324 research outputs found
Did General Meade desire to retreat at the Battle of Gettysburg?
No full textThis book examined discrepancies in the testimony and historical writings by Generals Pleasanton, Butterfield and Doubleday in which General Meade (1815-1872) is accused of desiring a retreat on July 2nd,1883, the second day of battle at Gettysburg. The author, Gen. Meade's son and a commmanding officer himself, implied the motivation for the "gossip" about Meade's position was created when Meade ordered Doubleday, acting senior officer, First Corps, to be replaced after his commanding officer General Reynolds fell in battle. General Newton, of the Sixth Corps, replaced Doubleday. Twenty years later, after the death of General Meade, Doubleday wrote in his commissioned historical account of Gettysburg that Meade requested a retreat. This treatise attempted to disprove these allegations citing a judge's ruling that Meade acted in the best interests of his men
L. T. Meade\u27s Avaricious Anomaly: Â Madame Sara, British Imperialism, and Greedy Wolves in The Sorceress of the Strand
No full textL. T. Meade\u27s Avaricious Anomaly: Madame Sara, British Imperialism, and Greedy Wolves in The Sorceress of the Strand. Laurie Langlois Denning, Department of English, BYU Master of Arts. Critics interested in the prolific late Victorian author L.T. Meade have primarily focused on her work as an author of girls\u27 stories and novels for young people, which enjoyed fantastic commercial success in her lifetime but fell into obscurity after her death. Recent scholarship on her detective fiction shows Meade\u27s significant contributions to the genre as well as her engagement with social and political discourse. Scholars have noted ways that Meade\u27s popular series, The Sorceress of the Strand, contributes to the New Woman debate and expresses anxiety over the British imperial project. This project examines Meade\u27s villain in the series as a social anomaly that functions to interrogate the greed at the heart of imperialism. Examining the series\u27 conclusion and the unusual nature of its ending sheds new light on Meade\u27s contribution to debate over empire at the fin de siécle. Meade\u27s fascinating villain, Madame Sara, is doggedly pursued by two detective figures--one is considered the top forensic specialist in the British police force and the other is the head of a business fraud agency--but the detectives are never able to bring Madam Sara to justice. Instead, it is a wolf that finally defeats the brilliant criminal mastermind. Why a wolf? Madam Sara\u27s unusual demise serves as a deus ex machina that invites the reader to consider the Dante symbolism embedded in the text. Other critics see Meade\u27s ending as reinforcing the empire; however, given the Dante imagery that has Madam Sara symbolizing a greedy imperial force, Meade\u27s series indicts imperial greed and warns British citizens about failure to apprehend the evil in empire
Members' experiences of a neuromuscular disorder online support group
No full textIntroduction: Neuromuscular disorders (NMDs) cause wasting and weakening of muscles. People affected by NMDs and their carers can experience a number of adverse psychosocial consequences, which can be exacerbated by the rare nature of many of these disorders. This makes access to medical information, timely diagnoses, supportive care and peer support difficult. Options for receiving peer support are increasing through the development of online support groups (OSGs) for people affected by NMDs. Aims: This thesis examined the role of a new OSG in facilitating online peer support for people affected by NMDs and their carers. This was carried out using two distinct, but inter-related, studies. The first study examined the various ways in which members used the message board facility. The second of these studies accessed members’ personal experiences of using this OSG. Methods: In order to examine how members used this new OSG, the first study involved an inductive thematic analysis of OSG message postings. Message postings from the first five months of this OSG’s existence (n=1,914) were analysed, so as to identify the main thematic content of members’ discussions. The second study accessed participants’ personal accounts of their OSG experiences. Semi-structured interviews were conducted with six OSG members and were analysed using Interpretative Phenomenological Analysis (IPA). This interview element examined the context through which members decided to use the group, factors that contributed to their continued use of the group, and the personal impact of participation. Results: The OSG message postings analysis demonstrated how members created a sense of community spirit by establishing common ground through disclosing personal information, searching for connections with people with similar illness experiences or interests, welcoming new members, and sharing aspirations for the development of a resourceful community. Experiences, emotional reactions and support were shared in relation to: delayed diagnosis; symptom interpretation; illness management and progression; and the sense of isolation incurred when managing a rare disorder. The board was also used to discuss societal and political issues pertaining to living with an NMD and methods of raising awareness of such conditions. The results of the interview study showed the valued connection that the OSG gave participants to similar others, in a friendly, non-pressurised environment. Members especially valued the reassurance of knowing that they were not alone in coping with their often-rare condition. The group provided participants with an understanding audience: a rare experience for a group whose condition is not widely known or understood. The information exchanged on the OSG was appreciated due to its specificity in dealing with NMDs. The board was also considered an important platform for raising awareness of NMD-related issues. The gratifying experience of helping other NMD sufferers was highlighted as a key theme. Participants also felt that the OSG was not without its limitations. Difficulties in relating to other people (because of varying disability levels, different disease progression histories, and different views on politics and other interests) influenced participants’ levels of interaction and the perceived benefits of the group. Less common concerns for the group – but important for some individuals – were privacy concerns in using a publicly accessible group and difficulty navigating through the message postings. Conclusions: This thesis provides a novel, in-depth insight into how people used a new OSG for NMDs, and the personal impact of participating in such a group. Analyses of message posting and interview data highlight the vital psychosocial support provided by the OSG, especially given the rarity of many of these conditions. However, it was found that some obstacles to support are inherent in the OSG itself, tempering assessments of the impact of its use.EThOS - Electronic Theses Online ServiceGBUnited Kingdo
Development and testing of behaviour change based intervention for machine related safety on farms
No full textBackground Farm machinery-related injuries are a growing concern worldwide, posing serious risks to farmers' safety and leading to severe disabilities or fatalities. As the farming population ages and farming machinery evolves, the need to address long-term safety becomes crucial. Research has demonstrated the effectiveness of behaviour change interventions in improving farm practices. To ensure the successful adoption of safe farming practices, understanding the factors that contribute to farmers' behaviour is important. This understanding allows for developing and tailoring behaviour change interventions to the specific needs and challenges faced by the target population. However, there has been limited work on developing theory driven interventions to increase machine safety among farmers. This thesis aims to develop and test a behaviour change-based intervention focused on enhancing tractor-related safety on farms, with a particular focus on Irish farmers. The research involved collaboration with Irish farmers, experts in agricultural safety, and relevant stakeholders to ensure the intervention's relevance and practicality. Aim The aim of the project was the systematic development and feasibility testing of a behaviour change based intervention to increase machine-related safety on farms. Methods and Results This thesis encompassed four interlinking studies guided by the Behaviour Change Wheel framework for developing behaviour change-based interventions. Study 1 (Systematic Review): The systematic review (Chapter 3) employed the Behaviour Change Wheel (BCW) framework and the Behaviour Change Technique (BCT) taxonomy to investigate machine-related farm safety interventions comprehensively. This review revealed gaps in addressing demographic factors, specific machine-related behaviours, and intervention complexity. Additionally, it emphasised the need for tailored interventions and rigorous reporting and evaluation of the active ingredients of the intervention. Further analysis highlighted the significant role of tractors and quad bikes in farm accidents, vulnerability among older farmers and children, and the limited attention to older farmers in safety initiatives. This foundational study informed subsequent research directions, providing essential insights into farm machine safety interventions. Study 2 (Focus Group Discussions): This qualitative study explored the perspectives and experiences of older Irish farmers concerning farm machinery safety, with a particular focus on tractors and quad bikes. Utilising the Capability-Opportunity-Motivation-Behaviour (COM-B) model, the focus group discussions identified a range of high-risk behaviours associated with machine operation and safety. The study identified the barriers and facilitators influencing the adoption of safe machinery operation practices. This study also explored farmers' attitudes towards behaviour change techniques (BCTs) identified in the systematic review. These insights highlighted the need to tailor interventions for specific demographic groups and the significance of promoting age-appropriate safety measures for older farmers. Study 3 (Co-design workshop): This study aimed to tailor farm safety intervention to the unique needs of older Irish farmers. Two co-design workshops with international farm safety experts and stakeholders were conducted to achieve these objectives. These workshops identified potential target behaviours, barriers, enablers, and intervention components and delivery methods. A web-based rank order survey was used to prioritise target behaviours, and findings from the survey guided discussions during the workshops. Subsequently, with the Teagasc Advisory Team, a feasibility screening to finalise the selection of target behaviours, behaviour change techniques, and modes of delivery based on predefined criteria and empirical evidence. Key target behaviours identified were (i) allocation of attention to machinery operation and the local environment and (ii) installing and using appropriate safety devices on machinery. Barriers included limited knowledge, while facilitators included peer support. The BeSafe tractor safety intervention strategically incorporated BCTs such as 1.1 Goal setting (behaviour), 1.4. Action planning, 4.1. Instruction on how to perform the behaviour, and 13.1 Identification of self as a role model. The study highlighted the importance of tailoring farm safety intervention to different farm types and age groups. Collaboration with the Teagasc Advisory Team ensured practicality, enhancing real-world applicability. Study 4 (Feasibility trial): Study 4, the final stage of this research, involved the feasibility trial of the BeSafe tractor safety intervention. The trial assessed the acceptability, feasibility, and fidelity of the intervention components and the overall intervention among Irish farmers. The BeSafe intervention, developed based on the Behaviour Change Wheel (BCW) framework, encompassed in-person demo sessions, a facilitated discussion, a personalised safety training procedure template, a demonstration kit, and an SMS reminder. The trial included both older and younger farmers, with a focus on enhancing awareness about tractor blind spots. Results from the feasibility trial indicated a positive reception of the intervention among participants. Farmers appreciated the farmer-centric approach, actively engaging with the intervention components. Peer-to-peer demonstrations were particularly effective in promoting peer-to-peer learning and safer farm machine operation practices. This study demonstrated the potential of a theory-driven, stakeholder-informed, behaviour change based intervention to improve machine-related safety on farms. Conclusion In conclusion, this thesis presents a systematic and comprehensive approach for developing a theoretically driven, stakeholder-informed, and behaviour change based intervention to improve farm machine safety. This thesis describes a novel attempt in the development of machine-safety interventions, offering a documented systematic approach firmly rooted in the BCW framework and substantiated by empirical evidence. The studies included in this thesis have contributed to the literature by providing a greater understanding of safety behaviour among Irish farmers, including novel insights on the potential behaviour change strategies to raise awareness among the farming population and enhance the adoption of safer farm practices. Overall, the findings and recommendations presented in this thesis have the potential to contribute to the efforts to address the high injury and fatality rates in the agricultural industry, ultimately promoting a safer working environment for farmers
Members’ experiences of a neuromuscular disorder online support group
No full textIntroduction: Neuromuscular disorders (NMDs) cause wasting and weakening of muscles. People affected by NMDs and their carers can experience a number of adverse psychosocial consequences, which can be exacerbated by the rare nature of many of these disorders. This makes access to medical information, timely diagnoses, supportive care and peer support difficult. Options for receiving peer support are increasing through the development of online support groups (OSGs) for people affected by NMDs.
Aims: This thesis examined the role of a new OSG in facilitating online peer support for people affected by NMDs and their carers. This was carried out using two distinct, but inter-related, studies. The first study examined the various ways in which members used the message board facility. The second of these studies accessed members’ personal experiences of using this OSG.
Methods: In order to examine how members used this new OSG, the first study involved an inductive thematic analysis of OSG message postings. Message postings from the first five months of this OSG’s existence (n=1,914) were analysed, so as to identify the main thematic content of members’ discussions.
The second study accessed participants’ personal accounts of their OSG experiences. Semi-structured interviews were conducted with six OSG members and were analysed using Interpretative Phenomenological Analysis (IPA). This interview element examined the context through which members decided to use the group, factors that contributed to their continued use of the group, and the personal impact of participation.
Results: The OSG message postings analysis demonstrated how members created a sense of community spirit by establishing common ground through disclosing personal information, searching for connections with people with similar illness experiences or interests, welcoming new members, and sharing aspirations for the development of a resourceful community. Experiences, emotional reactions and support were shared in relation to: delayed diagnosis; symptom interpretation; illness management and progression; and the sense of isolation incurred when managing a rare disorder. The board was also used to discuss societal and political issues pertaining to living with an NMD and methods of raising awareness of such conditions.
The results of the interview study showed the valued connection that the OSG gave participants to similar others, in a friendly, non-pressurised environment. Members especially valued the reassurance of knowing that they were not alone in coping with their often-rare condition. The group provided participants with an understanding audience: a rare experience for a group whose condition is not widely known or understood. The information exchanged on the OSG was appreciated due to its specificity in dealing with NMDs. The board was also considered an important platform for raising awareness of NMD-related issues. The gratifying experience of helping other NMD sufferers was highlighted as a key theme.
Participants also felt that the OSG was not without its limitations. Difficulties in relating to other people (because of varying disability levels, different disease progression histories, and different views on politics and other interests) influenced participants’ levels of interaction and the perceived benefits of the group. Less common concerns for the group – but important for some individuals – were privacy concerns in using a publicly accessible group and difficulty navigating through the message postings.
Conclusions: This thesis provides a novel, in-depth insight into how people used a new OSG for NMDs, and the personal impact of participating in such a group. Analyses of message posting and interview data highlight the vital psychosocial support provided by the OSG, especially given the rarity of many of these conditions. However, it was found that some obstacles to support are inherent in the OSG itself, tempering assessments of the impact of its use
Rethinking Appropriateness: A look at Hegemonic Ideals as Related to Perceived Communication Competence In Women
No full textThe author argues that the hegemonically-constructed criteria of appropriateness, as related to communication competence, is not palatable or functional for female communicators much of the time for it serves a social milieu which marginalizes women. Spitzberg and Duran (1993) state, appropriateness seems spring loaded towards the status quo\u27\u27 and may work against the interests of certain groups. In this paper, the author attempts to illuminate evidence of power imbalances covertly imbedded in the ideologically complex determination of appropriateness as a central criteria for communication competence in women. Competence theory is problematic and must be re-evaluated: it is contradictory and confusing, perpetuates hegemonic ideals and gender distinctions, and discounts feminine perspectives. Meade finds that, although the women in this study are aware of the hegemonic devices which work against them in academe, they continue to participate in their own domination. The findings suggest that the graduate school experience creates anger, frustration, and a lack of personal fulfillment in too many women ... rather than overcoming through education ... they must overcome their education. Meade makes pedagogical recommendations which serve to empower women and enhance their communicative outcomes
Remembering: Not to Be Thwarted, We Remember Some of Brockport\u27s Finest
No full text“Remembering” consists of memorial tributes written for over 500 SUNY Brockport emeriti, retirees and friends. Entrees cover those who passed away from January 2, 2001 through August 29, 2020 plus a few stories from earlier years. Tributes were collected from obituary information where known, and personal reminiscences from the author and others. Richard (Bud) Meade served as Brockport’s Director of Human Resources for many years. He emailed updates to emeriti/retirees to keep them up to date on events and activities going on at the College that he thought would be of interest, and through which they could share their retirement stories with others. Includes index and photos.https://digitalcommons.brockport.edu/local_books/1031/thumbnail.jp
Pharmacology as a foreign language: A preliminary evaluation of podcasting as a supplementary learning tool for non-medical prescribing students
No full textAbstract Background Nurses and other health professionals in the U.K. can gain similar prescribing rights to doctors by undertaking a non-medical prescribing course. Non-medical prescribing students must have a thorough understanding of the pharmacology of prescribing to ensure safe practice. Pharmacology education at this level is complicated by the variation in students' prior subject knowledge of, and anxiety about, the subject. The recent advances in technology, particularly the potential for mobile learning, provide increased opportunities for students to familiarise themselves with lecture materials and hence promote understanding. The objective of this study was therefore to evaluate both the subjective (student perception) and objective (student use and exam results) usefulness of podcasts of pharmacology lectures which were provided as an extra learning tool to two cohorts (n = 69) of non-medical prescribing students. Methods The podcasts were made available to students through the virtual learning environment WebCT. Use of podcasts by two successive cohorts of nurse prescribing students (n = 69) was tracked through WebCT. Survey data, which was collected from 44 of these students, investigated patterns of/reasons for podcast use and perceived usefulness of podcasts as a learning tool. Of these 69 students, 64 completed the pharmacology exam. In order to examine any impact of podcasts on student knowledge, their exam results were compared with those of two historical cohorts who did not have access to podcasts (n = 70). Results WebCT tracking showed that 91% of students accessed at least one podcast. 93% of students used the podcasts to revisit a lecture, 85% used podcasts for revision, and 61% used the podcasts when they had a specific question. Only 22% used the podcasts because they had missed a pharmacology session. Most students (81%) generally listened to the entire podcast rather than specific sections and most (73%) used them while referring to their lecture handouts. The majority of students found the podcasts helpful as a learning tool, as a revision aid and in promoting their understanding of the subject. Evaluation of the range of marks obtained, mode mark and mean mark suggested improved knowledge in students with access to podcasts compared to historical cohorts of students who did not have access to pharmacology podcasts. Conclusions The results of this study suggest that non-medical prescribing students utilised podcasts of pharmacology lectures, and have found the availability of these podcasts helpful for their learning. Exam results indicate that the availability of podcasts was also associated with improved exam performance.</p
Remembering and Update newsletter
No full textIn retirement Bud Meade began to circulate an email newsletter, named "Update", which passed on stories and news about various college retirees. This remarkable, ongoing project has captured a tremendous amount of information about those who built the college over 50 years. This collection is searchable and covers from 2001 to August 2020.
“Remembering” consists of memorial tributes written for over 500 SUNY Brockport emeriti, retirees and friends, extracted from the "Updates" newsletter. Entries cover those who passed away from January 2, 2001 through August 29, 2020 plus a few stories from earlier years. Tributes were collected from obituary information if available, and personal reminiscences from the author and others. This collection is done by date, not alphabetically. Use the index of names to find entries in the book.
The Supplement to Remembering is a list of deaths of people that Bud likely would have reported in "Update" had he not stopped doing the newsletter on August 31, 2020. It includes emeriti and also some relatives of emeriti and other Brockport people who were not employed at the College/University but were known to many employees. The supplement lists names alphabetically of those passing from August 31, 2020 through Oct. 22, 2025.Richard "Bud" Meade worked in Human Resources at SUNY Brockport from 1968-2000. He knew many of our faculty and staff and his collected writing are a remarkable resource for information about emeriti faculty.Archived web contentSUNY BrockportHistory of SUNY Brockpor
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