Conversationalization Definition and Examples

Architecture Manifesto Example - 3540 Words

Course: ARC 103 Title: Architecture and Sensitivity: A Manifesto for Sustainable Design This manifesto proposes an approach to sustainable design that I am interested in exploring during my time studying architecture. The idea of sustainability is a complex one, not without apparent contradictions. This makes it difficult to define in a wholly satisfactory manner. For the purposes of this manifesto I will advert to the definition proposed by Jason McLennan who asserts that sustainable design: â€Å"seeks to maximize the quality of the built environment, while minimizing or eliminating negative impact to the natural environment.† I find this definition particularly useful in the emphasis which it places on quality. By quality, in this†¦show more content†¦Arising out of his respect for the site, the scale of Aalto’s office building derives â€Å"both its horizontal and vertical character from the nearby historical buildings, hence its symmetrical, formal faà §ade.† A more recent example of contextually sensitive design is afforded by Grafton Architect’s proposal for the new Faculty of Economics for the University of Toulouse, still under construction. While envisaging their project, the architects walked from one side of the city to the other, â€Å"gauging the character of the brick facades, the polygonal towers, the transitions from streets to courts and the underlying spatial patterns.† The resulting design offers a sensitive response to the layered history and unique geography of the site. As founding partner Shelley McNamara has put it, the building â€Å"weaves into the mesh of the city.† 4. Connected to Nature â€Å"Study nature, love nature, stay close to nature. It will never fail you.† --Frank Lloyd Wright By nature I mean a world predominantly uninterfered with by man. Building in a way that is sensitive to what is natural, its resources and habitats is a key issue in current debates about sustainable design. That said, it is nearly one hundred years since Frank Lloyd Wright offered architectural proposals showing how to live in harmony with the environment. He called this â€Å"an organic architecture†¦ofShow MoreRelatedArchitecture Manifesto Example3540 Words   |  15 PagesCourse: ARC 103 Title: Architecture and Sensitivity: A Manifesto for Sustainable Design This manifesto proposes an approach to sustainable design that I am interested in exploring during my time studying architecture. The idea of sustainability is a complex one, not without apparent contradictions. This makes it difficult to define in a wholly satisfactory manner. For the purposes of this manifesto I will advert to the definition proposed by Jason McLennan who asserts that sustainable design:Read MoreNeo Futurism : Neo Futurist Architecture1061 Words   |  5 PagesNeo Futurist architecture is a term conventionally used for architecture during the 1910s and 1920s, it originally comes from the written Manifesto of Antonio Sant’Elia and Marinetti’s expansion to Sant’Elias publication. This manifesto has been continuously developed since the 1960s and is what many people refer to as Neo futurism today. (Bianco, 2017). This manifesto Written by Antonio Sant’Elia and Marinetti is a verbal or written declaration, declaring inspirations, motives, o pinions and viewsRead MoreThe World Of Architecture And Design1523 Words   |  7 Pagesin the world of architecture and design? A meaningful space originates from the hierarchy of form rather than aesthetic emotion. Materials we use now are for strength not for meaningful form, spaces haven’t found position of order, integration is a way of nature and adjoining servant spaces identifies the essence of space. (A selection of Architectural Manifestos, n.d) Le Corbusier believed architecture, sculpture and painting are dependent on space, as he discussed in his manifesto ‘Ineffable Space’Read MoreLegacy Platform Analysis1334 Words   |  6 Pagesno longer in widespread use, or that has been supplanted by an updated version of earlier technology. Many enterprises that use computers have legacy platforms, as well as legacy applications, that serve critical business needs† (Rouse, 2017). For example, a large amount of banks and government entities still utilize legacy systems. Why would organizations want to use outdated operating systems when there are likely new, better alternatives? In short, legacy systems have been altered so much over theRead MoreA Report On Le Corbusier s Esprit Nouveau, And Several Of These Were Collected And Published Essay1696 Words   |  7 Pageswhilst architecture seemed to be mired in a state of stagnation. As he watched this chasm grow between his profession and the push for progress, he felt compelled to express his criticisms on the contemporary state of affairs, as well as the bold, comprehensive vision he himself carried for the future. He did so through essays in his magazine L’Esprit nouveau, and several of these were collected and published as a book in 1923 titled Vers une architecture (literally Towards an Architecture thoughRead MoreAgile Methods For New Generation Developers1115 Words   |  5 Pagesoptions. It is a traditionalists approaching perfection through reusing extension planning and certifies processes. Because of new generation developers and change in information technology lead a reduction in which AS D manifesto calls revitalized approach to development, but manifesto god shattered. Over $3 billion of US federal aviations administrations advanced automation system for national air traffic control gave in to graves due to software disaster, still browser battles went in-between NetscapeRead MoreArchitectural Beliefs And Sensibilities : A New Frontier For Humanity2001 Words   |  9 Pageslong way off the tangibility of real world design, but every great building starts its life on paper. Architectural beliefs and sensibilities are established through a system of thought, a manifesto that dictates how and for what reasons design choices are made. The manifesto encompasses more than just architecture so it performs a grounding role, contextualising and justifying design in a paradigm of thought appropriate to the time and space from which it had originated. The Italian Futurist were predominantlyRead MoreBauhaus: Influences on Photography and Architecture1648 Words   |  7 PagesHistory of Photography Final Research Project Bauhaus: Influences on Photography and Architecture After the defeat in the First World War and the fall of the German monarchy, Germany faced darkness and lost hope in the future. Walter Gropius, a German architect, who served in the war, saw the need of re-orienting the art world for the better (Westphal, 7). One year after the First World War, 1919, Gropius opened a school in Weimar, Germany called the Bauhaus school. His intentionRead MoreComplexity And Contradiction In Architecture : A Gentle Manifestor Summary988 Words   |  4 Pagesreevaluating the complexity Complexity and Contradiction in Architecture by Robert venturi addresses architecture as the only place where redundant and simple construction, in thinking and in material reality takes shape. The objective of the series was to explore and promote ideas that were too complex or involved for exhibit, and were therefore written on museum exhibition. Though Venturis utilizes many photographic examples to support his arguments, the points he makes in Complexity andRead MoreCorbusiers Villa Savoye : The Five Points Of Modern Architecture1090 Words   |  5 Pages1. The â€Å"Five Points of Modern Architecture† was a manifesto for architecture written in 1926 by Charles-Edouard Jeanerette – better known as Le Corbusier - emphasizing what he believed were five principles that any building meant to be modern should have. One building which exemplifies each of these points is Corbusier’s own Villa Savoye, built 1929-31 in Poissy, France. Corbusier’s first point of modern architecture is known as inclusion of ‘pilotis’. Pilotis refers to Corbusier’s innovative idea Architecture Manifesto Example - 3540 Words Course: ARC 103 Title: Architecture and Sensitivity: A Manifesto for Sustainable Design This manifesto proposes an approach to sustainable design that I am interested in exploring during my time studying architecture. The idea of sustainability is a complex one, not without apparent contradictions. This makes it difficult to define in a wholly satisfactory manner. For the purposes of this manifesto I will advert to the definition proposed by Jason McLennan who asserts that sustainable design: â€Å"seeks to maximize the quality of the built environment, while minimizing or eliminating negative impact to the natural environment.† I find this definition particularly useful in the emphasis which it places on quality. By quality, in this†¦show more content†¦Generous architecture offers an approach which puts everyday people at the forefront of the design. This is an inclusive architecture which does not limit itself only to the client and/or private users of the building. Nobody is excluded. An example of this kind of what might be described as â€Å"generous† architecture can be found in Norwegian firm Snà ¸hetta’s Oslo Opera House on the waters of the Oslo Fjord, completed in 2007 (Fig. 2). Fig. 2 Snà ¸hetta, Oslo Opera House, 2007 Snà ¸hetta are concerned with the social dimension of architecture and this design imaginatively reinterprets the traditional opera houses that â€Å"conventionally limit their public spaces to exterior plazas or grand lobbies, often only accessible during opening hours.† What is striking here is that their Opera House succeeds in giving back to the city a public space. The sloping rooftop becomes a new public area: a recreation space and viewing platform that you can walk on, sit on, sunbathe on, even snowboard on. As a result anyone, whether interested in Opera or not, can enjoy the space. The building has been called a social democratic monument† by founding partner of Snà ¸hetta, Craig Dykers – and one can see why. In a recent television interview, Dykers went on to remark: â€Å"There is a sense of being able to place your feet onto the building that gives you a sense of ownership. AtShow MoreRelatedArchitecture Manifesto Example3540 Words   |  15 PagesCourse: ARC 103 Title: Architecture and Sensitivity: A Manifesto for Sustainable Design This manifesto proposes an approach to sustainable design that I am interested in exploring during my time studying architecture. The idea of sustainability is a complex one, not without apparent contradictions. This makes it difficult to define in a wholly satisfactory manner. For the purposes of this manifesto I will advert to the definition proposed by Jason McLennan who asserts that sustainable design:Read MoreNeo Futurism : Neo Futurist Architecture1061 Words   |  5 PagesNeo Futurist architecture is a term conventionally used for architecture during the 1910s and 1920s, it originally comes from the written Manifesto of Antonio Sant’Elia and Marinetti’s expansion to Sant’Elias publication. This manifesto has been continuously developed since the 1960s and is what many people refer to as Neo futurism today. (Bianco, 2017). This manifesto Written by Antonio Sant’Elia and Marinetti is a verbal or written declaration, declaring inspirations, motives, o pinions and viewsRead MoreThe World Of Architecture And Design1523 Words   |  7 Pagesin the world of architecture and design? A meaningful space originates from the hierarchy of form rather than aesthetic emotion. Materials we use now are for strength not for meaningful form, spaces haven’t found position of order, integration is a way of nature and adjoining servant spaces identifies the essence of space. (A selection of Architectural Manifestos, n.d) Le Corbusier believed architecture, sculpture and painting are dependent on space, as he discussed in his manifesto ‘Ineffable Space’Read MoreLegacy Platform Analysis1334 Words   |  6 Pagesno longer in widespread use, or that has been supplanted by an updated version of earlier technology. Many enterprises that use computers have legacy platforms, as well as legacy applications, that serve critical business needs† (Rouse, 2017). For example, a large amount of banks and government entities still utilize legacy systems. Why would organizations want to use outdated operating systems when there are likely new, better alternatives? In short, legacy systems have been altered so much over theRead MoreA Report On Le Corbusier s Esprit Nouveau, And Several Of These Were Collected And Published Essay1696 Words   |  7 Pageswhilst architecture seemed to be mired in a state of stagnation. As he watched this chasm grow between his profession and the push for progress, he felt compelled to express his criticisms on the contemporary state of affairs, as well as the bold, comprehensive vision he himself carried for the future. He did so through essays in his magazine L’Esprit nouveau, and several of these were collected and published as a book in 1923 titled Vers une architecture (literally Towards an Architecture thoughRead MoreAgile Methods For New Generation Developers1115 Words   |  5 Pagesoptions. It is a traditionalists approaching perfection through reusing extension planning and certifies processes. Because of new generation developers and change in information technology lead a reduction in which AS D manifesto calls revitalized approach to development, but manifesto god shattered. Over $3 billion of US federal aviations administrations advanced automation system for national air traffic control gave in to graves due to software disaster, still browser battles went in-between NetscapeRead MoreArchitectural Beliefs And Sensibilities : A New Frontier For Humanity2001 Words   |  9 Pageslong way off the tangibility of real world design, but every great building starts its life on paper. Architectural beliefs and sensibilities are established through a system of thought, a manifesto that dictates how and for what reasons design choices are made. The manifesto encompasses more than just architecture so it performs a grounding role, contextualising and justifying design in a paradigm of thought appropriate to the time and space from which it had originated. The Italian Futurist were predominantlyRead MoreBauhaus: Influences on Photography and Architecture1648 Words   |  7 PagesHistory of Photography Final Research Project Bauhaus: Influences on Photography and Architecture After the defeat in the First World War and the fall of the German monarchy, Germany faced darkness and lost hope in the future. Walter Gropius, a German architect, who served in the war, saw the need of re-orienting the art world for the better (Westphal, 7). One year after the First World War, 1919, Gropius opened a school in Weimar, Germany called the Bauhaus school. His intentionRead MoreComplexity And Contradiction In Architecture : A Gentle Manifestor Summary988 Words   |  4 Pagesreevaluating the complexity Complexity and Contradiction in Architecture by Robert venturi addresses architecture as the only place where redundant and simple construction, in thinking and in material reality takes shape. The objective of the series was to explore and promote ideas that were too complex or involved for exhibit, and were therefore written on museum exhibition. Though Venturis utilizes many photographic examples to support his arguments, the points he makes in Complexity andRead MoreAnalysis Of Le Corbusiers Un Architecture1002 Words   |  5 PagesLe Corbusier’s manifesto ‘vers un architecture’ (Towards an architecture) seemingly focuses on promoting the excellence of the machine. Corbusier quotes. ‘A house is a machine for living in’ explaining that the main principle for architects should be to create a house as well suited to its purpose as you would a machine. It also reinforced the opinion that it is better for something to be functional (functionalism) than have a good appearance. During the writing, Corbusier promotes the strong idea

Justice vs Mercy Free Essays

Justice is the most fundamental requirement of a properly functioning, civilized society. An unwavering system of cause and effect that apply to all members is exactly what human beings need to ensure peaceful living. As the events and characters of Shakespeare’s King Lear clearly indicate, mercy is extremely important in dealing with problems in society, but justice should be the standard by which people are governed in dealing with crimes, however harsh it may seem. We will write a custom essay sample on Justice vs Mercy or any similar topic only for you Order Now Man needs to fear the consequences of his actions because if there are no undesired repercussions, he will follow his baser desires to no limit. When there is a strict system of justice in place that applies to all members of society, fewer crimes will be committed as a result of public punishments. Also, there is a system of karma that we already see in place. If justice is not served by the law, some form of justice comes around to the perpetrator from a higher power. Therefore, in dealing with crimes in society as a whole, the use of justice should dominate the use of mercy. I believe that human nature is to be content with virtue. However, there is also a part of us that is desirous of evil. It is that lower, deeper part of our desires that gives us pleasure in doing things that we know are harmful to ourselves and those around us. Most people will tell you they follow a certain moral conduct because of the virtue of their character, but only a certain percentage of those people actually speak the truth. The rest, only do so for fear of consequences. This is exactly the reason why people behave well in front of others, while they do many undesirable things when they are alone. If there is no fear of the legal repercussions of one’s actions, the majority of the population will not be able to control that inner monster who is only satiated with evil and destruction. As Albany, the son-in-law of King Lear so eloquently puts it: â€Å"If that the heavens do not their visible spirits | Send quickly down to tame these vile offences, | It will come,| Humanity must perforce prey on itself, |Like monsters of the deep. (IV, ii, 46-49). He is saying that if some form of justice is not dished out, the world would turn into a wild and savage place. Therefore, a system of justice that allots punishments that are equal in degree to the crimes committed is needed to keep people in check. Also, the system of justice that we just spoke about should be unwavering for each and every individual in society, no matter the rank or position of th at person. King Lear himself says, â€Å"†¦Through tattered clothes small vices do appear; /Robes and furred gowns hide all. Plate sin with gold, /And the strong lance of justice hurtless breaks; / Arm it in rags, a pygmy’s straw does pierce it† (IV, vi, 167-169) Here, he is complaining of the sad state that the justice system is in. There is a huge amount of unfairness that happens when judging the rich and the poor for the same offence. Poor people suffer a lot more for their petty crimes, while the rich can get away with the worst things by paying off the right people. What King Lear concluded hundreds of years ago, is still the sad state of our society today. The justice system is so corrupt that people in higher positions of power that are tried and proven guilty of horrendous crimes sometimes get the same amount of prison time as a small scaled armed robbery. An example of this is when pictures leaked of physical and emotional torture and sadistic killings conducted by a certain general and the 6 other people on his team in a prison in Iraq. A lot of the people that were there were taken from the streets and happened to be in the wrong place at the wrong time and had no knowledge of the terrorist forces. These people were detained and every time they were to be ‘questioned’, they would be taken to a room, stripped naked, beaten, put into stress positions and have a number of other things done to them that are too gruesome to speak of. These American soldiers took pictures of all the things that went on. These pictures were ultimately how they got caught. Even with all that proof, the largest sentence that was given out was for 10 years to the general and sentences ranging from 6 months to a couple of years to the 6 other members that were involved. This is how unfair the justice system is in North America. If a society was to be created where all members are actually treated the same, there would be less crime in that society as a whole as everyone would know they cannot get away with anything. Lastly, justice is such that what goes around, comes around. I believe in karma as it is often apparent in life. Sometimes, the return is not of equal degree to the action, but in the end, you reap what you sow. This is what Albany means when he says, â€Å"This shows you are above,/ You justicers, that these our nether crimes/ So speedily can venge†. (IV, ii, (78-80) He is expressing his gratitude to the Gods for the death of Cornwall for his horrible crimes. I am also of the opinion that God will even out the forces of evil when He sees fit. Therefore, we should establish the ideal system of justice and stick with it in the correct manner. If crimes are committed by us, we should accept the punishment agreed on by the society or a stronger and worst punishment may come our way from someone else. In conclusion, to ensure a society in which crime is curbed as much as possible, a proper, strict justice system needs to be established that is equal in its dealings with all classes of people. This is the only way to ensure the control of human desire as there is no telling what a person might do to harm themselves and others without rules to govern them. References: 1)Shakespeare, William. King Lear. Toronto: Signet Classic Shakespeare, 1998. 2)Ghosts of Abu Ghraib. dir. Rory Kennedy, 2007. How to cite Justice vs Mercy, Papers

My Memories Of My Childhood Memories Essay Example For Students

My Memories Of My Childhood Memories Essay What do your memories mean to you? Do you think about past events from your childhood and notice how they’ve impacted you? For me, memory means more than just a simple escape from your reality. Memory shows me how much I’ve grown as a person from my past. Memory reminds me that I’ve lived. That’s the most beautiful thing in the world, to have lived and to be able to remanence on living. When I think back to the many childhood memories I have, there is one in particular that seems to never fade. I remember being about the age of 7, my Uncle had just passed away. My family and I had to drive to Florida for the funeral. I specifically remember the morning of the funeral. Our hotel room was quiet, the smell of cleaners and air fresheners filled our room. I could hear people in the halls joyfully going about their day. It hit me that they had no idea what was going on in the lives of the people in all of these rooms, and we had no idea what was going on in theirs. As my entire family took the elevator three floors down to the lobby dressed in our nicest clothing, I could feel the tensi.

20 Deductive Essay Topics Key Issues to Highlight about the Role of Music in Creativity

20 Deductive Essay Topics Key Issues to Highlight about the Role of Music in Creativity We understand it might be difficult to pick a topic after going through our previous guide on 10 facts on the role of music in creativity for a deductive essay. Well, not to worry because, in this second part of the series, you’ll find some amazing topics to spark your creative imagination. After the end of this guide, you’ll be able to successfully write an excellent deductive essay. Here are 20 topic suggestions on the subject: Effects of Music on the Cerebral Cortex Are the Music Related Changes in Our Creativity Happening Consciously or Unconsciously? What Is Shared Processing System between Speech and Music? How Is the Brains Initial Encoding of Linguistic Sounds Sharpened by Actively Listening to Music? How Are Cognitive Abilities in Children Improved after Going Through Musical Training? Structural Auditory Patterns and its Connection With Musical Teachings Speech Processing Relationship with Melodic Contour The Connection between Language and Music Improvement in Phonemic Awareness through Music Enlargement of Left Cranial Temporal Part of The Brain through Playing Instruments and How it Increases Productivity Remembering More Verbal Data by Playing a Musical Instrument Why Is IQ Level Higher in People Who Play Multiple Instruments? Difference between General Attainment and Active Participation in Music Why Is Music Associated with Life Achievements? How Is Academic Attainment Improved Through Musical Activities? How Is Motivation Achieved Through Musical Activities? Is Improvisation Helpful In Achieving Creativity? Health and Music: How Does One Affect The Other? How Does Playing the Piano Exercise Your Heart? Mortality Rate in People Who Sing or Play Music There you have it. Aren’t these rather interesting topics to work with? Well, we’re sure you have the fodder needed to craft a great essay and are somewhat at ease. No need to spend additional hours on research all the best topics are right here. So go ahead and choose one from our list or amalgamate a few to accomplish your goal of writing a highly informative, deductive essay about the role of music in creativity. Once you have picked a topic, you can go to the next part of this guide, which is how to write a deductive essay on the role of music in creativity. Our next guide discusses really useful pointers on properly writing a deductive essay. Before checking out that guide though, we want you to have a look at a sample essay on one of the topics mentioned above. Sample Deductive Essay: Health and Music. How Does One Affect the Other? Music can be used as a form of therapy to address many health issues. This is not just a hypothesis but rather a proven science which is being applied actively on patients. Heart disease, for example, can be remedied through musical activities. Through these activities, heart rate and pulse can be reduced, the respiratory rate can also be cut down while reducing blood pressure and maintaining it at healthier levels. Overall, all these reductions and improvements across the board considerably help people to effectively deal with coronary heart disease. Although it’s not proven that music can help people with psychological distress, as there is little evidence and the clinical significance is unfeasible, it can definitely improve overall heart health if a patient is listening to the concerto of Mozart or any song from popular music charts, their blood pressure reduces significantly while the heart’s resting rate goes down as well, and so do stress levels. Even in the case of neurological diseases, music can act as therapy and help people fight certain health disorders;   typically, disorders like amnesia, dementia, schizophrenia, mood disorders, Parkinsons disease, aphasia and Tourettes Syndrome all show improvements once the brain is exposed to music. In the case of stroke, music can be effective because it affects certain regions of the brain. music can effect emotions or improve their social interaction skills, which can ultimately be very beneficial to stroke victims. Music therapy can result in decreased depression and anxiety while elevating mood. All school of thoughts come together when it comes to this topic because both descriptive and experimental studies have successfully catalogued and documented various effects of music. These effects include environment awareness, quality of life, expression of feelings, responsiveness, awareness, socialization and positive association. Positive behavioral and social outcomes are caused by music therapy. You can also find some encouraging trends. A program was developed by Dan Cohen called â€Å"The Music and Memory Program†. This program started when Mr. Cohen was nursing at a home in City Central, New York, where he provided the local residents with iPods. The success of the program led to the Shelley Donald Rubin Foundation which was funding it entirely in 2008. Because of this milestone, Cohen was able to test on a much larger scale. Later in 2010, the Music Memory Program went on to become an official non-profit organization and a documentary was also released called â€Å"Alive Inside: A Story of Music and Memory†, which was based on the Music Memory Program. That documentary helped the program gain wider support and awareness, because of a scene in the documentary where an Alzheimers patient miraculously awakes listening to songs of Cab Calloway, which was music from a time he could instantly relate to. After a preview of the documentary, it received a record 11 million views. Thanks to this documentary, it became a fact that there is, apparently, a direct connection between music and health. References: Toynbee, J. (2000). Making popular music: Musicians, creativity and institutions. London: Arnold. Music in Me A Piano Method for Young Christian Students. (2006). Word Music. Tschmuck, P. (2012). Creativity and innovation in the music industry. Berlin: Springer Beinhorn, M. (n.d.). Unlocking creativity: A producers guide to making music and art. Griffiths, F. (2010). Supporting childrens creativity through music, dance, drama and art: Creative conversations in the early years. Abingdon, Oxon: Routledge. Judy, S. (1990). Making music for the joy of it: Enhancing creativity, skills, and musical confidence. Los Angeles: J.P. Tarcher Watson, S. (2011). Using technology to unlock musical creativity. New York: Oxford University Press. Odena, O. (2012). Musical creativity: Insights from music education research. Burlington, VT: Ashgate.

Essay on Hiring and Development Plan part 2Essay Writing Service

Essay on Hiring and Development Plan part 2Essay Writing Service Essay on Hiring and Development Plan part 2 Essay on Hiring and Development Plan part 2Essay on   Hiring and Development Plan part  1Creating a Development PlanIt is known that an employee development plan provides the so-called â€Å"roadmap† to improvement of current job performance and increases the chances for career advancement. Employee development plans can be viewed as a combination of the key items the employee should be ready to improve upon, and the items the company is focused upon (Byars, 2010).   Actually, a development plan is focused on the areas, which require improvement in the employees’ performance.As a Human Relations Manager, I am responsible for the development of an effective individual development plan. This plan helps to identify the best candidates for career advancement and enhanced developmental opportunities. I realize that employees are motivated to perform their duties and tasks, providing the highest levels of job performance, if they evaluate the positive recognition comin g from their managers and colleagues (Byars, 2010).   I will be focused on development planning to meet the needs of our company and ensure that all employees are adapted to the technician and non-technical needs of the company. I realize that flexibility and integration can help to increase employee productivity, improve the company’s efficiency and develop the company’s knowledge and employee awareness of the total commitment to achieve the established goals (Aswathappa, 2005; Byars, 2010).  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚   An effective employee development plan shows the key processes, procedures and methods of identifying the needs of employees and their skill gaps. A well-developed employee development plan helps to improve job efficiency and effectiveness (Aswathappa, 2005; Byars, 2010).Employee Development PlanThe key development objectivesIn this section, it is very important to formulate the major development objectives through a comprehensive asse ssment of the key needs and capabilities of the company. It is necessary to assess the current status of the company, e.g. how the company operates on the competitive market, what the company does better than other companies, and asses the abilities of the employee to perform these tasks in a proper way. This analysis can help to identify the criteria against which the effectiveness and efficiency of the employee development program can be evaluated.The basic information about an employee:The employee nameThe employee positionThe employee departmentThe employee skills’ assessmentThe employee skillsIn this section of the plan, it is very important to identify the employee skills and knowledge, including handling technical challenge skillfully, lack of creativity and originality in presenting new ideas, demonstrating the high degree of intellectual effectiveness, poor ability in solving conflicts, poor communication skills, etc.The employee skills ratingIn this section, it is n ecessary to determine the employee’s computer skills and people management skills.The employee development aspirationsIn this section, it is necessary to describe the required knowledge and skills, stating in detail what skills the employee should develop. As a Human Relations Manager, I will be focused on communication skills, leadership skills and technical skills.The detailed action planThe detailed development programIn this section of the development plan, it is very important to determine the appropriate development program aimed at enhancing the employee’s skills and abilities. There are several types of employee development programs, including various training courses, mentoring, etc.As a Human Relations Manager for the company, I will use special development programs aimed at encouraging the employee’s growth and career development; improving the employee’s skills, abilities and knowledge that can be effectively and immediately applied to the req uired tasks; increasing the employee’s motivation and job satisfaction; creating an effective network of co-employees for problem-solving, decision-making and support;   and promoting   communication practices and planning throughout the company’s department networks.The improvement planIn this section, it is necessary to identify the areas of employee deficiency, as well as the areas of the company’s focus. This improvement plan should become a roadmap for the employee on how the methods used to advance the employee to a better position. It is very important to identify the actions the employee should take to improve, including the training programs provided by the company.The development courseIn this section, it would be better to identify the methods used for the employee development. As a Human Relations Manager, I will use the following training and development methods: on the job methods, simulations, lectures, conferences and seminars, as well as rol e-playing.Conclusion  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚   Thus, it is necessary to conclude that Human Relations Managers should be equipped with an effective hiring plan, which can guarantee the higher percentage of selecting and hiring top employees for the required job positions. Employee development plan helps to empower employees to perform their duties in a proper way and take responsibility for their personal and professional growth. An employee development plan can be viewed as an effective document created by Human Relations Managers to outline the employee’s objectives, activities, achievements, resources and targets regarding his/her development at the professional and individual levels. As a Human Relations Manager for the company, I have developed an effective employee development plan to meet the company’s needs and achieve the established goals. I have used various methods to model the behavior of the employee I encouraged. I discussed and created an effective employee development plan, which corresponds to the performance planning cycle adopted by the company. I have endorsed the employee to attend lectures, classes and other activities aimed at supporting the established development goals. In addition, I have discussed the key employee development aspirations that can be used to support the employee’s new ideas and methods. Moreover, I believe that it is necessary to provide a comprehensive behavioral feedback on the employee performance and discuss the most appropriate ways to improve and develop employee performance in the nearest future. Thus, the employee development plan discussed in this paper provides massive opportunities for the employees to develop the required skills, abilities and attitudes through effective mentoring, cross-training sessions, training courses, skill assessment programs and other methods and approaches.

Chlamydia Essay Example | Topics and Well Written Essays - 500 words

Chlamydia - Essay Example In order to do so it is essential to recognize the symptoms of Chlamydia, diagnose the victim, and provide treatment immediately. Chlamydia is spread by having unprotected oral, vaginal, or anal sex with an infected person. A person remains infected until they have finished their treatment regardless of whether they have or not have symptoms. It can spread from a woman to her fetus during pregnancy. When the baby is born it might have an eye infection or pneumonia due to Chlamydia. Chlamydia is diagnosed for men by a urine sample. (Cates, 1771-1781) This can take up to more than ten samples because it is harder to find a test that has the germ in it. This can mean they have Chlamydia ,but the test says they do not. A diagnosis for women is by taking a swab of MPC out of the cervix. The most likely ways of getting Chlamydia is people who have a number of different sex partners, people who have sex partners who have a number of different sex partners, people who don't use condoms, and people who have a history of other STDs. Chlamydia can only be prevented by protected sex or total abstinence. Chlamydia isn't a typical pathogen. It is very small in size like a virus and has some characteristics like a bacteria. The only problem with this microorganism is that it cannot make energy for itself like the way a virus and bacteria can.

Describe the main phases of the business cycle and discuss recent Essay

Describe the main phases of the business cycle and discuss recent economic growth patterns in Australia - Essay Example At the end, there is a depiction of the movement of the leading index and coincident index, which are two composite indices of prime economic indicators. These indices are particularly designed to predict business cycle and growth rate cycle patterns. The basic features of business cycles in Australia over the past few decades and the compatibility of the recent economic growth with the prevailing business cycle phase are analyzed on the basis of these indicators and the NBER methodology. The analysis of business cycles in Australia shows strong incidence of asymmetry as compared to the growth rate cycles. The study of business cycles is crucial for exploring the economic activities and its trends of a given nation or territory. In Economics, â€Å"business cycle† is the up and down movements of the economy which occurs at irregular intervals. The major indicators of business cycles or tools of measuring the business cycles include the important macroeconomic variables and essentially, fluctuations in GDP. A business cycle is an irregular, unpredictable, or non-repetitive phenomenon. A business cycle is recognized as a succession of four phases. The first phase is Contraction, which implies a slowdown in the pace of economic activity. Next comes, Trough, which is the lower point of turn of a business cycle. This is a point from where the phase of downturn or contraction moves towards expansion or upturn. The third phase is that of Expansion, a speedup in the pace of economic activity; and finally comes peak, the upper turning of a business cycle. The research on the cyclical in stability, contraction and expansion of economic activities or outputs is an important aspect of study in economics. Particularly, this area of research got emphasis since the seminal works of Burns and Mitchell (1946) at National Bureau of Economic

Application of Machine Tools Assignment Example | Topics and Well Written Essays - 1250 words

Application of Machine Tools - Assignment Example The tools are made involving more than one process where there is also application of other specialized machines and different tools of trade. Machine tool is a critical aspect in the industrialization of any country due to the position it plays in the economic advancement. The milling gauge is an example of a machine tool application. The machine is used in the manufacturing of arc welding and equipment used for cutting. The milled taper gauge is made with a tapered tip. This is because the tips are used in conditions that are limited to mobility and access to specific areas that need to be welded commonly inside a corner. The way that a milled taper gauge is made is critical and ensures an efficient outcome in the final process. There are several tools and machines used to make a milled taper gauge. The tapered tips on the gadgets are mounted on the front of the torch and normally hard to see around in tight spaces. As such, the gadget is made to have a longer and thinner tip to al low the welder more visibility and movement with ease. The tapered gauge is made using a series of tools and processes whereby the incorporation of a cutter to size up the correct size of the tip is crucial (Snyder, 2004). The process of making a milled taper gauge starts with the measurements where the accurate measurements must be made before deploying the use of a cutter tool to size the taper tips. The size is the initial consideration that should be calculated before setting off to use other machines and tools. After the measurements, the cutter is a crucial component, and it plays a great role in ensuring a taper gauge looks the way it should (Liang, 2005). The cutter is used to cut the size of the tip in different sizes as required. One gauge could have several tips with different sizes. This depends on the work the gauge is allocated to do. The milling gauge is used to cut unwanted parts of a machine tool while converting it into a usable machine of works. This makes the pro cess of making the milling gauge be specific and advanced to give room for a hundred-percent efficiency and reliable machine application tool. The taper is made of a low cost, simple, and versatile tool mounting system that uses the holders alongside tapered shanks. There is also use of a matching hollowed spindle that helps to clip the object during work. Tools that have tapered shanks are inserted into the matching inlets and forced into the place. They are then made to stay there through friction, where in some cases the friction needs to be increased with the use of a drawbar. The drawbar is a long bolt that holds the tool into the clipping area using more force to increase the friction. Caution needs to be exercised during the process of manufacturing a taper gauge since the joints and the connection points require accurate measurement to ensure it becomes a successful taper gauge. This means that any error that deviates from the norm can lead to a spoilt taper gauge which cann ot be ideal to work as an application tool. The taper gauge itself is an important machine that is very useful in a workshop. Clipping the tools in its expected place is a critical undertaking that is determined by the process used to make the gauge taper. To ensure that a taper comes out as an efficient machine, its parts are made and organized in a specified way to enable perfect handling of objects while working on them. There is a sequence of

Damages to Mammalian Neural Activity Treatment

Damages to Mammalian Neural Activity Treatment Utilizing Prokaryotic Channels, Organic Biometric Neurons and Mammalian Target of Rapamycin to Reverse and Repair Damages to Mammalian Neural activity Stephen Shay Introduction One of the most detrimental conditions that a patient can acquire is damage to the nervous system. Major damages can include vascular disorders, congenital, degenerative disorders and trauma. These damages and disorders often involve abnormal neurochemical and electrical signaling (Purves et al. 2012). There are currently many treatments available for patients suffering damage to the nervous system. These possible treatments can range from surgery, physical therapy and medications for autoimmune diseases which can help a patient adapt to or possibly provide a small fix for their individual situation but the underlying problem may still subsist. The damages caused to mammalian axons in the central nervous system (CNS) fail to regenerate or repair after injury with issues such as traumatic brain injury (TBI) or demyelinating conditions such as multiple sclerosis (MS) leading to affected nerve fibers which will no longer work correctly as shown by Mierzwa et al. (2015). This can leave s ites of injury in patients unmanageable and without a clear path to recovery. To remedy this, a toolbox has been proposed utilizing a series of recent research. Nguyen et al. (2016) describe a method which would allow for direct enhancement of electrical excitability in human cells through the overexpression of voltage-gated sodium channels (VGSC). Simon et al. (2015) developed an organic electronic biometric neuron, which has the capacity to integrate within a malfunctioning signaling pathway. Lim et al. (2016) present that through stimulating neural activity and the cell-growth-promoting pathway of mammalian target of rapamycin (mTOR), retinal ganglion cells (RGCs) in mice which their visual neurons silenced would see RGC axons regenerated and re-innervated. Utilizing these tools; engineered prokaryotic channels to increase tissue excitability, organic electronic biomimetic neurons to mimic the function of physiological neurons and bridge the affected zone to the rest of the nervo us system, and utilizing visual neural stimulation along with activation of the mTOR pathway to stimulate axon regeneration, it opens up the possibility to reverse and repair conditions caused by damages and afflictions to the nervous system. Prokaryotic Channels Voltage-gated sodium channels (VGSCs) are fundamental to cell-to-cell communication in the nervous system, and their loss of function can lead to a variety of different disorders (e.g. neuronal, cardiac and skeletal muscular). These VGSCs, in electrically excitable tissues, allow for the firing and spread of action potentials. Ren et al. (2001) along with Koshi et al. (2003) had provided novel insight into the structure and biophysical properties of VGSCs and a large bacterial family of VGSCs called BacNav. Utilizing this bacteria Nguyen et al. (2016) established a platform to enable stable conversion of primary human fibroblasts into action potential conducting cells which can slowly recover conduction in tissues with pathological conditions. Versatility was shown as Nguyen et al. with applying this technology to human ventricular fibroblasts (HVFs), human astrocytes (Has) and HECK293s into engineered electrically excitable cells (E-HVFs, E-HAs and E-HEK293s, respectively) (Nguyen e t al.). Though this study only focused on the alteration of specific amino acid residues in BacNav, E43 and D60, a variety of possible combinations can be explored to further expand the possibilities of this approach. Organic Biometric Neurons Currently most neurological therapies are based in and rely on medication and electrical stimulation. Larsen et al. (2013) presented how a newer class of technology called iontronics, which is based on polyelectrolytes and à Ã¢â€š ¬-conjugated semiconducting polymers, can work as organic electronic electrophoretic transport devices. Iontronics exhibit a unique combination of ionic and electronic properties, enabling transduction between electronic impulses and biochemical signals. Applying this, Simon et al. (2015) presented an organic electronic biomimetic neuron or artificial neuron with the hopes it can be used to restore use to malfunctioning signaling pathways. These artificial neurons are based on the basic chemical-electrical-chemical signal transduction like projected neurons use in communication with one another hoping to find a potential for long-range neuronal signaling. Simon et al. had concluded their results offered a novel means for auto-regulated neuromodulation bas ed on endogenous substances, enabling malfunctioning neuronal signaling pathways to be restored or augmented, thus returning the damaged area to a chemically and electrically balanced healthy state. The artificial neurons also present a conversion of glutamate-induced descending neuromuscular signals into acetylcholine-mediated muscular activation signals may be obtained, applicable for bridging injured sites and active prosthetics (Simon et al.). Neural Activity Combined with Activated Mammalian Target of Rapamycin Focusing on the eye-to-brain pathway which consists of RGC connections to subcortical targets [as] a widely used model for studying vertebrate CNS regeneration (Vidal-Sanz et al. 1987) (Park et al. 2008), Lim et al. (2016) shows how that the stimulation of RGC activity leading to their axons regeneration and by looking at axon damage in the CNS they observed avenues in which they can regenerate and restore correct connectivity patterns. Lim et al. had found that enhancing neural activity and mTOR signaling in RGCs, we observed long-distance, target-specific RGC axon regeneration in adult mice showing a mechanistic combination that can lead to axon regrowth and repair. This research may prove informative for devising treatments for the damaged visual system, spinal cord or other CNS regions in patients suffering from neurodegenerative diseases or physical trauma (Lim et al.). Proposed Method of Combination Therapy and its Prospect of Neuromodulation Through its Application/Discussion There are important functional implications for the anatomical regeneration of the different parts of the nervous system. Utilizing a combination of these tools that these research teams worked on, its possible to come up with a possible combination therapy to reverse or repair serious damages when it comes to the nervous system. A treatment involving these tools would be a personalized therapy requiring costume gene editing for the prokaryotic channels, specialized artificial neurons for the site of damage and while using out-patient or in-patient therapy to stimulate neural activity and enhance mTOR. If done together the possibility is open for neuronal regeneration and chemical and electric stabilization, for affected tissue and site of injury. References Koishi, R., Xu, H., Ren, D., Navarro, B., Spiller, B. W., Shi, Q., Clapham, D. E. (2003). A Superfamily of Voltage-gated Sodium Channels in Bacteria. Journal of BiologicalChemistry, 279(10), 9532-9538. doi:10.1074/jbc.m313100200 Larsson, K. C., Kjà ¤ll, P., Richter-Dahlfors, A. (2013). Organic bioelectronics for electronic-to chemical translation in modulation of neuronal signaling and machine-to-brain interfacing. Biochimica et Biophysica Acta (BBA) General Subjects, 1830(9), 4334-4344. doi:10.1016/j.bbagen.2012.11.024 Lim, J. A., Stafford, B. K., Nguyen, P. L., Lien, B. V., Wang, C., Zukor, K., . . . Huberman, A. D. (2016). Neural activity promotes long-distance, target-specific regeneration of adult retinal axons. Nature Neuroscience, 19(8), 1073-1084. doi:10.1038/nn.4340 Mierzwa, A. J., Marion, C. M., Sullivan, G. M., Mcdaniel, D. P., Armstrong, R. C. (2015). Components of Myelin Damage and Repair in the Progression of White Matter Pathology After Mild Traumatic Brain Injury. Journal of Neuropathology Experimental Neurology, 74(3), 218-232. doi:10.1097/nen.0000000000000165 Nguyen, H. X., Kirkton, R. D., Bursac, N. (2016). Engineering prokaryotic channels for control of mammalian tissue excitability. Nature Communications, 7, 13132. doi:10.1038/ncomms13132 Park, K. K., Liu, K., Hu, Y., Smith, P. D., Wang, C., Cai, B., . . . He, Z. (2008). Promoting Axon Regeneration in the Adult CNS by Modulation of the PTEN/mTOR Pathway. Science, 322(5903), 963-966. doi:10.1126/science.116156 Purves, D. et al. (2012). Neuroscience. Sunderland, MA: Sinauer Associates. Ren, D. et al. (2001). A Prokaryotic Voltage-Gated Sodium Channel. Science, 294(5550), 2372-2375. doi:10.1126/science.1065635 Simon, D. T., Larsson, K. C., Nilsson, D., Burstrà ¶m, G., Galter, D., Berggren, M., Richter-Dahlfors, A. (2015). An organic electronic biomimetic neuron enables auto regulated neuromodulation. Biosensors and Bioelectronics, 71, 359-364. doi:10.1016/j.bios.2015.04.058 Vidal-Sanz, M., Bray, G.M., Villegas-Pà ©rez, M.P., Thanos, S. Aguayo, A.J. (1987). Axonal regeneration and synapse formation in the superior colliculus by retinal ganglion cells in the adult rat. J.Neurosci. 7, 2894-2909.

The Links Between Environmental Ethics and Sciences :: Nature Society Living Papers

The Links Between Environmental Ethics and Sciences Ecologists formulate their scientific theories influenced by ethical values, and in turn, environmental ethicists value nature based on scientific theories. Darwinian evolutionary theory provides clear examples of these complex links, illustrating how these reciprocal relationships do not constitute a closed system, but are undetermined and open to the influences of two broader worlds: the sociocultural and the natural environment. On the one hand, the Darwinian conception of a common evolutionary origin and ecological connectedness has promoted a respect for all forms of life. On the other hand, the metaphors of struggle for existence and natural selection appear as problematic because they foist onto nature the Hobbesian model of a liberal state, a Malthusian model of the economy, and the productive practice of artificial selection, all of which reaffirm modern individualism and the profit motive that are at the roots of our current environmental crisis. These metaphors were includ ed in the original definitions of ecology and environmental ethics by Haeckel and Leopold respectively, and are still pervasive among both ecologists and ethicists. To suppose that these Darwinian notions, derived from a modern-liberal worldview, are a fact of nature constitutes a misleading interpretation. Such supposition represents a serious impediment to our aim of transforming our relationship with the natural world in order to overcome the environmental crisis. To achieve a radical transformation in environmental ethics, we need a new vision of nature. Ecological theories and environmental ethics are reciprocally and dynamically linked. Inquiry into this thesis can provide epistemological and ethical insights for ecologists and environmental philosophers. First, for ecologists it clarifies that environmental ethics is not purely a normative corpus that we should adopt under the pressure of an environmental crisis. Ethical conceptions participate in the genesis and evaluation of ecological theories. Second, environmental philosophers have tended to focus on how ecological sciences could inform environmental ethics. I emphasize, in turn, that it is valuable to analyze and to discuss how ethical conceptions can and do inform ecological sciences. Introduction Ecologists approach nature with the aim of understanding it. Environmental ethicists approach nature asking how we should relate to it, or live in and with it. Two disciplines: ecology looking for the is of nature, environmental ethics seeking for an ought in respect to it. How to bridge these discrete, but parallel courses? How to link the is of ecologists and the ought of eco-philosophers? I propose a circle of continuous reciprocal influences between ecological theories and ethical norms respecting nature.

Bill Recommendation Essay

Is it a good idea for those individuals convicted of armed robbery to receive double the sentence that it is now? In my opinion the answer is no. Policy making in the field of criminal justice is extremely vital to society. Punishments can be very confusing in the fact of what is appropriate. What is too much and what is too little? There have been many studies that show that there is little or no deterrent of crime such as armed robbery when the punishment is a long sentence to prison. The reason for this lack of deterrent is because the person who is committing the crime or crimes knows what is at stake, yet he or she chooses to commit the robbery anyway. This is because the gains of that robbery outweigh the prison sentence. The main purpose of this bill is to stop or at least lessen the amount of armed robbery that is being committed by putting those who commit the crime behind bars for a longer period of time. This seems like a good idea at first glance. However there is more to this proposition. Lengthening the prison sentence is being used as a deterrent or to simply take the bad guys off the street for longer. This has not worked in the past and will not work now. Facing a long sentence has not deterred robbery from happening. If prison sentencing was enough robbery would not be around in society especially not as frequent as it is today. According to a study done by the FBI in 2006 447,403 robberies were reported to the police, which equals out to a rate of one robbery per minute in the United States (McGoey, 2014). The punishment for robbery can be up to 25 years in the United States. Doubling that and making the sentence 50 years will hardly make any change in the robbery rate. If anything it would just cause the jails and prisons to  become overpopulated quicker, costing taxpayers more money. Bill Recommendation There are more effective ways to address a crime than make the punishments more intense or longer. The classic school of criminology is what I base my recommendation on. In the late 1700’s, which are the time that the classical school came about, the punishment for crimes was extremely cruel and would be seen today as barbaric. Cesare de Beccaria and Jeremy Bentham played a tremendous role in the theory of criminology and criminal justice today would not be where it is without them. Their main focus was to lessen the harsh punishments implemented by the judicial system at the time (Schmalleger, 2012). Cesare de Baccaria believed that preventing crimes would benefit a society more than punishing someone who committed a crime. This belief was the driving force of the classic school of criminology. He believed the punishment should fit the crime for instance theft should be punished through the use of fines and crimes that cause personal injury to be punished by corporal punishment. This would, in turn he believed, prevent these crimes from happening. Jeremy Bentham viewed crime a little differently than Beccaria. Bentham was viewed as a utilitarian. He believed that the punishment for any crime must be that of the greater good for the community. Basically stating that any pain being used as a punishment towards an offender must be justified to benefit the good of the society. Modern criminal justice still holds its foundation in that of the classic school of criminology. Having said that, long prison sentences do act as a major deterrent for many criminals, but poses a major conflict of ideas to that of the classic school of thought due to the fact that crimes are committed based on free will and rational thinking. There are Bill Recommendation many factors such as emotional instability in s sudden moment, and mental and physical disorders that a longer prison sentence simply would not abolish. There is also the very likely chance that drugs and or alcohol is involved.  If the offender is being driven by an addiction nothing, surely not a longer prison sentence is going to persuade his or her decision (Schmalleger, 2012) With all of that being said, the answer to decreasing crime, more specifically armed robbery, a longer prison sentence is not the answer. The question at hand is: what is the answer? This is a question that is going to be debated as long as crime is resent in the population. Juvenile criminals usually mature into adult criminals, so perhaps putting more criminal emphasis on juvenile crime must be done. In addition to everything, it is well known that drugs are the foundation of many crimes. Drugs are responsible for many thefts and robberies, and more time behind bars is not going to make a drug addict think twice before robbing someone. More emphasis needs to be put on the war on drugs and alcohol addiction. Put the taxpayers money to good use by stopping the spread of drugs, not on paying for more people inside if jails. Lets stop the robberies from happening. References McGoey, C.E. (2014). Robbery Facts: Violent Crime Against Persons. Retrieved from http://www.crimedoctor Schmalleger, F. (2012). Criminology Today: An Integrative Introduction (6th ed.). Retrieved from The University of Phoenix eBook Collection database.

How the Internet Has Changed The Traditional Home Buyer †Business Paper

How the Internet Has Changed The Traditional Home Buyer – Business Paper Free Online Research Papers How the Internet Has Changed The Traditional Home Buyer Business Paper In today’s day and age it is becoming much more accepted to explore and complete nearly every aspect of the real estate process online. From researching, to touring the house, to figuring out how much and what type of mortgage is best, the consumer can undergo nearly all of the steps to purchasing a house without ever leaving their computer. Many commonly performed tasks such as driving to various neighborhoods, scouring the phone book for realtors, and going to various lending institutions for assistance with a loan are not nearly as stressful and time consuming. All of this has opened the door for a new type of â€Å"ambitious consumer† when it comes to buying real estate online. The internet has vastly transformed the average home-buyer. There are many characteristics that online real estate buyers have in common. A study was released by the California Association of Realtors titled â€Å"Internet versus Traditional Buyer Study† that gave interesting insight into who exactly is the â€Å"average internet real estate consumer?†. A few highlights of the study concluded that the online consumer was more self-motivated, wealthier, younger, and more likely to be married (housebloggers, 2005). Some of the key comparisons are as follows: The average age of Internet buyers was 39 compared to 46 for traditional buyers. 9 out of 10 internet buyers were married compared to 8 out of 10 non-internet. 85% of internet buyers had a 4-year degree, 11% completed post-graduate work, whereas only 78% of non-internet buyers had a bachelors, 4% had completed any post-graduate work. Internet buyers had an average income of $185,088.00 and non-internet buyers had an average of $151, 190.00. Internet buyers spend three times as much (5.8 weeks) time considering buying a home before contacting a realtor than non-internet buyers (2.1 weeks). Internet buyers took only two weeks to select a house instead of the seven weeks the traditional buyer took. Due to the use of virtual tours, internet buyers only looked at an average of 6.2 homes with a realtor compared to the 14.5 homes a traditional buyer looks at. This study shows the obvious changes that are taking place in the real estate world. Buyers are getting younger, smarter, and much more ambitious. They are spending more time researching on their own, and needing less assistance from a realtor. What is it exactly that attracts these younger, smarter, educated buyers to the internet instead of dealing directly with a real estate expert? It’s simple, there is literally an encyclopedia of information on how to handle every step of the process all over the internet. Every major realtor’s web site has sections that you can learn all about the real estate buying process without even talking to a representative (century 21). You can investigate neighborhoods, find information on exactly how much a mortgage would cost you, and even get in touch with a representative when you are ready to make that final leap. Site’s such as Century 21’s homepage has a complete First-time Homebuyer’s Guide that you can read to inform yourself on some of the less-known or confusing factors that go into purchasing real estate. Other web site’s such as the home loan learning center provide a step by step checklist to walk you through the rigors of determin ing the right type of loan for you (MBA, 2004). Not only does can you use the internet to educate yourself on the ins-and-outs of buying real estate, but it is also a valuable tool to direct you to the places you need to go when you’re ready. You can get in touch with a realtor, mortgage counselor, loan officer or a host of other individuals that can help answer any questions you still may have. This can save a lot of time searching through the phone book trying to distinguish what services each realtor can provide, or who really knows what it is you are looking for. When it comes to buying a house, there’s one word that causes more confusion, frustration, fear and anguish. That word is â€Å"mortgage†. For almost every individual out there, a mortgage is an essential part of the home-buying process. However, it may be one of the most confusing parts as well. With all the different types of mortgages, how does one know what is right for them? In the pre-internet days, a person would have to sit down with a mortgage consultant or loan officer or whoever, and be educated on how the whole loan process works. With the advent of internet real estate a whole new breed of sites have been born. Not only can you find tons of information about mortgages on any real estate company’s web site, but there are many sites dedicated solely to helping consumers understand mortgages and how they work. Fixed Rate Mortgage The most common mortgage in use today is what’s known as a fixed rate mortgage. A fixed rate mortgage is defined as a mortgage in which the interest rate and payments remain the same for the life of the loan (MBA 2004). The fixed rate mortgage is one of the oldest lending tools and still one of the most widely used. A fixed rate mortgage is comprised of the principal and the interest. When you set up your repayment schedule you will have a set amount that you must pay every month until the balance is paid off. Your monthly payment will be paying off only part of the amount you borrowed and part of the interest, or what you are being charged to borrow the original loan amount. This predetermined monthly payment is locked in or â€Å"fixed† for the entire life of the loan, regardless of changing interest rates, or how much you are willing to pay every month. The most common fixed rate mortgage issued is the 30-year mortgage (MBA 2004). You can, however, set up a m ultitude of fixed rate mortgages such as a 15 or 20 year fixed rate mortgage. The main reason that the 30 year fixed rate mortgage is the most common is because it offers the lowest monthly payments. This allows for a higher likelihood of being approved and is geared toward borrowers that will be remaining in the house for a long time and would also like to keep their housing expenses consistent (MBA 2004). Another fixed rate mortgage that can be obtained is a 15-year fixed rate mortgage. This is almost exactly like a 30-year mortgage except that you will have significantly less interest to pay. The drawback of the 15 year mortgage is that it does require a higher credit rating and a much larger monthly payment (MBA 2004). One more uncommon fixed-rate mortgage is the Bi-weekly mortgage. This type of loan is great if you have the budgeting skills to make a half-payment on your monthly loan amount every paycheck. By making a bi-monthly payment every two weeks, you are actually making the equivalent of 13 full monthly payments (MBA 2004). This loan is also typically a 30 year term, but allows you to have it paid off long before the 30 years are up. The example below illustrates the potential savings one can have by using a bi-weekly payment as opposed to a typical monthly payment. Example: You have a mortgage with a monthly payment of $997.00 Total interest paid over the 30 year life of the loan: $209,263.00 Half payments of $498.00 ($997.00/2) every two weeks would result in 26 equal payments per month. This extra month allows you to pay off the 30-year loan in 22-23 years. Total interest paid over the 22-23 year life of the loan: $155,938.00. Total savings over the traditional loan: $53,325.00! Adjustable Rate Mortgage A far less common and more complicated lending tool is an adjustable rate mortgage. An adjustable rate mortgage is defined as a mortgage loan or deed of trust, which allows the lender to adjust the interest rate in accordance with a specified index periodically, and as agreed to at the inception of the loan. Also called variable rate mortgages (VRM) (MBA 2004). ARM’s can be a bit more confusing because they require an understanding of a few more terms that dictate exactly how and how much the monthly payments of the mortgage can change. Some of the key terms to understand before getting into an ARM are as follows: The adjustment period: The length of time which dictates interest rate adjustments on an adjustable rate mortgage. A six-month ARM would have an adjustment every six months. The index: A published interest rate, such as the prime rate, LIBOR, T-Bill rate, or the 11th District COFI. Lenders use indexes to establish interest rates charged on mortgages or to compare investment returns. On ARMs, a predetermined margin is added to the index to compute the interest rate adjustment. The margin: In an adjustable rate mortgage, the spread between the index and the mortgage interest rate. Index rate + Margin = Your ARM Annual Percentage Rate (APR): A term defined in section 106 of the federal Truth in Lending Act (15 USC 1606), which expresses on an annualized basis the charges imposed on the borrower to obtain a loan (defined in the Act as finance charges), including interest, discount and other costs. Interest Rate Cap: A limit on interest rate increases and/or decreases during each interest rate adjustment (adjustment period cap) or over the term (life cap) of the mortgage. *Definitions come from the home loan learning center web site ARM’s come with many different adjustment periods, margin rates and caps. It is important to consider each of these variables when selecting the right type of ARM for you. Hybrid and convertible ARM A hybrid and convertible mortgage is a mortgage that interchanges between a fixed-rate and adjustable-rate mortgage. One convertible is a mortgage that starts with a fixed rate for a period of time (2,5,10 yrs) and then converts to an annual adjustable-rate mortgage for its remaining life. Conversely there is the convertible mortgage that begin as an adjustable rate mortgage and can be converted into a fixed rate after an agreed payment period. You typically have to pay a fee when you convert the mortgage and most of the time the fixed rate you pay is slightly higher than the going rate for fixed loans (MBA 2004). To sum it all up, here is a list of the most common mortgages used today. Below the type of mortgage is some pro’s and con’s for each. Fixed-rate mortgages 30-Year Fixed Pros: Lower monthly payment Most affordable More cash/savings because payment is lower; easier to bear if the homeowner has repairs to make or comes upon hard times; extra cash allows homeowner to make other investments since cash isn’t tied up in the mortgage Cons: Longer term Pay more interest Costs more than shorter term mortgages over the life of the loan 15-year fixed Pros: Shorter term, own your home in half the time (allows you to own your home before your children start college or before you reach retirement) Often the total interest paid over the life of the loan is lower, less than half the total interest of a 30 yr Cons: Bigger monthly payment Qualification may be difficult because the income requirement is higher Bi-weekly Pros: Loan is paid off much more quickly Interest savings is significant Often automatically deducted from your checking account Cons: Must be able to budget and make the half-mortgage payment every two weeks Adjustable Rate (ARM) Pros: When interest rates go down, payment goes down Initial interest rate can be as much as 2 to 3 percent lower than a comparable fixed rate mortgage Homeownership is more affordable Qualifying is easier Lower initial interest rate compared to fixed-rate mortgages, which can make homeownership more affordable and make qualifying for a mortgage easier. And if interest rates decline, your mortgage payments decline as well. Cons: When interest rates go up, payments go up The potential for higher monthly payments if interest rates increase Requires more budgeting discipline Convertible Mortgages Hybrid and convertible ARMs Pros: Advantages of an ARM with the ability to convert to a fixed-rate mortgage If you don’t convert, it’s a regular ARM Cons: If interest rates are at a higher level, when its time to convert, you may not want to go with it *Info from home loan learning center Research Papers on How the Internet Has Changed The Traditional Home Buyer - Business PaperAnalysis of Ebay Expanding into AsiaPETSTEL analysis of IndiaThe Relationship Between Delinquency and Drug UseThe Project Managment Office SystemHarry Potter and the Deathly Hallows EssayIncorporating Risk and Uncertainty Factor in CapitalOpen Architechture a white paperRiordan Manufacturing Production PlanStandardized TestingResearch Process Part One

racsim essays

racsim essays Racism is a very big issue. I think most people say things without realising they are being racist. This doesnt excuse their behaviour but most people dont think before they say things. One line in Oodgeroos poems says Black tribe, yellow tribe, red, white or brown this means that there are so many races in Australia and people are going to keep on being racist because there are always going to be different races in Australia and no-one can change it; so why dont people just live their own life and stop trying to make someone elses miserable because someones skin is darker than theirs. Another line in one of Oodgeroos poems says All one family, so why family rows and I believe that we are all related in some way or another. I dont believe that humans started by the millions I believe we started by one thing only. When people are racist towards others they are calling themselves this as well. I think Oodgeroo is a bit of a hypocrite because most of her poems are about whit people being racist towards Aborigines and in one of her poems called Let us not be bitter she wrote away with bitterness my own dark people in this poem she is saying that they should forget about the past and get on with the future. Then most of her other poems she is going on about how the white people gave allot of discrimination and racism towards the black people. Oodgeroo takes racism very seriously as most people should she has expressed how she feels in her poetry. Oodgeroo has a one way mind about racism though. To me it seems that she thinks its just the white people racist towards the Aborigines and thats it but its not white people are towards everyone even other white people and every other race is racist towards the white people it just goes on. Oodgeroo is expressing her feeling about racism but the way s...

Marketing Intelligence Systems Essay Example | Topics and Well Written Essays - 1000 words

Marketing Intelligence Systems - Essay Example Some of the topics that are going to be covered in the MIS presentation include: The value and quality of a marketing intelligence system depends on the input data the system receives. A five-step process that can help improve the quality of a marketing intelligence system is: 1) Train and motivate the sales force to spot and report new developments; 2) Motivate, retailers, intermediaries, and distributors to pass information along; 3) Collect intelligence by purchasing competitor’s products; 4) Create advisory panel composed of important stakeholders; 5) Purchase information from outside suppliers such as A.C. Nielsen Corporation (Kotler, 2002). The five step quality control process improves marketing intelligence systems to make them more valuable. When the sales force acts as intelligence gatherers they must be trained to recognize the type of information that is useful for managerial purposes. Obtaining product samples from the competition is useful to compare in terms of quality, value, and packaging presentation. Customer advisory panels provide valuable information concerning customer needs. External research firms are able to provide marketing information at a lower cost than what most companies can produce in-house. There are many benefits associated with the implementation of a MIS. The use of an MIS can assist a manager in the sales forecasting process. The system can be used by a start-up company to determine the optimal target markets to penetrate. An MIS system allows a company to monitor behavioral changes in consumer buying patterns. This type of information is useful to adapt the company’s product offering. For example a company in the food industry could utilize data concerning the tendency of a marketplace to consume salty foods to determine the chances its new potato chips brand have to succeed in a region. Marketing intelligence systems can be

INTERNATIONAL BUSINESS FINANCE AND TRADE Essay Example | Topics and Well Written Essays - 3000 words

INTERNATIONAL BUSINESS FINANCE AND TRADE - Essay Example The Enron Corporation before its collapse was one of the largest global company which had its hands in the sales of natural gas and electricity, commodities like bandwidth internet connection and provided other financial and management services. Failure of corporate governance can be due many reasons. In financial terms if a company owes more than it earns over a significant time period and is not able to carry out trade then it faces a corporate failure. Failure can also occur due to institutional failure in which a group of managers fails to tackle major issues of the company. An important factor behind the collapse of corporate governance is the financial crisis. â€Å"The Enron failure demonstrated a failure of corporate governance, in which internal control mechanisms were short-circuited by conflicts of interest that enriched certain managers at the expense of the shareholders.† (Enron: Corporate Failure, Market Success, 2002). A complete reevaluation of corporate govern ance practice in the United States became important after the fall of Enron. The financial goals of a corporate sector are mainly maximization of share holder’s wealth and the maximization of corporate wealth. The wrong financial decisions taken by the authorities leading to a ‘dubious’ financial transaction also contributes to the failure of corporate governance. The free market situation which emerged as a result of liberalization and the process of privatization of public sector got questioned after the breakdown of the Enron. â€Å"The failure of the corporate governance system should be viewed as the failure of the corporate internal control system† (Dewan, 2006, P. 51 An effective system of corporate governance has both internal and external aspects that have to be sufficiently responsive if governance is to succeed. â€Å"Different internal and external influences address different issues within an organization† (Hafner, 2010, P. 6). Absence of an appropriate internal governance system which leads to an inefficient financial and management performance may also contribute to the breakdown of corporate governance as happened at Enron. Failure of External governance system which has the responsibility to warn the company about the future market situations to do its duty may also contribute to the failure of the corporate governance. The power in the hands of the company given by the corporate rules to influence the policy makers and hence the government has been another reason for the corporate failure. The collapse of corporate governance was not just rooted in poor managerial performance but the entire corporate department plays a major role in ruining the corporate ethical values and principles. But the primary responsibility for the failure of corporate governance lies with the executives and the managers. If the operations management were allowed to work according to the corporate norms then the tragedy of the Enron c ollapse might not have occurred. Effective regulation and oversight, restrictions on campaign financing, and an arms length approach of government in dealing with business may have prevented the breakdown of Enron. â€Å"Enron situation taught a lesson about the main reasons for such failures and not to repeat the same mistakes in the future. The Enron situation was the focus of a massive investigation that led to significant changes in corporate governa

What implications, if any, do you draw about EMU as an OCA for these 4 Essay

What implications, if any, do you draw about EMU as an OCA for these 4 countries and why - Essay Example EMU can also be as optimal currency areas for the four countries such as France, Germany, Italy and UK and it has certain amount of implications for these four countries. A member state must comply and should be a part of the EMU stage to adopt Euro as a common currency in the member states for managing trade and exchange rate. This Union is essential for ensuring that the member states of the European nations are able to increase the efficiency of the economies of European Union (Melitz, 2011). After the crisis in the year 2009, the European nations are identified to face adequate challenges in terms of managing the value of Euro, which affected the economic conditions to a certain extent. In this regard, the member states of the European Union are needed to adopt Euro as the common currency. The monetary framework of European Union is also required to control the output as well as inflation of these four countries and help to stabilise the economy by preventing the politically encouraged interventions (Shambaugh, 2012; Angeloni & Dedola, 1999;). The individuals against the EMU noted that Euro will be in dangerous situation if the contributing countries do not fulfil the requirements of OCA. The endogenous OCA theory recommended that economic and monetary integration play a vital role in shaping the EMU (European Monetary Union). OCA offers support of educational services to the politicians to make a stronger integration level in the EMU. The properties of OCA have developed for most analysed countries, but the periphery of EMU has not been predicted by the endogenous theory. The theory of OCA also suggested that monetary union is useful for economies and it also involved in high labour price, mutual trade and flexibility in wages (Buiter, 2012; Vieira & Vieira, 2010). OCA has an impact on the decision to enter the EMU. The comparison value of index of EMU states that

Differences have you found between Essay Example for Free

Differences have you found between Essay Metaphors are used to great effect in My Oedipus Complex. For example There was a bit of the magpie about Father and Father in his usual Santa Claus manner. This use of descriptive language, like the similes helps the reader get a better mental image of, in this case Larrys father. The use of lots of descriptive language in both stories helps the reader feel part of the story. A big difference in the language used is that Elizabeth Gaskell uses archaic language whereas Frank OConnor uses language that is much more modern. For example words such as bade and whom are used in The Half Brothers. This archaic language sets the scene of the Victorian age, it is more typically 19th Century. It also makes the passage seem more descriptive because of the wider variety of vocabulary. Elizabeth Gaskell overcomes the formality created by the use of archaic language slightly by using regional dialect. For example wee lassie. This regional dialect gives the story an identity and makes it sound more homely. It also makes the story seem more realistic as it is set in Yorkshire and requires the suitable language for it. Frank OConnor uses much more modern language, however there is still the occasional word that is slightly old fashioned. For example mere and fellows. These words are relevant because they remind us that the story is not set in completely modern times, it was still a fairly long time ago. The language in My Oedipus Complex seems less formal because it is more modern, however the formality of Larrys thoughts are a source of humour to the reader. For example Life without my early-morning conferences was unthinkable. This formality is humorous because Larry is only five years old and words such as conference and unthinkable would not be in his vocabulary. Also the formality of Larrys thoughts contrast strongly with the formality of the story in general putting more emphasis on this humour. The endings of the stories are very different because one is a tragedy and one has a happy ending. For example in The Half Brothers William asks God for forgiveness because he feels so guilty about bullying Gregory when he turned out to be a hero in the end. Whereas in My Oedipus Complex Larry and his father forgive each other and Larrys father goes out of his way to buy Larry a really nice model railway. This contrast in the ends of the stories shows that a situation can go either way depending on the characters involved. The endings are the most obvious difference in the stories because they define the whole story as either a tragedy or a comedy. The endings make the reader react in different ways. For example the ending of The Half Brothers makes the reader think, because of its regretful conclusion whereas the ending of My Oedipus Complex doesnt give the reader a lot to ponder on as it is a simple happy ending. This makes the stories suitable for different types of reader. If they want a light-hearted book My Oedipus Complex is more suitable but if they want a book that teaches them a lesson then they should choose The Half Brothers. Overall I preferred My Oedipus Complex to The Half Brothers. This is because it is set more recently and the language is easier to understand, I found it easier to relate to. Also it was humorous. The Half Brothers also had good points such as it made me think and gave me a greater understanding of Victorian language. The Half Brothers is a more educational story whereas My Oedipus Complex is light reading.

Effect Of Media On The Childhood

Effect Of Media On The Childhood Childhood representations are derived from media as well as policies and laws, the two being interrelated. Media images produce influential perceptions about children that may be translated into ideologies and through the same laws and policies influence childrens well being and material needs. Media also highlights that the identity of childhood as a social construction is very different to adulthood. It is depicted as marginalised and incapable. With the introduction of many forms of technology in the past 20 years it is not surprising that media now plays an even greater integral role in shaping childhoods, mine being no exception. All this power exerted by media calls for some form of analysis. In other instances, the childhood figure is overlapped with that of animals, which is evident in the film, LEnfant Sauvage (1969), where Victoire, the wild boy, adapted himself to an uncivilised situation (Mills, 2000). The notion of innocence of children is commonly portrayed in childrens books and films such as Little Lord Fauntleroy, where Cedric symbolises innocence and beauty. Children are deemed to be protected from secret knowledges, namely sexuality and death. In fact, until recently, girls were portrayed as asexual and ignorant of sex (Humphries, Mack Perks, 1988). In contrast, the premature exhibition and sexualisation of young girls and the need of protection of their innocence is highlighted in the film Painted Babies (1993), a film about young girls in beauty pageants (Robinson Davies, 2008). The notion children as vulnerable and in need of protection, is outlined in Dickens Oliver Twist, where Nancy saves Oliver from Bill Sykes physical abuse. The abduction and consequent murder of the young James Bulger is another shocking example vulnerability of children. On the other hand, children are also characterised as being autonomous. In Harry Potter, Harry epitomises this perception in literature in his fight against evil. The feisty independent character Anne Shirley in Anne of Green Gables is another example. Girl power was more related to popular music with phenomena such as the Spice Girls who promoted this neo-liberal feminist identity in teenage girls in the 90s. The novel Coral Island depicts children as apprentices where they develop skills, realise their dreams, and move on to adulthood. However, contemporary Prose fiction works portray children as a distinct group from adults. These works are realistic, sometimes dark, and child-centred exemplified by by Roald Dahls Matilda and Anne Finnes Madame Doubtfire. The images of children presented by the media are multi-faceted and sometimes contrasting, evident in the film Leon, where Mathilda, is portrayed as mature and independent but still perceived as a vulnerable child in need of protection in Leons eyes (ICS, 2010). It should be questioned as to how accurate cultural artefacts actually are. In childrens literature, Hunt implies that authors depict childhood as they perceive it, and therefore not a true reflection. Childrens books are therefore likely to portray attitudes to childhood rather than any individual or culturally agreed childhood (Hunt, 2009). Its power was in the image it left behind, imitated by some children in real life. Nowadays, children are not as influenced by contemporary literature. They have become more knowledgeable and sceptical, the so-called active reader. Texts for these children have lost their power (Hunt, 2009). Readers and viewers may interpret messages in different ways according to their identities and divisions such as age, gender, social class and ethnicity. Globalization of media brings about a certain degree of standardization whereby children in different parts of the world are being exposed to the same stimulus and subsequently start showing some common tra its. Moreover, media itself exercises a degree of control on how messages it delivers are interpreted. This is called the hypodermic syringe model. Messages are not only delivered but new meanings are produced bringing about the double hermeneutic phenomenon. Representational practices play a crucial role in influencing the material lives of children. Prominent music artists have used media to promote the awareness of different races, The most well-known event was Live Aid in 1985 highlighting the plight of starving children in Africa. Media can be a strong influence on health issues in children, evident in the recent significant increase of the illness anorexia nervosa in girls may have been as a result of T.V. and magazines portraying a very slim figure to be the accepted image as well as the explosion of obesity in children. It is estimated that 20 % of children in UK are overweight (James James, 2004). Consequently there is now a drive from all concerned to promote more healthy-eating programme such as Jamie Olivers T.V. series. The film scum by Alan Clarice 1979 portrays how a borstal in UK further brutalises young offenders. Its huge cultural impact was a contributory factor in the 1982 reform that replaced borstals to youth custody centres This is an example how the media can influence the institutions of the State (Mills, 2000). Todays children are more independent, inquisitive, creative, and can use media effectively, forming part of the net generation of childhood. In fact Katz (1997) regards these children able to create their own cultures and communities (Buckingham, 2009: 126). The use of internet is invaluable for these children in the field of education and research. Also, through the introduction of social networks, they are able to communicate freely with one another. There are also some concerns, as children are at risk of exposure to pornography, violence and cyber-stalking. Also, it is argued that they tend to spend more time confined to their room resulting in less family integration. A study between childrens everyday activities and the media showed that among media, television was the prime mover in families lives. This was done through quantitative and qualitative methods using questionnaires, interviews, as well as new methods (Tufte, 2003). Media technology is also influenced by gender and class identities. This is highlighted by the fact that the majority of computer games are played by boys and also that, middle class children have more access to computers than their working class peers. Over the years, different media has shaped my childhood, such as television programmes, magazines, music, the internet, pamphlets, books and billboards. As a young child, Care Bears and Barney, were amongst my favourite programmes. These were education and instilled in me the values of caring and tolerance. Other films include Sleeping Beauty and Cinderella, by providing images of princesses and happy endings which have caused me to dream as a child. Another character worth quoting is Miss Honey in the book Matilda by Roald Dahl who presented as a role model. In fact, at seventeen years of age, I decided to become a teacher, and have always strived to be kind and gentle just like Miss Honey. A Maltese media campaign to keep the environment clean, symbolised by a small hedgehog, Xummiemu, was set up, when I was growing up. These billboards, posters and magazines influenced me in respecting the environment. Messages on billboards such as the advert Smoking kills, on our main roads, had put me off smoking completely and never smoked a single cigarette in my life. As a teenager, the internet was used as a useful source of information in my school assignments. Through MSN Messenger and Skype, I have stayed in touch with my friends and relatives who live abroad. The internet is unique in that it is an interactive form of media allowing childrens global communication and the promotion of their creativity and spontaneity. I feel close to this culture which is critical of what media portrays even when the same media seems to have taken over our lives. Word count: 1,347 References Buckingham, D. (2009). New media, new childhoods? Childrens changing cultural environment in the age of digital technology in M. J. Kehily (Ed.), An introduction to Childhood Studies (2nd Edition) (pp. 124-138). Berkshire: Open University Press. Humphries, S., Mack, J. Perks, R. (1988). A Century of Childhood, London: Sidgwick Jackson. Hunt, P. (2009). Childrens literature and childhood in M. J. Kehily (Ed.), An introduction to Childhood Studies (2nd Edition) (pp. 50-69). Berkshire: Open University Press. ICS (2010). Sociology of Childhood, Study Guide 1. Glasgow: ICS. James, A. James, A. L. (2004). Constructing Childhood: Theory, Policy and Social Practice. Basingstoke: Palgrave MacMillan. Katz, J. (1997). Virtuous Reality: How America Surrendered Discussion of Moral Values to Opportunists, Nitwits and Blockheads like William Bennett. New York: Random House. Mills, J. Mills, R. (2000) Childhood Studies: A Reader in perspectives of childhood, Routledge, New York. Mills, R. (2000). Perspectives of Childhood in J. Mills R. Mills (Eds.), Childhood Studies: A Reader in perspectives of childhood (pp. 7-37). London: Routledge. Robinson, K. H. Davies, C. (2008). SHES KICKIN ASS, THATS WHAT SHES DOING! Deconstructing Childhood Innocence in Media Representations. Australian Feminist Studies, 23, 343- 358. Tufte, B. (2003). Children, media and consumption. Advertising Marketing to Children, October-December, 69-76. Discuss the role family plays in shaping childhood. Give examples of cultures within a family structure and reflect on your own culture. There is general consensus that family does shape childhood from the first minute its parent(s) start to interact with it in the context of a wider culture. (Gittens, 2009: 36). The family is the foundation of social stability and the primary means of social reproduction. This institution moulds the child through education, morals, values beliefs (James James, 2004). Family besides the traditional nuclear family also includes lone parent, gay/lesbian, extended families, and cohabitation. Indeed, the family is instrumental in shaping the child to become an integral part of society (ICS, 2010b). Childhoods are dependent on the identities and positions of the childs family, as these will have different structures, resulting in different experiences (ICS, 2010a). In recent years delayed child bearing means that children are less likely to share the companionship of siblings or wider kin. Single parent families are the second highest risk factor, after unemployment, for children to live in poverty (Clarke, 1996). Lower social class, unemployment, alcoholism, and drug abuse have serious consequences on childrens well-being in the shape of poverty, poor social conditions, mental health problems and physical abuse. Children from minor ethnic families may be disadvantaged as a result of poorer housing conditions and lower pay as well as an increased prevalence of chronic diseases such as rickets and T.B (James James, 2004). Also, parents lifestyles may affect childrens lives directly. Smoking in families is detrimental to childrens health, significantly increasing asthma in their children. Nowadays, most parents work leaving less time to prepare meals, which may result in children eating more junk food. Armstrong, Hill and Secker (2000) argue the beneficial effects of parental affection on the childs well-being. In comparison family breakdowns, increasing in number, are a cause of stress and mental problems in children (James James, 2004; Armstrong et al., 2000). Childrens identity is seen as a passive experience of being parented. Children possess a Double Status; the kinship status as the child and the age-based status as the minor. The link between womanhood and childhood is focused on childrens needs discourses (Lawler, 2000). According to research, the function of the family is specific to the fulfilment of gender-based roles, where females are a source of care and expression, and males the main source of income (ICS, 2010a: 15; MacNaughton Smith, 2009). Parents act as role models by setting examples which are crucial in shaping childhood. Children also learn gender roles from the family. For example, if cooking is done only by the mother they might associate it exclusively with females (MacNaughton Smith, 2009). State laws and policies use the family to implement and control children. The state also uses the family as an ally in the battle for social control (James James, 2004: 191)) and increasingly regulates childrens lives (James James, 2004). Development of family friendly employment practice through social benefits, results in more stable families, better support of children during their education, and reduced levels of delinquency (James James, 2004). The child is regarded as the object of legal rulings with childrens rights generally overruled by their parents claiming to act in the best interest of the child, thus their agency being denied (James James, 2004: 201). The effective voice of children in family proceedings is well documented, both in the Children Act and the UNCRC. However, the implementation to date is another matter, even welfare professionals view children both as carefree and powerless (ICS, 2010b: 45). In fact, family law in England and Wales classifies a child as a person with a disability (James James, 2004: 200). In every culture lies marriage, residence, family size and composition, family status and role, family power and authority, family communication that are quite universal. These elements of family structure in vary from one society to another (Uddin, 2009: 438). The representation of the family structure in Western culture is usually portrayed as a nuclear family composed of two siblings. This model is still portrayed as ideal according to mainstream parents websites such as bounty.com. Media has always portrayed an image of the Western family. Nowadays, it brings us a variety of different family structures including gay couples and single parents. In Muslim cultures, there are clearer gender demarcations where all family affairs are decided by the senior male member, leaving other family members fully dependent on their decisions without any say (Uddin, 2009). The male is usually the bread winner whilst women take on the emotional role such as child rearing and household chores (Uddin, 2007). Another feature of this community is the large family size, thus an extended family structure is adopted to ensure adequate family support. Family structures in Muslim Western communities vary from those in more traditional societies as the former face lifestyle choices which are not available to the latter. Middle-class, though not working-class, Muslims have expectations and a level of education comparable to non-Muslims (Abbas, 2003; Ahmad, 2001). Muslims regard their Islamic faith as fundamental to their identity. However, Sikhs and Hindus consider education to be their main priority, allowing greater occupational opportunities, class mobility, integration and acceptance (Abbas, 2003). On a more personal note, I grew up in a traditional Maltese Roman Catholic nuclear family consisting of four members; my parents, my older sister and myself. This is the most common structure in Malta. My father is a doctor and my mother is a housewife who gave up her job as a secretary to raise us. My parents raised us striking a balance between being open to change but holding onto the strong values of Maltese culture and Roman Catholic beliefs. These beliefs form an integral role in our way of life and shape our views on family. Family authority has always been shared between my parents. However, they have always valued our opinions, even as children. This has created an open communicative relationship between us. The family has influenced many aspects of my life. Due to my large extended family, I grew up surrounded by younger children, playing with and teaching them. This sparked my interest in teaching Early Years. The short distances facilitated the formation of strong family bonds. We live in a typical neighbourhood where people lend a helping hand when needed, though can be nosy. Despite Malta being a small island, we are not insular as we are influenced by other cultures, namely British and Italian. We are multi-lingual and have a Western outlook. We are also influenced by foreign family ties, my grandmother being British. Our culture motivates us to maximise our potential by pursuing a higher education, particularly a University degree. Opportunities are few and competition is high. Ambition is instilled from an early age, and expectations are high. I form part of a very close- knit family which is dependable and supportive. We consider this to be our role and responsibility to each ot her. I enjoy the security and stability of our family whilst still enjoying my independence and autonomy. All the aforementioned aspects are crucial as the resources and environment of the family have a direct influence on how children and adolescents deal with emotions, relationships as well as their potential for future success (Wen, 2008). Nonetheless, it is fundamental to perceive the child as an individual actor whose needs must be considered in the context of their own childhood and not merely as an extension of the needs of all of those who share the status of being children. Word count: 1,241