scholarly journals Cost Implications for an In-House University Timetabling System

10.29007/6kql ◽  
2019 ◽  
Author(s):  
Wame Raseonyana ◽  
George Anderson ◽  
Tallman Nkgau
Keyword(s):  
Best Practice ◽  
Cost Effective ◽  
Examination Timetabling ◽  
University Timetabling ◽  
University Of Botswana ◽  
System Solution ◽  
Strategic Goals ◽  
Cost Implications ◽  
The Cost ◽  
The University

This paper reports on a study on the examination timetabling problem faced in universities, focusing on the problem as it exists at the University of Botswana (UB). Examination timetabling is well researched and many different algorithms have been used in an attempt to produce timetable solutions that meet various objectives of institutions as well as theoretical objectives. Our research tries to produce an optimal examination timetable, which takes into consideration constraints imposed by users of timetables in UB as well as best-practice constraints found in the literature. Most African universities have financial constraints that make cost-effective solutions that take advantage of readily available research results and frameworks critical to their survival and strategic goals. In our paper, we analyse the cost implications of in-house development of an examination scheduling system solution that will produce improved schedules and reduce costs. We take into account the cost of software tools and frameworks we have employed as well as the cost of getting data and actual software engineering of a timetabling solution. Our results suggest that the benefits of this approach are great, since the cost is low while the quality of resulting timetables is good.

scholarly journals Cost Implications for a Discrete Mathematics Intelligent Tutoring System

10.29007/f4tt ◽  
2019 ◽  
Author(s):  
Ofentse Rice ◽  
George Anderson ◽  
Tallman Nkgau
Keyword(s):  
Intelligent Tutoring ◽  
Intelligent Tutoring System ◽  
Discrete Mathematics ◽  
Tutoring System ◽  
Undergraduate Level ◽  
University Of Botswana ◽  
Core Concepts ◽  
Cost Implications ◽  
The Cost ◽  
The University

An Intelligent Tutoring System (ITS) is software that dynamically modifies the presentation of educational material to students based on Artificial Intelligence. ITSs enable tutoring to be done by computers; teaching is customized for the student using the system, enabling faster learning; and there is a potential to enable scaling up, teaching of millions of students, using online platforms or platform independent programs which is not possible in the case of human tutoring. In this paper we focus on the cost implications of an ITS designed for teaching Discrete Mathematics at the undergraduate level at the University Of Botswana. The ITS discussed, DS-ITS, makes use of probabilistic graphical networks to relate core concepts of Discrete Mathematics concepts with verifiable outcomes (demonstrable knowledge). A student's understanding of a concept is inferred; it can be viewed as the cause of failing to answer a question correctly. Our contribution is in estimating the cost required to build a prototype, which can be used for certain Discrete Mathematics topics as taught at the undergraduate level. We compare the cost implications with the alternative of not having such a tool and instead relying purely on lecturers and teaching assistants. Our findings show the benefit of developing such a tool.

Building back smarter—part one: the case for more modular facilities in the NHS

2021 ◽  
Vol 27 (9) ◽  
pp. 1-9
Author(s):  
Isobel Clough
Keyword(s):  
Service Delivery ◽  
Physical Space ◽  
Cost Effective ◽  
Healthcare Services ◽  
Business Case ◽  
Care Quality ◽  
Healthcare Facilities ◽  
Building Maintenance ◽  
Cost Implications ◽  
The Cost

The NHS is facing an unprecedented backlog in both patient care and building maintenance, with severe implications for service delivery, finance and population wellbeing. This article is the first in a series discussing modular healthcare facilities as a potential solution to these issues, providing flexible and cost-effective spaces to allow services to increase capacity without sacrificing care quality. The first of three instalments, this paper will outline the problems facing the NHS estate, many of which have been exacerbated to critical levels by the COVID-19 pandemic, and what this means for service delivery. It will then make the case for modular infrastructure, outlining the potential benefits for healthcare services, staff and patients alike. Using modern methods of construction, this approach to creating physical space in healthcare can provide greater flexibility and a reduced impact on the environment. The next two articles in this series will go on to provide detailed case studies of successful modular implementation in NHS trusts, an analysis of the cost implications and guidance on the commissioning process and building a business case.

University Instructional Television Networks

1972 ◽  
Vol 1 (1) ◽  
pp. 35-55 ◽  
Author(s):  
Charles A. Martin-Vegue ◽  
Albert J. Morris ◽  
Gene E. Tallmadge
Keyword(s):  
Instructional Television ◽  
Cost Effective ◽  
Delivery Systems ◽  
Interaction Process ◽  
University Administration ◽  
Multiple Uses ◽  
Network Costs ◽  
The Cost ◽  
The University ◽  
Educational Delivery

University ITV Networks are “educational delivery systems.” In effect, they bring the university—often several universities—to students where they work. They overcome the need and the related problems of physically transporting either or both students and faculty to each other. For such networks to be academically, technically, and financially viable all parties involved in the interaction process must be simultaneously satisfied; the faculty, the university administration, the on-campus students, the remote students, and the employers of the remote students. Almost always, it is the employer who pays network costs. Employers have paid such costs where the system has been demonstratably cost-effective. This usually requires finding multiple uses of the network in order to maximize its benefit while, at the same time, finding ways to minimize the cost.

Can Coal Contribute to Sustainable Development?

2005 ◽  
Vol 16 (5) ◽  
pp. 767-779 ◽  
Author(s):  
Roger Wicks ◽  
Malcolm Keay
Keyword(s):  
Sustainable Development ◽  
Carbon Dioxide Emissions ◽  
Poverty Reduction ◽  
Best Practice ◽  
Fossil Fuels ◽  
Cost Effective ◽  
Clean Energy ◽  
Development Goals ◽  
Cost Penalty ◽  
The Cost

Coal is not always seen as a route to sustainable development; renewable energy, energy efficiency and a move away from fossil fuels are what people usually have in mind. The paper argues that such a view is incomplete. One of the key development challenges facing the 21st century is to ensure wider access to clean energy. There are 1.6 billion people currently lacking electricity and the enormous benefits it brings in terms of poverty reduction and improved quality of life. Coal has been the route to electrification for millions in the developing world – China alone secured electricity access for over 700 million people between 1980 and 2000 in a system based 84 percent on coal. Clean technologies generally involve higher costs. Can the higher environmental expectations of the 21st century be met without denying or delaying access to electricity for millions in need? The paper identifies ways in which the cost penalty and other barriers to the introduction of clean coal-based technologies can be overcome. Higher efficiencies reduce both costs and emissions – the universal deployment of existing commercial best practice would produce savings equivalent to those from the Kyoto protocol. Emerging coal-based technologies enable cost-effective carbon dioxide emissions reductions. Co-firing of coal and renewables is often the most effective route to enabling resources such as biomass and solar power to be exploited. In the longer run, carbon sequestration offers huge potential for near zero emissions power at costs comparable with or lower than the alternatives. The conclusion is that no single fuel source provides the answer to sustainable development; a range of options is needed. Cleaner coal-based technologies must be one of those options: they can meet both immediate development goals and longer-term climate change imperatives.

A review of techniques for difficult catheterisation and their costs

2021 ◽  
pp. 205141582110391
Author(s):  
Rion Healy ◽  
James Edward Dyer
Keyword(s):  
Supply Chain ◽  
Cost Analysis ◽  
Literature Search ◽  
Cost Effective ◽  
Evidence Based ◽  
Level Of Evidence ◽  
Flexible Cystoscopy ◽  
Cost Implications ◽  
The Cost

Objective: Awareness of departmental expenditure gives surgeons the ability to make cost-effective decisions. We reviewed the available techniques for difficult catheterisation and assessed the cost of each method. Methods: A literature search was undertaken using EMBASE and Medline databases. Seven techniques for difficult catheterisation were identified, and a cost analysis was performed. All items required for a technique were costed per unit, including VAT, and can be referenced to the NHS supply chain. Results: Techniques were divided into three broad categories: simple urethral techniques – increased lubrication with different catheter sizes (£5.05) or types (£8.83 Tiemann tip, £10.65 Coude tip); complex urethral techniques – blind hydrophilic guidewire (£27.31), S-dilators (£244.62) and flexible cystoscopy (£38.78); and percutaneous techniques – suprapubic catheterisation (£117.38). Conclusion: This paper demonstrates a progression in cost and specialist input required when moving from simple urethral techniques to complex and percutaneous techniques. It is clear that clinicians should consider these cost implications and exhaust all simple techniques before moving to the more complex options. We would advocate the use of a national evidence-based difficult catheter algorithm to guide management based on both effectiveness and cost. Level of evidence: Not applicable.

scholarly journals The cost-effectiveness of common strategies for the prevention of transmission of SARS-CoV-2 in universities.

2020 ◽  
Author(s):  
Zafar Zafari ◽  
Katia Korvizhkin ◽  
Lee Goldman ◽  
Peter Muennig
Keyword(s):  
Cost Effectiveness ◽  
Cost Saving ◽  
Prevalence Rate ◽  
Cost Effective ◽  
Credible Interval ◽  
Added Value ◽  
Local Conditions ◽  
Cdc Guidelines ◽  
The Cost ◽  
The University

Background. The added value of interventions to prevent the transmission of SARS-CoV-2 among university affiliates is uncertain but needed as universities attempt to remain open. Methods. We use a decision-analytic simulation to examine the cost-effectiveness of common interventions to reduce SARS-CoV-2 transmission. We use Columbia University for reference values but our approach centers around an online model that allows users to tailor the model and interventions to their local conditions and existing strategies. All interventions are compared relative to implementing the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) guidelines alone. Results. At prevalence rate of actively infectious cases of COVID-19 in the community surrounding the university of 0.1%, using a symptom-checking mobile application is cost-saving relative to CDC guidelines alone and the university can expect to remain open. At a prevalence of 1%, standardizing masks will be cost-saving. At a prevalence rate of 2%, thermal imaging cameras cost $965,070 (95% credible interval [CrI] = $198,821, $2.15 million)/quality-adjusted life year (QALY) gained. One-time testing on entry costs $1.08 million (95% CrI = $170,703, $3.33 million)/QALY gained. Weekly testing costs $820,119 (95% CrI = $452,673, $1.68 million)/QALY gained. Upgrades to ventilation systems or installation of far-ultraviolet C lighting systems will be cost-effective at a willingness-to-pay threshold of $200,000/QALY gained only if aerosols account for 86-90% of all on-campus transmission of SARS-CoV-2. Conclusions. The value of interventions to prevent transmission of SARS-CoV-2 vary greatly with the prevalence rate of actively infectious cases of COVID-19 in the community surrounding the university.

Xstreamulator: a rich media webcasting application for lectures and events

2021 ◽  
Author(s):  
Jeremy M. Littler
Keyword(s):  
Participatory Design ◽  
Cost Savings ◽  
Cost Effective ◽  
Web Pages ◽  
University Environment ◽  
Rich Media ◽  
Academic Settings ◽  
The Cost ◽  
The University ◽  
Classroom Presentation

Xstreamulator is a .NET based web casting application that utilizes the Microsoft Windows Media Server to broadcast classroom lectures and events. Uniquely, the application supports the synchronized delivery of captured bitmap content (slides), which are displayed in an ASPIHTML based cross-browser viewing environment. At present, Xstreamulator supports bitmap slide capturing from PowerPoint presentations, computer desktops, images, web pages and external VGA sources. Additional capture capabilities are currently in development. Although Xstreamulator has been used extensively for live webcasting, it can also be employed to record webcasts for distribution through ondemand delivery or removable media. In contrast to commercial solutions, Xstreamulator's live webcasting functionality is not constrained to traditional academic settings (i.e., classrooms). Indeed, many instructors at Ryerson University have successfully employed Xstreamulator to web cast lectures from their office or home. In addition, Xstreamulator has been employed effectively in the delivery of events, lectures, symposiums and conferences. Xstreamulator has from the outset been designed to operate reliably in diverse hardware environments. For example, the application can be installed on personal computers, classroom presentation systems, or portable encoding "stations". Thus, by leveraging the existing computer infrastructure at Ryerson University, it has been possible to circumvent the acquisition of costly commercial web casting systems. Xstreamulator's comprehensive content delivery approach and hardware neutrality has addressed the entire range of webcast requirements within the University environment in very cost effective and scalable manner. Xstreamulator's development process has been driven by the philosophy of participatory design (PD). Students, faculty and staff at Ryerson University have generously donated their time to test Xstreamulator prototypes, and have contributed significantly to the evolution of the application's user interface and functionality. Therefore, the Xstreamulator project demonstrates the significant advantages of implementing participatory design goals in the development of rich media webcasting solutions. Indeed, while the technological achievements of the project are noteworthy, they could have only been achieved in an environment that fostered collaboration at all levels. The development of an in-house web casting solution requires a commitment of development personnel and technical resources. However, the cost of providing these inhouse resources will be offset by reduced webcasting costs over the long-term. Additionally, applications like Xstreamulator can be rapidly employed to generate webcasting revenue from university events (e.g., conferences). In summary, as the use of Xstreamulator at Ryerson University has eliminated a dependence on commercial solutions, it has been possible to re-assign these cost savings to the design of some of the most powerful event webcasting systems in North America.

scholarly journals ‘How deep are your pockets?’ Autoethnographic reflections on the cost of raising a child with autism

2018 ◽  
Vol 7 ◽  
Author(s):  
Mary G. Clasquin-Johnson ◽  
Michel Clasquin-Johnson
Keyword(s):  
South Africa ◽  
Best Practice ◽  
Cost Effective ◽  
Future Research ◽  
International Studies ◽  
Early Screening ◽  
South Africans ◽  
Inclusive Settings ◽  
Education And Care ◽  
The Cost

Background: In this article, we reflected on our experience of the cost of parenting a child with autism, including our ongoing search for educational and therapeutic intervention.Objectives: We aimed to give an academic insight into the state of autism education and care in South Africa as seen by us, with special attention to its cost and sustainability.Methods: Using evocative autoethnography as storied scholarship together with critical autism studies, we reflected on stories of the past 5 years since our son’s diagnosis.Results: Our experiences agree with international studies that establish autism as the most expensive disability. In addition to the high costs of diagnosis, existing intervention and support approaches are unaffordable for the majority of South Africans. We recommend that teachers should be trained to participate in early screening and diagnosis, as well as co-therapists, to strengthen the implementation of inclusive education.Conclusion: The kind of autism intervention currently offered in South Africa is financially and socially unsustainable. Instead of positioning autism as an individual or family dilemma, it should be addressed as an educational and societal issue. Future research should explore cost-effective options for a developing country context, while promoting best practice within inclusive settings.

The Cost Implications of Clean Air Systems and Antibiotic Prophylaxis in Operations for Total Joint Replacement

1984 ◽  
Vol 5 (1) ◽  
pp. 36-37 ◽  
Author(s):  
O.M. Lidwell
Keyword(s):  
Antibiotic Prophylaxis ◽  
Joint Replacement ◽  
Total Joint Replacement ◽  
Hospital Costs ◽  
Cost Effective ◽  
Prophylactic Antibiotics ◽  
Airborne Contamination ◽  
Clean Air ◽  
Cost Implications ◽  
The Cost

AbstractThe effect on sepsis of the use of prophylactic antibiotics and measures for reducing the level of airborne contamination in the operating room has been related to the costs of these measures and of dealing with a septic joint. While antibiotic prophylaxis is the most cost effective, the benefits that may be obtained from the introduction of cleaner air also appear to be worthwhile, even when considered solely in terms of hospital costs.

WHERE HAVE YOU GONE, JOSEPH SCALIGER?

2015 ◽  
Vol 13 (1) ◽  
pp. 261-271
Author(s):  
MICHAEL O’BRIEN
Keyword(s):  
Cost Effective ◽  
New Order ◽  
Past Century ◽  
Creative People ◽  
The Past ◽  
Life Of The Mind ◽  
Workload Allocation ◽  
The Mind ◽  
The Cost ◽  
The University

It is said we are in trouble, we humanists. “The humanities are under pressure all over the world, Rens Bod begins (xii). James Turner ends, “Without question, the humanities now face greater flux than they have routinely endured in the past century” (385). The trouble and the flux seem to take two forms. There is the usual business of intellectual disciplines forming and re-forming, of new paradigms restructuring institutions, a process that one might regard as discomforting but sometimes healthy. But there is the other business of universities being governed by anti-intellectuals, aficionados of the spreadsheet, counted beans, and the alumni dinner. These predators roam campuses, sneer at libraries, abolish departments, and plan the day when, the cost-effective triumphant, scholarship will be little more than a digital ghost. At the University of Essex, lately Marina Warner was coldly informed of this new order, defined by a “Tariff of Expectations” (seventeen targets to be met) and a “workload allocation” handed down from on high. There was an indifference to what had gone before, what creative people had once hoped for for Colchester. “That is all changing now,” the executive dean for humanities briskly explained. “That is over.” The past, that is. Fed up, Warner resigned, hearing too loudly “the tick of the deathwatch beetle” in the fabric of the house she wished to inhabit, a university that valued scholarship and the life of the mind, as it once had.

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