Importance of Participation

This is a vital issue today that what is the purpose of electing the political parties to form the government. If we look the entire democratic process it completely gives the picture of non people oriented leadership establishments in political leadership, getting education, starting business doing any social services. The democracy's look is capitalist. Till we change this look and understand the democracy has given the first right to common people and that right is representative right and now we have to think how this right should be used by the common people to lead the society entering into the political institutions.The representative right is now used by the wealthy classes in our society and they able to build the political parties and in maximum cases they constituted the constitutional framework that gives the political parties to come in front of the common people through election commissions registration process. If we seriously look into the function of election commiss ion they should limit themselves to act for preparing the people's mandate giving programme and listing the voters, but they are doing some extra job given to them by the political leadership who want to remain in seat of power.The democracy is the rule of the common people first using the representative right from the constitution directly   and forming the political institutions to workd for the people. After five years the election commission make the arrange ment for asking people to vote to these institutions which has been formed directly taken the representative right through the constitutional provision to establish the people's leadership in the political institutions. We have to change the capitalist huge social money costly system in people oriented simple and meaningful process.Which could bring social unity among the world community and the capitalist people also feel for the society and remaining in the society and earning they mustnot ignore the social needs afteral l society is supporting them to get the profit  and taxes are not the only answer because taxes is to be collected to run the administration properly because present world social system, social centralised imagination is not thought about so every welfare programmes has been taken by the state and the result is that they unable to fulfill the people's desire.So change the democracy and  all political parties should correct the constitution of their country to include the people's commission provision to provide the people their first democratic right of The Representation   to form the political institutions in this way we can control the society and unite the people  for better purpose. Peace, security and prosperity would come through the social system  supported to political system.

Research Essay

Throughout this assignment I intend to demonstrate an understanding and knowledge of research methodology. I will examine how research is used to support practice and policy. I will address research terminology and the roles and responsibilities of the researcher. Our group research project will be critically analysed. Kumar (2001) implies research is more than a set of skills. Research is a way of thinking and examining the various aspects of your day-to-day professional work, understanding and formulating guiding principles that govern a particular procedure. Research helps us to understand why things behave the way they do and why people act in a certain way. If carried out effectively, research can be imperative as it brings about change in policy and practice Burns (1972). The two predominant methods of research are Quantitative and Qualitative research (Kumar,2001). These methods differ primarily in their analytical objective, the type of questions they pose and the different m ethods of data collection. The following definition, taken from Aliaga and Gunderson (2000,pg1), describes what we mean by quantitative research methods: Quantitative research is ‘Explaining phenomena by collecting numerical data that are analysed using mathematically based methods in particular statistics.’ (Muijs,2011) Quantitative research is also described as traditional or empirical research, meaning that it is based upon observation, experimentation and measurement (Lambert). Qualitative research is usually a more detailed form of research and cannot usually be expressed in terms of numbers. It often takes in to account people’s values, attitudes and opinions. The three most common qualitative research methods, are participant observation, in-depth interviews, and focus groups. Each method is particularly suited for obtaining a specific type of data. Lambert (2010, pg 256) infers that both qualitative and quantitative approaches can be combined in a single study to improve depth and breadth. For the purpose of our small scale research project we used a research question as opposed to a hypothesis. A hypothesis is a statement of assumption which will be tested in the research (Muijs,2011). A research  question is an initial statement to set the scene for exploratory research within an interpretivist framework. A questionnaire was used to gather data for our research project. Newby (2010) states questionnaires are amongst the most popular. The advantage of using a questionnaire in date collection is they are practical. A large amount of information can be collected from a group of people in a short period of time. The data can be expressed statistically. It is thus possible to make comparisons with other studies. The results of a questionnaire can be easily evaluated, analysed and quantified by the researcher (Barlette & Burton, 2012). The disadvantages for this type of research is people may not be honest when filling out the questionnaire this could lead to the data pr ovided being false and therefore invalid (ibid). The interview is the most prominent data collection tool in qualitative research(Muijs,2011).When data has been quantified, it can be used to compare and contrast other research and may be used to measure change. Positivists believe that quantitative data can be used to create new theories and / or test existing hypotheses (ibid). Researchers are required to consider ethics in every aspect of their conduct. The Belmont Report states the three fundamental ethical principles for using any human subjects for research are Respect for Persons, Beneficence and Justice (U.S Department of Health & Human Services,1979.) The first of these principles meant that the researcher should treat the participant as an independent person who should be kept fully informed at all times. The researcher should also ensure that persons with reduced independence such as a child should be protected at all times. Beneficence is included to ensure the benefits of being included in the research should outweigh any negative impact to the participant. Justice implies that selection of the participants must be fair and those who are asked to participate should also benefit (Macfarlane & Bruce, 2009). Personal values and also professional values that researchers should use when carrying out a study, will be analysed. A code of ethics is a fra mework to help and advise us but ultimately it remains the responsibility of the individual (Early Childhood Australia,2010). Research ethics are a set of principles on how researchers  should conduct themselves when dealing with research participants. Denscombe (2007) states we must respect the rights and dignity of the participants, avoid harm to research participants and carry out the research with honesty and integrity. According to Stonehouse (1991) a code of ethics is ‘a statement about practice, or what we will strive to do. It is based on core values, or what we believe’. There are a number of reasons it is important to conduct research in line with ethical standards; it is a sign of respect for participants, other researchers and those who will use the research. A code of ethics is not enforced but it is something that we should adhere to. The Impact of Distance Learning on a Student’s Work and Home Life Introduction In order to better understand what affect distance learning has on the work and home life of a student, students from the Education Department at Anglia Ruskin University in the second year of their Foundation Degree in Early Years collated data from a research module seeking to answer the following question: Does combining distance learning and working have a negative impact on a student’s work and home life? The chosen method of data collection was via a questionnaire with the answers offering an explanation and understanding as to why students look to improve their early years education skills by going back to study and what challenges they faced. Method The research was a 10 minute questionnaire, asking a mixture of both closed and open questions. A combination of closed and open questions were used so allowing students to answer in a more efficient and accurate manner. Opinions from each of the surveyed students were as important as were the answers to the multiple choice questions. The questions asked related to a work and life balance, and sought to understand how students deal with the work and study balance. Sample The results are a snap shot outlining the sort of pressure s placed on students in terms of time, commitments and everyday lives. The results covered how many hours a week were worked, where was the work undertaken, where did the students live and the time pressures on completing course work. It outlines the key challenges facing mature students who are looking to further their early years education and teaching careers. Ethics To ensure that all University protacals were observed, an introduction was provided outlining the aim of the research and confirming what research the surveyed students were being asked to contribute. Confidentially was important so was the opportunity if needed to withdraw from the research at any time. Results The results of the survey outline the time constraints and challenges faced by the students as they look to progress their education and their career Figure 1 – Gender of students. The above results showed that 100% of the surveyed students were female. Though we are unable to draw any direct conclusions from this, perhaps females are more likely to return to early years education than their male counter parts. All were involved with early years education and so found the early years course additional help to their working lives. Figure 2 – Age of Students The above outlines the age of the students. 75% of those surveyed were in the age range of 25 – 34. Though we cannot draw any direct conclusions from this, it would suggest that the 25 – 34 age range has the propensity to undertake further education whist working and looking after their children.  The younger age groups perhaps are more interested in their social lives where the 44+ are perhaps to well established to go back to further education. Figure 3 – Hours worked per week The above outlines the number of hours worked per week. This shows that the early years students are having to work quite long weeks whilst undertaking and finishing course work. Figure 4 –Who do you live with? The above research shows that out of the surveyed students none currently reside at home with their parents. As 75% of them are from the 25 to 34 age demographic, they have all moved out from the parental home and are either residing with their partner, or with friends. Figure 5 – How many children do you have? The above shows that the students have a real cross section of the number of children they currently have. The older students are more likely to have had children, so making their daily working lives even harder to undertake the required course work. Reasons for embarking on this foundation course The students were asked why they were embarking on the foundation course, all respondents cited the need to gain further qualification in order to improve their chances of career progression. Some cited the need to complete their EYPS by 2015 allowing the student to move with an improvement in their career prospects. Those with children were looking at the opportunity of also progressing their career but at a slightly older age. Some students were encouraged by the in house management to undertake the course so improving their knowledge and skills. Figure 6 – how much research is undertaken? The above outlines how much research was undertaken before the students undertook the course. 25% admitted they had done very little research and had relied on word of month from friends and past students. 25% admitted attending an open day so they were better able to understand the course and the time requirements. The reminder was either advised by their managers to undertake the course or had done minimal research and joined the course anyway. Figure 7 – Choice of learning. The majority said they did have a choice in how to study, but elected to undertake distance study. The remaining 25% who did not have a choice said that their working hours meant they were unable to take anytime out to attend face to face courses. If they had a choice, would they have attended face to face courses as opposed to opt for distance learning? Out of the total sample, 75% said that work commitments were an influence in making the decision to undertake distance learning with the remaining 25% stated this was the only option for undertaking and completing the course. All the students agreed that distance was more flexible and was a cheaper option. Figure 8 – Effectiveness of distance learning The research indicates that when the students were asked to compare distance learning having previously undertaken face to face learning, they all agreed that distance learning was worse. The students found it more difficult to express opinions over distance learning and missed the one to one question opportunity. Better communication via face to face because information was taken in and understood more easily. The speed of response was thought to be quicker and better via face to face with greater accuracy and clarity in the  answers. The students were asked if distance learning allowed discussions to take on a greater degree of thought and reflections, with 50% saying yes it did, and 50% saying no it did not. Figure 9 – How many hours per week do you study? The total number of hours per week given over to studying is split, with 50% of the surveyed saying 5 to 10 hours, whilst the remaining 50% saying 10 plus hours per week. The difference could be down to level of experience, age, ease of distance learning or just the time it takes to undertake assignments. Each individual will have key skill bases that will allow then to complete the projects in different timelines, hence the difference in hours per week worked. Using the Likert scale (Newby,2010) the results were conclusive that students felt 1 module per half term would improve the balance between study and home. In completing the modules, 75% either agreed or strongly agreed that completing one module per half term as opposed to two over a term certainly improved the study/home life balance, with 25% saying they did not agree nor disagree. This comes back to being able to prioritize their workload more successfully as they have a clear goal in a defined timeline, as opposed to a longer timeline where better time management could well be needed. Figure 10 – When do you study? The survey group had different work patterns, with 50% working at weekend, 25% in the week and 25% working across both. This would probably be driven by their respective home life, their career, if they have children and where  they lived. Studying time would have to fit in around many other external factors. All the surveyed agreed that the study time affected their home or social life. The younger individuals lost out on time meeting friends and going out and all agreed that weekend life with its need to undertake family and home jobs meant that their time was really squeezed. Time management was a key to getting all of the modules finished and in on time. In terms of hobbies, all agreed that they had and enjoyed taking part in their hobbies, whether it was in the week or at weekends. Out of the survey, 50% stated that these were severely affected and the remaining 50% said that they were affected. Hobby time spent was certainly reduced with 50% saying that the distance learning had a significant affect on how much time they could send pursuing their hobbies over a given week. The surveyed also found that their employers had very different reactions to their distance learning, with 75% being given no extra time off to help with their studies, and 25% being helped by their employer. The 25% who were helped were allowed on average one study day off per week. Figure 11 – Is the study having a positive effect in your workplace? Interestingly 50% said that the learning experience was having a positive effect on their work place, with 50% being unsure. The positive impact allowed the newly gained knowledge to be used in the work place with positive effects, helping day to day running of work, cascading more information down to other staff members, additional responsibility being enjoyed and the general acceptance that the new learning was having a positive impact of the workplace and fellow colleagues. In terms of dealing with the pressure of distance learning, all of those surveyed said they felt that the support they received as part of the online group did not help them deal with the added pressure and workload from the  extra learning. This could be down to the whole new experience of distance learning where previously they had the face to face time, where issues could be discussed and solutions found. Now if there are any issues, then the individual must try to find a solution themselves and so are potentially feeling more isolated and pressured. 75% did feel that having a mentor aided them in their day to day studies, where 25% were unsure. Again this could be down to the new experience of undertaking distance learning with the individuals taking to time to understand how to best use the mentor. As this process develops so the mentor could well be used more in a way to help find solutions to ongoing issues and problems. The mentor when asked had a great deal of knowledge, but the issue was still how best to use them. All of the surveyed felt that having a mentor in no way helped them in reducing the number of hours they had to work. The mentor was there to help with specific questions, not to help with larger problem solving hence reducing the number of hours that had to be worked. All of the surveyed felt with the advent of modern technology development, distance learning will play an important part for our future generations. It was felt that individuals could go back and study without having to give up their jobs, the studying would be more convenient for them and their families, older students would not have to sit in a classroom with younger students so having perhaps a confidence issue and generally the feeling was being able to study at a time and in an environment that was more suited to the individual. Reflection The undertaken research and related results were indeed a very worthwhile process that yielded some frank and interesting points of view. With any form of research, hindsight plays an important part when reviewing the  questions, the questionnaire, the sample size and the overall results. The information allowed the survey to demonstrate a view that distance learning on the home/work life balance is truly a challenge particularly when looking at the relative age and social position of the surveyed. The questionnaire included a number of dichotomous questions giving clear unequivocal responses (Cohen,Manion & Morrison,2011). Open questions gave participants an opportunity to write down their opinions generating qualitative data(Kumar,2001). Research ethics as described by Blaxter et al. cited in Bell (2005) is about being clear about the nature of the agreement with the research participants. Clear instructions and the overarching ethics of the research meant there was no poor interpretation. Sample sizes are always important and so the larger the sample size the more accurate and more believable the results become. Quality of the samples then becomes of paramount importance so though the sample size is small, the results are accurate and are a true reflection on what was reported within the questionnaire. All data collection and results interpretation proved to be fairly straight forward mainly as the sample size was small and the surveyed students were willing to share their views and spend time accurately filling out the questionnaire. References: Barlette & Burton , S & D (2012) Researching education . London: Sage. Bell, J (2005) Doing your Research Project . 4th ed. Berkshire: Open University Press. Cohen, L., Manion, L., & Morrison, K. (2011) Research Methods in Education . 7th ed. Oxon: Routledge. Early Childhood Australia (2010) Code of Ethics literature review [Online] Available at http://www.earlychildhoodaustralia.org.au [Accessed 25 November 2013] Kumar, R (2011) Research Methodology. 3rd ed. Great Britain: SAGE Publications Ltd. Lambert, E.B (2003) Introducing Research to Early Childhood Students. Australia : Social Science Press. Sage (2010) Introduction to quantitative research [Online] Available at http://www.sagepub.com [Accessed 27 November 2013] U.S Department of Health & Human Services (1979) The Belmont Report [Online] Available at http://www.hhs.gov [Accessed 1 December 2013] Weatherall, S. (2013) Research terms, MOD001251 Research 1 . [Print] Anglia Ruskin University, Unpublished.

Nursing education System Assignment Example | Topics and Well Written Essays - 500 words

Nursing education System - Assignment Example The theoretical part of nursing education introduces nurse students to the healthcare environment and what their duties and responsibilities as nurses. When it comes to practical training, the objective is to equip nurses with hands-on skills and experience that allow them to execute the required duties and responsibilities. In this respect, nursing is a critical component of the health system infrastructure. The bid to enhance healthcare system is subject to the influence of many different factors. Successful health systems capitalize on the availability of human resources, which in this case include all healthcare practitioners. This makes nurses a critical part of the success story therein. In enhancing health system infrastructure, one of the primary goals is to ensure that nurse-patient ratio remains favorable to the welfare of the general population. What this means is that nursing is just as important as any other healthcare aspect. The requirements of entry into nursing practice vary from one country to another. In the United States, nursing education and practice entry programs are divided into four levels, namely: hospital-based diploma, associate degree at hospital-based level or at community college level, bachelor’s degree, and master’s degree or higher (Shulman, 2009). The first three levels are mostly common as entry point requirements while the last one is relatively less common. States play a major role in regulating nursing in the United States. Every State has its own approaches and mechanisms of regulating nursing practices. Amid state-level regulation, the American Nurses Association plays a fundamental role in the healthcare setting. This association works with state governments in matters of funding, continued competence, and nursing education advancement (Hawkins, 2011). The primary goal of nursing regulation is to ensure that nurses are not only responsible and accountable, but

Design a total rewards program based on the organization that you have Essay

Design a total rewards program based on the organization that you have studied thus far in the course - Essay Example ply goes to the scheme telling that organization wants to obtain productivity and outcome from its employees and in turn it will provide its employees valuable experience and reward. The following paper will represent the total reward program for the certain organization and will recommend changes to it. It will further assess and discuss the risks of implementing the program and the opportunities it can give to the organization. Certain metrics will be provided for evaluating the total rewards program. For the Sport & Health fitness center it is vital to provide the best services for its clients through excellent work of their employees. As it puts into practice different activities that are connected with the health improvement, it should take into an account professionalism in the execution of its employees’ duties. The organization offers affordable services and is aimed on people from all occupations and life styles and involves everyone from children to the elderly. Since modern life cause people to feel stress more often, for some individuals it is also the monotonous and inactive life and going in for various sport and fitness centers will be the way out that will provide them healthy life. These facts put fitness Centre in the forehand as one of the growing industries. However, the modern technologies and improvements in the recruitment spheres require deeper understanding of how such business should conduct its activities. Thus, Sport & Health fitness center experi ences currently certain financial problems, as the technology is advancing and it requires better acquisition of more modern equipment. It is also facing the challenge that is connected with the people’s understanding of fitness and its role in their lives. Along with it, the organization should revise its policy of providing service, as in the future it can face with the competition because health issue is obtaining more attention and thus more fitness establishments open its doors to

Annotated Bibliograpy. Environmental Change and Challenge Essay

Annotated Bibliograpy. Environmental Change and Challenge - Essay Example It is also important for the world to embrace the need for scientific concepts in the study and understanding of the global environment (Dearden and Mitchell 89). They further say that the environmental change in the West has played a significant role in the state of the region in the modern day. In Ammons poem he advocated for proper dumping of wastes. The need of proper dumping programs is the key to a pollution free environment. The increasing sizes of dumping sites are alarming to the environment. Each and every day the society faces cases of environmental degradation through inappropriate dumping and emissions of waste (Ammons, par 6). Cultural Trash: Waste In The West A.R. Ammons. Corsons Inlet; The City Limits; Garbage Dearden, Philip. & Bruce, Mitchell. Environmental Change and Challenge. Toronto: Oxford University Press, 2005. Print Garbage has been one of the emerging problems in all countries including the United States. In referring to garbage, many environmentalists refer to dumping as an environmental hazard. Apart from dumping the society faces affects of industrial wastes. Generally, it can be referred as pollution through emission of waste. With the increasing population it is obvious to conclude with the assumption that the waste levels in the United States are significantly increasing. This begs the question; where does all this waste go to? Are they properly disposed? What does the government contribute to see appropriate disposal programs? As much as there is improvement in disposing regulations, they are not enough to ensure the people that the environment has become waste free. In years dumping sites have been the most contested issues for the activists, industries and the government locking horns on the location of dumping sites. Activists always believe that every location across the state is no t an option for a location of a dumping site. Activists advocate for a dumping site free environment. According to Dearden and Bruce, the government has the financial resources to recycle all the waste produced by the population (45). Apart from recycling, activists also advocate for the government intervention in the evaluating materials used in manufacturing products. With proper evaluation, there is the possibility that non biodegradable items will not find their way into the society. In an argument by Ammons, an appropriate measure to stop dumping is to tackle the problem right from the production face (par, 9). Environmental friendly packaging should be advocated for. Packaging materials form almost 90% of the total waste dumping. Population dumping is usually small scale if compared to industrial waste emission. Different from population dumping, industrial dumping constitutes of more hazardous chemicals and metal bits. If industrial dumping is properly dealt with, the polluti on status of the whole environment could be decreased by 70% (Dearden and Bruce, pp. 87). In the modern society, industrial evaluation and certification process covers the safety of emissions to the environment. In recent years, most industries have opted to join the go green campaign by using environmental friendly products and minimizing emissions. This trend is improving but in a slow motion. The government has fiercely joined in the fight for the controlling of industrial emissions. However, some mega companies and industries still have the green light to process goods with very great effect to the environmen

The Features Of The Education Of Children With Autism Essay - 1

The Features Of The Education Of Children With Autism - Essay Example When playing or cooperating with others, he imagines goals and objectives differently, and one of the few ways that he is mean or uncooperative with his fellow classmates is when he views them as â€Å"stupid† because they don't share his perspective on the game or its objectives. He is very rational in some ways, struggling to understand how others make emotionally motivated or social decisions. Adam B. does very well in art, geometry, science, and math getting As and Bs very easily and wondering why others find it so hard. He fails to understand how they can be doing badly at these tasks. Meanwhile, he struggles to get above a C in history, English, and other classes, though he has managed to keep his grades high. The material does not resonate with him, and he finds it very hard to do anything besides keeping dates and places straight: He finds it difficult to understand motivations in stories and history. He is competent in music but he doesn't understand what others experience when they listen to it: He views music exclusively as a way to calm him and doesn't like the noise. In physical education, he is poorly coordinated but very strong and doesn't know how to coordinate his own strength. He is larger than most of his classmates, being in the 80th percentile of height. His social strengths are that he is very nice, helpful to others, and tries to greet others warmly. His academic strengths are in rational, logical, ordered tasks that do not involve understanding motivations or theories. However, he gets very impatient with others. He struggles to make eye contact, and when he is nervous, he does repetitive behaviors that distance him from others: He mutters a nonsense language under his breath and plays with his fingers, tapping them against each other and shaking them rhythmically. He acts up when there is too much noise or activity, and finds it hard to play with others when they are being too loud.

Management Control Systems Essay Example | Topics and Well Written Essays - 2000 words

Management Control Systems - Essay Example Management control systems refer to the ways a company collects information to manage and control the activities regarding accomplishment of organizational goals and objectives in an effective manner. It is a fact that without proper management, no goal can be achieved in a timely manner as various difficulties can arise in this process which need a proper resolution. A management control system helps management and employees perform their assigned activities in a proper manner using the information stored in it. Management control systems refer to the way a company collects information to use it to accomplish organizational goals and objectives in an effective manner. A management control system helps employees and management in performing their assigned activities in a proper manner using the information and guidelines stored in the system. Management control systems deal with every system of a company, which may include accounting methods, employee benefit programs, performance ap praisal, and performance improvement systems. However, companies need to use management control systems as packages to make the most efficient use of these systems. ... s, activities, tasks, goals and objectives, and guidelines regarding every particular department and business process which managers and employees can use to perform their respective activities. For example, when the top management of a company has to hire new employees for any particular department of the company, they refer to the guidelines stored in the management control system which help them perform candidates’ selection and evaluation in a defined manner. It also helps managers assign relevant tasks and duties to new employees. Moreover, they assist top management in performing performance and productivity analyses, as well as in developing employee benefit programs. Today, the business world is changing rapidly because of the changes in technology, nature of competition, and consumer behaviors. Companies need to change their management control systems accordingly to benefit from the ongoing changes instead of leaving behind in the race of competition. Companies need t o demonstrate their knowledge regarding change to react positively to the changes in the external environment to maintain the key performance indicators, as well as the levels of productivity and profitability. Managers of companies need to link operational control and strategic planning by using the guidelines of management control systems. As Asel (2009, p. 4) states, â€Å"the focus of MCS is not only on one form of control like performance measures but on multiple control systems working together. They can use management control systems to direct all administrative matters, as well as to manage the issues of employees. 3. Management Control Systems as Packages As Sandelin (2008, p. 324) states, â€Å"the functionality of a control package depends on internal consistency, specifically on the

Health care questions Essay Example | Topics and Well Written Essays - 1000 words

Health care questions - Essay Example rch has got its own due place within the midst of things and it would only be natural to decipher the true meaning of public health systems if proper measures are undertaken to take care of the patients under consideration. These patients should be given the room to have a better treatment regime in place so that their health could be insured and the measures that go in the wake of finding out such nuances are also given the much needed boost that is required within such discussions. The research regimes will aim to further find out how the development of future public health systems would mean success for just about everyone who is related with the public health quarters in one way or the other. In essence, research will find out the different developmental measures, means and pathways through which success can be envisioned and new opportunities to further expedite the process of giving better return on the public health systems for the sake of the common man are determined and thu s provided. As known to the public health systems that are prevalent in the time and age of today, the most important factors in the delivery of the same include the leadership quarters and the management ranks of the public health systems. What this implicates is the fact that a leader who has his say within the provision of public health in a proper way goes to show that the public health systems are built upon in a very serious way, and that there would be success for the people who matter the most – the stakeholders who are the patients themselves. Apart from leadership, there is a dire need to comprehend that managing the related activities of public health are also very significant. This is because the successful development and management of public health systems and activities would pave the way for the eventual linkage that is established amongst the different stakeholders and not just between the patients and the public health domains. There is a good amount of

Technology, Literacy, Authentic Assessment Article

Technology, Literacy, Authentic Assessment - Article Example The Shanahans drew their population from grade, middle, and high school students (Timothy and Cynthia, 2012). The article deduced that teaching disciplinary literacy would offer learning benefits middle and high school students. The article provides keywords expected to be found by readers throughout the article, which is positive because it prepares them. The keywords are terms that the Shanahans consider important for understanding disciplinary literacy. I found it also helpful that the article does not contained any other unexplained terminology or complex diction, which makes it simpler for the average reader to understand it. The only downside I witnessed with the article is the authors’ professional-amateur contrast wherein they gathered open information. Here, the authors do not succeed in linking experts’ â€Å"illiteracy† in disciplinary literacy to teachers’ tools or solutions for teaching their classes today. The article could have used a quantitative approach for this particular section to establish a thorough demonstration of responsibility for disciplinary illiteracy amongst schools today. Researchers William R. Watson, Christopher J. Mong, and Constance A. Harris conducted the study at a remote high school in a small town in the Midwestern United States. The study was aimed at exploring the situation of a second-years high school class. Watson, Mong, and Harris used a population of four classes by a specific teacher with each an estimated count of 25 students (Watson, Mong, and Harris, 2011). The study was conducted by analyzing a video game made for academic purposes pertaining to the Second World War called Making History. Watson, Mong, and Harris collected observational data, focus group and questionnaire fillings, and record reviews. The study found out that using video games to teach in classrooms leads to a change from a conventional teacher-focused learning

Focus Groups Essay Example | Topics and Well Written Essays - 750 words

Focus Groups - Essay Example The colours used to identify objects, the tone used to communicate , and the environment in which it is done all are important with teaching a particular subject matter. The method by which an instruction is passed on coupled with the quality of content also has an impressionable impact on understanding capability of the recipient. To support the above hypothesis a study was conducted on two groups of children from kindergarten, each group comprising of 10 children between the age group of the age 4 to 5 years .So that there is minimum disparity in the final results due to the level of understanding among the children of the two groups the IQ of the children in both the groups was almost the same. The main purpose of choosing this segment of kids was their total dependence on their facilitators for explaining the content to them. Unlike a slighter older group who can get study materials from reference libraries and the internet, this group due to their limited exposure, would have minimal external influence on the material they would be taught . Their understanding on the subject matter would depend mainly on the method of instruction, the kind of content and the mediums used to deliver it. The first group ( Group 1) was exposed to Montessori way of education and the second group (Group 2) to the traditional public elementary school way of conducting classes. The experiment was presided over by two experienced teachers. Children from both the groups were to be evaluated on a spelling test of 30, five lettered words which would be conducted after a period of about 20 days. The outcome of the two groups would be evaluated on the average scored, scored by each group. Group 1 was introduced to phonetics through the Montessori method of education which lays more emphasis on child development and the over all build up of the child. Here the children were exposed to phonetics in the play way method which helps them learn the spellings by recognising

Good Morning, Life! Essay Example for Free

Good Morning, Life! Essay Good Morning, Miss Dove, is a novel narrating the story of an elementary school teacher, who later in her life will suffer from an illness that would require her to undergo a life-threatening surgery. This bestseller was written by Frances Gray Patton. Life during the time of Miss Dove, was far more simple and serene. She has ruled the classroom for decades enforcing strict rules. Such rules reflect her humor-less, no-nonsense and stern personality. After all, she was more popularly known as â€Å"the terrible Miss Dove. † She epitomizes gentility and wisdom. She leads by example. Reflecting a dramatic event in life, the children she once mentored are now in turn at her service as her doctors and nurses. Events turned nostalgic as she began to see her students again, this time as adults concerned about the health of their second mother. Her students were taught to live abiding by strict rules. She instilled in them that lifes everyday challenges can be approached just by using ones common sense. These are practical rules. When practiced, it would certainly make our lives easier and more worth it. Life is complex in itself. Let us not add to its complexities by making our lives harder than it really is. Life is a learning ground. It is a huge classroom of endless learning. And we must all aim to graduate life with honors. Miss Dove is like any other parent proud of the fruits of her labor. She cared enough to trace the path she wanted her students to take. When payback day begins to dawn, the wind beneath our wings deserves credit. Echoing the voices of all the other pupils of Liberty Hill, let us thank this lady for teaching us lifes valuable lessons, in the manner that seemed like a live movie happening right before our eyes.

The Woman in Black Essay Example for Free

The Woman in Black Essay No reader of The Woman in Black Can be left in doubt about its conscious evocation of the Gothic. It is full of motifs and effects associated with that genre, How far would you agree with this statement of the novel? I agree undeniably, with the above statement, as the novel is a pastiche of the Victorian/Edwardian ghost story which is a sub-genre of the Gothic. Thus consciously evoking the Gothic. However, it could be argued that Susan Hill at times cleverly manipulates the motifs and effects associated with the Gothic genre. It is theses motifs and effects that are present in the gothic genre, which I will discuss in The Women in Black (1983). I will begin by briefly discussing this essay on the genre itself The Gothic genre is a genre that has been burning artistically for centuries, ever since it was more or less invented by Horace Walpole in the classical gothic novel The Castle of Otranto1765 possessed the indispensable and core elements of this genre, it was set to be a benchmark for following work in this field such as The Woman in White (1860) by Wilkie Collins, The Italian (1797) by Ann Radcliff, The Monk'(1796) by Mathew Lewis and Bram Stokers Dracula (1897). The Women in Black is full of Gothic elements and conventions throughout. The reader at first realises the effectiveness of the first person narrative of the novel; this is delivered by Arthur Kipps the main character of the story. Effectively, the reader gains a first hand insight of thoughts, feelings and emotions of Arthur instantly as they happen. Therefore, slowly but gradually the reader becomes attached to Arthur due to the sense of immediacy that they experience with the unfolding of emotions, thoughts and events when Arthur does. This is initially used in the opening chapter Christmas Eve when Arthur states; I was seized by something I cannot possibly describe, an emotion, a desire- no, it was rather more, a knowledge, a simple certainty, which gripped me, Indisputably, the Christmas Eve opening of The Woman in Black echoes the opening of Henry Jamess Turn of the Screw. It is a convention of the ghost Story were in the festive season people gather by the fire and make up lurid inventions about vampires to even rats and bats. In addition the intertextuality of the novel is emphasised with the striking resemblance between Arthur Kipps and Jonathon Harker in Bram Stokers Dracula (1897). Here both are lawyers and both are very rational which is exemplified when Arthur describes himself as a commonsensical man. Another example of the novels intertextuality is one of the chapters actual name; Oh whistle and Ill come to you which is taken from an M.R. James ghost story. These thoroughly present intertextuality continuously imprints on the reader the elements of the novel, the ghost story. This is also agreed by most Enlish critic like (1)Alan Jones who says; Hills novel also shows an eclectic indebtedness to other text. The referential quality of text like Walpoles The Castle of Otranto or Lewiss The Monk, with their nods in the direction of medieval manuscript, Shakespeare, graveyard poetry and so on, finds full measure in the pages of her text. The first attribute acknowledged by the reader as a common Gothic element is the setting of The Women in Black. overall, there are two main settings of the story, one being Monks Piece where Arthur begins the story of The Women in Black. Initially, Monks Piece is presented as place from out of reach from civilisation, an area of remoteness and isolation, a place really distant. Arthur describes its air of remoteness and isolation which makes us feel ourselves to be much further from civilization. The supernatural or otherwise inexplicable events are a key theme in the Gothic genre and The Woman in Black is no exception. In The Woman in Black is the constant emphasis of man versus nature that is repeated throughout. Susan Hill provides an undetectable malevolent and treacherous force, using nature, whether its a fog, sea-freats or a mist. The ultimate felling of supernatural is without a shadow of doubt, created by the fog, one of Londons deadliest peasoupers. The fog slowly, but gradually constructs the sense of the supernatural by creating an illusion of uncertainty for both Arthur and the reader. This is conveyed when Arthur describes the fog. Fog was out door, hanging over the river, creeping in the and out of alleys and passagessly entrance at every opening of a door. This idea of the fog suggests the fog has become an entity by technique of personification used by Hill. This projects the idea that the fog is more than a fog. In that way it is given a beastly presentation especially by the use of the simile like a furred beast. The distinct description of the fog provokes the inevitable thought of the supernatural with its ever-present malevolent force. This idea of the isolation and remoteness is often used in the Gothic. It gives a clear sense of eeriness and vulnerability about Monks Piece. This is the setting were Arthur begins his ghostly narrative in an attempt to Exorcise the haunting of his past. This brings to mind the idea that when Arthur dies, his accounts of events would be found by someone else like the traditional manuscript found by Jonathon Harker in Bram Stokers Dracula. The other main setting of the novel is Eel Marsh House. In comparison with Monks piece, Eel Marsh House has an air of strange sensation, an excitement mingled with alarm. Eel Marsh House is projected as a place that will have you startled with excitement but also vividly perceptive at the same time. This is illustrated in the description when Arthur initially sets eyes on Eel Marsh House by saying; it was a tall, gaunt house that is isolated and uncompromising but also on the other hand Handsome. Nevertheless, Eel Marsh house is so indistinguishable of Monks Piece in the sense of the sheer solitude and loneliness about the place. However, unlike Monks Piece there is evil with a touch of wickedness about Eel Marsh House, this illustrates that Eel Marsh House is an updating of the Gothic castle. It is this Gothic aura that seems to be seducing Arthur. This idea can be unmistakably recognised when Arthur mentions that; I was aware of a heightened of every one of my senses, and Conscious that this extraordinary place was imprinting itself on my mind and deep on my imagination too This cleverly hints the supernatural force that seems to be enveloping itself around Arthur, inevitably, he appears to be addicted to the place and not discouraged by eeriness incorporated by the satanic sea vultures and by the bleakness that is being hurled by the small burial ground near Eel Marsh house which is typical Gothic iconography. This is further emphasised by the condition of the decayed gravestone with patches of greenish-yellow lichen and moss. Moreover, its the indecipherable dates and names on the Drablows graveyard that create mystery, just like how the novels time period and place of setting is left ambiguous. An atmosphere of mystery and suspense is another key Gothic element in the gothic genre and The Woman in Black is no different. The presentation of London in A London Particular establishes the mystery and mood of the novel. The city is presented as dark, evil-smelling, with a foul gloom atmosphere, when these carefully constructed metaphors and adjectives bind, they do paint a vivid image for the reader. In addition, the true sense of mystery and suspense is cemented by the introduction of Jennet Humfrye the Woman in Black herself. At the funeral of Mrs. Drablow, she is described as a woman with some terrible wasting disease a woman with skin that is tautly stretched and strikingly, a woman only a short time away from her own death. This description deployed by Hill illustrates that this is no ordinary woman and inhuman in some sort even to the extent that she is a walking corpse, a curse on Crythin Gifford. Therefore, Hill sustains the key Gothic theme of death and curse in the novel. The novel itself is built around the mystery of the woman and the tragic death of her child. This unravels that Jennets separated from her son because of the social stigma associated with children being born out of wedlock. This is heightened by the inexplicable behaviour of the Woman in Black and more effectively the reaction of those who see and hear of her presence. This is conveyed to the reader when Arthur says I had never in my life been so possessed by it, never known my knees to tremble And my flesh to creep, and then to turn cold as stone. The absolute fear here is over-ridden by the total danger which she has caused him. This utter tantrum is fuelled by the unexplainable event of disappearance by the wasted woman. This high, even overwrought emotion is common in most Gothic novels; it clearly portrays the feeling of impending doom being experience by the character, in this case, Arthur when he is in intense fear and sense of shock as he witnessed the vanishing of The Woman in Black. It is clear that Susan Hill effectively deploys the basics of gothic elements of gothic fiction. However, these elements are altered to appeal to a more modern audience in the case the castle. Therefore it can be said that Eel Marsh House is an updating of the Gothic Castle. Hill effectively sustains her Gothic genre of Gothic horror of contracting the soul, freezing the faculties and nearly annihilating them. This is apparent in The Woman in The Black several times with excessive examples of Arthur and even other characters including Mr. Jerome, when he is in shock, paralysed by fear of the Woman in Black; Mr. Jerome grabbed my wrist and held it in an agonizingly tight grip or collapse with some kind of seizure. Or even more effectively when the sense of danger and horror is built up using Arthurs companion dog Spider, who becomes accustomed to the threat present; Every her of her body was on end, her ears were pricked, her tail erect, the whole of her tense, as if ready to spring This form of reaction defines gothic horror capturing the idea developed by Ann Radcliffe. Another Victorian/Edwardian convention of ghost stories that cements the pastiches of the novel is how the setting is kept ambiguous. This is shown when Mr Bentley sends Arthur to Eel Marsh in-shire? to represent the firm at Mrs Drablows funeral. Moreover, the context of the novel is kept unclear, because the story could be taking place after the First World War or more likely in the Edwardian period due to the lack of cars present and more significantly to the continuous appearances of a pony and trap in the novel as a leitmotif. Overall, Susan hill captures the mood of the Gothic genre and specially the sub-genre the ghost story. Hill shows a great variety of traditional gothic elements with a blend of originality and innovation by overturning the readers expectation of the genre inconsistently within the novel. In the woman in black the oppressor is a woman and the victim is a man, Arthur, threatened by a powerful, impulsive and a tyramical female, where on the other hand most gothic genre have a woman as a victim. Nevertheless, this ingenious thesis by Hill is a pleasant one because undoubtedly the novel is unpredictable while still consciously evoking the gothic.

Operational Readiness And Airport Transfer Programme

Operational Readiness And Airport Transfer Programme Different types of operational problems are witnessed when commissioning new facilities, especially during the first day of operations, potentially resulting in poor performance and disruptions reflecting negatively on the organization. Many organizations require carrying out a readiness assessment of the new systems and facilities An operation readiness strategy will allow airport operators to dot right and most important to do it right the first time prior to the commissioning. It is critical that on the opening day of an airport, the airport personnel is fully trained to effectively implement correct airport procedures and for all equipment to be in good working condition. The scope of work includes the safe and effective handling of passengers, efficient transfer of baggage, effective handling of the new facilities and equipment and an effective emergency plan. The New Airport Terminal King Abdul Aziz International Airport (KAIA) is one of four international gateways in the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia. It is also one of the busiest airports during Hajj and Ramadan seasons. Due to the growth in passenger numbers, the development and construction of a new terminal is essential to meet with the daily demands, and this is what GACA (General Authority of Civil Aviation) intends to do. In fact, construction work of the new terminal has already been started. And the number of necessary handovers will require a clear and reliable guidance on what aspects are to be taken into account when dealing with the handover of facilities / buildings and systems. Our project aims to ensure a seamless transfer from construction to operation, avoid any serious difficulties during the end of the construction phase and contribute to the timely completion of the overall project. The development of a clear handover process will contribute to the operational readiness and prepare a more dependable warranty process. Operational Readiness and Transfer Program The complexity of an airport operational readiness project depends predominately on the systems and equipment employed and the time available for preparedness; rather than its physical dimensions. ORAT (Operational Readiness and Airport Transfer) is the key of success to achieve the operational goals. Purpose of ORAT Coordinate and assist stakeholders including external consultants, in the implementation of a defined operational readiness program for new infrastructure or services covering Operations and Maintenance from design phase through to operational implementation within a given timeframe. Conduct design review for new infrastructure to assess its suitability to meet operations and maintenance related objectives as well as international and national standards and regulations, and additionally prior to construction, identify and assist in the resolution of any design issues which may have a negative impact upon Facilities Maintenance processes. Ensure operational readiness planning is conducted in a timely manner through the establishment of O M stakeholder groups to, identify interdependencies and resolve operational issues as well as implement operational readiness time scheduling to facilitate accurate management reporting. Facilitate communication processes between departments and subsidiaries to ensure that the implementation of the requirements, including certification of all Regulatory Authorities and other government agencies is coordinated and well integrated within operational processes. Oversee and/or assist with the development of O M related standard operational procedures as well as operational contingency procedures for new infrastructure and services, ensuring correct operational integration. Oversee the implementation of maintenance training for new infrastructure and services to ensure that all new users can meet the required service levels to ensure the safe, effective, efficient and coordinated operation of the airport by operational due date. Ensure new infrastructure maintenance practices are operationally validated where practical, through testing of all operational interfaces between facilities, systems, procedures and human resources within a given timeframe. Ensure that operational validation testing includes all relevant stakeholders both internal and external. Review and/or assist in the development and implementation of contingency plans to manage any identified operational risk prior to the introduction of new client infrastructure or services. Oversee and/or assist in the development of Transition Planning to ensure a smooth transition is effected of new maintenance related infrastructure or services. Goals of ORAT Program Involvement and commitment of all airport users Resolution of operational interface issues Successful trial operations and relocation Timely inauguration Efficient operation from Day One Higher quality and service level standard Specification and Scope of Project The objectives of ORAT include having a coordinated approach to prepare all airport stakeholders including the airport operators, airlines, ground handlers, cargo agents and various government agencies, such as Customs, Immigration and the Central Industrial Security Force for the shift of operations to the new airport. Besides, it also has to ensure that there is streamlining of procedures, each and every person involved with the airport knowing their roles and responsibilities. The development of a clear written guideline of the overall handover process with all involved parties and their respective tasks is the objective of this project. After knowing the airport system and its flow of work First, all parties working in the airport and their roles should be defined. This step involves airport, contractors and government staff to ensure and specify the job description with no overlapped responsibilities. Second, these responsibilities are written in a clear guideline. Here, the guideline can be modified many times to reach the optimum goal of the work process. Changes are due to many reasons such as, enhancing the performance, changes in laws, modifications in some areas. Finally, application of the guidelines to ensure everybody is playing his role and getting feed backs for enhancement As building maintenance engineer, building maintenance is the concern of this project to set an example and expanded later to other divisions. Fraport in Brief METHODOLOGY 2.1 CONCEPTS An operation readiness strategy will allow airport operators to dot right and most important to do it right the first time prior to the commissioning. It is critical that on the opening day of an airport, the airport personnel are fully trained to effectively implement, correct airport procedures and for all equipment to be in good working condition. The scope of work includes effective handling of the new facilities and equipment and an effective emergency plan. To achieve ORAT goals, there are prerequisites to implement it which are: Facility: Hardware such as construction, equip. Information: procedures manuals Systems: AIMS, BHS, FIDS, NAVAID Security System Human resource: organization, qualified persons. Figure : Operational Readiness prerequisites Which is sometimes referred to as FISH, and a function checking components can be listed for each prerequisite as: FACILITIES Follow up of provision of facilities in respect of time, quality and quantity. State necessary operational conditions for rooms/equipment Alignment of requirement with available facilities Develop space requirements Approval of space requirements Develop equipment requirements Approval of equipment requirements Commissioning of the Operational availability of facilities INFORMATION State who has to provide which information in whatever form. Develop a processing procedure for these informations State necessary operational conditions for exchange treatment processing and transfer of information State intra-departmental responsibilities Approval of informational treatment and responsibilities. State what will be reported to whom, in what ever form SYSTEMS Creation of a dedicated IT-application for processing data. Assessment of necessary systems. Approval of these systems requirement. Procurement and/or adaptation system if not provided or not capable Implementation of system and application. Testing of connectivity of system and application. Commissioning of system and application. HUMAN RESOURCES Assessment of manpower requirements (qualification / quantity) Approval of manpower requirement by delegate Initializing of recruitment procedure by HR-department Selection of applicable personnel Hiring of selected personnel Training of hired personnel. An airports function can be divided into the Core Processes listed below, which are necessary for the operation of a major international airport. Development of Procedure As mentioned before, the project will concentrate on the maintenance and engineering department, point of view, to give a clear job description for all employees and their respective tasks. Fraport team had already cut a long path in this procedure. Learning the techniques and ways of how Fraport develops such a system is the purpose of The Young Professional Program. Procedures are till know being changed in Fraport, and are updated due to the daily requirements. Our goal is to catch-up with changes, discover the solutions with Fraport and implement them in KAIA. Fraport ´s organization differs than KAIA, in this case, it is our responsibility to search and soothe the project to be implemented in KAIA. Working with Fraport team for three months is a great opportunity. Even though the time was short, but the knowledge was intensive. Procedure Manuals Manuals have been collected with the coordination of Fraport operation team. Here I would like to notice that the Terminal team is responsible of the operation of the terminal as well as the maintenance of the terminal. Work tasks for every employee can be found here in the manuals. Looking at the manuals, and knowing how the work should be done, a system workflow can be developed. Then, a written form of these work tasks and responsibilities can be shown for every employee. The written form also describes what and how to do to accomplish the job. Results are stored in special system and which then connected to PCs to show progress and improvements if necessary. Identifying Stakeholders Achieving and maintaining the operational readiness stage of airports depends on the readiness of the entire airport community. The objectives of ORAT include having a coordinated approach to prepare all airport stakeholders including the airport operators, airlines, ground handlers, cargo agents and various government agencies, such as Customs, Immigration and the Central Industrial Security Force for the shift of operations to the new airport. Besides, it also has to ensure that there is streamlining of procedures, each and every person involved with the airport knowing their roles and responsibilities. Operation Maintenance Role The operation and maintenance role falls in to the service of their customers. Terminals operation and maintenance team, specially, are unique because they face and deal with the main costumer of the airport.

Essay --

Introduction In past history crime already existed. Many factors led to crime like school riots, and police corruption. Focusing on the 1980s drug crimes was a big deal as Cuban immigrant migrated to Unites States, specifically Miami, Florida. The people started making by starting an operation on trading and selling drugs and cocaine illegally from Cuba to Florida. A movie that perfectly fit into this category of crime during this time is, â€Å"Scarface†. The main plot of the movie is a Cuban immigrant took over a drug cartel business while giving into greed. This paper will use criminological theories to explain crime in the movie, â€Å"Scarface†. The following will reveal how classical theory, different association theory and institutional anomie theory are applied to the movie. Summary of "Scarface" It start with a Cuban immigrant named Tony Montana, when he got to Florida he was questioned by police authority as a result Tony was put in a camp with other Cubans as the authority was suspicious of him when he told them he has nobody that his family dead and he just wanted to experience the American Dream. Both Tony and his best friend Manny was offered to be release from the camp and given green card by Frank Lopez if they kill a former aide to Fidel Castro, Emilio Rebenga during a riot. After Tony and Manny got there green card they found a job as dishwasher in a fast food shop. Weeks later Frank's people came to Tony and Manny offering them another job to do for money. They accept the offer to trade in with Hector for drugs after consulting about how much they will get paid. As Tony and Manny go to their first drug dealing job it cause them a friend life and killing Hector. Frank immediately hired Tony and Manny seeing they got ... ...corruption. Another policy that might fix drug problems is law enforcement should be more focus on stopping or confiscating drugs from entering United States. We could have more checkpoints to stop drug from going through to America. A good policy should be teenagers are requiring participating in a program where we give them more knowledge of drug so we give them something to think about their future if they want to be success or ruin them with drugs. Conclusion Today all drugs are still part of the problem in committing crimes. Society and the police should really think about more effective policies or plans to stop this before it get worse. Of course there are more factors why criminal are criminal today but these three theories stood out in the movie â€Å"Scarface†, how it’s about the learning, the benefits, and monetary which motivated people to become criminal.

What is Education? :: Learning Learn Scholastic Essays

What is Education? To really think about what education is, it is practically anything we view it to be. Whether it may be formal or informal schooling, such as learning about the way mobs are run from your uncle, Fat Tony or someone, education is all these things. Of course, growing up I tend to have had this notion that education only involved Math, English, Science, and History, and now as I reflect, I thought about how stupid I was to think that. I know now that education is, and always will be anything we view it to be. I have learned a great deal from my formal schooling, but the education I seem to treasure most are the experiences I learn in life. When I think about all the situations I have been through and having been able to learn something from it is just simply a wonderful thought. I like it best when James Spayde said that the whole world around us is like a big classroom in which we are always constantly learning. In addition, another saying that has also caught my attention was when Mik e Rose said in his article, Lives on the Boundary, "Education is like one culture embracing another (107)." And through these statements, I have come to realize that though the classroom education is important, it seems that learning in your own environment, through experiences and trials, is the most priceless education of all. In the following paragraphs, I will explore the many ways in which education can be anything we view it to be in respect to bell hooks article, Keeping Close to Home: Class and Education, Mike Rose article, Lives on the Boundary, and Jon Spayde's article, Learning in the Key of Life. In bell hooks article, she talks about an essential main point that seems to resonate through her whole article, that point being talks about assimilation. Looking through her eyes and seeing the process of assimilation through them, we can see how she views what education is. Before talking about this whole topic about assimilation, we first need to look at some facts that lead up to the topic at hand. When hooks was given the opportunity to learn at Stanford University, she took the opportunity to do so. The first problem she faced was with her parents. Hooks mother expressed to her that she did not want her to go so far away from home and that the colleges around there were just as good.

Morality And Ethics And Computers :: essays research papers fc

Morality and Ethics and Computers There are many different sides to the discussion on moral and ethical uses of computers. In many situations, the morality of a particular use of a computer is up to the individual to decide. For this reason, absolute laws about ethical computer usage is almost, but not entirely, impossible to define. The introduction of computers into the workplace has introduced many questions as well: Should employers make sure the workplace is designed to minimize health risks such as back strain and carpal tunnel syndrome for people who work with computers? Can employers prohibit employees from sending personal memos by electronic mail to a friend at the other side of the office? Should employers monitor employees' work on computers? If so, should employees be warned beforehand? If warned, does that make the practice okay? According to Kenneth Goodman, director of the Forum for Bioethics and Philosophy at the University of Miami, who teaches courses in computer ethics, "There's hardly a business that's not using computers."1 This makes these questions all the more important for today's society to answer. There are also many moral and ethical problems dealing with the use of computers in the medical field. In one particular case, a technician trusted what he thought a computer was telling him, and administered a deadly dose of radiation to a hospital patient.2 In cases like these, it is difficult to decide who's fault it is. It could have been the computer programmer's fault, but Goodman asks, "How much responsibility can you place on a machine?"3 Many problems also occur when computers are used in education. Should computers replace actual teachers in the classroom? In some schools, computers and computer manuals have already started to replace teachers. I would consider this an unethical use of computers because computers do not have the ability to think and interact on an interpersonal basis. Computers "dehumanize human activity"4 by taking away many jobs and making many others "boring exercises in pushing the buttons that make the technology work." 5 Complete privacy is almost impossible in this computer age. By using a credit card or check cashing card, entering a raffle, or subscribing to a magazine, people provide information about themselves that can be sold to marketers and distributed to data bases throughout the world. When people use the world-wide web, the sites they visit and download things from, make a record that can be traced back to the person.6 This is not protected, as it is when books are checked out of a library. Therefore, information about someone's personal preferences and interests can be sold to anyone.

What is a Self-injurious Behavior

The incident which I have chosen for my Nursing Project happened on the last day of my learning difficulties placement. It involved a young Autistic man, who I will refer to as ‘John† throughout my assignment. This is to protect the client†s identity, this is in accordance with the UKCC Code of professional conduct (1992) clause 10: â€Å"Protect all confidential information concerning patients and clients obtained in the course of professional practice and make disclosures only with consent, where required by the order of a court or where you can justify disclosure in the wider public interest.† One incident which I believe highlights the problem I will address, involved myself bathing ‘John†. This was not the first time that I had bathed a person during the placement, however, the difference this time was that while I was washing ‘John†, he would display elf-injurious behaviour by slapping his face and then repeating the phrase ‘stop slapping face†. I chose this incident from my clinical diary as I feel that the self-injurious behaviour that ‘John† exhibited is an interesting and difficult Nursing problem and one, which affected my ability to care for him. Rather than focussing on the self-injury specifically related to ‘John†s† case, I will examine the possible ways to manage self-injurious behaviour, especially in persons with learning disabilities. To manage this problem effectively, a multi-disciplinary approach is required, but for the purposes of this essay I will look at the problem from a Nurse†s perspective. I will begin by giving a brief description of self-injurious behaviour and the possible causes. I will then highlight the different techniques available to Nurses for the management of this behaviour. Murphy and Wilson(1985) define this as: â€Å"Any behaviour initiated by the individual, which directly results in physical harm to that individual.† As is apparent in the literature, self-injurious behaviour is referred to as any behaviour that can cause tissue damage, such as bruises, redness, and open wounds. The most common forms of these behaviours include head banging, hand biting, head-slapping, and excessive scratching. There are two main sets of theories on the subject and these concentrate on physiological or social causes. The main physiological theories are: Self-injurious behaviour releases beta-endorphins in the person†s brain. Beta-endorphins are opiate like substances in the brain, which provide the person with some pleasure when released. Sudden episodes of self-injury may be caused by sub-clinical seizures. Sub-clinical seizures are not typically associated with the behaviours of normal seizures by they are characterised by abnormal EEG patterns. May be caused by over arousal such as frustration. Self-injury acts as a release, and thus lowers arousal. Self-injury may be a form of self-stimulatory, stereotypic behaviour. Some people exhibit self-injury to escape or avoid a task. Self-injurious behaviour may be used as an attention-seeking device. An incident that involved ‘John† which illustrated the difficulty in managing self-injurious behaviour, was when an object he was obsessed with, was removed. This was using a punishment strategy which I will discuss later. This was thought to be the best course of action, but it lead to ‘John† being restrained for nearly an hour, followed by him being sedated with an intra-muscular injection of chlorpromazine. What can learned from this is that it demonstrates the need for careful assessment of the individual. As highlighted by Murphy and Wilson(1985): â€Å"The treatment selected will depend on how the self-injurious behaviour originally developed and what factors maintain it.† There are a wide variety of different strategies or factors involved in treating or managing self-injurious behaviour. These include restraint, pharmacotheraphy, behavioural therapy, inter-personal strategies, normalisation and environmental factors. I will now examine in turn each of these strategies or factors. This is the most effective way of dealing with self-injurious behaviour in an emergency but there are a number of problems that can arise. Firstly, restraint raises some ethical questions, such as does someone have the right to injure themselves? This dilemna and others related to this topic are difficult to answer, but in general we make the assumption that the client is not capable of choosing for themselves. Secondly, the use of restraint present devaluing images of the client. Thirdly, they involve the violation of personal space which is usual for everyday social interaction. This can lead to a detrimental effect on the nurse/client relationship. Furthermore, there is the risk of injury to staff and to the client. Also there is the possibility of staff being accused of abuse, this is highlighted by Jones and Eayrs(1993): â€Å"Care staff may well face allegations of client abuse associated with the use of restraint.† There are some drawbacks in the use of restraint but it is an essential tool available to the Nurse in the management of Self-injurious or challenging behaviour. A number of drug treatments were used at Woodlands namely Chlorpromazine and Hapliperidol. These were reasonably effective but with these drugs there are serious side effects. As stated by Bernstein et al(1994): â€Å"Serious side effects include symptoms similar to those of Parkinson†s disease, such as muscle rigidity, restlessness, tremor and slowed movement.† These side effects can be treated with anti-Parkinson drugs. When trying to manage inappropriate behaviour using psychoactive drugs they should only be used as an integral part of the client†s programme. For example to combine Pharamacotherapy with other strategies such as behavioural treatments. In general behavioural approaches to treatment seem to be the most effective and long lasting ways of managing violent and aggressive behaviour. A reason for this is suggested by Murphy Wilson( ): â€Å"The fact that the ‘learned behaviour hypothesis† is one of the most convincing hypotheses for explaining the development of self-injurious behaviour.† This term covers a variety of different approaches but some of the main methods are positive reinforcement, modelling, extinction, aversive conditioning and punishment. This means, in the context of my essay, reinforcing or strengthening any behaviour that is not self-injurious. An example of this is raised by Bernstein et al (1994): † Autistic children, who, use very little language, were rewarded with grapes, popcorn, or other items for saying ‘please†, ‘thank you† and ‘your welcome† while exchanging crayons and blocks with a therapist.† This is defined by Bernstein et al(1994) as: â€Å"The gradual disappearance of a conditioned response or operand behaviour due to elimination either of the association between conditioned and unconditioned stimuli or of rewards for certain behaviours.† In the case of treating self-injurious behaviour it can be effective, but it is not always possible to use this method, because, firstly the client may seriously injure himself before the behaviour disappears. Secondly, if the reason for the behaviour is self-stimulation, it may not be possible to remove the source of reinforcement. This is basically a method of therapy in which desirable behaviours are demonstrated as a way of teaching them to clients. This method employs classical conditioning principles to link physical or psychological discomfort with undesirable behaviours. An example of this by Bernstein et al(1994) is: â€Å"Alcoholics might be allowed to drink after taking a nausea-producing drug, so that the taste and smell of alcohol are associated with nausea rather than the usual pleasurable feelings.† This was used extensively at woodlands. The main way in which clients were relaxed was through the use of a ‘sensory room.† This was basically a room that contained various lights, music and tactile objects designed to relax the client. The ‘sensory room† was extremely effective at woodlands and was an invaluable apparatus in the management of violent or aggressive behaviour. This kind of strategy involves penalising any behaviour considered to be inappropriate. These were used at Woodlands, sometimes they were effective, but in one case regarding ‘John† it seemed to make matters worse, leading to him to require to be sedated. In general punishment strategies should be used in conjunction with reinforcement of desirable and non-injurious behaviours. This is an important strategy in the treatment of challenging behaviour. It is the way in which a Nurse communicates verbally or non-verbally with the client. It is recognised that inappropriate behaviour from carers can instigate or maintain aggressive behaviours. The important factors as indicated by my research are eye contact, posture, touch and how the nurse actually speaks to the client. From my research I have found that there is a great deal of contradictory advice when dealing with an aggressive client. For example there is some evidence that remaining calm is the best thing to do but Breakwell(1989) cited by Jones and Eayrs(1993) suggests that: â€Å"The assailant who shouts is shouted at: calm intensity is greeted with equal intensity.† What is obvious is that when dealing with a client, interpersonal strategies are extremely important, but there is no right or wrong way. This is defined by Bank-Mikkelson (1980) cited by Murphy and Wilson(1985) as the need to: † Create an existence for the mentally retarded as close to normal living conditions as possible† This means to make conditions of education, housing, work and leisure to as near normal as possible and to bring greater equality of rights, obligations and responsibilities under law. Although it is not necessarily related with the treatment of someone who presents challenging behaviour, it is an important factor in considering the overall care of the client. This is providing an environment safe from potential factors, which may cause challenging behaviours. Some of these negative environmental factors may be things like loud noise, absence of attention, aggression from other residents, isolation or not enough space.

Quantitative and Qaulity Research

vicenary & soft Research COMPARISON OF QUANTITATIVE AND soft RESEARCH METHODS Introduction This composing comp ars and contrasts soft and three-figure look for modes in tether basic aras. These ar the of their epistemological foundations, info collection methods, and selective instruction abbreviation methods. The paper ends with a brief summary of the principal(a) come ins make. Comparison archness, Borg and cheekiness (1996) discuss several similarities and residuums in the midst of soft and three-figure interrogation methods. With obeisance to similarities, twain kinds of interrogation formulate epistemological positions regarding the spirit of causation and world and slightly(prenominal) comprise a good deal of methods for aim explore, collecting instruction, analyzing data, and deriving tuition from data collection and analysis.However, they differ in impairment of the epistemological positions they advocate and in the methods they call for to be suppress for meaningful scientific inquiry. whizz primary difference amid the ii inquiry methods according to bitter, Borg and Gall (1996) involves their epistemological assumptions more or less the temperament that causality. The numeric method, according to the authors, rests on a fantasy of causation as an external, measurable constrict that occurs independently of the observer and shag be utilise to explain diverse phenomena.On the or so new(prenominal) hand, the conceptual foundation of qualitative explore holds that causation itself is predominately a human informative process. The foregoing assumptions grow implications for how scientists should education reality. vicenary question roots its methods of acquiring information in a view that holds that reality is external to the observer whereas the qualitative method grounds its methodological principles and practices in the nonion of reality as an interpretative construct.This point has been d iscussed by Wainwright (1997) who states that typically qualitative explore seeks to discover information ab emerge any habituated phenomenon by obtaining an in-depth apprehension of the meanings and definitions of the phenomenon that ar conceptualized by informants moreover, these take on not be umteen informants a saucer-eyed case study of one various(prenominal)ist is utter to yield much given the subjective element of reality.Quantitative explore, based on its assumptions of causation and reality, onrushs to arrive at an in-depth brain of the phenomenon by measuring it in roughly fairly objective manner with results that loafer be established as well-grounded by a ensnare of stately scientific/methodological principles of inquiry and dress criteria for reliability and logicality. It seeks for results that argon unchanging crossways time.Thus, while qualitative explore aims at discovering how a very refined-scale collective interpret a phenomenon, numer ic look into looks at some(a) objective power of the phenomenon attempting to produce information that is stable and validated for long creations and takes. Gall, Borg and Gall (1996) handbill that for some domains such as education, the existing friendship base consists of information obtained by both decimal and qualitative interrogation.The authors point come on that many an(prenominal) research experts believe it is preferably acceptable to use both kinds of research to collect information intimately a given phenomenon despite their differing assumptions- returnd that the two methods are assigned differing usages in name of the part they drive to sense the phenomenon world studied. With consider to the foregoing, qualitative methods are assigned the role of intensively observing some small sample and conceptualizing possible themes, patterns, processes, and/or structures as creation involved in the phenomenon of interest.Quantitative methods are then calle d upon to determine whether the conceptualized constructs are tolerable or confirmed. For example, a quantifiable study might be considered of three supernumerary education students receipts to inclusion with possible patterns of response being conceptualized based on this small sample. Quantitative methods would then be apply to determine whether this pattern of response is bring out in a much bigger collective of special education students.Thus, qualitative and duodecimal research can be seen as pull ining together in complementary color spirt. Gall, Borg and Gall (1996) report that the period to which the two types of research can work to complement from each one other(a), in developed practice, is dependent on two contingencies. First, the phenomena being studied moldiness be stable across time. Second, qualitative detectives must provide constructs that can be operationalized which is to say that can be prised in some objective way employ a numerical system of some sort.If these conditions are satisfied, quantitative measures can then be utilise to support whether what is array at the individual or case level is also present for larger populations and samples. Gall, Borg and Gall (1996) further report that some research workers do not believe the two research approaches can tangiblely work together in a complementary fashion this because of their differing epistemological views of causation and reality views which make for not only conceptual nevertheless also profound methodological differences.For example, quantitative research stipulates that a police detective must state what can be evaluate to be revealed by his data analysis based on existing research (hypothesis formulation and testing). Qualitative researchers, however, believe that theories and concepts are only meaning wide-cuty derived AFTER the data has been collected. Similarly, the two research types differ in the methods they use to derive meaningful information from the data. Quantitative methods hold that the data should be analyzed statistically while quantitative research holds that it should be analyzed exploitation formal methods of reasoning and interpretation.Gall, Borg and Gall (1996) have also tended some of the differences between qualitative and quantitative research methods in basis of the reports each side outputs following their investigations. In this regard, the authors state that the reports of quantitative research consort to be impersonal and objective write-ups of research findings. Qualitative research reports, on the other hand, are said to reflect the researchers analytical reconstruction and interpretation of data provided to readers with an awareness that the readers themselves will, in fact, reinterpret what is reported.However, since it is likely that the epistemological structures of both research methods have some truth and some error in their epistemological frameworks, Gall, Borg and Gall (1996) state t hat it is preferably possible that both methods can tolerate valid data and so crystallise scientists attempts to find out a given phenomena when used together in a complementary fashion. Given the foregoing, it seems reasonable to suggest that the decision as to whether a given researcher should use qualitative or quantitative methods, or use both conjointly, may depend upon the nature of information he desires and the use to which it shall be put.For example, Crowl (1996) states that if a researcher desires to focus on some multiform bring down and to use it in a pragmatic way, then it is wise to conduct research using both qualitative and quantitative methods. Both methods are said to provide a broader examination of the phenomenon and olibanum yield a fuller understanding of its complex structure. This broader look, in turn, is said to nurture greater insight into the ways the information can be practically applied. Mertes (1998) states that there are certain kinds of i nformation ineluctably that are better suited to being answered using qualitative methods than quantitative methods.These are said to include (1) the penury to understand in detail why an individual does something (2) the need to determine what aspects, components, or elements of a given issue or phenomenon are crucial and why they are grievous (3) the need to identify a full range of responses or opinions existing in a given collective and (4) the need to find areas of consensus in patterns of response. On the other hand, Mertes (1998) states that quantitative research is probably the scoop out choice if there is a need to determine how many or to measure some volume-related feature of speech of a collective.In other words, quantitative research should be used when there is an interest in how many people in a population have a particular characteristic or response. Further, Mertes (1998) reports that quantitative research is appropriate for measuring attitudes and behaviors, for profiling certain groups, and for formulating predictions. One particularly interesting point about qualitative and quantitative research methods is to note that the distinguishing characteristics are actual differences only to a certain extent.For example, McKereghan (1998) notes that qualitative and quantitative research can be distinguished in several ways and goes on to list some of these differences. Specifically, it is noted that quantitative research is objective qualitative research is subjective. Quantitative research seeks informative laws qualitative research aims at in-depth description. Quantitative research measures what it assumes to be a static reality in hopes of development universal laws. Qualitative research is an exploration of what is assumed to be a dynamic reality.It does not claim that what is observed in the process is universal and, thus, replicable. However, what McKereghan (1998) points out is that when actual research studies are examined in met hodological detail, they seldom fit the sagacious clear models of differences that are provided in written discussions of the two research approaches. Rather, in most any given study, elements of quantitative and qualitative procedures can be found. Because of this, McKereghan argues that discussing research using this dichotomy may not be oddly applicable to what actually goes on in the world of research.Thus, while the two methods can be distinguished, it is probably important to note that this clarity of distinction is present far more in supposition than in practice. Finally, it can be noted that quantitative methods help to make generalizations to larger groups and follow a well-established and respected draw of statistical procedures, of which the proper(ip)ties are well-understood. However, in toll of practice, there is again an important issue related to whether practice actually meets the standards fall for this research approach.As noted by Gall, Borg and Gall (199 6), many studies are designed poorly, i. e. , many studies cannot find a significant difference when one exists, due to insufficient sample sizes or to extremely small upshot sizes. Further, quantitative methods are often misinterpreted. abstract In this papers comparison of qualitative and quantitative research methods, several points were made. It was noted that the two research approaches differ in terms of their epistemological positions on causation and reality and this in turn makes for a account of methodological differences in the approaches.For example, it was noted that qualitative research typically entails in-depth analysis of comparatively few subjects for which a rich set of data is collected and organized. Quantitative research, on the other hand, was said to entail the proper application of statistics to typically a large number of subjects. Further, the points were made that while quantitative research is objective qualitative research is subjective. Also, it was noted that quantitative research seeks explanatory laws qualitative research aims at in-depth description.In addition, quantitative research was said to measures what it assumes to be a static reality in hopes of developing universal laws while qualitative research is an exploration of what is assumed to be a dynamic, shifting, interpretative reality. It was noted that due to the differing nature of the two research approaches, it is likely that the survival of the fittest of which to use will depend upon the nature of the information sought by the researcher and the use to which this information will be put. Examples were offered showing the kind of research to which each method or a conclave of methods are particularly suited.Finally, the point was made that while there appear to be large differences between the approach from a philosophical/conceptual position, in actual research, methods from both approaches are often used. Further, the standards set for conducting each parti cular type of research, especially quantitative research, are often not met. References Crowl, T. K. (1996). Fundamentals of educational research (2nd ed. ) Madison, WI brownish and Benchmark. Gall, M. D. , Borg, W. R. & Gall, J. P. (1996). Educational research An introduction (6th ed. whitened Plains, NY Longman. McKereghan, D. L. (1998). Quantitative versus qualitative research An attempt to clarify the problem. Document available athttp//socrates. fortunecity. com/qvq. html. Mertes, D. M. (1998). Research methods in education and psychology Integrating diversity with quantitative and qualitative approaches. Thousand Oaks, CA Sage. Wainwright, D. (1997). Can sociological research be qualitative, critical and valid? The Qualitative Report, 3(2). Document available http//nova. edu/ssss/QR/QR3-2/wain. html.

Cultural Dimensions of Two Countries

According to Geert Hofstede there five various dimensions of culture. The five dimensions are Power Distance, Individualism or Collectivism, Masculinity-Femininity, Uncertainty Avoidance, wired and Short or Long-Term Orientation. Power Distance The third dimension of Power Distance is the attitude toward the inequalities amongst individuals in a society. Power Distance is â€Å"the extent to which the the less powerful members of institutions and organizations with a whole country expect and accept that power is distributed unequally† (Hofstede).Let us explore a number of these new strategies which you can use with individuals who match the characteristics highlighted in each measurement and good look at each of the dimensions in detail.Superiors are very accessible and coaching. Management facilitates and empowers the individual. Power is decentralized. Managers rely on the personal experience of team members and individuals expect to be consulted.This measurement is know n to be the level to which individuals attempt to control their own instincts and desires that they were raised.

It is whether an same individual views their self-image as â€Å"We† or â€Å"I†. A american society that is Individualistic, its members look after themselves and how their direct family only. Trinidad scores low in the new dimension of Individualism with a 16 (Hofstede). It is a anti collectivist society.The Indulgence dimension is a new dimension into the design.The United States is a very individualistic culture. The US scores 91 in this dimension. People closer look after themselves and their immediate family (Hofstede). Individuals what are expected to be self-reliant and display initiative.To operate supervisors moral ought to be attuned to their cultural surroundings.

The good quality of an individual’s life is a sign of success.Being different is not a trait how that is admired. Trinidad, with a score of 58 is a masculine culture (Hofstede). Management is decisive and assertive.Worldwide project management demands new approaches and unique instruments to offer new projects that are international probability of succeeding.The goal is always to win. Conflicts are resolved individually. Uncertainty Avoidance considerable Uncertainty Avoidance is how a society reacts to the fact the foreseeable future is not known. Different cultures deal with the much anxiety that this can bring.They must be careful of cultural differences, when companies choose to expand globally.

Their culture is very less resistant to innovation. The US scores a 46 and is considerable uncertainty accepting (Hofstede). In the US, new ideas and new products are welcomed. Individuals are open to trying new own ideas and technology.Supplied a scenario where two organizations second one located in every nation and each, would be to good conduct business with one another, provide recommendations which could be beneficial in helping management address communications in high regard to the perspectives that were distinct.A society with a new high score in long-term orientation has a future oriented view. A society with a low score has a short-term important point of view. Trinidad has no score in this dimension. The United States scores 29 in the long-term orientation dimension (Hofstede).Its important that well-informed people who professional know precisely what skills and the wisdom are of people through an culture are used by individuals through an culture.

Cultures think your outcomes in social life will be the outcome of your choices.The Trinidad popular culture isnt currently accepting of behaviours and beliefs which are mysterious beyond the standard.Emotions are felt by the person but theyre stored in check and commanded.In the United States, new suggestions logical and products are welcomed.