Saturday, August 31, 2019
Thoreau Essay
English Thoreau’s views and morals were very controversial, for he believed that being secluded from society is the best way to live. Thoreau believed in the simple life. He describes this lifestyle by how these people â€Å"will not be frittered away by detail†pg. 382. This means that others lives are based on repetition. People make their own lives busy. Thoreau believed by living a life based on simplicity, others can live in happiness away from society, for tradition, and conformity will be their ticket to success.Thoreau gives valuable advice in his writing. He states that being poor is a simple way of living. By not handling items that are valuable, the poor succeed more in life. They tend to succeed more than an average person because they do not have material things to possess their attention and focus. People are always going to do what the majority is doing. This may be the reason why Thoreau left the Walden Pond, because by living his life secluded, he thoug ht he would not be able to complete more in his life.By saying the statement, â€Å"I had several more lives to live. †He meant that staying by Walden Pond would not do him any good. He wanted his voice to be heard. Thoreau also gave ideas about tradition, and conformity. His ideas about tradition stated that older people will never change the way they do things because that is just how it has been to them. Tradition is hard to change, for it is always how something has been done and people will not stand out and change their views. They will not change their views because they do not want to stand out in society.Thoreau’s view on conformity is that people will do anything to look normal through the public’s eye. They may act completely different in public than they act at home, for they are scared to act out against others. They just want to be similar to everyone and avoid hard treatment. My view on Thoreau’s experience is he is crazy. It is unheard of a man to leave society and live in the wilderness for a long period of time. It is an odd thing to do. It is not a strange happening for one to leave for a short period of time to recollect himself, but leaving for a long time is unheard of.He seemed to think that his own personal welfare was more important than being social. He did not want to be caught up in the personal affairs of others, and leaving society was his way of staying secluded. By leaving society, living a life of simplicity is easy, for he truly was happy in his time being out in the wilderness. Thoreau’s views will be acknowledged among the greatest writers in the world. His views gave society an understanding on how to live. He learned how to deal with society and excelled in his work.
Friday, August 30, 2019
Politics and Hierarchy in Shakespeares As You like It Essay
In William Shakespeare’s play, As you Like It, there are lots of interesting themes which both drive the action and speak to the culture that the author lived in. Among those interesting themes are the classic Shakespearean ideal of love, issues dealing with family relationships, and perhaps more importantly, politics and hierarchy. In this comedy, the dichotomy between certain characters becomes evident early on and continues for the entirety of the work. Over time, the reader comes to understand that many of the decisions made by Orlando and Oliver in their conflict are due to the perceived hierarchy of the society and the politics that would result from the decisions. In addition, the relationship between Duke Frederick and Duke Senior is one that explores lots of hierarchical themes associated with living in England at the time. These pertinent examples and more are explored in a light, intellectual way throughout the play.            Politics and hierarchy are primarily relevant when one considers the relationships between the various characters. One important plot aspect is the relationship between Orlando and Oliver. Orlando is a victim of circumstance and he is fully aware of his plight. In a way, he is a sympathetic character that has no recourse in trying to make his situation better. In his relationship with his older brother, Orlando is constantly under emotional torment from Oliver. Their conflict is at the heart of the story and it is an important theme throughout. Where does this conflict come from? Ultimately, it is the result of a decision that was made by the father of the two boys. Oliver received the inheritance from the father and took advantage of the land in his father’s estate. From that, there exists a hierarchical battle between the two brothers for the rest of their life.            The stark contrast in the hierarchy is best represented by these two brothers because the example is so pure. Oliver is different from Orlando not only because he owns the estate, but also because he has other advantages that put him above Orlando in social status. During the comedy, there are many times when Orlando can be found telling his servant Adam that Oliver refuses to educate him and provide anything for him. Though the reader does not know much about the relationship of the brothers before their father died, one can reasonably infer that they had a decent relationship. Once Oliver elevated himself to a greater status in the hierarchy, he not only abandoned Orlando, but even took the initiative to make his brother’s life harder. This even comes to a violent head when the two brothers engage in a fight when Oliver comes to see Orlando. Orlando gets the better of that conflict and makes sure that Oliver understands that. Since this is a comedy, Shakespeare makes sure that the conflict between the brothers is presented in a sarcastic nature that the readers can enjoy. Clearly, Orlando makes light of his own plight and even makes a comment about his relatively low status in comparison to his brother. In the play, Orlando remarks to Oliver, â€Å"I am helping you to mar that which God made, a poor, unworthy brother of yours, with idleness†(Shakespeare). This sarcasm is put into the play to provide a light moment, but it also represents the fact that Oliver looks upon his brother as being something of a joke.            There is another hierarchical aspect of their relationship that must be considered. During that time, there was a huge gap in education for the wealthy and the poor. As such, those with money could go to the few schools that existed, while people without money had to learn skills in order to survive. From this, a certain perception began to exist that colored uneducated people as being somewhat barbaric. This interesting dichotomy is presented well by Shakespeare, as he attempts to inform the reader that Orlando is both a better fighter and a more vindictive person, while his brother Oliver was much more cultured. This was one of the many ways that people were separated by class during that time. It was all based upon money, wealth, and power, but other things came as a result of that.            As only Orlando’s brother, Oliver should have never taken a role of sovereignty over him. Instead, their relationship should have still existed like a normal one during that time. However, William Shakespeare uses the relationship between the two brothers in this play as a means of displaying his own political thoughts during the time. A Paul Yachnin article published in the HighBeam Encyclopedia indicates the fact that Shakespeare did this in many of his plays. In that article, Yachnin writes, â€Å"In the play, the political and social relations between masters and their subjects places loyalty at the center of the system of relations devoted to instituting a regime of absolutist politics†(Yachnin). The loyalty between the brothers is at the center of their conflict, as Orlando feels that his brother has not been loyal to him because of social status. On the flip side of that, Oliver feels that Orlando should look up to him as something of a master, when in fact, they are just brothers. This is an interest dichotomy between the two characters that plays itself out in a series of fights, both physical and verbal.            In addition to the aforementioned hierarchy in Shakespeare’s play, politics also play a huge role in driving the action. Though politics are not a major player in the relationship between Orlando and Oliver, they do power the relationship between Duke Frederick and Duke Senior. In fact, this is one of the primary plot sequences that is very important to the storyline. Duke Frederick oversteps his bounds in this comedy, as he is not supposed to move to the top of the political latter over his brother. In English society at the time, people were locked into their roles in society. This was true even among the rich people. Though they were clearly above poor people in society, they had to worry about staying put in their position in the upper crust of the political scene. When Duke Frederick supplants Duke Senior in the political scene, a huge conflict is born. Interestingly, Shakespeare finds a creative way to intertwine the two separate stories, drawing connections between the social roles of the various characters in the story.            Politics play a substantial role in the plight of the two dukes because they cause Duke Senior to have to live somewhere else. When Duke Frederick takes the place of his older brother, there is no option that allows both of them to just live in harmony in the same area. Instead, Duke Senior is banished from the duchy and has to live with plain nobles in a wooded area. Though he did not get banished to living with the peasants who were living completely off of the land and good graces of the upper crust, Duke Senior did not get to take advantage of the life with which he had become accustomed. That is a very important theme for the story.            The Alan Bloom book, Shakespeare’s Politics, has an interesting take on the inner workings of how the author thought. There is lots of speculation about what sort of political thinker William Shakespeare was and the majority of that can be seen in his works. In As You Like It, it is clear that Shakespeare both searched for and figured out the answers to many of the most important questions of his day. According to Bloom, the author tosses harsh criticism on some of the systems that existed during his day (Bloom). Some examples of this include Shakespeare’s constant criticism of the class system, which he believed was bad for English society. While Shakespeare may have taken harder political stances in some of his other works like Julius Caesar, he certainly addresses the current landscape in each of his works. When dealing with the two Dukes in As you Like It, Shakespeare makes light of how their folly makes both of their lives more difficult. It was an interesting approach to take because most of the political thought during the time was breaking down the class distinctions between the reach and the poor. Very few authors or thinkers had even considered the politics that existed among the distinct groups. Shakespeare had the progressive vision to try his best to understand what sort of political motives drove advancement within certain social castes. In this comedy, he finds that even the rich jockey for position, as Duke Frederick used â€Å"creative†means to get rid of his older brother and take control of the power in the society.            Robin Headlam Wells wrote a book about how Shakespeare used politics as a major theme in his work. In the book, Shakespeare, Politics, and the State, Wells writes about how Shakespeare constantly uses the voices of his characters to present problems within the political and hierarchical system (Wells). In this particular comedy, the beauty of the work is that each of the characters has their own role in the madness that existed within the English political system at the time. He uses all of the characters to make it well known that no one individual person or individual group was affected less or more by the makeshift caste system that England used.            Shakespeare himself was one of the people who understood how the political system could impact just about everyone. In order to understand the uses in his book, one has to understand Shakespeare’s political opinions and his experiences with politics. One website indicated that, â€Å"Shakespeare knew people who had been arrested and tortured – friends and family members†(William-Shakespeare.org). This is interesting to consider in that he knew that people who did not have affluence had a hard time surviving in the current political system. As such, his criticisms of the current political system had to be somewhat hushed by the constant fear that he might be prosecuted for such comments. Given the fact that Shakespeare had family that had been the victim of political happenstance, it is interesting to consider his take on the dynamic of Orlando and Oliver. The author understood the plight of Orlando more so than he did the situation of Oliver, so in many ways, he favors Orlando in his writing.            As you Like It is an interesting play by William Shakespeare that addresses many different themes that were prevalent in English society during the time of the author. Among those are the common themes of politics and hierarchy. In his breakdown of the various relationship of individuals within the comedy, Shakespeare actually sheds a little bit of light on what it might have been like to live in England during that time.  Works Cited Alexander, Catherine. Shakespeare and Politics. 13 September 2004.  Cambridge University Press. Bloom, Allan. Shakespeare’s Politics. 1 December 1996. Chicago, Illinois: University of Chicago Press. Shakespeare, William. As You Like It. Wells, Robin Headlam. Shakespeare Politics and State. December 1986. Palgrave McMillan Publishing. William Shakespeare and Elizabethan Politics. http://www.william-shakespeare.org.uk/william-shakespeare-politics.htm Yachnin, Paul. High Beam Encyclopedia. Shakespeare’s Politics and Loyalty. 22 March 1993. http://www.encyclopedia.com/doc/1G1-14363559.html Â
Thursday, August 29, 2019
“Age of Iron†by J.M. Coetzee Essay
The extract from the prose â€Å"Age of Iron†written by J.M. Coetzee is about the depiction of different generations conflicting with one another. This extract is set up as an old wise woman a one-way conversation during the 1990’s. This extract illustrates the young boy being forced in listening to the old wise woman’s opinion about the cons of the apartheid, more specifically being the war. Throughout the prose, the young boy refuses to listen to the voice of authority and shows the old wise woman that with stubbornness and self-determination, young children do not accept what they are told from authority. With the portrayal of the two generations conflicting, the extract suggests that the immense amount of influence of authority can play a major role on younger generations leading them to choose the wrong path. This prose is shown as a one-way conversation and is during the time period of the 1990’s which is also known as the South African Apartheid. With the Apartheid regime, the tone of the extract is in a depressed mood because of their struggle to freedom. The old wise woman’s opinions are demonstrated through her stream of consciousness and moves from quick dialogue with the young boy to descriptions showing the vivid imagery of the war. The depressed plot of this extract shows the social activism of the younger generation and the minorities in South Africa fighting for their own rights. The old woman’s advice is however being ignored from the young boy who refuses; due to his stubbornness and goes onto the wrong path putting himself into great danger. The setting of this prose most likely takes place in the old woman’s house because of the depiction that the old woman â€Å"do[esn’t] have bandages in the house.†This shows that the young boy illustrates the dramatic beginning by making â€Å"splashing noises†indicating that it was rainy day outside and he needed to go inside somewhere dry. Since the young boy went inside the old woman’s house without knocking, this shows that there is a family connection between the old woman and the boy however not a strong connection because of the one-way dialogue throughout the prose. However, they do have family connection where the boy visits often because she notices â€Å"the bandage [is] off and with surprise [she] noticed that the stitches were still in.†This line depicts that she cares for the boy and that there is a family connection between the two characters because of the connection of the boy being able to go into her house and the fact that he has visited before with a bandage on. The prose then continues into short dialogue, demonstrating that the narrator is represented as a motherly figure because of the tone of caring in the dialogue such as â€Å"when did you leave the hospital and you must keep that cut covered, otherwise it will get infected†¦Ã¢â‚¬ The protagonist in this prose is represented as a mother figure because of the consecutive questions she asks the boy about his cut and exaggerates that it will leave â€Å"a memento†on â€Å"his forehead for the rest of his life.†The protagonist is shown as a â€Å"hen that loses its chicks†because in the prose, the young boy that steps into the protagonist’s house isn’t blood-related to the old woman however, this line depicts that the old woman will still treat him as her own son because of the theme nature vs. nurture. The old woman also recommends to the young boy to â€Å"go [see] a doctor soon, or a clinic to have the stitches taken out.†This quotation also initiates the spark of the young boy choosing the wrong path in life, leading him into great danger because he cleverly moves away from the topic by saying that he â€Å"must rest [his] arm†and his â€Å"head is not sore.†By saying this to the old woman, she immediately thinks that he is â€Å"running away from someone†and by being silent, she starts to show her caring and loving for the boy by telling him advice. Since she asked the young boy with care and love if he was running away from someone, and with no reply, the old woman got worried and starts to explain to the young boy again that he is â€Å"too young for this kind of thing†. The old woman starts to tell explain to the young boy that it is not a good thing to die and that even though he is fighting for his own rights during the war, he should be careful because â€Å"[they are] throwing away [their] lives before [they] know what life can [really] be.†It is also indicated in the prose, that she is an old person because she says so herself when she is explaining to the young boy. She also talks about â€Å"Bheki†, her son who died at a young age because he fought in the war however when she explained to the young boy that war isn’t a good thing to participate; he didn’t understand because he asked after she had explained about the cons of war. The vivid imagery is brought out into that particular paragraph because she illustrates the war as an â€Å"age of chivalry†where â€Å"men [hack] other men to death.†However her strong opinion against the war didn’t work on the young boy because he wasn’t influenced at all because his desires were very strong about war. In the prose, the young boy has rebelled against the voice of authority (old woman_ by not paying attention to her when she was talking as she explained through dialogue and imagery that war isn’t something to be proud about. However, the young boy’s desire grew and he became more passionate about the war showing that all of the immense influencing she did was a waste of time. Consequently, she gets furious when he asks â€Å"where is Bheki.†This shows that the young boy wasn’t paying attention to the old woman and shows that he is also immature. This specific quotation indicates that the young boy isn’t mature because he didn’t understand her hint when she said that â€Å"I told Bheki so [I’ll] tell you again.†This being the turning point of the prose, the old woman changes her voice of tone from soft and sweet into more of a demanding voice by telling him to â€Å"sit down†. As he follows her orders, she starts to explain that Bheki is actually â€Å"in a box in a hole with earth heaped on top of him.†She says this with great pain and as she quickly brushes that off her shoulders, she then changes her way of explaining to the boy into a more childish way. She starts to use basic terms for the young boy to understand as her diction goes from complex to simple. Her voice changes immediately and the old woman start to explain to the boy as if he was a little child who was learning to ride a bike. As the conclusion starts to approach, her mood also becomes more furious because she knows that compassions is the most important thing and pushes that war is a struggle and pain. With her great influence upon the young boy, â€Å"he threw off [the] talk†and chooses the path of war as a sign of discipline. In the prose â€Å"Age of Iron†the influence of authority is shown throughout the prose. With the old woman trying to lure the young boy out from war is not successful as all the young boys listen to discipline and nothing else. However with him refusing the talk which had â€Å"weighed down the generation of his grandparents and his generation of his parents†; he decided to choose the wrong path leading him into a great deal of danger. Even though, the old wise woman knew what she was talking about and had heard about past experiences through memory and sense-perception, her influence upon the boy was very significant however with the two generations conflicting, the immense amount of influence of the old wise woman wasn’t successful which lead the young boy in choosing the wrong path.
Wednesday, August 28, 2019
Regulatory and Economic environment Essay Example | Topics and Well Written Essays - 1500 words
Regulatory and Economic environment - Essay Example Sweden and the United Kingdom are both members of the European Union (EU). Twelve of these nations are tied together with the common currency, the Euro, and the EU's remaining members are obligated to join by treaty once they meet specific criteria. Sweden and the UK have made no plans as of yet to change to the Euro. The EU is the world's largest economy, which is projected to grow at a rate of 2.1% per year. The Growth and Stability Pact insures that each state's deficit doesn't exceed 3% of the Gross Domestic Product (GDP), and its public debt must remain below 60% of their GDP. The United Kingdom is one of the best places in the world to do stem cell research. This is because of the strong history in stem cell biology in the UK, the tight regulatory system administered by the Human Fertilisation and Embryology Authority (HFEA) and the strong commitment we have, both financially and politically, from the government." (Rehwagen). Simon Best, chairman elect of the United Kingdom Bio Industry Association, also said that, "Australia, the U.K., some U.S. states, and Sweden are world class in this field. The U.K. is in a good position to build on the talents." (Rehwagen). Currently, Sweden is in a phase of economic growth. ... Sweden has a population estimated in 2006 at 9,103,551, with a highly skilled workforce. The World Economic Forum (WEF) ranked Sweden as third in their survey of 104 economies and their capacity for future growth. ("Economy of the European Union"). Business growth in Sweden is deemed successful due to many factors such as: a very healthy macro-economic environment, easy access to advanced technologies, qualified workforce, good infrastructure, and competitive costs for staff, rent, and business expenses. The unemployment rate of Sweden is highly contested among political officials but the official figure is currently at 5.4% (2006.) ("Sweden."). Many Swedes also choose to work abroad in neighboring countries such as Denmark, Norway, and the United Kingdom. In relation to this, Sweden has had one of the highest tax quotas in the world since the 1960's. Countries such as France, Belgium, and Denmark have very similar taxation rates. Sweden's taxation plan is known as a two-step progressive plan. The average municipal income tax is around 31% to 56% and a capital tax rate of a flat 30%. Single persons with a net wealth more than 1,500,000 Swedish Kroner (SEK) (equivalent to 111,280) are taxed a flat rate of 1.5%. ("Economy of the European Union."). Employers are obligated to pay a 32% tax which is called an "employers fee." Other taxes in Sweden include the national Value Added Tax (VAT) of 18% or 25%, food carries a 12% VAT, and transportation and books are taxed at 6%. Miscellaneous items such as petroleum and alcohol are taxed at higher rates. Due to the high tax rates, Swedes are eligible for many government funded benefits such as:
Measurement of human processes (Project Management) Assignment
Measurement of human processes (Project Management) - Assignment Example Therefore, the development of a good visual system is of tremendous benefit to the project manager. A paper system in binders is a poor way of keeping people informed. This drags the organization behind in progress tracking and reporting (Kerzer, 74). Poor scheduling or resource management (mismanagement) by the project manager often leads increasing your chances of project failure. This is because managing any project is managing a schedule, but a schedule is typically a collection of resources that are being managed on a schedule. There is poor scheduling on elicitation techniques, use cases, user screen design specifications, reports, business rules, functional, and the non-functional requirements (76). Weak requirements definitions which lead to planning inadequacy, this is brought about by the project manager failing to identify his or her target. One way of identifying project requirements is by describing how the end results look like in measurable terms. Requiring of a soft w are that is easy to use is an objective measure of our testing. Poor requirements lead to poor development and design. A software program ends up doing the wrong things for the users resulting in massive re-tests and rework. According to Kerzer (78) he asserts that inadequate planning, risks, resources, and assumptions by the project manager often leads to a failed project. ... This may be attributed to the fact that you may not be trained in the utilization of that software or technology. Ineffective quality controls which make you to deliver what the client does not want. The poor balances and check systems results in these ineffective quality controls. In addition, most of the projects have a system of correcting problems but do not have a system of corrective action Managing multiple projects at the same time or multi-tasking resources goes against, less is more, and focus is power. Multitasking introduces schedule risk and complexity which impacts negatively on all projects involved. Supply chain failures which emanates from contracted work. Managing of contractors is an inherent risk because they may not be having the level of skills required for the job. Contractors also have that tendency to multitask so as to stay busy thus introducing complexity and schedule risk. Scope creep or poor analysis of impacts has an effect on the schedule, budget, and r esources. It means there is an increase in the on what is delivered without a corresponding increase in resources to the project timeline. This can actually be alleviated by performing good impact analysis and clarification of real requirements. Another failure of project is attributed to lack of qualified resources and personnel. This makes you to question your resources thus giving the wrong task to the wrong person (Anderson, 1). Discussion 2 I have the following characteristics; visionary, decisive, a good motivator, technically competent, and support team members. Those that I need to work on are being a good motivator, encouraging new ideas, and standing up to top management when necessary.
Tuesday, August 27, 2019
Buddhism Essay Example | Topics and Well Written Essays - 1000 words - 1
Buddhism - Essay Example The Noble Truths refer to essential realizations Siddhartha Guatama is believed to have attained on his path towards spiritual enlightenment. They demonstrate a spiritual concern with the resistance of material longing, the cessation of suffering, and how to apply Siddhartha’s teachings to help achieve the highest good. This essay examines the highest good humans can achieve in regards to Buddhist thought and considers whether I agree with this as an ideal. Buddhist philosophy argues in that in achieving the highest good individuals should accept suffering as an indelible part of the human condition (Humpherys 53). Buddhism argues that the positive value of life isn’t diminished by the truth of suffering, but by acceptance of life’s evanescence the human attains a higher degree of good (Davids 165). The Buddhist path to enlightenment has an answer to the problem of suffering. The Buddha found that when we experience happiness and joy, it is our spiritual duty to objectively remove ourselves from these experiences and become consciously aware of their impermanence. Buddhist philosophy contends that the human experience of joy and happiness is merely a reaction to a circumstance and not a permanent mental state. The very structural nature of happiness then includes the binary existence of unhappiness – the two are inseparable; therefore, even as happiness is impermanent, so is suffering. Ultimately, it’s believed that in recognition and acceptance the suffering, the human achieves a more relaxed mental state that leads to their realizing the highest degree of good. Another Buddhist element related to achieving the highest good is the belief that since suffering is a result of material longing and desire by eliminating material longing and desire, one can eliminate suffering and move towards achieving this highest good. While this is a simple formulation, the actual challenge of eliminating desire is extremely difficult. Craving can also be extended to include the gratification of the passions, or the longing we have for an abstract sense of accomplishment of success in our earthly lives. The Second Noble Truth states that if we persist in allowing our lives to be dominated by desire and ignorance we will always be haunted by an unachievable longing and pervasive suffering. Therefore, the Buddha states that to achieve the highest good one must be guided by what is, not what is desired. One must fight against their preconditioned ways of longing and desire and accept the world and their place as it currently exists, as this is the only path to the highest good. In following these Noble Truths the individual is able to achieve the highest good, or Nirvana. This is a spiritual state that transcends all traditional concerns with material existence. In considering these means of achieving the highest good I recognize that I generally disagree with this ideal. To begin with, I disagree with the idea that all of l ife is suffering, as one might argue that such a characterization of the human condition is overly pessimistic. When Buddha developed the Four Noble Truths the Indian people faced considerable difficulties in life. Their subsistence was harder earned than we experience today, and I believe that this element of Buddhist philosophy can be seen to be a response to this challenge of existence, rather than an accurate reflection of the human condition. While all humans experience suffering, to claim that this is one
Monday, August 26, 2019
Personality Disorders Essay Example | Topics and Well Written Essays - 750 words
Personality Disorders - Essay Example The paper reviews how chaotic lifestyles coupled with chronic life interruptions, frayed identities, and fractured support systems influence characteristics of individuals suffering from personality disorders. Not everyone finds it easy to relate with others according to the society’s expectations. In a manual by the American Psychiatric Association (2000), such manifested deviance is referred to as a personality disorder. An individual may find him or herself incapable of relating with others in conformity with accepted societal modes. Mental health disorders are categorized using a multidimensional approach envisaged in the diagnostic and statistical manual of mental health disorders by assessing clinical syndromes, developmental and personality disorders, physical conditions, psychosocial sensors, and highest level of functioning. Psychology professionals often encounter various challenges in assigning accurate diagnoses of personality disorders due to the complexity of diagnosis. In the said case study, the patient does not recognize that he has a personality disorder. Judging from the age of his mother, he is a middle aged man who feels no need to associate with other human be ings and spends his time playing video games. As described by American Psychiatric Association (2000), the first axis offers descriptions of clinical symptoms that cause considerable consequences in the client’s behavior and personality. The disorders are categorized into disorders of adjustment, anxiety and pervasive development. The case study patient seems to be suffering from adjustment disorders with depressed moods. The patient, who is in his middle age, seems to suffer from the effects of his father refusing him playtime with his age mates when he was a boy. He recalls instances of his father chasing away his playmates and cites this as reason why he stays indoors playing
Sunday, August 25, 2019
Compare china main land economic and Taiwan Research Paper
Compare china main land economic and Taiwan - Research Paper Example venue had risen to $2278 while that of Mainland had remained a paltry $256.This broadening gap between the two economies had started attracting global attention. Taiwan mostly is considered to have embraced market capitalism whereas China is considered to be a predominantly socialistic country. However both nations have shown that they do not pursue a purely socialistic system or capitalistic system. They in actuality pursue a mixture of both kinds to various levels. Despite the fact that Taiwan pursues a system that is capitalistic ,the government still controls the finance and banking system and makes decisions on which industries it should support and protect. Conversely, China began out under firm socialism but over the years but has started to change so as to widen both domestic and foreign markets. One of the key bases for the disparities in growth between China and Taiwan was the distinctions in international trade. Thus industries that are high-exporting seem to lead to productivity that is faster than industries that are low-exporting. Firms that are owned by the state without any foreign assistance tend to be less productive than the ones that are privatized or joint-ventures having foreign direct investment (FDI). It wasn’t just a coincidence therefore that China for the earliest time ever matched Taiwan’s 8% GDP growth rate that it has had for years after opening up of its foreign markets, allowing the entry of FDI. One of the key stated merits of communism/socialism over capitalism is stability in growth over lengthy periods of time. Taiwan has however under capitalism displayed a more stabilized GDP growth of around 8% over the past 5 decades while China has exhibited unstable and negative GDP growth rate to a point where the government of China refused t o expose statistics officially anymore (Lijun, 2002). It wasn’t until recently when the Chinese government embraced advantages of capitalism that their economy eventually started to grow
Saturday, August 24, 2019
The effectiveness of training and development programmes in Essay
The effectiveness of training and development programmes in organisation - Essay Example Also included is a technique for calculating the Return on Investments for any training activity, ollowing the Phillips model. __________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________ _________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________ Survey and/or Interview Questions are designed for trainees, their immediate supervisors, their subordinates and others who frequently observe their behaviour. A control group should be set up. A survey should be conducted before and after the course. The after course survey can be conducted in intervals of three, six and nine months after the
Friday, August 23, 2019
Current business issue reflective paper Essay Example | Topics and Well Written Essays - 1000 words
Current business issue reflective paper - Essay Example Uncertainty is a subjective phenomenon unlike risk whose probabilities are known (Phillip & Patrick, 2013). Bronwynne, et al., 2005 pointed out that uncertainty involves events in which risk cannot be predicted. When one is anticipating some kind of risk, they tend to be cautious. Thus, risk is complicated and rational, but uncertainty is complex and extra rational. In risk, there are knowable options, steps and opportunities, but uncertainty involves a multiple interactive unknowns (Bronwynne, et al., 2005). Uncertainty may relate to profitability, government policies and regulations, investment, demand, cost, pricing and production. Uncertainty in business tends to be an obstacle in decision making. In order to effectively deal with the issue of uncertainty in business, leaders must possess good leadership characteristics. In relation to dealing with uncertainties leaders are classified into three categories; head only- these leaders rely only on analytical tools to make quick deci sions and thus are not able to balance paradoxes in today’s ambiguous world. Heart only- these leaders are able to establish a strategy through being open to a wide range of opinions. This may hinder them from identifying future trends. Guts only- these leaders believe in their instincts. ... It is advisable to prepare for multiple outcomes other than predicting only one outcome. This is of great help to a business because the planned for outcome may fail to happen and instead another one occurs which had been predicted and planned for, this helps the business leader to be always on their toes and ready for any eventualities (McLoughlin & Aaker, 2010). It also saves the business owner the loss of resources in terms of finances and time. Business leaders should have the knowledge to identify and rely on the predictable elements of the situation. Some situations can be predicted, and this could be of great help to the businesses because one is almost sure that a certain eventuality will occurs and hence proper strategies are put in place to deal with such eventualities (Bronwynne, et al., 2005). Therefore in order to be able to identify the predictable element, one should be very alert and understand their business trends fully. If for example the problem is a natural calam ity like flood, one can predict at what time of the year the floods are experienced. In order to effectively deal with uncertainties in business, it is vital to be agile and to respond quickly to any occurrences. Once an undesirable occurrence befalls the business, leaders should be aware, listen and detect occurrences as they happen. They should adopt the ‘detect and respond’ mechanism in order to effectively tackle the problem. They should also empower and mobilize their people to act fast and decisively. However, this requires managerial and leadership skills. For example, if the uncertainty befalls an organization, the manager should be in a position to
Thursday, August 22, 2019
Health Risks of Genetically-Modified Foods Essay Example for Free
Health Risks of Genetically-Modified Foods Essay Genetically modified (GM) foods, introduced to the American Public in 1996, involves taking the genes of the DNA of one plant or animal and transferring them to another species creating a new organism. Justification for this scientific manipulation revealed promises to eliminate world hunger, make plants resistant to pests and disease, and produce healthier foods. Agribusiness giants, like Monsanto, Bayer, and Syngenta include some of the companies first to bring products to the market. The Federal Drug Administration (FDA) took the stance, that it is the food producer responsible for assuring food safety. Companies producing GM foods ultimately regulate themselves. These companies kept their research secret and not available for public scrutiny. Insufficient data illustrate the need for ongoing exploration by independent scientists to deem the products safe for human consumption. Jeffrey M. Smith discussed these issues in his book, Genetic Roulette: The Documented Health Risks of Geneically Engineered Foods. GM of certain crops cause them to produce their own insecticide. A research study not performed by the manufacturer, involved GM potatoes fed to rats. They developed potentially precancerous cell growth in the digestive tract, inhibited development of their brains, livers, and testicles, partial atrophy of the liver, enlarged pancreases and intestines, and immune system damage (Smith 22). Additional information is warranted clarifying the exact cause. Another study revealed Monsantos MON 863 Bt corn fed to rats produced significant changes in their blood cells, livers, and kidneys which might indicate disease (Smith 26). Monsanto defends their GM corn as safe and deems it unnecessary to pursue further testing. No research conducted to date and the corn gained approval. Government and big industries continue with the development, endorsement and marketing of GM foods despite the potential health warnings. Study after study cited in Genetic Roulette by Jeffrey M. Smith , reveal health problems from every body system and even death. One investigations proved given a choice, animals would not eat GM foods. Rats that would not eat the GM tomatoes were force fed the tomato through a gastric tube. Several developed stomach lesions and seven of the forty died. The GM of the DNA of species results in widespread mutations. Soy allergies skyrocketed after the introduction of GM soy. Over half of the processed foods in the supermarket contain something made from soy. GM peas generated an allergic-inflammatory response. With some of the GM crops that produce their own insecticide, the fear of creating super weeds exists. The United States and Canada do not have GM labeling requirements (Smith 257). Exposing millions of people to unpredictable dangers of GM foods represents playing roulette. â€Å"The connections between the FDA and large agribusiness corporations are disturbing†(Teitel, Wilson 69). Large contributors to the Democratic and Republican parties include Monsanto and others. These companies employ trade and environmental administrators and government appointees in lucrative positions.
Wednesday, August 21, 2019
Summative assessment Essay Example for Free
Summative assessment Essay THE TAQA AWARDCANDIDATE SUPPORT DOCUMENT Candidate Name Assessor Name Vocational Mentors Name Start Date Introduction to document This document has been developed to assist you to develop your skills and knowledge to be able to operate as an effective Assessor. The completion of this document will provide knowledge for learning outcomes in order to complete a multi-choice test for unit 1 Understanding the Principles and Practices of Assessment. In your introduction to the award you will have been provided with a variety of information including. The role of the Assessor Guidance on assessment of different types of evidence Guidance on the arrangement for assessment The Centres appeals and complaints policy The Centres Quality Assurance Policy These documents and other information provided during your training should assist you in the completion of this document. Introduction to Qualifications and Credit Framework QCF Qualifications and Credit Framework (QCF) is a unitised qualification framework underpinned by a system of credit accumulation and transfer. The QCF is designed to allow learners to achieve credit for individual units or qualifications, providing learners with the opportunity to accumulate credit at their own pace and use it to claim for a qualification when they are ready. The Assessment Process Assessment is the process of collecting evidence of performance and knowledge and making judgements on Whether the evidence meets the required standard Whether there is sufficient evidence to justify a position decision. The assessment is concerned with whether the candidate has collected and presented sufficient evidence to demonstrate that they can carry out work to the agreed standard and possess the knowledge and understanding which underpins their practice. If the evidence is sufficient then the candidate is judged to be competent in the specific area of practice. If the evidence is insufficient then the judgement is that competence is not yet demonstrated. Candidates should be afforded every opportunity to demonstrate their competence but it should be acknowledged that some candidates may, irrespective of their assistance and work opportunities available, find themselves unable to demonstrate competence. The assessment system should be Transparent in that the assessment procedures are clear and easily understood by the candidate and that the evidence is explicitly presented and assessed and accessible and open for verification purposes. Valid in that the types of evidence used for assessment are clearly able to demonstrate competence, and where appropriate knowledge. However it should be borne in mind that knowledge does not in itself demonstrate competence, and Reliable in requiring different assessors to make consistent judgements based on the same evidence. Evidence is classified into performance evidence, which refers to competence which the candidate has personally demonstrated and knowledge evidence which refers to what the candidate knows. The terms primary evidence and supporting evidence for any criteria, will normally be in the form of observation performance or assessment of a work product e. g. reports, records etc. Supporting evidence is used to support primary sources of evidence and is particularly important where there is a doubt as to the sufficiency of the primary evidence. The evidence for the core competences in any element is commonly fully supported by using evidence from observation, work products and a reflective account. Naturally occurring evidence is that which arises out of the candidates normal work activity and is considered to be the most useful type of evidence as it allows assessment of the candidates day to day competence without disruption to normal work activity. It is therefore likely to be a cost effective way of collecting evidence. Please answer the questions below- 1. Understand the Principles and Requirements of Assessment Explain the functions of assessment in learning and development Assessment is used to determine if learning and development is taking place with regard to specific criteria. The criteria are usually set by the awarding body for each qualification the learner is taking. The purpose of assessment in learning is to determine the learners level of competence by using a range of different methods. Based on the findings of the assessment and the evidence gathered during the assessment, decisions can then be made by comparing the evidence against the qualification standards. This will determine if the learners Competence, Knowledge Understanding of the subject, and Skills required to carry out required tasks are of a sufficient level to meet the laid down criteria. Assessment should be used to focus on improving and 1 / 10 reinforcing learning. It can help a learner understand how they are progressing and what they may need to do to improve their knowledge and progress further. ?Initial Assessment Review of Progress? Assessment Planning ?Decision Feedback? Assessment Activity ? Initial assessment ascertaining whether a learner has any previous knowledge or experience of the subject or topic to be assessed. Assessment planning agreeing suitable types and methods of assessment with each learner and setting targets. Assessment activity this relates to the methods used for example observation or reflective account. Assessment decision and feedback making and judgement of success or otherwise. Giving constructive feedback. Review of progress reviewing progress, assessment activities, targets/plans Define the key concepts and principles of assessment Concepts are the aspects involved throughout the assessment process. They include Accountability being accountable to my learners, my organisation and the awarding body to ensure an I am is carrying out my role correctly, Achievement the funding that an organisation receives is related to a learners achievement. It is useful for me to keep a record of my learners achievement Assessment strategies following strategies in a specific subject will ensure roles are carried out correctly and working toward assessor qualifications Benchmarking involves comparing what is the accepted standard against the current position of our own learners performance Evaluation the assessment cycle should be evaluated on an on-going basis and feedback obtained from learners, managers and assessors Internally or externally devised assessment methods internal assessments would be devised by myself such as projects, questions or written assignments. External are assessments produced by the awarding body Progression progression of a learner should be taken into account when Im assessing learners ie career progression. Progression should always be discussed with the learner Transparency to aid transparency I need to ensure that everyone involved in the process clearly understands what is expected of them Types of assessment includes initial, formative and summative as well as diagnostic tests which ascertain a learners current knowledge Key principles of assessment include Communication should take place regularly with learners, internal quality assurers and employers. CPD maintaining currency of knowledge and skills Equality Diversity assessment activities embrace equality, inclusion and diversity Ethics assessment process should be honest, moral confidential and integral Fairness planning, decisions and feedback should be justifiable Health Safety this should be taken into account throughout the assessment process Motivation encouraging and supporting learners Quality assurance ensuring assessment decisions meet standards Record keeping accurate records should be maintained Responsibility following organisational guidelines and making objective decisions SMART assessment activities should be specific, measurable, achievable, realistic and timely. Standardisation that all assessors are making comparable and consistent decisions Explain the responsibilities of the assessor By following the concepts and principles of assessment will ensure an assessor is performing the role according to all relevant regulations and requirements. The role of the assessor is to assess the learners knowledge and performance. This includes, Assess learners work and evidence against specifications. Ensuring work is authentic Make decisions and give feedback Provide support appropriate to learners. (Adapting teaching, learning and assessment activities Decide whether the learner has demonstrated competence. Apply equal opportunities Ensure that their assessment practice meets QCF guidance. Keep up to date with training on assessment. Prove they can assess effectively Standardise judgements and practice with others Follow organisational and regulatory authorities procedures Identify the regulations and requirements relevant to assessment in own area of practice Health and Safety at work Act (to ensure the health, safety and welfare of persons at work). I have to be aware of risks involving activities in the assessing of my subject. I need to confirm learners knowledge of fire exits, first aiders and any relevant points concerning the area we are working in. Health and safety issues should be acted upon Equality and Diversity requires me not to discriminate against any learners on the grounds of race, gender or disability. I must provide a learning environment where every learner is treated fairly and equally, promoting inclusion using various resources. Promoting equality and valuing diversity means allowing every individual 2 / 10 regardless of age, race, gender, disability, and culture or religion access to learning and actively removing barriers that would prevent certain learners from gaining a learning experience. At the start of the lesson I would identify experience within the subject with a skills scan. Data protection Act states that I must safeguard personal information at all times, holding only the relevant information and only allowing authorised persons access to these details. SoVA is ensuring I keep young people and vulnerable adults are safe. Recognising the signs of possible abuse and dealing with the situation in a sensitive and calm manner. A vulnerable adults is defined as a person aged 18 years or over, who is in receipt of or may be in the community care services by reason of mental or other disability, age or illness and who is or may be unable to take care of him or herself, or unable to protect him or herself against significant harm or exploitation (Bonnerjea 2009). Code of Practice, as an assessor I must adhere to the principles, processes, practices, responsibilities and quality assurance as documented by my organisation assuring all learners receive the best possible learning experience. A criminal background check is typically conducted by law enforcement or employers to verify your criminal history. A full criminal background check will list every arrest, charge, conviction and acquittal you have ever had. Criminal background checks are primarily used by law enforcement and the courts to determine an individuals criminal history for charging or sentencing purposes. Recently, employers, landlords and other organizations have begun using them to ensure they are not hiring or housing dishonest or violent criminals. My role, responsibilities and boundaries as an assessor within the terms of the teacher/training cycle can be split into 5 areas Identifying the needs of the learner this is the first step within the teacher/training cycle and can also be known as the initial assessment. During this initial assessment it would be my responsibility to identify their needs this could be achieved by obtaining knowledge from the learner by completing a skills scan and by speaking personally to them. The information gathered would enable me to plan a lesson around the individual or group taking into account abilities, disabilities or special requirements. Apply ground rules, these could include the respecting of others within the group, not to criticise their opinions but to understand the reason behind the idea. I believe this would promote equality and diversity within the group. This will also promote appropriate behaviour and respect for others. Planning and designing Now that I am aware of the learners needs I can progress to the next step of planning and designing. There are many areas to address before planning starts. This ranges from the time, location, access, resources, risk assessments and health and safety. Different learning styles VAK must also be considered and the variety of resources available to me. I must also be aware of the core standards and work to a criteria and the learners must be conscious of time constraints ensuring the plan is completed on time. Facilitate As an assessor I must ensure the environment is suitable and the learner has every opportunity to learn, understand and be supported and that my aims and objectives are clear and can be met. Feedback from the learners is important to ensure I am on the right track and that the session is being carried out correctly. I can adapt the session accordingly to ensure all learners receive the correct learning incorporating inclusion. It is my responsibility to maintain a safe and supportive learning environment for the learner to enable the best from the individual. This will ensure the learner is comfortable with me and their surroundings to be able to meet their needs and the criteria. Assess During the session I have to constantly monitor understanding, participation and assess progress. The assessment phase of the teacher/learning cycle lists continuous progress and review. I must give feedback regularly and it must be kept positive and constructive. All records must be kept relating to the individual, these include test results, reviews, attendance, initial assessments and feedback. The boundaries are that I must only assess what is relevant and valid, always allowing the learner to demonstrate their knowledge and understanding without interference from me or outside sources not involved in the assessment. Evaluate It is my responsibility to evaluate how the session went. With feedback it should be kept confidential as it usually contains personal views and information. There may also be a requirement to get other parties involved to promote the learners learning. It is my responsibility to ensure the session meets the needs of the learner and the 3 / 10 criteria. Understand different types of assessment method Compare the strengths and limitations of a range of assessment methods with reference to the needs of individual learners. Performance evidence provides proof of what a candidate can do. Sometimes, performance evidence can also provide evidence of what a candidate knows. Method of assessment How and when this method could be usedEvaluation of methods (include reference to the needs of particular learnersStrengthslimitations Workplace observation ? During the learners day to day job role/taskGives a better overview of how the learner performs and how they can cover the criteria holistically. Observations are natural and reliableLearner can be called away to do something not related to the criteria. Can be simulated. Learner may feel nervous of on edge during observation Examining products of work Once an assignment has been set for learner to gather information needed. This will emphasise what the learner understands about the criteria and it is product evidence that can be used and referenced within the learners portfolio. Reliable as these are naturally occurring Some learners may not be able to gather product evidence as they do not use it for their job role. Files may not be accessible due to confidentially Simulations and skills tests To ensure the learner has the relevant skills needed to meet the criteria. Simulate a situation to cover criteria. Skills tests will high light what strengths the learner has and what can be worked on to meet the criteria. The learner can also have more input on how to achieve the units. Aids in covering awkward criteria and can make the learner think about their role in more depth Time can be a factor if the learner is too busy. If the learner has not completed a skills test before they may be nervous. Its not a real event and therefore could be completely false Projects and assignments To meet criteria of a unit that cannot be assessed by observation. This will show the knowledge the learner has and their ability to complete and understand the project/assignment. Personal life can restrict a learner from completing assignments and projects. If they have not understood the criteria they may not cover it completely and need to revisit to complete. Questioning and discussion During an observation or guided discussionTests the learners knowledge and understanding. Prep the learner so they can do some research. Validates reflective accounts and learners knowledge If no prep has taken place the questions and the discussion will not be structured. Some learners do not perform well and they feel pressured. Witness testimony To cover criteria of certain units where a skills testimony is needed. This is a statement from a peer regarding the learner and their competency. This will give an insight about the learner from another colleague or peer on how they complete certain tasks to cover the criteria. Good coverage of evidence when assessor is not there If the context of the WT is not explained an incomplete WT may be written or it can be unreliable. Learner statement/ Reflection To check the learners knowledge of certain criteria points and also a scenario they may have encountered that relates to the unit. This will give an honest account from the learner regarding a situation they have been involved in and how they dealt with it. Some learners cannot reflect well and do not know how to converse situations onto paper. They can be completely false events Case study This can be used when the learner has a colleague/student they have worked with on a certain project. It can be a real situation they describe or a scenario set by the tutorThis method can be strong to be able to cover the criteria if the learner writes the case study well. Poorly written will not cover criteria and if the learner cannot convert a situation onto paper well it can cause stress to the learner. RPL Recognition of Prior Learning is a method of assessment by which learners can gain recognition for Knowledge, understanding, skills and competences that they already possess. If a learner has evidence from another qualification or experience they have already completed it can be used to support the criteria on the new qualification. Theres no repetition in assessments and is time effectiveIf evidence cannot be found or it is out of date it cannot be used. This can mean that the learner will take longer to complete the qualification and will need to do more work if RPL was planned to be used. Needs backing up with questioning as attendance doesnt necessarily mean understanding Understand how to plan assessment Summarise key factors to consider when planning assessment Evaluate the benefits of using a holistic approach to assessment Explain how to plan a holistic approach to assessment The 4 / 10 key factors to consider when planning assessment are Assessment type and method Dates, times and duration of assessment activities Individual learner and qualifications/employment level Location and environment Requirements for making decisions and giving feedback Resources and materials. Special requirements/learner needs Staff availability Type of evidence required I must consider how the criteria will be met i. e. observation guided discussion or personal statement. I would plan the time needed for the assessment chosen to make sure enough is captured and the assessment process recorded. A holistic approach to assessment allows me to see the process as a whole and in some cases can cover so much of the units that cross referencing can be achieved. I will need to take into account the learners previous experience and if they can provide evidence relating to the experience. This can all be considered if a holistic approach is carried out. This can be gathered and provided at the next planned meeting. Sometimes an observation can take place straight away as long as the key factors have been considered. If not I would plan for the next visit so the learner is aware and they can also make arrangements so I can observe holistically relating to the units and criteria. There are times when meetings and an assessment process have been scheduled but cannot be carried out because of an unplanned event. I would discuss a different approach with the learner to ensure the criteria can be covered. Within my job role I have to take into account the needs of the learner and what is the best process to cover the unit. Some of my leaners do not feel comfortable writing so in this instance I would use a guided discussion. There are some learners that do not feel comfortable talking so I would explain the use of a personal statement/reflective writing and how it can be written. A personal statement/reflective account is a form of self- assessment for the learner. If they understand the unit and how it relates to their job role they will be able to write a detailed personal statement/reflective account about themselves and their understanding. Summarise the types of risk that may be involved in assessment in own area of responsibility Explain how to minimise risks through the planning process 4. 1 Explain the importance of involving the learner and others in the assessment process With all assessment processes there are some risks involved and these need to be taken into consideration. I will always ensure I am not stopping the learner from completing their duties and that the assessment can take place. Health and Safety is very important as I may need PPE in some areas of the assessment. This should be asked and verified when the planning is discussed. Lone working is another factor to consider. There are also risks relating to the learner work itself. Every learner has to sign their own work to validate it, but there is always a risk that the work that has been completed is false. This relates to breach of quality assurance principles (VARCS) Practical assessment and 1st hand observation helps reduce the issues of plagiarism of false misrepresentation. Open questioning and rationales of duties roles and responsibilities, help promote confirmation of validity, as would a greater understanding of the candidates style of work Other risks may include Learners not turning up for their appointment Learners not being competent in their job role Learners not being ready for assessment. Others involved may need notice of assessment ie managers and service users Costs involved in travelling if appointment are not properly planned To minimise these risks it may be possible to Send the learner a reminder message Complete a skills scan prior to sign up Email managers to keep them up to date with assessment appointment Ensure all parties agree and sign a plan. 4 Understand how to involve learner and others in assessment 4. 1 Explain the importance of involving the learner and others in the assessment process 4. 3 Explain how peer and self-assessment can be used effectively to promote learner involvement and personal responsibility in the assessment of learning HYPERLINK http//search. babylon. com/imageres. phpiuhttp//maslowa cademy. com/wp/wp-content/uploads/2012/02/pyramidwithoutkidswords. pngirhttp//maslowacademy. com/ighttp//t3. gstatic. com/imagesqtbnANd9GcQ6HZvvyF2O6VKf87r3uHageOCfEYIN4_9gJ4Vcqhtr 5jttnPc1x47ykaxth1886w2457qmaslowbabsrcHP_ss_din2g Abraham Maslow developed the Hierarchy of Needs model in 1940-50s USA, and the Hierarchy of Needs theory remains valid today for understanding human motivation, management training, and personal development. Indeed, Maslows ideas surrounding the Hierarchy of Needs concerning the responsibility of employers to 5 / 10 provide a workplace environment that encourages and enables employees to fulfil their own unique potential (self-actualization) are today more relevant than ever. Abraham Maslows book Motivation and Personality, published in 1954 (second edition 1970) introduced the Hierarchy of Needs, and Maslow extended his ideas in other work, notably his later book Toward A Psychology Of Being, a significant and relevant commentary, which has been revised in recent times by Richard Lowry, who is in his own right a leading academic in the field of motivational psychology. Involving the learner and others is very important when discussing and planning an assessment. This will give the learner chance to give their input into how they can cover the criteria and also what evidence they can bring to supplement their knowledge and training they have already had. Encouraging the learner to reflect on, and correlate previous experiences or qualifications will aid the assessment process. Reflective writing not only aids improvement, but promotes learner inclusion in their own learning. Reflective accounts throughout the course are a good example of this. By involving others i. e. learners manager or peer they can be used to provide a WT (witness testimony) relating to the learners everyday tasks and duties. This is ideal as the manager has a good insight into the learner and can give a very detailed account that is role related. This is also known as peer assessment and the learner will need to explain and work with their manager to ensure the manager understands the nature of the WT and how it relates to the qualification. 4. 2 Summarise types of information that should be made available to learners and others involved in the assessment process 4. 4 Explain how assessment arrangements can be adapted to meet the needs of individual learners The learner induction guide is given to every learner. This contains a short explanation of the following Introductions Learning and training plan Visits to the workplace Assessments and the process Training Responsibilities of the learner, assessor, training provider and awarding body Health and safety Equal opportunities Data protection Roles of IQAs and EQAs Internet safety guidance Examples of reflective writing and witness testimonies Complaints and appeals procedure. The complaints and appeals procedure is discussed with the learner at induction and revisited a number of times throughout the learner journey Visual is the providing of reading material for the learner to take away and research. I provide each learner with a list of resources at induction. Auditory is the explanation of how the unit can be covered and by what means to cover the criteria. This will also give the learner a chance to have input into the method and assessment. Question and answer will enable me to get a better feel of the learners knowledge and understanding of the course. Most of my learners are different and not all will use the same learning technique or gain the same understanding if only one technique is used. I will always have resources with me and I will discuss this with the learner to gauge what is the best method for them to meet their learning needs. Some learners will learn better on a computer and feel more confident writing an essay on a computer. Others need more visual stimulation so I will use easy read handouts and links to websites. I will always make the learner feel involved in the learning process rather than tell them what to do, this will make them feel more in control of the situation and can sometimes make the task more enjoyable if they can put their own spin on it. Understand how to make assessment decisions Explain how to judge whether evidence is Explain how to ensure assessment decisions are Sufficient enough evidence as specified in evidence requirements and/or assessment strategy Authentic Being the candidates own work. Current evidence that the learner possesses the skills and knowledge being claimed Made against specific criteria Valid selecting and using an appropriate method of assessment in relation to the skills and or knowledge being assessed Reliable assessors achieving a constant approach to the way they make judgements and learner evidence Fair ensuring candidates are assessed consistently and objectively to the standards Factors which could influence a judgement or decision. Appeals ensure organisational procedures are followed and records are kept Complaints remain objective and do not let complaints influence future decisions Consistency remaining unbiased towards learners Methods of assessment using appropriate and alternative methods Plagiarism copied work the others or producing work that does not belong to them Pressure feeling of pressure to pass learners due to time, funding etc Type of 6 / 10 assessment assessment needs to be fair and ethical VARCS valid, authentic, reliable, current, sufficient When gathering evidence from the learner I must make sure it is correct and relates to the specific criteria of the units. I would judge the type of evidence submitted is sufficient by comparing it against the standards. For instance if a personal statement is submitted I would sit down with the evidence and read thoroughly marking off the criteria as I read, this will ensure the information is valid. I would make sure the learner authenticates the evidence by signing and asking a manager to read, clarify and sign also. By asking for a managers signature it also ensures the evidence is current, reliable and relates to the learners job role. The assessment decision needs to be fair for all learners and feedback given regularly to the learner. This will ensure inclusion for the learner and equality and diversity is followed. Another method of checking authenticity can be to ask the learner questions relevant to the work completed. It can sometimes happen that a learner will get another member of staff to do the work for them. This will ensure the work is their own and they understand it. You can also use another colleague or the manager of the company to authenticate the work. I can speak to the person named as the peer to ask if they can authenticate the work and get them to sign a separate sheet of paper. 6. Understand Quality Assurance of the assessment process 6. 1 Evaluate the importance of quality assurance in the assessment process. 6. 2 Summarise quality assurance and standardisation procedures in own area of practice. Quality assessment is part of the quality management process. Quality management processes are intrinsic to a quality management system. A quality management system may consist of policies and protocols to ensure that a service or intervention is optimally delivered and will incorporate indicators to demonstrate whether such success is being achieved, in the early, mid and end stages of an intervention or programme. Such indicators need to be reported and fed back in to the loop of assessors and IQAs so that quality improvements can be made continually. These are fed back to assessors through personal one to one meetings with their line manager and standardisation meetings. Standardisation meetings are carried out regularly to ensure the assessment and IQA requirements are interpreted accurately and that all assessors and IQAs are making comparable and consistent decisions. Aspects which can be standardised are Assessment activities looking at safety, fairness, validity and reliability. Creating a bank of assessment materials assignments, multiple choice questions How are wen resources are used How learner evidence meets requirements How assessors interpret the assessment procedure and standards and how they make decisions The way that assessment plans and feedback records are completed The way learner reviews are carried out Updating assessment and IQA documentation. Internal quality assurance (IQA) relates to the monitoring of the learner journey throughout their award, this is to comply with internal and external organisations requirements to ensure the quality of assessment for all learners. All assessment decisions will be carried out by a qualified assessor in their own subject area and sampled by IQAs.
Gender Differences In Leadership Effect On Organizational Behavior Nursing Essay
Gender Differences In Leadership Effect On Organizational Behavior Nursing Essay Leadership is process whereby other people in an organization are influenced to perform a task or a job. Through leadership an organization is effectively directed and thus becomes more cohesive and coherent. Therefore we can define leadership style as that approach which provides direction. In management we have different leadership styles. Some of these styles include democratic or participative, autocratic or authoritarian and free reign or delegative leadership. Leading is something that is interpersonal and natural. This paper is going to talk about gender differences in leadership; and will in particular examine how different leadership styles are affected by the differences in gender. To ensure that this is achieved the paper will go through different sources and studies done about this work previously. In the present world women are taking on very big jobs and thus switching to different kinds of leaderships automatically. They have taken up leadership positions in large numbers but are still viewed as weak by their counterparts of the opposite sex. Therefore this paper is going to find out the role played by gender in leadership. It will try and highlight major findings of this issue. Discussion of the topic For a long time there has this belief by many people that leadership is naturally for men alone. Researches carried out long time ago show that gender priority was rampant. Women were sidelined in the society and there was nothing they could do other than bear children and raise them. This bias about women has been experienced as recent as 1990. A study which was carried out by (Siegfried and Cann, 1990) in the year 1990 reveals that male chauvinism was observed and women were not allowed to be leaders. As a matter of fact men and women share a lot in common when it comes to leadership styles and behaviors according to many studies. The same studies however show that gender plays a very vital role in selection and style of leadership. Theory overview The following three leadership theories will try to explain leadership styles and these theories can be applied to gender and leadership. The three theories are: Situational leadership theory Normative decision theory Contingency theory We shall focus the feature of emerging leadership in each model as it relates to situational aspects as per the three theories. We shall then put focus on specific facets of leadership with regard to these models to see whether and how leadership is affected by gender. (Butterfield and Grinnel, 1999) Situational leadership theory In this model we shall look at optimum methods used by leaders in tackling leadership style based on the type of leadership. The model scrutinizes task behavior as it relates to nature of work the leaders do. According to this model, the level of maturity of the leader in job and psychology affects the style of leadership. Gender and leadership are not correlated in this theory. (Butterfield and Grinnel, 1999) Normative decision theory The main reason why this model was designed was to improve some core issues on effective leadership. The model gives a clear explanation about what should happen in a decision making environment. The theory says that leaders could have a frequent improvement on performance of a group if they employ optimal amount of involvement in decision making process. From this theory we can conclude that leadership is a gender neutral aspect. The contingency theory This theory comes up with a model which stipulates that choosing the right type of leader fundamentally determines the effectiveness of leadership which is in contrast to the situational model. The model has a lot of focus on individual aspects of the leader rather than followers or situations. It notes that one develops personality characters at an early stage in life and the leadership style that the leader will employ will be affected his or her life and past experiences. Main arguments, developments, changes; At this stage the paper is going to scrutinize the researches and studies done that concern this topic. In 1990 Eagly and Johnson carried out a study which reveals that women were fond of leadership style which was more interpersonally based as compared to men who appreciated leadership style that was task oriented. The study concluded by showing that men are fond of being autocratic or directive in contrast women who appreciated democratic leadership (Eagly and Johnson, 1990) The 2003 Meta-analysis of Eagly et al, (2003) shows that women can adopt transformational leadership style faster as compared to their male counterparts the leader in this kind of style is more coaching, encouraging and flexible when it comes to problem solving. In cases where women served as leaders, it is recorded that they rewarded good work but men leaders only censured the subordinates ad adopted hands off leadership style in most cases. (Eagly et al, 2003) On he other hand we are warned by Eagly et al, (2003) to have in mind the power of perception. Her observation was that even if studies show differences in styles of leadership gender variation is minute because the roles of leadership is the major factor in determining the behavior of an individual. She concludes by observing that women are better leaders than men in some ways, but women still have disadvantages due to the mentality in many settings that is generally masculine. If masculinity was to be removed from organizational leadership it would give psychologists a clear image of any disparities in leadership between men and women. (Eagly et al, 2003) Leadership which is participative does not involve the leader alone in decision making but other people also. For example employees being involved in decision making of an organization. Gardiner and Tiggeman (1999). It involves making a decision depending on the task to be done in organizations. This does not strictly say hat the employees are the ones to make final decision but their contributions are considered in the making of the final decision. According to some studies which were carried out in the 90s womens leadership is more participative than mens. Both men and women subordinates were used in carrying out of this research and this confirms the fact that gender differences affects leadership style. The gender difference brings about both effective and ineffective leadership styles, but above all it is the leadership style that matter and not gender. (Gardiner and Tiggeman 1999) While studying religious male and female leaders, researchers Cann and Siegfried also found out that female leaders were more transformational than there male counterparts. In transformational leadership style, the leaders involve their followers in all maters including decision making and this motivates the followers. On the other hand researcher by the name of Maher, (1997) carried out a research which proposes that maybe transformational style of leadership is a feminine kind of leadership style. In groups where resources control is under women this type of style is most likely to be observed. From the studies cited above, it can clearly be seen that an important role is played by gender in leadership styles and women are observed to be fond of transformational style as compared to men. (Maher, 1997) On analyzing differentiation in transformational and transactional leadership in religious leaders, Maher, (1997), discovered that there was no remarkable gender difference in transactional or transformational style of leadership. According to Butterfield and Grinnel (1999), there are two basic types of societies in a society; dominator society and partnership society. She observes that women leadership styles take the partnership model which is a manner in which human relationships are developed on the basis of links making. Sociological studies also reveal that the style in which women manage is different from that of men. Men are more hierarchical than women and women leaders organize their management on a wider base. Men groups get in to self-assertion quickly rather than make a compromise like the ladies. (Maher, 1997) Limitations of the research Most of the studies and research done fall short of coming up with strong evidence of leadership style being determined by gender, and instead only gives a general feeling and what seem to be happening. For a leader to choose a leadership style he or she not only consider gender but also bears in mind certain factors which may influence his or her decision. The studies again fail to come up with core evidence that an individual chooses leadership style basing on gender alone. In addition, the studies use samples that are limited which can not give more reliable results. Basing on the entire research findings, however, psychologists do warn us against jumping in to conclusion that female and male leaders have some sort of inborn style of leadership. It is clear that women are well conversant with how people resent the bossy kind of leadership. This only softens their approach whenever they are dealing with their workers. Nonetheless there is need for more research to be done in this field that incorporates other factors that might be influencing styles of leadership to get more reliable data. (Eagly, A. H. et al 2003) Other studies; Compare and contrast studies with each other; Many studies are in support of the fact that ladies are more inclined towards transformational or participative kind of leadership style. According to Eagly and Johnson in their study they reveal that women fall in love with leadership style that is more interpersonally oriented but their male counterparts embrace task oriented leadership style. The study also continues by women are more democratic. Denmark, (1993): also strongly supports this argument. He argues that women leadership style also embraces partnership model. Consequently there is an observation by sociologists that women management style is dissimilar to that of men. Men are observed to be more hierarchical but women appreciate participatory and more democratic style of leadership; they never get themselves involved in supporting and correlating with their groups. On the other hand these studies may vary in the intensity of how participative women leaders can be in their groups. (Denmark, 1993) Maher, (1997) contrast Cann, and Siegfried, (1990) in his analysis about differentiation in transactional and transformational leadership style among religious leaders basing on gender and scrutinizing residence hall administrators and residence hall administrators assistants, where he found out that there was minute gender difference in transactional or transformational style of leadership style. Meanings of studies to the practice of Organizational behavior From the studies we can clearly see that there is an important role played by gender in leadership styles; it also has a direct impact on leadership of an organization because its style may be affected by the top gender personality. Nonetheless studies reveal that men and women are correspondingly effective in one way or another. But in some cases for an organization/s management to be efficient then gender differences must be put in to consideration. For example the ladies are considered to be more coaching and guiding in their leadership which is much appreciated by female workers in an organization. In addition, most women are working role models, and motivators. They also assist workers to attain dedication and creativity. This approach does optimally in current models of organizations which are less hierarchical. It should be note that not all organizations are equally in participatory style of leadership and the style may fail to work in customary male dominated organizations l ike the military. (Gardiner and Tiggeman, 1999). Organizational practice differs accordingly; according to Eagly and Karau (1995), men and women are all effective. Leaders and managers who were analyzed in the studies were mostly first line supervisors working in laboratories. According to the studies women did well in women dominated organizations. Correspondingly men flourished in organizations where men were majority. From this we conclude that in management of organizations women will get a positive management approval if they worked in sectors where women were a majority same with male dominated organizations for men. However men will be forced to emulate different leadership style which is somehow democratic when working in organizations full of women. Conclusion Leadership is a core aspect in any organization. It is the leadership that is going to determine the success of an organization. While running an organization there are different leadership styles which can be used. We have autocratic leadership where employees are dictated by their seniors on what to do and how to perform their tasks; another leadership style being democratic where employees views are also put in to consideration. A vital role is played by gender in the choice of the type of leadership style. From the researches and studies conducted it can be concluded that women appreciate democratic leadership style in contrast to men who embrace autocratic leadership style. The kind of leadership adapted is the one that determines triumph of an organization. Other than that there is need for more research to be done in future to show the certainty and truth of these studies.
Tuesday, August 20, 2019
Body Modification :: Body Piercings Essays
Body Modification: A Rising Sensation A heavily tattooed woman pinched my nose and picked up a gargantuan needle with her other hand. â€Å"Whoa...hold on,†I muttered. â€Å"What’s the matter?†â€Å"You have got to be kidding me. You can’t pierce me with that!†â€Å"Uh...why not?†â€Å"It’s waaaay too big! You can’t just take a chopstick and jab a hole into my face with it...†â€Å"Listen...do you want this piercing or not? I have a whole line of people waiting outside to be in this chair.†I stared in horror at the fearsome needle taunting me to challenge its glinting tip. I closed my eyes, prayed with every cell in my body for the pain to be minimal, and grimaced as she expertly twirled the needle between her fingers and then slid it through my flesh in one fluid motion. When I took a peek, I gaped cross-eyed at the foreign object jutting out of my nose and smiled. I don’t remember what state of mind I was in when I walked into the parlor, but I left victorious! Throughout history, people have decorated and modified the appearance of their bodies in many different ways. Nostril piercings are thought to have been adopted into the noble castes in the Middle East almost 4000 years ago. Nowadays, nostril piercings have been adopted by Christina Aguilera. In South America, Aztec and Mayan priests pierced their tongues as part of a ritual to communicate with their gods. In several African tribes, the beauty of women was determined by the size of plates that were fitted into their upper lips. In ancient civilizations of Egypt, a â€Å"perfect belly button†could elevate someone’s social standing. At that time, only Pharaohs and royal families could pierce their navels. Anyone else was promptly executed. A â€Å"perfect belly button†, however, could be a peasant’s ticket to a better life. The ancient Romans pierced their nipples (ouch) to show their strength and endurance. It is also theorized that their nipple jewelry he ld their cloaks in place! To this day, piercings have continued to capture human curiosity and fascination. The world record for the highest number of body piercings is one of the most volatile since it is constantly adjusting as each prickled being attempts to outdo the previous one. In 2002, Nathan Robitaille, 23, had 420 needles stuck into his arms, thus breaking the previous world record of 301 piercings.
Monday, August 19, 2019
The Koala Essay -- essays research papers fc
The Koala Inroduction The koala is the Australian jewel. It has very furry, ash colored hair, a rubbery black nose, sharp claws, fuzzy ears, and a grizzly personality, or should I say, koalality. If you kill a koala, you'll make a million off their fur! They would sell the fur to coat companies and make coats out of koala fur. Well, sadly enough, too many people are making millions on koalas. That's why they're endangered species. Habitat The koala is distributed along the eastern coastal semi-tropical forests of Australia, ranging from north Queensland, New South Wales, Victoria, and a small area in the south of Australia. Breeding The male koala and the female koala have two very different mating calls. When humans reach their sexual maturity at around the age of 14 or 15, koalas reach their sexual maturity at the age of two. The female produces one baby every other year. The koala almost never produces twins. In the female's pouch, there are two nipples. The female koala gives birth after a 20-35 day gestation period. When the joey (baby koala) is born, it is no longer than 2 cm and weighs no more than a 1/2 gram. The joey stays in its mother's pouch for 5-7 months. The term "joey ² is used when you are talking about a baby marsupial. The mother gives "pap ² to the joey, a liquid from the caecum (which is similar to the human organ, appendix.) This is thought to give the joey the ability to eat only eucalyptus leaves. When the joey emerges from the pouch, it clings to its mother for another seven months. The joey stays with its mother for another three or four years, until it is fully grown. Diet Koalas eat eucalyptus and don't drink water. I guess that's how they got their name. In the aboriginal language, "koala" means "no drink water." But, the koala does drink water, only when it is ill. Out of the 350 species of eucalyptus, the koala can only eat 20, will only eat 5, and only prefers to eat a certain one. Population and Extinction Since the koala population has dropped since 50% since the turn of the century, the Australian government passed a law banning anything harmful to the koalas. At first, in the 1920's they were killed for their fur. Then, somehow, a high perce... ...e New Columbia Encyclop'dia, 1975 ed., p. 1491 (New York: Columbia University Press) Bergh, John. Austrailian Koala Hospital Assosiation, Inc.: Koala Facts Sheet, http://onthenet.com.au/~jbergh/koala2.htm (Sydney: onthenet.com) Bergh, John. Austrailian Koala Hospital Assosiation, Inc.: Koala Facts Sheet, http://onthenet.com.au/~jbergh/koala4.htm (Sydney: onthenet.com) Bergh, John. Austrailian Koala Hospital Assosiation, Inc.: Koala Facts Sheet, http://onthenet.com.au/~jbergh/koala1.htm (Sydney: onthenet.com) World Book Encyclop'dia, 1996 ed., 11:361 (Chicago: World Book, Inc.) Payne, Oliver. "Koala†¹ Out on a Limb," National Geographic Magazine, April, 1995 (Washington, D.C.: National Geographic Society Press) Academic American Encyclop'dia, 1994 ed., 12:103. (Danbury: Grolier, Inc.)
Sunday, August 18, 2019
Homer’s Iliad - The Shield of Achilles Essay -- Iliad essays
Homer’s Iliad - The Shield of Achilles Homer devotes the final passages of Book 18 of The Iliad to the description of the shield of Achilles. Only a quarter of the description concerns warfare, the essential grist of the epic. Instead, the bulk of the description presents a peaceful society and rural idylls, a curious choice for the most ferocious warrior of the Greeks, and an odd thing for both armies to fear. A narrative emerges from the scenes of the shield, and it is this that fits Achilles and repulses everyone else. We expect Achilles’ shield to unsettle his adversariesâ€â€that is, after all, one of the objectives of a shield. Indeed, Achilles returns to battle "shining in all his armour, a man like the murderous war god" (Iliad 20.46).1 Once he and Hektor are alone on the battlefield, the shield shines: like that star which comes on in the autumn and whose conspicuous brightness far outshines the stars that are numbered in the night’s darkening, the star they give the name of Orion’s Dog, which is brightest among the stars, and yet is wrought as a sign of evil and brings on the great fever for unfortunate mortals. (22.26-31) We need not wonder, then, when Priam and Hecuba supplicate Hektor to return to Troy in the face of this practically cosmic onslaught. But what is unusual is that Achilles’ own men avoid the shield: "None had the courage / to look straight at it. They were afraid of it" (19.14-15). Here even the narration relies on the pronoun "it" instead of explicitly identifying the shield as the source of... ...ictory. If Achilles had chosen to leave, not only would he have been a good son, but the Trojans might have won the war, meaning both he and Priam would have had something to which they could look forward, and three-fourths of the shield’s story would not have been left unfulfilled. In staying, he contributes not only to his own demise, but also to that of the Trojans. This knowledge causes "the anger to come harder upon him" (19.16), and yet "he was glad" (19.18). The great dilemma of Achilles is forever immortalized on his shield, so that some lesser man in the future would be able to read the narrative upon it and say: "This armor was Achilles’, a man who forfeited the rest of his life for grim combat. The gods do not force most men to choose like that." NOTES 1. Homer, The Iliad, trans. Richmond Lattimore (Chicago: University of Chicago Press, 1951).
Saturday, August 17, 2019
Be Our Guest
Be Our Guest, Inc. Case Analysis Page 1 INDEX 1. Key success factors & company performance†¦Ã¢â‚¬ ¦Ã¢â‚¬ ¦Ã¢â‚¬ ¦Ã¢â‚¬ ¦Ã¢â‚¬ ¦Ã¢â‚¬ ¦Ã¢â‚¬ ¦Ã¢â‚¬ ¦Ã¢â‚¬ ¦Ã¢â‚¬ ¦Ã¢â‚¬ ¦Ã¢â‚¬ ¦Ã¢â‚¬ ¦Ã¢â‚¬ ¦Ã¢â‚¬ ¦Ã¢â‚¬ ¦Ã¢â‚¬ ¦Ã¢â‚¬ ¦.. 3 2. Bank perspective regarding the performance†¦Ã¢â‚¬ ¦Ã¢â‚¬ ¦Ã¢â‚¬ ¦Ã¢â‚¬ ¦Ã¢â‚¬ ¦Ã¢â‚¬ ¦Ã¢â‚¬ ¦Ã¢â‚¬ ¦Ã¢â‚¬ ¦Ã¢â‚¬ ¦Ã¢â‚¬ ¦Ã¢â‚¬ ¦Ã¢â‚¬ ¦Ã¢â‚¬ ¦Ã¢â‚¬ ¦Ã¢â‚¬ ¦Ã¢â‚¬ ¦Ã¢â‚¬ ¦.. 7 3. Bank financing perspective at the end of 1998†¦Ã¢â‚¬ ¦Ã¢â‚¬ ¦Ã¢â‚¬ ¦Ã¢â‚¬ ¦Ã¢â‚¬ ¦Ã¢â‚¬ ¦Ã¢â‚¬ ¦Ã¢â‚¬ ¦Ã¢â‚¬ ¦Ã¢â‚¬ ¦Ã¢â‚¬ ¦Ã¢â‚¬ ¦Ã¢â‚¬ ¦Ã¢â‚¬ ¦Ã¢â‚¬ ¦Ã¢â‚¬ ¦Ã¢â‚¬ ¦. 10 4. Management perspective regarding the bank financing†¦Ã¢â‚¬ ¦Ã¢â‚¬ ¦Ã¢â‚¬ ¦Ã¢â‚¬ ¦Ã¢â‚¬ ¦Ã¢â‚¬ ¦Ã¢â‚¬ ¦Ã¢â‚¬ ¦Ã¢â‚¬ ¦Ã¢â‚¬ ¦Ã¢â‚¬ ¦Ã¢â‚¬ ¦. 13 5. Exhibit 1 – Annual Income Statements (1994-1997)†¦Ã¢â‚¬ ¦Ã¢â‚¬ ¦Ã¢â‚¬ ¦Ã¢â‚¬ ¦Ã¢â‚¬ ¦Ã¢â‚¬ ¦Ã¢â‚¬ ¦Ã¢â‚¬ ¦Ã¢â‚¬ ¦Ã¢â‚¬ ¦Ã¢â‚¬ ¦Ã¢â‚¬ ¦Ã¢â‚¬ ¦Ã¢â‚¬ ¦17 6. Exhibit 2 – Annual Balance Sheets (1994-1997)†¦Ã¢â‚¬ ¦Ã¢â‚¬ ¦Ã¢â‚¬ ¦Ã¢â‚¬ ¦Ã¢ € ¦Ã¢â‚¬ ¦Ã¢â‚¬ ¦Ã¢â‚¬ ¦Ã¢â‚¬ ¦Ã¢â‚¬ ¦Ã¢â‚¬ ¦Ã¢â‚¬ ¦Ã¢â‚¬ ¦Ã¢â‚¬ ¦Ã¢â‚¬ ¦Ã¢â‚¬ ¦.. 18 7. Exhibit 3 – Quarterly Income Statements 1997†¦Ã¢â‚¬ ¦Ã¢â‚¬ ¦Ã¢â‚¬ ¦Ã¢â‚¬ ¦Ã¢â‚¬ ¦Ã¢â‚¬ ¦Ã¢â‚¬ ¦Ã¢â‚¬ ¦Ã¢â‚¬ ¦Ã¢â‚¬ ¦Ã¢â‚¬ ¦Ã¢â‚¬ ¦Ã¢â‚¬ ¦Ã¢â‚¬ ¦Ã¢â‚¬ ¦Ã¢â‚¬ ¦Ã¢â‚¬ ¦. 19 8. Exhibit 4 – Quarterly Balance Sheets 1997†¦Ã¢â‚¬ ¦Ã¢â‚¬ ¦Ã¢â‚¬ ¦Ã¢â‚¬ ¦Ã¢â‚¬ ¦Ã¢â‚¬ ¦Ã¢â‚¬ ¦Ã¢â‚¬ ¦Ã¢â‚¬ ¦Ã¢â‚¬ ¦Ã¢â‚¬ ¦Ã¢â‚¬ ¦Ã¢â‚¬ ¦Ã¢â‚¬ ¦Ã¢â‚¬ ¦Ã¢â‚¬ ¦Ã¢â‚¬ ¦Ã¢â‚¬ ¦Ã¢â‚¬ ¦Ã¢â‚¬ ¦20 9. Exhibit 5 – Forecasting†¦Ã¢â‚¬ ¦Ã¢â‚¬ ¦Ã¢â‚¬ ¦Ã¢â‚¬ ¦Ã¢â‚¬ ¦Ã¢â‚¬ ¦Ã¢â‚¬ ¦Ã¢â‚¬ ¦Ã¢â‚¬ ¦Ã¢â‚¬ ¦Ã¢â‚¬ ¦Ã¢â‚¬ ¦Ã¢â‚¬ ¦Ã¢â‚¬ ¦Ã¢â‚¬ ¦Ã¢â‚¬ ¦Ã¢â‚¬ ¦Ã¢â‚¬ ¦Ã¢â‚¬ ¦Ã¢â‚¬ ¦Ã¢â‚¬ ¦Ã¢â‚¬ ¦Ã¢â‚¬ ¦Ã¢â‚¬ ¦Ã¢â‚¬ ¦Ã¢â‚¬ ¦Ã¢â‚¬ ¦Ã¢â‚¬ ¦Ã¢â‚¬ ¦Ã¢â‚¬ ¦Ã¢â‚¬ ¦Ã¢â‚¬ ¦21 10. Exhibit 6 – Annual Ratios†¦Ã¢â‚¬ ¦Ã¢â‚¬ ¦Ã¢â‚¬ ¦Ã¢â‚¬ ¦Ã¢â‚¬ ¦Ã¢â‚¬ ¦Ã¢â‚¬ ¦Ã¢â‚¬ ¦Ã¢â‚¬ ¦Ã¢â‚¬ ¦Ã¢â‚¬ ¦Ã¢â‚¬ ¦Ã¢â‚¬ ¦Ã¢â‚¬ ¦Ã¢â‚¬ ¦Ã¢â‚¬ ¦Ã¢â‚¬ ¦Ã¢â‚¬ ¦Ã¢â‚¬ ¦Ã¢â‚¬ ¦Ã¢â‚¬ ¦Ã¢â‚¬ ¦Ã¢â‚¬ ¦Ã¢â‚¬ ¦Ã¢â‚¬ ¦Ã¢â‚¬ ¦Ã¢â‚¬ ¦Ã¢â‚¬ ¦Ã¢â‚¬ ¦Ã¢â‚¬ ¦. 22 11. Exhibit 7 – Quarterly Ratios†¦Ã¢â‚¬ ¦Ã¢â‚¬ ¦Ã¢â‚¬ ¦Ã¢â‚¬ ¦Ã¢â‚¬ ¦Ã¢â‚¬ ¦Ã¢â‚¬ ¦Ã¢â‚¬ ¦Ã¢â‚¬ ¦Ã¢â‚¬ ¦Ã¢â‚¬ ¦Ã¢â‚¬ ¦Ã¢â‚¬ ¦Ã¢â‚¬ ¦Ã¢â‚¬ ¦Ã¢â‚¬ ¦Ã¢â‚¬ ¦Ã¢â‚¬ ¦Ã¢â‚¬ ¦Ã¢â‚¬ ¦Ã¢â‚¬ ¦Ã¢â‚¬ ¦Ã¢â‚¬ ¦Ã¢â‚¬ ¦Ã¢â‚¬ ¦Ã¢â‚¬ ¦Ã¢â‚¬ ¦Ã¢â‚¬ ¦.. 23 Tudor Team Five Page 2 1. What are the key success factors in this equipment rental business? How has the company performed the past few years? Key Success Factors Five of the key success factors are as follows: First, the locat ion of the business is ideal for handling several projects at once. This is due to their central Boston location. The ability to handle everal projects at once gives the company a competitive edge and allows them to attain a performance as close to the full potential of the company as possible. Second, the company’s leaders have been successful in networking to primary and secondary clients. This has aided in growing a business that is based on a foundation of good company/client relationships. These strong relationships have led to significant repeat customers as a strong basis of the company’s revenue. Fostering these relationships throughout the years of the company’s existence has also led to sustained revenue growth year after year. This revenue growth is shown in the financials and, using the Compound Annual Growth Rate, it can be seen that this growth in revenue has been 14. 26% from 1994 to 1997. Third, the executive management is well experienced in the hospitality industry as well as other industries that relate to the successful operation of a business. Stephen Lizio was involved in the food and wine business prior to founding Be Our Guest in 1983. Al Lovata was previously a banker and began his relationship with Be Our Guest as a financial consultant, later joining the organization full-time as the Chief Executive Officer. Lizio and Lovata together form a foundation of strong knowledge of the hospitality Tudor Team Five Page 3 business and the vital knowledge of finance, thus giving the business a core of understanding both its industry and how to manage the money coming into the company. Simone Williamson was brought on to the team and comes from years of experience in the food service business. She also came to the company with strong networking connections in the catering industry in Boston, which further reinforces the second success factor described above. This management team is made up of members that complement ach other’s strengths, as well as provide the necessary skill sets for running a successful business. The fourth key success factor is that the company identified its business plan early on and held its course throughout the years without deviation to business expansions that would have resulted in higher profits but fewer turnovers. This can be seen in the company’s analys is of the potential of The executive team determined that this entering the tent rental market. market, though highly profitable, would result in time delays and longer turnovers and would split their core business. The team recognised that this split could result in lower profitability and splintering of the core business structure. Rather than expand into a low profit margin business â€Å"tents†, in which the management lacks market expertise, they chose to stick to their initial business plan and focus on their key strengths rather than deviate from the company's set fundamentals. This example illustrates that the company followed its original business plan and complied with its mission and vision from the beginning without deviation. In doing so, the company built a strong foundation and upheld the strength of that foundation. The fifth key success factor identified here is the high quality of service as well as the high quality of the rental equipment provided to clients. The executive team recognised early that they could compete in either price or Tudor Team Five Page 4 quality, and the team chose to compete in quality. Part of this high quality service is seen in the company’s dedication to its clients through its willingness to deliver only one table on short notice if a client is in need. Through high quality service, the company has upheld its networking connections to clients by building strong relationships. This high quality service combined with high quality rental equipment products has allowed the company to obtain a competitive edge over its competition, keep that competitive advantage, and foster strong company/client relationships throughout the years. How has the company performed the past few years? Viewpoint – Independent perspective Be Our Guest, Inc. originated in 1983 and is still thriving in a very competitive and volatile industry 14 years later. Over the past few years the company has shown significant growth. We see that Annual sales revenues have consistently risen from 1994 to 1997 with a Compounded Annual Growth Rate (CAGR) of 14. 26%. 1997 was an impressive year for the company with a 22. 7% increase in revenues. Gross Margins were very consistent year over year for 1994 through 1997. Gross margins for 1994, 1995, 1996 and 1997 were 53. 9%, 49%, 52. 63% and 55. 5%, respectively. Be Our Guest, Inc. is doing a solid job of keeping the Costs of Revenue in line with the Sales Revenue. It is a positive sign to see this growth, because we can be assured that the company is staying competitive, while not completely giving in to the pricing crunch. Annual Sales Revenue has a strong CAGR, but it is important and concerning to note that the CAGR of total Operating Expenses is higher. It is about 5% higher and this is very important, because Be Our Guest needs to stay in control of its expenses. Tudor Team Five Page 5 The high and increasing Operating expenses are cutting into the Operating margins, which also cuts into the bottom line. Be Our Guest’s balance sheet shows good signs of liquidity. Current Ratios for the past four years have remained above 1 proving that the company can handle its current liabilities. The current ratios are not extremely high (19941. 7, 1995- 2. 17, 1996- 1. 15 and 1997- 1. 16), but they can cover the current liabilities. It is important to note that the company is operating on a thin line because the current assets are barely covering the current liabilities. This is particularly unpleasant because we are dealing with a company operating in a seasonal business. It is a concern that the curren t ratio slightly eroded after 1995, and this is primarily due to Be Our Guest converting the bank line into long term debt in 1995. The current ratio in 1995 is an outlier, because 2. 17 do not accurately represent the company. The quick ratio is the same as the current ratio for Be Our Guest because they do not have inventory for all of the rental equipment is under property and equipment. They display a good working capital position as well, which is another measure of liquidity. Cash position is a concern for we can see in 1994 and 1997 that they actually had an Overdraft, and for 1995 and 1996 cash is not very high. However, this company is in an industry that is more of a receivables business, so the cash position is not a high concern, especially given that it is covering the current liabilities. Since this is a receivables business it is important to look at the Receivables Turnover ratio, and we find that this is quite consistent, however when comparing to the Payables Turnover ratio we see that they are paying out more quickly than they are receiving, which is a problem. In 1995 they are paying out twice on average before collecting. Be Our Guest needs to focus on getting its receivables in a more timely manner. Tudor Team Five Page 6 2. As the bank loan officer, Anne Granger, how would you view this company? What concerns might you have about the business and the lending elationship? What factors provide a source of comfort when considering the credit risk? Anne will look at Be Our Guest, Inc. with both an annual and quarterly perspective really focusing in on the company’s liquidity, leverage and how they will match up to the covenant ratios established. The company is liquid, but it is not extremely liquid. Be Our Guest, Inc. is barely covering the current liabil ities, and from a banks perspective we would want to see that there are not any concerns in this area. If the company is to become insolvent, we want to be able to get our outstanding balance back. We know that Q1 is the worst quarter for the company, and you can see that for Q1 1997 the company displays a current ratio of . 88, which is simply not good, and means that during that quarter they did not have the ability to pay all current liabilities, therefore having to access the line of credit during this quarter. Q1 is also the hardest month for this company to retain its receivables, which can sometimes be the cause for liquidity problems. The top line growth is great to see, especially in the competitive space that the company operates in, but we also need to examine the rest of the income statement. It is concerning to see the Operating Profit Margin as well as the Interest Coverage Ratio declining year over year. Operating Profit Margin shrinking is a negative because it indicates that the company is not controlling its operating expenses. Interest Coverage Ratio is especially concerning because this ratio indicates the ease of paying the interest on the outstanding debt, and Be Our Guest, Inc. may struggle paying the interest down the road if the ratio continues to decline. Note that the company is currently fully capable of paying for the interest on an annual and quarterly Tudor Team Five Page 7 basis, but the trend downward will be noticed. Be Our Guest, Inc. relies on debt to build the business as you can see from the long term debt to equity ratios. However, the ratios are fairly consistent and it drops down to . 43 in 1997. The company is more than capable to cover the interest of this debt as noted earlier. Cash Flow is being adversely affected due to the abnormally large increase (56%) in G during 1997. According to the footnote on page 4 of the case, a company the size of Be Our Guest should have G sales in 1997 closer to $565,718 rather than the $840,718 that was reported. The bank will keep a particular eye on Cash Flow/Debt Service Ratio and Debt/Tangible Net Worth Ratio along with the bottom line, since the covenants include requirements regarding these. The covenants require the Cash Flow/Debt Service ratio to not be less than 1/25:1, and the company is in line with this covenant on an annual basis. However, the company does not satisfy this covenant when looking at the quarterly figures. Debt/Tangible Net Worth cannot be greater than 2. 00:1, and Be Our Guest, Inc. satisfies this covenant on an annual and quarterly basis. According to the covenants, the company can’t incur two consecutive quarters of net losses; nor incur a net loss for any fiscal year. The company did incur a loss in Q1 1997, but followed with a strong Q2 net profit, so the company is in compliance with this covenant as well. Be Our Guest, Inc. is in a seasonal industry, which is a concern, but even more of a concern is the company’s inability to produce projections. We understand that projections may not be extremely accurate, but it is possible to project through the use of confidence intervals. The bank becomes a little more comfortable with the seasonality because they feel that Al Lovata (former Banker) is aware of the risks associated and has a handle on them. Tudor Team Five Page 8 The balance sheet is decent, but it is not incredibly strong because it is barely covering the current liabilities. As a banker we would also be concerned about the customer makeup. Be Our Guest, Inc. relies heavily on two particular customers (Customer A and B), which make up over 21% of the company’s sales. These two customers make up 1/5 of the company’s budget, and I would like to know if the company has any backup plans in case they lost either of these customers and has performed the due diligence required to make sure its major customers are not insolvency risks themselves. Other than these top two customers, it appears that the customer base is spread out appropriately. The strong covenants in place are a source of comfort for the bank. Not only do they have strong covenants, but the bank also has virtually all of the company’s assets pledged and the shareholders guarantee the loan. Given that this is an S Corporation, the shareholders’ personal assets would be safe, but since these shareholders guaranteed the loan, the bank can go after the personal assets of the shareholders. Be Our Guest, Inc. is not a start-up company, and it has been in operation since 1983, so there is a level of comfort knowing that this company has been around for over 10 years and has been remotely successful during this time as well. It has great management in place who each contributes strong and complimentary experiences along with a level of expertise. This company is focused and driven to provide the best service they can within the industry, and they have been rewarded for it with the 1997 Small Business Firm of the Year. While Be Our Guest may not be the greatest risk, there are provisions in place and aspects of the company that make Be Our Guest an acceptable risk for the bank. Tudor Team Five Page 9 3. How much total bank financing will the company need at the end of 1998, including both the short-term borrowing under the bank credit line and the outstanding amount of the term loan? For convenience, assume that 1998 sales are $3,000,000. ) In order to estimate how much total bank financing the company will need at the end of 1998, there are two possible ways of forecasting the financial results in terms of balance sheet and income statement. The analysis must take into account the highly unpredictable, seasonal nature of the business. Due to this seasonality, there is high level of uncertainty whichever forecasting method is applied. The first method is to estimate the future income statement based on a trend or horizontal analysis. In this specific case, a compound annual growth rate (CAGR) for each item on the income statement was calculated for the years 1994-1997. With regards to revenue, $3,000,000 for 1998 was accounted for in the calculation. This analysis shows an increase in G due to the unusual increase in G the previous year (1996-1997) affecting the CAGR in 1998. Consequently, the income statement shows a loss in the Net Earnings when applying this method. The second method is to calculate the costs of revenue based on the percentage impact of each item of cost on the total revenue in 1997 (vertical analysis). This analysis, according to us, seems more logical in itself and also leads to a much more positive outlook for 1998 (Net Earnings of $99,408). The result would be sustainable for the business. Two more steps are necessary to forecast the financing needs for the year 1998: Tudor Team Five Page 10 The first step is repayment of the line of credit for the short-term liabilities ($140,000+$3,498). The second step is better management of the seasonality, especially for quarters 1 and 4 which are the most risky quarters for the business. Given that Net Earnings are around $68,096, the line of credit needs to cover the difference ($75,402). Taking into consideration the seasonality, calculated as operating cash flow (refer to case – covenants), there should be no liquidity problems year-end 1998. The cash flow available at the end of 1998 completely covers the losses in Q1 and Q4. The company should keep the line of credit, because debt is incurred upon the credit line only when used. The management, however, should only use the credit line when absolutely necessary. Finally, the company should convert approximately $75,000 of the $140,000 of the line of credit into long-term debt because it will cost less in terms of interest. In addition, the company should increase the long-term debt accordingly (based on the strategy regarding future investments; see answer to question 4). Assuming that the long-term loan is amortised in a constant manner, with approximately 25% payoff per year as â€Å"current instalment of term note†, shown to be the same figure as 1997 ($75,268) which is calculated based on the term note payable less current instalment of $168,043 for 1998. Tudor Team Five Page 11 Proposed here is a two-step approach for financing the investment: The first step is to obtain another long-term loan of $200,000 to change and improve the phone and IT systems. This will lead to a better position to judge the current market needs to revise and produce a strong strategy for the business in terms of efficiency, profitability and long-term outlook. Once this step is accomplished, by 1999, the company should obtain yet another long-term loan. Regarding the possibility of an acquisition, if Be Our Guest makes an acquisition, it can do so through a leveraged-buyout. Therefore, taking on the debt of the company being acquired and funding the other part of the acquisition by selling part of the equity of Be Our Guest (Following the financial restructuring and the increase in efficiency the value of the stock will increase). Asking for a loan for an acquisition today would not be reasonable, nor is it likely that the bank would agree to issue the loan. Currently, the financial ratios of the company do not justify an acquisition. Therefore, starting off with a smaller loan to improve the company running in terms of efficiency and infrastructure will be of greater value. In total the company should take the following long-term loans: $75,000 (line of credit converted into long-term loan) $200,000 (investment) $168,000 (outstanding long-term loan) Total long-term loans in the Balance Sheet by end of 1998: $443,000 As already mentioned before, the line of credit should remain available at the same level as before ($140,000) since it is only paid for if used (expected 1998: fully available). Tudor Team Five Page 12 4. What should Al Lovata and Simone Williamson ask for when talking with the bank? If the company needs additional bank financing, should the increase be provided by an increase in the credit line, or should the size of the term loan be increased to meet the need? Should they ask for some relaxation or change in the loan covenants, particularly the personal guarantees that they have provided at the bank’s request? Al Lovata and Simone Wiliamson should approach Anne Granger in a confident way. Be Our Guest’s balance sheet is fairly strong and fairly liquid, the income statement shows signs of growth and the company is generally doing well. Hence Be Our Guest can take a confident stand to discuss the covenants openly with the bank in order to reach some relaxation on the strict terms. They need to work with the bank to: *lower the rate *review the requirements of personal guarantees for the loan Be our Guest Inc. can consider the possibility of going to another bank if State Street holds their ground on these strict covenants Considering the current and past status of the balance sheets and income statements it is realistic to assume that Be Our Guest, Inc. would not have much difficulty to find a new lender who would agree on different, more relaxed terms of covenants. The company mainly needs the line of credit to finance the seasonal effects of Q1, which could be reduced by a solid growth or expansion plan or merely revising the company’s HR strategy regarding the full-time staff during Q1. Tudor Team Five Page 13 For example, they could reduce the staff’s hours, which would keep them on a full-time employment base but would reduce the G costs for this particular quarter; or they could put the full-time staff on a strategic rotation plan which incorporates the poor business of quarter 1 but leaves options in case of unexpected business in this time period which would also reduce the general G costs and still leave the company in a good position to handle short-term notice business. Regarding the interest for outstanding borrowings on the credit line as well as the interest for the long-term loan, it has been reliably covered and there is no immediate reason to believe that this will change. Any future increase of the long-term loan to drive the growth of the company in terms of business expansion or increasing assets can only be interpreted in a positive way seeing that the revenues have shown to increase with all previous growth-measures. State Street bank should recognise the company’s solid management foundations and the well-going business over the past years and keep their good standing with Be Our Guest, Inc. Lovata and Williamson want to be prepared for future growth. The way to growth has been identified in two possible options, completing an acquisition or expanding their product line. Both of these strategies need to be supported by a consistent long term plan in order to finance their investment needs. Pertaining to this reason, for funding their growth they should ask the bank to extend their long term lend (clearly cheaper than a revolving credit) and moreover ask to re-negotiate the interest rate (too high especially to be a â€Å"prime rate†). Additionally each growth plan in the first few years needs patience and flexibility in terms of managing losses, therefore it would be crucial to review Tudor Team Five Page 14 at least part of the current covenants, like prohibiting two consecutive quarters of net losses and avoiding a net loss for any fiscal year. Taking into account that they are in a good financial position and that the extra money they would need is for future expansions and growth of the company, refinancing its existing debt to obtain better terms, could be quite reasonable. Moreover the company has a fairly strong balance sheet and profitable growth, so it has plenty of bargaining power to negotiate a better deal with the bank. The only negative item is given by the decrease in the last 4 years of the â€Å"net income†, but again it is an issue suggested by a covenant (distribute more than 50% of the earnings to the principals). It is probably the most useless and most dangerous of the list as it is leading the owners to distribute the profit thereby increasing the G costs. Definitely, another crucial aspect is about liquidity pain, especially for an already seasoned business as that of â€Å"Be Our Guest†. In this case they should consider converting some of their revolving credit to term debt (cheaper) making line of credit available, which is currently fully used (coherently to the 1998 expected cash position, answer 3). In this sense the best deal for â€Å"Be Our Guest†might be to invest in a business that generates revenue during current slow seasons and eases the firm's reliance on credit for working capital. Thus even if the tents business could be apparently external to the â€Å"Be Our Guest†business model this business expansion should be taken into consideration. It is not only a new source of profit but will also enable profits for the current business in the slow seasons (tents are mainly set off in the rainy and cold seasons like fall and winter). However, they should be able to distinguish between long term debt and short term line of credit, using the first one for investments and the second one to manage liquidity pain periods. Tudor Team Five Page 15 Leaving aside its convenience in general, the nature of the long-term debt, makes the development of the financial plan easier by providing the exact future payment scheme. On the contrary the line of credit is extremely useful to manage liquidity pain periods but should be paid back quickly or converted in term loan. Finally while refinanced bank loans for now may be adequate to finance the company, it may not be enough for future plans and therefore curb the expansion (current debt/tangible worth ratio is already higher than 1). They should consider a different way of raising funds e. g. from selling equity. Reviewing the personal guarantees is fundamental in order to attract new investor and to manage the company differently. Be Our Guest was created as a business idea and for many years ran more like a family business but now it is a profitable firm that should be managed in terms of efficiency and profitability. This leads to two necessary actions: one by the State Bank, to get rid of the covenant including the personal guarantee of the loan by the management; and second by Be Our Guest, Inc. to review their company status. In terms of the State Bank, it will be essential to convince Anne Granger to remove the covenant regarding the guarantee for the long-term loan. From the point of view of the management of Be our Guest, Inc. they need to review their company status. Only when they successfully separate the business from the family-business approach on which terms Be Our Guest, Inc. as founded, they can attract future investors. Tudor Team Five Page 16 Exhibit 1 – Annual Income Statements (1994-1997) Tudor Team Five Page 17 Exhibit 2 – Annual Balance Sheets (1994-1997) Tudor Team Five Page 18 Exhibit 3 – Quarterly Income Statements 1997 Tudor Team Five Page 19 Exhibit 4 – Quarterly Balance Sheets 1997 Tudor Team Five Page 20 Exhibit 5 – Forecasting Tudor Team Five Page 21 Exhibit 6 – Annual Ratios Tudor Team Five Page 22 Exhibit 7 – Quarterly Ratios Tudor Team Five Page 23
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