Smartphone-Induced Digital Distractions

This chapter investigates smartphone-induced digital distractions through the lens of social cognitive theory and self-regulated learning. Social cognitive theory's reciprocal triarchic conceptualization is matched with the current role of the smartphone in the learning environment. Self-regulated learning is used to frame the challenges and opportunities presented by the smartphone. A final section suggests two opportunities for generating positive educational outcomes in light of social cognitive theory and self-regulated learning. The first is opportunity described as a reclamation of the dominant narrative regarding the educative role of personal technology. The second is the development of the individual learning scientist.

Variation of amphibian and reptile composition in forest fragments of Veracruz highlands, Mexico

The central mountain region of Veracruz is one of the richest areas of herpetofauna in Mexico. The steep topographic gradient of this region is associated with climatic gradients that enable the occurrence of highly diverse herpetofauna communities. We tested differences among habitats to herpetofauna in an urban area, pine forest, oak forest, and riparian forest of municipality Camerino Z. Mendoza, Veracruz, Mexico. We conducted two-day monthly surveys between 2015 and 2017 in 69 sites from fragments of an urban area, riparian forest, Quercus forest, and Quercus-Pinus forest and tested for differences in herpetofauna species among these fragments. We found a total of 11 amphibian and 33 reptile species, and a high composition dissimilarity and species replacement among the sites. Our results amplified significantly the species-records within Camerino Z. Mendoza, and showed a great variation of amphibian and reptile composition among sites, highlighting the current role of these forests as a reservoir for herpetofauna and their importance for future conservation strategies in the region.

Pandemic Automobility. Patterns of Crisis and Opportunity in the American Motor Culture

This article traces the recursive character of automobility from a perspective of cultural crises and traumas that accompany motor culture development in the USA. The American automobility system has been caught in the treadmill of ideological criticism that defined the current role of motor vehicles in forms of political activism and cultural criticism. The ongoing Covid-19 pandemic is different as it seems to bring restoration to the original character of motor culture with its defining features of individualism, freedom, and opportunity achieved through mobility.

The European Parliament’s role in EU digital governance: Aspiration and reality

Despite its enhanced legislative powers, the European Parliament still struggles to be recognised as an authoritative and reliable political actor. Its current role in EU digital governance serves as a good example to illustrate both the aspirations of the parliamentarians as well as their actual impact. Confronted with a horizontal policy issue that affects all sectors of the analogue and digital world parliamentary working methods have proven to be unfit for purpose. The European Parliament has so far been unable to assume leadership to guide the EU through the digital transformation process. Yet, its aspirations are not pulled out of thin air. Intellectual freedom, swift decision-making channels, and an open and pragmatic debating culture make it, in fact, predestined to define an overarching and balanced digital agenda for the EU. Before this is achievable, however, it is necessary to execute comprehensive internal reforms to overcome a list of structural, financial, political and external deficits.