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The ‘hybrid image practitioner’ in Hong Kong; a critical review of technological developments and their impact on simultaneous creation of still and moving images
Get PDFThe simultaneous gathering of still and moving images by the same professional (the hybrid image practitioner) is defined as a newly emerging role that has subsumed the skillsets and knowledge of the still and moving image practitioners to produce both from a new and unique viewpoint. This process has the potential to encompass dual roles through the use of new technology for the production of media content in a wide range of productions. Whilst the proof-of-concept of this approach has been promising, the viability of practice and the demand on practitioners is still not clear.
The primary aim of this project was to examine why, how and if practitioners and industry are producing both still and moving images within the same production with a particular focus and overview on the impact of lighting and technological change. To achieve this a mixed methods methodology gathered data across a questionnaire, interviews and case study.
Care was taken to ensure ethical practices, including anonymity and privacy of all participants, and to avoid researcher bias where possible throughout the project. With this in place the three data sources allowed a deep and triangulated insight into the process of change in the industry using qualitative and quantitative data gathered in the questionnaire, interviews and case study. This was then used to investigate the extent of change present in practice and the range of influences in the workplace affecting that change.
This project is the first doctoral research to investigate hybrid image production in Hong Kong. Data analysis led to findings and conclusions in practice and theory regarding hybrid image gathering. A new type of professional was proposed as a result – the hybrid image practitioner. A new concept for considering lighting practice was proposed and the use of assemblage theory as part of a conceptual framework for practitioner research was examined. This was illustrated with an assemblage of the hybrid image practitioner produced through the projects data and integration of theory. These areas led to a proposal for future research into an integration of still and moving image theory, and additional research into the aesthetics of hybrid image production.
The value of auto ethnographic research in periods of change, where other forms of data gathering may not be accessible, was used effectively through the project’s changing nature as a result of the pandemic and social change in Hong Kong following the 2019 protests and ensuing legislative changes.
Primary findings in industry practice showed the significant impact of LED light sources and smartphones on image gathering and creative lighting for hybrid image production. A secondary finding regarding practice was the significant lack of lighting knowledge and use by new practitioners. Thirdly, the research showed that still and moving image professionals and industry in Hong Kong maintain a distinct separation of still and moving image gathering. This is a significant concern and perception would need to change before hybrid image production can become more effective
Change management for adoption of Building Information Modelling (BIM) in the construction industry
Get PDFFor construction works, right information shall be provided and received by the right parties at the right time. However, in reality, such precise information flow has not been achieved in all projects, resulting in deficiency in the overall performance efficiency. Such pitfalls in information flow in the construction industry have been in existence for long but seem inevitable.
A lot of literature have advocated that the adoption of BIM would be beneficial in various aspects. One of them is its capability in information integration, thus leading to the reduction in information flow problems in the industry. However, while BIM applications have already been used in the private sector of Hong Kong for over a decade, the pace in adopting BIM by the entire industry is still not satisfactory, even after the mandatory adoption by the Hong Kong SAR Government in 2017.
Construction industry is one of the most significant industries in Hong Kong. In the past several years, the average total value of construction works is about HK$148,200 million (around GBP 14,820 million) per year, at 6% of the GDP. It is one of the major elements in financial aspects and any changes in its performance efficiency would have substantial cost impact and effect on the economy. With the passion to contribute to the construction industry on improvements of the processes, the objectives of the research project are set to review and identify the change factors affecting BIM adoption processes, to examine and reveal how they could facilitate the construction industry to reap the benefits. To achieve the objectives, a Change Management Framework, backed by the results of the research findings and supplemented with recommended way forward in a structured approach, would be developed to enable users to proceed with effective and efficient BIM implementation processes.
The research processes start with secondary research by literature reviews to identify the factors affecting the implementation processes. Technological factors related to construction technology and management, as well as non-technological factors, such as those related to cultural and organisational developments, that would have influence upon BIM adoptions are covered in the review. Concepts and theories related to change models and management approaches have also been studied to underpin the researcher’s capabilities.
Change factors for BIM implementations are of complexity and complicated in nature. For this, a change factor analysis approach is developed to enable structured analysis of the findings. The analysed findings are reviewed and transformed into meaningful and useful information for further use in the primary research, which consist of analysis of organisational change factors, and the advice obtained from interviews with BIM experts.
The tasks for achieving the research objectives, including the review on factors influencing BIM implementation and establishment of the Change Management Framework, have been completed. Users’ guideline incorporated with step-by-step notes on the Framework setup and how would it be used to achieve the desired objectives has also been prepared. A case study with a trial run of the Framework has been conducted and the outcome proves that the Framework is ready for being used is able to serve the intended capabilities.
As one of the major contributions of this research project, the structured approach developed for identification and analysis of change factors, and the application of force effects on influence powers being imposed by the various factors have enabled the identification of the source, nature and impact of the change factors in a holistic manner. By using this approach, despite the complexity nature of the construction industry, all-rounded analysis and identification of change factors, which is essential for BIM implementations, could be identified effectively.
In addition to the original target of facilitating users to proceed with BIM implementation processes, another contribution of the Change Management Framework is the capability introduced in blending of the technological and non-technological aspects. With such capabilities, the Framework would also enable users to implement the changes for other new technologies or processes, in an effective and efficient manner.
For future research, the established Framework could be extended to cover comparisons cross organisation or regions, and to form a base for research on change factors in a global manner. Results derived from the extended Framework and further research could be used to formulate appropriate benchmark indices and platform to facilitate effective implementations of Building Information Modelling world-wide.
In conclusion, the process of studying and researching, as a professional worker and a student at the University, has offered me a platform to gain more insights both in the academic as well as the professional world. In turn it has made the researcher looking at the work’s issues not as unsolvable problems but as challenges that require cooperation, productive partnerships, and the acquisition of solutions
Improving supply chain sustainability using artificial intelligence: Evidence from the manufacturing sector
Get PDFBusinesses and governments worldwide are implementing measures to tackle the significant sustainability challenges in the manufacturing sector, including environmental, health and safety and productivity related. As the sector moves towards Industry 4.0, Artificial Intelligence (AI) is viewed as a promising solution to address these challenges. However, current knowledge on these technologies and their interplay with the triple bottom line (TBL) sustainability dimensions is scattered and unclear. This study seeks to bridge this gap by creating a comprehensive AI implementation framework consisting of application, data and computation layers. The AI applications are categorized into virtualization, forecasting, automation, and intelligent environment, while the computation layer comprises machine learning, deep learning, computer vision and natural language processing. These in turn use multimedia, time-series manufacturing, product parameter, sensor and location-based data inputs. Moreover, the framework assesses the impact of AI technologies on enhancing TBL sustainability, covering environmental, social, and economic aspects. This novel and comprehensive framework, which is not seen in the previous literature, can support the development of policy interventions and support systems to promote AI adoption in the manufacturing sector, while also achieving TBL sustainability goals
Hybrid educational environments – using IoT to detect emotion changes during student interactions
Get PDFThe use of hybrid educational environments, especially after COVID-19 pandemic, has intensified leading to new pedagogic challenges as the integration of biometric sensors into learning processes. Instructors must adapt their methods so that teaching and its quality are not negatively affected. The aim of this study is to enhance the understanding of students’ learning experiences by analysing biometric data during different learning activities. This paper focuses on the use of an Internet of Things (IoT) device, to collect Galvanic Skin Response (GSR) and Heart rate (HR) levels, in addition to biometric data. The quantitative analysis of the collected data shows a correlation between the data extracted that allow us to detect changes on students’ emotions. Subsequently the data analysis is used by instructors to provide formative feedback to enhance student learning, benefiting learners in terms of self-directed learning and motivation which can help them to improve their performance. The paper illustrates a case study of a hybrid learning university learning activity adopted in undergraduate programmes
The perceived fairness of ethnic ties-based hiring and promotion in Chadian PSOs
No full textThis thesis examines the use of ethnic ties in hiring and promotion and its perceived fairness within the multi-ethnic Chadian Public Sector Organisations. The role of social ties in hiring and promotion has been a subject of debate. On the one hand, it is characterised as nepotism or favouritism and perceived as unfair and undermining organisational effectiveness. On the other hand, it can also be understood through the lens of social capital, where social ties are conceived as a valued resource, opening the door for jobs and career opportunities. Furthermore, cross-cultural studies on informal ties add to this nuanced view of social ties by highlighting its cultural and institutional embeddedness (e.g., Wasta). Hence, while research points to their constructed nature in different cultural settings, the ambivalence around them also raises a concomitant question regarding their perceived fairness.
Drawing on Holstein & Gubrium’s (2011) interpretive practice and semi-structured interviews with employees in selected Chadian PSOs, the present study examines the interplay between how employees constitute their experience of ethnic ties-based hiring and promotion and the discursive resources they draw on to form and rationalise their perceptions of fairness.
The findings show the existence of multiple logics underpinning the use of ethnic ties in hiring and promotion, drawing our attention to their multifaceted nature and the inadequacy of viewing them through the singular lens of either nepotism or social capital. Their perceived fairness is further found to be constructed at the intersection of three discourses reflecting competing demands. These discourses encompass the instrumental ones of merit and equal opportunities and a normalising one of communal solidarity based on the core values of solidarity, interdependence, and social harmony that reflect Indigenous African cultural values. The study’s findings, therefore, show how individuals’ perceptions of fairness regarding the role of ethnic ties in hiring and promotion are informed by a combination of instrumental and communitarian values that are shaped by the wider cultural setting within which they are located and that a derived etic approach is a fairer way forward in research
An Elevated Platform
No full textA critique of social media, An Elevated Platform echos the polarised and often fickle intereactions within online behaviour and digital society (Van Bavel et al.,2021). The work places an an emphasis on physical presence to highlight the impact of this social exchange forming an ironic commentary on contemporary lifestyle.
The work forms part of an exploration into the underlying sociopolitical implications of digital interactive technologies including social media, AI image recognition, as employed in earlier works by Sandiland (Remote Dancing(2004-9), Trip Hazard(2013), Border Control(2022)). The installation develops Sandiland's ideas of public agency through physical action and embodiment, the central tenet of his PhD, Accenting Agency, Duets in Interactive Installation (2022).
Description:
An Elevated Platform is an interactive installation for galleries and indoor spaces of public throughflow. Participants step onto a one-metre square stage deck, to bring on the sound of a cheering crowd. Every physical action is met with applause and approval. Energetic gestures create wild responses: whistles and cheers, whilst smaller movements still beckon a polite appreciative clap. Yet, when the participant stops moving the clapping dies down as the audience grows impatient, calling for further action. True to 'Warhol’s' Fifteen Minutes of Fame (Finkelstein, 1966), An Elevated Platform gives everyone an opportunity to elevate their status and ‘perform’ to a responsive ‘crowd’ who praise and celebrate their idol’s every movement through a diversity of audience sounds. However, continued stardom is not as easy as it first seems. Unwitting performers have to keep moving to sustain interest, any slowing down is met with increasing discontent from the crowd. A kind of dysfunctional Karaoke for the body, An Elevated platform echoes a world saturated with social media, where every action we make is both celebrated and scrutinised in equal measure; where responses are often polarised, and attention spans diminished.
An Elevated Platform was created during an artist's residence at the Brighton Dome Arts Centre, Brighton
Explainer: What are the Rwanda Treaty and the Safety of Rwanda (Asylum and Immigration) Bill?
No full textAlice Donald and Joelle Grogan explain the UK-Rwanda Treaty and the Safety of Rwanda (Asylum and Immigration) Bill which aims to action the government’s policy to remove asylum seekers to Rwanda. They explain what both intend to achieve, their potential impact and why they are controversial
Leadership for the future: co-creation in communities
No full textThe present chapter offers an alternative lens to examine the current state of leadership as it transcends traditional approaches toward more contemporary configurations of leadership. These emerging perspectives emphasize the process-view of leadership as something that is constructed and co-created by leaders and followers within a specific context and directed toward social change and transformation. Our view aligns with contemporary leadership theory, in particular with a community-based leadership that focuses on followers and empowerment and in fostering a sense of community to achieve shared goals. In the recent global scenario in the midst of a pandemic, the role of communities has become increasingly important. In underprivileged contexts in the Global South, the roles of families and communities (in addition to workplaces) have been instrumental. We propose to stimulate discussions on leadership that is not leader-centered but leadership within, of, and from communities. Examples from case studies focusing on how Brazilian slums organized to fight Covid-19 are included at the end of the chapter
Kurdish women’s feminist poetry: developing a voice in southern Kurdistan and the diaspora
No full textThis paper analyzes modern Kurdish poetry under the rubric of female writers from Southern Kurdistan, in the period spanning 1990 to 2009. After decades of suppression, Kurdish women’s poetry and literature emerges in 1991, following the liberation of Southern Kurdistan from under the yoke of the Ba’ath party. The research is based on a close analysis of the development of Kurdish literature and poetry in modern times. It focuses on the social and cultural value of the said women poets. As such, it highlights the powerful Kurdish feminist artistic activity in Southern Kurdistan-and the diaspora. It further shows that these poets and their poetry reflect the historical and political discourse within which they flourished. They represent the artists’ opposition to patriarchal law, their struggle in defense of their freedom of expression and identity, not to mention their struggle for equality and justice. Four women poets’ works are representative of the focus of the analysis herein. Their poetics addresses issues such as gender inequality, honor killing, and the patriarchy. Furthermore, the essay investigates the consequences of violence, conflict, and displacement that have burdened the Kurdish people over the last decades
UN aspirations for gender equality in the Kurdistan region of Iraq
No full textThe Kurdistan Region of Iraq (KRI) is both an island of stability amidst a tumultuous region and a traditionally conservative society in need of outside resources to address the challenges that arise with ensuring women’s equality. Fortunately, the United Nations and its partner organizations have committed such resources to the KRI and now play a critical role in tackling the structural impediments to women’s progress.
In this article, I review what actions the United Nations has undertaken thus far in the KRI and which ones they intend to implement in the future. The principles that motivate and inform the UN’s activities in the KRI are the Sustainable Development Goals (SDG). Although there are seventeen SDGs—with each of them having the possibility of being creatively applied to women’s issues—for the purposes of this review, I was specifically interested in SDG 5 and 16, namely: (5) Gender Equality, plus (16) Peace, Justice, and Strong Institutions. I would add that the more you delve into the work that the UN has been conducting in the KRI, the more you realize that these SDGs are intertwined and form a symbiotic relationship. [...