Coming full circle Essay

You could almost say that Leadership, the US Army, the Quality Circle (Editors, 2007), and the Baldrige Criteria (Commerce, 2006) have a shared history: Having established above the importance of leadership in all aspects of life in that it is found in the military as well as in the civilian: business even in the spiritual (servant-leadership) or religious—it was the US Army which took the lead in the formation of â€Å"quality circles† during the Second World War in the 1940s to ensure that the US produce large quantities of war materiel of best quality (Anonymous, 2002). It even took a US Professor, W.Edwards Deming (Editors, 2007), of Western culture, to teach the Japanese, of Eastern culture, to this concept of â€Å"quality circles† (Anonymous, 2002; Editors, 2007; Jarvis, 2006; Swinton, 2007), catapulting Japan slowly but surely to Asian world power status and endearing Prof. Deming to the Japanese who honored him with a prestigious award after his name, the Deming Award. Faced with slack economic progress in the 1970s, the US government set up the Baldrige Criteria/Awards to catch up and to try to lead again in the world’s industries (Commerce, 2001, , 2005, , 2006, , 2007a, , 2007b, , 2007c). In effect, it cannot be avoided if the Baldrige Awards is compared with the Deming Award in Japan. All things besides, the Baldrige Criteria attempts to accurately measure those seven (7) identified aspects (more about later) which contribute to organizational success. Even this year 2007 (Commerce, 2007b), many modifications have been in place in the Baldrige Criteria to keep up with new challenges met, showing how dynamic the Baldrige Method is. It now took the Employer Support for the Guard and Reserve ESGR (E. S. G. R., 2007), a US Department of Defense agency working for the US Armed Forces to take the lead in possibly showing other applications of readily available Baldrige Criteria raw scores. Statement of the Thesis Problem Attempting to prove that when Leadership Scores Category are high as measured by the Baldrige Criteria, then the other six (6) Category areas measure high as well, such as Strategic Planning; Customer and Market Focus; Measurement, Analysis, and Knowledge Measurement; Human Resource Focus; Process Management; and Business Results and to show a correlation as such. Hypotheses Hypotheses to be tested: 1. Leadership scores category are significantly correlated with the scores of the other six category areas. 2. Significant multiple regression equation exists between leadership scores (Y, dependent variable) and the scores of the six category areas (X, independent variables). Objectives of the Thesis 1. To determine the difference between Leaders (or Senior Leaders) and Others (or Junior Leaders) using performance excellence criteria of the Baldrige framework. 2. To determine which of the different concerns contribute to leadership. Materials and Methods The Survey Data Provider The set of raw data used as the primary research of this paper provided the basis for the Report (Peacock, 2006) submitted by Gartman and Associates, a Baldrige-accredited contractor duly authorized to conduct the Baldrige survey using the 2006 Baldrige Criteria as the framework. This criterion is the de facto criteria of performance excellence used globally by manufacturing, service, small business, health care, education, and nonprofit/government for improving organizational performance. The criteria has seven focus areas: Leadership; Strategic Planning; Customer and Market Focus; Measurement, Analysis, and Knowledge Management; Human Resources Focus; Process Management; and Business Results. The Survey Date and the Target Institution. During the week of 4 through 8 December 2006, Gartman and Associates performed a high-level, initial â€Å"quick look† assessment of the National Committee for Employer Support of the Guard and Reserve, ESGR (E. S. G. R. , 2007). Employer Support for the Guard and Reserve (ESGR) is a Department of Defense (DoD) organization of the United States of America (USA). It is a staff group within the Office of the Assistant Secretary of Defense for Reserve Affairs (OASD/RA), which is in itself a part of the Office of the Secretary of Defense. The nation’s Reserve components, referring to the total of all National Guard members and Reserve forces from all branches of the military, (Laurent, 2006) comprise approximately 46 percent of the total available military manpower of the USA’s Armed Forces . The current National Defense Strategy indicates that the National Guard and Reserve will be full partners in the fully integrated Total Force. The USA Reserve Forces will spend more time away from the workplace defending the nation, supporting a demanding operations tempo and training, take note, to maintain their mission readiness. In this environment, civilian employers play a critical role in the defense of the nation by complying with existing employment laws protecting the rights of workers who serve in the Reserve component. ESGR was established in 1972 to promote cooperation and understanding between Reserve component members and their civilian employers and to assist in the resolution of conflicts arising from an employee’s military commitment. ESGR is the lead DoD organization for this mission under DoD Directive 1250. 1.

Kfc Strategy in China Essay

KFC: continue to increase localization, pushing spicy Sichuan chicken Various cities in China Kendejichuan spicy chicken on television ads starting from October 27 .10 scale appears, the product was launched. At the same time to market a product in China have another breakfast food, wolfberry Pumpkin porridge. The introduction of spicy Sichuan chicken only in the McDonald’s â€Å"face† strategy of one month, and advertising intensity is very high, so we can respond to competition as this is a response to KFC. KFC continues the current strategy is clearly its long-standing localization strategy. Let us look back to his food with Chinese characteristics. Since 2000, KFC tastes have continued to try to figure out people, the introduction of a typical Chinese products, such as a half fried wings, mustard pork soup, cold Daoxiang mushroom rice, chicken roll of old Beijing, Guangdong, cushions chatter meat flavor. Average Each month, KFC will launch the long-term or short-ter m localized products. KFC The â€Å"Sichuan Spicy chicken† learn the essence of Sichuan, the choice of the side ribs and chicken wings, chicken processing into small pieces of bone, and then use a special â€Å"hot pepper powder, chicken marinade,† preserved, upon frying , spicy and delicious, with rich flavors of Sichuan. KFC seems to have been determined to make China’s eight major cuisines are the reorganization. In other aspects, the pace of the same compact localization Kentucky. 1, KFC in China, the proportion of local procurement of raw materials reached 95%, of which bread, chicken and vegetables all come from China itself. 2, 2003 Chinese New Year, from early January to February 9, white beard, â€Å"Kentucky grandfather† changed the usual â€Å"suit,† the classic image of more than 170 cities in China, 800 restaurants, also put on the traditional Chinese holiday costumes. 3, the layout of KFC’s stores have begun to melt a lot of elements such as China. Of course, more Chinese people speaking, turns KFC has introduced a typical Chinese name and Chinese food is more characteristic of the food of concern. Localization of the product and did not weaken the image of foreign brands KFC. Some experts pointed out that â€Å"tends to localization† refers to the multinational corporations in maintaining the â€Å"classic† status of the product or service main premise, the country’s situation with due regard to create a local natural and cultural environment similar to the business environment to attract more local consumers. both globalization and localization, the localization of the pace of building a compact KFC brand in China is becoming a core strategy of this company one.

Assessment and Learners Essay

1. 1 Explain the functions of assessment in learning and development. The functions of assessment in learning and development are a regular process that allows the assessor to gauge the learner’s knowledge and skills against set criteria in the chosen qualification. This is completed at the begging of the qualification so the assessor can see if the learner has skills, competence and knowledge to complete the qualification. The assessments are on-going throughout the qualification. The assessments give opportunity for the assessor to monitor the progress and performance of the learner and enable them to record achievements. Within the assessments the assessor can identify learner’s needs. If it is identified that the learner is struggling it will give the opportunity to look at other ways of learning which may suit the individual. At the assessment the assessor can provide positive feedback to the learner, as well as offer advice on how to improve work or progress further. 1. 2 Define the key concepts and principles of assessments. Key concepts The key concepts of assessment are the aspects involved throughout the assessment process. These key concepts are as follows; Accountable: As the assessor I need to be accountable to my learners and the organisation I am working for to ensure I am carrying out my role as the assessor correctly. The learners need to be aware why they are being assessed and what is expected from them to complete their assessment criteria. I will also be accountable to the awarding body if I am working on their accredited qualifications and to the employers if I am assessing in their work environments. Achievement: I may be required to analyse achievement data and compare them to national or organisational targets. The funding my organisation receives may be related to my learners achievements. Assessment strategy: Staying to the assessment strategy for my subject will ensure i am carrying out my role correctly. Benchmarking: Benchmarking involves comparing what the excepted standard is for a particular subject area against the current position of my learner’s performance. Benchmarking will allow me to target set for my individual or group learner’s. If I find my learners are not meeting benchmarks set I will evaluate this and implement improvements. Evaluation: The evaluation of the assessment process should always take place to inform current and future practice. All aspects of the assessment cycle should be evaluated on an ongoing basis and feedback obtained from all involved. Internally devised assessment: Internal devised assessments may be produced by myself or other staff in my organisation. These could be assignments, projects or questions that will also be marked by myself. Externally devised assessment: Externally devised assessments are usually produced by an awarding body such as an examination. Progression: Progression should be discussed between me and my learner to identify opportunities and that the right route has been chosen. To progress I could move my learners onto new units or if they have finished a qualification we could discuss what would be appropriate for them now. Transparency: To define transparency would be to say that it has to be clear to all involved in the assessment process and we all understand what is expected and that nothing untoward is taking place. This is assisted by my own understanding of the criteria within the qualification and what is expected of the learner. I must keep auditable records for every learner and maintain these throughout the qualification. Principles The principles of assessment are the functions of which the key concepts are put into practice. VACSR: VACSR is used to ensure that all leaner’s assessed work is; Valid, Authentic, Current, Sufficient and Reliable. If this is not followed I may make an incorrect judgement on assessment of work or may not notice that work has been plagiarised. Other key principles of assessment: Communication: I should communicate with my learners regularly and others such as employers, internal quality assurers and assessors. CPD: I must make sure I am up to date with new legislations and my knowledge is of the highest up to date standard. Equality and diversity: I must insure I am open to all and treat everybody the same regardless of religion, sex or ethnicity. Ethics: I must ensure that my assessment process is honest and morally correct. As the assessor of learners I need to keep confidentiality and integrity. Fairness: I must make sure the activities I set are fit for purpose and my planning and feedback justifiable. Health and safety: Learners must be kept safe whilst being assessed so regular risk assessments must be carried out. Motivation: Motivation should be given to my learners to help them achieve their full potential. Quality assurance: It is my job to ensure assessments meet the standards set out by awarding bodies. Record keeping: Through the teaching and learning process I must keep accurate records of my learner’s progression. Responsibility: It is my responsibility to follow organisational guidelines and produce reports when asked. SMART: All assessments need to be Specific, measurable, achievable, realistic and time bound. Standardisation: I must ensure all assessment criteria’s are understood accurately by my learner’s and I am consistent in my decision making. The key concepts and principles are there for me to follow so that I can ensure my role as an assessor is being carried out correctly in accordance to all relevant regulations and requirements. 1. 3 Explain the responsibilities of the assessor. There are many responsibilities that I will have in my role as assessor. They include; * Attending meetings, exhibitions, award ceremonies and presentation events. * Checking the authenticity of witness testimonies. * Maintain and complete safe and secure records. * Countersign other assessors work (If they are not qualified) * Deal with appeals made against my assessment decisions. * Follow organisation or regulatory authority’s procedures. * Give constructive and developmental feedback to learners. * Identify and deal with barriers to fair assessment. * Implement internal and external quality assurance action points. * Liaise with others in the assessment process. * Make my own judgements based on assessment requirements. * Maintain my own development. * Negotiate and agree assessment plans. * Provide statistics to managers. * Review my learner’s progress. * Standardise practices with other assessors. * Support my learner’s with special assessment requirements and deal with any issues supportively. * Work towards relevant assessment qualification. If I am ever unsure of my roles or responsibilities I will not hesitate to contact other assessors or management for guidance. 1.4 Identify the regulations and requirements relevant to assessment in own area of practice. My current practice is the supervision of a childcare setting. I have identified the requirements and regulations that are relevant to assessment are; * Ofsted * Every child matters * Early years foundation stage * Health and safety * Equal opportunities * Safeguarding of children * The children act 1989 2 2. 1 Compare the strengths and limitations of a range of assessment methods with reference to the needs of individual learners. I will be comparing the strengths and limitations of two assessment methods in the table below. Method| Description| Strengths| Limitations| Observations| Watch learners perform a skill| Observation will allow me to see my learner’s skills in action. I will be able to holistically cover several aspects of the qualification. It will allow my learners (were safe to do so) make mistakes and learn from them. Ideal for levels 1,2 and 3 learners. | A time must be set so I can observe my learner. My learners may feel under pressure to perform their job role in a different manner. No permanent record is kept unless I record what the learner is doing. Questions must be asked to confirm understanding. | Professional discussions| A recorded discussion based on learners qualification criteria| This will be an ideal way for me to asses aspects of learners qualification that are difficult to observe. Will help provide evidence towards observations. My learners will be able to describe how they carry out work activities. Good for level learners 2, 3. | I must keep a record of the discussion using a recording device. Minutes must be kept of discussions. I will have to give my learners time to prepare. I must gather experience at listening to learners and ask the appropriate questions. Learners around level 1 may feel pressured and unable to enter the discussion. | 3. 3. 1 Summarise key factors to consider when planning assessment. When planning an assessment I must make sure that it is SMART. * Specific-the activity is clear to the learner and what is expected of them is agreed. * Measurable- the activity can be measured against the assessment criteria, allowing any gaps to be filled. * Achievable- the activity is at the level for my learner. * Realistic- the activity is relevant and will give consistent results. * Time bound-target dates and times are arranged. I must also factor in the time allowance I have with my learner, which I will discuss with the employer prior to the assessment planning. I may need to adjust my planning to different shift patterns or annual leave entitlements my learner may have. I must follow the SMART principle and consider the level and knowledge of my learners and set the realistic targets to meet the requirements of their chosen qualification. 3. 2 Evaluate the benefits of using a holistic approach to assessment. I have found that it can be beneficial to use a holistic approach as you are able to asses more criteria within the qualification at one time. Therefore highlighting which areas my learner is competent in or may need further support. I may be able to carry out a holistic assessment and find that my learner is competent in most areas of criteria but was unable to cover certain aspects, I will cover these aspects by using other assessment methods such as professional discussions or set assignments. 3. 3 Explain how to plan a holistic approach to assessment. To plan an holistic observation I would first consider the (WWWWWH) Who, what, when, where, why and how the assessment will take place. I would then sit and agree a plan with my learner. I would make it clear of what was expected from the learner and allow them time to prepare. I will plan to observe naturally occurring situations which may occur whilst observing the agreed plan, I will make sure the learner understands this. I will keep written notes to back up the evidence that I witness. 3. 4 Summarise the types of risk that may be involved in assessment in own area of responsibility. In my area own area of responsibility as Assessor the risks involved with assessment are as follows; * Lone working. * Time allowance to my learners * Different shift patterns of learners * Learners attendance * Company external training days * Company closures * Recourses available for observation’s * Assessment folders/work not being brought to planned dates 3. 5 Explain how to minimise risks through the planning process. I can avoid and plan around the risks above with good communication with management and learners. I will make sure there is a clear understanding from all that are involved to what is expected from them through planning assessments to minimise the risks. I will contact company management at certain times to make them aware of my location, especially when working late evenings. 4. 1 Explain the importance of involving the learner and others in the assessment process. It is important to involve my learners within the assessment process because it allows me the opportunity to ask if there is anything I can do to help support their chosen qualification. I will be able to help support needs such as hard of hearing, visual impaired or dyslexia suffers. It is also important to involve learners as we will agree their plans. I will make sure that there is a clear understanding of what is required of them and discuss ways of achieving the tasks set out in the assessment. 4. 2 Summarise types of information that should be made available to learners and others involved in the assessment process. The types of information that should be available to learners and others involved in the assessment process have been identified below. * The criteria that my learner will be assessed by. * The awarding organisation requirements. * Assessment plans (Specific Criteria) * Venue in which assessment will take place. * The feedback that I give my learners. * Assessments decisions that I have made. 4. 3 Explain how peer and self-assessment can be used effectively to promote learner involvement and personal responsibility in the assessment of learning. Peer and self-assessment can be used effectively to promote learner involvement and personal responsibility in the assessment of learning by promoting interaction between learners. The learners are able to discuss and share information which can lead to the learner checking or reflecting on their own work and filling in any new information they may have acquired. Activities that I put on for a group of learners may correct misunderstandings without my involvement, and the comments made to the individual learner may be taking in a better manner then coming from myself the assessor. I am also able to reflect on my own practice and identify areas in which I may be able to improve my performance. 4. 4 Explain how assessment arrangements can be adapted to meet the needs of individual learners. When planning assessments I can make arrangements to adapt the needs of individual learners. I may need to change the way I am delivering feedback or my assessment methods. For example I had a learner that had forgotten his notes for a professional discussion that was agreed in a previous feedback and planning session. I was able to rearrange the agreed plan to allow my learner to do a question and answer on that visit. This helped my learner continue with their progress. At all times I should support and encourage the learners and treat them all as individuals. I will treat all learners in compliance with The Equal Opportunities act 2010. 5. 1 Explain how to judge whether evidence is: sufficient, authentic, current. To ensure my judgments are sufficient, authentic and current I will asses all learner’s work by the principle of VACSR, Valid Authentic Current Sufficient Reliable. Sufficient: Make sure my learners work covers the assessment criteria. Authentic: Be positive that work produced by my learners is produced solely by them. Current: Decide whether the work is still relevant at time of assessment. 5. 2 Explain how to ensure that assessment decisions are: made against specified criteria, valid, reliable, fair. To ensure that my assessment decisions are made against specified criteria, valid, reliable and fair I will: Made against specified criteria: Have a good understanding and knowledge of the qualification I am assessing and understand its requirements. Valid: I will ensure the learners work is relevant to the assessment criteria. Reliable: My learners work is consistent over time and the required level. Fair: The assessment type used was appropriate to the learner’s needs and level. 6. 1 Evaluate the importance of quality assurance in the assessment process. It is important to have quality assurance during the assessment process is because it monitors and evaluates the service I am giving to my learners. The quality assurance should identify and recommend measures to make improvements to standards of my work or monitor the standard to stop it dropping. The quality assurance will monitor my learners for the duration of time they are with me. They will monitor the training and assessment activities and overall make sure I am carrying out my job correctly. 6. 2 Summarise quality assurance and standardisation procedures in own area of practice.

Claude Monet's The Houses of Parliament in the Fog Essay

Claude Monet's The Houses of Parliament in the Fog - Essay Example His beautiful work of art has created a sense of desire and calmness is the minds of views all over the world. To know art is to know Claude Monet. It is very clear that Monet has a knack for painting. Born on November 14th 1840, Claude Monet was a founder of French impressionist painting, and he was also the most consistent and prolific practitioner of the movement’s philosophy of expressing ones perceptions before nature. He was the second son of Claude-Adolphe and Louise-Justine Aubre Monet both of them second-generation Parisians. On May 20th, 1841, he was baptized in the local parish church, Notre-Dame-de-Lorette as Oscar Claude. (Wikipedia). While growing up his father wanted him to go into the family grocery store business but Claude Monet wanted to become an artist. On April first of 1851, Monet entered the Le Havre secondary school of the Arts. His first and most locally known paintings were his charcoal caricatures which he would sell for ten to twenty francs. Monet also undertook his first drawing lessons from Jacques-Franà §ois Ochard, a former student of Jacques-Louis David (Wikipedia) After the outbreak of the Franco-Prussian War (July 19, 1870), Monet took refuge in England in September 1870. While there, he studied the words of John Constable and Joseph Mallord William Turner, both of whose landscapes would serve to inspire Monet’s innovations in the study of color. In the spring of 1871, Monet’s works were effused to be included in the Royal Academy exhibition (Wikipedia). After several difficult months following the death of Camille (Monet’s wife), a grief stricken Monet (resolving never to be mired in poverty again) began in earnest to create some of his best paintings of the 19th century. During the early 1880’s Monet painted several groups of landscapes and seascapes in what he considered to be campaigns to document the French countryside. His extensive

Therapeutic Hypothermia Essay Example | Topics and Well Written Essays - 2500 words

Therapeutic Hypothermia - Essay Example This is so because paramedics who usually have to treat such patients initially do not have sufficient therapeutic means to stymie this neurologic damage process during ischemic conditions. Mild hypothermia () have been induced in patients with cardiac arrest as a therapeutic means for protecting the brain against the global ischemia that usually accompanies open-heart surgery (Nolan et al, 2003). This therapeutic means was available since the late 1950s after which it was discontinued for some time because there was indefinite indication of benefits to patients (Nolan et al, 2003). Much later, this means has again been reintroduced in the context of cardiac arrest for a select group of patients and there are positive indications that when this therapeutic means is used after return of spontaneous circulation after cardiac arrest there is improved functionality and preemption from histological defects to the brain. This is true of a number of animal models, including the human one (Nolan et al, 2003). ... gh stringent and complex inclusion criteria in Europe and Australia has established that neurological outcomes (ability to live independently and work at least part-time, etc.) are selectively available for groups of patients free from certain pathological complications (Nolan et al, 2003). Nevertheless, there are significant adverse effects that entail more research on the treatment option (Nolan et al, 2003). Mechanisms of action of induced moderate/mild hypothermia primarily include reduction of cerebral metabolic rate for oxygen @ 6% for every degree (Celsius) fall in temperature >. This reduces chances of mitochondrial damages and apoptosis from decreased production of free radicals, excitatory amino acids and calcium shifts (Nolan et al, 2003). External cooling techniques to induce mild to moderate hypothermia include use of cooling blankets, application of ice packs to groin, axillae and neck, use of wet towels and fanning and use of cooling helmets (Nolan et al, 2003). Recent internal techniques such as intravenous infusion of crystalloids and intravascular heat exchange devices are beginning to become available (Nolan et al, 2003). Since it is found that though extracorporeal techniques are efficient they are too invasive for use in prehospital treatments and most emergency departments this paper shall now discuss research on introducing a hypothermia therapeutic technique that is internal, safe, easily administrable out-of-hospital and cheap and includes infusion with selective crystalloids like common salt. This following section shall be deemed as the problem statement of the paper. Problem Statement: As has already been mentioned, the need for an internal technique that is not invasive and that can be performed safely and cheaply out of hospital and

Giving tips about how to play soccer well Essay Example | Topics and Well Written Essays - 750 words

Giving tips about how to play soccer well - Essay Example The Korean government has always invested a lot into the soccer industry because it is a good way to unite the nation. As far as playing soccer is concerned, it apparently seems to be very easy to play. I, however, guarantee you that when you go to the field to play soccer, it is not going to be that simple as you imagine. Therefore, I have decided to share some tips with you so as to train you to better play soccer. First of all, let me introduce the sport. Soccer is played between two 11-player teams. The players try to get points by kicking the ball, passing, shooting, heading, all by using their body except hands. To play soccer, the basic elements needed include a spherical ball, teammates, opponents, ground marked with boundaries and goals opposite each other. The teams must know all soccer rules. Readers! Do not worry, here come the tips. The first thing to remember is that there should be always appropriate form of clothing to play soccer. Have you ever gone to a dance party with your night suit on? Or, have you ever seen the bride wearing a lousy T-shirt and a pajama? Most probably, you have not (or have you?) Similarly, to play soccer, you must have proper clothes and safety gear. You need to have the clothes that the wind can easily go through because you will sweat like a pig when you are on the field. You need soccer shoes not only to prevent you from slipping on a grass field, but also to help you kick the ball more powerfully and accurately. This gear will assist you to improve your athletic ability. Glasses are not the recommended gear because you can get hurt if the ball hits your face. It can give you a serious wound, like the one I received last weekend. Oh! It still hurts. I wish I had never thought of the idea of having those glasses on! It can happen to anybod y so you should be aware of this beforehand. Remember that you play sports to have fun and not to get hurt. Now, you

Reflection in Two Pictures Essay Example | Topics and Well Written Essays - 250 words

Reflection in Two Pictures - Essay Example It could show his dream to visit the Avant Grade graveyard among other places. From this art work, people need to reflects about their life’s, from where they have come from, how far they have gone, different challenges they have experienced and what awaits them in the future. Peter Beard by Ray Johnson is the second image for reflection in this paper. Johnson, another seasoned artist, creates imaginative works based on what he thinks to reflect on different issues about life. Peter Beard is an exceptional art work, illustrated on board through ink wash and combined with acrylic, collage and pink, it is easy for anyone to know what the image intends to communicate. The image, shows an individual with a single idea on his mind, sees the idea in different dimensions, in this case reflected by use of different colours, and wants to use it to buy his dream car. The image show a frustrated individual, his head full and probably unable to implement the idea. This teaches us to only reflect on a single idea that we can

Consolidation and Reflective Statement on Personal learning preference Coursework

Consolidation and Reflective Statement on Personal learning preference workshop - Coursework Example It is good to balance these styles at times to create a balance for sharpening one’s learning skills (Honey & Mumford, 1992). The reflector and theorist learning styles are worth considering. Reflective learning is an individual style of learning. One needs no guidebook to implement it. Reflection should not be thought of as an essential element of the ‘to do’ list. Rather, reflection should be practiced at any stage. One should underscore the need to be a reflective learner, but not doing reflective learning. The ability to reflect is quite important in the process of learning and self-development (Honey & Mumford, 1992). Reflection could be in the form of thinking with a purpose, questioning, probing, analyzing, being critical, making judgments, and conclusions. A reflective learner should plan and prioritize. The huge number of activities in the study process can overwhelm a learner. One should plan his time and prioritize the learning tasks, knowing well how to execute all other commitments (Contrell, 2010). Precisely, the learner should reflect ahead to know what is required, when and how to do it based on prioritization. Secondly, the learner should set and achieve goals. Motivation can play out when one reflects on the goals of the study while relating the same to life goals. When goals are defined, it is easier to strategize on achieving them (Honey & Mumford, 1992). A reflective learner should know how to deal with anxiety and procrastination (Contrell, 2010). Procrastination can lead to the missing of deadlines or lagging behind in study schedules, a situation that can take away one’s confidence. A learner should recognize why, where and when he or she procrastinates to challenge habits and routines. Essential tools for reflection in reflective learning include diaries, journals, tables, lists, maps, bullet points, videos, digital recorders, diagrams and icons (Contrell, 2010). These can better boost a reflective

Management Seminar Essay Example | Topics and Well Written Essays - 250 words

Management Seminar - Essay Example SOX ensure accurate financial statements by eliminating unethical acts in organizations hence increasing the public’s confidence in investment. Therefore, employees are required to report any wrongdoing for the organization to be punished by the federal government. The enforcement of the Act actually resulted to decline in financial scandals. However, 2008 financial crisis proved that any regulation is unable to reduce or control risks. Additionally, due to the cunning nature of organizations, the Act has been greatly challenged. A good number of companies have refused to go public in order, not to comply with the SOX Act. SOX are not necessary for companies because it just limits flexibility of financial management despite the stiff global competition. It also raises costs to organizations in the form of monetary expenses associated with SOX compliance. Since companies are more concerned with public image, they need no strict regulation for them to act ethically. They often have internal controls necessary to maintain the required ethical

DIY garden marketing plan Essay Example | Topics and Well Written Essays - 1000 words

DIY garden marketing plan - Essay Example Most of the respondents believed that the most attractive features of these designs are the elegance and creativity that comes with their design. The designs are not just made to serve the purpose that the resultant product should serve, but they have a way of relating to nature, which makes them even more attractive for gardens. The customers also said that the deliveries were made within 24 hours apart from a few cases where there were explanations for the delays. The average rating of the designs was 4 out of five. Most of the respondentsthoughts that the designs would be more attractive if there was a way through which they could be personalised according to the specific preferences of customers. The pricing strategy of the company is notably competitive. The company strives to offer the most affordable prices by reviewing the prices of their competitors. Given the fact that the company highly depends on innovation, they choose the lowest possible prices so that they can leave their potential customers and existing customers with no option but to buy their products. In a market that is highly competitive, this strategy has been effective given the fact that the global economic crisis have affected the price sensitivity of consumers in Plymouth (Kim & Mauborgne 2015, p. 187). Furthermore, the high number of players in the recent past means that the customers have higher bargaining power within this area. This implies that the consumers will always go for the most affordable products and services available in the market. With the lower prices the company has been able to cope with the companies that were more dominant and popular even before their existence. The strategy has b een effective in winning new customers and retaining the already existing ones. Given the fact that the business organisation is based in Plymouth, the most appropriate way through which the products can get to the customers is by road.

Stereotypes and Prejudice Worksheet Essay Example for Free

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Full bsc corporate implementation Essay Example for Free

Full bsc corporate implementation Essay The implementation of the balanced scorecard at Pepsi Saudi was constructed on the previously discussed BSC four perspectives. And it followed the designed phases of preparation, designing and implementation. Week 2 Week 8 Week 12/ forward. Team building creation of strategic Improvement of data availability/ accuracy Measures Clarification of Documentation of strategic Construction of BSC model Strategy and objectives Measures Data collection Data computerization/automation Prepare to implement Develop comprehensive BSC solution. From BSC manual 2000 Pepsi Saudi decided to pick to pick members of the original pilot team, but every member could not participate. There were some additional screening and the final selection was made based on what was considered the strength of the team. The teams ultimately selected their team leader who would represent them for the duration. The team leaders were selected by organizational strength and leadership: base on the ease and timing and strategic relevance. Ease/Timing: Possession of skills needed to make and execute the commitment. Familiarization with the BSC system and the corporate objective. The support shown to the team leader by the rest of the team. Strategic The potential for good financial generation capability Importance: The potential to serve customers needs. Quality of service Does the leader have the competitive character. Good communication skills. BSC manual 2000. The initial objectives for Pepsi Saudi were acquisition of new customer base and the retention of the core customer base. To design a system that would enable the company to serve that customer unit better. To use the BSC system to develop more efficient ways of delivering good quality products on time. To remain on the offensive as far as the competition, and to develop a solid business atmosphere that would enhance the strategies of the company. The design phase recorded the need to add the strategic measures, explaining collection of data, and preparation for implementation. The four major perspectives were emphasized again: the financial, customer, internal business process, and learning and growth. The four perspectives also detailed the measures that the company had set as its road to execution. perspectives Corporate measures financial Total revenues, new sources of revenue, Return on investment. Customer Customer satisfaction index, increase market share Internal business To focus on production of superior soft drinks  process Increase market share, and ultimately make More money for shareholders. learning and growth Develop employee satisfaction marker, Regular employee training exercises . The project was concluded with the highly expected implementation phase. A model was constructed, and data collection program was set in motion, and the company have allocated great resources directed to the maintenance and continuous development of BSC. SUMMARY: The balanced scorecard is both a management and a measurement business too, BSC  helps business organizations design a business vision and strategy that they could be translate into action. BSC helps the business people to have the necessary feedbacks about their operations, both as internal business process and external business process. It goes further to assist them to strengthen strategic business performance. So BSC revolves around such concepts as feedback measurement, the cascading formation, cause and effect, and mapping of strategies. The major perspective are the financial perspective, the customer perspective, the internal process perspective, and the learning  perspective. The factors that gives the BSC its stability is found in the lagging and leading indicators, then the diagnostic and strategic measurement systems. The cost and risk, the benefits and value. With low risk implementation, the BSC predicts low benefit, and on the token, an investment on the high risk BSC yields high benefits. The operational and strategic feedback is anchored by the metrics, which centers on the revolving strategic plans, strategic budget, strategic initiative, and to the outputs. The cascading scorecard travels from the organizational goals, to strategic decision,  and then to agency level informational analysis and review. Then it cascades down again to the directors level, as it comes down finally to the branch level. The cause and effect theory states simply that when customer satisfaction is elevated then it makes sense that financial intake would also be increased. When work process is strengthened it ought to lead to increased customer satisfaction. If employees are given the skills education or knowledge they need to function and work better, then there is little doubt that the entire organizational foundation would benefit tremendously from well from that perspective.

Saudi Arabia and Iran Relationship

Saudi Arabia and Iran Relationship Syria and Lebanon: the main scene for Saudi-Iranian rivalry Relations between Saudi Arabia and Iran are characterized by religious-ideological antagonism and competition for regional influence. The current turmoil in the Middle East is often reflected in the hostility between the two states as their struggle over the character of the region has escalated and intensified.[1] The potential negative implications of the Arab spring, along with the initial Iranian attempt to consolidate regional achievements, have largely roused Saudi Arabia out of its relative passivity in foreign policy and led it to attempt to promote a new inter-Arab alignment as a potential counterweight to Iran. Saudi Arabia perceives Iran as a main threat for several reasons. The first relates to Iran’s desire to promote a security system in the Gulf free of foreign involvement—particularly that of America—in which Iran will assume a greater leadership role. The second refers to Iran’s view of itself as the more genuine representative of the Muslim world and as the state that is challenging Saudi Arabia’s role of dominance (alongside its Wahabi religious establishment) within the Muslim world, as a depiction of the Sunni–Shia rift. Iran’s pursuit of military nuclear capability and the potential impact this capability would have on shaping the regional agenda also threatens Saudi Arabia. Iran’s ambition and its military capabilities might be used, in a Saudi perspective, to further Iranian influence over OPEC and over the Shiites minority population in the Saudi kingdom.[2] The Sunni-Shiite conflict plays a critical role in relations between the two opposing sides of the Gulf in general and between Saudi Arabia and Iran in particular. Saudi Arabia has committed intense efforts to draw pro-Iranian Middle East players into the Saudi-Sunni camp and to establish a multi-national front, based upon sectarian divisions, against Iran’s regional ambitions. Saudi Arabia’s relations with Syria, Iran’s main ally have deteriorated due to the violent suppression of the protests in Syria, which began in March 2011. Even prior to this, Saudi Arabia failed in its attempt to rescue Syria from the clutches of Iranian influence and create a united anti-Iranian bloc composed of Sunni states. The protests in Syria gave the kingdom a new opportunity to promote its agenda. By weakening the Assad regime, the Saudis hope they will help reduce the power of the â€Å"Shiite axis†.[3] In this vein, the Saudi media has regularly criticized Iran’s less-than covert attempts at supporting the Syrian regime. Saudi Arabia’s current policy constitutes a change in its attitude toward the Assad regime. After the rift between the two states in the wake of the assassination of Lebanese Prime Minister, Rafik Al-Hariri in 2005, King Abdullah led a policy of relative openness toward Syria in an attempt to drive a wedge between it and Iran. As unrest in Syria grew, however, he recalled his ambassador back to Riyadh in August 2011. This, along with its support to quell Shiite insurgency in Bahrain, is evidence that Saudi Arabia intends to stand up to the radical front headed by Iran.[4] Saudi Arabia, together with Qatar, has also taken action in order to further weaken the Iranian-Syrian axis. The two nations, for example, worked together to suspend Syria’s membership in the Arab League and continue to provide financial and military support to different elements within the Syrian opposition.[5] These measures fit with the approach Saudi Arabia has adopted since the beginning of the Ar ab spring, which is both more assertive than in the past, and expresses its attempt to reshape the map of alliances in the region in accordance with its interests. Over the years, Saudi Arabia have preferred to avoid confrontation, focusing on attempts at mediation in the Arab world for the purpose of eliminating dangers while attempting to avoid being aligned with any side.[6] In the case of Syria, the kingdom has preferred American leadership. When this did not materialize, however, Saudi Arabia, with its large coffers and affluent Sunni Islamic influence, entered the resulting vacuum. As noted its previous attempts at distancing Assad from the Iranian axis were unsuccessful, but the rebellion against Assad gave the Saudis an unusual opportunity to weaken Iranian influence in the area. The Arab world began to adopt a tougher stance vis-à  -vis Assad in the summer of 2011, when the Gulf Cooperation Council called on Syria to stop its â€Å"deadly suppression of citizens, followed by an unusually sharp statement by Saudi King Abdullah, who demanded that Syria â€Å"stop the killing machine†.[7] This new tone resulted from the King’s frustration with the Alawite minority regime (which he considers heretical) regarding Saudi attempts at mediation, combined with the realization that Syrian opposition achievements are likely to tip the balance against Iran. The King’s anger increased following the killing of members of cross-border tribes that were the tribal lineage of his mother and two of his sisters, and the widespread killing of Sunnis during the holy month of Ramadan. Since then, Saudi Arabia, with some coordination with Qatar (which has since cut back on its involvement) and the United Arab Emirates, has been aiding rebel forces that it regards as suitable for the Anti-Iranian cause in Lebanon and the Syrian opposition sometimes without taking into account American restrictions on armaments.[8] The strategic goal of overthrowing Assad (and weakening Iran and Hizbollah) currently spearheads Saudi Arabias foreign policy. Its aim is to strengthen elements among the rebels, so that if and when Assad falls, those elements will gain control over what remains of the Syrian state. The Arab Gulf countries tried to persuade the United States that the Assad regime had crossed the red line announced by President Obama in August 2012 and again in March 2013 concerning the use of chemical weapons. According to the Wall Street Journal, Saudi Arabian intelligence found proof that this weapon was used already in February 2013, and presented this evidence to the United States.[9] However, American disinclination to get involved in Syria has caused the Gulf States to doubt the credibility of the US, their main â€Å"defense provider, to deliver. A manifestation, in their eyes, of Americas diminishing regional influence. It was reported that the Saudi king, frustrated with American policy in the region, sent Obama a message saying â€Å"Americas credibility was on the line if it let Assad prevail†.[10] Elements within the Gulf States, notably in Kuwait and the UAE, started privately financing different Sunni rebel groups – causing further radicalization and fragmentation within the rebel ranks in a rampant competition for funds and influence. The Saudis are reportedly providing 3 billion dollars as an aid package to the Lebanese armed forces, as a part of their effort to support Pro–Sunni factions in Lebanon.[11] These efforts are backed, according to Hizbollah members, by an unprecedented intelligence campaign, led by the Saudi prince Bandar bin Sultan to cripple the Shia organization’s infrastructure, target its assets and weaken Hizbollah’s political position within the Lebanese political arena.[12] This may very well be a Saudi attempt to force Hizbollah to allocate more forces back to Lebanon and away from Syria, while delegitimizing it on the home front as a destabilizing and a sectarian force. There are no Saudi illusions about a sweeping victory in Syria and Lebanon. They too are aware of advantage in weaponry, organization, and external support enjoyed by Assad and his allies. They hope, however, that the support they provide will tip the scales in their favor, bleeding their adversaries financially and militarily,[13] as an historical payback for supporting Shiite subversion over the years in Iraq, the gulf and in the Saudi kingdom. Their enemies – the Assad regime, Iran, and Hizbollah – have been weakened on a daily basis, and are suffering economically, with thus far at little to no significant cost to the kingdom. Concern based on past experience, however, indicates that ramifications of radical elements operating in Syria and Lebanon are liable to boomerang back to the Gulf and upset stability between Shia and Sunni communities in Iraq, Kuwait and the Saudi Kingdom itself.[14]Tensions between Shiites and Sunnis are joined by tensions between parties favoring stability and anti–Iranian hardliners within different regimes in the gulf. Along, with many in the Arab countries, the hardliners believe that the overthrow of the Assad regime could restrain Iran and restore Iran to its natural size, hopefully without leading to a frontal confrontation between Iran and the Saudis. This confrontation has been avoided until now. Those in the Sunni side vying for stability in contrast are alarmed at the possibility that by funding fighters abroad, they might be fueling extremists and Sunni radicals, such as Al Qaeda.[15] With these seasoned veterans bound to return to their Sunni homelands eventually, those concerns might be realized in the form of subsequent radicalization and implementation of terrorist tactics from abroad in the Saudi kingdom and across the gulf. The Saudis have at times acted as a revolutionary force and at times as a counter-revolutionary force, depending on their interests. They engineered the deal on the removal of Yemens President Saleh from office, were involved in consolidating the new regime in Tunisia, and helped to overthrow the Qaddafi regime. On the other hand, they used force to maintain the al-Khalifa regime in Bahrain and sought to keep Mubarak’s regime in power in Egypt. When this effort was unsuccessful, they gave billions in aid to the military regime in Egypt, which recently regained power. Saudi efforts in Lebanon and Syria to assist Anti–Iranian parties[16] are consistent with these trends. With the Saudis testing Iranian resolve to the limit, despite the kingdom’s inferior demographic and geopolitical position and Iran and its allies, cornered by a vast Sunni majority yet more than eager to fight,[17] it is unclear how and when this bloody deadlock will be resolved. 1 [1] Paul Aarts, and Joris Van Duijne, Saudi Arabia after US-Iranian dà ©tente: left in the lurch.Middle East Policy16.3 (2009), p. 70. [2]Vali Nasr When the Shiites rise.Foreign Affairs85 no. 4(2006): p. 59. [3]AdamEntousandSioban Gorman, Behind Assads Comeback, a Mismatch in Commitments.Wall Street Journal, 31Dec.2013 [4]MehranKamrava, â€Å"The Arab Spring and the Saudi-led counterrevolution†.Orbis, 56, no.1,(2012):101 – 103 [5] Assad: Our Battle With Saudi Is Open-Ended. Al Akhbar, 30 Nov. 2013 [6]HermanF. Elits.Saudi Arabias foreign policy.Diplomacy in: L C Brown (ed.)the Middle East: The International Relations of Regional and Outside Powers (London: I.B. Tauris,2004), pp. 238 – 240. [7]AdrianBlomfield, Syria unrest: Saudi Arabia calls on killing machine to stop.,The Telegraph, 8 August, 2011 [8]Kim Ghattas, Saudi Arabia to give Lebanon army $3bn grant,BBC,29Dec.2013. [9]Adam Entous, NourMallas, and Margaret Coker. A Veteran Saudi Power Player Works To Build Support to Topple Assad, Wall Street Journal, 25 Aug. 2013. [10] Ibid. [11]Anna Barnard, â€Å"Saudis’ Grant to Lebanon Is Seen as Message to U.S†, The New York Times, 6 Jan 2014. [12]Nasser Chararah, Hezbollah escalates rhetoric against Riyadh.,Al Monitor 10 Dec. 2013. [13]JobyWarrick. Syrian conflict said to fuel sectarian tensions in Persian Gulf,Washington Post, 19Dec.2013. [14]Elizabeth Dickenson,.Playing with Fire: Why Private Gulf Financing for Syria’s Extremist Rebels Risks Igniting Sectarian Conflict at Home. The Saban Center for Middle East Policy at Brookings (6 Dec. 2013), p. 6. [15]Ibid: 18 20 [16]Nasser Chararah, Hezbollah escalates rhetoric against Riyadh., Al Monitor 10 Dec. 2013. [17]Doyle McManus, â€Å"Syria and the perils of proxy war†, LA Times, 12 Jan 2014.

The History of Computers :: Technology Technological Computers Essays

The History of Computers In the year 2003, it is almost impossible for those of us who have been brought up with computer to imagine what the world was like before their coming. People use computers every day in their homes, using the Internet, specifically e-mails and Instant Messenger, to keep in touch with friends and relatives far away. People also use computers every day at work and school, planning projects and writing papers. For many of today’s children, computers are an integral part of their education, and some of them use computers in school every day. These children benefit from the ideas of many people many years ago, those who laid the foundation for today’s modern computer. An analytical engine first described by Charles Babbage in May 1835 was the first machine to possess the five essential functions of a computer (Hofemeister, 1-7). Even though the engine was never completed, its design included the five basic functions of input, programming, calculation, storage, and output (Hofmeister, 1-7). This machine was an essential part of the evolution of the first computer, but it was certainly not the beginning. In 1642, Blaise Pascal developed the â€Å"Pascaline† – a mechanical adding machine, and in 1673 Gottfried Wilhelm von Leibniz developed a mechanical calculator that could perform more complex functions, such as multiplication and division (Hofmeister, 1-8). The machines developed by Pascal and von Leibniz, along with the Analytic Engine designed by Babbage, led to the unveiling of Mark I, the first operational electro-mechanical computer, which was designed by Howard Aiken in 1944 (Hofmeister, 1-8). Aiken began work on this machine in 1937, using the principles first conceptualized by Babbage (Hofmeister, 1-10). Most of the Mark I was mechanical, which slowed it down, a problem that was fixed in the Colossus, a computer which â€Å"replaced the speed of the mechanical components with the speed of electricity (Hofmeister, 1-10).† This was a major advancement in computer technology. The Colossus Mark II, which was built at around the same time, is believed to have â€Å"contained all the elements of a modern computer except an internal program store (Hofmeister, 1-10).

Mirror for Man - Understanding the Definition of Culture :: Mirror for Man Essays

Mirror for Man: Understanding the Definition of Culture In Clyde Kluckhohn's passage, adapted from his book, Mirror for Man, we are given an illumination of anthropology on the concept of culture. He explains that culture is not only derived by "the way we are brought up," but also personal past experiences and the biological properties of the people concerned. As humans we have learned to adapt to our own personal surroundings and have conditioned ourselves and our life styles to revolve around such surroundings by the most comfortable means possible. As Kluckhohn describes, the technical term of culture has a broader meaning to the anthropologist than the "humble cooking pot", and the "people of culture." He implies that the anthropologist needs to be concerned with all aspects and biological conditions involved that have shaped a society. Humans can be easily understood just by studying their surroundings, and as Kluckhohn has stated, "they can also be easily predicted by knowing a people's design for living." Kluckhohn describes, that as Americans, we strive for our own personal individuality and appearance; but yet as Americans, or for that matter any nationality, we still basically follow the same given patterns throughout the day. We have conditioned ourselves to such an extent, that our personal routines are done unconsciously. As a society, though, we reflect that given pattern, and when comparing it to another society, we are able to see how the cultures are individual and unique from one another. Such uniqueness is what Kluckhohn is refering to; the American plural wives belief of Siberia compared to the single wife in America, the cultural training and mannerism of the Chinese, and the eating mannerisms of a wife in Arizona. Basically, all of these cultures live under the same laws of nature, and are equiped with the same biological tools. Their uniqueness arises from the individual conditions that their surroundings offer, and their means by which of adapting to them. Having lived in London last year, for my junior year, I am able to relate to the viewpoints of Kluckhohn; as I traveled to many places dripping with their own uniqueness and culture. In London, I experienced the afternoon tea break and although not conforming to it, the societies acceptance of bathing only a few times a week. In Holland, I depended on bicycles as my main source of transportation for miles around, and viewed the old windmills and thatched roofs that are so typical in the country.

Essay --

I am interested in pursuing graduate studies in petroleum engineering because of my keen interest in research and development of Algorithms/Softwares that we as a reservoir engineer use for reservoir characterization, Upscaling and Simulation. I am interested in understanding and development of new techniques in reservoir simulators which would help to model complex process of hydrocarbon flow in subsurface more accurately and efficiently. Having worked with reservoir simulation software I strongly believe that a graduate program would not only complement my four years of undergraduate studies and four years of experience in petroleum industry as a reservoir engineer but would also help me contribute significantly to the field of petroleum engineering. All through in high school, I was a consistent performer in academics as well as in extra co-curricular activities. In addition, I have always been interested in science projects. In my high school, I got a chance to be among top ten meritious students selected from state for â€Å"Youth Leadership Program in Science†. It was this interest in science and mathematics which helped me clear one of the toughest engineering entrance examinations in India, when I qualified through All India Engineering Entrance Exam and opted for petroleum engineering at the University of Petroleum And Energy Studies, Dehradun , as it offered an interesting blend of earth sciences with mathematical analysis. My curiosity about petroleum engineering further increased in my first year of undergraduation when I first came to know about the process of hydrocarbon formation and migration until it reaches the reservoir rock with a trap .At that time, I was really keen to know about the physics governing the multi-... ... acquired necessary skills and strong fascination for methods involved in geostatistical reservoir characterization and Upscaling techniques. In this process, I have also realized the importance of averaging of Input data in the petroleum prospect development. After having relevant experience in this field I am convinced that graduate program is the next logical step to acquire insight and research capabilities to contribute in this field. Thereafter with application of these concepts, I would work towards further refining these acquired skills and would eventually like to do thorough research in bettering the process of reservoir modeling and simulation. An M.S. program would surely be an asset to my career, and would provide me with greater opportunities in research. With all my sincerity and aspirations, I submit my application for your valuable consideration.

Montessori Practical life Essay

Most children are passionately interested in practical life activities because the activities respond to all the sensitive periods (important periods of childhood development). Practical life activities build a foundation on which the children will grow and carry over into the other areas of the classroom, and over in to their every day life. The Montessori Practical Life exercises respond to the need for: Order of activities (sequences, routine, hierarchy, a cycle or full rotation of an activity) Movement. All practical life activities involve great movements that are varied and attractive. The variety of movements help the child’s self-awareness within the environment and increase the child’s acquisition of intelligent movement. Sensorial exploration (sights, sounds, smells, and eventually language). Needs and tendencies are responded to, to help the children adapt so that they can actively participate and grown within their environment. A child’s love of work. Practical life activities feed their natural desire to work and play an active role in their environment. Practical Life Lessons Guide Children 1. Construction and integration of the child’s personality through their freedom of choice, and through the variety of their choices. Freedom of choice is necessary for the healthy development of the will. 2. Spontaneous purposeful activity that is only possible when children are allowed to exercise their curiosity through repetition. It is only through repetition that abstraction is possible. This abstraction brings about a feeling of completion for the growing child. 3. Development of co-ordination of movement. The child thinks of the activity, wills himself to the activity, and then does the activity. 4. Development of the physical, mental, and emotional aspects of the child. 5. Purposeful movement that helps the development of the mind, and a sense  of achievement. The development of the child’s mind, movement, and senses will in turn, develop the will. 6. Concentration. The child will concentrate on completing an activity as perfectly as possible; all activities are intelligible, logical, sequential, and exact. Children will internalize this and try to repeat the exercises as perfectly as possible; all exercises have a motive for perfection. 7. Orderly work habits. The children need to internalize presentations in an orderly manner in order to reproduce it in an orderly manner. 8. The practical life exercises develop logical thought through the definite logic in the exercises. There is a beginning, middle, and end to each exercise. 9. The exercises give the children a sense of responsibility from the result of freedom (freedom which is a result of co-ordination of movement and awareness of the environment). Children have the freedom and ability to exercise their will within their environment. 10. Social development. All of the practical life exercises teach the children grace, courtesy, patience, and respect. These elements of social development are re-enforced through the actions of the other children and through the actions of the teacher. 11. Establish a sense of reality, rooted in real activities (nothing is make-believe). Exercises are lucid, logical, and realistic. This helps the children pursue reality. If an activity is not meaningful and purposeful than the mind cannot develop or construct itself. 12. Emotional stability helps the children become familiar with the real world and their environment. It builds self-esteem, and through that, their dignity will flourish. Materials and activities are therapeutic, meaning the mind and body work together. Scope and Sequence of the Montessori Practical Life area Before beginning you must observe the child, know what kind of activities they are drawn to, and understand their current skills and abilities. Not all children will be capable of each activity in the order it is shown below. The order below is a guideline only – not a steadfast rule. It is possible to skip over certain activities as long as the next activity the child chooses does not require knowledge/skill that the child does not yet have. The key is to follow the child and offer appropriate activities according to their abilities. The goal is always to set the child up for success. That’s not to say that the child won’t have to work through an activity and repeat it over and over again before being successful. The child needs to be adequately prepared for the activity, physically and mentally. And last, but not least, adults must use their own judgment and decide if an activity is safe for the child. Many practical life activities do not require expensive ‘Montessori materials’ to be effective. As well, practical life activities will vary from culture to culture. You can read Practical Life Lessons and Practical Life FAQ’s for more information. If you are homeschooling your child and wish to have a little more theory and direction on the presentation of Practical Life materials you can purchase our Practical Life Teaching Manual.

An Appreciation of a Dill Pickle

Sometimes I will think that if a loving pair, who have been apart for many years, meet again, what will happen? Will they hug tightly, crying, or will they pour out things happened these years to each other? In this article, I find the answer. After they reunited, they only recollected and sighed with emotion. I think the title has implied everything: the taste of the dill pickle is acerb and it stands for that the love between Vera and her past love is also acerb; they are destined not to live together; meanwhile, it symbolizes Vera’s feeling about their love: acerb rather that sweet.Many details in the article are meaningful, especially the body language. The moment Vera met the man, â€Å"she raised her veil and unbuttoned her high fur collar†. It explains that she unloaded her defense, wanting to chat with him. However, during their conversation, she found that after six years’ suffering, the indecision on him had faded out and he had been a person who deeply knew the rule of society.Vera felt that they had nothing in common with each other and she didn’t like listening to his showing off, so â€Å"she buttoned her collar again and drawn down her veil† , coming back to the appearance as she turned up because the man was not deserved to believe any more. Besides,the man’s action as â€Å"snapped the cigarette case† also indicated that the love between them should be stored in the case and become the past.Vera had ever doubt that if it was right to abandon their love because sometimes she would still beat her heart for him. However, at last, she went away, leaving in a hurry and making people puzzled. She let everything go to start a new life. I think she would never regret. The dill pickle is forever a side dish rather than an entree, so is Vera. Maybe Vera could accompany him temporarily, but she could not keep him company all the time.

Cultural evolution Essay

In his article â€Å"Where Do Social Relations Come From? †, Michael Grossetti discusses the ways that human relationships are studied by sociologists, citing that often the methodology begins by starting with the relationship ad working backward to define it (Grossetti,p. 289). The most lasting relationships are the ones that come from organizations, he concludes, especially those related to family and friends. When we related this conclusion back to cultural evolution theory, we can argue that the lasting relationships of this generation because at this point in time most relationships are forged out of organizations or via our families. However, we can clearly argue that once this may not have been true as people had longer term relationships with people in their neighborhoods and those with whom they had a physical proximity. Grossetti argues that neighborhoods do not provide a basis for lasting relationships as they do not necessarily share life values or interests which draw people together (p. 292). When discussing this assertion in relation to cultural evolution, we can argue that in the recent past, neighborhoods did share a commonality that is now missing – immigrants would tend to settle in neighborhoods, neighborhoods would be divided by racial or religious lines, or at the most tangential neighborhoods would be reflective of a certain socio-economic status. Now, according to Grossetti’s study, relationships have evolved to the point that people develop relationships based primarily on organizations which they belong to –church groups, work groups, or interest organizations. When this is combined with the use of social networks, it can be observed that people are then creating a new means to segregate themselves via their interests. People have developed a new means to identify people with like interests and create new association groups. The interesting aspect of this evolving form of meeting may be that it creates relationships among people who in previous generations may never even have met. Because social networking allows people with common interests to meet without the traditional introduction of a mutual friend, they may completely change the way relationship develop in the future, dovetailing nicely with the theory of cultural evolution.

Online Education vs. Traditional Education

While most believe online education is easy as the student is just sitting in front of the computer, attending class online is more challenging than attending class in a classroom because requires time management skills and requires self-discipline. Attending college online requires the college student to have excellent time management skills. The majority of online students have responsibilities other than attending school. Usually this is why the decision to attend school online is made. The online student must be able to balance school, work, and a family. Attending school at a traditional school is not as flexible as the time schedule is set in place and the student must arrange their schedule around school, work, and family. Online education allows more flexibility in the online class schedule. However, proper management must be maintained in order to balance all of the responsibilities and be successful in all areas. â€Å"Not only do students need to monitor their progress in an ongoing fashion and adjust their strategies for learning based on their progress, they also need to maintain a time management schedule in order to complete online learning activities in the allotted timeframes. (Orellana, Hudgins, & Simonson, 2009, p. 470). The online student must be able to continue to work full-time and take care of family. All of these things must be done including attending school. Adding online education to the list of responsibility may assist the online student becomes well organized. An online student can possibly check-in the onl ine classroom during lunchtime while at work. Homework assignments can be done during â€Å"homework hour† at home with the children. In order to be successful attending school online, the online college student must practice self-discipline. In a traditional classroom, the student the instructor holds the student accountable for all assignments and participation in class. While the same applies for the online college student, accountability is the student. There will not be a â€Å"reminder† from the instructor on a daily basis whether the student is participating in the discussion group or if the student has completed an assignment. Online learning can be more convenient, effective and rewarding than traditional classes, but convenience doesn't mean it's easier,† says Gwen Hillesheim, interim chief academic officer and provost of Colorado Technical University, a leading provider of education for career-motivated students. â€Å"Successful online students need to be proactive in their studies and take responsibility for their own learning. It takes self-discipline and time management to do your best. But when the student is engaged, the learning can be significant and the experience fulfilling. ARA, (2010, November 3, Creston News Advertiser). Online students must comply with the University participation requirements in order to succeed. Self-discipline is required as it is solely up to the student to log in each day and participate in class. Unlike traditional classrooms where the schedule is set and students are reminded by staff daily to participate; the University notifies online students that do not make the required participation requirements after they have failed to do so. Most individuals that opt to attend school online are returning to school to complete a college degree. Usually this option is chosen due to work schedule as well as time with the family. Online education is not for everyone as it takes great discipline and maturity in order to be a successful online student. â€Å"At the same time, online education is not for everyone — you have to have a certain level of maturity and self-motivation, since you have to juggle coursework with job and family responsibilities. It demands a great deal of individualized work and you have to manage your schedule to meet class requirements rather than attend at a specific time of the week. â€Å"Michele Smolik, Director of Instructional Technology at Columbia College. Traditional students usually are not full-time employees. A person attending a University on campus is usually either taking one class or a full-time student working a part-time job. Online education allows an individual to maintain a full-time job however in order to qualify as a full-time student two classes are taken at a time. Traditional students attending class on campus have the advantage of accessing the instructor during class instruction if a question should arise. Online students must communicate with instructors via email or by utilizing the message board located on the student portal. This type of learning is not the right choice for everyone as some need individual instruction. Some argue that online students are â€Å"teaching† themselves, as there is no verbal instruction from an instructor. At most online universities instruction is given weekly during the discussion group forum by the instructor. The online student must make it a responsibility to participate in weekly discussion forums as well as keep up with weekly readings. Students that delay themselves in participating in the discussion group usually maintain a low grade. All of this is vital in order to be a successful online student. Assignments for class are usually due weekly and due at the end of the week. Students must submit the assignment via the class portal. It is imperative that the student have the correct software in order to submit the assignment as it is the student’s responsibility that the assignment is submitted on time with no exceptions. This is not an issue for traditional students as instructors are able to accept assignments in person from students. Essays and other assignments can be submitted by hard copy, which eliminates the concern of computer complications or the non-compatibility of software with the University. Online education has been debated throughout the years of its brief existence however most will agree that it is much more challenging than traditional education. Attending school is challenging whether in a traditional classroom setting or attending school online as responsibility is the main factor. However, as an online student it is imperative to be organized, responsible, and maintain strict discipline in order to be a successful online student. These factors make attending school online much more difficult as it is magnified much more.

A View of the Human Physique As Illustrated Through Different Art Works

A View of the Human Physique As Illustrated Through Different Art Works The following works of art all depict the human body: Woman of Willendorf (Paleolithic, 28,000-25,000 BCE), Pharaoh Menkaure and Queen Khamerernebty (Egypt, 2490-2472 BCE), and the Dying warriors of both the east and west pediments of the Temple of Aphaia (Archaic into Classical Greece, 480 and 490 BCE, respectfully). The broad ideas these figures can be associated with, paired with their smaller level details, together demonstrate how cultural ideals regarding body image change and develop over time. The Woman of Willendorf, sometimes called â€Å"Nude Woman,† is one of the oldest pieces of art found. She is eleven centimeters tall and made of limestone. We know very little about her and cannot make any grand conclusions (though we have â€Å"assigned† meaning to her to satisfy these holes). A few other figurines from the last Ice Age have been discovered, and they were of women as well, highlighting curvature and breasts. The Woman of Willendorf has been associated with fertility, given the name Venus, who is goddess of love and fertility. The figure does not have any facial detail. We do have, however, extremely exaggerated breasts and stomach, and the detail of the vulva. This could certainly lead us to the thought that fertility is indeed the symbol here. What does this indicate? Maybe robust women were more fertile and were the idealized size. Maybe a woman’s main purpose was fertility alone. Maybe larger women were considered healthy. We do not have muc h to go by, but this is where we can consider human sculpture history more or less to begin. The Egyptian statue of Pharaoh Menkaure and Queen Khamerernebty provides us with a representation of a high-figure male and female during the Pyramid ages. Menkaure and his queen stand side by side, made in sandstone, emerging forward with both their left feet outward (most female figures would not do this, which indicates that Queen Khamerernebty could in fact be Menkaure’s Queen-Mother.) They look forward and their almost-stoic faces give a sense of â€Å"other world† – they are in motion, stepping into eternity, and we are watching them in all their beauty. Menkaure has a very detailed face which feels unique. He has smooth skin with no imperfections and a hardy structure: he is quite the image of youth. He wears a traditional pharaoh headpiece, the royal beard in place, and holds the ceremonial cloths – he is in normal pharaoh stature, and this artwork celebrates him. His queen is constructed beautifully. She has a mature body with breasts shown through her clinging clothing, and again, a detailed, unique face. These figures are beautiful and we look at them in amazement, but they are not exactly idealized like typical royal artwork. They are individuals, set in these roles. We can compare this Egyptian art to artwork from earlier periods: we have developed ideals, styles in art based on the literal trends of Egyptian culture, and furthermore, different meanings and purposes of artwork: this sculpture would function as a piece to ensure rebirth for the king during afterlife. The Dying Warriors of both the East and West Pediments of the Temple of Aphaia provide us with a look at the evolution of Greek sculpture in particular. In 490 BCE, the West Pediment figure was made. It is just one part of a lively Trojan War-scene pediment. We see this warrior fallen; he has been impaled in the chest. He is trying to remove the weapon from his chest though he will probably die, all the while sporting his archaic smile common to the art period (to enliven the work of art; not to portray a particular emotion). His legs are flailing in a sort of schematic, perfected way – it is like a pose. This artwork symbolizes a wounded warrior, but it does not do so realistically. It symbolizes a wounded warrior using limited expression and the current standards – both capabilities and ideals – regarding displaying the full body. On the East Pediment, approximately ten years later BCE, we have a far more complex rendering of a hurting warrior. Not only is our body more realistic in its muscle and skin transitions, but we have bodily movement that is believable. The artist thought about what it was like to fall, and this work expresses that very concept. We also lose our archaic smile, as this marks the beginning of the Classical Period in Greece. The face looks a bit tired, and is downward as the soldier tries to hoist himself up with his shield – another object added to the imagery of the scene. We feel this defeat, and through the Hellenistic Period and beyond, emotional concepts which it seems are skimmed here, are explored much more in-depth. We have looked at a limited number of representations of how cultural ideals around the body change over time. Developing cultures evolve to appreciate certain aspects of the human body, in specific ways and to represent defined values or messages. Some 30,000 years ago, what we now call the â€Å"Woman of Willendorf† depicted a human being, specifically a woman, and a robust one. Maybe this translates to an ideal, or to a symbolism or affiliation with fertility. Fast forward many cultures, and we have Egyptian pharaohs being portrayed. We see political hierarchy and religion, defined body ideals, and individualism having developed, all of which are being represented through art. Fast forward further, and we have established war politics displayed in art openly, fierce propaganda exploration and growing expressions of detail, liveliness, and eventually, concepts of emotion and imperfection.

Birth control Essay Example | Topics and Well Written Essays - 2000 words

Birth control - Essay Example In China’s case, it is the state which advocates, encourages and enforces birth control without any hindrance but in other country such as Philippines, this is strongly opposed to making the issue complicated that it is difficult to determine which is right or wrong. The process of the research was not that difficult because I am already familiar with the state policy of China about birth control being a Chinese descent myself. I already have a working knowledge of the government’s policy about birth control and I only have to supplement it with a peer reviewed journal to validate what is already known to me. These comparisons of two extreme cases of how birth control is perceived only illustrate that there is no absolute perspective that could be taken as universally right about birth control. It is hoped that with the completion of this paper, the reader may be able to accept that the perspective about birth control really depends according to one’s need, cultu re, religion and preference and that there is no universally applicable perspective about it. The complexity of the issue of birth control Birth control is a very complex issue. The arguments and policies that support or negate birth control varies with each state that it is very hard to tell which one is right and which one is wrong. There are states that use birth control deliberately as a tool for economic development and often enforced by the state. This often brings complications on the issue such as what I witnessed with the mother of my high school best friend Li, when she had another baby. Although this should not be a problem with the rest of the world because my best friend’s family can support an additional child, the state does not allow this that she was forced to have an abortion. The complication however is not limited to China. There are also countries that see birth control differently that it is not only frowned upon but even strongly opposed making the issu e of birth control complicated that it is difficult to adopt a one universally accepted perspective about it. We can take two extreme cases as an example to illustrate how complex the issue of birth control is. In China for example, birth control had been taken to the extreme by the state where couples are only allowed to have one child under the â€Å"one child policy† of the government (Muhua and Chen 349). This is implemented under that pretext of socialist development of â€Å"National economic development must observe the law of planned and proportionate development. This law requires not only that the . . . production of material means ... but also that human reproduction develop in a planned way† (Muhua and Chen 350). This means that the population is controlled by the government in accordance to its developmental plan and strictly enforced. In plain language, the government mandates that people in China is allowed to only have one child and beyond that, people will be heavily taxed and the child be deprived of social service. These penalties are strongly enforced enough to become a deterrent among couples in China to have more than one child. I personally have seen how this policy is at work when the mother of my best friend in high school named Li became pregnant that she was forced to have an abortion because the second child was deemed illegal. It may seem that a life will become illegal in China but it is a state policy that having more than one chil

Administering the School Budget Essay Example | Topics and Well Written Essays - 750 words

Administering the School Budget - Essay Example This objective is extremely essential as it negates possible fund embezzlement. Without proper financial management, the school administrative would enormous losses. (Brimley et al, 2008).In an education set up, there are three most influential financial functions. These include auditing, budgeting, and accounting functions. Although, the functions are separate, discrete, and distinct operations, nonetheless they have close relationships. They are the required financial activities that provide a reliable fiscal data, information, accountability, and guidance to government funds allocated to public school programs. Budgeting is the system through which the funds allocated expenditure is particularly determined and approved. Accounting takes care of money organization by use ledger that standardizes the spending. Financial accounting, for the state and local school system applies the coding system, to enable financial auditors analyzes the school spending, and makes sure that the legal procedures and appropriate use of public funds.Budgeting is a vital tool for the school districts. It ensures the successful operation of the local and state public schools. Nonetheless, effective budgeting paves way for significant mission planning opportunities, achieving the educational goals and objectives, and improving administrative operations. As such, financial loss is considerably evaded. This allows the state to gain confidence of the running of public schools. As a result, government disburses more financial aid to these schools for effective learning (Brimley et al, 2008). Additionally, it creates a positive image of local schools to the public thereby enhancing beneficial relationships. Therefore, attracts potential stakeholders to donate for the local school funding programs. More technically, a budget is a statement presentation of the total amount of school spending, and the necessary resources required to run the program and an approximation of the revenues that c overs the expenditure. The education system has experimented many organizational budgets that aim at eradicating financial losses. This ensures that the students are well catered for, and child misses the essential education. No leaving trails can be experienced in the future with proper financial budgeting. Leaving trail is deviating from the path of practice (Brimley et al, 2008). The incidences of fund misuse are substantially minimized when a thorough budgeting program is set for the public schools. It provides clear, authentic education system responsibilities that help achieve high standards of education. The local schools often take the basic objective budgeting systems alongside the program budgeting systems that zero in to the required school objectives. These programs narrow down the possibility reports of child education fund misuse at the local level. The activities are particularly done with the aim of linking the budget system to school goals and objectives but simulta neously devolving a budgeting system at the local education level (Brimley et al, 2008). Budgeting at the school level helps track costs and school spending to ensure accountability and responsible spending. Budgeting performs crucial functions for most of the district schools. The budgeting system at the school level organizes public spending along the basic functions and proper management of the system. This includes student care and support, student’s transportation to school, administration functions but not limited to school operation, staff and nonstaff support (Brimley et al, 2

Ethical Issue relate to Women Having Children with Unkown Sperm Donors Essay

Ethical Issue relate to Women Having Children with Unkown Sperm Donors - Essay Example 645). Sperm banks get sperm donors from colleges and through the internet. Screening test carried out to ensure the sperm donor is free from genetic diseases, and is of sound mind and intelligence. A number of ethical considerations have risen because of women having children with unknown sperm donors. Sperm donation takes place through artificial insemination. A couple chooses a donor with regard to race, intelligence and good health among other issues (Liou, 2011, p. 7). Technological advancement has assisted older women to bear children. In addition, married infertile men also use sperm donation services to conceive children. The technology has been embraced by many people especially women who wish to bear children at their 40s and 50s. Nonetheless, some ethical and legal issues have emerged where a third party is involved. Therefore, when undertaking unknown sperm donation by a couple the following ethical considerations, should be considered: such as if the sperm donor has legal rights that protect him from any problems that may arise in the future (Liou, 2011, p. 7). In the past, the donors chose to remain anonymous, stating they did not want to get in touch with the donor children. However, due to the curiosity of the donor children, sperm donors have the option of either remaining anonymous or choosing their identity to be known. The donor also has the freedom of being free from any responsibility to the biological child originating from his sperm (Seibel & Crockin, 2010, p. 25). When it comes to the client seeking sperm donation services some information ought to be made available; for instance, what are the complications associated with artificial insemination. Sperm donation activity is not always successful therefore; some treatments ought to be considered before one is eligible for artificial insemination. The sperm bank availing the sperm does not give a guarantee to the client if the sperm is free from genetic diseases (Seibel & Crockin, 2010, p. 26). Even though, genetic screening test is undertaken prior to the procedure, it does not guarantee that the sperm is free from genetic diseases and abnormalities. In addition, the client is also required to be fully responsible for the donor child. The sperm donor and the client rights are usually established under a written contract, signed by the two and the doctor. The agreement ensures that the client and the sperm donor are aware of their rights with regard to the whole procedure. Sperm banks have their specifications when it comes to the sperm they take from donors. A man’s education and personal outlook are taken into consideration. Age also matters, men above the age of forty are not accepted by any sperm bank (Seibel & Crockin, 2010, p. 27). The sperm banks are required, ethically to ensure that they keep records of the number of children one person has conceived this will be used for future references. Therefore, to curb the issue of ethical controversies ethical principles ought to be applied. This will protect persons conceived through sperm donation and all the participants in the sperm donation transaction. Controlling the number of donor offspring is the first principle. Without proper control, one sperm donor can father over 150 children. For instance, in the United States the technology of artificial insemination is on the rise and the demand for donor sperm have risen, as well (Liou, 2011, p. 7). However, the demand

A Critique on the Kyoto Protocols Research Paper

A Critique on the Kyoto Protocols - Research Paper Example In the discourse, global warming was specifically defined as â€Å"climate change that causes an increase in the average temperature of the lower atmosphere.   Global warming can have many different causes, but it is most commonly associated with human interference, specifically the release of excessive amounts of greenhouse gases† (ibid.). With the alarming levels of greenhouse gases continuing to increase at an unprecedented pace, scientists all over the world drastically made efforts to inform the international organizations in charge of environmental protection. An international treaty, the United Nations Framework Convention on Climate Change (UNFCCC) deemed it of primary importance to address global warming issues through its governance and with the assistance of another international agreement, the Kyoto Protocol. According to the official website of UNFCCC, the Kyoto Protocol â€Å"sets binding targets for 37 industrialized countries and the European community for reducing greenhouse gas (GHG) emissions. These amount to an average of five percent against 1990 levels over the five-year period 2008-2012† (UNFCCC, 2010, par. 1). In this regard, the essay aims to proffer one’s personal opinion as to  what world leaders and the Intergovernmental Panel on Climate Change (IPCC) should agree on. Likewise, the essay seeks to address the following concerns, to wit: (1) is there a solution that they should commit to? If so, what is it? If not, then what should they do? (2) Why haven't the Kyoto Protocols worked? What has not worked and why? What has worked and why? (3) What should be the role of the US? And (4) what should be the role of China?   Diverse articles and publications on UNFCCC and Kyoto Protocol reveal that their primary thrust is â€Å"to stabilize greenhouse gas concentrations in the atmosphere at a level that will  prevent dangerous human interference with the climate system.