Serving as One

There are five different options to choose from when deciding to serve the United States of America and the decision can be quite challenging when signing the dotted line. Most people will base their decision off family or friend affiliation with a particular branch, thorough research, or simply because a branch would get them into basic training sooner. Due to a personal experience deploying with the Army as an Air Force member and seeing first-hand how each branch operates was an eye opening experience. There are a variety of options and all five branches are ultimately serving as one; the United States Air Force and the United States Army are two very different branches, but also have key similarities. One obvious contrasting factor between the Air Force and the Army is that the two branches wear different uniforms. In the Army, members will wear a uniform known as the Army Combat Uniform, but in the Air Force members will wear a uniform called the Airman Battle Uniform. Although these branches wear different uniforms individuals are required to meet the same dress and appearance standards. For example, members from both branches are required to keep a sharp appearance such as the men having a high and tight hair cut not to exceed one and a half inches in bulk; females are required to wear their hair in a neat bun, not to exceed three inches in bulk, and their hair should not touch their collar. These branches wear different uniforms, but it is guaranteed that the local community will still ask airmen when they joined the Army. The Air Force is more commonly known as the United States' air power while the Army is known for its ground power when at war. These are based on factual statements, but the Army does in fact have a fleet of helicopters which assists them more closely to the ground; people are familiar with the Black Hawk or Apache. In the same instance, the Air Force is known for its' fighter jets and bombers, but also have tactical ground fighting units known as TACP and Security Forces. The Air Force's primary mission is to fly, fight, and win†¦ n air, space, and cyberspace. On the other hand, the Army’s mission is to fight and win our nation’s wars by providing prompt, sustained land dominance across the full range of military operations and spectrum of conflict in support of combatant commanders. Clearly these two branches have different mission statements, but in the end, they are equally attempting to accomplish the same mission, which is to win at war. The Army and Air Forc e both deploy to locations overseas to mainly support Operation Enduring Freedom based in Afghanistan. Depending on the tempo of the mission, a normal deployment for the Army would be nine months, but the Air Force will deploy for six months. When transitioning to an overseas location Army personnel will deploy as a battalion, sometimes even as much as a brigade, which is equivalent to the Air Force's squadron. The difference is that Air Force personnel will deploy as individuals rather than a squadron which is a much easier process. On the other hand, members from each branch can be tasked as one which is known as a joint tasking. Air Force personnel can be tasked to deploy with the Army; medics from the Air Force can be tasked to the Army and become combat medics after completing the necessary training. When tasked for a joint deployment, the member is required to follow the same standards as that particular branch. Individuals may of truly desired to join a specific branch, but do not be shocked seeing branches tasked to deploy as one! Citizens should understand the variances and resemblances amongst branches of the military, and also have a solid understanding that personnel from each branch have made a sacrifice to serve in the military. Altogether branches of the United States are unique; no branch is superior over the other which seems to be a popular argument when members are in the same room together. There are countless topics that could have been discussed about the particular subject, but the articles mentioned seem to stick out to society. It truly is one military serving the beautiful United States of America. In the end, both branches have their own way of getting the job done, but as discussed they share obvious similarities.

Indochina Essay

The South Vietnamese government had a substantial amount of success in keeping power up until 1968, surprisingly. This was done in a number of ways such as; government policies, fighting tactics/strategies and the aid of other countries e. g. America. On 26th October 1955 Ngo Dinh Diem won a referendum which appointed him as the President of South Vietnam (This was a rigged vote) and gave Emperor Bao Dai the boot. Although the country wasn’t really a democracy anymore it was more like an oligarchy that implemented a totalitarian regime. Over the next coming years Diem and his followers built his army up going against the communists in their own country, carry out a new campaign known as the Denunciation Campaign. This campaign convinced people to report anyone to the government who were in favour of communism by means of supporting the Viet Minh or anyone who had fought against the French. By August 1956, Diem made it illegal, in a decree known as Ordinance 47, to be a communist or to associate with one and it is estimated that because of this decree 12 000 people were killed and 40 000 were imprisoned. Although the way the government went about getting rid of communist was seen as harsh, today it can be seen that this tactic could have greatly contributed to government being as successful as they were in keeping power up until 1968. From the moment the Geneva Conference ended in 1954, America was South Vietnams backbone. This can be proven in a letter sent from President Eisenhower of the USA to Ngo Dinh Diem which states that the United States wanted to help with the welfare, stability and strength of the government of South Vietnam. America’s contribution to South Vietnam took form in many different ways, such as; 1. America sent over a thousand military personal to South Vietnam to assist in training and building up there armies. 2. From July of 1957 to June of 1958 America paid ALL of the South Vietnamese cost for their army, 80% of government expenditures and 90% of all imports. 3. The USA provided each refugee coming into South Vietnam with $89 America was a big reason in why South Vietnam was so successful in keeping power up until 1968, without their knowledge, military and financial power South Vietnam would have fallen to he Communist very early on in the war. Another reason the Government being as successful as they were in keeping power was their fighting strategies and tactics, although to many people some of these strategies and tactics can seem harsh and inhumane they actually helped South Vietnam a lot in keeping their government up and running and it has been documented that North Vietnam’s war tactics/strategies were just as inhumane as the South. The South Vietnamese government along with the help of the Americans implemented five main war strategies and tactics. These include; Counterinsurgency, Combat Troops, Search and destroy, Chemical warfare and Pacification. Most of these were very successful on the battlefield and proved to keep some sort of stability in the government. The South Vietnamese government was sufficiently successful in their bid to keep power up until the Tet offensive in 1968. Although without the help of the American government the country would have failed to keep their power well before this. The tactics and strategies implemented by both governments defiantly helped keep the country afloat and rain in some sort of government stability.

Disease, Decay and Poison in Hamlet Essay

William Shakespeares Hamlet has been considered the greatest tragedy to have ever been written, in which the theme of disease, decay and poison is embedded deep within the well-known plot of the play. Such theme is developed through the actions, dialogues and figurative language of the characters. These morbid images that are incorporated not only help the audience in grasping Hamlets true emotion, but also play a significant role in characterization, plot development and metaphorical message of the play. Ideas about death and physical decay constantly recur in much of the imagery in Hamlet not only in order to depict the character development and convey Hamlets true emotions to the audience, but also to serve as a metaphorical message on a larger scale. For instance, the imagery of decay is utilized to help comprehend the depression Hamlet feels in his first soliloquy about suicide: O that this too sullied flesh would melt, thaw, and resolve itself into a dew (I.ii 129-130), followed by his comparison of the world to an unweeded garden. This is the first time that Hamlet unleashes his thoughts on the situation and creates a visualization of death. Hamlet thus communicates with the audience putting strong emphasis on his desire not to exist in this world anymore. An image of Hamlets flesh rotting is produced, followed by a picture of a beautiful garden corrupted by disastrous weeds that will destroy the good life. At this moment the audience can grasp Hamlets true emotions as they are able to feel the pain and his yearn for death. Thus, the real imagery about the way Hamlet feels is brought forth. Furthermore, when Laertes comes to the castle to get information on his fathers murder, the hysterical Ophelia pretends to give him different flowers that represent something, but when she comes to the violets, which resembles faithfulness, she says that they have all withered when my father died (IV.v 182). In this quote, the imagery of decay is present because both her father and the flowers have died. This quote is significant to the play as a whole as it is a metaphorical image of corruption and moral decay plaguing not only the characters, but the whole area of Denmark as well, thus foreshadowing the eventual collapse of the nation. This metaphor once again appears in the dialogue when Marcellus states: Something is rotten in the state of Denmark (I.iv. 100), thus foreshadowing the corrupt nature of Denmark leading to the breakdown of the royal family. Therefore,  Shakespeares references to death and decay clearly reveal Hamlets desperate state of mind, simultaneously serving as a political metaphor which implies that the whole state is rotting. Another significant recurring image throughout Hamlet is poison., which plays a significant role in plot development. Poison is also an important theme in the play, which is the main instrument of death. A seminal death image, which brings about the first and most important murder in the play, is the poisoning of Old Hamlet, directed deliberately by his uncle as he lies sleeping in his orchard. Sleeping within my orchard, my custom always of the afternoon, upon my secure hour thy uncle stole, with juice of cursed hebona in a vial, and in the porches of my ears did pour the leprous distilment, whose effect holds such an enmity with blood of man that swift as quicksilver it courses through the natural gates and alleys of the body (I.v. 66-75) The audiences thus run into poison when we learn about the death of King Hamlet, who was killed by his brother pouring poison into his ear. The mention of poison holds a great amount of significance as it is used as a device that leads Hamlet to contemplate revenge upon Claudius. During the players reenactment of the crime in the later plot, the poison poured into Old Hamlets ear reappears. The recurring imagery of poison can be interpreted as a metaphorical message throughout the play as poison is being poured into ears in the form of gossip, suggestions of revenge, slander, evil thoughts that spreads sickness and disease upon the entire court of Denmark. Here, thou incestuous, murdrous, damned Dane, drink off this potion Follow my mother (V, 11, 302-304). Eventually, Hamlet mom Gertrude is killed by a poisonous drink, which is followed by Hamlet, Claudius, Laertes who are also killed by the poisonous rapier. The use of irony and retributive justice in the play becomes apparent when Claudius uses poison to kill King Hamlet and in the end, the same poison kills him, as well as his wife, Laertes and Hamlet. After all, it is the use of poison that starts the story and unravels the denouement, thus possessing an important role in plot development. The somber and dark images of sickness and disease are constantly brought up in Hamlet, and shadow the corruption pervading the recent and future events  of the castle. Throughout such images, Shakespeare succeeds in creating an atmosphere of cold and desolated darkness. Early in the first scene, when Francisco and Barnardo are standing watch, Francisco says: Tis better cold, and I am sick at heart? (I.i.8-9). Franciscos sickness foreshadows the sickness which is entering Denmark. The sickness in Denmark continues when Horatio is contemplating the reasons for the ghosts appearance. Was sick almost to doomsday with eclipse? (I.i.132). Horatio is describing the conditions in Rome just before the murder of Julius Caesar and he believes that the appearance of the Ghost is a portent to Denmark, as the sick moon was a portent to Rome. These quotes are significant because they create an ominous atmosphere for the entire play. In Hamlets first soliloquy, he says: Things rank and gross in nature, possess it merely? (I.ii.140-141). Hamlet apparently feels that the whole world is diseased. The sickness motif plays a significant role in the characterization of Hamlet, as it is extended with questions of Hamlets mental health as the story progresses. Hamlets dialogues related sickness and disease throughout the play reflects not only the outward condition which causes Hamlets spiritual illness, but also his own state. Indeed, the shock of the discovery of his fathers murder and the sight of his mothers conduct have had a traumatic effect on Hamlet to the extent that when the play opens he has already begun to die internally, as all the springs of life are being gradually infected. Therefore, it is necessary to notice the repetitive use of phrases related to sickness and disease in the dialogues, for it creates an ominous atmosphere throughout the play and further aids in the character development of Hamlet. In conclusion, the theme of disease, decay and poison is important throughout the play as it is incorporated with the aim of revealing Hamlets state of mind, conveying political messages, and adding greater significant to the plot development and characterization. Shakespeare successfully achieved his goal through utilizing the dominant theme of the play. As a result, the play has been making a long-lasting impression on the audiences. Bibliography http://everything2.com/index.pl?node=Hamlethttp://www.azete.com/preview/7098www.ibiblio.org/schools/rls/garner/britishlit/hamlet.pdf

IT IS THE DRUGS THAT MADE ME DO IT Essay Example | Topics and Well Written Essays - 3000 words

IT IS THE DRUGS THAT MADE ME DO IT - Essay Example In claiming that their addiction led someone into a life of crime is a fallacy, at best. Criminal behaviour, like drug abuse, alcohol abuse, truancy, spousal abuse, promiscuity, and other risky behaviours are all lifestyle choices. One does not cause another. The confusion and misconception that has surrounded this notion for years lies in the fact that often risky behaviour such as drug abuse and criminal behaviour are, along with other behaviours, found in the same groups of people – those who chose this type of life for themselves. In the following report, conclusive proof is respectfully presented to the court which conclusively proves that heroin abuse doe not cause a person to commit a crime. Criminal behavior is a deliberate lifestyle choice. The cost of drug abuse and known crime is huge; however, as will be shown shortly, much of the drug related crime either goes unreported, unsolved or not connected to drug abuse. The problem is pervasive both in the UK and within the United States. As early as 1998 it was estimated that in the UK alone the cost of drug offenders within the criminal justice system was conservatively set at  £1 billion per year, and that is just the beginning. Police in the UK estimate that approximately 50% of the drug related crime is hidden.1 This will be shown in detail shortly, but, in effect, either drug related crimes are not reported, are not solved, or the offender is convicted of the crime but it is not linked to drug abuse. The relationship between drug abuse and criminality has been noted empirically since the 1960s. However, it was not until the following decade that the extent and nature of this causal relationship began to be understood. As early as 1974 Greenberg and Adler’s study concluded that heroin use could not be linked to criminal behaviour as the vast majority of the subjects in their study possessed a long history of

Buying Decision Making Process Essay Example | Topics and Well Written Essays - 1250 words

Buying Decision Making Process - Essay Example Of those self-purchases, nearly 20 percent would likely buy diamond stud earrings, right-hand rings and other diamond fashion rings for themselves. Jewellery purchase is primarily by women and most of them are self-purchased and this makes the women a prime target segment required to be convinced to make the purchase. This has served as an eye-opener for the industry that sidelined women in their target advertising. The power of the female consumer has changed the way many companies are branding and positioning their products in the marketplace. Recognising the purchasing power of women has changed consumer marketing into a revolution that even traditionally male consumers in areas such as financial services, home improvement and automotive are wooing women buyers. In order to reach their target segment, companies are starting to seriously examine the lifestyles of women and come up with solutions that cater to their desires and needs. Today, it's all about individualism and personal style, wearing what works for you. It's an attitude of casualness, instead of looking too polished or too studied. Women do cater their cultural originalities and like subtle deviations from it rather than complete diversifications. Similarly, a trend is set and becomes popular and those designs and specifications reign until something else becomes the norm and the whole cyclic process is repeated. Jewellery trade is all about catering to current demands and trends, vintage designs come and go in seasons and demands are cyclical and move with the times. Jewellery purchase is a very personal decision by an individual consumer. The consumers may be of three buying types. The Impulsive Buyer who purchases products quickly, often the purchase is not premeditated and there is little or no analysis involved. Impulsive purchases are generally lower in value compared to premeditated ones. The easiest way to conclude them will be to make available products where they visually catch the eye. Point-of-service displays that attract the eye, instant discounts, sale prices and mass advertising often help in the sale of these products. This is probably attuned to the less-than-J500 impulsive shopper for whom it is an on-the-spot decision to make a purchase and does not involve too much analysis. The Patient Buyer purchases the product after some comparisons and has put in some thought to the purchase. Analytical Buyers do substantial research before buying and the purchase is definitely premeditated. The shopping done may be Utilitarian, meaning with a purpose or Hedonic, for just fun purposes. In the case of jewellery, the patient and analytical buyers who are mostly by women, mostly for self and, a good percentage of them end in high-end sales. This makes it important for the jewellery shops to lure the women into making purchases at their store by using the right marketing gimmick. The major process in decision-making would primarily begin with need identification. This may be a genuine demand for a special occasion like weddings etc, or a simple need for indulgence, a gift or a simply an impulsive buy. This may vary depending on age, ethnicity, education, and purchasing power and price of the product. It could also be influenced by word-of mouth, by friends and family, by the advertising campaigns, branding, social or economical

Trends in obesity over the last 20 years and implications for the Coursework

Trends in obesity over the last 20 years and implications for the future - Coursework Example This essay "Trends in obesity over the last 20 years and implications for the future" outlines an increasing trend in the obesity of the USA in the last twenty years and if the effects of the policy implemented are ineffective in the USA. The body mass index (BMI) includes a significant importance. It is a measurement of the weight defined as kg per square meter. In a conventional manner when the range of BMI is between 25 and 30, then the person is said to be overweight and the person is said to be obese when the value is greater than 30 (Akil & Ahmad, 2011, p. 58). This obesity problem is a common trouble in almost every country in the world especially in the Western countries. Statistical analyses is an important tool which will be directed towards analyzing the trends of obesity in different countries and can give us a clear idea about the historical pattern and suggest important policies for the future. Obesity is very crucial problem in every society and it is indeed an importa nt problem in the developed nation like United States of America (USA). There has been a growing awareness of the health problems attached with weight as well as availability of light or no fat foods. But despite that there had been a significant incidence of obesity problem in the United States of America. There has been documentation initiating from period as early as 1960s and there has been a consistent year to year rise in the percentage of adults who are suffering from overweight. This trend increases seem to have accelerated. Data collected from the Behavioral Risk Factor Surveillance System (BRFSS) indicates that within a period of 1985-1995 there has been an increase in the BMI from a level of 29.2 to 34.4 and there has been an increase in the percentage from a magnitude of 8.6 to 15.2. The correlation between overweight and many of the chronic diseases as well as various obnoxious health outcomes has made this a serious health concern. Obesity as a factor also gets associa ted with nation’s burgeoning health care bill. It is estimated that for the year 1990, the costs including direct and indirect costs of the excess weight in the USA were figured at the amount of $46 billion and $ 23 billion respectively (Binkley, Eales & Jekanowski, 2000). The propositions which will be examined in the paper are: 1. There has been an increasing trend in the obesity of USA in the last twenty years 2. Obesity is the highest for USA as compared to other countries 3. Race also plays an important part in USA with respect to obesity 4. The standard deviation of obesity of the data of USA is highly scattered 5. The effects of the policy implemented are ineffective in USA. 4. Analysis Before moving into analysis, the method of data collection is to be mentioned. For the purpose of data collection, we have relied on the government site of USA .The database for data collection which is used is the center for disease control and prevention (CDC) in USA. CDC helps in the creation of expertise, information as well as tools which the people as well as the communities requires for the purpose of protecting their health with the help of promotion, disease prevention, injury and disability as well as preparedness for the threats of new health problems. CDC directs towards accomplishing its mission through working with the partners all over the nation as well as in a global basis for the purpose of detecting as well as investigating the health problems, conducting research as

Kant and Schopenhauer Essay Example | Topics and Well Written Essays - 500 words

Kant and Schopenhauer - Essay Example ical imperative can be termed as an unconditional principle that that all rational human use and it is free form from influence by one’s desire or motive. Kant has given proof that human autonomy should be a presupposed state of free will. Moral action is dictated by its uniqueness of the antinomy of freedom and fundamental determination. For one to do the right thing actions intended should have an impact in the world and one has to go on and undertake it to proof that one is free from external influence. Morality demands for causality and freedom from us. One can be able to conceptualize actions in two ways. One can think in two ways but at the same time, one should be intellectually independent. An autonomous will is required if we are to act morally (Walker, 2012). Moral law is motivated by the desire to attain other interest. Rational will can only come from moral law. This principle emphasizes that people should recognize the freedom of other to act independently to promote universal sable of moral laws. Kant challenges us to act and our will regarded and while at this, we should be able to make universal laws through this princ iple. When we follow reason, the world around us will be shaped by the authority that underlies within our will as humans. The ‘End in Itself†is another maxim used by Kant. It implies that one should treat others whether in one’s personality or others as resource and at the same as an end. Simply put we should not use others as objects but we should perceive them with dignity and significance we all bear. This helps us to differentiate things that have instrumental value and those that have inherent value. In life some things are only used as objects to obtain others. We appreciate inherent things for what they are and not for what they help us accomplish. According to Kant, people have inherent in the sense that we are able to go beyond our instincts and make critical decisions concerning our lived and the society at large

Case study Essay Example | Topics and Well Written Essays - 1500 words - 16

Case study - Essay Example On the other hand, the legitimacy theory studies the reactions of stakeholders in terms of their social obligations and requirements as imposed by the society and other forces. These two theories will provide insights into the reactions of BP following the oil spill. The stakeholder and legitimacy theories remain some of the most relied upon theories that explain the nature of reaction and approaches that companies, firms, and businesses undertake when faced with various perspectives (Friedman & Miles, 2006). These theories attempt to expose the driving motives and the determining interests that help companies to develop various choices and alternatives as understood together with the policy framework of the companies. The choice of an approach is often determined by the long-term and short-term objectives of the company. These objectives may relate to matters of performance, public image, brand protection, strategic considerations, and the costs involved. The long-term considerations of a company’s interests are largely conditioned by multiple factors that make it necessary for companies to adopt approaches that can safeguard them against the perils of the market and the unpredictable nature of the business environment (Solomon, 2011). The stakeholder theory spells out terms for the survival and the sustainability of any company. According to this theory, firms should seek to create, sustain, and increase value for all its stakeholders for the purposes of performance and survival (Philips, 2011; Philips, 2003). The theory begins from the point that the existence, performance, and progress of a firm is significantly dependent on the harmony that must exist among the stakeholders. Any adverse effect on one or some of the stakeholders will invariably spill over to the other stakeholders. As such, the work of the management is to harmonize, streamline, and regulate the actions, policies, strategies, and

Case study on Western States University Hospital Essay

Case study on Western States University Hospital - Essay Example In the present case, the lack of nursing leadership is the main reason that information system is not being used to its full potential. The importance of IT/IS system needs to disseminated amongst the employees so that they are able to understand the vast potential of computer and how it would improve and improvise their performance outcome. The success of system could only realized when the people who are directly involved with the various aspects of the information, ensure that small effort from them would significantly impact the outcome of the necessary outcome. ABC system is fully capable of coordinating activities and ensuring smooth operation of the hospital when details of patients are entered timely. While admitting clerks need to fill in the initial details of the patients, the discharge and transfer of patients need to be timely entered within the database by the nursing staff to produce updated reports of the patients. There is definitely huge room for improvement. The basic purpose of all business is to strive for improved performance. The hospital management must also ensure performance improvement through leadership initiatives that promote team building, shared goals and collective decision making. Indeed, performance measurement and improvement have increasingly become key issues in healthcare delivery. Meeting the needs and requirements of patients are the major objectives of effective healthcare delivery system.... Hence, in the present case, development of core performance improvement team would help to motivate, inform and train the employees, especially nursing staff, in improving their individual and collective performance for improved results. The most appropriate type of PI team would be the one that understands that knowledge leads to empowerment so that people can make decisions based on informed choices. Hence, team members must comprise of persons who have strong cross cultural understanding and understand the implicit and explicit importance of technology. The main goal of the team would be to identify the areas where the creative inputs of the staff would impact on the performance. The necessary linkages like training of staff on new skills would also be part of PI team so that staff can keep up with the on-going changes within and outside the organizations and ensure continuous improvement in their performance. Answer 3 Organizational structure of hospital is complex in its deliver y of goals. Smooth operations within its various departments become critical part of its success. The PI team of the hospitals should therefore, comprise of managers and leaders from different department. Nurses, physicians, administrators, clinicians, dieticians and pharmacists should be included. They should understand the need for continuous improvement of performance and have clearly defined goals for their team and provided with requisite knowledge skills to achieve their target. The team members must be educated on the need for coordinated efforts to achieve the wider goals and objectives of the hospitals. Nurses and physicians are intrinsic part of healthcare industry that is directly

Marketing Plan for Robotic Systems to assist in heart surgeries and Research Paper

Marketing Plan for Robotic Systems to assist in heart surgeries and other invasive surgeries - Research Paper Example For instance, there are more than 41 million people who are above 65 years and the figure will be considerably higher if we include people who are 55 years and above. Indeed, the probability that a patient (in later years of his / her life) would have a bypass, heart and cancer surgery increases; therefore, the surgeons and health professionals have suggested the use of Da Vinci, ZEUS, AESOP and SAR robotic systems as they facilitate during surgery and enhance the performance. Nevertheless, patients that have robotic surgery are quickly recovered as well as have lesser pain during trauma. The distribution firm has planned that it would open 2 new offices in Washington during June and September 2011 – one each at Union Station and Verizon Center. The expected annual sales are $4 – 5 million with net margin of at least 8%. In case the operations remain successful, the distribution firm will expand its operations to New York by opening 2 new offices during January and June 2010 – one each at Manhattan Mall and Trump Tower. 2. Business Description The Robot Systems Suppliers (hypothetical firm) was inaugurated in 2009 and it is proficient in distribution and maintenance of robotic systems that could be used in heart surgeries and others. Indeed, the technological developments have also facilitated doctors, physicians and surgeons to use modern equipments and robots for heart surgeries, for Prostate Cancer, Gastric Bypass and fatal injuries etc. The company not only focuses on the marketing and distribution on the da Vinci systems initially offered in early 21st century, but also it has been offering ZEUS Surgical System for invasive surgeries. It is worthwhile to mention the fact that use of robot systems has been increasing in US healthcare industry because they help saving time and effort during surgery as well as reduce pain and trauma for patients. For instance, the robotic systems also facilitate in faster recovery that, in turn, reduce fi nancial burden on patients since they have to spend fewer amount on medicines and checkups after surgeries. The Robot Systems Suppliers initially commenced its business operations in Los Angeles City in 2009, and today it has already become an established firm in LA, a city of more than 4 million people. The company enjoys annual revenue of $4.5 million and its net profit (15%) was recorded to be under $0.7 million approximately. The major reason behind success of Robot System Suppliers is the constant focus on differentiation and innovation coupled with top quality after-sales-services. The company also provides useful suggestions to robot producers so that they could innovate their existing robotic systems (that are widely used) and create new systems to achieve cost leadership and efficiency. It should be pointed out that there is immense business potential for suppliers of robotic systems in US healthcare industry because of rising population and number of elderly / senior citiz ens (aged 55 years and above). The Robot Systems Suppliers is in strong financial position because its gross profit margin is in range of 25 – 35%, whereas the net profit margin remains in the range of 12 – 20% because the producers tend to offer high commissions to robot distributors. In addition, the profitability increases primarily due to offering of after-sales-servi

The Prairie Dog Essay Example for Free

The Prairie Dog Essay Cynomys ludovicianus, known more commonly as the prairie dog, has more traditionally been viewed as the pariah of the prairie. However within the last year, attention has been drawn to these furry little rodents. They are extremely unpopular- so much so that for decades the Federal Government has tried desperately to eliminate them. What the government doesnt know is that these creatures are vital to the survival and thriving of several species, and are in fact an asset to our world. Prairie dogs are rodents, closely related to their predator, the black-footed ferret. They live in complicated underground systems, or communities sometimes called dog towns. These dog towns are scattered across the prairie from Canada to Mexico. They graze, run rampant, and dart from one opening to another in continuous action. This action attracts several other plains animals including bison, burrowing owls, golden eagles, ferruginous hawks, antelope, coyotes, and others. The prairie dog is the center of the Great Plains animal community. There are only a handful of sites in the entire West where the species is not under eradication. It is speculated that the species has declined 98 percent across its habitat. In national parks, prairie dogs colonies are fragmented, isolated, and downright tiny. Today only seven parks hold prairie dog populations. Four places- Bens Old Fort National Historic Site, Scotts Bluff National Monument, Devils Tower National Monument, and Fort Laramie National Historic Site- active dog towns are no more than 20 acres. The other three- Badlands, Wind Cave, and Theodore Roosevelt National park- are larger. But the biggest, the Badlands, is barely 4,200 acres. The total area occupied by prairie dogs isnt more than 6,000 acres. At the turn of the century, one Texas prairie dog town measured 100 by 250 miles almost the size of Maine. About 400 million animals lived there. In the 1920s, it was estimated that the population of North American prairie dogs exceeded 500 billion. As much as twenty percent of the plains may have held these animals. Of all major biomes in North America, the plains have suffered the most, and dog towns have been destroyed for plowing. Systematic poisoning has grown into a fatal threat to the prairie dogs, as well as gopher hunting, dollar-a-dog contests, and red mist destruction. Some rural towns hold contests for cash prizes for the individual who shoots the most dogs in one day, hence dollar-a-dog. In addition to the target practice is a new killer- sylvatic plague. It is spread by fleas, gradually diffused across the West, and to make matters worse, the little critters have little or no immunity. Once the disease enters a colony, the entire town is usually lost. There are no reserve colonies to repopulate towns that are lost due to hunting, plague, poisoning, or natural events. To tell the truth, the prairie dog ecosystems are as at much risk as the old-growth forests and salmon runs in the Pacific Northwest. The Biodiversity Legal Foundation in Colorado filed a petition in October of 1994 to list the prairie dog as a Category 2 under the Endangered Species Act. This states that federal agencies must be alerted that a species may be in jeopardy unless changes occur. Prairie dogs are considered by scientists to be a keystone species, which means that they are what a recorded 170 other wildlife species depend on. For example, they are the prime source of food for the black-footed ferret and the swift fox. Their abandoned colonies are later inhabited by anything form burrowing owls to rattlesnakes. Without the prairie dog, many dependent species will not survive. Their ecosystems support higher numbers of small mammals , more terrestrial predators, and higher densities, and greater diversity of bird species than grasslands without these rodents. Whats the greatest irony in the decline of the prairie dog is that it cannot be justified. Even the livestock industrys claims that prairie dogs compete with their cattle for forage appear vacuous. Studies have shown that prairie dogs actually improve forage quality for livestock. One study in South Dakota documented that livestock grazing near dog towns suffered neither weight loss nor a reduction in weight gain. And, prairie dogs thrive where trampling and grazing by livestock reduce grass height. Parks are very frightened at the idea of human visitors contracting plagues from prairie dogs. They often conduct spot treatments with poisoned oats, gas, and more. This destruction is hypocritical of the National Parks philosophy to protect native species. Poisoning of the rodents continued in the Badlands up until 1993, one year before the reintroduction of black-footed ferrets. On public and private lands, the poison of choice is zinc phosphate. Oats and other grains are laced with the chemical and then sprinkled around the colony. The death is slow and painful, taking up to twelve hours, and causing them to go into convulsions and seizures. The most disgusting method, however, is a backpackable flamethrower. Combustible gas is thrown into the burrows, is ignited, and burns the rodents alive. A change in attitude towards prairie dogs is gaining momentum. Several policy changes are in line, including a colony monitoring system to help us learn more about the natural habitat and behavior of the furry mammals. In pre-settlement days, Great Plains ecosystems were characterized by a dynamic shifting puzzle of intense disturbance created by heavy bison grazing, wildfire, prairie dog colonization, expansion, and decline. Today, few places exist where all three major disturbance factorsbison, wildfire, and prairie dogs- occur on any acreage. Such rigid boundaries that the colonies are in may not provide room for expansion. As the human population dwindles in the rural plains, room for a buffalo-prairie dog commons is highly plausible. We spent 100 years what has taken thousands of years to evolve. Now we should be asking what role they play in prairie ecosystems and providing them the space and respect they need to evolve to their potential.

Catch-22 and Dr. Strangelove Essay Example for Free

Catch-22 and Dr. Strangelove Essay \In Joseph Heller’s novel, Catch-22, and Stanley Kubrick’s film, Dr. Strangelove, the bureaucrats are illustrated as illogical and untrustworthy. Heller’s attention to administrations such as the hospital and the military-establishment are recognized for their unreliable rationality and logic. Similarly, in Dr. Strangelove, Kubrick mocks the absurdities of the nuclear arms race and of the officials of the United States and The Soviet Union as he conveys the malfunction of highly placed government bureaucrats. Catch-22 and Dr. Strangelove, are two satirical and somewhat historical works that effectively comment on the corrupt and perhaps insane bureaucrats. The lives of Yossarian and the men in his squadron in Catch-22 are not determined by their own decisions but instead, by the decisions of the impersonal bureaucracy. The bureaucrats are absolutely oblivious to any attempt the men make to reason with them logically. Major Major, for example, will only see people in his office if he is not there and sends them away when he returns. Doc Daneeka refuses to ground Yossarian for his â€Å"insanity† because Yossarian’s desire to be grounded reveals that he is sane. Doc Daneeka elaborates in his discussion of Orr, Yossarian’s tent-mate. â€Å"Orr was crazy and could be grounded. All he had to do was ask; and as soon as he did, he would no longer be crazy and would have to fly more missions. Orr would be crazy to fly more missions and sane if he didn’t, but if he was sane he had to fly them. If he flew them he was crazy and didn’t have to; but if he didn’t want to he was sane and had to.† (46) Yossarian and the others in his squadron find that what they say and do has little effect on their fate when the bureaucracy controls them. Their only option is to follow the illogical rules and use what is expected of them to their own advantage. Yossarian’s superiors are more concerned with getting a promotion than they are about winning the war. Colonel Cathcart, the colonel in command of Yossarian’s squadron, tries to impress his superiors by â€Å"bravely† volunteering his men for dangerous combat. Cathcart’s only concern is being promoted to general. Cathcart continually raises the number of combat missions required of the men before they can be sent home. Yossarian argues with Doc Daneeka who explains, â€Å"†¦regulations do say you have to obey every order. That’s the catch. Even if the colonel were disobeying a Twenty-seventh Air Force order by making you fly more missions, you’d still have to fly them, or you’d be guilt y of disobeying an order of his.† (58) Similarly, Dr. Strangelove also criticizes the malfunctions of bureaucracy and the inadequacy of officials. General Jack Ripper gives the command to attack the Soviet Union without permission from his superiors or the president. Instead of discussing the idea of an attack with is supervisors, Ripper orders the attack because, according to him; Clemenceau†¦ said war was too important to be left to the generals. When he said that, 50 years ago, he might have been right. But today, war is too important to be left to politicians. They have neither the time, the training, nor the inclination for strategic thought. I can no longer sit back and allow Communist infiltration, Communist indoctrination, Communist subversion and the international Communist conspiracy to sap and impurify all of our precious bodily fluids. -Criticizes the malfunction of bureaucracy. (Dr. Strangelove) Mr. President’s embarrassment about the issue demonstrates bureaucracy does not function appropriately because those lower in command should not determine the launch of nuclear powers. Further exemplifying the inadequacy of the bureaucrats, the Joint Chiefs in the war room show their unprofessional and blatant prejudice, especially toward the Russians. General Buck Turgidson clearly states, Im beginning to smell a big fat Commie rat, and later refers to them as a bunch of ignorant peons. The Germans are also referred to when Turgidson, upon learning Dr. Strangeloves original German name, passes it off as a Kraut by any other name. Dr. Strangelove, the character, also calls into question the reliability of people in power. Strangelove is clearly the Presidents scientific adviser in the war room whose appearance copies the mad scientist stereotype with his wild hair, black gloved hand, and his clearly brilliant yet insane mind. Through their presentation of bureaucracy, Heller and Kubrick display why officials and politicians are unfit to make important decisions concerning the safety of the country. Catch-22 conveys this notion through the bureaucracy’s enforcement of impractical rules and Catch-22’s on the eccentric men in Yossarian’s squadron. Kubrick suggests the same concept in Dr. Strangelove by frequently demonstrating the disorder, madness and prejudice of the officials. In either piece, the reader carries away the certainty of the instability of the men in control of important military and national decisions.

Research Designs and Methods Assessment

Research Designs and Methods Assessment Shallene K Green Research Designs and Method There are three most commonly used research designs used in human lifespan development research. These designs are used widely to test traits and characteristics in human development. They include cross-sectional, longitudinal and cross-cultural designs (Toplak, West Stanovich, 2014). To understand each design, is to look at how each can change and affect a life. Cross-sectional research design is a method used by researchers to study humans of different ages who have the same character and trait of interest at a single time. Researchers obtain the information that is currently seen in a population, but they do not change the variables. This research design explains the traits that exist within a population, but they do not show the cause and effect relation between variables. In addition, the design allows researchers to look at various things at once such as income and poverty among others (Toplak, West, Stanovich, 2014). A longitudinal research design is a study that observes one group of a population at different times. In this study, the researcher follows the same group of subjects during various stages of development to measure variables. Cross-cultural study involves the comparison of groups from different cultures. This is a very important way of measuring human development. People may vary largely depending on cultures, and behaviors. (Toplak, West, Stanovich, 2014). Throughout their lives, humans undergo various stages of development. Studies are very important in understanding how humans learn, act and mature (Toplak, West Stanovich, 2014). To understand the difference and apply the learnings it to better understand humans. Research studies are very important in learning things such as social stereotype. The knowledge of stereotypes increases with the advancement in age, and it means that younger children may not know some of these stereotypes. For example, there might be a stereotype that football should be played by the boys but not girls. Younger children may not be exposed to this stereotype and, therefore, cannot make a judgment. This creates a pattern in that younger children do not have this bias, but older children will have formed an opinion (WU, Hillman, 2013). A trend in older and mature humans are more error prone than at a younger age. If children are made aware of this stereotype, they may as well lead them to making conjunction errors. The knowledge of this stereotype is apparently known to older ages than in younger ages (Toplak, West, Stanovich, 2014). What is found is that thinking capacity largely varies with age. A study showed most young ages struggle a lot with reading and often use a lot of efforts to understand or even respond. Older ages find reading easy and effortless as more of a second nature. These changes are well observed throughout the growing and gaining of a child, and periods are established with developmental trends (WU Hillman, 2013). Different methods offer numerous ways which the scientist uses to get information. In a cross-sectional study, the researcher will use interviews to get information on a certain trait in an age group, and it will be used it to compare with another age group (van de Weijer, Van Cleempoel, Heynen, 2014). Interviews are mainly conducted in the initial stages of a project. This information obtained through interviews might be valuable but may not be valid since it is subjective (Toplak, West, Stanovich, 2014). In a longitudinal study, a researcher may opt to use observation methods to obtain information. This method measures the changes in traits and characteristics at different times while be watched. Observation is a very reliable method since the information gathered is not subjective, but it is based on what the researcher sees and observes to report (Toplak, West, Stanovich, 2014). Across cultural studies, literature reviews collect information. Since this study compares different traits in different cultures, the scientist may refer to past studies that have been conducted regarding the cultures in question. Literature materials will include newspapers, magazines, reports and any other published materials. This method is well preferred because it is not expensive (WU Hillman, 2013). A study conducted in a high school showed that games and gaming culture could become a problem that may initially be complex to be fun filled. Gaming culture was also established to make an unfamiliar task appear familiar. This was by providing a language that students could understand. The students could easily use the gaming language to communicate with each other which made it fun filled. Findings showed that high school students could understand given feedback from other students who were younger. It clearly showed that negative remarks badly affected them. What was shown is that students have to believe that they have in possession the competence required to perform a task (WU Hillman, 2013). A observation method that has it strengths and limitations. Its strengths arise from the fact that the researcher gets firsthand information. It provides access to people in real life situation. Its limitation is its too subjective and depends on the role of the researcher (WU Hillman, 2013). The interview has its strength in that it enables the researcher to capture verbal and non-verbal cues. The major limitation of interviews is that it is too costly (Burns, 2014). Video recordings provide accurate and up to date information that is so useful to the researcher only that it is so expensive (WU Hillman, 2013). The changing economic and social context has been a factor influencing outcomes of human development. Households and families have largely been changing to respond to the economic and social changes (Toplak, West, Stanovich, 2014). There has been changing perspectives on the family diversity. Some researchers have thought that small families are easy to maintain than larger families. And with research it can direct or change the thought of families going forward. References Burns Cunningham, K. (2014). Social research design: framework for integrating philosophical and practical elements. Nurse Researcher, 22(1), 32-37. (Toplak, M. E, West, RF, Stanovich, K.E. 2014) rational thinking and cognitive sophistication: van de Weijer, M., Van Cleempoel, K., Heynen, H. (2014). Positioning Research and Design in Academia and Practice: A Contribution to a Continuing Debate. Design Issues, 30(2), 17-29. WU, C, Hillman, C.H. (2013).aerobic fitness and the attentional blink preadolescent children. Neuropsychology, 27(6), 642-653

The Study of Existents in Sandpiper Essays -- Ahdaf Soueif Sandpiper I

The Study of Existents in Sandpiper In a short story like "Sandpiper", where the protagonist does little except move around in her beach-house in an uneventful afternoon, thinking her thoughts, readers must look for an attraction alternative to the plot. Indeed, the writer, Ahdaf Soueif, has chosen to offer to us an interesting array of existents, in place of the story line, as the main focus of this narrative. In the following essay, I shall discuss how existents--the collection of characters and setting--are used to invoke feelings of dispossession and displacement in the story "Sandpiper", which are essential in raising the main issue of the story, which is the question of one's identity. Having agreed that the event itself, a summer afternoon spent at a beach-house, is rather inconsequential, we go on to deduce that the actions of our characters, since they do not contribute to the plot, are actually reflections of their personality. This is what French structuralist, Tzvetan Todorov proposed as a characteristic of psychological narratives, narratives which place their main focus on the development of their characters (Chatman 114). We can therefore, identify distinctive traits belonging to the characters by observing their actions. The characters in this narrative are few: namely the protagonist, "I"; her estranged husband (she refers to him as "her lover"); her daughter, Lucy and her husband's old nanny, Um Sabir. Since it is only the protagonist that appears most often and to whom the readers interact directly, I shall focus most of my discussion based on her development . Our protagonist, "I," can be further differentiated into the narrator, I-now and the character, I-then. I-now is the present figure that has ... ...his narrative is such that we follow the chain of thoughts of our protagonist "I" as she considers the repercussions of her broken marriage. Since we only interact directly with her, we become persuaded to take her point of view, thus her problem becomes our problem too. In its effective use of character, by focusing the essay on one specific character and endowing her with specific traits relevant to bring out the issues concerned and by setting up the story in an environment that can both draw responses from the protagonist as well as clearly portray her feelings to us, "Sandpiper" has successfully raised the question on one's identity. Works Cited Soueif, Ahdaf. "Sandpiper". Sandpiper. London: Bloomsbury, 1997: 23 - 36. Chatman, Seymour. "Existents". Story and Discourse: Narrative Structure in Fiction and Film. Ithaca, N.Y.: Cornell UP, 1978: 107 - 145.

Domitian :: essays research papers

Domitian was born in Rome on Pomegranate Street 0n October 24th AD51. He was the second son born to the future emperor Vespasian. Domitian’s older brother was named Titus. Even when very young Domitian was of the opinion that he should be treated like a god. “Throughout Domitian’s early years and adolescents, the family’s status remained high, but progress was most marked in the 60s.'; (Jones, 1992) One example of the family’s good fortune was that they inherited a great deal of money. This allowed them to gain access to the imperial court, as well as granting them senatorial rank. In order to accomplish this four different families became one family which enabled Domitian to gain power. “Domitian’s brother Titus, now in his mid-twenties, found a suitable wife in Arrecina Tertulla and it seems that Domitian’s first cousin Sabinus the third had also married into the same family, selecting one of Arrecina’s sisters. Unfortunately, Arrecina soon died and Titus sought a second wife. Marcia Furnilla, daughter or niece of Vespasian’s amicus Barea Soranus, was an excellent choice, with consular senators in her father’s and mother’s family.'; (Jones, 1992) Domitian was an educated person, although it is unknown where he got his education. He loved to write and wrote poetry. His poems were very sensitive no matter what the topic. Later on Domitian even wrote and published a book about baldness. Apparently, Domitian was interested in many different types of literature. People often said that he spoke intelligently, and made memorable comments. In his later years, Domitian began to read Tiberius’s commentaries. He established a way of thinking and developed his own ideas on standards and morals. Around 70 AD Domitian married Domitia Longina, the daughter of the great general, Gnaeus Domitius Corbulo. They had lots of troubles in their marriage. The couple had one child, but the child died at a very young age. In 83 AD Domitian wanted nothing to do with his wife and dismissed her. “Later, she was recalled to the palace where she lived until Domitian’s death.'; (http://www.ga.k.12.pa.us/academics/MS/8th/romanhis/Forum/Stephm/early.htm) Domitian inherited the empire when his brother suddenly died after ruling for only two years. He became Roman Emperor in 81AD which fulfilled his lifelong dream. He was now able to follow in his father and brother’s footsteps as emperor. When he was emperor he traveled outside of Rome many times. He was said to be a hostile ruler.

George Orwells 1984 Essay -- George Orwell 1984 Essays

George Orwell's 1984 There is, in every person, a secret part of one's self that is kept completely secret. Most often than not, it is a place of solitude, where no one else is admitted entry. Logic does not rule here; pure instinct, the drive for survival, is what reigns supreme in this realm. However, there are those chosen few who are allowed in, and it is they who are most dangerous; they alone know how to best maul, injure, and in the end, betray. Orwell created such a relationship in 1984 between Winston and Julia. Though the idea is never directly stated, the likelihood that Julia is a member of the Thought-Police grows increasingly more evident and obvious as the story progresses through her words, actions, and in the end, her betrayal of Winston. When Winston and Julia run off to their little grove of ash saplings, Julia makes a few statements that are startlingly suspicious to a quick and clever mind. When Winston explains that he first supposed her to be a member of the Thought Police, she laughs giddily, and asks, ?And you thought that if I had a quarter of a chance I?d denounce you as a thought-criminal and get you killed off (101) Such a comment Stated so bluntly and forceful, it seems as though only the truth could be announced in this manner. The natural instinct of humans is to soften the blow, to make the truth easier to bear, not pointing out the worst case scenario and leaving no room hope, yet this is exactly what Julia does. The fact that she does so laughingly merely is cover, so that Winston cannot suspect the truth of her identity, and it works. The next comment she makes that sheds a sliver of light into her shadowy character comes after Winston?s inquiry of her choosi... ...r girl gave him the impression of being more dangerous than most.? Such is the truth behind the mask of lies and deceit that Julia has worn until now. Her words, actions, and betrayal of Winston made it possible for Big Brother to actually survive, made it possible for Winston to be broken and destroyed. They made it possible for Julia to trick Winston into believing there was hope, believing they still had a chance for a free democracy?a false hope. Had Winston stuck with his first impression of Julia, his gut reaction of fear and hatred, he might have survived. After all, that?s what instincts are for?procuring the best means for survival. Instinct could have saved him, at least for the time being. But he didn?t heed its urgent warning, and with that choice, his fate was sealed. Works Cited: Orwell, George. 1984. London: Secker and Warburg, 1949.

Hiv Routes Of Transmission Health And Social Care Essay

Human immunodeficiency virus HIV is a lentivirus from retrovirus household that causes a HIV Infections in worlds which alters the immune system in a really terrible manner. HIV causes Acquired immunodeficiency syndrome ( AIDS ) at the last phase of the infection. The virus attacks immune system which makes people much weaker in contending against infections and assorted terrible diseases1. The chief focal point of this virus on human cells is to destruct the CD4 positive T Cells of the organic structure ‘s immune system. Destruction of CD4 positive T cells makes it worse for the immune system to contend against the infections, which allows life-threatening timeserving infections and more wellness jobs which may take to decease. Human immune system consists of of import cells which are being destroyed by HIV. This leads to moo CD4 count which in bend makes the human organic structure weak in contending against the infections2. HIV is found in the blood, chest milk, seeds and vaginal fluids of an septic individual. The virus is transmitted from one individual to another through blood to blood and sexual contact. HIV Infected individual ‘s Saliva with blood or any other organic structure fluids can be harmful and infective. HIV can be transmitted in different ways, such as sexual intercourse, blood transfusion, and besides contaminated subcutaneous acerate leafs. In the UK, the most common manner of acquiring HIV is by unprotected sexual intercourse with a individual who is HIV positive. It has shown in the UK statistics 2010 from the Health Protection Agency that 95 % of those diagnosed with HIV Positive due to sexual Contact. This shows that bulk in the UK get infected by HIV is through sexual intercourse which includes vaginal, anal and unwritten sex. This virus enters through the blood stream in different ways like lacerate tegument, oral cavity and eyes liners, and besides through the thin liner o f the anus and genitalias. HIV is non transmitted from an septic individual through caressing, caressing, ptyalizing, sharing bath towels or cutter, utilizing the same swimming pool and oral cavity to talk contact1. From the recent study, it has been shown that the following groups of people are at higher hazard of HIV infection which includes people who are shooting drugs, sex workers every bit Wellss as work forces holding sexual intercourse with men3. There are assorted methods to forestall HIV Transmission in our community through avoiding activities that leads you to dangerous jobs, such as unprotected sex and sharing septic acerate leafs and other assorted shooting equipments1, educating and reding people with HIV positive by the doctors and supplying them the best intervention so that to forestall HIV transmittal in general4. Current UK guidelines on HIV purpose to increase HIV proving in all health care sectors to diminish the sum of undiagnosed HIV infections. It is suggested that HIV trial should be offered to general populace in some sectors and besides to high hazard people in other different sectors ( for illustration, general pattern ) . The Department of wellness ( DH ) asked the National institute of wellness and clinical Excellence ( NICE ) to develop public wellness counsel to increase HIV proving between work forces who have sexual connexions with work forces to cut down undiagnosed infection and besides to forestall HIV transmittal. HIV Testing is one of the most of import factors which helps and guides the full community in UK through reduced HIV transmission5. Harmonizing to the statistics sing HIV, 6000 to 7000 people are diagnosed HIV Positive each twelvemonth in England. This is an of import factor to inquire the full community to concentrate and get the better of this job. Hence, encourage people to prosecute in different methods to forestall HIV transmittal and salvage the community in general with supplying proper consciousness sing HIV6. One of the most effectual ways to forestall HIV transmittal is through sex that is abstain from sex is the surest method to forestall HIV. If you decide to hold sex so acquire tested foremost to avoid HIV transmittal between you and your partner7. Use of rubber right in sexual activity is the most of import and advantageous point to halt the HIV spread and other infections which are sexually transmitted at every individual clip you have acute sex. Condoms are being marketed in different types of colors, forms, texture and spirits. Male rubbers are made up of latex or polyurethane and female rubbers are besides known as FC2, which is used for vaginal sex only7. Second, usage of merely water-based lubricators can increase sexual pleasance every bit good as safety, merely by adding wet to the vagina or anus during sexual intercourse. Lubricants decreases the hazard of vaginal or anal cryings which can be caused by waterlessness and besides it protects the rubber from rupturing off durin g sexual activity1. Third, usage of dental dike reduces hazard of sexually transmitted infections. It works as a wall between the oral cavity and vagina during unwritten sex. Fourthly, avoid utilizing septic acerate leafs, panpipes, or spoons which can expose you to HIV and other viruses which are found in the blood1. Pharmacological Prevention of HIV transmittal is through medical specialties and there are different methods used in forestalling its spread. Antiretroviral therapies ( ARTs ) are used to handle HIV, which prevents viral spread in the organic structure. A combination therapy of antiretroviral or extremely active antiretroviral therapy ( HAART ) is used for the effectual bar of HIV reproduction and transmittal in the organic structure. CD4 count and viral burden blood trial are two of import factors which help the physicians to make up one's mind on the intervention of that peculiar patient. Treatment is normally starts when the individuals CD4 counts shows below 350, irrespective of their presence or absence of their symptoms1. Harmonizing to WHO guidelines, it states that ART inductions are really good in forestalling HIV every bit good as clinically, they are more powerful in handling HIV positive patients, when the CD4 count is less than 350 cells/mm3. Viral burden plays the major function in HIV transmittal as it is one of the highest hazard factor in this scenario. When the viral burden is less than 1500 copies/mm3, the hazard of conveying HIV is about nothing as suggested by recent surveies. Evidence shows that the viral burden degrees are decreased by ART, hence bounds HIV transmittal depending on individual ‘s HIV position. WHO guidelines shows that they are chiefly engaged on extinguishing HIV and they strongly suggest that the usage of ART protects the full community which besides includes kids and pregnant adult females by handling and forestalling them from the spread of HIV8. There are different groups of ART medicines to forestall and handle HIV infection1. Virus attaches to the host cel l whereby it fuses with the host cell membrane. After the incursion into the host cell, the outer coat of the virus is removed and familial stuff and an enzyme released into the host cell, which is called rearward RNA polymerase, which converts viral RNA to viral DNA, so viral DNA penetrates to the host cell nucleus where by two procedure takes topographic point which includes written text and interlingual rendition takes topographic point which leads to bring forth new virions through peptidase enzyme2. Different antiretroviral medical specialties holding different mark but with one purpose, that is to suppress viral reproduction. Rearward RNA polymerase inhibitors are of two types that includes nucleoside contrary RNA polymerase inhibitors and non-nucleoside contrary RNA polymerase inhibitors. NRTIs are defective constructing blocks of Deoxyribonucleic acid when they are incorporated into HIV DNA, hence blocks the viral reproduction procedure, by non finishing the Deoxyribonucleic acid Chain. NNRTs bind to the enzyme contrary RNA polymerase and suppress the procedure of viral replication2. NNRTs are used in the intervention or HIV-1 but it is seldom used for HIV-2 in the UK9. Protease Inhibitors are inhibits the procedure of production of viral stuff through interfering with the peptidase enzyme. In the UK, Protease Inhibitors are Entry Inhibitors are inhibitors involved in barricading the virus to adhere with the host cellular membrane that lead to the obstruction of virus into the host cell. Integrase inhibitors are involved in barricading the procedure of integrating of viral familial stuff into the Host D NA by suppressing integrase enzyme. Microbicides are chemical and pharmacologic substances that are used for destructing some micro-organisms that cause terrible jobs to worlds. Many compounds are being produced and tested their effectivity against microbicidal activity in clinical tests. These merchandises are being produced for vaginal every bit good as rectal applications to protect from HIV infections and other sexually transmitted diseases. Presently, scientists are working on this undertaking in developing microbicides for forestalling HIV transmittals and heighten the degree of patient safety12. Post-exposure prophylaxis ( PEP ) is ARTs used after the exposure like occupational injuries10 or sexual exposure11 to forestall HIV infection. PEP medicines are non yet proved every bit good as unlicensed in the UK. They are merely supported by experimenting on animate beings. Besides, there are ongoing surveies for pre-exposure prophylaxis where it includes antiretroviral drugs before the exposure to HIV2. Another preventative step against HIV is through Vaccination procedure. Presently, HIV Vaccine is non available but it is one of the on-going research at a really early phase to bring forth effectual HIV Vaccine into the market so that to protect the full community against HIV infection. Since 1990, surveies have shown that the HIV spread from female parent to kid has been increased every twelvemonth. The Department of Health policy proposing that an HIV Test to be carried out in each and every pregnant adult females and has shown that it has addition consciousness in adult females prior to bringing and it has shown that more than 80 % of the adult females are cognizant in London, 2001 every bit good as it has reduced the figure of babies being infected in the UK13. Antiretroviral interventions ( ART ) are being used in gestation to forestall HIV transmittal from female parent to child. It is suggested that if you are HIV Positive so do non breast feed your kid, as virus transmittal can happen through chest milk1. Overall guidelines and counsel of antiretroviral therapy are being provided to forestall transmittal of HIV from female parent to child14. Pre-exposure prophylaxis ( PrEP ) in HIV protects healthy people from HIV infection. Current surveies and clinical tests are in the procedure of developing of PrEP to forestall transmittal of HIV. Surveies have shown a lessenings hazard of HIV infection among animate beings that are exposed to ARVs. PrEP has shown its effectivity in â€Å" humanized † research lab mice in the survey which was conducted in 200715 and besides, ARVs are given to female parents and babies to cut down HIV transimmsion16. The PrEP research surveies uses the drug called tenofovir that is delivered by unwritten path or topical path. It has shown in the four clinical tests that it reduces the hazard of acquiring HIV infection but in the two tests have shown no good response. As of today, there are two on-going surveies that have non yet published their findings on the consequence of HIV transimmision. There are many challenges in relation to safety and effectivity of PrEP inventions. Besides combinatio ns pill called TruvadaA ® ( Tenofovir and Emtricitabine ) which was accepted by the U.S. Food and Drug Administration ( FDA ) for the intent in HIV intervention in 2004. Truvada, as a PrEP was approved by the FDA in July, 2012 for forestalling from HIV transmittal. Powerful research grounds shows that the PrEP is safe and effectual when used systematically for diminishing the hazard of acquiring HIV sexually17. In Conclusion, it can be said that there are different paths of HIV transmittal and besides several methods are available to forestall its transmittal. Currently, many surveies are â€Å" traveling on † to develop new merchandises to forestall and handle HIV patients efficaciously with decreased hazard involved. Besides, public consciousness play a immense function in HIV bar by educating them through assorted resources like chew the fating with them or telephone conversations or supplying proper information on HIV transmittal with its badness. Harmonizing to the recent results of HIV transmittal in the UK, there are assorted factors must be followed by the general populace so that cut down the figure of people by acquiring infected through acquiring sex instruction, attachment to medicines and to avoid unprotected sex or work forces to work forces sex. This can take to healthy long life of our patients and diminish the figure of morbidity and mortality. Centres for Disease co ntrol and Prevention stated that about 50,000 people are freshly infected with HIV in the United States each year.18 From the estimations it shows that HIV is one of the terrible issue in our community which can take to decease as it is easy transmitted. Hence, Prevention of HIV transmittal is the most good factor to salvage our community with development of new merchandises which have different pharmacological marks to avoid opposition of the Drug.

Women in Mythology

In myths the classical hero is consistently male, but in underworld myths females tend to have a larger or primary role. Jung emphasized the importance of the women the hero encountered during his adventures: they represent the anima, or the female part of the male psyche. This figure is an opposite-sex archetype essential to the development of a complete and mature personality. Women in underworld myths are often portrayed as either â€Å"Mother Atonement†, a goddess or a temptress (189), although these are the main roles of women in underworld myths there are also women who portray a heroic role closer to that of a man.The first myth is the story of Psyche; Psyche loses her husband Cupid and must perform a series of tasks to win him back. The role of Psyche is similar to that of a male role in a traditional heroic archetype because she must complete a series of tasks in order to test her, and show her worthiness to Cupid. It is different because this myth does not contain ea ch part of separation and departure, trials and victories or return.This story includes â€Å"the call to adventure†, which is when Psyche loses cupid, â€Å"the road of trials† where Psyche must complete her many tasks and â€Å"crossing the return threshold† where she wins Cupid’s love back. The role of the woman, Psyche, in this myth and in general is significant because she plays not as much of a hero role but has to endure the process that a hero would take, she also plays neither a seductress nor a Mother Atonement role in comparison to other mythological women such as the Lady of Tubber Tintye or the virgin goddess Diana.The second myth is The Prince of the Lonesome Isle. All of the women, minus one, in this particular myth play the roles of temptresses. The first thirteen women the hero comes across are the most beautiful women he has ever laid eyes on, each more beautiful than the previous, each continuously tempting the prince to stay but he lea ves them nonetheless. The last woman in the myth, the Lady of Tubber Tintye, plays the role of a creator goddess who nourishes and protects the world(189), he stays with her six days and six nights but still continues and completes his quest (Jeremiah Curtin 101-106).The ways in which the roles of the women differ from the male roles in the traditional heroic archetype are that the women do not present a heroic archetype but rather that of a distraction from the princes original quest he wishes to complete. â€Å"In the morning they came to a house on the roadside; and going in, they saw a woman who had washed herself in a golden basin which stood before her. She was then wetting her head with the water in the basin, and combing her hair with a golden comb. She threw back her hair, and looking at the prince, said: † You are welcome, sister's son.What is on you? Is it the misfortune of the world that has brought you here? † â€Å"It is not; I am going to Tubber Tintye f or three bottles of water. † â€Å"That is what you'll never do; no man can cross the fiery river or go through the enchantments around Tubber Tintye. Stay here with me, and I'll give you all I have. † â€Å"No, I cannot stay, I must go on. â€Å"† (Jeremiah Curtin) These women are significant to the actual story because they show how the prince resisted the calls of the seductresses, met and united with a goddess who helped him to fulfill his quest.These women in the myth are significant to the portrayal of women in myths in general because they fit the stereotype of women in underworld myths being evil temptresses. But it also breaks the mold seeing as once the prince meets with the creator goddess, â€Å"queen goddess of the world†(189) she helps him to fulfill his quest rather than hindering his quest or inhibiting his ability, such as in the myth of Actaeon and the virgin goddess Diana. In the last myth, the myth of Actaeon and the virgin goddess Dia na (Artemis), Actaeon stumbles across Diana while he is hunting and happens to see her while she is bathing in a stream.Diana fears that he will brag about seeing her, and turns him into a stag, which then his own hunting dogs are set on him (189). Diana’s importance to the story shows the power that women have, they are not just pretty faces there is always something more to them. To the general portrayal of women in myths Diana unmasks the Greek male's fear of women – female beauty is not just there for his enjoyment – it has a power to trap and then destroy (Andrew Wilson) Diana’s roll differs from the traditional male heroic archetype because she is an object of lust turned somewhat evil rather than brave or heroic.She is similar to that of the heroic archetype of a male because she is a â€Å"vengeful destroyer† (Storybuilder User's Manual) towards Actaeon. In conclusion, throughout underworld mythology the role of women can stray from the typ ical â€Å"temptress or goddess† and find their way to being a woman called to an adventure. They all have significance to be able to change mythology from a man only perspective, into one where a woman can also be the hero.Although most of the women in these myths are have more differences from the male heroic archetype than similarities, they still have some form of the heroic archetype to them: Psyche’s love for Cupid is tested through tasks, and Diana uses her vengeful destroyer attitude. The women of underworld mythology show that women are not just their beauty or for looking at, they have an underlying root of skill that should allow them their own heroic archetype as well. Works Cited Campbell, John. â€Å"Hero with a Thousand Faces. † Magical Earth Maiden Pattern. Princeton University Press, n. d. Web. 14 Feb. 013. . Curtin, Jeremiah. â€Å"The King of Erin and the Queen of the Lonesome Island. † Myths and Folk-lore of Ireland. Little, Brown and Company, n. d. Web. 14 Feb. 2013. . Storybuilders User Manual. â€Å"Archetypes, Myths, and Characters. † Archetypes, Myths and Characters. Seven Valleys Software, Glen Rock, PA, 1996-1998. Web. 14 Feb. 2013. . Thury, Eva M. , and Margaret Klopfle Devinney. Introduction to Mythology: Contemporary Approaches to Classical and World Myths. New York: Oxford UP, 2005. Print. pages 185-191 Wilson, Andrew. â€Å"Diana & Actaeon. † The Classics Pages. N. p. , n. d. Web. 14 Feb. 2013. .

Marketing plan for Commonwealth Bank Essay

Commonwealth Bank is the largest of Australia’s big four financial service providers. At present, the Bank offers a range of award credit cards to, both, retail and corporate sectors. Profitable growth in retail and corporate card segments is a key part of the bank’s strategic direction. The main differential between cards is centred around fee structures, with little difference between them that is obvious to most consumers. The award scheme points can be redeemed for air miles, gifts and vouchers. Under this initiative, the Bank plans to set itself apart from the rest by launching a new credit card, which will allow clients to assign their award points toward a not for profit organisation. This initiative also creates a whole new paradigm within which cards are compared by prospective consumers, and puts the Bank at the very fore front of the credit card market. This card is unique, and is not currently available from other financial service providers in Australia. Research indicates there is a high demand for a socially responsible and ethical approach to banking. As such, the new card appeals to the growing philanthropic market in the retail sector. For the corporate sector, it reflects positively on their contribution in the community. CBA will utilise its current market penetration, strong brand image, management experience and distribution channels to ensure the card compliments their existing product suite. Profitable growth, retention of clients and an increased share penetration index have been forecasted as a direct result of bringing the new card to market. CBA has strong brand recognition. It is voted number 59 in the 2010 Forbes â€Å"world leading companies† Top 500 Brands survey (Forbes Magazine, 2010). The bank views its brand as its most valuable asset. Despite CBA having a strong brand image, banks in Australia remain unpopular. Consumers perceive the big four of price gouging; particularly so, as the banks delay or fail to pass cuts in the interest rate. Credit card retention and acquisition, in both corporate and retail sectors, is a key part of the bank’s profitable growth strategy. CBA plans to expand the credit card awards portfolio with a new product. The new card enables retail and corporate clients to automatically transfer award points to cash donations for non -government organizations (NGOs) and charities. This card is to be branded CBA’s â€Å"Community Card†. This positions CBA as a market leader and the first financial institution to introduce such a product into the credit card segment. CBA stands to gain significant competitive advantage. The new credit card stands to assist CBA’s corporate clients with their social responsibility obligations. A Harvard Business Review 2006 article notes â€Å"government, activists and the media have become adept at holding companies to account for their activities. Myriad organizations rank companies on their corporate social responsibility (CSR) and, despite sometimes questionable methodologies, these rankings attract considerable publicity. As a result, CSR had emerged as an inescapable priority for business leaders in every country† (Kramer, 2006) For the personal card holder, it is a vehicle to give back to the community. A survey conducted by Givewell noted that philanthropy is on the rise and estimated that, in 2009 Australians contributed over $1.8 billion total donations (Givewell, 2010). The Australian Taxation office notes that philanthropy is at its highest ever recorded. In the 2010 tax year, there were 4,649,646 recoded deductions for gifts and donations in individual tax returns. In 2009 there were 4,400,786 recorded dedications, a growth of 2.064 per cent in a 12 month period (Australian Taxation Office, 2012) 1.2 Background data on credit card market In the wake of the global financial crisis, many overseas banks have increased their credit scorecards and are reluctant to take on additional unsecured debt. The Australian credit card market is in good shape when compared with these overseas markets. This is due to prudent lending practices and the government’s credit card regulation reforms. Craig James, Chief Economist for CommSec, notes that we have a responsible population when it comes to credit card debt behaviour. â€Å"Aussie consumers pat yourselves on the back – you’ve mastered the plastic fantastic. People are using their credit and debit cards as much as they ever did, but smartly. Aussies are using their credit cards, but paying off the debt by the due date† (James, 2012) 1.3 Competition Strength in market makes the credit card sector a popular strategic choice for growth in the finance sector. Banks are able to charge annual fees and interest rates that generate a high level of profit. CBA’s main cards competitors are ANZ, Westpac and National Australia bank in the retail market and Amex, ANZ and Westpac in the corporate card sector. (Reserve Bank Australia, 2012) Strong competition for business has led to a spike in enhanced loyalty programmes and rewards for new and existing customers. Presently, there are no corporate or personal awards credit cards in the market that allow customers to cash their points as donations, with two main types of award programmes available. The first is the ability to accrue and redeem frequent flyer points for travel. The other allows clients to earn points to redeem gifts such as home appliances, supermarket and, department store gift cards and petrol vouchers. Predominantly, corporate clients opt out of enrolment in awards schemes, due to fringe benefit tax implications for employees. The issue of who owns the points, employer or employee, is one that is yet to be solved. Both external and internal market research has seen a decline in retail clients selecting cards with awards. The majority of customer feedback collected at point of credit card application has confirmed that there is a lack of perceived value in these programmes. 1.4 Distribution CBA personal credit cards are currently sold through the branch network, online and over the phone. A customer is able to apply for, or upgrade a card, 24 hours a day. CBA utilises the same distribution channels for its corporate clients, with the addition of a dedicated relationship manager. 2.0 SWOT analysis The following SWOT analysis helps to understand key strengths and weaknesses of the new credit card. It also describes opportunities and threats of the product, in both, the retail and corporate segments. Strengths Weaknesses * Reputation * Industry experience * Existing market share * First mover advantages * Distribution channels| * Costs of bringing new product to market * First mover risks and disadvantages * Little known about not for profit / community groups (not core business)| * Increased market share * Product embraced by customers / Improved customer satisfaction * Improved brand equity and brand loyalty * Increased profits and shareholder value * Enter new market segments * Convert switchers to CBA| * Changing customer tastes and demographics * Government policies * Product easily replicated by competitors * Threat of substitutes through non-bank lenders (store cards)| Opportunities Threats From the SWOT analysis, the most important issues to consider are: how CBA will adapt the product and remain competitive against substitutes, and other banks copying the product. CBA must monitor the market closely to avoid a price war between competitors. The key opportunities will be capturing new clients in a new market and the competitive learning gleaned from being the first to launch the product. 3.0 Financial objectives Using the 2012 Annual Report as a baseline, CBA has set targets for sales volume, market share and profit for the 2012/2013 financial year. (Commonwealth Bank Australia, 2012) There is strategic congruence of sales targets, marketing strategy and the overarching organizational strategic direction of profitable growth. 3.1 Sales volume * Achieve a minimum 4% growth in new card sales, initiated by branch staff in the retail market before 2012 / 2013 end of financial year. * Achieve a minimum of 3% growth in new card sales from remaining retail distribution channels (phone and online) before 2012 / 2013 end of financial year. * Increase corporate card sales by 5% in 2012 / 2013 financial year. * Migrate 20% of existing non awards corporate customers to the new product by December 2014. * Increase transaction volume of credit card book by 15% this financial year. 3.2 Market Share * Increase retail market share from 32% to 37% in the 2012 / 2013 financial year. * Increase corporate market share from 12% to 17% in the 2012 / 2013 financial year. * Decrease customer attrition rate by 15% across both sectors by the end of the 2012/2013 financial year. 3.3 Profit * Additional $364 million in lending fees collected in late payment and annual fees across from the retail sector. * Additional $453 million in lending fees collected from corporate clients in late payment fees, annual fees and customer maintenance fees. * Increase credit card interest earnings assets from 12.71% yield to 20.00% yield, both sectors combined. 3.4 Break Even Analysis The break even analysis indicates that 500 new cards must be sold across each segment every month to break even. As staffs become more experienced in selling the product and the consumer more familiar, the costs should decrease in line with the experience (Kotler, 2008) curve. Less money will be spent on training employees and advertising. Fewer products will need to be sold in order to break even. 4.0 Marketing segmentation and positioning Both the corporate and retail markets have been divided into segments. Niche marketing was considered due to the specificity of the Community Card however, CBA is prepared to take an educated risk by marketing to a wider group as, internal research indicates, it has a large credit card customer base with homogeneous preferences. â€Å"Aggregate enough minority tastes and you will often find a new market† (Anderson, 2006) 4.1 Corporate market segments * Heavy users and non- users of CBA’s current corporate card offering. * Organizations with a minimum of 50 employees and an annual turnover of a $500k minimum. * Primarily but not limited to white collar industries such as: advertising, human resource management, department stores, large scale hospitality clients (hotels) and travel agents * Organizations with highly centralised purchase decisions. * Companies seeking an edge on their competitors through improvement and / or diversification into social responsibility. * Not for profit organizations 4.2 Retail market segments * 35 – 49 and 50 – 64 year olds with a 54% clustering around the 50 – 64 age bracket. * Annual income in excess of $75k per annum. * Professionals, managers, executives and business people who are accomplished in their fields * People with a tertiary qualification. * Upper middle and upper class. * Native Australians (individually focused as opposed to collectively focused). * Culture orientated and socially aware. 4.3 Target markets People and businesses who want the freedom and flexibility a credit card provides, and have an emotional connection to making the world a better place, or a desire to improve their sustainability image. Corporate: * Corporate social responsibility * Flexible payment options * Ethical * Sustainable image * Community Retail: * Freedom * Flexibility * Social responsibility * Sustainability / give back * Ethical 4.4 Positioning CBA will position itself as Australia’s socially responsible financial services provider with a passion for community. A bank that understands the bigger picture. By being first to market with the new product, CBA signals that it is different from the other banks. It is a bank that is dedicated to offering both retail and business customers an alternative, an avenue to give back to their elected cause, NGO or community group. This position will be enhanced through training its 38,000 employees to act as ambassadors on the features and benefits of the Community Card. 5.0 Marketing strategy and the marketing mix 5.1 Marketing Strategy The first step in the marketing strategy is to make new and existing customers aware of the new product and how it will benefit the community. CBA’s message is that it is the ethical financial services provider, selling Australian’s the chance to give back to the community. The Bank plans to lead by example, offering the new product to its employees at a discounted rate. This will also allow for market testing and feedback. The Bank will communicate this message to its retail clients through local area marketing, television, radio and advertisements in selected newspapers that appeal to the target customer. The message for the corporate client is the same however; relationship managers will target potential clients through business development activities. 5.2 Product The product is to be sub-branded and operate on the MasterCard network. MasterCard is selected as it is accepted in 30 million locations worldwide, appealing to the target market’s desire for flexibility. With the acceptation of the awards programme, the new card has similar features and benefits to the existing suite of awards cards. According to the Innovation Bell Curve (Rogers, 1962), the familiarity of known features and benefits will assist in early adoption. The product will be popular with innovators. It is the first of its kind. 5.3 Pricing The pricing objective for the retail segment is maximum profits. The corporate pricing objective is maximum market share, as previously mentioned CBA only holds 12 percent of the market. Mark up pricing will be used in both the retail and corporate markets. The new product is exclusive as it is the first of its kind, distinctive and there are no readily available substitutes. These factors make both markets less price sensitive. The Bank has selected a high value strategy for the retail market. The annual fee for the card will be $65.00. This fee represents the midpoint in the total cards market. The debit interest rate on the card will be set at 21.59 percent per annum, slightly higher than the total cards market average. Retail customers will view this price as good for them and good for the community. CBA will also use a high value strategy for its corporate clients. The fee structure will differ slightly from retail as it includes a $130.00 annual fee and a $15.00 additional card fee per employee. The debit rate of interest remains the same as the retail card. This will prevent corporate clients from using their personal credit cards to save money on purchases. 5.4 Place CBA’s current distribution channels have significant competitive advantage in the banking marketplace. The bank has more branches; ATM’s and calls centers than any other bank. The website www.commbank.com was recently voted the most visited website in Australia in a report published by Neilson Consulting (AC Neilson, 2012). Given the age demographics of the target market, CBA will leverage off its staff in branches and relationship managers by using a direct to customer distribution model. This provides the opportunity for potential and existing customers to ask questions and clarify any areas of interest. CBA feels this is important to the target market. The Bank’s website is to be updated with a quick fact sheet on the new card, an award points calculator, information detailing the work of the eligible NGO’s and charities, and frequently asked questions. Call center staff are to receive specific training. Upon approval, clients are expected to receive their card within five working days. 5.5 Promotion CBA will reach both target audiences through online advertising on the CommBank website, radio advertisements, and television and newspaper advertisements. Some mass marketing will be used to target corporate customers through direct mail outs. The end of financial year is an important time for promotion in both market segments. In retail, 30 June is when people do their tax returns and claim back deductions for gifts and donations. For corporate clients, the new financial year represents a clean slate and the opportunity to pursue different ideas for the business. When promoting the new Community Credit Card, the Bank will position itself as being unique, ethical, flexible and fair. 6.0 References AC Neilson. (2012, January 15). Most Visited Websites. Sydney, NSW, Australia. Anderson, C. (2006). The Long Tail. New York: Hyperion. Australian Taxation Office. (2012). 2012 Taxation Statistics. Australian Taxation Office. Forbes Magazine. (2010). World Leading Compaines. Austrade. Givewell. (2010). Givewell Statistics. Retrieved october 06, 2012, from Givewell: http://www.givewell.com.au/statistics.asp James, C. (2012). CommSec Economic Insights. Commsec. Kotler, P. (2008). Marketing Management An Asian Perspective. Jurong: Prentice Hall. Kramer, M. P. (2006). Strategy and Society. Harvard Business Review. Reserve Bank Australia. (2012). Bulletin. Reserve Bank. Rogers, E. (1962). Diffusion of Innovations. United Kingdom : Simon & Schuster International .

Reflective Statement Essay

How I create a positive learning environment A positive learning environment are trust, open communication and shared learning experiences.Trainer is one who can create a positive learning environment, which will allow the students to feel comfortable, safe and engaged – something that all students deserve. I applied some factors that build a positive learning environment. Adult learners require the learning to be relevant, are highly motivated, need active involvement in the learning process, a variety of learning experiences, positive feedback, need to be recognized as individuals with unique experiences, to maintain their self-esteem. A positive learning environment requires the involvement of learners – to ask questions and feedback, encourage discussions, group and individual activities, group discussions, visual aids, role plays. The effective trainer helps to create the positive learning environment when using a variety of techniques for providing positive feedback. To provide positive feedback is to give verbal praise, to use positive responses during questioning, recognize appropriate skills. Be sure to treat the participants as individuals when using participant names, to involve all participants as often as possible, to treat participants with respect, to allow participants to share information with others, to maintain the self-esteem of learners with reinforcing practices and beliefs embodied in the activity, providing corrective feedback in an appropriate manner, providing training that adds to their sense of competence and self-esteem, recognizing participants accomplishments. The feedback I received from learner participants The feedback I receive is very positive. The learners rated all of the activities very highly. Content – is rated 4.6 from 5 which is Excellent. Organization – is rated 4.0 from 5 which is Very Good. Use of instructional aids – is rated 4.4 from 5 which is near Excellent. Creating interest in topic – is rated 4.8 from 5 which is Excellent. Involvement of participants – is rated 4.4 from 5 which is near Excellent. Met my needs – is rated 3.8 from 5 which is near Very Good. Suitable to my level of experience – is rated 4.2 from 5 which is Very Good. Interesting – is rated 4.4 from 5 which is near Excellent. Included sufficient examples – is rated 4.6 from 5 which is Excellent. Understandable -is rated 4.2 from 5 which is Very Good. This lead to conclude that activities provides interesting information. The feedback I received it is very useful and helping me to understand where I can develop my lessons in further. My perceptions of the effectiveness of the activity I felt engaged and that the content of the learning material was interesting and meaningful. The explanations given helped me to clarify and remember ideas, and the activities gave a way to remember the information in a clear way. That makes a difference in understanding the material, because I can see the strategies in action instead of just reading about them. The results of the team work activities are beneficial towards learning process and helps enhance learning process. Looking at the picture as a whole, one of the most valuable things is just sharing experiences with other participants. Because you just learn so much from each other. I think the whole focus behind the effectiveness of the activity it has made me reflect a lot more on my own practice and future development. 2 recommendations to improve my future performance