Mental load and work stress as two types of energy mobilization

A conceptual framework is presented in which mental load and stress are regarded as two distinct biobehavioural states in the work environment that differ in energy mobilization, mood and coping strategy. The framework combines two types of theory that are based on human performance research using laboratory tasks on the one hand and applied research in the work environment on the other. A high workload is regarded as an important but not a critical factor in the development of stress symptoms. Even under unfavourable conditions it is possible to work intensively and to be highly activated without feelings of strain or psychosomatic complaints. In contrast, working conditions that provide few possibilities for control and little social support or are associated with reduced well-being and increased health risks. The two states differ in activation, coping style and mood. A proper distinction is important not only for theory building but also for the reconstruction of the work environment. It may lead to recommendations that aim to enhance the work efficiency of employees while reducing the probability that stress responses will occur.     

Returns vs. Endowments in the Earnings Attainment Process for Metropolitan and Nonmetropolitan Men and Women1

Abstract Three explanations typically are offered for differences in earnings: (1) individuals have different levels of human capital and hold different jobs (endowments differ), (2) rewards to human capital and job characteristics differ (returns differ), and (3) some combination of differences in endowments and returns explain variations in earnings. We argue that the structure of labor markets in nonmetropolitan (nonmetro) areas differs from that in metropolitan (metro) areas such that returns, as well as endowments, vary. These variations in returns favor metropolitan workers, explaining the predominant portion of the metro/nonmetro earnings gap. We examine the earnings differences for metro and nonmetro men and women in both 1977 and 1987, showing that returns outweigh endowments in explaining that gap for both men and women, although their importance decreases over the ten-year period. Research to improve our understanding of how differences in labor market structure produce differential returns has begun and may yield yet another avenue for action for policymakers interested in reducing metro/nonmetro inequalities.     

标准化测试对学生语言能力的影响

目前国内大学、中学的英语教学和测试中多采用标准化形式,其中有利也有弊。本文试图通过教学实践的总结对此问题进行初步探讨;通过对标准化形式之利与弊的分析,建议采用多种形式进行练习与测试,从提高学生的语言能力着眼,促进学生的英语水平的提高。     

党的第三代中央领导集体与多党合作制度

中国共产党领导的多党合作和政治协商制度是我国的一项基本政治制度。这一制度经由党的三代中央领导集体的不懈探索和精心培育而得到发展。以江泽民为核心的第三代中央领导集体 ,继承前人而又开拓创新 ,回答了新形势下多党合作面临的许多重大理论问题和实践问题 ,不断推动多党合作制度与时俱进 ,为之作出了新的重大贡献