Brock University Digital Repository 

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  Identifiability of Linear Threshold Decision Making Dynamics

  Lekamalage, Anuththara Sarathchandra; Department of Mathematics

  The binary-decision dynamics of two types of individuals; coordinators who tend to choose the more common option among others and anti-coordinators who avoid the common option can be modeled using the linear (anti-)threshold model. Each individual has a time-invariant threshold and decides whether to choose an option by comparing his threshold with the proportion of the population who have already chosen that option. The resulting decision-making dynamics can be predicted and controlled, provided that the thresholds are known. In practice, however, the thresholds are unknown, and often only the evolution of the total number of individuals who have chosen one option is known. The question then is whether the thresholds are identifiable given this quantity over time, which can be considered as the output of the decision-making dynamics. Identifiability investigates the recoverability of the unknown parameters given the error-free outputs, inputs, and the developed equations of the model. Different notions of and methods to test identifiability exist for dynamical systems defined in the continuous state space. However, the decision dynamics of the linear threshold model is defined in the discrete state space. We develop the identifiability framework for discrete space systems and highlight that this is not an immediate extension of the continuous space framework. Then, we investigate the threshold identifiability of both coordinators and anticoordinators in the linear threshold model. For both the synchronous and asynchronous dynamics, we find necessary and sufficient conditions for the identifiability of coordinating and anticoordinating populations. The results open the door for reliable estimation of the thresholds and in turn prediction and control of the decision-making dynamics using real-world data.
• Supporting At-risk and Disengaged Secondary Students’ Successful High School Completion through Co-operative Education Enrolment Using Autophotography and Photo-Elicitation

  Corrizzato, Anthony G.

  This project focused on creating a curriculum resource that can be used by Ontario teachers to support at-risk and disengaged students to achieve their high school diploma through participation in co-operative education. An examination of alternative educational programming, differentiated instructional methods, and participation in work-based education was completed. The importance of reflective activities and positive teacher-student relationships was also discussed. Autophotography and photo-elicitation interviews were introduced as methods for assisting students to develop reflective skills and building positive teacher-student relationships. Bronfenbrenner’s (1979) Ecological Systems Theory was used to explore potential impacts of extended networks for student success. Information obtained from the literature was then used to develop a curriculum resource consisting of a nine-lesson unit plan. The project concluded with recommendations for educators and administrators with respect to supporting at-risk and disengaged student success. Suggestions for future research are provided.
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  “I feel like I lost myself”: An Examination of Teachers’ Lived Experiences During The COVID-19 Pandemic

  Zarb, Vanessa; Department of Child and Youth Studies

  The current study aimed to understand teachers' lived experiences during the COVID-19 pandemic, revealing six main themes from their interviews and open-response questions. Key findings of teachers' lived experiences included the prevalent feeling of isolation due to a lack of social connection with students and colleagues, the struggle to balance various responsibilities, the increased workload transferring an interactive in-person environment to online learning and adhering to safety protocols. Despite these challenges, some teachers reported benefits such as improved work-life balance and enhanced technology skills. The findings also highlight differences between elementary and secondary school teachers, particularly in implementing safety measures, and how these varied based on years of teaching experience. Elementary school teachers faced unique challenges in maintaining young students' engagement and adherence to safety measures, whereas secondary school teachers experienced challenges related to subject-specific teaching demands. Additionally, teachers have demonstrated resilience and dedication, adapted their roles as advocators, educators, and support systems to ensure educational success throughout the various stages of the COVID-19 pandemic. This study fills a gap in existing research by specifically examining the distinct challenges and benefits experienced by teachers during this unprecedented period. By providing nuanced insights into teachers' experiences, this research contributes to understanding the broader impacts of the pandemic on educational practices and teacher well-being.
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  The Press, Volume 17, Issue 9, October 29, 1980

  Smylski, Brian (EIC); Mundy, Karen (Writer); McIntyre, Cheryl (Writer); Welsh, Larry (Writer); Godlewski, Paul (Writer); Robertson, Louise (Writer); Lalonde, Robert R. (Writer); Grossi, Benny (Writer); Wilson, D.S. (Writer); Prentice, Loran (Writer) (1980-10-29)

  The Press, Volume 17, Issue 9 includes: Press Autonomy: An Introduction: After consultation with BUSU President Mike O’Bright, Press has decided to become autonomous; a referendum will be held in November to decide the future of Press; Ralph Misener, a member of the Brock University Founding Board, was installed as the new Chancellor of Brock University; William Matheson will receive the first Alumni Award for Excellence in Teaching for his contributions to Brock; Brock Jam highlights the musical talent of students at Brock.
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  The Press, Volume 17, Issue 8, October 22, 1980

  Smylski, Brian (EIC); Welsh, Larry (Writer); Mundy, Karen (Writer); Berkowitz, Seth (Writer); McIntyre, Cheryl (Writer); Bird, Brad (Writer); Nagami, D. (Writer); Wensink, W. (Writer); Boase, Sharon (Writer) (1980-10-22)

  The Press, Volume 17, Issue 8 includes: Brock’s Student Union wants to bring life back to the Pub, whose popularity has decreased over the last few years; The University is facing a deficit of close to $311,000 for the current fiscal year, but Terry Varcoe, vice president of the administration, predicts it will be less; Future of Brock University’s Grade 12 Program Doubtful; Bette Stephenson “proved to be an able politician” at her visit to Brock, saying that grade 13 may become a thing of the past in Ontario and seeming to be sympathetic to the problems of universities.

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