Saturday, August 31, 2019

Critical Thinking Case Study Essay

Describe all assumptions you see in any documents. Kelly Thomas – Senior Engineer, Product Development1. Assumed AcuScan’s customers would not be happy with just anything developed and launched. 2. Assumed Pat did not have any technology experience previous job in the cereal industry. 3. Assumed Pat was talking to the programmers without Kelly’s knowledge or consent. 4. Assumed Pat wanted to continue arguing on email. Pat Lambert – Director of Marketing1. Assumed the customer would be happy with anything launched on the market from AcuScan2. Assumed programmers could work in the new launch. 3. Assumed a new product launch would be simple to achieve. 4. Assumed that Kelly Thomas would go along with her regarding the â€Å"Operation Optimize†5. Assumed that the â€Å"Operation Optimize† could be launched in 6-months6. Assumed that meeting with Kelly Thomas in person would rectify the situation. Cliff O’Connor – CEO1. Assumed Pat’s work ethic and experience in previous job will automatically benefit the firm and reach AcuScan’s target market. 2. Assumed the staff would not have any communication or personnel issues. 3. Assumed there would be a budget crisis. Chris Martinas – VP, Product Development1. Assumed that it would not take much time to produce and launch a new product. 2. The potential return for first year would outlay with substantial ROI. THE CONFLICT2) Explain the arguments made by each of these people. Kelly Thomas argued that the new product features could not be developed ‘just like that’ and was detailed with planning, testing and quality control and could long make the features completely work by August. Kelly also stated that since the layoff two years ago, and 25% fewer programmers, they do not have the time or manpower for the product successfully to launch in time. Pat Lambert argued that ‘Retail’ is the answer instead of airports and store security for the new iScanner product to enable retailers to identify incoming customers, with several high-tech features can be developed as a prototype by August and at one point Kelly admitted to it not being a problem to make the iScanner market-ready in time. Chris Martinas argued that Secur-A was, AcuScan’s competition was working on a new product so AcuScan needs to expand into a different market and launch a new product by early 2004 or Secur-A would be on the top of the market. Cliff O’Connor argued that even though AcuScan was facing budget dilemma’s they can find a way to launch the new iScanner. 3) Evaluate each argument. a. Kelly Thomas – Kelly’s argument was logical mostly due to the fact he used the numbers and man hours from the first iScanner launch and he did not want to jeporize his and AcuScan’s reputation by throwing together a flimsy product launch. b. Pat Lambert – Pat’s idea on launching a new product in a new market was a positive one, in fact, a great marketing strategy to be the first company on the market with a new product to get ahead of competition. c. Chris Martinas – Chris does realize that to gain and maintain their  targeted market, a budget deficit would need to be put in action because he believes it is important to have a product launch in a new market. d. Cliff O’Connor – Although Cliff’s argument deems logical, it becomes unbeknownst there are major budgetary issues with AcuScan and to launch the iScanner correctly, there are many other decisions that need to be involved, this may include more lay-offs. Cliff is basing the fact that this new launch in a ‘new’ market will take minimal cost in time and money because AcuScan has done it in the past. 4) Describe specific fallacious arguments, and identify the people who hold them. Pat had a fallacious argument by stating that since other staff members had been with the company longer than Pat, they had a great deal invested in the company and knew what they had to accomplish in order to get a new product off and running. Chris made a fallacious argument about the company being on top again if the company developed a new product. But the since it is unknown, there is no evidence or research at this point the company cannot be certain of this fact. II: CONCLUSIONS1. Describe all problems in this situation. 2. For each problem, describe the data, arguments, and reasoning that contribute to each problem. AcuScan was faced with many problems trying to produce and launch their new iScanner. One main issue was the fact of AcuScan was planning to develop a new product when the company was already facing budgeting issues. Another problem was the staff at AcuScan not meeting face-to-face; instead they relied mainly on email to correspond with one another. Brainstorming, marketing product launches, and budgeting meetings could have benefited the staff and issues could have been handled different and resolved. Cliff, the  CEO should have taken initiative and interjected about the major communication issue the staff was having with one another. Use your reasoning to complete the worksheet below. 3. What is the underlying problem that is the base cause of the conflict within the company?The underlying problem that caused the majority of the issues at AcuScan was the lack of communication between department staff members which resulted in fallacious emails, snide, unnecessary comments which led to lack of production. 4. Alternative solutions. Due to the budgetary issues that were upon AcuScan, instead of a complicated new product launch, expanding the iScanner into industries such as hospitals, colleges and even government offices instead of expanding the new iScanner into the retail environment where the complicated launch requires many additional features is a possible solution, while keeping the idea for the retail industry on the shelf for future product launches. 6. Which solution will you recommend to the CEO? Why? Since both solutions are important, I would mention both to the CEO. Since communication is the backbone of an organization, I would bring up that issue first. Part II: Executive Summary1. Purpose and ScopeThe purpose of this summary is to analyze the issues on launching the new iScanner from AcuScan and rectify any facts pertaining to the potential launch. The scope includes various communications between colleagues and issues that resulted from that dialog. In conclusion the problems will be stated, solutions formulated and recommended results to rectify these problems will be discussed. 2. Summary of the SituationThe conflict between several key persons at AcuScan is hindering the growth of the firm and is causing havoc in receiving positive results for this potential new product launch. Secur-A, AcuScan’s, main competitor is only 4 months from launching their new product so it is believed to be absolutely essential to the survival of AcuScan to  beat them to market with a successful product as well. 3. Key PointsPat Lambert – the new director of Marketing, and Kelly Thomas – chief of the software development team, cannot agree on the length of time and the number of programming hours it will take to bring the new product to market. Kelly states that even with current staffing levels, they do not have the time or manpower to launch a new product the correct way. Pat’s states that a prototype can be built within the timeframe and budget however, neither Pat nor Kelly can compromise. Chris Martinas – VP of Product Development believes that Pat and Kelly can work out their differences together. Chris does not quite understand the magnitude of programming involved with this launch though. ConclusionsAs a result of fallacious emails to one another regarding the new product launch for Pat Lambert and Kelly Thomas both feel alienated and find it hard to compromise on the new iScanner Retail Project. The fallacious emails between Kelly and Pat are regarding their disagreement about the capabilities of the software design team and the man-power to create programming for all the features in the new iScanner. Pat is not quite experienced in dealing with software programmers, their processes and requirements. Pat and Kelly’s emails result in emotional and defensive and inability to listen to each other and cooperate on the new iScanner launch so it does not happen. Conclusion and RecommendationsIn many cases, conflict in the workplace just seems to be a fact of life. Many have seen situations where different people with different goals and needs have come into conflict. And we have all seen the often-intense personal animosity that can result. The fact that conflict exists, however, is not necessarily a bad thing: As long as it is resolved effectively, it can lead to personal and professional growth. In many cases, effective conflict resolution skills can make the difference between positive and negative outcomes. The good news is that by resolving conflict successfully, you can solve many of the problems that it has brought to the surface, in addition to getting benefits that you might not at first expect:My recommendation would be to get Pat, Kelly, Chris and Cliff into a room for a face-to-face meeting. The point of this is to increase the understanding which is needed to resolve conflict and it expands people’s awareness of the situation, giving them an insight into how they can achieve their own goals without undermining those of other people. Additionally, if is resolved effectively, team members can develop stronger mutual respect, and a renewed faith in their ability to work together; and after allowing a brief period of venting, the meeting can be called to order. At this point I would recommend that all emotion be excluded from the communication process, so that the first of many beneficial and productive brainstorming sessions can begin. Another thing I would recommend is to re-vamp the iScanner launch so the product launch is conducive to the budget and to better fit the company’s abilities. For instance, instead of launching a complicated product, possibly expand the current iScanner into other industries such as hospitals, colleges and the government, while adding possibly one or two features. The iScanner retinal scanner will perform the same functions as its current version with possibly one or two new features to keep within the company’s budget. Keeping the expansion of the ‘Retail’ iScanner idea on the backburner to launch in a year or two but after Secur-A launches their product. Reference Apollo Group (2003). UOP Assessment. Retrieved 4/19/08, from https://mycampus.phoenix.edu

Friday, August 30, 2019

Contextual role in lifespan dvelopment

Lifespan development is the process by which individuals go through a series of stages that unfold one after the other. Development applies to both the physical and non-physical dimensions. Almost all individuals agree that physical growth stops at certain points. However, there is a lot of contention about where the issue of personality development stops. Many authors have used descriptions such as adulthood, inner unity and self actualization in attempts to describe where this development ends. However, these definitions are all linked to certain cultural or historical aspects of a person’s life. This then brings out the importance of context within the field of lifespan development. The essay shall look at cultural, historical, spiritual aspects that affect how an individual’s lifespan development occurs. (Pogson and Tennant, 1995)Role of contextMany books address the stages that human beings go through as they grow but few of them pay attention to the forces or powe r that one’s social surrounding can have upon their lives.   It should be noted that the environment can influence ones’ development both physical and intellectually. This is because the environment can interact with ones genes and change the way they grow.Many theories exist about the stage of development. Some experts suggested seven stages; others suggested six while others believe that human beings go through five stages. While these stages may be common among certain individuals, one cannot ignore the fact that they are not applicable to all individuals. By establishing a system of theories that generalize developmental stages, these experts were ignoring one of the most crucial facts in development; the individual. Each and every person is exposed to different cultural or social aspects; consequently, that person is bound to turn out differently in comparison to their counterparts. (Jarvis, 1997)When one examines the nature of stages that their own lives have u ndergone, one can see that none of them actually fit ideally into the latter mentioned life stages. There are some delays in certain instances and there may also be some skips. One must therefore ask themselves why this is occurring. The answer is that human beings are creatures of their surrounding. Every single person is exposed to different experiences. This affects them both physically and otherwise and it can therefore affect the nature of their developmental process.Life development should not be mechanized in such a manner that one can assume that they can predict growth phases. Life is not clear cut and sometimes, one’s experiences can either cause that person to retrogress (in that they depict signs characteristics of an earlier stage), in other instances, experiences may propel individuals to enter into stages that may not be predicted for their age. Sometimes, one can undergo a certain stage twice and these are all as a result of people’s interaction with th eir environment. (Humphries, 1988)Some of the stages created by experts on lifespan development may not necessarily be prevalent in all parts of the world. The authors mentioned include ·   Erikson ·    Piaget ·    Kohlberg ·      EtcThese experts conducted their studies only in certain parts of the world while the rest were left out. Sometimes, some communities may not depict the characteristics laid out in their theories. For instance, stages such as mid life crisis may not prevalent in all parts of the world. Some people may assume that this is a western notion.Another important issue that affects development is one’s gender in relation to their surrounding. Because of the roles laid out by society with respect to gender issues, then one cannot assume that all societies will have individuals who go through similar stages as do other women in the rest of the world.Certain psychologists and sociologists came up with a series of factors that can affect the n ature of one’s life outcome. An example of such an author was Holmes and Rahe. The latter authors described some forty three items that can alter one’s perception of the world around them, these includedSA spouse death-100Divorcce-73Separation from a spouse-65A close family member’s death—63Detention in jail-63Illness-50Marriage-47Pregnancy-39Job retirement-45Others included reconciliation with a spouse, changes in health etc. (Rutter and Rutter, 1992)The latter ratings were in order of the event’s ability to alter one’s development. The authors explained that when these events occurred, then one had to succumb to overwhelming emotional burdens. It should be noted that the list largely contained a number of adult related issues. It was also explained that the degree to which he events alter one’s life is largely dependent on whether they were expected in one’s lifespan. Also the sequence within which those events occur also mat ters because when the events follow one another, then they can cause a crisis which eventually changes one life course.ConclusionIt should be noted that development largely depends on one’s experiences and environment. In other words, context is crucial. This is the reason why many developmental stages are not linear and vary from individual to individual.ReferencesRutter, B. and Rutter, M. (1992): Developing Minds. Challenge and continuity across the life span; PenguinPogson, P. and Tennant, M. (1995): Learning and Change in the Adult Years; Jossey-BassHumphries, B. (1988): Adult learning in social work education; Critical Social Policy No. 23: 4-21Jarvis, P. (1997): Adult Learning in the Social Context; Croom Helm

Thursday, August 29, 2019

Kobe Earthquake Case Study

Great Hanshin / Kobe earthquake In the early of January 17th in 1995 at 5:46pm, while many were still sleeping peacefully, the destructive Great Hanshin earthquake, which measured 7. 2 on the Richter scale, struck the Japanese city of Kobe. Kobe has a population of 1. 5 million people and is a major port for importing and exporting goods for Japan, situated south of the main island, Honshu, on a narrow strip of land between the ocean and high mountain ranges, it lies above the junction of the Philippine and Eurasian plates.Kobe has rarely been affected by major earthquakes, only small tremors occasionally, but this earthquake that lasted for a whole 20 seconds, was the biggest to hit japan in 47 years. Japan is situated on the margin of the Eurasian plated, where the Philippine sea plate is being subducted below the Eurasian plate, resulting in Japan having greater than average seismic and volcanic activity. Immediately south of Osaka bay is a fault called the median tectonic line (M TL) and it was sudden movement along this fault that triggered the earthquake that hit Kobe.The movement was caused by the friction from the Eurasian and Philippine plates converging. The earthquake had a shallow focus, only 16 km below the surface, which had caused it to become so destructive. Kobe was largely affected, as the epicentre was only 30 km from the city centre. Japan is said to be the most earthquake prone country but this was proved otherwise in the Kobe earthquake. The 20 second earthquake caused the ground to move up to 50 centimetres horizontally and up to 1 meter vertically.The primary effects from the seismic waves shaking the crust were severe causing the collapse of buildings, bridges and roads. With a total of 75 000 buildings damaged or destroyed and all major road and rail way links damaged all communications from the east and west of japan were cut off. The after shocks from the earthquake caused the problems to become worse with a total of 5000 people dead, 300 000 homeless and 68 children orphaned. The earthquake also triggered a number of fires, congestion, chaos and business closures.Because of the severity of the earthquake it made it extremely difficult for emergency services to reach the worst affected parts of the city. All gas, water and telecommunications were cut off making it extremely hard for emergency crews to communicate and for fire fighters to put out the fires across the city, leaving the fire fighters to watch helplessly as Kobe burned. The earthquake caused a total of 100 billion dollars of damage with economic damage taking up 100 million dollars.Many typical Japanese insurance policies did not cover earthquakes, causing many families to loose everything. In the first few days food, blankets, medical supplies and clean water were of short supplies and the winter weather made it worse with temperatures dropping to -2. Because of the severity of the earthquake and the shortage in supplies, authorities found the disa ster difficult to cope with and the special defence forces were unable to reach the site until 4 hours after the earthquake with the original team only consisting of 170 troops.Even though the earthquake had such a large impact on all aspects of japan at the time it did not take them all to recover and get back on track with the short-term relief and rescue measures put in place they were able to get water, electricity, gas and telephone services were fully working by July and by august the railways were back in service. The port was rebuilt and the import volumes recovered fully within a year and the exports were nearly back to normal. The earthquake also caused a major decline in Japanese Stock market which then caused a domino effect on the banks but despite this damage the local economy recovered quickly.

Wednesday, August 28, 2019

Mncs As A Force For Development Essay Example | Topics and Well Written Essays - 2500 words

Mncs As A Force For Development - Essay Example The unprecedented increase and expansion of multinational corporations has seen increase of interest among the media, scholars and the public who have explored the subject. Multinationals are deemed as key instruments in maximizing economic welfare across the globe while in other aspects they are deemed dangerous agents of economic imperialism (Ietto-Â ­Giles 2012, p. 33). These are issues and basic facts that have been examined by different scholars using different theories and have had different views and conclusions through different opinions and ideologies. Growth in multinational enterprises has been associated with growth in world economies through development of technology, information and communication as well as distribution of resources across the globe (Buckley 2009, 132). Multinationals have also been deemed vital in creating employment in the world markets and enhancing economic development in the economies where they have invested. However, these positive aspects have not been free from the possible perils that come with foreign investments and growth of multinationals. For instance, growth of multinationals in third world nations has been associated with the uneven development; this has mainly risen from overpricing of technology (Rodriguez-Clare 1996, p. 852). Aim of the study The main aim of this study is to explore the growth in multinational corporations and their spread across the world, with a view to examine the extent to which they are a force of development and progress. The study will explore the current trend in multinational corporations and identify how the growth has been associated with economic development and progress. The study will also examine possible perils associated with growth of multinationals. This will help identify whether the positive results of multinationals growth far outweighs the possible perils. Growth trend in multinational enterprises According to Buckley and Casson (2009, p. 1563), Multinational enterprises or the MNEs are defined as firms that own and control activities in more than one country through mergers joint ventures or franchises. These are businesses that are started in one country and later on start investing in foreign countries by establishing their market operations in the existing and emerging markets. There has been enormous growth in multinational enterprises or the MNCs and the international direct investment in the recent decades (Buckley, P & Casson 2003, p. 219). Companies based in industrialized nations have been leaders in establishment of multinational operations due to their strength in ownership advantages that is derived from innovation and highly advanced technological applications. Multinationals have been strongly associated with economic growth and trade. United States, Japan and Sweden among other developed nations are identified as leading home countries for most multinationals since the countries are mainly the source of the foreign direct investment (Dunning & Sarianna 2008, p. 182). FDI is one of the most common mechanisms used by MNCs to start and maintain business operations in foreign countries. Few companies were investing overseas in the early and mid-1960s, however, the trend of growth changed and there was significant change towards foreign direct investment activities. Since 1990s, there has been significant growth in international trade and production that has not only been reflected by the magnitude of the multinational firms but has also had sectoral composition of inflows and outflows. The significant change in sectoral composition and geographical investment activi

Tuesday, August 27, 2019

3D in Internet Produce Assignment Example | Topics and Well Written Essays - 1000 words

3D in Internet Produce - Assignment Example visual platform.We are meaning to demonstrate that 3D training provides faster, more efficient, and a safe process that can be specifically tailored to the trainee.Two graphic artists are planed to partake in the design of the user interface for the template design.One person will focus on functional aspect of the interface design,while the other will work in collaboration to create the sample training template environment to be modified to suit a given type of training.Our research project will particularly investigate tactile sensors in the 3D industry and their potential in facilitating the user interaction with the virtual world generated via the template to give the impression of real live manipulation.Virtual 3D environments have the potential to significantly affect the way we manipulate and retrieve information.In researching ways to impact training via 3D interaction and interfacing we are also investigating possible axioms for object-oriented 3D internet capable of being ac cessed, constructed, and modified on the fly. The impact the upcoming generations may be as significant as the internet was on the current generation or generation X. (b) Significance of Research Question (if applicable) Explain briefly why you believe your central research question is with answering (its expected contribution to existing scholarship about art or design, and its relation to your own proposed studio research) The basic hypothesis for being able to generate 3D templates for training could literally apply to any aspect of learning and thereby offer a virtually limitless array of possibilities for the development of electronic art and design. 3. How will it be

The Lewis and Clark Expedition Essay Example | Topics and Well Written Essays - 1000 words

The Lewis and Clark Expedition - Essay Example The main objective of the expedition thus was stated as to â€Å"Explore the Missouri river & such principal stream of it as by its course and communication with the waters of the Pacific ocean, whether the Columbia, Oregon, Colorado or any other river may offer the most direct & practicable water communication across this continent for the purpose of commerce† (Presidential Mission 2001). Led by Captain Meriwether Lewis and Lieutenant William Clark, the historic expedition was given the name Corps Of Discovery. Exploring the history surrounding the expedition, it is worth understanding what prompted the American government in to commissioning this exploration. During the late seventeen hundreds, the French had been thinking of sending an expedition to explore the western part of the continent. President Thomas Jefferson, who was then the minister to France (1785-1789), heard many rumors of such expeditions. Although the French maintained that the expedition planned was purely on the basis of scientific interest and not of commercial motives, many had their doubts. Whatever the intentions may have been, the initial French expedition of 1788 was not a success as it was halted due to bad weather conditions (Lewis & Clark Expedition 2007). It’s most likely that President Thomas Jefferson’s interest in initiating the expedition once he became president was influenced to some degree by the knowledge of French interest in the matter. In addition, in 1786 an American, John Ledyard planned of crossing the Continent from the western side itself. The route was planned to be overland across Siberia all the way to the Capital. This expedition failed half way as Czarina, Catherine The Great of Russia had him deported to Poland once he arrived in Siberia. Subsequently, the Louisiana Purchase renewed the interest in exploring the west, and it also made the expedition more politically correct as the American

Monday, August 26, 2019

Leaders Essay Example | Topics and Well Written Essays - 2000 words

Leaders - Essay Example This creates motivation within the person and so does he leads a society, a business or a nation. Many times in our lives we interact with people whom others call as 'born leaders'. Such people are so influencing that instead of digging deep into their lives for understanding their source, we are simply impressed by their personality traits. Leadership is not simply made; it is created and developed individually with certain characteristics we would talk about later by giving examples. The debate is not simply concerned about whether leadership is born or created but also with the notion that we all analyse leadership skills in wrong phase, rather than analysing the skills in our leaders, we analyse our leaders and under specify their leading behaviours and styles. This is the main reason why most of us remain in a chaos to answer 'leadership born or made'. The question is perplexing, the answer simple. There has always remained a tendency to treat 'leadership' as a complete cure to the problem or simple 'cure'. Whether complete or simple, cure is cure. The phrase 'born leaders' is made to stand for all the qualities that are desirable in a top team or responsible post-holder-for example 'clarity of vision', 'a performance focus', 'flexibility', 'innovation' and 'winning commitment' etc. First of all, leaders never born, they are created by the circumstances, situations and consequences which provide opportunity to other hidden qualities to emerge and show off. Se condly, in the light of above phrase, if all of the leadership qualities are not present in us, at least some of them reside deep in our personalities. In reality, most of the research has made little detailed examination of the concept of leadership. That is why leadership is simply asserted and its nature assumed. Are Leaders born with Leadership skills Agility to take decisions along with pulling the entire team, no doubt does not require qualification, certificate or degree but still it would be wrong to say that a person is born with such qualities, because if we suppose for a while that one is born with decision making qualities, we do not mean that such person is blessed with such gifts but that the person has been groomed and brought up so well that he has learned how to make use of his decision making power and utilize his abilities. If we analyse leadership in terms of 'grooming' or 'development', we would see examples before us of the leaders that were not ever groomed or those who never had the opportunity of acquiring regular leadership development classes. Adolph Hitler, Mahathir Muhammad, Mahatma Gandhi, etc are among such leaders which are considered as 'born leaders' but they never acquired any formal leadership training. This means that what pulls out a good leader from us the circumstances later comes the knowledge and expertise. Leadership in the eyes of Socrates Socrates clearly taught what it takes to be a leader is the professional or technical competence, that means professionalism or knowledge is the prerequisite for holding a position of leadership responsibility. (Adair, 2002, p. 11) This also refers to the notion that capabilities like professionalism or knowledge are not born with a man, but are learned through experience and hard work. With leadership comes authority to take decisions. Socrates believes that among the three main forms of authorities i.e., the authority of position, the authority of

Sunday, August 25, 2019

Scientific literacy Essay Example | Topics and Well Written Essays - 1750 words

Scientific literacy - Essay Example 81). This paper explores some of the reasons why scientific literacy is not important in all subjects. My personal experience demonstrates that scientific literacy should not be incorporated in every subject of study, instead students should be allowed to study their areas of interest scientific or otherwise. For instance, I was hardly interested in the study of organic foods until I came across a recent feature on the news. The feature was scientific in nature and caught my attention owing to the fact that I found it interesting and educative. The feature focused on a Chinese based company known as "Bai Wei Yua" and specialized in agricultural trade. The company is involved in the sale of organic products and vegetables. However, recent reports have revealed that the company the company buys regular fruits and vegetables and packages them as organic products and sells them at inflated prices. This is ethically wrong as the company dupes the customers into thinking that they are buying organic products. "Bai Wei Yua" uses the appropriate procedures to produce and trade the organic products that is highly impressive. However, they are wrong in labeling regular foods as organic foods. I was stunned to realize that a legitimate company was packaging regular fruits and vegetables, packaging them as organic products, and selling them to the market at high prices. This issue aroused my curiosity in the topic of organic foods. I was more interested in government regulations and policies with regards to organic foods. This case study shows that individuals should be allowed to pursue the kind of scientific knowledge they are interested in pursuing. Mara, a thirty one year old woman who works as a technical worker holds a different view with regards problems of immunity. She has had a personal experience as she was a caregiver to a sick friend and all her college roommates died of AIDS. She was

Saturday, August 24, 2019

Compare and contrast the objectives of financial statements as Essay

Compare and contrast the objectives of financial statements as outlined by the Companies Act and Conceptual Framework - Essay Example There are many similarities between the Companies Act and the Conceptual framework. Both the Companies Act and the Conceptual Framework enumerate the responsibilities of the board of directors to the general public. Both the Companies Act and the Conceptual Framework enumerate the responsibilities of the board of directors to the general public. Both the Companies Act and the Conceptual Framework enumerate the responsibilities of the board of directors to the general public. Second, Both the Companies Act and the Conceptual Framework that enumerate the responsibilities of the board of directors to the general public makes it a MUST that the preparation of financial statements will foster a closer relationship between suppliers, customers and the other users of the financial statements. Next, Both the Companies Act and the Conceptual Framework that enumerate the responsibilities of the board of directors to the general public makes it a MUST that the preparation of financial statement s to determine if the company has not violated any environmental laws of the land. Both the Companies Act and the Conceptual Framework state that the company must suffer the consequences of their decisions that violate the laws of the land. Furthermore, the focus of both the Companies Act and the conceptual framework is to use independent judgment in the preparation of financial statements.

Friday, August 23, 2019

Develop and document the scope of a project Research Paper

Develop and document the scope of a project - Research Paper Example They are Marketing and Sales departments. The corresponding departments in the sister company also perform the same function and are highly interdependent. These departments are very essential if not the most important departments for both companies in case of undertaking the project of releasing the new product to the market. This is so because of the strategic role the departments play in the successful realization of the project implementation (Dervaes, 1998). This paper tries to give a brief scope of the project with a clear outline of some important issues that concern the project. Some of the issues that are outlined in the scope include, but not limited to: the deliverables in the project, the specific limitations of the project and its scope together with the specific exclusions and assumptions that come with the project while implementing the project. These assumptions are specific to the operations that are undertaken in the distribution chains in Winsome sales department. Some of the specific deliverables that are expected from the project include meeting the sale volumes that have been set by the sales and marketing departments of both companies. The company plans to double the sales volume in the next fiscal year as a result of an introduction of the new product. This could mean that the Sales department would be required to increase their human resource capacity by contracting more staff to help in the achievement of these targets. Alternatively, Winsome manufacturing would procure the services of its sister company. To choose one among these two options, the company will undertake an analysis to find out which of the two options is a better one concerning the financial obligations that each project requires. If procuring the services of the sister company is the cheapest option, there must be specific terms and conditions that should be agreed upon in order to make sure the company will succeed. The factors that affect the project also include it s limitations and challenges. They must be well addressed in order to help the company successfully meet its targets without obligatory affecting other products (Dervaes, 1998). A steep competition from the other firms in the industry must be considered. Elaborate plans to counter their influence must be adhered to in order to achieve the overall objective of the company which is to double its sales volume in the next fiscal year. There are key elements of the products that must also be addressed like the branding which will help market the new product. Its pricing structure must also be addressed well with intense marketing also done. Some of the specific exclusions that must be identified in order to be certain that the venture succeeds include excluding this particular project from the other products that have been manufactured by the company. This product should be given a lot of emphasis with its features and advantages made known to all the customers who would be as well poten tial buyers of the product. Other existing products that the firm is producing in the market should also be excluded in the general analysis of the firm performance (Mathur, 2006). There must also be proper communication channels between the two companies and strategic customers. These means that all the information regarding the product must be made available to sales representatives of both Winsome and the sister company, and they should be able to pass the same

Thursday, August 22, 2019

Muslim Night Essay Example for Free

Muslim Night Essay An event called ‘Muslim Night’ was held on Saturday, May 7, at MLIC 3rd Floor, IUJ. This annual event starting from 7 pm was initiated and implemented by Muslim Student Association (MSA). Some of students at IUJ come from Muslim countries; they are from Soth East countries : Indonesia and Malaysia; Middle East : Uzbekistan, Kyrgyzstan, Kazakhstan, Turkmenistan, and Tajikistan; South Asia : Bangladesh, Pakistan; and Africa Sudan. Those countries have a value or culture influenced by Islam. Entitled ‘Muslim heritage in our world’, the event is expected to be cross-cultural understanding and value sharing for Muslim. Muslim culture has many heritages to the world, especially some inventions that still used till today. The inventions are from many aspects such as economy, science, engineer,etc. A short opening speech was delivered by Professor Ahmed. He said that more than 3 billion people in the world hold Islam. â€Å"This contributes significant influence to enrich world culture† added he. Islamic values cannot be separated from the way of Muslim life. Islam which means submission brings peaceful to any human beings. This is reflected from Islamic greeting ‘Assalamual’aikum’ which means to give peace upon to the addressee. The President of MSA – Nur Adib Najamuddin in this occasion said that †¦Ã¢â‚¬ ¦Ã¢â‚¬ ¦Ã¢â‚¬ ¦Ã¢â‚¬ ¦Ã¢â‚¬ ¦Ã¢â‚¬ ¦ (mohon diisi ya mas, maaf waktu saya lagi moto di luar) President of IUJ, Masakatsu Mori through his email is welcome this event. However, he was absent due to his scheduled appointments in Tokyo. This event is open for all IUJ’s community. More than 250 participants student, staff, and faculty members were joining in. Much information about Islamic values and culture are available in the form of booklet and poster. Nasheed song describing Islamic culture was heard during the event. The Muslim Night 2011 provided some activities such as (1) a short movie presentation with the title â€Å"1001 Inventions and the Library of Secrets’ which tells about pioneering scientists and engineers from the history of Muslim civilization, such as Al Zahrawi, Al Jazari, and others. The film starred by Sir Ben Kinsley has won Cannes Festival France 2010 for best educational film and New York Film Festival 2010 as the best movie. (2) Islamic corner provided a free writing name in Arabic calligraphy for the participants and it was recorded that almost 200 participants wanted to be written their name in Arabic, (3) and ethnic food and drinks from various Muslim countries, such as South East Asia, Middle Asia, and South Asia.

Wednesday, August 21, 2019

How cultures use food Essay Example for Free

How cultures use food Essay 1. Outline the way different cultures use the value food? Out of the many different cultures present throughout the world, all value food in most similar ways. Most similarities can be struck between the availability of foods within their regions, specifically enviromental and seasonal ripening in the spring period. Food has become plentiful in Western civilisations over the past few decades, , due to the advances in agriculture allowing maximum growth and larger yields in the shortest amount of time (Chemgeneration 2011). This has also introduced interest into controversial genetically modified foods and the use of hybrid varieties of plants that have more desirable qualities. An example of this is Maize and certain potatoes that secrete a pesticide from the plant to ward of pests and insects, thus removing the need to use pesticides and chemicals (Chemgeneration 2011). Dr Rosalie McCauley (Development Office Department of Agriculture and Food WA, p1), obtained results that genetically modified foods haves been more increasingly used as the use of farmland increases exponentially at over 6% per year, seeing some 170.3 million hectares of GM foods being grown. In western society, there are a significant percentage of people either being overweight or obese, even Australia that has a population of approx 22 million (Australian Bureau of Statistics p1), with over 60% is considered over weight (ABS 2012, Australian Bureau of Statistics). Most overweight or obese individuals have and unhealthy relationship with food and it was theorised by Dr Carole Hungerford (Good Health in 21st Century) it can be considered ‘an addiction’. There is speculation as to why western society has such an addiction foods such as bread and milk, as we are the only species that drinks milk after weaning, especially that of another animal. Clinical studies and Medical Publications released by Dr J.L. Fortuna (PUBMED, 2010, p1) found clinical similarities for binge eating to that of drug dependences seeing a similar release of serotonin as with other drug dependencies. Though obesity is a prevalent condition around the world, numerous countries do not have the same obesity rates as western culture, some of this is likely to result in the way food is perceived by other cultures. Comparatively, in some cultures around the world, it is part of their culture to abstain from food for a short period of time. A more popularly known fasti ng is the Islamic undertaking of Ramadan where they fast during day light hours (Huda, 2009). Though in western cultures, people have a dislike to feel hungry, and can feel like they have fasted if they miss morning tea during a busy day at work. Numerous cultures throughout history have also used food as offering to their gods or deities to pray for health, or future harvests rain. Egyptian Pharaohs would be entombed with vast pots of food and spices to be used on their journey to the heavens. Some traditional practices continue even today such as the Korean Charye used to honour families ancestors, where special foods are prepared to during the Chuesoerk Ceremonies. The Chuesoerk (Korea.net, 2010) is a three day holiday to celebrate the good harvest received during the spring of that year. These cultural and religious uses for food are worldwide, and often not too distant from Christian practices of thanksgiving celebrated during the Christmas period. In conclusion, all cultures, no matter how distant or unique, have significant celebrations, events or relationships with a large role involving the use or lack of foods. The use of food to bring together communities and families is not dissimilar in almost all countries and demographics on earth; however the individuals use or overuse is not always healthy. References: 1. The Chemical Generation 2001, Viewed 14 January 2014 2. The Chemical Generation 2001, Viewed 14 January 2014 3. Dr Rosalie McCauley, Department of Agriculture and Food, WA, viewed 10 January 2014 4. ABS (2012) Australian health survey: First results, 2011–12. ABS cat. no. 4364.0.55.001. Canberra: Australian Bureau of Statistics. Viewed 14 January 2014 5. Aust Government, National Health and Medical Research Council. Viewed 10 January 2014 6. Hungerford, Dr Carole, 2008, Good health in the 21st century, Revised Edition, Scribe, Victoria. 7. Fortuna, J. Department of Health Science, CALIFORNIA STATE UNIVERSITY, viewed 10 January 2014 8. Huda, About.com, 2009. Viewed 15 January 2014 9. Korea.net, 2010, viewed 11 January 2014 2. What general concepts guide the present western diet? The current concepts of the western diet are based in the influence of proteins, carbohydrates, fats and vitamins and minerals (Whitney and Rolfes, 2013). Although we have come a long way with the introduction of multiculturalism some decades ago, for many western diet is still based around the proteins consisting of meats, predominantly red meat and chicken, carbohydrates with starchy root vegetables. This is often referred to as the ‘meat and three veg’ diet and the previous generations would have grown up with this as their diet staples as they where the majority of foods available for purchase or even grown themselves. With exception to the last 200 years, mankind has been involved in the seasonal use of foods and their diets where restricted by what was available at those times. Today there are vast changes in the way foods are produced to permit year round availability and the creation of food products that have previously been unavailable. Researchers at Bates Collage (Lewiston, ME, USA, 2013) believe that in the last 150 years since the invention of stones mills, the refining process of grain to create white flour, is now a consistent staple within the western diet. It was noted that this is a considerable source of carbohydrates and the cultures that had not encountered this food type previously began to show Heart Disease, Type 2 diabetes and stroke. These are all ailments that had been previously unseen in those areas. Additionally, the belief of receiving good value for money has become one of the most influential concepts and reasoning behind the purchase of processed food in recent times. The perception to receive the best meal, to be filling, quickly and well priced has seen the fast food chain market turn into a billion dollar industry (B.A. Swinburne, 2004). Anna Hodgekiss (U.S. daily Mail editor) explains that the over indulgence of these highly fatty foods have been  linked to short life spans and arrays of health problems. Even with the warnings and proven heath problems that arise, some families can become dependent on foods that are considered â€Å"value for money†. In conclusion, the general concepts to achieve the main food groups are relevant and understood but poorly enacted. The ease and availability of cheap fast food and highly refined products, that arrive ready to eat, are becoming preferential over the more time consuming cooking of foods from the local supermarket. References: 1. Whitney, E and Rolfes, S. Understanding Nutrition 13th Edition, 2013, Wadsworth USA 2. BATES Collage 2014, 2 Andrews Road Lewiston, ME 04240. Viewed 14 January 2014 3. Online book extract B.A. Swinburne, Public Health Nutrition, Chap 7, pp132 (p10). Viewed 14 January 2014 4. Hodgekiss, Anna, U.S. Daily Mail, viewed 14 January 2014 3. Discuss the comparative issues between man and nature? Nature is the world surrounding us, and it is the term we use to describe anything that happens which is out of our control. Such as natural disasters like cyclones, floods and drought. So considering this nature can not only be seen as a friend, but also as an enemy. Man desires to control nature by synthetic, mechanic and industrial plans. Synthetic and Natural medicines desire the same outcomes, of long life and good heath, but the methods to achieve it could not be any more different. Whether it is derived by numerous chemical processes or used in the original form it is found, nature made and manmade are vastly different especially when it comes to health and healing. Some cultures rely almost completely on nature to provide their basic needs such as water, food, shelter and even medicine. Though considered bland and not in line with the â€Å"perfect diet† (Health Schools Australia notes), the health benefits and improved health conditions are  achieved without the use of synthetic medicine, where as Western Diet, requires supplement by manmade medicines. This reliance on the local flora and fauna to provide all essentials and life improving aspects is not a new belief and is understood worldwide, but has been partially replaced by Western perception of that health can only be achieved by Pharmaceutical (Crigger NJ). The perception that health and food are separate and not interrelated because ‘man’ has created medicines that are better than those extracted from the ‘nature’ like Tibetans and non western cultures. In contrast, Western society has adopted that the scientific basis behind the synthetic production of therapeutic medicines is the only medical way to treat disease and illness. Today, it appears the practice of non synthetic medicinal applications is mostly centric to non western cultures. The â€Å"Perfect Diet’’ is deemed as a one shoe fits all remedy for the correct eating and dietary requirements for modern people. Where if we look at the diets of other cultures, such as the Hunza diet or Mediterranean Diet, where the majority of the population has a life expectancy significantly higher than that of the Western counterparts may have something to do with the foods that differ to that of the â€Å"Perfect Western Diet†(Diet Choices, 2014 and Trichopoula, A). One key reason is believed to be the Hunza population in the Himalayas consume more than 200% (Dainca Collins, 2011) of the B17 (also known as Amygdalan) than their western counter parts. This is likely due to the Hunza eating the seeds of all fruits, which is something that is often discarded within western society. Christina Larner (Body and Soul) has identified that Apricot se eds contain the largest concentrations of B17, and has been used a cancer treatment in modern times. However the same seeds are alleged to have caused Cyanidic acid when consumed to excessive quantities, but cases of cyanide toxicity are rare (Christina Larner). In conclusion, man created medicines for health and longevity are proven to be available in the natural world around us. Public perception provides the strongest reasons why man made pharmaceuticals are the main stream choice for western society, where as the isolated communities use the world around them to treat their ailments. 1.Whitney, E and Rolfes, S. Understanding Nutrition 13th Edition, 2013, Wadsworth USA 2.Crigger, N.J. 2009, PUBMED, US National Library of Medicine, viewed 14 January 2014 3.Diet Choices, 2014, Diet Choices, Las Vegas NV, USA, viewed 15 January 2014 http://dietchoices.com/diet-plans/hunza-diet/ 4.Trichopoula, A. 2000, PUBMED, US National Library of Medicine, viewed 14 January 2014 5.Dainca Collins, 2011, UNDERGROUND HEALTH REPORTER, viewed 15 January 2014 6.Larner, Christina, Body and Soul, viewed 15 January 2014 4) Diversity of foods has been a benefit to the human race? Australia’s culinary heritage has expanded greatly over the last 100 years with numerous population demographics immigrating to Australia. We have observed cultural and culinary delights flood our markets, restaurants and kitchens with sights, smells and aromas from around the world. Many years ago these would have been deemed exotic and bizarre, but are now considered almost staple additions to the average household pantry. Fifty years ago, within our Grandmothers pantry, our available food selections were significantly limited in spices and rare/exotic foods that are now considered normal place. Meat and three veg meals of starchy root vegetables and heavy protein meats where the staple of the diet during those times. It is argued (Potatoes SA) that these staples popularity on Australian kitchen tables where due to the European based settlers focusing on farming practices for this produce over the last 100 years. Pliner and Hoden (cit. Evaluation of food choice behaviours, p 20) stated it was more to do with the neophobic attitude towards foreign foods due to the â€Å"unfamiliarity of foods† that limited the adventurous mindset to the evolving culinary scene. In either case, only since World War 2 did the appearance of multicultural foods and diets start to intermix. One of the most popular entries into our diets is the highly regarded Mediterranean diet consisting of uncooked fresh whole vegetables, whole grains and some fish and seafood but minimal meat. That compared to the past diets of root based vegetables that where often boiled or baked, and argued to lose most of its natural vitamins and minerals during the cooking process, especially seen with water soluble vitamins (Better Health Channel). The high use of tomatoes within the Mediterranean diet, which contain large amounts of the antioxidant lycopene and that is believed to have anti-tumour properties to relieve cancers  particularly in the prostate and multiple-myeloma (Tonia Reinhard, p44-45). Additionally, the vibrant coloured vegetables that contain high amounts of VIT A and C such as Capsicums, Spinach, green leafy vegetables. VIT A is required for vision, the immune system and as an antioxidant. Dr Carole Hungerford (Good health in 21st century, p160) identifies that night blindness is a symptom of VIT A deficiency. Even the fats used are considered healthier with the Olives and olive oil as the principle source of fat. Tonia Reinhard states that Olive oil contains the richest source of mono unsaturated fatty acids, being 77% mono-unsaturated and 14% saturated, this is attributed as to why it helps to prevent cardiovascular disease. In conclusion, the diversity of foods that have spread across the world is bring ing the many health benefits to many. As the world continues to expand and new ideas and foods are embraced, soon the healing and healthy properties of those unique diets will improve the health and well being across the globe. 1.Potatoes South Australia, 2013, Elder House, Adelaide, SA, viewed 15 January 2014 2.Online Thesis – Roininen, Katariina, 2001, Evaluation of food choice behaviour: Development and Validation of health and taste attitude scales, visited 15 January 2014 3.Better Health Channel, July 2013, Victorian Government, viewed 15 January 2014 4.Hungerford, Dr Carole, 2008, Good health in the 21st century, Revised Edition, Scribe, Victoria. 5.Reinhard, Tonia, (2010), SUPERFOODS The Healthiest Foods on the Planet, Cove Press, NSW 5) The future of nutrition In the past and even in some places still today, nutrition has not play a conscious role in conventional medicine, as the focus has and always seems to be about treating disease not the cause. Nutrition based medicine has been labelled with a stigma as ‘alternative’ or new age and not given the same attention as the newest drug on the market. Recently have we begun to see some changes within the health care system which offers clients a  natural alternative to pharmaceuticals. This has began a movement known as Integrative Medicine (OSHER, 2012), where the approach is about taking the best from conventional and alternative medicine and combining them. This combination of practices is reinforcing the tenants of prevention rather than cure, which follows the old adage that â€Å"an ounce of prevention is better than a pound of cure†. We are already seeing this revolutionary ideal take off with the emergence of integrative clinics now established in some major citi es, and where patients even seek further information from their GP on what additional alternative treatments are available for their ailments (Mike Adams, 2005). This wider social consciousness towards natural alternatives is perhaps due to the increased marketing of nutritional supplements within media (Mike Adams, 2005). These messages are making people more curious about their health and what they can do to improve it. In addition, we are seeing nutritional products such as ‘Inner Health Plus’ a pro-biotic supplement, is sometimes prescribed to patients following a course of antibiotics. This behaviour by GP’s is demonstrating a small but important step to the medical and health organisations towards the evolution of nutritional medicine. The popularity of supplements and their advertised health benefits has propelled the sale of many nutritional products, especially Omega 3 supplements derived from fish oil or krill oil (Lisa Schofield, 2013). Omega 3 that is naturally occurring within deep ocean fish species has been proven to be beneficial for arthritis suffers, for heart health, and general wellbeing (Whitney, 2013, pg 161.). Dr Hungerford (Hungerford, 2008) tells us that until recent times, animals who do not manufacture their own omega 3 would have had to eat plants which contain omega 3’s for protection against the cold and other health benefits. However, as we domesticated animals, kept them warm in barns, and fed them the food we grew; the animals did not require as much omega 3 in order to survive. This man made change is a potential reason is why fish still remains one of the best sources of omega 3, as the majority of fish that we consume are wild. (Hungerford, 2008 pg. 6-7). In summary, the stigma of nutritional based medicine is slowly being lifted as media, mainstream medicine and health care practitioners inculcate these practices into their professions. Today, more than ever, people have access to the information and products that can be utilised to improve their health, wellbeing and  diets. As the message becomes clearer and better understood, it is likely that the stigma will be removed completely and nutritionists will be given the same renowned as the doctors and medical professionals that share the same vision for long and healthy life for all. 1.Osher Centre for Integrative Medicine, University of California, 2012, CA, USA, viewed 17 Jan 2014 2.Adams, Mike, 24 July 2005, Natural News, viewed 17 Jan 2014 3.Hungerford, Dr Carole, 2008, Good health in the 21st century, Revised Edition, Scribe, Victoria 4.Schofield, Lisa, 09 Sep 2013, Nutraceuticals World, viewed 17 January 2014 5.Whitney, E and Rolfes, S. Understanding Nutrition 13th Edition, 2013, Wadsworth USA Bibliography ABS (2012) Australian health survey: First results, 2011–12. ABS cat. no. 4364.0.55.001. Canberra: Australian Bureau of Statistics. Viewed 14 January 2014 Adams, Mike, 24 July 2005, Natural News, viewed 17 Jan 2014 Aust Government, National Health and Medical Research Council. Viewed 10 January 2014 B.A. Swinburne, Public Health Nutrition, Chap 7, pp132 (p10). Viewed 14 January 2014 BATES Collage 2014, 2 Andrews Road Lewiston, ME 04240. Viewed 14 January 2014 Better Health Channel, July 2013, Victorian Government, viewed 15 January 2014 Collins, Dainca, 2011, UNDERGROUND HEALTH REPORTER, viewed 15 January 2014 Crigger, N.J. 2009, PUBMED, US National Library of Medicine, viewed 14 January 2014 http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/19671650 Diet Choices, 2014, Diet Choices, Las Vegas NV, USA, viewed 15 January 2014 http://dietchoices.com/diet-plans/hunza-diet/ Dr Rosalie McCauley, Department of Agriculture and Food, WA, viewed 10 January 2014 Fortuna, J. Department of Health Science, CALIFORNIA STATE UNIVERSITY, viewed 10 January 2014 Hodgekiss, Anna, U.S. Daily Mail, viewed 14 January 2014 Huda, About.com, 2009. Viewed 15 January 2014 Hungerford, Dr Carole, 2008, Good health in the 21st century, Revised Edition, Scribe, Victoria Korea.net, 2010, viewed 11 January 2014 http://www.korea.net/Government/Current-Affairs/Others?affairId=168 Larner, Christina, Body and Soul, viewed 15 January 2014 Osher Centre for Integrative Medicine, University of California, 2012, CA, USA, viewed 17 Jan 2014 Potatoes South Australia, 2013, Elder House, Adelaide, SA, viewed 15 January 2014 Reinhard, Tonia, (2010), SUPERFOODS The Healthiest Foods on the Planet, Cove Press, NSW Roininen, Katariina, 2001, Evaluation of food choice behaviour: Development and Validation of health and taste attitude scales, visited 15 January 2014 Schofield, Lisa, 09 Sep 2013, Nutraceuticals World, viewed 17 January 2014 The Chemical Generation 2001, Viewed 14 January 2014 The Chemical Generation 2001, Viewed 14 January 2014 Trichopoula, A. 2000, PUBMED, US National Library of Medicine, viewed 14 January 2014 Whitney, E and Rolfes, S. Understanding Nutrition 13th Edition, 2013, Wadsworth USA

Tuesday, August 20, 2019

Gender Differences in Body Image

Gender Differences in Body Image Body Image and Gender Difference: A Study of Epic Proportions Introduction Body image is defined as â€Å"The subjective picture or mental image of one’s own body†, with a statement as broad as this it is easy to see how there are discrepancies when it comes to how one chooses to view themselves. The constant input of ideal body types from the media and outside sources bombards one’s mind and can lead to feelings of dissatisfaction and a longing for change. This study aimed to closely examine body image, gender differences, and confidence to perform physical activity in relation to students attending their first-year program at university. This correlation is important to study because it addresses topics such as body image and the role physical activity plays in the lives of individuals which can be applied to everyday life. Predicting that females will have a stronger relationship with negative body image than males is a valid expectation when it is formed on the basis that women have a biological predisposition to higher body fat percentages, along with societies idealized standard of beauty which increasingly insists on women being thin (Cash, Morrow, Hrabosky & Perry, 2004). The study Body Image, Self-Esteem, and Health-Related Behaviors Among Male and Female First-Year College Students (Lowery et al., 2005) supports this prediction. Men displayed more positive body image than women, which may be influenced by societal expectations for women being more extreme than those for men. These findings are consistent with other studies (Silberstein, Striegel-Moore, Timko, & Rodin, 1988) where despite the majority of both male and female participants selecting an ideal body that differed from their perceived figures, twice as many females had chosen an ideal figure that was two or more figures apart from thei r perceived figure.   Compared to men, women reported more body surveillance, greater body shame, a greater discrepancy between their ideal and real body figures, and more dissatisfaction with their weight and physical appearance (Lowery et al., 2005). Evidence in studies also suggests that there is a positive relationship between physical activity and body image (Alfermann & Stoll, 2000) (Campbell & Hausenblas, 2009). A six-month exercise program composed of 24 males and 24 females, compared to a control group, produced results that showed that the exercise group improved in physical self-concept significantly in comparison to the control group. Further analysis determined that the only variable that differed considerably between males and females was perceived physical fitness (Alfermann & Stoll, 2000). All other dependent variables were similar between participants of both sexes at the beginning of the study. Therefore, while both males and females increased in positive body image consistently with each other throughout the study, the difference in body image between men and women also remained consistent throughout the study. Another similar study (Sà ¡nchez-Miguel, Leo, Amado, Pulido, & Sà ¡nchez-Oliva, 2017) showed that not only did females have a more negative body image than males, regardless of the effects of physical activity, but that intrinsic motivation towards exercise was greater in males while amotivation was more prominent in females. Research suggests that this may be explained due to women’s tendency to associate body dissatisfaction with the concept of self-esteem (Furnham, Badmin & Sneade, 2002), which could potentially discourage women from exercising, while male self-esteem seemed to have no correlation with body dissatisfaction, thus had no effect on motivation to exercise. Additional research can be used to associate poor self-esteem adversely influencing women’s lower levels of motivation to exercise with the consensus that females have a more negative body image.   A relevant study showed patterns that indicated that those with a higher positive body image were more likely to engage in physical activity in comparison to those with a predominantly negative body image (Kruger, Lee, Ainsworth & Marcera, 2008). Dr. Kruger’s study, Body Size Satisfaction, and Physical Activity Levels Among Men and Women, tested the correlation between body image and physical exercise. The results of this study found that 55.8% of men and 53.3% of women with positive body image exercised regularly. Regardless of participants actual weight, those who were satisfied with their body had a higher probability of engaging in physical activity than those less satisfied. The main questions this study is looking to answer are; how satisfied are students with their bodies, are confidence to manage and perform physical activity, body mass index (BMI) or actual physical activity levels related to body-image satisfaction in this population and lastly, do men have more positive body-image satisfaction than women. It is also predicted that females will have lower body satisfaction and overall body image scores than males based off prior results from other similar studies. Methods Participants The sample for this study consisted of 112 first year students, with 73 females and 39 males. Ranging in ages from 18-24, the average age for females was 18.5 and the average age for males was 18.7, with an overall average age of 18.6 years. Measures The approach used for this study was a one-time qualitative online questionnaire filled out by the first year students enrolled in the course. The questionnaire assessed the psychological variables by using a modified version of the self-efficacy measures (Shields & Brawley, 2007) to look at confidence to manage and perform physical activity. It also uses The Adult Body Satisfaction Questionnaire based on the body-cathexis scale (Secord & Jourard, 1953) to measure body image, and The Godin Leisure-Time Exercise Questionnaire (Godin, 2011) to measure physical activity. Finally, it calculates BMI (measured by weight in kg/height in meters squared) and individual demographics such as age and sex. The results were then combined into a spreadsheet that compiled all of the given information (sex, age, height, weight, level of physical activity, years in sport, confidence levels and individual physical appearance satisfaction). This method of data collection is seen as an accessible way of composing a large set of data quickly and easily. Procedures The study conducted was cross-sectional involving first-year students completing a one-time, anonymous, online questionnaire specific to body image, confidence, physical activity, body mass index and demographics such as age and gender. The participants were asked to rank their satisfaction on a scale of 1-7 relating to specific questions. Some of the questions included; In the past 4 weeks how satisfied have you been with your overall level of physical fitness? In the past 4 weeks, how satisfied have you been with your physical ability to do what you want or need to do? In the past 4 weeks, how satisfied have you been with your overall physical appearance? The dependent variable was the students completing the online questionnaire. The independent variable was the questionnaire that was created for the study, this is because the questions did not change at any point, therefore, staying consistent throughout the study no matter whether the students completed the questionnaire or not.    Results Table 1 shows the total number of students enrolled in first-yearthat completed the survey. The table has been separated by gender as well as combined to give an overall view. Demographics such as age, height, weight, and body mass index have also been included to give background information as to who is representing the population. In general, there is an observable difference in the number of females versus males that participated in the study as can be seen in Table 1. Table 1: General Population Information Table 2 represents the male, female and overall average involvement in sport and physical activity, as well as reported confidence levels and body satisfaction. On average with regard to the population, females had a slightly lower body satisfaction score when compared to males, as well as a significantly lower reported confidence than the males. Overall females scored lower than males in each category. This data shows that students had an overall body satisfaction of 64.29%, with males averaging 73.29% and females averaging 59.57%. This shows that in the population males have a 13.72% higher body satisfaction than females and an overall more positive body image. Table 2: Physical Activity and Body Image Scores Both male and female students were represented as different populations in this study, using a two-sample equal variance T-test with a two-tail distribution the average body satisfaction of male and female students at Acadia University was calculated. The test had an alpha value of 0.05 (probability of rejecting the null hypothesis when the hypothesis is true) and a p-value of 0.0002 (the result of the T-test). The null hypothesis (Ho) should be rejected because the p-value is less than the alpha value, also represented as 0.0002 ≠¤ 0.05. The null hypothesis is that neither male or female students will have any difference in body satisfaction when compared to each other. The Pearsons correlation (represented by r) was used to calculate the strength of a relationship between two variables. Average body satisfaction and total physical activity for the entire population presented a moderate, positive, linear relationship (r= 0.22). For males, the relationship is weak, negative, linear (r= -0.1) and with females, the relationship is moderate, positive, linear (r= 0.38). Average body satisfaction and BMI overall shows a moderate, negative, linear correlation (r= -0.19), males presented a moderate, positive, linear correlation (r= 0.24) and females presented a strong, negative, linear correlation (r= -0.39). Average body image satisfaction and confidence to manage PA (physical activity) presented an overall strong, positive, linear correlation (r=0.48), males presented a weak, positive, linear correlation (r= 0.13) and females presented a strong, positive, linear correlation (r= 0.48). The correlation between body image satisfaction and confidence to perform PA (physical activity) presented an overall moderate, positive, linear correlation (r=0.3) men presented a weak, negative, linear correlation (r= -0.11) and females presented a strong, positive, linear correlation (r= 0.32). In addition, average body satisfaction and total MVPA (moderate to vigorous physical activity) presented a moderate, positive linear relationship (r= 0.38). When the population was split into male and female it showed that males have a weak, negative, linear relationship (r= 0.09) and females have a strong, positive, linear relationship (r= 0.54). Overall average body satisfaction and confidence presented a strong, positive, linear relationship (r= 0.44) when the population was split into male and female, however, the results change slightly. Males presented a weak, positive, linear relationship (r= 0.045) and females present a strong, positive, linear relationship (r= 0.46). These results indicate that the relationship between average body satisfaction and reported confidence is a much stronger correlation for females than males. Average confidence to manage PA (physical activity) and years in sport is a moderate, positive, linear relationship (r=0.37). The correlation between confidence to perform PA (physical activity) and years in sport have a moderate, positive, linear relationship (r= 0.22), with very little difference when the population was split into male and female. The correlation scale is based on r≠¤ 0.2 representing a weak correlation, 0.2 ≠¤ r >0.4 representing a moderate correlation and r >0.4 being a strong correlation. As shown in Graph 1 females tend to decrease in body satisfaction as BMI increases. Graph 1 As shown in Graph 2 males tend to increase in body satisfaction as BMI increases. Graph 2 Discussion The overall findings showed that first-year students have an overall body satisfaction of 64.29%, where males tend to score 73.29% in contrast to females who average 59.57%. This shows that in the population males have a 13.72% higher body satisfaction than females and an overall more positive body image. This supports the original hypothesis that females will have a lower body satisfaction and overall body image scores than males. When looking at the relationship between average body satisfaction and total physical activity there was a moderate positive relationship for the overall population. Looking at the men, the relationship was weak and negative and for the females, it was similar to the overall population with a moderate positive relationship. This means that for women there is a connection between how they feel about their bodies and the amount of physical activity they do in a week, the opposite can be said for men. Looking at the correlation between body satisfaction and body mass index shows that on average there is a moderate negative relationship. Meaning that the lower the BMI the higher the body satisfaction, this is especially true for females. Body image satisfaction and confidence to manage physical activity had an overall strong relationship but when the population was split up into men and women it showed that the correlation was much stronger for females than it was for males. Meaning that for women the more comfortable they are in their bodies the more comfortable they are managing physical activity. Similar to the last findings when looking at body image and confidence to perform instead of managing physical activity females had a much stronger correlation between the two variables than men did. As predicted, this study found that women tend to have more negative body image than men. These findings are consistent with several studies that also concluded that males displayed higher body satisfaction than females (Lowery et al., 2005; Alfermann & Stoll, 2000; Kruger et al., 2008). The results of this study also suggest that societal expectations for women to be thin could be a factor in why females exhibit negative body image more than men. The findings of this study show that when BMI increases, average body satisfaction decreases in females, but increases in males or is unaffected by BMI. This directly corresponds with the findings of (Lowery et al., 2005) who found the same correlations. Additionally, our results which found a lower average confidence to perform in females (72.60) than in males (86.15) coincide with those of (Alfermann & Stoll, 2000) which stated that when there were no sex differences in dependent variables, they found a significant difference in perceived physical fitness where in females were much lower than males. Another similarity between our study and the one of (Alfermann & Stoll, 2000) is that of increased body satisfaction in those who are more physically active regardless of gender. Alfermann explains, â€Å"†¦exercise intervention conditions had improved body image compared to control conditions†¦Ã¢â‚¬  (Alfermann & Stoll, 2000) which can be translated in to our study, which takes place in day-to-day life, by concluding that those who exercise more regularly would similarly resemble that of those partaking in the exercise and those who exercise less would closer resemble the control group. Due to the fact that these findings are similar to the results from other studies, it is not hard to believe these results. With that, these findings can be applied to real-world scenarios focusing on body image in general for both men and women or looking more closely at the effects (positive and negative) physical activity has on women. Due to the fact that this study was conducted on first-year students ranging from ages 18-24, it would be easy to apply these principles to others of the same age range or close to it. It would also be possible to use these findings to try and proactively educate girls about these findings at a young age. This could potentially help them learn to be more satisfied with their bodies throughout their lives, which would hopefully pass on to future generations. It is important to note that even though this study follows the trend of other similar studies there are always discrepancies, and due to the fact that this data is based solely on a one-time survey there is definitely room for error. Meaning that there is no way to draw a final conclusion, simply use this information as an additional source. A next step to build off of this study could be to add 2nd, 3rd and 4th-year students, which would expand the population giving a broader understanding of the results.   References Alfermann, D., & Stoll, O. (2000). Effects of physical exercise on self-concept and well-being.   Ã‚  Ã‚   International Journal of Sport Psychology, 31(1), 47-65 Campbell, A., & Hausenblas, H. A. (2009). Effects of Exercise Interventions on Body Image. Journal of Health Psychology, 14(6), 780-793. doi:10.1177/1359105309338977   Cash, T. F., Morrow, J. A., Hrabosky, J. I., & Perry, A. A. (2004). How Has Body Image Changed? A Cross-Sectional Investigation of College Women and Men From 1983 to    2001. Journal of Consulting and Clinical Psychology, 72(6), 10811089.doi:10.1037/0022-006x.72.6.1081 Furnham, A., Badmin, N., & Sneade, I. (2002). Body Image Dissatisfaction: Gender Differences  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚   in Eating Attitudes, Self-Esteem, and Reasons for Exercise. The Journal of Psychology,  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚   136(6), 581-596. doi:10.1080/00223980209604820   Kirkcaldy, B. D., Shephard, R. J., & Siefen, R. G. (2002). The relationship between physical   activity and self-image and problem behaviour among adolescents. Social Psychiatry and Psychiatric Epidemiology, 37(11), 544-550. doi:10.1007/s00127-002-0554-7 Kruger, J., Lee, C., Ainsworth, B. E., & Macera, C. A. (2008). Body Size Satisfaction and Physical Activity Levels Among Men and Women. Obesity, 16(8), 1976-1979. doi:10.1038/oby.2008.311 Lowery, S. E., Kurpius, S. E., Befort, C., Blanks, E. H., Sollenberger, S., Nicpon, M. F., & Huser, L. (2005). Body Image, Self-Esteem, and Health-Related Behaviors Among Male and Female First Year College Students. Journal of College Student Development, 46(6), 612 623. doi:10.1353/csd.2005.0062   Sà ¡nchez-Miguel, P. A., Leo, F. M., Amado, D., Pulido, J. J., & Sà ¡nchez-Oliva, D. (2017). Relationships Between Physical Activity Levels, Self-Identity, Body Dissatisfaction and Motivation Among Spanish High School Students. Journal of Human Kinetics, 59(1).    doi:10.1515/hukin-2017-0145   Silberstein, L. R., Striegel-Moore, R. H., Timko, C., & Rodin, J. (1988). Behavioral and psychological implications of body dissatisfaction: Do men and women differ? Sex Roles, 19(3-4), 219-232. doi:10.1007/bf00290156

Merchant & A Midsummer Nights :: English Literature Essays

Merchant & A Midsummer Nights A Product of Society? It is hard to determine whether or not Shakespearean comedy is clearly a product of Elizabethan courtly society. It can be said that the answer to that question is both yes and no. It is apparent in The Merchant of Venice that Shakespeare’s writing was strongly influenced by the society surrounding him while A Midsummer Nights Dream is much less realistic and so original that one might think he came from another time period all together. In The Merchant of Venice there are countless examples of how Shakespeare’s works were a product of society. One of the main similarities is religion. The official established state religion in Shakespeare’s time was the Church of England, lucidly Protestant. Everyone was required to attend an Anglican Service once a month. The Anglican service is also called Prayer Service, Prayer Book Service, Common Prayer, or the Lord’s Supper. Although it was not expressly illegal to be of a different religion, it was not exactly legal to practice the faith of ones choice. There were even fines for not conforming to the sanctioned religion; that is, for not going to Protestant services. (Nicoll, 76) Jewish people were quite rare in England during the Elizabethan time period and they seemed to be looked down upon the most (although it was not considered a lot better to be a Catholic). Shakespeare probably never knew a Jewish person directly, but during his time the Queen’s Jewish doctor was executed for being ‘a spy’. Also, during that time it would have been considered quite normal to force someone to convert to Christianity. Shakespeare’s Venice had the same mentality about Jewish people. Anti-Semitism was overwhelmingly abundant. Although Shylock was surely a respectable businessman, it did not seem out of the ordinary for Antonio to spit on him and call him a dog whenever it took his fancy. Shylock seems to be the only one who realizes the hypocrisy of the ‘good Christians’ and makes mention of it in his famed speech in Act III: SHYLOCK†¦ Hath not a Jew hands, organs, dimensions, senses, affections, passions; fed with the same food, hurt with the same weapons, subject to the same diseases, healed by the same means, warmed and cooled by the same winter and summer as a Christian is? If you prick us do we not bleed? If you tickle us do we not laugh?

Monday, August 19, 2019

Humorous Wedding Speech for a Sister of the Groom -- Wedding Toasts Ro

Humorous Wedding Speech for a Sister of the Groom Ladies and Gentlemen you'll be pleased to know I am only going to speak for a couple of minutes because of my throat..... if I go on too long Angie has threatened to cut it. However, before I begin, on behalf of John and Angie I would like to thank everyone who has helped to make this the special day that it is - and I think we can all agree it has been splendid so far. Well, I knew it would be difficult to follow a speech made by John and I was right .... I couldn't follow a bloomin word of it. When John asked me to be his Best woman I felt very privileged at first, but then as the big day approached I thought why did he ask me? what had I done that was so wrong? I then remembered a good definition of being asked to be the Bestman, is like being asked to make love to the Queen Mother - its a great honour, but nobody wants to do it. But even so, I still agreed to be John's Best woman and here I am today. So, before I commence to slander John's character as is traditional, I'd just like to thank him for lending me a book entitled "The Bestman's Checklist". I must confess I was mystified by some of the things I was expected to do. (1) Get the Groom to the Church sober and on time - well ladies and gentlemen I think you could all agree I have completed by first duty splendidly. (2) Bring a Chequebook for payments the groom may have forgotten - well kn... ... Example : To John and Angie, If you need some wedding tips, call 0800 and ask for hot lips... From Anonymous. Finally, on behalf of the bride and groom I would like to thank everyone for sharing their special day, it is a true millstone - sorry milestone in their lives. On behalf of myself I wish you'd all stayed at home - as things would have been a lot easier on me. I started planning this speech about 5 months ago and I expect you all feel like I've been delivering it equally as long. But now it gives me immense pleasure (not to mention relief) to invite you to all stand and raise your glasses in a toast to John and Angie. To love, laughter and happily ever after. To John and Angie CONGRATULATIONS Humorous Wedding Speech for a Sister of the Groom -- Wedding Toasts Ro Humorous Wedding Speech for a Sister of the Groom Ladies and Gentlemen you'll be pleased to know I am only going to speak for a couple of minutes because of my throat..... if I go on too long Angie has threatened to cut it. However, before I begin, on behalf of John and Angie I would like to thank everyone who has helped to make this the special day that it is - and I think we can all agree it has been splendid so far. Well, I knew it would be difficult to follow a speech made by John and I was right .... I couldn't follow a bloomin word of it. When John asked me to be his Best woman I felt very privileged at first, but then as the big day approached I thought why did he ask me? what had I done that was so wrong? I then remembered a good definition of being asked to be the Bestman, is like being asked to make love to the Queen Mother - its a great honour, but nobody wants to do it. But even so, I still agreed to be John's Best woman and here I am today. So, before I commence to slander John's character as is traditional, I'd just like to thank him for lending me a book entitled "The Bestman's Checklist". I must confess I was mystified by some of the things I was expected to do. (1) Get the Groom to the Church sober and on time - well ladies and gentlemen I think you could all agree I have completed by first duty splendidly. (2) Bring a Chequebook for payments the groom may have forgotten - well kn... ... Example : To John and Angie, If you need some wedding tips, call 0800 and ask for hot lips... From Anonymous. Finally, on behalf of the bride and groom I would like to thank everyone for sharing their special day, it is a true millstone - sorry milestone in their lives. On behalf of myself I wish you'd all stayed at home - as things would have been a lot easier on me. I started planning this speech about 5 months ago and I expect you all feel like I've been delivering it equally as long. But now it gives me immense pleasure (not to mention relief) to invite you to all stand and raise your glasses in a toast to John and Angie. To love, laughter and happily ever after. To John and Angie CONGRATULATIONS

Sunday, August 18, 2019

The Unjustified War in Iraq Essay -- Politics Political Essays

The Unjustified War in Iraq History has many times been tainted with the blood of war. Lives have been lost, homes have been destroyed, and families have been torn apart. Once again, our nation is about to witness a terror that no one can really comprehend. We are on the threshold of an unjustifiable war. The United States should refrain from war with Iraq because of the lack of concrete evidence in regards to weapons of mass destruction. Instead, they should be working towards peace. Following September 11, Bush claimed Iraq to be connected with Al Qaeda in Prague or Kurdistan (Alter 29). This was played up even though the CIA and FBI determined that "evidence is fragmentary and inconclusive and that the administration is exaggerating information to make a political case for war." (Heuvel) Later, the Bush Administration stated that Iraq possessed terrible weapons of mass destruction. Secretary of State Colin Powell was sent to the United Nations, to make the Bush administration's case for preemptive war against Iraq. His case presented several accusations but very little new information or proof that weapons of mass destruction are actually present in Iraq. "Nearly all of his evidence was largely circumstantial or speculative"(Heuvel). Not only will this war take the lives of a nation where over 50% of the population is children under the age of 15, but it will also endanger our own troops because of inexcusable negligence by our government. The pentagon was finally forced to admit, last October, that 250,000 faulty battle-dress over garments (BDO) suits have been lost among 800,000 usable BDO suits, and they are unable to determine which are the damaged suits. With the type of chemical warfare our soldie... ...st option but as a distant final option. "Let us declare peace a civil right in a democracy, and a human right in this world." (Kucinich) Works Cited Alter, Jonathan. " 'Trust Me' Isn't Good Enough." Newsweek 3 Feb. 2003: 29. Byrd, Robert. Senate Floor Speech. U.S. Senate, Washington, D.C. 12 Feb. 2003. Dickey, Christopher. "Perils of Victory." Newsweek 3 Feb. 2003: 30-32. Heuvel, Katrina Vanden. "Powell Fails to Make Case." The Nation. 6 Feb. 2003. 10 Feb. 2003 <http://www.thenation.com/doc.mhtml> Kucinich, Dennis. Peace as a Civil Right. Martin Luther King Day Celebration. Ministerial Alliance. Lakewood Presbyterian Church, Lakewood, OH. 19 Jan. 2003. Wolfe, Richard and Hirsh, Michael. "War and Consequences." Newsweek 3 Feb. 2003: 22-28. Zakaria, Fareed. "Looking on the Bright Side." Newsweek 3 Feb. 2003: 33

Saturday, August 17, 2019

ICT and society portfolio section Essay

Microsoft word Microsoft Word is a word processor program from Microsoft. It was originally written by Richard Brodie for IBM PC computers running DOS in 1983. Later versions were created for the Apple Macintosh (1984), SCO UNIN, and Microsoft Windows (1989). It became part of the Microsoft Office. Microsoft word is a software package which can be used for school work, course work, home work or personal work such as making posters or fliers. So it is extremely useful, especially if you have untidy handwriting because Microsoft word can improve your presentation not only by improving your writing but also can improve presentation by adding pictures, this can be done using a feature called clipart which allows me too insert pictures to my work. Another good point about this is that it has a feature called spell check, which is handy if you are bad at spelling because if you spelt a word wrong then it will either automatically correct it or show you a list of words to help you. The only bad point about spell check is that it doesn’t recognise every word and that sometimes it uses the American spelling of words. Other god points include the fact that if you are doing something such as an essay or coursework which requires a lot of writing because you can easily change your w ords if you make a mistake whereas if you were writing it out by hand then you would have to rewrite everything from the beginning. Microsoft Excel Excel 2003 enables you to turn data into information with powerful tools to analyze, communicate, and share results. Excel 2003 can help you work better in teams, and help protect and control access to your work. In addition, you can work with industry-standard Extensible Mark-up Language (NML) data to make it easier to connect to business processes. Just like Microsoft word, excel is a software package which can be used for school work, course work, home work or personal work. Mostly excel is used in business’ in order to keep track of financial status and to record data required to run a business. The good points about Microsoft excel is that you can use features such as auto sum which allows you to quickly and easily count up numbers, another feature is the graph function which allows you to create graphs easily, the graphs make the figures easier to understand and improves presentation. Microsoft access Microsoft Access is a relational database management system from Microsoft, packaged with Microsoft Office Professional. Microsoft Access can use data stored in Access/Jet, Microsoft SQL Server, Oracle, or any ODBC-compliant data container. Skilled software developers and data architects use it to develop powerful, complen application software. Relatively unskilled programmers and non-programmer â€Å"power users† can use it to build simple applications without having to deal with features they don’t understand. Microsoft Access was also the name of a communications program from Microsoft, meant to compete with ProComm and other programs. This Microsoft Access proved a failure and was dropped. Years later Microsoft reused the name for its database software. Microsoft access is normally used in areas such as hospitals in order to keep a record of all the patients. Another area where databases are used is in buissness’ in order to keep track of financial staus and contacts. Microsoft PowerPoint Microsoft publisher Microsoft Publisher is a desktop publishing application from Microsoft. This program helps you easily create, customize, and publish materials such as newsletters, brochures, flyers, catalogs, and Web sites. It is very neat and tidy and improves presentation. People who work in the advertising industry might find publisher very useful because it is very quick and easy to use.

Friday, August 16, 2019

Organizational Culture Essay

It is extensively acknowledge that organizational culture plays an increasingly essential role in a successful company. However, in the meanwhile whether organizational culture should be changed constitutes a controversial issue. Many managers assert that organizational culture must be changed while few others argue that organizational culture needs not to be changed. As far as I am concerned, I am in favor of the former view. In this essay, firstly, I will talk about what is organizational culture and what do organizational cultures do. In the second place, I will discuss why organizational culture should be changed. Thirdly, I will analyze the risks of organizational culture change. Finally, I will expatiate how to prevent risks of organizational culture change. What is organizational culture? A number of years back, I watched an American reality television The Apprentice, and I remember a player was asked what he thought organizational culture mean by Doanld Trump. He said: â€Å"I can’t express it, however,I get it when I see it. † Most people cannot define organizational culture accurately by concise word. However there seems to be widely recognized that organizational culture indicates a system of shared meaning held by members that distinguishes the organization from other organizations. (Becker, 1982, pp. 513-27; and Schein 1985 p. 168) This shared system meaning is, on further investigation, a series of important features that the organization values. The investigation advises that there are seven main features that, gather up the threads, constitute the essence of an organizational culture. (Reilly III, Chatman, Jehn, 1991, pp. 487-516; and Chatman, Jehn, 1994, pp. 522-553; Ashkanasy, Wilderom, Peterson, 2000) 1. Innovation and adventure: the extent to which employees are encouraged to be make innovations and adventure. 2. Detail oriented: the extent to which employees are anticipated to exhibit meticulous, analysis and detail oriented. 3. Attention to outcome: the extent to which management attach importance to results or outcomes rather than on the skills and processes used to achieve those outcomes. Attention to people: the extent to which management decision take into regard the influence of results on people within the organization. 5. Attention to team: the extent to which job activities are organized around teams rather than individuals. . Aggressiveness: the extent to which people are aggressive and competitive rather than easygoing 7. Stability: the extent to which organizational activities stress keeping the status quo by comparison to growth and development. There is no denying that organizational culture is just a descriptive concept, because of organizational culture is paid attention to how employees perceive the features of their organization’s culture, not with whether or not they like it. Furthermore, it is obvious that a company cannot have only one organizational culture. As we know, there are many employees who have different background or at different levels in a company, so they must have different perspective with organizational culture. In the mean time, there are two different cultures in one company, dominant culture and subculture. Dominant culture describes the core values that are shared by a most of the employees, when we talk about an organizational culture, we are referring to its dominant culture; In general, subculture develop in a big company to reflex conjunct problems, situations or experiences that staff meet. What do cultures do? Culture has a variety of functions in an organization. First, it creates distinctions between one organization and others. Second, it expresses a sense of identity for employees. Third, it precipitates employees not only care one’s individual self-interest, but also care whole organizational interest. Fourth, it improves the stability of the organization. Finally, culture serves as a sense- making and control mechanism that guides and shapes the attitudes and behavior of employees. (Reilly, Chatman, Staw, Cummings, 1996). Why organizational culture should be changed? Compelling arguments can be made that organizational culture should be changed, immediately. The first point with respect to this is that our society is advancing at an amazing speed in this day and age, more and more organizations face a dynamic and changing environment. As a consequence, all organizations must adapt to the changeable society. ‘Change or die! ’ is the rallying cry among today’s manager worldwide. In the second place, with the development of technology and science, the sense of distance between people getting closer, our world became a multicultural environment. Therefore, many companies have to do adjustment to adapt environment. More precisely, many companies must spend large amount of money and much energy on training to improve skills of employees. Last but not least, in this world, competition is a part of our lives, never disappear. Especially in the business society, the weaks are the prey of the strongs, increasing competition makes it inevitable for builded organizations to defend themselves against both traditional competitors who develop new products and services, and small entrepreneurial firms with innovative offerings. This makes sense in that a good organization will be the ones that can change according to the competition. They followed the steps of the times, able to develop new products quickly and put them on the market. They accelerate production operations, shortened product cycle and constantly produce new products that can adapt to radically-changing environment. The risks of organizational culture On the other hand, colorable arguments can be made that organizational culture should not to be changed. This argument has considerable merit in that every little change can bring huge risks, especially for a business organization. For example, a change is scheduled and employees as soon as possible respond by voicing complaints, demotivation, even threatening go on strike and so on. In general, risk can be divided two big parts, individual risks and organizational risks. Individual sources of risk belong to primary human characteristics such as consciousness, characteristics and requirements. There are five different risks in individual resources. Custom (Habit): Do you go to school or work always through same route every day? Most people’s answer: â€Å"Yes! † Our lives are so complicated, we have to make hundreds of decisions. Therefore, face to life’s complexities, we lean upon habits or programmed responses. However, when faced with change, this tendency to respond in our usual ways becomes a source of risk. For instance, when your department moves to another new building, it means you have to change your habits: get up earlier ten minutes; pass a new street go to work; look for a new parking; adapt to new office’s overall arrangement and so on. . Security: People with a high need for security are likely to resist change because it threatens their feelings of safety. For example, when Sony&Ericsson announced to lay off 17000 employees or Ford will introduce new robots, these employees feel their job unsafe. 3. Economic: Changes in work tasks or job specification can lead to economic fears if people are cared that they would not be able to adapt to new tasks or standards, especially when reward is closely related to productivity. 4. Fear of the unknown: Change replaces vagueness and indetermination for the unknown. When we graduated from high school ready enter university was a wonderful example. In high school, we understood that what things need to do, you maybe dislike high school life, but at least, you know this system. We faced a fresh and uncertainty system in university, you have to sacrifice your know to exchange unknown, it was associated with uncertainty fears. 5. Selective information processing: Individuals are sinful of selective processing information in the cause of maintain their whole consciousness. They hear what they want to hear and they ignore information that challenges the world they have created. Organization is conservative for its essentially, it resist change energetically. (Hall, 1987) This phenomenon can be seen everywhere, for example, governmental agencies want to continue devote oneself to their work, no matter what the market need to change; The organized religion has ineradicable history, changing religious doctrine need great perseverance and patience; Many business companies also think change can bring many risks. There are six organizational sources of risk. (Katz, Kahn, 1978) 1. Structural inertia: Organizations keep their stability by inner mechanism, like their selection processes that choose employees in or out very systematically; Training and other socialize technology strengthen requests and skills for every concrete role; Organizational normalization provides job specifications, rules and regulations to employees. After selection, the satisfactory employees can enter organization, then, organization will model and guide their behaviors by kind of way. When an organization is meted with change, this structural inertia act as risk (even counterbalance) to maintain stability. 2. Limited Change attention: Organizations are made up of a quantity of interdependent subsystems. One cannot be changed without influencing the others. More exactly, in the meantime, organizations just change technological process, and not change organizational structure for match it, so technological change cannot adapt to. It seems that limited change in subsystems tend to be nullified by the lager system. 3. Group inertness: Even though individuals want to change their behavior, group criterion may act as a force of constraint. For instance, an unionist maybe accept job change from capital, but if union regulation provide that resist any change by capital unilaterally change, therefore risk will appear. 4. Threat to professional knowledge: Changes in organizational model may threaten the expertise of specialized groups. In 1980s, the process of adopting distributed personal computer was a good example. This computer can let user direct got information from host computer of company, but it encountered many information departments’ counterview. Why, because the use distributed computers can bring risks for special technology of information departments. 5. Threat to established power relationships: Any reapportionment of decision-making power can threaten long-established power relationships within organization. Participative decision and self-management work team are belong to this change, it used to be threaten by low-level managers. 6. Threat to established resource distributions: Groups in the organization that control considerable resources see change as a risk. They tend to be gratify with the way things are. For instance, whether change means their budget or members decreasing? Those groups which can get much benefit from existing resource allocations used to be threaten by future allocations. How to prevent risks of organizational culture change? Although Organizational change brings many risks, in some ways, this is positive. It regulates a degree of stability and predictability to behavior. If there were not some risks, organizational behavior would take on the representatives of chaotic randomness. According to these risks, there were six tactics have been suggested for use by change planners in dealing with preventing risks. (Kotter, Schlesinger, 1979) 1. Education and Communication: Risk can be reduced through communicating with employees to help them understand the logic of a change. The fundamental assumption of this strategy is the reason of producing risks that fights the effects of misinformation and miscommunication; if employees see all facts and eliminate entire misread, risks should disappear. Our communication could through talk personally, group discussion, memorandum, report and so on. Indeed, research shows that the way the need for change is sold matters-change is more likely when the necessity of changing is packaged properly. (Dutton, Ashford, O’Neill, Lawrence, 2001) By the way, when the risk of change definitely from miscommunication and labor relations character by mutual trust, this tactic does work; if these conditions cannot be have, it does not work. 2. Participation: It is difficult for individuals to hit back a change decision in which they participated. Before changing, those opposed can be brought into the decision process. Presuming that the participants have the professional knowledge to make a meaningful contribution, their participation can reduce risk, obtain promise, and improve the quality of change decision. However, this tactic has two disadvantages. First, it maybe has potential poor decision; second, it would take much time. 3. Support and Promotion: Change planners can provide a range of supportive measures to reduce risk. When employees feel fear and worried, the company should offer recommendation and counseling psychology, new-technologies training or a short paid leave of holiday may promote adjustment. Research on middle managers has shown that when managers or employees have low emotional commitment to change, they favor the status quo and resist it. (Huy, 2002, pp. 31-69) 4. Negotiation: Another way for the change planner to cope with potential risk to change is to exchange something valuable for waken risk. For example, if the risk is concentrated in some powerful individuals, a detailed payment scheme can be negotiated that will satisfy their individual needs. Negotiation as a tactic may be necessary when risk comes from a powerful provenience. But, planner cannot ignore its potentially high costs. On the side, if change planner negotiates with one party to avoid risk, he or she is open to the possibility of being extorted by other individuals which have power. 5. Control and Cooptation: Manipulation deal with concealed influence attempts. Some illustration of this are twisting and misinterpretation facts to make them more attractive, blocking undesirable information, and creating rumors to get employees to accept change. If managers threatens to closed down a extraordinary manufacturing plant if that plant’s employees do not accept an across-the-board pay cut, and if the threat is actually untrue, managers is using manipulation. Cooptation, on the other side, is a mode of both manipulation and participation. It try to find ‘buy off’ the leaders of against group by giving them an important role in the change decision. The leader’s suggestion is explored, not to seek a good decision, but to get their authorization. Both manipulation and cooptation are comparatively low-cost and easy ways to enhance the support of opponents, but the tactics can backfire if the targets become conscious that they are being tricked or used. If by any chance detected, the change planner’s reputation may drop to zero. It used by change planners in dealing with opponents to change; that is, the application of direct thrusts or force on the opponents. The color is quite mandatory, if the company management indicated to in the previous discussion really is determined to shut down if employees do not agree with a pay cut. Other examples of coercion are threats of transfer, loss of promotions, negative performance appraisal and so on. The advantages and disadvantages coercion are similar to the benefits and drawbacks of manipulation and cooptation. For my part, after considering the arguments above, I would concede that organizational change can bring many risk, the members of conservative not support change. Nevertheless, despite that I think the organizations should be changed, every day is different, anything would be changed as time goes on. Overall, I am convinced that with development of society, managers will discover many effective change plans to adapt to market competition.