Principles and practces of management Essay

Q1)What are the fundamentals of staffing and manpower? Explain the different methods of selection recruitment, training and development. FUNDAMENTALS OF STAFFING Any organisational fabrication requires a variety of people, and the supply of people consists of differing types. The staffing function includes the process by which the right person is placed in the right organizational position. Human resource administration involves matching the jobs and people through preparation of specifications necessary for positions, appraising the performance of personnel, training and retraining of people to fit the needs of the organisational positions, and developing methods by which people will respond with maximum effort and increased satisfaction. Often the organisation structure includes a special functional department to administer the program. This often is called the personnel department. Thus, personnel management is very broad in its scope and covers variety of functions. Staffing is one among the various groups of functions. It is called 124 here as employment functions and includes various sub-functions. These functions are also called operative functions of the personnel department. Staffing is that part of the process of management, which is concerned with obtaining, utilizing and maintaining a satisfactory and satisfied work force. Its purpose is to establish and maintain sound personnel relations at all levels in the organisation so as to make effective use of personnel to attain the objectives of the organisation and to provide personal and social  satisfaction which the employees require. Staffing consists of a wide range of inter-related activities. In the words of Haimann â€Å"staffing function pertains to the recruitment, selection, development and compensation of subordinate managers. Staffing like all other managerial functions is a duty which the manager performs at all times In a book edited by R. D. Agarwal scope of staffing has been widened to include every possible activity relating to human beings in an organisation. â€Å"Staffing is a multi-step process. It consists of determination of manpower, transfer, demotion and termination.† In the words of Koontz and O’ Donnell staffing can be defined as â€Å"filling positions in the organisational structure through identifying work force requirements, inventorying the work force, recruitment, selection, placement, promotion, appraisal, compensation and training of people.† Staffing, like all other managerial functions, is the duty, which a manager performs at all times. Although this function is stated after planning and organizing, this should not be interpreted to mean that the manager should perform these two functions before staffing. It is a continuous process and every manager from top to bottom is continuously engaged in performing this function. Elements of Staffing Staffing or human resource process consists of a series of steps, which are given below: 1.Procurement- Employment of proper number and kind of personnel is the first function of staffing. This involves (a) Manpower planning, (b) Recruitment, (c) Selection, and (d) Placement. 2. Development- After placing the individuals on various jobs, it is necessary to train them so that they can perform their jobs efficiently. 3. Compensation- Compensating personnel mean determining adequate and equitable remuneration of personnel for their contributions to the  organisational goals. 4. Integration- It involves developing a sense of belonging to the enterprise. Sound communication system is required to develop harmony and team spirit among employees. 5. Maintenance- Maintenance involves provision of such facilities and services that are required to maintain the physical and mental health of employees. Recruitment Attracting the right candidates to apply for a job can be an expensive process. It is even more expensive when done badly because when unsuitable candidates apply for a job, then the post may need to be re-advertised – so it is best to get it right first time. The starting point is to carry out job analysis to identify the sorts of skills, knowledge and essential requirements that someone needs to have to carry out a job. These details can be set out in a job specification, which is passed on to recruiters – it gives them a picture of the ideal candidate. A job description is also helpful because it sets out: the title of a post when and where it will be carried out principal and ancillary duties of the post holder other details. The job description can be sent out to potential candidates along with a person specification, which sets out the desirable and essential characteristics that someone will need to have to be appointed to the post. A variety of media will be used to attract applications e.g. national newspapers for national jobs, and local papers and media for local posts. Job advertisements set out such details as: location of work salary closing date of application how to apply experience required qualifications expected Duties and responsibilities. Selection Selection simply involves choosing the right person for the job. Effective selection requires that the organisation makes the right prediction from data available about the various candidates for a post. Research indicates that the most valid form of selection method is the use of an assessment centre where candidates are subjected to a variety of test including interviews, group exercises, and presentations, ‘in-tray’ exercises, and so on. Psychometric (personality) tests have become increasingly popular in the UK in recent years and are often used alongside other tests. I Interviews will be most successful when they are tightly related to job analysis, job description and the person specification. In-tray exercises can be used for candidates to respond to work-related and other problems, which are presented to them in an in-tray to be processed. Training Training for employment is very important. In a modern economy like our own the nature of work is constantly changing. New technologies mean that new work skills are constantly required. To succeed in business or in a career, people will need to be very flexible about where they work and how they work, and to constantly change the range of skills they use at work. There are basically two types of training: On-the-job training Employees develop and improve their work skills whilst actually doing the job in question. For example, word processor operators rapidly improve their skills by constant practice. Supermarkets till operator quickly learn effective practice by working alongside a more skilled mentor. Off-the-job training Employers will often encourage their employees to develop their skills through off-the-job training courses. For example, a trainee may be allowed to attend a day-release course at the local college. This might apply to a wide range of different skills including hairdressing, banking, insurance,  electrical work and plumbing. Q2)Explain the nature and functions of Directing. NATURE OF DIRECTION-FUNCTIONS OFMANAGEMENT Direction is one of the most important functions of management. A good plan may have been checked out, sound organisation may have been evolved and a sound team of workers may be employed, but all these will not produce any result until there is proper direction of the people in the use of various resources. Direction helps in achieving coordination among various operations of the enterprise. It is only after the performance of direction function that the purpose of planning, organising and staffing is achieved. Directing is the process around which all performance revolves. It is the essence of operation and co-ordination is a necessary by-product of good managerial directing. Pervasiveness of Direction Direction is a pervasive function of management. It exists at every level, location and operation throughout an enterprise. Some people think that only the managers at the lower level who deal directly with the workers, perform the direction function. This point of view is not correct. Direction function must be performed by every manager at different levels of the enterprise. For instance, chief executive of a company interprets the objectives and policies of the company and delegates’ authority to the departmental managers, the direction function is part and parcel of these activities. Every manager, regardless of the number of subordinates, performs this function because he is busy in giving instructions to the subordinates, guiding them, and motivating them for the achievement of certain goals. Continuing Function Like any other function of management, directing is a continuing activity. A  manager never ceases to direct, guide and supervises his subordinates. A manager who issues orders and instructions and thinks his job is complete is committing a very serious error. He must continuously supervise the execution of his orders or instructions by the subordinates. He should also provide them effective leadership and motivation. Thus, he will have to continue to devote considerable time on the direction function. Direction has got following characteristics: 1. Pervasive Function – Directing is required at all levels of organization. Every manager provides guidance and inspiration to his subordinates. 2. Continuous Activity – Direction is a continuous activity as it continuous throughout the life of organization. 3. Human Factor – Directing function is related to subordinates and therefore it is related to human factor. Since human factor is complex and behaviour is unpredictable, direction function becomes important. 4. Creative Activity – Direction function helps in converting plans into performance. Without this function, people become inactive and physical resources are meaningless. 5. Executive Function – Direction function is carried out by all managers and executives at all levels throughout the working of an enterprise, a subordinate receives instructions from his superior only. 6. Delegate Function – Direction is supposed to be a function dealing with human beings. Human behaviour is unpredictable by nature and conditioning the people’s behaviour towards the goals of the enterprise is what the executive does in this function. Therefore, it is termed as having delicacy in it to tackle human behaviour. The director must try to harmonize individual objectives of the workers to the group objective and also personal objectives with organization’s objectives for the work to be carried out harmoniously. The worker should receive orders from only one supervisor. The supervisor as much as possible should give personal supervision to the workers so as to motivate and raise their morale. The supervisor should enhance the communication between the workers so as to give them opportunity to express their feelings. In such ways the worker understands whatever is being communicated more easily. After giving the orders and instructions the supervisor must follow through  to ensure that this is done. It is essential for the supervisor to exercise dynamic leadership so as to win the trust and confidence of the subordinates. Subordinates are given orders and instructions by managers so that they are able to work efficiently and effectively. Therefore instructions must emanate from the superior person to the subordinates. A good order must be unambiguous to be understood by the recipients. It must also be in line with the objectives of the organization and should be reasonable and within the authority of the subordinate. The order must specify the time duration of carrying it out and preferably it should be written for greater clarity. The manager cannot be able to do all the directing functions required in an organization. He therefore delegates some authority and responsibilities to his subordinates so that the goals and objectives of the organization can be understood by the lowest of the worker. Delegation has some challenges one of them being that it is difficult to fully spell out the tasks and duties of all subordinates which lead to overlapping of duties. The extent of delegated authority and responsibility might not be clear and at times might even differ with the nature of work assigned to a subordinate. Too rigid delegation of authority discourages creativity of the subordinates. Directing involves guiding, inspiring and leading people so that they accomplish predetermined objectives. If the directing function is done well, work in an organization is efficiently and effectively done. The function of directing influences the subordinates and motivates them into meeting the organization’s goals. Directing function deals with human factor which is complex and therefore presents challenges to directors. After giving people orders on how things are supposed to be done it is essential that it is ensured that the orders are carried out. Managers by the function of directing are able to control and influence the actions of the subordinates. After assembling the factors of production and formulating the rules and procedures by the directors, the subordinates are directed into finalizing the process of production. After all the necessary planning, organizing and staffing the organization is in place, management now gets things done by way of directing the subordinates. Directing ensures that subordinates carry  out duties as required. Poor directing function can lead to spoiling an otherwise good planning, organizing and staffing process which would make the meeting of goals and objectives of the organization difficult. This is because nothing really can happen until there is the function of directing. The importance of direction in an organisation can be viewed by the fact that every action is initiated through direction. It is the human element which handles the other resources of the organisation. Each individual in the organisation is related with others and his functioning affects others and, in turn, is affected by others. This makes the functioning of direction all the more important Directing has the following characteristics features: 1 It is the function of the superior manager and runs from top to down in the organisation structure. A subordinate has to receive instructions for doing his job from his superior 2 Direction implies issuing orders and instruction. Besides issuing orders and instruction a superior also guides and counsels his subordinates to do his job properly. 3 The top management gives broad direction to the middle level managers who in turn give specific direction to the lower level management. 4 The four important aspects of directing are supervision, motivation, leadership and communication. All these functions are interconnected and mutually dependent. Direction is one of the most important functions of management. A good plan may have been checked out, sound organisation may have been evolved and a sound team of workers may be employed, but all these will not produce any result until there is proper direction of the people in the use of various resources. Direction helps in achieving coordination among various operations of the enterprise. It is only after the performance of direction function that the purpose of planning, organizing and staffing is achieved. Directing is the process around which all performance revolves. It is the essence of operation and co-ordination is a necessary by-product of good managerial  directing. Q3) What is the importance of planning in an organization? Describe the different plans with their objectives. Planning means looking ahead. It is deciding in advance what is to be done. Planning includes forecasting. According to Henry Fayol – â€Å"purveyance, which is an essential element of planning, covers not merely looking into the future but making provisions for it. A plan is then a projected course of action†. All planning involves anticipation of the future course of events and therefore bears an element of uncertainty in respect of its success. Planning is concerned with the determination of the objectives to be achieved and course of action to be followed to achieve them. Before any operative action takes place it is necessary to decide what, where, when and who shall do the things. Decision making is also an important element of planning. Planning determines both long-term and short-term objectives and also of the individual departments as well as the entire organisation. According to Fayol – â€Å"The plan of action is, at one and the same time, the result envisaged, the line of action to be followed, the stages to go through, and the methods to use. It is a kind of future picture wherein proximate events are outlined with some distinctness†¦.† Planning is a mental process requiring the use of intellectual faculties’ imagination, foresight, sound judgment etc. Planning is deciding in advance what is to be done. It involves the selection of objectives, Functions of Management policies, procedures and Programmes from among alternatives. A plan is a predetermined course of action to achieve a specified goal. It is a statement of objectives to be achieved by certain means in the future. In short, it is a blueprint for action. According to Louis A Allen – â€Å"Management planning involves the development of forecasts, objectives, policies, programmes, procedures, schedules and budgets†. According to Theo Haimann – â€Å"Planning is deciding in advance what is to be done. When a manager plans, he projects a course of action, for the future, attempting to achieve a consistent, coordinated structure of operations aimed at the desired results†. According to Koontz O’Donnel –  Ã¢â‚¬Å"Planning is an intellectual process, the conscious determination of courses of action, the basing of decisions on purpose, acts and considered estimates†. 1 Planning is goal-oriented: Every plan must contribute in some positive way towards the accomplishment of group objectives. Planning has no meaning without being related to goals. 2. Primacy of Planning: Planning is the first of the managerial functions. It precedes all other management functions. 3. Pervasiveness of Planning: Planning is found at all levels of management. Top management looks after strategic planning. Middle management is in charge of administrative planning. Lower management has to concentrate on operational planning. 4. Efficiency, Economy and Accuracy: Efficiency of plan is measured by its contribution to the objectives as economically as possible. Planning also focuses on accurate forecasts. 5. Co-ordination: Planning co-ordinates the what, who, how, where and why of planning. Without co-ordination of all activities, we cannot have united efforts. 6. Limiting Factors: A planner must recognise the limiting factors (money, manpower etc) and formulate plans in the light of these critical factors. 7. Flexibility: The process of planning should be adaptable to changing environmental conditions. 8. Planning is an intellectual process: The quality of planning will vary according to the quality of the mind of the manager Advantages of Planning All efforts are directed towards desired objectives or results. Unproductive work and waste of resources can be minimized. Planning enables a company to remain competitive with other rivals in the industry. Through careful planning, crisis can be anticipated and mistakes or delays avoided. Planning can point out the need for future change and the enterprise can manage the change effectively. Planning enables the systematic and thorough investigation of alternative methods or alternative solutions to a problem. Thus we can select the best alternative to solve any business problem. Planning maximizes the utilization of available resources and ensures optimum productivity and profits. Planning provides the ground work for laying down control standards. Planning enables management to relate the  whole enterprise to its complex environment profitably The planning process involves the following steps: 1. Analysis of External Environment: The external environment covers uncontrollable and unpredictable factors such as technology, market, socio-economic climate, political conditions etc., within which our plans will have to operate. 2. Analysis of Internal Environment: The internal environment covers relatively controllable factors such as personnel resources, finance, facilities etc., at the disposal of the firm. Such an analysis will give an exact idea about the strengths and weakness of the enterprise. 3. Determination of Mission: The â€Å"mission† should describe the fundamental reason for the existence of an organization. It will give firm direction and make out activities meaningful and interesting. 4. Determination of Objectives: The organizational objectives must be spelled out in key areas of operations and should be divided according to various departments and sections. The objectives must be clearly specified and measurable as far as possible. Every member of the organisation should be familiar with its objectives. 5. Forecasting: Forecasting is a systematic attempt to probe into the future by inference from known facts relating to the past and the present. Intelligent forecasting is essential for planning. The management should have no stone unturned in reducing the element of guesswork in preparing forecasts by collecting relevant data using the scientific techniques of analysis and inference. 6. Determining Alternative course of Action: It is a common experience of all thinkers that an action can be performed in several ways, but there is a particular way which is the most suitable for the organisation. The management should try to find out these alternatives and examine them carefully in the light of planning premises. 7. Evaluating Alternative Courses: Having sought out alternative courses and examined their strong and weak points, the next step is to evaluate them by weighing the various factors. 8. Selecting the Best: The next step – selecting the course of action is the point at which the plan is adopted. It is the real point of decision-making. 9. Establishing the sequence of activities: After the best programme is decided upon, the next task is to work out its details and formulate the steps in full sequences. 10. Formulation of Action Programmes: There are three important constituents  of an action plan: l The time-limit of performance. l The allocation of tasks to individual employees. l The time-table or schedule of work so that the functional objectives are achieved within the predetermined period. 11. Reviewing the planning process: Through feedback mechanism, an attempt is made to secure that which was originally planned. To do this we have to compare the actual performance with the plan and then we have to take necessary corrective action to ensure that actual performance is as per the plan.

Alice Walker’s The Color Purple Essay

Alice Walker’s The Color Purple takes place in the 1920’s-1930’s during the times of segregation and women’s suffrage. In this passage Celie’s step-son confides in her one night sitting on her front porch steps. Read the following passage from Alice Walker’s The Color Purple. Then, in a well-organized essay analyze how the author’s style exposes the tone towards the unequal treatment of women by the use of literary elements such as appeal to emotion, syntax, and irony. Harpo sitting out on the steps, crying like his heart gon break. Oh, boo-hoo, and boo-hoo. He got his head in his hands, tears and snot running down his chin. I give him a hansker. He blow his nose, look up at me out of two eyes close like fists. What happen to your eyes? I ast. He clam round in his mind for a story to tell, then fall back on the truth. Sofia, he say. You still bothering Sofia? I ast. She my wife, he say. That don’t mean you got to keep on bothering her, I say. Sofia love you, she a good wife. Good to the children and good looking. Hardworking. Godfearing and clean. I don’t know what more you want. Harpo sniffle. I want her to do what I say, like you do for Pa. Oh, Lord, I say. When Pa tell you to do something, you do it, he say. When he say not to, you don’t. You don’t do what he say, he beat you. Sometime beat me anyhow, I say, whether I do what he say or not. That’s right, say Harpo. But not Sofia. She do what she want, don’t pay me no mind at all. I try to beat her, she black my eyes. Oh, boo-hoo, he cry. Boo-hoo-hoo. I start to take back my hansker. Maybe push him and his black eyes off the step. I think bout Sofia. She tickle me. I used to hunt game with a bow and arrow, she say. Some womens can’t be beat, I say. Sofia one of them. Besides, Sofia love you. She probably be happy to do most of what you say if you ast her right. She not mean, she not spiteful. She don’t hold a grudge. He sit there hanging his head, looking retard. Harpo, I say, giving him a shake, Sofia love you. You love Sofia. He look up at me best he can out his fat little eyes. Yes ma’am? he say. Mr.___ marry me to take care of his children. I marry him cause my daddy made me. I don’t love Mr.___ and he don’t love me. In this passage from The Color Purple, the author’s opinion of the way  men treat women is clearly displayed through the tone of the text and style of her writing. Alice Walker exposes her strong disapproval of the mistreatment of women through literary elements such as syntax, appeal to emotion and irony. Walker uses specific syntax in order to emphasize the importance of the points that Harpo’s companion makes. The word â€Å"Hardworking.† is treated as a sentence in itself, and the neighboring phrases such as â€Å"Good to the children and good looking.†, â€Å"Godfearing and clean.†, and â€Å"Sofia love you, she a good wife.† are short and punctuated like sentences in the same way. The author does this to point out that amongst all the dialogue written, these phrases are the most significant text in the scene because they demonstrate her opinion that men, including Harpo, should not mistreat women, and especially women who take care of themselves, behave according to religious teachings, and are good to their families and husbands. She also uses this same sentence structure to emphasize the ways Sofia doesn’t act; for example, â€Å"She not mean, she not spiteful.† and â€Å"She don’t hold a grudge†. This shows that So fia’s behavior does not deserve punishment, and therefore she and other women of similar character should not be harmed. The passage contains emotional appeal which serves the purpose of pointing out the author’s opinion of the mistreatment of women. Sofia’s redeeming qualities are plainly stated: characteristics such as hardworking, loving, religious, and loyal to family. When the reader learns that Sofia’s husband tries to beat her despite her mannerisms, sympathy is evoked. The appeal to emotion continues when a briefing on the lady companion’s past is supplied. The reader learns of the woman’s misfortunes including beatings that take place regardless of her actions, and a forced marriage that leads to her upbringing of another woman’s children. Imbedded deeper in the text, is situational irony. Walker uses imagery like â€Å"He got his head in his hands, tears and snot running down his chin.† and onomatopoeic words such as â€Å"sniffle† and â€Å"boo-hoo† to point out Harpo’s exaggerated reaction. Harpo feels that his inability to beat his wife puts him in an unfair situation. These examples are used to point out the reality  of the situation; women such as his companion [Celie] are the unlucky ones because they are forced into unjust relationships in which they are beaten and mistreated. The imagery and onomatopoeia making fun of Harpo’s actions, serve the purpose of pointing out his hypocritical ridiculous behavior. Throughout the passage provided, Walker uses stylistic techniques such as syntax, emotional appeal, and situational irony to illuminate her critical opinion of the mistreatment of women. Her particular methods provoke reflection and contemplation in the reader once the passage has been comprehended. As a result, this increases the value of her work as a whole.

1) What Legislation Is in Place to Help You Administer Medication Safely? Give an Account of How This Affects Your Work.

Unit 616 Medication Questions 1) What legislation is in place to help you administer medication safely? Give an account of how this affects your work. The Medicines Act 1968 Regulates the supply and manufacture of medicines and defines the three categories of medicine: Prescription only, pharmacy medicines and general sales list. This affects my work in that it tells me which types of medicine I can simply pick up over the counter (for example, if someone I supported had a minor problem such as a cold, by consulting this legislation I would know which drugs I would be able to pick up without a prescription).It also categorises the medication which I currently administer and gives me an idea of how different types of medications are classified. For example, many times in the setting I work in, medication orders will be repeat prescriptions. For this, correct information must be supplied: name of service user, name and strength of medication and amount ordered sufficient for the time p eriod. The Misuse of Drugs Act 1972 Categorises banned substances into bands A, B, and C. This tells me that administering certain drugs would result in me breaking the law. It outlines what is legal to administer and what isn’t.Also this act outlines the legal requirement to store controlled drugs in locked cabinets and keep a record (controlled drugs register) of stock numbers, expiry dates etc. At our workplace we administer several controlled drugs such as diazepam, so this legislation affects me in the way that is outlines my legal responsibilities for storing and safely administering these drugs. Health and Safety at Work Act 1974 This act informs me of mine and my employer’s duties at work and tells me what is required of my employer to ensure the working environment is safe. Care Standards Act 2000Establishes national minimum standards in order to meet the needs of the people we support. For example, some of the people we support like to administer their own me dication and all information regarding their medication must be available for them to access at any time. Control of Substances Hazardous to Health Regulations 2002 This act outlines the requirements of employers to protect their employees from the hazards of substances used in the workplace. Medication comes under this act and it outlines principles for recording, safekeeping, handling and disposal of medicines, all things we deal with on a regular basis.

Investigation of computer use Essay Example | Topics and Well Written Essays - 2500 words

Investigation of computer use - Essay Example As there was no properly trained person the computer remained idle for about six months. The things started to change when one day the Managing Director of the company visited the branch office. Seeing the computer idle he got furious and more of when he realized that there was nobody who could operate the computer and more so that he had no knowledge of this fact. He immediately decided to train the staff in computers. The staff was trained in computer basics, computer accounting and the software used by the company for its day-to-day working. This is how the use of the computer began. The starting phase was not easy. Once the motherboard failed, it took about 10 days to get repaired. Then once the hard disk also failed. The staff found that instead of helping, the computer is proving to actually hinder their work. The demand of energy on them increased for they not only had to perform the routine works but also have to be concerned about the repairing and the maintenance of the computer. Obviously the staff wanted the computer to be removed. However the Managing director persisted with the use of the computers. He requested his the head office Hardware Engineer to take the additional responsibility of the single computer at the Cambridge branch. He happily agreed without asking for extra remuneration for according to him a computer was a toy. He checked the whole system, reinstalled Windows 98 operating system and the other softwares of regular use. He installed antivirus also, and thereafter kept on checking the system regularly. The computer then started working smoothly without any problems. About two years ago a dealer of Dell Computers launched the buy back scheme for the computers. Cambridge’s old computer was quite outdated so the Branch Manager decided to purchase the new one in exchange of the old. Meanwhile the director of the company had decided to fully computerize all the branches and connect them via intranet.

111History of Psychology... 1st one Essay Example | Topics and Well Written Essays - 1000 words

111History of Psychology... 1st one - Essay Example Therefore, the strict position of empiricism states that we have no instincts and rational thinking does not, alone, allow us to reach any conclusion unless we have suitable experience to profit from. This experience can be either in one particular instance or through many different instances that have all been combined together to give that person suitable knowledge. Even small common facts such as the color of an object or the sequence of numbers are attained with experience and only with the first hand experience of these facts can these facts be justified by the individual. Notable history of empiricism includes a Renaissance philosopher Francis Bacon who emphasized that gaining knowledge of the natural world was easier and more efficient through observation than through deductive reasoning [1]. While he did not oppose the thought of prior or instinctive knowledge, he firmly believed that any knowledge that was not experienced was far less useful or important than that which was gained through experience. Experienced knowledge was so important, in fact, that without it the human species would not be able to evolve or advance. This belief helped pave the way for William Ockham, a Franciscan philosopher, to note that all knowledge of the natural world is experienced through the senses [4]. He implied that any rationalization of abstract knowledge was merely hypothetical thinking. A thought that later lead to the belief that causation is merely an observation of regularity instead of an actual conclusive connection [4]. This line of thought was taken even further by Thomas Hobbes who believed that, while all genuine knowledge was held through prior knowledge, it required deduction from definitions of experience in order to derive any conclusion [1, 4]. Perhaps the most influential philosopher on empiricism was John Locke who believed that

Article response Example | Topics and Well Written Essays - 750 words - 1

Response - Article Example The article seeks to clarify whether the effect of gender congruence between a competitor and the referent can occur independently from ambiguity avoidance. To clarify this, the authors conducted two experiments using Finnish, a non-gendered language. Like English, the Finnish language speakers produce fewer pronouns when the competitor and the referent have the same gender. Furthermore, this effect does not result from ambiguity avoidance. Competitors’ gender congruence and reduction of pronouns is higher in English language than in Finnish. In English, avoiding gender ambiguous pronouns is easy because semantic competition is normally affected by gender congruence. Discussion and comments of the article On reading this article, my knowledge was widened on what drives the effect of gender congruence in the English language. I knew that gender congruence effect in English language was driven by ambiguity avoidance. Initially, I assumed that the way speakers make reference to e xpressions was based on congruence effect alone. To enhance my understanding, I examined Van Compbel, Fukumura, Harley and Pickering (2011) study, which investigated how similarity in different entities affect a speaker’s choice and reference to some expression. ... Conversely, more pronouns are produced when the competitor and the referent are in different situations. The congruent effect appeared to be high in a situation in which the action described was relevant to the situational congruence. This implies that the effects that come as a result of congruence will depend on other representations of concepts known by the speaker. In the second experiment, this study revealed that whether a pronoun is ambiguous or not, the effect of competitor’s similarity is always present. At the end, the researchers concluded that the similarity effects are independent of ambiguity avoidance. The effect emanates from a speaker’s internal production challenges. Still, Van Compbel et al. (2011) results are similar toward the explanation of how ambiguity avoidance relate with the similarity or congruent effect. However, the studies use different approaches in investigating the effect of congruence on ambiguity avoidance. Both articles revealed that congruence effect is independent of ambiguity avoidance. In the main article by Fukuruma, Hyona and merete (2013), it is revealed that because congruence impact semantic competition, a speaker is aware of the pronoun ambiguity. This makes congruence effect independent. Conversely, Van Compbel et al. (2011) study confirms that it is the internally speaker production constraints that make congruence effect independent of ambiguity avoidance. Further, the similarity between these two articles drew my attention to another study by Arnold and Griffin (2007). The article investigated how one chooses between proper names and pronouns in a speech. The study was based on the traditional assumption that speakers strive to interpret

SOCIAL WORK METHODS THEORIES FOR PRACTICE CASE STUDY. Use of Essay

SOCIAL WORK METHODS THEORIES FOR PRACTICE CASE STUDY. Use of . theoretical framework to critically analyse case study - Essay Example It is worth mentioning that numerous psychological dilemmas as well as attributes are attached with the development of a proper societal structure. The psychological as well as the biological understanding are observed to be striking positive impact on the socio-structural settings in the form of varied ways. These ways may entail greater development in the abilities of the community members towards any doubtful circumstance and making effective decisions from a long-term perspective. Cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT) can be used to treat or mitigate a number of issues including psychological problems. One ought to note that this form of therapy is the most commonly used because it helps one to identify and cope with challenges as fast as possible. On most occasions, cognitive behavioral therapy needs fewer sessions as compared to other forms of therapies. Additionally, the structured manner in which this form of therapy is done makes it the most suitable in addressing certain challenges. A momentous process in cognitive behavioral therapy is called thought challenging. Some social workers also refer to it as cognitive restructuring. It is the process through which patients or victims challenge their negative thinking patterns that bring about their anxiety while substituting them with realistic and positive thoughts. Cognitive restructuring involves three key processes. These include the recognition of negative thoughts, the challenging of the negative thoughts and the replacement of the negative thoughts with more realistic and positive thoughts. One must not that all the three processes must the involved during cognitive reconstruction or thought challenging in order to successfully mitigate emotional trauma. The society entails different people all of whom undergo different life problems. Additionally, life structures place different people in varied mental, psychological and spiritual positions. Such complications

The differences in approaces taken by female and male leadings in Dissertation

The differences in approaces taken by female and male leadings in leading change - Dissertation Example According to the research findings there has been a growing involvement of women in the workforce in recent decades and they can be seen participating actively in business and economic development. However, there still exists an imbalance in the male-female ratio in the workforce, and there is a substantial earnings gap between the genders. This inequality is more apparent in the case of women in management. The smaller number of women in top management is indicative of the fact that women do not get to climb the higher echelons in organizations easily. Some researchers call this situation as the glass ceiling, indicating that women, who are meritorious and capable, too may not be able to break the ceiling and enter the realm of top management because of their gender. There has been some research undertaken to assess the reason for the existence of a glass ceiling – or the lack of women who are deemed qualified to occupy positions in upper management. Men are often considered to be more competent than women and it is presumed that men have the leadership qualities that are needed at the higher positions. Researchers have found masculine organizational culture, which is hostile to the female workers, is also responsible for curbing the growth of female leaders. Men are thought to adopt a masculine leadership style, and even women who do pass through the glass ceiling, are expected to keep away from exhibiting their feminine side (Pai and Vaidya, 2009). Ragins, Singh, and Cornwell (2007) explained that while business organizations are struggling to hold on to their best and brightest women, the persistence of the glass ceiling makes retaining top-notch female talents challenging. Dismantling the glass ceiling requires an accurate understanding of the overt and subtle barriers to advancement faced by women, and the strategies used to overcome these barriers. Women leaders are often considered to be passive, overly relationship-oriented and emotionally unsta ble (Northouse, 2009). On the other hand, male leaders are often observed as aggressive, direct and task oriented - qualities which are perceived as attributes of good leaders (Weyer, 2007). The available research has indicated that the general concept of leadership may be one-dimensional and perceived from a masculine point of view (Pai and Vaidya, 2009; Kargwell, 2008; Weyer, 2007; Tibus, 2010; Caykoylu, 2010; Biernat, 2003). The masculine leaders are considered to be more task-oriented and exercise their authority to discipline, correct or reward the employees on the basis of the employees performance (Spurgeon and Cross, 2008). Men are associated with this masculine style of leadership owing to their gender (Thewlis, Miller and Neathy, 2004), while women are considered to follow a more feminine approach which involves being passive and giving importance to relationships over tasks (Thomas and Thomas, 2008). There is a growing body of evidence suggesting that a more relationship oriented leadership style leads to better employee motivation and performance in

Project managment Essay Example | Topics and Well Written Essays - 1000 words

Project managment - Essay Example The processes of formulation, implementation and evaluation form the three key stages that define strategic management process. Activities that are involved in the formulation process include the setting up of firm’s vision and mission, and performing an environmental scan in order to identify the external opportunities and strengths. As regards the process of implementation, activities that are involved include budget preparations, developing a strategy-supportive culture and creating the right organizational culture. The evaluation stage involves measuring and evaluating performance in order to determine the viability of the project. With the ever-changing environmental factors, change is inevitable for any strategy developed. As such, a review of internal and external factors is always necessary as well as taking corrective actions. How project management in integrated into strategic management process Given the high level of importance that has been attached to strategic m anagement process, necessary tools have to be put in place to ensure the success of this process. According to (Macmillan & Tampoe, 2001), turning strategy into reality is not an easy thing. It requires constant investment in management resources. This is where project management comes in. ... It also involves identifying performance management goals and developing a management plan. On the project management side, planning involves stakeholders agreeing to project objectives, scope and plans for carrying out the project which has been formally funded and resourced. The other process that integrates project management into strategic management process is the monitoring process. This process measures and assesses the project performance in order to respond to variances and risks (Macmillan & Tampoe, 2001). This is possible if performance measures have been identified and selected and measurement scorecards developed. Under this process, a re-verification of critical success factors is done as well as re-planning of the project. This may include changes in resource allocation or the scheduling of events and activities. The result of this may be changes in the strategies and objectives of the organization which requires performance reporting. Performance reporting falls on th e performance management side and it involves developing of a communications plan and communicating performance results to stakeholders. How organizational culture influences the selection of a project management structure Culture incorporates beliefs, behaviors, and assumptions shared by individuals within an organization (Hill & Jones, 2012). In trying to explain how organizational culture influences the selection of a project management structure, various factors have to be considered. They include whether or not decision-making is done in command and control environments or by self-directed teams, how functional units work with each other and many other factors. How functional units work with each other

Butterflies Essay Example for Free

Butterflies Essay In the name of Allah the most beneficent the most merciful A beautiful scene of dusk depicts a sweet picture of the universe, when the sun sets, and calm and stillness engulfs the loud voices of the day, I often see the birds returning back to their nests. These tiny creatures, lacking the faculty of reasoning and speech, believe that the best place ever found in the world is home. No matter how far we are from our homes, its necessity never diminishes and Mr. President, respectable teachers worthy parents and dear fellows this is the first reason Why I love Pakistan? Pakistan’s creation was no doubt the finest hour of our history our forefathers who had fought for it envisioned the promise of long cherished freedom, democracy and prosperity. It is the country which was created to work for an ideal democratic state based on social justice as an upholder of human freedom and world peace, in which all citizens were to enjoy equal rights and freedom from fear, want and ignorance. Dear fellows, Pakistan my homeland is in fact the land of blessings. Its creation speaks its dignity. History teaches us that how much cherished the dream of Pakistan was and how seriously our fathers fought for it .believe me or not, the most significant reason of loving Pakistan is independence movement itself. I know very well Mr. President that the shackles of slavery snatch all such all creative facilities and the beautiful world a heaven to breathe in, turns into hell without freedom. By the grace of Allah my country, my love, my homeland offers me to enjoy the open air of independence .Being a student I have surfaced the papers of history to know about the grand sacrifices of my forefathers and as humble token I express my gratitude to them by proudly announcing in public that Pakistan I love u . ,And I have millions of reasons to prove that why I love Pakistan? I was wondering a few days ago what Pakistan has done for me and how we react when something happens down there. I am proud to say that Im Muslim, and after my religion I am most proud of the country to which I belong, Pakistan. Here are some facts: Pakistan is the only country to be founded on the basis of Islam Pakistan posseses the 6th largest army in the world today. Pakistan is the single most powerful Muslim country in the world today. Pakistani Air Force and Army personnel train all other Muslim countries, which include most Arab nations today. Pakistan is the only Muslim country that posseses Nuclear power. Pakistan is the bridge between the Middle East and South Asia. Pakistan is one of the oldest civilizations (5000 year known history), it is a mix of cultures Dear guests, I am a Pakistani student and citizen, I believe on unity and, friendship, I have no fear, I can see the bright future of Pakistan. as Quaid said.† There is no power on earth that can undo Pakistan†. In end I would pray all of you to love this country as a blessing of God, stand united, guard its identity and geographical boundaries, work day and night for its better and exalted image,. Live like Ghazis and Shaheens of Iqbal, die like martyrs. I want to salute to all national heroes and my teachers on this great day, when ever listen the best name Pakistan always respond Zindabad. Its high time to hold hands and say it out loud.pakistan zindabad.Salute Pakistan.

The issues in conformity

The issues in conformity Theory Conformity to group is another issue depicted on the movie to be researched. Based on Farlex, 2010, conformity means take action based on certain accepted normal standard. If we talk in context of group, so this conformity to group can be described as the action that accepted in a group as a foundation of an agreement. This is a need for each people to be in custom as a part of in-group people, rather than becomes out-group people in a certain group, gang, or organization that leads to a sign that that person is similar to people within that group which follow the consistency of the rules, despite of threatening the rules it selves (Sique, 2010).Basically high conformity to group means that when one persons will is defeated by others will in deciding something because they dont want to act opposed his/her groups will that may result in unsafe and high pressure community. Actually this conformity to group is the result of some cultural dimensions created by Dutch sociologist; Geert Hofstede and Fons Trompenaar. Based on doch and luthans, 2006, hofstede examined four cultural dimensions, while on the other hand Trompenaar developed seven dimensions. Not all dimensions can be linked as the result of conformity to group, however there are some factors that have strong bond with conformity that werent come from those dimensions. Application of Theory Based on hofstede, dimension in power distance, uncertainty avoidance, and collectivism lead to high conformity, while particularism, communitarianism, neutral, and ascription from Trompenaar may give participation as well. Power distance describe when a superior in a group is accepted to have the greatest power in that group, therefore that person must be obeyed (Viaweb, 2010). In high conformity, high power distance is exists based on people who act as superior or made superior by others because of their ability or even race. They must be followed otherwise we can be treated as outsider in our group. High conformity may caused by situation in which its member feel uncomfortable in unusual or different circumstances (Itim International, 2009). People with this high level of uncertainty avoidance will be passive and tend to follow the rules, therefore they dont want to express their emotion to the group which makes them comfort with their group choice. Collectivism as opposite of individualism makes people tend to loyal with their group and share their value and belief that may lead to community interest. In high conformity, people may look after their group decision and be likely to forgone their own w ill. The problem is occurred when it comes to a question, â€Å"if everyone goes after others will, so whose willingness that must be complied with?†The answer might be related closely with power distance, in which the superior is the ruler. High conformity to group is a result of particularism in which the community of the group may help their friends using any other ways, including breaking rules as long as they are in one community. Based on doh and luthans, 2006, communitarianism refers to people that look upon themselves as a part of group not individual with own will that becomes requirement oh high conformity to group. high conformity tend to have neutral culture in which peoples emotion are not doing in an open or ordinary ways, thus people keep silent even the decision is contradictive with their will. Later if we see conformity characteristic, we can see that people in that group tend to be ascription culture that means the people who become â€Å"the leader† is the one that mature either in age, or gender, not based on their ability or knowledge. So even someone who has better idea, but if the older one said something worse, people tend to choose the older one. Another issue that closely related with conformity to group is because of ethnocentrism. Its the belief that â€Å"ones own way of doing something is superior to others† (Doh and Luthans, 2006). This meaning can be applied to all aspect, such as one culture belief that their culture is highest among others. And in other words we can say it is when people everything based on their own way, without accepting that other people might have their own perspective. People could have high conformity in their group if they think that people on their group is the best, which is characteristic of ethnocentrism, and look other as low level group. This will lead to external conflict in society life. â€Å"Even though it may cause external conflicts, it creates internal unity. It also makes individuals feel more certain about their beliefs. Through providing individuals with a sense of belonging to a particular community, ethnocentrism enables social order. Societies need that kind of solidarity and order so as to continue â€Å"(Charon, 2007). Implication to business The issues in conformity to group and ethnocentrism itself may have implication to managing across cultures either in domestic or international organization. Most likely the negative effects will occurs based on those cultural issues. Ethnocentrism may result a bad effect where it goes into business or organization world. Firstly it may result in the bad decision when it comes to a company that did offshore and use home country managers. managers from home country with high ethnocentrism may think that the best business decision is the one like in home country as they might think that business decision in host country is not the best one. This may result in the failing in companys business. if we go to personal level, we will see more issues that can be raised. Based on the high ethnocentrism level, a person with high level of managerial may makes decision with any issues, such as they might think that their race is higher than local people in the workplace, so that the managers might support the employee with same race or nationality that similar with him/her. That kind of managers will hear more and approved employees idea that come from similar background with the manager, rather than any idea from local employ ee, even that idea is greater. Even in case where a manager must fire the employee, the manager will let off employee based on their certain background. In the case of conformity any subordinate may find any difficulties in give their brilliant idea, or aspiration to their superior. Most likely they are afraid that if they dont agree with their superior decision or idea, they will be marked as an opposition party, which later on resulting in their future career. Even the subordinate mindsets that think their superior is the best person with all excellent business approach. Moreover Pech (2001) reach a finding that high level of conformity in organization may resulting in disadvantage effects such as avoidance of individualism, reduce individual sense of creativity, discovery, and ownership. And final disadvantages to organization may occurred because of low morale and incompetency in taking action to competitor or external pressures through low capability in low cost and product differentiation. Recommendation In order to prevent the negative effect of conformity and ethnocentrism to group, there are some ways to be applied. First of all, the main effort that must be applied is communication and training. Such in case of off shoring company, the managers from home country must get any training before start to become the leader in the host country. They must know how to interact with local employee in their behavior, including socialization, appraising, and cultural rules. Communication is important factor that must be applied in certain issues that both faced by managers and employees in order to resolve with win-win solution. Then the next thing to do is managers should change their own habits and have ability in understanding others by learn to see different reaction to such business approach that may be seen from other people. Groupthink can also be used rather than individual will of a manager by asking opinion from their subordinates and thinking out of the box. This groupthink may ch ange both the managers and employees behavior and positively will reach good results (Helium, Inc, 2010). However in a journal by manz and neck (1995) they state that groupthink only focus on the negative effect in team decision making and thus there is a tendency within the member of group to fail in discussing and analyze any alternative course of action. Therefore they offer new ways of thinking by using Team think that will produce effective synergies thinking in belief and assumption that improve decision making and the outcome of performance. Charon, J.M. (2007). Ten Questions: A Sociological Perspective. (6th ed). Belmont: Thomson. Doh.J.P, Luthans.F, 2006, International Management culture, strategy, and behavior 7th edition, McGraw-Hill. Farlex, Inc, 2010, conformity, viewed 5th April 2010. Helium,inc,2010, Understanding the effects of groupthink in the workplace, viewed 5th April 2010. Itim International, 2009, Geert Hofstede Cultural Dimension. Viewed 5th April 2010 Manz.C.C, and Neck.C.P,1995, Team think: beyond the groupthink syndrome in self-managing work teams, Journal of Managerial Psychology Volume 10 No 1 pp. 7-15 Pech,R.J, 2001, Reflections termites, group behavior, and the loss of innovation: conformity rules, Journal of Managerial Psychology Volume 16 · No 7 pp. 559-774 Sique, 2010, the need for: conformity, viewed 5th April 2010. Viaweb, 2010, Power distance, viewed 5th April 2010.

Natural Family Planning :: essays research papers fc

The Natural Failure of Planning   Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Are modern forms of contraception naturally and morally wrong? Pope Paul VI and his Humanae Vitae declare that technological methods of birth control are immoral and should not be practiced by Catholics. However, as our modern society illustrates everyday, this opinion is inappropriate for not only the faithful of the Roman Catholic Church, but also for non-Catholics. According to Munich Archbishop Cardinal Julius Doepfner, â€Å"Contraception is not intrinsically evil† (The Politics of Sex and Religion). There is a fine line the Catholic church draws between â€Å"natural† methods of family planning and the â€Å"immoral† methods of modern technology. After close review of Catholic doctrines, it is clear that this line does not exist. The intentions behind the actions are what matters. Therefore the encyclical of Paul VI , while maintaining good intentions, cannot give Catholics and non-Catholics alike complete guidance in complete humanness when it comes to contraception.   Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  The major problem for the married believers in the Catholic faith is that Human Vitae neglects their ability to make moral decisions. Paul VI claims that contraception limits a person’s human totality and integrity. However, the reality is that the Church is limiting this principle of human existence by assuming the common man is incapable of making the correct moral choice. For example Paul VI states , â€Å"†¦how wide and easy a road would thus be opened up towards conjugal infidelity and the general lowering of morality.† (Human Vitae 8). It is absurd to believe that all moral problems in our society can be attributed to the introduction of birth control methods. Man, in his complete integrity and totality, is capable of judging moral from immoral regardless of the technological devices he is surrounded by. If all parts of a human are in harmony, means of contraception cannot invade this person’s complete humanness.   Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Scientific research shows that almost all practicing Catholics today believe that modern means of contraception does not interfere with their beliefs and morals. According to one study, â€Å"Even among married Catholic women who attend church every week, less than 4% use church-approved family planning methods-about the same as the total population.† (Catholics for Contraception). This illustrates the fact that people of faith have made their own interpretations of God’s desires and find no difference between natural family planning and modern methods of contraception. Weekly patrons of the church know the moral teachings of the Church and the consequences, yet the facts show that all believers have not come to a consensus.

The Road to Freedomâ€the Underground Railroad Essay -- Slavery South Pa

The Road to Freedom—the Underground Railroad Introduction "Many times I have suffered in the cold, in beating rains pouring in torrents from the watery clouds, in the midst of the impetuosity of the whirlwinds and wild tornadoes leading on my company—not to the field of...war...but to the land of impartial freedom, where the bloody lash was not buried in the quivering flesh of a slave...." (7,p.i). Such were the conditions of the Underground Railroad. It was a fictitous railroad but served the same purpose: to transport people from one place to another. This railroad, however, was not sanctioned by any government, in fact if it had been discovered many would have died. The Underground Railroad was a huge risk. If you used it, and were caught, you could die. For some that was better than being treated like pack animals or breeding animals by their southern owners. That was a risk they chose to take and conditions they must endure. The Underground railroad was a means by which slaves in the south could escape to the north and to freedom. The pioneers of the railroad went back to help their brothers and sisters in bondage. Many of them were leaders, or conductors that led others to freedom and risked theirs to do it again and again. National Standards This particular subject deals a lot with maps. Understanding the Underground Railroad means understanding maps and spatial organiation. The journeyers, themselves, had to know, distinctly, where north was or which way to follow the Ohio River. A reader will glean an understanding of the people that chose to journey on the railroad. They were fierce believers in freedom, willing to die for it. From this paper, readers will be able to define differe... ... 2. History and Geography of the Underground Railroad. 199?. http://www.niica.on.ca/csonan/UNDERGROUND.htm (April 14, 1998). 3. May, Ilana, Mark Beigel, and Lenny Hothchild. The Underground Railroad in Rochester, New York. http://www.history.rochester.edu/class/ugrr/home.html (April 14, 1998) 4. National Park Service Study: Taking the Train to Freedom. 1998. http://www.nps.gov/undergroundrr/contents.htm (April 14, 1998). 5. Quarles, Benjamin. Black Abolitionists. Oxford Universoty Press: New York, 1969. 6. Siebert, Wilbur H. The Underground Railroad. Arno Press and The New York Times: New York, 1968. 7. Smedley, R.C. History of the Underground Railroad. Arno Press and The New York Times: New York, 1969. 8. Weisberger, Bernard A. Abolitionism: Disrupter of the Democratic System or Agent of Progress? Rand McNally & Company: Chicago, 1963.

A Comparison of Death Of A Salesman and Hamlet :: comparison compare contrast essays

A Comparison of Death Of A Salesman and Hamlet Willy Loman and Hamlet, two characters so alike, though different. Both are perfect examples of tragedy in literature, though for separate reasons and by distinct methods. The definition of a tragedy, in a nutshell, states that for a character to be considered tragic, he/she must be of high moral estate, fall to a level of catastrophe, induce sympathy and horror in the audience, and usually die, and in doing so, re-establish order in the society. Hamlet follows this to a "T". Death of a Salesman does not fall within these set guidelines but is still considered tragic for reasons, though different, somewhat parallel those of Hamlet's. Hamlet, a rich young price of high moral estate suddenly has his joyous life ripped away from him when his father, Hamlet Sr., suddenly passes away. Though originally thought to be of natural causes, it is later revealed to him through his father's ghost, that dear old dad was murdered by his Step-Father, and also his Uncle, Claudius. Vowing revenge upon his Uncle/Dad, Hamlet begins to mentally falter and eventually, is in such a wild rage that he accidentally kills Polonious believing him to be his father. Hilarity ensues. Ophelia, Hamlet's love interest, commits suicide/dies (that's up for debate elsewhere) after going slightly mad from the impact of her father's death, then Laertes, Polonius' son, arrives on the scene enraged and ready to kill Hamlet for what he's done, and just when you thought things couldn't get any worse, unbeknownst to Hamlet, Claudius has been plotting to kill him. Talk about your bad days. A duel takes place between Hamlet and Laertes where Laertes, using a poison-tipped sword, cuts Hamlet, thus giving way for his impending death. Hamlet eventually gets hold of the sword and kills Laertes, then kills King Claudius. Just as the play ends, Hamlet takes his last breath of air, appoints Fortinbras Jr. as the new King of Denmark, and dies. In Death of a Salesman, Willy Loman, a salesman who believed himself to be a powerful man, has his life unravel before him as he loses his job, his sanity and the respect of those around him.

Crime is Predominantly an Intra-Racial Event Essay

Introduction: Society has this perception that it is other races why crime occurs. Some people blame these crimes on black-on-black crimes, or Hispanics-on-Hispanics crimes. Being that crime seems to be predominantly an intra-racial event involving victims and offenders of the same race; will this type of destruction ever come to an end? While interviewing two of my co-workers while we were on break in between our runs, it was very interesting to learn of their intakes on this particular topic. The first co-worker I talked to is Hispanic. His name is Steven. Steven agrees that crime in a way is predominantly an intra-racial event, involving victims and offenders of the same race. Steven relates Hispanic-on-Hispanic intra-racial crime because of economic gaps in society. Steven feels that Hispanics are always given such a hard time when it comes to getting jobs. Hispanics are always first asked if they have a green card and can they legally work here in the United States. Steven says this comes from his own experience in trying to get a job as a mechanic. He felt very offended because of the stereotypes that society put on people of his origin. Steven says that he may be Hispanic but he was born and raised here in the United States. His parents were in the military, where they were stationed in San Antonio, Texas. His parents are from San Juan, Puerto Rico. Steven feels that this intra-racial crime comes from Hispanics having a lack of work and education to support their families. Steven has witnessed his own people killing one another over fearing being deported back to their country. Hispanics cross the border so that they can raise their families in a better environment with better opportunities. The second co-worker I talked to is African-American. His name is Chuck.  Chuck’s outlook on intra-racial crime is very similar to Steven’s outlook. Chuck feels that intra-racial crimes are a choice. Chuck grew up watching black-on black crimes like gangs killing other gangs because of crossing into their territory. Chuck says that society plays a big part in why blacks act the way that they do. He believes that society puts out negative stereotypes about blacks and people run with it. Chuck says black-on-black crime comes from a number of things like kids killing kids with illegal guns found in their houses, drug deals gone bad, young black men fighting in the clubs over females or fighting in the streets over a senseless argument. Crime Is Predominantly an Intra-Racial Event 2 Both Steven and Chuck agree that no matter what the situation may be, these unfortunate intra-racial crimes should not even occur. They both feel that people need to get a better education and obtain some type of work skill which is positive. Conclusion Intra-racial crimes leave families in disarray. Black-on-black crimes can be avoided if they are yes, re-educated and taught a trade to learn a meaningful skill. These crimes can be cut down tremendously and the African-American race can begin rebuilding. Hispanic-on-Hispanic crimes could also be cut in half if those who are here in the United States legally or who have their green cards, could go to school and get and education and earn a degree to help better them. Hispanics could also go to a trading school and get the skills that they need to find decent work. This way, Hispanics do not have to be paid under the table and they can earn a decent paycheck to help in supporting their families. The victims in these intra-racial crimes are the ones who have been hurt and families destroyed. The offenders in these intra-racial crimes just make excuses why they did as they feel that they had to do. Many offenders have no remorse for their actions and to them, it is everyone else’s fault but their own.

The Effect of Smartphones on Work-Life Balance

13 has also created employment as developers seek to capitalist on the market available for development of APS and other content for semaphore devices. As Postman (1995) discusses In a 1995 Interview that all new technology is like a†Faustian bargain in that it gives us something important but we also legitimating important in the process†. This would appear to be true of Thessalonians. The benefits of the semaphore have been discussed throughout this paper as have the negatives.They provide users with the ability to stay onto of work outside of the office and employers In theory benefit from Uncharacteristically, often at little expense to themselves as users are choosing toothbrush the phones themselves. The principle losses would be in terms of loss personal time and the erosion of boundaries between work and personal time_l feel that it is really a personal choice that all owners of this technology need tomato in relation to usage patterns of the devices for work rela ted activities. Some users are happy to be connected all the time and see no issue with it.However, others cite that it results in increased stress, while others articulateness who have been using the devices longer state that they have consciousnesses boundaries in relation to their semaphore use. Much of the academic literature in this area has focused on managerial levelness of smartness. I feel that studies should possibly be conducted Into teahouse patterns of non-executive level personnel also in order to help stratospherically HER

Compare and Contrast Essay

At multiple points in life, people are faced with judgments ranging in difficulty and significance. And every decision could be affected by outside influences which could persuade people to make a choice. Sometimes, one is faced with the choice of which juice to drink in the morning, a very minute decision to make. There are other, more substantial decisions like choosing which college to attend or whether or not it is the right time to buy a home. Depending on the size of the decision and influence, everything that happens in one’s life could be crucial moments that determine the final outcome of one’s life. This was seen in Rudolfo Anaya’s Bless Me, Ultima and Bernard Malamud’s The Natural. Both author’s used the main characters to show that one’s future is determined by the choices made throughout life, and the outside influences that guide the choices. Anaya and Malamud use other’s expectations, other’s guidance, and decisions made as significant points that help determine the outcome of the main character’s future. A main comparison between the two stories was that both of the main characters faced constant expectations on them placed on them. In Bless Me, Ultima, Anthony is the rope in a tug of war between his two families, the Yanez and the Lunas. He is judged by his more rebellious and spirited brothers, who display characteristics of the Yanez vaqueros, and is ridiculed that he will become like his mother (Anaya 68). Also, when he goes to his Luna uncle’s house for a time, he is tried be persuaded into becoming farmers like them, for â€Å"he has the feel of the earth in his blood† (Anaya 142). Both families tried to show him how he is more like the other, and both had the expectation of him becoming the next honored person to represent the family. Similarly, in The Natural, Roy is criticized nonstop by the fanatics of the ball club, but only when he is in a slump or having a bad game. But when he is in a great streak and crushing the baseballs, then he is adored. Roy is loved and hated constantly based on his actions, and the fickle nature of the crowd eventually determined how he was to be viewed after making his decision of selling out. The people close to the main characters helped determine the route that their future took, whether it was for the better or worse. Unlike the previous point, the guidance that the main characters of the story received severely contrasted. In Bless Me, Ultima, Tony had the guidance of the curandera, Ultima. Her supervision and direction of Tony helped him combat and overcome struggles by giving him hope. Ultima’s supervision of Tony was crucial so that he would not make an innocent mistake that could lead to his harm. Ultima’s protection of Tony was seen in action when Tenorio, the wicked bar owner and father of three witches, attempted to kill Tony in his drunken revenge. When he pointed his rifle at him, however, he was attacked by Ultima’s spirit in the form of an owl. Ultima died that night to protect the well being of Tony, showing how she is ultimately Tony’s keeper and protects him at all costs (Anaya 258). On the other hand, Roy’s manager Sam guided Roy in his beginning years as a ball player looking for a team. Roy was useless without Sam. He didn’t know â€Å"how to do simple things† like dress himself or even how much to tip a person (Malamud 5-6). As Harry Sylvester noted, Roy was a player who â€Å"operates with ease and the greatest skill, without having been taught†¦ [who] left alone†¦ might achieve his real fulfillment. † Roy did posses these great qualities, but Sam was like Roy’s judgment, and his absence really helped shape the outcome of Roy’s life because he wasn’t there to council Roy during tough situations. This absence of guidance and advice was the difference of Roy achieving his predicted greatness. Much like the first point, a main comparison that could be made for both writings is the decisions both main characters take in the process of determining their future. Tony stresses out a lot throughout the entire story about his life and becoming either a pastor or a cowboy, even though he is only seven. He is also very cautious with each move and step he takes so that he won’t commit an error in his development of becoming a man. Tony’s display of caution and care leads to him making the rightful decision of choosing elements of both families and using them to his advantage (Anaya 247). In contrast, Roy always displays a careless nature in his choices. As Orrin Judd put it, Roy continuously chose â€Å"pleasure over principle and dissipation over dedication† throughout the plot. This is certainly true because in many instances, Roy followed his primitive human nature in desire for pleasure and success, like following his desires for Harriet Bird or constantly wanting to be called â€Å"the best there ever was in the game† (Malamud 27, 34). Roy’s choices of following his temptations and the search for fame eventually led to him tragically failing in the end. Both characters faced tough situations, but their decisions in those situations  helped plan out their future. In all, the comparisons and differences of both The Natural and Bless Me, Ultima lead the audience to believe that a person’s future lies within their choices and the people’s reaction to them. Both stories displayed how key aspects of a person’s life can help determine their future. The many choices and decisions one makes in life can determine the outcome of their future, for the better or worse. Also, if one is loved by many or has great guidance to help them, then one will have a greater chance of achieving greatness and vice versa. In the end, the human being is responsible for their decisions and they must take the necessary precautions and steps to ensure the best future possible. Works Cited Anaya, Rudolfo. Bless Me, Ultima. New York: Grand Central, 1972. Print. Judd, Orrin. â€Å"Review of Bernard Malamud’s The Natural – BrothersJudd. com. † Brothers Judd Good Books and Recommended Reading – 27-Mar-11. 23 Mar. 2001. Web. 27 Mar. 2011. Malamud, Bernard. The Natural. New York: Farrar, Straus and Giroux, 2003. Print. Sylvester, Harry. â€Å"With Greatest of Ease. † New York Times. The New York Times Company, 26 Aug. 1952. Web. 27 Mar. 2011. .

Comparison Between Japan and America in Education

Every country perceives the importance of education. Any country that keeps their people uneducated or does not help to educate cannot make them as a responsible person. America and Japan both feel very strongly about education and that they need to have well educated people. Both of these countries have educational systems that are similar in some ways and yet very different in other ways. In order to understand the education between the two countries, it is useful to compare the system of the failure, school uniform, and entrance examination.First of all, there is a difference from the system of the failure between Japan and America. America adopts the system of the failure from the elementary school. When the teacher decides that the student should take the grade again because of his or her inadequate understanding for the class, the student must take the same curriculum. On the other hand, Japan does not adopt the system from the elementary school. The system is used from the hig h school. In Japan, the compulsory education is from the elementary school to the junior high school.Inside the period, the system of failure is not applied. In the case of the failure in Japan, thirty percent is the deadline in each test. In the system of the failure of the two countries, the primary education and the secondary education are completely different. However, from the higher education, the system is the same. Not only the system of failure, but also the school uniform is another difference. In Japan, almost all students wear the school uniform every day from elementary school to high school.It’s good for students themselves because they do not need to worry about their cloths every day. Their parents also do not care about the cost of the cloths. In contrast, almost all students in America do not wear the school uniform. Some private schools adopt the school uniform, but it is rare to see the uniform in America. As for the school uniform, there is no similarity. Furthermore, there are the difference and similarity in the entrance examination.In Japan, a lot of universities depend on the written test to measure the student’s academic ability. On the other hand, in America, many universities make a point of the student’s character. The essay is one of the good ways to make students express their own opinions. Although Japanese universities adopt the written test in the entrance examination, many high schools use the creative tests in the entrance examination to measure the students’ character. One of the good examples is the interview.Interviewer can know their character soon. Similarly, American schools use the telephone interview. In the entrance examination, there are the same ways and difference ways in the two countries. Although there are many similarities and differences between the educational systems of Japan and America, it is hard to declare that one is better than the other. It is useful to compare the educat ional system of the failure, school uniform, and entrance examination to understand the education between Japan and America.

DQ1 Essay Example | Topics and Well Written Essays - 250 words - 2

DQ1 - Essay Example The court system in the United States is dual comprising of the state courts and the federal courts. Unlike the traditional system of organization where power is central, these systems work side by side with exclusive jurisdiction. There are several courts each having its own structure and procedure. The court system is very open. Any person can present a dispute in court at any time. Contrary to traditional organizations where all the decisions concerning the organization are made at the helm, the court system resolves disputes within its jurisdiction without consulting with the Supreme Court. In addition, the court system is a defender of human rights. They are important in protecting basic rights such as freedom of speech and equality to all. The courts encourage right to speech that is inhibited in the traditional organizations systems. Furthermore, the court is different from traditional organizations because they ensure that the system of governance is federal. A federal system limits the power of government by sharing and dividing power between other states. This distribution of power is important as it prevents tyranny (Howard,

Gender Differences in Preschool Essay Example | Topics and Well Written Essays - 2500 words

Gender Differences in Preschool - Essay Example The third type of attention, non-specific positive interactions, refers to any miscellaneous attention given to a student that does not neatly fit into the other categories, which includes encouragement and compliments among other types on interactions. The fourth type of attention, praise, refers to when the teacher verbally points out when a student in engaged in a favorable behavior. The last type of attention, command, refers to any verbal interaction initiated by the teacher which directs the child's behavior in a certain way. Command does not include verbal interactions in the context of discipline. Child misbehavior was also observed and noted. Dobbs, Arnold, and Doctoroff found that teachers do treat boys and girls differently in regards to attention. They found that while there was no difference in the amount of physical warmth and praise that teachers gave to boys when compared to girls, there were differences in the other types of attention. Teachers tended to command boys more than girls, while they also tended to reward and engage in non-specific positive interactions with girls more than boys. There may be some explanation for these findings. First, while boys received more commands from teachers, they were also observed to misbehave more often than girls. It was observed that teachers gave more commands to students who typically misbehaved, even when they were not misbehaving. A possible explanation may be that the teacher is trying to prevent future misbehavior. If this is true, then behavior is in fact the mitigating factor in commands, and not gender. The difference noticed in the frequency of rewards given... This essay stresses that the difference noticed in the frequency of rewards given to boys in comparison to girls may also be contributed somewhat to misbehavior. It was found that while girls receive rewards more often than boys, girls who misbehaved received rewards more often than girls who did not misbehave. At the same time, boys who misbehaved received rewards more often than boys who did not misbehave, although this was still less than girls who did not misbehave. A possible explanation may be that teachers use rewards for acceptable behavior in order to wean children off of misbehaving. This explanation does not completely account for the observations, since non-misbehaving girls still received more rewards than misbehaving boys. At best, misbehavior can be used in conjunction with gender to explain this observation. This paper makes a conclusion that teachers tend to touch children of the same sex as themselves more often that different sex children. There may be many factors at play here, such as the teacher feels more comfortable touching children of the same sex, or that the teacher can relate to children of the same sex more readily. At the same time, it was found that male teachers tended to use a helpful touch far more often with girls than any of the other touching types, whereas female teachers did not favor one type of touch over another. A possible explanation for this may be that the male teachers are operating on the stereotype that females are dependent on males, and therefore need more help than males do.

Role of Economic Development in Reducing the Poverty Rate Essay

Role of Economic Development in Reducing the Poverty Rate - Essay Example This paper presents comprehensive analysis of interrelations between economic development and poverty The essay is aimed at attempting to argue that economic development is a solution towards eradicating poverty. Factors that determine economic development have been examined, factors that cause poverty have been analyzed. Through the GDP, scholars are able to determine the living standard of people occupying specific parts of the world. Thus, any notable increase in economic growth is seen as indicating an increase in standard of living to an average level. It is worth noting that the average living standards are mostly achieved through greater inequality and poverty. Similarly, a section of scholars have argued that economic activities could solely not be attached to bringing to an end poverty across the world. In fact, numerous countries struggling with their economic activities such as oil, tea, precious stones among other natural resources have been continually exploited by foreign countries leaving them with very little benefits for their people However, economic development does not only cause poverty as it has been used by numerous countries to upgrade their economic life. This has been visual through the accessibility of facilities such as water, schools, medical facilities electricity among others. Nevertheless, it is worth noting that economic development does not only cause poverty as it has been used by numerous countries to upgrade their economic life. ... As such, pressing challenges attached to economic development must be dealt with to pave way for curbing poverty. Theoretical framework The Theory of Economic Development The theory of economic development emanates from a scholar known as Schumpeter. According to the theory, it was evident that his view on economic development was based entirely on two types of research that had been carried out by Scholars: Walras and Marx. Although they were both dedicated towards coming up with solution based on the impact of economic development, they had varying reasons. Through Walras who was his great hero, this theory is said to embrace the actual logic on the interdependence between quantities in the economy. On the other hand, Marx argues that there must be vision based on economic evolution that acts as a pathway towards the generation of economic system (Rowe, 2009). In light of this, Schumpeter argues that both contributions have played a huge role in giving the economic development a gr ound as one is rigid and the other is dynamic. As such, he argues that the dynamics in any economic entails data changing by carrying out new combinations of the five cases of economic development. The five cases in economic development consist of new products, new production methods, and opening of new methods, new organization forms and new supply sources. The development of this theory by Schumpeter has greatly contributed towards economic development for over a century. Although the theory focuses more on the limitations of tackling poverty, it could be argued that there are more possibilities towards economic development been a solution to poverty

Career Decision Making Essay Example | Topics and Well Written Essays - 1250 words

Career Decision Making - Essay Example It’s within a holistic paradigm that career counseling must work to aid the individual in resolving their personal relationship conflicts to achieve a more holistic lifestyle, as this will allow them to more clearly advance with their career decision making. In these regards, it’s clear that the theoretical approach most relevant to this case study is Hansen’s integrative life planning approach. According to Hansen’s theory, there is a series of four assumptions that must be incorporated into life planning decisions (Niles, & Harris-Bowlsbey, 2008). Hansen states that one of the central tasks individuals must accomplish is, â€Å"weaving our lives into a meaningful whole† (Hansen, as cited in Niles, & Harris-Bowlsbey, pg. 85). In these regards, it’s clear that Hansen’s integrative life planning approach considers not simply one’s direct choice in deciding on one career over another but also posits that any substantial life decis ion must be made in terms of the holistic effect it has on all aspects of the individual’s life. Hansen also indicates that an individual must consider their career goals in terms of life purpose and spirituality. When examining Douglas’ decision-making dilemma it’s clear that social aspects have hindered his ability to progress with his career decisions. In examining Douglas’ dilemma it seems clear that in deciding on one career choice will have a tremendous effect on another aspect of his life, namely the relationship with his parents. I think a highly relevant and notable point of discussion was when the counselor framed the career discussion in terms of the client’s siblings. While it’s clear that the client had been strongly influenced by his parents’ work ethic, working a series of jobs and seemingly having a very career-centric life, the emphasis on her siblings’ decisions contributes greatly to decisions that he might make in terms of career advancement, or purpose and meaning.

Kenworth Motors Managment Essay Example | Topics and Well Written Essays - 3000 words

Kenworth Motors Managment - Essay Example According to the discussion, Kenworth Motors is producers of trucking and other automobile products with its trucking manufacturing unit as its major and most important business unit. It is the leading manufacturer of heavy duty and medium duty trucks since 1923 and is dominating the market through its large network of dealers spread all over the country as well as in Canada. This large network not only offers the final product of the company but also offer parts and after sales services to the clients all over the market. The company has a tradition of serving its customers through its large network and as such the overall structure is designed in such a manner that it effectively serve its customers in almost all parts of the country. The case study in question provides the insight into the existing affairs that are taking place at the trucking unit of the company at Seattle and indicates about the various difficulties which the plant manager is envisaging in the future to happen. The underlying change that has been discussed in the case is multi-dimensional in nature and requires a very careful review of the affairs of the firm in order to prescribe any policy initiatives which can only be undertaken after issues are sorted out. Further, since any change cannot take place without the considering significant changes in the way HR function of the organization used to work. The change that is implicitly discussed in this case study outlines the need for having a complete revamping of the unit’s overall structure in order to make it more organized and efficient. For this purpose, HR therefore shall be playing the major role of providing necessary support in making this change more visible and effective within the organization.

Poll 211 Wek 8 Dis Essay Example | Topics and Well Written Essays - 250 words

Poll 211 Wek 8 Dis - Essay Example s member-states include the normalization and balance of economic policies to ensure that member states are uniformly represented in the conduction of business within the Eurozone. Among the institutions that make up the European Union include the Council of European Union, European Council, Monetary Union, European Commission, European Central Bank, and the Court of Auditors in addition to others. The overall functions of the European Union are related to the individual functions of the comprising institutions (Hahari, 2014). The causes of the Eurozone Crisis are cumulative and form from the economic and financial decisions the members of the EU made as well as the corresponding effects on the economy. In the development of the Euro as the legal tender for the EU, member states had to decide on how to balance states with a larger economies with those with lower economies. In doing so, the value of the Euro was set averagely low value which affected large economies and small ones as well. Since large economies, like Germany, developed slower than smaller economies, like Greece, the low value of the Euro increased the chances of developing states to borrow cheaply (Jordan, and Adelle, 2012). In addition, nations such as Greece had high public debt of â‚ ¬240 billion while Ireland’s was â‚ ¬85-billion debt, Portugal’s was â‚ ¬78-billion public debt, Spain’s was â‚ ¬41-billion in loans, and Cyprus’s was â‚ ¬10-billion contributing and integrated with the collapse of the banking system. Provided that majority of the loans involved in the Eurozone crisis were funded by other members of the Eurozone, it was inevitable that the union would not sustain its operations as financial constrains were

Research paper about legalizing cannabis Essay Example | Topics and Well Written Essays - 2000 words

Research paper about legalizing cannabis - Essay Example rlands, cannabis is openly tolerated and can be both purchased and consumed in one of several Amsterdam ‘coffee houses.’ Inexplicably, the city has not been thrown into anarchy which, evidently, is what the opponents of cannabis legalisation are afraid of. The evidence demonstrates that legalizing cannabis would prove a benefit to society, evidence which is well-known throughout the scientific, political and public arena but this collective knowledge has yet to be acted upon. This discussion will examine the issue of legalisation drawing from European, British and American experiences. In addition, because cannabis is often associated with harder forms of drugs by legalisation opponents, it will briefly discuss plausible reasons why all drugs should be at least decriminalised if not made fully legal. A report created by Transform1, a non-profit UK drug policy think tank, demonstrates how criminalization of certain drugs has created crime, undermined public health and promotes social exclusion while proving ineffective in eliminating domestic markets. The foundation recommends instead a society in which all drugs are regulated and controlled through the use of specialized pharmacies and licensed retailers instead of black market street vendors and an uncontrolled clientele. The reason for this, they say, is that the war on drugs has led to an uninformed hysteria among the general population, an irrational opposition to less harmful substances, a spike in organised crime and associated criminal activity. By regulating and controlling drugs, Transform suggests that prison populations could be cut in half, considerably reducing the funds spent on maintaining and sustaining these populations. In addition, crime factors would be reduced as the primary activity of organised crime would now be regulated, crime wars would become obsolete and crimes associated with drug use such as prostitution and burglaries for drug money would be further reduced as the price

Analysis of the Kurt Vonnegut and Margaret Atwoods stories Essay

Analysis of the Kurt Vonnegut and Margaret Atwoods stories - Essay Example Although many of us uphold equality as an undeniable human right, the majority have their own subjective idea of what equality means. Prior to reading Vonnegut's story, I believed that I supported equality as a principle but never considered what type of equality I believed in. Following my reading, I discovered that I believed in equality before the law and equality of opportunity but, definitely do not support economic equality and equality of capacities. Economic equality entails denying people their right to succeed, just as equality of capacities ensures that people cannot strive to become all that they can be. Accordingly, I cannot support absolute equality although I most definitely do believe in the fundamental equality of all before the law. The equality to which I am committed is an equality of opportunity as would allow people to fulfill their ambitions and realize their potentials. As I am writing this, however, I cannot help but think of Atwood's story and the simple and absolute truth it conveys. That truth is that in the end, we are all going to die.

The public education system Essay Example for Free

The public education system Essay â€Å"Effectiveness in the principal-ship is the extent to which all learners in the school are doing as well as they should be doing.† (Webster, 1, 1994) The public education system has perhaps never faced more challenges than it does today. With increasing diversity in the school system, teachers and administration have to be prepared to teach students with minimal English. Increased violence in schools has created a situation where providing security for students takes precedence to learning. Drug use among students and domestic violence place teachers and administration in a social services role, rather than focused on education. Increased accountability standards with an ever-shrinking budget challenges teacher’s time to be responsive to individual student needs. Each of these challenges are faced by the school as a whole, with increased pressure placed on the role of the principal to meet these needs. The role of the principal has changed over the past twenty to thirty years. Ideally the principal should be responsible for creating a climate of learning, and assuring that teachers have the resources they need to do their job effectively. â€Å"The principal establishes a climate for excellence, puts forth a vision for continuous improvement in student performance, promotes excellence in teaching, and commits to sustained, comprehensive professional development for all staff members. The principal ensures that curriculum, instructional strategies, and assessment of student progress are coherent components in the teaching and learning process. In short, the principal engages herself or himself as an instructional leader.† (Tirozzi, 1, 2001) Educational research, focusing on school effectiveness, often examines the concept of the principal as leader as one of the critical factors. Research indicates that the role of principal as leader in creating a climate that can lead to higher student academic performance, â€Å"conditions such as setting high standards and goals, planning and coordinating with staff, having an orientation toward innovation, frequent monitoring of staff and student performance, and involving parents and the community.† (Blank, 1, 1987) This increased emphasis on the principal as a leader, has ultimately changed the role of the school principal. Historically, principals wereelected and played the role of educator. The increased need for the principal to take the part of leader requires the principal to also take on the role of administrator. Along with this role, there is a increased emphasis on the principal as a primary contributor to the educational effectiveness of the school. This expanding role of the principal has created a new set of expectations, including fulfilling the role of leader as both educator and administrator, including responsibility for the school curriculum. During the 1980s, school districts introduced programs to increase school effectiveness, including greater instructional leadership by principals. (Blank, 1, 1987) According to Elaine Fink and Lauren Resnick, there is widespread appeal for principals to assume the role of leaders in education, but this role is not being fulfilled in practice. â€Å"In practice, though, few principals act as genuine instructional leaders. Their days are filled with the activities of management: scheduling, reporting, handling relations with parents and the community, and dealing with the multiple crises and special situations that are inevitable in schools. Most principals spend relatively little time in classrooms and even less time analyzing instruction with teachers. They may arrange time for teachers meetings and professional development, but they rarely provide intellectual leadership for growth in teaching skill.† (Fink Resnick, 1, 2001) Fink and Resnick depict principals as becoming more and more distanced from the issues of education and instruction and increasingly focused on administrative and budgetary issues. According to Fink, building an effective community of principals should focus on the craft of teaching and learning and the building of strong interpersonal relationships. The role of principal maintains five major controls or sources of power or authority including the authority (1) to exert administrative control, (2) to exert aggressive instructional leadership, (3) to control the evaluative framework of the school, (4) to control the distribution of rewards, and (5) to control the timing and flow of information and resources in the school. (Webster, 44, 1994) The effective principal has the ability to define what tasks ar e important and create a framework in which those tasks can be accomplished. The effective principal should focus on the role of â€Å"principal teacher,† or that which is the teacher of teachers. Effective principals, who have the responsibility of teaching both new and experienced teachers, must be knowledgeable about a wide variety of teaching strategies, with a focus on that which will enhance learner growth. Effective principal must possess problem-solving as a skill. The effective principal should operate as a leader. (Webster, 93, 1994) Leadership is often defined as the ability to influence others in the group, focused on the two basic functions of leadership: task and human. Task effectiveness relates to teaching as the major task and learner growth as the outcome. The second function of human effectiveness recognizes that teachers and other staff members need occasional strengthening, refocusing, morale boosting, and listening to, as well as remediation and correction. According to Webster, task effectiveness and human effectiveness roles of leaders overlap, across all domains. Principals must display task effectiveness in the learning or learner-centered domain as well as in the management domain. (Webster, 46, 1994) Portin and Shen studied the changing role of the principal in the Washington State education system. They identified the school effectiveness research of the last twenty years in affirming the role of principal leadership in school success. Principals were identified as key individuals as instructional leaders, initiators of change, school managers, personnel administrators, and problem solvers. The principal is in the center of multiple demands to reform schools and to meet the challenges of future leadership. (Portin Shen, 1, 1998) â€Å"If education, in general, and schools, in particular, are seen as tools for social change, educational leaders are assumed to be among the most critical artisans. This assumption is widely held by the public-at-large, as well as by education professionals. It is also an assumption warranted by relevant evidence. Indeed, the leadership effect becomes increasingly prominent the more one focuses attention on schools as opposed to other types of organizations.† (Portin Shen, 1, 1998) Despite changes in shared leadership and teacher empowerment, the principal remains the center of leadership in the school. The unique role of the principal includes instructional, organizational, and statutory leadership. As an instructional leader, the principal is expected to retain knowledge of effective instructional practice, both curricular and pedagogical. The role of the principal as evaluator of instruction underlines the organizational leadership expected. Principals are given responsibility for most school operations. Despite changes in school policy, and societal changes, the assumption is made that principals have the capacity to lead and supervise the implementation of new programs and regulations while continuing to provide previously assigned responsibilities. Research indicates that this ever-changing role of the principal may not allow for them to meet of the expectations. â€Å"Numerous factors have been identified that contribute to the ways in which principals spend their time. Analyses of the principals role reveal constant interruptions, lack of planning time, fragmentation of activities, compliance with numerous rules and regulations. Clearly, the role of the principal is changing as more is expected of them.† (Portin Shen, 1, 1998) In a study of schools in Washington State, more than three quarters of principals surveyed, reported that in the last five years they have had more responsibility for site-based decisi ons, monitoring truancy, dealing with the impact of student diversity, interacting with parents, improving school-community relationships, and administering special education programs. These changes suggest that principals are expected to provide more leadership, on one hand, and to take on more managerial responsibilities, on the other. This has led to a growing tension between the leadership and managerial responsibilities of the job. The role of principal is becoming increasingly more challenging. Ninety-one percent of the principals surveyed indicated they are in districts that are decentralizing decision making to the local school site, 76 per cent were in districts that were initiating or encouraging the use of site councils, 79 per cent indicated the need to establish school/business partnerships. Seventy-six percent reported working in sites with increased student diversity that has had an important impact on the school, 83 per cent increased interactions with parents that have had a significant impact on their work, 91 per cent reported it was important to consider client satisfaction when making decisions. As might be expected, these changes have had nega tive impact on the ability of principal’s to do their work and increased negative feelings about their job. (Portin Shen, 1, 1998) These changes have required the principal to take on additional responsibilities, resulting in a disproportionate amount of time and attention devoted to these new responsibilities. As new responsibilities are added, principals must take time away from previous demands to meet the changing demands. Despite the addition of new responsibilities, principals have not been relieved of other duties and responsibilities that have traditionally been a part of their job, â€Å"building maintenance and repair, instructional leadership, maintaining a safe and secure environment, responding to teacher and staff requests, conducting legally required teacher evaluations, managing the budget, and maintaining discipline.† (Portin Shen, 1, 1998) Despite these additional responsibilities, authority and instruction did not necessarily follow, resulting in considerable ambiguity. Some principals surveyed reported not feeling they possessed the skills necessary for the increased job responsibilit y. Further, principals surveyed reported feeling greater levels of frustration in their job and less enthusiasm for the work they do. Their decline in morale and enthusiasm stems, instead, from their inability to carry out both their management and leadership functions effectively and efficiently, and their preference to provide leadership. Many principals report work weeks of 50 to 70 hours. They feel they are being forced to make choices about where they will spend their time and attention. Another source of frustration is the shift to managerial rather than leadership responsibilities. They recognize that managing the building is a necessary function for principals, they prefer to focus on their role as instructional leaders, spending time with teachers, students, and parents improving the schools program for student learning. Many principals are finding it difficult to maintain that focus. (Portin Shen, 1998) Principals have the responsibility of making certain that specific tasks are completed by teachers and other staff members. Their job is to coordinate, direct, and support the work of others by â€Å"defining objectives, evaluating performance, providing resources, building a positive climate, fostering positive school-community relations, planning, scheduling, keeping records, resolving conflicts, handling student problems, working cooperatively with central office staff members, and keeping the school running smoothly on a day-to-day basis.† (Wendell, 88, 1994) Their day to day activities are further challenged by factors outside their control. Negotiated teacher contracts, may define working situations that further diminish the resources of the school. (Webster, 86, 1994) Leadership activities are commonly associated with initiative and change that inspire others to accomplish the mission of the organization. â€Å"Through leadership, principals bring an active and personal attitude toward the reaching of goals. Principals who are both successful leaders and managers empower others. The system as a whole begins to function effectively with the improvement of teaching and learning for students. Principals should consider themselves leaders of leaders, not leaders of followers.† (Webster, 201, 1994) Historically, principals have been considered part of the control process within the school. Their job was to distribute incentives for completion by teachers and other staff members. Transformational leadership, that is desired now, works by transforming the goals and aspirations of members of the organization. â€Å"Transformational school leaders pursue three goals: to help staff members develop and maintain a collaborative, professional culture, to foster teacher development; and to help personnel solve problems together more effectively.† (Webster, 192, 1994) This type of leader realizes that an integrated, cohesive group lends itself to effectiveness. Everyone works together to p ursue common goals. A sense of ownership exists within an organization where transformational leadership is practiced. (Wendell, 212, 1994) Instructional leaders need to be knowledgeable about instructional resources, provide resources for their teachers, promote staff development, and obtain resources and support for school goals. Performance appraisals should be based on goals that improve institutional performance. Instructional leaders help solve instructional problems, encourage the use of many strategies and styles, and assist teachers with assessment and evaluation techniques. â€Å"Instructional leaders promote their vision for their schools, communicate to teachers about desired instructional practices and criteria for evaluating performance, and provide frequent feedback to teachers. Principals who would be instructional leaders actively promote staff development activities, are readily available to discuss issues related to teaching and instruction, are visible to staff and students, and make frequent classroom observations. Instructional leaders focus upon instruction and take care of routine managerial task s, such as completion of paperwork, before or after classes as much as possible. Principals who believe that all students can learn and enjoy school are willing to examine how students learn and redirect the focus of schooling upon students learning styles.† (Webster, 182, 1994) According to Wendell, principals can develop instructional leadership by establishing clear goals, objectives, and priorities; expressing high expectations; emphasizing student achievement, attendance, behavior, and attitude; and focusing upon school goals and priorities. Principals can enhance instruction by providing clear communication within their educational system and by keeping curriculum focused upon goals, by working with teachers to improve their instructional skills; and by monitoring school performance. Principals who are effective instructional leaders focus upon five key areas: (1) defining the schools mission, (2) managing curriculum and instruction, (3) promoting a positive learning climate, (4) providing supervision of instruction, and (5) assessing instructional pr ograms. (Webster, 220, 1994) The recent trend toward accountability, and nation-wide educational standards have pressured principals to be more concerned with the bottom line. School systems serving poor and minority students pose an even greater threat to the success of a school system in achieving what is considered to be minimum standards. Codding Tucker reviewed what they believe to be determinates of successful principals. They separate the roles they perform, the qualities that they need to perform those roles, and the knowledge implied by those roles. As have others, Codding Tucker re-iterate the need for the school principal to function both as as a leader and as a manager, and that one role should compliment the other. (Codding Tucker, 84, 2002) In providing effective leadership, principals must be able to provide leadership that results in a shared vision of the directions to be pursued by the school and to manage change in ways that ensure that the school is successful in realizing the vision. â€Å"There is overwhelming evidence from the literature on school effectiveness and improvement regarding the significance of the principal in establishing a school culture that promotes and values learning and that embodies realistic but high expectations of all students and teachers. To the extent that principals have an impact on student learning, this impact is largely mediated through teachers and classroom teaching.† (Codding Tucker, 61, 2002) As a manager, the principal must ensure that the circle of accountability is complete and that investment in the learning of individual members is demonstrated in the student learning outcomes. This needs to be reflected in the staff appraisal process and ongoing processes for evaluating programs and monitoring the performance of the school. â€Å"A key role of the principal is to ensure that each of the elements that contribute to improved student learning outcomes is present, working effectively, and aligned with all other ele ments. When systems aren’t aligned and progress is not noted, it is the role of the principal to make adjustments in the system and make sure those adjustments are communicated throughout the school system. Principals need a strong theoretical foundation of current knowledge about teaching and learning, practical knowledge of the beliefs and understandings of staff in the school, and applied knowledge of how to bring about development and change in those beliefs and understandings.† (Codding Tucker, 64, 2002) Schools with effective learning climates have behavioral standards understood by all students, with consequences for inappropriate behavior administered consistently and fairly, on the basis of a written standard known to all staff members. An effective learning climate in schools should be a major component of the principals vision which serves as the basis for improvement. Principals must understand the meaning as well as ways of improving effective learning climates. A climate that promotes learning includes all the things principals must do to foster teacher and student involvement. According to Webster, the climates of effective schools are characterized by (1) high levels of student involvement with work; (2) teacher-led instruction; (3) students who understand teacher expectations; (4) efficient use of time; (5) minimal confusion and disruption; (6) mutual trust between teachers, students, and administrators; (7) high morale; (8) ample opportunities for input by all factions; (9) feelings of ownership by all; (10) feelings of caring by all; and (11) the presence of one or more ongoing renewal or school improvement projects. (Webster, 182, 1994) Through their leadership abilities, the school principal can have an impact on teacher attitude, student achievement, staff and student morale. According to Webster, the first step that a principal can take toward establishing an effective learning climate in any school is being there, being seen by all, students, teachers, and other staff members. Principals need to maintain personal involvement in the school setting. Students and teachers alike, must have the feeling that the principal is likely to be anywhere and at anytime. Projection of a caring attitude should accompany the high visibility of the principal. Further, Webster provides the following suggestions as a method to improve principal interactions: (1) establish a climate of professionalism with teachers; (2) interact personally with children; (3) get into classrooms; (4) be a teacher advocate, hospitable and sensitive to teacher suggestions; (5) attempt to fund projects of creative, caring teachers; (6) delegate authority wisely; (7) be politicians in dealing with their school communities; (8) offer criticism in a constructive manner; and (9) be human, while han dling unpleasant tasks with fairness, firmness, and dispatch. (Webster, 141, 1998) Webster believes that principals should attempt to establish these elements by focusing on teachers first, then students, and finally, student-teacher relationships in their schools. Traditional training for principals has consisted of theory and policy taught by university professors relying on academic models. Candidates have been taught to manage with a top-down rather than a team approach. Although theory is an important component of principal training, recent studies have shown that the skills and qualities most necessary to succeed include problem analysis, data collection, organizational ability, decisiveness, effective communication skills and stress tolerance. The issue of continuing professional development is also important. Even veteran principals feel that they are not prepared for the reality of the job. Many feel isolated having left their network of peers in the ranks of teachers. They also feel a lack of constructive criticism and supportive supervision. Principals n eed to be prepared to handle the various situations they face in a day. Theory is important, but aspiring principals must be shown that most of what they will be facing will not come out of a book. They must be prepared to be open minded and handle each situation as it comes. Working in collaboration with school districts to create mentoring programs is important. Principals need a network of peers to alleviate the isolation and helplessness many feel. (Ediger, 381, 2000) Leadership within school systems are not built on the qualifications of individuals alone. Typically, the role of principal, as well as that of teachers, has been undervalued. Resources are scarce at best and research has not adequately defined problem areas. Effective models are scarce. â€Å"If existing educational leadership roles are inadequate, they are at least familiar. There is scant research and development to guide principals or superintendents through the onslaught of new policies driving the standards movement. New responsibilities require new job descriptions and redesigned systems to support new learning.† (Fitzgerald, 57, 2000) The focus of school leadership, all too often, has been faced with numerous changes and increasing responsibility. Principals are expected to produce educational results but often lack understanding of how students learn. Principals are expected to evaluate teaching performance with inadequate knowledge of what constitutes good practice. Principals work in isolation with little time to effectively supervise or interact within their schools. (Fitzgerald, 57, 2000) The role of the school principal has changed dramatically and will continue to do so. Principals are required to fill a myriad of roles, with additional responsibilities added on an ongoing basis. New laws, an ever-changing and diverse student base, new standards will all continue to challenge the school principal in fulfilling their role as a leader. Despite these changes, there are some things tha t remain a constant in the life of the principal. The principal will continue to be responsible for creating a culture of learning. The principal will continue to create a climate that encourages teachers to expand their horizons and their own learning in order to serve students better. The principal will continue to be responsible for the budgetary constraints that challenge the educational system today. The principal will still be required to create a standard of education that focuses on quality. The NAESP (www.naesp.org) defined The guide identifies six standards that redefine instructional leadership for todays principals. These standards include: †¢ Leading schools in a way that puts student and adult learning at the center, with the principal demonstrating the role of learner and teacher. †¢ Promoting the academic success of all students by setting high expectations and high standards and organizing the school environment around school achievement; †¢ Creating and demanding rigorous content and instruction that ensures student progress toward agreed-upon academic standards; †¢ Creating a climate of continuous learning for adults that is tied to student learning; †¢ Using multiple sources of data as a diagnostic tool to assess, identify, and apply instructional improvement; and †¢ Actively engaging the community to create shared responsibility for student and school success. These standards, though appropriate, still require the principal to establish priorities within the system and redesign the workplace in order to achieve the overall mission. The first priority of the principal should always be to establish a culture of learning. If learning is the priority, then the rest should follow and it should provide the basis for other decisions to be made. References Blank, R. K. (1987). The Role of Principal as Leader: Analysis of Variation in Leadership of Urban High Schools. Journal of Educational Research, 81(2), 69-80. Retrieved February 12, 2007, from Questia database: http://www.questia.com/PM.qst?a=od=76943658 Ediger, M. (1996). The School Principal with New Responsibilities. Education, 116(3), 381+. Retrieved February 12, 2007, from Questia database: http://www.questia.com/PM.qst?a=od=5000367879 Ediger, M. (2000). Role of the Principal and the Social Studies. College Student Journal, 34(3), 423. Retrieved February 12, 2007, from Questia database: http://www.questia.com/PM.qst?a=od=5001112650 Ediger, M. (2000). The School Principal as Leader in Reading Instruction. Reading Improvement, 37(1), 20. 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