Digital library
Textbooks, references and open learning resources.
External
Project Management from Simple to Complex
University of Minnesota Libraries Publishing · 2016
In a world that is becoming more virtual, more global, and more complex, the project manager's ability to function in this environment becomes critical to the success of the project. Project Management from Simple to Complex explores project management within this complex, virtual, and global environment. This is not a standard textbook that was adapted to the new publishing paradigm; it was designed from the beginning to utilize its capabilities. The book is written in collaboration by an expert in Project Management and an expert in writing instructional textbooks and using technology for communicating online to create a unique learning environment that prepares students to manage projects in a global, multicultural, and online environment. Project Management from Simple to Complex features a new model for managing projects, as well as, exploration into the personal dynamics of project management and the role those dynamics play in project outcomes.
External
Principles of Management
University of Minnesota Libraries Publishing · 2015
Principles of Management teaches management principles to tomorrow's business leaders by weaving three threads through every chapter: strategy, entrepreneurship and active leadership. Strategic — All business school teachings have some orientation toward performance and strategy and are concerned with making choices that lead to high performance. Principles of Management will frame performance using the notion of the triple bottom-line — the idea that economic performance allows individuals and organizations to perform positively in social and environmental ways as well. The triple bottom line is financial, social, and environmental performance. It is important for all students to understand the interdependence of these three facets of organizational performance. The Entrepreneurial Manager — While the "General Management" course at Harvard Business School was historically one of its most popular and impactful courses (pioneered in the 1960s by Joe Bower), recent Harvard MBAs did not see themselves as "general managers." This course was relabeled "The Entrepreneurial Manager" in 2006, and has regained its title as one of the most popular courses. This reflects and underlying and growing trend that students, including the undergraduates this book targets, can see themselves as entrepreneurs and active change agents, but not just as managers. By starting fresh with an entrepreneurial/change management orientation, this text provides an exciting perspective on the art of management that students can relate to. At the same time, this perspective is as relevant to existing for-profit organizations (in the form intrapreneurship) as it is to not-for-profits and new entrepreneurial ventures. Active Leadership — Starting with the opening chapter, Principles of Management shows students how leaders and leadership are essential to personal and organizational effectiveness and effective organizational change. Students are increasingly active as leaders at an early age, and are
External
Organizational Behavior
University of Minnesota Libraries Publishing · 2017
Organizational Behavior bridges the gap between theory and practice with a distinct "experiential" approach. On average, a worker in the USA will change jobs 10 times in 20 years. In order to succeed in this type of career situation, individuals need to be armed with the tools necessary to be life-long learners. To that end, this book is not be about giving students all the answers to every situation they may encounter when they start their first job or as they continue up the career ladder. Instead, this book gives students the vocabulary, framework, and critical thinking skills necessary to diagnose situations, ask tough questions, evaluate the answers received, and to act in an effective and ethical manner regardless of situational characteristics. Often, students taking OB either do not understand how important knowledge of OB can be to their professional careers, or they DO understand and they want to put that knowledge into practice. Organizational Behavior takes a more experiential angle to the material to meet both of those needs. The experiential approach can be incorporated in the classroom primarily through the "OB Toolbox." This feature brings life to the concepts and allows students to not only see how the OB theories unfold, but to practice them, as well.
External
Exploring Business
University of Minnesota Libraries Publishing · 2016
The author's goals in writing Exploring Business Version 2.0 was simple: introduce students to business in an exciting way. Exploring Business is adapted from a work produced by a publisher who has requested that they and the original author not receive attribution. This adapted edition is produced by the University of Minnesota Libraries Publishing through the eLearning Support Initiative. Though the publisher has requested that they and the original author not receive attribution, this adapted edition reproduces all original text and sections of the book, except for publisher and author name attribution. This textbook has been used in classes at: College of Alameda, Columbia Basin College, Flagler College, Johnson County Community College, Pasadena City College, Penn State University, Renton Technical College, San Diego Mesa College, Sierra College, Yuba College.
External
Communication for Business Success
University of Minnesota Libraries Publishing · 2015
Business Communication for Success (BCS) provides a comprehensive, integrated approach to the study and application of written and oral business communication to serve both student and professor. This series features chapters with the following elements: Learning Objectives Introductory Exercises Clear expectations, relevant background, and important theories Practical, real-world examples Key Takeaways or quick internal summaries Key terms that are easily identified In-chapter assignments Postchapter assessments linked to objectives and skills acquisition Each chapter is self-contained, allowing for mix-and-match flexibility and custom or course-specific design. Each chapter focuses on clear objectives and skill demonstrations that can be easily linked to your syllabus and state or federal requirements. Supported by internal and external assessments, each chapter features time-saving and learning-enhancement support for instructors and students. BCS is designed to help students identify important information, reinforce for retention, and demonstrate mastery with a clear outcome product. The text has three content categories: Foundations Process and products Contexts The first three chapters form the core foundation for the study of oral and written business communication. The next sequence of chapters focus on the process of writing, then oral performance with an emphasis on results. The final sequence focuses on contexts where business communication occurs, from interpersonal to intercultural, from groups to leadership. In each of the process and product chapter sequences, the chapters follow a natural flow, from prewriting to revision, from preparation for a presentation to performance. Each sequence comes together in a concluding chapter that focuses on action—where we apply the skills and techniques of written or oral communication in business, from writing a letter to presenting a sales speech. These performances not only serve to reinforce real-world applicat
External
Workplace Software and Skills
Tammie Bolling; Angela Mitchell; Tanya Scott; Nyrobi Wheeler · OpenStax, Rice University
Workplace Software and Skills is designed to flexibly support a range of courses covering computer literacy, Microsoft Office, and Google Suite applications. The textbook covers both hard and soft skills that are applicable to a broad range of academic majors and careers. Chapters combine studio learning and guided practice with scaffolded activities designed to reinforce a student’s ability to perform higher-order tasks independently. Workplace Software and Skills leverages complementary product features in spreadsheet, word processing, presentation, and similar applications. Modules are designed for maximum flexibility by including both Microsoft Office Suite and Google Suite applications, in order to best reflect the skills needed for today’s workforce. Authentic activities and real-world contexts develop a cumulative and thorough understanding, which reinforces the importance of cross-platform proficiency. Highly visible features also note Apple/Mac functions as needed.
External
Principles of Management
David S. Bright; Anastasia H. Cortes; Eva Hartmann; K. Praveen Parboteeah · OpenStax, Rice University
Principles of Management is designed to meet the scope and sequence requirements of the introductory course on management. This is a traditional approach to management using the leading, planning, organizing, and controlling approach. Management is a broad business discipline, and the Principles of Management course covers many management areas such as human resource management and strategic management, as well as behavioral areas such as motivation. No one individual can be an expert in all areas of management, so an additional benefit of this text is that specialists in a variety of areas have authored individual chapters.
External
Principles of Data Science
Dr. Shaun V. Ault; Dr. Soohyun Nam Liao; Larry Musolino; Wisam Bukaita · OpenStax, Rice University
Principles of Data Science is intended to support one- or two-semester courses in data science. It is appropriate for data science majors and minors as well as students concentrating in business, finance, health care, engineering, the sciences, and a number of other fields where data science has become critically important. The authors have included a diverse mix of scenarios, examples, and data types for analysis and discussion purposes. These include both fictional contexts and real-world sources, such as the Federal Reserve Economic Database and Nasdaq. Data sets focus on a range of topics: business, science, social sciences. Applications include healthcare, physical sciences, demographics, policy, and finance. Data ethics and the emergence of artificial intelligence are covered deeply – both in their own chapters and as consistent threads throughout the course material. The authors and contributors have developed rich in-chapter example problems and extensive practice exercises that encourage students to apply concepts in a variety of situations. Technical illustrations and Python code support and supplement the principles and theory. The text also includes direct links to downloadable data sets and Python code, as well as guidance on how to use them.
External
Organizational Behavior
J. Stewart Black; David S. Bright; Donald G. Gardner; Eva Hartmann · OpenStax, Rice University
This OpenStax resource aligns to introductory courses in Organizational Behavior. The text presents the theory, concepts, and applications with particular emphasis on the impact that individuals and groups can have on organizational performance and culture. An array of recurring features engages students in entrepreneurial thinking, managing change, using tools/technology, and responsible management.
External
Introductory Business Statistics 2e
Alexander Holmes; Barbara Illowsky; Susan Dean; Nancy Foreman · OpenStax, Rice University
Introductory Business Statistics 2e aligns with the topics and objectives of the typical one-semester statistics course for business, economics, and related majors. The text provides detailed and supportive explanations and extensive step-by-step walkthroughs. The author places a significant emphasis on the development and practical application of formulas so that students have a deeper understanding of their interpretation and application of data. Problems and exercises are largely centered on business topics, though other applications are provided in order to increase relevance and showcase the critical role of statistics in a number of fields and real-world contexts. The second edition retains the organization of the original text. Based on extensive feedback from adopters and students, the revision focused on improving currency and relevance, particularly in examples and problems. A detailed transition guide is available for instructors. The first edition of Introductory Business Statistics by OpenStax is available in web view here.
External
Introduction to Intellectual Property
David Kline; David Kappos; Kerry L. Bundy; Randall E. Kahnke · OpenStax, Rice University
Introduction to Intellectual Property provides a clear, effective introduction to patents, copyright, trademarks, and trade secrets. The text may be used by students and instructors in formal courses, as well as those applying intellectual property considerations to entrepreneurship, marketing, law, computer science, engineering, design, or other fields. The luminaries involved with this project represent the forefront of knowledge and experience, and the material offers considerable examples and scenarios, as well as exercises and references. Introduction to Intellectual Property was originally developed by the Michelson 20MM Foundation, released under the title The Intangible Advantage. Presented by Gary K. Michelson, M.D.
External
Introduction to Business 2e
Lawrence J. Gitman; Carl McDaniel; Amit Shah; Monique Reece · OpenStax, Rice University
Introduction to Business 2e provides a strong, multidimensional foundation in the concepts, skills, and real-world examples of contemporary business. Welcoming and relevant narratives support students as they engage in core themes such as decision making, ethics, customer satisfaction, entrepreneurship, global business, and managing technological and societal changes. The material includes hundreds of current business examples from a range of industries and geographic locations. Extensive illustrations, case studies, review materials, and assessments offer instructors and learners the tools needed to develop a deep, practical understanding. The outcome is a balanced approach to the theory and application of business concepts, with attention to the knowledge and skills necessary for success in further studies and careers. The Second Edition was written with extensive input from faculty, industry experts, and students. Revisions focus on currency, emerging technologies, changing business practices, and evolving legal and ethical dynamics. The authors emphasize course-wide themes, including the impacts and implications of artificial intelligence, the changing nature of the workplace, and new approaches to team dynamics. A detailed transition guide is available in the instructor resources. Introduction to Business 2e is supported by instructor ancillaries, and is available in OpenStax Assignable. As described in OpenStax’s accessibility statement and related documentation, we focus on inclusive development and detailed evaluation to ensure that our platforms and course materials meet relevant WCAG guidelines.
External
Entrepreneurship
Michael Laverty; Chris Littel; Chandra D. Arthur; Martin S. Bressler · OpenStax, Rice University
This textbook is intended for use in introductory Entrepreneurship classes at the undergraduate level. Due to the wide range of audiences and course approaches, the book is designed to be as flexible as possible. Theoretical and practical aspects are presented in a balanced manner, and specific components such as the business plan are provided in multiple formats. Entrepreneurship aims to drive students toward active participation in entrepreneurial roles, and exposes them to a wide range of companies and scenarios.
External
Business Law I Essentials 2e
Mirande Valbrune; Renee De Assis; Suzanne Cardell; Tess C. Taylor · OpenStax, Rice University
Business Law I Essentials 2e is a brief introductory textbook designed to meet the scope and sequence requirements of courses on Business Law or the Legal Environment of Business. The concepts are presented in a streamlined manner, and cover the key concepts necessary to establish a strong foundation in the subject. The textbook follows a traditional approach to the study of business law. Each chapter contains learning objectives, explanatory narrative and concepts, references for further reading, and end-of-chapter questions. Business Law I Essentials 2e may need to be supplemented with additional content, cases, or related materials, and is offered as a foundational resource that focuses on the baseline concepts, issues, and approaches. The first edition of Business Law I Essentials by OpenStax is available in web view here.
External
Business Ethics
Stephen M. Byars; David Shapiro; Kurt Stanberry; Barbara Boerner · OpenStax, Rice University
Business Ethics is designed to meet the scope and sequence requirements of the single-semester business ethics course. This title includes innovative features designed to enhance student learning, including case studies, application scenarios, and links to video interviews with executives, all of which help instill in students a sense of ethical awareness and responsibility.
External
Additive Manufacturing Essentials
John E. Barnes; Timothy E. Simpson, Ph.D.; Kirk Rogers, Ph.D.; Laura Ely · OpenStax, Rice University
Additive Manufacturing Essentials is an introduction to the core principles, technologies, and methods in the field of additive manufacturing. Rooted in industry practice and innovation, the material presents examples and approaches from an array of companies, equipment producers, and software developers. The book is designed to support readers from an array of fields and areas of study, including engineering, science, management, operations, entrepreneurship, and education. With a focus on understanding and selecting the best AM methods for diverse processes and organizations, Additive Manufacturing Essentials provides a working knowledge of the concepts and key applications of this critically important domain.
External
Estrategia didáctica basada en TIC para el desarrollo de habilidades sociales en estudiantes preescolares
Ivonne Gioconda Meléndez-Coloma; Alexandra Elizabeth Flores-Robles; Adriana Genoveva Silva-Carrillo; Klever Gonzalo Cárdenas-Velasco · Editorial Grupo AEA · 2025
El desarrollo de habilidades sociales en la infancia es crucial para el bienestar psicológico y el rendimiento académico de los niños. Las habilidades sociales, como la empatía y la comunicación, se aprenden y perfeccionan durante la vida, siendo la etapa preescolar crucial para su adquisición. Sin embargo, diversos factores pueden obstaculizar este desarrollo, afectando la comunicación y la autoestima de los niños. En este contexto, el uso de Tecnologías de la Información y la Comunicación (TIC) emerge como una estrategia didáctica que podría favorecer el desarrollo de habilidades sociales en niños preescolares. El estudio propone analizar cómo contribuye una estrategia didáctica basada en TIC al desarrollo de habilidades sociales en estudiantes preescolares, Ecuador. El problema general plantea la necesidad de comprender esta contribución, y los problemas derivados buscan explorar conceptos, actividades educativas actuales, elementos didácticos de las TIC, y diseñar e implementar estrategias específicas. La hipótesis sugiere que el uso de una estrategia didáctica basada en TIC facilita el desarrollo de habilidades sociales en estos estudiantes. Los objetivos generales proponen la implementación de dicha estrategia, mientras que los objetivos específicos incluyen una revisión documental, un diagnóstico de actividades actuales, la caracterización de factores didácticos de las TIC y la sistematización de la estrategia didáctica. La metodología adopta un enfoque mixto, combinando aspectos cualitativos y cuantitativos, con un diseño no experimental y técnicas de recolección de datos como escalas, fichas sociodemográficas, registros de observación y análisis académicos. La muestra consta de 30 estudiantes. Como conclusión final, se establece que las habilidades sociales son fundamentales para el desarrollo personal y profesional, las habilidades sociales como la comunicación, empatía y autoestima mejoran cuando se promueven actividades que integran el uso de los recurso
External
Dosis de silicio como nueva estrategia para el control de la mancha marrón (Bipolaris oryzae) en arroz (Oryza sativa L.).
Juan Pablo Avellaneda-Vázquez; Favio Eduardo Herrera-Eguez · Editorial Grupo AEA · 2024
La mancha marrón del arroz es causada por el hongo Bipolaris oryzae y afecta a todos los productores de arroz (Oryza sativa L.). El objetivo general del presente trabajo de investigación fue evaluar diferentes dosis de silicio para el control de la mancha marrón en el cultivo de arroz y sus efectos en diferentes variables agronómicas. La presente investigación se llevó a cabo en el campus “La María”, Universidad Técnica Estatal de Quevedo, ubicada en el Km 7.5 Vía Quevedo – El Empalme. Se utilizó un diseño de bloques completamente al azar con 7 tratamientos y 3 repeticiones. Todos los tratamientos recibieron la misma dosis de NPK (93 – 17 – 108 kg ha-1). El silicio utilizado en la investigación fue SIO-DEM+ (85% SiO2). Los tratamientos aplicados fueron un control (uso de fungicida), y 5 dosis de silicio (188, 282, 376, 470 y 564 kg ha-1). La dosis de 564 kg silicio ha-1 fue superior para altura y peso de 1,000 granos. La dosis de 282 kg silicio ha-1 es recomendada debido a su control de la enfermedad similar al resto de tratamientos y tener al tener una rentabilidad de 5% superior en comparación con el control.
External
Estrategias activas para el aprendizaje autónomo: Un enfoque en Alumnos de Secundaria
Karina Eddmy Madrid-Gómez; Jesús Mery Arias-Huánuco; Ysabel Zevallos-Parave; Maura Natalia Alfaro-Saavedra · Editorial Grupo AEA · 2023
El manuscrito presenta un enfocado en evaluar el desarrollo del aprendizaje autónomo en alumnos de secundaria. A través de pruebas aplicadas antes y después de intervenciones educativas, se recopilaron datos para las alumnas y un grupo control. Los resultados evidencian una evolución positiva en la autonomía de aprendizaje, destacando mejoras en la autoevaluación, la planificación, la autorregulación y las habilidades comunicativas y sociales. Las estrategias de motivación demostraron ser un componente crucial, potenciando la confianza y la motivación intrínseca de los estudiantes para aprender y gestionar sus emociones efectivamente. Los hallazgos resaltan la importancia de fomentar un entorno educativo que apoye el desarrollo de habilidades autodirigidas, sugiriendo que tales enfoques pueden influir significativamente en la capacidad del estudiantado para aprender de manera independiente y eficaz.
External
Pastos Tropicales de la Amazonia Ecuatoriana Tomo I: Avances científicos sobre sistemas silvopastoriles como estrategia de reconversión de la ganadería
Raúl González-Marcillo; Santiago Guamán-Rivera; Angela Guerrero-Pincay; Nelson Ortiz-Naveda · Editorial Grupo AEA · 2023
La rápida expansión de la frontera agrícola como consecuencia desmesurada de la deforestación y cambios antropogénicos a nivel mundial, es un tema de preocupación por la comunidad científica internacional. Además, frente a una lucha contra el cambio climático por efecto de la ganadería, una de las principales estrategias para la mitigación de gases de efecto invernadero, lo constituyen alternativas sostenibles si uso de productos con alta huella de carbono, revalorizando, además, los recursos locales. En el caso de la zona norte de Ecuador, a pesar de los limitados atributos respecto a gradiente de fertilidad de los suelos, la cría de ganado ya sea de leche y/o doble propósito representa uno de los eslabones más fuertes dentro de la economía de las familias. Por lo tanto, es menester investigar alternativas de producción que nos permitan conservar los recursos naturales dada la fragilidad de estos ecosistemas megadiversos. Mediante este libro se plasma que el uso de sistemas ganaderos convencionales, degradan los recursos naturales con mermas significativas de la productividad, así como bajo réditos económicos. En consecuencia, la implementación de sistemas silvopastoriles como alternativa tecnológica de fácil instalación, es sin duda el camino para alcanzar sistemas ganaderos más eficientes, amigables con el medio ambiente, diversificando además los ingresos económicos de la población.