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Towards a Post-Bertalanffy Systemics

herausgegeben von: Gianfranco Minati, Mario R. Abram, Eliano Pessa

Verlag: Springer International Publishing

Buchreihe : Contemporary Systems Thinking

Enthalten in: Springer Professional "Wirtschaft+Technik" , Springer Professional "Technik" , Springer Professional "Wirtschaft"

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Über dieses Buch

This book contains the proceedings of the Sixth National Conference of the Italian Systems Society. The title, Towards a post-Bertalanffy Systemics, aims to underline the need for Systemics and Systems Science to generalize theoretically concepts related to complexity (the great enemy of Bertalanffy Systemics). Hopefully this goal should be achieved by working in an inter-disciplinary and trans-disciplinary fashion, using systemic concepts arising from various disciplines and from the original, or Bertalanffy Systemics, as well. The interdisciplinary nature of the original Systemics and its power of generalization were given, overall, by the fact that the problems and solutions of one discipline become problems and solutions for another. Today, the modeling and interpretation of multidisciplinary approaches and representations makes easier to recognize these interconnections. The context, however, has changed dramatically. Of course, the challenge is still to find theoretical generalizations and applications, even where we have a lot of specificities, but we know very little on how to combine them. We cannot, however, simply replace the old with the new, but we must introduce strategies to recognize, represent, model and act on new levels, combining multiple representations, functions and emergence. In many disciplines this has been already done, and inevitably well, since targets and projects are well specified and oriented. The challenge is to do it for Systemics, with the vocations of cultural and theoretical generalization. Examples of new issues introduced by such theoretical disciplinary improvements, dealt with by many disciplines, include the study of mesoscopic or middle-way level, of multiple and dynamic coherence, of equivalence/non-equivalence, of fractality, of networks, of non-causality, of non-invasiveness, of non-prescribability, of non-separability, of quasi properties, of symmetry properties, of topological dynamics, as well as of quantum theories and concepts.

The conference was devoted to identifying, discussing and understanding possible interrelationships of theoretical disciplinary improvements, recognized as having prospective fundamental roles for a new post-Bertalanffy Systemics. The latter should be able to deal with problems related to complexity in a generalized way. In this context the inter-disciplinarity should consists, for instance, in a disciplinary reformulation of problems, as from algebraic to geometrical, from military to political, from biological to chemical, while the trans-disciplinarity should be related to the study of such reformulations and their properties.

The Italian Systems Society (AIRS) was founded in the 1996. The AIRS is a network of academicians, scientists, researchers and professionals involved in Systemics. A partial list of disciplines represented is:

Architecture

Biology

Economics

Education

Engineering

Mathematics

Neurosciences

Medicine

Music

Philosophy

Psychology

Physics.

Previous conferences had as open lecturers professors Arecchi, Haken, Klir, and Kauffman. The proceedings have been published as:

1. Minati, G., (ed.), (1998), Proceedings of the first Italian Conference on Systemics, Apogeo Scientifica, Milan, Italy.

2. Minati, G., and Pessa, E., (eds.) (2002), Emergence in Complex Cognitive, Social and Biological Systems. Kluwer, New York.

3. Minati, G., Pessa, E., and Abram, M., (eds.), (2006), Systemics of Emergence: Research and Applications. Springer, New York.

4. Minati, G., Abram, M. and Pessa, E., (eds.), (2009), Processes of emergence of systems and systemic properties. Towards a general theory of emergence. World Scientific, Singapore.

5. Minati, G., Abram, M. and Pessa, E., (eds.), (2012), Methods, Models, simulations and approaches - towards a general theory of change. World Scientific, Singapore.

Inhaltsverzeichnis

Frontmatter

Opening Lecture

Frontmatter

Chapter 1. Quantum Effects in Linguistic Endeavors

Abstract

Classifying the information content of neural spike trains, an uncertainty relation emerges between the bit size of a word and its duration. This uncertainty is ruled by a quantum constant whose numerical value has nothing to do with Planck’s constant. A quantum conjecture explains the onset and decay of the memory window connecting successive pieces of a linguistic text. The conjecture here formulated is applicable to other reported evidences of quantum effects in human cognitive processes, so far lacking a plausible framework since no efforts to assign a quantum constant have been associated.

Fortunato T. Arecchi

Studies of the Emergence: Models and Simulations

Frontmatter

Chapter 2. Cross-Frequency Modulation, Network Information Integration and Cognitive Performance in Complex Systems

Abstract

The higher cognitive processes cannot be explained by processes of sequential neural activation and new systemic approaches to the study of electroencephalographic correlates of cognition are presently proposed. As the mental activity appears to be the result of a systemic integration of different neural network activities (brain networks, BNet), the associated mutual interaction between different frequency bands generates the phenomenon of cross-frequency modulation (CfM) that supports the synchronization and the coordination of the high-frequency activity of distant brain areas. Within this paper we present two kinds of evidence supporting the key role of CfM in allowing the above mentioned integration, one coming from experimental EEG data concerning human subjects, and the other coming from computer simulations of models of brain network activity. As concerns the experimental evidence in 8 subjects, aged between 20 and 51 years old, not suffering of any psychopathology or neurological disorders, EEG activity was recorded during the execution of a cognitive task in which they were asked to identify the non-previously known criteria used by the computer to classify some presented images. The study of the Event Related Potentials (ERPs) showed a longer latency in responses following an error. Independent EEG components with a strong fit with a dipole model were identified and CfM of these components was computed either independently from the stimulus and related to the stimulus and to the subject response. The obtained results were consistent with the role of CfM in the functional activation of BNets and with the subject cognitive performance. Some computer simulations of the activity of networks of Integrate-and-fire neurons were also carried out. The latter showed that the presence of synchronization between neuron activities was facilitated by the presence of long-range synaptic interactions, periodicity of the stimulus inputs, adaptation of the neuronal threshold and presence of inhibitory synapses. We found also evidence of the key role played by network connectivity structure. Namely, both theoretical arguments and simulation results agreed in showing that, in the case of external discontinuous stimuli the scale-free networks are more likely to manifest a high frequency resonance phenomena coupled with persistent low frequency oscillations. All these data are supporting the role of CfM in the functional integration of complex networks and suggest that this phenomenon could be typical of a large number of other complex systems such as, e.g., the social networks.

Pier Luigi Marconi, Pier Luca Bandinelli, Maria Pietronilla Penna, Eliano Pessa

Chapter 3. Testing Different Learning Strategies on a Simple Connectionist Model of Numerical Fact Retrieval

Abstract

The use of fingers for counting plays an acknowledged role in the development of early arithmetic skills. In this paper, the main question on which we focused our attention is the following: how does finger use in counting routines affects learning of basic arithmetical facts?. We first analyzed a finger-using counting strategy from an algorithmic stance in order to inspect the relevant operations and the implicit knowledge necessary to perform that specific counting routine. Second, we simulated the algorithmic features of the finger-using counting routine on a feed-forward back-propagation neural network designed to learn and retrieve a set of basic number facts, namely, the results of single digit additions. We tested the network on different learning strategies to check whether the strategy modeled on the finger counting routine gains any advantages. Moreover, we tested the net on the problem size effect for each of the learning strategies simulated. Simulation results indicated that the learning strategy based on the finger counting algorithmic features leads the net to a faster reduction of the number of errors during the training phase and, interestingly, to reproduce the problem size effect.

Simone Pinna, Giorgio Fumera

Chapter 4. Dynamical Systems and Automata

Abstract

State space is a powerful tool which gives a global and synthetic view of the possible evolutions of a dynamical system. It is also a main source for available information about the stability and the complexity of the system dynamics. In describing dynamical systems via space state, it is possible to condensate a large amount of information about the qualitative behavior of the system. In particular, given an initial condition, it is possible to know the evolution of the system. But managing state space is not an easy work, especially when dealing with nonlinear systems. For practical applications it is possible to associate to a dynamical system an automaton that describes the evolution of the system. This is a very general property by which a simpler discrete description of the dynamical system becomes possible. This discrete description, adequately instantiated, can suggest the strategy for grasping essential system information. This is essential in designing automation control systems. A simple example is reported.

Mario R. Abram, Umberto Di Caprio

The Contribution of Physics to a New General Theory of Systems

Frontmatter

Chapter 5. Towards the Study of New Nuclear Energies

Abstract

According to the traditional models, like e.g. the Standard Model (SM), the deuteron is formed by a proton plus a neutron. This formulation is not at all satisfactory and does not explain the mass and magnetic moment deficits, nor the experimental value of the strong interaction constant. Moreover, it is not consistent with the results of experiments of photodisintegration of the deuteron and lacks a fundamental milestone: how is it that the deuteron is stable, in spite of the noted instability of the neutron? Here we propose a radically innovative approach, i.e. a relativistic and dynamic model, according to which the deuteron is formed by three particles (two protons and an electron) that conveniently rotate round their center of mass. The model defines a stable bounded state that explains the observed values of the mass and magnetic moment as well as of the spin. In addition, it points out that the strong interaction is electromagnetic (the coupling constant has value g _d = 14, in accordance with experimental findings). The nuclear force is electromagnetic and it is counteracted by an inertial force (the centrifugal force). A nuclear reaction can be activated by breaking the deuteron with a photon having energy 193 MeV. Such value corresponds to a minimum of the measured cross-section.

Umberto Di Caprio, Mario R. Abram

Chapter 6. Decomposing Dynamical Systems

Abstract

Dynamical systems on monoids have been recently proposed as minimal mathematical models for the intuitive notion of deterministic dynamics. This paper shows that any dynamical system DS _L on a monoid L can be exhaustively decomposed into a family of mutually disconnected subsystems—the constituent systems of D S _L. In addition, constituent systems are themselves indecomposable, even though they may very well be complex. Finally, this work also makes clear how any dynamical system DS _L turns out to be identical to the sum of all its constituent systems. Constituent systems can thus be thought as the indecomposable, but possibly complex, building blocks to which the dynamics of an arbitrary complex system fully reduces. However, no further reduction of the constituents is possible, even if they are themselves complex.

Marco Giunti

Chapter 7. For a Topology of Dynamical Systems

Abstract

Dynamical systems are mathematical objects meant to formally capture the dynamical features of deterministic systems. They are commonly defined as ordered pairs of the form DS = (S, (f ^t)_t ∈ T), where S is a non-empty set of states or points called the state space, and (f ^t)_t ∈ T is a family of functions on S, indexed by T, called state transitions. For every t ∈ T, the state transition f ^t is said to have duration t, where the time set T is usually taken to be a set of numbers, such as the reals \(\mathcal{R}\), the non-negative reals \(\mathcal{R}^{0}\), the integers \(\mathcal{Z}\), or the non-negative integers \(\mathcal{Z}^{0}\).

Claudio Mazzola, Marco Giunti

New Systemic Contents of Disciplinary Approaches and Problems

Frontmatter

Chapter 8. EPAS: Artificial Intelligent System for Assistance

Abstract

The paper introduces the emerging field of Complex Artificial Intelligent Systems, using computational reasoning, able to learn and experience the world through sensors and actuators. These Artificial Intelligent Systems are able to provide services very close to those of humans. Then the work describes the design of such a System, named EPAS, to support elderly in their problems: mobility, memory, leisure, health. A control software of EPAS, called MIND is conceived to recognize face and voice, interpret texts and human behavior, learn environment and obtain a map, recognize 3D objects, drive EPAS, monitor health, remind and provide entertainment.

Guido Tascini

Chapter 9. From Systemic Complexity to Systemic Simplicity: A New Networking Node Approach

Abstract

System antifragility can be developed quite easily by CICT Infocentric Worldview. Our main idea is to introduce a new networking node able to bind known information to the unknown one coherently. Unknown “environmental noise” or/and local “signal input” information can be aggregated to known “system internal control status” information, to provide a self-organizing landscape of self-structuring synthetic attractor points. This approach can be applied at any system scale: from single quantum system application development to full system governance strategic assessment policies and beyond. Application examples are presented. Expected impacts are multifarious and quite articulated at different system scale levels: at theoretic level, major one is that Biomedical Engineering ideal system categorization levels can be matched exactly to practical system modeling interaction styles, with no paradigmatic operational ambiguity and information loss. Furthermore, the present paper is a relevant contribute towards a new General Theory of Systems to show how homeostatic equilibria can emerge out of a self-organizing landscape of self-structuring attractor points.

Rodolfo A. Fiorini

Chapter 10. Formal Concept Analysis in Statistical Hypothesis Testing

Abstract

In the present research, we examined the solution of a “Hypothesis Testing for Paired Samples t-test” problem that can be ideally subdivided into four parts: (1) hypothesis generation and formal expression, (2) calculation of the t value, (3) identification of the correct critical t value for the acceptance-refusal of H ₀, and (4) the assumption of the correct decision from the comparison between the calculated t and the critical t value. Different response patterns for the problem were obtained. The derived structure represents a partial order. The relation between response patterns and the single elements of the main exercise can be well represented within the framework of the Formal Concept Analysis. From the analysis of the response patterns of a sample of 114 students in a psychometrics course, we derived a Formal Context where the six parts of the “Hypothesis Testing for Paired Samples t-test” exercise were the formal attributes and the response patterns were the formal objects. In our sample only 25 out of the 2⁶ possible response patterns were encountered. A Logistic Model has been applied to develop a measure of the adequacy of each solution’s pattern actually observed. The obtained results are discussed.

Eraldo Nicotra, Andrea Spoto

Chapter 11. Emergence in Neural Network Models of Cognitive Processing

Abstract

This contribution is devoted to assess whether a basic hypotheses underlying the connectionist approach is firmly grounded and useful for the research activities concerning the Psychology. The hypothesis asserts that the observed macroscopic consequences of cognitive processing are nothing but collective effects emergent from the interactions between suitable microscopic units. The implementation of the above assertion is based on mathematical models making use of artificial neural networks. In this contribution we investigate whether: (a) these models concretely exhibit emergent collective effects; (b) these collective effects are characterized by the same features which we observe in behaviors produced by human mental processes. Our conclusion is that only particular models of this kind (not including Perceptrons) can give rise to emergent collective effects. Moreover, only the use of specific strategies and techniques of data analysis allows to use the models themselves in a way useful to experimental psychologists. Our contribution discusses the application of our proposals to a specific case study in order to illustrate the nature of the difficulties encountered when dealing with a concrete implementation.

Maria Pietronilla Penna, Paul Kenneth Hitchcott, Maria Chiara Fastame, Eliano Pessa

Chapter 12. Beyond Networks: Search for Relevant Subsets in Complex Systems

Abstract

Networks are often used to represent the relations among the variables of a dynamical system. The properties of network topology are usually exploited to understand the organization of the system. Nevertheless, the dynamical organization of a system might considerably differ from its topological one. In this paper, we describe a method to identify “relevant subsets” of variables. The variables belonging to a relevant subset should be strongly integrated and should have a much weaker interaction with the other system variables. Extending previous works on neural networks, an information-theoretic measure is introduced, i.e., the Dynamical Cluster Index, in order to identify candidate relevant subsets. The method solely relies on observations of the variables’ values in time.

Andrea Roli, Marco Villani, Alessandro Filisetti, Roberto Serra

Chapter 13. From Elementary Pragmatic Model (EPM) to Evolutive Elementary Pragmatic Model (E2PM)

Abstract

The Elementary Pragmatic Model (EPM) is a high operative and didactic, versatile tool and new application areas are envisaged continuously. Recently, EPM contributed to find a solution to the double-bind problem in classic information and algorithmic theory. This new awareness allowed to enlarge our panorama for neurocognitive system behavior understanding. To cope with ontological uncertainty, it is possible to use two coupled irreducible information subsystems, based on an ideal asymptotic dichotomy: Information Reliable Predictability and Information Reliable Unpredictability. A natural operating point can emerge as a new Trans-disciplinary Reality Level, out of the Interaction of Two Complementary Irreducible Management Subsystems. It is possible to envisage an Evolutive Elementary Pragmatic Model (E²PM) able to profit by both classic EPM Self-Reflexive Functional Logical Closure and new evolutive Self-Reflective Functional Logical Aperture. This paper presents a relevant contribute to models and simulations offering an example of new forms of evolutive behavior inter- and trans-disciplinarity modeling.

Piero De Giacomo, Rodolfo A. Fiorini, Giulia F. Santacroce

New Forms of Inter- and Trans-disciplinarity

Frontmatter

Chapter 14. Systemic Approach and Meaningful Complexity in Biology

Abstract

The understanding of processes of self-organization concerning living systems requires today a systemic and interdisciplinary approach. Taking our moves from recent studies within the framework of an extended theory of complexity, the present work is devoted to consider the phenomena of the coupled processing and transformation of information in biological systems, highlighting the need to identify new measures of complexity (new axiomatic systems) with regard to the study of the mechanisms of natural information transmission.

Mirko Di Bernardo

Chapter 15. Changing Framework in Explaining Complex Dynamics: Convergences on Systemic Accounts from Two Different Case Studies

Abstract

Starting from two different case studies—cancer explanatory theories and musical consonance and dissonance perception theories—we aim to show how different analytical aspects of complex phenomena can be grasped by apparently divergent accounts. Reaching a more adequate understanding of these phenomena thus needs an integrated systemic view in which every partial solution enlightens a particular aspect of the very same phenomenon. Such systemic viewpoint shifts the focus from different explanations to analytic dimensions that integrate the multidimensional phenomenology of our case studies: cancer pathology and music perception. Taking into consideration these dimensions means understanding the relationship between the systems and the environment in a discrete, continuous and embodied, i.e. context-dependent, way. To this purpose, we need to integrate the understanding activity through an authentic transdisciplinary approach.

Nicola Di Stefano, Marta Bertolaso

Chapter 16. Perceptions of Landscape: Observed and Observing Systems

Abstract

The idea of “landscape as perceived by the population”, as introduced by the Convention Européenne des Paysages (CEP) in 2000, raises questions of systemic nature related to the interaction among observed and observing systems, people and knowledge, actors and users, configurations and denotations, multi-scale and multi-criteria evaluation methods. In the “perception of the landscape”, the several disciplines involved should consider interactions among observing (people) and observed systems. But it does not occur. The processes activated from both higher and lower levels of observation do not talk to each other and are often conflicting. In the “perception of landscape” every observed system deeply interacts with the observing system. The result is a range of variability of interactions between perceptions and actions so wide and ever-changing, that does not seem operable. We study these problems in the case study of Casale Monferrato (hilly area of 523 km², 38 municipalities, 8 areas listed as UNESCO Heritage Sites, population of about 65,000 inhabitants). There is a great difficulty in describing the “perception” of the landscape in simple terms, where non-comparable understanding and values arise from different “stakeholders” as well as from different disciplinary fields. A further complication arises from the non-intentionality of agents acting on the landscape. We envisioned a process to reduce these problems and improve self-regulation in the unintentional project, also in its relations with the intentional one. With this purpose in mind we figured out visibility analyses having comparable and measurable parameters to allow attributions of value necessary to develop further awareness-raising, direct perception and participative actions. We acted on the relationship of visibility within the system: paths, number of users, time and frequency of usage in various modes. We also used measurable and compatible measurements: visual field, variety and coherence of characters, dominants and prevalent visual characteristics. We considered a limited and well-specified field of observation and we considered the dominant aspects and characterized sub-areas. This process underlines identity aspects and allows research related to the perception of values by inhabitants or visitors, in collaboration with municipalities.

Valerio Di Battista

Chapter 17. Thinking Smart City with a Focus on Emerging Identity Elements

Abstract

In this paper we agree that the identity of a city is continuously redefined by emergent properties expressed through environmental transformation. So we identify and emphasize some elements that may help designers to appropriately consider the continuously changing state of a city. After the exploration and identification of codes and languages derived from collective actions, we identify and illustrate three examples in order to sustain our thesis: the re-semantization of specific city elements, the boundary conditions as source of system change, and the unconventional social behaviors as lurking soft protests. We conclude by sustaining that the knitting of the “traces” of the emergent properties is a precondition for the smart city design.

Valentina Volpi, Antonio Opromolla, Roberta Grimaldi, Valerio De Cecio, Mauro Palatucci, Carlo Maria Medaglia

Chapter 18. Architecture and Systemics: In Praise of Roughness

Abstract

Architecture is a complex idea in its own right. In architectural culture, systemic references are not new. Design theories, in Europe as well as in USA, have often referred to many concepts more or less strictly linked to Systemics and to scientific domains such as Information theories and Cybernetics. Quite often, such references have been a mere metaphorical suggestion or, as in the field of “rational” design and process engineering, they mostly have heavy functional overtones. Such is the idea of “performance”, whose original definition was meant as an industrial design tool pursuing optimization, linking together the users’ needs and the requirements an artifact must possess to satisfy those needs. But, as we know, “bottom up” emergence processes have nothing to do with “top down” design strategies for optimization. Nevertheless, the idea of performance conveys the meaning of a strong influence intercurring between two entities, one of them on the “giving” and the other one on the “taking” sides, both of them interacting through feedback. For this reason, I believe the idea of performance should not be discarded lightheartedly. Rather, a “softer” notion of performance, linked to the realm of social perception and attachment to places, should be brought to thorough definition. It might be useful to find a more productive, non-metaphorical use of systemic references to understand and (then) to design—or to redevelop—human settlements.

Carlotta Fontana

Chapter 19. Emergences in Social Systems: Perceptual Factors, Affordances and Performances in Architecture

Abstract

Of the factors introducing emergences in social systems (here understood in keeping with systemic connotations), perceptual factors certainly represent interesting topics for architecture. They highlight the main assumptions typical of diverse disciplinary hypotheses and contexts, and relations with the requirements systems of users. They point out the implications of requirements-based approaches to architecture design, even in relation to the hypothesis of perception as affordance (Gibson, The ecological approach to visual perception. Houghton Mifflin, Boston, 1979). The latter, in particular, is discussed briefly highlighting the differences and key nexuses with further hypotheses, and with assumptions and developments of the requirements-performance based approach.

Alessandra Cucurnia, Giorgio Giallocosta

Chapter 20. Bank of Experiences: A Tool to Enhance Creativity, Enterprises and Countries

Abstract

Bank of Experiences (BdEsp) is an employment agency which put creativity potentialities of engineers, designers, experts of marketing and business organization (and, more generally, professionals related to the “world of research in science and design” which are looking for job opportunities) in touch with companies looking for active collaborations for process or product innovation. BdEsp is a project of design management; maps of the system and infographics identify the visual aspect of the platform. Fundamental purposes of the system are management and development of human resources that are the real value of the Bank. Users join the BdEsp complying with the goals of civil economy that underlie the system. Thanks to this precondition the project is founded on the basic principles of system design.

Giordano Bruno, Giulia Romiti

Outlines of a New General Theory of Systems

Frontmatter

Chapter 21. Systems and Organizations: Theoretical Tools, Conceptual Distinctions and Epistemological Implications

Abstract

The aim of this paper is to present some system-theoretical notions—such as constraint, closure, integration, coordination, etc.—which have recently raised a renovated interest and have undergone a deep development, especially in those branches of philosophy of biology characterized by a systemic approach. The implications of these notions for the analysis and characterization of self-maintaining organizations will be discussed with the aid of examples taken from models of minimal living systems, and some conceptual distinctions will be provided. In the last part of the paper the epistemic implications of these ideas will be presented.

Leonardo Bich

Chapter 22. General System(s) Theory 2.0: A Brief Outline

Abstract

In this article we present lists of concepts and approaches both of Bertalanffy’s pre-complexity General System Theory (GST) and of post-Bertalanffy Systemics dealing with complexity. We also list examples of phenomena showing such complexity and sources or generators of complexity with special regard to social systems. Such lists should be considered as a list of contents for further, more exhaustive, possibly contradictory, studies as outlined in the conclusions.

Gianfranco Minati

Chapter 23. Phenomenology of Emergence in Music: Presentation of the Processes of Systemic Emergence in the Contrapuntal and Improvizational Aspects of Baroque Music

Abstract

According to the systemic perspective, it is possible to view the musical phenomenon in the light of those elements which characterize the dynamic process of Emergence: the non linear dimension, the level of complexity, the logical opening and the element of chaos. The musical event of an impromptu and improvised performance on the time space continuum, may represent the perceptible synaesthetic process which both identifies and defines the observer/listener. The significance of the Emergence process and systemic coherence in the manifestation of an art form so directly linked to the idea of impermanence, finds an ideal representation through the realization of the origins of the creative process. To this end we will refer to the improvisational nature of Baroque music, as found in Ciaccone, Passacagli and Ground, but also to the vocal and instrumental production in closed and codified form with particular regard to the contrapuntal repertoire. Using the essential instruments of the Basso Continuo, the harpsichord and the bass viol, as well as the voice, the musical passages chosen will be reworked and performed in an impromptu manner. The resulting piece of music thereby constituting an original and unrepeatable composition, fruit of the improvisation and interaction between musicians and their synergy with the public.

Emanuela Pietrocini

Chapter 24. Fractal Self-similarity: From Geometric Structures to Coherent Dynamics

Abstract

Under the conditions of constant magnetic field and harmonic scalar potential, electrodynamics appears to be isomorph to fractal self-similar structures and squeezed coherent states. Relevance of coherent states and electromagnetic interaction and ubiquity of fractals point to a unified vision of Nature.

Giuseppe Vitiello

Chapter 25. Enhancement in Mathematical Abilities: A System Approach

Abstract

A body of literature evidences the importance of enhancement in the development of mathematical abilities. The most recent researches showed that infants are capable of discriminating different sets of numbers, so it is important to understand the role of the environment and educational system in the promotion and development of this potential. The main role in the enhancement in mathematical abilities is played by the interventions which support the development of these abilities in concomitance with their emergence. The present study has taken into consideration a number of variables in order to promote the best development of emerging skills and to prevent some difficulties related to the development of mathematical abilities. In this regard, the enhancement is the result of the combination of cognitive and metacognitive factors. Among the cognitive factors, as the literature shows, the visuo-spatial component has a very important role in the development of mathematical abilities. Also, the introduction of technological tools is useful to create a systemic approach in the development and enhancement of mathematical abilities. The main goal of the current study was to investigate the impact of a systemic intervention on the improvement of mathematical skills in 144 third graders of several schools located in Italy. Participants were subjected to the training (paper and/or multimedia) for enhancing numerical abilities and/or visuo-spatial abilities. Our findings evidence the positive effect of the different types of training for the empowerment of numerical abilities. In particular, the combination of computerized and pencil-and-paper versions of visuo-spatial and mathematical training are more effective than the single execution of the software or of the pencil-and-paper treatment. Our results show that, when properly stimulated, the subject’s cognitive and metacognitive processes can support the improvement of individual skills. The enhancement tools are essential for school and families (they can use the same trainings). The design and the implementation of educational interventions with a systemic vision aimed at producing a cognitive enhancement that can be effective in the course of time.

Maria Lidia Mascia, Mirian Agus, Maria Chiara Fastame, Alessandra Addis

Chapter 26. The Effect of Written Approval on Pupils’ Academic and Social Behavior: An Exploratory Study in a Northern Italian Middle School

Abstract

There have been demonstrated effects of teachers’ verbal approval on pupils’ behavior (e.g. Swinson and Harrop, Educ Psychol Pract 17(2):157–167, 2001) and academic achievement (e.g. Weinstein et al., Coll Stud J 43(2):452–453, 2009). Although much of the teachers’ time is spent on marking pupils’ work, not too much is known about the effect of written approval on pupils’ academic and social behavior. Therefore, the aim of this exploratory study was to investigate the effect of written approval on pupils’ academic performance and on-task behavior. No effects have been demonstrated of written approval on pupils’ academic performance, probably because of an overlap between approval and numerical grade functions. The effects of written approval on the increase of pupil’s time on-task confirm the results of the literature on verbal approval.

Dolores Rollo, Francesco Sulla, Mia A. Massarini, Silvia Perini

Titel: Towards a Post-Bertalanffy Systemics
herausgegeben von: Gianfranco Minati
Mario R. Abram
Eliano Pessa
Verlag: Springer International Publishing
Electronic ISBN: 978-3-319-24391-7
Print ISBN: 978-3-319-24389-4
DOI: https://doi.org/10.1007/978-3-319-24391-7