49 research outputs found
Learning communities and the acquisition of academic literacy skills of Generation 1.5 students at a community college: a case study
No full textGeneration 1.5 students are American-educated children of immigrants who have completed part of their elementary and sometimes, secondary education in their native country and in their native language before immigrating to the United States (Harklau, Losey, and Siegal, 1999; Goen, Porter, Swanson, & vanDommelen, 2002; Thonus, 2003). Because of the interruption in their education, many Generation 1.5 students experience difficulties as they negotiate through the academic reading and writing requirements of the freshman college composition course even after they graduate from an U.S. high school. At the same time, the schism in research between composition studies and second language instruction has resulted in the difficulty of composition specialists to understand and address problems faced by second language learners, especially Generation 1.5 students (Matsuda, 2003; Silva & Leki, 2004). This study investigated the impact of Learning Communities (LCs) as an alternative format of delivering instruction to Generation 1.5 students in freshman composition classes in a community college. An LC offers two or more linked classes as well as additional support in the form of tutoring, mentorship, and counseling to a cohort of students (Brownell & Swaner, 2009; Killachy, Thomas, & Accomando, 2002; Smith, MacGregor, Matthews, & Gabelnick, 2004). Participants in this semester-long study included six Generation 1.5 students, four of whom were enrolled in composition classes within two separate LCs, and two in a stand-alone composition course. Data for this study emerged from essays and interviews of the six participants as well as interviews with their instructors and tutors. These data were analyzed qualitatively to assess the manner in which the LCs shaped the writing skills of the participants. The study demonstrated that well-designed LCs had a number of positive, even redundant features from which several participants chose the most appropriate ones to improve their writing skills. In doing so, they became active actors in the learning process, using their funds of knowledge and working with instructors, tutors, and their peers to improve their academic skills. However, other students, some with a higher level of confidence in their writing skills, resisted the idea of participating in LCs and their academic progress was less obvious. The study is significant as it contributes to the fields of both second language composition studies and the learning communities. The study addresses the existing gap in research on Generation 1.5 students, a subset of second language learners, in the composition classroom. It also explores the potential of LCs in serving these students in their freshman year in college.Ed. D.Includes bibliographical referencesby Mahua D
“Republic of Southern sinophone literature” and its memorandum a Uchronian Hong Kong–Mahua literary relation
No full textThis essay reexamines two Sinophone literary uchronias, i.e. Malaysian Chinese (Mahua) author Ng Kim Chew’s dystopian account of the People’s Republic of Nanyang, and Hong Kong writer Dung Kai-cheung’s fabrication of the history of a disappeared street in Hong Kong. As representative pieces of Sinophone literature, these two literary uchronias not only rewrite the authors’ local histories but also bring together a critical examination of the geo-political conditions in the Sinophone sphere. Reflecting on the spatialized and materialist models of world literature studies, this essay aims to investigate the Hong Kong-Mahua link in terms of their world-making power.</p
Growth and Characterisation of ZnO Nanostructures: Excitonic Properties and Morphology
Get PDFThe growth mechanism of aligned ZnO nanostructures, grown by the vapour phase transport (VPT) growth method, specifically with nanorod and nanowall morphologies has been studied. The thesis begins with an introductory chapter on ZnO nanostructures and related topics, and the second chapter introduces the various experimental techniques used. The main thesis work involves five distinct studies. Firstly, the conditions to grow nanorod and nanorod/nanowall structures on sapphire using a ZnO/graphite powder mixture as a growth source are studied and the optimum conditions for each morphology identified. Secondly, the effects on ZnO nanostructure growth on sapphire of using activated carbon and carbon black powders, rather than graphite powder are studied. Nanostructures can be grown at significantly lower temperatures with carbon black and activated carbon, though
with different morphologies, compared to graphite. Thirdly, low temperature cathodoluminescence spectroscopy measurements of ZnO nanostructures grown on Si substrate are presented. These data show significant inhomogeneity in the spatial distribution of emission throughout the sample for the Al-related donor bound exciton emission at 3.3605 eV and the Al-related emissions are compared to the other spectral features seen for these samples. The possible origin of this inhomogeneity is discussed. Fourthly, the microscopic origin of a unique photoluminescence peak at ~3.367 eV, which is known as surface exciton peak, has been studied in detail and its behaviour is studied after samples have been subjected to various post-growth treatments such as plasma treatment, UV exposure in vacuum and exposure to high voltages. Finally, post-growth passivation of nanostructures has been done using PVP and HF on ZnO nanostructure samples. The effects of these chemicals on the optical emission from these samples are studied and the potential for these to act as effective passivation agents is discussed. The thesis concludes with
a summary of the work done, some general conclusions and comments on possible future directions
Language, Ethnicity, and the Politics of Literary Taxonomy: Ng Kim Chew and Mahua Literature
No full textThrough an examination of short stories from the Malaysian Chinese author Ng Kim Chew's 2001 collectionFrom Island to Island, this essay reflects on the taxonomic functions of criteria such as language, ethnicity, and nationality, particularly as they inform contemporary discussions of Chinese, Sinophone, and Mahua (Malaysian Chinese) literature. Several of Ng's stories are set on remote islands and feature individuals who, having been forcibly separated from their original linguistic or social environment, offer a vehicle for reflecting on some of the consequences of literary taxonomies that arbitrarily prioritize one criterion (such as language or nationality) over others. Drawing on Wittgenstein's notion of family resemblance, the essay proposes a taxonomic system that does not rely on a single criterion but rather attends to the dynamic interaction among a variety of criteria. The resulting model is used to interrogate the naturalized conception of the family on which Wittgenstein relies.</jats:p
ABOLITION OR REFORMATION: OPINION AND SUGGESTION OF EDUCATED URBAN RESERVED AND UNRESERVED CATEGORIES CITIZENS ON INDIA’S CONSTITUTIONAL CASTE BASED ‘RESERVATION’ SYSTEM
Get PDFIn 1950 special reservation for ‘socially and economically backward classes’ was prescribed in Indian Constitution as Affirmative Action for next ten years. As per the constitution the Schedule Castes (SCs), Schedule Tribes (STs) and later Other Backward Classes (OBCs) were classified as the chosen recipients of all these social benefits and they have been receiving special conservation in public services and public educational institutes since 1950. The present study was conducted on 80 male and 80 female participants of both reserved and unreserved categories from four metro cities - Delhi, Kolkata, Mumbai and Chennai. Most of these participants have completed their Master Degrees or above and rest have their Bachelor Degrees and age of these participants was between 21 years to 65 years. Study revealed all the participants of the reserved categories have enjoyed constitutional caste based reservation benefits and have experienced some form of social discrimination in their lives. Most of the respondents believe they are the deserving candidates for such kind of social welfare irrespective of their socio-economical situation, because it’s their constitutional right. However maximum participants of both categories have agreed all these constitutional benefits didn’t reach to the every section of ‘socio-economically backward classes’ and the reason behind that uneven distribution of social benefits are lack of education, infrastructure and awareness. On the contrary most participants of unreserved categories believe they also deserve constitutional reservation benefits since they believe constitutional rights should be equal for every Indian. An astonishing percentage of participants of unreserved categories discuss their feeling of social discrimination openly. Most of the participants of reserved and unreserved categories support reformation of constitutional reservation system instead of abolition. However for reserved categories participants the criteria of that reformation should be caste; on the contrary for unreserved categories participants that criteria should merit and economical background. However the same study should be conducted on rural educated population as well for a comprehensive picture.                                                                                                                          Â
REASONS BEHIND HINDU MARRIED WOMEN LEAVING THEIR LEGAL SHARE OF ANCESTRAL PROPERTY
Get PDFThis study was conducted on 126 Hindu married women who were gone through the painful process of ancestral property distribution. As per the Hindu Succession Act (1956) and Hindu Succession (Amendment) Act, 2005 daughters are eligible to get equal portion of ancestral property as sons. However, this study shows clearly most of the Hindu married women who are uneducated and financially dependent on their spouse or sons or daughters they generally end-up losing their fair share of ancestral property at the time of property distribution. On the other hand educated Hindu married women who are capable to negotiate their own right they generally get treated much fairly. That study also shows women who leave their legal share of ancestral property they do that under emotional pressure of their siblings and in fear of losing them permanently. As a result they regret in later period since these women are financially dependent on others and therefore in case of any financial emergency they feel really helpless and regret for their decision of leaving ancestral property share. On the contrary educated and independent women are much vocal about their legal rights and negotiate successfully to get their share and above all they don’t even regret for that decision. Therefore for uneducated, underprivileged women ancestral relations works as a social insurance and it’s more valuable than the ancestral property. However, further study should be conducted on Hindu unmarried women and the women of other religion as well to understand the actual scenario. Meanwhile changes in legal system are also necessary to prevent such dubious practices so that patriarchal society cannot exploit the loopholes of the Indian legal system.Â
A Study on Distribution and Diversity of major Non-wood Forest Produce (NWFP) Species in Sal & Teak Dominated Forests of Madhya Pradesh in Central India
No full textMandla district of Madhya Pradesh is a transitional zone between Tropical dry deciduous forest to Tropic moist deciduous forest, making it a unique and biologically rich landscape. The dominant tree species here are Tectona grandis (Teak) and Shorea robusta (Sal) which form the backbone of these forests, each supporting a distinct set of associated flora shaped by local climate and soil conditions. These forest ecosystems are home to a wide variety of Non-Wood Forest Produce (NWFP) species that are intricately linked to the livelihoods of local tribal and rural communities. Among the most significant NWFPs found in the region are Madhuca species (commonly known as Mahua), Diospyros melanoxylon (Tendu), Buchanania lanzan, Boswellia serrata, and Embelia basal. This study attempts to explore the plant diversity and distribution patterns of key NWFP species across the major forest types of central India. The research methodlogy involves laying of total of 237 sampling plots using systematic random sampling and 10 by 10 meter square quadrats, covering two territorial forest divisions and one wildlife-protected area. Data analysis was carried out using tools like QGIS, Microsoft Excel, and PAST software. The findings revealed high levels of biodiversity in both Teak and Sal forests, with Shannon-Weiner and Simpson diversity indices indicating robust species richness (Teak: 4.835, 0.99; Sal: 4.167, 0.98). Among the NWFP species, Shorea robusta showed the highest density, while Madhuca species were frequently found near agricultural fields on the outskirts of villages, highlighting their close link to community life. Diospyros melanoxylon was more frequently recorded in Teak forests than in Sal forests. The Importance Value Index (IVI)—a measure of a species\u27 ecological significance—was also higher for Madhuca species (3.26 in Teak vs. 2.82 in Sal) and Diospyros melanoxylon (28.41 in Teak vs. 11.10 in Sal), suggesting their stronger presence and role in Teak-dominated areas. The result implies that both Teak and Sal forests in Mandla are rich in NWFP species and play a vital role in supporting the livelihoods of local communities. Species like Mahua and Tendu are not just forest products they are lifelines for many families in the region. However, their distribution tends to be more prominent in Teak forests, likely due to microclimatic conditions that favor their growth and could be a matter of further investigation. These insights emphasize the importance of tailoring forest management practices to specific forest types, in order to sustainably harness the livelihood potential of NWFPs while conserving the ecological richness of the region
Digital marketing in theatre organizations: A study on Mahua fun age troupe in China / Wang Peng
Get PDFThe rapid popularization of Internet technology has changed the face of the whole world. With the advent of the era of digital, online marketing has come in a new way. Based on the traditional marketing methods, the marketing concept and model evolved from the traditional marketing methods are constantly innovated to play a role in the enterprise's marketing strategy and promote the enterprise to complete the overall business objectives more quickly. Shuyu Qi, a professor at the China academy of administration, said that in today's world, cultural development and economic development are increasingly integrated, and cultural industry has gradually become an important driving force for economic growth. Many countries have increased their efforts in the development of cultural industry, and the development of cultural industry in the world presents a situation of fierce competition (Daily, 2013). Vigorously developing the cultural industry has become a new trend in China. The successful operation of the theater will bring huge benefits to the whole cultural performance and urban development. In China today's drama performance market, young and middle-aged audience groups gradually become the main consumer, especially in China's biggest cities, drama lovers' consumption enthusiasm for drama performance is very high, in recent years, a number of emerging drama groups in China's rise, many works have a high box office income. The drama consumer group will become one of the main forces of social consumption in China. In the Internet era, how to adopt marketing strategies for drama lovers is a question that every theater operator must think about. This paper adopts the qualitative mode of on focusing on research methods like interview, observation and narrative method. The researcher through the case analysis of Mahua Fun Age company in China, analyzes the digital marketing of target audience in the current market of theatre performance market in China. To explore the development trend, marketing environment and the strategy of marketing of theatre performance market in the digital marketing era. Finally, based on the research conclusions, the author puts forward relevant and feasible digital marketing strategies suggestions, and reflects on the deficiencies of this research
The Hindu marriage system in Bangladesh: addressing discrimination
No full textThis article was published in the Commonwealth Law Bulletin [© 2014 Commonwealth Secretariat.] and the definite version is available at: http://dx.doi.org/10.1080/03050718.2014.971837 The Journal's website is at: http://www.tandfonline.com/doi/abs/10.1080/03050718.2014.971837As a social and legal institution, marriage is recognized in every society and by every faith. The author examines the institution of marriage amongst the Hindu community of Bangladesh. After the independence of Bangladesh, no legislative measure has been taken to address the Hindu marriage system. From a gender as well as a religious perspective, the whole spectrum of Hindu marriage has often been criticised as being discriminatory, particularly towards women. Despite the fact that the Constitution of Bangladesh has clearly abolished all forms of gender and religious discrimination, these provisions are not reflected in reality. As a signatory of various international conventions, Bangladesh is also under an international obligation to materialise the notion of equality in its municipal system. This article analyses the various lacunae of the prevalent Hindu marriage system in Bangladesh and their underlying reasons. It also makes recommendations in order to achieve Bangladesh’s constitutional and international obligations toward gender equality.Publishe
Block Copolymer Templated Fabrication of TiO<sub>2</sub> Nanodot Films Using Pulsed Laser Deposition
No full textBlock copolymer (BCP)
templated inorganic material nanopatterning,
often termed as BCP lithography, has received significant attention
in recent years because of its self-assembly property offering direct
synthesis of nanostructures with different morphologies. In this paper,
we report an approach combining BCP template and pulsed laser deposition
(PLD) to synthesize TiO2 nanodots of sub-50 nm dimension.
Our results show that the BCP templated TiO2 nanodots maintained
the exact form of the top of polystyrene cylindrical template in the
growth process as seen from the top view of scanning electron microscopy
images. X-ray photoelectron spectroscopy confirms the presence of
Ti and O, and X-ray diffraction results show existence of both anatase
and rutile TiO2 crystalline phase in the nanodot films.
The photoluminescence spectrum for the fabricated TiO2 is
dominated by a broad peak extending from visible to near-infrared
(NIR) that appears because of overlap of the characteristic peaks
for TiO2 anatase (visible) and rutile phase (NIR). The
formation of crystalline TiO2 nanodots can be explained
by crystallization by particle attachment phenomena around the BCP
cylindrical domains during annealing. Fabrication of nanostructured
titania or any other materials in combination with PLD and BCP as
template has not been explored so far with the exception of lead titanate
(PbTiO3) nanostructures; hence, our demonstrated approach
could be extended to fabricate other inorganic nanostructures integrated
with BCP lithography for optoelectronics, sensing, and catalysis applications
