Thursday, October 31, 2019

Science Project Idea Paper Research Example | Topics and Well Written Essays - 750 words

Science Project Idea - Research Paper Example Moreover, Kowalski (1987) points out that another research found that several days of fasting produced irritability, muscular weakness and depression or apathy. Since then studies has focused on how cognition is affected by nutrition. The sparse research on effects of food deprivation has created a void for further studies. Up to date no research has investigated perseverance despite its significance in cognitive functioning. According to McLeod (2002), perseverance can be a better indicator other than achievement tests in growth assessments in thinking abilities and learning as perseverance assists in complex problems solving. Testing as many cognition aspects as possible is the solution because the tasks nature is important when doing interpretation of the link between cognitive performance and food deprivation (Crumpton et al, 1966). Therefore, this research will help us understand how food deprivation for a short term affects perseverance and concentration with a difficult task. Particularly, participants starved for 24 hours will be expected to perform worse on perseverance task and concentration test than the ones starved for 12 hours who in turn are predicted to perform worse than the ones who were not starved. ... (ii) Materials Accuracy and concentration speed will be measured using number matching test found online (www.psychtests.com/tests/iq/concentration.html) which contained 25 numbers in 6 lines each as suggested by Eisenberger (1980). Participants will be required in 6 minutes to find in each line pairs of numbers that can add up to 10. Scores will be calculated as a percentage correctly pairs identified out of possible 120 (Eisenberger, 1980). On the hand, perseverance will be measured with a puzzle containing five octagons. Every octagon will include a specific object stencil such as flower or animal. The octagons will be piled on top of another in a particular way to make a rabbit silhouette. However, three of the identified shapes will be altered slightly to make the task impossible. Finally, perseverance scores will be calculated as a number of minutes spent by a participant on the puzzle before giving up (Green, Elliman & Rogers, 1995). Results After following all the procedures and doing the experiment, the results were as follows. Three questions of manipulation check indicated that every participant followed the rules and perceived correctly their deprivation condition. The average score for concentration was 77.78 with a standard deviation of 14.21 which was good. An average time of 24 minutes with standard deviation of 10.16 was averagely spent on the puzzle. From our prediction that 24 hour deprivation grouped participants would perform on the perseverance task and concentration test worse than 12 hour group participants, who would in turn perform worse than control group participants. From one way ANOVA, the results portrayed no significant effect of starvation condition on the concentration. On another ANOVA showed a significant effect on starvation

Tuesday, October 29, 2019

PTSD among our reurning veterans Speech or Presentation

PTSD among our reurning veterans - Speech or Presentation Example Consequently, appropriate health interventions can be recommended for treatment. To this end, the article defines PTSD as Post Traumatic Stress Disorder. It is a mental disorder that manifests itself after a person undergoes or witnesses a traumatic event such as war, death or physical harm. Consequently, its characteristic symptoms include hyper arousal, avoidance, re-experiencing and numbing. Over and above this, the prevalence rates of PTSD in the population indicated that women had a 13% probability rate of developing it while men had 6.2% probability rate. In total, its prevalence among the general population is 7.8%. However, of interest is the prevalence rate of PTSD among the veterans. To this end, the article acknowledged that PTSD was highly prevalent among American war veterans. For example, statistics showed that 27% to 31% of veterans from Vietnam had experienced PTSD, and 12% to 13% of Iraq veterans had been affected by PTSD. Consequently, the article focuses on the war veterans and the role of nurses as primary caregivers. This is in recognition that while seeking medical care, the veterans first point of contact is with the nurses. Consequently, the article seeks to emphasize the need for all nurses to be conversant with the signs and symptoms of PTSD. Moreover, they are expected to be conversant of all the resources at their disposal to aid in the treating of PTSD. In addition, the nurses are expected to be conversant with the conditions of military sexual trauma and consequently recommend screening and treatment for the victims. Seeking to establish the prevalence of Post Traumatic Stress Disorder among war veterans, the article identified its research basis through statistical studies conducted on past and present wars. To this end, the article cited the National Vietnam Veterans Readjustment Study that was conducted in 1998. The results were indicative that between 27% and 31% of Vietnam War veterans had been affected by PTSD. Moreover, rese arch conducted by the Walter Reed Army Institute on veterans from the Iraq war revealed that 16 to 17% tested positive for PTSD, anxiety or depression. In addition, studies conducted on 289, 328 veterans who had been involved in wars at Afghanistan or Iraq revealed that 21.8% were diagnosed with PTSD. Over and above this, investigations revealed that following the invasion of Iraq, prevalence rate of PTSD among veterans increased between four to seven times. Consequently, the research recognized that PTSD was highly prevalent among war veterans. To this end, the research equally ascertained that a number of cases were not reported or recognized. Consequently, there was a need for emphasizing the role of nurses in identifying the signs and symptoms of PTSD during veteran assistance. In recognition of the prevalence rate of PTSD among veterans, there existed a gap in dispensing appropriate health intervention to the PTSD patients. This was in recognition that most cases of PTSD were n ot reported or offered due recognition. Consequently, the principal nursing issue is that veterans suffering from PTSD are not offered sufficient treatment. The main reason has been due to lack of a collaborative effort by all health care providers in the dispensing of treatment. To this effect, the specific nursing psychiatric issue lies in the isolation of the symptoms of veterans suffering from PTSD. My choice in selecting the article was spurred by the wish to discover various mental

Sunday, October 27, 2019

Scope of tourism development

Scope of tourism development TOURISM Introduction Tourism is one of the fast growing industry in the world. When considering India, undoubtedly there is an unlimited scope of tourism development in the South Indian state of Kerala which would definitely bring up the economic growth of the country. There is a high degree of widening the service in this industry with the help of technology and infrastructure in connection with the globalisation process. I am going to examine the scope and opportunity of developing the tourism in Kerala, focusing and exploring its natural resources and cultural inheritance and the very traditional nature of simplicity and service. In order to promote the tourism industry there must be a quality service everywhere from the point of travellers arrival to their departure. Every tourist should feel homely and comfortably and would feel that they got some exotic and exited experience in their life to keep for their rest of the life. The people, culture, custom and etiquette, all need to be watched and monitored by the authority so that every tourist will get the maximum comfort and enjoy their time in Kerala. There should be different and skilled human resource to cater the variety of their need in time with good quality. To unravel scope of the tourism and enjoy the benefit, there must be suitable approach and attitude form the government to address the issues involved in the tourism industry. Kerala is bestowed with its beauty of nature and heritage. If it is maintained and measures are taken to present Kerala in a grand appearance, then it would bring an unbelievable future. To help and promote the tourism and other related activities, the national policies on tourism had been introduced in 2002. The travel and tourism sector faces a lot of challenges. The terrorists give a big threat to the industry globally. After September 11, 2001 terrorist attack on the World Trade Centre, Indo-Pak Boarder tension, 26/11 Mumbai terrorist attack and threat to the different region in India, there is a considerable negative growth of the influx of tourists in India. There is quality tourism with Kochi centred resort as the most popular. Kerala is rich in culture with full of colourful and unique art. It is said to be Gods own Country and it is the one of the finest tourist spot in the world. Kerala has won the popularity as a tourist spot and became one of the important tourist destinations in the world. Kerala is outstanding for its beaches, backwaters, warm weather, hill stations, waterfalls, wild life and Ayurveda (an indigenous branch of health care and herbal treatment). Variety of year round festivals and the diversity of flora and fauna make Kerala a unique destination. The tourism in Kerala contributes a major role in the growth of the economy that empowers and generates the job opportunity and development of infrastructure. There is an incredible chance to develop and integrate tourism circuits based on Indias civilization, heritage and culture in association with private sector and other agencies. The tourism industry in Kerala is focusing in delivering a high quality service to its guests. Kerala Tourism Development Corporation(KTDC), District Tourism Promotion Council, Bekal tourism Development Corporation(BTDC), Local Government and Private sector are the major active organisers of the Tourism in Kerala. Kerala has got cosy and comfortable guest houses and tourist homes which are run by the government and the private parities. The accommodation for tourists are provided in hotels, resorts etc according to their interests. Star hotels are available at most of the towns in Kerala and the service offered is excellent and they are worth for its value. Kerala is always keeping its heritage and culture which is famous for its hospitality. There are well trained and skilled tourist guide who are trusted and presenting a valuable job for the tourists. Kerala Tourism Development Corporation is keen at dealing with the promotion of tourism with its innovative strategies of management. Participation in Trade fairs As Kerala, a marvellous Tourist Destination which can offer a lot to the travellers to their mind and body, a world class tourism destination , the Department of Tourism want to promote the industry in a large scale focusing on the service quality and the infrastructure related to its function in every aspects. The Department of Tourism participated in national and international trade meets along with private sector and organised road shows and events. Kerala Brand Kerala has been branded as one of the most famous destination in the travel and tourism industry. There is a wide scope of marketing and all possible strategies are being taken to promote the tourism in kerala. A great deal of this is due to proactive marketing. The experts are keen at developing its physical, ecological, cultural and social structure as a whole. The Tourism Development Corporation is engaging in constant reviewing and taking ample decision and taking appropriate policies and procedures for its overall developments. Infrastructure The infrastructure is one of the unavoidable elements which influence or affect the tourism industry .The infrastructure promote the tourists attraction a lot. Majority of the tourists are seeking for a hassle free travel and mind free leisure time with all the facilities they wish to have. If travellers are facing difficulties in their travel and accommodation, there should be all the things need to be in hand. The availability of quality infrastructure is very critical in the tourism system. The Tourism industry in Kerala promotes a lot of activities which are interesting to the tourists. All activities are in relationship with the building up of world class tourism infrastructure facilities like tourism accommodation, transportation facilities, proper water system and lighting system etc. Apart from these, there must be a systematic network to make a move on the tourist in a comfort based manner. There should be appropriate information at all the information point where people can access information about everything under the sun in Kerala. It is essential to have the tourists to guide to their destinations and needs. ROAD SHOWS IN NEW MARKETS Tourism Events The Tourism Development in Kerala is keenly interested in promoting the tourism by finding new ways to promote it and it is adapting new strategies and policies. There are so many series of events that are being carried out to attract more tourists through Meetings, Incentives, Conventions and Events like MICE destination etc. There is a great deal of importance in locating the destination Kerala for its specific features of beautiful Beaches, Backwaters, unique and indigenous Ayurveda , Wildlife , Hill stations and cuisines. There are a variety of rare highly productive products like village tourism, Heritage tourism, Eco tourism and medical tourism. New Products Development Kerala has got a lot of high profile products which are uncommon and most of the tourists seek and would like to experience its rarity. Kerala has got to offer Medical tourism and a lot in the Health care sector to attract tourists. It is a fantastic destination for the people who are interested in bird watch for Avian Tourists. In addition to the backwater exploring events, Kerala has got to offer a lot in Avian tourism to attract the birdwatchers from across the globe. There are large varieties of treat for the visitors waiting in Kerala. The plantation based tourism is highly promoted. Kerala is famous for its ancient buildings and tree houses which are generally a typical house which is built on the top of the tree named Erumadam. Kalamandalam an organisation which is rich in its own traditional and very original kadhakali which is a typical dance which is performed only in the State of Kerala which attracts tourists with its own colourful rich classic dance mainly based on expressions. Eco Tourism Kerala is showing keen interests in the tourism process and activities which is more or less given priority to its environment. It is aiming at conducting the tourism activity in relation with the ecological condition of the region and it has been introduced much advanced strategies for developing the concept of Eco-Tourism in the recent times. The basic norm is to deal with green, conservation, preservation and concern with its sustainability. As the word Eco stands for the ecology it has a strong link and relation between living organism and their environments, thus linking tourism with the environment and it is directly linked with the tourism development and environment. Increasingly, ecotourism is being defined as a nature oriented travel that promotes conservation and resource protection and also adds to the local economy. Thenmala and Wayand are good examples for the major projects undertaken under eco tourism. The Thenmala project is the one of the very pioneering planned eco tourism which is managed by the country. The Department of Forest help the tourism department to give the infrastructure facilities to promote these activities in connection with the eco tourism Forest Department, the infrastructure facilities have been created at Palaruvi. The management of tourists to the falls is done through the Vana Samrakshana Samithy,(Organisation for conservation of Forest). The eco tourism is the different approach and recent introduction in the tourism industry in Kerala .The project is promoting tourism at the Periyar Tiger Reserve at Thekkady in Kerala. The Ministry of Environment is concentrating and proposing a lot of project to develop the eco tourism at Periyar. India Eco development programme Tiger Trail project was launched at Wildlife Sanctuary. The project focused on conservation of fauna and flora of the area where the local inhabitancies were given dominant role to monitor the activities which could lead to protect its wild life and the flora. The deep knowledge of the locals were used to make use to protect the eco system. Besides the Tiger Trail, other ecotourism products of the Periyar Tiger Reserve are; Bamboo Rafting, Day Trekking Programme, Tribal Heritage, and Bamboo Grove, Jungle Inn and Wild adventures. Eco tourism is a modern concept in the tourism industry where the explorers take a journey to the nature and enjoy it basically without disturbing the nature through any activities. There is a wide scope on this sector where the industry can invest comparatively less in order to explore the system far and wide. The local people of the immediate environment are involved directly and benefited from these activities and can contribute to this. Their knowledge can be utilised for the educational purpose too. Training and Developments Kerala Tourism Development Corporation has started a lot of different training programmes which are aimed at increasing the quality of service in connection with the tourism activities. As communication is a strong key to open the minds and the truth, and English being as an international language, special training were given to the people who are operating and dealing with the international clients .The people who are working in hotel and tourism sector were taught Spoken English and training the basic etiquette of wishing and making the guests happy and comfortable. The increasing potential and the scope inspire the private investment in a large scale in the tourism sector in order to generate more income. The GDP country has been increased by 10.69% including multiplier effect. Employment Generation As the Hotel and tourism industry need to deal with direct contact with Human being, there is a great deal of Human Resources are needed for the efficient and productive service in this industry. So is a great opportunity for the people to get employments in Kerala. There is 11.07% of increase in the total employment in the travel and tourism sector. The different sources are concentrating to help provide expertise to deal with the most demanding jobs. Back Water Tourism in Kerala The backwaters of Kerala are the most serene and salubrious tourist attraction. It attributes in a great deal to the Gods Own Country and have given it the sobriquet Gods Own Country. It is said to be the fifty must see places in the world (National Geographic Travel). The house boats (Kettuvalloms), lakes and backwater and its associated festivals and events make Kerala as an outstanding tourist spot on the globe. The tourism in Kerala generates employment and income in various ways. The enchanting beauty and exciting events in Kerala at the region where backwaters would be a marvellous treat for anyone who enjoys the nature and the art of travelling .The cruising in house boat with all the class facilities with indigenous cuisine will leave a legacy in the tourists mind. It is quite rejuvenating and relaxing for their body and mind. The backwaters in Alappuzha District is the most beautiful location the tourist plunge in to explore the nature by cruising in house boats. There are lot of lakes which treats the tourists with most courteous charms. The Nehru Trophy Boat race is one of the important events which attract the tourists. There is every thing the traveller seeking to gather, the beauty, and hassles free life ,calmness ,serenity , traditional oil massage , Ayurvedic treatments etc. Kerala Backwaters Destinations The travellers would be thrilled with the Keralas most precious treasure, the backwaters. The backwaters are located mainly in the region of the districts Allappuzha, Kotttayam, Trivandurm, Kollam and Kozhikode. The beautiful canals and rivers embellished with the palm trees and the typical life style of the villagers would be a definite treat for every tourists. The Chinese fishing net is a spectacular thing which is still used by the fisherman. There is popular boat cruise operating between Alappuzha and Kollam .The tourist would be thrilled by the captivating beauty of the serene, warm and bright rejuvenating freshness. The very nature of Kuttanadu is an icon of simplicity of life and will be an amazing experience to the tourists. The vast area of paddy field would be definitely a feast for their eyes. The backwaters have a network of forty four rivers, lagoons and lakes in Kerala . There are 29major lakes on the backwaters and is stretched over a total expanse of 1500 kms. Being the most prominent backwater resource in Alleppy, there are more facilities and infrastructure developed by the Government as well as the private sector .To explore the immediate ambience of the very village of Kuttanadu which has ramification of beautiful rivers and canals every nook and cranny of its land. The greenery, culture, cuisine and the custom would be rare and leave the tourist with a indelible memory of the Gods own Country. According to the WTTC, tourism accounted for 13.6 per cent of global GDP, 14.0 per cent of the total world exports and 11.4 per cent of global employment in the year 2008. In 2009, the travel and tourism generates 248 million direct and indirect jobs worldwide, accounting for 10.8 percent of global employment, and contribute up to 12.4 per cent of global GDP .In 2007 there were 76.1 million job generated in travel and tourism industries and this is 2.7% of total employment .It is believed that it would increase by 2.8% and there will 86.6million jobs would be created by 2017 in the travel and tourism sector. It is estimated world travellers will spend over US$ 7,864.3 billion as per estimates of WTTC for year 2007.According to the same estimate; the global travel and tourism activity is expected to increase by 4.7 per cent between 2009 and 2016. Indian Tourism Industry The tourism industry is growing at an incredible speed .In the next 5 to 10 years it is expected to generate an income $89.9billion (World Travel and Tourism Council). The reason for the splendid growth is due to the increase in travellers confidence and expecting GDP over 8% for the upcoming years. The report has also cited that the growth in number of arrival of tourists in India has ensured a bright year ahead for the tourism industry. The steady inflow of foreign tourists witnessed in the last two decades is due to a number of factors. The vivid Indian culture is imperative in attracting foreign tourists from around the globe to India. The splendid beauty of the virgin countryside and the matchless monuments lures the leisure tourists to the holy land. Moreover the promotion campaigns like Incredible India has made India Global and helped in boosting the tourism industry of the country. There has been a remarkable growth in the recent years in foreign tourist arrivals to India due to the various efforts made by the Ministry, Indias campaign in overseas markets. Incredible India is a multi-pronged promotional campaign launched by the Ministry in order to position the country as a preferred tourist destination for the travellers the world over. As a result of all such efforts, Indias share in international tourist arrivals, which was 0.49 per cent in 2005, has increased to 0.65 per cent during 2009. The foreign tourist arrivals has increased by about 65 per cent from a level of 3.92 million in 2005 to 5.40 million in 2008. In the year 2009, it has risen to 5.90million, registering an impressive increase of around 13 per cent. Similarly, the foreign exchange earnings from tourism have also shown a phenomenal growth from US$ 6569.34 million in 2006 to US$ 7407.82 million in 2007, achieving an increase of 14.6 per cent. PESTEL analysis of the macro-environment There are many factors in the macro-environment that will affect and influence the operation and functioning of tourism industry. The government should address the issues involving legality of the operation system and strategies: Political factors. These refer to government policy such as the degree of intervention in the economy. The policies and procedures of the tourism industry monitored by the government .There will be always debatable issues between the political parties .So is one of the deciding factors whether there is a strong political party leading government to take strong decision in favour of the development of the tourism industry. Economic factors. These include interest rates, taxation changes, economic growth, inflation and exchange rates. The economic status of the country would affect the tourist. Social factors. Changes in social trends can be a major issue in the tourism industry .The social environment should be appealing and amicable where the tourist wants to get satisfied with their need as presumably the happiness is the ultimate demand. Technological factors: The new technologies like information technology have an important role in the promotion of the tourism industry. Online information online booking of the hotel and the boats or any other event which could possibly attract the tourist. Environmental factors: Environmental factors include the weather and climate change. Changes in temperature can impact tourism. With major climate changes occurring due to global warming and with greater environmental awareness this external factor is becoming a significant issue for firms to consider. Legal factors: Certain pertaining stringent rules may obstruct the influx of tourist. The common legal aspect of the country might be an inhibition for the tourist to coup with. So it is important for the decision makers to make laws in favour of promoting the tourism industry. CONCLUSION The evaluation of tourism industry unravels the truth that there is a great and incredible potential to explore in tourism industry in business oriented way. The tourism industry would definitely bring up with a considerable income and generate a large amount of employment in the country. The unique product of kuttanadu and its backwaters promising the tourist to satisfy their need with its authentic presentation of houseboat kettuvallam. The industry is influenced by different elements in the macro environment. The sustainable development is definitely controlled of affected by these factors. There is lot of demerit which should be addressed in view of the hosts perspectives. The PESTEL factors influence the industry, there are recent issues emerged to the people of the kuttanadu with the waste products dumped by the tourists which would damage the environment and it could bring a server pollution to the environment. The use of plastic utensils and other equipment will affect the environment. The plastic products wastage will not disintegrate in the soil, it will destroy the environment. To monitor these factors the model of Eco-tourism should be promoted more emphatically. The tourists are encouraged to have the Kerala cuisine on the banana leaves as the natives do and the Kerala Tourism Development Corporation is promoting this effort. The tourism industry has got tremendous potential to explore. The private sector and the government sector are equally interested in investing in the growing industry. The extra ordinary and unique features of the event and nature of the place has got an incredible opportunity to promise to the people of Kerala and the travellers seeking for the peace of mind and body. The culture, heritage, typical arts and geographical features contribute a lot to the tourism industry. More than ever important element is the human resource and the very famous-the epoch making hospitality of the State is making the tourist so happy and excited and once they visit, they would come back with thousands. All the virtues lies with the Gods own Country. REFERENCE R Harris,T Griffins, P Williams., 2002 Sustainable tourism a global perspective 2nd edition, Elsevier Science Ltd. C Cooper, J Feltcher, A Fyall, D Gilbert, S Wanhill., 2008 Tourism principles and practices 4th edition, Prentice hall. http://wayanad.nic.in/index.htm http://www.tandf.co.uk/journals/rsus http://www.kabani.org/index.php?option=com_contentview=articleid=58Itemid=69 http://www.visitscotland.org/about_us/our_focus/sustainable_tourism.aspx http://www.wessex.ac.uk/10-conferences/sustainable-tourism-2010.html www.keralatourism.org. www.wttc.org www.tourismofindia.com http://www.bharatonline.com/kerala-backwater- tours/index.html

Friday, October 25, 2019

To Kill a Mocking Bird Critique :: essays research papers fc

To Kill a Mockingbird is a novel that has received great acclaim, largely due to setting, themes, and accuracy. The setting, themes, and accuracy of the novel seem to fall into place in a great order, which makes this novel receive great acclaim. To Kill a Mockingbird is set in a small town in â€Å"fictional† Maycomb County, Alabama 1933-35. â€Å"It was more of collection of short stories than a true novel†¦yet, there was also life† (Commire, 18). The Characters of To Kill a Mockingbird we also created from people in Lee’s life. For example, she used here father, Frances â€Å"Finch† Lee, as a model for Atticus Finch. â€Å"To Kill a Mockingbird, Is a novel of strong contemporary national significance†¦Miss Lee considers the novel a love story† (Commire, 155). The novel could be considered a love story because it shows the love of a father toward his two children. Apparently, Lee chose the mockingbird to represent the â€Å"purity of heart, and selflessness of characters like Atticus Finch, Tom Robinson, and Boo Radley (Moss and Wilson, 395). To Kill a Mockingbird underscores many themes and represents a universal story from a regional perspective (Stabler). The overall argument involves the obvious plea for justice while mocking the civilization of Southern society. To Kill a Mockingbird is considered a â€Å"classic†, it was a bestseller, and it is required reading for many High School’s in the U.S. (Stabler). Even today in bookstores, like Barnes & Noble, it is easy to find a copy of the book on the shelves. It is even showcased on the bags of Barnes & Noble. It is felt that To Kill a Mockingbird gives â€Å"an accurate reflection† of life in the south during the 1930s (Stabler). There was much racism in the south during the 1930s. Edgar Shuster states, â€Å" In the course of their growing up, the children do a great deal of learning, but little of that learning takes place in school,† (Bernard). It goes to show, that not all life lessons can be learned in school. Shuster also states, â€Å"The achievement of Harper Lee is not that she has written another novel about race prejudice, but rather that she has placed race prejudice in a perspective which allows ups to see it as an aspect of a larger thing (Bernard). Like something that comes from fear and lack of knowledge. Keith Waterhouse believes that â€Å"Miss Lee does well what so many American writers do appallingly: she paints a true and lively picture of life in and an American small town, and she gives freshness to a stock solution† (Kinsman, 481).

Thursday, October 24, 2019

Personal Philosophy Essay

Educational philosophy is sometimes referred to as the immediate objectives of education. Immediate objectives on the other hand are purposes which a subject at a given time must aim to achieve through the courses of study or the curriculum. Its aims constitute a very important aspect of the total education. They are more specific and they can be accomplished in a shorter period of time, maybe a day or a week. These, too, are considered goals of specialization. This study aims to develop an educational philosophy and relate its important to one’s classroom teaching. Role of the teacher. The life of the teacher everywhere is full of responsibility. The teacher should recognize that the welfare and interest of the child is the principal objective of his profession. The school is for the children and the teacher’s first thought should be for them. At least during the time the pupils are in the school the teacher stands for the parents. The teacher should guard the health, moral, and well-being of the pupils with intelligent care. He should also be alert to discover physical defects of his pupils, and prompt to inform and interest the parents so that relief may be offered. Curriculum. Through the years, schools have taken on many new subjects without dropping old subjects. Schools must relinquish subjects that can be learned readily outside the school system and should be child-friendly and child-centered school. It should provide a variety of programs to meet the special interests and talents of the students. The Child. The child is the center of the matter. The teacher must know the nature of the child to be motivated, directed, guided, and evaluated. To understand the child, the teacher must know him as a biological organism with needs, abilities, and goals. He must know the social and psychological environment of the child and the cultural forces of which the child is a part. The behavior of the child at any given moment is the result of biological environment factors operating simultaneously. The child behaves as he does because he is a human being with needs and motives, and because he is surrounded by environmental and cultural forces which determine his behavior, these needs and motives shall be met. Methods of Education. The literature on the subject of teaching generally makes no distinction between method of teaching and technique of teaching. Writing on educational theory and practice has presented different classroom procedures as methods of teaching/education or techniques of teaching. These two terms have different meanings and values, but both are integrated in any teaching and learning situation. The method of education covers the psychological processes involved in learning, and the technique of teaching covers the use of devices and the application of principles in teaching in order to effect the proper development of the individual student. In addition, method relates to the learning performance rather than to the teaching performances, and method of education involves steps to guide the mental processes (Demiashkevich 43-48). Aims of Education. The philosophical aims of education require all public and private schools in this country to pursue, in the development of every child, regardless of color, creed, or social status. All educational institutions shall aim to inculcate love of country, teach the duties of citizenship, and develop moral character, personal discipline, and scientific, technological, and vocational efficiency. The study of the Constitution shall be part of the curricula in all schools (Peterson, pp. 64-69). The State shall provide citizenship and vocational training to adult citizens and out-of-school youth, and create and maintain scholarship for poor and deserving students. Moreover, philosophy of education is one of the major ground bases of education as field of profession; hence, focused study of such condition is essential. The case study involves the subjects of philosophical perspective of education linked with the condition of determining the future trends of the system. Utilizing five aspects of contributing factors, such as standards of teaching, bilingual education, cultural diversities, special education and the public policies, we shall determine the possible implications of such factors in professional philosophy of education. As a conclusion, as for the philosophy of education, and the continuity of learning and the aspects of continuous teaching without regards to any exceptions as incurred by the society, divine law, and human rights. Every minority with no considerations to race, gender, and possibly realistic health conditions should be deprived with education. The philosophy of education involves the general principle of conducting education as a means of providing universal treatment for the development implicated in a universal perspective. Furthermore, the philosophy of education, on the perspective of professionalism, involves that the educator must also be under the said umbrella of development and continuous learning despite of the governed tasks of teaching. Reference: Demiashkevich, Michael (2003). An Introduction to the Philosophy of Education. Pp. 43- 48American Book. New York. Peterson, Michael L. (2000). Philosophy of Education: Issues and Options. Pp. 64-69, InterVarsity Press. Downers Grove, IL.

Wednesday, October 23, 2019

Appearance of Pre-Hispanic Filipinos

Clothing The natives of the Philippine islands already wore different types of clothing and ornaments before the arrival of Spanish colonizers. The men usually wore short-sleeved, collarless jackets that reached just below the waste. The jackets were also symbols of their status in the community. The chief usually wore red, for example. The bahag was worn for the lower part. It is a strip of cloth wrapped around the waist which passes between the things, leaving the thighs and legs exposed. A head gear or a putong is a piece of cloth wrapped around the head.This is also important like the color of the jacket. A red putong meant that the wearer has already gone to war and killed an enemy. An embroidered putong meant that the wearer has killed at least seven enemies. Adornments such as necklaces, armlets or kalombiga, anklets, earrings and rings were also worn. These were usually made of gold and other precious stones. Women also wore sleeved jackets called baro and skirts called saya or patadyong. Women fancied wearing ornaments as well such as gem-studded bracelets, necklaces, earrings, and rings.Tattoos Tattoos played an important part in the appearance of pre-Hispanic Filipinos both for the men and women. Tattoos were considered to be the equivalent of medals, one had to work for and earn it. The more tattoos a person had, the more impressive was his or her war record. The Visayas was known to be the Islas del Pintados or Islands of the Painted People because it was the there that the early Spanish colonizers observed very tattooed people and Spanish writers referred to them as the pintados, meaning â€Å"painted†.

Tuesday, October 22, 2019

Role of Medical Staff

Role of Medical Staff Free Online Research Papers The first important role for a medical staff is the administering medical service to patients. The selection of administering medical service to the patient is most important, because it could mean the difference in life or death. Patients go to the medical facilities because they are in need of medical attention. When administering medical help to a patient, the service should be with compassion and dignity. Medical service includes diagnosing, treatment, and delivering exceptional customer service. To maintain a profitable business, all medical staff must understand that the patient comes first. The other very important role for the medical staff is administering medication. Staff members have to make sure that when patients are given medication, they are paying very close attention to what is being done because it has to be ensured that patients are given the right medication. If the wrong medication is given to a patient, it can cause many problems, even deaths in some cases. Hospital administrators play a vital a role in saving lives, without having to perform surgery, physicals, or rehabilitation. For example, hospital administrators manage hospitals, hospices, outpatient clinics, and drug-abuse treatment centers. In large hospitals, there may be several administrators, one for each department. In smaller facilities, they oversee the day-to-day operations of all departments. Administrators make sure hospitals operate efficiently and provide adequate medical care to patients. Their responsibilities are numerous and sometimes require the assistance of the medical and support staff. They act as communicators between governing boards, medical staff, and department heads and put together the activities of all departments so they function as a whole. Following policies set by a governing board of trustees, administrators plan, organize, direct, control and coordinate medical and health services. Administrators recruit, hire, and sometimes train doctors, nurses, interns, and assistant administrators. Administrators plan budgets and set rates for health services. A hospital administrator’s job is difficult and demanding. They need to keep up with advances in medicine, computerized diagnostic and treatment equipment, data processing technology, government regulations, health insurance changes, and financing options. I selected these roles to be important because they explain the details of roles of medical staff and hospital administrators. Research Papers on Role of Medical StaffThe Fifth HorsemanArguments for Physician-Assisted Suicide (PAS)Lifes What IfsInfluences of Socio-Economic Status of Married MalesGenetic EngineeringOpen Architechture a white paperTwilight of the UAWNever Been Kicked Out of a Place This NiceThe Project Managment Office SystemThe Effects of Illegal Immigration

Monday, October 21, 2019

531 Week Two Team Reflection Essays

LDR/531 Week Two Team Reflection Essays LDR/531 Week Two Team Reflection Essay LDR/531 Week Two Team Reflection Essay Team CSherron Hester-Bello, Mark Diaz, Jason Morrow,Hadrain Sumpter, David Wademan Week 2 Reflection This week proved to provide a strong foundation for the understanding and the fundamental development of leadership as it pertains to each of us individually. The objectives were clearly outlined and we were all able to effectively compare and contrast leadership theories as well as evaluate the characteristics of established leadership styles. This week was very informative, and an emphasis on the basic structure of leadership was established. We were all able to use real life examples to retain a strong grasp on the key concepts. Insert body and individual assessments as necessary here:This week it was very intriguing to learn about the different leadership theories and characteristics of different leadership styles. One of the styles of leadership that stood out was the charismatic leadership style. Charisma is more likely to be attributed to a leader who acts in an unconventional way to achieve a vision (Yukl, 2013). People view leaders as charismatic that achieve goals that seem unreachable. They have trust in these leaders because of the self confidence they attain, and the strong belief in the visions #they may have. Leaders are more likely to be viewed as charismatic if they make self-sacrifices for the benefit of followers, and they take personal risks to incur high costs to achieve the vision they espose (Yukl, 2013). It was very interesting to read how people view leaders, and the characteristics these leaders have to gain followers and make people believe in their visions and commit to them the way they do. We also have learned on what it takes to be a leader and have leadership qualities. Is a person born as a leader or can then become a leader with training and mentoring. Many question and theories was introduced this week. Most possess the same traits of becoming a leader. One definitions of a trait of having

Sunday, October 20, 2019

Why Hercules Had to Perform the 12 Labors

Why Hercules Had to Perform the 12 Labors For most of his life, Hercules (Greek: Herakles/Heracles) was in thrall to his cousin-once-removed, Eurystheus, the King of Tiryns, but it was not until Hercules committed unspeakable acts that Eurystheus got to have some fun at his cousins expense- with the help of Hera. Hera, who had been angry with Hercules since even before he was born and had repeatedly tried to destroy him, now drove the hero mad and delusional. In this state, Hercules imagined he saw Lycus, the tyrant of Thebes who killed Creon and plans to kill Hercules family, accompanied by his family. Here is a section on the slaughter, from a 1917 English translation of Senecas tragedy (Translated by Miller, Frank Justus. Loeb Classical Library Volumes. Cambridge, MA, Harvard University Press; London, William Heinemann Ltd. 1917): [He catches sight of his children.][987] But look! here lurk the children of the king, my enemy, the abominable spawn of Lycus; to your detested father this hand forthwith shall send you. Let my bowstring discharge swift arrows- so it is meet that the shafts of Hercules should fly.... THE VOICE OF MEGARA[1014] Husband, spare me now, I beg. See, I am Megara. This is thy son, with thine own looks and bearing. See, how he stretches out his hands. THE VOICE OF HERCULES:[1017] I have caught my stepdame [Juno/Hera]. Come, pay me thy debt, and free o’ermastered Jove from a degrading yoke. But before the mother let this little monster perish.Seneca Hercules Furens In reality, the figures the Greek hero saw were his own children and his well-loved wife, Megara. Hercules slew them all (or most of them) and incinerated 2 of the children of his brother Iphicles, as well. In some accounts, Megara survived. In these, when he came to his senses, Hercules transferred his wife, Megara to Iolaus. [To learn more about Hercules murderous rage, you should read the Hercules Furens tragedies of Seneca and Euripides.] Here is an extended passage from the same translation of Hercules Furens, on the motivation of Juno: [19] But I lament ancient wrongs; one land, the baneful and savage land of Thebes, scattered thick with shameless mistresses, how oft has it made me stepdame! Yet, though Alcmena be exalted and in triumph hold my place; though her son, likewise, obtain his promised star (for whose begetting the world lost a day, and Phoebus with tardy light shone forth from the Eastern sea, bidden to keep his bright car sunk beneath Oceans waves), not in such fashion shall my hatred have its end; my angry soul shall keep up a long-living wrath, and my raging smart, banishing peace, shall wage unending wars.[30] What wars? Whatever fearsome creature the hostile earth produces, whatever the sea or the air has borne, terrific, dreadful, noxious, savage, wild, has been broken and subdued. He rises anew and has thrives on trouble; he enjoys my wrath; to his own credit he turns my hate; imposing too cruel tasks, I have but proved his sire, but give room for glory. Where the Sun, as he brings back, and whe re, as he dismisses day, colours both Ethiop races with neighbouring torch, his unconquered valour is adored, and in all the world he is storied as a god. Now I have no monsters left, and tis less labour for Hercules to fulfil my orders than for me to order; with joy he welcomes my commands. What cruel biddings of his tyrant could harm this impetuous youth? Why, he bears as weapons what he once fought and overcame; he goes armed by lion and by hydra.[46] Nor is earth vast enough for him; behold, he has broken down the doors of infernal Jove, and brings back to the upper world the spoils7 of a conquered king. I myself saw, yes, saw him, the shadows of nether night dispersed and Dis overthrown, proudly displaying to his father a brothers spoils. Why does he not drag forth, bound and loaded down with fetters, Pluto himself, who drew a lot equal to Joves? Why does he not lord it over conquered Erebus and lay bare the Styx? It is not enough merely to return; the law of the shades has bee n annulled, a way back has been opened from the lowest ghosts, and the mysteries of dread Death lie bared. But he, exultant at having burst the prison of the shades, triumphs over me, and with arrogant hand leads through the cities of Greece that dusky hound. I saw the daylight shrink at sight of Cerberus, and the sun pale with fear; upon me, too, terror came, and as I gazed upon the three necks of the conquered monster I trembled at my own command.[63] But I lament too much oer trivial wrongs. Tis for heaven we must fear, lest he seize the highest realms who has overcome the lowest- he will snatch the sceptre from his father. Nor will he come to the stars by a peaceful journey as Bacchus did; he will seek a path through ruin, and will desire to rule in an empty universe. He swells with pride of tested might, and has learned by bearing them that the heavens can be conquered by his strength; he set his head beneath the sky, nor did the burden of that immeasurable mass bend his should ers, and the firmament rested better on the neck of Hercules. Unshaken, his back upbore the stars and the sky and me down-pressing. He seeks a way to the gods above.[75] Then on, my wrath, on, and crush this plotter of big things; close with him, thyself rend him in pieces with thine own hands. Why to another entrust such hate? Let the wild beasts go their ways, let Eurystheus rest, himself weary with imposing tasks. Set free the Titans who dared to invade the majesty of Jove; unbar Sicilys mountain cave, and let the Dorian land, which trembles whenever the giant struggles, set free the buried frame of that dread monster; let Luna in the sky produce still other monstrous creatures. But he has conquered such as these. Dost then seek Alcides match? None is there save himself; now with himself let him war. Rouse the Eumenides from the lowest abyss of Tartarus; let them be here, let their flaming locks drop fire, and let their savage hands brandish snaky whips.[89] Go now, proud one, se ek the abodes of the immortals and despise mans estate. Dost think that now thou hast escaped the Styx and the cruel ghosts? Here will I show thee infernal shapes. One in deep darkness buried, far down below the place of banishment of guilty souls, will I call up- the goddess Discord, whom a huge cavern, barred by a mountain, guards; I will bring her forth, and drag out from the deepest realm of Dis whatever thou hast left; hateful Crime shall come and reckless Impiety, stained with kindred blood, Error, and Madness, armed ever against itself- this, this be the minister of my smarting wrath![100] Begin, handmaids of Dis, make haste to brandish the burning pine; let Megaera lead on her band bristling with serpents and with baleful hand snatch a huge faggot from the blazing pyre. To work! claim vengeance for outraged Styx. Shatter his heart; let a fiercer flame scorch his spirit than rages in Aetnas furnaces. That Alcides may be driven on, robbed of all sense, by mighty fury smitten, mine must be the frenzy first- Juno, why ravst thou not? Me, ye sisters, me first, bereft of reason, drive to madness, if I am to plan some deed worthy a stepdames doing. Let my request be changed; may he come back and find his sons unharmed, that is my prayer, and strong of hand may he return. I have found the day when Hercules hated valour is to be my joy. Me has he overcome; now may he overcome himself and long to die, though late returned from the world of death. Herein may it profit me that he is the son of Jove, I will stand by him and, that his shafts may fly from string unerring, Ill poise them with my hand, guide the madmans weapons, and so at last be on the side of Hercules in the fray. When he has done this crime, then let his father admit those hands to heaven![123] Now must my war be set in motion; the sky is brightening and the shining sun steals up in saffron dawn. Hercules Seeks Purification for His Crimes Madness was not an excuse for the carnage- not even madness sent by the gods- so Hercules had to make amends. First, he went to King Thespius on Mt. Helicon [see a map of northern Greece, Dd, in Boeotia] for purification, but that wasnt enough. Hercules' Expiation and Marching Orders To learn what further course he must take, Hercules consulted the oracle at Delphi where the Pythian priestess told him to expiate his crime by serving King Eurystheus for 12 years. During this 12-year period, Hercules had to perform the 10 labors the king would require of him. The Pythian also changed Hercules name from Alcides (after his grandfather Alcaeus) to what we normally call him, Heracles (in Greek) or Hercules (the Latin form and the one most commonly used today regardless of whether the reference is to a Greek or Roman myth). The Pythian also told Hercules to move to Tiryns. Willing to do anything to atone for his murderous rage, Hercules obliged. The Twelve Labors- Introduction Eurystheus set before Hercules a series of impossible tasks. If completed, some of them would have served a useful purpose because they removed the world of dangerous, predatory monsters- or excrement, but others were capricious whims of a king with an inferiority complex: Comparing himself with the hero was bound to make Eurystheus feel inadequate. Since Hercules was doing these tasks to atone for his crimes, Eurystheus insisted there be no ulterior motive. Because of this restriction, when King Augeas of Elis [see Peloponnese map Bb] promised Hercules a fee for cleaning his stables (Labor 5), Eurystheus denied the feat: Hercules had to do another to fill his quota. That King Augeas reneged and did not pay Hercules made no difference to Eurystheus. Other tasks the king of Tiryns set his nephew were make-work. For instance, once Hercules retrieved the apples of the Hesperides (Labor 11), but Eurystheus had no use for the apples, so he had Hercules send them back again. Eurystheus Hides From Hercules One more important point needs to be made in connection with these tasks. Eurystheus did not just feel inferior to Hercules; he was also afraid. Anyone who could survive the suicide missions on which King Eurystheus had sent the hero must be very powerful indeed. It is said Eurystheus hid in a jar and insisted- contrary to the instructions of the Pythian priestess- that Hercules stay outside the Tiryns city limits.

Saturday, October 19, 2019

Bioterrorism Emergency Preparedness for Hospitals Research Paper

Bioterrorism Emergency Preparedness for Hospitals - Research Paper Example The choice of this mode of terrorism can be advocated the fact that the agents are not easily detected and in most cases, the symptoms are not seen until after several hours or days. Given the nature of bioterrorism and its effect to the public, there is a need for hospitals to come up with a measure that would make sure that they are ready for them at any time. In the United States of America, the agents that are perceived to pose potential to the health and safety of the general population are referred to as select agents. For the hospitals to promptly respond to bioterrorism whenever there take place there need to be proper planning on the things that should be done to either avoid the occurrence or respond to the occurrences. Most biological defense strategies were meant to protect people in the army and not the general population. However, it has been observed in the recent past that there is a need for there to be measures taken by hospitals to make sure that they are always pr epared for disasters that might arise from bioterrorism that might affect the general population in large masses. They need to be prepared for the occurrence of bioterrorism is enhanced by the ease of obtaining a bioterrorism agent. At the moment there is a need for there to be a detection system that will enable the healthcare sector to be able to detect such occurrences before they are spread to large masses. However, since the development of such a system cannot be said to have been successful, it is important for hospitals and the healthcare sector, in general, to make sure that they have in place some preparation for the occurrence of such calamities. One thing that hospitals should make sure that they do is training their personnel on how to handle the affected masses during the bioterrorism attacks.  

Friday, October 18, 2019

Countrywide Financial Corporation Case Study Example | Topics and Well Written Essays - 1500 words

Countrywide Financial Corporation - Case Study Example Riding on the avowed need to own homes occurring between 1996 and 2006, the mortgage sector of CFC grew tremendously, recording millions of mortgage originations in the years. The shift from prime to subprime mortgages seemed to propel the corporation to greater success. This stemmed from, seemingly, the favorable terms that came with the package. The credit score of the borrower, the down payment and the debt-income ratio were all low, thereby spurring the lower middle and the low-income populations to take advantage of the offer to own homes. These factors significantly contributed to the growth of CFC. The developers of real estate also took full advantage by setting up houses and then selling them later to repay the mortgage, at the equivalent time making a handsome profit (Eastburn, 2011). However, due to the soaring risk involved in lending monies to unsecure and irregular workers in the lower class, cases of mortgage defaulting arose. This was, further, un-helped by the decisi on of the corporation to offer unsecured loans. The bursting of the housing bubble in 2006 further added to the woes as the prices of houses plummeted and cascaded down, the investment capital and interests following closely behind. The inability to repay mortgages was apparent since further loss of jobs and economic strains set on those who had taken the loans (Eastburn, 2011). Whereas it was profits all through for the corporation as far back as time of establishment, the dawning of reality of registering losses was hard to handle. Attempts to revive the corporation by all measures, including acquiring loans and cutting of staff did not help (Eastburn, 2011). The further collapse of the corporation stemmed from the incentives payable to the partners and the rest of the executives. Issuance of unsecured loans to the financially unstable working class did not help matters due to loss of jobs. Eventually, the Bank of America, ending an era for the CFC, bought it. SWOT ANALYSIS Streng ths of a corporation or business setup predominantly show the abilities to stand up to challenges brought about by competitors and any arising changes in the market. Countrywide Financial Corporation, CFC, provided long-term mortgage loans of more than twenty years having a loan-value ratio of over 60 percent, normally 80-85% (Eastburn, 2011). The loans provided to those aspiring to own homes (the loaned) did not need balloon payments when their terms expired; rather the payments spread over the whole life of the loan. The availability of the mortgage across all sections of the population made CFC show a difference from the other mortgage and home financing institutions. The setting up of offices all across the United States further improved accessibility of the corporation by the populations, promoting interactions and selling of mortgages. Weaknesses of a business setup, on the other hand, exhibit the vulnerability to the market changes, competitors and product competition (Eastbu rn, 2011). The confirmation of discrimination based both on race and income ability tended to taint the CFC image. The discrimination, referred to as ‘redlining’, justified by taking into consideration the extra risk involved in lending to persons with unstable and irregular income. After receiving insurance against such persons, there was no way this discrimination could have surfaced. This presented itself as the case since the expectation for uniform lending in the mortgage industry required that they be so. The protection against market entry by other competitors seemed weak, thereby encouraging the entry of competitors who rubbed the profits the wrong way (Eastburn, 2011).

Porters diamond model was developed to explain the competitive Essay

Porters diamond model was developed to explain the competitive advantage of globally leading industries in different countries. To what extent do you believe that the model is effective in achieving this - Essay Example Intensity of global competition is very high today mainly due to the fast growth of emerging economies like China, India, and Brazil. Alliances of emerging economies like BRICS play a significant role in influencing the competitiveness of national economies. This paper will analyse to what extent the Porter’s diamond model is effective in achieving its stated objectives giving particular focus to concepts of industry clusters, diamond model, and emerging nations. According to traditional economic theories, the major factors affecting the competitive advantage of regions or nations were land, location, natural resources, labour, and the population size. As none of these factors can be influenced by external forces, people had believed that national prosperity was passive or inherited and hence nothing could be done to improve the situation. However, Porter argued that sustained industrial growth is not depended on these basic inherited factors. In order to replace this traditional misconception, Porter introduced a concept called industry cluster, which represents a group of interconnected firms, suppliers, and related industries in a particular location. He stated that competitive advantage of nations is determined by four interlinked economic factors existing in such industry clusters. The theorist also suggested that these economic factors can be significantly influenced by strong technological and knowledge base, government support, skill ed workforce, and culture. According to a report by the Economist Intelligence Unit (2011), â€Å"there are few economic development policies as popular as clusters†. Recognising the importance of clusters, today countries, regions, and even cities strive to develop a network of complementary and competitive firms. The recent global financial crisis substantially increased the significance of clusters. The report also says that locating firms in the same place does not constitute clusters unless there

Thursday, October 17, 2019

Understanding and Coping with Change Essay Example | Topics and Well Written Essays - 1000 words - 1

Understanding and Coping with Change - Essay Example Change can be planned where the activities involved are intentional and goal oriented and it can also be observed that change is mainly influenced by both internal and external factors. However, change in an organization is often met by resistance as a result of various reasons. Individual resistance to change is caused by a variety of factors such as fear of the unknown, security issues, lack of trust among the management as well habit among the employees (Baack, 2012). If carefully managed, resistance to change can be a source of functional conflict in the organization. Through resistance to change, the employees raise meaningful debate where their ideas can be taken into consideration in the decision making process in the organization. Resistance to change only becomes dysfunctional when it becomes counterproductive in the organization. In my career, I have often witnessed people resisting change mainly as a result of low tolerance to change coupled with personal interest. For instance, I used to work in a fashion and clothing shop as a till operator. We used to start work at 8:00 AM and finish at 5PM. After realising that the company was recording a significant increase in the number of sales towards closing time, the management decided to extend the closing time from 5 PM to 6PM. This was not just an ad hoc arrangement since proper measures were taken in order to establish the impact of such proposed change to the operations of the whole organization. Indeed, there were benefits likely to be derived from implementing this kind of change in the operations of the organization. For instance, the change initiative was likely to result in an increase in the number of sales. This meant that the revenue collected through the operations of the organization would be improved. Through intolerance of change, it was realised that some sections of the organization were against this proposed change. Some people argued that this change will negatively impact on

How successful is the EU in providing a regional response to the Essay

How successful is the EU in providing a regional response to the problems arising from globalisation - Essay Example e the United States, Canada and Mexico share NAFTA, the North American Free-Trade Agreement, much of Western, Central, and now Eastern Europe subscribes to the tenants of economic and political integration through what is arguably one of the most potent transnational organizations in the world, the European Union. The EU today has more than two dozen members and is in the process of further expansion. Will Turkey one day join the European nation of families? Will Serbia, the largest state of the former Yugoslavia, regain the favor of Western Europe and one day become a full-fledged member of the European Union? To what extent has the European Union been successful in providing a regional response to the problems arising from globalization? Globalisation has provided increased political pressures for the EU to expand and this arguably is the major challenge that it has faced over the past 20 years (Fierke & Wiener, 1999, 44-46). Seeking to analyse the EU’s pressures to expand i n a globalised world, the following aims to address how the EU has responded in a holistic fashion to expansion in an era globalisation. Created following the tumultuous events of the Second World War, the European Economic Community was an important precursor for the establishment of the European Union. Accordingly, the European Union is an international organization which is estimated to generate 30% of the worlds total Gross Domestic Product (Almond et al, 2002, 100). As an economic powerhouse with significant stature on the global stage, the European Union is presently in the process of increasing its membership and aims for near total European integration in the political, judicial, economic and social spheres (Almond et al, 2002, 101). The evolution of the European Union has occurred in tandem with the globalisation of the world community and the EU has fundamentally changed in composition since its inception. Accordingly, since the fall of the Soviet Union in 1991, the EU has

Wednesday, October 16, 2019

Ethical Issue Essay Example | Topics and Well Written Essays - 1000 words

Ethical Issue - Essay Example astically, or placing heavy import duties on raw materials essential for a company to prosper, the public looks at ways to save themselves and their insecurities, and the way to do that is to elevate corruption, thereby, the government is being held responsible for this atrocity(Eiras, 2003). The author has also used some of her own secondary research in the form of comparative qualitative charts, a couple of which are as follows: Dr. Dragoljub Kavran and Dr. Sherman M. Wyman, spokespersons for the UNO have raised superb questions about the issue at hand. The authors state that corruption is above even the harshest levels in many developing and under developed economies; mostly, the authors blame the poor political and legal systems for these circumstances, the author also blames politicians who use their own laws for personal benefits rather than those of the populace. This issue has reached far out of hand and even some of the most developed economies such as the UAE and the US face diminutive levels of corruption. Within this 20 page whitepaper, the authors have raised the issue of ‘patience’, or in this particular situation: The wait-and-watch experimentation scenario. The authors believe the within such weak economic conditions, corruption may also be seen as a way to overcome several problems faced by the economies within under developed countries, but this is a commonly rejected principle and the fact still persists which looks at corruption as an evil element. (Kavran, et al., N.D.) Even though this article is inclusive of rich content about the public service organization Ethics resource center, this also includes the chief ethical issues about the corruption problem within Dubai. The chief ethical issue is ‘ignorance’, â€Å"If you are a deputy minister you dont it see as a problem to purchase from a dealer that could be your cousin† (Stier, 2007), this context from the authors article explains it all, the politicians must understand their

How successful is the EU in providing a regional response to the Essay

How successful is the EU in providing a regional response to the problems arising from globalisation - Essay Example e the United States, Canada and Mexico share NAFTA, the North American Free-Trade Agreement, much of Western, Central, and now Eastern Europe subscribes to the tenants of economic and political integration through what is arguably one of the most potent transnational organizations in the world, the European Union. The EU today has more than two dozen members and is in the process of further expansion. Will Turkey one day join the European nation of families? Will Serbia, the largest state of the former Yugoslavia, regain the favor of Western Europe and one day become a full-fledged member of the European Union? To what extent has the European Union been successful in providing a regional response to the problems arising from globalization? Globalisation has provided increased political pressures for the EU to expand and this arguably is the major challenge that it has faced over the past 20 years (Fierke & Wiener, 1999, 44-46). Seeking to analyse the EU’s pressures to expand i n a globalised world, the following aims to address how the EU has responded in a holistic fashion to expansion in an era globalisation. Created following the tumultuous events of the Second World War, the European Economic Community was an important precursor for the establishment of the European Union. Accordingly, the European Union is an international organization which is estimated to generate 30% of the worlds total Gross Domestic Product (Almond et al, 2002, 100). As an economic powerhouse with significant stature on the global stage, the European Union is presently in the process of increasing its membership and aims for near total European integration in the political, judicial, economic and social spheres (Almond et al, 2002, 101). The evolution of the European Union has occurred in tandem with the globalisation of the world community and the EU has fundamentally changed in composition since its inception. Accordingly, since the fall of the Soviet Union in 1991, the EU has

Tuesday, October 15, 2019

Lord Of The Flies by William Golding Essay Example for Free

Lord Of The Flies by William Golding Essay Q: Why did things on the island fall apart? When the boys landed on the island after their plane crash, they thought it was great and thought it was going to be fun to be without adults. However as the book went on the situation of the island slowly fell apart. There were very early signs in the book that things could fall apart for example Piggy was made fun of for being overweight and he also wore glasses and had asthma, these weaknesses where in my opinion a sign that things could go bad on the island. Further on in the book, when Ralph and Piggy met Jack and the choir, they had a clash of personalities, they didnt separate straight away but you could sense that they could and the clash of personalities was a big factor in things falling apart on the island. You could sense there was a clash in personalities because Jack Merridew was very arrogant and intimidating. this intimidated Piggy, which was straight away a negative thing on the island. As the book progressed Jack got more aggressive and became more obsessive about hunting, this was the major factor in the deterioration of things on the island. Ralph and the others were thinking far more logically by building shelters and building a fire to attract potential rescuers. Jack hunting aggravated Ralph because Ralph believed this was not helpful and wasnt going to get them off the island. Ralph was more concerned about getting off the island whereas Jack was more concerned about harming pigs and hunting. Basically I thought Ralph was using his common sense and saw rescue as most important. This would later become the main reason for why things on the island went so bad. At the start of the book Ralph gets voted Chief of the Island, and part of the rules were that everyone must listen to the person holding the conch. The conch was a symbol of peace, the exact opposite of what Jack represents, which is evil. Jack always wanted to be centre of attention and always wanted to put his point across. The conch prevented him from doing so, if someone said something he didnt agree with regardless whether he had the conch, this bothered Ralph and especially Piggy. The conch meant a lot to Piggy and he abided strictly by the rules of the conch. Jack however didnt want to and would continually break the rules and shout out when people where trying to speak. This lack of respect for the conch would really get to Piggy and Ralph because Jack would continually rebel against the ideas put forward. But no one would say anything because they feared Jack so much. As the book got on Jack became more obsessive about hunting, and even made up his own song Cut the pig. Cut her throat. Spill her blood This was evidence that Jack was becoming more twisted as an individual, and his passion for hunting started the rows and fights on the island. This aggravated Piggy a great deal, and Piggy confronted Jack by saying You and your blood, Jack Merridew! You and your hunting! We might have gone home Jack eventually retaliated by hitting Piggy. Jack would continually pick on Piggy because he was an easy target. Jack never really liked Ralph on the other hand but they had this mutual respect for each other, which was continually being tested. Jack was building up a kind of respect and following, people feared him, and he gained respect from them, he could do whatever he wanted because no one had the guts to confront him. For example he continued to talk without the conch, which was a rule that seemed not to apply to Jack, this was a sign that things were falling apart because they were forgetting about the rules. The longer they stayed on the island the boys started losing their minds and were becoming less logical. For example Ralph was forgetting his words, and was getting confused with him self. Which wasnt the Ralph we read about in the start of the book, at the start of the book Ralph was confident and was logical e.g. starting the fire etc. However Piggy on the other hand continually thought logically and like an adult, and was becoming aware of the goings on around him. Ralph: Why do you hate me? Ralph realised that Jack hated him and confronted him trying to find out why he hated him; this showed Ralphs courage and strong personality. This is very important because they are two very well respected characters and if one decided to leave then he would take people from the other. Later on in the book Jack tried seizing power in page 139 Hands up, said Jack strongly, whoever wants Ralph not to be chief? There was a silent reaction and no one put their hands up, this humiliated Jack and he left the group. His last few words were interesting, he said Im not going to play any longer. Not with you. This was interesting because he said hes not going to play with them anymore, Golding is reminding us that they are still only kids. Jack separating from the island was the main reason in my opinion why everything fell apart on the island. Jacks hunters where very close to him, and they later left Ralph without telling him, this made a big division in the island and this started the problems, which led to violence and insanity. The separation was like two countries going into battle, which was ironic since the world war was going on at the time of which the book was written. It was like a civil discontent which eventually led to break down of respect for authority and fighting between the two rival powers. There was a great rivalry between the groups and Jacks group invaded Ralphs camp and attacked them, as a warning shot to what could later happen, they also took Piggys glasses as a kind of bait so Ralph and the others would go searching for Jack. This lead to the killing of Piggy, and the death of Piggy left Ralph to fend for his self because Samneric had been taken hostages. The death of Simon and Piggy resulted in Ralph fighting for his life, on his own. Jack and the others decided to set the island on fire and chase after Ralph, this proved they were just savages because they didnt think about the consequences of setting the island alight, this would matter in the end because Ralph escaped the fire along with the littluns and Jack and the others got trapped in the fire. Although the end seemed to cut off short and it took a while to get into the actual story I thought Lord Of The Flies was a great book and well written. I liked the way Golding wove secret messages throughout the book. I can say I thoroughly enjoyed the book.

Monday, October 14, 2019

Theories on early year curriculums

Theories on early year curriculums Only by listening to the questions (verbal and non-verbal) children ask we will be able to develop the perfect curriculum. Griffiths R. (1935).   This report has been set out to demonstrate a range of theories and their philosophy on four different curricular approaches, being; Reggio Emilia, Montessori, Steiner and Forest schools. As every child is unique, there are a number of factors that influence a childs learning. This report will discuss how these approaches have influenced current best practice, meeting every childs needs by having an effect on the curricular guidance in the UK. It will also make recommendations for development in the setting I work in, enabling effective learning and positive interaction, focusing on issues relating to inclusion and anti-discriminatory practice in order to provide them with equal opportunities that will create holistic development. As development occurs rapidly during the early years, every stage of development should control the learning they are offered, meeting each childs needs. Early years settings should focus on promoting care and learning opportunities for young children making it stimulating and rewarding. All the four approaches have taken into account that childrens brains thrive on stimulation and new experiences, and play can extend childrens development and learning. The findings of the EPPE project also suggest; that it is not enough to create a stimulating environment and simply let children play, as children learn best when staff actively teach them. This means modelling appropriate language and behaviour, sharing intelligent conversations, asking open-ended questions and using play to motivate and encourage them. The early years curriculum is based on key theories of how children learn and current early years practice has grown out of the work of early years educators. By incorporating their ideas into forming the curriculum, early years settings encourage learning through first-hand experience. We will look into the four approaches and see how they have been embedded into the Early Years Foundation Stage by setting the standards for learning, development and care for children from birth to five. Loris Malaguzzi (1920-1994) was the educational thinker who guided and inspired the Reggio Emilia approach in the Reggio Romagna region of Northern Italy. The approach requires children to be seen as competent, resourceful, curious, imaginative, inventive, and possess a desire to interact and communicate with others. Dr Loris Malaguzzi helped us understand that children shouldnt be expected to all have the same ways of expressing themselves, so he put forth the idea that there are 100 languages or ways of learning (paint, clay, music, drama, cooking, etc) in which expression and learning can take place. The Reggio Emilia approach to early childhood education has been adopted in USA, UK, New Zealand, Australia and many other countries. The Reggio Emilia method is made possible through a carefully articulated and collaborative approach to the care and education of young children and has also influenced Te Wariki in New Zealand. Reggio is a way of thinking about how young children learn and is based on the philosophies of Dewey and Vygotsky that is a very large idea with many parts, not a curriculum that can be adopted and implemented. Malguzzi used this versatility of research and theory recognising the contributions to Reggios thinking by the great educators; Vygotsky, Piaget and Jerome Bruner and this concept is brought about in the Early Years Foundation Stage-Every Child Matters Framework. As stated by Bruner, (1995) We are researching children researching their world. Some of the key principles of Reggio are: Giving the child more autonomy. The Image of the Child. Education based on interaction and collaboration. The importance of time. The role of the environment. The role of the teacher. The role of parents, as it is all learning together. Some of the key features of Reggio Emilias early childhood programme are:- The environment is referred to as the third teacher. The aesthetic beauty is an important part of respecting the child and their learning environment. Childrens work and collections are displayed; at the childrens and adult eye level. The piazza and the atelier are at the heart of the preschool centre. Documenting and displaying are unique and is viewed as an important tool in the learning process. Learning and teaching are reciprocal processes. The teachers role is complex; as the teacher is seen as a reflective researcher and they stay with their class from the time they start to when they leave. The children are seen as capable and inquisitive adults. Programs in Reggio are family centred. Loriss vision of an education based on relationships supports childrens reciprocal relationships with other children, family, teachers, society, and the environment. Reggio approach is not a formal model with defined methods (such as Waldorf and Montessori), teacher certification standards and authorization. But, the educators in Reggio Emilia speak of their evolving experience and see themselves as a provocation and reference point, a way of engaging in dialogue starting from a strong and rich vision of the child. As cited by Brown,N (2004) According to the documentation produced in Reggio Emilia pre-schools it would appear that girls and boys tend to work in single-sex groups. Girls also prefer smaller groups than do boys, and girls tend to discuss and collaborate from the start rather than, as the boys do, work independently before working collaboratively. This suggests that there are differences between boys and girls which appears to start from the premise itself. There seems to be a view that these differences are rather accepted and nothing can be done about it except document them and accommodate the differences in future projects. This also gives an impression that Reggio educators view these differences as natural. Many who have reflected on gender issues in the Reggio approach have felt awkward about the lack of critical thought about observed gender differences. Practitioners should ponder on this difference and ensure that their provision supports gender equity. In a nutshell, the Reggio approach articulates children to acquire skills of critical thinking and collaboration. It is a prism, a crystal, for seeing all the things we have looked at: relationships with families, curriculum, time management, evaluation, etc. and it isnt something one can apply. It is an approach to thinking about programs for young children and accepting children from all walks of life; where children with special needs are given first preference, making it totally inclusive. The Bristol standard aims at promoting the concept of reflective practitioners where they can become part of a process that protects and celebrates the wonder of early childhood through well informed and reflective practice. All preschool operators ought to benchmark against the Reggio Emilia school. As children are developing physically, mentally and emotionally, Rudolf Steiner (1861-1925) believed that education should be designed to meet their changing needs, helping a child to accomplish their full potential in overall development and learning, as well as academic progress. His technique was systematic, and was based on his own wide experience as a tutor and on his study of spiritual science. Edmunds (1979), portrays Steiner Education with these inspiring words To educate youthà ¢Ã¢â€š ¬Ã‚ ¦ is to ennoble the mind, to fire the imagination, to fortify the will and to quicken initiative for life. Waldorf nurseries all around the world endeavour to meet the needs of each individual child with the utmost care, providing a harmonious home life which children should enjoy up to the age of five or six, working with Rudolf Steiners key points which are: Encouraging play, drawing, story telling, environment study and natural things up to the age of seven. Children younger than seven should not be taught to read. Teaching a child to write before teaching them to read. Allowing only one teacher to teach the same class for seven years. (This concept is taken from Reggio Emilia). Letting the child focus on one subject at a time. Find links between subjects like art and science. Connect with the child to make sure that they are keen about the material being taught. Showing the child good values but not enforcing a specific set of beliefs. Encouraging knowledge for its own sake and not just working towards exams. Allowing children to work at their own pace to ease their learning as each child has its own tempo and thrives best when this is allowed for. (Edmunds, F. 1979: p22). Rudolf Steiner made specific curriculum suggestions for all subjects including handwork, gymnastics, painting, music, shorthand and many others. A Teacher was given the freedom to build up the curriculum according to his own perspective. In a Steiner pre-school, no formal schooling takes place but there is an ordered life in the way children are received and engaged in activities. There is an extreme case of a general and widespread tendency today to intellectualize children without counting the costs. By robbing the life of children we are stultifying the life of adults. (Edmunds, F. 1979: p23) There is too much emphasis on getting small children to read and write at an early age which leaves them little or no time to play. This gives vent to frustration making them incapable human beings unable to solve problems and to make compromises as adults. Rudolf Steiner realised the fact that premature educational demands on the child, sap the life forces needed for further development later. He was also not in favour of sitting children in front of the television or a computer as there was much more to be learnt by doing things practically and get first hand experience. According to Steiner, creative, imaginative forces spring from a healthy life of will like flowers from a meadow; they are crippled by clever toys invented by clever adults. (Edmunds, F. 1979: p24). The objects of play in Steiner schools are simple so that the child can dress them with his or her own imagination as a child sees everything to be alive and real. Even today Steiner schools exist, and they are distinctly different from other schools. In the 1970s, 80s and 90s, United Kingdom and other parts of the world saw the formation of new Steiner Schools. Its founder was so self-motivated that everyone concerned knows that he would not have allowed his school to stay as it was, but would have found new and creative ways to meet the changing needs of present times. Nowadays it seems difficult for the people involved to know what course to take, without losing the essence of education that was brought to the world by Rudolf Steiner. Education must no longer be regarded only as a matter of teaching children, but as a social question of the highest importance, because it is the one question that concerns all mankind. (Montessori M, date unknown) Born in Italy in 1870, Maria Montessori moved to Rome with her parents in 1875 at the age of five. Maria Montessori is often referred to as ahead of her time. Throughout her life Maria Montessori had a particular interest in the development of children, especially those with special needs. She learned from the work of others, but evolved her own theories and believed that the child was a truly miraculous being and later on Steiner adopted this fact from Montessori. In 1906, Maria Montessori founded the first Childrens House. Montessori discovered how naturally young children adapted and enjoyed learning everyday tasks. The Montessori Method focuses on the individuality of each child in respect of their needs or talents as its goal is to help the child maintain their natural joy of learning. Some of the inventions of Maria Montessori are:- Sand paper alphabets and the Spinda boxes. Phonics; this has been taken up by the National Curriculum. Furniture and equipment scaled down to the childs size. Encourages independence and freedom with limits and responsibility. Practical life skills: domestic skills and manners are emphasized with the goal of increasing attention spans, hand-eye coordination, and tenacity. The structure of work and constructive activity gives the children a sense of self-worth that they have never experienced before. The Montessori approach does not emphasise play or the free flow of ideas, neither are the children allowed to undertake creative activities until they have worked through all the graded learning activities. Montessori believed in the natural unfolding of the childs intelligence that follows a specific path which must be aided by the adult by observing, as she did not believe in forced learning by children. When young children feel confident their energy for curiosity and exploration is considerableà ¢Ã¢â€š ¬Ã‚ ¦ If to the children the practitioner feels detached or remote- not like a secure base- then their energy and curiosity is very reduced or disappears. Elfer (1996). Montessori did not think there was a need for adult correction and little parental involvement was encouraged. This concept would go against the principles of Vygotsky, who identified the zone of proximal development emphasising on the role of adults to intervene and help children learn, moving into the zone of actual development as adults provide the intellectual scaffolding to help children learn and progress through the different stages of development. The Montessori Method does not see children as part of a community, but are made to work largely on their own in a peaceful environment of total concentration. Current mainstream practice in the Early Years Foundation Stage Framework has not accepted this philosophy as it would not usually leave children to work through activities on their own. According to Lillard, P (1996) the Montessori theory is to adapt education for each developmental stage through materials especially designed for a childs exploration and self-discovery, encouraging children to be active rather than passive learners at all levels. This has been acknowledged by the recent curricular guidance and some Montessori materials and ideas are used, for example, graded sizes of particular shapes, such as small, medium, and large blocks. The Montessori theory allows children to acquire the skills to answer their own questions, learn to manage freedom with responsibility, and maintain a high level of intellectual curiosit y. Its teaching; aims for the fullest possible development of the whole child, ultimately preparing him for lifes many rich experiences. Maria Montessori realised that children pass through sensitive periods of development early in life, and said that education starts from birth. This is now recognised by the Early Years Foundation Stage. Dr. Montessori described the childs mind between the time of birth and six years of age as the absorbent mind and has written a book about it. It is during this stage that a child has a tremendous ability to learn and assimilate from the world around him, without conscious effort. During this time, children are particularly receptive to certain external stimuli. A Montessori teacher recognizes and takes advantage of these highly perceptive stages through the introduction of materials and activities which are specially designed to stimulate the intellect. If a person develops the ability to respect themselves, the people and the things around them, they will take an increased interest in the long-term effects of their actions on the environment and the people who live within it. (Director of Operations Archimedes) Forest Schools is an innovative educational approach to outdoor play and learning. It is a concept originally developed in Denmark for pre-school children (under seven years). The philosophy of Forest Schools is to encourage and inspire individuals of any age through positive experiences and participation in engaging and motivating achievable tasks and activities in a woodland environment, helping to develop personal, social and emotional skills which will lead to independence, self-discovery, confidence, communication skills and raised self-esteem. Each Forest School Site is unique, designed to meet the needs of the group making it inclusive. Children become comfortable with an outdoor approach to education and play in familiar surroundings. It allows a more child led outdoor curriculum with opportunities for projects to be taken back to the indoor setting to be continued. Forest Schools have demonstrated success with children of all ages through the following methods:- Learning takes place in the natural environment through play. Use of own initiative to handle risks and solve problems. Co-operate with others. Programmes are held throughout the year in all weathers. Children use full sized tools, play, learn boundaries of behaviour; both physical and social, grow in confidence, self-esteem and motivation. Use of tools in the wood promotes trust and self-confidence; it develops motor skills and fine motor skills. As children need time to thoroughly explore their thoughts, feelings and relationships this method encourages them to understand the world, the environment and everything within it through use of their emotions, imagination and senses. This principle has been adopted from Reggio Emilia which considers the environment to being the third teacher. Malguzzi (1996) We place enormous value on the role of the environment as a motivating and animating force in creating spaces for relations, options and emotional and cognitive situations that produce a sense of well-being and security. This ethos was introduced to the UK during the 1990s and has proved to be an effective educational tool in a variety of settings. Children attending Forest Schools were arriving at school with strong social skills, the ability to work in groups effectively, and generally children had high self-esteem and confidence in their own capabilities that proved to be an effective foundation and raised academic achievements. Since its introduction Forest Schools have developed opportunities in an outdoor setting for children of all ages to develop a variety of life skills. Participants gain confidence in their own ability. Kinaesthetic learners (learning by doing) are particularly suited to learning in this woodland outdoor environment. It aims at meeting childrens basic needs before any higher learning can take place. Children feel safe both physically and emotionally as care is taken to ensure that children have proper clothing and footwear, healthy meals and plenty of hydrated water and hot drinks. The Forest School sites are usually away from main entrances requiring the group to walk long distances and terrain, but all this depends on the abilities of the group. A hard surface approach may be necessary for wheel chairs and buggies making it as inclusive as possible. Each time the children leave the woods they take something with them to encourage parental interest and communicative interaction. All sessions are designed around the needs of the group, ensuring that they are learner-led. Sessions are designed around a theme, such as Romans, butterflies, spies, fairies or nature investigators. Many areas of the National Curriculum are intrinsically covered in the Forest Schools Experience without the programmes needing to be curriculum led. The activities are set up involving the capabilities of every person within the group. Teamwork skills are developed through games and activities such as hide and seek, shelter building, tool skills, lighting fires or environmental art. Each activity develops intra and inter-personal skills as well as practical and intellectual skills. Activities are constantly evaluated and re-adjusted through out the day to meet each the groups requirements. The children may be asked to shout out, draw, act or play a game to review the day they have just experienced, reflecting about what they have done during the day. Individuals progress is observed/monitored and a thorough evaluation process is used to ensure that aims and objectives are being met. All the four approaches have in a way had an effect on forming the current curriculum, as all the approaches have one thing in common which is to meet the needs of the child. The Early Years Foundation Stage Framework has realised the need to provide the materials, opportunities, interactions and experiences that allow children to pursue their own interests and be creative. This is done by stimulating them through motivation but not overloading them with the things we want them to be interested in. The concept of supporting childrens development through their interest has been outlined in Tender care and Early Learning from High Scope and is currently used by Birth to Three Matters focussing on childrens strengths and interests. Reggio Emilia and Forest Schools provide models of excellence in developing high quality physical environment and this has been taken up by the Early Years Foundation Stage Framework. The Living, Loving and Learning exhibition (1999) and the British Associat ion for Early Childhood Education explains the main principles and purpose of physical environment as it is essential in our work with young children that we consider the outdoors as a natural extension of our indoor learning environment, as very young children need to be offered the opportunity to move and think freely. This is vital for their physical growth and development of their minds. Advancing childrens physical and intellectual competence is the heart of much of the early childhood curriculum. Montessori and Steiner do not use display boards to celebrate childrens achievements and this would go against the principles of Reggio Emilia, who believe it to be an ideal way of communication with parents, who can view their childrens experiences and learning on wall panels in the form of annotated photographs and displayed work. It is an important documentation inviting parents to feel close to their childrens experiences in the setting. This approach has been considered by the setting and there are a number of display boards for different age groups.

Sunday, October 13, 2019

Vouchers, School Choice and the Publics Interest Essay -- Persuasive

School Choice and the Public's Interest Recent trends toward privatizing schools and relieving them of state requirements wrongly imply that schools should mirror the desires of parents and ignore the public's interest in having citizens educated for democracy. Rob Reich, who recently earned his doctorate in philosophy of education at Stanford, is writing a book on school vouchers, charter schools and home schooling. Reich stated his view that the nation is slipping too far into deregulated schooling. "The guiding idea behind privatization, whether it is vouchers, charter schools or home schooling, is that parents should be the sole decision-making agents about the kind of education their children receive. But this eviscerates the public or civic purposes of schooling." Public schooling itself is not the goal, he said, and public schools don't necessarily do better than private schools in educating children to meet the state's interests, which he defined as preparing children for both workforce and democratic participation. Those who joined in the discussion pushed Reich to specify the content of an education for democratic participation. "Some would say reading and writing is enough," he responded. "Personally, I would go a few steps further to say that students should learn to come into dialogue with others on a public stage." Voluntary national standards for civic education suggest "a combination of making sure students know the history and shape of the structure of government, and how to influence public deliberation and policy," he said. Others suggest experience-oriented programs, often called service learning. "My model has been the Socratic dialogue, where the teacher is a leader and p... ...ploded among white, middle-class, religious families who want more control over the values their children are exposed to or who fear for their children's safety, Reich said. "I'm convinced that further privatization is inevitable," he added. Supporters have framed the argument for it as "a civil rights issue or a matter of social justice." he said. "People say President Clinton sent his daughter to private school. If we are serious about social justice, we should give all parents the same choice that wealthy parents have." How would he change the situation? Reich was asked. "I can imagine a variety of institutional arrangements but where private schools are still subject to state oversight," he said. "Perhaps public dollars could flow to them if the curriculum met the state's interests. A democracy has needs, but that doesn't mean public schools have to meet them."