Essay On Online Drivers - 1003 Words

Online drivers Ed course resources can be useful. They help improve awareness for young drivers, make experienced drivers better, or reduce the impact of traffic violations. You can take online drivers Ed course alternatives from the comfort of your home or office. Here are 7 of the top online drivers Ed course resources for 2017. The fees usually depend on your state of residence. Most courses do not disclose course fees until you initiate registration. Because of this, the list is in alphabetical order. However, each course meets the guidelines for new driver certification and points reduction mandates for most states. Aceable Online Drivers Ed Aceable is one of the few online drivers Ed course alternatives that is immediately open†¦show more content†¦New drivers have access to 50 practice tests to help you pass your written exam the first time. †¢ DriversEd.com uses engaging video presentations and case studies, blended with interesting activities. †¢ There are no classroom requirements and no set schedule. You can complete your driver’s education studies on your own time. †¢ As an experienced driver who might have generate an unfortunate ticket, you can use courses by eDriving to reduce your point total, or eliminate a ticket altogether. iDriveSafely iDriveSafely is another online drivers Ed course provided by eDriving. The programs offered afford new drivers with all the requirements to secure a learner’s permit and pass their exam. However, this site has an extensive assortment of specialized courses to deal with citations and traffic violations. †¢ iDriveSafely has an excellent defensive driving course. You can search to be certain your state will accept completion. If it does, you can erase citation points off your license. †¢ Everyone who completes an iDriveSafely online drivers Ed course will earn insurance savings by completing the appropriate course requirements. †¢ Each course has a unique segment that helps to improve driver awareness. iDriveSafely uses a road risk management model, which helps create better drivers by teaching them how to avoid risks. Improvâ„ ¢ – Traffic School Defensive Driving TheShow MoreRelatedDistracted Driving Annotated Bibliography1727 Words   |  7 PagesAnnotated Bibliography Distracted Driving. Opposing Viewpoints Online Collection. Detroit: Gale, 2012. Opposing Viewpoints In Context. Web. 6 Mar. 2013. In this article â€Å"Distracted Driving†, many distractions are mentioned other than just cell phone usage, such as changing the radio station or driving with kids in the back seat. It is stated that the dangers from distracted driving are because of the decrease in brain function and inability to pay full attention to the road. These practicesRead MoreBenefits of Congestion Charge in Tokyo1604 Words   |  7 Pagesimpacts to not only drivers and cities but also economies and businesses. In contrast, it could be illustrated that this innovative invention can solve environmental problems and recessions. This essay will discuss whether the congestion charge system is beneficial for Tokyo. It will argue both sides of the debate but will demonstrate that this system leads to positive effects on society. Firstly, economic aspects will be described, followed by environmental issues and finally, this essay will account forRead MoreExtended Essay Zheng1734 Words   |  7 Pa gesï » ¿ Extended Essay Which of the forces and drivers of â€Å"globalisation† will most impact on the business environment? Zheng Li PARSE 17 16/ 09/ 2014 Word count: 1505 Introduction There is a widespread belief that the world at the beginning of the twenty-first century is changing more rapidly and dramaticallyRead MoreInformation Technology and Supply Chain Management in Amazon.com684 Words   |  3 Pagesthe efficient, profitable performance of its supply chain. For online retailers who compete in high velocity sales environments, the ability to orchestrate suppliers across a very broad supply chain is critical for their continual profitable operation and growth (Albors-Garrigà ³s, Hervas-Oliver, Mà ¡rquez, 2009). Integral to this aspect of Amazons business model is the role of Information Technologies (IT). It is the intent of this essay to evaluate the importance of information and IT in the functioningRead MoreSocial Media and Students733 Words   |  3 Pagesword â€Å"essay† their eyes roll up in their heads and their brains shut down immediately. The word â€Å"essay† itself frightens students who otherwise feel comfortable with writing . In fact, according to some sources, â€Å"Teens who enjoy expressing their thoughts and feelings in writing often spend their time blogging, or updating online journals† (How Online Social Networks are Used). If students are already writing online, shouldn’t teachers be able to use social media instead of boring essays to teachRead MoreJustice: Understandably Misunderstood Essay1293 Words   |  6 Pagescommunity. This form of justice is hugely useful for offences involving negligence. For example, this could include drunk drivers who’ve taken a life in an accident. Restoration allows families harmed by drunk drivers to heal more quickly (Robinson 388). Most drunk drivers who cause deaths from an automobile accident are simply negligent drivers who never intended to kill. Drunk drivers are ordinary people who have made poor decisions and paid the price. After the event they might usually be filled withRead MoreAnalyzing Uber s Crisis Management Strategy On T he Kalamazoo Shootings1653 Words   |  7 Pagesavailability and immediacy allow information to be swiftly accessed anywhere at any time, therefore it is essential organisations react with the same swiftness when remedying a crisis. Through the evaluation of social medias role in a crisis, this essay will analyse Uber’s crisis management strategy on the Kalamazoo shootings, with a particular focus on their use of Twitter. By definition a crisis can mean anything that â€Å"interrupts the normal flow of business† (Fearn-Banks cited in Hagan, 2007Read MoreHow I Build Your Computer1273 Words   |  6 Pageschoosing a budget, carefully think what you re willing to spend. Be careful to not underspend or overspend. Choose your parts- This step can be very hard for new-comers as the numbers and various parts can confuse you. So don t be shy to ask on forums online if the parts you have selected best suit your needs. I would also recommend a website called pcpartpicker.com, as it can help you check if your parts are compatible and gives the locations of the lowest prices. In your list of parts, you should haveRead MoreThe Modern Computer1266 Words   |  6 Pageschoosing a budget, carefully think what you re willing to spend. Be careful to not underspend or overspend. Choose your parts- This step can be very hard to new-comers as the numbers and various parts can confuse you. So don t be shy to ask on forums online if the the parts you have selected best suit your needs. I would also recommend a website called pcpartpicker.com, as it can help you check if your parts are compatible and gives the locations of the lowest prices. You should have at least a cpu,Read MoreEssay On Utah Roads1119 Words   |  5 Pagesto Yield, Driver Distraction, Wrong Side of the Road - 11%. What was provided in what I read did not surprise me because of the fact that teenagers are always on their phones and not paying attention to the road. For me the differences between the statistics for teen drivers compared to Utah drivers as a whole proves that no matter whatmistakes can be made. These statistics show the importance of following the speed limit and obeying the basic rules of the road. Experienced drivers are expected

Religion And Its Influence On Religion - 1313 Words

Religion Influencing Kingship Religion and the influence it has on kingship has fascinated scholars in fields such as history and religious studies. Kingship has been influenced by the use of religion for the purpose of legitimizing power, keeping promises to its people, and finding reason for life. Religious influence on kingship seems to be an almost universal concept in human history. The acceptance of religion has changed many kings’ lives, for the better. All throughout history, religion has expressed the answer to our deepest questions that we ask. It has been dedicated to be centrally place in the lives of all civilizations and cultures. Religion had a great influence on how Ashoka, Clovis and Charlemagne ruled their people. Ashoka was born in the year 304 BC to a military family who did not practice religion. After a civil war in India, the warrior Ashoka became the third emperor of the powerful Mauryan dynasty. Emperor Ahsoka was soon to gain the reputation of being a very cruel and evil emperor. He began his reign by dedicating to expand the empire that already had been established. In the year 263 BC Ahsoka conquered the Kalinga nation and soon he ruled a sizeable portion of India. But in the process of conquering the Kalinga nation, Ashoka shamelessly killed roughly 200,000 people during the Kalinga Battle. After living with such regret and remorse for the huge amount of lost life, he decided to turn to religion. The â€Å"Rock Edicts of King Ashoka-ExcerptsShow MoreRelatedReligion Influence Religion1798 Words   |  8 PagesAll over the world, religion is influencing societies in both good and bad ways. After all, for most people, religion is how many find a purpose in life, and is a guide that h elps them make decisions throughout life. People want explanations for the unexplainable and want answers to the most unanswerable questions, so many people resort to religion as a way to explain why life is the way it is. Having faith and believing in a religion can bring civilizations together and help find common ground inRead MoreReligion And Its Influence On Religion977 Words   |  4 Pagesabout religions that I hear since my childhood and it s said everywhere; that religions are all the same, and that they all call to the same ethical matters, ultimately lead to the same result as achieved the same end. This popular saying among revealed religions which used to relieve tension and historical conflict between their followers, they also quote my favorite physical and intellectual currents atheistic view that all religions are just a way to control people. But do all religions leadRead MoreInfluence of Religion1056 Words   |  5 PagesInfluence of Religion on Developing Socie ties Linda Randolph HIS 103 World Civilizations 1 Instructor: Robert Solomon October 30, 2011 Before Jesus Christ, people in early civilization have been looking for the one who is going to bring hope, peace, and someone strong and not weak. Religion has had an effect on society, it will always be important in our life because of Christianity. Christianity and Islam are the two most popular religions. TheyRead MoreInfluence Of Science And Religion1564 Words   |  7 Pages1. Q) Compare and contrast the influence of science and religion in the development of humanity. Discuss both the positive and the negative. A) The systematic testing of observations, and the belief of something larger than ourselves, have been part of the human experience since time began. Both science and religion have influenced human thought and civilization. When a question could not be answered by time and observation, people fell back on spiritual explanationsRead MoreReligion And Spirituality And Its Influences903 Words   |  4 PagesReligion/Spirituality and its Influences Psychologists are professionals with a responsibility to provide the best care possible to the individuals that need their assistance. This is why it is mandatory to continue training and education, to remain current in the knowledge of treatment methods to ensure the optimal quality of services provided (Fisher, 2013). With that said, psychologists ponder whether religion and spirituality should be integrated into methods of therapy and if so, what typesRead MoreThe influence of religion in Society949 Words   |  4 Pageshis impact on today’s religion, Jesus actually had and still has a major influence on today’s society too. Jesus was an influential person because of his impacts on religion, culture, and history by his religious preachings and followers. Jesus was very influential in religion. When asked about who Jesus was, most Americans start on the same topic- the Resurrection of Jesus Christ. This miraculous tale of the Son of God is told everywhere, but the origin of the religion it represents had a veryRead MoreSexuality Is The Influence Of Religion1227 Words   |  5 PagesIntroduction A common topic that arises during the discussion of sexuality is the influence of religion. A prevailing point-a-view is the idea that Christianity has strict views on the LGBT community and all Christians see their actions as sinful. I am looking to pursue this religious idea and to see if the data supports this connotation. As a Catholic, I have my own opinion and expectations of the information that may lead to some bias in my view of data. For instance, I have positive views on theRead MoreInfluence Of Religion On International Trade Essay1394 Words   |  6 Pagestrade between countries is emerging. International business is constantly growing. Culture has proven to have a huge influence on trade. Religion can be defined as a system of shared beliefs and rituals that are concerned with the realm of the sacred. Religion is a system that guides people’s behaviors and influence them in the way they interact with other people and the world. Religion is one important source o f a society s beliefs, attitudes, and values. It teaches people how to develop qualitiesRead MoreRole and Influence of Religion on Conflicts1208 Words   |  5 PagesThere are different views on the role and influence of religion on conflicts. Rabkin states that religion is not a primary source of conflicts and violent strife. According to him, most often than not, religion is used only to legitimize, but not motivate conflicts. However, Jonathan Fox states that religion is one of the motivators of terrorism. The impact of religion on conflicts is also increasing over the years. Similarly in Nigeria, religion was not the central source of conflicts atRead MoreThe Influence Of Religion On The Mind And The Body952 Words   |  4 PagesReligion is one of the powerful forces in society. Religion exists because human beings have always looked to religion to provide answers to many of our needs. Emile Durkheim believed that religion was created by the societies in which they were followed. He took a logical perspective on the creation and foundation of it. He mostly based it on evidence and behavioral science. A psychological approach to studying religion would depend more on the lives of individuals. William James found a connection

The Twilight Saga 4 Breaking Dawn 28. The Future Free Essays

Carlisle and Edward had not been able to catch up with Irina before her trail disappeared into the sound. They’d swum to the other bank to see if her trail had picked up in a straight line, but there was no trace of her for miles in either direction on the eastern shore. It was all my fault. We will write a custom essay sample on The Twilight Saga 4: Breaking Dawn 28. The Future or any similar topic only for you Order Now She had come, as Alice had seen, to make peace with the Cullens, only to be angered by my camaraderie with Jacob. I wished I’d noticed her earlier, before Jacob had phased. I wished we’d gone hunting somewhere else. There wasn’t much to be done. Carlisle had called Tanya with the disappointing news. Tanya and Kate hadn’t seen Irina since they’d decided to come to my wedding, and they were distraught that Irina had come so close and yet not returned home; it wasn’t easy for them to lose their sister, however temporary the separation might be. I wondered if this brought back hard memories of losing their mother so many centuries ago. Alice was able to catch a few glimpses of Irina’s immediate future, nothing too concrete. She wasn’t going back to Denali, as far as Alice could tell. The picture was hazy. All Alice could see was that Irina was visibly upset; she wandered in the snow-swathed wilderness – to the north? To the east? – with a devastated expression. She made no decisions for a new course beyond her directionless grieving. Days passed and, though of course I forgot nothing, Irina and her pain moved to the back of my mind. There were more important things to think of now. I would leave for Italy in just a few days. When I got back, we’d all be off to South America. Every detail had been gone over a hundred times already. We would start with the Ticunas, tracing their legends as well as we could at the source. Now that it was accepted that Jacob would come with us, he figured prominently in the plans – it was unlikely that the people who believed in vampires would speak to any of us about their stories. If we dead-ended with the Ticunas, there were many closely related tribes in the area to research. Carlisle had some old friends in the Amazon; if we could find them, they might have information for us, too. Or at least a suggestion as to where else we might go for answers. It was unlikely that the three Amazon vampires had anything to do with the legends of vampire hybrids themselves, as they were all female. There was no way to know how long our search would take. I hadn’t told Charlie about the longer trip yet, and I stewed about what to say to him while Edward and Carlisle’s discussion went on. How to break the news to him just right? I stared at Renesmee while I debated internally. She was curled up on the sofa now, her breathing slow with heavy sleep, her tangled curls splayed wildly around her face.Usually, Edward and I took her back to our cottage to put her to bed, but tonight we lingered with the family, he and Carlisle deep in their planning session. Meanwhile, Emmett and Jasper were more excited about planning the hunting possibilities. The Amazon offered a change from our normal quarry. Jaguars and panthers, for example. Emmett had a whim to wrestle with an anaconda. Esme and Rosalie were planning what they would pack. Jacob was off with Sam’s pack, setting things up for his own absence. Alice moved slowly – for her – around the big room, unnecessarily tidying the already immaculate space, straightening Esme’s perfectly hung garlands. She was re-centering Esme’s vases on the console at the moment. I could see from the way her face fluctuated – aware, then blank, then aware again – that she was searching the future. I assumed she was trying to see through the blind spots that Jacob and Renesmee made in her visions as to what was waiting for us in South America until Jasper said, â€Å"Let it go, Alice; she’s not our concern,† and a cloud of serenity stole silently and invisibly through the room. Alice must have been worrying about Irina again. She stuck her tongue out at Jasper and then lifted one crystal vase that was filled with white and red roses and turned toward the kitchen. There was just the barest hint of wilt to one of the white flowers, but Alice seemed intent on utter perfection as a distraction to her lack of vision tonight. Staring at Renesmee again, I didn’t see it when the vase slipped from Alice’s fingers. I only heard the whoosh of the air whistling past the crystal, and my eyes flickered up in time to see the vase shatter into ten thousand diamond shards against the edge of the kitchen’s marble floor. We were perfectly still as the fragmented crystal bounced and skittered in every direction with an unmusical tinkling, all eyes on Alice’s back. My first illogical thought was that Alice was playing some joke on us. Because there was no way that Alice could have dropped the vase by accident I could have darted across the room to catch the vase in plenty of time myself, if I hadn’t assumed she would get it. And how would it fall through her fingers in the first place? Her perfectly sure fingers†¦ I had never seen a vampire drop anything by accident. Ever. And then Alice was facing us, twisting in a move so fast it didn’t exist. Her eyes were halfway here and halfway locked on the future, wide, staring, filling her thin face till they seemed to overflow it. Looking into her eyes was like looking out of a grave from the inside; I was buried in the terror and despair and agony of her gaze. I heard Edward gasp; it was a broken, half-choked sound. â€Å"What?†Jasper growled, leaping to her side in a blurred rush of movement, crushing the broken crystal under his feet. He grabbed her shoulders and shook her sharply. She seemed to rattle silently in his hands. â€Å"What Alice?† Emmett moved into my peripheral vision, his teeth bared while his eyes darted toward the window, anticipating an attack. There was only silence from Esme, Carlisle, and Rose, who were frozen just as I was. Jasper shook Alice again. â€Å"What is it?† â€Å"They’re coming for us,† Alice and Edward whispered together, perfectly synchronized. â€Å"All of them.† Silence. For once, I was the quickest to understand – because something in their words triggered my own vision. It was only the distant memory of a dream – faint, transparent, indistinct as if I were peering through thick gauze†¦. In my head, I saw a line of black advancing on me, the ghost of my half-forgotten human nightmare. I could not see the glint of their ruby eyes in the shrouded image, or the shine of their sharp wet teeth, but I knew where the gleam should be†¦. Stronger than the memory of the sight came the memory of the feel – the wrenching need to protect the precious thing behind me. I wanted to snatch Renesmee up into my arms, to hide her behind my skin and hair, to make her invisible. But I couldn’t even turn to look at her. I felt not like stone but ice. For the first time since I’d been reborn a vampire, I felt cold. I barely heard the confirmation of my fears. I didn’t need it. I already knew. â€Å"The Volturi,† Alice moaned. â€Å"All of them,† Edward groaned at the same time. â€Å"Why?† Alice whispered to herself. â€Å"How?† â€Å"When?† Edward whispered. â€Å"Why?† Esme echoed. â€Å"When?†Jasper repeated in a voice like splintering ice. Alice’s eyes didn’t blink, but it was as if a veil covered them; they became perfectly blank. Only her mouth held on to her expression of horror. â€Å"Not long,† she and Edward said together. Then she spoke alone. â€Å"There’s snow on the forest, snow on the town. Little more than a month.† â€Å"Why?† Carlisle was the one to ask this time. Esme answered. â€Å"They must have a reason. Maybe to see †¦Ã¢â‚¬  â€Å"This isn’t about Bella,† Alice said hollowly. â€Å"They’re all coming – Aro, Caius, Marcus, every member of the guard, even the wives.† â€Å"The wives never leave the tower,† Jasper contradicted her in a flat voice. â€Å"Never. Not during the southern rebellion. Not when the Romanians tried to overthrow them. Not even when they were hunting the immortal children. Never.† â€Å"They’re coming now,† Edward whispered. â€Å"But why?† Carlisle said again. â€Å"We’ve done nothing! And if we had, what could we possibly do that would bring f/?/sdown on us?† â€Å"There are so many of us,† Edward answered dully. â€Å"They must want to make sure that†¦Ã¢â‚¬  He didn’t finish. â€Å"That doesn’t answer the crucial question! Why?† I felt I knew the answer to Carlisle’s question, and yet at the same time I didn’t. Renesmee was the reason why, I was sure. Somehow I’d known from the very beginning that they would come for her. My subconscious had warned me before I’d known I was carrying her. It felt oddly expected now. As if I’d somehow always known that the Volturi would come to take my happiness from me. But that still didn’t answer the question. â€Å"Go back, Alice,† Jasper pleaded. â€Å"Look for the trigger. Search.† Alice shook her head slowly, her shoulders sagging. â€Å"It came out of nowhere, Jazz. I wasn’t looking for them, or even for us. I was just looking for Irina. She wasn’t where I expected her to be†¦.† Alice trailed off, her eyes drifting again. She stared at nothing for a long second. And then her head jerked up, her eyes hard as flint. I heard Edward catch his breath. â€Å"She decided to go to them,† Alice said. â€Å"Irina decided to go to the Volturi. And then they will decide†¦. It’s as if they’re waiting for her. Like their decision was already made, and just waiting on her___† It was silent again as we digested this. What would Irina tell the Volturi that would result in Alice’s appalling vision? â€Å"Can we stop her?† Jasper asked. â€Å"There’s no way. She’s almost there.† â€Å"What is she doing?† Carlisle was asking, but I wasn’t paying attention to the discussion now. All my focus was on the picture that was painstakingly coming together in my head. I pictured Irina poised on the cliff, watching. What had she seen? A vampire and a werewolf who were best friends. I’d been focused on that image, one that would obviously explain her reaction. But that was not all that she’d seen. She’d also seen a child. An exquisitely beautiful child, showing off in the falling snow, clearly more than human†¦ Irina†¦ the orphaned sisters†¦ Carlisle had said that losing their mother to the Volturi’s justice had made Tanya, Kate, and Irina purists when it came to the law. Just half a minute ago, Jasper had said the words himself: Not even when they were hunting the immortal children†¦. The immortal children – the unmentionable bane, the appalling taboo†¦ With Irina’s past, how could she apply any other reading to what she’d seen that day in the narrow field? She had not been close enough to hear Renesmee’s heart, to feel the heat radiating from her body. Renesmee’s rosy cheeks could have been a trick on our part for all she knew. After all, the Cullens were in league with werewolves. From Irina’s point of view, maybe this meant nothing was beyond us†¦. Irina, wringing her hands in the snowy wilderness – not mourning Laurent, after all, but knowing it was her duty to turn the Cullens in, knowing what would happen to them if she did. Apparently her conscience had won out over the centuries of friendship. And the Volturi’s response to this kind of infraction was so automatic, it was already decided. I turned and draped myself over Renesmee’s sleeping body, covering her with my hair, burying my face in her curls. â€Å"Think of what she saw that afternoon,† I said in a low voice, interrupting whatever Emmett was beginning to say. â€Å"To someone who’d lost a mother because of the immortal children, what would Renesmee look like?† Everything was silent again as the others caught up to where I was already. â€Å"An immortal child,† Carlisle whispered. I felt Edward kneel beside me, wrap his arms over us both. â€Å"But she’s wrong,† I went on. â€Å"Renesmee isn’t like those other children. They were frozen, but she grows so much every day. They were out of control, but she never hurts Charlie or Sue or even shows them things that would upset them. She can control herself. She’s already smarter than most adults. There would be no reason___† I babbled on, waiting for someone to exhale with relief, waiting for the icy tension in the room to relax as they realized I was right. The room just seemed to get colder. Eventually my small voice trailed off into silence. No one spoke for a long time. Then Edward whispered into my hair. â€Å"It’s not the kind of crime they hold a trial for, love,† he said quietly. â€Å"Aro’s seen Irina’s proof in her thoughts. They come to destroy, not to be reasoned with.† â€Å"But they’re wrong,† I said stubbornly. â€Å"They won’t wait for us to show them that.† His voice was still quiet, gentle, velvet†¦ and yet the pain and desolation in the sound was unavoidable. His voice was like Alice’s eyes before – like the inside of a tomb. â€Å"What can we do?† I demanded. Renesmee was so warm and perfect in my arms, dreaming peacefully. I’d worried so much about Renesmee’s speeding age – worried that she would only have little over a decade of life†¦. That terror seemed ironic now. Little over a month†¦ Was this the limit, then? I’d had more happiness than most people ever experienced. Was there some natural law that demanded equal shares of happiness and misery in the world? Was my joy overthrowing the balance? Was four months all I could have? It was Emmett who answered my rhetorical question. â€Å"We fight,† he said calmly. â€Å"We can’t win,† Jasper growled. I could imagine how his face would look, how his body would curve protectively over Alice’s. â€Å"Well, we can’t run. Not with Demetri around.† Emmett made a disgusted noise, and I knew instinctively that he was not upset by the idea of the Volturi’s tracker but by the idea of running away. â€Å"And I don’t know that we can’t win,† he said. â€Å"There are a few options to consider. We don’t have to fight alone.† My head snapped up at that. â€Å"We don’t have to sentence the Quileutes to death, either, Emmett!† â€Å"Chill, Bella.† His expression was no different from when he was contemplating fighting anacondas. Even the threat of annihilation couldn’t change Emmett’s perspective, his ability to thrill to a challenge. â€Å"I didn’t mean the pack. Be realistic, though – do you think Jacob or Sam is going to ignore an invasion? Even if it wasn’t about Nessie? Not to mention that, thanks to Irina, Aro knows about our alliance with the pack now, too. But I was thinking of our other friends.† Carlisle echoed me in a whisper. â€Å"Other friends we don’t have to sentence to death.† â€Å"Hey, we’ll let them decide,† Emmett said in a placating tone. â€Å"I’m not saying they have to fight with us.† I could see the plan refining itself in his head as he spoke. â€Å"If they’d just stand beside us, just long enough to make the Volturi hesitate. Bella’s right, after all. If we could force them to stop and listen. Though that might take away any reason for a fight___† There was a hint of a smile on Emmett’s face now. I was surprised no one had hit him yet. I wanted to. â€Å"Yes,† Esme said eagerly. â€Å"That makes sense, Emmett. All we need is for the Volturi to pause for one moment. Just long enough to listen* â€Å"We’d need quite a show of witnesses,† Rosalie said harshly, her voice brittle as glass. Esme nodded in agreement, as if she hadn’t heard the sarcasm in Rosalie’s tone. â€Å"We can ask that much of our friends. Just to witness.† â€Å"We’d do it for them,† Emmett said. â€Å"We’ll have to ask them just right,† Alice murmured. I looked to see her eyes were a dark void again. â€Å"They’ll have to be shown very carefully.† â€Å"Shown?†Jasper asked. Alice and Edward both looked down at Renesmee. Then Alice’s eyes glazed over. â€Å"Tanya’s family,† she said. â€Å"Siobhan’s coven. Amun’s. Some of the nomads – Garrett and Mary for certain. Maybe Alistair.† â€Å"What about Peter and Charlotte?† Jasper asked half fearfully, as if he hoped the answer was no, and his old brother could be spared from the coming carnage. â€Å"Maybe.† â€Å"The Amazons?† Carlisle asked. â€Å"Kachiri, Zafrina, and Senna?† Alice seemed too deep into her vision to answer at first; finally she shuddered, and her eyes flickered back to the present. She met Carlisle’s gaze for the tiniest part of a second, and then looked down. â€Å"I can’t see.† â€Å"What was that?† Edward asked, his whisper a demand. â€Å"That part in the jungle. Are we going to look for them?† â€Å"I can’t see,† Alice repeated, not meeting his eyes. A flash of confusion crossed Edward’s face. â€Å"We’ll have to split up and hurry – before the snow sticks to the ground. We have to round up whomever we can and get them here to show them.† She zoned again. â€Å"Ask Eleazar. There is more to this than just an immortal child.† The silence was ominous for another long moment while Alice was in her trance. She blinked slowly when it was over, her eyes peculiarly opaque despite the fact that she was clearly in the present. â€Å"There is so much. We have to hurry,† she whispered. â€Å"Alice?† Edward asked. â€Å"That was too fast – I didn’t understand. What was – ?† â€Å"I can’t see!† she exploded back at him. â€Å"Jacob’s almost here!† Rosalie took a step toward the front door. â€Å"I’ll deal with – â€Å" â€Å"No, let him come,† Alice said quickly, her voice straining higher with each word. She grabbed Jasper’s hand and began pulling him toward the back door. â€Å"I’ll see better away from Nessie, too. I need to go. I need to really concentrate. I need to see everything I can. I have to go. Come on, Jasper, there’s no time to waste!† We all could hear Jacob on the stairs. Alice yanked, impatient, on Jasper’s hand. He followed quickly, confusion in his eyes just like Edward’s. They darted out the door into the silver night. â€Å"Hurry!† she called back to us. â€Å"You have to find them all!† â€Å"Find what?† Jacob asked, shutting the front door behind himself. â€Å"Where’d Alice go?† No one answered; we all just stared. Jacob shook the wet from his hair and pulled his arms through the sleeves of his t-shirt, his eyes on Renesmee. â€Å"Hey, Bells! I thought you guys would’ve gone home by now___† He looked up to me finally, blinked, and then stared. I watched his expression as the room’s atmosphere finally touched him. He glanced down, eyes wide, at the wet spot on the floor, the scattered roses, the fragments of crystal. His fingers quivered. â€Å"What?† he asked flatly. â€Å"What happened?† I couldn’t think where to begin. No one else found the words, either. Jacob crossed the room in three long strides and dropped to his knees beside Renesmee and me. I could feel the heat shaking off his body as tremors rolled down his arms to his shaking hands. â€Å"Is she okay?† he demanded, touching her forehead, tilting his head as he listened to her heart. â€Å"Don’t mess with me, Bella, please!† â€Å"Nothing’s wrong with Renesmee,† I choked out, the words breaking in strange places. â€Å"Then who?† â€Å"All of us, Jacob,† I whispered. And it was there in my voice, too – the sound of the inside of a grave. â€Å"It’s over. We’ve all been sentenced to die.† How to cite The Twilight Saga 4: Breaking Dawn 28. The Future, Essay examples

Sejanus, his fall Essay Example For Students

Sejanus, his fall Essay A monologue from the play by Ben Jonson NOTE: This monologue is reprinted from Sejanus, His Fall (1603). SEJANUS: If this be not revenge, when I have done And made it perfect, let Egyptian slaves, Parthians, and barefoot Hebrews brand my face, And print my body full of injuries. Thou lost thyself, child Drusus, when thou thoughtst Thou couldst outskip my vengeance, or outstand The power I had to crush thee into air. Thy follies now shall taste what kind of man They have provoked, and this thy fathers house Crack in flame of my incensed rage, Whose fury shall admit no shame or mean. Adultery? It is the lightest ill I will commit. A race of wicked acts Shall flow out of my anger, and oerspread The worlds wide face, which no posterity Shall eer approve, nor yet keep silent; things That for their cunning, close, and cruel marks, Thy father would wish his, and shall, perhaps, Carry the empty name, but we the prize. On, then, my soul, and start not in thy course; Though heavn drop sulphur, and hell belch out fire, Laugh at the idle terrors. Tell proud Jove, Between his power and thine there is no odds. Twas only fear first in the world made gods.

Born Addicted To Alcohol Essays - Health, Medicine, RTT,

Born Addicted to Alcohol annon There are different characteristics that accompany FAS in the different stages of a child's life. At birth, infants with intrauterine exposure to alcohol frequently have low birth rate; pre-term delivery; a small head circumference; and the characteri stic facial features of the eyes, nose, and mouth (Phelps, 1995, p. 204). Some of the facial abnormalities that are common of children with FAS are: microcephaly, small eye openings, broad nasal bridge, flattened mid-faces, thin upper lip, skin folds at the corners of the eyes, indistinct groove on the upper lip, and an abnormal smallness of the lower jaw (Wekselman, Spiering, Hetteberg, Kenner, Flandermeyer, 1995; Phelps, 1995). These infants also display developmental delays, psychomotor retardatio n, and cognitive deficits. As a child with FAS progresses into preschool physical, cognitive and behavioral abnormalities are more noticeable. These children are not the average weight and height compared to the children at the same age level. Cognitive manifestations is another problem with children who have FAS. Studies have found that preschoolers with FAS generally score in the mentally handicapped to dull normal range of intelligence (Phelps, 1995, p. 205). Children with FAS usually h ave language delay problems during their preschool years. Research has also shown that these children exhibit poorly articulated language, delayed use of sentences or more complex grammatical units, and inadequate comprehension (Phelps, 1995). There are many behavioral characteristics that are common among children with FAS. The most common characteristic is hyperactivity (Phelps, 1995). Hyperactivity is found in 85% of FAS-affected children regardless of IQ (Wekeselman et al., 1995, p. 299 ). School failure, behavior management difficulties, and safety issues are some of the problems associated with hyperactivity and attention deficit disorder. Another behavioral abnormality of with children with FAS, is social problems. Specific diffic ulties included inability to respect personal boundaries, inappropriately affectionate, demanding of attention, bragging, stubborn, poor peer relations, and overly tactile in social interactions (Phelps, 1995, p. 206). Children are sometimes not diagnosed with FAS until they reach kindergarten and are in a real school setting. School-aged children with FAS still have most of the same physical and mental problems that were diagnosed when they were younger. The craniofa cial malformations is one of the only physical characteristic that diminishes during late childhood (Phelps, 1995). Several studies have evaluated specific areas of cognitive dysfunction in school-age children exposed prenatally to alcohol. Researchers have substantiated: (a) short term memory deficits in verbal and visual material; (b) inadequate processing of inf ormation, reflected b sparse integration of information and poor quality of responses; (c) inflexible approaches to problem solving; and (d) difficulties in mathematical computations (Phelps, 1995 p. 206). The behavioral manifestations of a child with FAS during the early years of life are still apparent in children who are in grade school. Hyperactivity is still the most common characteristic portrayed by these children. Some of the descriptions used to explain these school-aged children's behaviors include: distractible, impulsive, inattentive, uncooperative, poorly organized, and little persistence toward task completion (Phelps, 1995). As a child reaches puberty and develops into an adult, some of the physical, mental and behavioral characteristics change. These adolescents begin to gain weight, but still remain short and microphalic (Phelps, 1995). Cognitive abilities of children with FAS continue to be low through adolescence and adulthood. Low Academic performance scores of adolescents and adults are persistent throughout their lives. Many cognitive tests have been done on adolescent/adults wi th FAS, and each of them have found deficiencies in mathematics and reading comprehension (Shelton Cook, 1993). The behavioral manifestations of adolescents and adults with FAS continue to concentrate around the problem of hyperactivity. Inattentiveness, distractibility, restlessness , and agitation are the main behaviors stem from hyperactivity. Vineland Adap tive Behavior Scales results suggest that communication and socialization skills average around the seven year old range(Phelps, 1995, p. 207). The prevalence of children with FAS is on the rise. More than ever, children are being diagnosed with FAS. Better techniques and knowledge by physicians are accountable for the increase. Physicians are diagnosing more babies today with FAS, because th ey have more knowledge and resources to evaluate the children at risk. FAS has no racial barriers and has been reported by variable ages from neonatal to young adult (Becker, Warr-Leeper, Leeper, 1990). Estimates in the United States of people with FA S vary from 2 live births per 1,000 to 1 per 750 (Shelton Cook, 1993). In a medical review of 5602 women, six instances of FAS were identified among 38 children of alcohol abusing women. Although 22 of the 38 were traced at follow-up, the outcome fo r the

Essay Sample About Matthias Schleiden Write More About a Scientist

Essay Sample About Matthias Schleiden Write More About a Scientist Free example essay on Matthias Scheilden: Matthias Scheilden was born on April 5, 1804. He was born in Hamburg, Germany. He died on June 23, 1881. He made a significant impact in science. He came up with a cell theory, which had a large effect of scientific attention to living processes as they happened on the cellular level. His work initiated the field of embryology. Scheilden first studied law in Heidelberg. In 1826 he received a doctorate and became an attorney in Hamburg, his hometown. He was not as successful in this as he hoped, and he did not enjoy this field of work. In 1832 he changed his mind about law and decided to study medicine in Goettingen. One of his teachers there got him interesting in botany. He went to Berlin in 1835 and spent time with his uncle, J. Horkel, and another man, Richard Brown. They were both scientists who studied mainly plant anatomy, and based most of their work on questions about the cell formation. Many scientists during this time were interested in the cell formation also. He investigated plants on a microscopic scale. This was very different from most other scientists who were only interested in naming and classifying plants. In 1837 he stated that plant growth came through the production of new cells from the nuclei of old cells, and that all plant tissues were composed of cells or derivatives of cells. He published this theory in 1938, in his paper ‘Contributions to Phytogenesis’. This theory was not made public until a year later when his friend and colleague Theodore Schwann published his ‘Microscopic Researches into Accordance in the structure and Growth of Animals and Plants’. He was the first scientist to recognize the importance of the cell nucleus and to correctly state that nuclei played a part in cell formation. Scheilden thought the cell was the center of the vital force. He believed each cell had an individual existence and the life of an organism came from the way in which the cells work together. He was proved wrong in later discoveries about the mechanics of the process though. In 1839 Scheilden received his second doctorate for his botanist work. He taught at the University of Jena from 1839 to 1862, and at Dorpat from 1863 to 1864. He worked for Johannes Muller and was influenced by two other scientists, Schelling and Oken. He also proved that a nucleated cell is the only original constituent of the plant embryo, and that the development of all vegetable tissues must be referred to such cells. Matthias Scheilden was a very intelligent and well-known man who will always be a big part of science history.

Human hibernation for space travel Essay Example | Topics and Well Written Essays - 500 words

Human hibernation for space travel - Essay Example Hibernation or winter sleep is the condition normally found in animals. Under this condition, there is a reduced heart rate with significant drop in the body temperature and metabolism. In case of mammals the body temperature reaches 2-4?C above the freezing point, while the organism consumes little oxygen as low as 2% of normal rates. Under such conditions an animal could stay without movement or food and does not require much energy (Long term space travel). The phenomenon could be exploited for humans when they travel interstellar distances. During this process activities like parks, plants, hospitals are negligible and individual is required to sleep with the onset of journey and then steady state is maintained with a slow supply of fresh air and low temperature constantly till the end of the journey. This is less energy consuming process as compared to daily routine activities (Long term space travel). In a study at North Carolina University geneticists have revealed the presenc e of genes capable of producing enzymes critical for hibernation. The presence of such genes is reported in humans. They are responsible for accountability of energy conservation process of body. Of these two genes, the first is capable of producing an enzyme that can breakdown their fat deposits to generate energy. On the other hand the second hibernation gene is concerned with conservation of glucose supply to the body. The conservation process takes care to supply required energy to central nervous system for the sustainability of life.

Drawing on one area of public policy, discuss the role and impact of Essay

Drawing on one area of public policy, discuss the role and impact of International Organisations in the policy process - Essay Example Notwithstanding the above mentioned, the present day mandate of the Bank is broader; alleviation of worldwide poverty in collaboration with its affiliate, the International Development association. The principal aim was to come up with worldwide economic rules which would avert a recap of the Great Depression and its aftereffects (World Bank, 2002, p.1). The USA was on the forefront in these negotiations as it was already evolving from the war with a clear cut technological, military and economic superiority over all other Western partners. The United Kingdom did constitute a measurable portion of the party; not because of its position in the alliance as at that time, but also by the virtue of its representation at Bretton Woods by the globally legendary economists. John Maynard Keynes. As per the Bretton Woods’ planned new system, the IMF was placed at the core of a new-fashioned monetary system, being in control of a system of fixed but at the same time adjustable exchange rate and lending on an austerely short-term basis to countries facing short-term balance of payments crises. Investment in the post-war economy would be smoothed by the World Bank (the International bank for Reconstruction and Development), which would solicit capital in money markets and advance it at expedient rates to war-torn and developing countries. The very original plan of the Bretton Woods was for the first time considered by the Cold War (World Bank, 2002, p.1). The Marshall Plan publicised in 1947 availed the United States of America with a more instantaneous bilateral way of assuring investment, stabilisation and reconstruction in Western Europe. Nonetheless, by the 1950s, both the World Bank and IMF were unpretentiously taking on a key position in the international economy. While the IMF was concerned with the above-mentioned exchange rate system management role, the World Bank was involved in

Management research SPSS data analysis Essay Example | Topics and Well Written Essays - 2500 words

Management research SPSS data analysis - Essay Example The results show that the satisfaction mean is higher than the commitment mean as shown in table 1. This means that on average employees of SCP are more satisfied than committed. Results on reliability of items in each scale show that items in both satisfaction and commitment are highly reliable (Alpha=0.953 & 0.965) respectively. Table 1: Summary statistics for satisfaction and commitment Mean Standard deviation Cronbach's Alpha N of Items Satisfaction 43.276 13.231 0.953 10 Commitment 37.287 13.239 0.965 10 Examining the distribution of initial output Table 2, presents summary results of initial output and it can be noted that the average initial output is 2207.632 units per month with a very high variability. Figure 1 show the distribution of initial output and it looks approximately normal with one possible extreme value. A formal test for normality presented in table 3 show that the distribution of initial output is significantly normal (p-value=0.222). Table 2: Summary statisti cs of initial output Initial output Value Mean 2207.632 Median 2195 Mode 1925.00(a) Std. Deviation 280.7786 Skewness 0.253 Std. Error of Skewness 0.247 Kurtosis -0.09 Std. Error of Kurtosis 0.49 a Multiple modes exist, the smallest value is shown Figure 1: Distribution of initial output Table 3: Test for normality of initial output Tests of Normality                Kolmogorov-Smirnov(a) Shapiro-Wilk    Statistic df Sig. Statistic df Sig. Initial output 0.052 95 .200 0.991 95 0.743 Possibility of outlying observation was checked and table 4 presents the five extreme z scores for initial output. None of the Z score is larger than 3.29 in absolute values so we can say that there are no outlying initial output values. However there is a Z score of 3.07 which might be of no harm to check the original dataset to confirm the true value (Field, 2009, p. 74). Table 4: Cases of extreme z scores for initial output Extreme Values          Case Number Value Z-score(initial outp ut) Highest 1 58 3.07135 2 74 1.89604 3 98 1.86043 4 7 1.75358 5 61 1.68235 Lowest 1 3 -2.1819 2 85 -1.91479 3 55 -1.91479 4 37 -1.59425       5 89 -1.52302 A one-sample t-test was conducted to examine if â€Å"initial output† significantly differs from the national average of 2300 units per month. The result was very significant (p-value=0.002) implying that the average initial output at SCP is significantly lower than the national average of 2300. Table 5: One sample T test One-Sample Test                Test Value = 2300 t df Sig. (2-tailed) Mean Difference 95% Confidence Interval of the Difference Lower Upper Initial output -3.206 94 0.002 -92.3684 -149.566 -35.1709 Examining the distribution of final output The average final output was 2308.177 which is higher than the average for initial outcome presented in table 1. There is also high variability around this estimate. The distribution of final output as presented in figure 2 seems normal with two possible outlying observations. Z scores were used to assess outlying observations and the results show that there is one outlier (Z score=3.36675). Since I was unable to check if this outlier was as a result of data entry, I assumed it was not and it was replaced by the next highest score plus one. Table 6: Summary statistics for final output Final output Value Mean 2308.177 Median 2320 Mode 2120 Std.

Relationship between Poverty and Educational Outcomes

Relationship between Poverty and Educational Outcomes Children in Poverty:  Addressing Inequalities in Educational Outcomes Jodie Somerville The American Psychological Association (2007) asserts that socioeconomic factors and social class are fundamental determinants of human functioning across the lifespan including development. Levels of parental education, occupation and income are factors used to quantify socio-economic status and classify social class (Duchesne, McMaugh, Bochner Krause, 2013). Socioeconomic status (SES) is a recognition of the economic, environmental and education factors in the lives of parents, which affect educational outcomes of children. Often the relationship between SES and education focuses on those individuals living in poverty, the lowest tranche of economic privilege. Boston (2013) asserts that there are disparities evident in educational achievement between children from advantaged backgrounds and those experiencing deprivation. Students with higher family SES have higher educational achievement than students with lower family SES with a wide gap evidenced between the two (Thrupp, as cit ed in Boston, 2013). Those disparities and the inherent causes thereof will be outlined herein. Changes that may alleviate the effect of poverty on educational outcomes in New Zealand will also be highlighted. In particular, the need for a multi-faceted approach towards addressing inequalities in educational outcomes arising from poverty and SES. In 2012, 285,000 children in this country aged 0–17 years lived in poverty equating 27% of all New Zealand children (Craig, Reddington, Wicken, Oben Simpson, 2013). It is important to note that poverty rates for MÄ ori and Pasifika children are around double those for PÄ kehÄ /European children with evidence suggesting that MÄ ori and Pasifika children are almost twice as likely to be living in severe poverty and face a higher risk of remaining in poverty for extended periods of time (Boston, 2013). Major influences on the overall level of child poverty are changes in demographics, family structure, unemployment rates, benefit and retraining levels, childcare services and housing costs, all of which are influenced in broad terms by social policy and legislation to some degree (Davies, Crothers, Hanna, 2010). These factors have led to a rise in the cost of living particularly housing affordability, food and medical care (Boston, 2013). The changes have also seen low wages and relatively high taxes for low income families with family assistance programmes not sufficient to meet shortfalls for those in poverty (Every Child Counts, 2010). These aforementioned factors that give rise to poverty and low SES have subsequent health, cognitive and socio emotional outcomes which affect child development (Duchesene et al., 2013). The development of the child then in turn affects his or her educational achievement. The relationship between SES and educational attainment of children is evidenced in a New Zealand study by Fergusson and Woodward (2000). That study noted that children from higher SES backgrounds achieved university entrance rates five times higher (57%) than those of children from families of a lower SES (11%). Further, there is a statistically significant relationship between family income during the early years of a childs life and subsequent school completion rates and adults income with children from poorer families having worse outcomes (Gibb, Fergusson, Horwood, 2012). Boston (2013) cautions that although there is evidence of a strong correlation between the socio economic status of children and their education achievement, socio economic status in itself is not the only cause of poor educational outcomes. He asserts there other interlinking factors associated with SES, particularly factors prevalent in situations of poverty, that contribute to the educational attainment gap . The first aspect affecting educational achievement is family SES and income. Duchesne et al. (2013) state that children of low SES backgrounds often have poor nutrition, are exposed to environmental hazards and have inadequate access to healthcare. Boston (2013) highlights that limited finances place constraints on choices and opportunities for those living in poverty. This includes being able to afford nutritious food, access to primary healthcare and quality early childhood education, accommodation choices and providing for a stimulating home environment. The effects of poverty on educational outcomes are wide reaching. Poor nutrition can effect physical and mental growth and development and cognitive function. It can also result in lethargy and resultant decreased motivation to learn. Boston (2013) states that children from low SES backgrounds are likely to eat fewer healthy foods and have higher cholesterol intake than their peers in elevated socioeconomic circumstances. They are also much more likely to start the school day hungry and have little or no lunch. This reduces the child’s ability to concentrate and learn and generates negative behaviours. In New Zealand lack of access to health care for children living in poverty is linked to the high rates of otitis media, an infection of the middle ear particularly prevalent in MÄ ori children, which leads to hearing loss (Duchesne et al., 2013). Boston (2013) also notes that during their early school years economically disadvantaged children typically have less access to a variety of important learning resources such as books, newspapers and the internet. The second link between poverty and educational achievement are parenting factors. Bradley Corwyn (as cited in Duchesne et al., 2013) highlight a strong association between poverty, low levels of parental education and lower levels of school achievement for children. Parental education has an effect on interactions at home and the ways in which parents interact with their children (Duchesne et al., 2013). Children whose parents, especially mothers, have higher levels of education were more likely to be supported in ways that encouraged engagement in education including better resources. Overall experience in homes with lower levels of parental education was likely to be less with lower parental input (Duchesne et al., 2013). This is evidenced in activity levels and language use with parents in poorest families using only one third of the spoken language of other families when conversing with their children (Hart Risley as cited in Duchesne et al., 2013). Language is important to le arning and displaying knowledge at school. Parents own experience of education affects interactions with children including their ability to prepare children for school, their expectations and attitudes towards education. Parents from lower SES groups may value education but have little expectation for their children to excel. They may have little or no relationship or trust towards the school or teachers. This low level of expectation is linked with a negative orientation towards school, a sense of indifference and alienation from education and influences the attendance and participation patterns of children (Boston, 2013) making further schooling beyond what is compulsory less likely (Duchesne et al., 2013). Parents with low educational achievement were also less likely to provide cognitively stimulating enrichment such as trips to libraries or specialist classes such as music lessons for their children (Duchesne et al., 2013). The third link between poverty and educational achievement is stress. Families living in poverty encounter employment uncertainty, poor financial stability, transience and often live in substandard overcrowded accommodation in neighbourhoods where violence is prevalent (Duchesne et al., 2013). These conditions of hardship are contributors to parental stress, relationship difficulties and mental health issues (Boston, 2013). Both Duchesne et al. (2013) and Boston (2013) assert a correlation between stress and maladaptive parenting behaviours (including a higher incidence of neglect and maltreatment) and lower levels of warmth and responsiveness in familial relationships. This situation undermines a child’s sense of security and self-esteem, identified as factors that may provide some resilience for children at risk from poverty (Duchesne et al., 2013). Stress also contributes to learnt helplessness and feelings of powerlessness. Children living in stressful environments, partic ularly substandard accommodation and more likely to suffer illness that impacts on learning. The transient nature of low socio economic households also has damaging educational outcomes. A fourth connection can be made between school factors and educational achievement. In the same way that a childs school outcomes are not purely as a result of their individual characteristics but subject to wider family and environmental influences, there are influential factors within schools themselves and their interactions with families that affect educational achievement for low SES children (Duchesne et al., 2013). McLloyd, 1998 (as cited in Duchesne et al., 2013) suggests that teachers often perceive students ability and behaviour more negatively for those from lower SES circumstances. Children from poverty were less likely to receive positive attention and reinforcement for academic achievement possibly attributable to lower teacher expectation for those students. Duchesne et al. (2013) highlights that there are a number of ways in which the relationship between schools and their families and communities contribute to educational disadvantage. Firstly, children whose home ex periences fit the style of the school experience better educational outcomes than those who dont. Secondly, a division may exist and be maintained between home and school where the values of the school and home differ with home values of lower SES families, particularly ethnic minorities, perceived as less valuable. In line with that, differing communication styles of home and school also serve to create a barrier for lower SES children with misunderstandings and conflict between the two environments. Lastly the perceptions of and about minority groups, who are often over represented in lower SES families, may be stereotypically based in wider societal beliefs. This can be exacerbated by practices within schools that reject or marginalise those students. Overall, these school factors can lead to withdrawal and alienation from the education system and poor outcomes for disadvantaged children. It is clear that children from lower SES backgrounds experience poor educational outcomes. The challenge of policy makers and educators is to work together collaboratively to mitigate the effects of child poverty on the education of our most vulnerable citizens. A 2014 report by the Child Poverty Action Group entitled Our Children, Our Choice sets out a number of measures which it asserts will alleviate some of the effects of poverty on childrens education. Its first recommendation is to develop culturally appropriate measures of the cognitive, affective, behavioural and developmental needs of new entrants. This data could then be used to make funding allocations to ensure children in poverty receive meaningful, enjoyable and empowering experiences to address their disadvantage, not a narrow focus on standards. In line with that, the reports second recommendation was to abandon national standards as they have been found ineffective, disadvantaging poor children’s learning and teaching in low decile schools. The third recommendation is the provision a 100% government subsidy to the lowest decile secondary schools for NCEA and scholarship examination fees. It also recommends providing NCEA subject pathway guidance to tertiary study on entry to secondary school for all students. In particular, academic counselling and target setting to improve outcomes for Pasifika students and extension of kura kaupapa MÄ ori and wharekura to more communities. The Child Poverty Action Group report from 2014 also highlighted some social measures to mitigate some of the environmental disadvantage experienced by children from low SES homes. Its first recommendation in that regard was to provide free breakfast and lunch for children in decile 1-4 schools. It extrapolated on that with an assertion that low decile schools have multi-agency services on site which would include social workers, health workers, alternative education programmes and providers and teen parent units. The Child Poverty Action Group (2014) highlight the recommendations of the Expert Advisory Group on Solutions to Child Poverty which suggest solutions also include expansion of the positive behaviour plans and extension of school-local community collaboration initiatives. The report also recommended a reduction in class sizes in lower decile primary schools and providing salary incentives to encourage quality teachers into schools in areas of low SES. Its final recommendati on was to retain the decile funding system principles currently in place, which are based on need and equality of outcome. In conclusion, there is substantial evidence of the correlation between socio economic deprivation and low levels of educational achievement. Boston (2013) asserts that child poverty, especially when experienced in early childhood and/or when persistent and severe, has damaging effects which are twofold firstly to the individual child but secondly the wider society. Child poverty contributes to the large educational achievement gaps between children with different SES backgrounds. The Child Poverty Action Groups measures target investment of resources and interventions towards those of highest need. Boston (2013) notes that the goal of such interventions is not merely to assist the children and families currently experiencing situations of disadvantage, but also to break the intergenerational cycle of poverty and its effect on educational achievement. By ensuring that more of the children from current low-income families achieve educational success, this will translate to improved o utcomes for the next generation. Children whose material circumstances, quality of life and experiences are improved through a multifaceted approach aimed at reducing child poverty will enjoy greater choices, opportunities and success and have more favourable educational outcomes. REFERENCES: American Psychological Association Task Force on Socioeconomic Status. (2007). Report of the APA Task Force on Socioeconomic Status. Washington, DC: American Psychological Association. Retrieved from http://www.apa.org/pi/ses/resources/publications/task-force-2006.pdf Boston, J. (2013, May). Improving educational performance: why tackling child poverty must be part of the solution. Symposium conducted at the Poverty Impacts on Learning Conference, Victoria University, Wellington, New Zealand. Retrieved from http://igps.victoria.ac.nz/staff/team/Education and child poverty V4.pdf Child Poverty Action Group (2014). Our children, our choice: Priorities for policy. Retrieved from http://www.cpag.org.nz/assets/Publications/1-0 Our Children Our Choice Part 3.pdf Craig, E., Reddington, A., Wicken, A., Oben, G., Simpson, J. (2013). Child Poverty Monitor 2013 Technical Report (Updated 2014). Dunedin. New Zealand: Child Youth Epidemiology Service, University of Otago. Retrieved from http://nzchildren.co.nz/document_downloads/2013 Child Poverty Monitor Technical Report MASTER.pdf Davies, E., Crothers, C., Hanna, K. (2010). Preventing child poverty: barriers and solutions. New Zealand Journal of Psychology. 39 (2) 20-31. Duchesne, S., McMaugh, A., Bochner, S., Krause, K.-L. D. (2013).Educational psychology : for learning and teaching(4th ed.). South Melbourne, Vic.: Cengage Learning Every Child Counts (2010). Eradicating child poverty in New Zealand. Retrieved from http://www.everychildcounts.org.nz/resources/child-poverty/ Fergusson, D. M., and Woodward, L.J. (2000). Family socioeconomic status at birth and rates of university participation. New Zealand Journal of Educational Studies, (1), 25. Gibb, S. J., Fergusson, D. M., Horwood, L. J. (2012). Childhood family income and life outcomes in adulthood: Findings from a 30-year longitudinal study in New Zealand. Social Science Medicine(12), 1979. doi: 10.1016/j.socscimed.2012.02.028

psychology Essay -- essays research papers

Chapter 2   Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  This article is from the April 2003 issue of Psychology Today. In chapter 2, behavior is the main topic. Behavior is a bit unexplainable , but it can be put into form of patterns or predictions. Also, behavior is uncontrolled, but can be changed to a small degree with the use of medicine or a good diet. This article â€Å"Fighting Crime One Bite At A Time† tells how a good diet can maybe decrease the number of rule breaking by prisoners in jail. This article relates how changing ones nutrition can change their behavior. This article showed an experiment where 231 inmates were either given vitamin supplements and the others to fake pills to see which group would break the rules more. The vitamin group broke the rules 25% less than the others did. This is pretty interesting how giving criminals the right nutrition requirements may change their behavior. Chapter 3   Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Chapter 3 is talks about sensation and perception with our eyes. Our eyes effect how we think and perceive things. Our eye turns a wavelength into light in which the path of the light goes through the pupil then iris then to the retina, which contains cones and rods. This article from Lets Live named â€Å"Obesity Increases Cataract Risk† relates how being obese may effect the development of cataracts in your eyes. A cataract is a cloudiness or opacity in the normally transparent crystalline lens of the eye. This cloudiness can cause a decrease in vision an...

Diversity in Sports Essay

Diversity in sports simply means equal opportunities for every athlete irregardless of gender, color, race, or origin. This is what the true spirit of competition should be all about. Sports should not only involve the white race, Americans, or men but also other races and sex(Jackson 2007). Rev. Jesse Jackson, Sr. , in his report to the House Committee on Energy and Commerce, said that in recent years, diversity in sports has become very evident. In the world of American football, the Indianapolis Colts, coached by an African-American, won a Super Bowl. In baseball, the Chicago White Sox, a multi-racial team managed by Ozzie Guillen, a Latino, and Ken Williams, an African-American, won the World Series in 2005. A year later, the New York Mets, who is managed by a Latino manager and an African-American general manager, almost duplicated the White Sox’ feat, losing only in Game 7 of the National League Championship. This goes to show that moves to diversify sports are moving forward(Jackson 2007). The National Basketball Association (NBA) has led the way in terms of sports diversity by opening its doors to other races. Long ago, the NBA was dominated by Americans or Canadians. Recently, however, one can see the teams drafting players from Europe and recently Asia. The Major League Baseball (MLB) and National Football League (NFL) are likewise starting to provide opportunities for other races which is why spectators would get to see the likes of Alfonso Soriano and Sammy Sossa hitting homeruns here and there(Jackson 2007). Diversity in Sports 4 The NBA: Taking the Lead In Diversity Leading the way as far as diversity in professional sports is the National Basketball Association (NBA). For more than twenty years, the NBA has become the leader in promoting equal opportunities to all races. Here are some NBA diversity facts and figures as reported by The Institute for Diversity in Ethics and Sports(Spears, 2007): 15% of team vice presidents in the NBA are held by colored people, which is the highest in all of professional sports. 79% of NBA players have colors. In 2007, the number of African-American players increased to 75% which is higher than the 73% recorded in 2006. Employment opportunities for colored people at the League offices were at 34 percent, which is 2% higher than the previous year. 39% of professional positions in the League Office are occupied by women. 12 teams in the NBA are handled by African-American coaches. The NBA’s total of 40% still tops all of professional sports. With 53 African-American head coaches, the NBA has more than doubled the number of colored head coaches in any other professional sports. Next in line is the MLB with 25 colored managers. 41% of assistant coaches in the NBA are colored which is the highest so far in the history of the league. Diversity in Sports 5 There are four African-American CEO/Presidents in the league and two other presidents of basketball operations. To date, they are the only people who have held such position in all of professional sports. In 2006, there were eight African-American general managers in the NBA, which tops other professional sports league. By the end of 2006-07, the NBA had 64 percent white referees, 32 percent African-American, 3 percent Latin Americans, and a single black referee in Violet Palmer. Diversity in College Sports While professional sports is heading towards diversity, such is not the case in college sports. According to a report by the University of Central Florida, diversity has not been progressing in collegiate leagues. Here are the facts(Belew, 2006): In Division I schools, only 25. 2% of head coaches are African-American which is higher by 2% than the previous year. In Division IA, out of a total of 119 football head coaches, only six are African-American and zero percent are women. In college basketball, only 4. 1% of head coaches come from the minority group with 2. 6% being Latin Americans. The enforcement of Title IX did not help the cause of women in college sports as not a single one of them is represented. Diversity in Sports 6 In sports involving women, most Division I, II, and III coaching jobs are occupied by 89. 6%, 90. 9%, and 92. 9%, respectively. In the men’s division, the breakdown was 90. 6%, 89. 5%, and 93. 4%, respectively, served as head coaches. Diversity in the Olympics The Olympic Games is one of the many sporting competitions that practices diversity in sports. Once every four years, athletes from various nations converge in one venue in order to have a shot at sports excellence(Guttmann, nd). There are two varieties of this international sporting event namely Winter and Summer Olympics. Contemporary Olympics started in Athens, Greece in 1896, a couple of years after Pierre de Coubertin proposed the holding of an Olympic Games to push for peace in the world. The inaugural Games only had about 300 athletes from less than 15 countries taking part in 43 events in nine disciplines. When the Olympics returned to Athens in 2004, the number of participants had ballooned to 10,000 athletes representing 202 nations vying in 28 various sports(Guttmann, nd). Women In The Olympics During the inaugural Olympics, there were no female athletes who took part in the Games. Four years later, however, golf and tennis allowed the participation of women. In 1912, swimming and diving became available for women athletes as well. Sixteen years later during the 1928 Games, gymnastics and track and field had female athletes likewise. Since then, the number of women competing in the Olympics have considerably increased. At present, fifty percent of all teams are comprised by women, with the exception of the Muslim countries, where female participation is minimal(Guttmann, nd). Diversity in Sports 7 The Paralympics Games In the true spirit of diversity in sports, disabled people can have an opportunity to experience competitive spirit and sports excellence with their own version of the Olympic Games. Introduced in 1960, in conjunction with the Olympic Games in Rome, the Paralympics, as it is called, highlights male and female athletes representing six various disability groups. The emphasis of the Paralympics Games is not on the disability but on individual achievements. Since then, the growth of the event has become steady. From the initial 400 athletes that took part in 1960, a total of 3806 athletes representing 136 nations took part during the 2004 Athens Paralympics Games. Beijing, China will be the cite of the next Paralympics Games(International Paralympics Committee, nd). Conclusion When it comes to sports, not a single nation can dominate all the events. While host nations of the Olympics choose the events where they have the advantage, chances are other nations will beat them in other fronts. This is what diversity in sports is all about. Fairness and equality in the light of competition. References Belew, B(2006 December 17). Diversity in College Sports – Coaching. The Biz of Knowledge. Retrieved July 14 2008 from http://www. thebizofknowledge. com/2006/12/diversity_in_college_sports_co_1. html Guttman, A(nd). Olympic Games. Microsoft Encarta Online Encyclopedia. Retrieved July 14 2008 from http://www. encarta. msn. com

Free Essays on Ballard Power System

Ballard Power System is a world leader in developing and commercializing an alternate fuel source called proton exchange membrane (PEM) fuel cell power systems. The main product of this corporation is the Ballard Fuel Cell, a zero-emission product that converts natural gas, methanol, or hydrogen fuel directly into electricity without combustion. Over the last several years, many large corporations including DaimlerChrysler, Honda, General Motors, Nissan, Hitachi, Volkswagen, Volvo, and GPU International have invested large amounts of money into the production of the Ballard Fuel Cell in an attempt to create â€Å"stationary electric power plants†, and â€Å"zero-emission vehicles†. The fuel cell was first developed in the 1960's by General Electric for NASA. It is now considered as a definite possibility for an alternative power source for the space program as the cost has become increasingly less expensive and the size of the fuel cell stacks have become increasing ly smaller. The possibilities and potential benefits of this technology are endless, but there are many challenges that must be overcome before hydrogen fuel cells will offer a competitive and realistic alternative for consumers. â€Å"Cost is the greatest challenge to fuel cell development and adaptation, and it is a factor in almost all other fuel cell challenges as well.† For example, some fuel cell designs operate by using expensive, †precious-metal catalysts†, and other materials that are costly but necessary in handling the extreme high temperatures that are created when converting hydrogen to a useable energy source. Another important technical challenge that Ballard and the auto manufactures are facing is the need to increase durability and dependability. The high temperature in the fuel cells creates a â€Å"material breakdown† and adversely affects operating lifetimes. PEM fuel cells must have effective water management systems to operate dependably and ... Free Essays on Ballard Power System Free Essays on Ballard Power System Ballard Power System is a world leader in developing and commercializing an alternate fuel source called proton exchange membrane (PEM) fuel cell power systems. The main product of this corporation is the Ballard Fuel Cell, a zero-emission product that converts natural gas, methanol, or hydrogen fuel directly into electricity without combustion. Over the last several years, many large corporations including DaimlerChrysler, Honda, General Motors, Nissan, Hitachi, Volkswagen, Volvo, and GPU International have invested large amounts of money into the production of the Ballard Fuel Cell in an attempt to create â€Å"stationary electric power plants†, and â€Å"zero-emission vehicles†. The fuel cell was first developed in the 1960's by General Electric for NASA. It is now considered as a definite possibility for an alternative power source for the space program as the cost has become increasingly less expensive and the size of the fuel cell stacks have become increasing ly smaller. The possibilities and potential benefits of this technology are endless, but there are many challenges that must be overcome before hydrogen fuel cells will offer a competitive and realistic alternative for consumers. â€Å"Cost is the greatest challenge to fuel cell development and adaptation, and it is a factor in almost all other fuel cell challenges as well.† For example, some fuel cell designs operate by using expensive, †precious-metal catalysts†, and other materials that are costly but necessary in handling the extreme high temperatures that are created when converting hydrogen to a useable energy source. Another important technical challenge that Ballard and the auto manufactures are facing is the need to increase durability and dependability. The high temperature in the fuel cells creates a â€Å"material breakdown† and adversely affects operating lifetimes. PEM fuel cells must have effective water management systems to operate dependably and ...

Treaty of Versailles andWilson essays

Treaty of Versailles andWilson essays The Treaty of Versailles had a lot of opposition from various groups, but Wilsons stubbornness was most liable for the failure of it in the United States. There were many problems with the treaty according to the senate. The opinions on the treaty we split into three groups. The first group was the isolationists who argued that the United States should not interfere with European affairs. The second consisted of Wilson and those who supported him. They wanted the Treaty as it was, with no modifi tions. The third party were those who were ready to ratify the treaty if there were a few changes. They felt that these changes should consist of the elimination or reduction of American obligations to the League. At the end of World War I, President Wilson led the U.S. delegation in Paris in order to make sure his Fourteen Points were used. Wilson felt that America was the only nation that had nothing to gain and he was the only one who really cared about preventing future wars. He was determined to create the League of Nations. In order to gain this objective, he compromised at the Paris Peace Conference on several major issues. When President Wilson returned home in 1919, he met with the Senate to disscuss the treaty. In order for the Senate to adopt the treaty there had to be a two-thirds vote, according to the Constitution. However, many were opposed to it. The treaty was never ratified by the U.S. Senate because of Article X, which contained the requirement that all members preserve the territorial independence of all other members, even to joint action against aggression. Some were concerned about the welfare of the United States. They felt that the League of Nations was foreign and there was no reason to put their safety in the hands of the world. They wanted to accept responsibility for America as America. The idea of another countrys government ealing with Americas domestic affa...

CORPORATE FINANCE Essay Example | Topics and Well Written Essays - 2000 words

CORPORATE FINANCE - Essay Example The beauty of capital asset pricing model (CAPM) is that it not only helps the investors to calculate investment risk but also gives them a fair expected idea about the return on their investment (Fabozzi Frank, 1998). In the following paragraphs we will discuss the CAPM, its general theory, limitations and the reason of its adoption in the market The CAPM was initially presented and developed by John Lintner, William Sharpe and Jan Mossin autonomously (Bernstein, 1992). During the period of 1964-66, the idea of CAPM was presented by them in three different and exceedingly valued journals. CAPM was considered as a misleading model at its early stage because the business community thought that professional investment management was mainly a misuse of time. This misconception about CAPM remained dynamic for next ten years. After a decade, investment experts came to know the CAPM and recognized it as a significant mean to assess the expected risk in the investment. Capital asset pricing model (CAPM) is actually financial and economic related model which determines the rate of return of an asset in a well-diversified portfolio and thus subsequently determines its value. Capital asset pricing model (CAPM), determines the price of an asset in association with reward-to-risk ratio. Here 2. Risk is the assets non-diversifiable risk (ÃŽ ²), also referred to as systematic risk, or market risk. The ÃŽ ² (beta) here is the measure of the risks involved in a particular stock or portfolio in relation to the overall market risk. A share’s beta factor is the measures of measure of its volatility in terms of market risk. The beta factor of the market as a whole is 1.0. Market risk makes market returns volatile and the beta factor is simply a yardstick against which the risk of other investments can be measured. Risk or uncertainty describes a situation where there is not first one possible outcome but array of potential returns. Risk is measured as the beta factor

Is Instant messaging bad for high school purpose Essay

Is Instant messaging bad for high school purpose - Essay Example e difficulty completing their work, provide for countless interruptions, and generally serve to enfeeble the level of English language and syntax that is used within the everyday lexicon. The first set of negative attributes that this necessarily serves to provide is the high level of grammar and spelling mistakes that are represented within these messages. Although one should be mindful to not represent themselves as a snob, the fact of the matter is that the lazy representation of the English language and frequent and incorrect spelling associated with utilization of instant messaging and texting has meant that the quality and level of writing has exponentially decreased among the student body. This has of course led to lower grades with regards to hand-in assignments and essay projects. Secondly, when engaging in such a practice within the classroom, the students are playing with fire due to the fact that they are oftentimes careless and can be caught; facing the further repercussions of having their mobile devices seized, having their participation grades lowered, or other forms of punitive actions. However, beyond the mere representation of how administration could punish the students for such a practice, the greater concern is the fact that the student is ultimately unable to concentrate upon what they are doing. Although they may feel that they are one of the world’s most talented multi-tasker, the fact of the matter is that they will ultimately be removing much needed attention away from the most pressing task at hand in order to focus upon the frivolous exchange that is taking place via IM any given moment. Ultimately, it represents not only a distraction for the individual student but also for the other students that may not be engaging in such a prac tice. Due to the fact that constant buzzing and laughing/smiling and flashing screens is a horrendous distraction to those seated around the student, the practice is something that not only deeply

Finance (China) Essay Example | Topics and Well Written Essays - 2750 words

Finance (China) - Essay Example In China the model has achieved remarkable success and it has achieved a growth rate of almost 10% for the past 30 years. China Telecom, a state-capitalist company have come from nowhere to become mighty global companies. Similarly tens of thousands of state-owned enterprises (SOE) dominate half of the economic output of China and the Chinese government protects them by providing subsidizes to them. Any Foreign companies which try to threaten them are restricted by stringent government rules and are forced to share their technical expertise with the SEOs through joint venture and are also denied of any lucrative government business. Chinese government has made intervention in the entire financial system of China (the stock market, bond market and banking sector). But State capitalism has some flaws associated with it. Such a model will work until cheap resources are available. The economic growth of China is built on the back of cheap labour. Again state capitalist companies are less efficient and their private competitors. It is argued that state capitalism slowly but surely degenerates into crony capitalism as powerful political parties tries to extend their control over the economy. This report will discuss about the role of Chinese government in state capitalism and what were the interventions adopted by the Chinese government and how the Chinese financial systems responded to overcome the problem. There are many advantages which China has incurred due to state interventions. For example in 2007, China faced shortage of polycrystalline silicon which is an important raw material for solar panels were creating problems for rising solar energy industry. Thus the prices of polysilicon soared and hit tenfold price in 2008. But Chinese government responded quickly by developing a domestic polysilicon suppliers (Dean, Browne and Oster, 2010, p. 1). Huge amounts of money were invested by banks and stationed enterprises. The local governments expedited

Incident of National Significance Essay Example for Free

Incident of National Significance Essay Whenever an event of disastrous impact threatens any place in the country, various emergency responses from different government units are mobilized. The National Response Plan (NRP) was designed so that the way in which these kind of events are addressed are done effectively and in an organized manner. As an extensive response plan, it also provides ample support mechanisms that would aid in preventing further damage and facilitate recovery. The NRP is applicable to all real and possible â€Å"Incidents of National Significance. † These incidents, according to the Homeland Security Presidential Directive (HSPD-5), are those situations which have potentially deep and far-reaching effects that necessitate a â€Å"coordinated and effective response† from these resources. All calamitous situations under the Stafford Act are considered Incidents of National Significance. Aside from this, the NRP could be utilized for any event that requires federal intervention. The aforementioned criteria also distinguish Incidents of National Significance from other events being handled by other agencies or are under a different response program. These criteria are qualitative in nature, and it usually applies when division authorities are overwhelmed with a particular situation. For example when the state, local, or tribal authorities need more resources or could not cope with the existing demand in services, they would request assistance from the   Department of Homeland Security. This is also applicable whenever an incident concerns a number of federal agencies or departments. In addition, the countrys President can request this program anytime when it is deemed necessary. Discuss the term, â€Å"ESF† as described in the National Response Plan. In your discussion, be sure to address the basic composition of each ESF. The Emergency Support Functions (ESFs) is a system of coordinating and facilitating response whenever situations of Federal authority arise. It defines the â€Å"mission, policies, concepts of operation, and responsibilities of primary and support agencies† participating in the execution of the National Response Plan (NRP). Basically, the ESF defines the responsibilities and roles of these Federal agencies and   departments. It can be activated due to Incidents of National Significance and other similar situations under the Stafford Act. However, it is possible that these Incidents of National Significance, can already be addressed by other Federal agencies and may not necessarily require the aid of ESFs. The current ESF design framework includes â€Å" economic stabilization, community recovery, and mitigation. â€Å"   It provides the staffing and necessary resources for emergency situations. The NRP includes 12 core ESFs,   each of which is comprised of primary and support agencies. Thes e agencies have their own scopes and obligations. The ESFs come from different management areas that includes emergency management, police and law enforcement, public works, fire, rescue, and medical and health services. Each ESF is assigned support agencies depending on their capabilities and resources in a particular field or area. Though each ESF provide these services based on their given scope or responsibility, they are also expected to assist other ESFs in accomplishing their goals. How does the ESF relate to an â€Å"Incident of National Significance? † Incidents of National Significance are those situations which have potentially deep and far-reaching effects that necessitate a â€Å"coordinated and effective response† from â€Å"Federal, State, local, tribal, private-sector, and nongovernmental entities. † Each day there are situations that require special and emergency response from the authorities. When a local jurisdiction feel that Federal Intervention is needed because of insufficient resources or if a greater expertise is required to address a certain event, they will call on help from the National Response plan (NRP). This is done in order to â€Å"save lives, minimize damage, and provide the basis for long-term community recovery and mitigation activities. † The NRP uses a functional approach to define the roles that each ESF plays in response to emergency situations, each agency or department being assigned to an ESF based on their capabilities or the services they are able to provide whenever this emergency happens. It takes into account those practices that each department does best. The appropriate assignment of services and responsibilities to any situation, such as those Incidents of National Significance, is crucial so that different agencies can work together effectively, whether they are local or Federal agencies. This ensures that the communications between them are facilitated accordingly and that they can effectively help each other when the time arises.

Oishi: Strategic Marketing Plan

Oishi: Strategic Marketing Plan Part 1 Oishis Strategic Marketing Plan 1 Introduction Oishi is the leading snack food manufacturer in China. Since its establishment in 1993, Liwayway Holdings Company Limited, owner of the Oishi brand, has been in the cutting edge of innovation and aggressive marketing activities. The company rapidly expanded across the country and established a large distribution network. The Oishi brand has also become one of the most recognized snack food brands in China. Children have been the main consumer group of the Oishi products. However, market changes in the perception of snack food have occurred. Childrens parents become wary of the growing obesity problem among the children. The obesity dilemma has been attributed largely to salty snack foods being consumed by children. Numerous studies were conducted showing the direct relationship between â€Å"junk foods† and obesity. Parents are now shifting to healthier food for their children. The market for the traditional salty snack food and other similar food will be affected significantly by this change in consumer behavior. Hence, Oishi should develop a new marketing strategy to maintain its leadership and overcome the threat of its consumers changing or shifting to other food. In this marketing plan are proposed steps to improve its current marketing activities and provide new and additional alternatives. The development of a marketing mix geared toward manufacture of new food products that satisfy customer needs and wants is the major proposition in this marketing plan. A shift in target market segment is also recommended, identifying the young adults (ages 18-34) as the new primary consumer base for the Oishi brand and products. 2 Background Oishi is a leading snack brand in China manufactured in more than 100 variants of snack foods. The brand is manufactured under various product lines of salty snacks such as potato chips, prawn crackers, peanut crackers as well as other snack food including cookies, popcorn and corn curls, cereals, and marshmallows. Among Chinas vast market, Oishis principal consumers are children. The Oishi brand is owned by Liwayway Holdings Company Limited (LHCL), which traces its roots to the Liwayway Marketing Corporation (LMC) established in the Philippines in 1946. Carlos Chan, owner of the LMC, embarked on an ambitious expansion plan in China in 1984 and set his attention to Shanghai. Nine years later, Chan established the LHCL to manufacture, distribute and sell Oishi products in the country. The company aggressively marketed the Oishi brand targeting the children segment of the market as its primary consumers. LHCL grew rapidly in the following years by expanding outside Shanghai and building manufacturing and distributing facilities in other parts of China. The company established sales and distributions across the country, which included urban cities and smaller inner towns. LHCL was able to establish a network of more than 400 dealers nationwide. Due to the aggressive marketing strategies and strong management capabilities of LHCL, the Oishi brand became a famous snack brand in the country. Oishi was eventually recognized as a Shanghai Famous Brand in 2001 and was awarded as a China Famous Brand in 2006. The company took bolder steps and entered the market of Vietnam in 1997 and Myanmar in 2006. At present, expansion in Thailand and Indonesia is under development (Oishi.com.cn). 3 Strategic Objectives The creation of strategic objectives of the marketing plan is necessary, as it will serve as the companys guide and measurement in achieving its goals. The firms strategic objectives will aid it in gaining competitive edge in the industry and maintain its leadership. The primary objectives for this marketing plan are the following: To be the industrys leading manufacturer and seller of healthy and quality snack foods Deliver customer satisfaction and establish long-term relationships with customers Improve production and distribution process by establishing long-term relationship with both suppliers and distributors Increase profitability by providing quality snack food with added value but at lower costs In order to achieve these strategic objectives, the following specific marketing objectives and strategies will be employed: Raise market share to 20% for the next five years Increase advertising and promotional activities by utilizing all forms of media communications broadcast, print and electronic (primarily the Internet) to increase greater awareness of the Oishi brand and its products Augment and amplify nationwide presence by establishing more distribution points and getting more sellers and distributors Increase production and offer more product variants that use health-enhancing ingredients to capture other segments of the market Improve worker productivity The above strategic marketing objectives will serve as a guide in the creation and employment of a marketing plan. 4 Environmental Scan of Factors that Affect China Snack Industry Competition China is an attractive market due to its large population and strong economic potential. In almost any industry, numerous firms are vying position to become a leading player. The snack market is not an exception to this competition. Chinas snack food industry is highly competitive with various companies seeking competitive advantage. The Chinese snack market is a $3-billion-a-year industry (Terhune, 2005), hence foreign and domestic companies are competing to gain a sizeable percentage of the market share from this profitable industry. 5 Five Forces Model Harvard Business School professor Michael Porter (1998) said that the state of competition in an industry is dependent on five basic forces, which ultimately will determine the profit potential in the industry. These five forces are intensity of industry rivalry, threat of new entrants, and threat of substitute products, bargaining power of buyers, and bargaining power of suppliers. Combined, these forces dictate the profit potential of the industry and its competitiveness. In table 1, a summary of the five forces affecting the industry competition is shown. 5.1 Industry Rivalry The Chinese snack market is composed of domestic and international players competing for a share of the market. Among the major competitors of the Oishi brand are foreign companies like Pepsi as well numerous local firms such as Wangwang, Master Kong and Dali. These competitors offer almost similar products but of different brands or trade marks, making the industry highly competitive. Due to the highly competitive characteristics of the industry, the there are many companies competing. It will be too costly as well to leave the industry and change products. However, despite the number of companies competing, Chinas large population with an increasing number of people capable of purchasing the snack food, the China market remains competitive and is far from maturity or being exhausted. 5.2 Threat of New Entrants The threat of new entrants is high as barriers to companies entering the competition are relatively low. Government regulations on the formation of companies entering the snack market are not too strict. Even community-owned companies can enter into the competition. Capital requirements for entering into the snack food industry do not need to be large. However, if a new company wishes to compete with the largest companies, this will serve as a barrier to them. As stated earlier, product differentiation is not present. Although brand identification is an important barrier to new competition, smaller Chinese companies can easily set up business although at a local level. As such, many smaller firms manufacturing and selling snack food are being set up across the country. 5.3 Threat of Substitute Products Substitute products for salty snack foods are foods manufactured with health-enhancing ingredients. Consumers, most especially the health conscious parents, can easily shift to these products for their children. The prices of the substitute products are also almost the same with the traditional snack foods being sold. Thus, consumers will not hesitate to buy substitute foods that are enriched with healthy ingredients. The USDA Food and Agricultural Service stated in a report that youth perception in food consumption is changing toward a healthier diet, especially those living in Shanghai (Global Agriculture Information Network [GAIN] Report 3). 5.4 Bargaining Power of Suppliers Suppliers can possess significant bargaining power with regard to the pricing of their products if they act as a group dominated by a few companies and they more concentrated than the industry they sell to (Porter, 1998). However, in the case of China, suppliers are scattered around the country and are not acting in a group. They also do not offer unique or differentiated materials to sell to the industry players. Suppliers also do not possess that capability to integrate forward into the industry. Thus, suppliers do not have sufficient bargaining power in the Chinese snack food industry. 5.5 Buyers Bargaining Power Porter (1998) said that buyers can exert influence in the industry if the following characteristics are met: They act as a group, Purchase in large volumes, The products are undifferentiated, forms component form of the product and represents a significant portion of the cost, The quality of the product is unimportant to the consumer, The product does not save the buyer a money, The buyers pose a credible threat of integrating backward to make the companys product. Except for the products being undifferentiated, buyers do not possess the capacity to exert influence in the industry since most of the characteristics mentioned above are not present. Hence, Chinese consumers are not significant in influencing the industry players. However, with the recent trend of the changing consumer perception and demands on higher quality products, the consumers are now looking for healthier snack foods. Thus, they are beginning to acquire power to influence the manufacturers of snack food to create health-enhancing processed food. In sum, the Chinese snack food industry is highly competitive but is far from maturity. Profitability is still achievable at a high rate due to the large market of China. However, with the numerous companies jockeying for position in the industry and the changing consumer needs and value perception on snack food, LCHL needs to adopt a new strategic marketing plan in order to sustain its current leadership. 6 SWOT Analysis After identifying the factors affecting the competitiveness of the industry, an analysis of the organizational strength and weaknesses is also necessary in order to determine the aspects it needs to improve and alter. The identification of opportunities and threats is also important to aid the organization in drafting a marketing plan and identify the areas it needs to put focus on. A summary of the SWOT analysis is shown in table 2. Table 2 SWOT Analysis on LHCL Organization Strengths * Strong brand recognition * Good reputation in the industry * Adequate access to raw materials * Numerous varieties of products to choose from * Good networking and distribution system Weaknesses * Lesser appeal to the other segments of the market, especially the young adults * High cost structure * Insufficient patent protection Opportunities * Large portion of domestic market still not saturated * Shift or diversification to health-enriched food ingredients * Potential of expansion in the international market * Advancement in technology * Loosening up of international trade barriers Threats * Shift in consumer choice from traditional snacks to health-enhancing snack food * Emergence of new products * Flood of substitute products * Growing number of smaller firms entering the industry 6.1 Strengths The companys primary strength is its strong brand recognition across the nation. Oishi is a nationally recognized brand being awarded numerous titles. LHCL also has built a good reputation in the industry through its organizational management and innovativeness. The company has adequate access to raw materials and developed a good relationship with its distributors and sellers. Another strong point of the Oishi brand is the wide selection of product variants. Customers can choose from a range of products that suit their needs. 6.2 Weaknesses A weakness of the Oishi brand is its lesser appeal to the other segment of the market, most especially young adults in the range of 15-25 years old. This segment comprises a significant portion of the population and can increase the revenue substantially. LHCl also has a high cost structure, by having numerous facilities and employees. Although this characteristic can be considered as strength that the company possesses over its smaller rivals and in order to achieve a greater market share, this could be a potential weakness in terms of reacting rapidly to strategic market changes. The company also has insufficient patent protection. Protecting the companys formulas and ingredients in creating products is an advantage over competitors. This provides differentiation for the Oishi brand over other brands in the market. 6.3 Opportunities A large portion of the domestic market in China is not yet fully saturated, thus providing core opportunities for LHCL to grow. The company can still expand its operations inside the country to reach more consumers, especially in the inner towns. The advancement in technology such as the increasing utilization and importance of the Internet also provides opportunity for the company to have greater access to consumers. Technological advancements also offer improvements in the manufacturing processes of the company and in research and development area to improve its products. There is also a potential to expand in the international market as developing countries become more responsive to globalization. The relaxing of trade barriers in many countries such as tariffs due to globalization provides an opportunity for Oishi to penetrate overseas markets. 6.4 Threats The biggest challenge that company faces is the changing consumer taste in snack food. Consumers are now more conscious about their health, most especially parents of children that eat or consume the products. Numerous studies show that â€Å"junk foods† such as salty snacks are a cause of obesity. Marshall et al (2007: 175) suggested that parents overindulgence to their childrens whims such as requesting so much junk foods cause obesity, thus they recommended that parents should not give in to their childrens requests. With this changing consumer perception is the emergence of new snack food products that are enriched with healthier ingredients. Substitute products are now also flooding the market due to the growing awareness on obesity among children. These serve as threat to Oishis traditional snack food products. Also, the increasing number of smaller firms poses a threat to the company as they can eat up a significant portion of market. Although they operate on a smaller scale, they are numerous and present in every market where LHCL operates. 7 Marketing Plan Strategy involves the creation of a plan that integrates the organizations objectives, principles, policies and decisions and sequences of action into a cohesive whole (Proctor, 2000). A marketing plan is a strategic plan of action that an organization develops and employs to achieve its strategic goals as well as deliver customer satisfaction. Strategic marketing is therefore a challenge upon organizations to manage marketing complexities, satisfy customer and stakeholders expectations and reconcile market changes with the organizations resource capabilities (Bradley, 2003). Hence, the creation of a strategic marketing plan will provide definite and measurable steps that an organization can take to achieve its objectives, gain competitive advantage and deliver customer satisfaction and meet stakeholders expectations. Various forms of marketing methods can be applied in the development of a marketing plan. One form of marketing technique is the marketing mix. The 4Ps (product, price, place and promotion) of marketing mix is designed to develop a mix or package of products that meet the customers needs and wants. 7.1 Products As stated earlier, consumers are now changing their perceptions on snacks. The consumers, particularly the mothers of young children, are more conscious about the health benefits they or their children could get from the products they buy. A very important question here is, â€Å"Does the company produce the products that the consumers want?† It is not the company who will dictate what products it would sell but the consumers should dictate what products they should buy. Hence, it is necessary for LHCL to manufacture snack food products that satisfy the desires of their consumers. The firm should start using health-enhancing ingredients while minimizing the changes it could make to the products. It is also necessary to create product differentiation. The Oishi brand should be differentiated with other brands by the adding more characteristics to the products, such as lowering its costs or providing incentives to consumers and customers. 7.2 Price The prices of Oishi products should be competitive in order to attract more customers and consumers. At present, the prices of the Oishi snack food are competitive. However, the firm can add more value to the products by giving freebies or additional benefits to loyal customers. This will ensure that loyal customers will not shift to other brands. It will also entice new customers, particularly those in the areas not yet covered by the company. 7.3 Place LHCL should expand its presence all over the country to include more inner townships and communities. The current distribution network of the company, which comprises large distribution enterprises and small family businesses, can be enlarged to include community-owned enterprises as well as direct sellers. In places where there are no available distributors, the company can put up its own distributing centers. The Internet is also another place for distribution or can be used to enhance the current distribution system of the company. Orders can be placed online and a tracking system can track the progress of the orders. Retailers can and wholesale distributors can use this facility with regard to their purchase orders. 7.4 Promotion Promotional or advertising programs are necessary to increase consumer awareness on the Oishi brand and its products. In increasing consumer-awareness, the company should increase its advertising and promotional activities. The company should put significant investment in advertising so that revenue-generation can be increased even more. It can enhance increase sales by 20-50% and entice more customers thereby increasing market share. All forms of media must be utilized such as the traditional advertising facilities in the print and broadcast media. The Internet is another major tool for promoting the product. Presently, the companys website provides basic information on the products. The website can be enhanced by adding more information such as the health benefits that the products can offer to the consumers. The US FAS said that young adults or the 80ers (those belonging to the 18-34 year-old range) are increasingly using the Internet in buying snack food. Thus, LHCL can use the I nternet to increase its sales and attract these â€Å"high-tech† consumers. 7.5 People In order to implement the marketing mix program, a creative marketing department or team must be established. The creative team will be responsible for the development of creative advertising materials and promotional tools. They will do further market research to identify which segment of the market is most receptive of the products and to identify more specifically the consumers needs, desires and buying behaviors. 8 Market Segmentation Market segmentation is necessary to identify the specific consumer base of the company. As stated by Proctor (2000: 189), segmentation is a powerful component of marketing strategy. The Chinese snack food market is composed mostly of young adults and children as the main consumer groups. Traditional consumers of the snack food belong to these generations. With the inclusion of parents as guiding their children in selecting snack foods, the Chinese snack food market is a $3-billion industry. Previously, Oishi is targeted towards children. Children below 15 years old were the previous main consumer group for the Oishi products. However, numerous studies (Mrshall et al.; Curtis McCluskey; French et al.) show that children are becoming obese due to eating â€Å"junk foods† such as salty snacks, potato chips, and other similar products. Parents are already concerned about this rising obesity trend on their children. Further, the US FAS also reports that young adults, particularly in Shanghai, are changing their perception on food consumption. The report states that the Shanghai youth are more likely to purchase high-quality food products such as fresh milk and organic produce (GAIN Report 3). LHCL should therefore target these consumers to be its main consumer base in the near future. The marketing mix design provided earlier specifically addresses this issue. The marketing mix is focused on attracting the young adults and health-conscious consumers. They will be the primary consumer base of the Oishi brand. Part 2 Report Marketing concerns satisfying customer needs and wants and in doing so paves the way for achieving the organizations objectives (Proctor, 2000). This is a general principle applicable to all organizations in the business community. Since the opening up of China in the global market, numerous companies have put their investments in the country in the hope of establishing a leading position or at least take a substantial portion of the large Chinese market. Due to the unprecedented increase of foreign firms, domestic competition in every industry has intensified. However, local or domestic brands are still preferred by Chinese consumers at the expense of foreign multinational brands (Ewing et al, 2003: 84). Nevertheless, the presence of global corporations in China provides competition against domestic companies. Developing an appropriate marketing strategy that will satisfy customer demands should be the goal of every organization in order to achieve competitive advantage and attain the organizations objectives. As Proctor (2000) stated, marketing is about the competitive positioning of products and services in the minds of the customers. It is also about the communication of messages and images (reflecting product and service positioning) and the means which are used to convey these messages and images to the customers. Although there is a preference for local brands by the Chinese, the presence of foreign companies are to be considered a major threat as they are capable of creating products and services that meet the needs and wants of the consumers. It is important that every organization should analyze the market conditions and the relationships that exist within the market in order to identify which segment of the market to target. Market segmentation is therefore another crucial factor in the creation of a marketing strategy. Proctor (2000) points out that market segmentation amounts to partitioning a market into a number of distinct sections, using criteria, which reflect different and distinctive purchasing motives and behavior of customers. Separating the market into various segments or groups helps companies determine their specific market and establish a loyal customer base. This is particularly important for entering new markets as well as maintaining current position in market. Another significant concept in marketing is the product life-cycle. This concept is a sequence of stages to determine the life-cycle of a product or service. There are four stages, namely introduction, growth, maturity and decline, in the product life-cycle. In the introduction stage, the new products are introduced into the market. An organization will seek to build market awareness on the product and establish a market for it. Once introduced and a market has been established, the product will be marketed and sold and new features may be added to expand its market this is the growth stage. The product will then reach its maturity, and at this stage improvements will be needed to maintain its peak such as lowering its price or new distribution channels are created. When the product saturated its maturity stage, a decline in sales will occur. This is the declining stage. At this point, the company may choose to maintain the product and sell it to a loyal segment of the market or stop its production. The product life-cycle concept is necessary so that LCHL can manage its products and plan for future products or services when the current offerings have reached their declining stages. An important marketing principle as well is the Boston Consultancy Group (BCG) growth-share matrix. This concept is relevant to companies with several portfolios. Under the BCG matrix, a companys different portfolios or divisions growth and market share will be analyzed and categorized into four elements; cash cows, stars, question marks and dogs. Cash cows represent portfolios that generate more profit than the expenses it incurs. Stars generate large amounts of cash, but also consume a large amount of money due to its relatively large market share. Question marks, on the other hand, are portfolios that grow rapidly but generate less income due their low market shares. Dogs, meanwhile, are those portfolios that have low market share and low growth rate, and therefore generate low income. (NetMBA.com). This matrix is particularly important for Oishi brand so that the company can identify which of its product variants are cash cows, stars, question marks or dogs and which portfolio ne eds to be improved. All of the above concepts can contribute to achieving competitive advantage for a company. It is common that every business organizations ultimate and strategic goal is to gain competitive advantage over its rivals. Carpenter et al (2001) said, â€Å"Competitive advantage can arise from satisfying customers better, faster or more cheaply than competitors†. Porter (1998) said that the competitive strategy takes offensive or defensive actions to create defendable position in an industry, in order to cope successfully with competitive forces and generate superior return on investment. He added that the basis of above-average industry performance is sustainable competitive advantage (qtd in 12Manage.com). In the Porter model, competitive advantage has two basic types; cost leadership and differentiation. Cost leadership occurs when a company offers the same product or service at a lower price than its rivals. Differentiation advantage occurs when a company delivers higher quality products or services at the same price as its competitors. A third type, focus, appears as an advantage when a company focused its strategy on a particular or narrow segment of the market to create a loyal base of customer and become the company of choice in the same market segment. In sum, the above marketing concepts help in gaining competitive advantage and profitability for the company. Hence, LCHL should adopt all the concepts stated above and incorporate those in its corporate strategy and strategic marketing plan. It is necessary that LCHL should maintain its current leadership by creating a competitive marketing strategy. Reference About Oishi. Liwayway Holdings Company Limited, n.d, from http://www.oishi.com.cn/en/about.htm. Bradley, F (2003) Strategic marketing: in the customer driven organization. Chichester: Wiley Print. Carpenter, G., Glazer, R and Nakamoto, K. (2001) â€Å"Market-driving strategies: toward a new concept of competitive advantage†, Kellogg on Marketing. New York: Wiley Press, pp. 103-130. â€Å"Competitive Advantage†, 12Manage.com. 12 Manage, n.d. Web. Ewing, M., Napoli, J and Pitt, L. (2003) â€Å"The development of domestic brands in China†, Chinese Economic Transition and International Marketing Strategy, pp. 84-95. French, S., Jeffrey, R., Story, M., Breitlow, K., Baxter, J., Hannan, P and Snyder, P. (2001) â€Å"Pricing and promotion effects on low-fat vending snack purchases: the CHIPS study†, American Journal of Public Health, pp. 112-117. â€Å"Global agriculture information network. Shanghais youth market: changing perceptions in food consumption†, USDA Food and Agriculture Service, People Republic of China Market Development Reports, Retrieved November, 2008. Marshall, D., ODonohoe, S and Kline, S. (2007) â€Å"Families, food and pester power: beyond the blame game?†, Journal of Consumer Behavior, pp. 164-181. Porter, M (1998) On competition, Boston: Harvard Business School Publishing. Proctor, T (2000) Strategic marketing: an introduction, London: Routledge Press. Terhune, C (2005) â€Å"To bag Chinas snack market, Pepsi takes up potato framing†, The Wall Street Journal Online. â€Å"The BCG growth-share matrix.† NetMBA.com. NetMBA, n.d. 360 Degree Feedback: Analysis 360 Degree Feedback: Analysis 1. Introduction The researcher has highlighted the research question, aim and objectives, before the specific introduction to give a clear picture of the dissertation. 1.1 Research Question To ascertain whether 360 degree feedback could prove to be a promising appraisal mechanism for the staff motivation and development in the current economic crisis and funding cuts? 1.2 Aims and Objectives The research sets out to explore the relevance of 360 degree feedback appraisal system in contrast to the traditional appraisal process currently functional in the library and technical services department of the University. What is 360 degree feedback and in what ways it could prove to be an efficient tool for continuous improvement, development? What is the current functional appraisal technique in the universities library/technical services department and the benefits of introducing 360 degree feedback as an appraisal tool? To analyse the functions/pitfalls of introducing 360 degree feedback within the library/technical services department of the University, with an emphasis on its use for the continuous improvement, development and motivation of the staff. 1.3 Specific Introduction â€Å"University staffs tend to report high levels of stress at the best of times, and academic staffs usually rate their experience of stress as higher than other staff groups in the higher education setting,† (Easton and Laar, 2010). The current funding cuts by the government and the global financial crisis demands a major change in the way various processes function across universities in United Kingdom (UK). The current study is an endeavour to address the numerous limitations in between the traditional appraisal system and the 360 degree tool. The researcher aims to expand the literature that previously exists on the 360 degree appraisal system and to analyse why the gap exists in between both the processes. The researchers primary focus is on the staff motivation and personal development as the key factors that need consideration within the University of Huddersfield. The researcher has given a thorough critical analysis of the 360 degree feedback appraisal system through the review of the academic literature and has focussed on identifying whether or not there are any benefits of using 360 degree feedback over the traditional appraisal systems. As stated by Mason, et.al, (2009), multi-rater feedback is by fa r the best tool for staff development and monitoring effective continuous development in any organisation. Borman, (1997); Javitch and Burke, (1995); Yammarino and Atwater, (1997) state that one of the elementary assumptions of the 360 degree feedback approach is about the employees specific workplace behaviour and when compared to an individuals perception, can act like a catalyst and prove extremely beneficial for enhancing the employees self awareness, self development, motivation and subsequent behavioural change (Church, 2000). Concurrently, Cardy, et.al., (2011), critic that although the evaluation from 360 degree feedback includes feedback from all directions managers, colleagues, customers and the responses from all the point of views propose immense probability for improvement, insight and learning, the feedback from these multiple source seldom agree. On the rating scale, colleagues may rate some characteristics higher while managers may rate those very characteristics lo wer and likewise. The whole prototype of 360 degree feedback interpretation and evaluations can draw a perplexing image of the feedback which will hardly be of any significance to the individual in improving their performance. The underlying rationale of this study has been to evaluate the pros and cons of the traditional appraisal system currently functional in the university, and to analyse by what extent the human resource department, can benefit by introducing 360 degree feedback as their employee appraisal mechanism, especially in relation to the motivation and development of staff. 1.4 Research Plan The below figure (Figure.1) gives a diagrammatic representation of the research plan. The researcher has used the mind mapping technique to construct the research plan (Buzan and Buzan, 2007), which gives a clear picture of how the research task is carried forward as per the time line set by the researcher. The research plan has helped the researcher to carefully pre-plan the actions that needed to be taken during the research. In the following chapters the researcher has critically analysed the 360 degree feedback tool. The literature review covers the latest developments in the 360 degree feedback mechanism along with a thorough comparison with the traditional appraisal system currently functional in the library and technical services department of the University of Huddersfield. The research methodology chapter gives a thorough account of the research design chosen by the researcher, the various techniques used for the research, discussions about the semi structured interviews and questionnaires, followed by the analysis of data, research findings and conclusion. Chapter 2 2 General Literature Review 12-21 2.1 Specific Literature Review 21-27 2.2 Summary of the Literature Review 27 2. General Literature Review â€Å"The way 360 degree feedback is done seems to be critical to successfeedback interventions depend for their effectiveness on the extent to which they augment task motivation and encourage learning, although there are moderating variables such as the nature of the task,† (Kluger and De Nisi, 1996; Tyson and Ward, 2004). 360 degree feedback is an appraisal system used in strategic Human Resource management (HRM) as an intervention and an evaluation technique for personal development of the employees (Cardy, et.al, 2011; Fleenor, 2008; Tyson and Ward, 2004). It has also been referred as the ‘‘vital sign of the modern organization (Fortunato and Smith, 2008; Church and Waclawski, 1998). In this process the employees receive confidential, anonymous response from colleagues, managers, customers, family members etc (Figure 2). About three to five people fill out an anonymous online feedback form that asks questions covering a broad range of workplace competencies. The feedback forms include questions that are measured on a rating scale and also ask raters to provide written comments. The person receiving feedback also fills out a self-rating survey that includes the same survey questions that others receive in their forms. Various authors have outlined that 360 degree feedback is quite effective as it is a non bias process which makes performance management a more objective and fair process (CIPD, 2009), in contrast to the traditional appraisal processes where in a lot depends upon how the appraiser perceives the individual, which can be bias and less transparent. The 360 degree feedback has been used in many organisations for the development of staff members, and the gap in the two appraisal systems is due to the bias nature of the traditional appraisal mechanisms over the transparency of the 360 degree f eedback process. While traditional measures of appraisal systems date back to decades, current literature highlights the multiple developments in the field of appraisal techniques (Dalton, 1996). One among the later developments in the field is the 360 degree feedback appraisal mechanism. This research has explored the relevance of 360 degree feedback appraisal system in contrast to the traditional appraisal process currently functional in the University. Specifically, the author has examined how employee motivation and personal development are affected by 360 degree feedback. The aim throughout the research has been on comparing the traditional appraisal system functional in the University of Huddersfield (UOH) with the 360 degree feedback methodology by exploring how it could contribute in the personal development and motivation of the staff members within the University of Huddersfield. Meyer, (1991); and Folger and Cropanzano, (1998), disagree that evaluations of traditional appraisals are often positively inflated as usually the appraisers are not trained to give negative feedback, and if this is the manner in which the appraisals are conducted then the effectiveness of the performance management process will significantly be undermined (Guangrong, 2010; McCarthy and Garavan, 2001). Therefore one could state that if the tool if used accurately it can provide a non bias and more transparent appraisal system, which may decrease the possibilities of employee dissatisfaction in contrast to the traditional appraisal mechanism, and can emerge as an excellent motivational factor for the employees. As a matter of fact ‘360 degree feedback can significantly enhance the performance management process (Staff360, 2011; CIPD, 2009). However Fleenor, (2008) and Vinson, M.N. (1996) disregards the facts about the effectiveness of 360 degree feedback as people may use their role as a feedback provider as an opportunity to criticize others behaviour at work. According to Chartered Institute of Personnel and Development, (2009) if the 360 degree tool is perceived to be in any way threatening, it can seriously damage both commitment and performance. â€Å"It is important that people receive regular honest feedback on their performance. They should understand how their role contributes to overall organisational aims and objectives and how they are performing against agreed criteria. 360 degree feedback can enhance this process by widening the scope for information from the line manager relationship to embrace a wider range of opinion. However, it is important that this is carried out sensitively and fairly,† (Staff360, 2011). Lepsinger and Lucia, (2009); Fleenor, (2008); Tyson and Ward, (2004) comprehend that there are direct evidences of employees performance improvements from 360 degree feedback appraisal mechanism. Various authors research prove that 360 degree feedback also results in improved customer satisfaction, improved management skills and these improvements motivate the employees to work on their identified strengths and use them for advancement in their carrier (Edwards and Ewens, 1996; Hazucha et al. 1993). Hence, the current study is an attempt to deal with the several limitations, and develop the literature that previously exists on the 360 degree appraisal system and to analyse why does the gap exist in between the traditional appraisal system and the 360 degree tool. â€Å"The University of Huddersfield has charitable status as an exempt charity under Schedule 2 to the Charities Act 1993 (amended by the Charities Act 2006). It is therefore subject to charity legislation but is not required to register with the Charity Commission and is not regulated by it. As an exempt charity, the University does not have a registered charity number. In 2010, the Higher Education Funding Council for England took over as the ‘Principal Regulator for the institutions it funds and now has a general duty to promote compliance with charity legislation. This does not affect the Universitys status as an exempt charity,† (hud.ac.uk, 2011). The UK governments educational funding slice and the recession hit economy demands a drastic alteration in the way various processes function across the Universities in UK. However, since the 360 degree feedback is a tool primarily developed and used mainly in the private sector organisations, there is a challenge in its implementation in a public sector or a third sector organisation and as in this case, the University of Huddersfield which is a registered for charity organisation. Brutus et al., (1998) support that the reactions to performance measurements may vary between public and private sector organizations—public sector managers underestimate their achievements compared with private sector managers, for example. Hence, based on these findings one could ascertain that there is a greater need for motivation and development of employees in the public/third sector organisations, and the 360 degree performance appraisal system is an HRs ideal response to combat such issues. As suggested and supported by Lepsinger and Lucia, (2009); Borman, W.C. (1997); Javitch, M.J. and Burke, W.W., (1995); Yammarino, F.J. and Atwater, L.E. (1997), one of the elementary assumptions of the 360 degree feedback approach is about the employees specific workplace behaviour and when compared to an individuals perceptions, can act like a catalyst and prove extremely beneficial for enhancing the employees self awareness, self development, motivation and subsequent behavioural change (Church, 1995, 2000). The researcher has explored the 360 degree appraisals methodology that has become popular in human resource circles over the last few years, wherein the employees performance is assessed by their colleagues, managers and others and has analysed its benefits over the traditional appraisal processes. Brown, (2006) criticizes that while the 360 degree process seems like an interesting idea; it involves more meetings and many forms to be filled out in comparison to the traditional appraisal systems. However Maylett, (2009) and Wiley, (1993) supports that 360 degree feedback can prove to be a good instrument for the staff development as this process gives an individual in-depth performance feedback and hence based on the findings the employee can work on their personal development, by getting trained in the area where there weakness lies and the time lost in filling the extra forms are worth the effort. Arguments from different authors suggest that the feedback systems have always been in to existence in the organisations in some form or the other, but of-late has been developed and given a name ‘360 degree feedback and according to Garavan, et al., (1997) 360 degree feedback process is like an ‘old wine in new a bottle. It is also known as multi-rater feedback and is an appraisal process in which the individual is assessed by themselves, colleagues, managers, stakeholders, customers, etc. The 360 degree instrument can be used to achieve various goals and one aspect of it is the need of continuous measurement of improvement efforts, development of staff and their motivation. Ward, (1997) defined 360 degree feedback as ‘the systematic collection and feedback of performance data on an individual or group derived from a number of the stakeholders in their performance. †Because of their shorter expected tenure, women are less likely to be as motivated by the deferred rewards of career ladders. As a consequence, she argues that employers with large shares of women have historically used shorter-term rewards and undertaken more routine and extensive monitoring,† (Brown and Heywood, 2005; Goldin, 1986). Various authors criticize that traditional appraisal techniques are not that effective in case of female employees and there are many incidences of gender bias in appraisals. Renowned authors, Brown and Heywood, (2005) support that ‘a major and recurrent criticism of the traditional appraisal process is its openness to subjective and discriminatory outcome. The primary goal of this research has been to expand beyond the current literature by analysing the data and results to create suggested policies for the University of Huddersfield, to implement pertaining to the improvement of staff morale and productivity. Furthermore, on reviewing the growing body of literature and the research on 360 degree feedback, the researcher was able to identify the usefulness of having 360 degree feedback over the traditional appraisal processes in the University of Huddersfield; the study has also given ample scope to the researcher in developing more insightful questions. The author has identif ied the various factors on which the success of 360 degree feedback mechanism depends; the literature supports that more effectively the 360 degree instrument is implemented the better are the results. Newbold, (2008) highlights that that if the tool is implemented accurately, with the proper training and the correct resources, a 360-degree appraisal could prove to be a powerful and positive addition to any performance-management system. The 360 degree feedback has been used in many organisations for the development of staff members, and the gap in the two appraisal systems is due to the bias nature of the traditional appraisal mechanisms over the transparency of the 360 degree feedback process. Various authors have outlined that 360 degree feedback is quite effective as it is a non bias process which makes performance management a more objective and fair process (CIPD, 2009), in contrast to the traditional appraisal processes where in a lot depends upon how the appraiser perceives the individual, which can be bias and less transparent. Maylett, (2009); Meyer, (1991); Folger and Cropanzano, (1998), argue that evaluations of traditional appraisals are often positively inflated as usually the appraisers are not trained to give negative feedback, and if this is the manner in which the appraisals are conducted then the effectiveness of the performance management process will significantly be undermined (McCarthy and Garavan, 2001). Therefore one could state that if the tool if used accurately it can provide a non-bias and more transparent appraisal system, which may decrease the possibilities of employee dissatisfaction in contrast with the traditional appraisal mechanism, and can emerge as an excellent motivational factor for the employees. However Vinson, (1996) disregards the facts about the effectiveness of 360 degree feedback as people may use their role as a feedback provider as an opportunity to criticize others behaviour at work. â€Å"Multirater feedback has several significant advantages over single-rater assessment. Rather than relying on the perceptions of one individual, multirater feedback takes into account multiple perspectives. Those working with the employee, along with the supervisor, are generally able to provide a more comprehensive picture of an employees behaviour or performance. This is especially critical when the supervisor does not have the opportunity to observe all areas of an employees performance,† (Maylett, 2009). Maylett, (2009); DeNisi and Kluger, (2000) support that ‘360-degree feedback for decision making affects the actual ratings given to the individual being appraised and these systems should be primarily, if not exclusively for developmental purposes (Figure 3). Furthermore, the conditions in which 360 degree feedback work in an organisation largely depends upon the perception of 360 degree feedbacks potential to enhance human resource management system of the organisation. As suggested by Lepsinger and Lucia, (2009) factors like culture (that supports openness and honest feedback) and systems (that minimise irrational responses and have built in ways to identify people whose ratings are untrustworthy) assess if the organisation is ready to implement the 360 degree feedback process, and the researcher has explored the possibilities of its implication in the University of Huddersfield, based on these grounds. 2.1 Specific Literature Review This section of the dissertation takes a specific critical standpoint on whether 360 ° feedback as strategic Human Resource tool have a profound strategic justification in the University of Huddersfield (UOH) which is a registered for charity organisation (hud.ac.uk, 2011) . The researcher has given a critical account of the 360-degree feedback tool, as an option for performance development appraisals and for motivating the staff in performing better, in the registered for charity organisations. Currently, the 360 degree tool is not very common in the third sector, registered for charity organisations and the investigation could be a scope for a research elsewhere. According to Berk, (2009); and Fortunato and Smith, (2008) 360 degree feedback is an appraisal tool used by approximately 90% of the Fortune 1000 organisations (Fortunato and Smith, 2008; Bracken et al., 2001; Tornow and Tornow, 2001; Edwards and Ewen, 1996, 2001). Cardy, Leonard and Newman, (2011) believe that the incre ased popularity of the 360 degree feedback is unquestionable and that organisations have spent innumerable amount of funds in implementing the feedback system. However, Cardy et.al, (2011) argue that many Fortune 1000 companies have implemented the 360 degree feedback without having considered the purpose, which is not very advisable, as 360 degree feedback is at its best for staff development, motivation, and for administrative use such as in determining performance related salary. The utility of 360 degree feedback, mainly upward feedback, may be constricted when appraisers provide erroneous ratings (Bernardin and Tyler, 2001; Bracken and Timmreck, 2001). Kuvas, (2006) highlighted that the relationship between the performance appraisal and work is interrelated to the employees inherent motivation at work. For an employee to perform in an organisation, job satisfaction and motivation to execute an activity for itself, in order to experience the pleasure and satisfaction inherent in the activity (Kuvas, 2006; Deci et al., 1989; Vallerand, 1997). Cardy et.al. (2011) highlight that when feedback received from too many sources are used for the estimation of an employees performance the diverse sources of feedback seldom agree in their evaluation, although a broader understanding can be attained. Analysis and criticism of traditional appraisal system in contrast with 360 degree feedback The primary principle of appraisals is to put forward an opinion or feedback on how the employee performs in their current job role and to discuss further what could be done to facilitate the employee to perform the expected job, if they are not performing as per the objectives. Prowse and Prowse, (2009); and Randell, (1994) argue that appraisals are the systematic evaluation of an individuals performance linked to the organisations culture and behaviour. The various departments in the University of Huddersfield (UOH) use different appraisal mechanisms. The computing and library services, technical services and other administration departments of the University use a competencies framework for the staff appraisals. The appraisals are conducted half yearly (every 6 months) to follow up on the employees personal development plan. There are three documents that are usually taken in a one on one appraisal, the filled employee preparation form, the filled up competencies framework and the competency framework Role Profiling document which provides a brief idea of which level each role is at (Figure. 4). After the discussion the appraising line manager fills up the appraisal record which both the appraiser and the ‘appraisee sign and get a copy. This process is followed up every 6 months (Please refer to appendix 1 for appraisal documents). The purpose of the process is to facilitate the employees to develop in a systematic way so that university as an organisation functions in the best possible way utilising the optimum talent identified. Various authors support that the appraisal system also offers an opportunity to put across and discuss the employees achievements over the past year with th eir managers to confer their performance in general and make plans for the year ahead. The performance appraisals are potentially a solution for the organisations to get the most out of their employees (Prowse and Prowse, 2009; Armstrong and Baron, 2005). The scheme currently functional in the university is highly participative, with a huge emphasis on appraisal ‘self and making sure that the staffs have a key responsibility in determining their own improvement and personal development (UOH, 2011). â€Å"In order for an appraisal system to be absolutely flawless and effective a number of elements have to be in place, as in the understanding and agreement on performance goals, a process for collecting ongoing performance data and a framework of productive periodic review and formal appraisal discussions,† (Lepsinger and Lucia, 2009). Although the current appraisals seemed to have worked fine till date, the literature provides evidence of the flaws in the traditional appraisal processes. Lepsinger and Lucia, (2009); and Lee, (2006) highlight that disagreement on set performance criterion, the line managers inability as an appraiser to process the bulk of information received and the employees need, while being appraised to defend their self image, are the key factors which act as a barrier in the smooth functioning of the traditional appraisals. It could be argued that the two parties involved in a traditional appraisal usually do not agree with the performance criteria set and it is highly likely that a difference of opinion may crop up between the appraisers and appraisee on what it takes to perform the job effectively. Prowse and Prowse, (2009); and Lee, (2006) argue that that the appraisal practice cannot be executed successfully unless the appraiser has the right interpersonal skills to provide the feedback t o the appraisee. If the appraiser and appraisee do not come to a conclusion on what can mutually be agreed as a requirement for excellent performance, then it is quite evident that both may end up with diverse conclusions about the staffs effectiveness in meeting the set performance criteria. Furthermore, rather than reassessing the actions necessary for a thriving performance at work, if the traditional appraisal attempts to achieve a specific target or result, it hardly does anything to seize the gap in perception or help the appraisee in comprehending what amendments are vital for their advancement and development in performing the job (Lepsinger and Lucia, 2009). â€Å"Traditional performance appraisal systems are flawed in their design, implementation and use. Supervisors seldom are effective in using such systems because the assumptions that guide how we use performance appraisals are unsubstantiated,† (Lee, 2006). Lepsinger and Lucia, (2009); and Lee, (2006) solicit to discontinue the use of the traditional performance appraisal methods and state that the traditional appraisal processes that rely upon ratings should be discontinued and advanced performance management mechanisms should be adopted which are designed to produce ample quantitative and qualitative information. The line managers inability as an appraiser to process the mass information received is another major issue in the traditional appraisal processes. The though process behind an effective appraisal is very complex. Experts break down the intricate process for collecting and processing information used in the appraisal process (Lepsinger and Lucia, 2009). Merits of introducing 360 degree feedback as an appraisal tool in the University of Huddersfield â€Å"Critiques of appraisal have continued as appraisals have increased in use and scope across sectors and occupations. The dominant critique is the management framework using appraisal as an â€Å"orthodox† technique that seeks to remedy the weakness and propose of appraisals as a system to develop performance,† (Bach, 2005). As discussed previously The University of Huddersfield uses competencies framework for the staff appraisals. The competencies framework is a description of the relevant behaviours needed to be competent in the job roles and support the organisation in remaining an exceptional University. The competencies appraisal framework boasts to benefit the employees by providing precision of performance expectations, uniformity and fairness throughout the appraisal, allowing superior identification of individual development requirements and giving a clearer picture of required skills to progress in the career path. In turn the university benefits by a lucid method of continuous development and performance management, enabling the identification and prioritisation of improvement needs to facilitate the improved stipulation of the learning and development courses or other areas of development (Source: HR, 2011). â€Å"360 degree feedback can make a positive contribution to the appraisal system. It can help to gain agreement on expectations, by using a broader range of information, and by facilitating open discussion,† (Lepsinger and Lucia, 2009). There are numerous benefits of introducing 360 degree feedback in the University of Huddersfield. As per the discussions with the human resource staff and the appraising managers it can be argued that the current appraisal system functional in the university is not flawless. The bias nature of the one on one performance appraisals is prone to disputes among the appraising manager and the employees, and although the university has a procedure in place to resolve such conflicts it could still benefit by introducing 360 degree feedback along with the traditional appraisal mechanism to rule out any such possibilities of conflicts. 2.2 Summary of the Literature Review To sum it could be concluded that the 360 degree feedback has a proven record as an excellent tool for staff development and motivation. The researcher has observed that the tool has become increasingly accepted in the organisations worldwide ever since the masses have discovered its value. Since the academic literature supports the research question proposed by the researchers. Chapter 3 3 Introduction to the Research Methodology 29 3.1 Research Design 29-33 3.2 Research Strategy 33-35 3.3 Review of Research Data Collection Methods 35-36 3.3.1 Semi-Structured Interviews Qualitative Data 36 3.3.2. Questionnaires Quantitative Data 37-39 3.4 Pilot Test 39 3.4.1 Questionnaire Pilot Test 1 40 3.4.2 Questionnaire Pilot Test 2 40-41 3.5 Alternate Research Methods considered but 41-42 3.6 Ethical Considerations 42-43 3.7 Methods of Data Analysis 43-44 3.8 Summary of the methodology 44 3. An Introduction of the Research Methodology In this section of the research paper the researcher has explained the various types of research methods and techniques available, and used by the researcher, followed by a justification of why these methods have been considered appropriate for this dissertation and why the other methods have not been considered. The process of data collection and data analysis has also been described in this chapter. 3.1 Research Design The researcher throws light on the research design and gives a general idea of how the researcher has gone about addressing the research question and description of its approach with rationality, followed by an account of the objectives derived from this research, gives an account of the sources which has been used in this research to collect data, and a description of the ethical considerations (Creswell, et.al. 2011; Saunders, Lewis and Thornhill, 2009). To quote Saunders, et.al, (2009): â€Å"Combining both quantitative and qualitative analysis ‘the researcher may possibly use the quantitative data and ‘qualitize it that is converting it into narrative that can be analysed qualitatively. Alternately, the researcher may ‘quantitise the qualitative data, converting it into numerical codes so that it could be analysed statistically,† (Saunders et.al, 2009). The author has carried out the research by conducting semi-structured interviews followed by a brief experimental introduction of 360 degree feedback process, and the analysis of the results were done by the careful examination of combination of the mixed methods. Various authors justify that there are diverse rationales for research; however practitioner researchers are faced with queries that demand versatile responses (Creswell, 2003) Hence, a mixed methods approach that uses qualitative and quantitative research can be considered as appropriate for several p