Brain

Brain Introduction Through a recent approach done in the educational literature, brain based learning is associates with the structure and the relation of the functioning of the brain. The researchers of this approach have come up with principles concerning the brain and how it relates with learning (Kahveci Ay, 2008).Advertising We will write a custom essay sample on Brain-Based Learning Principles and Strategies specifically for you for only $16.05 $11/page Learn More The values of brain based learning offers a theoretical framework for an efficient learning and the teaching process, providing the best conditions in which learning occurs in the brain. These principles guide the instructors to prepare and decide on the best learning surroundings, based in neurobiology (Ozden Gultekin, 2008). Brain-based learning illustrates the performance of the brain and considers the rules and regulations of the brain for meaningful learning. The most vital function of the b rain is to learn, which acts as any other part of the human organs. The brain has limitless capability for learning. Therefore, the functions of the brain are vital for the efficiency of learning. This means that in order to have effectual learning, the brain must be functioning well (Kahveci Ay, 2008). The instructors, who perform their duties in teamwork with the neurobiologists, combine their facts concerning the functions of the brain and they adapt them to the learning principles of the brain (Ozden Gultekin, 2008). Principles and strategies of brain-based learning One of the principles based on the brain learning suggests that effectual learning is only achievable trough practicing and taking into considerations the real life events. Through this, the brain will be more expressive and will uphold the processes in search of meaning and patterning (Ozden Gultekin, 2008). Research has shown that when the brain conveys its pattern making behavior, it will create coherency and t he meaning. When the learning activity associates with the physical experience, learning becomes efficient. In addition, an environment of total immersion in a multitude of complex interactive experiences makes learning possible. This comprises the traditional methods used in instructing and the analysis as part of the larger practices (Lackney, 2011).Advertising Looking for essay on psychology? Let's see if we can help you! Get your first paper with 15% OFF Learn More Research done concerning the brain reveals that association of the brain and emotions helps individuals to recall and remember the memories preserved in the central nervous system. The limbic system and the neo-mammalian brain happen to be the home place where emotions originate. The Sensory data relayed to the thalamus in the midbrain acts as a relay station to the sensory cortex (Lackney, 2011). The two organs that are integral to the learning procedure and the individuals’ capability to stay focused in their surroundings are the amygdala and hypothalamus. The emotional stimulus highly stimulates the interpretation of curriculum in both the student and the teacher. From this, two opportunity routes may happen, one involving the conscious brain, which comprises the prefrontal cortex and the other one including the shorter, faster route, which comprises of the amygdale (Rushton Juola, 2008). An environment that offers the students with choice and empowerment, enhanced by the usage of hands-on, differentiated instruction, permits the students to be responsible for their learning, thereby involving several parts of the brain. With such surroundings, there is a possibility of provision of aid in the thickening of the myelination sheaf, development of neurons and stimulation of serotonin and other neurochemicals, which enhances the child’s welfare. The development of the brain, supported by efficient teachers, encourages children to make new discoveries in stra tegized surroundings that enhance student autonomy (Rushton Juola, 2008). The brain friendly places are where the learning in the brain occurs, normally called the brain-based classrooms. These learning classrooms happen to be the perfect learning environments where the brain roles and responsibilities in learning occur in terms of training and learning procedures. In these classes, learners get submerged into difficult and stressful experiences. Most people assume that in the brain classrooms, learners are unique and the previous knowledge given to them acts as a baseline to new learning.Advertising We will write a custom essay sample on Brain-Based Learning Principles and Strategies specifically for you for only $16.05 $11/page Learn More Utilization of different strategies in learning is of paramount importance for it will enable the learner to feel safer in the learning surroundings and it will provide the learners with different explanations. This wil l also enrich learning and the educators will have wider knowledge for the learning process (Ozden Gultekin, 2008). To activate emotions and learning, the brain requires difficulties or a surrounding that creates stress. Generation of stress in the brain enhances a survival imperative. However, too much stress and anxiety hinders chances created for learning. On the other hand, too little stress makes the brain to be more relaxed and comfortable and this enhances easy learning. Relaxed alertness is a term that refers to the brain state for optimal learning. This means that as the designers and the instructors require creating opportunities that are not only secure to learn, they also flash some emotional interests through celebrations and performance of rituals (Lackney, 2011). Conclusion Brain-based learning is a perfect strategy for helping students in all levels enhances their learning capabilities. Pioneers of this learning strategy developed twelve basic principles of the brai n that helps in producing efficient learning. Brain-based learning also stresses the importance of exercising the brain as a major strategy of this approach. In addition, it utilizes the purpose of emotions and stressful circumstances, which help in the earning process. This approach also comprises of learning environments for instance brain-based classrooms where instructors and students engage in an interactive process. References Kahveci, A. Ay, S. (2008). Different Approaches –Common Implications: Brain-Based And Constructivist Learning From A Paradigms And Integral Model Perspective. Journal of Turkish Science Education, 5, 3, 124-129. Lackney, J.A. (2011). Twelve Design Principles Based on Brain-based Learning Research. Web.Advertising Looking for essay on psychology? Let's see if we can help you! Get your first paper with 15% OFF Learn More Ozden, M. Gultekin, M. (2008).The Effects of Brain-Based Learning on Academic Achievement and Retention of Knowledge in Science Course. Electronic Journal of Science Education, 12, 1: 3-19. Rushton, S. Juola, A. (2008). Classroom Learning Environment, Brain Research and the No Child Left behind Initiative: 6 years later. Early Childhood Educational Journal, 36, 87-92.

Landslides Essays - Landslides, Environmental Soil Science

Landslides Essays - Landslides, Environmental Soil Science Landslides Causing $1-2 billion in damages and more than 25 deaths per year, landslides are a major geologic hazard, caused by earthquakes and floods. Although, landslides are generally not as exciting or costly as earthquakes, major floods, tropical storms, and other natural disasters, they occur in more expanded places and may cause more property damage than any other geologic hazards. A wide variety of ground movements, such as rock falls, slope failure, and shallow debris flows can classify landslides. When a portion of a hill slope cannot support its own weight a landslide will occur. When rainfall or some other water source increases the water content of the slope the weakness is irritated, reducing the strength of the materials. Although gravity acting upon an increased slope is the main reason for a landslide, there are other elements that contribute to its cause. Loud sounds that occur during an earthquake also cause landslides. Erosion caused by rivers, glaciers, or ocean waves create oversteepened slopes. Heavy rains and melting snow weaken rock and soil slopes. Furthermore, vibrations from machinery, traffic, and even thunder may trigger failure of weak slopes. Excess water can run through slope material and can cause a debris flow or mud flow. The rock and mud left over after a landslide may pick up anything in its path, such as trees, houses, and cars, causing bridges and tributaries to become blocked which causes flooding throughout its path. Even though, the natural cause of most landslides is unable to be stopped, geologic investigations, good engineering practices and effective enforcement of land-use management regulations can cut back landslide danger. Landslides effect every state in the United States territory. The Appalachian Mountains, the Rocky Mountains and the Pacific Coastal Ranges and few parts of Alaska and Hawaii have intense landslide problems. USGS marine scientists have recently identified over fifteen giant landslides surrounding the Hawaiian Islands. These slides are some of the largest known on Earth, and most have taken place throughout the past four million years. The youngest landslide is estimated to have occurred only one hundred thousand years ago, and there is evidence today that large blocks of the island are starting to slide, causing enormous earthquakes. Each landslide that has happened over the bast four million years has ended with huge land loss and gigantic waves that move rocks and se diments up to 1000ft above sea level. The geologic hazards are important to learn about because, they don't occur as frequently as volcanoes or other disasters, they have potential to destroy lives, property, and natural

Metaphoric comparison of Audi Manufacturing Essay

Metaphoric comparison of Audi Manufacturing - Essay Example These expressions vary depending upon the need. However, these expressions help in creating a perception of the organisation; provide information that may be used for further diagnosis of the organisation; and provide an experience of the organisation’s disposition from an emotional, sensory, and understanding perspectives. The present context of analytic study is based on exploration of the luxury car manufacturing giant, Audi manufacturing, from three different metaphoric perspectives namely, organisations as machines, organisations as intricately woven meshes and organisations as processes of flux and transformation. The process of exploration is based on literature review associated with these metaphoric expressions and information related to the manufacturing giant. In this process, besides understanding the meaning and application of these three metaphoric expressions to Audi manufacturing, critical reflection on the positive aspects of metaphoric explanations and weakne sses associated with respective metaphors will be undertaken. Originated in Germany, Audi stands as one of the top brands of luxury car manufacturers in the world. ... To possess an Audi, customers willingly wait for long time, which explains its level of success and popularity. Audi’s employees number about 60,000 across the all its production and service centres. Organisations are complex structures that function based on numerous systems, procedures, policies and practices, and requires a variety of skilled personnel that need to continuously learn and upgrade their skills in order to cater to changing external and internal demands. Hence, organisations are constantly challenged with ambiguity and uncertainty, and therefore require constant adaptation. These are achieved by constantly changing the work processes, systems, skills as well as places in contemporary times. These ever-changing patterns coerce management researchers to constantly scrutinize the internal and external environment, which ultimately result in various understandings as perceived by different individuals. These reflective perceptions have resulted in various metaphor ic expressions of contemporary organisations. On one hand, these images provide insightful information about the organisation, and on the other, they have potential to present distorted image of the organisation. Both, imminent information and distorted images have to be considered in arriving at meaningful outcomes or studies of organisations that can be of practical importance in implementing measures that could be beneficial to the business, employees and/or society and environment. The present study is aimed at understanding Audi Manufacturing through the lenses of three different metaphors, which are aptly applicable to this manufacturing giant. These finding may be used to understand the impact of metaphors on development of theory

The Strengths, Weaknesses and Uses of the Economic Value Added (EVA) Essay

The Strengths, Weaknesses and Uses of the Economic Value Added (EVA) Mode - Essay Example Economic Value Added (EVA) EVA is a relatively new technique of measuring financial performance of companies. This tool relies on three basic elements which are Net Operating Income adjusted after taxes (NOPAT), the investment amount and the weighted average cost of capital (Hansen & Mowen, 1997). EVA can be calculated as: EVA = After tax operating income – (investment in assets x weighted average cost of capital) The amount calculated under EVA is an absolute dollar amount. The amount calculated can be either have a positive value or can have negative value. The positive value shows that the organization has remained successful in generating more Net Operating Income After Tax (NOPAT), well covering the cost of investments that were employed. On the other hand, negative values shows organization’s failure in recovering the costs of investment as its cost of investments exceeded the Net Operating Income After Tax (NOPAT). Obtaining the positive value of EVA is the core objective of any organization. Strengths of EVA EVA has significant strengths which have increased its popularity tremendously. In the following discussion, more attention will paid on different aspects of EVA. 1. Better Measure EVA has turned out to be a better measure in terms of performance measurement of different stakeholders in organizations. ... In order to achieve personal and individual goals, the broad objectives and goals of organization are put aside courtesy this technique. However, EVA is the technique which measures the performance of financial managers in an absolute dollar amount. This technique explains the absolute value added by the financial managers to their divisions and the organization as a whole. So the financial managers try to increase the EVA in comparison with other financial mangers to exceed the amount of EVA as much as they can, this effort causes benefits to financial managers, their divisions and the overall organization. 2. Absolute Measure of Performance One of the most promising strengths of EVA is that is explains the amount of value added by the financial managers in an absolute dollar amount. Other techniques such ROI measures performance in relative percentage terms which is not a true reflection of the performance of financial managers. The reason behind the failure of relative measures is that they do not take into account the size of amounts on which they are based. There are likelihoods that a financial manager earning too much with a huge amount of investments behind him/her, yet he/she end with lower ROI as compared to that financial manager who is responsible for lower magnitude of amounts. As a result, the true performance cannot be reflected if relative measures are used. On the other hand, EVA exactly explains the specific dollar amount that is added to the organization as a whole. 3. Similar to NPV This technique is very much similar to that of Net Present Value technique. In finance, the NPV technique has the importance of

Student-Centred Educational Philosophy Essay Example for Free

Student-Centred Educational Philosophy Essay Educational Philosophy 1. 1 Introduction There are five main philosophical schools of thought in education which are essentialism, perennialism, progressivism, existentialism and reconstructionism. However, here I have only chosen the philosophies which believe in student-centred approach. There are three philosophies that hold the similarity of being less authoritarian and placing the students as the centre in learning process. These three philosophies reject essentialism and do not agree with traditional mediums of teaching. They are recontructionism, progressivism, and existentialism 1. Reconstructionism Reconstructionism is an important contribution of Theodore Brameld in the world of educational philosophy. Brameld in his book, ‘Education as Power’, says â€Å"education has two major roles: to transmit culture and to modify culture. In reconstructionism, education is seen as a way to bring out positive changes in society. The educational purpose of reconstructionism is to create social reform in which education serves as a mean to make people view society with a critical eye. Learners should never settle for what is but have to do critical thinking and dream of what should be. This branch of philosophy strives for a constant and positive change for the betterment of the society. A famous reconstructivionist, Paulo Freire (1921-1997) sees teaching and learning as a process of inquiry in which the child must invent and reinvent the world. Theodore Brameld (1904-1987) and Paulo Freire (1921-1997) . Source: Google Image. The goal of reconstructionist learning is that the students themselves should conceive the good future. The students receive education as a preparation for their role in the future. Therefore, it is important for students to experience and taking social action on actual problems. Students should be willing to spend time in the community to learn its problems. Rote learning, memorization and direct-method are not preferable in recontructionism. Besides, reconstructionist students should possess a high sense of duty towards society. They are then are expected to be the leaders of reformation in society to form an observant, inquisitive, open-minded and highly capable society. As education should prepare students to become agents for change, reconstructionism philosophy believes that teachers must convince their students of the validity and urgency of the reconstructionist solution. However, teachers must do so with scrupulous scrutiny for democratic procedures. At the same time, learning process should enable the learners to be in control of their own fate and able to make social reform. 1. 2 Progressivism Source: Google Image Progressivism is the educational application of a philosophy called pragmatism. John Dewey refined pragmatism and applied to education, which later became known as progressivism. Progressivism believes that school should encourage cooperation, not competition. According to Dewey, democracy and freedom are far superior to the traditional political ideas. He viewed progressive schools as a working model of democracy. In curriculum, progressivism also holds the same view as reconstructinism which the selection of subject content depends on the skills that will be needed in future society. This is because knowledge taught must help people to adapt to change. Progressivists believe that individuality, progress, and change are fundamental. In Progressivism, education is not to prepare students to live; it should be life itself. Learning should focus on understanding and action, not rote knowledge. Thus, it is believed that problem solving is the most effective way. As similar to reconstructinisim philosophy, progressivism prefers varied learning resources and it also views the best way to learn is through direct experience with the environment. As this philosophy puts more concern on students, teacher is seen as an advisor, not a director. The progressive teacher aids students in learning by helping students formulate meaningful questions and devise strategies to answer them. The answers are discovered from real world experience instead of mere reading or theories. 1. 3 Existentialism Among the three philosophies, existentialism has the highest degree of importance on the learners. Soren Kierkegaard is considered to have been the first existentialist philosopher though he himself did not use the term. He proposed that each individual is solely responsible for giving meaning to life. It is Jean Paul Sartres that formulates the term existentialism. Existentialists argued that traditional approaches to philosophy do not adequately respect the uniqueness of each individual. This philosophy is against the views of any existence of authoritative truth about metaphysics, epistemology, and ethics. In existentialism, it is strongly believed that every individual is responsible to decide what is true or false† and right or wrong, Soren Kierkegaard (1813-1855). Source: Google Image. The educational goal of existentialism is education should challenge people to create personal meanings of their own design which means that the others’ interpretations should not be imposed on them. Learning activities will be organized around students requests. Although existentialist educators provide some curricular structure, students have great latitude in their choice of subject matter. In an existentialist curriculum, students are given a wide variety of options. The curriculum often emphasizes the humanities as to provide students with experiences that will in developing creativity and self-expression. However, there is no rigidness of curriculum. As Learners should have a voice in deciding how the school operates, school is not the institution for transmitting the core culture, but as a experimental lab for students to realize their individuality before improving the society at a larger extend. Education should emphasize field trips and experiential learning as ways to help the youth explore the world and seek their own meaning. The role of teachers is to expose students to many ways and life options in helping them defining their own essence. Besides, teachers facilitate students by creating a stress free classroom with positive atmosphere. Existentialism centres vast concern on students with high respect to their personal perspectives and freedom more than any other educational philosophy. 2. 0 Teaching Approach 2. 1 Introduction In teaching English as a second language (ESL) classroom, there are a variety of teaching methods and approaches. Over the years, many different teaching approaches have been developed to match students’ need. Here is student-centred method that concerns more on students during educational process. Therefore, this approach acknowledges and agrees with the three philosophies mentioned earlier. 2. 2 Communicative approach. Communicative approach is a famous and recent approach in ESL learning. In fact, many ESL books seem to claim that they are based on this approach. The communicative approach is believed to have taken place in language learning in the 1970s. The pressure was put on educators when there was a rise in the number of people wanting to learn foreign language for personal reasons. Many of the teachers realized the importance of switching their traditional teaching method towards a better method that prefers application of language in an active learning environment. In ESL class, communicative approach believes that learning of language is most successful when learners are involved in real communication as they can develop natural strategies in language acquisition. As a result, there will be more emphasis on skills than systems. The syllabus is based on functional development not structural development. In communicative approach, teachers will not do drilling or repetition method but focus on constructing real life situations in classroom. This agrees with reconstructionism philosophy that is to bring the world inside the classroom. Therefore, teachers will vary the use of authentic materials. Communicative approach believes that teachers will have to maximize the opportunities for learners to communicate. Students are encouraged to interact with one another, doing given tasks in pairs on in groups. This is in unison with progressivism understanding that school should encourage cooperation, not competition. Teachers are only there to monitor and facilitate them without interference and give feedbacks after they have done. This is also in par with progressivism philosophy that is teachers are rather advisors, not directors. As students learn through trial and error process, teachers of communicative approach should always tolerate mistakes. It is important for teachers of communicative approach to apply tactfulness and creativity in teaching. . 3 Computer-Assisted Language Learning (CALL) Computer-Assisted Language Learning (CALL) is not a new approach in ESL methodology but a medium which helps English teachers to be more affective and engaging with students. Since the 1960s, computers have been used for language teaching. CALL is a tool that combines many advantages such as enabling students to have experiential learning, motivation, achievement, authentic materials for studyin g, wider interaction, individualization pace, greater source of information, and global understanding. There are three main stages for CALL. As CALL can be successfully applied not only for grammar practice but also for communicative activities, communicative CALL has been established in 1970 with the spread of communicative approach. For reconstructionists, bringing real life problems or issues to students is important in learning process. CALL helps in facilitating the students to be involved in the actual situation. Decision making, asking for advice, agreeing and disagreeing, and compromising with friends are some tasks that need authentic settings. Internet especially social media such as Facebook, Twitter, YouTube, Skype and blogs connects the students with people of all around the world. Thus, students who are second language users of English can even communicate with native speakers and polish communicative skill in English. Computer-assisted language learning (CALL) provides an effective learning environment. The advancement of speech and language technologies has opened new perspectives on CALL. Students can practice in an interactive manner using multi-media content. CALL inherently supports students’ autonomy, which places the students firmly in control so that they can decide their own goal and pace in self-learning. Therefore, students have the freedom in learning and this agrees with existentialism philosophy that students should create their own personal meanings through education. Source: Google Image It has been described in reconstructionism philosophy that teachers must be familiar with the constant change. Students of 21st century are knowledgeable in the use of computer and web learning. Y-generation is equipped with modern gadgets and most of the students are even more advance in technology than their teachers. Thus, teachers of modern approach should update themselves with recent developments of technology. By using Computer-Assisted Language Learning (CALL) as a tool in teaching, teachers can help students become more involved in the task and monitor students’ progress with the help of computer. 4. 0 Personal Educational Philosophy 4. 1 Introduction My very own educational philosophy is my answers about why, what and how I will be teaching, and about the nature of learning and teaching. It is my personal set of principles that guides my professional actions now and surely later in life when I become a teacher. As I read and learn educational philosophies of the Western scholars, I realize the importance of having my own school of thought. My life experiences, values, environment and interactions are the aspects that will continuously shape my personal philosophy in education. 4. 2 Influence of educational philosophies Educational philosophy that attracts me the most is progressivism. To a certain extent, I also agree with reconstructionism and existentialism. As we can notice, these philosophies centre on students during teaching and learning process. When I was a school student, I had always love teachers who acknowledge students’ opinions and attend to their students’ questions with patience and compassion. This kind of teachers receives back the love, trust and respect that they put on students. I believe that educators who are authoritative and using traditional approach are boring and fail to develop intimate relationship with their students. This will then affect the sharing of knowledge between the teachers and their students. Other than that, progressivism is in accordance with my own view of life. I believe that life is a continuous educational process. As I explained earlier, progressivist believes education is not to prepare students to live; it should be life itself. We can never stop learning as we pick up new things every single day, be it useful ones or not. Learning process is not limited to the syllabus or fixed curriculum at school, but a thorough process covering almost everything we do for betterment of self. Coincidently, we improve our society and our nation at large. This agrees with reconstructionism which aims for social reformation for more positive change. 4. 3 Defining Education in own words Education is an eternal process in bringing out the best in ourselves and others, be it formally or informally which results in positive development of every individual in terms of thinking and action. Learning and teaching are two inter-dependent mechanisms that make up education. Learning is self-seeking enlightenment and progression which take place with the help of guidance while teaching is sharing of ideas and insights to grow new and more powerful wisdom. Education is never to build competition with other people around but within oneself. It is also a tool to free human beings from hatred and sufferings. Education is also the reasoning of the past and a way of fulfilling future dreams and hopes. Elaboration: My personal meaning of education implicitly tells my philosophy of education. It shows how I perceive education which acts as a baseline on my actions. It is clear that I view the purpose of education as a lasting way to be better in life. It is never limited to what I learn formally but covers everything that I do that helps in self-betterment. I believe learning is self-seeking progression which means nobody has the power to force someone to learn unless that person is willing to seek knowledge. I also believe teaching is sharing which means it is a two way process. Other than that, from the above philosophy, I suggest that education is not to create competition with others but within oneself which means we have to aim to be better than yesterday, not to be better than other people. I also view education as a hope to bring peace and happiness in this world as it widens our perspective. Lastly, I see education as a present gift that helps in accepting the past wholeheartedly and building the strength of tomorrow. 4. 4 Methods My personal educational philosophy is in accordance with communicative approach that has been explained earlier. As a future ESL (English as a second language) teacher, teaching language means to share and apply the knowledge of English with others. It is important to motivate my students to communicate efficiently in English by building a strong rapport with them and being a good role model to the students. I will create a pressure-free class so that students feel comfortable to speak and voice out opinions. Learning language is not just a matter of knowing grammatical structure but also as a medium to share about cultures and develop values. I would like to set an enjoyable and active learning environment for the students in classroom. This can be done by doing a handful of games and activities but imparting the knowledge altogether. Some activities that I can do for the students are role-playing, debating, guessing games, quizzes with rewards and many others. A lot of the time, I will let the students do their task in pairs of groups so that they can interact and share ideas with one another. As language is inseparable with the real world, I will encourage the students to use the language outside the class and school compound. The use CALL (Computer-assisted Language Learning) is also vital. Therefore, my students will be encouraged to communicate in virtual world such as blog and Facebook. I can venture into my students’ thoughts more personally and make it easier for me to facilitate them in their progress. At the end of the day, the main objective which to improve the students’ level of English can be achieved successfully. At the same time, the students have also flourished their minds with positive thinking and developed learning skills to be use throughout life. They are then become the future generation whom is excellent and competent both locally and internationally. 4. 4 Conclusion There is no general agreement on what human beings ought to learn in order to have the best in life. There will also be continuous debate whether education should focus on cognitive development or character development first. I have also aware that there are different needs and styles given by different group of students. Thus, I may have to vary and adapt my methods when encountering my student at different level. The tendency to stick to merely one philosophy among all other philosophies discussed may bring flaws. Thus, a variety of teaching methods and adapting my philosophy over time are highly required.

homelessness Essay -- essays research papers

All over America, there are people wandering the streets without a home. These individuals are seen as a crowd, a separate collective existence. They are called the homeless, as if that defines who they are, but we too often neglect to add the unspoken word in that title: people. It seems today that the more fortunate citizens of America who have a roof over their heads have forgotten their innate responsibility to watch over those in this world whom are incapable of caring for themselves. Tragically, â€Å"thirty to fifty percent of the homeless have severe mental illnesses† (Torrey 1). These individuals live life in such a way that few people in this world could possibly even begin to compare their hardships. The fact that they survive completely independently, most without the medication they need, is bewildering. The problems resulting from the lack of attention given to the homeless who are mentally ill can be solved through the establishment of better health clinics, an d stricter laws involving patient care. If more clinics were to be established specializing in the mental health of the homeless, then the attention could be given to them that they need. E. Fuller Torrey, author of â€Å"The Homeless Mentally Ill Should Be Forced To Receive Treatment† describes the habits and reasons for the incredible amount of mentally ill homeless: â€Å"They sleep, importune strangers, gesture to imaginary accomplices, shout angrily at the wind, forage through cans, and sit quietly with glazed ey...

Haefren Baum Business Analysis Essay

Haefren Baum is a furniture retailer, established in 1965 and was incorporated in 1970. Haefren Baum receives its merchandise from Wiegandt GmbH Cologne, a nearby manufacturer, whose business relationship equals over twenty-seven years. The company has one retail location in Cologne, Germany and three recently constructed outlet stores in nearby suburban areas. Demand and product sales are influenced by consumer discretionary income. In 1993, an economic bust in the German economy resulted in a major dip in GDP. Demand for the industry is cyclical and is influenced by the overall economy. There is no evidence of seasonality. In response to the German economic downturn in 1993, the company began to open outlets with wide selections and lower prices to maintain sales volume. This was a trend used by all in the industry, but sales volumes were not affected and remained flat. As the German economy recovered, Haefren Baum’s business began to see fierce competition from European furniture retailers. This was a concern for the Wiegandt, who saw its retailers losing market share, and began aggressively advertising its brand. The strategies involving aggressive branding and offering wider selections at lower prices proved to be unsuccessful, mainly due to the influx of competition. Operations Analysis: Haefren Baum being a retailer needs a large amount of inventory and assets in order to generate sales. To turn profits, the company needs to be efficient in both inventory management and asset turnover. Recently, the Haefren Baum is showing very high values for inventory days, and an overall decline in its TAT and FAT ratios. Figures for total and fixed asset turnover steadily decline from 1993-1995. These figures could be a result of the expansion and building of outlet stores, as well as slower sales. Total assets turnover equals 2.1 in 1993 to 1.5 in 1995. As for fixed asset turnover, 1993 equals 6.98 to 5.39 in 1995. Haefren Baum’s land investment has remained constant over this period, but buildings and equipment investments have changed, again a result from the building of the three outlet stores. Inventory days  show and increase from 103 in 1993 to 129 in 1995. Such a dramatic change shows that the firm is getting less efficient in managing its inventory, which could be a result of increasing competition throughout the industry. The average collection period has also shown significant increases, going from 53 days in 1993 to 77 days in 1994 and 1995. It seems that Haefren Baum has had difficulty obtaining capital due from customers. The overall operations of the company seem to be lacking proper efficiency due to the increase in inventory days and average collection period. The negative values for net income and results from the previous sentence conclude why the firm has seen a decrease and negative values for ROE and ROA. Financial Analysis: Haefren Baum’s strategy of selling product at lower prices seems to be ineffective in generating profits. The firm’s operating activities can be misleading, although it seems that it’s improving, the net figures are still negative. The increase in investing activities is explained by the recent construction of outlets, and is shown in the buildings and equipment account. The recent buyout from the other investors is shown in the payables from stockholders. Financing activities seem to be the source of funding for the firm. Haefren Baum’s liquidity has been mildly volatile. The current ratios for the firm have changed from 2.26 in 1993 to 2.53 in 1995. Accounts payable days saw a major increase going from 49 days in ’93, to 65 days in ’94. Although Wiegandt has been flexible with credit terms, Baum is far exceeding the net 30 terms and is not taking advantage of any discounts. Haefren Baum is showing high leverage risk with its debt to equity ratio of 5.84%, this is a problem due to the large debt compared to equity owned. The NPM of the company is zero, due to the failure to generate profits. The GPM, though positive, shows a steady decline in profitability. Haefren Baum is primarily using financing activities to maintain operations of the business. They are basically staying alive by debt, and will need to re-evaluate its processes to stay in business. Summary: Haefren Baum has been severely impacted by competition and the value of its inventory stemming from the economic downturn in 1993. The firm is producing negative cash flows and in turn producing zero profits. The construction and  building of the new outlet stores have no sales support and are eating profits with staggering mortgage cost. The firm needs to be more effective and efficient with inventory and credit lines. Arranging new credit terms in order to receive discounts and improve margins are in order for the firm to generate profits.

The Paradox of Morgan le Fay

In Arthurian legend and Celtic myths, Morgan le Fay takes on a wide range of identities and personas – she is sister, sorceress, wise mother, implacable nemesis, and later, grieving goddess – making her one of the most paradoxical and dynamic characters in lore and literature. Charlotte Spivack notes in Popular Arthurian Traditions that Morgana le Fay, beautiful and nurturing, first appears in the works of Geoffrey of Monmouth, as one of â€Å"the nine sisters of the holy isle of Avalon† (18). In some texts, she is sister or half-sister to the King Arthur, and in other literature, it is he with whom she begets a child, Morgan (Joe). She is a benevolent figure in the earlier British romantic verses, and it is her remarkable healing powers that make her so. In The Grail from Celtic Myth to Christian Symbol, Arthurian scholar Roger Looms notes that â€Å"There is no attribute of Morgan's better authenticated than her power of healing† (161). In later literature, her identity starts to change and she is portrayed as â€Å"a malicious master of the black arts† (Spivack 18). Maureen Fries notes, in â€Å"Female Heroes, Heroines and Counter-Heroes: Images of Women in Arthurian Tradition† that her degeneration in the later retellings of the myths stems from society’s changing outlook, as her traits start as noble skills of a goddess, and then morphs into the destructive magic of witches and sorceresses (13). Her powers and her role center towards the destruction of King Arthur, and she comes up with several elaborate ploys to kill him, all of which fail, not for want of clever and diabolic planning, but of fate, as in the case of the assassin she sent, whose horse trips on a hole (Spivack 31). However, she reverts to her nurturing goddess role, again playing the role of healer and protector to King Arthur, whose fate ultimately leads him, in his final moments, to her grieving care in the isle of Avalon (Fries 13). Although portraying a range of roles and intentions, it is the contradictions of Morgan le Fay that make her resonate in the Arthurian legends. Works Cited Fries, Maureen. â€Å"Female Heroes, Heroines and Counter-Heroes: Images of Women in Arthurian Tradition.† Popular Arthurian Traditions. Ed. Sally K. Slocum. Bowling Green, OH: Popular Press, 1992. Joe, Jimmy. â€Å"Morgan Le Fay.† Timeless Myths: Arthurian Women. 24 June 1999. 03 May 2008. ;http://www.timelessmyths.com/arthurian/women.html#Morgan;. Loomis Roger Sherman. The Grail from Celtic Myth to Christian Symbol. New York: Columbia University Library, 1965. Spivack, Charlotte. â€Å"Morgan le Fay: Goddess or Witch?† The Company of Camelot: Arthurian Characters in Romance and Fantasy. Eds. Charlotte Spivack and Roberta Lynne Staples. Westport, CT: Greenwood Press, 1994.

Free Essays on Market

In his poem â€Å"Market,† Robert Hayden portrays a world in which the disparities between the rich and poor are immense and the desire of the poor for charity and mercy goes unmet. Rich and poor mix in this diverse market, but the rich do not help those in need. Hayden juxtaposes a poor, starving, â€Å"barefoot cripple,† who represents poor people in third-world nations, with the healthy and powerful tourists, who represent people in prosperous imperialistic nations, who have â€Å"walked on seas of money.† Despite a market scene full of life, waste abounds. Hayden papayas too ripe† , â€Å" rooting oranges† and, fragrant lilies and rooting flesh. Hayden demonstrates how, though there is much food available for purchase, it grows â€Å"too ripe†. Likewise, the turkeys on display are still alive because the natives cannot afford to buy them. This is analogous to many underdeveloped nations, who, despite having a wealth of resources, are unable to utilize them to their fullest potential due to a multitude of causes ranging from corrupt governments to foreign economic imperialism and capitalism. These poor countries, much as the beggars in the market, lack the economic autonomy to change their fate. The hungry and the beggar scrounge on the dirty ground searching for scraps. He asks for money from tourists. He is so desperate that his hunger isâ€Å"suppliant before the altars of mamey, pineapple, and mango†. He is crippled and he is jealous of tourists who have walked â€Å"on seas of money† their whole lives. It seems that he is comparing the tourists to God just as Christians think of Jesus as their savior, so do the beggar thinks that these rich tourists have the ability to save him from his poverty and suffering. The beautiful scent of carnations and lilies thinly veil the stench of a â€Å"dripping flyblown carcass† beneath them. The beggar is left to starve and compete with the â€Å"starveling... Free Essays on Market Free Essays on Market In his poem â€Å"Market,† Robert Hayden portrays a world in which the disparities between the rich and poor are immense and the desire of the poor for charity and mercy goes unmet. Rich and poor mix in this diverse market, but the rich do not help those in need. Hayden juxtaposes a poor, starving, â€Å"barefoot cripple,† who represents poor people in third-world nations, with the healthy and powerful tourists, who represent people in prosperous imperialistic nations, who have â€Å"walked on seas of money.† Despite a market scene full of life, waste abounds. Hayden papayas too ripe† , â€Å" rooting oranges† and, fragrant lilies and rooting flesh. Hayden demonstrates how, though there is much food available for purchase, it grows â€Å"too ripe†. Likewise, the turkeys on display are still alive because the natives cannot afford to buy them. This is analogous to many underdeveloped nations, who, despite having a wealth of resources, are unable to utilize them to their fullest potential due to a multitude of causes ranging from corrupt governments to foreign economic imperialism and capitalism. These poor countries, much as the beggars in the market, lack the economic autonomy to change their fate. The hungry and the beggar scrounge on the dirty ground searching for scraps. He asks for money from tourists. He is so desperate that his hunger isâ€Å"suppliant before the altars of mamey, pineapple, and mango†. He is crippled and he is jealous of tourists who have walked â€Å"on seas of money† their whole lives. It seems that he is comparing the tourists to God just as Christians think of Jesus as their savior, so do the beggar thinks that these rich tourists have the ability to save him from his poverty and suffering. The beautiful scent of carnations and lilies thinly veil the stench of a â€Å"dripping flyblown carcass† beneath them. The beggar is left to starve and compete with the â€Å"starveling...

How to Use a Volumetric Flask

How to Use a Volumetric Flask A volumetric flask is a piece of laboratory glassware that is used to prepare and measure chemical solutions. It is used to make up a solution to a known volume. Volumetric flasks measure volumes much more precisely than beakers and Erlenmeyer flasks. How to Recognize a Volumetric Flask A volumetric flask is characterized by a bulb and a long neck. Most volumetric flasks have flattened bottoms so that they can be placed on a lab bench or other surface, though some volumetric flasks have rounded bottoms and must be handled with special protective equipment. How to Use a Volumetric Flask To prepare a solution in a volumetric flask, follow these steps: Measure and add the solute for the solution.Add enough solvent to dissolve the solute.Continue to add solvent until you near the line marked on the volumetric flask.Use a pipette or dropper to fill the volumetric flask, using the meniscus of the solution and the line on the flask to determine your endpoint.Seal the volumetric flask and invert it to thoroughly mix the solution.

Leadership and Symbolism Assignment Example | Topics and Well Written Essays - 500 words

Leadership and Symbolism - Assignment Example As it is common to most leaders, leadership involves persuading people to follow a common goal which is of importance to an organization, or a group. For this reason, leadership is mainly seen as a persuasion. For persuasion to take effect by a leader to the followers, there must be communication. Communication is, on the other hand, the transfer of symbols by the leadership so that the followers can perceive it well and bring understanding that is capable of enforcing leadership commands (Vickery, 2012). Symbolic framework provides space for inspirational leadership that is capable of turning around an organization, especially in terms of creating a culture of highly motivated employees after the employees have been demotivated through layoffs, terminations and going through issues of lack of trust. Starcorp as a company has undergone employee layoffs, terminations as well as issues of lack of trust on their leaders brought about by their previous leaders. At the same time, as Starc orp is now faced with the new NASA project that they need to take up, there is great need of making the employees work in harmony and in motivation as that is the only way to produce good results from their new project. It is easy for employees to lose trust on their leaders when they see them laying off other workers and terminating their contracts. When such have happened, there is need for leadership that can give assurance to the employees about their job security as well as better pay in order to make them motivated once again.

Strategic Innovation In Marketing Essay Example | Topics and Well Written Essays - 750 words

Strategic Innovation In Marketing - Essay Example Following the theory of Pasa and Shugan (1996. pp379), every large and established organization should hire specialist marketing expertise to reduce the risk of mistakes in marketing process thus leading to large damages due to sheer size. The author wishes to discuss some examples of such mistakes that a large & stable organization can commit in absence of specialist marketing expertise. What should be the knowledge & skills, style of working, mentoring and risk-taking attitude of the marketing specialist in order to avoid the risks of mistakes discussed herewith? This is the first set of discussion points proposed by the author. Woodman and Sawyer et al. (1993. pp309-310) presented "enablers" of innovation and creativity in an organization that finally leads to organization-wide creativity. These enablers have been mentioned. The author hereby proposes to discuss how these enablers can be planned and implemented in an organization. Does this require specialist & dedicated skills in an organization – like knowledge managers? This is the second set of discussion points proposed by the author. Connor (1999. pp1157-1158) justified that short-term strategies essentially are customer oriented and long-term strategies are essentially market-oriented. The author proposes a discussion to justify this. Is this classification applicable on retail markets only or else they are applicable in markets requiring long-term project or service engagements? This is the third set of discussion points proposed by the author.... They proved their hypotheses stating that organization can benefit out of individual creative performance if the group norms support open sharing of information, high risk taking behaviours, reward systems, and employment of organic organizational designs like matrix, collateral group structures, etc. The researchers argued that organizations can benefit out of the innovations and creative thinking by establishing "Enhancers" that promote them in the individuals & groups - like culture, strategy, structure, resources, rewards, funds, technology, etc. Professor Stephen Brown advocates for use of creativity techniques within an organization like brainstorming (group level), brain mapping (individual level), visualization, attribute listing, etc. Professor Stephen Brown argues that the innovators should imagine needs of customers that are not yet tapped and imagine new innovative offerings that can fulfill them. Connor (1999. pp1157-1158) argues that the innovations should be a mix of short term strategies as well as long term strategies whereby short term strategies are customer oriented and long term strategies are market oriented. They argued that companies should establish both customer oriented and market oriented strategies. This makes the innovation paradigm more complex as the output need to be an "innovation mix" for the business that can vary with the type of orientation being addressed. Companies with long term planning may be developing more innovative ideas but they cannot survive just by thinking long term as the show will carry on with the help of short term strategies. Professor Stephen Brown was largely criticizing the customer orientation whereby