Thursday, October 31, 2019

Healthcare in the US Essay Example | Topics and Well Written Essays - 3000 words

Healthcare in the US - Essay Example Policy issues, adverse economic conditions, and other trends and practices have been cited as some of the fundamental causes of the rise in healthcare costs both in the state, federal, and local governments. The sharp increases in healthcare expenditure have had various negative consequences to other sectors of the economy and the average livelihood of the American citizens. Financial pressure on families, challenges on the part of the employers, and a reduction in spending on other important sectors of the economy are some of the negative consequences of increased healthcare spending. Recent figures show that the rate of healthcare spending is significantly higher than average economic growth. The implication, according to economists, is that the rate of spending on healthcare is much faster than the rate of economic activities in other sectors of the economy. The imbalance in economic activities and healthcare expenditure shows that the levels may not be sustainable in the end (The Henry J. Kaiser Family Foundation Web). Usually, economic activities are determined by the manner in which countries devote significant amounts of money to certain sectors with the intention of improving the conditions of trade and the balance of economic systems. The statistics show that healthcare spending has grown by over 3.0 percentage points higher than the nominal GDP. It is necessary to establish some of the intervention measures that the federal, state, and local governments have undertaken in order to reduce the adverse impact of expenditure on the economy. The impact of negative economic growth manifests itself in terms of the various issues that connect with the specifics of economic growth. The question regarding the need to control the healthcare industry continues to polarize the health debate in the United States due to various factors that connect with costs, protection of the citizens, affordability, and quality. Among the objectives raised by the proponents of in creased government regulation of the sector is the matter of checking of rising costs of healthcare and the laxity of employers to meet the costs of employees’ medical insurance premium (The Henry J. Kaiser Family Foundation Web). A related concern is the adverse impact of increased spending on healthcare on other important sectors of the economy. Projected increase in healthcare expenditure implies that the government would not be able to cater appropriately for other matters of priority. Proponents of control argue that the general intention of controlling government expenditure aligns with the need to stabilize economic growth. On the other hand, those opposed to the government’s regulatory practices argue that increased regulation would slacken private initiative and discourage investment into the healthcare industry. In line with this argument, critics of government regulation contend that the practice contravenes the letter and spirit of a free market economy for which the United States is famed (Boscheck 75). Those who hold onto this view argue in favor of uncontrolled regulation point towards the need to develop alternative structures of stability as one of the ways through which stability of the healthcare industry and other related aspects of the economy can be controlled. The common impression in the perspectives of critics who challenge the free market healthcare model is that the system has failed. Exorbitant costs of healthca

Tuesday, October 29, 2019

Literature Review Essay Example for Free

Literature Review Essay Abstract The primary role of literature review in a quantitative research study to gain information on the subject of your research question and identify unbiased and valid studies connected with your research question. For instance, my quantitative research question is â€Å"all other factors being equal, do high school students reading popular fiction achieve better Language Arts test scores than high school students reading curriculum-required fiction? † My hypothesis is that high school students reading popular fiction will outperform the students who read curriculum-required fiction, because if you enjoy reading you will perform better. Then I need to do a literature review to discover if my question has already been answered and I may need to modify it or if there are related studies to my research question that can provide quantifiable research. Introduction Quantitative Research involves collecting numerical data though content analysis, performance tests, personality measures, questionnaires, etc. This type of research procedures include an objective/unbiased approach to collecting numerical data from a large number of participants and analyzes these numbers using statistics in order to answer a specific, narrow research question. As part of research, a literature review is required. A quantitative literature review is an extensive review of literature that may or may not influence the study and your research question (UOA 2013). The primary role of literature review in a quantitative research study to gain information on the subject of your research question and identify unbiased and valid studies connected with your research question. For instance, my quantitative research question is â€Å"all other factors being equal, do high school students reading popular fiction achieve better Language Arts test scores than high school students reading curriculum-required fiction? † My hypothesis is that high school students reading popular fiction will outperform the students who read curriculum-required fiction, because if you enjoy reading you will perform better. Then I need to do a literature review to discover if my question has already been answered and I may need to modify it or if there are related studies to my research question that can provide quantifiable research. Why This Research Question This research question â€Å"all other factors being equal, do high school students reading popular fiction achieve better Language Arts test scores than high school students reading curriculum-required fiction? † needs to be answered. There is a controversy over what types of literature is acceptable for students to have access. One of my favorite book series (Harry Potter) is a banned book in certain states. This research question would add to research already completed. Methodology in the Research Question This research question â€Å"all other factors being equal, do high school students reading popular fiction achieve better Language Arts test scores than high school students reading curriculum-required fiction? † is an experimental research question and a casual research question. An experimental research question tests the cause and effect and a causal research question that test for a cause and effect relationship between variables. The variables in this research question are the independent variable (IV), age, ethnicity, and gender, the dependent variable (DV), assigned popular fiction and curriculum-required fiction, and the covariant (CoV) socio-economic status. Additionally, this question has ratio data. Ratio data is continuous. Ratio data rank order, but also quantify and compare the sizes of differences between them. Ratio data has an absolute zero and allows for how many times greater. The research question can discover how many times greater or less are the test scores of high school students who read popular fiction than those who read curriculum-required fiction. Supporting Research My hypothesis of the research question is that high school students reading popular fiction will outperform the students who read curriculum-required fiction, because if you enjoy reading you will perform better. The other similar research found during the literature review relates to my research. Although, my specific research question has not been fully researched. Other research relates to my question. According to the article, Impact of Students Reading Preferences on Reading Achievement, middle school students in Canada found â€Å"The most significant indicators were reading novels or fictional texts, informative reading or non-fiction, and reading books or other texts from the school library. In-class reading and participation in discussions pertaining to school-related reading were also shown to enhance reading achievement. These results are somewhat surprising in that research documenting this subject mainly emphasizes the use of pedagogical material corresponding to the interests/needs of students to foster achievement in reading† (Bouchamma, et al. 2013). This research shows that reading achievement can come from both required and optional reading. Moreover, according to the article, Reading Attitude and its Effect on Leisure Time Reading, â€Å"gender, educational level, age, and amount of spare time have a positive effect on reading behavior† (Stokmans 1999). Additionally, there is â€Å"a positive relationship between time spent reading fiction and educational level† (Stokmans 1999). This research shows that reading fiction relates positively to reading level. Additionally, according to the article, Popular Publications May Help Students Reading Scores, â€Å"We are concerned about the struggle to increase scores that children are posting on state-required exams not because of the scores themselves, but because they are strong indications that state students may not be gaining the thorough and analytical skills they need to become successful readers† (Michigan Chronicle 1997). This newspaper article shows that popular publications may help students on their reading score. Conclusion This research question â€Å"all other factors being equal, do high school students reading popular fiction achieve better Language Arts test scores than high school students reading curriculum-required fiction? † needs to be answered. This research question addresses the controversy over what types of literature is acceptable for students to have access to. Moreover, this research question would add to research already completed. It would allow  administrators and other educators to decide if certain books can be helpful in high school students learning environments. Bibliography Bouchamma, Y. , Poulin, V. , Basque, M. , Ruel, C. (2013). Impact of students reading preferences on reading achievement. Creative Education, 4(8), 484-491. Retrieved February 6th, 2014 from: http://search. proquest. com/docview/1441488139? accountid=28844 Mia J. W. Stokmans, Reading attitude and its effect on leisure time reading, Poetics, Volume 26, Issue 4, May 1999, Pages 245-261, ISSN 0304-422X, Retrieved February 6th, 2014 from: http://dx. doi. org/10. 1016/S0304-422X(99)00005-4 http://www. sciencedirect. com/science/article/pii/S0304422X99000054 Popular publications may help students reading scores. (1997, Oct 01). Michigan Chronicle. Retrieved February 6th, from: http://search. proquest. com/docview/390200035? accountid=28844 University of Arkansas Libraries (2013, Oct. 30) Literature Reviews. LibGuides. Retrieved February 6th, 2014 from: http://uark. libguides. com/content. php? pid=110370sid=1384703

Saturday, October 26, 2019

Impact of Credit Risk Management on Profitability

Impact of Credit Risk Management on Profitability Credit Risk arises because there is a possibility of a risk that the counterparty defaults on the loans and bonds held by the institution (Cornett) The Ultimate advantages of Credit Risk Management are being accepted by Financial Institutions now and Risk Managers are focusing on different Risk Management Models in looking for different Business Opportunities (Heinemann). However in general Financial Institutions that make Loans or buy bonds with long maturities are more exposed than Financial Institutions that make loans or buy bonds with short maturities. This means for example that banks, thrifts and life insurance companies are more exposed to Credit Risk than are money market mutual funds, since Banks and life insurance companies tend to hold longer maturity assets in their Portfolios than mutual funds. (Cornett) Basel is an agreement that requires the imposition of risk-based capital ratios on banks in major industrialized countries. Considering the weaknesses of the simple capital-to-assets ratio, members of Bank for International Settlements (BIS) along with U.S decided to implement two new risk-based capital ratios for all commercial banks under their jurisdiction in 1988. The BIS phased in and fully implemented these risk based capital ratios on January 1, 1993, under what has been known as the Basel Accord (now called Basel I). Credit risks of assets are included into Capital adequacy ratio into Basel Agreement of 1993. This was followed with a revision in 1998 in which market risk was incorporated into risk-based capital in the form of an add-on to the 8 percent ratio for credit risk exposure. In 2001, the BIS issued a consultative document, It was proposed in the basel-II or the new basel system that the operational risk should be the part of Capital requirements with effect from 2007 and updated the credit risk assessments in 1993 agreement. This agreement was adopted in June, 2004. (Cornett) Basel-II or the new basel system consists of three pillars which are discussed below, these three pillars play a vital role in the safety and soundness of the entire financial system. PILLAR 1 CREDIT RISK: On Balance Sheet and Off Balance Sheet (Standardized vs. Internal Ratings Based approach) MARKET RISK: Standardized vs. Internal Ratings Based approach OPERATIONAL RISK: Basic Indicator vs. Standardized vs. Advance measurement approach) PILLAR II Regulatory supervisory review so as to complement and enforce minimum Capital Requirements calculated under Pillar 1 PILLAR III Requirements on rules for disclosure of Capital Structure, risk exposures, and Capital Adequacy so as to increase Financial Institutions transparency and Enhance Market/Investor Discipline. Like in every other Country in Pakistan also the State Bank of Pakistan issued a Road Map or Guidelines for Implementation of Basel-II in Pakistan and the deadline issued by State bank for the completion was December 2006. PROBLEM STATEMENT Capital Regulation, Supervision and Market Discipline are the foundation of Basel-II, and to improve the Risk Management Procedures for bringing stability in the financial System, the Banks and Financial Institutions were required to establish an adequate setup and report to SBP the name and other Particulars of the Person responsible for Implementation before 31st May 2005 We will study the impact of Basel II on the credit risk management by considering two parameters i.e. NPLR and CAR. By studying these ratios, we find out that how Basel II is useful in management and reduction of risk and finally determine the role of credit risk management in increasing the profits of banks. RESEARCH QUESTION As per the background discussed earlier, out task is to research: The impact of credit risk management on the profitability of commercial banks in Pakistan. PURPOSE Our research will find out the importance credit risk management in the profitability of commercial banks in Pakistan and how Basel II helps in reduction of credit risk and management by using some techniques and methods that will control the amount of non-performing loans. The purpose of the research is to explain the impact of credit risk management on profitability of commercial banks in Pakistan, that what is the role of BASEL-II in the management and reduction of credit risk by controlling the amount of non performing loans through methods, Processes and limits imposed in BASEL II. JUSTIFICATION Our research will explain the influence of credit risk management on the profitability of commercial banks. This research will be very helpful for the banking industry in Pakistan as it is directly related to the profitability of banks. It will provide them with the guidelines that how they could manage and minimize the credit as per the rules and regulations provided in Basel document. SCOPE Our research is significant and important in a way that it will determine the dependency of profitability on credit risk management and it will study Basel I and Basel II and determine their difference and whether the regulations in Basel II puts any betterment in managing the risk. LIMITATIONS OF THE STUDY We are conducting our research on the private commercial banks of Pakistan based on the conventional banking system. It will help us on concentrating and focusing only on one sector of banking industry and determine valid and authentic results. Public sector banks, Islamic banks, investment banks, micro-finance banks are included in the research. Basel II was put into account from December 2006 that is why we have included the data from financial statements of 2007 to 2009 as we have studying the relation between profitability and credit risk management after Basel II is implemented. The study is limited to two independent variables for measuring credit risk management that are NPLR and CAR, and one dependent variable for measuring profitability which is ROE, the reason for choosing the above mentioned variables will be discussed in the methodology. LITERATURE REVIEW ROE PROFITABILITY INDICATOR ROE (Return on Equity) refers to the ratio of Net Income to the Total equity capital. ROE indicates that how much the bank has earned with the investors capital. It measures that how well and efficiently a company uses its investors funds to generate profit. It is used as a comparative too between two companies or banks. Its the ratio of net income and share holders equity. But in the Case of Bank ROE can be increased if the Capital decreases, but as the Capital decreases, the bank is exposed to risk of insolvency, and thats the reason that regulators continuously monitor the minimum capital requirements for Banks. ROA(Return on Assets) indicates that how efficiently the management uses its assets to generate income. Its the ratio of net income and total assets. Both ROA and ROE are expressed in percentage. CREDIT RISK MANAGEMENT INDICATORS According to a research of Risk management practices followed by commercial banks in Pakistan. It was identified that the major risk faced by banks in Pakistan as well as internationally is the Credit Risk. Because the core banking business is all about creation of Credit, through which commercial banks generate their Profits. When it comes to Credit Risk, the most important aspect are the financing decisions followed by the commercial banks, because ultimately it ends into Credit risk. The State bank has also introduced some tough regulations when financing individual as well as SMEs and Corporate Customers, such as obtaining the BBFS(Borrowers basic fact sheet) and other restrictions as mentioned in the Prudential Regulations. Now what indicates that Credit Risk is increasing for the Banks is the NPLR(Non Performing Loans Ratio) which indicates that the financing generated by the banks are not recovering and as such the Non performing Loans are increasing which ultimately leads to Credit Risk. (Nasr, 2009) CAPITAL TO ASSETS RATIO It measures the Ratio of a Banks Book value of core Capital to the Assets book value. The Lower this Ratio, the more highly leveraged the bank is. Primary or core Capital Banks common Equity (book value) and perpetual preferred stock plus minority interests in consolidated subsidiaries (Cornett). RISK IN BANKS As Banks perform different financial services to their Clients they face many types of risk. There are number of assets in a banks Portfolio which are subject to different types of risks, such as default or Credit Risk. As Banks expand their services, they are exposed to foreign exchange risk. When the Assets and Liabilities in the Balance Sheet of Banks mismatch, they are further exposed to a risk known as Interest Rate Risk. If financial institutions actively trade these assets they are further exposed to Market Risk or asset price risk. Increasingly FIs hold contingent assets and liabilities off the balance sheet which represents off balance sheet risk, Moreover some all Financial Institution and Banks are exposed to some degree of Liability or withdrawal which exposes them to Liquidity risk. Finally the Risk that the Bank may not have enough Capital reserves to offset a sudden loss incurred as a result of one or more of the risks they face creates insolvency risk for the Banks. ( HOUSTON, 2008) CREDIT RISK MANAGEMENT Capital Adequacy Ratio (CAR) is used by Regulators of Banking System to assess the Banks financial Position especially the Capital to Assets Ratio as it does not falls below the required level so the bank is stable enough against the losses. State Bank of Pakistan the Regulator of Commercial Banks in Pakistan Monitor the Capital Adequacy Ratio of Commercial Banks to Provide Protection to the Depositors. A minimum Capital Ratio affects the leverage of Commercial Bank since highly leverage commercial Banks are more towards the chance of Credit and Interest rate risk and ultimately falling into Bankruptcy There are major 2 types of Capital for Banks. Tier-I Capital is closely linked to banks book value of equity, reflecting the contribution of a banks owners. Tier two is a broad array of secondary capital resources, which includes the loan reserves upto 1.25 % of risk adjusted assets plus various debt instruments. BENEFITS OF CAPITAL ADEQUACY RATIO In the initial Phase capital adequacy ratio does not take into account different risk Profiles of different class of Money market instruments, since some assets are highly risky and some debt instruments are almost risk free, such as Government bonds, where as the some instruments such as loans granted to Individual by a commercial bank can result in a default which accounts for Risk. So the advantage of Capital adequacy is as it takes into account risk profiles of all investment. (Schweser, 2008) BANKING REGULATIONS IN PAKISTAN The banks in Pakistan works under the BANKING COMPANIES ORDINANCE, 1962 (L VII OF 1962) and THE BANKING COMPANIES RULES 1963 made under the ordinance. (As amended up to 30th June, 2007) (State Bank of Pakistan, 2007)) METHODOLOGY RESEARCH APPROACH While doing the research, we are focusing on our research task and not to go beyond our specified boundary. Thus, were using deductive approach. We are also referring previous researches and theories related to our field of interest because we are studying a general phenomena i.e. relationship between profitability and credit risk management in conventional banking system of Pakistan. We are using quantitative method of study. We analyze the data with the help of regression model and the annual reports of the selected banks. The regression output makes us answer our research question. RESEARCH RESIGN We are conducting the research based on two factors i.e. profitability of banks and credit risk management thats why the design of research is co-relational. Our research will explain the relationship between the two and how credit risk management affects the profitability of banks in Pakistan. RESEARCH STRATEGY We are identifying the impact of credit risk management on profitability and For it, we have adopted the strategy of taking help from the previous records, studies and researches in this field and the statistics and data required for performing the test is obtained from the annual reports of the respective banks available on their websites. SAMPLING The population for the research consists of 20 private commercial banks out of the 54 banks operating in Pakistan. All the 20 chosen banks are working under conventional banking system as we are only focusing on conventional banks and all other banks such as Islamic banks, investment banks, micro-finance banks and public sector banks are not included in our research. The reason for this is to appropriately focus on one sector. On the basis of random sampling, 15 commercial banks are selected: Habib bank Ltd, MCB Bank ltd, Allied Bank Ltd, United Bank Ltd, Standard Chartered, Bank Alfalah, Faysal Bank Ltd, Bank Al-Habib, NIB Bank ltd, My Bank, RBS, Atlas bank, Arif habib Bank, Habib Metropoliton bank, JS Bank and Askari Bank ltd. In this research we are establishing the relation between profitability and credit risk management after implementation of BASEL II in Dec2006, therefore data is obtained from annual reports of 2007 to 2009. There are total 30 observations for each of the var iable used in this research. DATA COLLECTION Data and statistics for the tests are obtained from annual reports of 2007 to 2009. Well consider credit risk management disclosure, financial statements and notes to financial statements within the annual reports of the sample banks. RESEARCH INSTRUMENTS No research instrument is required in our research because the data used to conduct tests is secondary obtained from the annual reports of the banks from 2007 to 2009. DATA ANALYSIS Multiple regression analysis is used in our research i.e. the relationship of one dependent variable to multiple independent variables. The regression outputs are obtained by using SPSS APPLIED REGRESSION MODEL Dependent variable ROE and independent variables NPLR and CAR are considered in our study and all of them are numeric type. Therefore, multiple linear regression model is applied. DEPENDENT VARIABLE In many of the previous researches, ROE is used for the profitability of banks, Therefore, we have also used it as the indicator of profitability in the regression analysis.. According to Foong Kee K. (2008) indicated that the efficiency of banks can be measured by using the ROE which illustrates to what extent banks use reinvested income to generate future profits. INDEPENDENT VARIABLE NPLR and CAR are the indicators of credit risk management and they chosen as the independent variables because credit risk management affects the profitability of banks. NPLR, in particular, indicates how banks manage their credit risk because it defines the proportion of NPL amount in relation to TL amount. NPL amount is provided in the Notes to financial statements under Loans section. And the total loan amount is provided in the balance sheet of the banks in their annual reports. TL amount, the denominator of the ratio, has been gathered by adding two types of loans: loans to institutions and loans to the public. Thus, calculation of the NPLR has been accomplished in following way: NPLR = (NPL amount) Ã · (TL amount) CAR, CAR is regulatory capital requirement (Tier 1 + Tier 2) as the percentage of Risk weighted asset. The bank has to maintain a specific percentage of CAR to manage their Credit risk according to requirement of State bank of Pakistan. The minimum requirement for Banks on consolidated as well as standalone basis has been increased to 10%. RELIABILITY AND VALIDITY While doing the research two concepts must be taken into account i.e. reliability and validity. Reliability refers that the data is consistent and whatever be the conditions, it would be remain same. But its not necessary that every reliable and consistent data is valid. If we have any systematic error in the instrument then every time it would be encountered in the measurement, thus the observations would be reliable but not valid. In our research, we have taken the data from the annual reports of banks available at their websites. These are the official reports made by the rigorous efforts by the management of banks and authenticated by the higher management; therefore the facts and figures in it would be valid as well as reliable and will help us in getting true results. CONCLUSION The aim of the study is to determine the impact of credit risk management on profitability. It is important to note that sample size represents 75% of the total population i.e. private commercial banks. That covers the major portion of the population, giving more accurate results. The results obtained from the regression model show that there is an affect of credit risk management on profitability on reasonable level with 41.8% possibility of NPLR and CAR in predicting the variance in ROE. So, the credit risk management strategy defines profitability level to an important extent. Especially, NPL amount appears to be adding the most weight to that than CAR. CAR is having negative impact on ROE, but on the other hand the significance value of CAR is 0.171which is greater than the p-value i.e. 0.05, which means that the value of coefficient for CAR is zero, making the affect of CAR on ROE nil. Only NPLR is significantly affecting the value of ROE. In the end it is to be recommended that bank should focus on maintaining and controlling amount of non performing loans to ultimately getting higher ROE, which ensures the better profitability.

Friday, October 25, 2019

Roman Empire :: essays research papers fc

Roman empire â€Å"The Romans were a people of genius whose empire dominated the western world for 500 years.†(Pg. 7, Ancient Rome) What made the Romans so powerful was their way of government. It was very similar to the one that we have today, except emperors don’t rule us. The pax romana, or ‘the Roman Peace,’ gave millions of people in Italy and surrounding areas peace. Rome fell when it was invaded by overwhelming tribes and groups of barbarians. Rome was first founded on the legendary date of 735 B.C. The myth of Romulus and Remus was how Rome got its name. The myth was that Mars, god of war, came down to the mortal world and met a human princess. Romulus and Remus were then born shortly after, but abandoned. A She-Wolf nursed them until they were old enough to be on their own. Their dream was to make a beautiful city, and govern it and become powerful. Romulus and Remus had an argument. Which led to a fight to the death. Romulus won, killing his brother Remus. The peoples called his city Rome, after Romulus, who became the founder. Rome’s Symbol is the She-Wolf that nursed Romulus and Remus nursing them. Rome started out as just a group of farmers and Romulus as the emperor. Eventually, the small city-state became larger, and the government stronger, and more sophisticated. In 509 B.C., the Roman Republic was founded. Patricians were the ones who organized the state. Instead of a King, Rome picked 2 magistrates, or consuls, to rule Rome. Eventually, the consuls became too powerful, and the plebeians (peoples of Rome) became angry because they wanted rights equal to those of the consuls in ways. In 494 B.C. the plebs revolted. They elected certain members to be called ‘the Tribunes,’ and be their leaders. The plebs wanted the consuls to notice them. Eventually, after a year of rebelling, the 2 consuls let the plebs have the rights they wanted because in the future, Rome would need some of the plebs to become an army for th e protection of Rome and the conquering of new territory. Eventually, The 2 consuls’ decisions became useful. Rome started to wage wars with its neighbors, the Aequi, Volsci, Celts, and Samnites. For 250 years, the Romans were almost at war constantly. The Romans either made alliances with their neighbor’s or they conquered them.

Wednesday, October 23, 2019

Planning a Scheme of Work

Planning Scheme of Work – Literacy Level 2 The produced scheme of work is aimed at 16 to 18 year old learners who are enrolled on the â€Å"Entry to Employment† (â€Å"E2E†) programme. The programme is intended for unemployed young adults to assist them in improving their prospects of employment with training or of entering higher education. The programme is designed to include personal and social skills, vocational skills and Basic and Key Skills. In this context, much learning is intended to embed Basic and Key Skills into other areas of learning and vice-versa Session ContentSessions are based on the Skills for Life Teacher Resource Pack issued by the DfES, which is produced to support National Standards for Adult Literacy. These resources are designed to be based on real life situations, aimed at adults and to cover the Adult Literacy Core Curriculum. Six modules have been used, one at level one and five at level two. I have divided each module over two sessi ons each lasting for two hours of classroom time. Opportunities to complete tasks beyond the scope of the session are available as all learners have free study periods, which are supported by tutors.Extension activities using spelling and grammar exercises have been included and would also be completed in free study time. I have decided on the sequence of topics based on Reece & Walker (2003, p239) suggesting that easiest topics could be tackled first, so starting the programme with level 1 activities. I have also taken sessions directly relevant to E2E learners, i. e. job search, and used these for the first few sessions as I have observed this type of learner questioning the relevance of various activities they are asked to undertake on the wider E2E programme.Teaching and Learning Methods Sessions are started with a directed section, explaining objectives to the learners, using visual aids (interactive whiteboard and data projector) and or audio clips to demonstrate the learning point of the session and stimulate interest in the topic. This part of the session lasts about 10 to 15 minutes and is followed by an opportunity for learners to work on their own, in small groups or more usually in pairs, using printed or on-line resources, for around 40 to 50 minutes. During this time learners are supported by the tutor.After this a break is taken and the above process is repeated after break, focusing on the next part of the session, again starting with visual aids, usually in the form of a data projector. The final 10 minutes are used to re-iterate points made and check understanding through questioning. The scheme of work relies on the use of visual and audio stimuli in conjunction with individual learning as many learners on the E2E programme have had poor experiences of conventional classroom technique. A. T. Graham (1999, P. 26) Says:It is interesting to note the following figures for what we remember (learn? ) from our various senses: Sight 75% Hearing 13% Feeling 6% Smell 3% Taste 3% Feedback from learners of these methods is almost unanimously positive, especially towards the use of technology and visual aids. Assessment Methods At the end of each session, learners are encouraged to complete the module checklist and detail areas that they feel confident with or need more practice with. Each session incorporates tasks to be completed during the session and completion of the tasks is supported and observed by the tutor.This presents the opportunity to continually assess each student’s progress as well as assist any student encountering difficulty. Although not part of the scheme of work, students sit diagnostic assessments at the start of the programme and further diagnostics as well as practice tests later in the programme. Usually a second diagnostic at six weeks followed by mock tests at 10 and 12 weeks. Self Evaluation A self-evaluation form has been included for completion at the end of each session. The form examines the effectiveness of tutor and learner activities, resources and where relevant, achievement.The largest space is reserved for learner feedback as learners are asked for feedback after each session and asked to complete feedback forms on a regular basis. These, together with improvements in diagnostic and mock test scores form the basis of evaluation for this programme. Learning Theory & Motivation A key element of the scheme is that it encourages independent learning. Within each structured session there are opportunities for the learners to work on their own or in pairs with support from a tutor.During this time learners are not simply given worksheets and expected to complete them, each learner has access to their own resources which they follow at their own pace and work through with discussion between groups of learners and the tutor. So, for example, during a session on newspaper articles, after a class discussion of two examples of newspaper articles students would be asked to fi nd their own examples on the Internet, examine the differences between articles themselves and discuss their findings with the tutor one to one or in a small group.In this way learners take control of their own learning and experience the satisfaction of knowing that they are not simply filling in blanks. Learners on the E2E programme then have equal time in non-structured sessions to carry on with any unfinished work, carry out their own research and complete any extension activities. Geoffrey Petty (2001, P. 306) States that: There is a consensus amongst management theorists that giving employees control over how they work greatly increases their sense of responsibility, motivation and effectiveness.Unsurprisingly, giving students control over their own learning empowers them in the same way. Independence is not an arbitrary foundation for a teaching method: it resonates with a deep human need – the need for freedom; the need to be in control. This is a need felt most stron gly by adolescents†¦ 16 to 18 year old learners, many of whom have achieved little or nothing at school respond well to being given control of their own learning. ResourcesThe E2E programme benefits from being well resourced, especially with technology. This has an impact on the engagement of learners, most 16 to 18 year olds being unimpressed with anything less than cutting edge technology. Every learner has access to a broadband enabled, high specification computer on which to complete individual work, all resources are available across the network for printing and or editing by the learner, meaning that the learner is in control of his or her own version of the Skills for Life Resource Pack.So, for example, in lesson five, a resource page for searching the Internet would be projected to the whiteboard, we would be able to discuss the question â€Å"can you name any more search engines? † and the tutor would be able to note some examples on the screen for learners to s ee. Learners would then be able to look at their own version of this resource page, type in their answers and print off a hard copy for their file. They would then be able to access the Internet and continue with the activity. Equality of OpportunityAs discussed, the scheme of work is based around the Skills for Life Teacher Resource Pack issued by the DfES, the introduction to which states that the materials are intended to be â€Å"broad-based† and â€Å"adult-appropriate†. Within the materials, names, voices and pictures of characters are ethnically diverse and represent both genders. It is however the job of the tutor to be sensitive to learners and I have replaced 2 articles on terror alerts in lesson nine after awkwardness during the session amongst Muslim students.Wheelchair access to the building and wireless laptop computers are available to students with disabilities. Two of the fixed computers in the classroom are configured for large fonts. Conclusion The E ntry to Employment programme is aimed at a group of learners who have previously struggled in education and so challenge tutors to find new ways to engage them. Independent learning is encouraged by the Learning and Skills Council for E2E and more sources than that quoted support this method. The use of I. C. T. s also encouraged and this scheme of work relies heavily on it although a much less â€Å"high tech† version could be delivered if this was required. Although many learners are engaged by the technology, it cannot take the place of a tutor or teacher, merely add to the learning experience and a good understanding of the subject is impossible to replace. Bibliography A. T. Graham (1999) Planning for Teaching & Learning, Resource Handbook Geoffrey Petty (2001) Teaching Today, Cheltenham: Nelson Thornes Ltd Reece & Walker (2003) Teaching, Training and Learning ,Sunderland: Business Education Publishers Ltd.

Tuesday, October 22, 2019

How to Register to Vote in U.S. Elections

How to Register to Vote in U.S. Elections Registering to vote is required in order to cast ballots in elections in all states except North Dakota. Under Articles I and II of the U.S.  Constitution, the manner in which federal and state elections are conducted are determined by the states. Since each state sets its own election procedures and regulations – such as voter identification laws – it is important to contact your state or local elections office to learn your state’s specific election rules. How to Vote With the exception of state-specific rules, the basic steps to voting are the same almost everywhere.Voter registration is required in every state except North Dakota.Every state allows absentee voting.Most states assign voters to vote at specific polling places or voting locations.The U.S. Election Assistance Commission lists federal election dates and deadlines by state. Who Cannot Vote? The right to vote is not universal. Some people, depending on their circumstances and state laws, will not be allowed to vote. Non-citizens, including permanent legal residents (green card holders), are not allowed to vote in any state.Some people who have been convicted of felonies cannot vote. These rules may vary by state.In some states, persons who have been legally declared mentally incapacitated cannot vote. What is Voter Registration? Voter registration is the process used by the government to ensure that everyone who votes in an election is legally eligible to do so, votes in the correct location and only votes once. Registering to vote requires that you give your correct name, current address and other information to the government office that runs elections where you live. It might be a county or state or city office. Why is Registering to Vote Important? When you register to vote, the elections office will look at your address and determine which voting district you will vote in. Voting in the right place is important because who you get to vote for depends on where you live. For example, if you live on one street, you may have one set of candidates for city council; if you live the next block over, you may be in a different council ward and be voting for completely different people. Usually, the people in a voting district (or precinct) all go to vote in the same location. Most voting districts are fairly small, though in rural areas a district can stretch for miles. Whenever you move, you should register or re-register to vote in order to make sure you always vote in the right place. Who Can Register to Vote? To register in any state, you need to be a U.S. citizen, 18 or older by the next election, and a resident of the state. Most, but not all, states have two other rules as well: 1) you cant be a felon (someone who has committed a serious crime), and 2) you cant be mentally incompetent. In a few places, you can vote in local elections even if you are not a U.S. citizen. To check the rules for your state, call your state or local elections office. College Students: College students who live away from their parents or hometown can usually register legally in either place. Where Can You Register to Vote? Since elections are run by states, cities, and counties, the rules on registering to vote are not the same everywhere. But there are some rules that apply everywhere: for example, under the Motor Voter law, motor vehicle offices across the United States must offer voter registration application forms. Other places required the National Voter Registration Act to offer voter registration forms and assistance include: state or local government offices such as public libraries, public schools, offices of city and county clerks (including marriage license bureaus), fishing and hunting license bureaus, government revenue (tax) offices, unemployment compensation offices, and government offices that provide services to persons with disabilities. You can also register to vote by mail. You can call your local elections office, and ask them to send you a voter registration application in the mail. Just fill it out and send it back. Election offices are usually listed in the phone book in the government pages section. It may be listed under elections, the board of elections, supervisor of elections, or city, county or township clerk, registrar or auditor. Especially when elections are coming up, the political parties set up voter registration stations at public places like a shopping mall and college campuses. They may try to get you to register as a member of their political party, but you dont have to do so in order to register. NOTE: Filling out the voter registration form does not mean that you are actually registered to vote. Sometimes application forms get lost, or people dont fill them out correctly, or other mistakes happen. If in a few weeks you have not received a card from the elections office telling you that you are registered, give them a call. If theres a problem, ask them to send you a new registration form, fill it out carefully and mail it back. The Voter Registration card you receive will probably tell you exactly where you should go to vote. Keep your Voter Registration card in a safe place, its important. What Information Will You Have to Provide? While voter registration application forms will vary depending on your state, county or city, they will always ask for your name, address, date of birth and status of U.S. citizenship. You also have to give your drivers license number, if you have one, or the last four digits of your Social Security number. If you dont have either a drivers license or a Social Security number, the state will assign you a voter identification number. These numbers are to help the state keep track of voters. Check the form carefully, including the back, to see the rules for the place where you live. Party Affiliation: Most registration forms will ask you for a choice of political party affiliation. If you wish to do so, you can register as a member of any political party, including Republican, Democrat or any third party, like Green, Libertarian or Reform. You can also choose to register as independent or no party. Be aware that in some states, if you dont select a party affiliation when you register, you will not be allowed to vote in that partys primary elections. Even if you do not select a political party and do not vote in any party primary elections, you will be allowed to vote in the general election for any candidate. When Should You Register? In most states, you need to register at least 30 days before Election Day. In Connecticut, you can register up until 14 days before an election, in Alabama 10 days. Federal law says that you cant be required to register more than 30 days before the election. Details on registration deadlines in each state can be found on the U.S. Election Assistance Commission Web site. Six states have same-day registration - Idaho, Maine, Minnesota, New Hampshire, Wisconsin and Wyoming. You can go to the polling place, register and vote at the same time. You should bring some identification and proof of where you live. In North Dakota, you can vote without registering. Parts of this article are excerpted from the public domain document I Registered, Did You? distributed by the League of Women Voters.

Monday, October 21, 2019

How Writing at the University Influences Your Future Career

How Writing at the University Influences Your Future Career Academic writing is a skill that you will need in order to increase your chances of gaining a salaried position instead of working for an hourly wage. Almost every position in the corporate world requires the ability to write reports and create other types of written documents. In addition, it is vital that your writing abilities are developed at the university level so that you can better utilize your intellect and make correct decisions. Here are three ways in which academic writing helps you: It organizes your thoughts. It stimulates your imagination. It improves your comprehension. In order to understand these ideas better, it would be a good idea to analyze each one of these points in more detail. This will allow you to apply them practically when you are involved with any sort of task that involves the training and improvement of your academic writing skills. Writing is an Efficient Way to Organize Your Thoughts. Academic writing can be thought of as a tool that allows you to take multiple ideas about a subject and place them in a structured format that allows you to understand how they all relate to each other. Oftentimes, there are many different concepts and approaches that are swimming around in your head. When you write these things down, you solidify them into system that allows you to comprehend everything more effectively. Writing makes all of these moving parts stabilized so that a core understanding can be created, and this foundation allows you to mentally digest everything with greater ease. Writing is a Productive Way to Stimulate Your Imagination Another great thing about academic writing is that it allows your imagination to flow because you are gaining a greater understanding about many different types of topics. When your imagination has new facts to ponder, it can take these elements and create even more ideas. Writing also lets you formulate your thoughts in a way that provides you with the ability to create many new options. When contemplating all of these new choices, you can whimsically juggle concepts and terms you may have never considered before. Writing is an Effective Way to Improve Your Intellect Academic writing is an expressive form of communication that increases your overall ability to think properly because you are exercising your intellectual prowess in a way that allows it to process new data in an improved way. Continual repetition and proper criticism will ultimately produce a superior ability to use your mind. Academic writing is training for your intellect in the same way that physical exercise is training for your body. This is the main reason why writing skills are so vitally important for your education. And if you want to improve your academic writing skills you can request professional help from specialized services like CustomWritings.com. Therefore, it is absolutely critical to gain as many new writing skills as possible while you are in college, so you will have more success when you go out and find a job. When you write well, you not only make yourself more intelligent, you also improve your odds of finding higher quality employment that pays you more money. Academic writing is the key that unlocks the doors to your greatest chances for success, so dont think of writing as a chore; think of it as an investment in your future. It is also important to realize that you cannot stop learning once you do get a job. You will always be required to keep learning new things as technology and ideas develop. Therefore, you need to write well, so you can keep the job you have. If you experience problems with academic writing now, CustomWritings.com essay writing service can help you!

Sunday, October 20, 2019

Market Competitiveness in relation to an organizations pay system

Market Competitiveness in relation to an organizations pay system Introduction There is no denying that the human capital in any organization is central to how well it is able to compete in the market. A well motivated work force will no doubt perform better hence enhancing the organization’s competitiveness.Advertising We will write a custom research paper sample on Market Competitiveness in relation to an organization’s pay system specifically for you for only $16.05 $11/page Learn More According to Encyclopedia of Business (2010), employee compensation is extremely important to an organization’s competitiveness since employees always compare their pay to what employees in other organizations receive. Ideally, firms willing to achieve external competitiveness through their employee must match the pay offered to their employees to what is offered in a competing firm (Encyclopedia of Business, 2010). In a cash-strapped firm however, this may not be easy since the money to compensate the employee may si mply not be available. Pay vs. compensation The Encyclopedia of Business (2010) observes that while most employers believe that pay and compensation are similar, there is a major difference between the two. While employee pay is tied to the monetary earnings that the employee receives for work done in the organization, compensation include different financial returns availed to the employee either as benefits or tangible services. Such things include the base salary, employee incentives, sick days, leave days, employee discounts, pension plans and paid vacations. Regardless of the pay that an employee receives from an organization, Henderson (2003) notes that the compensation program adopted by an organization must support the strategic actions and plans therein. Since the cost of labor represents a significant percentage of any organizations operating cost, Henderson (2003) suggests that any cash-strapped firm should devise an effective strategy of controlling the labor costs. This must however be done without too much pay cuts on the employee because in the competitive global market place today, employees can always get other better compensating jobs in the industry. Most importantly, an organization must acknowledge that most employees are motivated by the benefits and pay they receive for their work. With adequate compensation, organizations not only provide their employees with sustenance, but also serve their self esteem needs in addition to allowing them to meet recreational and materialistic needs they may have.Advertising Looking for research paper on business economics? Let's see if we can help you! Get your first paper with 15% OFF Learn More If employees perceive the compensation offered by their employer as inadequate, then chances are that a good number of them will leave the organization for better prospects somewhere else, while potential employees will reject any job offers from the organizations based on the poor comp ensation system. Employees who remain with the organization may become unproductive by becoming less cooperative, helpful or less motivated. At an age where most organizations’ competitiveness is determined by the skills and efficiency of the human capital, such a reaction from employees would drastically reduce the firm’s competitiveness. Steps to follow According to Encyclopedia of Business (2010), most employees’ attitudes on their pat and compensation affect how they will behave at work. As such, employees have an obligation to instill positive attitudes in their employees towards the same. One of the ideal ways through which employers can do this according to Henderson (2003) is by ensuring that there is fairness and equity in the compensation practices. As Adams (1965) found out employees judge how equitable or fair their compensation is, based on their input at work and the compensation they receive for the same. More to this, they also compare what the a mount of compensation that other people in the same job category within the organization receive. To ensure that all employees perceive compensation as equitable and fair, an organization entrench fairness and equity in its compensation schemes. The second step for an organization that wants to remain competitive despite its inability to compensate its employees competitively would be to achieve internal consistency whereby, the pay rate on each employee must reflect the importance of the employee’s contribution to the organization. Heneman (2002) suggests that in some cases, an organization may have to shift from job-based pay and instead adopt a person-based approach whereby every employee is rewarded for their competency, knowledge and skills. Alternatively, the organization can adopt a pay-for-performance approach where work teams or units are rewarded collectively according to their performance. The third step would be to scrap the employee benefits that apply to every e mployee regardless of their contribution on the job. According to Heneman (2002), a cafeteria-style benefit plan would be more fitting to a cash-strapped organization since such would only reward employees based on their contribution to the job. Since the scrapping of benefits will most likely be met by opposition from employees, Henderson (2003) suggests that employers must always discuss any changes in remuneration with the employee.Advertising We will write a custom research paper sample on Market Competitiveness in relation to an organization’s pay system specifically for you for only $16.05 $11/page Learn More By making them understand the financial situation in the company, the employees will be more understanding and more tolerant towards the changes. In most cases employees will agree to a system that rewards them for their contribution to the job as long as they perceive the compensation as fair. Conclusion A cash-strapped organization does not always have many options in employee compensation. It can either choose to downsize its human resource and remain with an employee number that it can compensate adequately, or institute compensation cuts on all employees while choosing to retain them in the workforce. While the latter is the best option for an organization that relies on its employees to remain competitive, the changes in employee compensation should be communicated clearly and in good time to the employees. References Adams, J.S. (1965). Injustices in social Exchange, In Advances in Experimental Social psychology. (Eds.) New York: Academic Press. Encyclopedia of Business. (2010). Employee Compensation. Retrieved from: https://www.referenceforbusiness.com/management/Em-Exp/Employee-Compensation.html Henderson, R. I. (2003). Compensation Management in a Knowledge-based World. New Jersey: Prentice hall. Heneman, R. L. (2002). Strategic reward management: design, implementation, and evaluation. New York: IAP.

Saturday, October 19, 2019

Risk and Quality Management Assessment Essay Example | Topics and Well Written Essays - 1250 words

Risk and Quality Management Assessment - Essay Example Hospitals usually contain specialized personnel and equipment that need a lot of training and experience. Apart from their treatment services, they also provide rooms and beds for patients and always have emergency and trauma sections. Discussion Quality management is basically about the patients’ confidence whereas risk management is about patients’ needs and priorities, and protection of hazards. Quality management puts more focus on the effectiveness of results and efficiency in utilizing the resources whereas risk management is more focused on the potential effectiveness of results and potential efficiency to utilize resources. Patients’ safety is generally very important to both the patients and the authorities (Joshi, 2009). This is why governments and medical practitioners including other professionals have launched a lot of researches to assess the severity, occurrence and reasons behind many adverse events. Ways to enhance safety and reduce risks in heal th organizations through quality and risk management range from good coordination, human resources, good communication, updated information technology, standardization and improvements of the health organization. ... These include wound infections, wrong site surgeries and medication errors. There is therefore a relatively high risk of unsafe situations in hospitals and thus calls for measures to prevent them through quality and risk management (Kavaler, 2012). Hospitals should have flexible, participative and customer focused administrations. They should also possess values that are associated with participation, affiliation and teamwork in each and every improvement to make the quality if the services given better. There should also be a developmental culture based on risk-taking innovations that are supposed to improve the overall services of the hospital. Therefore the idea is to improve the institution while keeping the patients and the staff out of hazards that may be brought about by errors and other causes in the hospital. The key concept of quality management in the hospital is the development of the systems to prevent hazards, and of risk management is the process of minimizing risk by developing the systems to identify and analyze potential hazards (Lighter and Fair, 2004). Risk management, being an on going activity, should not only be about identifying the risks upfront and then forging ahead regardless. It plays a critical role in identifying, managing and containing risks related to patients’ safety. In a hospital environment, communication and good governance together with a systematic and an integrative approach will make risk management easy and adjustable according to the size of the organization. The steps followed in risk management start with a risk strategy which is basically the establishment of the internal and external risk management context and defining its structure. The second step is risk identification

Friday, October 18, 2019

HND Business Law Essay Example | Topics and Well Written Essays - 3500 words

HND Business Law - Essay Example ement is entered into, regardless of the manner in which it is executed, all parties agree to abide by the terms and conditions spelled out in said agreement. Only if all parties agree to be released from a particular clause in the contract, or an agreement is reached to null and void the entire contract, it remains in force. If violated, one party will likely have a claim against the other in a court of law. This brief section covers all three of these different types of contracts. When considering verbal agreements and contracts, it is important to remember that they are legally binding as a written contract in many situations. The key today, however, is proving the terms and conditions in question when a disagreement arises in a modern business situation. Under UK law, it has been largely determined that there are two main areas that constitute an actual binding agreement between two or more parties. The first involves whether or not an agreement was actually clearly reached as to the services that were to be performed, or goods provided. The second involves remuneration. If a figure was reached and agreed upon, it would be considered binding. Interestingly enough a verbal agreement today can be reached via either an in-person or on telephone voice exchange, or via email. Verbal contracts are more difficult to prove in a court of law. If one party states that the other party did not meet the conditions or warranties stipulated in the agreement, then problems can arise. If these are written out in a formal and written agreement, the issue is often quickly resolved. If, however, the agreement was verbal in nature, it can quickly become a ‘he said, she said’ affair that makes it difficult to prove one way or other in court. As such, it is recommended that the terms and conditions be clearly spelled out in a contract. Written agreements, quite simply, are similar to verbal agreements, except that they have a verifiable signature on them from all

Critically explore the risks, challenges and key issues in relation to Essay - 1

Critically explore the risks, challenges and key issues in relation to starting up a new restaurant in Cardiff Bay in light of the current economic climate in the UK 01312 - Essay Example Resultantly, UK is considered as fruitful economy for businesses due its supporting business environment. The country is also attracting FDI for numerous sectors including food and beverages (Institute of Foreign Economy, NDRC, 2014). Also, According to PWC (2015), Europe including UK attracted around 22 million more tourists in 2014 than 2013. Cardiff Bay, the mining valley holds the status of world’ first industrialized city (Cardiff Caerdydd, N.d) and 10th largest UK city but remained underprivileged for centuries due to ignorance by authorities. With this scenario at affect, role of SME’s increase massively in Cardiff Bay as the economy is then dependent on small and medium enterprises. The last two decades witnessed the adventurous growth events and developments in the Cardiff Bay region. As reported, from 1000 registered buildings 547 are of food businesses including bar, cafà © and restaurants in Cardiff Bay (Ruddick, 2012). Hence, role of hospitality industry is wide in SME in Cardiff Bay region. Hence, with these factors at affect the paper reviews the challenges and issues that starting a new venture of restaurant in Cardiff Bay will be faced with. Honig and Samuelsson, (2011) empirically researched the effectiveness of planning and discussed the factors and viability of planning to enter in a business. Different factors in Cardiff Bay contribute in the importance of business planning. The potential population growth and changing lifestyle are promising measures for services business industry in the region (Cardiff Caerdydd, N.d). Cardiff Bay attracts around 18 million visitors a year till 2012. Though, the region still needs huge reforms but critics have positive anticipations. The lack in connectivity, infrastructure and funding measures, increasing unemployment rates and strong ethnic values that cannot be easily changed all also factors that must be considered before developing business

Financial Accounting Concepts Essay Example | Topics and Well Written Essays - 500 words - 6

Financial Accounting Concepts - Essay Example The advantages is that the more concerned managers are involved, the better the chances are of the budget being very much realistic in approach. These budgets are generally made at all levels but individually, rather than collectively. For instance, a salesman keeps a self imposed budget of, e.g. 5 units to be sold in a day.†¢Ã‚  Base Year Budget: It is the type of budgeting in which the previous year or any year for that matter is considered a standard, against which the expected (/wanted) performance is added to have a forecasted budget for the coming term. For example, considering 2006 as a base year, with all revenues and expenses expected to rise by 10%; the said percentage is multiplied across the board to attain the coming year budget or forecast.†¢Ã‚  Zero Based Budget: It is a derived form of the base year budget in which no base year is considered and the concerned manager is expected to justify each and every expense that he/she has stated in the forecast/budget. These are difficult to make, require extensive efforts and data gathering, since there is no base, the budget has to be prepared fro scratch.The users of budgets use these for different purposes; e.g. accountants use the information to check with variance for future better forecast, the heads check the contribution and performance of individual employees, the management checks the department working and profitability, while the owners view the over all big picture to visualize individual contributions and achievements.

Thursday, October 17, 2019

BHS 400 STRESS MANAGEMENT (Module 4-SLP) Essay Example | Topics and Well Written Essays - 500 words

BHS 400 STRESS MANAGEMENT (Module 4-SLP) - Essay Example This article emphasizes the importance of stress management program to help students maintain comfortable and productive levels of daily stress. It explains Stress Relief Packs, Web-based Relaxation Exercises, Stress Management Peers, Educational Materials, Outreach Programs etc for stress management This article explains the importance of life style, fun and relaxation in stress management strategies. In some cases the best way to cope with stress is to accept things as they are, the article suggests. The article argues that if you can’t change the stressor, change yourself in order to tackle stress effectively. This article defines stress, explains the cause of stress and also possible precautions and treatment to stay away from stress. The author argues that excess usage of Caffeine, lack of Exercise, Relaxation/Meditation, Sleep, Time-outs and Leisure, Realistic Expectations etc are the main causes of stress. The author believes that learning of how to turn off the alarm system through various relaxation methods and how to not turn it on inadvertently in the first place can relieve stress immensely. This article explains Deep breathing, Muscular relaxation, and Visualization techniques to reduce stress. This article explains the assessment of stress, and also stress management program for an individual. Reduction of negative thoughts, Planning of some fun Refocus the negative into the positive Take a break, Think positively etc can be useful in managing stress as per this

The Sitcoms of the 1970s Essay Example | Topics and Well Written Essays - 1750 words

The Sitcoms of the 1970s - Essay Example The television sitcoms of the 1970s explored our racism, sexism, and class bias and uncovered a reality that exposed the depth of prejudice in America and the television industry. Because television during this period was an evolving event, it's helpful to view it somewhat chronologically. By 1970 Leave it to Beaver had been deceased for 7 years. Ozzie and Harriet passed in 1964 and My Three Sons had just two more seasons of life left. The image of the typical American family that consisted of a well employed father living in suburbia had been exposed as a myth and could no longer support a sitcom. The 1960s and the war in Vietnam had dissolved the country's innocence and America was ready to explore their new maturity. No other vehicle would spark as much social, political, or cultural debate as the American sitcom during this period. The years 1970 - 1972 were as important for what was canceled as much as for what was debuted. In 1971, the rural south was virtually eliminated from the comedy half-hour format. Green Acres and the Beverly Hillbillies were both canceled. These two shows depicted an unrealistic view of the South and rural America in general. Characters were put in positions that were not believable while portraying a bias against the underlying themes of bigotry and ignorance. Mayberry RFD and Hee Haw, shows that reflected the widely accepted view of rural common sense and decency, also got cut in 1971. These shows would be replaced by more urban and topical settings with characters capable of generating greater controversy and better demographics (Butsch 19). Idealism was being tempered by network economics. A major theme that ran throughout the 1970s sitcom was the reshaping of our perception of the American household. The picture of the house being headed by a strong father figure was fading. Women were becoming more dominant and shown as more independent in shows such as Mary Tyler Moore and Maude. The men were portrayed with character flaws such as Archie Bunker in All in the Family and Fred Sanford in Sanford and Son. Men were underemployed and if married lived with a dominant female. This restructuring of the household offered the producers and writers the opportunity to explore issues that the white middle class male could not approach. June Cleaver could not even discuss abortion, while Maude Findlay could have one. Ward Cleaver did not drink while Walter Findlay, Maude's husband, was an alcoholic ("Maude"). Many sitcoms of this era were placed in a household where the children were grown. This provided an environment for adult issues to be aired and debated. It would also offer the contrasting social viewpoints that were emerging at the time. No other show propelled the 1970s sitcom genre as much as All in the Family did when it debuted in 1971. Producer Norman Lear had gone to the edges of the American psyche to explore racism. Yet, television was still in its adolescence and this was shown in the naivet of the program's plot and writing. Archie Bunker, the lead character, was an avowed bigot who referred to minorities as "Spades, Spics, or Hebes" and believed that their social gains were coming at the expense of the middle class whites ("All in the Family"). Lear believed that by playing Bunker as a misguided fool, his bigotry would likewise be

Wednesday, October 16, 2019

Financial Accounting Concepts Essay Example | Topics and Well Written Essays - 500 words - 6

Financial Accounting Concepts - Essay Example The advantages is that the more concerned managers are involved, the better the chances are of the budget being very much realistic in approach. These budgets are generally made at all levels but individually, rather than collectively. For instance, a salesman keeps a self imposed budget of, e.g. 5 units to be sold in a day.†¢Ã‚  Base Year Budget: It is the type of budgeting in which the previous year or any year for that matter is considered a standard, against which the expected (/wanted) performance is added to have a forecasted budget for the coming term. For example, considering 2006 as a base year, with all revenues and expenses expected to rise by 10%; the said percentage is multiplied across the board to attain the coming year budget or forecast.†¢Ã‚  Zero Based Budget: It is a derived form of the base year budget in which no base year is considered and the concerned manager is expected to justify each and every expense that he/she has stated in the forecast/budget. These are difficult to make, require extensive efforts and data gathering, since there is no base, the budget has to be prepared fro scratch.The users of budgets use these for different purposes; e.g. accountants use the information to check with variance for future better forecast, the heads check the contribution and performance of individual employees, the management checks the department working and profitability, while the owners view the over all big picture to visualize individual contributions and achievements.

Tuesday, October 15, 2019

The Sitcoms of the 1970s Essay Example | Topics and Well Written Essays - 1750 words

The Sitcoms of the 1970s - Essay Example The television sitcoms of the 1970s explored our racism, sexism, and class bias and uncovered a reality that exposed the depth of prejudice in America and the television industry. Because television during this period was an evolving event, it's helpful to view it somewhat chronologically. By 1970 Leave it to Beaver had been deceased for 7 years. Ozzie and Harriet passed in 1964 and My Three Sons had just two more seasons of life left. The image of the typical American family that consisted of a well employed father living in suburbia had been exposed as a myth and could no longer support a sitcom. The 1960s and the war in Vietnam had dissolved the country's innocence and America was ready to explore their new maturity. No other vehicle would spark as much social, political, or cultural debate as the American sitcom during this period. The years 1970 - 1972 were as important for what was canceled as much as for what was debuted. In 1971, the rural south was virtually eliminated from the comedy half-hour format. Green Acres and the Beverly Hillbillies were both canceled. These two shows depicted an unrealistic view of the South and rural America in general. Characters were put in positions that were not believable while portraying a bias against the underlying themes of bigotry and ignorance. Mayberry RFD and Hee Haw, shows that reflected the widely accepted view of rural common sense and decency, also got cut in 1971. These shows would be replaced by more urban and topical settings with characters capable of generating greater controversy and better demographics (Butsch 19). Idealism was being tempered by network economics. A major theme that ran throughout the 1970s sitcom was the reshaping of our perception of the American household. The picture of the house being headed by a strong father figure was fading. Women were becoming more dominant and shown as more independent in shows such as Mary Tyler Moore and Maude. The men were portrayed with character flaws such as Archie Bunker in All in the Family and Fred Sanford in Sanford and Son. Men were underemployed and if married lived with a dominant female. This restructuring of the household offered the producers and writers the opportunity to explore issues that the white middle class male could not approach. June Cleaver could not even discuss abortion, while Maude Findlay could have one. Ward Cleaver did not drink while Walter Findlay, Maude's husband, was an alcoholic ("Maude"). Many sitcoms of this era were placed in a household where the children were grown. This provided an environment for adult issues to be aired and debated. It would also offer the contrasting social viewpoints that were emerging at the time. No other show propelled the 1970s sitcom genre as much as All in the Family did when it debuted in 1971. Producer Norman Lear had gone to the edges of the American psyche to explore racism. Yet, television was still in its adolescence and this was shown in the naivet of the program's plot and writing. Archie Bunker, the lead character, was an avowed bigot who referred to minorities as "Spades, Spics, or Hebes" and believed that their social gains were coming at the expense of the middle class whites ("All in the Family"). Lear believed that by playing Bunker as a misguided fool, his bigotry would likewise be

The Role of Food Essay Example for Free

The Role of Food Essay According to my Nutrition through the Life Cycle textbook, food is an essential need for humans and provides nutrients, energy in the form of calories, and other substances that are necessary for both good health and growth (Brown, 2). Even though this concept is very straightforward and well known among everyone, it is important to understand that there is more to food than meets the eye. Besides its vital role in ensuring that the energy demands of the human body’s continuous physiological processes is met, food can be very symbolic and capable of fulfilling a large variety of roles in an individual’s life. When examining the role of food in terms of the life cycle of an individual, it is important to note that it is always changing and will be different based on the person. In addition to satisfying our personal nutrition requirements, food is capable of revealing our individual characteristics, personal values, or even valuable information about our society as a whole. Out of the many different stages of the life cycle, there will be three stages in particular that I will be focusing on; they are: childhood, adolescence, and adulthood. Childhood is often one of the most fun, memorable, and enjoyable stages of an individual’s life. Not only is it a time when an individual begins to build upon the knowledge they’ve acquired from toddlerhood; it is a time when a large number of friends can be made. This leads to one of the many roles food can serve in this stage of life, which is its role in the act of establishing and maintaining friendships. One perfect example of this role in action is during lunch hour in school. When it is time for lunch at school, all of the children congregate together and have the opportunity to socially interact and bond with one another while eating. At this time, children may even offer a portion of their lunch to their peers and use that moment as an opportunity to converse with others and establish friendships that may last a lifetime. In addition to having a social role, food can serve as a learning aid for the child when it comes to defining the traditions and heritage of their family. Parents often expose and introduce family traditions or specific items passed down from previous generations to their children; which may involve food. For example, a certain type of food or recipe (such as a special homemade cake or pie) that is significant or symbolic to a family can be passed down from the parents and presented to their child. Once the child is introduced to this specific kind of food, they will obtain and learn valuable information pertaining to the overall uniqueness, identity, history, and values of their own family. This information contributes significantly to the development of the child’s personal identity in future stages of their life cycle (such as adulthood) as well as their self-worth. Adolescence can be quite a hectic (but memorable) stage in an individual’s life. Just like how the overall way of life around this time has changed, the role food plays in this part of the life cycle has as well. At this point in time, food can often be used to relieve stress or be used as an aid to cope with the challenges life brings. For example, a teenager may binge on chips, cookies, and ice cream to help alleviate the stress of applying to colleges or studying for any upcoming exams that they have. Even though this method of dealing with stress isn’t necessarily the best way, I believe it is fairly common. I know I definitely used food as a coping mechanism during my adolescent years; but I have changed my ways and no longer do so. At this stage of the life cycle, not only does food play a role in stress relief, it also can play a role in the expression an individual’s religious beliefs and faith. Since most individuals at this age still live at home with their parents, most will typically continue to practice their family’s religion and depending upon how religious they are, may even chose to follow the dietary customs or guidelines that are specific to their religion. For example, teenagers that are Jewish may consume matzo during the week of Passover. By consuming matzo during this religious holiday, the teenager showcases to others how meaningful the religion of Judaism is to them and their dedication in following its overall customs and beliefs. The last stage of life that I will be discussing is adulthood; which is a rather lengthy part of the life cycle. During this time, the overall quality of life has changed even more and an individual is now in full control of their destiny. Besides the sudden increase in the opportunities and freedom experienced by those in this stage, the number of roles food can have is now abundant. One possible role food has in the life of an adult is a source of fun and entertainment. This can include a celebration for a significant milestone or event achieved by one or more individuals (such as a birthday or marriage), eating contests, parties, and cooking shows on TV. For example, when there is a wedding reception and banquet, a full three course meal composing of extravagant foods may be served and conclude with the ceremonial cutting and consumption of a specially decorated wedding cake. The cake itself not only celebrates the marital bond between a man and a woman; it is very symbolic and a common tradition followed by most in our society. One other role food can serve in an adult is a method of expressing both creativity and artistic skill. Cooking can be viewed as a form of art due to a massive number of ways foods can be prepared or combined. Foods exhibit a large of colors, can be plated or decorated beautifully, and baked goods can even be shaped in unique ways. For example, at the world famous Boudin Bakery in San Francisco, bakers demonstrate their artistic skills by molding sourdough bread dough into the shapes of animals (such as turtles and lobsters) and baking them. Another example includes a pastry chef decorating a birthday cake by adding and shaping the frosting at certain areas of the cake to look like flowers. In my life, food serves a large number of roles with one of the biggest being the fact that it identifies both my family heritage and culture. My grandparents emigrated from Eastern Europe and the Balkan region (specifically Belorussia and Serbia) and brought along with them their knowledge of the various food delicacies that are specific to their cultures. For example, my grandmother from Serbia regularly prepares and cooks traditional Serbian foods such as pita (hand-rolled dough with cheese and meat), stuffed peppers, and sarma (boiled cabbage stuffed with ground beef and rice). In fact, whenever I go back home, she always makes these foods for me to enjoy; even though it takes a lot of time to prepare them. Overall, these specific foods remind me of home, my childhood, and represent my cultural contribution and background to the diversity of our society. In my life, food also serves as a method of celebration and a reward for reaching special milestones or achieving goals. For example, when I received an acceptance letter from the Skaggs School of Pharmacy at the University of Colorado, I enjoyed a fabulous steak dinner with my family and indulged on an enormous slice of chocolate cake. I always watch what I eat and try to make healthy choices, but that day was an exception because I accomplished a major personal goal. As you can see, food serves more than just a physiological and nutritional purpose. It has roles in portraying our personal religious beliefs, culture, family backgrounds, societal traditions, bonds with others, and unique personal skills. Food can even have a psychological role in people and serve as a coping mechanism in times of great stress. While this list or possible roles is rather lengthy, it is tiny compared the possible number of roles food can have to an individual throughout their lives; especially when considering the many different stages of life. Although there may be some role overlap, the role food plays in the life of a child could be different than in another stage of life (such as adolescence and adulthood). With that in mind, the next time you are in a restaurant or eating centre, take some time to observe what people of all ages are eating and how they are acting. You will see first-hand the importance and significance of food beyond the scope of nutrition and physiology in our way of life. Works Cited: Brown, Judith E. Nutrition Basics. Nutrition Through the Life Cycle. 4th ed. Belmont, CA: Wadsworth, CENGAGE Learning, 2011. 2-3. Print.

Monday, October 14, 2019

Looking At Imperial Identity In Rudyard Kipling English Literature Essay

Looking At Imperial Identity In Rudyard Kipling English Literature Essay The work of Edward Said has long been fuel for much critical debate; In Orientalism, Said argues that the whole notion of the Orient is a body of culture, academic and political work that tries to identify the East as them in terms that have evolved through Western Imperialism. In Orientalism, Said quotes Rudyard Kiplings work as exemplifying colonial attitudes to Oriental peoples. (REF) The aim of this essay is to explore the critical material written about the work of Kipling, in particular Kim and The Jungle Books. By using the work of Said as a foundation and starting point to critique Kiplings work, I plan to explore how Kipling presents his young heroes, Kim and Mowgli. According to Saids analysis, there are two factors that must be kept in mind when interpreting Kim. One being that, its author was writing not just from the dominating viewpoint of a white man in a colonial possession but from the perspective of a colossal colonial system whose economy, functioning, and history had acquired the status of a virtual fact of nature. (162) Kipling assumes an essentially uncontested empire of colonies made up of inferior humans. The division between white and non-white was absolute in India and other colonial areas, and is alluded to throughout Kim as well as the rest of Kiplings work: a Sahib is a Sahib and no amount of friendship or camaraderie can change the rudiments of racial difference. (162) According to Said, Kipling would no more have questioned that difference and the right of the white European to rule than he would have argued with the Himalayas. (163) Similar to Said, S. P. Mohanty in his essay, Kiplings Children and the Colour Line, explores this division between the white and non-white. Mohanty argues that Kim has to be read in terms of racial positions and the imperial project. In particular he focuses on issues of spying, scouting, observing and managing: a distinctly political project shaping racial meanings, identities and possibilities. He suggests that Kim is a white hero who can discard his colour as he wishes: He lives and sleeps and east in the open social world of colonial India against a backdrop of an inter-Imperial war between Britain and Russia, but his identity is never something that ties him down. (241) Kim is of white heritage, yet grew up as a street urchin in Lahore, in the care of a half caste Indian woman. Mohanty argues that it is when we begin to take Kims cultural identity seriously as the character can become real and the reader begins to pay attention to the narratives elusive and mystifying cultural vision and wonder about the sources of its motivation. (242) The critic explains that once we being to question Kims education, direct parallels can be drawn to Kims ancestor, Mowgli. Both Kim and Mowgli learn to adapt to strange surroundings and attain a knowledge that enables them to survive their harsh worlds. (242) Mowgli is adopted by the wolves and befriended by the rest of the jungle animals, yet still holds a level of superiority. However in an example that Mohanty gives, taken from the opening of The Kings Ankus, Mowgli and Kaa the python are playing: the fantasy is here not so much of pure freedom as of involvement without any real implication. Kaa could crush Mowgli with the slightest slip; and what Mowgli plays with, in fact, is precisely this. Their inequality reduces to a game. From the beginning of the story, Kaa acknowledges the young human as the Master of the Jungle, and brings the boy all the news that he hears. (243) It is suggested by Mohanty that Mowgli like Kim reveals the capacity to not only inhabit the jungle through a wishful allegorical fantasy, but also to chart and track it as well both of them have the ability to read the world around them and often better than the natives. The native boys Kim is compared with somehow lack the facility that make reading possible, remarks the critic. Another example he gives of this inequality is when Lurgan Sahib teaches Kim and the Indian boy how to observes peoples faces and reactions, to interpret their behaviour and identify motive, Kim seems to learn it quickly, whilst the native boy is left mysteriously handicapped (244) The second factor is that Said recognises is that Kipling was a historical being as well an author; Kim was written at a specific moment in his career, and at a time when the relationship between the British and Indian people was changing. When we read it today, Kiplings Kim can touch many of these issues. Does Kipling portray the Indians as inferior, or as somehow equal but different? Obviously, an Indian reader will give an answer that focuses on some factors more than others (for example, Kiplings stereotypical views some would call them racialist on the Oriental character) whereas English and American readers will stress his affection for Indian life on the Grand Trunk Road. Sandra Kemp in her 1988 study entitled Kiplings Hidden Narratives, tries to understand and link the relationship between the authors psychology and the authors work. She notes that Kipling was strongly opposed to Indian Nationalism (2) and used his public figure as a writer to draw attention to politics and the political climate in India. Like Said recognises, India was entering a post-Muntiny state and both critics propound the influence of this on Kipling. (2) Baa Baa, Black Sheep, Kiplings semi-autobiographical account of childhood, he reveals recurrent preoccupations as the story dramatizes the difference between the East and West. Throughout his writings Kipling seems to be searching for a structure of belief that would recognise the reality of both love and hate, and the reality of their co-existence. Kemp encapsulates the search for identity within Kim, stating that this structures the action: Who is Kim-Kim-Kim? Quoting this extract from Kim again is Zorah T. Sullivan, who notes that this inner quest and search for an identity suggest possible self-discovery. Sullivan examines Kim and Mowglis mutual [division] between their desire to be loved and their need to control and be feared. (i) Quoting from The Second Jungle Book all the Jungle was his friend, and just a little afraid of him (130). This coincides with Mohantys point regarding Kaa and Mowlgis play fighting. Sullivan identifies that the India Kipling created helped to construct a mythology of imperialism by reflecting both the real and the imaginary relationship between the British and their Indian subjects. (8) By acknowledging the work of Kemp, Sullivan expands upon how Kemp illuminates Foucaults and Saids earlier work on the problems of representing Others: knowledge of others reflects the power of the knowing coloniser who represents natives because they cannot represent themselves. (9) Sullivans work counters Kiplings reputation as bard of empire whose voice represents unproblematically and transparently the discourse of imperialism. Peter Havholm suggests that Saids demonstration of the Orientalism assumed by the implied authors of important English and French novels has set the parameters for much other recent discussion about Kiplings fiction. (2008, 5) According to him, fellow critics such as Sullivan and Moore-Gilbert line up against Saids conclusions; They read ambivalence, anxiety, and a range of complexities in the discourse that may be abstracted form Kiplings stories. (5) Although Saids work added colonial discourse analysis to the art and life of Kipling, this analysis focuses more on the rhetoric of Kiplings fiction than its form. However Havholm observes that the discussion Said started is both productive and fascinating. (4) Bart Moore-Gilbert is another critic who is synonymous with Kipling. In his 1986 study Kipling and Orientalism, Moore-Gilbert seeks to explore Kiplings relationship to the characteristic discourses of Anglo-Indian culture, principally the literary and the political in the 19th Century, as well as providing a critique on Saids Orientalism. Edward Said believes that every form of orientalism is based on simplistic stereotypes that help justify the Wests imperialistic goal of restructuring and dominating oriental cultures. Moore-Gilbert suggests that Saids writing is inadequate and generalises the British relationship to India and Kiplings outlook in his Anglo-Indian writings. Moore-Gilbert acknowledges Saids position. Despite his sympathy for Indian ways, as aforementioned, Kipling feared native rule and was in full support of the British Raj. Moore-Gilbert treats this as a regrettable short-coming, proving that Kipling was a prisoner of his cultural values and proposes that Anglo-Indians and Kipling were not always bigoted imperialists as Said may suggest. Through Moore-Gilberts work, a reassessment of Saids hypothesis of Kiping is formed. John McBratneys article Imperial Subjects, Imperial Space argues that the ordering element of Kiplings vision of empire is the native-born Westerner who inhabits his fictions so insistently. Surrounding the native born is felicitous space or a narrative area in which arising social constraints are suspended and where one can engage in a free experiment of personal identity and social role: Given the tension between juvenile freedom and imperial duty, what finally is the nature of Mowglis identity? (279) Similar to some of the other critics discussed in this essay, McBratney too draws upon Kiplings own identity, and his ability to float between the Anglo-Indian and Indian societies, without religious or social sanctum (282) just like Kim and Mowgli. The special abilities that allow the native-born to play these roles derive from his identity as neither exclusively British nor simply native. This study also provides the most thorough analysis of that figures hybrid, casteless selfhood in relation to shifting attitudes toward racial identity during Britains New Imperialism. illuminates both the complexities of subject construction in the late Victorian and Edwardian periods and the struggles today over identity formation in the postcolonial world. Moore-Gilbert has critiqued the work of McBratney, regearding it as a fine critical text (2000, 100). The focus of the native born which features heavily within McBratneys article leads to Moore-Gilbert praising him for highlighting that Mowgli is in fact Indian born and there a native himself. However studies from Mohanty and Sullivan highlight that regardless of whether Mowgli is Indian, the jungle become an allegorical platform and he is still an outsider in a strange world. From the critical material explored here, the issue of identity in Kim and The Jungle Books can be seen to be a highly debated topic, of which I have only scraped the surface, with the reoccurring issues of race and cultural factors being behind and self-confusion. Kemp, as many of the other critics concur, uses Kiplings self-reflexivity of his stories, and his stories interrogate the other-self of his childhood (1) Kiplings own confusion of racial and cultural identity is reflected within his writing, not only in Kim and The Jungle Books, but across all of his Indian fiction. This is something that maybe needs to be taken into consideration, as Moore-Gilbert does, when assessing the work of Kipling, using Said as critical foundation.

Sunday, October 13, 2019

Essay --

1. Introduction As the world gets more global Companies do their best to raise their profits and survive in the competition. Companies may have to grow to survive, and one of the best ways to grow is by merging with another company. However, some merges may disbalance the development of market and disrupt the balance of current market structure. Perfect example is the Daimler and Chrysler merger it is such poweful global corporation that has its activities all around the world. It can use its strong position to influence the decisions of a government. If a government disagrees with the proposals, the corporation can easily move its bussines to another country this will lead to higher unemployment in the country so the government can not allow this and is forced to make a trade-off. Nowdays some corporations have bigger powers than some governments and therefore it is harder to resist the influence of the corporations. Mergers also lead to a decrease in competition in a market, this means higher pr ices and less choises for consumers. The European Union is trying to prevent that companies become too powerfull and that is why firms who seek to raise their profits through merger, must attain European commissions (EC) approval. In this paper I will focus on the Volvo/Scania merger case. Firstly I will explain what is merger, the benefits of firms to conduct merger and the effect of merger to market. Secondly I will briefly describe the two companies which are involved in the Volvo/Scania merger. Finally, I will explain why did the EC blocked this merger. 2. What is merger Merger is a process when at least two companies combine to form one single company. In general, there are three types of mergers, Horizontal Mergers, if both f... ...cks, buses and engines businesses. After selling its car division Volvo had nearly no market share, to become larger again Volvo decided to buy shares of his largest competitor Scania. (Case No COMP/M.1672 –Volvo/Scania) The merge between these two companies would cause a large decrease in competition on the Swedish market for trucks. Volvo wanted to grow to achieve the economies of scale to compete in the global markets, but Volvo was prevented from doing so because the merger would give them too large market share in Nordic market. 6. Conclusion The EC has blocked the proposed merger of Volvo and Scania because of the competition concerns. The main reason was that these two companies, which both make trucks and buses were the two largest competitors in most of their European markets, it would create significant barriers to entry the market by other companies.