Search results

Reports on how the implementation of competence‐based approaches to vocational education and training has resulted in structural changes to the delivery of courses in this sector. A vocational education course offered at the University of Ulster for lecturers in further education in Northern Ireland was radically restructured to assist teachers to develop strategies for responsive and flexible learning. One critical aspect of the restructuring was the decision to provide tutoring during the second year of the course using virtual conferencing in the form of the Caucus System provided by British Telecom through Campus 2000. A postal survey of candidates who completed the course was undertaken by the School of Education at the University over a four‐year period. The results showed that a significant proportion of candidates favoured the use of the system and were aware of its advantages. However, many candidates still showed a preference for the traditional face‐to‐face approach of teacher training. Examines the reasons for this preference and makes recommendations for alleviating the situation and enhancing the use of the Campus 2000‐based computer conferencing system.

Evaluates a partnership approach employed in the delivery and implementation of a competence‐based approach to teacher training. The partnership was composed of the university course team, the college staff who carry out the work‐based assessments, and the education and Library Boards (LEAs in England and Wales). Uses quantitative research techniques to generate research data. Identifies the central issues as: the additional workload placed on college staff as a result of the work‐based assessments; the integration of work‐based competences into staff development programmes and the liaison within the partnership. Concludes that overall there was general satisfaction with the nature of the course both as a teacher training course and as a programme for professional development. Highlights the liaison between the three bodies as being problematic. Discusses these issues with specific recommendations being made.

With the increasingly complex global environment companies are facing increased regulations. Financial and social risks are often overlooked but the key in establishing the necessary framework for risk management. Under pressure(s) from the media, public and government, the current companies within the oil and gas fields have taken precautionary steps to reduce their carbon footprint and have allowed technological innovations to take a proactive role in maintaining efficiency and sustainability. The purpose of this paper is to propose a framework outlining how organizations are implementing risk assessment and analysis to determine sustainable operations and methods in developing low-risk outcomes.

The authors used a case study approach to develop and illustrate the risk management framework.

This study provides a theoretical framework for analyzing and reducing risk within the oil and gas sector through explaining various means of innovation and sustainability. Risk integration and mitigation are modeled and quantified within an evolutionary framework. The case study illustrates the risk management techniques currently used in a corporate setting.

Using innovation and sustainable technologies, organizations can take a proactive role in reducing risk in the oil and gas industry in northern Alberta. Providing shareholders with an innovative framework dealing with strategic implications to reduce risk in compliance with operational costs.