Management for a Small Planet Essay Example | Topics and Well Written Essays - 2000 words - 1

Management for a Small Planet - Essay Example Common Humanitarian Fund was providing humanitarian services to Congolese affected by the war in the year 2013 (Cengage, 2014). A peculiar parasite found in the water destroyed the corneas of eleven people, who consequently went blind. An organizational agency, Doctors Without Borders, has volunteered to deploy four doctors to aid in the process of transplanting corneas (Cengage, 2014). The corneas are scarce in Africa. Recently, the director of Doctors Without Borders called the Common Humanitarian Fund and informed that the UK Aid agency is willing to exchange fifteen corneas for a truck and ten cases of medical supplies. The directors of the Common Humanitarian Fund is concerned with the origin of the corneas; credible sources reveal that a wealthy Hong Kong tradesman bought them from an urgency who buys body parts for transplant from executed prisoners. According to the director of Doctors Without Borders, there is no problem using the corneas. However, the director of the Common Humanitarian Fund is not comfortable with the source of the corneas (Cengage, 2014). Common Humanitarian Fund has a few days to decide whether they are willing to accept the corneas or else Doctors Without Borders forwards them to someone else. Utilitarianism theories require decisions to do the greatest good for the greatest number of people. The theory of utilitarianism is founded on the premise that moral decisions consider the consequences of the choices (Crane & Matten, 2010). It is critical for decision-makers to consider the possible results of their choices when determining appropriate courses of action. According to Jeremy Bethany and John Stuart Mill, the best decisions do the greatest good for the masses. Thus, the theory of utilitarianism requires decision makers to select alternative courses of action that guarantee the greatest happiness for the greatest number of people.

Sir Gawains Green Knight Character Analysis Essay Example for Free

Sir Gawains Green Knight Character Analysis Essay Why did the author of Sir Gawain and the Green Knight include a character with a bizarre complexion and magical abilities? Why do most people do weird things? Unfortunately, there is no obvious reason for the latter; however, there are quite a few explanations for the former. â€Å"The Pearl Poet,† as the unknown author is referred, wrote the poem around the late 1300s in England—a time and place in history in which knights, kings, and castles were not just parts of fairy-tales. One of the most important aspects of English society in the late 1300s was chivalry, or the ideal traits of a knight, which included courtesy, generosity, and romance. From the poet’s advanced literary techniques, many scholars consider him to be an educated man who had a purpose in creating such a peculiar character. Bertilak de Hautdesert, or the Green Knight, is a major character in the story for he serves as the antagonist to Sir Gawain. His set of circumanstances when deciding the challenges present the protagonist of the story with the main difficulties throughout the poem. Although he has multiple personalities throughout the poem (not only is Bertilak this fabled knight with abilities people can only dream that they have, but also The Host of the castle that Gawain stays at until the time comes to meet his own doom), which makes him a round character. The Green Knight is also definitely a static foil to Gawain. His entire character does not change throughout the poem—he has almost complete control of the events—and presents a contrast for the protagonist of the story. Although Gawain appears to be seen as possessing civilized characteristics, it is actually the antagonist of the story that possesses these traits. The Green Knight is not just a character with magical abilities, for he represents some of the most coveted human qualities—a friendly, well-rehearsed response to almost every situation and a strong desire to maintain the chivalric duties of society. From the start of the story, it is clear that the Green Knight possesses quite a few superhuman qualities. His description presents him as the toughest knight in existence. â€Å"Lightning like he seemed /And swift to strike and stun /His dreadful blows, men deemed, /Once dealt, meant death were done.† He is strong enough to carry a â€Å"helmet-smasher† with a four-foot long axe blade. Everything about his description in the beginning points to him being this freak of nature. His green hue, his green hair, the Green Chapel, and even his green horse represent the natural world. Like a tree being able to grow the same limb multiple times, Bertilak claims the ability to regenerate body parts. As Gawain is pretty confident that he has dealt with this mysterious force by striking off its head, the Green Knight, while bleeding from the deathly blow, picks up his own head and tells Gawain to meet him in a year for an equal strike. These magical characteristics set the stage for what seems to be the most formidable foe to the protagonist. As the antagonist to Gawain, readers should be terrified and repelled by the Green Knight, but many people are drawn to this mysterious stranger. For what reasons does Bertilak draw the attention of readers? Is it the same reason that many people are drawn to Iago from William Shakespeare’s Othello and to the Joker from The Batman Comics, or is there another reason than being pure evil, which he is not, that the antagonist of this story is so popular? There seems to be no stimulus that can anger the Green Knight. It seems he is unaccustomed to any negative feelings such as hatred or revenge. His emptiness of irrittability is seen throughout the poem. In the context of the time period, lordship and chivalry were important aspects of the cultural norm. As a member of the court of Arthur, the king’s nephew, Gawain, is committed to following Arthur. When Gawain enters The Host’s house, he is expected to be loyal and obedient to his temporary lord. Gawain receives kisses from this man’s wife. The Green Knight (The Host of the castle) is either unphased by this betrayal or very good at hiding his emotions as seen by the following quote: I pretended one stroke, a threat, a joke, /But left you whole; I had the right, /Because of our other agreement, in my castle; /You kept it faithfully, performed like an honest /Man, gave me everything you got. /Except that you kissed my wife: I swung /For that reason but you gave me back her kisses. /So all you got, for that, was a puff /Of air. /An honest man /Need never fear. No man would consider another an honest man when secretly kissing his wife, and not many people would do well when put in a situation like the one Bertilak is in during the poem. This is just one example of the Green Knight’s will to respond well to any kind of stimulus in the environment. The stealing of the girdle by Gawain presents the character foil of Sir Gawain as none other than Bertilak when he does not act violently as a result of Gawain’s non-chivalric behavior. Using magic would have been cheating, and cheating was strongly prohibited in the rules of chivalry. Chivalry—readers hear of this word every day when discussing Medieval Europe—had a strong influence on knighthood in the society in which the Pearl Poet lived. In the poem, Sir Gawain is supposed to represent this perfect knight, but his foil comes up the victor in almost every test of chivalry that Gawain is put in by the Green Knight. The Green Knight maintains his chivalric duties to society in almost every situation in the story. He might be a superhuman freak of nature who mysteriously appears at just the right time to King Arthur’s response for a marvelous story by someone in his court and demands for someone to play a game, but he does all of this in a well-behaved manner that seems to represent the most virtuous knight. As The Host, he is also seen as a respectable, noble man who clearly fits the definition of a civilized man. The most important aspect of all his characteristics is the fact that he is this immortal creature that determines the rules, yet he abides by the rules even when his foil tries to cheat and manipulate the circumstances so that he can win. It is this noble distinction that clearly sets the fine line between artificial knighthood seen in Sir Gawain and the real deal seen in the personality of Bertilak de Hautdesert. As is shown in Sir Gawain and the Green Knight, misconceptions of reality can pose a threat to the naked eye’s perspective. Gawain definitely is not a chivalric knight: he steals kisses from a lord’s wife, he cheats when attempting to use the â€Å"magical† girdle, and he succumbs to his instinctual fear of mortality when put in the events of the poem. The Green Knight, on the other hand, represents not only the divine traits of nature but also the true representation of what a knight should be: his well-mannered response to stimulus and his duty to maintain the code of chivalry. Readers should take some time to examine the situation at a microscopic level. Even though he is an immortal force of nature that can design his own circumstances, he abides by the rules set fourth by himself and by society, which is why people are so attracted to him.

Moral Philosophy of Global Peace Essay -- Philosophy Philosophical Pap

Moral Philosophy of Global Peace ABSTRACT: Global Peace is the summum bonum, so we must know its negative as well as positive meanings. Simultaneously peace must be understood in all its interrelated but theoretically differentiated dimensions as personal, social, national, international and global. Today, humankind is suffering from multidimensional crises such as terrorism, population-explosion, denial of human rights, economic inequality, racial discrimination, ideological extremism, religious intolerance, social injustice, ecological imbalance, consumerism, oppression of weak, etc. These peace-related issues compel us to lay down the fundamental principles of a radical global ethics that expects us to realize our roles and duties regarding global peace. It includes the role and ideals of educationalists, the duties of scientists, philosophers, and thinkers, the inculcation of human values such as nonviolence, love, etc. "Since wars begin in the minds of men, it is in the minds of men that the defences of peace must be constructed" -Preamble to the Constitution of UNESCO Global peace is the supreme ideal, or the Summum Bonum, so in order to know the exact meaning and real nature of peace as-well-as the ways to realise it, first of all, we have to rectify the prevailing tendency to think of peace only in negative terms as absence of bilateral war, since it encourages the pacifism, which does nothing, but denounce such war, while global overview confirms the presence of ethnic and civil war etc. Accordingly the negative definition of peace should also include the elimination of such wars. Sometimes peace as "Opposite of Violence" , as is done by Daisaku Ikeda. (1) Of course peace will be achieved by removing all k... ...r, Peace Research Center, Gujrat Vidyapeeth Ahemedabad). (5) British Writer Arthor Koestler being his works "Janus" with these lines. (6) Gorbachev, M. Perestroika, PP 225-266 (Chapter 7). (7) Jonas, Hans. , The Imperative of Responsibilitive, P.7. (8) Philosophy Today, spring, 1988, Vol.32, No.1/4 P. 77. (9) Soka Gakkai News, Vol. 18, No. 286, March 1993 P.7. (10) Murty, K.S., The Quest for Peace, P. 214. (11) In his book "Reconstruction of Humanity ". (12) Acharangasutra (a Jain Treatise). (13) Dammapad 3.5 - Never in thise world is hate appeased by hatred. It is only appeared by love. This is an eternal law. (14) Mac Bride Report, Many Voices, One World, UNESCO, 1980. (15) Dimensions of Peace and Non-violence: The Gandhian Perspective P. 22. (16) The Moral Law, P. 90. (17) The quest for peace, P. 196. (18) Rgvedic Prayer.

Messages from Hip-Hop Artists Essay -- Music Essays

Messages from Hip-Hop Artists Hip-Hop has come a long way in our generation. From time to time an artist or a video gives a positive or negative message to our viewers. There have been many controversial issues that focus’s on what the rapper is trying to put out. Some people may look at the same song or video, but have a different opinion on it. Artists have different outlooks on things in there life such as the rapper Nas. He has a new song titled â€Å"I Know I can†. This song gives a positive message to all viewers, and more importantly the kids. His message is that he encourages kids to grow up and be anything they set their minds on. For example, the chorus â€Å"I know I can, be what I wanna be, if I work hard at it, I’ll be where I wanna be† (ohhla). Artists like him that makes people want to think positive and feel good about what they want to do. On the other hand, there are artists that give negative messages such as the rapper 50 cent. He is a new artist that hit the billboards. His outlook on life is different from others. In his lyrics, he raps about guns, ki... Messages from Hip-Hop Artists Essay -- Music Essays Messages from Hip-Hop Artists Hip-Hop has come a long way in our generation. From time to time an artist or a video gives a positive or negative message to our viewers. There have been many controversial issues that focus’s on what the rapper is trying to put out. Some people may look at the same song or video, but have a different opinion on it. Artists have different outlooks on things in there life such as the rapper Nas. He has a new song titled â€Å"I Know I can†. This song gives a positive message to all viewers, and more importantly the kids. His message is that he encourages kids to grow up and be anything they set their minds on. For example, the chorus â€Å"I know I can, be what I wanna be, if I work hard at it, I’ll be where I wanna be† (ohhla). Artists like him that makes people want to think positive and feel good about what they want to do. On the other hand, there are artists that give negative messages such as the rapper 50 cent. He is a new artist that hit the billboards. His outlook on life is different from others. In his lyrics, he raps about guns, ki...

Improving English Teaching Essay

An importance of English language cannot be denied by anyone as English language is considered as an international language. It also affects people worldwide in many aspects such as education, trading, medicine and technology. According to, Thailand does not use English as an official language, so most of Thai people have to study English from their school since they were young. Even though, we have been studying English for a long time, the skill of English is not satisfied as much as it is. As we have known that Thailand is going to be a part of Asean Economic Community (AEC), the procedure of Thai education in teaching English should be changed to be more efficiently for Thai students. In addition, to be successful in English language including writing, reading, listening and speaking for Thai people depends on the way of teaching English in Thai education system. Improving English teachers in Thailand is an important way to improve English skill. The English teachers have to be good in teaching not only having a bachelor degree but cannot impart any useful knowledge to their students. Moreover, the primary school is the most important period for the students. If the teachers are not good enough in teaching English which can affect to their quality of teaching, the Thai education will fail as a whole. Besides, the teachers have to motivate the students to have a positive attitude towards English language too. The reason why the students and also the general population do not want to speak or even use English language are because they are scared of using English language and they are afraid that they will make a mistake and the native English speaker will ridicule at them, in this case the teacher is the key to change the students’ attitude. Furthermore, Thai education system should alter the system of teaching and style of studying. Since we were young, we have been taught only about grammar and vocabulary but the weakest point of Thai students is that they are not confident to ask any questions or share their ideas not just sitting and listening their teachers without any critical thinking because of the old-fashioned system in Thailand. Most of elderly are concentrated on the principle as well but they do not concern that the students can apply the knowledge in their daily routine or not. If the teachers can change their teaching, the quality of studying English in Thailand will increase definitely. Another point of improving teaching English is that most of Thai schools at the present like to employ a foreign teacher, but the most important part is that the teacher should have a qualified language teacher or at least a bachelor degree and a teaching license not only being a native English speaker. Additionally, Thai school should employ more English native speaker because many Thai teachers does not speak English well enough and also have limited English knowledge to teach the students. The foreign teachers can be a good motivation for Thai students as when we study with the foreign teachers, we have to be an active student to share our ideas or experiences to the teachers which is quite different from Thai teachers. To conclude, this is very clearly that English language is playing a major role in the process of globalization. Therefore, to improve the teaching English in Thai education system, both the English teachers and Thai students should cooperate with each other. If Thai people can have the ability and quality of using English language, the other countries will not look down at Thai people certainly.

Free Essays on Revolución Francesa

à ndice 1. Introduccià ³n ................................................................3pg. 2. Contenido ...................................................................5pg 3. Conclusià ³n .................................................................27pg. 4. Bibliografà ­a .................................................................28pg 5. Anexos ........................................................................30pg. Introduccià ³n En la historia del mundo contemporneo, la revolucià ³n francesa significà ³ el trnsito de la sociedad estamental, heredera del feudalismo, a la sociedad capitalista, basada en una economà ­a de mercado. La burguesà ­a, consciente de su papel preponderante en la vida econà ³mica, desplazà ³ del poder a la aristocracia y a la monarquà ­a absoluta. Los revolucionarios franceses no sà ³lo crearon un nuevo modelo de sociedad y estado, sino que difundieron un nuevo modo de pensar por la mayor parte del mundo. El final del siglo XVIII fue una à ©poca de trastornos en muchas partes de hemisferio occidental, trastornos que se pueden atribuir, directa o indirectamente, al fermento de las ideas conocidas como la Ilustracià ³n. Estas ideas, reflejo de las necesidades y tensiones de una sociedad cambiante se basan en el nuevo conocimiento cientà ­fico del siglo XVII, que engendrà ³ una nueva fe en la razà ³n y en el progreso. por un lado, esto llevà ³ a un rechazo de la autoridad y a una afirmacià ³n de los Derechos del Hombre, expresados en la famosa declaracià ³n de Rousseau de que el hombre nace libre, pero en todas partes est encadenado. Por otro lado, las nuevas ideas fueron una inspiracià ³n para los monarcas, que al ternar el siglo XVII, empezaron a concentrar el poder en sus propias manos y a gobernar mediante agentes burocrticos nombrados por ellos. Sin embargo, estas actividades centralizadoras encontraron resistencia en todos aquellos que tenà ­an intereses creados en el Ant iguo rï ¿ ½... Free Essays on Revolucià ³n Francesa Free Essays on Revolucià ³n Francesa à ndice 1. Introduccià ³n ................................................................3pg. 2. Contenido ...................................................................5pg 3. Conclusià ³n .................................................................27pg. 4. Bibliografà ­a .................................................................28pg 5. Anexos ........................................................................30pg. Introduccià ³n En la historia del mundo contemporneo, la revolucià ³n francesa significà ³ el trnsito de la sociedad estamental, heredera del feudalismo, a la sociedad capitalista, basada en una economà ­a de mercado. La burguesà ­a, consciente de su papel preponderante en la vida econà ³mica, desplazà ³ del poder a la aristocracia y a la monarquà ­a absoluta. Los revolucionarios franceses no sà ³lo crearon un nuevo modelo de sociedad y estado, sino que difundieron un nuevo modo de pensar por la mayor parte del mundo. El final del siglo XVIII fue una à ©poca de trastornos en muchas partes de hemisferio occidental, trastornos que se pueden atribuir, directa o indirectamente, al fermento de las ideas conocidas como la Ilustracià ³n. Estas ideas, reflejo de las necesidades y tensiones de una sociedad cambiante se basan en el nuevo conocimiento cientà ­fico del siglo XVII, que engendrà ³ una nueva fe en la razà ³n y en el progreso. por un lado, esto llevà ³ a un rechazo de la autoridad y a una afirmacià ³n de los Derechos del Hombre, expresados en la famosa declaracià ³n de Rousseau de que el hombre nace libre, pero en todas partes est encadenado. Por otro lado, las nuevas ideas fueron una inspiracià ³n para los monarcas, que al ternar el siglo XVII, empezaron a concentrar el poder en sus propias manos y a gobernar mediante agentes burocrticos nombrados por ellos. Sin embargo, estas actividades centralizadoras encontraron resistencia en todos aquellos que tenà ­an intereses creados en el Ant iguo rï ¿ ½...

Psychopharmacology Essay Sample

Psychopharmacology Essay Sample Psychopharmacology and the Effects of Discontinuance Essay Example Psychopharmacology and the Effects of Discontinuance Essay Example Psychiatric medications have been used to control mental disorders for a long time. Their use has been based on little pharmacological understanding of their mode of action in the patients. However, the medication has played a critical role in restoring normalcy in the patient’s mental state of mind. Some medication has impacted negatively on the patient’s health, especially after discontinuation. As a result, there has been an increased need for the caregivers in the psychiatric department to understand the pharmacological impact of the drugs and a wide range of side effect after withdrawal. Most patient use psychiatric medication because of the intense mental, psychological or emotional stress. However, although mental medication normally modifies the patient’s attitude just like any other psychoactive substances, it is essential to understand that such medication does not alter the underlying cause of emotional discomfort. There is a wide range of effects related to the discontinuation of psychiatric medications which includes somatic withdrawal syndrome, a condition that is often mistaken for a relapse. Besides, rapid onset psychotic response after drug withdrawal is common, especially for both neuroleptic drugs and clozapine. However, such outcomes are usual since much research on the medication is flawed. Moreover, there is the fact that current psychiatric conditions are iatrogenic. From the research, it evident that more analysis and investigation on psychiatric medication is essential in order to ensure adverse effects of drug discontinuation does not outweigh the benefits. Understanding Psychopharmacology Clear understanding of the drug pharmacology and its mechanism of action plays a critical role in explaining not only the therapeutic impact and side effects, but also the adverse effects when the medicine is discontinued (Wenzel, 2014). Therefore, a broad review and analysis of the potential consequences connected with the discontinuation of the numerous psychotropic medications is essential. Nowadays, commonly used antidepressants have low instances of side effects when compared to previously used ones. However, some less serious and potentially harmful side effects are associated with a range of new antidepressants prevalent in the market today in an attempt to argument the efficacy (Goldberg Ernst, 2012). Therefore, primary caregivers engaged in the modern psychiatry in the field of psychopharmacologic treatment of depression are required to be aware of the wide range of both minor and serious side effects. The paper largely focuses on psychopharmacology and the effects of disco ntinuing psychotropic medication. Most individuals start taking psychiatric medications due to an extreme sense of distress. The patient is either experiencing overwhelming states of emotional or psychological distress or a combination of both conditions. However, different labels are used for such states such as depression, anxiety, paranoia, psychosis, and mania among others and the labeling changes over time (Goldberg Ernst, 2012). In most instances, the physician informs the patients that their emotional discomfort is a result of mental disorders that have biochemical basis. Moreover,their distress is dangerous and needs to be controlled with the help of psychiatric drugs treatment. Mental medication normally effects the brain and modifies the attitude and awareness just like any other psychoactive substance (Sinacola Peters-Strickland, 2012). However, most medications can blunt or control the symptoms of the emotional discomfort by relaxing an individual, shocking the sensitivity, or making patients sleep. The y usually enable people to feel capable of living their lives more comfortably (Goldberg Ernst, 2012). Nonetheless, it is crucial to understand that psychiatric medication does not alter the underlying causes of the emotional distress or discomfort. It is often understood as the tool for coping mechanism that alleviates symptoms and paves the way for the transformation, but with significant risks for anyone who consumes the medication. Just like any other altering substances, psychiatric drugs are psychoactive and adjust the mind behavior through influencing the brain chemistry. Their importance and risks usually result from shifting the brain and altering the consciousness, including the placebo and expectation. In the current medical practice, psychiatric drugs shift the levels of chemicals known as neurotransmitters (Sinacola Peters-Strickland, 2012). Such chemicals are linked with the mental and mood functioning, and all the cells in the nervous systems, including the brain cells, utilize the neurotransmitters to communicate with one another. When the neurotransmitters’ levels change within the body system, the receptor that receives and controls the neurotransmitter, tends to be more sensitive, thus shrinks in order to adjust (Goldberg Ernst, 2012). For instance, selective serotonin re-uptake inhibitors (SSRIs) are known to increase the level of the neurotransmitter in the brain, thus reducing the number of brain serotonin receptors. Furthermore, antipsychotic drugs such as Haldol usually lower the amount of dopamine receptors in the mind (Sinacola Peters-Strickland, 2012). The action of the neurotransmitters and the receptors is usually the same in any form of psychoactive medication. Alcohol affects the neurotransmitter including serotonin and dopamine, and the cocaine alters the levels of both serotonin and dopamine (Sinacola Peters-Strickland, 2012). Despite the risk of psychiatric drugs, the benefits of the medications are widely promoted. The most important aspect of the drugs tends to be mixed with misleading claims. There are different ways psychiatric drugs can be useful. For instance, sleep deprivation is a single cause or contributor to emotional crisis and the psychiatric medication is used to control the condition (Sinacola Peters-Strickland, 2012). It is established that psychiatric drugs protect individuals from emotional crisis that is so severe that threatens their mental stability and even their lives. It is reported that symptoms feel manageable on medications and the episodes of depression or mania are eased. Besides, interrupting crisis and getting adequate sleep enable the patient to reduce stress, an aspect that decreases life chaos (EÃŒ lie et al., 2010). It is, usually, the groundwork for a greater stability and addresses a situation that could have been difficult to control. Irrespective of the medical principle of informed consent, physicians usually tend to leave crucial information about the psychiatric drugs they prescribe to the patients. Higher doses and extended use of such drugs changes tend to be deeper and long lasting (EÃŒ lie et al., 2010). The drugs are often very difficult to stop using because of their adverse effects associated with withdrawal. Though the brain has the potential to heal and repair itself, such process takes a long period for it to recover fully from the withdrawal (Goldberg Ernst, 2012). Besides, it is essential to understand that neuroleptic drugs, though claimed to be anti-psychotic, rarely target psychosis or specific symptoms of mental disorder. Instead, they only diminish the brain functioning in general for any patient using the above medication. Most patients using the drugs report that their psychotic symptoms continue to persist though their emotional reaction tends to lessen. Health and Mental Risk Associated with the Psychiatric Drugs Deciding whether to come off psychiatric drugs implies evaluating both the risks and benefits involved, including essential information about the effects. However, drug effects can vary significantly among individuals. Psychiatric drugs are harmful and can injure the patient’s body (EÃŒ lie et al., 2010). Neuroleptic drugs can cause life-threatening problems known as neuroleptic malignant syndrome as well as Parkinson disease. Besides, regular blood checkup is crucial for drugs such as lithium and clozapine in order to assess any potential physical harm. Besides, many psychiatric drugs have been found to lead to sudden heart attack, kidney failure, and other serious blood disorders among other effects (EÃŒ lie et al., 2010). Other toxic effects include interfering with the normal menstrual cycle flow, pregnancy, and serotonin syndrome. Furthermore, psychiatric drugs have the potential to injure the brain cells. For instance, tardive dyskinesia is a common problem that leads to disfigurement of the persons facial fits. It is very widespread among the patients taking high and enduring anti-psychotic drugs (EÃŒ lie et al., 2010). Antipsychotic medication has been found to cause brain shrinkage while anti-depressant leads to memory problems and increases vulnerability to depression. Other effects include mental and cognitive impairment and brain injury. The drug effect poses the risk of lowering the quality of life, including decreased sexuality, depression, and increased sense of restlessness. Lithium medications interact with water and salt within the patient’s body, leading to potency fluctuation (Wenzel, 2014). Although regular blood tests are used to keep the lithium dosage in check, individuals using the medication are usually at a higher risk of exposure to it. Other psychiatric drugs such as Ritalin and Adderall have been reported to cause stunted growth among the children. They also present an unknown risk to the normal brain growth. Besides, just like amphetamines, Ritalin and Adderall are also addictive and cause psychosis and heart problems (Wenzel, 2014). Mental health risks are the least understood aspects of psychiatric medications. Such medications make psychotic symptoms worse and raise the likelihood of having a crisis. The drugs have the potential to change receptors. For instance, such neurotransmitter as dopamine makes a patient supersensitive to psychosis (EÃŒ lie et al., 2010). As a result, it raises sensitivity of the emotions and the experiences. It has been reported that psychiatric drug prompts suicidal feelings as one of the psychotic symptoms. However, physicians tend to respond by prescribing more drugs to the diagnosis. Furthermore, many people experience increasing change in personality, including feeling drugged, emotional blunting, reduced physics, and impaired creativity (Wenzel, 2014). Patients taking psychiatric medication, particularly anti-psychotics, have been found to develop long term problems as mental patients. Side Effect of Psychopharmacology Discontinuance The discontinuation or reduction of psychiatric drugs leads to adverse medical problems. The somatic discontinuation syndrome also commonly known as a withdrawal reaction is the most prevalent. The syndrome usually refers to the psychological expression of the biological effects caused by the discontinuation of a regularly administered medication (Marin EscoÃŒ bar, 2013). Such syndromes have previous been conceptualized as resulting from biological adaptations to the continued psychotic drug use, which became suddenly unopposed when the drug is withdrawn, especially abruptly. It is now established that the withdrawal syndrome occurs with a wide array of medications, and not only the anti-depressants and neuroleptics. However, the response to the lithium medication has been recognized as the most frequent (Landry Skalli, 2010). In some instances, the discontinuation reaction has been reported to persist for an extended period of times (Marin EscoÃŒ bar, 2013). Besides, the most c ases of withdrawal symptoms usually included behavioral and psychological ones such as restlessness, anxiety, and impaired sleep which are often interpreted as the signs of relapse. Rapid Onset Psychosis Rapid onset psychosis is one of the common effects of psychopharmacology discontinuation. It entails occurrence of the psychotic incidents shortly after withdrawal from long term usage of psychiatric drugs, particularly neuroleptic. However, the occurrence of such cases is higher in clozapine, where a number of cases have demonstrated this effect in the patients with both treatment resistance and responsive psychosis (Marin EscoÃŒ bar, 2013). The rapid onset psychosis appears usually few days after the withdrawal, and the symptoms tend to be consistent including visual hallucinations, paranoid delusions, and hostility. Nonetheless, most of the cases have been documented in the people without previous psychiatric histories. In addition, there are few cases of new onset psychotic symptoms documented in the patients that were previously diagnosed with manic depression problem (Landry Skalli, 2010). Nonetheless, evidence points out the possibility that psychotic reaction tends to be distinctive from the underlying disorder and usually represents an iatrogenic syndrome. The prevalence of the people without previous known psychiatric history strengthens the evidence to this effect and the new start of specific signs documented in many other cases (Marin EscoÃŒ bar, 2013). The comparative constancy of the symptoms also indicates the possibility that they are all related to the symptoms of stimulant psychosis attributed to over-activity of the dopamine. However, the rapidity of the onset indicates that the phenomenon is a physical manifestation of the withdrawal process. Furthermore, in the case of clozapine, it is explicit that the occurrence of the effects coincided with the somatic withdrawal syndrome (Landry Skalli, 2010). Although it is challenging to understand how frequent the somatic syndrome is, it has been described commonly after the clozapine withdrawal, an aspect att ributable to the clozapine short half-life. However, as for the psychiatric drugs with a longer half-life, a withdrawal psychosis is often misinterpreted for a naturally occurring reversion, since its onset tends to be less rapid (Marin EscoÃŒ bar, 2013). Psychological Reaction and Misattribution Theoretically, reduction or discontinuation of psychiatric drugs has the potential to prompt psychological reactions that are similar to the opposite of the placebo effect commonly known as the nocebo effect (Landry Skalli, 2010). The term describes a situation where expectation of illness induces real illness. A number of investigations have shown that individuals can become ill and psychologically stressed through suggestion. Nocebo effect is the idea that the outcome of the withdrawal may become influenced by the negative anticipation of the psychiatric patients or others involved with their care. It is usually influenced by either reduction of the drug supply in the body or the somatic withdrawal because of the drug amount reduced (Sinacola Peters-Strickland, 2012). Theoretically, it can be distinguished from the psychological symptoms displayed directly by the biological effects of the drug discontinuation though in practice it might be problematic. Nonetheless, a psychologica l reaction might be less consistent in its symptom profile and the onset rather than the withdrawal symptom (Landry Skalli, 2010). Therefore, anxiety tends to be the most prominent symptom of misattribution. An individual involved with the patients’ care experiences substantial anxiety about changes in medication, specifically, in the reduction in long-term drug treatment. As a result, such feeling may be transferred to the patient and tend to exacerbate the psychological reaction in the patients (Sinacola Peters-Strickland, 2012). Besides, there is a related scenario that normal long-term fluctuations in the patient’s condition are misattributed to the impact of the drug withdrawal by the patient or others who are concerned about the outcome of the reduction. It is a very common incident and occurs when clinical offices are opposed to the decision to decrease discontinuation of the medication (Stahl, 2014). In such situation, all the negative events that happen after change in the psychiatric drug schedule are related to it irrespective of the previous occurrences. Psychological reaction is a very critical concept just like physiological withdrawal syndrome; it is usually mistaken for relapse. Moreover, they contribute to the re-occurrence of the psychotic illness (Stahl, 2014). Re-Occurrence of an Underlying Condition This complication results from the relapse or the exacerbation of the underlying medical illness due to discontinuation of the psychiatric drugs. The association between the decreased medication and relapse is usually complex (Stahl, 2014). However, a relapse occurs after the prescribed medications discontinuation largely because of the removal of the beneficial prophylactic impacts of the medication (Wenzel, 2014). Furthermore, the withdrawal process in itself also induces a degeneration that would not otherwise have ensued during the time of the natural course of the disorder. Despite the earlier skepticism, there is a consensus that discontinuing of lithium medication raises the risk of relapse of the manic depression above the levels related to the natural course of the mental illness. The increased risk of relapse is usually common within the first few days of discontinuations and usually ends thereafter. However, high rate of relapse occurs after a rapid withdrawal compared to a gradual withdrawal (Stahl, 2014). Besides, the rate of recurrence after withdrawal from lithium medication usually exceeds the rates of episodes before lithium medication initiation (Wenzel, 2014). Pharmacodynamics Adaptation Long-term use of psychiatric drugs, especially those that suppress specific neurotransmitters, is believed to cause the compensatory rises in the number of sensitivity of the relevant receptors. When such receptors are no longer suppressed by the drugs, there is usually an over activity of the neurotransmitters systems (EÃŒ lie et al., 2010). It results in characteristic discontinuation syndromes that lead to rapid onset psychosis and eventually pharmacodynamics stress, which increases the vulnerability to a relapse. Furthermore, research on the super sensitivity psychosis has indicated that humans exhibit shifts in dopamine receptors, especially after a long period of neuroleptic drug use. Nonetheless, the connection between dopamine and psychosis receptor over-sensitivity has not been examined empirically while presumed manifestations of dopamine super-sensitivity such as prolactin sensitivity have not been demonstrated consistently (EÃŒ lie et al., 2010). Elevated risk of relapse consequent on the discontinuation of the medication is largely attributed to the same model of pharmacodynamics adaptations. Abrupt withdrawal of neuroleptics and lithium is usually associated with elevated risks. On the other hand, gradual withdrawal would be consistent with such explanation because of the lower opportunity for adaptations and return to normal (Landry Skalli, 2010). Since the adaptation is usually present only for weeks in human after a single dose, it explains why the risk of relapse persists months after the initial withdrawal. Furthermore, psychological reaction to the discontinuation of the psychiatric medication causes symptom and increases the vulnerability to relapse. Research case studies indicate such effects in humans with psychosis. However, psychological reaction is also very prevalent among individual suffering from depression (Landry Skalli, 2010). Besides, psychological effects combine with pharmacodynamics mechanisms in dif ferent ways. For instance, elimination sedating and intoxicating effects of the medication raise the anxiety directly or indirectly by reminding people that their medication is being discontinued. Therefore, the psychological reactions of the staffs, patients, and the caregivers are critical determinants of the success or failure of discontinuation (Landry Skalli, 2010). In conclusion, it is evident that though psychopharmacology plays a critical role in psychiatry; withdrawal often leads to a variety of effects either minor or serious. Although antidepressants and other medication alleviate the potential impairing syndrome of depression and other mental illnesses, it is essential to acknowledge the significance of their side effects in order to maintain compliance (Wenzel, 2014) However, since the adverse effects outlined above may be mistaken for a re-emergence of the underlying illness, it will be essential to re-evaluate the evidence on the value of maintenance of the psychiatric medications. The placebo groups are often subject to above adverse effects. However, since such facts are often overlooked, they are attributable to the underlying illness and are taken as evidence of superiority of the continued use of such medications (Goldberg Ernst, 2012). When relapse is basically evaluated simply as clinical deterioration, somatic discontinuation symptoms, as well as anxiety induced process are mistaken for it. There is the critical need for improvement in the awareness of the side effects of the psychiatric medications used in the treatment of most disabling mental illnesses (Stahl, 2014). As a result, it will play a critical role in eliminating misinterpretation evident between side effects and relapse of the condition and ensure that the benefits of discontinuation outweigh the side effects.

The top reasons HR is important to an organization

The top reasons HR is important to an organization These days, effective businesses take every aspect of their organization seriously and have dedicated professionals across their teams who work towards a common goal- supporting the business and positioning it for lasting success.One important team in the mix is human resources (HR), who often serve â€Å"behind the scenes† as the backbone of an organization. Their responsibilities are often essential for a business to operate effectively, and they’re at the front lines of some core business functions- from staffing and recruiting to ensuring that the needs of existing employees are capably met, and more.In fact, according to a recent article by The Balance, â€Å"A  good HR department  is critical to an employee-oriented, productive workplace in which employees are energized and engaged.† Let’s explore some of the key reasons why HR is so important to an organization.Office cultureIn many ways, HR helps set the tone of an office’s culture, incl uding everything from permissible ways of dressing to setting work hours and workplace processes. HR establishes all of those little things that help define a work environment and shape what an average day on the job is like, which helps cement an employee’s identification and thoughts on the organization at large, as well as how they’re perceived from the outside.Staff recruitmentWe all know how important having a top-tier staff is to an organization’s success, and the HR department is directly responsible for ensuring that the very best available candidates are pursued and recruited for all open positions. They also work to ensure that the reputation of the company they work for is such that it attracts top-level talent in the industry- not an easy feat in today’s ultra-competitive corporate landscape. According to The Balance, â€Å"HR is responsible for the overall recruiting of a superior workforce. Once again, HR cannot do it alone but must provide support to  hiring managers  who are also responsible for recruiting a  superior workforce. HR must provide  leadership, training, scheduling assistance, a  systematic hiring process,  recruitment planning processes, interview expertise, selection monitoring, and more.†hbspt.cta.load(2785852, '9e52c197-5b5b-45e6-af34-d56403f973c5', {});Employee benefits and perksAll of those things that come alongside an employee’s salary when they’re offered a compensation package are likely thanks to the company’s HR team, all designed to attract the best and brightest crop of employees (and in many companies, HR staff even help to set salary ranges for open positions by providing competitive market analysis). Everything from insurance benefits to vacation time, team building activities, and transportation and education reimbursement- to name just a few- can fall under their purview, and the better they are at their jobs the better they’ll be able to research, identify, and negotiate great perks to attract talent.Employee issue resolutionIn general, most of us don’t exactly look forward to having difficult or challenging personal issues that require the guidance or intervention of others, but when we do have them and they affect our work, we’re usually grateful that we have the folks in the HR department to turn to. They not only lend their expertise and experience to help deal with whatever the issue is, they can also be real advocates and allies during a difficult situation.Although the roles and responsibilities of HR departments vary across companies and industries, hopefully by now it’s clear that they play a crucial role in most organization’s operational efficiency, as well as their immediate and long-term successes.

The Mali Essay Example | Topics and Well Written Essays - 750 words

The Mali - Essay Example In fact, some of the same the Muslim historians and scholars that have written about Ghana have also provided a written record of Mali (Jackson, 1970). For example, Ibn Khaldun, a Muslim scholar working out of Islamic Spain in the 15th century, wrote about both Ghana and Mali. Islamic scholars must have paid a great of attention to Mali because its rulers converted to Islam, and subsequently spread it throughout Africa. The richness of the historical record of Mali allows a history of this great civilization to be reconstituted (Jackson, 1970). The geographical borders of Mali where similar to the former boarders of Ghana. The similarities exist because Mali was once a feudal territory that rose to fill a void after Ghana had fallen at the hands of the Susu. In his Kitab al-'Ibar Ibn Khaldun indicates that Mali occupied Ghana's former boarders (Davidson, 1991). He writes, "Much later the population of Mali grew to such an extent that it became dominate over all over this region (i.e. the area formerly ruled by Ghana)" (Khaldun, 1969 p.1). In the early history of Mali, during the reign of Al-Malik al-Nasir, Mali extended its borders west to the Atlantic Ocean. To the north, Mali occupied the upper portions of the Sahara. To the south, Mali extended down the Niger River past the city of Djenne, which is located on marshy land in the middle of the Niger River, it is referred to as an island. To the East, the kingdom stretched to a city called Takrur; this included much of the Sahara. Originally the kingdom of Mali started expanding from the top of the Niger River (Davidson, 1991). Starting from the city of Timbuktu, Mali steadily conquered the lands that lay down stream. These areas included the towns of Djenne, located on series of mashes and lakes that lies close to the Niger River, and Kawkaw, thought to be the modern-day city of Gao. Controlling the Niger River and the cities that lie on its banks were important for trade and travel (Jackson, 1970). The Niger was a central artery of commerce for both West and North African trade routs. The importance of the Niger can also be seen in the fact that Mali's capital city, which changed many times, was often located on that river. Mali's control of the Niger River, and these important cities, helped it to grow and prosper (Davidson, 1991). By the 18th century, Mali was in a semi anarchic state. Two empires emerged that opposed French invasion, the Tukolor Empire of al- Hajj Umar (1794-1864) and the Somori Toure (1870-98). During this time the region saw a resurgence of Islam. But in later years Mali was conquered and became the French Sudan, part of the Federation of French West Africa (Jackson, 1970). Mali Today Thanks to its rich and ancient past, Mali has become a country of great ethnic diversity with nearly two dozen different ethnic groups living within its borders. The main groups are the Mande (including the Bambara, Malinke, Soninke, Mandinka, Mende, Susu, Dialonke, and Dyula), Peul (or Fulani), Voltaic, Songhay, Tuareg, and Moor. Some other groups include the Dogon, Bozo, and Bobo. The single largest ethnic group is the Bambara also known as Bamana. This name recalls the era when the influence of Islam was spreading through Africa, yet this group of rural farmers refused to convert to a new religion and kept alive their traditional way of life. Bambara means "infidel" or

Apply to University Personal Statement Example | Topics and Well Written Essays - 500 words

Apply to University - Personal Statement Example I have the zeal to know how computers operate and how I can use them to positively influence the world in my own way. English is my second language and I have had some difficulties learning it since I did not have enough learning materials in my native place. I figured out that if I become a computer expert I can make these materials available to kids who crave for knowledge and, consequently, help in dissemination of knowledge. I have studied Information Technology in my bachelors. The IT course equipped me with basic knowledge and skills in computer programming, web designing in form of HTML, information searching and retrieval and subject indexing and thesaurus construction. These skills and knowledge should give me a head start in computer science. I do not have any previous work experience as I have just completed my bachelor’s degree in IT. However, during my bachelors I undertook a work placement programme at a nearby high school for two months. My duties were akin to those of a system administrator where I helped the school’s system administrator configure computers and check for security breaches. I also helped students who did not know how to use computers to use them effectively. As a result, I grew my computing and management skills which should prove helpful for this course in the long run. I have a host of interests and hobbies. However, the ones I love most are to play and watch football, to play chess and to participate in enlightening debates. I believe football is a competitive and passionate sport. This should make me a competitive and passionate person in all my undertakings. Debating helps me grow my English language and vocabulary and equips me with the skills of thinking at my feet and adequately relaying information. Lastly, chess equips one with planning, thinking and overall strategizing skills. All these skills will be

Contract Performance Research Paper Example | Topics and Well Written Essays - 1250 words - 1

Contract Performance - Research Paper Example Two bids were received, one by the Alabama Laundry and Linen supply and the other by Tennessee Valley Laundry and dry cleaners; however, the Tennessee bid was cheaper. Alabama Laundry management filed a protest, which alleged that Tennessee Laundry was inexperienced, and therefore it should have been declared non-responsible. The law concerning performance contracts required that a bid be given to a responsible contractor; who should have achieved a satisfactory performance in his previous contracts. Alabama Laundry further alleged that Tennessee Laundry’s past performance was unsatisfactory; therefore, the contract should have been terminated. Thirdly, Tennessee Laundry was accused of violating the law by not inspecting the site of performance. Therefore, the protestor argued that the award granted to Tennessee should be granted to Alabama Laundry. However, these allegations were found baseless without evidence; Tennessee Laundry was therefore given a go ahead in their contra ct and the protest was dismissed, since Tennessee Laundry was found to be responsible. Regulatory provisions (FAR) pertaining to contract performance in general The federal acquisition regulation (FAR) provides the requirements pertaining to contract performance; bidders have the right to compete for the contract equally. This is referred to as sealed bidding acquisition, whereby, the lowest bidder and responsive bidder get the award. FAR law prohibits any restrictions that limit the number of bidders. Once the bids are read, those that do not meet the requirements are rejected; nevertheless, FAR requires the contractor to have sufficient resources to perform the contract. Secondly, the contractor must be capable of complying with the performance schedule. Thirdly, the company should have a history of satisfactory performance from its previous jobs. Business Ethics are also considered an important factor. Further, FAR requires the contractor to have quality and effective skills. The refore, if the bidder meets all the above requirements, he is at an advantage of receiving an award (Vacketta, 1999 Para 4). In addition, apart from sealed bidding, a contract may be awarded through negotiation, allowing flexibility to determining the winning bidder. Here, the contracting officer conducts negotiations with offerors, therefore evaluating the best bidder for the contract. This process ensures that the best is obtained from a pool of bidders. However, the law prohibits the contracting officer from conducting favors on some bidders. FAR 52.249-2 indicates that, termination for convenience permits the government to terminate a contract at any time, without a reason, but only when in the government’s best interest (Vacketta, 1999). In addition, FAR 15.304 (c) (3) (i) require the evaluation of past performance on the contractors, however, in the lowest price factor, evaluation of past performance is not necessary (Naval air welfare centre, 2009). The selection of a bidder may be beyond responsiveness and responsibility; nevertheless, price is a very important factor in choosing the right bidder. Cite and explain the regulatory provisions (FAR) that relate to the particular contract performance issue of the report you chose. The protest on bidder’s responsibility and contact performance involves an appeal by one contractor in protest of the selected bidder’s award. Vacketta (1999) explains that an appeal to the United States court by a contractor should

The subject of occultism in Africa Research Paper

The subject of occultism in Africa - Research Paper Example Why do we continue to mistrust them, despite the studies that have been done on occultism as a discipline? This paper intends to elucidate on occultism and explain magic as part of occultism. Now, occult is a word that many people use on a regular basis, but little do they understand it. â€Å"Occult is supernatural, mystical; the magical beliefs, practices or phenomenon. It is beyond the range of ordinary, knowledge or experience; it is mysterious.† (Oxford Dictionary, 2009). The literal translation of the word occult is ‘hidden’. The former definition had been incorporated into the Oxford Dictionary as the literal definition not too long ago. That is because occult or occultism is no longer simply something that is hidden. It is so much more than that. It has almost become a culture. And ergo, the definition had to be revised with the dawn of it as a discipline/discourse/culture. The British occultist, Dion Fortune has explained this phenomenon in her book. â€Å"Occult science is the branch of knowledge which is hidden from many and reserved for few† (Fortune, 2001). The author explains that there are times when certain people are able to transcend the states of consciousness that are considered normal. In this state, these people are able to experience â€Å"those forms of existence with whom normally no contact can be made† (Fortune, 2001). We understand from this that occultism is not merely knowledge of the unknown, or of the hidden. It is the opening to the world of supernatural/paranormal, to the world of mystery for us. And this can only be done when a person defies the norms; when one goes beyond the reality that we have come to understand as our only true reality. Only then, are they able to enter a world that had been anonymous to them before. Now, many believe this is through magic; that when people learn to control this mystical power, they are able to control the Nature around them, to manipulate the

To What Extent Was the Advent of Renaissance Architecture in Britain a Essay

To What Extent Was the Advent of Renaissance Architecture in Britain a Result of the Stuart Court and Monarchy - Essay Example The renaissance took place at different times in different parts of the world. Whenever Renaissance is mentioned, it must be remembered that it has to do with the conscious revival of certain aspects of the cultures of ancient Greek and ancient Roman societies. In terms of timeframe and order of occurrence, renaissance architecture came after Gothic literature. Some of the distinguishing features of renaissance architecture (like classical architecture) include precision of measurement and proportion and symmetry. All these features also took place during the British Renaissance. Renaissance got to Britain during the reign of Elizabeth I. Its advent in Britain can be said to have been influenced by Stuart courts and Monarchy. One must not however fail to realize that although renaissance Britain was the rebirth of classical culture, the purposes of the architecture peculiar to both of them are for different reasons. One of the most memorable attributes of the Stuart monarchy is that they brought to Britain, during their reign, influences from all over Europe and even influences from outside Europe. The implication of this is that, when one wants to consider their influence on British Architecture, it means indirectly that one is to consider the influence of other cultures on British Architecture. When the Stuarts were ruling Britain, the country became a floodgate for the architectural designs that were started in other parts of the world. In actuality, renaissance was not to the British. The rebirth that took place in Britain was only the direct consequence of the events that had taken place and happened earlier in Italy and France. In the first place, if there was never the Greek or Roman civilization, there would never have been anything like Renaissance in any part of the world, let alone in Britain. 1 The essence of all that has been aforementioned is that if the Stuarts rulers had not been so friendly to the arts or if they had not welcomed the architectu ral designs from other parts of the world, the notion of renaissance Britain may not have been possible in the first instance. 3 Some of the influences that the Stuarts took on include those from the Netherlands, France, Germany and Italy. Then, the influence of other climes was so much that in a single building the building designs of more than one country can be combined. For example, the design of the French and the Italians may be combined in the British Renaissance Architecture design style and this is due to the fact that the Stuarts actually combined the designs of the French and the Italians in moulding the British Renaissance Architecture into what it became. The influence of the Stuart monarchy may be said to be most eminent during the Elizabethan period which marked the beginning of Renaissance in Britain. The round arch which was one of the ensigns of the architecture that emerged during the reign of the Stuart monarchy also resurfaced during the Elizabethan period.1 Yet it does not negate the fact that the Elizabethan period itself had features that were self-generated. One of the features of the architecture of the Elizabethans that shows that not all the architectural structures of the period were a direct influence of the Stuart monarchy is the fact that most windows and doors during the period were round-headed. On the other hand, as it was during

The subject of occultism in Africa Research Paper

The subject of occultism in Africa - Research Paper Example Why do we continue to mistrust them, despite the studies that have been done on occultism as a discipline? This paper intends to elucidate on occultism and explain magic as part of occultism. Now, occult is a word that many people use on a regular basis, but little do they understand it. â€Å"Occult is supernatural, mystical; the magical beliefs, practices or phenomenon. It is beyond the range of ordinary, knowledge or experience; it is mysterious.† (Oxford Dictionary, 2009). The literal translation of the word occult is ‘hidden’. The former definition had been incorporated into the Oxford Dictionary as the literal definition not too long ago. That is because occult or occultism is no longer simply something that is hidden. It is so much more than that. It has almost become a culture. And ergo, the definition had to be revised with the dawn of it as a discipline/discourse/culture. The British occultist, Dion Fortune has explained this phenomenon in her book. â€Å"Occult science is the branch of knowledge which is hidden from many and reserved for few† (Fortune, 2001). The author explains that there are times when certain people are able to transcend the states of consciousness that are considered normal. In this state, these people are able to experience â€Å"those forms of existence with whom normally no contact can be made† (Fortune, 2001). We understand from this that occultism is not merely knowledge of the unknown, or of the hidden. It is the opening to the world of supernatural/paranormal, to the world of mystery for us. And this can only be done when a person defies the norms; when one goes beyond the reality that we have come to understand as our only true reality. Only then, are they able to enter a world that had been anonymous to them before. Now, many believe this is through magic; that when people learn to control this mystical power, they are able to control the Nature around them, to manipulate the

The end of the Odyssey Essay Example | Topics and Well Written Essays - 500 words

The end of the Odyssey - Essay Example There are various theories, criticisms, interpretations, and opinions on the ending of Homers epic poem, The Odyssey. Some have unique theories such as the solar eclipse theory, others are historically possible, as if the oral tradition and the lost scrolls, while some are theoretical that leave the audience with an immortal image of the text. In this easy, we will have a critical review of the ending of the epic chronicle. At the end of the chronicle of The Odyssey, the author, Homer refers to the occurrence of the total eclipse. The core phrase that by the then seer, Theoclymenus, depicts a foresight of the death of untamed and unruly men who had sought the hand in marriage of Penelope at the time Odysseus was at war. The seer makes reference the sun obliteration from the sky, with a cloud of bad luck invading the whole world (Homer & Lattimore, 1967). This idea is symbolic of the occurrence of a total eclipse, a situation where the moon blocks the sunrays. Although, this is not new it was up to the early years of the 1920 that astronomers were able to calculate the occurrence of such an eclipse over Greece. The eclipse had a possibility of occurrence in the month of April in the year 1178 BC (Homer & Lattimore, 1967). However, many individuals are convinced that the passage that has a reference of the solar eclipse is just but a mere mythical total solar eclipse. This argument supports the claims a poetic license as the Odyssey was written by Homer several centuries after the said events had taken place. On the other side, many modern scholars and critics are convinced by the possibility of the April 1178 BC solar eclipse occurrence (Bloom, 1988). This claim is supported by other passages in then poem that have a reference to other four independent astronomical events that occur independently to each other. Instead of just having a historical view of the occurrence of a solar eclipse, several astronomers have investigated the timing

Literature Review of 14-19 Education Essay Example for Free

Literature Review of 14-19 Education Essay Abstract This literature review compares research conducted and articles written about the development of 14-19 education and the changes it has gone through since 2002. It briefly outlines the initial implementation of 14-19 education during the Thatcher government before going on to concentrate on how the Labour government introduced Diplomas and what the Coalition government are doing to push this agenda forward. It asks whether academic and vocational education can ever be valued equally and whether the introduction of 14 year olds in further education establishments is successful or not. The majority of the literature was commissioned either by the government or conducted in 14-19 educational establishments. Similarities and comparisons between the research are identified and questions are asked as to how successful it might be in the future. . History of 14-19 Education The idea of 14-19 education was introduced in 1983 by the Conservative government under its leader Margaret Thatcher. The first development was called the Technical and Vocational Education Initiative (TVEI), and was a pilot scheme was rolled out into schools and colleges in1988. The scheme was run by the Manpower Services Commission (MSC,) which came under the Department of Employment not the Department of Education and Science. Jeremy Higham and David Yeomans point out in the London Review of Education (2011) that, from 1988 to 2002 14-19 vocational education was on simmer and it was not until 2002 under the New Labour government that we saw renewed enthusiasm to for this area of education. The initiative came from the Curriculum 2000 Reform of Advance Qualifications. Between 2002 and 2010 the focus was back on the progression of our young people and, essentially, the future of our work force. The Labour government commissioned an independent enquiry by Mike Tomlinson in 2004 who proposed a new vision for 14-19 education, recommending the introduction of Diplomas. These would build on the strengths of the education system already in place. However the government rejected this and decided to keep GCSE and A levels but to offer diplomas as an alternative the initiative gained respect from schools, colleges and local authorities. Diplomas were introduced in 2008 but have not been successful in gaining credit in industry or education; this has brought forward many issues relating to 14-19 education from teaching and learning, funding, employer contributions and the integration of school age pupils in FE colleges. The current Coalition government commissioned Alison Wolf to review 14-19 education in 2011. Academic/Vocational Education and Funding A major divide in 14-19 education is attitudes towards academic and vocational training. To give equality and value to both sides of what is still an educational ‘divide’ we need to alter society’s thinking and social attitudes. The review of the 14-19 Green Paper by the Department for Education (2002) states that, ‘Pushing for parity of esteem in the current educational climate leads to ‘academicising’ vocational subjects. It was felt by some that the vocational was being forced into the traditional classroom-dominated achievement environment, rather than realistically accepting the different teaching and assessment demands of vocational courses. ’ (DfES, 2002) Even though there are differences between the academic and vocational routes, teaching and assessment methods have to be different, can the value of learning and the qualification be equal? The DfES review does state that to make attitudinal changes requires substantial investment as well as long term consultation and marketing campaigns which they compare to the commitment to improving the long term plan of the National Health Service (NHS). Connexions consulted with learners in 2001 to gain their view on government papers entitled: Green paper-Schools: Building on Success, 2001 and white paper-Schools: Achieving Success, 2001. The focus group of learners conducted by Connexions produced a positive response. Learners were enthusiastic about being asked to participate in the consultation and formulating opinions on education, they concluded that, ‘†¦the choice of core subjects was generally right. They wanted to maintain the entitlement to study a modern foreign language, design and technology, the arts and the humanities. The subjects, deemed essential for personal development for example citizenship (which is to be introduced as a statutory subject within the National Curriculum from September 2002), religious education, sex and health education, physical education, work related learning and careers education should all be compulsory although not necessarily studied to GCSE level if the young person does not want to. ’ (Connexions, 2002) Regarding the discussion on the equality of academic and vocational training young people were of the opinion that, ‘vocational pathways needed to be heavily publicised to young people themselves, employers and higher education institutions so that the pathways became quickly established to form part of the traditional pathways for entry to higher education. ’ (Connexions, 2002) Comparing the two opinions, the DfES review of the 14-19 Green Paper by the Department for Education and the consultations conducted by Connexions both from 2002. The DfES wanted to take their time to ensure development of 14-19 education was more successful, but the learners wanted action to be quick, as they could see the benefit of changing views and progression. This showed that they want to progress and do have aspirations of Higher Education (HE). Tomlinson’s (2004) VE proposal was not taken on board fully, only in part with Diplomas being introduced as an alternative to GCSE and A Levels. Do we need a radical reform of 14-19 education as he suggested? To change deep rooted attitudes and opinions in society about academic and vocational education, maybe it is necessary. An article in the guardian stated prior to launch of the diplomas, ‘We have never seen big new public qualifications arrive with so little input from people who have experience in qualifications and teaching. ’( Meikle 2007) It would seem that the implementation of diplomas has been rushed; therefore they have not achieved the status needed to change opinions. In response to Tomlinson’s (2004) proposals for diplomas the Nuffield Review (2009) asks the question, who is responsible for the Vocational Training Education system? In the UK it is not clear, but does include a long list of people: parents, students, the government, education and training providers and employers. Vocational courses have been seen to have less value than traditional educational routes with fewer opportunities to progress to HE and advanced qualifications but, as Alison Wolf (2011) points out, other countries have reformed their systems and increased numbers of students taking two and three year learning programmes. She states, ‘Bringing vocational pathways into a single framework would give formal equality of standing between, academic, vocational, and mixed pathways, recognise areas of overlap between them; provide opportunities to combine, transfer, and progress between them; and ensure greater educational content within vocational programmes. It would make them easier for learners to identify progression routed to advanced level and beyond. ’ (Wolf, 2011) Wolfe (2011) agrees with the views of Tomlinson (2004) over the integration of academic and vocational education. With this in mind, as well as the research from the DfES and Connexions I quoted earlier, I believe it is the roles and responsibilities that need definition, from the education and political establishments to all people involved as well as those undertaking the training. However, a structured achievement and progression route in VE is necessary to engage employers and bring value to FE training and qualifications if we are to see equality between academic and vocational training. Wolf has recommended that the government extends funding up to the age of 24, as not all students will have achieved a Level 2/3 by the age of 19. To ensure students achieve their potential in Maths and English, extending funding was also proposed. Wolf criticised the funding structure at present, saying that it gave colleges the incentive to create programmes for profit but not for the benefit of the students. She agreed with Foster‘s opinion in 2005, and The Nuffield Review 2009, that funding should follow the learner encouraging institutions to collaborate which would integrate education and provide the best educational programme for each individual student: ‘Policy levers, i.e. funding and performance measures, should focus on collective action rather than promote institutional competition’ (Nuffield, 2009) Funding used as a ‘policy lever’ could achieve more integration of academic skills into vocational areas. Teaching and Learning and Inspection VE has been taught in FE colleges because they are equipped for vocational subjects. Schools have primarily chosen classroom based vocational subjects as they do not have the facilities to offer practical vocational learning, which defeats the object of VE. The opening of new educational establishments currently planned to open between now and 2014 University Technical Colleges (2012) (UTC) will give VE an identity of its own as well as integrate it with the national curriculum. Compulsory education to the age of 18 will be introduced from 2013 with more opportunity and choice being given to students to access VE making it more important than ever to progress 14-19 education. Issues were raised during research by the Learning and Skills Research Network (LSRN) who researched ‘the capacity of the teachers and their institutions to meet the needs of younger learners’ (Harkin, 2006). For example, the college environment could be overwhelming and frightening, especially at lunchtimes. The research questioned who was responsible for the students, were they mature enough to be treated in an adult way? This identified conflicting views: some teachers thought they needed supervision all the time at college but others commented that colleges were not ‘in loco parentis’, but still had a duty of care. They did, however say that college support in the classroom was essential to maintain the safety of the student as well as managing behaviour. In conclusion, it was identified that getting feedback from 14-16 year old students about teaching and learning was difficult due to their unpredictability and poor literacy skills. For example, discussion was often an alien concept for formulating and articulating their opinions and views, it is a more andragogical approach, one not used enough in a school environment for them to feel confident in expressing themselves. FE tutors need to have a clearer understanding of how teaching is carried out in schools, as it probably follows a more pedagogical approach. To ensure that college tutors adapt their teaching to the needs of younger student the TLRC said that, ‘There is a particular need for pedagogical training, rather than training in behaviour management, and for staff to understand the prior attainment of the students’ (Harkin, 2006, p. 36) I feel that there is a need for behaviour management training during professional development as it complement teaching and learning in the classroom. The Nuffield Review (2009) highlighted the importance of teachers being central to the planning of the curriculum for 14-19 year olds, ‘Teaching quality and the relationship between teachers and learners is central to successful education. This requires a respect for the profession of teaching – for the role of teachers as the custodians of what we value and as the experts in communicating that to the learners. Teachers should be central to curriculum development, not the ‘deliverers’ of someone else’s curriculum. (Nuffield, 2009) Tomlinson (2004) said that the quality of learning depends ‘heavily on the quality of the teaching’ and that teachers would need time to develop their own skills in their subject area to keep up to date and inspired, especially in vocational teaching. Foster (2005) also said that, more emphasis was needed on updating professional knowledge and industry development and even suggested sabbatical and secondment opportunities between education and industry. This I feel is idealistic in today’s economic climate but I have in recent years seen increased opportunities to update professional skills within my own teaching establishment. He also asked that FE colleges improve employability and skills in their local area to contribute to economic growth and social inclusion and offer a range of courses that have solid foundations. With these extra roles are FE colleges spreading themselves too thinly? FE colleges are like the ‘middle child’ aiming to please both compulsory education and higher education as well as employers. How can they do this most effectively and gain respectability for the diversity they offer both in courses, abilities, social backgrounds and disabilities of their students? Foster 2005 compared the situation in this country to the one in America where they have no formal inspection process and colleges have a strong self-regulation policy. Giving responsibility and trust to our colleges would see the higher levels of achievement already evident in America. Assessment of institutions is an added pressure. Working in English education we have come to accept it, but is the English system’s controlling, heavy- handed approach necessary? Foster compared Britain with its European neighbours and concluded that they had a much lighter touch. Such development here would give FE tutors more self-esteem, less pressure and more time to teach. Employer contribution FE has always had to promote and build strong relationships with industry and employers, including, supporting apprenticeships and work experience, and forming partnerships with employers to develop qualifications and make them relevant to industry. The TLRP in 2006 concluded that, ‘We need a sector-by sector analysis of the distinctive role apprenticeship can play in providing the knowledge and skills required in the contemporary economic and occupational context. Further and higher education, as well as employer bodies and trade unions, need to be involved in a forward-looking partnership that lifts the work-based route out if its social inclusion ghetto’ (The Teaching and Learning Research Programme 2006, p.40) In 2004, Foster commented that the LSC National Skill Survey of 2004, found that only 15%, of employers had made use of FE colleges when enquiring about training and skills needed in industry. Whilst Tomlinson ( 2004) wanted to reform 14-19 education and merge VE and academic learning, he had no view on how industry and employers would be an imperative and central part of the development in VE. College qualifications and skills teaching will not stand up to industry standards if employers are not consulted thoroughly. They need to be consulted initially to develop qualifications that are relevant as well as periodically to integrate changes, updates and progression within industry. Links with employers have traditionally been through apprenticeships, mainly for 16-18 year olds. The introduction of adult apprenticeships has had an impact on apprenticeships available to young people as older apprentices can offer life skills and additional qualifications to an employer, The Wolf Report confirms this, stating that 19+ students with A levels took the majority of Advanced Apprenticeships. In 2008/9 there was a 7% fall in the number of 16-18 year olds starting on apprenticeships. This was due to the promotion of adult apprenticeships as well as the economic downturn of the country. With the age of compulsory education rising and a lack of apprenticeships being offered by employers, it will be important to strengthen the links with employers to help young people stay in education, learn valuable skills and contribute to society for our future work force. The Wolf Report (2011) highlighted the need for employer engagement, saying that employers have gradually been ‘frozen out’ of the way VE operates. Strengthening links between employers and VE is one of Wolf’s major recommendations, as well as prioritising the development of apprenticeships and work experience and increasing the involvement of employers in FE colleges to improve employability. Her report recommendations summed up below, state; ‘Implementing its recommendations should raise the quality of provision, increase the time spent teaching and thinking about students, reduce the time spent on pointless bureaucracy, increase young people’s skills in critically important areas and make a real difference to young people’s ability to obtain employment’ (Wolf, 2011, p.144). From the TLRP report 2006 and the Wolf Report 2011, 5 years apart, has much changed or been implemented? Working with employers, I have seen the effect of the economic decline in employment opportunities and feel that some of the changes necessary are beyond the power of education specialists and need to come from alternative government policies to increase employment opportunities. The future The future involves change and evolution of what we have in place at present to ensure FE tutors keep up to date with knowledge and skills. The government have introduced 13 University Technical Colleges (UTC) which will start to open in September 2012, with a government commitment to another 24 and plans for 100 in the next 5 years. UTCs are linked to a university and will be open all year round with a timetabled day between 8. 30am and 5. 30pm and cater for between 600-800 students. They will cover academic subjects in Maths, English, Sciences, Humanities and Languages as well as transferable employment skills. UTC students will have two specialist vocational subjects i. e. Engineering and Advanced Manufacturing. The lengthened day will ensure that all homework, enrichment and work experience is covered in the timetable. FE colleges will have the opportunity to become co-sponsors but they will be led primarily by a university. Does this reduce the role of FE colleges? more seems designed to strengthen the progression forward to HE and not FE, whereas Foster (2005) described FE as essential to widening participation in HE and removing barriers. Another emerging education route is Studio Schools which will be state-funded and accommodate 300 students, time tabled between 9am and 5pm. Six are already open with another 6 planned by the end of 2012. They will teach through community projects, enterprise and work experience. By focussing on how subjects are delivered they may be able to contribute to closing the divide in vocational and academic education. These 2 different types of establishments are similar in the way they are designed to transform of 14-19 education, such as opening times and their work and the community experiences approaches to learning. The biggest difference is the number of students enrolled. It seems that large academies have been growing over the last couple of years with numbers in excess of 1000 students. Throughout the research I have read there has been no mention of class sizes. It has been proved in the past that some students do not flourish in a large class environment but yet no one has thought to research this. I think on occasions students become a number and I hope that in the future we can still personalise education for the individual as they are all unique. Conclusion During this literature review I found a diverse range of opinions articles written about VE and academic education and how they can be both valued in society . In January 2012 Alison Wolf backed the action to remove the equivalency of GCSE’s from most vocational subjects. I feel this widens the gap of value between the two education routes but, UTC’s and Studio Schools offer alternatives and it may be an advantage to separate academic and VE entirely. Through this research I have looked at many areas, concerns and government policies and one of the areas that I think is more important and has a direct relationship to teaching is how 14-16 years old learners integrate into FE colleges and whether learning is appropriate and meets their needs this is an important consideration that requires more research. Word Count-3100 Bibliography Connexions. (2002). Results of the Connexions Service consultations held with young people on the green paper. 14-19: extending opportunities, raising standards. Connexions. DfES. (2002). 14-19 green Paper Consultation Workshops Review. DfES. Foster, A. (2005). Realising the Potential, A review of the future of further education colleges. Nottinghamshire: DfES Publications. Nuffield Foundation. (2009). Educational for All The Future of Education and Training for 14-16 Year Olds. The Future of Education and Training for 14-16 Year Olds. Fuller, A. and Unwin, L. (2011). London Review of Education, Vocational education and training in the spotlight:back to the future for the UKs Coalition Government. London: Routledge. Harkin, J. (2006). Behaving like adults:meeting the needs of younger learners in further education. London: Leaning and Skills Council. Higham, J and Yeomans, D. (2011). Thirty years of 14-19 education and training in England: Reflections on policy, curriculum and organisation. London Review of Education, 217-230. Hodgson, A. and Spours, K. (2010). Journal of Education and Work, Vocational qualifications and progression to higher education: the case of the 14-19 Diplomas in the English system. London: Routledge. Hodgson, A. and Spours, K. (2011). London Review of Education, Educating 14-19 year olds in England: a UK lens on possible futures. London: Routledge. Hodgson, A. , Spours, K. , and Waring, M. (2005). Higher Education, Curriculum 2000 and the future reform of 14-19 qualifications in England. London: Routledge. Huddleston, P, Keep, W, Unwin, L,. (2005). Nuffield Review of 14-19 Education and Training Discussion Paper 33, What might the Tomlinson and white paper proposals mean for vocational education and work based learning? Teaching and learning Research Programme (2006). 14-19 Education and Training. London: Teaching and Learning Research Programme. Teaching and Learning Research Programme. (2006). 14-19 Education and Training:A Commentary by the Teaching and Learning Research Programme. London: Teaching and Learning Research Programme. Tomlinson, M. (2004). 14-19 Curriculum and Qualifications Reform, Final Report on the Working Group on 14-19 Reform. Wolf, A. (2011). Review of Vocational Education-The Wolf Report. Websites Studio Schools Trust. n. d. [online] Available at: www. studioschooldtrust. org [Accessed 30 January 2012] University Technical Colleges. n. d. [online] Available at:. www. utcolleges. org [Accessed 30 January 2012] Newspaper Articles Baker, L. (2011). ‘Wolf’s backing of vocational training is great, but she ducks the question of how much it will cost ‘The Times Educational Supplement. 25 March 2011, p. 31. Meikle, J. (2007) ‘Diplomas being introduced too fast, warns MP’s’, The Guardian. 17 May 2007. [online] Vasager, J. (2012). ‘Thousands of vocational qualifications to be stripped out of GCSE league tables’. The Guardian. 31 January 2012. [online] Wolf, A. (2012) ‘An end to qualifications that have no real value’ The Guardian. 31 January 2012. [online].

Issues in Supply Chain Logistics

Issues in Supply Chain Logistics Outline PURCHASING CASE STUDY 1 Communication forms the most important part as far the supply chain is concerned. It is through well enhanced communication that buyers and sellers can interact well and their separate needs. The most important lesson I derived from the case study is the importance of harmonizing ideas among the working groups. If the flow of ideas between the concerned parties is not proper, it may lead to total failure. In order for the working procedure to be functional, a supply chain is composed of different elements which are reliant on each other. Each of these parameters needs to be reviewed. The customer initiates the supply chain by making the required order. This is then processed by the supplier and finally the consumer receives the package. Hence, there are several elements entailed in such a transaction. To begin with, inbound logistics is crucial during the supply chain. This is closely followed by the outbound logistics in addition to customer care and operations division. None of these processes can be ignored if the supply chain is to succeed. There were some missing links as can be noted form the case study. For instance, the quantities of goods shipped were much more than the actual level agreed upon. This affected the inbound logistics. As a result, there was a lot of mess especially when these goods were to go through the outbound logistics. The operations department suffered a lot. Besides, customers who could not get their packages delivered on time got angry hence unsatisfied. It is imperative to consider the available time against the volume of goods to be handled if supply chain is to record any success. 2) Delayed shipment is one of the main problem which led to the entire mess of the supply chain logistics. Therefore, the supplier carried the blame having agreed so. Besides, the very supplier did not issue the accurate information detailing the quantity of goods to be supplied. Although this appeared to be the key issue at hand, later deliberations revealed that the actual problem was lack of understanding between the supplier and the customer when the initial quotation was being made. These factors hampered the operations in the shipment and delivery of the goods. Although the supplier attempted to communicate with the customer care department regarding challenges in production, no positive feedback was received thereby complicating the entire process. 3) Opting for a different supplier would be a better alternative for Avion, Inc. However, there were several pending deals with the initial supplier. Such an action would just aggravate the situation. Hence, it would only be necessary to clear the current backlog of supplies before delegating the work to a different supplier. This will also assist in restoring customer confidence. In fact, the process of selecting another supplier would require more than just enough time and it would be better off if Avion, Inc. clear all the current deals first. 4) The best way to resolve the issue is by getting to the bottom of the problem. It is important for the company to seek the root cause of the problem, who was actually responsible or failed to do their part and the reason why that happen. In fact, blame game cannot help much at this point. Every detail should be keenly filtered in a bid to establish the truth and possible solutions for the same. The reverse method can achieve much in the process of resolving this problem. Although the magnitude of the problem might appear to be small, no single element can be ignored because it may as well as graduate to level difficult to handle. 5) As a customer, it is imperative to play our parts well and in a manner that will not jeopardize the relationship with the supplier or producer. The bargain end with the supplier should be clear to avoid any possible misunderstanding which may arise due to late deliveries or wrong quantities of deliveries. Additionally, good customer will equally seek an understanding with the supplier whenever some eventualities occur. For instance, delays which may result from transport logistics should not cause a breaking point in the relationship between the supplier and customer. Therefore, it is possible to maintain a cordial relationship between the customer and supplier if the former can resort to understanding of the situation at hand. 6) When the supply chain is keenly monitored or scrutinized at every important point, it will account to what is referred to as performance measurement. This does not only assist in assessing the progress of the chain but also giving a thorough evaluation of how efficient the process is running. Information obtained from performance can be used to make necessary adjustments whenever weaknesses are noted. Performance measurement will also ensure that extremely weak points within the supply chain are overhauled or completely modifies. Hence, it is a very important form of monitoring and evaluation which will always ensure sustained growth in a company. 7) The supply chain logistics will definitely experience change from time to time bearing in mind that the market if often very dynamic and which will quite regularly call for changes. Nevertheless, any change effected will depend on a wide array of factors which must also be put into consideration. Every individual change needs to undergo some form of evaluation to see into it that it will not cause any constraint but rather will enhance the supply process. Factors such as the nature and volume of goods to be shipped, time of delivery as well as the location may also bring in several changes on board although by the end of the day, all the aforementioned factors still belong to the supply chain command. When changes in these aspects are carried out with due diligence, the performance index of the supply chain can record significant growth and success. 8) The duration of time taken when an order is placed by a customer and finally receiving the goods is referred to as the lead time. Reducing the lead time by Avion will imply that the latter will be able to secure more time to continue with production owing to the fact more deliveries to customers will be made within the shortest time possible. More orders will be procured by the company and on the other hand, the level of customer satisfaction will definitely be high due to prompt deliveries. Consequently, Avion will be in a position o make more profit. 9) It is necessary to consider both the single source contract and the multiple source contracts. In the first case, goods are obtained from one supplier regardless of the circumstances at hand. On the other hand, multiple source contract permits the customer to obtain goods from a variety of suppliers. The main advantage of the multiple source contracts is that it is always possible to make adjustments in the supply needs depending on the market forces such as demand. However, if the single source contract is adopted, it will be imperative for both the customer and the supplier to create some working goal to be adhered to just in case the two parties break from the norm. in order to improve the relationship between the supplier and the customer, it is upon the customer to set some specific targets which will also match the ability and capacity of the supplier so that minimal hitch is encountered in course of the two carrying out transactions. The guidelines to be followed by the suppli er and the customer should be clearly understood by the two and by so doing; the supply chain will experience positive growth. 10) This case has presented a myriad of issues which definitely require to be addressed expeditiously in order to avoid similar challenges arising in future. The supply chain process can be made better if the following proposals are put into action. Avion should seek to avoid extremely large quantities as far as deliveries are concerned. In addition, they should stick to their time and program of deliveries as agreed upon by Foster technologies. Moreover, the lead time should be borne in mind by Avion so that prompt deliveries are put in place. Quantity of good to be shipped in a given period of time should be well known so that Foster Technologies can fit into the delivery and production schedule. Should there be any changes on the same to be effected, it should be counterchecked and approved beforehand by the manager in charge of production. The increased orders from Avion require a specialist who can offer proper and thorough management. In fact, Avion Inc had at one time pointed out on the size of Foster Technologies and was concerned whether it would be able to effectively handle its production capacity. One of the best monitoring and evaluation systems which should be initiated is that of measurement technique. This will a ssist in getting the feedback on the progress of the supply chain and any changes effected should there be need to do so. The challenges portrayed in this case study are sometimes inevitable and can best be resolved if the root causes are established right from the start. PURCHASING CASE STUDY 2 What do you do in the first 60 days? I will begin by restructuring all the departments in each of the plants after a careful evaluation of the current state. To be able to achieve this, meetings will be necessary. All the departmental representatives will have to attend regular meetings to report on the pertinent information regarding operations within their areas of concern. Besides, each of the individual plants should have the willingness to experience change. For instance, there would be no need for plant managers to be directly responsible vice president of operations. This will just be creating a very long chain of command and will also slow down the implementation of some decisions. I will personally meet them on a regular basis to expedite operations in addition to improving the cohesiveness of the tea. Reforming the way outsourcing is carried out will also form an integral part of this new development. Each plant should be allocated adequate working staff and responsibilities so that an alliance can be initiated easily. Besides, it will be possible for each plant to outsource some of the products which can be cheap and also within reach. This will boost the production capacity and in turn improve the performance of each plant. The logistics should also be customized to fit the capacity of each plant. This will require the use of another party. What relationships will be critical to your success? The communication between the plant managers and I will be very important because it is only through them that intrinsic issues can reach me before eventually reaching the top authority. Such issues can be sorted out between the two of us before elevating tem to the next level. These will jumpstart our relationship. Moreover, it is through such coordination and good relationship that the essentials of team work will be established within the organisation. Those who are not working inside the organisation also require to be recognized and good relationship built. For example, there will be need to build a warm relationship with customers and suppliers so that the image of the organization can be impressive. If customers are treated kindly, it will assure the organisation lifeline and market sustain ability will be guaranteed. In the case of suppliers, a long lasting and warm relationship is important especially if it is a case of single source contract. They form an integral part of the organisation bearing in mind that without them, the supply chain will be incomplete. PURCHASING Case Study 3 Many outsourcing decisions involve the concept of a core competency. Define what is meant by this term. Discuss if film technology is truly a core competency of Santek Prahalad and Gary (1990) described core competence as the best initiative which can be taken by a firm and which also meets the three conditions that is the product should prove to be beneficial to the consumer, competitors should not be in a position to produce easy substitutes which are similar to the product and finally it can dominate most markets which implies that the product has a wide leverage power. Finally, Santek Images has a wide global market for its film products. The single competitor may not adequately make Santek Images to lose the grip of the market. Hence, film technology proves to be the core competency of Santek Images. Develop a process that would guide firms through the in-sourcing/outsourcing process. Create a process that is robust enough to use across a variety of product/service applications This begins with the thorough training of the working staff who may either be in-sourced or outsourced. This is important because the background knowledge of the product being handled is crucial. The marketing of the product is also an important undertaking. A professional endowed with marketing background should be sought in this field. Time zones which affects the working hours of employees is also an important consideration to bear in mind. Hence, shifts for the workers should be well planned to take care of eventualities like accidents at work place. Financial availability of the project should be analyzed by an efficient project manager who should give the right feedback. The manager can either be outsourced or in-sourced. Workers who are outsourced should be well oriented or perhaps the company should have the understanding of the workers located in different parts and plan for their working requirements in the most satisfying manner. Projects which prove to be less volatile an d more stable should be given priority. This will make it possible for development to be carried out in the most uniform way. Each project should be well monitored to ensure that completion is effected at the right time. Indeed, large groups can be assigned a particular project to expedite completion time. A major challenge with an in-sourcing/outsourcing analysis involves gathering reliable data. Discuss the various groups that should be involved when conducting an in-sourcing/outsourcing analysis. What information can each of these groups provide? One of the most viable groups which can be used when conducting outsourcing/in-sourcing analysis is a team which has the professional background in marketing. This team can equally hold meetings with product suppliers who are well versed in the supply field. Such sources of primary information are often deemed to be the best. Nevertheless, the sources of information may include websites, reports from various fields as well as the internet. These sources may sometimes lack consistency or accuracy and may not be fully relied on. Market players who are well experienced in outsourcing or in-sourcing can be used to obtain information pertaining to market research because they have a wide range of relevant data which can be helpful. The data collected in the above processes is then processed, analyzed and used as guidelines for introducing a new product into the market against any possible challenges which may be experienced. 4) Do you think hardware suppliers are candidates for alliances or partnerships with Santek? Why? I suppose an alliance system would work well between the two parties bearing in mind that Santek Images primarily deal with matters related to media and should the latter continue to outsource, then an alliance system will eventually be established making it easier for it to acquire all its suppliers with ease. In addition, the operations of Santek images are quite different with that of the hardware supplies and so it getting into a partnership may mismatch their working portfolio. It is more rewarding if an alliance could be established between the two parties. Partnerships and alliances are special forms of supplier-buyer relationships. First, define the concept of partnerships and alliances. Second, identify when a firm should pursue a partnership or alliance with selected suppliers. Use the portfolio segmentation tool to assist with your answer A Partnership is a form of business arrangement whereby two or more players enter into a contract to start and run a business enterprise. The capital required to start and run the business is contributed by all the partners in the agreement. On the same note, profits and losses are also shared in the same proportion as the amount of capital contributed. Partners in a business may be of different types, some may actively participate in the running of the business while others may be passive in their roles. On the other hand, a business contract which has been facilitated by two or more businesses as a result of seeking ways of improving performance is referred to as an alliance. Some of the reasons why businesses can resort to alliance system are to reduce production costs and also improve customer experience of the goods and services being offered. Risks and opportunities are taken care of by all the members in the alliance. I strongly believe that partnerships can work well in situa tions where both businesses have a comparative operating capacity in the market and that none of the partners has an advantage position than the other. An alliance is best applied when there is need to outsource products from another company due to cost advantage among other reasons. Each of the organization in the alliance is independent to run its affairs and none can stamp an authority over the other. Develop a process that firms can use when identifying and developing supply chain alliances Firstly, planning forms the fundamental starting point when developing the supply chain alliances. It begins by choosing an organisation which has the capacity to form the best alliance. In addition, the goals and objectives need to be clearly crafted out including the requirements of which services to be offered. The evaluation process should also be established to ensure that performance timelines and deadlines are met. Agreements which are mutually beneficial should be anchored so that no alliance member gets a feeling of unfair deal. This will also usher in the need to harness a good working relationship among the alliance members who are supposed to share any pertinent information regarding the agreement. Furthermore, matters regarding tradeoffs should be discussed in details to allow a profitable venture experience between or among the alliance members. Finally, training should be organized to cater for the capacity building and professionalism of the staff across the organizat ions. This will definitely improve the standard of the employees and commodities and services being delivered.