Saturday, August 31, 2019

Influence of Information systems Essay

This research investigates the influence of Information system at Human Resource and what are their impacts on organizational performance. Organizations are moving faster towards the Information Technology and adapt more and more advancements of Information Technologies. In today’s context none of the organization can survive without Information technology. Every organization has developed or either purchased information systems to support their business functionalities in order to face the competitive advantages. Most of the organizations are investing on Information Systems, thinking that it would help to increase the performance of their organization. Will the Information system can alone increase the performance of the organization? What impact has this on Human Resource of the Organization? These are questions that today’s Organization having today. Even though the Organizations is implemented the advance information system purchased or developed in-house supports â€Å"Without a doubt, advancement in technology has had a huge impact on organizations across the globe over the last few decades. It has impacted a range of sectors of the economy on diverse levels chiefly in the financial, educational entertainment, direct sales retailing, and healthcare and information sectors. By and large, its impact is evident on any activity that relies heavily on communication and information flow, lowering the cost of communication† – Child (2009). With the rapid development of the technology, advancement of the information systems should be upgraded. Is the advancement of technology applied or used by the organization is another question. Will these information system satisfied users requirements or are they being underutilized should be the major concern. How far these information system supports and helpful to the internal employees should address thoroughly in order to learn how effective these technologies are using in the current situation. As many of the organization Commercial Credit and Finance PLC is looking forward to survive in the rapidly changing economic system while competing with other giants in the industry. IT is becoming the most vital role for the organization and its a must reason to have a good Information System which will have pos itive impact towards its human resource. IT alone cannot drive a business a success. Human Resource is also equally important as IS in gaining  competitive advantage. Employees expecting to grow team work, quality of their work and fulfillment of the life for a better establishment in the work place. â€Å"Shifting demographic patterns, the pace of technological change, and the path of economic globalization — will evolve over the next 10-15 years. Then, they consider the implications of these trends for key aspects of the future workforce and workplace, including the size, composition, and skills of the workforce; the nature of work and workplace arrangements; and worker compensation† – Lynn Karoly and Constantijn Panis (2004) According to the Central Bank of Sri Lanka Annual report of 2012 (Central Bank of Sri Lanka, 2013), there are sixty non-banking finance companies operating in a fiercely competitive environment. All these companies are working on a 646 billion rupee cumulative asset base that is left behind by the government and private Banks. This highly competitive environment has brought about a sense of dynamism to the industry where organizations such as the one being assessed are either perpetrators or victims of replication or imitation. In this sense firms must constantly renew their products, skills and capabilities. Instead of doing this in a haphazard manner resulting in being a follower it is important for firms in such a competitive arena to look at innovation and the capabilities it requires in a structured way that would earn its due rents. In this age of portability and technology driven market place, these financial organizations depend heavily on their shared information technology departments to deliver value through pointing in the right direction. On the other end is an IT department that is more inclined to do the daily firefighting and has exhausted its resources by simply sticking to day to day activities. There is a standoff between senior management trying to make sense of IT investments in the form of new innovations to help keep up with its competitors and the information technology departments who don’t see themselves as drivers of innovation but back office functions. The research site concerned has seen tremendous growth and success in the industry within the past thr ee years with a net profit rise of fifteen fold (Commercial Credit & Finance PLC, 2013). Unfortunately in keeping with this momentum the firm has faced its share of difficulties with IT related innovations where budget overruns and high time  to market has severely affected the firm’s performance in some aspects. Research Objectives 1. To identify how effective the firm is in using information system 2. To identify how information systems affects firms performance 3. Explore the impact of the information systems on human resource of the company 4. To identify impact of human resource for Organization Performance

Friday, August 30, 2019

Book fair Essay

A book fair is a fair for selling and displaying books on various subjects. A book fair is usually arranged on the important days of a year. As 21st February is our Mother Language Day, the book fair named â€Å"Ekushey Boi Mela† is held in Bangla Academy on February is the most important and popular book fair of our country. The book fair of 21st February takes place in Bangla Academy under open sky. There are many stalls and pavilions in the fair of different publishers. In  a book fair huge numbers of books are found. Almost all the writers of our country wait for this fair to release their books. Thousands of books release in this book fair of 21st February and millions of books get published. Many new writers write books and publish them in this fair. Thousand of book lovers come to visit the fair and buy books. The security of the fair is always very tight for the safety of the visitor including close circuit cameras and many police officers. People stand in long lines to enter  the fair. All sorts of books such as books on literature, fictions, novels, dramas, science, medicine, religion, philosophy and so on are brought for display and sell in the fair. Besides bookstalls there are a number of canteens found in the book fair. There are also arrangements for songs and dance to entertain the visitors of the fair. Writers, poets and publishers visit the fair regularly. They speak with the visitors, listen to the problems they are having in the fair and sign  books for them. Book is the source of knowledge. A book fair is a place where we can get thousand of types of books. There are a few problems in a book fair like too much dust, pollution, lack of rules and regulations and sometimes some unpleasant incidents take for the evil motive of the miscreants. So, the complete interest for the fair is often marred. Despite these little untoward events a book fair is really important for the enlightened section of people.

Thursday, August 29, 2019

Ifrs Impairment of Assets

Intangibles and Impairment of Assets Learn | Consult | Research Intangibles †¢ Identifiable non-monetary asset without physical substance †¢ IAS 38 prescribes special criteria for an asset to be recognized as intangible asset †¢ Tangible or intangible must meet the criteria of asset to be recognized – Controlled by entity as a result of past event – Probable future economic inflow (revenue or cost saving) Recognition †¢ Must meet the definition of asset †¢ Must meet criteria set by IAS 38 – Cost of asset reliably measured – Probable economic inflow Recognized at cost!! Recognition – Internally generated The standard states that expenditure on internally generated brands, mastheads, publishing titles, customer lists and items similar in substance are not recognized as intangible assets (because they cannot be distinguished from the cost of developing the business as a whole). †¢ Similarly, start-up, training, advertising , promotional, relocation and reorganisation costs are all recognised as expenses. Purchased Intangibles †¢ If value of an intangible can not be valued reliably, while purchasing a company, include the value as a part of goodwill A special note on goodwill †¢ Inherent goodwill Vs Purchased goodwill How is it different? – Balancing figure – Cant be sold as a separate asset Research and Development †¢ Research – Initial investigation done to acquire new scientific knowledge or understanding †¢ Development – Application of research findings to design a new product or improve an existing system of product before production R&D treatment †¢ Write-off Research expenses †¢ Development expenses – Capitalize if following conditions met – Technical feasibility – Intention and ability to make, use or sell – Economic feasibility – market for the product/usefulness – Expenditures attributable to d evelopment reliably measured Initial recognition Eg. development expenditure The PIRATE criteria – Recognition Subsequent recognition †¢ Cost model or Revaluation model Revaluation Model †¢ If the revaluation model is followed, the revaluation must be fair value at date of revaluation by reference to an active market. – An active market is a market where all of the following conditions exist: †¢ The items traded are homogenous, †¢ Willing buyers and sellers can normally be found at any time †¢ Prices are available to the public. Amortization and impairment †¢ If useful life is fixed amortize Straight line with zero residual value – Start amortization once asset is ready to use †¢ If useful life is not fixed, test for impairment – Atleast annually (IAS 36) Impairment of Assets †¢ The focus of IAS 36 †¢ Impairment occurs when the carrying value (NBV) exceeds the recoverable amount The Recoverable Amount †¢ The cost or spending on an asse t can be recovered in two ways 1. By selling it 2. By using it †¢ So the recoverable amount is either the value we get from selling an asset (the fair value) or the value we get by using the asset (value in use) Recoverable Amount The FV less cost to sell †¢ FV is determined by; A binding agreement to sell – Current market prices (if active market exists) †¢ Less any selling expenses Value in use †¢ Estimate the future cash flows (inflows and outflows) resulting from the use of the asset and ultimately its disposal †¢ Apply suitable discount rate to come with a PV of future cash flows. †¢ Financing cost and taxes not included Impairment Review †¢ Calculate the carrying value †¢ Calculate the recoverable amount as higher of: – Fair Value less cost to sell – Value in use (PV of future cash flows) †¢ If CV>RV, then report impairment otherwise leave it as it is Reporting an impairment Impairment losses must be recognized i. e. the asset written down to its recoverable amount †¢ Impairment losses are generally charged to I/S †¢ If asset has been revalued, charge to revaluation reserve until exhausted, than to I/S. Page 246 Page 246 Indicators of impairment †¢ External sources – Significant decline in market value of the asset – Significant changes with an adverse effect on the entity in the technological, market, economic or legal environment in which the entity operates – Increased market interest rates or other market rates of return affecting discount rates and thus reducing value in use Indicators of impairment †¢ Internal sources – Evidence of obsolescence or physical damage. – Significant changes with an adverse effect on the entity including: †¢ the asset becoming idle †¢ plans to discontinue or restructure an operation to which the asset belongs †¢ Plans to dispose of it earlier than expected †¢ reassessing the useful life of an asset as finite rather than indefinite – Internal evidence available that asset performance will be worse than expected.

Wednesday, August 28, 2019

How Economic events occur around us every day, and aims to provide Assignment

How Economic events occur around us every day, and aims to provide association between what you learn from economic models and concepts in class with real-life events happening around you - Assignment Example unfortunate that politicians and Ideologues on both sides of the spectrum are majorly interested in quick fixes rather that the actual ground work of fixing the nation’s economy. During the past few years, the economy of the United States of America has faced major challenges. As the nation’s economy continue to spatter, research and studies have identified multiples areas that is really deteriorating the American Economy. The sum total of the federal government taxes currently stands at 18 percent of the GDP. The local and state taxes have however increased substantially over this period. The total taxes from all the sources are a round 34 percent which is higher that 26 percent in the mid-50s, but slightly lower than 36 percent reached over the past 15 years. Over year the years most developed countries have lowered their corporate taxes leaving the United State of America to be among the developed countries that still has high rate of corporate taxation (Michael, 2012). This measure discourages investment in the country, which in turn reduces wages and holds production. America business faces serious challenges in taxes. Most market in the American Economy fall between demand and supply extremes and the incidence of taxation is shared by both the consumer and producer in proportional that varies. Most American population, who are majority of consumers pay more tax than producers thus resulting into a general high taxation. The e area paid by paid by the consumer corresponds to the general change in equilibrium price. The remainder of the price which is the difference between cost of production and the new price of that commodity, is paid by the producer. The internal revenue service estimated that in 2002 the United States of America Tax gap was 345 billion. The tax gap is the difference between the amount actually collected and the amount of tax legally owed by the government. In 2006 the tax gap was estimated to be about $450 billion. Two years later it

Innovation and Change Essay Example | Topics and Well Written Essays - 3250 words

Innovation and Change - Essay Example Innovation and commercialisation differ considerably from each other. Different types, sizes and markets of innovation have been clearly depicted in the paper. Several factors such as culture, organisational structure, its core competence and environmental scanning that play a vital part in innovation strategy have been mentioned in detail. Various issues and factors that make an organisation innovative have been discussed by citing examples. 2.0 What Is Innovation and Why Is It Important? Definition Innovation refers to an application of improved or new ideas to products, process, marketing or various other activities of a firm in order to increase its ‘value’. Value represents a wider approach to incorporate higher value added to the firm, benefits to consumers or other firms (Princeton University Press, n.d.). Innovation implies the process by which different degrees of quantifiable value improvement is planned as well as achieved in commercial activity. The processes by which innovation can be achieved are introducing new or improved products and services, executing improved operational process and implementing new managerial process (Business.Gov.in, n.d.). Importance In the present scenario, innovation is a key factor to maintain long run of business and organisation. Innovation facilitates to achieve competitive advantage over others. An organisation is involved in various innovative activities in manufacturing procedures, brand building, product improvement and others. Innovation facilitates to structure corporate life and also helps a company to develop various strategies. Various other significances of innovation in the industry encompass decrease in total cost of production, increase in income opportunity and maintenance of well-organised operating system. It also enables to observe probable acquisitions on the basis of cost as well as accelerating profitable top-line revenue growth along with increasing capabilities. The research and de velopment of the country can be expanded by innovation by means of most up-to-date technology in the country (Business.Gov.in, n.d.). Difference between Commercialisation and Innovation Innovation implies improvement with innovative technologies in various sectors in an organisation. Innovation process varies considerably depending on different industries and their product lines. In certain industries, such as pharmaceuticals, innovation depends greatly on scientific breakthroughs, while in electronics industry innovation develops from product and process design. Innovation takes on several characteristics during product as well as industry life cycles (Princeton University, 1995). Commercialisation refers to increase in profit from innovation in an organisation by integrating new technologies into processes, products and services and then selling them in marketplace. Commercialisation is contingent in industries of pharmaceuticals along with aircraft while receiving sanction of pro ducts from suitable organisations. Commercial success depends on the ability and skill of firms to develop and protect a proprietary benefit in the marketplace as it does on their capability to produce new scientific and technical advances (Princeton University, 1995). Several innovations are developed to the prototype stage and are produced in lesser amount, but it is not totally commercialised because the financial

Tuesday, August 27, 2019

INFORMATION SOCIETY & INFORMATION ECONOMY Essay

INFORMATION SOCIETY & INFORMATION ECONOMY - Essay Example The changing internet related environment at overseas branches and operations of banks has such a big impact on the online banking related decision making process. While multinational companies (MNCs) such as banks have been making use of internet banking as the main investment related strategic policy alternative, smaller banks too have been making use of it in order to achieve positive synergies over the internet (Durkin, and Howcroft, 2003). However while the former have being able to increase their net investment expenditure on internet banking on a larger scale, the latter have only been able to increase such investment on a smaller scale. As a result a clear dichotomy between the two entities can be noticed. Big business organizations including some international banks have adopted growth oriented communication policy measures primarily with the intention of enhancing growth drivers such as merger and acquisition (M&A) related synergies while smaller banks have basically relied on capturing niche markets. Online banking related benefits have come to be identified with positive organizational outcomes as well. Therefore internal and external growth drivers of banks operating internationally are mostly determined by either the success or the failure of the average banks online banking policy. In fact according to recent World Bank reports nine out of ten companies engaged in international business operations have invested a greater percentage of asset related investment funds in ICT. This is because that such investment brings about a qualitative shift in their operational environment and capabilities (Bell, 1976). Such capabilities include incremental growth rates in financial management cash flow, quality, sales revenue and profits. While big banks have successfully made use of online banking activities to achieve these organizational goals, smaller banks have been less successful because they lack adequate resource portfolios to engage in competition at every level of operations. Analysis Despite a series of online banking related investment successes by big banks, there have been some policy related lags too. For instance the operational environment of a bank is constantly influenced by the changing circumstances in the global environment. The current economic downturn has played a very important role in changing the fortunes of many banks. Falling demand and supply constraints have forced many banks to adopt variety of online banking policies in their international operations (Mackay, 2003). According to available statistics already there are signs of falling internet related investments in overseas operations of banks, though so far no fully-fledged study has been undertaken into a comprehensive assessment of the impact of the economic downturn.Online banking strategy requires well defined organizational goals and such organizational goals might vary from one banks to the other. For example some international banks are faced with a different set of policy alternat ives while small banks have a completely different set of priorities and opportunities (Mattelart, 2003). Therefore it is very important to consider multinational banks and smaller banks separately.

Monday, August 26, 2019

Nike Inc. Company Profile Research Paper Example | Topics and Well Written Essays - 1000 words

Nike Inc. Company Profile - Research Paper Example In total Nike has over 300 stores worldwide excluding independent distributors, dealers and whole sellers. (Shareholders’ Report, 2010) Nike Incorporation popularly known as Nike is a USA based world’s largest manufacturing company, formed in 1968, of sports apparel, shoes and accessories having mammoth 67% share in international market. Indeed, the company has become a pioneer designer, producer and seller of, primarily, sportswear, equipment, bags, and athletic footwear products. The global player supplies it products in 180 nations having 323 stores outside USA and has been actively participating in promotion of sporting and leisure activities, since its very inception. Nike recorded phenomenal growth during 1970s and 1980s because of sound business strategies and practices of its major strategic planners. Indeed, the major reason behind Nike’s phenomenal success is focus on quality and excellent marketing that persuaded the customers to switch toward Nike’s premium brands. (Shareholders’ Report, 2010) Since, Nike has been operational in over 180 nations, it has employed highly educated, experienced and professional personnel who administer, manage and control entire production and supply chain. The Board consists of 10 independent Directors and ‘one outside director who is not independent’. The Chairman of company is Philip H. Knight, while Mark G. Parker enjoys the responsibility of President and Chief Executive Officer (CEO). Here is the list that includes names of all 13 top managers. (Shareholders’ Report, 2010) To become world’s leading supplier of sports apparel, equipment, shoes and related accessories by producing and selling top quality premium products across the globe. To value our customers so that they receive satisfaction from our want-satisfying optimal quality and durable branded

Sunday, August 25, 2019

Alto Chemicals Europe Case Study Example | Topics and Well Written Essays - 500 words

Alto Chemicals Europe - Case Study Example Graaff suggested that the company should focus on its strengths and resort to ‘non-price’ selling. The skillful sales force should highlight superior technical service and ACE’s reputation as a reliable supplier while closing a sales deal. Graaff strongly advocated that the sales force should focus on converting more accounts from Barium to Tin. The intent was to generate business from small and medium-sized firms. Customer segments like wire and cable that were not price sensitive were also to be targeted under the new strategy to prevent price erosion. As a rule, ACE was to adopt the strategy of price leadership and not compete in the market merely by ‘meeting Barium prices’. Graaff envisaged that central coordination would help in regional optimization. Thus the headquarters took on the role of setting price and volume targets for the subsidiaries. In general, ACE was to pay less attention to low price markets and focus on high price markets. Compensation Plan The initial reaction from the sales personnel suggests that they are averse to the changes put forth by Graaff. Therefore a suitable compensation plan is to be devised to motivate the sales force to adopt the new strategy. It is recommended that the sales personnel are given incentive on each account they convert from Barium to Tin. A fixed, upfront amount should also be paid to them when they a small and medium-sized enterprise becomes a customer.

Saturday, August 24, 2019

Comparison of Models Paper Essay Example | Topics and Well Written Essays - 500 words

Comparison of Models Paper - Essay Example According to researchers, a psychological model like etiology is becoming common regardless of the fact that it increases mental complications among individuals. As such, a need arises to provide superior health care and preventive services like psychological therapies to ensure the development a healthy nation (Harvi, 2005). The complications of the model demand effective adherence to nursing care policies and adoption of relevant precautionary measures. Medical practitioners asserts that clear methods of ensuring absolute eradication of the disorder among individuals is based on integration of quality medical systems that ensure provision of the psychological therapies. Therefore, Individuals should be acquainted with the causes of the complication and its mitigation measures to avert losses. The biological model highlights mental disorders that influence an individual’s response behavior and perception on diverse issues. The model affects the brain capacity by destroying vital cells just like psychosocial model; however, the effects differ. This means that psychological complications affect an individual’s etiological system and conceptualization while biological model delimits the response capacity. According to researchers, the complications of biological model pose severe response challenges to individuals; thus, hampering their cognitive thinking. Response to diverse elements in the society is critical in ensuring rational execution of activities. Harvi (2005) who is a renowned researcher and health expert gives credible information on the effects of the psychological model disorders since it leads mental complications. The disorders influence an individual’s ability to perform exemplarily since it destroys mental cells that help in conceptualization. He asserts that mitigation measures should be adopted since the prevalence of the disorder is increasing. This

Friday, August 23, 2019

Human Development and Learning Term Paper Example | Topics and Well Written Essays - 750 words

Human Development and Learning - Term Paper Example Empirical research asserts that there are various factors that tremendously put learners at risk (Crandell, 2008). In some cases, the factors may be triggered by biological factors and environmental factors. Therefore, there are numerous tactics that can be used by teachers in order to reduce the occurrence of certain behaviors in the classroom. In the scenario presented, the student demonstrates a variety of risky behaviors. Firstly, he is a sixteen-year-old tenth grader who sleeps in class frequently. Secondly, he defaces textbooks and desks in the classroom. Thirdly, he blatantly refuses to answer questions in the classroom. In addition, the student also exhibits poor oral reading skills and reads at a sixth-grade level. Another risk factor is the fact that the student is not social since; he does not have many friends. There are several factors that may have attributed to these problems. According to the details presented, the student is exposed to several risk factors that are p ortrayed by the behaviors presented. First, the issue of sleeping in class is a serious risk factor to the student. In this case, the student may be sleeping in class because he is probably tired since he works after school. The other reason why he may be sleeping in class is because he does not care or comprehend what is being taught in the classroom. To help the student with this issue, I can assign him various tasks around the classroom. For example, I can involve the student in taking the attendance of the class daily. This can substantially cut down on the sleeping issue. I can also assign him with various tasks that are aimed at improving his concentration in the classroom. The other risk behavior that puts the student into risk is vandalizing of textbooks and desks in the classroom. According to the scenario given, the student is seemingly destructive in nature. He might be doing this in order to get attention or, he does not understand the content of the book. Furthermore, h e may be destroying the desks and books due to the fact that he feels dumb. Further analysis also asserts that the student does not answer direct questions in the classroom. He may be doing this because he is probably embarrassed to answer the questions asked wrongly. This fear and embarrassment are the main factors that are restraining Jane from active participation in the classroom. Therefore, as a teacher I can use the student as an active classroom helper hence keeping him away from such misdeeds. I can also notify him that I will be asking him a question. Through this, he will have plenty of time to think about the correct answer. The student also has difficulties in his oral and reading skills. This cannot be identified as a direct behavior. However, the fact that the student has difficulties in his reading and oral skills points out that he may be under a lot of aggravation. In order to help the student with this issue, I am going to assign him with a textbook that enables hi m cover some reading material. In addition, I can also assign a helper to the student in order for him to improve his reading skills. I can also help him to start a vocabulary book in order to improve his understanding in oral skills. In conclusion, the student is not socially active. He does not mingle with his fellow peers and has unusually few friends. This is not a

Thursday, August 22, 2019

Biology is Beauty Essay Example for Free

Biology is Beauty Essay The article â€Å"Biology is Beauty† by Geoffrey Cowley touches on the aspects behind beauty. The article states that everyone shares a sense of what is attractive. Basically, Cowley is stating that people are attracted to what is on the outside, even if we do not know it. Even though points of attraction can vary over societies, beauty is an innate quality we all think of. The article touches on a few examples that the author feels explains. First, Cowley says that humans love symmetry; people prefer other people whose physical features are symmetric. These findings on symmetry were proven to be true despite race or gender. To prove this point, the author provided data from a study at the University of Texas. The study took 3 and 6 month old children and showed them series of photos. There were sets of photos with 2 photos at a time, one considered attractive and another considered unattractive. The study showed that the babies spent considerably more time staring at the photos of attractive people. The study was run multiple times using female and males of different races. This study is trying to show that humans are prewired to favor more attractive people. Further into the article the author mentions the connection between beauty and body type. Men and women have tendencies to like people with better body types, more so with men. Certain animals choose their mates off which is the most physically dominant, and the article suggests humans are not so far off. The article provides the views of the skeptics but states their research proves their assumptions. The article has a few positive and negative aspects. A pro to this article is fact that men are attracted to women with better bodies. This is generally true in society for both men and women. However, this statement is not always true. Humans are not so much attracted to a person with the best body type, but more so the body type that suites their needs the best. People are individuals and attractiveness to body types is not so much an innate quality. There is some truth to fact that symmetrical faces are more appealing. Physical attractiveness does first ignite interactions between two people but it is not the most overlaying factor as the article suggests. Beauty does not begin and end on the outside; a person’s inner qualities define them just as much, if not more, than their physical beauty. Humans do share qualities with animals as the article states, but overall the individuality of people is truly what  defines their beauty. When it comes to accredit this article to be published, I feel that it should. Even though I do not fully agree with all the aspects of this article, the statistical data the author shows holds some merit. This article brings up controversy as well, putting people at odds on how much beauty really matters.

Wednesday, August 21, 2019

A Hardball Leadership Essay Example for Free

A Hardball Leadership Essay Politics is a battlefield for power. Throughout history, politics play an important role in shaping leaders and forming powerful states. Wars are even conducted to be able to get the advantage of politics. However nowadays, to get ahead into politics warfare is not necessary; it all depends on how an individual handles it. It is more than just the leadership skills, the charisma and the motivation to serve. It is the usage of the smartest strategies to get acquainted with the ‘who’ and to get the ‘what’. â€Å"The end justifies the means. Machiavelli famously imprinted these words in the world of politics. For Machiavelli, politics is more than just a career, it is an art that should be mastered and should be maintained. For Chris Matthews, politics is a game that should be learned by playing according to a set of rules. Both authors have goals in mind: to be on top of the power. Their works serve as guidelines on handling politics. Machiavelli and Matthews provide strategies on how to be an influential and effective political figure. These rules were patterned in the context of their current society. Though Machiavelli’s attack on The Prince is more aggressive than Matthews, this is mainly because of the political turmoil that has occurred during his time. Matthews on the other hand, wrote practical approaches that can be applied not just in government but as well as in business, job promotion or other aspects of life. This is to convey that politics is everywhere. Nonetheless, despite the differences between Matthews and Machiavelli, their works are cohesively direct to the path of power. To be the best player in the field of politics, one must maximize everything – including flaws and opponents – to his or her advantage. While Machiavelli focused more on state affairs, Matthews applied strategies not just to politics but to general ways of life. Like Machiavelli, Matthews related in his book on how to rise to power and maintaining it the moment it is achieved. The spread of influence and the utilization of wits will be able to bring someone to the top. Matthews enumerated his practical strategies that people within the Washington circle used. The ability to appear powerful is one of the tactics which Machiavelli has also cited. The embodiment of power is important to acquire power itself. From the famous saying of ‘what the mind conceive the body will achieve,’ people and competitors will believe a person portraying as a powerful individual. It creates a strong impression. To convince others that one has a power; it should reflect the outer attributes and incorporate the attitudes of a powerful entity. The Politician will have to utilize everything to be able to reach the top and at the top, his resources should be exhausted even more to maintain his or her stature. The Prince has the same aim. Machiavelli described most of his tactics with the likes of being a fox and to be a lion at the same time. On the other hand, Matthews associated it with a term of aggressive sports. In the field of sports, an athlete needs to play hard and it is necessary to lay out the strategies to be able to win the game. The aspects of deception and manipulation clearly reflect a Machiavellian theme situated in the White House. The politician works closely with the enemies rather than shunning them away. It gives the politician an opportunity to watch the actions of the enemy directly. Their capabilities can be used in favor of the politician’s gain. Both authors have stated the importance of alliances to strengthen influence and gain trust. Machiavelli stressed the importance of taking sides rather than going neutral. Win or lose, the Prince still has allies to aid him when crisis comes. Matthews mentioned having alliances to gain loyal supporters. He was able to portray in Washington, that people who actually do favors for the politician become great allies. The work of Chris Matthews is often compared with Machiavelli. Both of them preached the same aim of acquiring power, though their subjects are different. It can be viewed that Machiavelli’s The Prince is solely based on an individualistic approach since he focused on monarchies as a source of power. On the contrary, Matthews’ approach is more inter-personal. By the title of his book Hardball: How Politics Is Played Told By One Who Knows The Game, it gives the impression of sports which is composed of individuals and teams. To be on top means to be the captain of the game. Hardball can be a useful reference for people who want to get ahead with life. As mentioned earlier, Matthews’ approach is not as aggressive as Machiavelli. This can be applied in other aspects of life because as what Matthews mentioned in his introduction, â€Å"there are enduring human truths in the rules that politicians play by† (Matthews 17). Matthews depicts politics as an exciting and thrilling environment where the most amusing personalities are passionately involved. Machiavelli, on the other hand, gave a cruel and ruthless picture. Since politics is compared with sports, the major player from Matthews’ book is a prominent figure in world politics. The United States is one of the most influential countries, economic-wise and political wise. As a state, the U. S. is good at keeping their alliances. The long years of friendship with other countries (i. e. Great Britain) contributed to numerous gains which helped the US to be a super power in the international community. Behind its status is the most powerful political figure in the United States. For the upcoming 2008 US Presidential election, it is notable to mention a candidate that created a name for him as the first colored American to be nominated for presidency. Barack Obama can be a perfect example of a major player in Matthews’ political field. Being raised in a multi-racial background, this became an asset for him to reach different minorities in the country. This particular asset of Obama became one of his forefronts of his campaign which focused on thriving for change. Modern United States is a diverse country made up of various racial origins and Obama thought that his colored skin can be an advantage. Obama revealed in his memoir Dreams from my Father about his previous lifestyle of smoking and drinking. Relating this particular detail of his life, it can be seen as a target for his opponent to dwell on. However, this can also be viewed as a method derived from Matthews’ book. Before the other party can even use it against him, he does the broadcasting himself. Admitting one’s flaw can lessen the negative impact of it, and the rivals will have to search for a new attack to use against the politician. Citing this example, it is seen how Chris Matthews’ strategies are put to use. This kind of political play inside the White House reflects how the United States moves in the arena of world politics. Taking that into account, Chris Matthews gives the readers a clear picture of the inner workings of America’s political center. Washington is portrayed as the battlefield, wherein politics is the game, and the athletes are the politicians who play hardball.

Gojira 1954 And Godzilla 1998 Film Studies Essay

Gojira 1954 And Godzilla 1998 Film Studies Essay Humans have been around for thousands of years. Today, many movies have been created based on stories and legends of influential people and life-changing events that were recorded in history. Inspiration for the 1954 film Gojira came about as a result of World War Two during the twentieth century. The devastation brought on Japan by the two nuclear bombs had inevitably raised a wide spread awareness about nuclear weapons and its radioactive destruction (Ragone 2007). Both, Gojiras and Godzillas creation were linked to the nuclear bomb. With reference to the 1998 film Godzilla, it can be seen that the creation of the terrible lizard was linked to French nuclear weapons testing in the French Polynesia. Similarly in the Japanese context, Gojira was shown to be linked not only to the atomic bombs, but the hydrogen ones as well. With the devastation of the two atomic bombs still fresh in the Japanese minds, further H-bomb tests were carried out near Japan and eventually, the radiation fallout directly impacted on the Japanese fishing industry, causing a sharp decline. With all these tragic events occurring within a short span of time, Gojira was concocted out as an incarnation of the war itself (Ragone 2007 pg. 35) as the producers wanted a real-world scenario that reflected the Japanese concerns that time. In order to effectively protray the nature of destruction caused in the films Gojira and Godzilla, visual effects became increasingly important as it was necessary to provide an acceptable level of realism for audiences who will be watching the film. Therefore, this led to the development and creation of different visual effect techniques. Then with the advancements in technology, some older techniques were modified and re-developed accordingly. In this investigation, it will bring to light the common, yet contrasting comparisons of filmmaking between the analogue and digital eras. 2| Scene Selection | I will be comparing two parallel special effects sequences in both Gojira and Godzilla. A breakdown of this complex scene will be accompanied with a description of its technical aspects in laymans terms. The scenes involve the two animals going on a rampage through a major city at night causing massive damages. It also includes military forces trying to eliminate the creature. These two scenes were specifically chosen as I will like to highlight the core visual effects elements that can be found throughout the films. 3| The Character| It was called Gojira, but was later known as Godzilla for the American audiences. (Godzilla, King of the Monsters 1998) In the 1954 Gojira, visual effects director Eiji Tsuburaya pioneered a technique called Suit-mation. The main reason for the introduction of Suit-mation was because of the need to complete the job within a short timespan (Ragone 2007). If stop-motion technique was used, it would have taken them seven years to complete the film. The suit was constructed mainly from hand-stirred latex and then refined subsequently. Even after refinements, the suit could only be worn for several minutes due to the unbearable heat and almost non-existent ventilation within. Due to its flexibility limitations and tremendous weight, the first suit was scrapped as the actor inside could not even move. In certain scenes where only the legs of Gojira were filmed, the suit was cut into two and attached to suspenders, allowing the actor to be more comfortable while filming (Godzilla, Designing Godzilla featurette 2005). Figure |Man in halved Gojira suit Development on analogue visual effect techniques can be seen clearly in the 1998 Godzilla, when Tsuburayas technique of Suitmation was used. Trained professional puppeteers were hired for shots that needed more physical realism with the miniatures that they were interacting with. Eventually, the Godzilla suit would be replaced with a CG Godzilla. Animatronics, a technique similar to the Suitmation technique, was introduced. In this case, instead of Human actors in the creatures costumes, machines were used to replace them. This method allowed many close-up interaction shots which enabled a high level of realism (Aberly 1998). The suit was not entirely presented as a guy-in-a-suit. Primitive visual effects were added to give Gojira a scarier feel. In the shot where Gojira was tearing up Tokyo and boasting its bright flashing hind fins, hundreds of cells were hand drawn frame by frame (Ryfle 1998). In several shots where Gojira was using its atomic breath, the creature was actually a hand puppet (Godzilla 2005). With much use for puppetry and animatronics, computer generated graphics still triumphed as the best tool for visual effects in the digital era. In addition, with the developments of computer animation software and techniques, realism took to a new height. Puppeteers whom took the role of Gojira would soon be replaced with computer animators sitting behind the desk. While the actor in the Gojira suit was acting for the scene, he would be filmed using a high speed camera at around 240 frames-per-second. The film would then be projected at 24 frames-per-second giving the feel of weight and size (Faller 2010). Using modern day tools to make Godzilla (1998) move, instead of shooting a guy-in-a-suit at a high frame rate, Centropolis FX had Godzilla key-frame animated in the computer. Due to the difficulty of animating such a huge creature, the team of animators grew from twelve to sixty (Martin 1998). Subsequently, After many failed attempts of animating a proper walk cycle, the team managed to get the same feel of the high speed camera shots by animating Godzillas movement at a slower speed (Martin 1998). From using chicken wires and glued latex for the construction of the 1954 Gojira (Designing Godzilla featurette 2005), polygons and NURBS took over in the digital era. The Gojira suit was made by wrapping thin wires and bamboo with chicken wire. Cushions and fabric were also added for the actors comfort. Hand stirred latex was later applied onto the suit as skin (Designing Godzilla featurette 2005). Even though CGI was of an advanced technology, there were still setbacks. Modelers had to split up their work of digitizing the entire creature by manually using a stylus to draw out every single mesh into the computer. Furthermore, the software was not perfect and had its limitations. A Special Projects team was sent from Soft Image to trouble-shoot problems encountered by the CGI crew (Aberly 1998). Ideally, Gojira was thought to have suffered burns and scars from the H-bomb test. The textures and the suit of Gojira were hand crafted by two people. Tireless hours were spent modeling the skin bumps by using latex and then gluing it onto the skin (Godzilla, Designing Godzilla featurette 2005). However in the modern day Godzilla, there was the technology of displacement mapping whereby the 3D geometry of Godzilla would be displaced using a texture map that contained details of the skin. With the model rendered out in different passes (Martin 1998), the process was more effective and also gave compositors more freedom in manipulating the image to create a realistic Godzilla. 4| The Set | As the two Godzillas enter the city and begin their trail of destruction, the set they were on had to look real. Although both movies used miniatures for filming, this special effects technique was inevitably developed and refined extensively due to technological advancements. 4.1| Miniatures | Miniatures for Gojira (1954) were made for use as a city scape. Tsuburaya had the miniatures built mostly in the 1/25 scale, with the exception of the Diet building which was a 1/33 scale (Ragone 2007). With reference to the scale of the Gojira suit with the miniature set scale, it created an illusion of Gojiras large size. Buildings were made in a forced perspective method where buildings closer to the camera were built bigger and those at the horizon smaller. The sets were actually built on wooden platforms to allow cameramen to do low angle shots, making the buildings look even bigger (Ryfle 1998). Thin plaster and wood were used for the buildings framework. Elaborate planning of the citys construction included custom made streets that would create footprints when being stepped on. Plaster was poured over sawdust to create that effect (Ryfle 1998). Digital techniques such as CG effects animation helped the 1998 Godzilla in creating street cracks. With the help of Thomas Hollier, a senior technical director, street impact technology was created. This allowed a pipeline for a more effective way for animating pavements that would crack under Godzillas weight (Martin 1998). Miniatures were also widely used in the making of Godzilla (1998). Huge 1/24 size models were built to accommodate Godzillas path of destruction. Huge 1/10 models were also built for close-up shots. The buildings were much more detailed with some featuring plumbing and even desks. There were several miniature buildings that were reused from The Hudsucker Proxy and The Fifth Element. With this, a great amount of production time was saved as redesigning of the rest of the set was no longer required. Although both Godzilla movies incorporated miniatures, Godzilla (1998) added extensive digital compositing over its miniatures to give it more realism (Martin 1998). Techniques adopted for destroying the miniature buildings were much more sophisticated in the newer film. In the 1954 version, kerosene soaked rags were used to set the miniatures ablaze (Ragone 2007). For those that were to be destroyed by Gojiras fiery breath, explosives were set behind the buildings. Several buildings even had gasoline sprayed on them to make them burn more easily. For buildings that were supposed to be destroyed by physical contact, small cracks were made in those miniatures so that it would crumble in a more believable fashion when Gojira crushed it. It was a daunting task for the actor inside as he had to get it right on the first take as there was not enough budget and time for a rebuild (Ryfle 1998). In 1998, there were more types of pyrotechniques available and one such example would be the military type. Different methods were developed to be used on the different types of destruction. As Godzilla races through the city with its tail in free motion causing damages to buildings, cable pulls were attached to sandbags in the buildings interiors. When they were pulled, a trail of damage would occur as if Godzillas tail had swept through them. Mechanical rigs were also used to blast through a building with the CG Godzilla to be composited in later. The Chrysler Building in the scene which was destroyed by a misfire from the attack helicopters were very complex mechanical rigs. Right after the top floors exploded, it was orchestrated to shift and descend towards the camera (Aberly 1998). On the whole, miniature destruction could be choreographed with more control. Miniature vehicles were also used on the set for both films. The military elements used in the Gojira scene were tanks. Extensive pyrotechnical effects were used for the firing of the tank weapons. When the tank shells hit Gojira, blasts were created by wire rigged charges (Ryfle 1998). Comparing this to a similar scene in the 1998 movie, instead of tanks, CG Apache attack helicopters were used. Tracer fire, blasts including debris and smoke from the damage were all entirely computer generated. In addition of the rain and lighting effects which included the volumetric searchlights, RenderMan shaders were developed solely for the wet look of the helicopter. However, at the shot when Godzilla decides to lash out at the attacking military helicopters, a miniature was used. With creative ingenuity, a 1/8 scale model was made loaded with pyrotechnics and detonated (Martin 1998). 4.2| Atmosphere | To create the perfect terrorising atmosphere, Gojira (1954) was shot using a low-key lighting effect (Biodrowski 2007). This is because Low key lighting would create a darker toned picture with contrasting bright contours which is more suitable for dramatic shots. The grainy cinematography would also feed an extra punch to the eerie effect throughout the film (Ryfle et al. 2007). With the advancements in technology, analogue methods would be often replaced by colour grading and compositing. In Godzilla (1998), instead of using a low-key effect to give the dramatic shots, the environment was given a CG rain touch up. This was a complicated scene where many effects animations were applied. Not only was computer generated imagery used, acquisition footage was also being recorded for the environments. From rain to shattering windows, these footages would later be composited at different scales to tie up the scene together with the CG Godzilla (Martin 1998). Lighting was a key element in creating the perfect environment. Real lights from orange and bluish street lamps had to be reflected onto the CG Godzilla. Due to location shots where real lights were aimed at buildings when Godzilla was supposed to be in the foreground, artists had to rotoscope out the real lights and animate the CG ones. More complications had arisen when Godzilla rampaged and took out the real street lamps. Firstly, lights from the real lamps had to be rotoscoped out. A CG lamp would then be created and animated to flip or be destroyed (Martin 1998). Although this entire sequence would seem small compared to the main character, it made the scene look believable. Another small detail to add on is the stationary cars from the live action footage that underwent rotoscoping when Godzilla stomped past them. Compositing artists had to create rotoscope mattes for the vehicles and animate their bounce by hand. The add-on of the camera shake at post-production level also helped with the realism (Martin 1998). 5| The Conclusion| In my chosen scenes which depict the destructions from the streets of Tokyo to Manhattan, both Gojira and Godzilla held similar iconic symbolisms and metaphors. In the 1950s when Gojira was made, there were many underlying reasons for its creation. The focal point was the atomic bombs. Since Japan had directly experienced the impact of the bombs, it would have held a deep significance for them. To a certain extent, it was believed that without the two atomic bombs that were dropped on Hiroshima and Nagasaki, Gojira would not have surfaced. Gojiras rampage through Tokyo would serve as a reminder of the recent devastating nuclear attack on Japan to the survivors of the atomic bombs as well as to the rest of the Japanese. Gojira also created awareness on new nuclear weapon testing and how our interference with Mother Nature might one day prove apocalyptic and leave a trail of death and devastation. Today, in the modern world context where technological advances are ever improving and as well as relative peace, Godzilla (1998) still carries the same essence as it did 44 years ago. With the threat of existing nuclear weapons and even deforestation which leads to Global Warming, metaphorically, Godzilla still serves as a reminder and warning of an impending disaster if we do not change our ways. Iconically, Godzilla would be referred to as a present doomsday movie. From comparing the different special effects techniques that were used in 1954 to those used in 1998, one could see how the technology leap into the digital era made a big difference in improving film quality and the workflow efficiency of special effects artists. Even though gone were the days where analogue techniques such as filming in front of glass mattes were regarded as the modern methods of special effects, several analogue techniques are still considered relevant with the present world. The integration of both analogue and digital effects proved to be a success in creating a hyper-real Godzilla. With the age of computers and constant development on digital techniques and tools, no one knows what the future might hold for us as special effects artists. However, like all foundations of buildings, the journey of learning the history and methodology of analogue techniques should be deemed as equally important for future developments. 6| Bilbliography| BOOKS Aberly, R., 1998. The making of godzilla. London: Titan books. Kalat, D., 1997. A critical history and filmography of tohos godzilla series. 2nd ed. USA: Mcfarland and company, inc. Ragone, A., 2007. Eiji tsuburaya: masters of monsters. San Francisco: Chronicle books. Ryfle, S., 1998. Japans favourite mon-star: the unauthorised biography of the big g. Canada: ECW press. JOURNALS Martin, K., 1998. The sound and the fury. Cinefex, 74(3), 84-107. WEBSITES Faller, G., 2010. Tsuburaya, eiji. Available from: http://www.filmreference.com/Writers-and-Production-Artists-Ta-Vi/Tsuburaya-Eiji.html [Accessed 9 October 2010] Biodrowski, S., 2007. Gojira(1954)/Godzilla, king of the monsters(1954)-Film and DVD review. Available from: http://cinefantastiqueonline.com/2007/11/godzilla-1954-film-dvd-review/ [Accessed 25th October 2010] Ryfle, S. and Goldstein, B., 2007. Godzilla 50th Anniversary Pressbook. Available from: http://www.scifijapan.com/articles/2007/12/06/godzilla-50th-anniversary-pressbook/ [Accessed 1st October 2010] DVD Godziszewski, E., Ryfle, S. and Aiken, S., 2005. Godzilla. DVD. UK: British Film Institute. Godziszewski, E., 2005. Godzilla-Designing Godzilla featurette. DVD. UK: British Film Institute. VIDEO Godzilla, King of the Monsters, 1998. Video. UK: BBC Video.

Tuesday, August 20, 2019

Educational Psychology :: essays research papers fc

Educational Psychology ? Mr. ? Psychology 16 Oct. 1996 The field of psychology that deals with the ability to solve educational problems and to improve educational situations is the field of educational psychology. Educational psychology is sometimes referred to as an applied field, meaning, one in which the objective is to solve immediate practical problems (James 29). The beginnings of educational psychology were initiated by Aristotle in his formulation of the laws of association. These laws: similarity, contrast, and contiguity, supplemented by frequency, are the beginnings to an experimental science (Piaget 9). As the science began to develop, the educational psychologists did little more than administer mental tests, which started with the Stanford-Binet test (IQ test). Today, the science has been expanded to include counseling students, teachers, administrators, and parents, in an effort to help make the school environment one which is most effective in promoting learning. As an example, if a student in school commits a disciplinary action, instead of being indiscriminately punished, that student would be sent to see the school psychologist to find out the causes of the students misbehavior and deal with them accordingly (Frandsen 92). Though studies of educational surveys, there were nine major factors that increased learning. These nine factors can be placed into three groups: student aptitude, instruction, and psychological environments. Student aptitude includes (1) ability or prior achievement as measured by score on educational test; (2) development as indexed by chronological age or stage of maturation; and (3) motivation or self-concept as shown by personality tests and students' perseverance on learning tasks. Instruction can be thought of as (4) the amount of time students engage in learning and (5) the quality of the instructional experience. Psychological environments include: (6) the "curriculum of the home," (7) the morale of the classroom social group, (8) the peer group outside school, and (9) the amount of leisure-time television viewing. These are the factors that influence academic achievement and behavioral learning (A.A.E. 66). Educational psychology does not only hold true for humans, but also for animals. Ivan Pavlov displayed the principle of association by applying it to the salivary reflex. He trained his dogs to salivate at the sound of a bell alone if previously they had so responded to meat and the bell together. In another case, B. F. Skinner trained pigeons to play a form of table tennis by rewarding the birds with food pellets each time they hit a ball into a designated trough (James 66). This area of psychology is used today to teach specific subjects such as foreign languages, arithmetic and mathematics, reading, writing, spelling, and the sciences. However, teaching of these subject requires a person that

Monday, August 19, 2019

The Time Machine :: Free Essay Writer

The Time Machine The Time Traveller had built a time machine that would allow him to journey through time. He traveled into the future to the year 802,700. It is an extremely different world. It seemed almost utopian-like populated by a childish people, the Eloi. He studied and observed these creatures. Then his time machine was stolen. It is then when he discovers the existence of another people, the vicious Morlocks. Unlike, the nonchalant Eloi, the Morlocks live in desperation and must survive by cannibalism. It seems like a Capitalist system gone wrong with the upper class (Eloi) and the lower class (Morlocks). The lazy rich would play and relax all day becoming frail and helpless. Meanwhile, the poor were living underground and began to hunt the Eloi. The theory that a proletariat driven to the depths will devour the upper class is exemplified. While in search of his time machine, the Time Traveller learned about this future world. He befriends an Eloi, who he named Weena. Then he himself was hunted by the Morlocks. He escaped by scaring them with fire. The Morlocks had hidden his machine. He finally found it and returned back to his own time and home in England. The Time Machine certainly makes you think. We picture the future as very advanced and evolved with much more technology than we have now. But in this novel, the reader can see that the progress of mankind could almost go in a cycle. We start off at a low level and as a species, we grow and evolve becoming more advanced. We can only reach a certain peak before we go back down again, which is what happened to the Eloi and the Morlocks. It is interesting to note that technology is not what saved the Time Traveller from these future people. It was fire. Fire scared and killed the Morlocks. In this future, there is no sign of knowledge and what was learned in all of the years of the past. The museums, which are supposed to be filled with all of mankind's greatest achievements, were all in ruins. No one seemed to care.

Sunday, August 18, 2019

Zen and the Art of Motorcycle Maintenance - Reconciliation of Western a

Zen and the Art of Motorcycle Maintenance - The Reconciliation of Western and Eastern Philosophy The differences in Western and Eastern philosophy are marked. Eastern thinking has slowly become â€Å"discovered† by the West; meanwhile, the development of Western thought and philosophy has come under close scrutiny by modern and postmodern philosophers and thinkers as being flawed at its core. The German philosopher Martin Heidegger came to the conclusion that â€Å"Western philosophy is a great error† (Barrett xi). The manner in which Western thought was founded, the course of its development, and its incursion into every facet of life in the Western world has been and is now being questioned on all fronts by leading critics and thinkers. Robert Pirsig, in his book Zen and the Art of Motorcycle Maintenance, describes in detail the development of the Western philosophical tradition, and how it has shaped Western society. In doing so, he offers a critique of certain aspects of Western thought that resulted from a momentous battle for the â€Å"mind of man† (Pirsig 381). What came about was a fragmenting of the mind from matter, of perception from experience. In addition to outlining the history and philosophy behind Western thinking, he offers a rediscovery of the very concept that got buried under the â€Å"rubble of declining Athens† and Rome, buried deeply under the new champions of Western man: Reason, Intellect, Knowledge (Pirsig 391). Pirsig cites Thoreau in writing, â€Å"You never gain something but that you lose something† (387). This applies with direct impact to Western development. In understanding the world through â€Å"dialectic truths† man lost the ability to understand h ow to be part of the world, and â€Å"not an enemy of it† (Pirsig 3... ...not a divisive knife. It offers the ultimate solution to a fragmented mind, the dualistic world in which we live. Works Cited Barrett, William (ed.). Zen Buddhism: Selected Writings of D.T. Suzuki. New York: Doubleday, 1956. Blatavasky, Madame. The Secret Doctrine. Vol. 1. Theosophy Publishing, 1888. Capra, Fritjof. The Tao of Physics: An Exploration of the Parallels Between Modern Physics and Eastern Mysticism. Boston: Shambhala Press, 1991. Kant, Emmanuel. Critique of Pure Reason. Trans. Norman Kemp Smith. New York: St. Martin’s Press, 1965. Lao Tzu. Tao Te Ching. Trans. Mitchell, Stephen. New York: HarperCollins Press, 1988. Pirsig, Robert. Zen and the Art of Motorcycle Maintenance. New York: HarperCollins Press, 1974. Sprague, Rosamund Kent (ed.). The Older Sophists. Columbia, South Carolina: University of South Carolina Press, 1972.

Saturday, August 17, 2019

Macbeths feelings

Macbeth feels great remorse and guilt for the act that he lust committed. He wash's very much that he did not kill the King and this Is shown through his excerpts in Act 2 scene 2. He describes his hands as being a ‘sorry sight' for they are drenched in the King's blood. The blood is has a very symbolic meaning for Macbeth as the blood does not just show that he has killed the King but also that he has shown shame towards the one closest to God, and that it has now been proven that he must go ahead with being crowned King.He constantly suffers psychologically and contemplates that people will find out about his killing of the King and explains that he heard a voice saying that he has killed sleep so he will ‘sleep no more'. He starts acting very nervous towards the people around him, especially the servants who he killed when he saw them straight away. He explains to Macadam that it is not possible to feel ‘wise, amazed, temperate and furious, loyal and neutral' all at once, and that he just killed them because he saw the daggers in their hands and It would not be fair If they survived.Macbeth over exaggerates his murder eying that the blood from his hands will turn the oceans ‘green to red' and that ‘Neptune ocean would never clean his hands of this act'. Macbeth is starting to act guilty towards the murder and he is regretting largely what he did. There are also streaks of fear in his thinking patterns when he says to Lady Macbeth that he is ‘afraid to think what I have done', being the King's slaughter. These comments from Macbeth explain to us that he really does feel great remorse for killing the high Liege and that hopes no one will ever find out his horrendous crime

Friday, August 16, 2019

International Product Life Cycle Essay

The international product life cycle (IPLC) theory, developed and verified by economists to explain trade in a context of comparative advantage, describes the diffusion process of an innovation across national boundaries. The life cycle begins when a developed country, having a new product to satisfy consumer needs, wants to exploit its technological breakthrough by selling abroad. Other advanced nations soon start up their own production facilities, and before long LDCs do the same Efficiency/comparative advantage shifts from developed countries to developing nations. Finally, advanced nations, no longer cost-effective, import products from their former customers. The moral of this process could be that an advanced nation becomes a victim of its own creation. IPLC theory has the potential to be a valuable framework for marketing planning on a multinational basis. In this section the IPLC is examined from the marketing perspective, and marketing implications for both innovators and initiators are discussed below. Stages and Characteristics There are five distinct stages (Stage 0 through Stage 4) in the IPLC. Table below shows the major characteristics of the IPLC stages, with the United States as the developer of the innovation in question. Exhibit shows three life-cycle curves for the same innovation: one for the initiating country (i. . , the United States in this instance), one for other advanced nations, and one for LDCs. For each curve, net export results when the curve is above the horizontal line; if under the horizontal line, net import results for that particular country. As the innovation moves through time, directions of all three curves change. Time is relative, because the time needed for a cycle to be completed varies from one kind of product to another.

Thursday, August 15, 2019

Importance of Play in Children Essay

In the life of an infant there are many important for the healthy development and learning, however there are many variations on how to learn and develop, by the influence exercised in the future environment. Among all variations which may be mentioned one of utmost importance is the game for all the benefits that entails. Play is where the child occupies most of their time, encouragement and the acquisition of a full development in areas that would not be achieved otherwise. Supplementing play time to the early years of the child is of paramount importance, because this way they create emotional ties to the person who accompanies him on his playing time. The development of both cognitive and psychomotor also is achieved with the help of the game. Most of the game has as main focus to educate, is a method used as therapy for children’s learning. Play helps a child not only to entertain also a way to communicate, according to a recent report articulo. org (2011) is the natural way they have to communicate. Experiencing the environment will give them the ability to develop imagination, reality reflect and change his game. The importance of play in the lives of children in the first months, where everything is at your fingertips in a toy including his own body, his hands and feet. The game is to educate the child from his first moves; early education positively reinforces the child’s development. The child is born with the need to learn everything during their life cycle, because they only know how to eat and mourn. The babies need to play is constant, however the games for baby stimulation should be used with caution always thinking age. The game is directly tied to the limitations of the baby, example would be when he considers the baby babbling and playing with bubbles of saliva while moving his limbs, has cognitive as well as psychomotor limitations. The development will be giving as time passes, because anger having more movement and coordination to reach other levels of play. The use of sensory play helps child development, games where touch, vision and hearing play a central role. The game that touch help to develop a greater capacity, due to the different textures of toys, squeeze toys, direct contact with the environment, but also help the child’s hearing and vision. The motivation to child through auditory stimuli, help in its development, the ability to identify auditory stimuli while playing will help in their development. The visual stimuli used in games such as colors, shapes of animals will be of great help to the baby’s cognitive development. The dedication of the adults to play with their children is essential for the development and utility you may have. The toys are inanimate objects until someone uses them and gives them life in the middle of the game for one of many reasons for parents to become involved in their children’s development through play. Children and the game is tied, will be the basis to prepare individuals to be productive in adulthood. The game is and will be an essential part of child development, support generated by the game in different areas of the child is more than enough reason to consider it very important. The importance of parents to be part of the game, but you have to be strengthened day by day involvement. The benefits of play are but the consequences it may have on the child and child development will be very helpful in their life cycle. INFLUENCE OF GROUPS IN CHILDREN. Humans learn socialization through peer groups share which have an important role in the development during early childhood. The mom and dad influence helps to add the basic values that are the foundation, but the influence of a peer group is extremely strong in the child’s upbringing. Children socialize with their peers without being totally controlled by the power of their parents, and are free to socialize and be influenced by the group. The need felt by children of recognition and acceptance by others in your group. According to Sharon Powell (2009), the Leadership Training Center Princeton in his research found that peer acceptance influences the sense of security, the perception of the importance and independence in decision-making. Powell also noted in his research that supports the theory that happiness and adjustment of children, depends largely on the development of relations of the group they belong at specified times. The realization of the positive or negative influence on a child should be identified as soon as possible, however positive pressure monitored groups can be of great help to the child. A negative group can lead to bad behaviors, which the group perceives as acceptable. Negative influences in children compared with positive influences, you could tell from the breeding sites each child, the disproportionate percentages of conduct against misconduct in many cases leading to criminal situations. The negative orientation of the group is an important moderator of conduct between the influence and values established by the company, which is reflected in the child’s life during adolescence and adulthood. Imitation and realization among children is an element of similar behaviors, so the importance of specific lifestyle takes, such as games. Keeping children engaged in sports, academic, religious and other child would influence the direction to follow rules and be a productive part of society. The reality is that the groups are very important in children, but if they are unable to focus groups with pre-set goals, like-minded baseball teams overseas camps, that will keep the child focused on the ultimate prize. The groups have an important role in child development and should not be avoided by thinking of the negative influence which may represent the child. Socialization is very important in the development of the child, meet new friends, independence from parents in times of play, teamwork, and many other benefits that this brings. Acceptance of the groups and maintaining a monitoring group to which the child belongs is of utmost importance, however the successful development of the child to share with their peers will be paramount in making a choice for the father to allow or not group sharing. REFERENCES (2011) articulo. org (2009) Powell, Sharon http://www. princetonleadership. org

Local and National Provision Research Essay

Research and write about the local and national provision for your preferred sport. The aim of this assignment is to research the local and national provision for tennis. The main governing body for tennis is the Lawn Tennis Association. I will research how the LTA provides funding and helps players from a beginner level to and elite level. There are many ways in which a performer can improve and compete, I will research how these are done and what help is given. Often there isn’t sports provision for those with disabilities, i will investigate what is available in tennis. I will also research what is available in our area. Tennis venues in Suffolk include ? Park courts ? Clubs and village courts ? School and education facilities Tennis courts in parks are generally maintained and run by local authorities for example in Bury St Edmunds there are courts in the Abbey Gardens. Courts are expensive to hire at around à ¯Ã‚ ¿Ã‚ ½5 per hour. There are several clubs in West Suffolk for example The Risbygate Club in Bury St Edmunds. There is a joining fee for the club, which is quite expensive particularly for young people however, the subsequent cost of hiring the court is cheaper than / A number of villages in the West Suffolk area have their own communal courts which you can access providing you are a resident in the village, for example Bardwell has 2 courts. There are no indoor courts in West Suffolk therefore tennis is mostly played through spring and summer. Tennis lessons for children are available throughout the year in venues such as local leisure centres and schools where mini courts and practise sessions can be set up. For those who wish to compete there is the Glasswells tournament in the summer,in Bury St Edmunds, all other competitions take place further a field which require transport to get there. The LTA is the main tennis governing body. It makes these opening statements on its website â€Å"OUR VISION, To make Britain a great tennis nation. OUR MISSION, More players, Better players.† (www.LTA.org.uk) The LTA aims to develop tennis from the grass roots of tennis to international success. They have clear priorities, juniors, clubs and performance. They believe in order to succeed, tennis needs to be played from a young age, money is invested in encouraging very young children to the game and helping them develop their skills to become talented players who will represent their country. The British Tennis Foundation is the official tennis charity. It works alongside the LTA, to provide opportunity for young people and those with disabilities. It helps organise come and try sessions, national training programmes and international tournaments. The Central Council of Physical Recreation CCPR is responsible for distributing lottery money to national governing bodies, some of this money is given to the LTA to invest in the development of tennis. The National Coaching Federation NCF aims to improve the standard of coaching in the UK. It runs courses to ensure coaches are fully qualified and are able to coach participants to the very highest standards. This enables players to be coached my the very best and produce a very competitive edge. Many talented performers begin playing tennis at a very young age, they gradually move up through club age groups. When a youngster with talent is spotted their coaching becomes more intense and their level of competition increases. The LTA has a system of tennis coaching which begins young and carries on to senior tennis.   4-8years, mini tennis, this is fun and ensures tennis is enjoyable and played regularly 8-10years, club futures, clubs and coaches provide opportunities for juniors with talent to compete and be involved in club performance programmes 11-13years, county futures, talented players are spotted from club futures to be part of a nationwide programme at county level 11-14years, national futures, young competitors who have the right athletic ability, competitive attitude, mental balance and behaviour are chosen and are provided with the technique to succeed on the international stage   14-22years, academies and intermediate, preparing players to make the step from junior to senior game by providing competitions and physical conditioning 22+, senior players, intensive coaching and training. If a talented player wishes to pursue a career in tennis but also study for a degree at university, special scholarships are available to ensure top coaching is still available but alongside studies. Wheelchair tennis can be played against others in wheelchairs or able bodies players. The International Tennis Foundation regulates the wheelchair game. The ITF ensures wheelchair competitors can compete in the worlds most prestigious events. Wheelchair tennis can be played on regular tennis courts, so some facilities are available. Many wheelchair players are discriminated against and there are no wheelchair teams locally. This is because nationally wheelchair isn’t as widely played as able bodied tennis. Tennis provision is minimum at the moment, but it is higher than it has been. The LTA is committed to developing the game and with encouragement from those already participating I believe in the future tennis will have the best facilities and provision, regardless of their age, gender, or ability. www.wtatour.com www.itfwheelchairtennis.com www.itfjuniors.com www.minitennis.com www.btf.com www.lta.org.uk

Wednesday, August 14, 2019

Breakfast - By John Steinbeck

John Steinbeck was a known writer in the 30’s. He was known for writing about poverty in the 30’s with focus on the life of the exposed working class. His stories takes place around Salinas California where he was born. The short story Breakfast by John Steinbeck deals with the exposed people of the 30’s and their way of managing life with what they are given. The short story features a Narrator, whose name we are not told, however, the narrator is also the protagonist in his own story. The narrator tells us about a memory which brings joy to him when remembering details about it. At first he tells about himself walking along a country road on an early morning, feeling the cold while observing the light growing behind the eastern mountains. As he walks he smells fried bacon and baking bread. He sees a tent where a girl, an older man and a younger man sit. The men bid him a good morning and offers him to sit and eat breakfast with them. The narrator accepts and sits down with them being told that they pick cotton for their own clothes and then they eat and drink as much coffee as they can, refilling and refilling. While they had refreshed themselves with warm food the narrator observed the sun rising above the mountains spraying light upon the valley. The two men and the women offer the narrator to come along and pick cotton with them. However, the narrator declines the offer and separates from the cotton pickers. At the end of the story the reader returns to the narrators present where the he reflects upon the event. The story is located in a valley during the early morning just before dawn. In the beginning the setting is described with the words â€Å"lavender grey† and â€Å"black-blue†. He also feels the touch of the morning temperature as cold, but not painfully cold. All in all the setting we are introduced to at the opening of the story places the protagonist in a sad and colourless environment. Though, while he eats with the cotton pickers, the setting changes from cold and dark to light and red. You could say that the dark-blue and lavender grey colours in the before sunrise represent the lifelessness and sadness, while the red colour mixed with the light, spraying upon the valley, after sunrise represent warmth and joy. The two men and the woman, who the narrator meets, are poor hard working people, who are not wealthy in material. They don’t have chairs, they live in tents and their equipment is described as poor; â€Å"Beside the tent there was a flash of orange fire seeping out of the cracks of an old rusty iron stove. † Even though the cotton pickers have poor conditions they have certain traits that the protagonist remembers them for. Firstly, we are told that they make their own clothes from picking cotton and that they have only been eating well for twelve days. However, they still show generosity towards the protagonist and offer him breakfast. Therefore, we can call them generous. Secondly, they are full of contentment. Even though they live like nomads, finding cotton and food where they can and not living on much, they smile and keep a good vibe. Thirdly they are grateful to god and thank him for what they have; â€Å"The older man filled his mouth and he chewed and chewed and swallowed. Then he said, â€Å"God Almighty, it’s good†Ã¢â‚¬ . Their wealth is not measured in materialism but in attitude towards life. They are not given any names because each of them do not have their own character. This is because they represent a type of people and symbolizes traits. Their simplicity in symbolizing generosity, contentment and being gratefulness to god have a clear affection upon the protagonist. After the protagonist and the cotton pickers part we return to the narrator reflecting on the experience. Here he says; â€Å"That’s all. I know, of course, some of the reasons why it was pleasant. But there was some element of great beauty there that makes the rush of warmth when I think of it. † The sensation the protagonist gets from the experience is from the affection the people had on him with their traits. The details he remembers such as their personality and the sun rising above the mountain spraying a red gleam upon the valley just as he just finished the warm breakfast all culminates into something unique. However, the most significant about the memory is the affection the cotton pickers had and still have on the protagonist. The painting The honeymoon Breakfast from 1887 by Daniel Ridgway Knight contains a newly married couple sitting in the nature preparing their breakfast. All they have is some food and the company of one another, but they seem content about what they have. So in the same way as the cotton pickers the painting expresses their happiness through simplicity and content.

Tuesday, August 13, 2019

Essay ( stress ) Example | Topics and Well Written Essays - 1500 words

( stress ) - Essay Example According to Vrijkotte and others, stress can be defined as the physical or emotional tension. It is a feeling that is experienced when an individual is of the view that the demands are far above the resources that they can mobilize to handle the situation. In their works, Vrijkotte, Van Doornen and De Geus, reasoned that modern life is more stressful than the past, which cause a lot of stress to the person’s health. (Vrijkotte, et. al, 2000). â€Å"The preset world is marked by increased cases of stress that is evident in nearly every activity that we undertake.† as they claimed. This work will show the causes and effects of stress to describe how stress levels have risen over the last three decades. It will expose the some of the underlying factors on stress and its impact on people with focus on China and United Kingdom. Miller said that some work are associated with excessive stress as opposed to the normal work stress. The things within a person’s ability to control include taking personal responsibility for the improvement of a one’s emotional and physical well-being, identifying the pitfalls and avoiding them (Miller, 2013). Others are avoiding negative attitude while at work and learning to communicate effectively with coworkers and other people at work. The WorkStress.net website indicates that work stress is likely to manifest by instability within the family. As a result of the stressing circumstances at the work place, people are likely to extend such at home by being very arrogant to the family members, uncontrolled anger, increased temper and communication barriers (WorkStress.net., 2014). Parents who are stressed at work are likely to abuse their children and unable to understand their needs leading to their poor growth and development. In their book, Vrijkotte and others said that wrong career choices can lead to a lot of stress as well as inability to perform at the work place. One can know if they made wrong career choices when

Monday, August 12, 2019

Industrial Organization Economics Essay Example | Topics and Well Written Essays - 2000 words

Industrial Organization Economics - Essay Example Globalization has led to opening up of borders to facilitate trade. Those countries and companies that are ahead in the game realize the benefits compared to the laggards. Some of the strategies that nations have adopted to neutralize the effects of competition arising from globalization include creating barriers to entry, strategic entry deterrence as well as mergers and acquisitions. The rest of the paper will outline how the three factors influence industrial organizations as well as their impacts. It will achieve it by discussing three newspaper articles on the same subject. In an article by Gelles (March 12, 2015) in the New York Times titled, "Uncertainty weighs on Endo’s higher bid for Salix Pharmaceuticals† confirms the competitiveness of merger and acquisition. The article talks about the competition existing between Endo International and Valeant Pharmaceutical over who acquires Salix Pharmaceuticals. Endo has offered $ 175 per share, compared to $ 158 per share that Valeant offers (Gelles2015). It implies that the company that offers a higher bid per share may acquire the parent company and expand the operations. However, many factors hinder the merger and acquisition. These factors are related to policy issues. The board of the parent company has to agree to the offer because the deal will be binding to all the stakeholders including shareholders of the acquired company. In this article, people learn many issues regarding the topic or merger and acquisition. It is contrary to earlier knowledge that acquisition or merger was an arran gement of two companies; this article provides evidence of a third party. Third parties can come in if they offer a higher bid than what others offer. Endo offered a higher bid than what Salix had anticipated, which gives it a greater chance of acquiring the new investment or the company (Gelles 2015). It is a new scenario rarely experienced among accompanies. In the article by

Sunday, August 11, 2019

Recruitment and Retention of nurses Research Paper

Recruitment and Retention of nurses - Research Paper Example The nursing profession is an important department in the development of every nation. The profession of nursing is even more important to the United States because the government more particular about the good health care of the citizenry. It is therefore not surprising that the Obama Government has devoted so much into health-care. â€Å"The Obama campaign estimates his health care reform plan will cost between $50 and $65 billion a year when fully phased in† (Laszewski, 2008). THE PROBLEM DEFINED Owning to the importance of the nursing profession and the inevitable situation of employee turnover and retirement, there is the urgent need for research and review into the recruitment of nurses to find workable means of making the recruitment of nurses successful, meaningful and mission-oriented. Closely related to the recruitment of nurses is also the issue of retention of nurses. This is because research has shown that one important factor for ensuring employee retention is thr ough positive and well organized employee recruitment (Fertile Ground Detroit, 2008). To this effect, this write-up is committed to researching and reviewing the shortfalls of recruitment processes and exercises that take place in various nursing organizations and institutions. What is more, the write-up shall critically analyze the failures of recruitment and placement exercises that have been going on in the nursing fraternity in times past. Much attention shall be placed on the duties of human resource managers in various organizations since they form the nucleus of employee recruitment processes in various organizations. Again in this write-up, the researcher shall relate the positive impacts of effective employee recruitment on employee retention. What is more, the employee shall give out personal suggestions on how recruitment of nurses can be made effective. PROBLEM ANALYSIS The Chartered Institute of Personnel and Development, CIPD (2011) explains that â€Å"recruitment is the process of having the right person, in the right place, at the right time.† From this definition, it is clear that there are certain processes and guidelines that should be followed in recruitment exercises in various nursing organizations. To this end, the major problem that has been linked to poor recruitment is wrong approach towards the recruitment exercise. Wrong approach to Advertisement Firstly, most organizations take the wrong approach in the advertisement and publicity of recruitment vacancies. This is because most often than not, organizations looking for nurses restrict their advertisement to nursing schools and few community newspapers with the view of attracting fewer candidates in order to save money. However, this limits the number of potentially capable candidates for the vacancy. Constitution of Recruitment Team Another problem has to do with the constitution of recruitment team. In some organizations, the recruitment process is left in the hands very few people. This however reduces efficiency because the work becomes tedious for the few people. Inefficiencies are seen when the people have to spend much time undertaking manual processes when those tasks could be

Saturday, August 10, 2019

Toyota Essay Example | Topics and Well Written Essays - 250 words - 1

Toyota - Essay Example The company has developed a separate system called Toyota Production System (TPS) in order to manage its production operations. This system gives more focus on avoidance of over production and this strategy may sometimes adversely affect the expansional notions of Toyota. Hence, it is recommendable for the company to engage in more large scale production. Similarly, the Toyota must improve its competitiveness by introducing effective long term promotional strategies as the company economically lags behind Japan’s No.2 Nissan Motor Co Ltd and third ranked Honda Motor Co Ltd. The company must design a well structured employee development program that would establish a balance between an individual’s personal interests and organizational goals. Likewise, it is advisable for the management to make interpersonal relationships with employees so that it can ensure effective information flow between the organization’s top level to bottom level and vice versa. For this pu rpose, the firm may arrange for periodical meetings or appoint unit supervisors.

Web Conferencing Its role in strengthening the business Essay

Web Conferencing Its role in strengthening the business - Essay Example The data for this study was collected and compiled from various literatures like books and journals so that a conclusion could be arrived on advantages and disadvantages of the technology. Qualitative methodology was used for this study so that literature related to the topic only could be used throughout the study underlining the topic of this study. The study reveals that web conferencing is more beneficial when compared to its disadvantages in the long run. The tool completely reduces the costs related to travel, food and accommodation of the team members and also saves time that is consumed during travelling facilitating the employees to communicate with their team members and participate in the conference from their branch office. The present paper will provide information to other researchers about the impact of web conferencing on the business organization and their disadvantages and advantages. The study is compilation of good number of literatures which are not easy to find and will serve the researchers with good information. The development has come a long way in terms of communication. Gone are the days when king used to send his messenger to convey message to his counterpart. Then came the government postal service followed by historic invention of telephone which enabled voice based communication minimizing the time and effort on both sides. But development was not meant to be stopped, only through innovation of telephone, the world wanted more. Internet created a revolution in the world providing effective communication through email and online chatting. Businesses compete in this competitive world of business on the basis of effective communication. Most of the organizations have gone global paving the way for globalization. In view of this, multinational companies opt for better and effective communication regarding the performance of business which was possible through email, online chatting, etc. But, there are times, when the organization wants to communicate through all its managers located at different locations, make some presentation, management briefing, etc., where email and chat tools look inefficient and web conferencing offers which other communication tool don't offer. David Geer (2005, p.14) states that web conferencing reduces the time for making decisions and according to the In-Stat/MDR statistics, web conferencing services have increased by 70% i.e $765 million from $450 million between the years 2002 and 2004 and was expected to reach $1.5 billion by the year 2007. Therefore the present paper is aimed at the importance of web conferencing in the present global scenario in regards to business and to identify its advantages and disadvantages. Web Conferencing - What, Why and How According to IEEE (2010) 'web conferencing' is a technology that allows multiple meeting with participants for effective communication with each other, live over the internet. Web conference requires people to meet in a dedicated online conference center which has the facility to share audio, video and files in real time. It facilitates an individual or group of people scattered from different places to communicate and accomplish common goals without travel expenses or technical hurdles. The technology which is the product of Web 2.0 offers variant support and facilities with regard to communication strategy. In general, web conferencing facilitates elimination of expensive and time consuming business travels; sharing video, audio, viewing

Friday, August 9, 2019

External and Internal Environments Assignment Example | Topics and Well Written Essays - 2000 words - 1

External and Internal Environments - Assignment Example The study discussed the different strategies followed by the organization to utilize their strength and opportunities and eliminate their threats and weaknesses. The final discussion of this report is based on the analysis of its value chain with the help of the resource, capabilities and core competencies. The different external environment such as politically-economical, legal, social, technological and environmental factors have an important effect on the business decisions of AT&T. The economic and technological factors play the most influential role in the business decision of AT&T (Crandall, 2000). High inflation and interest rates are affecting the overall growth of the economy of the US. Different players of the telecommunication industry are reporting the decline in the profit margin due to the increase in competition and higher interest rate. The increase in disposable income is allowing the consumers to seek for better telecommunication facilities to match their fast life. The increasing demand of customers is directly affecting competition within the telecommunication leaders of US market. The different economical trends and currency rates of all the partner countries has affected the business decision of the organization. AT&T needs to have different market strategies as per the economical differences of all the outsourced countries (Crandall, 2000). The rapid growth of technology has an extensive impact on the business decisions of the telecommunication industry. Most of the organizations are investing to improve their research and development facilities to offer the latest technologies to their customers. The maturity of the technology is also affecting the business decisions of this industry. Most of the technological developments are facing maturity stage very fast due to the introduction of more innovative facilities. The organisation also needs to focus on the global technological trends to sustain their global customers.Â