A learning sequence with interactive computational modelling based on Modellus designed for introductory seismology university courses is discussed. The sequence considers earthquake generation mechanics and applies Modellus to determine the evolution of the friction coefficient as given by the rate-and-state friction law governing the frictional instabilities that give rise to earthquakes. Laboratory experiments indicate that the rate-and-state friction law applies not only to rocks but also to some metals, paper, wood, and some plastics. The use of Modellus allows for a parametric study of the equations and for students to create the mathematical models on their own, which ultimately helps them achieve a better understanding of the complex earthquake phenomena.

In physics and mathematics educational environments, meaningful learning paths should be balanced interactive explorations of the different epistemological and cognitive phases of the modelling cycle. Our approach in this context involves sequences of interactive engagement learning activities with computational modelling that explore the different kinds of modelling, progressively introduce scientific computation, generate, and resolve cognitive conflicts in the understanding of physics and mathematics, and comparatively analyze complementary mathematical model representations. In this work we present a learning sequence about light polarization for intermediate science, technology, engineering, and mathematics (STEM) university courses during which students can create and explore in the computer relevant mathematical physics models and animations that help and complement the learning processes in theoretical lectures and problem-solving paper and pen activities.

Properties such as uncertainty, complexity, teamwork, temporary organization, change, risk, clear objectives, and unique products and services are inherent in the project definition. Success, therefore, depends directly on the project management performance throughout all its phases, which requires implementing of a set of techniques suited to its nature and complexity. The main objective of this chapter is to guide the reader in identifying the appropriate tools for each phase of project development and to encourage further research according to individual implementation needs. It, therefore, summarises a range of project management tools, from the most classic to those more commonly referred to as advanced project management tools.

We examine the factors that influence European banks’ choice of issuing structured finance bond deals, in the form of securitization or covered bonds, vis-à-vis straight bond deals. Using a data set of 10,457 deals closed between 2000 and 2017, we find that banks may have used structured finance arrangements to manage credit risk and regulatory capital. Our results support the asymmetric information hypothesis that banks suffering from adverse selection problems choose structured finance over straight bond deals to overcome liquidity constrains and obtain longer maturity funding. Finally, we show that the choice between structured finance and straight bond finance affects not only banks’ capital ratios, but also their capital adequacy ratios.

The purpose of this study is to examine the influence of sports celebrities’ brand image dimensions (i.e., athletic performance, marketable lifestyle, and attractive appearance) on fan loyalty and the role of fans’ social media engagement in this relationship. To this end, a convenience sample of 445 Portuguese fans is described, concluding that there are some significant relationships between the athlete’s image determinants and social network engagement with the athlete on the one hand, and fan loyalty on the other. However, the direct impact of the athlete’s personal brand dimensions on fan loyalty is rather weak, while the impact of marketable lifestyle and attractive appearance on fan loyalty is influenced by fans’ engagement with the athlete on social media. In fact, fan engagement with the athlete on social media partially significantly mediates the relationship between athletic performance and fan loyalty and between the athlete’s lifestyle and fan loyalty. Thus, the way fans perceive an athlete’s lifestyle and appearance plays a critical role in determining fan loyalty. These findings underscore the importance of the athlete’s efforts to engage in social networks to strengthen their relationship with fans and thus foster fan loyalty. Our findings support the idea that there has been a shift in the way fans engage with sports celebrities and that digital age technologies may play a role in this relationship.