Wednesday, October 30, 2019
Principles of Effective Practice in the Teaching and Assessment of Essay
Principles of Effective Practice in the Teaching and Assessment of Reading - Essay Example The instructors should seek to motivate and stimulate the learners to work at optimum levels. Information should be processed and developed inside the brains of students. Vocabulary is slowly built up in order to ensure that they have obtained exposure to the various language patterns and structures. The final stages of reading involve the ability of students to form complex words and phrases. They are able to decipher the meaning of the text. They can apply outside knowledge in order to obtain an outline of the text. Empirical studies have demonstrated that a staged approach towards reading can produce benefits for young children. It helps to generate interest and passion for young children. It leads to commitment and devotion to reading acquisition skills. Further reading helps to enhance the cognitive and intellectual capacity of young students. Finally, it exposes them to vast literature that can help them achieve educational objectives. The level of understanding of various styles of writing is defined as reading comprehension. The proficiency of reading deeply related to the ability to identify words quickly and store the information in memory. When the identification process is difficult for the students when they use much of their energy of processing memory to read and recognize the individual words and as a result, their ability to understand is greatly affected. Researchers believe that it is very important for the children to learn to recognize the printed text and analyze it, regardless of whether they can read it on their own or not. The process of comprehension begins at the nursery stage. On the other hand, some researchers believe that this approach is not useful particularly for young children because they think that kids should learn to decode different words in form of phonics before developing analytical thinking. Teachers often use the technique of round-robin re, adding. It's a process in which tea cher call upon students individually turn by turn to read a piece of a given particular text. It was evident that this method of reading test focus more on comprehension rather than teaching it.Â
Monday, October 28, 2019
Western Civilization Essay Example for Free
Western Civilization Essay Between the fifteenth and eighteenth centuries, early modern European society began to fear the possibility that witches existed in their midst. The resultant panic led to massive persecution in the form of the trial and torture and subsequent execution of a 40,000 to 50,000 suspected witches, about 75% of which were women, over a period of 100,000 trials between 1450 and 1750. While estimates written in the mid-1970s place the figures at about 9 million women, this is an exaggerated estimate derived from extremist or polemical feminist accounts which seek to create a proto-feminist depiction of this period. Still, it is difficult to cite any other period in which women were persecuted and subject to atrocities of a similar or larger scale. In any case, it was rapid social, economic and religious transformation in Europe during this time that ‘helped’ set the stage for these witch hunts. Gibbons (1998) notes that the spread of Christianity led to a religious homogeneity that gave way to a declining tolerance towards pagan religions and witchcraft. Additionally, Europe in the early 14th century was crippled by rumors of a ‘malign conspiracy’ to bring down Christianized nations. In essence, the decline of religious diversity that comes with the hegemonic presence of Christianity as spiritual way of life of the common European meant that acceptance of other religions was rapidly diminished. The Black Death or bubonic plague which struck Europe during the mid 14th century intensified the rumors of the aforementioned conspiracy under the allegation that the plague was the creation of witches and other pagans who ostensibly sought to destabilize Christian rule. The implicit impact of the Reformation upon European Christendom also supports this view. During this period, the number of witch trials actually dropped, notes Gibbons (1998). As such, the conflict between the entrenched Catholicism and the emerging Protestant movement resulted in the collapse of Christian orthodoxy. Also, it is interesting to note that only the nations in which rapid development was occurring that the witch hunt panic was at its strongest. Spain, Italy and Portugal did not experience as much panic as the nations of Germany and Switzerland. In any case, the prevailing instability of Europe during this time exacerbated the witch panic. Because European civilization depended heavily on a homogenous grain-based agriculture – but without many of the industrial (albeit environmentally unsustainable) advances and insurances that it enjoys today – it was much more susceptible to the dangers of crop failure. Sociologists have noted that such crop failures are correlated with the occurrence of witch hunts, with the explanation being that there is a tendency within humans to blame inexplicable disaster on a much more ‘known’ variable (albeit one that is not well understood). Communities which experienced the crop failure would take their anxieties out on the community members who were considered deviant and therefore concluded to be responsible for such crop failures. Such a sociological explanation is not far removed from the same conditions which gave rise to the anti-Semitic sentiment that gave rise to Nazism, which blamed the Jewish people for economic problems. By the 18th century, the witch hunts began to subside. Perhaps the most significant macro explanation for this decline was the restoration of stability to Europe, which Hannam (2007) describes as creating an absence of the reasons that started them in the first place. For example, the height of the Salem witch trials occurred when theocratic authority was in question. Greater protections were given to impoverished women when England implemented the Poor Law. Also, radical new works in social thought led to greater acceptance of cultural and religious diversity and pluralism. REFERENCES Kagan, D. , Ozment, S. , Turner, F. (2007) The Western Heritage. 9th Edition. Pearson Prentice Hall. Gibson, J. (1998) â€Å"Recent Developments In The Study of the Great European Witch Hunt. †Pomegranate, Issue 5 Hannam, J. (2007) â€Å"The Decline of Witch Trials in Europe. †Medieval Science and Philosophy. Retrieved May 23, 2008 from: http://jameshannam. com/witchtrial. htm
Saturday, October 26, 2019
Breathe Right Strips Essay -- Chronic Nasal Congestion Health CNS Essa
Breath Right Strips Introduction According to the text, Breathe Right Strips were invented by Bruce Johnson, a chronic nasal congestion sufferer. Mr. Johnson Brought his creation to CNS Inc. CNS took the product and primarily marketed it to sports teams, nasal sufferers and night-time snorers. The product really became prominent when Jerry Rice of the San Francisco 49ers wore the product in the Super Bowl. According to cns.com, Breathe Right Strips is also available in vapor strips, clear and tan strips, and nasal strips for kids. Some of the other products include nasal spray, throat spray, fiberchoice and a portable vaporizer. Armed with these few, but strong products in 1995 CNS, decided to go global. Summary of the Facts The facts are that that there are advantages and disadvantages of CNS going global with the product. The advantages are that CNS can attempt to increase its market share and not have to rely on only domestic dollars, partnerships can begin to develop between local suppliers, and they can avoid costs of domestic licensing. The disadvantages are that there are local customs that need to be considered, the lack of name recognition of the brand, there may be stronger global competition, the international company may be used to different marketing, and there may be different trade regulations. The decision for CNS to go global takes careful analysis and an international strategy. Analysis The strategy that CNS decided to use is the three-stage approach. Stage 1 is Explore/test concept. Stage two is the Establish the product, and stage three is Manage the product. Using the SWOT analysis, I will analyze their marketing approach as it pertains to entering international territory. The strengths are that breathe right has already shown that it could successfully market the product in North America and make it a success. They have proven that they can package the product to tailor it to the international market, which would allow then to penetrate the market and refine messages for the local market as spelled out in stage 2 of their strategy. They have the ability to identify potential partners in the local global markets. When they first entered the global market, they partner with 3M, who had a handle on the marketing practices of the global market. According to The Business Journal, they regained control of their ... ...ons to attract people that are unaware of the product. They can also opt to do what they have always done, because the product is successful. To take the do-nothing approach is dreadful, because the competition is out there lurking, just waiting for CNS to rest on their laurels. Conclusion The CNS Company is already a successful company due to the achievements of its breathing right strips. In my analysis we learned that they already do a lot of things right. What they need to be aware of is the different economical situations in the global marketplace, there are different ways that the product is approved abroad, and there is competition lurking. CNS needs to continue to leverage their strengths, but capitalize on their opportunities and benchmark the competition. Works Cited Kerin, Hartley, Berkowitz, and Rudelius. Marketing McGraw Hill 8th Edition â€Å"CNS Inc. to regain control of Breathe Right international sales from 3M†The Business Journal Minneapolis-St.Paul: 11 Oct. 1999 â€Å"Innovative Solutions to Everyday Problems†2004 http://www.cns.com/products/products.html â€Å"1-2-3 Breathe†2004 http://www.ginmiller.com/gmf04/gmfstore/healthbeauty/123breeathe.htm Breathe Right Strips Essay -- Chronic Nasal Congestion Health CNS Essa Breath Right Strips Introduction According to the text, Breathe Right Strips were invented by Bruce Johnson, a chronic nasal congestion sufferer. Mr. Johnson Brought his creation to CNS Inc. CNS took the product and primarily marketed it to sports teams, nasal sufferers and night-time snorers. The product really became prominent when Jerry Rice of the San Francisco 49ers wore the product in the Super Bowl. According to cns.com, Breathe Right Strips is also available in vapor strips, clear and tan strips, and nasal strips for kids. Some of the other products include nasal spray, throat spray, fiberchoice and a portable vaporizer. Armed with these few, but strong products in 1995 CNS, decided to go global. Summary of the Facts The facts are that that there are advantages and disadvantages of CNS going global with the product. The advantages are that CNS can attempt to increase its market share and not have to rely on only domestic dollars, partnerships can begin to develop between local suppliers, and they can avoid costs of domestic licensing. The disadvantages are that there are local customs that need to be considered, the lack of name recognition of the brand, there may be stronger global competition, the international company may be used to different marketing, and there may be different trade regulations. The decision for CNS to go global takes careful analysis and an international strategy. Analysis The strategy that CNS decided to use is the three-stage approach. Stage 1 is Explore/test concept. Stage two is the Establish the product, and stage three is Manage the product. Using the SWOT analysis, I will analyze their marketing approach as it pertains to entering international territory. The strengths are that breathe right has already shown that it could successfully market the product in North America and make it a success. They have proven that they can package the product to tailor it to the international market, which would allow then to penetrate the market and refine messages for the local market as spelled out in stage 2 of their strategy. They have the ability to identify potential partners in the local global markets. When they first entered the global market, they partner with 3M, who had a handle on the marketing practices of the global market. According to The Business Journal, they regained control of their ... ...ons to attract people that are unaware of the product. They can also opt to do what they have always done, because the product is successful. To take the do-nothing approach is dreadful, because the competition is out there lurking, just waiting for CNS to rest on their laurels. Conclusion The CNS Company is already a successful company due to the achievements of its breathing right strips. In my analysis we learned that they already do a lot of things right. What they need to be aware of is the different economical situations in the global marketplace, there are different ways that the product is approved abroad, and there is competition lurking. CNS needs to continue to leverage their strengths, but capitalize on their opportunities and benchmark the competition. Works Cited Kerin, Hartley, Berkowitz, and Rudelius. Marketing McGraw Hill 8th Edition â€Å"CNS Inc. to regain control of Breathe Right international sales from 3M†The Business Journal Minneapolis-St.Paul: 11 Oct. 1999 â€Å"Innovative Solutions to Everyday Problems†2004 http://www.cns.com/products/products.html â€Å"1-2-3 Breathe†2004 http://www.ginmiller.com/gmf04/gmfstore/healthbeauty/123breeathe.htm
Thursday, October 24, 2019
English Teaching Plan
Months & Seasons Vocabulary Games Match the names of the celebrations/ holidays with the months that they take place in. January February March April May June July August September October November December Mother’s Day International Children’s Day US  Independence Day Christmas’s Eve Halloween Mid Fall Festival Vietnam Teacher’s Day International Women’s Day International Left handers’ Day Valentine’s Day New Year’s Eve April’s Fool Now discuss with your partners what people often do during those holidays ? Vocabulary Game (2)Match the words that best describe the weather of each season (work with a partner) dry              humidÂ Â Â Â Â Â Â Â Â Â Â Â Â Â Â Â à ‚  wet                 cold                   freezing               sunny windy           rainy                 comfortable           below freezing     breezy          cool chilly        drizzling            fog/foggy         heat wave       boiling          tropical storms snowstorms        cloudy            snowy        nice          warm           hot Spring: Summer Autumn Win ter Listening Activity A.Listen to the recording and tick the words that you hear winter           outside          prefer              peak of the summer           long lazy days             June                 summer man            autumn grey                     going back to school         autumn leaves          walking in the woods   fan of the winter          December           snow            ChristmasÂ Â Â Â à ‚              celebrations January      worst months of the year        march          april the first            windy         feelings            summer              he at             light dark          have a walk B.Listen to the recording again and decide whether each statement is true (T) or false (F) 1. Richard loves winter 2. It’s December now 3. There’s often snow in the UK in the winter 4. There’re a lot of celebrations and parties during Christmas 5. Both of the speakers were born in the Sp ring 6. Richard loves July the most  in the summer months 7. The female speaker likes all of the autumn months 8. She loves the colors of autumn 9. Today is a wet, cold, dark day. 10. They will probably stay inside today. C. Now listen for the last time and fill in the blanks to complete the conversation F: So this week on podcastinenglish. om, we’re talking about months of the years and seasons. So, richard, it’s December now, and for us, the first of the ____________ months. How do you feel about the winter and the winter months? M: I don’t like them. F: Not at all? M: No, December? Cold, grey, wet, ____________. No.. I’m not a fan of winter, I’m afraid F: Yes, and also in the UK, we don’t really get.. we don’t always get snow. And I think if it’s cold and there’s snow, that’s really nice .. but if it’s just cold and wet, then that’s really hard. At least we have Christmas for December M: Christmas is good.Christmas are.. ________________, parties.. that’s nice.. and it’s not as bad as January. January is to come F:  Yes I think January and February are the ____________ months of the year. But in the spring, then we have the spring months. Both you and I were born in the spring. You were born in March and I was born in____________. Do you like March? M: I’m not a fan of March and April, either.. cause then, at least in the UK, it’s very ___________, wet .. and you know March is the driest month of the year but it seems to be windy, and a bit wet and dam. that’s my ____________anyway
Wednesday, October 23, 2019
Action plan for PV Technologies †when they asleep at the switch Essay
Problems / Issues faced by the PV Technologies: As per the information from Sales Manager Mr.Salvatori, PVT might lose the contract against SOMA energy and BJ Solar from the bidding, which is one of the high visibility project conducted by Solenergy Development LLC who won to construct a PV solar energy Power Plant. Mr. Greg Morgan – Chief Engineer conducted the evaluation of the bidders and the assumed outcome is that PVT will be out of the running potential supplier because of the price compared to other bidder though the quality of the product is incomparable. If PVT loses this contract then its reputation and position in the Market Place are at stake as the announcement might through a press conference. Action Plan for PVT: 1. Competitor analysis – We should never underestimate the competitor and should analyse competitor before we bid or approach for any kind of order. They should know what are their offerings, price structure, services offered, value offered and geographic location. 2. Increase Marketing Efforts: The major disadvantage of PVTs lacking in reaching or communicating their product line and service to the clients/customer. They should start PR activities to improve their reach and increase their client relationship as well as customer base. In today’s market they should not rely on only the quality, Sales people contacts and services offered to the customer, rather advertisement / PR activities should drive the customer to approach PVT . There should be a proper line of communication credible source of information and proper way of communication (Internal and external) is needed. 3. Line of Communication: They should also not rely on the information by the sales people which made them react even when the source of information was unethical. Losing a customer like Solar Energy will put their reputation in trouble in the industry. Plan of action to win the current bidding Since the management is concerned about the decision taken by Solenergy, they should have a casual talk with Morgan and know the exact situation of the bidding. Recommendation for PVT would be to offer its new product, accelerate the introduction of their new 1.25MW model which is 98.5% efficiency. Introducing this new product, might be appealing for Solenergy in all means like efficiency, reliability, service and most importantly price of the inverter which is much lesser than the competitor. Choosing other options like extending warranty to 20 years or offering 99% uptime guarantee at no cost will lead to a lot of disadvantages to PVT to sustain in the market and for future orders as well. Disadvantage by offering Option1: †¢  Solenergy will have to pay a high price upfront. †¢  Though the quality of the PVT inverter is reliable still PVT will have to increase manpower for the purpose of maintenance. †¢  This option will lead to additional expenses and more complications in the future.  †¢Ã‚ Offering this option dilute the market (by increasing the service offered will increase the expectation from customer for every order) and will affect future orders too. Disadvantage by offering Option 2: †¢Ã‚ Unexpected cost from the failure of the product ( due to Climate condition / economic factor / Power source ) can put PVT into huge loss. †¢Ã‚ Increasing manpower only for the purpose of maintenance. †¢ Margin in this offering is also very low for PVT. Orders should not be taken for the sake of reputation. †¢ Market will get diluted Overall the competitors can also offer these options (Option 1 and Option 2 – Annexure 1 and 2), as they want to enter the market. Since it will reach a broader segment of people, it will be a value addition for the competitor to offer the same (alternatives), enter the market and acquire a new client. The competitor’s revenue can also increase for the year. By offering a new product (Option 3) they can regain top standard and reputation, and possibly close the deal with them. However, they need to think of a way in which the acceleration of this product will not hurt them financially and can still be delivered to Solenergy on time and possibly reduce the manufacturing cost. Solenergy too can claim that they were the first ones to employ the latest technology and the most robust management system. The advantage by offering Option 3 will be that competitor cannot offer a new highly efficient product in such a short span of time. Since PVT is known for its Research and development and product innovation, this would be the ideal option for winning this bid. Drivers for Renewable energy: Key factors for the competitor to offer a best possible solution. Market for alternative source of energy is in a growing stage. Rising energy cost, unstable oil market, environmental awareness, tax incentives are the main drivers towards the growth of renewable energy. Market value for 2010 was $6 billion more than 100% growth from the previous year and the market for solar PV forecasted to increase by 30.4% CAGR for the period of 2010-15. It’s a vision of a federal government to depend on the renewable energy to produce 80% of the electricity by the year 2035. Around the world, 85% of electricity is being derived from oil, gas and coal and less than 1% are from solar energy, so there is great potential in the market for growth. PVT is a pioneer in renewable energy supply to more than 25 countries with their quality and effective product. The below calculation are done as per the calculation in the PVT option like the following :  Total cost of Sale : 60% of the total Project Value Warranty Expenses & Premium : 18% of the Total Value Maintenance Contract Income : 8.9% of the Total Value Gross Expenses – Guarantee : 38.7% of the Total value Maintenance Contract Expenses : 8% of the Total value Sales Commission : .4% of the Total Value Annexure :1 Considering if SOMA uses the alternative Current Alternative1 Total Project value Warranty Premium Maintenance Contract Income Total Revenue Total cost of Sales Warranty Expenses Gross Expenses – Gurantee Maintenance Contract Expenses Sales Commission Project cost of sales Project Gross Profit 17000000 10200000 68000 10268000 6732000 17000000 3060000 20060000 10200000 3060000 68000 13328000 6732000 Alternative2 17000000 1513000 18513000 10200000 6592385 1369444 68000 18229829 283171 Annexure 2: Considering if the BJ Solar uses the alternative Current Alternative1 Total Project value Warranty Premium Maintenance Contract Income Total Revenue Total cost of Sales Warranty Expenses Gross Expenses – Gurantee Maintenance Contract Expenses Sales Commission Project cost of sales Project Gross Profit 16000000 9600000 64000 9664000 6336000 16000000 2880000 18880000 9600000 2880000 64000 12544000 6336000 Alternative2 16000000 1424000 17424000 9600000 6204597 1288889 64000 17157486 266514
Tuesday, October 22, 2019
Expository Essay Sample on a Great Leader Who Is That
Expository Essay Sample on a Great Leader Who Is That Expository essays on what makes a great leader are focused on explaining the difference between an ordinary leader and a great leader. Although these two are both leaders, there is a big difference between the two. There is a debate that great leaders are born, yet, there are those whose argue is great leaders are nurtured. This debate has brought into question what really makes a great leader. A leader should have the qualities that cause him or her to be regarded as a great leader. Not all leaders are great leaders, and the difference is because of the qualities that such leaders portray. A great leader should not be a dictator. Instead, leaders should always be focused, visionary, possess sharp perception, be responsible, and reasonable. Leaders who are effective take into account their strengths as well as their weaknesses. They evaluate themselves when they ask questions like, â€Å"Am I a good leader? What can I accomplish, and what are my limits?†If a leader identifies his or her areas of weakness, he will try to turn his weaknesses into his strengths by working towards improving them. Some leaders tend to think that they have the ability to accomplish anything within or outside their domain. They are disillusioned into the thinking that leaders are always knowledgeable and nothing can outdo their thinking powers. This is a fallacy in thinking because there is no complete individual who is able to perform all duties. Leaders should be assisted by other people who are professionals in different fields and areas of knowledge. These other persons assist the leaders in compensating for their weaknesses. Leaders should recognize the abilities of those who work with them. Doing so helps them to be regarded as effective leaders. The perception of a leader is important. It helps in evaluating whether a leader is an effective or not. Leaders should be effective in their communication and should build a good relationship with those who serve under them. Leaders should ensure a good environment where everyone feels they have something of value to contribute. Conflicts should be recognized and addressed appropriately. A leader will be perceived to be a good leader if those who work with him talk positively about his leadership skills and what he is being able to accomplish. Leaders should also be responsible and accountable just like any other person. They should never be above the law. They should keep in accordance with the rules that govern them. They should never go beyond their limits. They should avoid the notion that they are powerful and, therefore, can bend the rules to suit themselves. The leaders’ incentive should be the goals of the organization or group they are leading. Good leaders should ha ve the goal as their central concern and work towards realizing the goal with the interest of the organization or the group they are leading. Tips on writing an expository essay on this topic: The purpose of an expository essay is to express a personal opinion on a given topic. The topic should be interesting to your targeted audience. A good way to decide on a topic is to listen to news reports and social media on the hot topics of the day. Find something that interests you and do some preliminary reading on that topic. Do you have an opinion? Develop that opinion into a thesis statement. Then develop some major points to support that opinion. Look for examples or personal experiences to add as details for those support points. As always, make sure to organize your ideas logically and to use transitional devices to help your thoughts flow smoothly. Finally, be sure to edit your essay and to conduct a final proof-reading.
Monday, October 21, 2019
5 Reasons Why Every Author Should Start a Journal
5 Reasons Why Every Author Should Start a Journal Considered one of the most important 20th-century writers and a master of the stream of consciousness narrative device, Virginia Woolf was an avid diarist. Having experienced a traumatic childhood- including the death of her mother when Woolf was only 13 years old, a mental breakdown, and sexual abuse- the diaries she left behind give us an extraordinary glimpse into the life and mind of one of the most influential authors in 20th century British literature. Without these journals, much of Woolfs influence on narrative style, particularly stream of consciousness as a narrative device and early feminist thought, would not have happened.Woolf was also aware of how much the process of journaling affected her life as a writer. From a diary entry dated April 20th, 1919, she writes:I got out this diary and read, as one always does read ones own writing, with a kind of guilty intensity. I confess that the rough and random style of it, often so ungrammatical, and crying for a word altered, a fflicted me somewhat. I am trying to tell whichever self it is that reads this hereafter that I can write very much better; and take no time over this; and forbid her to let the eye of man behold it. And now I may add my little compliment to the effect that it has a slapdash and vigour and sometimes hits an unexpected bulls eye. But what is more to the point is my belief that the habit of writing thus for my own eye only is good practice. It loosens the ligaments. Never mind the misses and the stumbles. Going at such a pace as I do I must make the most direct and instant shots at my object, and thus have to lay hands on words, choose them and shoot them with no more pause than is needed to put my pen in the ink.From A Writers Diary by Virginia WoolfVirginia Woolf was not the only writer who developed much of her writing style via journaling. Before her and after her, writers have used the process of keeping a journal as a way to develop their craft and look deeply into themselves as creatives. Simply put, if you are a writer and do not keep a journal, you are missing out on a valuable tool that can help you in your personal and creative life.Lets discuss some of the many ways keeping a journal can help you as a writer.Photo by Hannah Olinger on UnsplashYou learn your personal thought and behavior patternsWhen we journal as writers and authors, we take a moment to get to know ourselves on a deeper level. Thoughts that might be otherwise fleeting (if not written down) are saved and kept, to be revisited later- whether as self-reflection or measuring the changes that have occurred in ones mind and life.In the process of journaling, we find ourselves looking at our own nature. We examine the things that make us afraid, the things we try to hide from the rest of the world and our families, and even the things we have thought that would never make it past our lips in words to someone else. A journal, in this sense, is like a dear, nonjudgmental friend- someone to wh om we can tell anything and everything and not feel as if the words will be held against us in any way.It is free therapyIf youre a writer, you already know that along with the ability to craft a great poem or story is a disposition that leans toward feeling too much. The same trait that makes you the writer you are can also make you struggle in a world that weighs heavy on the creative soul. Journaling, in this sense, becomes a form of free therapy in which you can explore the traits youve carried that youd like to be rid of, or the reoccurring problems in your life that youd like to move past.Consider this entry, taken from The Diaries of Franz Kafka 1910-1913One advantage in keeping a diary is that you become aware with reassuring clarity of the changes which you constantly suffer and which in a general way are naturally believed, surmised, and admitted by you, but which youll unconsciously deny when it comes to the point of gaining hope or peace from such an admission. In the di ary you find proof that in situations which today would seem unbearable, you lived, looked around and wrote down observations, that this right hand moved then as it does today, when we may be wiser because we are able to look back upon our former condition, and for that very reason have got to admit the courage of our earlier striving in which we persisted even in sheer ignorance.The Diaries of Franz Kafka 1910-1913It helps you develop your voiceThe simple act of writing daily will do wonders for developing your voice as a writer. Accessing your thoughts, feelings, trepidations and memories- then putting them in written form- allows you to practice a narrative voice that is uniquely yours. This daily practice will develop into a clear, distinct, voice that can then be used in your fiction, even though it is rooted in a nonfiction world.Anaà ¯s Nin, a French-American essayist, short-story writer, and diarist, put it like this: The diary taught me that it is in the moments of emotion al crisis that human beings reveal themselves most accurately. I learned to choose the heightened moments because they are the moments of revelation.Photo by Hannah Olinger on UnsplashThere is an emphasis on process over productWhen you journal, you dont do it with the intention of it being read by an audience. Although, lets face it- if you ever become a famous writer, your journals are likely to be published (think†¦Anaà ¯s Nin, Sylvia Plath, Virginia Wolf, etc.) Since its not written for an audience and there is no one to judge what is being written as good or bad (or just mediocre), the emphasis then is on the process of writing versus the product that results.As with anything- the more you practice, the better you become at whatever you are practicing. While journaling might be different than writing a novel, it is still practice in the process of writing. You are still putting words on the page and finding your voice through a wide spectrum of thoughts, feelings, and emo tions. This adds to your experience as a writer, even if the product (or journal) is never published.Joan Didion, an American journalist, novelist, and screenplay writer, puts it like this:Why did I write it down? In order to remember, of course, but exactly what was it I wanted to remember? How much of it actually happened? Did any of it? Why do I keep a notebook at all? It is easy to deceive oneself on all those scores. The impulse to write things down is a peculiarly compulsive one, inexplicable to those who do not share it, useful only accidentally, only secondarily, in the way that any compulsion tries to justify itself. I suppose that it begins or does not begin in the cradle. Although I have felt compelled to write things down since I was five years old, I doubt that my daughter ever will, for she is a singularly blessed and accepting child, delighted with life exactly as life presents itself to her, unafraid to go to sleep and unafraid to wake up. Keepers of private notebook s are a different breed altogether, lonely and resistant rearrangers of things, anxious malcontents, children afflicted apparently at birth with some presentiment of loss.On Keeping a Notebook by Joan DidionIt encourages personal growthIn much the same way journaling makes space for therapeutic self-discovery, it also creates room for personal growth. In the process of writing down the events of your life- whether insignificant or significant- and analyzing those events (as well as your reaction to them), youll start to see patterns emerge. If those patterns continue to bring toxic people or thoughts into your life, it will become clear eventually, and youll begin to see the necessity of breaking them. If those patterns bring positive relationships and events to your life, youll see the necessity of keeping them. In doing so, this part of journaling encourages personal growth and the removal of negativity from your life.Jonathan Franzen, an American novelist and essayist, explains t he process like this:I had started keeping a journal, and I was discovering that I didnt need school in order to experience the misery of appearances. I could manufacture excruciating embarrassment in the privacy of my bedroom, simply by reading what Id written in the journal the day before. Its pages faithfully mirrored by fraudulence and pomposity and immaturity. Reading it made me desperate to change myself, to sound less idiotic. As George Benson had stressed in Then Joy Breaks Through, the experiences of growth and self-realization, even of ecstatic joy, were natural processes available to believers and nonbelievers alike. And so I declared private war on stagnation and committed myself privately to personal growth. The Authentic Relationship I wanted now was with the written page.From The Discomfort Zone: A Personal History
Sunday, October 20, 2019
Learn How to Sing Happy Birthday in German
Learn How to Sing Happy Birthday in German A fun tradition in families all over the world, its always nice to hear someone sing you a happy birthday song. In German-speaking countries, two popular songs that are used: the Happy Birthday song we are familiar with in English and a special, much longer, and very touching song that celebrates the persons life. Both songs are fun to sing and a great way to learn while practicing your German. A Simple Translation of the Happy Birthday Song To start off simply, lets learn how to sing the basic Happy Birthday song in German. Its very easy because you only need to learn two lines (the first line repeats, just like in English) and you will use the same tune as you would sing in English. Zum Geburtstag viel Glck, Happy Birthday to You, Zum Geburtstag liebe (name) Happy Birthday dear (name) While this song is fun to learn, it should be noted that the English version of the song is heard most often, even at parties where everyone speaks German. Alles gute zum geburtstag means happy birthday and is a traditional way to wish someone a happy birthday in German. Wie schà ¶n, dass du geboren bist Lyrics Although the English version of Happy Birthday to You remains the most common song heard at German birthday parties, this song is just as popular. It is one of the few German birthday songs to gain widespread popularity in German-speaking countries. Wie schà ¶n, dass du geboren bist (â€Å"How nice that you were born†) was written in 1981 by the Hamburg-born musician and producer Rolf Zuckowski (1947- ). It has become a standard in German childcare facilities, schools, and at private birthday parties and has even been elevated to folk song status in its short life. Zuckowski is best known for writing and singing childrens songs and has released over 40 albums in his career. In 2007, he worked with illustrator Julia Ginsbach to publish a baby album for parents, using the title of this song. German Lyrics Direct Translation by Hyde Flippo Heute kann es regnen,strmen oder schnein,denn du strahlst ja selberwie der Sonnenschein.Heut ist dein Geburtstag,darum feiern wir,alle deine Freunde,freuen sich mit dir. Today it can rain,storm or snow,because you yourself are beaminglike sunshine.Today is your birthday,thats why were celebrating.All your friends,are happy for you. Refrain: *Wie schn, dass du geboren bist,wir htten dich sonst sehr vermisst.wie schn, dass wir beisammen sind,wir gratulieren dir, Geburtstagskind! Refrain:How nice that you were born,we would have really missed you otherwise.how nice that were all together;we congratulate you, birthday child! Unsre guten Wnschehaben ihren Grund:Bitte bleib noch langeglcklich und gesund.Dich so froh zu sehen,ist was uns gefllt,Trnen gibt es schongenug auf dieser Welt. Our good wisheshave their purpose (reason):Please stay longhappy and healthy.Seeing you so happy,is what we like.There are tearsenough in this world. Montag, Dienstag, Mittwoch,das ist ganz egal,dein Geburtstag kommt im Jahrdoch nur einmal.Darum lass uns feiern,dass die Schwarte kracht,*Heute wird getanzt,gesungen und gelacht. Monday, Tuesday, Wednesday,that doesnt really matter,but your birthday comes onlyonce a year.So let us celebrate,until were exhausted,*Today theres dancing,singing and laughter. Wieder ein Jahr lter,nimm es nicht so schwer,denn am lterwerdennderst du nichts mehr.Zhle deine Jahreund denk stets daran:Sie sind wie ein Schatz,den dir keiner nehmen kann. Another year older,(but) dont take it so hard,because when it comes to agingyou cant change anything anymore.Count your yearsand always remember:They are a treasure,that no one can take from you. * The refrain is repeated between each of the following verses and again at the end. * German idiom: arbeiten, dass die Schwarte kracht to work until one drops, lit., to work until the rind cracks The German lyrics are provided for educational use only. No infringement of copyright is implied or intended. The literal, prose translations of the original German lyrics by Hyde Flippo.
Saturday, October 19, 2019
Hitler's Table Talk Term Paper Example | Topics and Well Written Essays - 1250 words
Hitler's Table Talk - Term Paper Example In the book, Hitler’s table talk, we find his thoughts brought out in his private conversations. Hitler was a man of many worlds as depicted by his varying thoughts. He talks about different aspects of life and brings out his personal opinion about such. Hitler addressed the mistakes of the monarchy system in Germany. He expressed his appreciation for social democracy, which abolished monarchies. He believed that the monarch system brought a great loss to the political, economical, and cultural setting of Germany. He argues that the Germans of that time should have condemned the injustice of the monarch system. In my opinion, he was not justified to criticize that system because he brought an economical collapse. He is also in history for the worst political system. One of the issues Hitler addresses is Christianity. Hitler has his own views about Christianity but this is justified as everyone has a right to hold opinion. When Hitler talks about Russia and the priest, he bring s about an issue of the hope Christianity brings to people. He believes that the priest only manages to convince Russia to reconciliation by promising him happiness in a foreign world. On another instance, Hitler claims that in every human being, there is a feeling of the existence of a supernatural being but the priests in society only exploit this feeling in people. They give these people threats that they will face punishment in the future. Hitler then elaborates that every individual needs a place to run to when there is danger implying that man should run to God for consolation. Hitler however does not take this as a reality in his world. Later in his thoughts, he also mentions that the church is irreplaceable. He claims that replacing the church would be terrifying but wisely notes that time would tell and honesty was fundamental. He however later points out that Christianity was the biggest blow that hit human race and believes that Christianity started the lie in religion. H e thought that Christianity established intolerance because of their belief in love. In my opinion, Hitler was not against Christianity but rather what Christians of that time thought and how they practiced their faith. He makes this clear to us in his October 14, conversation. He stated that Christians who preach love were the last people who practiced it. He acknowledges that each individual has a conviction from inside that there was a supernatural being and that included him. He was opposed to what the priests made of Christianity. Hitler does not agree to the fact Russia must consult the priest before making any major decision. He believes that this has caused Russia to lose its ability to think. During midday on October 14, he stated that the end of Christianity would not mean that the belief in God would fade. He describes the belief in God as a wonderful feeling. In another private conversation, he argues that Christianity encourages people to be poor, as the poor will go to heaven. The Church therefore takes advantage of this teaching to encourage people to give offerings. The leaders benefit from this teaching. He also indicated that Protestants and Catholics should not attack each other as they were doing. Therefore, Christians of Hitler’s time did not practice what they preached and this explains his opposition towards them. Hitler also addresses the issue of society making sure that equal opportunities are accessible to each
Friday, October 18, 2019
Public Speaking Essay Example | Topics and Well Written Essays - 750 words
Public Speaking - Essay Example The truth is that the basic and daily communication amounts to some form of public speaking only that there is no conscious effort to perfect on it (Scherer and Volk, 2011). This paper will explore a few aspects of public speaking like the importance of public speaking, anxiety and skills and techniques of public speaking. Efficiently delivered speech is one that effectively communicates to the audience. Excellence public speaking has, for many people, defined their success or failure. First, public speaking enhances self confidence which boosts self esteem (Scherer and Volk, 2011). One is able to feel more comfortable interacting with people around them. Effective public speaking means better delivery of the message. For an employee, one stands above the rest and is more promotable to manage higher responsibilities owing to the confidence portrayed and the perception of being more knowledgeable. Knowledge increases owing to the fact that one researches deeply for every topic of discussion. Therefore, it is highly beneficial for one to speak in public as many times as opportunities may allow. The common problem with many people is the management of their anxiety while in front of gazing eyes and attentive ears. One all over sudden loses control of body actions at the most critical moment. One starts to sweat from everywhere; hands, face, feet and armpits and so on. The mouth mysteriously runs dry while the knees feel weak and start shaking. The heart beats faster and harder and the stomach feels full with butterflies and the voice becomes distorted (Bodie, 2010). This problem is best solved by properly and fully researching beforehand one’s topic and audience since this will create confidence. One needs also to set the goal of offering the best speech and focus on doing it and when a flaw happens, one should just proceed. In short, when delivering a speech, one needs to hold positive
Critically evaluate the importance of the universal declaration of Essay
Critically evaluate the importance of the universal declaration of human rights in protecting human rights - Essay Example , academicians and human rights activists have continued to investigate and research into how the Universal Declarations of Human Rights have succeeded or being challenged in the protection of human rights at the universal level. Most often, there are differences in reportage in the successes and challenges of the UDHR but one crucial fact remains that there is potential in the existence of a common grounds under which issues of human rights can be viewed on a globalised perspective. This paper therefore delves into the discussion of the importance of the UDHR in protecting human rights by looking at certain central areas and aspects of universal human rights such as difficulty in defining human rights, ways of improving human rights at the global level and by use of continental conventions, improvements that have been recorded in the Middle East, Asia and African in terms of human rights, and finally the failure to observe universal standards. Difficult to Define what Human Rights a re According to the United Nations, the creation of the drafting and eventual adoption of the Universal Declaration of Human Rights was done with a notion that sought to identify a common universal code for defining human rights. This is why the phenomenon has a labelling of being universal.4 As a way of ensuring this, several steps were put in place, including the sampling of authors of the Declaration from different regions of the world, so as to be guaranteed that the text was going to â€Å"reflect these different cultural traditions and incorporate common values inherent in the world's principal legal systems and religious and philosophical traditions.†5 This way, it was expected that the Universal Declaration was going to be mutually consenting document and code that was going to help in the identification of key practices that constitute human rights protection and those that constitute abuses of human rights on a global scale. But not long after the declaration, sever al lapses were identified with the definition of what human rights are when taken from the context of cultural differences. In most literature6, human rights are said to be fundamental rights, rather than privileges that are accorded to every person by virtue of the fact that the person is a human being.7 Logically, this means that once a person is born, the fellow would not have to fulfil any processes or duties to qualify to enjoy human rights. Meanwhile, issues of cultural relativism promote the existence of cultural diversity in the world, which means that the fundamental provisions of different cultures must be allowed to be practiced.8 As part of cultural relativism, there is the issue of cultural integrity and diversity, which in itself is protected and enshrined by other United States provisions and declarations. For instance the respect of cultural integ
Thursday, October 17, 2019
Experimental economics, summary paper Essay Example | Topics and Well Written Essays - 500 words - 1
Experimental economics, summary paper - Essay Example The winners curse cannot occur if all bidders are rational, thus when the winner curse occurs it is considered a market anomaly. In an auction marketplace in which they are a lot of bidders one must utilized a more aggressive bidding strategy. Another risk associated with auctions in which there are lots of participants is for the winner to overstate the value of the item. In 1983 Max Bazerman and William Samuelson conducted an experiment on MBA students to test the winner’s curve concept. They filled cookie jars with coins and they ask the students to make money bids for the cookie jar full of change. All cookie jars were valued at $8.00, but this variable was unknown to the participants. The results were that the mean winning bid was $10.01 which means that student overestimated the value by $2.01. The winners were cursed with an item that was worth less than what they paid for. Often economic anomalies occur due to the existence of asymmetric information. An industry in whi ch there are often projects that can be worth millions or nothing is the oil business. When companies make bids on oil exploration project the bids are done knowing that there is a possibility of complete failure. Market anomalies offer occur in these types of auctions.
Understanding and interpreting financial statements Essay - 1
Understanding and interpreting financial statements - Essay Example report on the financial performance of Siemens, a German high tech company by comparing it with that of Nokia, one of its competitors in the industry. The value and limitations of using ratio analysis would be evaluated and accounting issues that would surface would be discussed. Recommendation to potential investors on the basis of findings from the analysis would be made accordingly, To understand the profitability of the company would lead for further understanding the rest of company’s financial report. Every business organization should aim for profitability as a way to recovering is opportunity cost of doing its business. Profitability therefore implies having more a net advantage for every business transaction for the company. Thus generally as expenses are incurred which would represent the cost, there should be corresponding benefit in terms of revenues. Deducting expenses that include cost of goods and service, cost of operation, cost of taxes and other expenses from revenues would therefore mean profit or net income from the for the company. This net income figure could also be divided with the amount of resources that the stockholders put into the business organization, would produce the return on equity (ROE). Comparing the Siemens’ ROE with Nokia and the rest of its average competitors would provide betters results of and analysis. Its five-year average return on equity (ROE) of 14% for Siemens indicates better superiority about its past performance in relation to the industry average of 8%. See Table A below and see Appendix A for more details. Such a 14% return on equity definitely entices investors, as it would mean that for every 100 euros, the investors expect returns of about 14 euros. These rates could be viewed as something scarce for a company like Siemens given the present condition of the economy (Slavin, 1996) in Europe and other parts of the world which still shows very lower GDP growth as compared with the past. See also
Wednesday, October 16, 2019
Experimental economics, summary paper Essay Example | Topics and Well Written Essays - 500 words - 1
Experimental economics, summary paper - Essay Example The winners curse cannot occur if all bidders are rational, thus when the winner curse occurs it is considered a market anomaly. In an auction marketplace in which they are a lot of bidders one must utilized a more aggressive bidding strategy. Another risk associated with auctions in which there are lots of participants is for the winner to overstate the value of the item. In 1983 Max Bazerman and William Samuelson conducted an experiment on MBA students to test the winner’s curve concept. They filled cookie jars with coins and they ask the students to make money bids for the cookie jar full of change. All cookie jars were valued at $8.00, but this variable was unknown to the participants. The results were that the mean winning bid was $10.01 which means that student overestimated the value by $2.01. The winners were cursed with an item that was worth less than what they paid for. Often economic anomalies occur due to the existence of asymmetric information. An industry in whi ch there are often projects that can be worth millions or nothing is the oil business. When companies make bids on oil exploration project the bids are done knowing that there is a possibility of complete failure. Market anomalies offer occur in these types of auctions.
Tuesday, October 15, 2019
Investigate the design of Lighting Systems, Electrical Energy Essay
Investigate the design of Lighting Systems, Electrical Energy Management and Tariffs - Essay Example This is done when the consumption is less and proper and no wastage of energy is there. The lamps and other devices should be of proper rating and proper standard. The design should be such that required illumination is obtained in a least possible cost. a) Fluorescent Lamp :- The basic construction of this type of lamp is that it has a discharge tube made up of glass. There are two electrodes at both the ends. This tube contains gases at certain pressure which on ionization emits light. The fluorescent powder is coated at both inside and outside the tube. The electrodes at both the ends are coated with some electron emitting material. A choke coil is connected in series with the lamp to stabilize current. One capacitor is also connected to compensate the power factor. This lamp emits white colour and widely used in homes, offices and shops. b) Electric Discharge Lamp :- These were the first type of lamps that were used. In these type of lamps there is a discharge tube in which two electrodes are connected to both ends and excited by electric source. The gas inside the tube gets ionized and emits light. There are various types of electric discharge lamps namely sodium vapour lamp and mercury vapour lamp. c) Filament Lamp :- In this lamp a fine filament is connected to the electrodes and excited which emits light. The construction of these kinds of lamps is very simple. Earlier fine carbon was used as element in these lamps later on tungsten was preferred in place of carbon. Principle of good lighting While designing lighting system following considerations should be done. 1) Proper illumination level :- This is the major factor because for proper vision the brightness of the object should be proper which depends on illumination level. Degree of illumination depends upon some factors like size of the object, distance from the observer, object background contrast. There are some standards made by ISI for illumination level in various parts of he building. For street lighting also some standards are made. Table below shows some average value of illumination level. Places Illumination level Heavy Traffic routes 30 Average traffic routes 15 Secondary roads with local traffic 8 Secondary roads with light traffic 4 2) Uniform Illusion :- The vision of eye depends on the brightness of the object. If the uniformity of light is there the eye has to adjust more. This will cause fatigue. The method to achieve uniform illumination Generalized light should also be employed with local light. 3) Colour of light :- The brightness of any object basically depends on colour of light falling on it. The composition of light should
Monday, October 14, 2019
Coffee and Tea Essay Example for Free
Coffee and Tea Essay Coffee and tea have existed in the world for a long time. Hundreds of years ago, people who lived in South America started to produce coffee, but the earliest drink likes coffee was made by ancient Arabian. They thought it was a kind of medicine used for stomach. After the 15th century, coffee was spread to other countries such as Egypt and Ottoman Empire by Muslims who were back from Hajj, while in ancient China, Chinese people started to make tea about 3000 years ago. Because of nice environment and weather, the first part of tea plants was discovered in southwest China. After, drink tea became an important culture of Chinese people, and tea began to spread into countries near China. Coffee and tea are similar, but different in some specific area. First, coffee and tea are similar but different in population. People from all around the world like them. For example, British people used to drink a cup of tea with some snacks when they have a rest in the afternoon. Western people enjoy drinking black tea, and some of them mix it with milk to make milky tea. Likewise, most people like drinking coffee, for it often tastes good. In China, more and more people began to drink coffee, and some of whom want to taste better coffee like blue mountain coffee. However, although these two drinks are both popular around the world, coffee is still drunk most by western people, while the most quantity of tea is used in East Asia. People lived in China, Japan, and Korea regarded tea as the main drink. Second, coffee and tea are similar but different in function. Both coffee and tea can refresh people because there is a kind of chemical matter, which is caffeine in both of them. This chemical matter can be used for nerves to make a person feel awake and lively. Also, some experts said that black coffee and green tea can help a person lose weight. But, in contrast, tea has some more functions due to another kind of chemical matter which can’t be found in coffee. This chemical matter that named tea polyphenol whose ability is to relieve the effect that is made by poison. Finally, coffee and tea have similarity and difference in origination. Both of them are made from plants. Thousands of years ago, people lived in Africa planted coffee trees in succeed, and now, Brazil has the most coffee trees in the world. In south of China, there are a lot of terraced fields that grow tea trees. On the other hand, people use leaves from tea to make tea, while they use fruits from coffee plants to make coffee. To sum up, coffee and tea are similar in their population, function, and origination, while they are different of their use in different place, their different chemical matter, and their different material. I suggest that people should drink both coffee and tea so that they can be healthier.
Sunday, October 13, 2019
Modernisation of the Royal Mail
Modernisation of the Royal Mail This report has been conducted to investigate and critically evaluate the modernisation of the Royal Mail. In doing so it will analyze the organisations activities and conduct using theory to discuss its impacts. 2.0 Objectives Investigate how modernisation was planned and implemented and evaluate its effectiveness Identify and deal with resistance factors to the change Clarify how to establish when the planned change has been completed and how its effectiveness should be measured 3.0 Introduction Organizational change Significant organizational change occurs, for example, when an organization changes its overall strategy for success, adds or removes a major section or practice, and/or wants to change the very nature by which it operates. It also occurs when an organization evolves through various life cycles, just like people must successfully evolve through life cycles. For organizations to develop, they often must undergo significant change at various points in their development. Thats why the topic of organizational change and development has become widespread in communications about business, organizations, leadership and management (McNamara, 2010). This is confirmed by Richard Whittington and Michael Mayer (2002) argument that adaptive reorganization, the ability to redesign structures frequently, is now critical to organizational performance. Organisational change has three models (Jawad, 2010): Incremental Change Model The Incremental change model states that individual parts of an organisation deal incrementally and separately with one problem and one goal at a time (Burnes 2009). (Jawad, 2010:19) Punctuated equilibrium Tushman and Romanelli (1985, cited in Passmore Woodman, 2005, p207) state this model assumes that fundamental organizational change occurs in short periods of discontinuous, revolutionary change , which punctuates long eras of relative stability typified by incremental, convergent changes (Tushman Romanelli, 1985) (Jawad, 2010:20) Continuous Transformation model of change Only by continuous change and adaption will organisations be able to be aligned with their environment and thus survive (Burnes, 2009:354) (Jawad, 2010:21) History of the Royal Mail The Royal Mail was reorganised in the 1930s and again in the 1960s. Eventually it became a public corporation in 1969. Restructuring continued in the 1980s and 1990s, with the separate telecommunications section being privatised in 1984. In 2001 the Post Office became a public limited company (PLC), named Consignia which was replaced by the Royal Mail brand in late 2002 (Royalmailgroup.com, 2010). The company primarily operates in the UK. It is headquartered in London, the UK and employs 193,000 people. The group recorded revenues of  £9,179 million during the fiscal year ended March 2007, an increase of 1.4% over 2006. The operating loss of the company was  £10 million during fiscal year 2007, as compared to the operating profit of  £145 million in 2006. The net profit was  £286 million in fiscal year 2007, a decrease of 27.6% as compared to 2006 (Datamonitor, 2008). 4.0 Reasons for change Transportation costs Paul Bateson, Royal Mails managing director, logistics, said: There is a marked difference between the price we believe we should be paying for rail services and that which was on the table. Quite simply, other forms of transport can give us the same benefits, in terms of flexibility and quality, but at a lower cost (Independent.co.uk, 2003). Inefficiency The Royal Mail is the third most inefficient postal service operating in the UK with an estimate of 40% less efficiency . The European couriers already have automatically sequencing machines which sort 90% of the letters they deliver at operates at a lower costs whilst the Royal mail operate a walk-sorting and walk-sequencing procedure which only sorts 70%. (Hopper et al 2008:47). Competition The Royal mail faces competition from the digital media. The royal mail reported losses of  £500 million in 2007-08 (Hooper et al 2008:48) Technology This has led to reduced volume of sales (Hooper et al 2008). The way in which customers communicate has altered to online, email, mobile telephony, text messaging and digital broadcasting as they have low marginal costs, flexible and faster. It is estimated that the substitution from postal to alternative digital media reduced its operating profits by  £500 million in 2007/8 (Hooper et al 2008:48) (Hooper et al, 2008:9) Pension Deficit Royal Mail has a found a  £10bn black hole in its retirement postbag, the biggest pension deficit in UK corporate history (guardian.co.uk, 2009). (Hooper et al 2008:55) Universal service The universal service is important to the UKs economy as it enables trade (Hooper et al 2008:3) in 2008 Royal Mail reported that the universal service had made an operating loss of  £100 million. Strained relations In 2007 over 67,000 employee days were lost as a result of industrial action (Hooper et al 2008:56). The consequence of this was the loss of contracts including Amazon (Guardian.co.uk, 2009). Working practises The organizations working practises are outdated, as a result act as a barrier to their efficiency (Hooper et al 2008:51). The employees are able to finish their morning rounds up to three hours early (Hooper et al 2008:51) and continue to be paid until the end of their shift. 5.0 Lewins group dynamics Lewin research in this area has been cited as one of his best-known research topics. In this study Lewin, along with Ronald Lippitt, looked at the effects of democratic, autocratic, and laissez-faire methods/styles of leadership on group structure and the behaviour of group members. Results showed numerous insights into group structure. Also groups with efficient change that occurred in democratic ways lead to superior group results.  Superior results were found with the basis that as all individuals can participate and become an identifiable part of the group, change is more easily accepted (Kariel, 1956). Groups that contained more authoritarian structures were found to be more rigid, hindered creativity and lead to dysfunctional decision making processes. Groups that contained laissez-faire styles were found to be very inefficient and unproductive (Daniels, 2003). Overall results of these three leadership styles showed that democratic leadership styles lead friendliness, conscientiousness for group members, and more originality than the other leadership styles (Buchanan et al, 2004).  Autocratic and laissez-faire groups showed significantly greater amounts of discontent, hostility, scapegoating, and aggression than the democratic leadership style. Lewin concluded that changes resulted not from individual differences but from group dynamics.  He also emphasized need to facilitate and guide change, as autocracy is imposed on individuals, but democracy is learned (Smith 2001). With the Royal Mail being under the control of the UK Government it can be argued that they are subjected to a more authoritarian leadership structure. Unlike a corporate business organization where decisions are made by senior management, in the Royal mail decisions must be made in consideration of the UK budget, strategies and actions are all subject to parliament, leaving management in the Royal Mail with lesser powers to do their job. 6.0 Planned Emergent change Lewins (1951) three-stage model of unfreezing, movement, and refreezing often underlies planned change. This planned approach to change is long established and held to be highly effective by many (Burns, 2004), but it has been criticized at least since the early 1980s (Kanter, Stein Jick, 1992). Firstly it tends to ignore that environmental factors in which an organization is situated may be inconsistent with planned change initiatives, apparently assuming that organizations can move in a pre-planned manner from one stable state to another (Bamford Forrester, 2003) in ways that are not strongly impacted by outside factors. Royal Mails initial efforts to implement change were of a planned nature, Weick (1999) suggests that organization change is a more open-ended and continuous process than a set of pre-identified self-contained events. Emergent change emphasizes that change should not be perceived as a series of planned linear events within a given period of time. Rather, it is best viewed as a continuous, open-ended process of adaption to change circumstances and conditions (Burns, 2004). 7.0 Resistance to change Where change is incremental and aims only at organisational realignment, it can be viewed as adaptive. Where such incremental change is more punctuated, but still aiming at organisational realignment, it is known as reconstruction. The process of reconstruction is more likely to result in employee resistance than adaptation because such significant changes in business processes could negatively impact upon the roles of some employees. However, unlike transformational change, whether this happens incrementally or in a punctuated fashion, adaptation and reconstruction are less likely to have either an organisation wide impact on employees or require a paradigm shift in thinking. Evolution and revolution, on the other hand, do require such a shift because they can involve significant shifts in organisational culture and may also have deep impact on job roles and even redundancies (Balogun and Hailey, 2004). The change plan suggested by the Independent Review of the Royal Mail involves the political separation of the Royal Mail to provide it will commercial confidence, the separation of the Royal Mail from the Post Office, the transfer of the Royal Mail Groups pension risk to the government, a strategic investment in modernisation, and the use of a strategic partnership between the Royal Mail and a private sector firm to help bring about the change process. This is clearly indicative of revolutionary change, such that it is no surprise that not only are the forces for and against very strong, but they are equally matched between those desiring changing (management) and those opposing it (employees and their representatives). To effectively manage employee resistance to change at the Royal Mail, a number of solutions can be suggested. In presenting these solutions, it should be emphasized that management at the Royal is required to manage through revolutionary change. Here, the speed of t he change process adds to the impact that the change initial will have on the firm, also creating greater levels of fear, suspicion, uncertainty, and ultimately, resistance. First, effective leadership is a critical component of effectively implementing change that the Royal Mail. According to Bennis and Nanus (2003): The new leader is one who commits people to action, who converts followers into leaders, and who may convert leaders into agents of change (p.3). In this respect, effective leaders are not only visionary in their motives and actions (Nanus, 1992; Collins, 2001), but also they are the ultimate agents of change. Here, emotions play a central role. As Boyatzis and McKee (2005) state: Even if they get everything else just right, if leaders fail in this primal task of driving emotions in the right direction, nothing they do will work as well as it could or should (p.3). This can be especially important during periods of transformational change, and especially the revolutionary change proposed at the Royal Mail. Here, leaders not only need to have personal competence in the form of emotional competences such as transparency, but also social compe tences such as empathy and organizational awareness (social awareness competences), but also conflict management and bond building (relationship management competences) (Goleman et al., 2002). As Boyatzis and McKee (2005) state: Great leaders face the uncertainty of todays world with hope: they inspire through clarity of vision, optimism, and a profound belief in their and their peoples ability to turn dreams into reality. Great leaders face sacrifice, difficulties, and challenges, as well as opportunities, with empathy and compassion for the people they lead and those they serve. Whilst the current predicament for employees is stark, a visionary, inspirational leader will be able to communicate the long-term, optimistic view of the Royal Mail; that is, an organisation where employee pensions will have been secured by the Government, a more efficient work environment and organizational structure that will enable employees to develop through greater investment and innovation by man agement, as well as greater job security for those that remain. Whilst this does nothing to quell the resistance amongst those that believe they will not be chosen to remain, the Independent Review clearly highlights that the change has to happen or the Royal Mail Group will not be able to continue in its current format. Leadership has to emphasize how it can help get the company and its employees through a bad situation in the best possible way. Second, change agents can be particularly effective in helping to overcome employee resistance. The change agent starts out where the strategist left off. They are charged with making change programmes a success at the implementation stage. With information scarcity and poor communication being a central factor causing employee resistance to change, the change agent is an important part of the communication process between management and employees. The use of change agents can have a particularly strong effect because of their impact on relationships. As Tierney (1999) states: Strong relationships between supervisors and employees, and among employees and their team members, is associated with employees perceiving that they work in a context characterised by risk-taking and departure from the status quo, open communication, trust, operational freedom, and employee development, five of the necessary conditions for the emergence of individual and organisational change (p.129). Change a gents therefore play an important role in building a psychological climate that is conductive to change (Schneider and Reichers, 1983; Porras and Hoffer, 1986; Tierney, 1999). As a general rule, internal change agents are no more successful in implementing change than their external counterparts. The appropriateness of choosing one over the other depends on the nature of the change, the change outcome, and specific organizational circumstances. An external change agent may benefit the firm by providing experience and advice based on knowledge developed during other change processes that the firm itself is not privy to. The external change agent is also an appropriate choice where employees do not trust management. Alternately, the internal agent may be more sensitive to and knowledge about local conditions within the firm, helping the agent to communicate in a more appropriate manner. This may help in convincing employees that would not be prepared to listen to external change agent s that have no vested interested in them as individuals (Balogun and Hailey, 2004). In the case of the Royal Mail, the problem is that management and employees have a very bad relationship, with employees having a stronger relationship with their unions. As such, unions may be one of the best potential agents for change, even though these have been one of the biggest problems impeding innovation and change in the past. Finally, it has often been suggested that change management is more successful when a pilot of the proposed change is carried out in order to assess the potential problems that could be faced, enabling the organization to re-engineer how the change process is rolled out (Balogun and Hailey, 2004). However, this would be difficult for the Royal Mail because the change it is facing is revolutionary. Such change provides little time to test out different change scenarios. 8.0 Force field analysis Figure 1 is a force field analysis to illustrate why Royal Mail employees may resist change. This highlights not only how difficult it will be to achieve change without significant employee resistance, but also the reasons why relative tensions exist. The rationale for employee resistance is based on the potential for significant job losses, the loss of union power following a restructuring, and the potential costs and disruption that this may cause to employees and customers. Significant job losses anticipated: The transformational changes made to date, which are slight in comparison to what is needed, have resulted in over 40,000 job losses. The proposed change in the Independent Review would mean a significant number of additional job losses, most of which would happen in the Royal Mail, not the Post Office. With the power of the major unions in the postal sector, such job losses will be met with fierce resistance and most likely some industrial action. As such, it has a 5 rating. Weaker union position because of restructuring: The relationship between the unions and the management at the Royal Mail Group is extremely poor, not only because of the power of the unions and their propensity for industrial action and heavily resisting almost any form of management change, but also because of the ability of unions to take their complaints straight to Minister, circumventing management at the Royal Mail Group. The transformation would break up this arrangement and provide the Royal Mail with the autonomy and commercial confidence it needs, but it would also significantly weaken the position of the unions. 5. Cost and disruption could reduce customer numbers: The Royal Mail is relied upon to process and deliver 99% of the UKs post. The level of transformation required, the loss of staff, the inevitable industrial action that will be taken, and so forth will not only be costly but will also damage the Royal Mails reputation and potentially reduce customer needs. 3. Plan: Strategic partnership between Royal Mail and private sector companies to help bring about change Political separation of Royal Mail Transfer pension risk to government Separation of Royal Mail and Post Office Strategic investment in modernisation Massive pension deficit needs to be resolved Structural decline in major product markets Inefficient structure and poor labour relations Significant jobs losses anticipated Weaker union position because of restructuring Cost and disruption could reduce customers numbers Forces for Change Forces against Change Employee resistance is not only reflected in the forces against change, but also the overall pressure of the forces in each direction. In this case, the score for forces against change is 13 whilst the forces for change also scores 13. Out of a possible score of 15, therefore, not only are there considerable forces against change, but employees are also being heavily resisted by the firm, which is pushing equally strongly for change. This increases the overall levels of employee resistance. 9.0 Securing effective change A professor at Harvard Business School and world-renowned change expert, Kotter introduced his eight-step change process in his 1995 book, Leading Change (Buchanan et al, 2004). Establish a sense of urgency Form a guiding coalition Create a vision Communicate the vision Empower people to act on the vision Create short term wins Consolidate improvements to produce further change Institutionalize new approaches Other models in management literature include Ulrich (1998) seven-steps, Eccles (1994) four step and Collins (1998) n-step guides, all of which echo the same principles as Kotter, vision, leadership, communication and involvement. (Buchanan et al, 2004) What is imperative to carry out the model effectively is a change leader. Change leaders can be thought of as persons who create enough disconfirmation in the organisation to arouse motivation to change (Bennis, Nanus, 1985). Change leaders should therefore have three characteristics if they are to arouse motivation to change and learn: Credibility whatever they say must be believed Clarity of vision Whatever they say must be clear and make sense Ability to articulate the vision They must be able to state verbally and in writing what it is they perceive and what the implications are for the future of the organization (Schein, 1999). In implementing Kotters (1995) 8 steps to change the Royal Mail can follow these actions. 1. Examine opportunities that should be, or could be, exploited. Identify potential threats, and develop scenarios showing what could happen in the future. Start honest discussions, and give dynamic and convincing reasons to get people talking and thinking. Request support from customers, outside stakeholders and industry people to strengthen the argument 2. Identify the true leaders in the organization. Ask for an emotional commitment from these key people. Work on team building within the change coalition. Check the team for weak areas, and ensure that there is a good mix of people from different departments and different levels within the company. 3. Determine the values that are central to the change. Develop a short summary that captures what is seen as the future of the organization. Create a strategy to execute that vision. Ensure that the change coalition can describe the vision. 4. Communicate the change vision. Openly and honestly address peoples concerns and anxieties. Apply the vision to all aspects of operations from training to performance reviews. Tie everything back to the vision. Lead by example. 5. Identify, or hire, change leaders whose main roles are to deliver the change. Look at the organizational structure, job descriptions, and performance and compensation systems to ensure theyre in line with the vision. Recognize and reward people for making change happen. Identify people who are resisting the change, and help them see whats needed. Take action to quickly remove barriers. 6. Look for sure-fire projects that can be implemented without help from any strong critics of the change.  Thoroughly analyze the potential pros and cons of the targets.  Reward the people who help the organization meet the targets. 7. After every win, analyze what went right and what needs improving. Set goals to continue building on the momentum achieved. Learn about kaizen, the idea of continuous improvement. Keep ideas fresh by bringing in new change agents and leaders for the change coalition. 8. Communicate the progress at every opportunity. Tell success stories about the change process. Include the change ideals and values when hiring and training new staff. Publicly recognize key members of the original change coalition, and make sure the rest of the staff new and old remembers their contributions. Create plans to replace key leaders of change as they move on. This will help ensure that their legacy is not lost or forgotten. Conclusion The Royal Mail is in a position where change is a necessity to survive, and it must do so quickly. The organization requires better communication from its leaders to enable a joint commitment of its managers and workforce. To enable this it must separate from political leadership. It is essential that a new change strategy is formulated which fits the circumstances. Progress has been show through the Communication Unions (2010) agreement which will help defuse employee resistance. Basic pay will rise by a minimum of 6.9 per cent Further payments will accompany the phased introduction of change in the workplace The CWU will play a full part in the introduction, deployment and review of change The working week will reduce by one hour with no loss of pay Royal Mail will remain a 75 per cent full-time industry Existing job security will be further enhanced Further steps must now be taken to implement modernisation around the agreement, implementation of Kotters 8 steps of change can solidify plans which will help take Royal Mail into modernisation past the 3 year agreement.
Saturday, October 12, 2019
Sorcery In Morocco :: miscellaneous
Sorcery In Morocco According to Merriam- webster’s Collegiate dictionary, sorcery is defined as the use of power gained from the assistance or control of evil especially for divining. Sorcery is a phenomenon that has spread all over the world. It mainly consists of direction of the world into a spiritual power which is mysterious and unexplainable. In Morocco, sorcery is a very popular practice. It is practiced especially in the south of the country where people have strong beliefs in superstition. Believers in sorcery pretend that it has a great impact on the course of their lives. However, sorcery is a dangerous practice that affects the mind and the health of its users, in addition to the reputation of the country. At first glance, it seems to me that the most perilous impact of sorcery is its effect on the mind of those who practice it. Some believers might argue that these practices build self confidence. For instance, when a sorcerer assigns to them to do some rituals in order to make an operation successful, they face without fear. I totally disagree with them because as proved in many researches, those states of mind are only psychological and create a lot of mental troubles and instabilities. In Morocco, there is a huge population that completely believes in those practices. Therefore, the witches take profit from the ignorance of those people to start communicating some dumb information. In general, the information given by those sorcerers are common and related to the problem and the personality of the individual. Sorcerers are usually very intelligent and know exactly what the patient wants to hear. As a consequence, people become addicted to these kinds of practices and prefer it to c onsulting psychologists who can provide them with more accurate solutions. As a result, people become easily influenced, which by the way affects their personalities. The practice of sorcery in Morocco threatens the health of its users. Some sorcerers believe that their remedies are made from natural plants and do not menace the health of their patients. However, what is strange is that they always refuse to take their products to medical centers so that they can be Furthermore, people who have allergies can also suffer from dangerous diseases due to the fact that they take what their sorcerers give without the prescription of their doctors. Another important area that is suffering from this practice is the reputation and the culture of the country. Sorcery In Morocco :: miscellaneous Sorcery In Morocco According to Merriam- webster’s Collegiate dictionary, sorcery is defined as the use of power gained from the assistance or control of evil especially for divining. Sorcery is a phenomenon that has spread all over the world. It mainly consists of direction of the world into a spiritual power which is mysterious and unexplainable. In Morocco, sorcery is a very popular practice. It is practiced especially in the south of the country where people have strong beliefs in superstition. Believers in sorcery pretend that it has a great impact on the course of their lives. However, sorcery is a dangerous practice that affects the mind and the health of its users, in addition to the reputation of the country. At first glance, it seems to me that the most perilous impact of sorcery is its effect on the mind of those who practice it. Some believers might argue that these practices build self confidence. For instance, when a sorcerer assigns to them to do some rituals in order to make an operation successful, they face without fear. I totally disagree with them because as proved in many researches, those states of mind are only psychological and create a lot of mental troubles and instabilities. In Morocco, there is a huge population that completely believes in those practices. Therefore, the witches take profit from the ignorance of those people to start communicating some dumb information. In general, the information given by those sorcerers are common and related to the problem and the personality of the individual. Sorcerers are usually very intelligent and know exactly what the patient wants to hear. As a consequence, people become addicted to these kinds of practices and prefer it to c onsulting psychologists who can provide them with more accurate solutions. As a result, people become easily influenced, which by the way affects their personalities. The practice of sorcery in Morocco threatens the health of its users. Some sorcerers believe that their remedies are made from natural plants and do not menace the health of their patients. However, what is strange is that they always refuse to take their products to medical centers so that they can be Furthermore, people who have allergies can also suffer from dangerous diseases due to the fact that they take what their sorcerers give without the prescription of their doctors. Another important area that is suffering from this practice is the reputation and the culture of the country.
Friday, October 11, 2019
Implement person centred approaches in a health social care setting Essay
1.1 define person centred values. Person centred values are there to ensure that the person using the service has all decisions about care ect. Made around them and their needs. 1.2 explain why it is important to work in a way that embeds person centred approaches to establish the needs and wishes of the individual and make sure these are met. This also means that the individual will feel empowered and have some sense of control over their lives. 1.3 explain why risk taking can be part of a person centred approach. Because taking risks involves risk assessments which the individual can be made a part of. Also it empowers individuals to make choices and take risks in their lives. see more:identify possible barriers to active participation 1.4 explain how using a persons care plan contributes to working in a person centred way. Because no two care plans are the same as they are about an individual using the care plan means we are working to suit the individual taking into account their likes and dislikes. 3.1 explain the importance of establishing consent when providing care or support. This is important as it then includes the individual in decision making, and to ensure they don’t feel ignored or under valued. 3.3 explain what steps to take if consent cannot be readily established. I would discuss the problem with my manager and possibly a doctor or advocate for the individual. Also I would make a record of this and sign and date it. 4.1 describe how participation benefits an individual this benefits individuals as it makes them feel important and that things are done for their benefit and with their consent. This benefits the individual as it makes them an active part of making choices about their lives and how they live . 4.2 identify possible barriers to active participation emotions disabilities attitudes strict routines lack of training
Thursday, October 10, 2019
Education and Academic Career
13 Journal Describe an event that has changed your life? Describe an event that has changed your life? It's not the events of our lives that shape us, but our beliefs as to what those events mean. †So almost all of our life’s events mean, no matter whether they good or bed, their significance is unique for us. As all people in the world I have had a variety of events in my life, even though not all of them were positive. Nonetheless, an event that has changed my life is coming to study in Greece and undoubtedly I categorize this, as a great event.In addition studying in Greece made me much more independent, socialized and most important it is fulfilling my academic career. Coming to study in Greece developed further my personal independence from my family. The distance from my country and Greece obligate me to live here; therefore, I have to take care of all things which have to do with a life, besides lessons. Moreover, I am much more independent due to the fact that I organize totally my life the way I know; nevertheless, I follow the steps that my family taught me.For instance, I start a random day at 11 am and I am done at 6:30 pm, during this time I stay at ACT campus; afterward, I use some time to explore Thessaloniki city. Furthermore, according to this example of independence my manageable skills are shown as well. Although I always have been friendly, now this concept has much more wider dimensions. Socialization, a great part of human being, is another reason for fulfilling and changing my life while I am in Greece. Here, I know numerous people from different cultures, various backgrounds and friends from countries all over the world.Besides, socialization at American College of Thessaloniki functions very well, ideas, thoughts as well as actions make a perfect social group for me. In addition to personal independence and socialization, another reason for considering studying in Greece as a great event is because studying there is fulfil ling my academic career through quality of education. First of all, I am getting education from professors who have experience and teach us the most essential things. Moreover, they develop our critical thinking, as a way to understand the life better and ercept the world in different view. Second, studying all in English language with an American system make as easier involve in an international job. For example, knowing English helps us be ready in whatever kind of environment in the world. To summarize, this event clearly is very meaningful because my independence is further developed, together with socialization as well as academic career. So, obviously there are three important reasons for considering studying in Greece as an event which has changed my life.
Katie Hopkins Response to Article Essay
On review of your article ‘’I won’t let my children play with friends that I deem beneath them†¦ that’s what caring mothers do’: Apprentice star admits she targets playmates who are a good influence’ I was shocked to see that you judge children! Not only are you judging children who are too young to even acknowledge their actions but you go as far as to even judge them on the names they have. Children are given names by their parents and therefore have no control of it, you claim that children with Victorian sounding names have smarter parents therefore smarter kids however even a child that has been brought up in a bad environment can flourish at a school where their education is valued. Later on, you state ‘Similarly, I make a mental note when Poppy and India tell me that a particular child – let’s call him Peter – is always late for school. ‘ here you judge a child without even knowing their situation e ven though they could have a medical condition or have a special medical need that requires some time to be attended to. As well as this they might even be in Gifted & Talented and be needing more attention than your daughters who may not be as gifted therefore could be a good impact on your children. You then also say ‘If his parents can’t be bothered to get him into class on time, they clearly don’t care about the education of their child – and, worse still, are hindering the learning of others. My girls are as frustrated with this continual tardiness as I am. Is it beyond the wit of a parent to get their child to school on time?’ First of all you don’t even know the situation of the family they could be in a state of poverty and might not be able to drive to school they would have to walk. As Peter is growing it would be bad to get him to wake up at 5 so he can get to school on time when he catch up on everything he missed after school without it affecting him. After this you say ‘When I hear my daughters talking about children who have all the latest gadgets – whether it’s an iPhone or iPad – I’m instantly on my guard because they definitely won’t have time to devote to homework. As a result, I will discourage any friendship.’ This is beyond serious as you now begin to judge children on their wealth and status. Yes, it may affect them not being able to do their homework however such an upstanding member of the community and budding mother such as yourself must know that you could simply control their use of these gadgets until they have finished their homework.
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