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Contested Natures (Published in association with Theory, Culture & Society)

by Phil Macnaghten John Urry

Demonstrating that all notions of nature are inextricably entangled in different forms of social life, the text elaborates the many ways in which the apparently natural world has been produced from within particular social practices. These are analyzed in terms of different senses, different times and the production of distinct spaces, including the local, the national and the global. The authors emphasize the importance of cultural understandings of the physical world, highlighting the ways in which these have been routinely misunderstood by academic and policy discourses. They show that popular conceptions of, and attitudes to, nature are often contradictory and that there are no simple ways of prevailing upon people to `save the environment′.

Body Modification (Published in association with Theory, Culture & Society)

by Mike Featherstone

This fascinating collection explores the growing range of body modification practices such as piercing, tattooing, branding, cutting and inserting implants, which have sprung up recently in the West. It asks whether this implies that we are returning to traditional tribal practices of inscribing identities onto bodies on the part of ′modern primitives′, or is body modification better understood as purely cosmetic and decorative with body markings merely temporary signs of transferable loyalties?

Private Desires, Political Action: An Invitation to the Politics of Rational Choice

by Michael Laver

Private Desires, Political Action is an accessible overview of one of the most important approaches to the study of politics in the modern world - rational choice theory. Michael Laver does not set out to review this entire field, but rather to discuss how we might use rational choice theory to analyze the political competition that affects almost every aspect of our lives. The broad-ranging scope of the book introduces the theory at many levels of analysis, including: the private desires of individuals; the social context of how people fulfil their desires; and the problems of collective action. The discussion of these problems extends into the arena of politics, where the activities of `political entrepreneurs′ or politicians and the formation of political parties and coalitions are addressed.

Managing the Curriculum (Centre for Educational Leadership and Management)

by David Middlewood Neil Burton

`Each chapter in the book is firmly rooted in research and is well referenced as one would expect of such a book. It will be of particular use to people with an academic interest in this aspect of school management but will also be thought-provoking for those who are involved in the development of the curriculum within their institution′ - escalate This book explores many of the new aspects of the core business of schools and colleges, that is, the curriculum. Keeping the focus clearly on learning and teaching, the contributors explore the practical issues for managers at institutional level, within the context of their need to understand and analyze key educational values and principles. Part One presents overviews of theories and models of curriculum, while Part Two examines how these are applied through planning, monitoring and evaluating. Part Three explores in detail the various managerial roles within schools and colleges from leaders to those responsible for cross-curriculum work and special educational needs. The fourth part discusses the importance of effectively managing resources for the curriculum - the environment, support staff and finance. Contributors use empirical research evidence to analyze current curriculum trends whilst proposing various new models which are likely to emerge in the 21st century.

Learning in the Early Years 3-7

by Jeni Riley

′[T]his second edition book is a welcome contribution to the early years literature base, providing much needed information and a somewhat innovative response concerning how effectively to translate the Early Years Foundation Stage into practice′ - Early Years `This second edition of Learning in the Early Years has been fully updated to bring it in line with the Statutory Framework for the Early Years Foundation Stage...The presentation and style...is very readable and accessible and as such the book provides an excellent resource for students and experienced early years practitioners alike′ - Early Years Update Praise for the First Edition: `It was a joy to read this book... This book provides a wealth of ideas for reflection, as well as guidance to promote knowledge and skills essential in early years teaching.′ Dario Pellegrini, Educational Psychologist `I found it hard to put it down. I particularly liked the way it followed through into Key Stage 1′ - Who Minds `An important contribution to difficult work′ - Elizabeth Quintero, The Steinhardt School of Education, New York University This fully updated Second Edition of ′Learning in the Early Years 3-7′ has been written to support early years practitioners understand and implement the new curriculum guidance document ′The Early Years Foundation Stage′ (DfES, 2007). In this book, Jeni Riley clearly explains how to meet the requirements of the EYFS document and how this relates to the National Curriculum and the Primary National Strategy: Framework for teaching for literacy and mathematics. Offering informative and inspirational guidance on planning learning and teaching opportunities across the curriculum, this book will help you to promote social, intellectual, aesthetic, spiritual and physical development in your setting. Topics covered include: - appropriate and lively ways of working with young children - developing subject knowledge - supporting children for whom English is an additional language - the role of adults when interacting with children to support learning - the place of information and communications technology - the transition between the Foundation Stage and Key Stage 1. The book also draws on recent research on child development, on how babies think and on effective learning and teaching for children aged 3-7. All early years students and practitioners will want to have this book to hand to guide them through the new guidance and to support them daily to implement successful practice. Jeni Riley, Reader in Literacy in Primary Education, Institute of Education, University of London.

Management Theories for Educational Change

by Keith Morrison

`This is an exceptional book. It tempted me to throw out most of my collected works on the management of change, because the author has somehow succeeded by including almost every aspect of educational change that any practitioner would wish to consider....Overall this is a very stimulating book. It is packed with information and the ideas and concepts contained could pack a school development plan for many years′ - School Leadership and Management The theories and practices from the literature on business, manufacturing and commerce which inform principles for managing change in education are identified in this book.The author shows how the complexity of change can be addressed effectively. One principle of effective management of change is its potential to empower the individuals and organizations, its power to create and operate win/win situations. That can only be done by addressing the human side of organizations. The strength of the business literature is that far from advocating the austere, over-rationalized, dehumanized and objective pursuit of profit at all costs, it suggests that the effective management of change is an affirmation of the humanity of business.

Intracranial Epidural Bleeding: History, Management, and Pathophysiology

by Jeremy Christopher Ganz

Intracranial Epidural Bleeding: History, Management, and Pathophysiology examines the history of the concepts underlying the understanding of the clinical features of epidural bleeding. The pathophysiology of epidural bleeding was examined in two PhD theses in the 1980s, with the results published in top international journals. However, these concepts have not been understood by the general neurosurgical community. This book provides a comprehensive overview of how epidural bleeding actually works. It can be used to help improve the interpretation of images during management, and to assess degrees of urgency. This book is written for neurosurgeons, neurologists, cerebrovascular physiologists, trauma surgeons, and medical historians. - Focuses on the understanding of the clinical features of epidural bleeding - Helps to improve the interpretation of images during management, and in assessing degrees of urgency - Includes a comprehensive historical review of the understanding of epidural bleeding over time

Health Promotion Practice: Power and Empowerment

by Glenn Laverack

′This book, written from an international perspective and thus eminently readable by a wider audience, draws on the author′s considerable experience and is amply supplied with a good range of illustrations from real-life practice…The logical structure and accessible style makes this a useful addition to the personal library of anyone who has an interest in "bottom-up" empowerment-based approaches to health promotion′ - RCN Research Headlines ′The author draws on a wealth of personal experiences in the field, giving the book both readability and credibility. Good examples from different international contexts, illustrated in relevant case studies, let the reader relate theory to practice and bring the concepts to life. The author takes the central thrust of health promotion for the past few decades and unravels it for the reader in a clear, comprehensive way′ - Health Matters In health promotion, the concept of power can be defined as the ability to create or resist change, and this is an important foundation for individual and community health. By enabling people to empower themselves, health promoters can provide the capacity for the individual or community to change their lives and their living conditions, and therefore their health. Health Promotion Practice explores the issue of how such an approach to health promotion practice can improve a community′s success towards achieving healthier conditions through its own actions. Placing empowerment at the heart of health promotion practice, and offering advice for health promoters who accept the challenge to work in such a way, Health Promotion Practice defines key concepts of health, health promotion and community empowerment. It also: Introduces readers to a ′social′ model of health promotion practice, one that attempts to get at the underlying social determinants of disease; Helps readers understand the importance of power relations and their transformation in this practice; Introduces readers to a new `community capacity-building′ approach to plan, implement and evaluate health promotion programmes. Health Promotion Practice is an invaluable resource to students and practitioners of health promotion who want to help empower the communities that they work with.

Learning and Teaching in the Primary Classroom

by Maurice J Galton

Providing a framework for understanding the individual needs of pupils, this book describes how you can tailor your teaching methods to maximise learning. You will learn how to take account of your pupils′ knowledge, skills and attitudes when selecting and applying principles of instruction, in order to make learning in your classroom as successful as possible. Packed with informative case studies and classroom examples, this book explores how learning is conceptualised, direct instruction, interactive teaching, teaching as scaffolding, and how to overcome obstacles to learning. This is a must-read for all practitioners and students of primary education who wish to understand how to best apply theories of instruction, and provide effective, dynamic teaching.

Understanding Critical Social Psychology

by Keith Tuffin

`This is a thoughtful, honest and accessible text which I would certainly recommend to students. The chapter ordering is excellent and should take the student through a logical progression from the more established to the more contemporary approaches in social psychology′ - Ian Hodges, Westminster University `It is written in a beautifully clear, engaging and conversational style which will make the book accessible and appealing to those encountering critical ideas for the first time.... Students will find the book both interesting and easy to read, and their lecturers will find it a valuable teaching resource. I will certainly be recommending it to my second and third year undergraduates′ - Viv Burr, University of Huddersfield Understanding Critical Social Psychology is an exciting new textbook providing a comprehensive and reader-friendly approach to the theories and methods surrounding Critical Social Psychology. For students taking a course in Critical Social Psychology, this book combines a critical examination of the traditional philosophies, practices and topics with an emphasis on introducing innovative and contemporary developments in social psychological research. In this way, Tuffin integrates newer insights with established modes of thinking. Key Features of this book include: " Student-friendly structure - contains numerous features suitable for undergraduate course use such as section summaries, further reading and a tutorial which answers students′ questions about critical social psychology. " Broad framework - Positions newer insights in relation to the historical, theoretical and ideological roots of social psychology. Ideal for students taking a Critical Social Psychology module having already studied a mainstream course. " Applied focus - Understanding Critical Social Psychology tackles key themes in the discipline i.e. prejudice, politics, identity and emotions from critical perspectives. Written in a clear and accessible style, with illustrative data, detailed chapter summaries and key readings at the end of each section, it will be welcomed by undergraduates seeking to develop their understanding of critical social psychology.

The A-Z of Social Research: A Dictionary of Key Social Science Research Concepts

by Robert L. Miller John D. Brewer

`A detailed and valuable addition to the literature that will be a very useful resource for lecturers, as well as having a wide appeal among students′ - Tim May, University of Salford Have you ever wondered what a concise, comprehensive book providing critical guidance to the whole expanse of social science research methods and issues might look like? The A-Z is a collection of 94 entries ranging from qualitative research techniques to statistical testing and the practicalities of using the Internet as a research tool. Alphabetically arranged in accessible, reader-friendly formats, the shortest entries are 800 words long and the longest are 3000. Most entries are approximately 1500 words in length and are supported by suggestions for further reading. The book: - Answers the demand for a practical, fast and concise introduction to the key concepts and methods in social research - Supplies students with impeccable information that can be used in essays, exams and research projects - Demystifies a field that students often find daunting This is a refreshing book on social research methods, which understands the pressures that modern students face in their work-load and seeks to supply an authoritative study guide to the field. It should fulfil a long-standing need in undergraduate research methods courses for an unpatronising, utterly reliable aid to making sense of research methods.

Management and Leadership Development

by Christopher Mabey Tim Finch Lees

`This is the first really thought-provoking book that I have read on management development. It is a book primarily addressed to students, but in this field, we are all students. It merits a wide readership both among practising managers as well as among those responsible for developing them′ - Max Boisot, ESADE `Mabey and Finch-Lees inject a breath of fresh air into the management development field by expanding upon its heretofore functionalist base. They offer an informative critique of mainstream views, featuring alternative discourses to examine such hard questions as why management development hasn′t quite delivered on management′s considerable investment in it. As a veritable tour de force in its absorbing integration and review of a large tract of literature, the book informs both management scholars and practitioners what might be expected from management development′s intended but also unanticipated outcomes′ - Joe Raelin, Northeastern University `In a well-written, accessible and yet sophisticated text, Mabey and Finch-Lees show themselves to be as familiar with the latest in management development practice as they are with the sometimes arcane theoretical literature that surrounds it. Its great strength is to recognize the plurality of discourses - some overlapping and complementary, others distinct and oppositional - about the subject. This book can be recommended as a unique resource for students and scholars of management development′ - Chris Grey, University of Warwick This book represents a significant step forward in the theory of management and leadership development. It offers an international perspective in this era of globalisation and a new and questioning perspective on the common belief that leadership is something completely different to, and more important than, management. This book will be of great help to the serous theorist and researcher of management and leadership development. It is an invaluable point of reference for a broad range of theory and research in this area, which it summarises with admirable brevity and clarity′ - John G Burgoyne, Lancaster University Management School and Henley Management College Management development is a potent and high-profile human resource activity, involving some of the organizations′ key players and attracting huge hopes and investments from governments, organizations and individuals alike. Yet at several levels, the high expectations often remain unfulfilled. So why is this a subject and activity that continues to command such intense interest from scholars and practitioners alike? Chris Mabey and Tim Finch-Lees provide a fresh analysis of the concept and practice of management and leadership development (MLD). Grounded in research, the authors set out the current state of management and leadership development practices, before introducing readers to competing theories of MLD and offering them a more critical perspective. Throughout the book, ideas are illustrated by international case studies and vignettes that evoke the perceptions and interests of the whole range of stakeholders in the management development process. Management Development has been written for upper level undergraduate and masters level students pursuing courses in HRM, HRD, Leadership Development, Organizational Behaviour, Management, Organization Change, Personnel Management, and training and development modules.

Movement and Learning in the Early Years: Supporting Dyspraxia (DCD) and Other Difficulties

by Christine Macintyre Kim McVitty

`This book achieves what it sets out to do - provide clear guidance to parents and professionals on key aspects of movement in the early years. The book however does more than that - it emphasises that movement in the early years is not the territory of experts, but through the use of this book, the assessment of movement development of activities and programmes are within the range of all - class teachers and parents. I strongly recommend that this book is available in every school′ - Educational Review `This book provides a good overview of issues in movement and development and learning, and will stimulate the interested reader to explore this topic further′ - Early Years `This book will be a useful addition to any primary staff room bookshelf. It is a practical book based on sound theory. It will provide ideas for the non-specialist teacher and for parents anxious to help. The suggestions will provide a good framework for the staged assessment and support for young children for whom there is a cause for concern′ - Support for Learning `For anyone involved in the development of any young child, this should be essential reading. The book is very informative and readable by parents, teachers and students and is simply illustrated with case studies′ - Dyslexia Contact `As a behaviour advisory teacher I will certainly be influenced by reading this, and I know our local occupational therapists would be overjoyed if she knew all teachers read books like this′ - Special Children `It is always good to be able to welcome a book on such a key factor as movement in early childhood development, and this text has been written to support parents and practitioners who wish to understand how movement contributes to all aspects of learning -intellectual, social and emotional, as well as physical′ - Marian Whitehead, Nursery World `This book is an excellent introduction for anybody trying to understand how movement affects child development. It clearly explains the importance movement has on how young children learn and feel. The information and insights in this book can be found elsewhere but I have yet to find such breadth and depth of information on supporting children with movement difficulties as clearly written and accessible as this book′ - Spare-Chair `The book is very informative and readable by parents, teachers and students and amply illustrated with case studies′ - Judith Stansfield, SEN ICT Consultant Movement is a key factor in young children′s development and it can affect how they learn and how they feel. Do you work with young children who have difficulties in this area? This book shows you how to observe a child as they move to allow for early identification of any problem and then tells you how to help. Dyspraxia (DCD) is on the increase in young children and less confident and easy movement can play a part in other specific learning difficulties such as dyslexia, attention deficit disorder (ADD) and with hyperactivity (ADHD). Included is advice on: } observing, analyzing and assessing movement development } building confidence } helping with handwriting } supporting mathematical development Why not ask the child to pop bubble paper as one way of promoting finger awareness? Carefully taught activities can be easy to plan and fun to carry out and there are lots of suggested activities set out in the book. Early years practitioners in nurseries, schools, playgroups and EYDCPs will find this book clear and useful; it also offers advice to parents. Christine Macintyre was formerly Senior Lecturer at Edinburgh University and is now a freelance consultant. Kim McVitty is a nursery school teacher.

Parkinson's Disease: Molecular Mechanisms Underlying Pathology

by Patrik Verstreken

Parkinson's Disease: Molecular Mechanisms Underlying Pathology explores the molecular pathways at the basis of the cellular defects connected to Parkinson's disease, the second most common neurodegenerative disease, and the most common movement disorder. This book presents the latest research on the pathways and mechanisms that have been discovered to play a role in Parkinson's pathology. This focus on mechanisms rather than individual genes allows the contributors to elaborate on overlapping and joint functions of different causative genes. Readers will find descriptions of model systems that present parallels (and differences) between discoveries in different species, demonstrating the importance of multidisciplinary research that spans a broad array of technologies and model organisms. Written from both a cross-methodology and cross-species perspective, the book provides readers with the current state of knowledge on the molecular biology of Parkinson's. - Written by experts in the field that focus on pathways and mechanisms implicated in Parkinson's pathology - Draws parallels between multidisciplinary discoveries in different model organisms using an array of technologies - Provides a cross-methodology and cross-species approach to understanding the molecular biology of Parkinson's disease - Includes approximately 25 color Illustrations and diagrams to explain concepts and models - Focuses on key pathways and mechanisms (as opposed to model organism or gene) to provide a multidisciplinary approach to Parkinson's disease

Legal Issues in Counselling & Psychotherapy (Ethics in Practice Series)

by Peter Jenkins

`This is an excellent book. It builds well on Peter Jenkins′ admirable earlier contribution to our knowledge of the many legal matters that are of vital concern to counsellors (Counselling, Psychotherapy and the Law, SAGE 1997) It is mY intention, as a counsellor and lecturer to make Peter Jenkins′ new book required reading for all our students. Indeed I would go as far to say that all counsellors, not matter how experienced they consider themselves, should consider this book as essential reading. As the advert says, "don′t leave home without one!" - Norman Claringbull, Counselling at Work `This is good value for trainees and experienced practitioners alike, provoking reflection and providing a useful reference source′ - Sally Scott, Healthcare Counselling and Psychotherapy Journal Counsellors and psychotherapists are increasingly seeing the impact of legal issues on their practice and yet many feel under-prepared for the challenges they have to face. Legal Issues in Counselling & Psychotherapy is a much-needed source of advice and reference which examines the rapidly growing range of situations in which therapists find themselves in contact with the law - in their everyday practice, in specialist work, or when facing a legal case against them. The first part covers the current legal context of therapeutic work including confidentiality, contracts, data protection and court reports. Chapters include: defining work by leading writers from the therapeutic and legal worlds, as well as an illuminating account by a client who brought a successful case against her therapist. Some areas of therapeutic work are particularly circumscribed by legal issues and the second part examines the specific implications for therapists in relation to: - working with survivors of sexual abuse -working in legal settings -false memory -the Human Rights Act. Looking to the future, the book also examines the implications of professional regulation for all counsellors and psychotherapists. The need for counsellors and psychotherapists to be well informed about the law is rapidly growing. Legal Issues in Counselling & Psychotherapy therefore provides access to essential information which will be of great value to trainees, practitioners and supervisors.

Management Skills in Schools: A Resource for School Leaders

by Jeff Jones

`This is a useful book and well written reflecting the author′s considerable experience in the field′ - National School Improvement Network News `Management Skills in Schools is a terrific digest of many important issues, built around a clear structure that helps the reader absorb information quickly. For the sheers scale of the references to educational gurus, it′s worth the cover price: here is everything you need to quote′ - Geoff Barton, Friday Magazine, Times Educational Supplement `This book provides an invaluable resource for everyone who is concerned with leadership and management in schools. As well as dealing with key issues and concepts it gives practical advice on strategies and techniques which can be deployed. It will enhance and complement existing skills as well as importing new ideas which will provide professional stimulus for the reader′ - Sir Geoff Hampton, Dean of Education, Director of the Midlands Leadership Centre, University of Wolverhampton `For the discerning leader wanting to develop their personal management skills this is a "must have" resource. Whether working through Personal Management Skills independently or used as a professional development tool with a group of middle managers in a school this book will make a difference to how leaders work in schools′ - Coleen R Jackson, Director, Roehampton Education Leadership Centre University of Surrey Roehampton `This is a timely collection of resources for those in middle management positions in schools. It brings together ideas on self management in addition to a comprehensive collection of materials on leading teams of staff. Particularly noteworthy are the sections on strategic decision making, action research in school improvement, and dealing effectively with conflict′ - Brian Fidler, Professor of Education Management, The University of Reading Team leadership is vital element of school success, whether at the level of department, the curriculum area, the key stage, the phase, or in relation to pastoral and leadership teams. The Team leader must be skillful in creating cultures of success, and personal management skills are at the heart of getting the best from team members. In this book Jeff Jones shows how managers in education can contribute to school improvement, and focuses on the essential personal and practical management skills needed to instill a positive team culture, and support colleagues effectively. This book is an essential resource for those who lead and manage teams, at all levels within schools. Dr Jeff Jones has been a senior consultant and head of training and consultancy unit at the Centre for British Teachers CfBT in Reading since 1998, and is the well known author of such books as Monitoring and Evaluation for School Improvement, (2000), and Performance Management for School Improvement (2001)

Medical and Psychiatric Issues for Counsellors (Professional Skills for Counsellors Series)

by Brian Daines Linda Gask Amanda Howe

Praise for the First Edition: `An interesting overview of medical and psychiatric issues that may arise for counsellors... readable, lucid and free of jargon. The issues addressed include referral and assessment, ongoing counselling and supervision, medical conditions and their treatment, psychiatric conditions and their treatment, and ethical and legal issues... it raises awareness of some important issues to consider when working with clients with medical and psychiatric conditions′ - British Journal of Guidance and Counselling Medical or psychiatric issues frequently arise during counselling and counsellors need to equip themselves with the knowledge and skills to respond appropriately. Medical and Psychiatric Issues for Counsellors, Second Edition is the perfect guide to this challenging area of practice. It provides a clear introduction to: " the nature of mental illness, " the relationship between mental and physical health and " the role of counselling in relation to both. Highly practical and right up-to-date, this Second Edition examines how to manage medical or psychiatric issues as they emerge, whether during assessment or at a later stage in the counselling process. Guidance is given on: " how to recognise serious mental health problems " the effects of psychiatric drugs " assessement and referral to other services, and " legal and ethical issues. The Second Edition covers changes in the context of counselling practice - particularly in health care settings - such as the use of tools to measure outcomes, evidence-based practice and clinical governance. The common principles of care and working with other professionals are also explored. This Second Edition is essential reading both for counsellors in health care settings and those practising in more general contexts. It is also suitable for all mental health workers needing a clear, practical introduction to working with clients. Brian Daines is an independent practitioner, Clinical Tutor in Psychosexual Medicine at University of Sheffield and a college counsellor. Linda Gask is Professor of Primary Care Psychiatry at University of Manchester and Honorary Consultant Psychiatrist in Salford. Amanda Howe is Professor of Primary Care at the Institute of Health, University of East Anglia.

Research Methods for Clinical and Health Psychology

by David F. Marks Lucy Yardley

`If you are teaching postgraduate research methods courses, including those aimed at a mixture of psychologists and other health professionals, this book is worth considering as a core text′ - John Hegarty, THES This textbook offers an excellent introduction to the variety of research methods used within the fields of clinical and health psychology. The book provides a detailed, yet concise, explanation of both qualitative and quantitative approaches and draws upon case-study examples to illustrate how these can be used in a variety of health-care settings, with special relevance to clinical disorders, disease prevention and health promotion. Key features of the book include: - A clear and concise narrative - Real-life case studies and examples drawn from clinical practice. - Revision questions in each chapter - Boxes, diagrams and tables to highlight key points - Chapter outlines, summaries and a glossary of useful terms to help students and researchers with independent study and learning. Research Methods for Clinical and Health Psychology fulfils the demand for a textbook explaining how qualitative and quantitative methods can be used explicitly in a health psychology context. It will be invaluable reading for clinical and health psychology students, trainees and practitioners, as well as those in nursing, medical and other healthcare departments taking an advanced psychology option.

Social Development: The Developmental Perspective in Social Welfare

by James O. Midgley

The social development approach seeks to integrate economic and social policies within a dynamic development process in order to achieve social welfare objectives. This first comprehensive textbook on the subject demonstrates that social development offers critically significant insights for the developed as well as the developing world. James Midgley describes the social development approach, traces its origins in developing countries, reviews theoretical issues in the field and analyzes different strategies in social development. By adding the developmental dimension, social development is shown to transcend the dichotomy between the residualist approach, which concentrates on targeting resources to the most needy, and the institutional approach which urges extensive state involvement in welfare.

Using Foucault′s Methods (Introducing Qualitative Methods series)

by Gavin Kendall Gary M Wickham

`As a companion to Foucault′s original texts, carefully showing what he′s done and why - and how that could be applied elsewhere - it′s outstanding′ - www.theory.org.uk `Very much a `hands-on′ tool kit of a book, scholarly but accessible.... a very useful textbook which approaches its subject in an original way′ - Sociological Research Online `At last, a student-friendly guide that answers the question: "Yes, but how do you do Foucault?" Kendall and Wickham address the thorny question of how-to-Foucault in a clear, distinctive manner that stands out in the secondary literature on this important thinker′ - Toby Miller, New York University This book provides a clear, straightforward guide to those who want to apply the work of Foucault to their own field of interest. The authors employ an accessible style to encourage readers to engage with Foucault′s work by tackling the issues that students most often raise. The book is organized around the following themes: history, archaeology, genealogy and discourse as the cornerstones of Foucault′s methods; and science and culture as important objects of analysis for those using Foucault′s methods. The book enables the reader to understand how Foucault′s contribution to social thought can be applied and opens up possibilities for researchers to use Foucault rather than merely discuss him.

Learning to Read Critically in Teaching and Learning (Learning to Read Critically series)

by Louise Poulson Mike Wallace

`Learning to Read Critically in Teaching and Learning offers a contribution to the debates on curriculum and pedagogy. The title itself is especially noteworthy since it indicates quite clearly that the reader is being encouraged both to learn and to develop their critical faculties on the topic of teaching and learning. This is a clever multi-layering of meaning that reflects the aims of the book extremely well′ - School Leadership & Management This book combines a teaching text with exemplary reports of research and a literature review by international scholars. Part One offers ideas on: how to become a critical reader and self-critical writer of literature; how to apply these insights in planning a written assignment, dissertation or thesis. The student is provided with a framework for the critical analysis of any text and shown how to incorporate it in a literature review. Part Two presents accounts of leading-edge research from well-known contributors, offering insights into key issues in the field of teaching and learning. These accounts reflect diverse theoretical approaches, national contexts, topics, research designs, methods of data collection and analysis, and styles of reporting. The student is invited to practice literature review skills by applying the critical analysis questions to any research report. Part Three is a critical literature review of a substantive issue in teaching and learning. It shows how a high-quality literature review may be constructed and addresses key issues in the field. This book is essential for students on research-based masters and doctorate courses in teaching and learning; and for students undertaking research training in the humanities and social sciences. This series, edited by Mike Wallace, supports research-based teaching on masters and taught doctorate courses in the humanities and social sciences fields of enquiry. Each book is a ′three in one′ text designed to assist advanced course tutors and dissertation supervisors with key research-based teaching tasks and aims to: • develop students′ critical understanding of research literature • increase students′ appreciation of what can be achieved in small-scale investigations similar to those which they undertake for their dissertation • present students with major findings, generalisations and concepts connected to their particular field.

Early Literacy Work with Families: Policy, Practice and Research

by Cathy Nutbrown Peter Hannon Anne Morgan

`The ′Raising Early Achievement in Literacy′ or REAL project was the result of a collaboration between the University of Sheffield, Sheffield LEA and schools and centres across the city of Sheffield, starting in 1995. For those interested in developing their own projects in this field it will provide essential information. It contains many examples of work carried out this in this project. Many examples are given that could prompt practitioners to identify ways in which they too could focus their own input with children or help their parent group to interact with their children′s developing literacy′ - Early Years Update `A "must read" for practitioners, policy makers and researchers interested in the detail and the theory underpinning this important family literacy initiative′ - Neil McClelland OBE, Director, National Literacy Trust `The REAL Project is one of the best conceptualized, most intensively documented and successful British family literacy initiatives and the book provides a comprehensive overview of all aspects of this powerful project. It is essential reading for anyone working alongside families to promote children′s early development′ - Professor Nigel Hall, Institute of Education, Manchester Metropolitan University ′The project described in detail in this book is arguably the most important and well-researched UK initiative for developing early literacy work with parents of young children. ... Readers will find inspirational case studies ... There are illuminating insights into children′s perspectives on family literacy, including good news about fathers and boys. ... Don′t miss it!′ - Marian Whitehead, Nursery World Anyone involved in the field of early-childhood literacy should be familiar with the work of the REAL (Raising Early Achievement in Literacy) Project. Here, leading members of the project team Cathy Nutbrown, Peter Hannon and Anne Morgan, discuss the research. An essential guide to the subject, this book will be of great practical use to all in the field of early childhood literacy: students, practitioners and course leaders on literacy and early childhood courses. The authors discuss the policy contexts of early-childhood and literacy today and use their experience of the REAL project to discuss and illustrate practical research and evaluation strategies for family literacy workers. They examine the issues from all perspectives: teachers, parents and young children. The book concludes with examples of how the theoretical framework of the REAL Project (ORIM) has been used by other practitioners and an examination of the implications of such work for the future of early-childhood and literacy policy development. The book also includes: - An informative update on research in the field - A description of the family literacy programme - Useful activities for family literacy work - Guidelines for interviewing parents and children - Suggestions for how to evaluate family literacy work - Ideas for practical sessions for professional development for family literacy workers - A Guide to further reading This is an important book and should be read by anyone wishing to keep pace with the field of family literacy in early childhood education.

Making Sense of Education Policy: Studies in the Sociology and Politics of Education

by Geoff Whitty

`This book is a very worthwhile read for teachers, student teachers and teacher educators. It would be encouraging if politically based policy makers were to digest its contents also′ - Citizenship, Social and Economics Education `I recommend this book as an enjoyable, thought provoking and politically important read′ - Widenining Participation and Lifelong Learning `This important book challenges current educational policies in England in a style, for the most part, easily accessible to a wide audience. Geoff Whitty′s assertions are supported by a wide variety of research findings and this is a book that should be of considerable interest to student of sociology and to all member of the teaching profession′ - Mark Pepper, Equals `The particular strength of this book is Geoff Whitty′s grasp on and insights into the politics of education... he is able to bring to bear an authoritative perspective which is unrivaled in the United Kingdom. there is no other current book which compares in terms of the breadth and depth of this′ - Professor Stephen Ball, Institute of Education, University of London `This book represents a "struggle" by the director of the London Institute of Education, one of our foremost centres of teacher training and research in education, to understand what lies behind the education policies of recent governments. It is tempting to conclude that if a leading educational sociologist such as Geoff Whitty, who happens also to be brother of the former general secretary of the Labour party, has difficulty with this, there can be little hope for the rest of us. But now, at least, we have this personal odyssey to guide us′ - Bob Doe, Times Educational Supplement This book aims to make sense of the changes in education policy over the past decade, using the resources of the sociology and politics of education. The author shows that wider sociological perspectives can help us to appreciate both the limits and the possibilities of educational change. Geoff Whitty illustrates this through studies of curriculum innovation, school choice, teacher professionalism and school improvement. He considers how far education policy can be used to foster social inclusion and social justice and the book concludes with an assessment of New Labour education policy in these terms. The book deals with education policy in England and Wales, as well as making comparisons with contemporary education policy in other countries. This book is relevant to students of education at masters and doctoral levels, students of social policy, and policy-makers.

Illustrating Evolutionary Computation with Mathematica (The Morgan Kaufmann Series in Artificial Intelligence)

by Christian Jacob

An essential capacity of intelligence is the ability to learn. An artificially intelligent system that could learn would not have to be programmed for every eventuality; it could adapt to its changing environment and conditions just as biological systems do. Illustrating Evolutionary Computation with Mathematica introduces evolutionary computation to the technically savvy reader who wishes to explore this fascinating and increasingly important field. Unique among books on evolutionary computation, the book also explores the application of evolution to developmental processes in nature, such as the growth processes in cells and plants. If you are a newcomer to the evolutionary computation field, an engineer, a programmer, or even a biologist wanting to learn how to model the evolution and coevolution of plants, this book will provide you with a visually rich and engaging account of this complex subject.* Introduces the major mechanisms of biological evolution.* Demonstrates many fascinating aspects of evolution in nature with simple, yet illustrative examples.* Explains each of the major branches of evolutionary computation: genetic algorithms, genetic programming, evolutionary programming, and evolution strategies.* Demonstrates the programming of computers by evolutionary principles using Evolvica, a genetic programming system designed by the author.* Shows in detail how to evolve developmental programs modeled by cellular automata and Lindenmayer systems.* Provides Mathematica notebooks on the Web that include all the programs in the book and supporting animations, movies, and graphics.

Blockchain and Supply Chain Management

by Nir Kshetri

Blockchain and Supply Chain Management combines discussions of blockchain and supply chains, linking technologies such as artificial intelligence, Internet of Things, satellite imagery, and machine vision. The book examines blockchain's basic concepts, relevant theories, and its roles in meeting key supply chain objectives. The book addresses problems related to inefficiency, opacity, and fraud, helping the digitization process, simplifying the value creation process, and facilitating collaboration. The book is balanced between blockchain and supply chain application and theory, covering the latest technological, organizational and regulatory developments in blockchain from a supply chain perspective. The book discusses the opportunities, barriers, and enablers of blockchain in supply chain policy, along with legal and ethical implications. Supply chain management faces massive disruption with the dynamic changes in global trade, the impact of Covid-19, and technological innovation. Entire industries are also being transformed by blockchain, with some of the most promising applications in supply chain management. - Provides theoretical and practical insights into both blockchain and supply chains - Features numerous illustrative case studies, boxes, tables, and figures - Examines blockchain's impacts on supply chains in four key industries: Food and beverage, healthcare, pharmaceuticals, and finance

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