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Monday, December 30, 2019

Conflict Management Influences Different Groups - 1937 Words

Introduction In our education system, conflict and the methods of conflict management influences different groups (students and employees), individual and even the performance and effectiveness of the institution. Conflicts are realities of life. They occur whether we like it or not, especially when there is disagreement and misunderstanding which stands as major key characteristics of human relationships. The relationship could be domestic, national or international (Spiroska, 2014). Furthermore, conflicts happen when people are incompatible. However, since conflicts are a critical part of human relationship, many higher places of learning have device methods to resolve them in a manner that maintains cohesion, economic and†¦show more content†¦According to Spiroska (2014), with all the studied procedural options, there is none that are best intervention strategy for all situations. Generally, the common methods are negotiation and mediation which are found almost in all cu ltures. However, different cultures approach conflict management in different ways. Notably, the objectives of conflict resolution are mainly to issue a good lasting and quality solution. It is also to give disputants fair process and sense of empowerment to resolve conflicts (Spiroska, 2014). This means that resolving conflict is a form of collaborative and creative problem solving among incompatible groups. Success and failures in conflict management A lot of research work has been done on the best techniques to handle conflicts in our educational systems and other organizational setting but no single method is known to be the best suitable. However, some have been successful and some failures while some were inconclusive. I would think that all depends on the situation and environment. A study by Young (2003), investigated the relationship between job satisfaction with each of the methods in conflict management, such as dominant, avoidance, and collaboration in the workplace. In this study, the author used structural equation modeling and analyzed survey data from 742 people employed as tellers in two functional banks in Washington, DC and West Virginia, USA. The results revealed that a collaborative conflict

Sunday, December 22, 2019

Personal Health Assessment - 3441 Words

Personal Health Assessment and Health Promotion Plan Abstract The purpose of this assignment is to gain a greater understanding of the health promotion concepts through self reflection. I plan to do this by identifying three self-assessment tools; a food journal, exercise log and sleep log, along with providing rationale for the chosen instruments. I will also address the Transtheoretical Model (TM), which stages I have gone through and which stage I am currently in. These tools and stages along with a wellness diagnosis will help me to develop a personal health plan. The outcomes of the interventions will be discussed and will include personal achievements and success. Personal Health Assessment and Health Promotion Plan The†¦show more content†¦In developing my health promotion plan, I want to decrease stress in my life through diet, exercise and improved sleep cycle. I plan on doing this by monitoring my nutritional intake, increasing my daily physical activity and developing an appropriate sleep schedule. According to HELPGUIDE.org, stress management strategy #6 is to develop a healthy lifestyle; including a healthy diet, regular exercise and getting enough sleep (Stress management, 2011). My eating schedule can be off at times due to working three, twelve hour night shifts each week. Some days I may get in one or two meals with lots of unhealthy snacking and other days I may get in 3 meals with 2 healthy snacks. By keeping a food journal (Appendix B) I will be more aware of what I eat and if it is healthy for me. I like to exercise but use my work schedule or lack of sleep as an excuse to not exercise. By keeping a daily exercise log (Appendix C), it will help me realize I need to ge t in at least 30 minutes of physical activity 5 times a week, which is necessary in order to maintain a healthy lifestyle. As a night shifter for the last 14 years, I know I do not get adequate sleep. By keeping a sleep log (Appendix D), I will actually see I am getting less than 5 hours of sleep a night which is less than the doctor recommended of 7.5 to 8 hours of sleep a night (Shaw, 2011). Assessment Tools The food journal (Appendix B) IShow MoreRelatedPersonal Statement On Health Assessment Essay1064 Words   |  5 Pagesblock –1 (Health assessment). I wil be identifying 10 concepts from them and thoroughly scrutinize how they would apply to my personal life and other contextual settings such as social context, coupled with current related researches on these concept. However, their applications to my current work place (Havana specialist Hospital, Surulere, and Lagos, Nigeria) and their usefulness to the current world will also be discussed. The concepts are as follows: Communication in Health Assessment (Module1)Read MorePersonal Health Assessment Paper777 Words   |  4 PagesPersonal health assessment paper SCI100 University of Phoenix Ms. S. Bratton 12/06/2010 Shayla Simpson Simpson 1 Keeping yourself healthy emotionally, physically, and spiritually will help you build; develop a happy, productive life.   Studies were done and it was found that peopleRead MoreReflection On Personal Health Assessment2291 Words   |  10 PagesReflection 2 HCPM 100: Personal Health Assessment Jeremy Null Maryville University Abstract This paper will be a Physical Self-Assessment of myself, including quantifiable and qualitative information measuring my physical and emotional. From there I will include information pertaining to any research discovered that will provide clarity and evidence of my new health plan. Lastly we will discuss possible weaknesses that have been identified pertaining to my health as well as avenues ofRead MorePersonal Health Assessment : The Basics, It Talks About The Transtheoretical Model ( Ttm )885 Words   |  4 Pagesï’ ¥Personal Health Assessment: Health is an important element in one’s life. Being healthy is what makes a body function properly and keeps it looking good inside and out. However they are some things we can t control such as genetics and diseases, but we can control how we treat our body. ï’ ¥Personal Risks: According to the body mass index, I m in the healthy range; however there are a few things I would like the change to better myself. In the first chapter of Health: TheRead MoreThe Personal Health Record ( Phr )781 Words   |  4 Pages The Personal Health Record Final Project – Essay Diana Morris Darton State College â€Å"The personal health record (PHR) is an electronic, lifelong resource of health information needed by individuals to make health decisions.† (Burrington-Brown) Patients manage and control their own information from all healthcare providers and facilities. The PHR is supposed to be in a secure and private place. The patient sets who is allowed to access the PHR. The PHR is only for the patientRead MoreThe Nurse Of The Future Core Competency : Communication859 Words   |  4 PagesFurthermore, understanding that therapeutic communication which is so vital, patient’s literacy level is also crucial in the communication process. Boykins D., 2014 states that â€Å"individuals that experience health literacy problems receive less preventative care and have poor understanding of health problems and care†. A nurse assesses each patients’ literacy level upon their first interaction, she also uses therapeutic communication to build a strong nurse patient relati onship. Therapeutic communicationRead MoreA Report On Bon Secours Mary Immaculate Hospital Essay1557 Words   |  7 Pagesin an attempt to eradicate the problem. Security breaches are a major subject that must be addressed in the healthcare facility. With healthcare becoming more technology driven it is much easier to access data related to patients, specifically personal health information (PHI). Clearance is also a concern, not everyone in the healthcare facility should have access to a patient’s medical record. In order to protect PHIs, each facility must implement a policy and procedure related to internal, externalRead MoreInformation Governance : The Center Of The Healthcare Industry1488 Words   |  6 Pagessafeguarding patient information is top priority. Information governance (IG) seeks to improve how information is handled (Hutchinson Sharples, 2006). IG includes the protection of data, personal health records (PHR), electronic health records (EHR), and medical information exchanged via telemedicine. Breaches of personal information have been occurring more often and the time for information governance is indeed now. This paper will explain what information governance is, give examples of data breachesRead MoreConfidentiality of Health Information Essays1639 Words   |  7 Pagesbe time and date stamped, and the person making the additions should be identified in the record† (Ama code of, 1998). â€Å"If there are changes to the data, the patient concerned must be notified† (Ama code of, 1998). So well-maintained electronic health records are important because they protect both the patient and the physician. According to the AMA policy, The patient and physician should be advised about the existence of computerized databases in which medical information concerning the patientRead MoreInformation Risk Management in the NHS (London)785 Words   |  3 Pagesorganisation. Wyatt (1995) defines information as, â€Å"organised data or knowledge that provides a basis for decision making†. The health care sector usually involves recording and maintaining patient information (medical history, personal information, etc.) to provide patient with proper healthcare advice and treatment. Risk management is a vital part that includes identification, assessment, and finding solutions for handling any risk. Whereas Information Risk Management involves handling risk related to the

Saturday, December 14, 2019

Organizational Commitment Free Essays

Organizational Commitment and Communication Paper Week 3 COM/530 10/27/2011 Introduction A look at an organization’s communication and leadership styles can say a lot about the organization as a whole. Google has a relaxed atmosphere, where management allows workers to create their own schedules; and fosters creativity by allowing and encouraging their workers to explore side projects (Google Culture, 2011). What would happen if the leadership style were to change? This is one of the elements this paper will explore. We will write a custom essay sample on Organizational Commitment or any similar topic only for you Order Now A look will also be taken at: sources of power within the organization, the employee’s commitment to Google, how communication within Google relates to the worker, other motivational theories which would work at Google and how communication plays a part in the functioning of these theories. Different Leadership Styles Google has recently embarked on â€Å"Project Oxygen,† a plan to make a better manager (Bryant, 2011). An examination of data sets, compiled from employee surveys, awards given, and managers who performed well, was conducted. This resulted in Google wanting employees to feel empowered, know their managers were available, and have a better overall feeling about the work they did (Bryant, 2011). Google has made the shift to transformational leadership by inviting their employees to be more active in roles they play and working to develop managers that encourage creativity (Robbins, 2011). Having leader member exchange theory in practice at Google would serve to undermine Project Oxygen. This theory states managers have their trusted employees, who tend to get special considerations over other employees (Robbins Judge, 2011). Having this theory in play, would only serve to drive a wedge between employees and employee supervisor relationships and reduce communication. The studies conducted by Google show employees want respect and equal opportunity from management (Bryant, 2011). Another example of a leadership style that would take away from Google’s goal would be the laissez-faire style of leadership, as employees have stated they don’t want weak willed passive managers (Bryant, 2011). Having a leader using this style would reduce the amount the employees spoke to this individual and cause disarray among the teams. Sources of Power at Google One might expect that Google, being a technical company, places a high importance on expert power as greater knowledge of writing computer code will mean more employees will come to that person for help. The company may have placed emphasis on this in the past, but has since discovered employees want to follow managers whom they like and identify with, which more closely relates to referent power (Robbins, 2011). As Robbins and Judge (2011) explain this type of power deals more with an employee having respect and admiration for their manager. Referent power will lead to employees communicating openly with their superiors and should influence a more positive attitude overall within the organization, as negative views and opinions will diminish among the workers. Legitimate power is also wielded by Google as they have employees who must complete work or they risk losing their jobs. This type of power serves to keep employees in line with company views and reduce negative communication within the organization as employees will not want to suffer the consequences. Reward power is also in use as employees are allowed to set up their own schedules and vie for more prominent positions (Google Culture, 2011). This power also serves to create a positive attitude by giving employees what they desire in the work environment. Employee Commitment and Communication Employees appear to have a strong organizational commitment to Google. Based on the freedoms granted to their employees, workers look to stay with Google out of affective commitment. This type of commitment suggests workers have an emotional attachment to the company and believe in the core values (Robbins, 2011). Google has a commitment to meeting the needs of the employee by modifying compensation packages to suit the employee, giving bonuses, and making the employee feel valued for what they do by providing other amenities most companies would not provide. Google has on site gymnasiums, chefs, laundry service, and shuttles (Google culture, 2011). By providing for employees, Google works towards establishing an emotional attachment. Open communication is encouraged and ideas are rewarded showing employees they have value in the eyes of Google. This communication is necessary to create a sense of freedom at work and allow for an open exchange of ideas. Different Motivational Theories Google could benefit from the use of self-determination theory as they look to empower their employees. This theory suggests workers want to feel they have free will in choosing their work activities and take joy in what they do without feeling it has become an obligation (Robbins, 2011). Communication plays an integral part in the application of this theory. Workers need to know they have choices within the work they do and that managers are available for discussion of changing roles or work activities. Google is a corporation that wants it employees to interact at all levels and across teams. This environment may be excellent for reinforcement theory, as this theory looks to reward positive actions immediately to ensure they are repeated and also to punish negative actions to ensure they are not repeated (Robbins, 2011). If open communication is encouraged and workers discuss goals they achieved and how they were rewarded for this, a general effect should be seen on surrounding employees. This means other employees should repeat the rewarded action to reap the rewards. The same can be said for actions which are negatively reinforced. A third and final motivational theory which would serve Google’s open form of communication is the equity theory. This theory looks at the motivation behind having a fair workplace (Robbins, 2011). Employees want to feel they are paid or otherwise compensated for their work based on experience and accomplishments. Communication is vital to this theory as the more open employees are with each other it provides the opportunity for salary and compensation to be discussed. As long as Google is handling their employees in an equal manner this should serve to show workers the more they work and strive to be better at their jobs, the more they can expect to earn. Conclusion Google has chosen to study their management styles that work best, â€Å"Project Oxygen;† and then train managers in tasks they have found work well for top performing managers. This has caused a shift towards transformational leadership. Google has found other types of management styles which are, for example, too strict are failing and causing high turnover (Bryant, 2011). As stated, having different types of leadership styles in use at Google, such as leader member exchange theory or laissez-faire style would undermine current goals and lead to poor communication within teams, leading to loss of faith in management. Google uses referent power, meaning employees have respect and admiration for their managers to keep employees happy (Robbins, 2011). The company also employs the use of rewards such as compensation packages suited to the employee and on site amenities (Google Culture, 2011) as rewards to keep employees happy. Google’s efforts appear to lead to an affective commitment to the organization as the employee develops an emotional attachment to their job (Robbins, 2011). Motivational theories such as: self-determination, reinforcement theory, and equity theory would most likely fit with in Google’s company culture. Each theory looks to place the emphasis on the employee through enriching their work experience or giving compensation. In short Google is looking to keep employees long term through positive work environments and structure. References Adam Bryant (2011, March 12). Google’s Quest to Build a Better Boss. New York Times Retrieved October 29, 2011, from http://www. nytimes. com/2011/03/13 /business/ 13hire. html? pagewanted=all, Google Culture. (2011). Google. Retrieved October 29, 2011, from www. google. com/about/corporate/company/culture. Robbins, S. P. , Judge, T. A. (2011). Organizational behavior (14th ed. ). Upper Saddle River, NJ: Pearson- Prentice Hall. How to cite Organizational Commitment, Papers

Friday, December 6, 2019

The Beatles free essay sample

In my honest opinion the best musical artists ever to walk the earth. Not only do theyre songs and music styles make sense, they allow the listener to feel the emotions that they were composed to give. The Beatles are not only very good musicians but exceptional lyricists. One of the very great song that they had produced in my opinion is Shes so heavy. The reason why i say this is because it comes straight out to say that the faith and hope of the united states is HEAVY for the U.S solders to carry on there shoulders. It comes straight out to show that the U.S is heavy, with all the people inside of it to uphold and to protect. For example the statue of liberty is what represents us in a way and in the way of carrying what represents us, it is HEAVY. Hens the she. We will write a custom essay sample on The Beatles or any similar topic specifically for you Do Not WasteYour Time HIRE WRITER Only 13.90 / page The Beatles have come to make many more great songs, to name a few, Come Together, Strawberry fields Forever, Sexy Sadie, and Happiness is a warm gun. To me the Beatles have set a very high bar for the revolution of music. I dont think that anyone will be able to over pass the great talent, along with the great productions of the Beatles. The Beatles were very intelligent men when it came to word choice in there music. For example, in the song Lucy in the sky with diamonds it says picture yourself on a boat on a river with tangerine trees and marmalade skys those words, those few words, at the beginning of the song automatically place me in a serene world of relaxation. That is what i look for in music, the way it makes you feel and whether or not that feeling is satisfying. Not only do the Beatles songs have upbeat and happy vibes, they give very serious and deep. To conclude The Beatles wide verity and extream talent make them one of the most exceptional group of musicians that h ave ever cleansed the world in the name of revolution as music. The Beatles free essay sample The world of music has taken a wonderful upturn. On September 9, 2009, The Beatles, one of the most highly acclaimed rock and roll groups of all time, released their newly digitally remastered catalog. This can only be described as a gift for the ears. All of the timeless classics have been edited, almost remade, by the industrys best audio engineers, and it shows in the crystal-clear instrumentals and perfectly balanced vocals. So what is actually new about these CDs? First, the sound has been greatly improved with nearly three decades of technological advances. Every album comes with a booklet featuring pictures of The Beatles, either from the recording sessions, or in landscapes related to the songs. Also, if you purchase the digital version, the CD includes a small video describing the recording process. This catalog is something fans have been craving since 1987, when The Beatles albums were haphazardly transferred from their original vinyl format to CD. We will write a custom essay sample on The Beatles or any similar topic specifically for you Do Not WasteYour Time HIRE WRITER Only 13.90 / page Id like to highlight the better tracks from various albums. From â€Å"Abbey Road† (1969), â€Å"Come Together† seems to have an overall increase in power, and the 16-minute medley is clearer and reveals a deep and intricate map of sounds  ­unavailable until now. On â€Å"The White Album† (1968), â€Å"Back in the USSR† and â€Å"Helter Skelter† are intensified, giving the songs a fuller, more complete sound. I recommend purchasing the remastered catalog. In fact, get the entire box set and treat yourself to the musical sensation that only this centurys technology could offer. All the albums are sure to please anyone from the most acclaimed critic to the casual listener.

Friday, November 29, 2019

The American Dream in Of Mice and Men Essay Example

The American Dream in Of Mice and Men Paper Of Mice and Men: The American Dream Hopes and dreams play an important in the novel Of Mice and Men. Author, John Steinbeck, uses the motivation provided by the different ambitions and dreams of characters to keep the book progressing as it thickens the plot of the story and makes readers take a larger interest in the possible outcomes of the characters. In many ways the individual dreams of the characters and the so-called ‘American Dream’ provides the basis for the novel. They, being the different dreams found throughout the novel, are what initially fuels the novel in the early stages of the story, they are what come into question in the middle of the novel when many of the characters are finally finding real hope for their dreams and they are what are crushed for most of the characters in the dramatic final stages of the novel. The individual dreams of the different characters play a large role in this novel. The simple and humble dreams and ambitions of Lennie provide hope and motivation for a lot of key characters, including George, Candy and Crooks.Lennie is an intensely simple and innocent character who is entirely dependent and faithful to George due to his mental disability. Lennie’s dream is of simply owning a farm with George where he is able to ‘live off the fatta the lan’ and tend to the rabbits, which ideally would be large enough for Lennie to handle without hurting. Lennie’s dream is immensely simple, and does not seem all that impossible in retrospective, but with the harsh conditions of the times and the disability suffered by Lennie, the dream seems all the more difficult to achieve. We will write a custom essay sample on The American Dream in Of Mice and Men specifically for you for only $16.38 $13.9/page Order now We will write a custom essay sample on The American Dream in Of Mice and Men specifically for you FOR ONLY $16.38 $13.9/page Hire Writer We will write a custom essay sample on The American Dream in Of Mice and Men specifically for you FOR ONLY $16.38 $13.9/page Hire Writer George also shares this dream, but with a more well rounded and realistic outlook on achieving it. George does not seek the soft fur of the rabbits and alphalpha like Lennie, but the security of owning his own home, his own farm and being his own boss.

Monday, November 25, 2019

Hitler- The early years essays

Hitler- The early years essays In 1889 Austria was not what it is today. It was the centre of the Hapsburg or Austro-Hungarian Empire. It was a fairly stable place emerging from the wars of 1848 and 1866 and it was thriving culturally and a great place to be. On the 20th of April 1889 these were the political conditions Adolf Hitler was born into. Hitler was born in a small Austrian village called Braunau-am-Inn close to the German border. He was born into the family of Alois and Klara Hitler- their first healthy child. Hitlers father was the illegitimate child of Maria Anna Schicklgruber and an unknown father. In 1876 Alois Schicklgruber became Alois Hitler when the name he meant to change to Hiedler was miss-spelt. Klara Polzl was Alois Hitlers third wife and not only was she 23 years younger than him she was also his niece. Although Adolf was the 4th out of 6 children, he and his younger sister of 7 years, Paula, were the only ones to live past early childhood. As a young child Hitlers mother lavished affection on him because she was scared of losing him like she had previous children. After the death of Adolf's younger brother Edmund, who only lived till the age of six, Hitler became slightly angry towards his father but became completely devoted to his mother because he felt he needed to protect her from his domineering father. Hitlers education began at a monastery school in the town of Lambach. He studied there for a few years, sang in the boys choir and at one stage even considered becoming a priest. The first 6 years of his schooling were excellent and his grades were superb. However, when he started attending high school in Linz there was a dramatic change and his grades dropped remarkably. In 1905, at the age of 16, Hitler quit school in pursuit of life as an artist. His total schooling amounted to 10 years of which the last 4 were a struggle. As a teenager, after he left school Hitle...

Thursday, November 21, 2019

Who are you Assignment Example | Topics and Well Written Essays - 250 words

Who are you - Assignment Example I intend to cut government spending, strengthen relations with European Union by avoiding a national referendum on EU membership, and also cut taxes on businesses (Stone par. 3, par. 11). The issues are thorny, and the current regime is reluctant to make any changes. The main losers are the middle and low-income families. All the objects aim at increasing the welfare of the country and its citizens. I cannot accomplish my goals without public mandate since the United Kingdom is a strong democracy. Thus, I will seek the votes in the elections on a Labor Party ticket. I consider leadership as a call to serve and not to satisfy personal ambitions. To win an election, I require a majority in parliament in order to pass crucial bills. Currently, the party has 256 members in the house. The numbers imply that the public has confidence in my policies. The UK populace is sensitive to poor governance; thus, the failures of the current government may propel me to the position of the Prime Minister in the next

Wednesday, November 20, 2019

Business Ethics Term Paper Example | Topics and Well Written Essays - 1250 words - 1

Business Ethics - Term Paper Example However, the objective towards attaining significant development in the code of conducts gives rise to several challenges regarding an effective practice of business ethics within the organizational framework (DeGeorge 9). Thesis Statement This essay intends to evaluate the case of Electrocorp, a computer component manufacturing company allied with the automobile industry identifying moral issues in relation to the case at hand. Explanation to the Case at Hand Electrocorp is an US based electronic products manufacturing company that serves with computer components for automobiles. According to the case it has been observed that the organization is facing a continuous decline in terms of its profits due to an increasing rate for costs incurred during the production due to increasing rate of raw materials, labor payrolls as well as expensive process of disposal facilities. Moreover, the environmental regulations that the plant maintains also requires higher amount of investments in its various safety procedures. In order to mitigate these consequences, the organization intends to relocate its manufacturing units in developing nations with the advantages of lower wage rates and availability of cheaper raw materials along with minimized cost for maintenance and flexible legal implications. Hence, the organization has been concentrating on Mexico, Philippines and South Africa as the most prospective regions to support the organizational objectives (Musalo, â€Å"The Case of the Plant Location†). In the context of the case analysis, it can be considered that the organization might have to face certain dilemmas in yielding greater profitability through augmented production capacity but reduced production cost, relocating its firm in developing countries serving with the advantages of low labor costs, cheaper raw materials and comparatively flexible legal barriers. For instance, according to the case scenario, the decision of relocating its manufacturing plants to other country can be profitable for Electrocorp to earn a greater profit margin, where the decision might give rise to various ethical issues in terms of job loss of the US laborers along with exploitation of resources served by the developing nation, i.e. the intended location to set-up the new plant. Theoretical Explanation Utilitarianism and the Principle of Utility The theory of Utilitarianism can be considered as an ethical normative theory. It is one of the well-known as well as widespread forms of consequentialism, where a range of moral theories that state the suitability or unsuitability of few described actions, are studied. The philosophy behind the theory of utilitarianism states that it is a moral worth of a specific action that can be determined by its resulting consequences (National University of Ireland Galway, â€Å"Business Ethic: Utilitarianism†). According to Mill’s theory of principles of utility, combined with the theory of Utilitarianism, sta tes that actions which tend to augment happiness and positive thinking amid individuals are good; whereas, the acts which impose pain and suffering to individuals owing to the influences of naturalistic fallacy shall be considered as bad (Mill 81). Deontology or Dignity of Persons Principle Dignity of

Monday, November 18, 2019

Women in mathematics,Science,and Engineering Essay - 1

Women in mathematics,Science,and Engineering - Essay Example However, women are highly underrepresented in science and technology studies at the secondary and tertiary levels of education, and in the overall technical workforce. This is despite evidence that suggests further involvement of women in technology related fields would greatly improve innovations and economic development in most countries (OECD, 11). Young girls are currently less involved in technical subjects as early as in their high school level; only a third of students in OECD countries taking biology, advanced chemistry, and physics related subjects are girls. In the United States, only 15% of girls are enrolled in advanced computer science studies, despite the growing computer literacy among all young people. Therefore, there is need to critically address the low enrollment of women in science and technology based fields to bridge the large gap between male and female expatriates in science and technical fields. Currently, women in US and other OECD countries are increasingl y enrolling in male dominated engineering and mathematics fields; there has been a remarkable impact on the number of women enrolling for engineering and math intensive courses.... There is a serious under representation of women in engineering enrollment in the western world. In the US, there are evident and remarkable differences in the numbers of females enrolled in various engineering disciplines. These trends are indicative of specific university features, or some courses appearing attractive to females, resulting in higher numbers of female students in some science and technical courses compared to others (Gill etal, 392). For example, in Australia, though engineering is regarded as one of the highly paid professions, requires high tertiary scores before admission to university, and has the highest level of employment from the graduate level, females in Australia make below 14% of the total first year enrollments in engineering; this is despite the given incentives, high professional status of engineers, and high pay offered in engineering (Grill et al, 392). Moreover, in Australia, women have been leaving the engineering profession at a much higher rate compared to men, which suggests that women underrepresentation in engineering will continue to worsen. This is complicated by the fact that high performing females who overcome the barriers to score highly in math and science subjects, and would be expected to take engineering as the best course, prefer other courses such as Law and medicine, with female students making more than 50% of first year enrollments in these studies across Australia (Grill et al, 392). The trend where high performing female students in Australia prefer law and medicine to engineering hints on the social implications of being an engineer. Law and medicine are associated with

Saturday, November 16, 2019

Japanization and Japanese Working Practices

Japanization and Japanese Working Practices Introduction Japan, a land of incredible diversity; modern yet steeped in custom; home of the friendliest of welcomes. Japanese celebrate the time of year with hanami (cherry blossom viewing) parties under the blossom trees. Japanization is the process in which Japanese culture dominates, assimilates or influences other cultures. It’s also called nippanization. Japanese style management and HRM has been selectively adapted and applied around the world. Japan has a homogenous culture and foreign immigrants are very small percentage of its population. Japanization is not accepted completely around the globe. Here we are going to examine why the spread of Japanese management is constrained by local culture and working practices with the help of a case study material. Japanization Japanese are collectivistic, where as Britain and United States people are individualistic. In-group in Britain includes only a nuclear family i.e., spouse, children and sometimes spouse’s widowed or infirm parent. In India it is a joint family includes grand parents, brothers, sisters, uncles, aunts, other relatives and close friends. But in Japan we can find an additional member in the in-group: the company for which a person works. In Hofstede’s study Japan scored 46 on individualism. On the other hand USA and UK scored 91 and 89 respectively. Japanese are very hard working. Also they have strong sense of duty and indebtedness. (Tayeb, 2005) The trade unions in Japan are company based. The companies like Toyota, Nissan and Hitachi has their own unions. In UK it is craft based. I.e. fire fighters, mine workers and teachers and so on has their unions. Indebtedness: In 2003, canon prepared to buy Mizuho shares, but later it fell into financial troubles i.e. to pay a debt to Fuji bank. Fuji bank made canon out of trouble when it fell into problems 30 years ago. Ringi method: It is a special characteristic of Japanese enterprises in decision making. In this process the written proposal will be circulated first to those who are going to be affected and then to the senior management. It is very time consuming process. So it is used for only important decision making. (Misumi, 1984). Quality circles: It is a small group activity in which blue collar and white collar workers from different departments of a company assembled voluntarily. These volunteers are trained in problem identification and problem solving techniques. It is perfectly tuned with the Japanese collectivism. Life-time employment (Nenko): Japanese HRM practices are sustained by their certain management practices such as life time employment. This obviously creates stable work environment and no fear of Unemployment. It means that employees are hired after their education and remain with the same company till their retirement. Nenko is operated by large firms. Japanese Management Kaizen philosophy: Kaizen is defined as continuous improvement that involves each and every employee from executives to labourers with managers in between them. Kaizen is a driving force and a vital tool to Japanese success. This philosophy has been implemented round the globe followed by the Japanese successful lead. It is used as a method to increase production values and improve employee morale and safety. Kaizen is taken from words ‘kai’, which means continuous and ‘zen’, which means improvement. Kaizen concept is the primary difference between how change is viewed by Japanese and in the west. Western companies reject kaizen just because of without knowing about it. American companies run by years without any change. On the other hand Japanese companies are in a state of continuous change and improvement. After World War 2, most of the Japanese companies brought new challenges everyday and moulded those challenges into progress. Displaying goals, recognition and suggestions helps to improve communication and boost morale. This is an endless process. If we do not maintain the standards it results in the â€Å"two steps forward and one step backward† effect. Only for this reason maintenance and improvement go collectively by Japanese managers. By improving standardised activities and processes, kaizen aims to eliminate waste. â€Å"People are behind our success. Machines don’t have new ideas, solve problems and grasp opportunities. Only people who are involved and thinking can make a difference. Almost every auto plant in UK and USA has the same machinery but how people are utilized and involver varies widely from one company to another. The work force gives any company its true competitive edge†. (Toyota motors-general manager) Generally Japanese managers have an easier time implementing employee suggestions than managers in the USA. Japanese managers show their willingness to  go along continuous change which contributes to following change. Making the job easier. Making the job more productive. Removing drudgery from the job. Improving product quality. Removing nuisance from the job. Saving time and cost. Making the job safer. Japanese manufacturing techniques: Japanese style of manufacturing has three interlinked parts involved in it. Flexibility Quality Minimum waste In the 1980’s, imported cars accounts for 27% of us sales. Same changes had occurred in other industries in UK and USA also. The manufacturers like motorcycles, camera, television and video equipment have disappeared by the higher quality Japanese products. Poke-a-yolk: It is purely a Japanese term which means mistake or fool proofing. Poke-a-yolk is the basis of zero quality control method used for eliminating and avoiding mistakes. Basically this technique is used in manufacturing units, hospitals, aircraft maintenance and human resources. Lean production: Lean production system is one which produces cars more cheaply with higher quality than its rivals. In 1998, ford and GM took 50% more hours to make a car than Toyota. In 2006, Toyota builds an average car within 29 hours. On the other hand GM workers took 33 hours. It’s a big improvement. Mr Cowger said, 90% of the 178 gm plants almost in 33 countries adopted the lean production system. Toyota implemented the ‘just-in-time’ manufacturing system in which suppliers sends parts daily or many times a day. Toyota develops a new model in 18 months compared to three years it takes GM. This is not Japanese companies vs. American companies; it is smart Japanese companies vs. smart American companies. The key reason why Toyota is over taking GM as the dominant car industry is its production system i.e. lean production system. In Toyota, workers grouped into teams and they are allocated to individual goals to correct mistakes. (s.steve, BBC news) Historical perspective: The origin of benchmarking There is no doubt that the art of benchmarking is originated in Japan. Simply it is defined as loaning of employees to other organisations. Benchmarking means being humble enough to acknowledge that others may be smarter, and being clever enough to learn how to become just as smart – or even smarter. The essence of benchmarking is it enables us to learn our own processes and also from others. USA, UK and other companies are benchmarking Toyota production system (TPS). It is mainly focuses on the implementation of the waste reduction tools. This system is known as ‘the Toyota way’. (Forrest breyfogle, 2008). The reasons for the failure of Japanese firms overseas: Inability to cope with larger overseas responsibilities Difficulties with new environment Personal or emotional problems Lack of technical competence Inability of spouse to adjust Japanese style management is more suitable to blue collar than white collar workers Poor communication Status difference between managers and staff Improper presentation of objectives No promotion for non-Japanese Local managers not involved in key decisions Toyota acts on overwork culture: Japanese corporate culture has been criticised in UK for being workaholic. Previously it allowed workers to work two hours overtime a month for voluntary activities such as ‘qc’, stands for quality circles. This decision came into action after a court order at the death of a 30 year old Toyota worker collapsed at the plant and died due to overwork. Public criticism has been growing on overworking culture. Toyota is best known for using ideas of employees to improve production methods and minimize costs. (BBC news, 2008) Psychological safety: Psychological safety was the root cause for the failure of Toyota concept in other countries. It is especially crucial where knowledge constantly changes, workers need to be collaborating and workers make decisions without intervention of the management. (p.gupta, 2008). Hofstede’s research: Hofstede’s framework is widely used by researchers and practitioners in the field of intercultural management. According to hofstede the differences in responses could be examined by four main factors. Power distance Uncertainty avoidance Individualism Masculinity Power distance: Power distance relates to the extent to which societies discriminates the different levels of employees in any organization i.e. how unequally the employees are treated in any company. It is the relation between blue collar and white collar workers. It should be less in order to achieve any success. In high power distance countries superiors seen to be more powerful than heir subordinates. Countries with low power distance favour a more democratic style of management. Uncertainty avoidance: It refers to the degree to which they try to avoid uncertain situations by discouraging the risk taking activities. Countries with low uncertainty avoidance will adopt flexible structures and encourage more diverse views. (Chris. B, Paul. S guy. V, 2007) Individualism: Individualism means the extent to which individuals try to merge into groups. In the usa we can find more individualism. It is to gain self-respect and personal achievement. In the contrast, collectivistic society’s people are integrated into strong groups. Masculinity: It measures the extent to which male values are dominated such as assertiveness, acquisition of money and goods and not caring for others. References: Toyota works on over work culture, Thursday, 22 may 2008 http://search.bbc.co.uk/search?site=News+-+Businessq=toyota%20culture%20in%20uktab=allscope=all Misumi, J. (1984).’Decision making in Japanese groups and organisations’, in international year-book of organisational democracy. Volume. 2, Chichester: Wiley. Forest breyfogle,dec 10th 2008. http://www.smartersolutions.com/blog/forrestbreyfogle/?p=551 Monir h. tayeb 2005. International human resource management, a multinational company perspective Gupta,p.’general motors and Toyota cultural differences’.

Wednesday, November 13, 2019

Relationship between Sublime and Magical Realism Explored in The Monkey

Relationship between Sublime and Magical Realism Explored in The Monkey      Ã‚   From the beginning of The Monkey, a short story located within Isak Dinesen's anthology Seven Gothic Tales, the reader is taken back to a â€Å"storytime† world he or she may remember from childhood. Dinesen's 1934 example of what has been identified as the "Gothic Sublime" sets the stage for analysis of its relationship to other types of literature. What constitutes Sublime literature? More importantly, how may sublime literature relate to Magical Realist literature? Through examination of The Monkey, the relationship between Sublime literature and Magical Realist literature can be defined.    Scholars have traced the history of Sublime literature back to the third century literary critic Longinus. In his work Peri Hypsos, he lays the groundwork for the Sublime literature that still exists today. "Sublimity is always an eminence and excellence in language" (qtd. in Arensberg 3). "Excellence and eminence" are conveyed through rhetorical devices found in the text. Many of these devices are also found in works identified as Magical Realist works of literature.    Longinus' characteristics are evidenced throughout The Monkey. One such characteristic is the use of elevated language to describe a scene or action:    The Prioress received her nephew within her lofty parlor. Its three tall windows looked out, between heavy curtains which had on them borders of flower garlands done in cross-stich, over the lawns and avenues of the autumnal garden. From the damask-clad walls her long-departed father and mother gazed down, out of broad gilt frames, with military gravity and youthful grace, powered and laced for some gr... ...ic realms cannot merge.    For these reasons, based on the examination of these two works, one cannot assume that Sublime literature and Magical Realist literature are the same, nor can one assume that they are genres of one another. They seem to have many characteristics in common, and therefore one would assume that they maintain a close relationship, although independently. By comparing and contrasting another genre of literature with Magical Realism, the defining boundaries that make up Magical Realism are narrowed.    Works Cited Arensberg, Mary. The American Sublime. Albany: State University of New York Press, 1986. Dinesen, Isak. Seven Gothic Tales. New York: Harrison Smith and Robert Haas Inc., 1934. Esquivel, Laura. Like Water for Chocolate. New York: Doubleday, 1992. Longinus. On the Sublime. Cambridge: Harvard UP, 1995.    Relationship between Sublime and Magical Realism Explored in The Monkey Relationship between Sublime and Magical Realism Explored in The Monkey      Ã‚   From the beginning of The Monkey, a short story located within Isak Dinesen's anthology Seven Gothic Tales, the reader is taken back to a â€Å"storytime† world he or she may remember from childhood. Dinesen's 1934 example of what has been identified as the "Gothic Sublime" sets the stage for analysis of its relationship to other types of literature. What constitutes Sublime literature? More importantly, how may sublime literature relate to Magical Realist literature? Through examination of The Monkey, the relationship between Sublime literature and Magical Realist literature can be defined.    Scholars have traced the history of Sublime literature back to the third century literary critic Longinus. In his work Peri Hypsos, he lays the groundwork for the Sublime literature that still exists today. "Sublimity is always an eminence and excellence in language" (qtd. in Arensberg 3). "Excellence and eminence" are conveyed through rhetorical devices found in the text. Many of these devices are also found in works identified as Magical Realist works of literature.    Longinus' characteristics are evidenced throughout The Monkey. One such characteristic is the use of elevated language to describe a scene or action:    The Prioress received her nephew within her lofty parlor. Its three tall windows looked out, between heavy curtains which had on them borders of flower garlands done in cross-stich, over the lawns and avenues of the autumnal garden. From the damask-clad walls her long-departed father and mother gazed down, out of broad gilt frames, with military gravity and youthful grace, powered and laced for some gr... ...ic realms cannot merge.    For these reasons, based on the examination of these two works, one cannot assume that Sublime literature and Magical Realist literature are the same, nor can one assume that they are genres of one another. They seem to have many characteristics in common, and therefore one would assume that they maintain a close relationship, although independently. By comparing and contrasting another genre of literature with Magical Realism, the defining boundaries that make up Magical Realism are narrowed.    Works Cited Arensberg, Mary. The American Sublime. Albany: State University of New York Press, 1986. Dinesen, Isak. Seven Gothic Tales. New York: Harrison Smith and Robert Haas Inc., 1934. Esquivel, Laura. Like Water for Chocolate. New York: Doubleday, 1992. Longinus. On the Sublime. Cambridge: Harvard UP, 1995.   

Monday, November 11, 2019

Joy Ride

Michelle Cronin Professor Radford English 101 8 October 2012 Begging for an Escape â€Å"Joy Ride† is a short story written by Richard Russo. It features a boy, John Dern, and his mother, who both long for an escape from their lives at the time. This story follows the theme that one key aspect the human condition is the search for an escape. At some point in life, most humans wish to escape their past and present state of living. There may be many motivating factors behind this. However, most attempt to escape for one of three main reasons.These include using an escape as a means of finding freedom, an escape to help another person, or just as a temporary move to solve a problem. In this story, John and his mother have all three reasons in the back of their minds as they see their lives disappear in the rearview mirror. John’s mother wants an escape so that she can be free. Free from stress, free from worry, free from her husband†¦ So she leaves a note with a simpl e goodbye and she is off. She takes her son with her and breaks free from the ties that bind her. She believes that this country is big enough for a fresh start for the both of them.She says, â€Å"It’s not only a free country, it’s a big one. Big enough for us to get lost in. We’re bound for freedom, sweetie† (76). John’s mother is trying to explain to him that this country is huge, and that if the two of them try, they can get lost in the freedom. They have the power and the ability to leave, escaping the lifestyle they are in right now. By leaving, they have the opportunity make anything of their future. John’s mother also explains that she wants to be free from the marriage that is slowly ripping her apart.She says, â€Å"It’s just that living with him – being married to him – is just like being covered with these little cuts all the time. There’s no big gash you can show anybody, nothing they’d believ e would really hurt, but these damn little nicks, they suck the blood right out of you† (92). John’s mother would like to be free of her husband’s ties that seem to terrorize her wherever she goes. It appears that he does nothing to cause her extraordinary pain, but the little problems are the ones that hurt her the most. Just being with her husband leaves her with all of these painful thoughts and memories every single day.It’s the little problems that John’s mother is trying so hard to escape. However, her motivation for escape also has to do with John. He needs this escape as much as his mother. John was growing up and falling in with the wrong crowd, making very bad decisions. His â€Å"friends† talk of a trip they took to Old Orchard Beach in Maine. When thinking about this, John decides that he too needs to get out of Camden. â€Å"This is exactly the kind of adventure I feared and longed for† (78). In this quote, John is conveyi ng his need for escape. His mother sees how necessary an escape is and how desperately John needs a new outlook on life.And this is exactly what his mother intends to give him. As they go on their journey, both John and his mother experience a little taste of the freedom they have hungered for. Years later when discussing the trip, his mother explains the real reason behind the joy ride. â€Å"I’ll tell you what I do remember. I remember that the reason for that trip was you. What I remember was the vicious little monster you were becoming† (110). In this quote, John’s mother is revealing her true motive behind their escape. She wanted to give him an experience that would allow him to change the way he was behaving before it became too late.Her son was falling in with the wrong crowd and she wanted him to get out of there as fast as possible before he did something horrible. Whether the escape is permanent or temporary, it remains a memory that will forever be e ngrained in one’s mind. An escape can last anywhere from minutes to a lifetime, but it will remain a memory throughout one’s entire life. For example, when reminiscing, John says â€Å"This whole trip was nothing more than a joy ride, like the one my junior high friends had taken, and now I could understand their reluctance to talk about it.No doubt it had been a shabby thing, devoid of glory† (108). John is saying that their escape had only been a temporary freedom and that it ended shortly after it had begun. In comparing his joy ride with that of his friends, he claims that both did not end up the way they had imagined and that he did not want to talk about it, just as his friends had not wanted to talk about their trip. However, he goes on to say â€Å"More than twenty years now, as I think back on our joy ride that spring, it seems far more remarkable than it did at the time†¦Ã¢â‚¬  (109).He is expressing his sincere thought on the subject in that ev en after decades have passed. Although it seemed to somewhat fail because he and his mother ended up going back to his father at the time, with time, he begins to realize that the trip meant more than he originally thought. No matter how long or short the escape is, the memory will last a lifetime. The word escape can be defined in many ways. The definition that applies most to this story is â€Å"an act of breaking free from confinement or control. † In â€Å"Joy Ride,† John and his mother were begging for an escape from their life.Throughout the actual trip, John’s mother had him convinced that she wanted to escape from her husband. But at the end of the story after years have passed, she explains that the true reason behind the escape was to change the path he was walking. John needed to escape the group he was in. People attempt to escape for many reasons. For John and his mother, it was for freedom, freedom from John’s father, freedom from the expect ations of John’s friends. And although it was not a permanent escape, it will be permanently engrained in the minds of both John and his mother.

Friday, November 8, 2019

The History of the Transistor

The History of the Transistor The transistor is an influential little invention that changed the course of history in a big way for computers and all electronics. History of Computers You can look at the computer as being made of many different inventions or components. We can name four key inventions that made a huge impact on computers. An impact large enough that they can be referred to as a generation of change. The first generation of computers depended upon the invention of vacuum tubes; for the second generation it was transistors; for the third, it was the integrated circuit; and the fourth generation of computers came about after the invention of the microprocessor. The Impact of Transistors Transistors transformed the world of electronics and had a huge impact on computer design. Transistors made of semiconductors replaced tubes in the construction of computers. By replacing bulky and unreliable vacuum tubes with transistors, computers could now perform the same functions, using less power and space. Before transistors, digital circuits were composed of vacuum tubes. The story of ENIAC computer speaks volumes about the disadvantages of vacuum tubes in computers. A transistor is a device composed of semiconductor materials (germanium and silicon) that can both conduct and insulate Transistors switch and modulate electronic current. The transistor was the first device designed to act as both a transmitter, converting sound waves into electronic waves, and resistor, controlling electronic current. The name transistor comes from the trans of transmitter and sistor of resistor. The Transistor Inventors John Bardeen, William Shockley, and Walter Brattain were all scientists at the Bell Telephone Laboratories in Murray Hill, New Jersey. They were researching the behavior of germanium crystals as semiconductors in an attempt to replace vacuum tubes as mechanical relays in telecommunications. The vacuum tube, used to amplify music and voice, made long-distance calling practical, but the tubes consumed power, created heat and burned out rapidly, requiring high maintenance. The teams research was about to come to a fruitless end when the last attempt to try a purer substance as a contact point lead to the invention of the first point-contact transistor amplifier. Walter Brattain and John Bardeen were the ones who built the point-contact transistor, made of two gold foil contacts sitting on a germanium crystal. When electric current is applied to one contact, the germanium boosts the strength of the current flowing through the other contact. William Shockley improved upon their work creating a junction transistor with sandwiches of N- and P-type germanium. In 1956, the team received the Nobel Prize in Physics for the invention of the transistor. In 1952, the junction transistor was first used in a commercial product, a Sonotone hearing aid. In 1954, the first transistor radio, the Regency TR1 was manufactured. John Bardeen and Walter Brattain took out a patent for their transistor. William Shockley applied for a patent for the transistor effect and a transistor amplifier.

Wednesday, November 6, 2019

New to Reedsy Author Website Services

New to Reedsy Author Website Services New to Reedsy: Author Website Services Hi! It's Matt from the Product Team at Reedsy. We're pleased to announce the launch of author website design services on the Reedsy Marketplace. Some of the finest author website designers and waiting to collaborate with you to improve your web presence, or even build your site from scratch.Authors in 2017 simply can’t do without a website. And for independent authors, that goes double! If you want people to learn more about your current and upcoming books, where do you send them? If you need to build a mailing list, how do you do that? If readers, fans, or agents and publishers want to get in touch with you, where should they go?The answer to all these questions is -   you guessed it  - your wonderful author website!Our illustrious web designers have been handpicked from the absolute cream of the crop. It takes just a few minutes to request a free quote from professionals who have designed sites for both first-time authors and household names like Stephen King, Anthony H orowitz, Darren Shan, Cassandra Clare, EL James and Hanif Kureishi.Here are a few of the sites designed by Reedsy professionals: 10 Tips on How to Make an Author Website (+ Bonus Checklist) Read post Web design services offered by Reedsy professionals include:Updates to your existing websiteBranding and designWebsite hosting and domain setupNewsletter signup and lead magnetBlogContact formsImage galleriesSocial media sharingSearch Engine Optimization (SEO)To see what goes into creating an effective author website, check out these author website tips from our designers. Also,  head to our author website design page  to learn more about  collaborating with our awesome professionals.

Monday, November 4, 2019

Strategic Analysis of Image Scan Case Study Example | Topics and Well Written Essays - 1000 words

Strategic Analysis of Image Scan - Case Study Example The x-ray imaging marketplace is an emergent one as the use and adoption of x-ray technology in general still has to reach its maturity. The increasing need for public security measures in all aspects of government and business entail that the safety and security market is on the rise. This growth of the safety and security market is primarily driven by increased threats of terror activities confronting governments and businesses and the need for public assurance that safety measures are in place to reduce these threats. (Homeland Security Europe, 2008) The increasing number of terrorist activities and the highly sophisticated means by which these activities are carried out have prompted concerned public officials to seriously respond to the threats of terror attacks using legislation to force strict compliance among businesses and other sectors in the implementation of advanced security systems in highly vulnerable places. The establishment of legal frameworks for safety and securit y measures have therefore increased the demand for security technologies from x-ray detection to surveillane systems. Meanwhile, Image Scan's experience of the weak performance in its industrial solutions suggests that there is minimal adoption of x-ray imaging technology in industrial settings, which points to the fact that businesses might be more interested in the development of cheaper alternatives to x-ray imaging in quality control processes. It is also logical to assume that companies involved in industrial manufacturing and processing already have their own detection systems in place. On the other hand, technological innovations in the industrial sector geared at automating processes could enhance the adoption of x-ray technologies. This makes the industrial x-ray imaging market a relatively attractive market for industry players. The highly attractive and profitable x-ray imaging solutions

Saturday, November 2, 2019

Ethnography of Food Pantry Personal Statement Example | Topics and Well Written Essays - 1000 words

Ethnography of Food Pantry - Personal Statement Example It was the 24th of March, and we had an appointment with one of the leading food pantry in our locality. We wanted to observe and research about a number of things which were going on there. Charles mumbled a total of twenty minutes as a given allowance, as he sensed that I was still in bed. In about fifteen minutes, I had already arrived at Angel’s coffee shop where we were all supposed to meet before we officially left for the appointment which was in the next two hours. You could tell from the anxiety on people’s faces that nobody wanted to be late. After a short meeting headed by our group supervisor, Ernest, we headed one of our school vans and in about ten minutes, we had our van parked in front of â€Å"St. Vincent de Paul Food Pantry† where we were meant to visit. I loved the color on the billboard; blue my favorite color ever since I was a toddler. I have spent over fifteen years in America, and I have been seeing this building as long as I can remember, but I have never taken my time to find out what really happens at the food pantry organization and how it works. I had a very mutual and exciting feeling as I walked in the organization. An exciting sensation kept tickling down my spine every time the thought of being a volunteer rang in my mind. My eyes fell on a number of benches and on them were several goods. This confirmed my happy feeling. There was a man who later introduced himself to us as Bob, who couldn’t keep his eyes off us. Surprisingly, he was the one who was waiting for us. As we approached, his firm stare turned into a soothing smile which made people’s hearts to feel at ease whenever we were with him. We introduced ourselves and immediately embarked on what we had come to do in the food pantry. It was a good experience seeing so many people young and old working together for the good of all in the working area. An equal amount of different foods were being in plastic bags. At the end of the line, there was a big heap of already packed foods waiting for the clients to come and pick them up. The different types of foods included pasta, tomato sauce, canned corn, vegetables, Mac-and-cheese and chocolates. There was no trace of protein in the packages. As we made our way into different rooms of the pantry foods, we came into the store room where there was a bid heap of donated food. He said that they had stayed there for long, and nobody wanted them. This was really surprising. We were then taken to a room with different sizes of fridges and in it was meat, both white and red. He requested two of us to remain behind so that they could pack the chicken in the polythene bags as it is done when packing food for the food pantry clients. Kevin and Alex volunteered to remain and do the tedious assignment. Kevin later confessed how frozen his hands felt when he was handling the meat. On the further corner was another fridge full of red meat and bread. They had been donated by different donors including organization and had come with different packages. Bob wanted them to have a similar type of package and requested three of us to work on it. I thought this was the place. The group supervisor, Ernest, Charles and I found ourselves working together. We were putting two packs of meat in every plastic bag. It seemed to be very easy to be a volunteer. I must confess that it was a little bit cold but what I was

Thursday, October 31, 2019

Leadership theories, leadership style and skills Essay

Leadership theories, leadership style and skills - Essay Example This research will begin with the statement that leadership is a sequence, a process which has different elements intact to it, prevailing towards the successful attributes of a true leadership quality. These elements of leadership are of three types- the leader, the following group or the followers and finally the substance. Leadership qualities are measured on the basis of employees’ performance and their job satisfaction. A leader can be called a successful torch bearer only if his/her followers equally contribute towards the growth of an organization. Leadership in itself is an important quality but there are certain factors which define the true leadership qualities a leader should possess. These essential components to developing leadership qualities at par are: a) Setting an example and motivating others, b) Finding a solution to doubts and ambiguities, c) Being ethical, d) Bringing in the desired change, and e) Managing cultural assortment. Teams and groups have become an important part of an organization and different leadership theories have greatly influenced such practice. Leadership and its role within a team greatly inspire the organizational culture and also ensure that the team attains success and the overall output is effective. A leader has certain important leadership traits such integrity, self-confidence, intelligence, and determination. Steve Jobs and Jeff Bezos can be said to be the pioneers of innovation, visionary and determined personalities to bring about a change in the way business functions.... It, somehow fails to explain the same in case of people who possess the traits of leadership but are not the leaders (Leader today, 2012). Contingency Theory: This theory believes that there is no single solution to leadership attributes as it may vary from time to time. The style of leadership may change from one form to another depending on the situation. This theory emphasises on the two leadership styles, the task-oriented and people-oriented (McShane, Glinow, & Sharma, p. 465). Further, leadership approach is said to be affected by various internal & external factors. Situational Theory: Situational theory of leadership exhorts that for an emphatic leadership the two valuable aspects to be considered at the time of decision making are management and leadership deed. This theory comprises four styles of leadership which are namely: Delegating, Telling, Participating and Coaching (Betathetapi, n.d). Behavioural Theory: This theory puts forth the idea of leadership on the basis of behavioural pattern depicted by the leaders in various situations. This theory also consist four contrasting leadership styles and these are: Responsibility of task, Responsibility of people, Directive Leadership, and Participative Leadership (Infed, 2011). Transformational Theory Transformational leaders not only contribute towards the growth prosperity of the organisation but also inculcate the organisation’s cultural and other values in their followers (Marquis, Huston, 2009, p. 43). Democratic Leadership Theory Democratic leadership style encourages and supports the people. It believes in creating an environment in the organisation where the employees are motivated to indulge themselves in building

Monday, October 28, 2019

My Grandparents and me Essay Example for Free

My Grandparents and me Essay My parents are both busy that is why I grew up with my grandparents and because of this, I know my grandparents very well and most of all I love them so much. Unfortunately, my grandfather passed away two years ago and that time I went to Cambodia for community service. Before I left for Cambodia, he even promised me that he would fight his illness for him to be still alive until I come back. Then one day, as I was working hard to assist poor Cambodians, I got a phone call about his death. Right away, I booked a flight to be able to attend to his funeral. When I arrived there, I cannot help but be in pain as I saw my grandfather lying dead. For this assignment, I called my grandmother to ask a few questions. She was honest enough that she has some differences with my generation. First, since Korea was conquered by Japan for 36 years, she still speaks Japanese with her friends. In significantly, she has some Japanese culture mind such as Japanese are usually more conservative and traditional than most of Koreans. Second, my generation is more used to high technology and adventure. My grandmother has her cell phone, which is twice bigger than what I have and she still does not know how to use computer. My growing society and my grandparent’s society are totally different. I am earning the world’s best education in United States. But my grandparents were learning education while Korea was conquered by Japan. After independence from Japan, she also experienced difficulty from Korean War. She probably had the most difficult life than anyone else. He grew up in the poorest politics, society and economy. Her life is totally different than the life that I have. If I grew up in her generation, I will be really depressed and my life will always be in danger. As I compare my life with my grandmother, I can say that I more happy than her, and I am more blessed because I have not experienced such difficulties that she had especially during the times when Japan conquered Korea and the Korean War.

Saturday, October 26, 2019

How labelling affects mental health problems

How labelling affects mental health problems Labelling theory is linked to Howard Becket and was introduced in 1963.   Labelling theory is the theory of a behaviour that is considered different from the customary or a behaviour that is generally accepted as standard.   It is considered by some sociologist that this type of behaviour is seen as a label given to an individual whose behaviour is not considered normal by certain people of authority.   Therefore, labelling means that no individual is actually abnormal and no deed is unusual unless it has been identified by society. According to Pilgrim and Rogers (1999) the labelling theory works on the principle that to identify a person as having mental health problems it is suggested that the individual will act in a stereotypical manner.  Ã‚   It was thought at one time that having a mental health problem was owing to some form of personal weakness.   However, as time has gone by mental illness has become more accepted by society and the public have become more learned and it could be true to say that   it is well known now that mental health disorders have a medical basis and can be treated like any other health condition. Being considered mentally healthy does not routinely imply that a person does not have a mental health problem.   Good health usually represents that a person is able to play a full part in society albeit within a family setting, in the workplace, within community or amongst other people or friends.  Ã‚   It also suggest that a person who is in good mental health can deal with what life throws at them and more often than not will be capable of make the most of their potential within any given situation.   According to The World Health Organisation mental health is: a state of well-being in which the individual realises his or her own abilities, can cope with the normal stresses of life, can work productively and fruitfully, and is able to make a contribution to his or her community(WHO, 2001). Mental health illness for that reason could be said is a state where the well being of an individual is flawed in some way and is incapable of undertaking normal day to day functions.   It could be said that mental health is everyones concern.   The majority of people at one time or another will admit to feeling stressed out and unable to cope with what life throws at them but usually those feeling pass.   However at other times these problems can develop into something much more serious.   Some can bounce back with no problem at all while others might take a longer time to deal with their problems.   Scheff (1999) considers that mental illness in a person is brought about by societal labelling.   He suggests that the symptoms of mental illness are  Ã‚   seen as infringement of the social norms.   By most social values behaviour associated with mental illness such violent outburst, anxiety, delusions and attempts of suicide are considered abnormal.  Ã‚   Therefore, the cause for a person to be labelled as mentally ill does not automatically mean infringement of the social norm.   The person to a certain extent is labelled when a situation can bring about what the public would perceive as abnormal behaviour.   This could mean for example, when an application is made to place that individual in a mental institution or hospital and as a result that individual is is labelled as mentally ill. Labelling leads to stigma, which is a word associated with branding and shame.  Ã‚   Stigma has been defined by the Oxford Dictionary as a mark or sign of disgrace and discredit.   Goffman (1963) also suggested that disability was associated with shame and pity and that the term stigma has been adopted from the Greeks which imply a mark that represent immorality.  Ã‚   Research also shows that stigma is more strongly expressed against people with mental disabilities, which, under the influence of Buddhism and Animism, are believed to represent possession by evil sprits (Hunt 2002).  Ã‚  Ã‚   Studies also show that individuals with a mental health illness are most rejected people among any disabled groups (Albrecht, Walkeer Levy, 1982)  Ã‚   It has also been suggested by Jones (1985) that the process of stigmatization is based on six elements, namely conceability, course, disruptiveness, aesthetic qualities, origin and peril.   Although there are 8.6 million disabled people in Britain that is 1:7 of the population who have either a physical, sensory or mental impairment that seriously affects their day-to-day activities, people with mental health continue to be excluded from discourse on difference and diversity.   Discourses can have an impact on the ways in which people with mental health illness are portrayed and treated within society and this in turn may influence the actions taken by people and the judgments they make.   Different cultures can also have different perception, so can different situations and circumstances. Having a mental illness, and living with it on a day to day basis can be intensely difficult for the individual suffering from it.   Mental illness by today standards is believed to be very common, due to the fact that one in four in the United Kingdom is diagnosed with a mental illness.   Sufferers of the illness experience many problems, which include the way they think, behave or how they feel.   These problems can lead to problems with everyday living, such as maintaining relationships, access to or performance at work, not being accepted by the community that they live in.   A report written by the government into Mental Health and Social Exclusion, and published by the Social Exclusion Unit in 2004, recognized the discrimination and stigma experienced by people with mental health issues as a major stumbling block to be included socially, and thus making it very hard for those individual to access work, access health services, take part in their communities, and to take pleasure in doing things with their family and friends.  Ã‚   The report also states that 83 percent of those interviewed identified stigma as a major contributor; 55 percent identified stigma as a barrier to work; and 52 percent had experienced a negative attitudes towards mental health in the community. According to a survey, called the Stigma Shout (2008) survey revealed that: Nearly 9 out of 10 people with mental health problems have been affected by stigma and discrimination, with two thirds saying they have stopped doing things because of the stigma they face. Stigma stops people with mental health problems from doing everyday things such as applying for jobs, making new friends, and going out to pubs and shops. It can even prevent people from reporting a crime. People with mental health problems want the anti-stigma campaign to target schools and the media to change attitudes and reduce prejudice. Carers of people with mental health problems also stop doing things because of the stigma and discrimination that they face. http://www.time-to-change.org.uk/news/stigma-shout-survey-shows-real-impact-stigma-and-discrimination-peoples-lives Mental health problems are commonly identified and categorized in order for  professional people to be able to provide suitable support and treatment.  Ã‚  Ã‚   However, some diagnoses are  considered controversial and concern is expressed that individuals are frequently treated in line with by what they have been labelled with.   There are many conditions that are believed to be associated to mental health illness, including   anxiety disorders, mood disorders, eating disorders, personality disorders and plenty more.   Any person presenting signs of the mental health problems will more often than not be labelled by society in some way.  Ã‚  Ã‚   As noted earlier labelling leads to stigma and stigma in turn can lead to discrimination.  Ã‚   It is highly publicized that there should be no discrimination against people of a difference appearance, race culture, religion but people are less conscious of discrimination against people with a mental health illness.  Ã‚   Being discriminated against can play a big part in an individuals life who may be experiencing mental health problems.   It is known that stigma associated with mental health issues can be very hurtful and damaging and can inhibit the individual from accessing support and treatment in order to lead a normal life. According to the Mental Health Foundation, 44% of people who experienced some form of mental health issues felt they had been discriminated by their G.Ps, and 35% said theyd been discriminated by health professionals.   However, it is suspected by some that the principal   reason for the health care professionals to behave in this manner is because they are considered inexperienced in the field of mental health issues. On the other hand, some individuals who have been labelled as suffering with mental health problems are of the opinion that mental health problems are fabricated and invented by professional people who make money from the belief that mental health issues are problematic.   One example which demonstrates how health care services are being prejudice is that sufferers of schizophrenia are prohibited from giving blood or giving away any of their vital organs as they are perceived as mentally incapacitated.   As previously referred to statistics show that at any given time one in every four adult and one in every five children live through a mental health problem.  Ã‚   It is estimated that approximately 450 million people worldwide have a mental health problem.   World Health Organisation (2001)   The total cost of mental health problems in England is currently more than  £77 billion a year which is double previous estimates (Sainsbury Centre for Mental Health 2003) Due to the labelling associated with mental health problems many of these people will not access help at an early stage and the illness will become worse.   It is widely known that people with a mental health illness are less likely to be in full time employment in comparison to other groups of disabled people.   In 2001, people with a mental health problem were almost three times more likely to be unemployed than all other disabled people (Smith and Twomey 2002)  Ã‚   Many of these people do not make an effort to obtain work   for a number of reasons or are discriminated by employers because of their illness.   It has been proved that not dealing with mental illness within the work place costs over     £9 billion a year   (Department of Health 2006).   In order to address this issue the government has published a mental health strategy with the main objective to help mental health sufferers gain and retain employment.  Ã‚   The strategy namely, Working Our Way to Better Mental Health: A Framework for Action Strategy (2009), is aimed at helping people safeguard their illness, and when a problem arises, get the help and treatment that they need.   The strategy also aims to reduce discrimination and to reduce the levels of labelling that is associated with the illness.   To realize improved practises in maintaining a good working relationship between the workplace and those suffering from mental health problems, the Government has advised employers that they need to follow the principles included in the strategy to shed light on the impact of mental health problems. The Secretary of State for Health,   Andy Burnham said:   Life-threatening conditions like cancer or heart disease prompt sympathy and understanding. But mental health is all too often shrouded in mystery, stigma or simply forgotten. To coincide with the launch of the above mentioned strategy the Department of Work and Pensions have also assigned a review led by Dr Rachel Perkins to offer help and guidance on how best to develop and improve the support for people with a mental health problem who are unemployed. By following the Governments and the Department of Healths guidance and support, it is expected that many businesses will see the potential benefits to their workplace such as reduced sickness levels, higher levels of customer service,  Ã‚   reduced staff turnover and lots more.   Many people who have been diagnosed with a mental illness could also face the probability of suddenly being unaccepted by friends and family; this is usually due to the fact that people are uncertain of the illness.   Being singled out by those they considered to be their friends or even a close family member makes the circumstances worse for the sufferer.   Individuals usually find it hard to make new friends which in turn can make them feel totally isolated and worthless.  Ã‚   It is often believed that the media is responsible for wrongly representing someone with mental health issues and that the tabloids very often   show bad outlook towards people with mental illness   by applying words such as psycho or mad or even a   nutter.   Using such words to portray a person suffering with mental illness is seen to be encouraging society to believe that they are all dangerous and unapproachable.   Inadequate and incorrect media coverage of mental health issues has increased over the last three years claims the Mind report published in 2008. In spite of this however not all interpretation of mental illness in the media is negative. Stephen Fry spoke openly about his mental health issues and was in the main represented positively in the media. My battle with mental illness (2006)  Ã‚   During research for his documentary The Secret Life of The Manic Depressive, Stephen Fry discovered that his illness (bi-polar) affects hundreds of thousands of people in the U. K.   He was also appalled to learn the degree of preconception there was in relation to mental illness:   I want to speak out, to fight the public stigma and to give a clearer picture of mental illness that most people know little about. He also stated that there was a need for a better awareness of mental health issues amongst the public in order for people to share their problems and break their silence: Once the understanding is there, we can all stand up and not be ashamed of ourselves, then it makes the rest of the population realise that we are just like them but with something extra. A research undertaken by the charity Mind revealed that 73% of those with mental health problems felt that, the way the media portray the illness is negative, unfair and totally unbalanced (Mind Report 2008).   Many of the stories that appear in the media all promote the idea that mental illness is wrong and something to be ashamed of.  Ã‚  Ã‚   Over the years the Government has made inroads to tackle discrimination against people who have mental health issues and have introduced policies in order to transform the way people view mental health problems. The Disability Discrimination Act 1995 makes certain that discrimination does not take place in the workplace and other places because of mental health problems. The Mental Health Bill was also introduced by the Government in 2002 which introduced a statutory framework for the compulsory treatment and care for mental health sufferers and there are many groups and organizations attempting to highlight the plights of mental health sufferers and are focusing on reducing the stigma associated with mental health problems.  Ã‚   On reflection, it is understandable that many people who have mental health problems would not approve of the way sufferers are being perceived and labelled.   The term mental illness for some people can be associated with abnormal behaviour and as a result can prevent them from fitting into what would be considered a normal environment and take advantages of all the opportunities and benefits associated with it.   As revealed the media is considered to be a very influential means of educating people and that more attention should be given to reporting on more positive features of mental illness, namely how people have recovered and what in terms of medicine and treatment are available today to combat mental illness. This is turn could have a major influence on the public attitudes and beliefs.  Ã‚   Some people would also suggest that better training of mental health professionals would promote better health care and better understanding of issues surrounding mental illness.  Ã‚   This in turn would show the way to a more positive attitude amongst people in society as sufferers are able to take part in everyday life.   As many of the literature on mental health problems implies, there continues to be a long way to go in order to overcome many of the misconceptions, the prejudices and fears associated with mental health problems and the stigma involved.     So that harmful and negative attitudes to mental health problems are eradicated there is a need for the public to be much more aware of what it feels to live with such problems and that it takes courage and strength on the part of the sufferer.  Ã‚   The public also need to be aware that mental illness can be managed or even treated like many other diseases or conditions.   It is also important to highlight that the stereotyping of mental incapacity and hostility is greatly mistaken. BIBLIOGRAPHY

Thursday, October 24, 2019

Stone Walls Of New England :: essays research papers

Introduction Stonewalls of New England are rich with history and archeologists are still trying to determine who may have built the first stonewalls or if our concept of when North America was first settled is wrong. Items of stone and metal lead archeologists to believe that the archaic period is when the Northern New England portion of America was first inhabited. There have been many different types of fences built in New England, natural debris, wood, and stone included. Stemming from these different fence types American ingenuity flourished and inventions arose. Agriculture was a big part of the fencing of America; the cultural differences of the colonists and the Indians also played a big role in the ideas of fencing and laws. Stonewalls are important to our culture as not only North Americans but also as humankind in general. Overview of the ancient history of New England The Wisconsin continental ice sheet retreated about 15,000 BC, causing the climate to warm, sea level to rise, and the habitat was changed from tundra to spruce-lichen. The Pleistocene mammals (mastodons, mammoths, and caribou) were attracted to the new habitat, this caused the Paleo-Indians or Big Game hunters to arrive armed with Clovis fluted point projectiles (Salisbury, 1982). Many sites have been found in New England that shows evidence of tool-making, ritualized inter-band exchanges and other non-hunting activities. By around 8,000 BC, the spruce-lichen forest was mostly replaced by pine and hardwoods, this evolved into other types of food causing the Paleo-Indian era to give way to the early archaic. In New England, early Archaic projectile points were found, these differ from the Paleo-Indian points because the archaic points are generally stemmed and notched for more effective specialized hunting (Salisbury, 1982). Salvatore Trento tells of one point found in Monhegan, Maine:   Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  A tiny arrowhead or possibly a small dagger was recovered from an excavation of a rubbish heap by the island archeologist. A C14 test of the organic material associated with the deposited metal artifact gave an approximate date of 1800 BC. During the summer of 1975, William Nisbet of the Early Sites Research Society submitted a tiny fragment of the artifact to a laboratory for analysis. The results were shocking. The seemingly insignificant arrowhead was composed of copper in tin. There are no tin deposits in either the eastern of middle states of America. The closest mines are in Bolivia, but these were not worked in 1500 BC.

Wednesday, October 23, 2019

Biography of Christopher Bruce Essay

Christopher Bruce was born on the 3rd of October 1945 in England, he started studying dancing at 11 years old, and he began with tap and ballet. After studying at the Rambert School Christopher Bruce joined Rambert Ballet in 1963, where he quickly became the leading male dancer. Bruce appeared in works such as Don Quixote in 1964 and Coppelia in 1966. Then the company began to experiment with ballet and modern, combining them to form, specifically the Martha Graham technique. (Martha Graham created 181 ballets and a dance technique that has been compared to ballet in its scope and magnitude. Many of the great modern and ballet choreographers have studied the Martha Graham Technique or have been members of her company.) When Bruce danced the role of Pierrot Lunaire, his own interpretive skills were noticed. Bruce was â€Å"dominating everything- practically living the part†. Bruce then worked with Glen Tetley, he discovered that â€Å"the motive for the movement comes from the centre of the body†¦ from this base we use classical ballet as an extension to give wider range and variety of movement† In 1977 he was appointed associate director of the company and was its associate choreographer from 1979-87, he created over twenty works for the company. Between 1986-91 he acted as associate choreographer also for London Festival Ballet, later ENB, and resident choreographer for Houston Ballet in 1989. In 1994 he became artistic director for RDC. Often political in his work, he integrates classical ballet and modern dance, often set against popular music by artists like Bob Dylan, Rolling Stones. His productions include ‘Cruel Garden’, 1977, ‘Ghost Dances’, 1981, ‘Swansong’, 1987, and ‘Rooster’, 1991. Influences Social and political themes emerge as naturally as a reflection of his own concerns, although his aim is always firstly to create a piece of dance, rather than to make a statement. Nevertheless, he does not see a conflict between creating interesting movement and tackling difficult issues. He believes that there is much beauty in Ghost Dances and similar works. Bruce is typically known for using themes that focus on personal or political issues. He has created abstract pieces but even these have a strong undercurrent of emotion. Bruce uses a wide range of starting points, particularly poetry, literature, music, newspaper articles and world events. For example ‘†¦for those who die in cattle’ reflects his views and concerns of war, ‘rooster’ is his idea of relationships, ‘swansong’ is probably one of his most moving and emotional pieces and tackles the very serious issue of torture. His views on the general human condition are portrayed in ‘waiting’. Throughout his career, Christopher has been a strong supporter of Amnesty International’s ideas and through his choreography he has voiced his concerns for society, the persecuted and victims of a wide range of human rights abuses. Time and again he has returned to these themes and in his most recent work â€Å"grinning in your face†, these concerns are articulated as powerfully as ever. The Arts have an important role to play in exploring social issues and dance can be seen as the most human of the Arts as it is based on the body. The image of the tortured prisoner from â€Å"swansong† or the unjust imprisonment of Reuben Carter, in â€Å"Hurricane† are far more powerful than mere words can ever be. Video extracts of Christopher’s work have been used to reinforce talks about human rights abuse. In the 1970’s the focus for Bruce was South America and Pinochet’s bloody coup against the elected Allende government in Chile. He was deeply moved on the meeting of Joan Jara, who was tortured and murdered by Pinochets forces. This meeting lead him to choreograph, Ghost Dances. He took the theme of the day of the dead, simple symbolism and indigenous dance movements as a basis to convey the plight of the innocent people of South American down the ages and their courage in the face of adversity. Certainly, Ghost Dances has a tremendous impact and audiences in many countries have delighted in its distinctive, rhythmic movement performed to haunting American tunes. However, it is the representation of the oppression of ordinary people, symbolised by the sinister ghost figures, which give the work much of its resonance. On the evidence of ghost dances, swansong, and cruel garden  (about the death of Lorca at the hands of the fascists in Spain), human rights themes have provided him with a strong source of inspiration. He remains a passionate advocate for the role of dance and the arts in society and believes that seeing good work and the chance to perform, either as an amateur or a professional, an not only enrich lives, but can also be civilising influence. Ghost dances It was created in 1981, and was influenced by the political oppression in Chile. The style was contemporary ballet blended with South American folk dance. The setting of Ghost Dances is a rocky Andean location suggesting the mouth of a cave. The colours (blue’s, greens and greys) of the backdrop were very effective and complimented the costumes and movement by adding to the eerie atmosphere. The whole stage was lit by a dim white light. The ‘dead’ wear everyday clothes, which are beginning to disintegrate. The Ghost Dancers appear as skeletal figures in striking skull masks. The piece is accompanied by Andiean folk music, with panpipes, guitars, and flutes. The tune is infectious, rhythmic and tuneful. The style of the choreography is sinuous and graceful, incorporating folk-dance influences. The Ghost dancers style of dance differs to the style of the ‘dead’. The Ghost dancers use very off balanced and angular Movements, there heads are the main key I think to making their dancing look as threatening as it does, they move them very quickly and sharply in unison and it creates a very menacing effect. The ‘dead’, on the other hand are very free flowing and graceful, their posture is very open chested and balletic with very neat but complex footwork. I loved this piece and the skills used to perform it. The fluid motion alongside traditional Chilean folkdance was original and inspiring to watch, it was a very moving piece and had a big impact on me because of the real life issues behind it. Swansong This piece was created in 1987 and was influenced by the fate of political  prisoners, the style was contemporary ballet and the prisoner’s movements were based on the idea of a swan. The piece is generally based around the fate of political prisoners and their need to break free. Swansong is a deliberately disturbing dance showing a victim being tortured by a variety of means, although there is no actual violence on stage. It shows both the aggressive and sadistic element of interrogation, and how brainwashing, humiliation and playing with emotions can all be part of a long, nerve- racking game. In combining vaudevillian humour, balletic virtuosity, and contempory dance expressionism with such a serious theme, he seeks to create work that can be appreciated at a number of levels by a broad audience. The three dancers are costumed archetypally and very much resembled the set, it was all very simplistic, with the prisoner in just a plain t-shirt and jeans and the two guards a re wearing vaguely militaristic khaki trousers and short- sleeved shirts could be viewed as policemen, soldiers, or guards. Programme notes have tended neither to give names to the characters nor to specify roles – choosing instead to simply list the cast and allow audiences to make their own interpretation. The prisoner uses a very graceful and flowing style of dance whilst in contrast the two guards dance in a modern, camp manner, highlighting even more the separation and difference between the guards and prisoner. The simplicity of the staging and ambiguity of the characters lends weight to its universality. The action could be taking place anywhere in the world. The stage is dark and bare with the exception of a single wooden chair lit starkly from above, indicating perhaps a single bulb-hanging overhead in an otherwise empty room. There are seven sections in swansong; each has a different theme and style.  ·Section 1, questions and answers. Throughout the first section the dance suggests the interrogators and victim playing a game of cat and mouse, the dance changing from trios to brief duets and solo’s. in the duets the interrogators dance in unison, performing the same material one after the other or slightly varying the steps to attack their victim.  ·Section 2, tea for two. The section section begins with another interrogation session during which the second interrogator walks round his seated victim, and this time the victim taps out ‘answers’ but in a defiant  mood. The interrogators change tatics.  ·Section 3, first solo. The third section is a solo for the victim alone on the stage and it is more lyrical both in music and movement than the proceding sections. It contrasts with the torture previously shown, appearing to be a cry of frustration and anger at the victim’s situation as well as evoking his urge for freedom.  ·Section 4, slow trio. The victim immediately tenses and flinches as the first interrogator reaches towards him, and then relaxes when he is not harmed. No questions are asked. Again the opening sequence is performed twice but at the end of the chair is moved so that the victim cannot return to it. This becomes a recurring theme of this dance; the victims chair is repeatedly pulled away from under him or placed just beyond his reach. He is pushed and thrown around, the effect of the violence is in slow motion. The victim curls defensively on the floor and is uncurled by the second interrogator and the torture continues.  ·Section 5, second solo without accompaniment. Although this section repeats dance motifs from the first solo such as the jumps and arabesques suggestive of flight, it is generally more mimetic. The victim lifts the chair onto his back to make it appear he is carrying a huge weight on his shoulders. He then stands facing the audience staring through the bars of the chair, then he appears to crumble in frustration and the solo ends with his ankles trapped in the bars of the chair as if fetted.  ·Section 6, cane dance. The progression of the piece shows a build up of abuse and humility of the prisoner till the final section where the prisoner performs his last solo, his ‘swansong’. Rooster This piece was created in 1992 and in contrast to my other two chosen pieces  is influenced by the Rolling stones; the dance is based on the theme and context of the music. It is danced in a contemporary ballet style blended with modern dance to match the music. The set is a clear stage with naturalistic lighting and a white spotlight. The women wear black skirts, tops and tights and the men wear black trousers and a skirt, a red dress is worn only in one number and that is ‘ruby Tuesday’. The whole piece is danced to rolling stones music ranging from upbeat fast and rocky numbers to slower more relaxed music. The theme of each song in ‘rooster’ reflects the character that is dancing it, none of the dances are linked, and each section occurs simply because of the different songs that are used, this helps to create an episodic structure. The tempo of the music dictates the style of dance; the faster tracks are modern and contemporary whilst the slower ones are more balletic. This piece does not present a great deal of emotional involvment with the audience; it is simply based on the theme and context of the music. You can see this by the fact that the dancers, the style of dance and the music purely dictate the song. A Time line of dance works which have been choreographed and produced by Christopher Bruce  ·1969 George Frederic  ·1972 ‘†¦for those who die as cattle’  ·1974 Weekend  ·1975 Ancient voices of children  ·1976 Black Angels  ·1976 Promenade  ·1977 Cruel Garden  ·1981 Village Sounds  ·1981 Ghost Dances  ·1984 Sergeant early’s dream  ·1984 Intimate Pages  ·1985 Silence is the end of our song  ·1985 Land  ·1987 The dream is over  ·1987 Swansong  ·1989 Symphony in three movements  ·1990 Journey  ·1992 Rooster  ·1995 Meeting point Section B Producing our own piece of choreography in the style of Christopher Bruce in groups. How has the work of the choreographer influenced and inspired my own performance and choreography? I chose Christopher Bruce because of the influences behind his choreography, the real life human rights issues that through symbolism he has transferred this into dance. He has successfully brought more awareness to serious issues that most people would not be aware of because it is not going on in  this country. The fact that this affects Bruce personally is very inspiring, as his pieces have real meaning and thought behind them. The three works by Christopher Bruce that I have chosen to study are ‘ghost dancers’ and ‘swansong’ because of the political human rights issues that influenced them and ‘rooster’ because it was a contrast to the other two as its influence was the celebration of the Rolling Stones music. I thought these pieces complimented each other well to evaluate as each bears a large variation of accessible motifs, images and sequences of movement that I could re- interpret in my choreography in the style of Christopher Bruce. As it gave me the opportunity to analyse a variety of influences and issues behind the three pieces. Choreographic notes We choreographed a piece for a trio in the style of ‘rooster’. The set was clear other than three chairs that were used within the dance. We were dressed all in black and wore red scarfs round our necks. The lighting of the set was dark red.