pendler*innen, darstellten. Die Akteure forderten als Konsequenz einen deutlichen Ausbau grenzüberschreitender Kommunikation und Kooperation.The year 2020 challenged and put into question seeming certainties. The nation states responded to the spread of the coronavirus with varying restrictions of freedom(s), as well as temporary reintroduction of border controls or closures. 35 years after the signing of the Schengen Agreement, the issue of internal border controls within the EU resurfaced – with varying effects on border regions. Buildung upon a constructivistic perspective and based on a qualitative content analysis of newspaper articles of the Saarbrücker Zeitung in spring 2020, the Working Paper traces central discussion processes with a spatial focus on the cross-border area of the Greater Region. Our findings show that reports on securing border crossings outweigh those about reopening borders, underlining the effect of border closings as a sudden rupture with major effects on the lives of border residents, especially cross-border commuters. The actors demand a significant expansion and intensification of cross-border communication and cooperation in response to these experiences.À bien des égards, l’année 2020 a remis en question des certitudes apparentes. À l’échelle mondiale, les États ont réagi de diverses manières à la propagation du coronavirus avec des restrictions de liberté et des contrôles ou fermetures aux frontières. 35 ans après la signature de l’accord de Schengen, les contrôles aux frontières intérieures de l’UE étaient à nouveau à l’ordre du jour – avec différents impacts sur les régions frontalières. Basé sur une analyse qualitative du contenu des reportages de la Saarbrücker Zeitung au printemps 2020, le « Working Paper » présente, du point de vue des Études sur les frontières constructivistes, des processus de discussion centraux avec un accent spatial sur l’espace de coopération transfrontalière de la Grande Région. Les reportages sur la sécurisation des points de passage l’emportent sur ceux concernant la réouverture des frontières, ce qui peut être compris comme une allusion que la fermeture des frontières représente une césure inattendue aux effets majeurs sur les résidents, en particulier les travailleurs frontaliers. En conséquence, les acteurs revendiquent un renforcement significatif de la communication et de la coopération transfrontalières
Individuelles ehrenamtliches Engagement vor Ort als Lerngelegenheit
Get PDFFür den gesellschaftlichen Zusammenhalt ist ehrenamtliches Engagement – ob in Sportvereinen oder in der Politik, bei der Feuerwehr oder in der Integrationshilfe – von großem Wert. Schüler*innen können hier außerdem demokratiepädagogisch wertvolle Erfahrungen sammeln, sich extracurricularen Themen widmen und ihrer Schule Öffnungs- und Kooperationsmöglichkeiten erschließen