Ethics and Corporate Responsibility Essay

Abstract PharmaCARE is on of the world’s most successful pharmaceutical companies. This paper will take a look at Ethics and Corporate Responsibility in the work place and the world and how PharmaCare provided insight to their stakeholders CompCare and who takes on the overall ethical and social responsibilities of the organization. The importances of the decisions made by management are discussed as well as the ability to make changes to support a more ethical work environment. The ability to improve operations and turn a profit are explained by discussing management’s requirements to abide by regulations governed by the Occupational Safety and Health Administration, Federal Drug Administration, Environmental Protection Agency, Equal Employment Opportunity , Comprehensive Environmental Response Compensation and Liability Act and other regulatory policies Ethics and Corporate Responsibility in the Workplace and the World Introduction Introduction This paper will examine PharmaCare’s ethical and social responsibility around its operations, products, and obligation to stakeholders. PharmaCare, a renowned fortune 500 pharmaceutical company listed on the NASDAQ is one of the companies that have all these initiatives in place. It is considered one of the most ethical and social responsible companies in the world due to many initiatives it takes to commit to its responsibility to protect the environment and enhance the quality of life for millions around the world. In recent years, many companies have managed to become a benefit corporation (B-corporation). This legal form of corporation is to provide legal protection to management that want to both maximize shareholder income and pursue a social or environmental agenda (Andre, 2012). This paradigm shift is due to consumer’s awareness, global warming and globalization in the business world. All global companies have developed ethical, environmental and sustainability policies for their employees, suppliers, contractors and other stakeholders to follow. Key characteristics of Stakeholders within the PharmaCARE scenario PharmaCare has a legal obligation to all of these stakeholders. The Company needs the employees to carry out its day-to-day operation in so doing; they may offer many incentives to keep the best employees. The suppliers are one of the main factors to this chain because they have to provide the machinery or raw material because employees can produce a product. The shareholders, investors and creditors are the parties providing funding for PharmaCare to operate. Human rights issues of the Colberia’s population versus that of its Executives Several firms have faced legal suits due to the manner in which they have treated the public, workers, consumers, and the environment during their business activities. For instance, the competition bureau of Canada found Azko Nobel Chemicals BV guilty and they were charged in the federal court of Canada on August 18, 2003. The company had taken part in a conspiracy to fix market prices for a crucial food additive that was an essential ingredient for an important animal feed and a chemical use that was in several commercial and consumer products. The company was fined $2.9 million by the court (American Bar Association, 2002). Many consumers as well as social interest groups believe that firms should not only aim at maximizing their profits but they also put into focus the social implications of their business activities. Social responsibility has been defined as acting with concern and sensitivity and the awareness of the  impact of your actions on others, particularly the disadvantaged (Entrepreneur, 2014). Some of the very basic ethical and social responsibility issues have been put within the contact of laws and regulations that will encourage business organizations to be in conformity to societal standards, values, and attitudes. The minimum expectation for business managers is that they should abide to and uphold these rules and regulations (Griseri & Seppala, 2010). The majority of the legal and ethical issues that arise are as a result of choices that are deemed unethical, irresponsible, or otherwise acceptable by the society. It is however worth noting that not all actions that the society deems unethical may not necessarily be illegal since both legal and ethical issues are dynamic (Hines, 2000). In this case, the manner in which PharmaCARE has treated Colberia’s indigenous population falls within the definition of unethical practices as well as unacceptable corporate behavior. To start with the company has unfair compensation policies that pay huge salaries to executives and exploit the rank-to-file workers. These workers receive poor salaries and are exposed to harsh and unsafe working conditions. In addition, the company subjects the workers to unsafe working conditions. Recommend at least three (3) changes PharmaCARE can make to be more ethical going forward. Make stronger the connection among the rank-and-file personnel and management. This will allow the corporation to come up with good tactical plan which will boost the company in realizing its missions and goals. Contribute in various corporate social activities. This is though hiring Colberians and compensating them well. They should also work hard to improve Colberians’ standards of living. Follow the laid US laws to the letter, for instance, environmental laws as well as intellectual property la Assessing PharmaCARE’s environmental initiative against the backdrop of its anti-environmental lobbying efforts and Colberian activities. PharmaCARE exposes its workers to unhealthy working conditions. Many of the employees have been falling sick as a result of inhaling toxic substances arising from the company’s laboratories. Even with full knowledge of the situation, the management has refused to take any remedial action and the workers continue to suffer. Further, the company has been accused of supplying an unsafe drug  to the market that has been associated with many cardiac deaths. As a result of these happenings, the company’s purported environmental stewardship initiative will be rendered ineffective especially in the wake of the lobbying efforts against the company†™s operations in Colberia. The company has engaged in acts that may be considered unethical and socially unacceptable. PharmaCARE therefore lacks the moral authority to spearhead environmental matters since its reputation in the public has been seriously damaged. In addition, the company’s alleged mistreatment of its workers subjects it to sabotage of its environmental efforts especially when the workers’ health continue to deteriorate because of the company’s negligence. Would PharmaCARE’s actions be ethical with respect to the indigenous people of Colberia in accordance with the following ethical theories. Utilitarianism- PharmaCare’s uses Colberian intellectual property because it does maximize resources, but does not promote happiness. People in Colberian work so hard but still live in harsh conditions. They have no pleasure and endure pain, which is a clear depiction of unhappiness. In addition, the workers who are members of the Colberian population suffer due to poor working conditions. PharmaCare’s actions were unethical. Deontology – the compa ny has an â€Å"obligation† to be morally responsible as well as provide healthy working conditions to the employees. The company had been informed of the dangers surrounding the drug production but failed to act accordingly to assist in reducing the risk. PharmaCare’s actions were unethical. Virtue ethics- Virtue ethics is person, rather than action based: it looks at the virtue or moral character of the person carrying out an action, rather than at ethical duties and rules, or the consequences of particular actions (BBC, 2009). Though PharmaCare was justified by intellectual property right to go ahead and carry out its duties, the activities were wrong and unethical since the character of company officials was negative. PharmaCare’s actions were unethical. Ethics of care- by analyzing the company’s actions based on ethics of care, the company’s activities emerge as unethical. As an ethic grounded in voice and relationships, in the importance of everyone having a voice, being listened to carefully and heard with respect. An ethics of care directs our attention to the need for responsiveness in relationships and to the costs of losing connection with oneself or with others (Gilligan, 2011). Since the Colberian people’s response was negative by their complaining,  the entire company’s project was unethical. Your own moral / ethical compass- from a personal point of view, PhamaCare activities were unethical because it had the responsibility of carrying out thorough research before administering any drugs, providing decent working conditions to its employees and educating patients about the negative effects of the drug. Therefore, the fact that the company neglected its duties and received negative responses to activities carried out shows that it was unethical. PharmaCARE’s actions with those of at least one (1) real-world company, whose corporate  activities led to ethical, environmental, or workplace safety issues and financial loss. There are many examples of corporations that have been call out by the public on questions of ethics, environmental responsibility, workplace safety an d financial loss. There are six areas in particular where ethical issues arise in the organizations: compensation; conflicts of interest; publications and solicitation; financial integrity; investment policies; and accountability and strategic management (Rhode & Packet, 2009). Some examples of outrageous unethical behavior by corporation the compare to PharmaCare’s actions: References Andre, R. (2012). Assessing the accountability of the benefit corporation: Will this new gray sector organization enhance corporate social responsibility?. Journal of Business Ethics , 110(1), 13-150. Retrieved from http://link.springer.com/article/10.1007/s10551-012- 1254-1 Arenson, K. (1995, June 23). ex-united way leader gets 7 years for embezzlement. New York Times. Retrieved from http://www.nytimes.com/1995/06/23/us/ex-united-way-leader- gets-7-years-for-embezzlement.html BBC. (2009). Ethics guide. Retrieved from http://www.bbc.co.uk/ethics/introduction/virtue.shtml Entrepreneur, A. (2014, August). Social responsibility. Entrpreneur, 8(19), Retrieved from http://www.entrepreneur.com/encyclopedia/social-responsibility Fitzgerald, J. (2009, January 28). Treasury gets tough: Eyes financial bailout abuse. Boston Herald. Retrieved from http://bostonherald.com/ Gilligan, C. (2011, June 11). ethics of care. Retrieved from http://ethicsofcare.org/interviews/carol-gilligan//virtue.shtml Griseri, P., & Seppala, N. (2010). Business ethics and corporate social responsibility. Australia: South-Western Cengage Learning. Hines, C. (2001, ). Localisation: a global manifesto. Retrieved from http://www.trabal.org/courses/pdf/localization.pdf Panjabikesan, R. (2010). Stakeholders – characteristics and types. Retrieved from http://toostep.com/insight/stakeholders—characteristics-and-types Rhode, D. & Packet, A. (2009, June). Ethics and nonprofits. Stanford Social Innovation Review, 11, Retrieved from http://www.ssireview.org/articles/entry/ethics_and_nonprofits Sims, R., & Brinkmann, J. (2003). Enron ethics (or culture matters more than codes). Journal of Business Ethics, 45(3), 243,252. Retrieved from http://www.ssireview.org/articles/entry/ethics_and_nonprofits

History of French Cuisine from Conventional to Extraordinary Essay

Derived from the French language, bon appetit has been a familiar saying known around the world. Meaning good appetite or enjoy your meal, bon appetit exemplifies the French culture. The French have been known for centuries of elegant and exquisite cuisine especially gourmet desserts. Located in Western Europe between Italy and Spain, France has been a hotspot of enriched ancient culture. France flourished into a tourist location which ignited a change in France’s commercial kitchens. Chefs were obliged to create dishes that appealed to a growing audience. French cuisine has evolved extensively over the centuries. However, centuries of bliss and creativity was dampened with years of anguish and turmoil, when Germany occupied France during the Second World War. France’s once plentiful food supply quickly turned scarce. This forced cooks to utilize new substitutions for ingredients and start practical meal planning. The hardships the French cuisine faced during 1940-1944 simultaneously changed the French lifestyle. Modern French food now embodies simplicity yet class; rustic yet modern. Once having everything then being stripped away to nothing, France needed to rebuild a cuisine embracing the past, present, and future. Therefore beginning from World War II to modern day, French cuisine has experienced many changes whereby impacting French culture. An adversary of Germany, France sustained a significant setback when Germany took control. Prior to the German occupation, French food was known has haute or grande cuisine. Traditional haute cuisine is highly noted all around the world. The food is well known due to the immense amount of preparation and presentation that goes into each dish. Precision plays a crucial role in creating an exquisite haute meal (Franklin). However, haute cuisine ceased to exist under German occupation and subsequent food shortages. Lines were long in front of French shops as people hoped to purchase depleted foods and staple products. Burdened with these difficulties, the French government instituted food charts and tickets which were to be exchanged for French staples. Items such as butter, bread, and meat were being rationed. Traditional cuisine then became obsolete due to citizens skimping on spices and decorations. Although the government tried to provide food subsidies, hunger still existed affecting the youth in urban areas. With the absence of standard foods normally seen in their diet, the French people searched for new European dietary substitutes (Beaufort). They ate unusual vegetables, such as Swedish turnip and Jerusalem artichoke. Products such as sugar were replaced by alternatives such as saccharin. In lieu of coffee, toasted barley mixed with chicory became the beverage of choice (â€Å"French Classics†). Scams and trickery got the best of people who were desperate for a meal during this time. Some people utilized the black market. There people could sell food without government tickets. Resulting in the prices being extremely high. Counterfeit food tickets were also in circulation. Along with the black market there was also direct buying from farmers in the countryside. The above activities carried the risk of fines and punishments as they were strictly prohibited by the government. In remote country villages vegetable gardens, the availability of milk products, and illicit animal slaughtering provided better survival for the people verses those living in the large cities (Beaufort). Wine played a key role during World War II as well. Wine is commonly consumed during festive occasions it has been utilized during war as well. Over the years, wine has made an unusual appearance on the battlefield. Commanders have allowed their troops to consume wine on the front lines hoping for an increase in performance and moral. During World War II, the combination of wine and war played out in a heartfelt way. The French army did everything in their power to keep their wine and their national identity out of the hands of the invading German forces (â€Å"Saving†). Although, the German forces did invade France, the consumption of wine on the frontline gave hope to the French soldiers that traditional French culture was being preserved during and after the war. The liberation of France began on June 6th, 1944. The Allied forces put forth into to action their plan, D-Day which was the invasion of France. After World War II, tourism signaled a new beginning for French cuisine. Tourism introduced the demand for haute cuisine at a reasonable price. Japanese, Middle Easterners, British, Americans, and even French travelers were yearning for new food experiences. French chefs were now determined to start a new style of cooking, one that would keep some traditional recipes but implement new ones. New cuisine was a counteraction to the classic haute cuisine (Franklin). New cuisine or Nouvelle was the answer that chefs from all parts of the world were looking for. Nouvelle cuisine had several characteristics. For example it was important that high quality and fresh products were utilized for cooking. The chefs would travel to markets every morning and look for the freshest products. These new and improved cooks would not fathom the idea of using any product that was not absolutely fresh or needed preservatives. Chefs simplified menu cards deleting a long list of dishes. Smaller quantities and choices meant no leftovers guaranteeing freshness. Chefs were looking for quality and became more attracted by unfamiliar products. Foreign influences prevailed and chefs began to use exotic products from Asia, North Africa and Italy (â€Å"Nouvelle Cuisine†). In new cuisine recipes, fewer ingredients were used to enhance purity and light sauces substituted creamy, thick ones. Flexible preparation methods and more experimentation with non-traditional flavors allowed new cuisine to become popular (Franklin). Fortunately, this new cooking style is said to be less fattening. Chefs used limited meat in new recipes which stems from the shortage of meat during World War II. It is perfect for those seeking a healthier lifestyle. Additionally, the new cuisine was prepared with lighter ingredients such as herbs, quality butter, lemon juice, and vinegar. This flexible and less expensive cuisine mainstreamed into restaurants and other eateries (Beaufort). One byproduct of the new cuisine is the menu de degustation or tasting menu that was offered in many restaurants. Achieving notoriety, diners were eager to sample all of the dishes of the new cuisine. Each member in a group had the opportunity to order a different appetizer, main course, and dessert. Tasting menus gave the diners the convenience to experience many varieties. Another byproduct of new cuisine is the choice of a la carte. It is a menu in which the patron makes individual selections from various menu categories and each item is priced separately. Serving single portions was seen as a rare new talent to chefs (Olver). The French culture was launched and savored by people around the world. World War II impacted French living for the better by reevaluating French values and introducing new French cuisine ideas. French cuisine influenced other cultures as well and many countries adapted new French cooking methods. Throughout the centuries, France was noted for its grandiose and eccentric lifestyle. Rich foods and lavish feasts were an integral part of the France culture. Chefs prepared French cuisine with the finest ingredients. Wine was served and enjoyed at every meal. Food was plentiful for all. All of this changed rapidly with the German Invasion in 1940. A ravaged and war torn country left the French people forced to explore new and less expensive ways to provide meals solely for survival. Yet, despite the devastation and hardship the French citizens endured, they utilized these cost effective measures and the importation of ingredients into the development of the nouvelle cuisine. Tasting menus and ala carte menus, not to mention exquisite appetizers and desserts, created the ultimate dining experience enjoyed by patrons. Thus emerged the world renowned and delectable French cuisine that is so popular today.

Donald Marshall Jr. (Wrongful Conviction Essay Example | Topics and Well Written Essays - 2000 words

Donald Marshall Jr. (Wrongful Conviction - Essay Example This involves a situation whereby the judge or a group of judges have a mandate to investigate a case, and come up with a conclusion regarding the case under consideration. Botting (2010) explains that the adversarial justice system is characterized by a two sided structure. Under this structure, the criminal trial courts are able to pit the defense against the prosecutors. Justice occurs, when the most effective and efficient adversary manages to convince the judges or the jury that his or her perspective regarding the case, is the right one. The evolution of the modern adversarial justice system can be associated to a variety of historical figures, these includes Donald Marshall in Canada, and Lord Henry Brougham of United Kingdom. The contributions of these two important historical figures are somehow related. This is because Donald Marshall was convicted of a crime that he did not commit, by a jury that was partisan. On the other hand, Lord Henry Brougham played an influential role in advocating for a non-partisan judge, who does not take the side of either the defense or the prosecutor during the process of administration of justice. However, this paper concentrates on the role played by Donald Marshall in promoting equality and fairness in the administration of justice. This paper takes a stand that the wrongful conviction of Donald Marshall led to a reformation of the Canadian Justice System and that of the state of Nova Scotia. R vs. Marshall jr is a 1971 court case that provides an example of a wrongful conviction. Donald Marshall was imprisoned to a life sentence, because he was accused of murdering his friend, Sandy Seale. During this period in time, Sandy Seale and Donald Marshall were both 17 years old. The two were walking around the Wentworth Park, during a late evening, with the intention of going to take a drink. These two young people met Roy

The closing of the Muslim mind Essay Example | Topics and Well Written Essays - 1250 words

The closing of the Muslim mind - Essay Example Basically, the Muslims closed the doors to explore the world a millennium ago hence lagged behind Christian based countries in terms of scientific inquiries, technology advancement and economic development. The closing of the mind began to occur between the 9th and 10th centuries. This was a crucial era in the Islam world because the West countries introduced their cultures. The Muslim did not embrace this cultures hence the closure. The closure of the Muslim mind occurred in two ways. The first was to deny the people the capability of knowing anything new while the second was dismissing reality and unrecognizing it. For example, in the Sunni Islam, both concepts were employed in one Ash’arite theological school. Consequently, the gap between men’s reasoning capacity and reality widened which was the source of Sunni Islam’s woes. Reilly states the history of Islam can be understood in four main phases: the Islamic (7th -13th centuries), the Ottoman (1453-1918), t he nationalist (1918-1991) and post-nationalist (1991- to date as it is the current Islam flourishing (Reilly, 2010). The Ottoman and nationalist saw great success in expanding the Muslim world while Islamic and post-nationalist eras saw great conflict and decline. However, the Islamic era did achieve narrow success through schools such as Mu’tazilite who encouraged free will in the Muslim world. Those responsible Earlier in the year 750, the Mu’tazilite school established by advocators of free will, established solid grounds to reason and philosophy. There were interactions between the Muslim who attended Mu’tazilite and Christian theologians showing interest to join the two faiths. The Mu’tazilite had established successfully the developed school of Islamic theology. They insisted that the human mind was free to interpret revelation and choose which relevant religion to follow. This entailed the views of God, the universe and humanity’s place wit hin the world. They hugely concentrated on the human mind to use the voice of reason in developing an understanding between the universe and God. Their concepts were based on eliminating the processes of dehellenisation and intellectual ossification. Dehellenisation process involved the refusal to reason and ignoring facts while intellectual ossification involved traditional beliefs and behavior as opposed to modernity and technology use. However, the success was short lived when Ash’arite challenged the Mu’tazilite doctrine in court which led to their expulsion from court. Those found to be holding the Mu’tazilite doctrine were found to have committed a crime punishable by death. Through this, the Ash’arites had achieved their revenge on the Mu’tazilites for their previous poor treatment. The Mu’tazilites were removed from all government positions. The Ash’arites opposed views of God, the universe and humanity. By the end of the 10th century, booksellers and copyrights were prohibited from trading in literally works of theology, disputation and philosophy which were associated with the Mu’tazilites. As such, the processes of dehellenisation and intellectual ossification were restarted once more. Reilly states that in the 12th century, the anti-rationalist and conservative institutions were close to destroying the Mu’tazilite influence thus ending the most serious attempts of combining reason with Islam as a religion. As a result, the works of Mu’tazilite were destroyed by Ash’arites eventually leading to the closure of the Muslim mind.

Annotated Bibliography Example | Topics and Well Written Essays - 500 words - 7

Annotated Bibliography Example Barry’s article analyzes both arguments for and against the issue of gay marriage. The article aims is at providing a better understanding to the world before giving a summary of his opinion. Barry defines gay marriage as marriage between two people with the same gender identity. According to Barry (260), those in support of the gay marriage view the arrangement as marriage of equality. Proponents of gay marriage believe that this union should be of little concern to an individual as the case of heterosexual marriage. Therefore, gay couples should be allowed to celebrate their union in public just like normal couples. On the contrary, those opposed to gay marriage argue that, since time in memorial, marriage institution has always been defined as between two people of different sex. That is man and woman. In addition, marriage is about procreation and bringing up of the children within a family. According to Gale, Equal Marriage is dated back in 2001 when Joe and Kevin Bourassa married in Toronto Metropolitan Church. Thereafter, the two proceeded to court seeking the states recognition of their marriage right. This article provides an alternate point of view of gay marriage. According to Gale, the Ohio court instituted a right to same sex. Therefore, no state within U.S. should treat gay marriage as illegal. Despite the struggles in both political and legal field, we should know the world still discriminates the gay family. However, members of gay family have inner strength, resilience, and wisdom. These qualities help them develop unique ways in which they conduct their relationship. Nagle outlines his understanding on this hotly debated topic of gay marriages. As a rule of democracy, Nagle explains that every member of the society is entitled to his/her rights, expression, association, and opinions. He refers to the statement by the Prime- Minister who on his part hinted that gay marriage is not a matter of ‘if’ but

Godly Purpose Essay Example | Topics and Well Written Essays - 1000 words

Godly Purpose - Essay Example As creatures created in God’s image, humans have a unique opportunity to fulfill divine purpose in their lives. Some never move beyond self-gratification and seek only to achieve worldly success measured by cultural conceptions. God created all humans in his image. This applies whether a person chooses to believe in God or not. God created humans to have a capacity for a relationship with him, to be able to think and feel affection and emotion, and with the ability to think, understand, and determine morality. From the very beginning, God’s plan included humans, with a desire to create a being that could relate to him. He said, â€Å"Let us make mankind in our image, in our likeness,† indicating a purpose to his decisions that mankind â€Å"may rule over the fish in the sea and the birds in the sky, over the livestock and all the wild animals, and over all the creatures that move along the ground† (New International Version, Genesis 1.26). One may never re alize the divine opportunity that humanity offers. Instead of embracing a life that honors God and fulfills his divine purpose, one may choose to accept a lifestyle that relies on cultural conceptions such as economics, social constructs, survival, sexuality, and self-gratification. ... not be even a hint of sexual immorality, or of any kind of impurity, or of greed, because these are improper for God’s holy people.  Nor should there be obscenity, foolish talk or coarse joking, which are out of place, but rather thanksgiving† (Eph 3.3-4). In addition to identifying activity and behaviors to avoid, God also provides a guide of what he expects if one is to live in a way that mirrors his image. Through the words of Paul, he communicates, â€Å"I urge you to live a life worthy of the calling you have received.  Be completely humble and gentle; be patient, bearing with one another in love.  Make every effort to keep the unity of the Spirit through the bond of peace† (Eph 4.1-3). In Romans, one is encouraged to â€Å"not conform to the pattern of this world, but be transformed by the renewing of your mind† (Rom 12.2). Throughout the Bible, God provides one with instruction and encouragement. Promises temper what may appear to be a daunting task to one encumbered by the intrinsic weaknesses and frailty of humankind. Paul communicates one such promise in a letter to the church at Corinthians, saying, â€Å"And we all, who with unveiled faces contemplate  the Lord’s glory, are being transformed into his image with ever-increasing glory, which comes from the Lord, who is the Spirit† (2 Cor 3.18). These promises provide one with hope, even when individual choices and actions make adhering to God’s design a challenge. The promises indicate that God understands and accepts the imperfections of humans as long as they are working toward his will. One must set an example for others to follow. The Bible uses the analogy of light to demonstrate how one can do this. Paul states, â€Å"For you were once darkness, but now you are light in the Lord. Live as children of

CGI Group, Inc Essay Example | Topics and Well Written Essays - 1250 words

CGI Group, Inc - Essay Example As the essa declares GIB is headed by its founder Serge Godin, who has been serving as both the Chief Executive Officer and Chairman of the Board since 1976. As per GIB’s latest annual report, Mr Godin’s annual salary and bonuses amounted to $810,000. This paper stresses that given that Yahoo! Finance or Reuters does not have a GIB beta estimate, estimate of MSN Money is used. GIB’s beta is currently set at 1.64. This shows the measure of the sensitivity of a stock, bond, or fund to swings of an index or the overall market. In this case, GIB’s stocks are compared with the S&P 500 index and its bonds and bond funds are compared with the Lehman Brothers Aggregate Bond index. Given the GIB’s estimated beta is higher than 1.0 indicates its relatively higher volatility compared to the overall market. As such, it is forecasted that if the S&P 500 moves 10% higher, the GIB stock with a beta of 1.64 should move by 16.4%. As compared to other notable players in the same sector, GIB is less volatile than E-Bay or Amazon.com, which has betas of 2.06 and 2.65, respectively. GIB’s beta of 1.64 is already its leverage beta. This is because the beta derived by MSN Money takes into consideration both the stocks or equi ty of the company as well as the bond and bond funds which are the company’s borrowings. GIB’s debt component is comprised of unsecured revolving term facility bearing an interest equal to the US LIBOR rate plus banker’s acceptance rate of 1.25% plus 1.25%, and senior US unsecured notes bearing an average interest rate of 4.97% and maturing on 2014.

Week 5 Discussion Coursework Example | Topics and Well Written Essays - 250 words

Week 5 Discussion - Coursework Example Roger Wilson approved the bill from Mr. Griesedeck despite being aware that the funds had been used for political donation. In 2009, Douglas Morgan made request for a $3,000 donation that would be recovered in the same manner as the first one (Lippmann, 2012). Fortunately, the company legal team noticed the bill was strange during a routine review of all legal matters. As a result, Wilson was forced to give Mr. Griesedeck the money back using his personal savings. The type of fraud was done using the expenditure cycle. Legal fees for the company are part of the expenditures that are regularly paid. The use of the expenditure cycle was meant to help hide the fraud due to the routine nature of meeting legal bills. Expenditure cycle is full of loopholes that many people use to misappropriate funds. Lippmann, R. (2012, April 12). Former Mo. Gov. Wilson pleads guilty to misappropriating insurance co. funds. Retrieved from St. LouisPublicRadio:

Study of Cylindrical Sails for Large Ships Essay

Study of Cylindrical Sails for Large Ships - Essay Example For instance, the estimate for 2007 was 60,000 deaths. The use of the ships also has had a negative impact on global warming, and this is a growing concern for environmentalists. Because the world is being impacted to the point of people dying, resolving this issue has become very important. Furthermore, C02 emitted from ships is only increasing, up about 3 percent from 2007, because of the growing use of more and more ships on the ocean. Therefore, the shipping industry realizes the threat this negative environmental impact has on its industry, as people and politicians both do want to see a change. The shipping industry reportedly put out 847 tonnes in 2007 (this was actually one of the lower estimates; some organizations claim that the rate was much higher). The shipping industry is therefore being put under increasingly pressure to act. Therefore, the researcher proposes that the use of wind tunnels combined with cylindrical sails will help to address this problem. There have been several studies done, which will be discussed, involving the use of cylindrical sails. By combining the cylindrical sails with the use of the wind tunnels, the ships should be able to go faster than those that just traveled with the cylindrical sails, thus making this option more feasible for the shipping industry, which does have time limitations when traveling. Research Objectives Quantitative methods of research will include the calculations of the ship's traveled distance and the ship's length. Wind tunnel data will also be used to determine the success of the study. By using these calculations, it can be determined if the voyages using the new types of sail are correct. Qualitative methods will include researching the actual comments of the researchers, and obtaining information regarding their thoughts and feelings about the ships. Fig.1 The researcher plans to use cylindrical sail with air suction, utilizing dodger support structures and power of air intake. The wind tunnel will not be used as the sail, but the model the researcher tests will be conducted in wind tunnel to grasp the order of possible saving as well as the mechanism of flow around the sail. Research Design There are five various wind assistance devices that can be used for ships, and will be discussed here. Schematic drawing of different wind rigs for ships. There is a wide choice of various rigs that can be used for hull and superstructure configurations, making comparisons difficult; however, when considering wind-assisted motor cargo ships, options are more limited. The main groups to consider in this category are as follows. 1. Square Rig-This concept is often used to improve aerodynamics of sails and allows for clean lines through the use of cantilever masts, for, and aft stay-sails. This setup can be counted on during long voyages when the wind is fairly predictable. However, in this day and age, not as much cargo is shipped via long voyage as it was in historical times. Thus, a second application of this idea can be used for shorter routes where the wind is also not predictable. The fore and aft sails can be modified so that they can sail close to the wind. Soft sails can also be used at sea and are fairly cheap as well, although keeping them up to date can cost the company (Clayton 57). 2.

Managing People in the Modern Workplace Research Paper

Managing People in the Modern Workplace - Research Paper Example The modern workplace has changed significantly as most employees are now increasingly involved in decision-making in addition to other tasks and they work as a team. Therefore, today, people work as a team in any organization and the employers expect the employees to work as a team in managing the workplace. People normally want to do good work in any organization and therefore proper management makes them feel that they matter and are actively involved in making a difference in the organization. Employees normally prefer working in places that magnify or increase their strengths and not focus on their weaknesses. In order to achieve this, they need some level of autonomy and structure, and therefore the organization must always be honest, coherent and open in managing the human resource at its disposal. However, achieving this may at times be tricky or difficult due to the competing needs of the organization as compared to that of individual employees. This is because managers are f aced with numerous challenges at the workplace and must continually work extra hard to forge ahead in pushing the objectives of companies. As managers strive to make the organizations authentic in one way or the other, they should realize the potential of their human resource in achieving their core values. Managing People Creating the best workplace is important in making the organization work at its best as the employees are allowed to realize their optimum potential (Goffee and Jones 2013, p.3). This involves nurturing the differences between each employee and the value of each employee is appreciated. Thus, all information available should be utilized towards improving the welfare of the company while at the same time making the workplace more rewarding (Goffee and Jones 2013, p. 4). Research has shown that employees who are highly engaged by their employers are likely to exceed the workplace expectations by 50% than those workers that are less engaged. This same result also sho ws that firms that actively engaged their employees in the workplace had a higher percentage of customer satisfaction by 89% and a chance of retaining their employees by 54% as compared to other firms (Goffee and Jones 2013, p.4). Similarly, research in other nations has revealed that employees who have the free will to express their real selves had higher levels of commitment to their organizations' performance at the individual level and the propensity to help fellow employees in their assigned tasks. An important strategy of managing people in the modern workplace is to let the employees be themselves in whatever task they are doing or undertaking (Atif 2009, p.60). This encompasses having thoughtfulness of the differences in perspectives, important assumptions, and habits of the mind.

Challenges Faced by Records Centres in Zimbabwe Essay Example for Free

Challenges Faced by Records Centres in Zimbabwe Essay People frequently turn to technology because they find they cant manage their paper records. Either they are swamped by too much paper on site, or they cant find the documents they need, or both. By itself, technology cannot fix a records management problem; technology applications need a lot of research and planning to be effective. While automating records can be a valuable tool, there are challenges to integrating these technological devices into a record system. Tennessee State Library and Archives states that, a records centre is, â€Å"an interim storage and retrieval facility where inactive records of more than one agency may be administered on behalf of such agencies and may be stored and retrieved conveniently, economically, and in good order and inventory control until their final disposition and yet remain under the access and disposition control of their originating agencies. Roper and Miller (1999; 6) postulates that, â€Å"Records centre is a building or part of a building designed or adapted for the low-cost storage, maintenance and communication of semi-current records pending their ultimate disposal. † The Records Centre is responsible for protecting the records from unauthorized access, damage, and deterioration. Both legal control and control of access to the records is retained by the agency until the records are either transferred to the Archives section or destroyed. Automating as defined by Alexis L (1999; 5), â€Å"is the use of machines, control systems and information technologies to optimize productivity in the production of goods and delivery of services. † The scholar also propounds that, â€Å"the correct incentive for applying automation is to increase productivity, and/or quality beyond that possible with current human labor levels so as to realize economies of scale, and/or realize predictable quality levels. In the scope of industrialisation, automation is a step beyond mechanization. Whereas mechanization provides human operators with machinery to assist them with the muscular requirements of work, automation greatly decreases the need for human sensory and mental requirements while increasing load capacity, speed, and repeatability. † Automation plays an increasingly important role in the world economy and in daily experience. In support to the above, Dorf and Bishop (1998; 8) also states that, â€Å"automating is the control of an industrial process (manufacturing production, and so on) by automating rather that manual means. Roper and Miller (1999; 6) also point out automating as, â€Å"the use of machines or systems to perform tasks normally performed or collected by people. † Some of the challenges that are faced by records centres in Zimbabwe in automating their records systems include, upkeep and maintenance expenses, specialists are required, new hardware and software need to be purchased, local management and workers need to be trained, a complete re-appraisal of specialist staffing may be necessary (the recruitment of systems analyst already familiar with the design and implementation of distributed systems) among others. In relation to upkeep and maintenance expenses, Alexis L (1999; 5) propounds that, â€Å"Once technology is purchased for a records centre, the cost of upkeep and maintenance can be too great for the building to maintain. Outdated software and hardware components can be incompatible with available programs. Also, the cost of repairing broken equipment may be too expensive for records centre budgets. † The researcher also notes that in order for a records centre to successfully automate its records system, there must be a rolling replacement or updating plan in place to keep technology current and useful. There are also incompatibility issues in automating the record systems of records centres in Zimbabwe. According to Harvest (1992; 57), â€Å"Many records centres today have curricula and programs based on state or national assessments. The majority of these tests and measures are paper-and-pencil based in order to make them accessible for all users. Because learning with technology involves typing input into a computer, there is a disconnection between the assessments that determine government funding and the use of technology in the records centres. To adequately prepare for these tests, users need practice with authentic assessments most closely imitating those of the standardized test. Waites and Knott (1992; 523) states that, â€Å"automating records present an added challenge to records managers in records centres because they must deal with users of varying computer literacy levels. Some users enter the records centre fully versed in the applications of a computer, while oth ers come with no prior experience. It is difficult for records managers to deal with this vast difference and ensure that they provide users who need assistance with that assistance while not requiring capable users to slow their academic progress and wait. † Another challenge faced by these records centres in Zimbabwe in automating their records systems is that there is lack of support. Perderson (1987; 5) states that, â€Å"While technology can be a great addition to the records centres, it also can be a source of frustration for both the records manager and the user. Unless the records manager is well trained in technology and can support the hardware in the records centre, a technology expert will be needed to troubleshoot problems. If records centre cannot support the purchased technology, it essentially renders it useless in times of crisis or disrepair. † Additionally from the researcher’s point, technology often needs frequent maintenance to keep it in good condition for use. If all these are not available it means more money will be needed for the upkeep as well as hiring experts to use the automated systems. Training the staff and patrons to use a newly automated system can be challenging. According to the Colorado Department of Education, Training is expensive and you can never pay for enough. If the staff is unfamiliar with computerized records management software, they will need many hours of training to feel comfortable operating the system. A select number of staff will also need training to manage specialized operations, such as cataloguing or patron record management. Additionally, patrons will need assistance using the system to search for library materials. Some patrons may be reluctant to change to a new system, especially if they dont like computers. With proper training and plenty of support, users will adjust to the new system. Prythesh (1996) forwarded that, â€Å"because connection problems, downloading issues, policing software and other difficulties can cause road blocks when implementing a lesson in the technology based records centre, records managers sometimes shy away from using it simply because of lack of time. With all of the demands on users, the amount of time spent in the records centre is more and more valuable. † To lose a few minutes because of connectivity issues is not feasible, and its one important reason why automating records systems often fails in records centres in Zimbabwe. More time is lost due to connection problems. Technology is another hurdle to cross while automating a records system. When selecting records automation software, one must make sure it will work with the existing equipment or be financially prepared to purchase upgraded technology. Kerri Cox Online (2013) postulates that, â€Å"Analyze the records assistants workstations, patron access points, network server, Internet access and building electrical system. Some records centres may require minor technological upgrades, while others will require an expensive technological overhaul. † The technology team, or lack of one, can be another challenge of records system automation. Harvest (1992; 57) states that, â€Å"A records centre needs a strong technology support system in place prior to automation. Someone needs to oversee the automation process and troubleshoot any software or hardware problems. The researcher also notes that once the system is in place, the technology team will need to continue to monitor and upgrade the system. Apart from the challenges, automating records system in records centres has some benefits and some of them are higher production rates and increased productivity, more efficient use of materials, better product quality, improved safety, shorter workweeks for labour. Kerri Cox (2013) outlines that, â€Å"Higher output and increased productivity have been two of the biggest reasons in justifying the use of automation. Despite the claims of high quality from good workmanship by humans, automated systems typically perform the manufacturing process with less variability than human workers, resulting in greater control and consistency of product quality. Also, increased process control makes more efficient use of materials. † Also an automated system results in efficiency, Alexis L (1999; 5) forwards that, â€Å"they get more done than humans but cost less to operate. This is because they do need breaks, wages, holidays, canteens, heating and lighting. The quality of the work done is always of the same standard being materials are not wasted due to human error. The scholar in terms of speed also states that, â€Å"automated systems can process information much more quickly than humans. † This means they are good for controlling machinery that might need to be adjusted instantly. To sum up the researcher notes that, records systems automation is a great enhancement for a records centre, but it comes with plenty of headaches. It is a time-consuming process. Records Centres may struggle to have the proper technology for the automation. Staff and patrons may need a lot of training to properly operate the new system.

Speech Ladies and Gentlemen Essay Example for Free

Speech Ladies and Gentlemen Essay Thank you all for coming here today. As I come here today, I will explain to you the current state of the United States macro economy. In this press conference, we will be discussing some of the questions and concerns. Afterwards, if there are any more questions, we will answer them then. Macroeconomics can be simply explained as stating it is the way that the economy is examined. It helps us understand how a part of the economy grows and why sometimes it does not. It can also give us reason of fluctuations, and what indicators cause the performance in our economy. What are the effects of having a surplus of imports in the U.S. One thing I would like to discuss is the surplus. A surplus is when we as a nation are importing more than we are exporting. At any time the United States has a surplus of any manufactured goods, it loses its value. This can make it where the good have to be sold, where there is no money that can be made from it. For an example, in the car industry, if there is an abundance of cars being imported it does not help us. Importing too many cars from other countries does not help the cars manufactures being built. The consumers are happy because the cars will sold for less, but our businesses will suffer the loss of money. How does international trade affect the countries GDP, domestic markets and university students? First we need to have a little understanding of how GDP affects a country. Gross Domestic Product is the value of all goods and services produced by a country in a given period of time (About.com). It adds another component to our GDP. The United States is only a small amount of consumers. If we traded only within ourselves we would not have a large customer base. This is where international trade helps us. It helps us increase our export and increase or competitiveness in the open market. We import more than we export, which lowers our GDP which affects are domestic markets because we continue to purchase more outside of our country. This affects a student who goes into business and has to worry about the strong contenders that are overseas. How does the government choices in regards to tariffs and quotas affect international trade? It is imperative to know that tariffs and quotas are set to inspire the government to determine the amount they will import and export and the taxes they will collect so that the goods or services are not thrown out. Tariffs are also a way of controlling the trade, so they play an extremely important role in international dealings. They do this by lowering or raising the tariffs. For example, if a government of a wealthy country wanted to promote trade with a country that is not as developed, it could lower its tariffs on the import for that country. This would make businesses want to trade with that country because the cost of importing would be cheaper. The same goes for quotas when there is a set number on certain things that can be imported. What are foreign exchange rates and how are they determined? Foreign exchange rates are defined as the value of two or more countries currency against each other. For example, when you purchase an import from another country, they have their rate for the U.S. rate. Japan can purchase our dollar for 91 cents. The rate does not stay the same for very long. It is determined by the foreign exchange market where currency is continuously being bought and sold. Why doesn’t the U.S. simply restrict all goods coming in from China? Why can’t the U.S. just minimize the amount of imports coming in from all countries? At this time, our economy needs help. Therefore we cannot restrict certain countries imports, nor can we restrict China imports. As everyday consumers, we are always requiring or wanting services from other countries. Our first thought is how fast I can get it. For example, other countries usually get products before they are released to the United States. Therefore, to satisfy these needs from the other countries, the government has to allow for an easy trade, which allows us to earn revenue on the taxes on the imports, which helps our economy. That is key to our success. Thank you, for your cooperation, I will now be willing to answer any remaining questions for further details. References About.com. 2013. Definition of GDP. Retrieved from economic.about.com on February 10, 2013.

English Is a Funny Language Essay

English Is a Funny Language Essay During the mid-400s the country that we now call England was part of the Roman Empire. It was a land full of temporary settlers and immigrants. Among those residing in England were a group of Germanic settlers, made up of Jutes, Angles and Saxons. These settlers immigrated to England from various parts of mainland North Western Europe and with them they brought a language that provided the building blocks of English. The mixing of the Germanic settlers dialects with the languages of other immigrants led to the creation of Old English (the earliest form of English). This form of English was very different than any form of English that is spoken today and although it did consist of parts of speech that have some similarities to modern English. The language would be considered incomprehensible to the modern English speaker. Over the next 600 years the language of English was grew by taking words and expressions from the languages of the surrounding cultures. This was mostly due to more groups of people immigrating to England or in some cases, some groups invading the country. For example Roman missionaries who immigrated to England introduced many religious words such as minster and alter and the Vikings who invaded England introduced words such knife, take and root. During the Middle Ages (c. 1000-1300) English started to significantly evolve. The Normans, who were the people of Normandy (a region in northern France) invaded England in 1066. This event led to the Latin and French languages heavily influencing the English speaking people and their language. Thousands and thousands of new words became incorporated into the English language. The language of English was constantly evolving, creating what we call today Middle English, a form of language that closer resembles what we speak today. This period was also quite significant because during this time London become the legal and trade center of Britain. The language of London (Middle English) became the standard language. At the time there were other languages and dialects and people began to realize that in order to gain political or economic power a person had to be able to communicate in English. Many traders began to use this standard form of English. These same traders began to spread English all over the world. In the mid-1500s, the United Kingdom became a colonial powerhouse and the British Empire began to set up colonies all over the world. As the British empire continued to significantly grown and colonize the English language would spread further and further away from its birthplace. The growth of the British Empire, lead to English becoming a part of Europe, North America, India, Africa, Australia and many other parts of the world. As the empire branched out, new words were taken from the local languages and incorporated into English. English served as the lingua franca for these colonies. The term lingua franca refers to the language that is used as the means of communication among speakers of other languages. Keep in mind that these places each had their own distinct indigenous languages, and in some cases multiple languages. However the different cultures within these colonies would communicate in English. As this was happening, English continued to evolve into a closer version of Modern English. Also, around this time (1600s) some significant pieces of English literature were written. An author known as William Shakespeare was creating works that were gaining a lot of attention, these works were in English. Also, in 1611 the King James Bible was written in English. Unlike many other religious based books (not all) that were published in Latin and French, this bible was produced in English. This bible became the standard for the Church of England. English was becoming the language of religion. From the 17th century on, English continued to spread through British colonization. As new areas were becoming British settlement, new pockets of the planet would begin to communicate in English. The industrial revolution occurred throughout the 18th and 19th century. This was a time where major technological advancements occurred in agriculture, manufacturing, mining, and transportation. Machines were making life easier and producing goods at much faster rate. The industrial revolution began in the United Kingdom and then spread throughout Europe, North America, and eventually the rest of the world. All of this newly developed technology was having an affect on the socioeconomic and cultural conditions of the time. A significant majority of the inventors during this period were English speakers. Why English? English is a global language. English as a global language didnt happen overnight, it was a long process. Thinking about the history of the language of English, what are the major factors that lead to English becoming the lingua franca? It has nothing to do with how English looks or its structure. If you think about it, it is actually a very confusing language compared some of the other languages in the world. Here are a few things to think about 82% of the entire world uses some form of English as means to communicate. There are only 35 countries where English is not the first foreign language. Over two billion people partake in some form of English acquisition education. Heres a question to ponder, which country currently has the largest amount of English langue leaners? The answer is China. The answer to Why English has a lot to do with the same reasons why English was able to spread internationally in the first place. English represents opportunity. While peoples native language helps them navigate through their daily lives within their geographic area (city, town or country). The language of English represents an opportunity to become part of a global conversation. The four pillars to Englishs growth into a global language: Politics, Economics, Technology and Social Politics: Looking back at history, one can point to the political factors as first reason why English was able to spread from a small island to all over the world. In modern history the people who held the majority of the worlds power were English speakers. Also, looking back at the last century, world power has shifted from the hands of the British into the hands of the Americans, another English speaking country. Economics: The economic influence on the English language is closely tied to the political factors. The 19th saw the growth of English speakers occur at much more rapid rate than the previous centuries. Much of this has to do with the fact that the most financially powerful countries in the world during the 19th and 20th century were English speaking countries, the United States and Britain. If money does talk, during this time period it was speaking in (or learning) English. These days, practically every trade centre in the world uses English this includes countries that have a language other than English as the official language. Technology: As mentioned before, the industrial revolution had an enormous impact on the English language. British inventors came up with ways to mass produce textiles metals and glass. As well they innovated mining and they created the steam engine. If you did a web search on the products that were born out of the industrial revolution, you will be amazed how many came from English speaking countries. Here are some questions to think about: What web search tool did you just use to find out more information? What are the must have technologies of this generation? Where did many of them originate? How often do you see a product designed by Microsoft or Apple? Social: If you take a look at how media is delivered you can see English is absolutely everywhere. Through social media, the world is rapidly becoming more and more interconnected. People are now viewing themselves as global citizens. World issues are discussed in English and by having a working knowledge of the English language, people feel that they too can share their thoughts on common issues that are shared throughout the world. This includes such issues as poverty, the economy, climate change, political struggles and human rights. Social and Technology Coming Together English is widely used on the internet for the same reasons why English became so widespread during the industrial revolution. The internet began in English speaking countries. To add to it, think about the rapidly increasing interest in social networking through the internet. Think about the fact that Facebook was founded in the US in 2004 and since then has become one of the most visited websites in the world. Also, Google is the most widely used search engine in the world, also created by Americans. Standard English (S.E.) is the form of English that is generally accepted as the linguistic norm of an Anglophone country. But is speaking English that easy of a concept to grasp? We have learnt that English was created through a mixture of numerous different dialects. As it grew throughout the world it continued to expand encompassing more and more words from other languages. Countries such as Britain, the US, Canada, Australia, New Zealand and South Africa all are English speaking countries and yet their form of English isnt identical. In fact with in these countries there are various forms of English. Think about (and do a web search) on these terms: Hinglish Gullah Anglo-Manx These are just three of a huge number of dialects of the English language and within some of the dialects there are sub-dialects. English goes well beyond standard English. Part 2 How language works (and how confusing the English language really is) Time flies like an arrow; fruit flies like a banana Think about this question: How would you define the word language? Language can be defined as any form of communication. Language can be verbal and physical, it can be learned through direct instruction and it can also be biologically innate. The study of language is a very vast topic. Language is made up of numerous interconnected components and within each of those components there are many subcomponents (some of which have many subcomponents of their own). When people chat on the phone or talk over dinner they do not generally think about how they are communicating (language, volume, speed, intonation, gestures, etc), they think about what they are communicating (what you are trying to explain to the person you are speaking to). Phonology Phonology is the study of sounds in a language. The study of phonology offers us a better understanding of how speech sounds relate to pronunciation. Languages are unique and each one has different a phonological system. Think about this: What is the English equivalent to this Hungarian phrase? Sok szerencsà ©t kivà ¡nok The answer : good luck. Languages have their own attributes in regards to word stress, rhythm, stresses and what sounds are used to produce specific meanings. This is one of the reasons why learning a second language can be so difficult, what can be expressed in one syllable in one language may take many syllables in another. Semantics Linguistic semantics is the study of the meaning of language. This involves how meaning is created by combining single words into larger forms of text. If you break down a passage and actually think about each word on its own, it can get quite confusing. When learning a new language an English language learner faces many linguistic semantic challenges that English speaks may not even take into consideration. Think about these sentences: The winds blew the door open. / The road winds quite a bit. Or think about these sentences: The answers on the exam were invalid. / The terrible injury left the man an invalid. These are only some of the challenges an English language learner faces, think about these words and their meanings: Synonymy Words that have the same meanings Example: happy and glad Antonym Words that have opposites meanings Example: hot and cold. Polysemy A word which has two or more related meanings For example, wood could refer to a piece of a tree or a geographical area that is consists of many trees. Homonym A word which has two or more meanings For example, a plant could be a factory in which products are made or a living organism such as a tree Homophone Different words that are pronounced the same but spelled differently For example two, too and to Homograph Different words that are spelled the same but pronounced differently For example minute and minute Pragmatics Pragmatics is the study of the use of language. Pragmatics analyses the context of words and how they contribute to the overall meaning of the text. A sentence on its own can be quite misleading. Think about this: The fish are ready to eat. Does this mean the fish are hungry or they have been cooked long enough that they are now edible? Syntax Syntax is the study of the structure of language with a focus on how grammatically correct statements are formed. There are many syntactic categories including nouns, verbs, adjectives , prepositions and adverbs Orthography Orthography is the study of letters and how they are used to express sounds and form words. Orthography takes a close look at the writing systems of a language. For English language instructors, English in written form can be area in which many learners struggle with. Many of the things that we write without even thinking about can cause great confusion to an English language learner. Take for example: The words boot, book, blood and brooch. All of these words use oo however each of them have different pronunciations for this vowel combination. Now look at these three words: check, machine, character In each one the ch is pronounced differently Another thing that needs to be taken into consideration is the fact that not every language follows the same pattern of pronunciations. PART 3 ESL and EFL same same but different -Tinglish saying English as a Second Language (ESL) teaching refers to teaching English in a country where English is already an official language. For example, Canada, The United States, and Britain are countries that offer English language learners ESL programs. English as a Foreign Language (EFL) refers to teaching English in a country where English is not the most predominant language that is spoken. Due to Englishs place in the global scheme, EFL schools are quickly becoming popular all over non-English speaking nations. The biggest consideration an instructor must take into account is that EFL and ESL instruction does at times require different approaches to lesson planning. This is mostly due to the fact that English language learners living in an English speaking country are taking lessons as a means of linguistic survival. Although grammar is obviously an important part of English language learning, these students may feel pressed to first learn how to communicate in a way that the people within their community understand them even if they are using broken English. These students are taking English lessons to open up more opportunities both financially and socially to themselves and possibly members of their families. ESL students will also have the opportunity to continuously practice their English outside of the classroom setting. As a result the instructor should consider which topics are the most necessary. EFL students may not feel the urgency to learn survival English right away. An EFL student may be partaking in English lessons for a future trip, to open up future social, academic and economic opportunities or for solely for enjoyment. There are a number of EFL academic institutions around the world that cater to students who are taking English simply because it is their hobby. The distinction between second and foreign language learning is what is actually being learned, where it is being learned and how it is learned. This course will dive deeper into what considerations should be taken into account when creating and delivering ESL and EFL lessons. Terminology brb, ttyl ok? wow, I saved a ton of time with those acronyms. à ¢Ã¢â€š ¬Ã¢â‚¬ ¢ Stephen Colbert There is a lot of terminology associated with English language instruction. English Speakers can fall under many different categories and there are many acronyms to describe the types of English speakers. The following section is a review of some of the most commonly used terms and acronyms. The language in which a person is learning is commonly referred to as the students target language while Native language is the term associated with a persons first language or sometimes referred to as their mother tongue. L1 is the abbreviation for first language spoken by an individual, also referred to as a persons mother tongue . L1 English refers to a person who uses English as their first language. L1 is a term that can be used for any language for example a person who uses French as their first language would be considered an L1 French speaker. L2 is an abbreviation for a persons second language, or a language that is not their L1. Someone who is referred as L1 Japanese and L2 English is considered a Japanese speaker who has a working knowledge of English. English for Academic Purposes (EAP) is a form of ESL/EFL instruction that focuses on academia. This would include subject areas such as writing formal reports, presentations for school related purposes and reading academic works. Some areas of the world may refer to EFL lessons as English for Speakers of Other Languages (ESOL). English for Specific Purposes (ESP) and Vocational English as a Second Language (VESL)( refers to the study of English for a particular (usually job related) purpose. For example a course that focuses solely on English for the tourism industry. TOEFL is an official Test of English as a Foreign Language. This test focuses on English proficiency for international students who are interested in studying at an English speaking institution. TOEIC is the Test of English for International Communication. Originally used in Japan but now a worldwide tool, TOEIC is a standardized test (multiple choice) that is used to assess ones proficiency in English. Both TOEFL and TOEIC has become a recognized standard throughout the world. PART 4 Principles of Second Language Acquisition Learn a new language and get a new soul.   Czech Proverb Over the last century, many linguists have researched and theorized on how people acquire a second language. As a result, a number of theoretical frameworks have been developed. There isnt one accepted theory of language acquisition but rather a variety of theories each with a different focus and different limitations. This section will briefly explore different theories of second language acquisition. Chomskys Innate Cognitive Process Theory Do you think an adult learns a second language the same way a child learns a first language? Why or why not? Professor Noam Chomsky is one of the most well-known professors of linguistic studies. Chomsky s works support a nativists theory that acquiring is actually in our genetic makeup and we are born with innate abilities known as an LAD (Language Acquisition Device). Language acquisition does not rely on formal instruction. In its simplest form, Chomskys theory is that we are born with the innate ability to learn basic language which include the rules of grammar. We develop our language skills by listening to the people who raise us. Infants and toddlers do not necessarily require someone to teach them language, as long as there is linguistic input around they will inevitably acquire language. The process of selecting the correct pattern of words is done unconsciously. Chomsky refers to this as our universal grammar and supports this theory by pointing out that all human languages share similar patterns (for example present and past tense). There is a difference between the acquisition of a first language and a second language. Those who have had experience teaching both adults and children may have noticed that children learn their first language in a more fluid fashion while adults rate of acquisition varies from person to person. Now, keep in mind Chomskys theory. Children do not need to be taught their first language whereas adults require formal instruction. With children it is a natural progression due to needs and environment. With adults second language acquisition is dependent upon motivation, attitude, and ability Even though Chomskys theory appears to put adults at a disadvantage when it comes to acquiring language, adults do possess skills that enable them to learn another language. Adults possess competency in a first language which could be used to further understand and retain a second language. For example, associating L2 words with L1 words, creating visual and audio clues. Adults are able to problem solve and simplify complex concepts. Adults understand inflection and tone. Adult have the cognitive ability to review and reflect Adults can draw on mnemonics devices these are memory tools such as creating acronyms or simple rhymes *try a web search on common mnemonic devices Chomskys concepts have been both highly accepted and criticized by his peers. Krashens Five Hypotheses One of the most noted modern linguist and educational researcher is psychologist Dr. Stephen Krashen. Dr, Krashen is well known for his theories of language acquisition and development most of which were published in a series of books throughout the 1980s. Along with Tracey Terrell, Dr. Krashen also researched and authored works on the natural approach to language teaching. Dr. Krashens theory of second language acquisition explores how we learn language through five main hypotheses: the natural order hypothesis the acquisition-learning hypothesis the monitor hypothesis the input hypothesis the affective filter hypothesis The Natural Order Hypothesis This hypothesis suggests that language acquisition follows a natural pattern of progress. Just like in movement, one first learns to crawl, stand, walk and then run, language acquisition in every language develops through a series of sequential steps that a person progresses through naturally. By studying this natural progressing of language acquisition, researchers have uncovered a predictable pattern in language acquisition. By following this pattern teachers can develop a series of instructions that best suit the needs of older language learners. This hypothesis coincides Noam Chomskys theory that humans naturally have a built-in Language Acquisition Device (LAD), that enables humans to understand and acquire language from infancy. Teachers need to take the natural order hypothesis when introducing language concepts. This can be done by ensuring first introducing models that are moderately easy for learners to acquire. As instructors should *scaffold difficult concepts. Perform a web search and find a definition educational scaffolding: Educational scaffolding refers to the idea that in order for students to properly achieve academic success, the instructor needs to ensure that instructional supports have been when students are first introduced to a new topic. The Acquisition Learning Hypothesis. The Acquisition-Learning hypothesis is considered by many linguists as the most fundamental of all Krashens hypothesizes . The Acquisition Learning hypothesis suggests that second language performance is a product of two separate systems that happen consciously and subconsciously in a persons brain. The first system is the acquired system. Language acquisition occurs subconsciously through natural communication. In other words people acquire a second language when they are exposed to meaningful verbal interactions with speakers of the target language. The second system focuses on formal instruction. Krashen believes that this system holds less importance than the acquired system however it is still a component of language acquisition. The learning system occurs when people consciously focus on learning a language. In its simplest form you can think of it this way, a person learns a language by studying it they acquire a language by immersing themselves in it. Instructors need to create opportunities for students to use the target language in an authentic manor within their classrooms. This is especially important in the EFL classroom because students will not have the opportunity to use the target language outside of the classroom. How could and EFL instructor incorporate the acquisition-learning hypothesis into their teachings? Role playing (creating simulated scenarios) The Monitor Hypothesis The Monitor Hypothesis corresponds directly with the Acquisition- Learning hypothesis. The Monitor Hypothesis focuses on the effects of direct language instruction. Krashen explained in the Acquisition- Learning hypothesis that language acquisition occurs during exposure to natural communication. In essence, the language we acquire through this process is fine-tuned and properly edited through grammar and language instruction. Instruction and traditional language learning activities monitor and correct language. The Input Hypothesis. Comprehensible input are the messages that a language learner understands. These messages can come in the form of written text (books, signs, subtitles) or oral language (conversations, radio). The input hypothesis suggests that in order for language acquisition to occur, the learner must receive comprehensible input that is slightly above their level of language knowledge. This is often documented as Comprehensible Input +1. The +1 represents the next level in language. EFL instructors need to ensure that they are constantly taking the input hypothesis into consideration when creating and implementing lessons. Instructors need to provide as much comprehensible input as possible, especially in the EFL class because learners are not exposed to the target language outside of the classroom setting. The Affective Filter Hypothesis. Affective Filter Hypothesis focuses on the theory that confidence and anxiety have a direct correlation to language learning. In order to properly acquire language, a person needs to be comfortable and feel confident in their surroundings. When a language learner is uncomfortable they tend to mentally build up barriers that prevent acquisition. Keeping in mind the Affective Filter Hypothesis, list a few barriers in an academic environment that could directly hinder language acquisition. How can an instructor ensure that a learner feels safe? -begin lessons with ice breakers -establish a classroom routine with a set of norms -consider seating arrangements -incorporate dual language resources use humour -include teaching methods that allow for student interaction -address students by name -use eye contact -use positive language (*6) The Reading Hypothesis It should also be noted that Krashens more recent research has concluded that the more a person reads in a second language, the more vocabulary they will acquire. Involving a variety of texts in a language classroom will increase the learners knowledge of the target language and also offer the learner opportunities to view how the target language can be used in real-life contexts. List some forms of texts that will offer students an opportunity to view language in real-life contexts. -advertisements -instructional signs -subtitles -novels -scripts Vygotskys Zone of Proximal Development theory Having English language learners work in small groups is a recommend strategy. Why do you think students are more successfully when broken up into small groups? Although he only lived to the age of 38, Lev Vygotsky was considered one of the founders of cultural historical psychology. Vygotsky lived through Russian Revolution of the early 1900s and his works were largely unknown to the West until it was published in 1962, more than 25 years after he died. As a social constructivist he believed that social interaction was key to the cognitive and language development of children. He observed how higher level mental functions developed within particular cultural groups and individually through social interactions with significant people in most cases a childs primary caregivers. Vygotsky developed the Zone of Proximal Development theory, which outlines the notion that a students performance of certain tasks improve greatly when they are being guided by an adult or when working in a group of their peers. Vygotsky referred to these peers as More Knowledgeable Other(s) (MKO). The MKO is anyone who has a better understanding or more knowledge in the area of study than the learner. The MKO could be a teacher, coach, or peers. Vygotsky theorized that working alone is less constructive because when a student works with others, the gaps between what the student knows and what can be known is bridged. Working in these groups is working within the Zone of Proximal Development. Think of it this way: (Picture) (1)Student X has some understanding of some of the concepts but needs to learn other concepts for a greater understanding of the materials (2)Student X is grouped with others who know these concepts but some of the members of the groups may not know some of the concepts Student X knows (they have all entered the zone) (3) Everyone walks out of the group with new information Think about this: Why is the second language classroom a perfect environment to apply the Zone of Proximal Development theory? Unlike a situation in which a teacher or lecturer delivers information to students, the ZPD theory promotes the notion that students need to play an active role in learning. ZPD theory offers an opportunity for everyone to learn from each other. In an ESL/EFL classroom, the teacher can set up small groups in which students act as the MKOs and learn off each other. Think about it: How does the Zone of Proximal Development theory compliment Stephen Krashens Input Hypothesis? Think about students working in groups. -In essence both theories work on the notion that learning takes place when a learner is exposed to a person who has slightly more advanced knowledge in that subject area. Group work in the ESL/EFL classroom is very successful bec

Development of Dendritic Spines :: Biology Essays Research Papers

Development of Dendritic Spines Neurons have the capability of forming spiny outgrowths on dendrites that are associated with neuroplasticity. Stimulation, especially during post-natal development can lead to activation in the brain, referred to as Long Term Potentiation (LTP), associated with the growth of spines. These dendritic spines, which can number thousands to a single neuron, can have synaptic heads. Greater than 90 percent of synapses in the brain occur on them (1) . Through experimentation it has been found that a spine's glutamate receptors, calcium concentrations, and actin can affect its shape, length, and even presence on a dendrite. In general terms, how do dendritic spines develop and what do they affect in the brain? When a neuron is first formed it does not yet have dendrites, and therefore also does not have dendritic spines. Dendritic filopodia are formed from the dendrites first and then convert into spines after being innervated by synaptic fibers. Spines on different types of neurons attain their peak actin density at different times. Fewer spines are present in adults than children and there is a peak growth time during post-natal development. Adult brains show up to 50% fewer spines than developing brains (2) . Brain disorders, such as strokes, epilepsy, and forms of mental retardation like Fragile X, have been connected to deformations of dendritic spines or the total absence of them on certain neurons. Spines are predominantly found at excitatory synapses where inputs from many areas of the brain arrive. Initially during spine formation N-methyl-D-aspartate (NMDA) is the main growth and development regulator. NMDA is a glutamate receptor found at excitatory synapses in most neurons in the mammalian brain. It contains channels permeable to calcium ions. Ions can accumulate and initiate currents at the head of the spine where the calcium channels are located, separate from the shaft of the dendrite. Weak calcium-induced currents affect individual spines whereas stronger currents can summate to affect multiple spines as well as areas of the dendrite's shaft. LTP is a strengthening of the synaptic connections which occurs when spines are formed. There are several steps to achieve a current in a spine. Magnesium ions block the NMDA receptor sites, but are displaced when a stimulus, such as caffeine, depolarizes the receptor. Calcium ions are then able to pass through and collect within the spine. Once the amount of ions reaches a threshold level the LTP is generated.

My Antonia :: Free Essay Writer

My Antonia 1. Jim Burden, a successful New York City lawyer, leaves an acquaintance a memoir of his Nebraska childhood in the form of a recollection of their mutual friend, Antonia Shimerda. Jim had first arrived in Nebraska at the age of ten, when he was made the trip west to live with his grandparents after finding himself as an orphan in Virginia. On this same train, Jim has his first glimpse of the Shimerdas, a Bohemian immigrant family traveling in the same direction. As fate would have it, the Shimerdas have taken up residence in a neighboring farm to the Burdens'. Jim makes fast friends with the Shimerda children, especially Antonia, who is nearest to him in age, and eager to learn English. At her father's request, Jim begins to tutor Antonia, and the two of them spend much of the autumn exploring their new landscape together. Shortly after Christmas, tragedy strikes with the suicide of Mr. Shimerda. After an emotional funeral, the Shimerdas retreat into despair, and the Burdens struggle to be as accommodating as possible. As a result of the hardships that the Shimerdas suffer, a wedge is driven between Antonia and Jim. A couple of years later, the Burdens decide to move into town, and shortly thereafter Antonia takes a job as a housekeeper with a neighboring family, the Harlings. Jim begins to see more of Antonia once again, especially when a dancing pavilion comes to town and enlivens the social situation. Jim's high school years quickly come to a close, and he is offered a spot at the university in Lincoln. He makes a great success of his commencement speech, and spends the summer hard at work in preparation for his course of study. Before leaving, he takes one last trip out to the countryside with Antonia and her friends, where they gather to reminisce about old times together. In Lincoln, Jim throws himself into his studies, which take up the majority of his time in the first year and a half of his course. In the spring of his second year, he begins to see a good deal of Lena Lingard; a mutal friend of his and Antonia's who has always intrigued Jim. After several months of theater going and dalliances about town, Jim decides he needs to make a fresh start of things and prepares to transfer to Harvard for his final two years of college.

college essay :: essays research papers

College will be a major change for me; in all likelihood, it will probably be the most significant transformation I will experience. It will be a time of growth and learning. In order to adapt to these many changes I hope to mature both emotionally and educationally. In doing so, I will influence those around me and the community as a whole. I anticipate that my life experiences will prove to be valuable to me and to those I come into contact with.   Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚   I have had many challenges to overcome thus far. I’ve had problems with my school work, but most significantly, problems with myself. I have made many wrong decisions and I have had trouble realizing what is important to me in the past. I now know what steps I need to take in order to become a better person and to stay on the right path that I have chosen. I hope to continue this pattern of maturation by accomplishing my goal of academic excellence while attending New Jersey City University. I have already promised myself that I will not participate in any activity that will lead me astray morally or academically. I am very good at meeting all of the challenges that I have to meet. I have already begun to take an initive on guiding myself in the right direction, by taking my school work seriously, looking for a job that would benefit my major, and working harder to make my self happy.   Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  I am interested in majoring in Media Arts at New Jersey City University. I am taking a Media Arts curse in High School now and I am really interested in the aspects that go on in the field of Media. I like the wide verity of oppurtunities someone can get with an education in Media Arts. A major thing that attracted me to your university was your great school on Media. I also took a tour of your campus and feel in love at first site. I am currently participating in my high school peer ministry program. Which is a program in our school that gives specially selected seniors an opportunity to show their leadership skills to the incoming freshman by giving them an opportunity to be comfortable at St. Mary High School. I stay active by playing sports such as basketball, baseball, & bowling. I’m also interested in music.

James V. Meow Media and the Role of Responsibility

James v. Meow Media and the Role of Responsibility In James v. Meow Media Inc. , Michael Carneal, an avid video-gamer, is responsible for the murder of his high school peers. Research of Carneal’s daily habits showed that the content of his video games was a potential cause of his disastrous behavior. When dealing with a minor, factors of life while approaching the level of maturity must be taken into consideration. This case shows the ease in which fingers are pointed in efforts to protect a child in need of help. Negligence was the common theme for why the affected families felt Meow Media owed a duty of care.In the case of a 14 year-old minor, the presence and the proactive nature of a parent is vital. Because Carneal’s parents failed to take the action needed to prevent such behavior, is it truly fair to say that the negligence falls on the company? This reaction will discuss the subjectivity of such cases in which responsibility is put into the hands of the undeser ving. A certain level of responsibility is expected from parents during a child’s stage of adolescence. As a child matures, various characteristics evolve that affect his or her view on life.These characteristics may be attributed to the child’s genetic traits, daily environment, or mental/emotional state. It is a parent’s duty to identify unstable features early on in the child’s life in order to protect others from any harm that could be caused. In this case, Carneal’s mental and emotional instability traced back to his kindergarten years. His feeling of alienation began as early as those years. As he recalls wanting to bring a gun to school for show-and-tell, Carneal stated, â€Å"Of course, I didn't have access to a gun, so it was not realistic (â€Å"School shooter Michael,† 2010). Such depraved thoughts and hermit behavior can be detected in its premature stages and treated to minimize the risk of violence. Following the shooting, Car neal underwent a series of mental examinations. Psychiatrists and psychologists discovered that he indeed had a schizotypal personality disorder and was in a severe state of depression. Additionally, it was revealed that a history of mental illness was common on his father’s side of the family (Moore, Petrie , Braga & McLaughlin, 2003). The symptoms of Carneal’s illnesses were apparent in his daily interactions.By being aware of familial disorders and observing his socially dysfunctional behavior, proper precautions could have been taken sooner. Parents observe the behaviors of their children each day and, therefore, owe a duty of care. Meow Media Inc. made and sold their video games with no intention of them falling into the hands of a troubled child. The likelihood of a mentally/emotionally stable individual taking action to endanger innocent lives in order to mimic a game is low. Learning and understanding right from wrong is instilled during an individual’s early youth.Depending on varying circumstances, the environment that a child is placed in may have an adverse effect on the child’s development. Genetic defects are major circumstances that, if not handled with care and caution, could alter a child’s reaction to his or her environment. In 1978, A Dutch woman took action to stop the vicious cycle that haunted her family. Her family consisted of multiple aggressive men that carried a long history of rape dating back to 1870. When she saw that her son acquired some of these familial traits, she immediately took action (Richardson, 1993).Geneticists ran a series of tests and found that the personality disorder that cursed these men was a serious and rare genetic debility. Dr. Han Brunner and his colleagues at the Nijmegen hospital said that â€Å"some of the men in the woman’s family suffer from a genetic defect on the X chromosome- -a defect that cripples an enzyme that may help regulate aggressive behavior (1993) . † By learning that this disease had been passed down from mother to son, the woman was able to provide her son with the proper support needed to help combat this vicious cycle.Thousands of video games, ranging from Rated M (mature) to Rated E (everyone), can be found on display for anyone to see at local video stores. Rated M games, usually filled with violence and vulgarity, are generally advertised with guns and women wearing the bare minimum of clothing. Stores have a social responsibility in protecting young children from these games and have taken proper action. Wal-Mart has been an advocate in censoring Rated M games by placing black sleeves over these covers. â€Å"It is the responsibility of Wal-Mart to protect our children from potentially damaging content, such as the covers of some video games,† said company spokesperson (Jonathon, 2008). It is also a requirement for minors to have a 17 year-old and older I. D. or a guardian present to purchase these games. When parents purchase these video games for their underage children and fail to supervise or acknowledge behavioral and growth patterns, they increase the likelihood of future violence. This scenario parallels with that of the Bad Frog Brewery Case. In that case, Bad Frog Brewery was forced to sell their beer in restricted areas of supermarkets and bars due to their vulgar label—a label displaying a frog sticking up his middle finger.Having these labels sold in restricted areas lowers the prospect of children being exposed. This now places the onus of responsibility on the parents. If a negligent parent decides to take a minor child near a bar, he or she runs the risk of that child seeing the beer label and mimicking the vulgar gesture. If that exposed child goes to school the next day and shows this gesture to the other students, they will be affected in some way. Families of the affected children will be infuriated when they find that another student stuck up his/her middl e finger in front of their child.Though the given situation may seem highly exaggerated, it is given to show the effects of negligent behavior. Like the parents of Carneal, this negligent parent breached a duty of care. Alternatively, the line of responsibility to protect minors from environmental influence is blurred when discussing arcade rooms. Arcades are built specifically for kids and are viewed as safe havens of innocent fun. Yet, while taking a deep look into the content of the games, it is apparent that games containing violence are amongst the most popular played in these facilities.The games usually entail being rewarded for aiming a gun and killing as many people as possible or fighting someone until they bleed to death. There is absolutely no policing of these arcade games, which would more than likely be considered M rated material in video stores. Parents are blind-sided by the harm they are putting their minor children in. Here, it is difficult to rest the blame on t he parents as an act of negligence. Every party has a degree of responsibility to consider when handling situations. Rather than placing the immediate blame on what would seem like he obvious, it is best to first analyze and discover the root cause of the issue. In the case of Michael Carneal, although it was initially presented that Meow Media was to blame for Carneal’s wrongful acts, it was later discovered that the issue stemmed much deeper than Carneal’s love for video games. In the event that proper protocol was initially taken by the responsible party, Carneal could have been given the proper treatment needed to prevent unnecessary deaths. References Jonathon. (2008, February 11). Wal-Mart covering up â€Å"M† rated games [Web log comment]. Retrieved from http://www. gamefront. om/wal-mart-covering-up-m-rated-games/ Moore, M. , Petrie , C. , Braga, A. , & McLaughlin, B. (2003). Deadly Lessons: Understanding Lethal School Violence. (p. 150). Washington, D. C. : The National Academies Press. Retrieved from http://www. nap. edu/openbook. php? record_id=10370=150 Richardson, S. (1993, October 01). A Violence in the Blood. Discover Magazine, (October 1993), Retrieved from http://discovermagazine. com/1993/oct/aviolenceinthebl293 School Shooter Michael Carneal Recalls Delusions. (2010, October 06). WDRB. Retrieved from http://www. wdrb. com/Global/story. asp? S=13279449