Information Systems Quality and Testing Essay Example | Topics and Well Written Essays - 2000 words

Information Systems Quality and Testing - Essay Example Therefore, in a bid to see this effected, the company has contracted Eclipse Web Solutions to steer the website project that will see the company develop a new website that will help in promoting their products and services (Rubin & Chisnell, 2008). The company is the major stakeholder of this website project as it is the one involved in its development. Therefore, the man aim of the company in suggesting this project is to see it join its competitors in using the latest technology available. Those in the company who are set to benefit from the project include the following; human resource manager, business development director, marketing manager, area manager and finance manager. The other stakeholder who will also be involved in this website project is Eclipse Web Ltd. This is the company contracted to manage the website project by Simply Events. The other stakeholders are the customers who the company is targeting with the use and adoption of this new method of business promotion. They are set to learn more about the company concerning its products and services in order to purchase them. Successful development and implementation of the business is set to improve the performance of this company. This will be achieved through discarding the old ways of doing things and adopting the new and innovative technology. Therefore the website is going to be of value through the following ways; increasing awareness both locally and internationally, improving the long and time wasting manual operations and finally earning the company a position in the global platform as it strives to deliver and satisfy their customers (Harrison & Waite, 2006). Human resource department will benefit from the website project due to cost reduction. Currently the department has been publishing or advertising job vacancies in the local newspaper which has

Show how issues of social class are important in at least two of the Essay

Show how issues of social class are important in at least two of the works studied - Essay Example In all work, low social position of the main characters prevents them to achieve appreciation and recognition they deserve. The novel Heart of Darkness (1900) is one of the most unique and outstanding works based on philosophical and psychological interpretations, historical and sociological issues. Until the actual military conquest of most of Africa by Europeans, the continents populations, except in regions significantly influenced by intruders from Asia, were largely left free to shape their own individual paths of development. This novel describes the controls the means of production and hence the sale and distribution of products, the capitalist returns less to the workers than what the worker actually produces. This is called exploitation, and the rate at which the capitalists extract surplus from the labor of their workers is called the rate of exploitation. Marx expressed this as the rate of exploitation: surplus/variable capital. This means getting more out of the productive process for the same or lower costs. It means workers will have to produce more without receiving a commensurate increase in wages, that is, an increase in the rate of exploitation. â€Å"The vision seemed to enter the house with me - the stretcher, the phantom-bearers, the wild crowd of obedient worshippers, the gloom of the forests,†¦ the beat of the drum, regular and muffled like the beating of a heart - the heart of a conquering darkness† (Conrad). In the play, Amadeus P. Shaffer describes the impact of social class on a genuine and inability to resists social principles and values. The play concentrates on personal relations between Wolfgang Amadeus Mozart and Antonio Salieri and their rivalry. This play portrays that a unique talent of a person and his genius means nothing fo society which values high social position and wealth. First, this play helps legitimate prevailing class and status

Roles Of The Supervisor | Essay

Roles Of The Supervisor | Essay A supervisor is someone who guides and oversees the work or activities of a student or another counselor. The three major goals of a supervisor include enhancing the skills and knowledge of professional and or student counselors, to ensure the welfare of the clients and maintain control between the client and the student. A supervisors responsibility is to mentor and teach students and professionals (Erford, 2010, p. 202-205). The supervisor will challenge, encourage and stimulate a student or professional counselor to help them gain the knowledge to become proficient (Erford, 2010, p. 202-205). There are different purposes for a counseling supervisor, among them include improving the counselors professional and personal growth, encouraging a counselors knowledge and advancement of liable counseling services and programs. Among the roles of a supervisor include advocate, case consultant, collaborator and teacher. A supervisor helps counselors explore their counter transference issues. The supervisor support interpersonal and intrapersonal exploration of the student or counselors teaching and assessment. Supervisors explore diversity issues of counselor, student, and client. (Erford, 2010, p. 202-205). Model of a supervisor includes developmental approach, models developed for the supervisor and theory-based. When a supervisor works from a theory based supervision model work with students and counselors in the same way of their counseling theory. Some of the content, focus, and process of supervision are grounded in the supervisors counseling model include the developmental approach, models developed and theory based (Smallwood, 2010) Models of Supervision with Michael Part I Michael has worked as an intern student for two months under the supervision of Janet. Janet is a theory based supervisor. She uses the person-centered model of supervision (Erford, 2010, p. 202-205). Michael shows a lack of confidence. However, with the person-centered approach, he should gain more confidence because this approach encourages confidence. Janet will use Michaels experiences to help him gain knowledge of his gain a personal awareness. Janet will not judge his mistakes; instead she will have empathy, and accept his mistakes as a means to learn. Janet will discuss Michaels difficulties with him as a means of learning from his mistakes. When Michael shares his concerns with his client, he is letting Janet is aware that he needs and appreciates her suggestions Michael is trying to learn from the way Janet would deal with this situation. Janet may get some ideas from Michael to help him see his own feelings regarding his thoughts (Smallwood, 2010). To help his gain confidence the supervisor works closely with the student and counselor and develops a working relationship. (Smallwood, 2010). If Janet was a developmental model supervisor, she would encourage Michael to gain confidence by becoming aware of himself and other. She would encourage him to become motivated and gain independence. Michael would be going to Janet for advice because she is the supervisor, and she wants him to be relatively dependent on her. Michael should eventually become more independent and function unaided without seeking approval from his supervisor. (The International Child and Youth Care Network, 2001). There are eight growth areas that Janet will be helping Michael to attain. These areas include assessment techniques, client conceptualization, interpersonal assessment, intervention, individual differences, professional ethics treatment goals and plans, and skill competence (The International Child and Youth Care Network, 2001). The discrimination model of supervision is divided into three categorized patient centered, supervisee-centered, and supervisory-matrix-centered. This approach gives the supervisor much authority because their role is didactic, allowing the student or counselor to treat the patient. This model focuses on the client, not the student or counselor allows for some interaction between the counselor and the student. In Michaels case this form of supervision may not work as he has little self esteem or confidence in himself (Smith, 2009) Part II Importance of Supervision to counselors and professional counselors The benefits a student or professional counselor gain from supervision include development in personally and professional, gain new strategies, have support, and are given the opportunity to develop professionally (Benshoff, 1992-12-00). Supervision is critical in learning, maintaining and improving professional skills of students and professional counselors. Counselors and professional counselors incorporate their academic training with hands on experience. Supervision also gives counselors the ability to learn about their own style of counseling and examine the strengths and weaknesses. Supervision is also effective in increasing the knowledge of the counselor by giving them the ability to help each other and learn from mistakes (Benshoff, 1992-12-00) There may be times when supervision is impossible. This is when the counselors work together in what is called a triadic model by rotating the tomes of counselor, commentator and facilitator with peer supervision sections. This helps counselors develop professional counseling skills by implementing them effectively with clients (Benshoff, 1992-12-00). Supervision helps counselors to learn by teaching or mentoring them. The supervisor challenges, encourages, and stimulates the counselor to give them the knowledge to gain confidence. Supervisors help counselors to develop into exemplary counselors by promoting their personal and professional development by teaching, mentoring, collaborating, and consulting. (Erford, 2010, p. 202-205). Heading for Conclusion/Summary Supervision is essential to challenge, stimulate and encourage counselors and professionals by gaining knowledge from advocating, mentoring, teaching, training and collaborating. The focus of counseling supervisors is to facilitate the counselors development professionally and personally. Supervisors also consider the diversity of counselors and professionals in the counseling relationship and respect differing opinions and beliefs (Erford, 2010, p. 202-205). There are different models of supervising including the theory based, developmental approach and the models developed for supervision (book). The person centered theory is when supervisors try to build a working relationship with the counselors in order to gain their trust. Supervisors show empathy and genuine concern for the counselor pointing out mistakes, in a way that is not demeaning (Erford, 2010, p. 202-205). A supervisor who correctly uses the person centered theory will help the counselor to have self confidence and the ability to understand the counseling process. When a supervisor uses the cognitive behavioral model they are teaching the counselor appropriate behavior and helping them to develop specific skills needed to allow them to become motivated and gain successful knowledge. (Erford, 2010, p. 202-205). The supervisor assesses the counselor or professional for each issue and helps them work through issues, so they can move on to the next of the three levels. The eight domains of professional counseling that are addressed include assessment techniques, client conceptualization, individual differences intervention skills, treatment goals and plans and theoretical orientation and professional ethics. (Erford, 2010, p. 202-205). Other theories of the discrimination model include Intervention skills, conceptualization skills and personalization skills (Erford, 2010, p. 202-205) .

Defending Egotism and Individualism in The Fountainhead :: Fountainhead

Defending Egotism and Individualism in The Fountainhead        Ã‚  Ã‚   "The structures were austere and simple, until one looked at them and realized what work, what complexity of method, what tension of thought had achieved the simplicity. No laws had dictated a single detail. The buildings were not Classical, they were not Gothic, they were not Renaissance. They were only Howard Roark." This dialogue in the powerful book The Fountainhead by Ayn Rand, set in the early 1920's in the city of skyscrapers, New York, describes the unique building style of the architect, Howard Roark which parallels his uncompromising and individualistic personality. Roark is forced to overcome collectivism in a society where Dominique Francon, a beautiful and wealthy woman, is the only person who understands his intentions and desires, while Peter Keeting, a third-rate architect whose career is successful due to his conformity to society, yearns to find self-respect, and Ellsworth Toohey, a Humanitarian, searches to destroy men's souls in his quest for power over mankind. In this extraordinary book, Rand combines both her seductive philosophic views with a touch of romance to tell the story of the dangerous effects of conformity of a society and of one man's struggle and ultimate success against these forces. The aura around the brilliant man, Howard Roark, is intimidating and obscure. He is feared by people of various stature, including the Dean of the Architectural School of Stanton Island of Technology where Roark is expelled for refusing to do projects in any style but his own, and Peter Keeting, a star student of this reputable school, who often times becomes angry after conversations with Roark because he can't understand the secureness his classmate feels about himself and his work while he fails to share the same confidence. Roark's eagerness to learn about architecture guides him to the office of Henry Cameron, a man who at one time was considered amongst the greatest architects but since has disappeared from the public eye to settle into a minute office and given only a few commissions. Roark pursues a job in the office of this "old-fashioned" architect because he admires Cameron's style. After his employer's illness and retirement, Roark ventures into many jobs, but is eventual ly fired from all of them because of his uncompromising attitude toward his work. After establishing his own business he receives minimal work because the buildings that he designs are not accepted by the public and are insulted in newspaper reviews.

History: Politics of the Renaissance

In the sixteenth century, Italy had many centers of power. In each you could find ambitious rulers, such as the Medic in Florence, the Pope in Rome, or the doge in Venice. 2. Each ruler knew that his success greatly depended on the people who advised him. So rulers surrounded themselves with brilliant courtiers. What was a courtier and what did a courtier do? A courtier was a well-educated person who served in the ruler's court.Courtiers' Jobs included giving advice on how to build a new palace, repair a cathedral, fix a canal, build defensive walls, deliver messages, negotiate a ready with a neighboring cities, lead troops into war, translate an ancient Greek manuscript,discuss philosophy, astronomy, and mathematics, tell an amusing story, and sings ballad. 3. Who was Balderdash Castigation and why is he famous? Balderdash Castigation was a courtier to Francesco Kananga, the prince of Mantra and the duke of Robin.He wrote The Book of the Courtier, which was a how-to guide that desc ribed how a courtier should act while serving at court and how he could best serve his ruler. 4. Castigation based some of his book on the writings of the ancient Roman testament Cicero and on the medieval code of chivalry. 5. Why did the education and intelligence of advisors matter in Renaissance times in ways they had not earlier? War fare had changed and needed intellectual strength now. Renaissance princes wanted advisers, good strategists, engineers. 6. Describe Castigation's views of the ideal Renaissance courtier.Castigation thought that a good Renaissance courtier still needed some qualities of the chivalrous knight, like courage, horsemanship, and good swordsmanship for battle. He also thought courtiers should know how to swim, run, and Jump. They should be able to read and write in both Latin and Greek. He should be able to discuss art and philosophy with his ruler, as well as draw, paint, dance, and play some musical instruments. He should be a man of good character and very modest about his talents and skills. 7. What does it mean to be a â€Å"Renaissance man†? To be a person of knowledge and skill. 8.Who was Isabella detest and what were some of her accomplishments? Isabella detest was the wife of Francesco Kananga. She was also an artist, poet, and writer. She advised her husband on many diplomatic matters. When her husband was locked away in prison, she ruled Mantra. She managed to secure her husband's release when the Venetians imprisoned him. She was a dedicated patron of the arts. She made Mantra a center of learning and art. 9. The two issues always on the minds of princes in Renaissance Italy were politics and war. 10. Who was Niccole Machiavelli and what did he believe Italy's princes needed to be able to do?He was a Florentine diplomat who wrote The Prince, a book which analyzed the politics of Renaissance Italy. He is considered the father of modern lattice science. Machiavelli thought a good ruler should do whatever was necessa ry to secure and unite his state. 11. What is the main subject of The Prince? The main subject is how to create and maintain a secure state and how to acquire and hold power. 12. What were the main sources of information that Machiavelli used for his book? He drew on lessons learned in his study of classical history, and the lessons he learned by studying the triumphs and failures of Cesar Barrio and others. 3. How did Machiavellian idea of a good ruler differ from that of medieval helicopters? Medieval philosophers had stated that a ruler should exercise power virtuously for the common good of his people, and that he should base his actions on Christian principles. Machiavelli argued that a good ruler should do whatever it takes to secure and unite his state. 14. Machiavelli declared that to hold on to power, a prince must act as circumstances required. A famous saying that expresses his idea is the ends Justifies the meaner. 15.What was Machiavellian answer to the question â€Å" Is it better to be loved or to be eared? † His reply was that one ought to be both but, as it is difficult for the two to go together, it is much safer to be feared than to be loved. 16. Describe the influence The Prince had on European rulers. The book gave European rulers new ideas some good, some bad about how to govern. The Prince made rulers and their counselors think less about abstract ideals and more about actual human conduct and likely results. 17. Why is Machiavelli considered the â€Å"father of modern political science†? His book the way normal people act.

Death penalty †capital punishment

  Death penalty has begun a long time ago, perhaps since Eighteenth Century B.C.   And a hundred or maybe even thousand numbers of murderers and criminals have been sentenced of it.   But the question still remains and is always debatable whether it is just right to have death penalty or not.I may not be directly affected by this capital punishment. But at the back of my mind, I also ask why there must be death penalty or not.   And as I balanced my views and ideas about this, the thought that there should no death penalty weighs more.Now, let’s take a look on the history of death penalty. This punishment has long been practiced since the times of King Hammurabi of Babylon for 25 different crimes. Death penalty was also made as the only punishment for all crimes according to Draconian Code of Athens, Hittite Code and Roman Law of Twelve Tablets.   The punishment of death is carried through drowning, hanging, burning alive, crucifixion, beating to death, and beheading .   And take note of the crimes they considered punishable by death penalty: not confessing to a crime, treason, cutting down and tree and stealing. (Death Penalty Information Center, 2007)America was then influenced by Britain during the colonial period.   And the offenses punishable of death includes stealing grapes, killing chickens, denying the â€Å"true God† or striking one’s parents.Seeing that these are only minor offenses if taken into considerations, abolitionist movements were formed. Some became successful of abolishing the death penalty like in Austria and Pennsylvania except for murder and treason. However, it progress again in Twentieth Century and five out of six abolitionist countries reinstated their death penalty as the America enters World War I.   The good thing is that the number of executions decreased as other nations agreed that the death penalty be limited if not abolished.So even at that time, there are movements of abolishing death pen alty.   Although at some point, others see it as a necessary social measure. Still, as many others do so, I don’t agree of this capital punishment. As I believe that no one has the right to take one’s life for whatever reason.Others argue that death penalty deters crime. But is practicing it not another crime where you also kill a human?   And as always, two wrongs will never make a right thing.For the past years, hundred numbers of prisoners were found to be innocent and released from the death row.   Imagine how they would face the society again.   They may perhaps be damaged inside, having to fear death, disbelieving the justice and all.   And then there were people who have received the death penalty and in the end were found not guilty.   The deathly penalty is really a cruel punishment and yet was not taken carefully by those in authority.   How can one accept it then?I also believe that one can still change.   One can still start a new life. One can have a new life with his family.   And death penalty deprived them this chance.The time they would spend inside the prison would at least let them think about their offenses and realized their mistakes. Sentencing them to death would just make their life easier.   But if they will stay in jail, they would suffer the consequences of their wrongdoings and realize how much prettier life is outside if they didn’t commit the crime.Now this is my opinion.   And this topic of death has always been debatable for the past centuries.   It is then up to you whether you would agree with me or not.   But maybe we should always look at the facts and not merely standing out with our immediate ideas not only about this capital punishment but with all other issues. Be critical.References: College Net Forum. (2007). Retrieved August 26, 2007, from College Net:http://www.collegenet.com/elect/app/app?service=external/Forum&sp=1882Death Penalty Information Center. (2007). Retrieved August 26, 2007, from Death PenaltyInformation Center: http://www.deathpenaltyinfo.org/article.php?scid=15&did=410#IntroductionoftheDeathPenalty

The Tall Woman and Her Short Husband Essays

The Tall Woman and Her Short Husband Essays The Tall Woman and Her Short Husband Paper The Tall Woman and Her Short Husband Paper In section four we see the tailor and his wife swap lodgings with Mrs. Tall. We feel sympathy for her. The tailors wife does not feel guilt at all and assumes that Mrs. Tall will remarry. This makes us detest her even more. When Mr. Short returns both characters have changed, they have become even more contrasted. They both seemed shocked yet they know that their personality has not changed so they get back to their normal routine. They became inseparable again. This word tells us how together they are and how much they love each other. They were meant to be together. We feel even guiltier about how we laughed before but we are also relieved that they have been reunited. Disaster strikes again when Mrs. Tall has a stroke. She can hardly walk and is very weak. When they are walking around the gardens at Unity Mansions her short husband, by using a rope, helps he raise her left foot. It is described as pathetic. This word is there to arouse our sympathy and make us feel sorry for them. The residents of Unity Mansions nod at the couple now whenever they meet. This shows that they and also we should respect them for this pathetic yet impressive sight. In section five Mrs. Tall dies. Death and life were equally cruel to her, these words tell us that throughout her life everything was cruel and hard. We feel that it is unfair that she had to die after all she ahs been through. The short husband gets his job back and his pay. The tailors wife spotting a rich single man cannot wait to set him up with her niece. This shows us that she is hypocritical because she accused Mrs. Tall of marrying him for his money. When she arrives at the gatehouse she sees that Mr. Shorts face is black and she sees the photo of them in their wedding day on the wall. I think she has a strange feeling of guilt, she then retreats and does not mention her niece. Mr. Short never remarried but when it rained the author tells us that we can see him holding the umbrella up high. There is a big empty space under that umbrella a vacuum that nothing on earth can fill, this quote is the very last sentence of the story. It is very hard hitting and makes us think. Once again the author had shown us how he was devoted to her and she was to him. During the story the author manages to evoke many responses by showing and describing to us how the residents if Unity Mansions do and then we mimic their reactions. Through each stage of the story we react exactly the same as they do.

5 Instances When Interracial Dating Is a Problem

5 Instances When Interracial Dating Is a Problem Interracial dating isnt without its problems, but today interracial relationships enjoy more support in the United States than they have at any point in history. While two decades ago, fewer than half of Americans approved of interracial marriage, now 65 percent of all Americans support such relationships, and 85 percent of young people do. Attitudes toward interracial marriage are so progressive that some people prefer to exclusively date interracially. But are they doing so for the wrong reasons? There are a number of reasons not to date interracially, including for social status, because it’s trendy or to remedy a rocky love life. Dating interracially with misguided motives will inevitably lead to problems. To End the Losing Streak in Your Love Life You’ve dated a long line of losers- deadbeats, cheaters, manipulators. They all belonged to your racial group, so you figure you’ll have better luck dating someone of a different race. That’s because deadbeats, cheaters and manipulators only come in one color, right? If only things were that simple. The reality is that you’ll have to do much more than land a love interest with a different skin tone from yours to end destructive dating patterns. The answer to your romance problems isn’t crossing the color line but examining why you’re drawn to inappropriate partners. To Gain Status The idea of dating interracially to gain social status may seem peculiar. After all, interracial couples face discrimination that may lead to distinct disadvantages. Because the United States remains racially stratified, however, it’s considered advantageous for members of oppressed groups to pair up with those of more powerful groups. From the Antebellum Era on, such partnerships have allowed people of color to gain access to a quality of life that likely would’ve eluded them otherwise. Although today racial minorities can largely succeed in society on their own, some elite people of color may feel the need to score a spouse from another race to boost their image or better fit into the corporate landscape. As noted in the short story collection You Are Free, â€Å"The world out there insisted as soon as a black man made it, he should marry a white woman. As soon as a black woman made it, she should marry a white man.† No one should date interracially due to external pressures. If Barack Obama won his presidential campaign with a black woman at his side, it’s certainly not necessary for, say, a businessman to date interracially for the purpose of upward mobility. In an ideal world, people wouldn’t enter romantic relationships for what they stand to gain from their partners. This isn’t to say that every successful minority who dates or marries interracially does so with ulterior motives. But just as some high-powered men pursue trophy wives, some members of minority groups pursue mates from the dominant culture for status. Everyone Else Doing It Wherever you look, you see interracial couples. Your friends, colleagues and relatives are all dating interracially or have in the past. Given this, you decide to take the plunge as well. After all, you don’t want to be the odd one out or, even worse, the boring one. Soon, you’re visiting interracial dating websites, and prospective dates from a variety of racial groups lie at your fingertips. Why isn’t this a wise move? The race of your date shouldn’t be the main draw for you nor should your dating patterns be influenced by what’s trendy now. The common interests and chemistry you have with a person should be the driving force for your decision to pursue a relationship. Interracial couples face real challenges. The person who becomes part of such pair because it’s hip or trendy won’t be prepared to deal with them. Rebellion Many parents tell children outright which racial groups they approve of them dating and which racial groups they forbid them to date. Actress Diane Farr is a case in point. Now married to a Korean-American man, Farr had been told growing up that her boyfriends could only be German, Irish, French or Jewish. No blacks and no Puerto Ricans, though, or you are out of my house, Farr recalled her mother saying. Farr did go on to date black and Puerto Rican men, however, and her parents came around. Farr defied her parents’ dating rules because she formed genuine connections with men from minority backgrounds. Some people, in contrast, flout their parents’ wishes simply to rebel. No child should feel pressured to go along with their parents’ racist beliefs. At the same time, it’s irresponsible to seek out partners you know your parents would disapprove of just to rebel against them. The mates you seek out certainly won’t appreciate being used as fodder in the war with your parents. If you disagree with your parents’ views on race, challenge them directly by broaching discussions about the issue with them. And if you and your parents have other problems, don’t try to hurt them by dating interracially. You’ll only end up hurting your date and yourself for behaving so insensitively. You Feel Inferior It’s no secret that society fosters a sense of inferiority in certain racial groups. This leads some members of minority groups to experience self-hatred. Such people are not only ashamed of their culture but of the physical features they have that reflect that culture. If they could erase every trait that singles them out as belonging to their minority group, they would. Since that’s impossible, they settle for seemingly second best- coupling up with someone from a different race to make them feel better about themselves or to produce children without their telltale ethnic features. A person this insecure is unlikely to make a good partner. As the old saying goes, you can’t love someone until you love yourself. Rather than dating across ethnic lines for validation, such people need to learn how to feel better about who they are. Seeking therapy, reading up on their cultural background and surrounding themselves with positive images related to their ethnic group may help.

Definition of Order Number 1

Definition of Order Number 1 In the days of the Russian Revolution of 1917, an order went out to the countrys military which almost destroyed its ability to fight, and made a takeover by socialist extremists more likely. This was Order Number One, and it had only good intentions. The February Revolution Russia had experienced strikes and protests many times before 1917. They had once, in 1905, experienced an attempted revolution too. But in those days the military had stood with the government and crushed the rebels; in 1917, as a series of strikes convulsed the political orders and showed how a Tsarist government that was dated, autocratic and would rather fail than reform had lost support, the Russian military came out in favour of the rebellion. The soldiers whose mutiny helped turn strikes in Petrograd into Russia’s February Revolution in 1917 initially came onto the streets, where they drank, fraternized and sometimes held key defensive points. The soldiers began to swell the newly appearing councils - the soviets - and allowed the situation to become so bad for the Tsar that he agreed to abdicate. A new government would take over. The Problem of the Military The Provisional Government, made up of old Duma members, wanted the troops to return to their barracks and regain some form of order, because having thousands of armed people wandering around out of control was deeply worrying to a group of liberals who feared a socialist takeover. However, the troops were afraid they’d be punished if they resumed their old duties. They wanted a guarantee of their safety and, doubting the integrity of the Provisional Government, turned to the other major government force which was now nominally in charge of Russia: the Petrograd Soviet. This body, led by socialist intellectuals and comprised of a large body of soldiers, was the dominant power on the street. Russia might have had a Provisional Government, but it actually had a dual government, and the Petrograd Soviet was the other half. Order Number One Sympathetic to the soldiers, the Soviet produced Order Number 1 to protect them. This listed soldier’s demands, gave the conditions for their return to barracks, and set out a new military regime: soldiers were responsible to their own democratic committees, not appointed officers; the military was to follow the orders of the Soviet, and only follow the Provisional Government as long as the Soviet agreed; soldiers had equal rights with citizens when off duty and didn’t even have to salute. These measures were hugely popular with the soldiers and were widely taken up. Chaos Soldiers flocked to carry out Order Number One. Some tried to decide strategy by committee, murdered unpopular officers, and threatened the command. Military discipline broke down and destroyed the ability of huge numbers in the military to operate. This might not have been a major problem were it not for two things: the Russian military was attempting to fight World War One, and their soldiers owed more allegiance to the socialists, and increasingly the extreme socialists, than the liberals. The result was an army which could not be called upon when the Bolsheviks gained power later in the year.

Contingency Model (IP) Essay Example | Topics and Well Written Essays - 1000 words

Contingency Model (IP) - Essay Example Organizational behavior is quite a complex phenomenon as it not only requires careful management of difficult and somewhat complicated behaviors on individual level but at the group level also. The existence of groups within organizations therefore is not a new concept and researchers, over the period of time, have been able to produce considerable research studies which shed light on the different organizational dynamics of the groups within organizations. The concept of In Groups and Out Groups is one such important concept of group dynamics which deals with the dynamics of how groups interact and exist with each other. The formation of such groups can be based on tasks related or non-task related performance factors. This research paper will present an analysis of the In Groups and Out Groups while at the same time attempt to provide real life examples of both the Groups while at the same time discussing the implications for the leadership of the organization. In Group is a group with which people attempt to identify themselves as members. Within an organizational context, In Groups are formed by those employees who share common goal or objective and than they wish to associate themselves as members of that group. ... The basic difference between the two is the fact that they differ in level of association with each group. Example of In Groups For example, employees working in different departments may form different In Groups because they share something common like their overall performance will be reflected at the same level if it is considered on organization wide level. Another example of in group would be members belonging to certain unions i.e. may be one union of labor or employees advocating certain cause whereas another union focuses on other objectives. Example of Out Group Similarly, an example of Out Group would include those employees or individuals who do not form wish to be part of certain specific union or group advocating certain other causes. Major difference on the two situations As discussed above that the basic difference between the situations is the level of association with each group. Due to association with in group, members provide tend to show in group bias by showing a favorable attitude towards members no matter if out group exist within that department. Further, In Group formation give rise to the collectivism i.e. people start to share common perceptions and attitudes no matter if initially they had some disagreement. Therefore the major and basic difference between the two situations is how people show their attitude to each other within the groups. How the Two Groups Affected the Groups & the Organization As discussed above that the formation of In Group and Out Group give rise to the collective thinking and attitudes therefore their formation can influence the organization as well as groups in negative as well as positive way. What is however more important is the fact that formation

Effect of sound on oyster Essay Example | Topics and Well Written Essays - 750 words

Effect of sound on oyster - Essay Example sts $15,000 $10,000 $10,000 $35,000 Total Direct Costs $72,498 $62,064 $64,130 $198,692 Indirect Costs (Overhead) $18,849 $16,137 $16,674 $51,660 Indirect Cost Rate (%) 26% 26% 26% 26% Total $91,347 $78,201 $80,804 $250,352 Budget justification Senior personnel and fringe benefits The PI is involved in three other projects of equal work load which implies that this particular project consumes 25% of his time. The result is that the project takes care of 25% of his annual income. A post doctoral research associate is contracted to provide services and technical advice on the growth characteristics of oyster and oyster eggs. He is expected to do an evaluation of the proceedings once every month. Since he is attached at the center, he is paid on service offered which results into twelve days in one year. The post doctoral research associate is therefore paid for twelve days as a fraction of a year depending on the annual income of the first, second and third years which are $37,000, $39 ,000 and $41,000 respectively. Two undergraduate students are required to set the experimental set ups and make necessary corrections depending on the emerging changes. They also maintain the system and ensure the preset conditions prevail (Preparing a budget: expert solutions to everyday challenges, 2009). The work of collecting and recording the information in terms of changes in mass and doing the statistical analysis is also for the two undergraduate students. This gives an annual pay of $10,500 each and translates to the annual $21,000 for both. The fringe benefits are calculated for the PI and the two undergraduate students who seem to be contracted on permanent or regular basis. The post doctoral research associate only provides his service once a month and is therefore not entitled to fringe benefits. For the PI, it is calculated as 27.5% of the salary while for the two undergraduate students, it is calculated as 7.65%. Supplies and services An amount to the tune of $20,000 is requested to take care of some of the materials such as seeds of oyster, food and special sound devices to be used in the aquarium (Ogden, & Goldberg, 2002). In the first year, the cost is estimated at $10,000 since some of the requirements are onetime costs and will only be incurred in the initial stages. The subsequent years are allocated $5,000 each for provision of the maintenance requirement for the project. The costs incurred here include all the consumables and disposable during the project (Hood & Husband, 2002). Travel For year 1, the PI requests $2,000 to take care of travel expenses as he seeks to use the ABC center for the study. The travel expense will also include collaborative travel expenses to set up and run the system for all the other participants including the undergraduate assistants and the post-doctoral research associate (Blomquist & Newey, 1999). During the second year, the cost decreases to $1,500 as there are reduced travel cost

Global Supply Chain Analysis of a Global Coffee Company Essay

Global Supply Chain Analysis of a Global Coffee Company - Essay Example The essay "Global Supply Chain Analysis of a Global Coffee Company" talks about the analysis of an entrance to a new market by Starbucks Corporation in Lithuania through theories. There are different strategy models which can be applied to Starbucks in order to analyze their current situation and steps to be taken for future internationalization. There are four strategies based on local responsiveness pressure and cost reduction pressure. They are global standardization strategy, transnational strategy, international strategy and localization strategy. In the case of Starbucks, the best strategy which can be incorporated is Global Standardization Strategy. This would enable the firm to expand over the larger geographical area and acquire high-profit margins. Global standardization strategy mainly states that the company follows the same strategy across the globe. This form of standardized strategy is reflected in its branding, products or services, customer support, etc. International strategy is all about implementing the best possible strategy to establish a strong market position. The four possible international strategies for Starbucks are joint ventures, franchising, exporting and acquisitions. Starbucks encompasses complex tasks from product manufacturing to delivery at retail stores. The company is inclined towards global resource span where it acquires cocoa beans from one country and milk from another distant location. This supply chain strategy enables the firm to spread its operations across many locations.

The role of ombudsman in ADR and its impact on sovereign government Coursework

The role of ombudsman in ADR and its impact on sovereign government - Coursework Example While usually asked by one party or the other to become involved, the ombudsman may take the initiative without being requested to do so. While formal definition of the role is not legally universally accepted, the description of the role is generally as stated and practiced within the limits and specifications of various legal systems and constitutions. Functioning on local, national and international level, the role of ombudsman is the purest and most effective form of alternative dispute resolution between individuals and more powerful entities. The Ombudsman: Concept and Mechanisms for ADR The role of Alternate Dispute Resolution (ADR) in resolving the grievances of private citizens has expanded over the years to achieve a status even among attorneys as a valid legal and useful practice. Rather than merely an alternative to costly litigation, it has resurrected ‘traditional notions’ about the use of negotiation and out of court settlement.1 Over the past two decades ADR has evolved into a complex arena for settling disputes, encouraged by the rise in popularity and acceptance of the ombudsman as prime impartial negotiator. With the increased use of ombudsmen, officials in this role can be found at all levels of government, as well as in settings of private industry and academia. Modeled on a long established Swedish precedent, the concept took hold in Europe the 1960s along with a growing ‘power to the people’ movement seeking redress for the average person against the powerful forces of government and industry in dispute situations. Ombudsman were to assist in achieving fairness by means of independence, unfettered access to records and persons, careful investigation, impartiality and the prestige of the office. Ombudsman today can be found in almost any official capacity where parties involved in disputes are in need of an impartial negotiator. Differences in the operational aspect among these negotiating agents often depend upon where he or she is expected to function, but always within the clearly defined parameters of impartiality and/or political neutrality. In the private corporate environment, the ombudsman may not only resolve differences between workers and employers, but often affect better conditions in the workplace that discourage extreme acts by the offended party or parties as a means to resolution. Mechanisms employed in these circumstances may prove simple or complex, depending upon the nature of the grievances or dispute, as well as the commitment and attitudes of the parties at odds. The goal, however, is always the same: a fair resolution to a conflict of interests that satisfies and is fair to both parties achieved in a non-litigious setting. In the public arena--as in disputes with government and public agencies—the ombudsman also functions as a bureaucratic monitoring mechanism. Basically, the activity in the public realm may be viewed as threefold: as stopgap measure to holding administrators accountable for treatment of citizens; as righting wrongs done to citizens, and as a tool to dissuade citizens from becoming alienated from the tangled government bureaucracy, rendering it, or seemingly so, more human and personal. As watchdogs, ombudsman look for potential government abuses, and at times, as is fair and appropriate to their role as impartial mediators, they can also vindicate officials unjustly charged in a grievance with wrongdoing.2 The position then is a hedge against what many citizens see as an all powerful bureaucratic

Marketing mix Essay Example | Topics and Well Written Essays - 2750 words

Marketing mix - Essay Example Constantinides described from many research scholars the weaknesses and the possible propositions to modify this marketing mix. Several marketing mix have been proposed to be used by practitioners in a bid to improve the total influence that they impact on the total sales (Constantinides, 2006). Among the marketing mixes that have been proposed, is the traditional 4Ps which still stand out as a framework that is used by many marketing practitioners. The research showed that indeed many scholars have been raising their concerns about the unsuitability of 4ps framework being used in the marketing strategies by companies or corporations or business entities wishing to capture the 21st century customers’ attention. His conclusions agreed with his initial assessment and prediction of the same. It is however, noticeable that much of the propositions he relies on have not been tested but are just personal recommendations of the other previous scholars. Nevertheless, the case study gave an insight into the very much argued topic about the appropriate marketing mix that should be used in today’s ever dynamic business world. This whole work again makes it a critical issue to even want know whether the 4ps of marketing is currently applicable to the customers as a way of marketing strategy. The author Efthymios Constantinides is a well experienced person as a lecturer and an expert in the corporate world with a doctorate degree in Virtual marketing. He therefore, is well versed with the required knowledge to write on a topic like this. The doctor according to the way he writes, probably targeted the marketing practitioners as his audience in this publication as well as fellow researchers evidenced at the end of his conclusion remarks where he recommends that further research should be done on the same field. It is also true that these were not the only target audience to Mr. Constantinides going by the

The Voting of Many But Not All Essay Example | Topics and Well Written Essays - 750 words

The Voting of Many But Not All - Essay Example After 9/11, the United States found itself at that point more than ever needing the elected officials in Washington to come together and work towards protecting the needs of the citizens at a time of the greatest uncertainty. With that being said, when it comes down for election time, the levels at which people come out and vote are not still at maximum capacity. As this is an election year, the statistics for this year will not be available until later on, but with all things considered, 2008 is appearing to be a year of stronger voting numbers. The question is how come voting numbers in recent elections have not been as strong as they may be now According to the US Census report from March 2006 in regards to the voting numbers for the 2004 general election, "In the Presidential election of November 2004, the sixty-four percent of voting-age citizens who voted was higher than the sixty percent who turned out in 2000. This was the highest turnout in a presidential election year since 1992, when sixty-eight percent of voting age citizens voted. The overall number of people who voted in the November 2004 election was 126 million, a record high for a presidential election year," Adding that, "Voter turnout increased by 15 million voters from the election in 2000. During this same 4-year period, the voting-age citizen population increased by eleven million people," ("Registration" p.1). In the same report, the Census shows that based on the 2004 reported totals, it appears that both males and females had roughly the same percentage of registration to vote. That would serve to put a hole in the idea that one gender votes more than the other, but not quite in that registering to vote, while it does show intent, cannot guarantee follow-through. The '06 report also details the statistics that native citizens are more inclined to vote than those who are foreigners, as well as that the older population does tend to vote at a higher rate than the younger population does. As it gets closer to election time, there are countless pushes made to get out the vote, especially the vote of the ever desirable 18-24 demographic. With organizations like Rock the Vote, young people are given countless opportunities to reach out and flex their civic muscle for the greater good. Their website states that, "Rock the Vote mobilizes young people to create positive social and political change in their lives and communities. The goal of Rock the Vote's media campaigns and street team activities is to increase youth voter turnout," ("Rock p.1). Assessing the information, the question could be asked that when it comes time to vote, do people even have all of the information which they need to make a responsible voting decision when they reach the polls The online website Wikipedia says that, "Modern political science has questioned whether average citizens have sufficient political information to cast meaningful votes," ("Voting" p.1). This is a question that in itself is the root of the final voting levels which are seen on Election Day. Many reasons can be given as to why this occurs. Voter apathy, lack of education, or even in the worst case scenario, voter intimidation which unfortunately has been accused of happening in recent years. A good example provided of how this can be true is the article by the website CommonDreams.org. In their article

Marketing mix Essay Example | Topics and Well Written Essays - 2750 words

Marketing mix - Essay Example Constantinides described from many research scholars the weaknesses and the possible propositions to modify this marketing mix. Several marketing mix have been proposed to be used by practitioners in a bid to improve the total influence that they impact on the total sales (Constantinides, 2006). Among the marketing mixes that have been proposed, is the traditional 4Ps which still stand out as a framework that is used by many marketing practitioners. The research showed that indeed many scholars have been raising their concerns about the unsuitability of 4ps framework being used in the marketing strategies by companies or corporations or business entities wishing to capture the 21st century customers’ attention. His conclusions agreed with his initial assessment and prediction of the same. It is however, noticeable that much of the propositions he relies on have not been tested but are just personal recommendations of the other previous scholars. Nevertheless, the case study gave an insight into the very much argued topic about the appropriate marketing mix that should be used in today’s ever dynamic business world. This whole work again makes it a critical issue to even want know whether the 4ps of marketing is currently applicable to the customers as a way of marketing strategy. The author Efthymios Constantinides is a well experienced person as a lecturer and an expert in the corporate world with a doctorate degree in Virtual marketing. He therefore, is well versed with the required knowledge to write on a topic like this. The doctor according to the way he writes, probably targeted the marketing practitioners as his audience in this publication as well as fellow researchers evidenced at the end of his conclusion remarks where he recommends that further research should be done on the same field. It is also true that these were not the only target audience to Mr. Constantinides going by the

The historical and institutional factors Essay Example for Free

The historical and institutional factors Essay The historical and institutional factors that contributed to the differences between the current German party system and the one that existed under the Weimar Republic One of the first major ways in which the current German party differs from that of the Weimar republic concerns the way in which democracy was formed. Whilst the current system was created through a constitution that received the respect and support of all the political parties concerned, the Weimar Republic was formed as a direct result of Germany’s defeat during the second world war. Although the Weimar Republic attempted to create a democratic Germany the economic downturn caused by the repercussions of the First World War entailed that it was difficult for political developments to take hold. The Germany politicians were forced to accept of the Versailles Treaty in 1911 and the inclusion of the ‘War Guilt Clause’ led to compulsory reparations to be paid to the alies. The agreement to this treaty caused a major split between the political parties and the extreme right were able to utiilise this to create an unstable political system. A further difference between the two political entities can be observed in the economic backdrop to their position. Not only did the Versaille Treaty have a crippling effect on the German economy, they were heavily dependent on foreign investment, loans and economic prosperity from the United States. In this vulnerable position the Weimar Republic’s existence was reliant on outside investment, which came crashing to a halt during the Wall Street crash of 1929. Post Wall Street Germany was a country that suffered from mass unemployment, homelessness and hunger and was crippled economically and, by 1933, the economy stood on the brink of collapse, with an economy which should, realistically, have long since declared itself bankrupt (Frei 163). The current German party however, is operational in very different circumstances. Their economy is one of the most advanced market economies and they are largely export led (World Bank, 2007). The people of Germany have a faith in their political system that wasn’t in evidence during the time of the Weimar. Another difference between the two political entities concerns the attitudes and beliefs of the people they governed. During the times of the Weimar, the far right was extremely prominent and had great power through the support they received from the wealthy constitutents (Childers 46). Through such power they were able to instugate violences and coups. Today people more readily accept regime and acknowledge its legitimacy. Extreme right wing politics have been legislated against and radical right wing parties are banned from power. It wasn’t just economic conditions which caused the Weimar Republic to be weak. The Republic also suffered from structural weaknesses. One example of this concerned Article 48 of the constitution which conferred dictatorial powers upon the President during an emergency and did not require collaboration and agreement with the Reichstag ministers. Furthermore, the constitution installed a system of proportional representation which resulted in the multiplication of small splinter parties.This meant that a stable minority in the Reichstag was impossible and there were frequent changes in government. Works Cited: Childers, Thomas. The Nazi Voter: The Social Foundations of Fascism in Germany, 1919-1933, Chapel Hill: University of North Carolina Press, 1983 Total GDP 2007 World Bank. Retrieved on September 17, 2008 from http://siteresources. worldbank. org/DATASTATISTICS/Resources/GDP. pdf Frei, Norbert. National Socialist Rule in Germany. Translated by Joel Golb . New York Columbia University Press , 2002

Evaluation of Mathematics Curriculum

Evaluation of Mathematics Curriculum The question, ‘Why Teach Mathematics?’ as put forward by Ernest (2000), is one without a straightforward answer. Ernest (2000) outlines many difficulties which must be overcome if mathematics is to be taught effectively, namely the wide-ranging and complex aims of school mathematics (Ernest 2000, 7). The debate continues to rage in the columns of the broadsheets, as to whether the mathematics teaching in this country is effective and indeed whether or not it meets the needs of an increasingly complex society. Furthermore, as propounded by Ernest (2000), should the learners themselves be allowed to opt in or out of mathematics learning by choice? The first issue to be discussed is the mathematics curriculum itself. Ernest (2000) recognises four main aims for school mathematics and, therefore, the curriculum: ‘1 To reproduce mathematical skill and knowledge-based capability; 2 To develop creative capabilities in mathematics; 3 To develop empowering mathematical capabilities and a critical appreciation of  the social applications and uses of mathematics; 4 To develop an inner appreciation of mathematics – its big ideas and nature’ (Ernest 2000, 7) These four aims represent the need for a demanding and comprehensive curriculum. The mathematics curriculum has undergone radical changes in recent years, most notably with the introduction of the National Numeracy Strategy in 1998 (DfES 1998). This was followed in 2006 by the renewed Primary Framework for Mathematics (DfES 2006), its aim ‘to support and increase all children’s access to excellent teaching, leading to exciting and successful learning,’ (DfES 2006, 1). Throughout the new framework there seems to be an increased emphasis on problem solving (using and applying) and calculating skills, seemingly in accord with Ernest’s views on the matter, particularly in terms of developing creative abilities in mathematics. The renewed framework for mathematics places increasing importance on developing practical skills and, ‘providing real experiences, context and meaning,’ (DfES 2006, 13), seemingly in line with Ernest’s views. Consequently, it would seem that the current mathematics curriculum is headed in the ‘right’ direction. Indeed current classroom practise is a far cry from the traditional mathematics lessons of the past. Teachers are encouraged to think of the needs of all their learners through using a variety of different interactive teaching strategies. Children are challenged and supported to make progress at a differentiated level. Indeed classroom practitioners are expected to include sophisticated differentiation into their short term planning. This should surely mean that the standard of mathematics within schools is improving. This would also seemingly be at odds with the suggestion put forward by Ernest when he asks, ‘should the same curriculum be followed by all?’ (Ernest 2000, 8). This would imply that if the same curriculum is followed by every pupil, the needs of every pupil are not being met. However, this is not the way that mathematics should be dealt with in the classroom, as summarised by Wain: ‘The degree to which the teacher retains control of what the learners  do each lesson and the extent to which the learners can choose the next task  vary†¦but typical of all is that learning is individualized to a very great extent,  although often within a group setting. Whole-class teaching is, in general,  not used, or used sparingly, and each pupil is engaged in a learning process  that is unique to him or her.’ (Wain 1994, 136) The view that modern teaching methods have improved the standard of mathematics learning in this country is not, however, the opinion commonly put forward by many of today’s journalists. Chris Woodhead of the Sunday Times (August 26th 2007) recently reported that an insufficient number of pupils are obtaining A*-C grades at GCSE level, despite the fact that pass rates are higher than ever: ‘Last year 45.8% of students achieved five A*-C grades including English  and mathematics in the GCSE examination: 54.2% did not. This annual  statistic is one that the government was long reluctant to release. In that  English and maths are of such crucial importance, it is the only statistic  that matters.’ (Woodhead 2007) These figures would seem to suggest that the teaching of maths in this country, and perhaps the maths curriculum itself is in someway failing the young people who sit their GCSE mathematics examination every summer. However, A*-C are not the only pass grades, and this figures could, therefore, be construed as misleading. Institutes of further and higher education do seem to place emphasis on successful candidates having the required A*-C grade in mathematics, however, is this the most useful way of assessing how successful an individual will be at higher levels of study, particularly when that individual may not be continuing their mathematics education beyond GCSE level? Indeed Ernest puts forward the idea that, ‘mathematical attainment is mistakenly identified with intelligence and mental power and used to grade and select persons for various forms of work, including professional occupations, as well as in terms of suitability for higher education,’ (Ernest 2000, 8). Consequently it would seem that too much emphasis is placed on achieving desired grades in mathematics at GCSE level. However, the view of employers and those of higher education institutes is unlikely to change until public opinion is revised, after all, ‘Yes 98% of candidates are awarded some sort of grade, but everyone knows that any grade below a C is worthless in the real world,’ (Woodhead 2007). This argument would seem to lead into another suggestion by Ernest (2000, 8), concerning the viability of the current arrangements for teaching mathematics to five to sixteen year olds in a modern environment, ‘Requiring learners to study mathematics from the age of five to 16 years is less easy to justify if mathematics is not as useful as is often assumed,’ (Ernest 2000, 8). This could be taken to mean, is mathematics as necessary as we think in order to survive and progress in today’s society? It could be proposed that any number of professions, or avenues of employment, do not require the individual to have mathematical knowledge in order for them to execute their duties successfully. Consequently, it could be argued that individuals should be allowed to, ‘opt out altogether,’ (Ernest 2000, 8), if their chosen career path permits it. The difficulty with this route would be deciding at what point in their education the individual should be allowed to opt out of their mathematical instruction. On the other hand Orton (1994, 14) expounds at length on the importance of mathematics in the world today: ‘The indisputable fact is that mathematics is vital to the maintenance of satisfactory living standards. It is mathematics which underpins the science  and technology that support modern society. It would seem to be a  legitimate aim for educators to wish that pupils will come to an understanding  of how society works, and this implies an understanding of how mathematics provides support’ (Orton 1994, 14). Consequently, it could be said that regardless of whether or not we need mathematics for our employment, it is essential for survival in the modern world. At its simplest level individuals needs a knowledge of money and monetary systems to survive in today’s world, something that is addressed by mathematics teaching. At a more advanced level, as technology advances apace, the individual needs to be equipped to operate it in a variety of different occupations. However, is the mathematics curriculum preparing the individual for this adequately? Another question to be considered as part of this debate is, ‘where does mathematics teaching end, and information and communication technology (ICT) teaching start?’ There is surely considerable overlap, and when considering Orton’s (1994, 14) point above, this must be taken into account, indeed the teaching of mathematics must have considerable overlap with a number of different subject areas if it is to be effective. This is a view put forward by the renewed mathematics framework, which places emphasis on the importance of, ‘making links between curriculum subjects and areas of learning,’ (DfES 2006, 13). Making meaningful links between other subject areas and mathematics could make what is learned more valuable as it becomes ‘real’ for the learner. Ernest puts forward the idea that, ‘it is an unhappy learning experience for almost half of the population,’ (Ernest 2000, 8), referring to the experience of learning mathematics which five to sixteen year olds undergo. This would seem to be supported by current research, which indicates that students are reluctant to carry on their study of mathematics beyond GCSE level. Doctor Richard Pike of The Royal Society of Chemistry said in an interview with BBC News: ‘Schools and students are reluctant to consider A-level mathematics to age  18, because the subject is regarded as difficult, and with league tables and  university entrance governed by A-level points, easier subjects are taken.’ (Doctor Richard Pike, BBC news 2007) This would seem to suggest that mathematics at A-level is considered too difficult and insufficiently interesting to tempt students to continue their studies after GCSE level. It also implies that schools and further education institutes are foregoing this more traditional subject in favour of more popular subjects. Doctor Pike also claims that because of this drop in the number of students taking A-Level mathematics, there has been a knock on effect for students wishing to study science at university: ‘Increasingly, universities are having to mount remedial sessions for incoming science undergraduates because their maths skills are so limited, with many having stopped formal lessons in mathematics two years earlier at GCSE level.’ (Doctor Richard Pike, BBC news 2007) If the fact that students are no longer choosing to take their mathematical studies forward into A-level can have such a knock-on effect on their university studies, surely it could be argued that giving students the opportunity to ‘drop’ maths earlier in their education could have even greater implications. Pupils need to be fully aware of all implications before making choices about their A-Level studies. It would seem that thought should also be given to making the prospect of studying A-Level mathematics more attractive to both students, and educational establishments. The concept of making mathematics more ‘attractive’ to the potential A-Level student, takes us back to the discussion we started about the curriculum. It also links into Ernest’s thoughts on appreciating mathematics for its own sake. He discussed appreciating the social role mathematics plays, and has played in the past, (Ernest 2000, 7). Perhaps by incorporating the history of mathematics into pupils’ education it may give them an increased appreciation of the subject itself: ‘The appreciation of mathematics as making a unique contribution to  human culture with special concepts and a powerful aesthetic of its own,  is an aim for school mathematics often neglected by mathematicians and  users of mathematics alike.’ (Ernest 2000, 7) This would suggest that this aspect of mathematical education would be a valuable addition to the mathematics curriculum. Ernest also says that it would be a mistake to confuse an appreciation of maths with ability, as the two don’t necessarily go hand in hand. It is quite possible to develop an appreciation of maths without having an innate ability in the subject (Ernest 2000, 7). Indeed developing an appreciation for mathematics itself, may lead to an increased interest in the subject, consequently this may lead to an improvement in mathematical ability, as interest can be a key factor in children making academic progress. In conclusion Ernest (2000) makes a number of interesting points in attempting to answer the question, ‘Why Teach Mathematics?’ Despite the improvements made to the mathematics curriculum, and the teaching of mathematics, in recent years, there does not seem to have been a sufficient improvement in the number of pupils achieving A*-C grades at GCSE level. There has also been a knock-on effect on the number of pupils taking mathematics at A-Level and beyond, perhaps due to lack of interest, or perhaps due to the difficulty of the subject. Institutes of further education also seem reluctant for their pupils to study mathematics at A-Level. Ernest also puts forward the suggestion that pupils should be permitted to choose to what point they continue their mathematics education, however, this could also have multiple implications. It has been argued that a sound mathematical knowledge is essential for living and working in the world today, despite the fact that many occupatio ns do not necessarily require the individual to have any formal mathematical qualifications. Ultimately a mathematical education would seem to be a necessity for pupils in full time education, however, the way in which it is taught should be constantly reviewed in order for pupils to gain the full benefit of what they have learned. It is the responsibility of educators nationwide to ensure that pupils have a rich and varied mathematical experience, and that they themselves see the importance of teaching mathematics. Bibliography BBC News (2007) www.news.bbc.co.uk/2/hi/uk_news/education/6588695.stm, date accessed 27.08.07 DfES (2006) Primary Framework for literacy and mathematics. London: Department for Education and Skills. DfES (1998) The National Numeracy Strategy. London: Department for Education and Skills. Ernest, Paul (2000) Why Teach Mathematics? in Bramall, S and White, J (Eds) Why Learn Maths? Bedford Way Papers London: Institute of Education Orton, Anthony (1994) Aims of Teaching Mathematics in Orton, Anthony and Wain, Geoffrey (eds) Issues in Teaching Mathematics. London: Cassell. Wain, Geoffrey (1994) Learning Styles and Teaching Mathematics: Towards Open Learning in Orton, Anthony and Wain, Geoffrey (eds) Issues in Teaching Mathematics. London: Cassell. Woodhead, Chris. (2007) The GCSE’s Failure www.timesonline.co.uk/tol/news/uk/education/article2326707.ece, date accessed 27.08.07

Micro Electro-Mechanical Systems (MEMS) :: essays research papers

Micro Electro-Mechanical Systems Micro Electro-Mechanical Systems (MEMS) is the integration of mechanical elements, sensors, actuators and electronics on a common silicon substrate using microfabrication techniques. MEMS are a hot area of research because they integrate sensing, analyzing and responding on the same silicon substrate hence promising realization of complete systems-on-a-chip. As MEMS are manufactured using batch fabrication techniques similar to IC technology, MEMS are expected to deliver high functionality at low prices. Current systems are limited by the capability of sensors and actuators, as these are bulkier and less reliable than the microelectronic circuit. In a MEM system the sensors act as the ‘eyes’ and gather data about the environment. The microelectronic circuit, which is the ‘brain’, processes the data and accordingly controls the mechanical systems, the ‘arms’ of the MEMS, to modify the environment suitably. The electronics on the MEMS are manufactured using IC techniques while micro machining techniques are used to produce the mechanical and electromechanical parts. MEMS Fabrication: There are number of methods to fabricate MEMS like silicon surface micromachining, silicon bulk machining, electro discharge machining, LIGA (in German, Lithographie, Galvanoformung(Electro Plating), Abformung(Injection Moulding)) .Only silicon surface micromachining is discussed here. Silicon Surface Micromachining Silicon surface micromachining uses the same equipment and processes as the electronics semiconductor industry. There are three basic building blocks in this technology, which are the ability to deposit thin films of material on a substrate, to apply a patterned mask on top of the films by photolithographic imaging, and to etch the films selectively to the mask. A MEMS process is usually a structured sequence of these operations to form actual devices. 1. Deposition Processes: One of the basic building blocks in MEMS processing is the ability to deposit thin films of material. This is achieved either through the processes like PVD or CVD. 2. Lithography: Lithography in the MEMS context is typically the transfer of a pattern to a photosensitive material by selective exposure to a radiation source such as light. In lithography for micromachining, the photosensitive material used is typically a photoresist. When resist is exposed to a radiation source of a specific a wavelength, the chemical resistance of the resist to developer solution changes. 3. Etching: If the resist is placed in a developer solution after selective exposure to a light source, it will etch away one of the two regions (exposed or unexposed). Then another layer of material is deposited and the first layer selectively etched away as shown in the figure resulting in the required MEMS.

How does Intelligence help the Joint Force Commander Essay -- Militar

Intelligence is a critical component of joint planning and execution. Through the prism of Phase 0 (zero) Shaping, intelligence relates the realities of the operational environment before hostilities including an assessment of current economic, political, and cultural dynamics. Yet, throughout the subsequent phases of operational planning, analysts can also develop concise estimates on friendly and enemy centers of gravity (COG), thereby introducing not only the triggers of adversarial activity but at what point friendly forces can maneuver with maximum decisiveness. All the while, intelligence professionals systematically prepare real-time and near real-time intelligence to maintain the informational edge during execution. Intelligence enables the Joint Force Commander to visualize the operational environment, evaluate operational effects, and sustain information superiority throughout the duration of joint operations, thereby offering increased integration, synchronization and direction of involved joint elements. Understanding the complex operational environment of today and tomorrow is elemental when integrating diverse forces to achieve a favorable outcome. Intelligence professionals have a wide array of systems to draw from when preparing intelligence to facilitate a broad understanding. This array includes combat support agencies as well as national intelligence agencies which work in an ever increasingly collaborative environment. This aids the intelligence professional as they collect raw information as well as already produced actionable intelligence gained throughout all levels of war and throughout the full scope of military operations. This effort is critical in establishing priorities of effort which will ... ...s to collect information, evaluate problems, and reach the most plausible solutions. However, the varying requirements of operational and tactical warfare merit differing approaches to planning and execution. The design of the JOPP process is for campaign contingencies which fall into the scope of operational level, while the MDMP process is best suited for the tactical level. Moreover, JOPP takes into account that a joint commander may not be as thoroughly knowledgeable of all assigned forces as the tactical commander would be. Wisely, JOPP asks the joint staff and commander to evaluate friendly, as well as enemy, COGs so to evaluate capabilities of either force. The tactical commander, not wanting to take anything for granted, would already know the true combat potential of the force, as speed and decisiveness are certainly critical in the tactical realm.

Education Is Very Important Essay

It helps us gain knowledge, information and interpret things correctly. Education teaches us how to lead our lives by mingling in the society and turning out to be good citizens. It makes us capable of interpreting rightly the things perceived. Education teaches us right behavior and makes us civilized people. It forms as a support system to excel in life, to continuously learn and build confidence, to reason everything till every question meets its answer. The conversion of information to knowledge is possible because of education and we also gain intelligence. Higher education influences the economic development of a nation as per the economists. A person is always judged by good manners he/she has. Education is important as it teaches us to differentiate between good and bad manners and choose the right behavior that cultivates good manners. Good manners are important for kids to develop at a very young age. Kids must learn to be polite, learn telephone etiquette, socialize with other kids and develop values. All this can be taught at home as well as school. Teaching your children good manners creates a foundation for them that will follow them through life. Education is important because it equips us with all that is needed to make our dreams come true. When we opt for higher education or masters, we need to choose the specialization field of our interest and talents. Most leading courses allow you to study all areas for the first year and to choose a specialization in your second year when you have more exposure and knowledge about these fields. The technical and analytical skills can be well explored in the area of one’s interest.

Divorce and Our National Values Essay

Peter Kramer in his essay â€Å"Divorce and Our National Values† suggests that either Americans celebrate the individual, autonomy, and self-fulfillment or we honor marriage as the centerpiece of social stability. The question is whether these values can be competitive and destructive or can they be complementary and empowering. Through teamwork and communication, marriage can be complementary and empowering while being honored as the centerpiece of social stability; however clashing points of view can cause the relationship to be competitive and destructive. First of all, I am the perfect person that can talk about marriage because I am married. Individualism, autonomy, self-fulfillment and the concept of marriage being the centerpiece of social stability all play their role positively if balanced correctly. Although we worked together to pay bills and satisfy our needs, we also supported each other’s sense of worth and striving towards our personal goals, such as educ ation and travel. Positive support and feedback are very important because there will always be disappointing moments, even overwhelming at times. Being reminded and loved helps society and our marriage move forward. Marriage being the centerpiece of society strives for the greater good, which is the world. I am in the Navy, an organization that gives me self-fulfillment. My wife is always at the house and after a while, she becomes itching to find herself other than be a housewife. We take up many identities: I am a sailor, a husband and a friend. With these titles, not only we can play multiple roles in society but at the same time, it contributes to personal satisfaction and from there, you can help others including the family succeed in any aspect. However, there is a dark side to all of this. Secondly, clashing viewpoints can cause relationships to be competitive and destructive. In most cases, selfishness is one example of a destructive viewpoint. Although there is a certain extent one can be selfish, too much selfishness is destructive to all walks of life, both work and relationship wise. I hear from my friends and family talk about people they knew that would go out and party instead of staying at home to spend quality time with the family. They talked about how the husband had to grow up fast due to impregnating his high school sweetheart and joining the workforce without realizing his personal ambitions or experiencing life as a bachelor. In society, women are more prone to settling down at younger ages than men. However, both sides are at guilt due to maturity and making the big decision of starting a family. Despite all the clashing, couples learn to understand each other’s viewpoints or edit themselves for the integrity of the relationship; all others take a turn for the worse and are not willing to work at the relationship, being satisfied with the outcome and themselves. Divorce can be double-sided or one-sided. In total, it depends on the couples and their viewpoints; some work out and some don’t. Although clashing viewpoints can be detrimental to marriage and even unsuccessful marriages hurting society as a whole, I believe that teamwork and communication will lead marriage in the right direction and can be honored as the centerpiece of social stability. We must learn to set aside our differences for the sake of the new generations to come. I do believe that nothing is perfect in our society; however people in general will become more productive, positive and moralistic when these values are incorporated into them, especially the marriage and eventually everyone will be able to understand one another for the sake of the greater good. Works Cited Kramer, Peter D. â€Å"Divorce and Our National Values.† Merickel, Missy James and Alan P. Reading Literature and Writing Arguement 4th ed. Boston: Longman, 2008. 503-505.

Influence the Age of Exploration Had on the New World and Africa Essay

The Europeans, during the Age of Exploration, had an influence on both the New World across the Atlantic Ocean, and the much closer continent of Africa. In both Africa and the New World, Europeans had similar influences in that they negatively affected the natives in their search for riches such as spices and precious metals, and wherever they traveled they would spread Christianity to the natives. One example of this is when Cortes arrived in the Aztec empire he demanded they convert to Christianity, and when the Portuguese began colonizing east Africa it didn’t take long for the Jesuits to come. However the spread of diseases, the slave trade, and the economic takeover of natural goods differed in the New World and Africa. Africans were accustomed to the diseases of Europe, the natives of the Americas were not enslaved as the Africans were, and the Europeans were unable to take over the natural resources of the Africans because of their stronger government structure. In both the New World and Africa the Europeans were constantly in search of riches and devoted to the spread of the Christian faith. Christopher Columbus’s first expedition across the Atlantic was in search for spices. In Africa, they wanted precious metals such as gold. In the New World and Africa the native people had their land taken from them by the Europeans so that they could search for these valuable things. When the Portuguese were settling the east African coast they forced the leader of the Mwene Mutapa to grant large sections of land to their officials. In the New World the natives also lost land but the Europeans were much more forceful. When Cortes came to the Aztec city of Tenochtitlan a battle broke out that killed the majority of the local population. This negatively influenced both the two worlds. Another influence on the native population was the spread of Christianity. The Spanish had forced the Aztecs to convert to Christianity but when they refused, a battle broke out. In Africa Jesuits had started to come to the Portuguese settlements in hopes to convert natives. Although the Portuguese Jesuits were less violent than the conquistadors, both Africa and the New World were influenced by the spread of Christianity European exploration and colonization had different effects on the New World in contrast with Africa in regards to disease effecting society, the effect politics had on slave trade, as well as the economic takeover of natural goods in the New World. European diseases alone wiped out at least half the population of the Americas. When Columbus arrived to  Hispaniola the population was 100,000 but just 77 years later and it had dwindled to 300. Diseases had a massive impact on the New World whereas it had little to no effect on Africa. Due to the fact that Africa is so much nearer to Europe, they had more exposure to these diseases, specifi cally Malaria. African ancestors were able to build up a stronger immunity to the diseases carried be European therefore it had contact with Europe via the Trans Saharan Trade Route, it is believed that African ancestor’ exposure to many diseases created resistance in further African generations. Therefore, the African population was much less effected by diseases carried by Europeans explorers than the Native Americans. When the Europeans arrived to the Americas they were able to take the population by storm. The Native Americans were weak and defenseless compared to the Spanish, who had horses and modern weapons. Columbus himself called these people â€Å"naà ¯ve innocents.† Due to their innocence it was easy for the Spanish to capture them and put them to work in sugar cane fields. This was quite the opposite however of the slaves captured from Africa. These slaves were actually negotiated between African slave traders and the Europeans. Slave merchants were paid with East Asian textiles, furniture, and spices. This differentiates from the completely forced capture of the slaves in the Americas because Africa was already well established. The indigenous people had a strong form of government and trade was strong along the Trans Saharan Caravan Trade Route. The Native Americans on the other hand did not have a stable enough government to withstand the Europeans. Looking at this form and economical stand point, natural resources were taken over in the Americas by the explorers. They harvested all the sugar cane, gold, and silver for their own trade purposes. The Indians were forced to work the fields, not own them like before. In Africa though, due to its strong establishment, Europeans could not forcibly take resources. Instead they negotiated and traded with slaver merchants to get what they wanted: slaves who would be forced to go the Americas to be the labor force for harvesting the natural resources there. The New World and Africa were affected by the Europeans during the Age of Exploration in similar and opposite ways. Both were negatively affected in the European’s search for riches and spices. They were also influenced by the spread of Christianity by the Portuguese Jesuits and Spanish conquistadors. There were differences however in the way European  diseases effected the foreign populations, how slavery in Africa was handled compared to the New World, and the economic takeover of natural goods in the societies.

THE POLITICAL EVENTS AND CIRCUMSTANCES THAT INFLUENCED GABRIEL GARCIA Essay

THE POLITICAL EVENTS AND CIRCUMSTANCES THAT INFLUENCED GABRIEL GARCIA MARQUEZ IN THE LEAF STORM - Essay Example Colombia is a South American country that is influenced strongly by Spanish rule and is the site of several international trade for countries like USA, France and Britain for over four centuries now(Henderson 2). Gabriel Garcia Marquez is a Colombian writer who has written books that reflect the economic and social realities of his coutry. This paper examines the book, Leaf Storm which presents the vivid facts about an imaginary town, Macondo located in Colombia. It looks at the political events and factors that acted as foundation for Marquez to write the book and its implications in relations to that era of Colombian history. Leaf Storm is a narrative about the thoughts and views of three generations of a family; a grandfather (Colonel), a daughter and a grandson. Each of them give their views and opinions about a conflict involving the Colonel’s family and the people of Macondo who have an extreme hatred for a dead man who was the guest of the house for many years. The deceased, who happened o be a doctor, was seen by the townsfolk as cruel because he refused to treat members of the town who were wounded in the country’s civil war though he was qualified to. The people of Macondo therefore thought that the deceased did not deserve a normal Christian burial. On the other hand, the Colonel had made a vow to the deceased to perform his burial, since he had no known family members. In honor of his promise, the colonel sought to get the dead doctor a normal burial and as members of his family, his daughter and grandson had to support him in their conflict against the people of Macondo. The book therefore gives accounts of the events from three perspectives; an older man, a young lady and an innocent child. All these descriptions show strong links to Colombia’s political and social history. The narration appears to be set in 1909 (Marquez 2), a period linked with the numerous transformations that occurred in Colombia’s history including the Thousand Day War (1899 – 1902) and the establishment of numerous banana plantations including the United Fruit Company, which became a common entity in most of Latin America in that point in history. These two events came with so many complications and strive that determined the politics of the era. Pelayo(28) identifies three major events in the history of Colombia that are defined subtly through the writings of Leaf Storm. They include: 1. The arrival of the Banana Company 2. The people that the Banana Company attracted (the leaf storm) 3. The end of the Colombian Civil War The Thousand Day War Prior to 1909, the y ear the narration was set, there was a war in Colombia between 1899 and 1902 known as the Thousand Day War. It involved the members of the two major political traditions of the country: the Liberal Party and the Conservative Party. The liberals accused the conservatives of retaining power through election fraud and this led to the commencement of a war that saw massive destruction of properties and human lives across the country (Henderson 54). This war was also fueled by economic crises caused by the falling coffee prices on the international market. This trend showed the need for the diversification of the country’s economy by planting other crops like bananas to support Colombia and prevent overdependence on coffee exports. Although Marquez does not refer to the Thousand Day War directly in the book, it can be inferred logically that the 10 or so men who were wounded and demanded treatment from the deceased doctor were involved in that war. Also, they appear to be fighting on the side of the rebels and the dead doctor seemed to be preserving his integrity by abstaining from the treatment of rebels. This clearly shows the extent people went to take and protect their positions in the Thousand Day War. This shows that there were some elites and conservatives who stuck to the ruling government when the war prevailed. This also shows the

Educational leaders Assignment Example | Topics and Well Written Essays - 250 words

Educational leaders - Assignment Example †¢ Creation of an extensive environment of collaboration within schools.  Ã¢â‚¬ ¢ Creation of an extensive environment of collaboration within schools.  Ã¢â‚¬ ¢ Most importantly, in schools, the formation of action groups facilitates in resolving the problems faced by children. The collective brainstorming sessions help to come to a consensus which is accepted by everyone concerned.It means to me that leadership initiatives are important factors that help inculcate a strong sense of responsible behavior and rational approach. I should always try to rationalize the contentious issue and apply critical thinking to come to the right decision. Knowledge becomes the single most important tool that empowers individuals and encourages one to understand the problem and resolve the issue through mutually. Moreover, I understood the importance of collaborative environment where teachers, administrators, and students together make collective decisions for the welfare of the students as well as for the school. Most importantly, shared goals should also promote collective decision making. Hence the formation of problem-solving work group greatly facilitates consensus that resolves the issue amicably.I intend to apply the knowledge gained to my life in general. Effective decision making is a responsible and hugely crucial aspect of personal and professional growth. As a student also, efficient and effective decision making based on informed choice greatly improves and improvises the productive outcome of all our learning processes involving projects, class work, and examination etc.

Culture's social networks and social support in culture context Assignment

Culture's social networks and social support in culture context - Assignment Example These social networks and social support exist as a meshwork that connects individuals or institutions. The social sphere in the society greatly modifies the pattern of development and competencies of the children in later life. This gives an assurance of good life when they become adults. It is noteworthy that the exposure of these gadgets to the children brings heterogeneous outcomes that manifest themselves on how the child develops in the society. These outcomes may be of positive or negative consequences to the child and may even breed total distraction from the culture the society. The other immediate source of social development takes place when children interact with their parents. It is imperative that children copy lifestyles from the family members and make them permanent habits. The ethics and culture of the society are impeded in the family members. In this regard, the type of bonding activities between the family members and the children has a lifelong effect in shaping the infants’ future in the society (Tietjen 101). It is evident that by selectively exposing the child to diverse social networks, the child gets equipped with diverse life skills that shall be very useful in

Marketing Law Team Meeting Research Proposal Example | Topics and Well Written Essays - 750 words

Marketing Law Team Meeting - Research Proposal Example It will be an uphill task to satisfactorily answer their queries. We are about to get our produce manufactured from China. The goods that we get manufactured from China and pass off as our own raises legal issues that do not act in our favor. The consumer buys the product in the belief that it is manufactured by us. In the event there is a mismatch in the outcome of the use of the product, we could face charges of misleading the consumer. Other than this, it could also land us on charges of false representation. We could also face intent to defraud. I am aware that we are outsourcing the manufacture due to labor cost constraints. There may be others who are already manufacturing their goods from China. However, let us take a long term view. We want to survive in this business. Let us scout for more competitive destinations. We need not make cost the determining factor. We may have to make the consumer pay more. Nonetheless, the consumer will even buy it. I am not trying to tar whole China with one brush. I am not saying that the Chinese only produce inferior goods. However, the track record of that country will keep us on our toes. We will have to have the goods checked for any compromise on quality before packaging them. We will have to have a system in place whereby the goods are always checked before they are packaged. This exercise will add to our costs and we will have to ensure that it is in place for all the time we continue to receive goods from China. There isn't any possibility of the situation changing in China in the foreseeable future. The Australian customer wants the best quality. We have to make sure that the product we offer is the best and has the potential to be among the top manufacturing competitors. We have to contend not only with individual cases, but also a whole lot of groups. When a flaw is noticed in the product it will lead the consumer to the retailer and then to the company. It will not be possible to square up to the customer. The word will spread. The cost for reparation will be enormous. Let us be more pragmatic in our approach. Let us be more competitive. We will consider other destinations. Let not the cost factor limit our choice to China alone. There are others in better situation where the cost may be more but we may not have to preoccupy ourselves in matters regarding quality. Litigation in China The social and economic conditions in China are changing very fast. Public Interest Litigations (PILs) are filed in courts for social injustices. There are non-government organizations that take up issues to deal with human rights, racial or sexual abuses. However, there is silence on issues concerning economic offences. It is not very clear how far we could get on issues of economy. The system moves very slowly and it rarely favors the litigant. The outcome of many cases is unknown (Public Interest Litigation in China). Conclusion It is good to see the end from the beginning. As of now, we are not in a position to do business with China. In our line of business, we cannot compromise on quality. The product we are offering must be near perfect. We must face our consumers. Our consumers are demanding. They are asking for the best. The legal implications are clear. We cannot hide from the law. Our business requires us