Retail Purchasing and Supply Chain ( about Zara ) read the case study Essay

Retail Purchasing and Supply Chain ( about Zara ) read the case study and answer the questions 1 and 2 - Essay Example The buying decision process at Zara Zara produces wears for the global consumer market; thus, the need to understand the buying process towards the fashion offers becomes a necessity in order to ensure that all programs target the needs of the consumer (Evans, et al 2004, p. 23). The garment store establishes that the emerging trends in the consumer market pose the feeling of deprivation as the female gender seeks to match with the prevailing trends in the market. For example, the company recognizes that the consumers realize that there is need to access the most current fashion on seeing other influential characters wear the item. In most cases, Zara depicts the consumer needs through fashion advertisements in the television media and analyzes that there could be relative consumer needs in the global market (Pahl and Mohring, 2008, p. 40). Therefore, Zara establishes consumer need recognition as the first approach the consumers take towards the company’s programs. Zara unders tands that consumers search for the right information concrning the emerging fashion trends. The company establishes that different sources of information may serve to deviate or enhance consumer knowledge and understanding; thus, the best initiative that the company establishes should focus on availing effective information (Evans, et al., 2004, p. 30). Zara creates an informative flow that affects efficiency in reaching the customers at the right time. The company depends on online and television advertisements to relay information to the consumers at a critical time, when the consumer seeks for the available fashions as advertised in the television shows. In response to the growing consumer anxiety to access information, Zara designs relevant fashions and distributes them throughout the chain stores while ensuring effective advertisement of the offer. This aspect tames consumer loyalty; thus, with the emergence of new fashion trends, the fashion consumer segments tend to search i nformation on Zara’s line of offer (Toru, 2007, p. 12). The clothing company researches and implements that the fashion business does not eradicate the problem of evaluation of alternatives as consumers seek to access the best offers out of the emerging trends (Rosenbloom, 2009, p. 70). Information linkages are turning the world into a global market place, and thus the consumer gains access to an effective criterion of assessing the value preposition of a trend over another. Zara establishes the aspect that the global consumer may vary its products with those of the H&M and other close competitors. However, this fails to yield consequential pressure over the company based on the delivery criteria (Evans, et al., 2004, p. 34). Although this is not a dependant aspect in marketing, Zara improves it through ensuring quality and progressive innovation, which controls all perceptions of the global consumer to assume that Zara offers the desired products duly and to the anticipated status. Consumers seem to establish different buying decisions with effect to their distinct perceptions towards products. The fashion market depicts convergence in the buying decisions as outweighing the differences. For example, the Zara company outlets tend to offer standardized products in the different countries they operate

Resposibilities and Relationships in the Lifelong Learning Sector Essay Example for Free

Resposibilities and Relationships in the Lifelong Learning Sector Essay It is the responsibility of the teacher to make the teaching area a safe and fair environment to learn in and teachers should be aware of, and keep up to date with key legislation relating to this. The Health and Safety at Work Act (1974) covers a number of duties relating to teaching and learning. Risk assessments should be carried out and risks properly controlled to ensure a safe working environment. Besides the Health and Safety at Work Act itself there are important pieces of legislation that would apply to a sewing workroom environment. 1. Provision and Use of Work Equipment Regulations. 1998: require that equipment provided for use at work, including machinery is safe. 2. Manual Handling Operations Regulations 1992: cover the moving of objects by hand or bodily force. 3. Electricity at Work Regulations 1989: require people in control of electrical systems to ensure they are safe to use and in a safe condition. The Equality Act (2010) aims to eliminate discrimination based on age, disability, race, religion, belief, gender and sexual orientation. It places a duty on teachers to make reasonable adjustments for disabled people. It also provides protection against discrimination relating to pregnancy and maternity. Teachers must also adhere to the Children Act (2004) that places a statutory duty on them to make arrangements to safeguard the welfare of children. The Act gives responsibility to local authorities to make enquiries when anyone contacts them with concerns about child abuse. The aim is for every child, whatever there background or circumstances, to have the support to: Be healthy Stay safe Enjoy and achieve Make a positive contribution Achieve economic well-being ii) Following the Further Education Workforce Reforms 2007 New Regulatory Requirements state that all new teachers are to hold or acquire within a specified period of time: A ‘Preparing to teach in the Lifelong Learning Sector’ (PTLLS) award or its equivalent as a minimum license to teach for all who have an element of teaching in their role irrespective of job title; and either A diploma in teaching Level 5 status for those in a teaching role; or A Certificate in Teaching in the lifelong learning sector at Level 3 or 4 All new teachers must demonstrate through professional practice that they meet the standards and can use effectively the skills and knowledge acquired in teacher training. iii)The Institute for Learning (IFL) is an independent professional body for teachers, trainers, tutors and trainee teachers across the FE and skills sector. It has a code of conduct which outlines the behavior expected of its members. Briefly it states that members shall: Behave with Professional Integrity Respect the rights of learners and colleagues Take reasonable care to ensure the safety and welfare of learners Provide evidence of CPD according to IFL policy and Professional Practice guidelines Ensure disclosure of any cautioning or conviction of a criminal offence Be responsible for acting in accordance with the conditions of membership and assisting the Institute with any investigation. b) Boundaries The Teaching or Training Cycle consists of five processes namely: Identifying Needs The purpose is to identify if the students face any barriers which may affect their learning or if they have any additional needs. There are many ways to do this and could involve; looking at their initial application if one is completed before the course starts, an informal discussion, observation during a class activity or by an initial test or assessment. It is also important to ensure that the student is on the correct course and to offer any advice perhaps with funding or travel referring them if necessary. The process will also help with the planning of the course as it will help the Tutor design a course suitable for the skills and experience of individual class members. Plan and Design Learning – This stage involves the planning of the content of the course. A scheme of work will be designed to plan the content of each session and lesson plans devised to organize them in more detail. When possible agreeing individual learning plans can be agreed with students and contingency plans made to take into account different needs of the learners. This would also be the opportunity to prepare learning resources and activities. Risk assessments need to be carried out and all attempts made to create a safe, positive and accessible learning environment. Deliver – A Teacher should be well organized, well prepared and enthusiastic when delivering a lesson. They should be able to communicate appropriately and effectively and act and speak appropriately. It is essential to promote equality, value diversity and teach in an inclusive and engaging way with a good sense of humour. Assess Work needs to be assessed within a reasonable time to check that the students have gained the necessary skills and knowledge. Use a variety of assessment methods and keep a record of achievements. Feedback should always be constructive and given within a reasonable time. Evaluate – A programme should always be evaluated in order to improve the teaching and learning process. To evaluate how well the programme was planned and delivered feedback should be encouraged, accepted and acted upon. The teacher should encourage student development and progression as well as maintaining their own teacher development and professional currency. (GRAVELLS 2012) There are boundaries within which a teacher must work and it is important not to overstep these by becoming too personal with the students. It is also important to know where the role of teacher stops and to work within the limits of that role. Some examples are: If a teacher identified that a student was struggling to attend classes because they couldn’t afford the bus fare it would be inappropriate to lend them money. In this instance the student should be referred to the student support staff or the financial support staff. If a teacher was planning a class but found the room had insufficient access to equipment or resource’s it would be unacceptable to voice their concerns to the students. This would be unprofessional, they should address it to the organization, or change the lesson plan to accommodate the resource’s available. Students may choose to confide in their teacher about personal issues and, although a teacher should be understanding and sympathetic, it is important that they maintain a professional role. The student could be referred to a councillor, pastoral staff or support staff depending on the issue concerned. They should avoid getting involved in the personal lives of their students. When assessing students it is important that teachers are fair in their judgments. They should not bebiased towards or against any one student. When evaluating the teaching and learning programme the teacher should be able to listen to and react to feedback in order to improve. If in doubt about the boundaries of their role a teacher should seek advice. This could be from another teacher, a colleague, their line manager or their mentor. c. Points of Referral A teacher may encounter learners with varying degrees of needs. They may be able to deal with some of these needs but some may need the support of other professionals. A Support Worker will help a learner with additional needs. They will have had special training in the particular field required by that learner which the teacher won’t have had and will be able to support them in or outside the classroom setting. There may be a student whose first language isn’t English and has trouble understanding the lesson so there may be a need to work with an interpreter A teacher may also need to work alongside external agencies like the Job Centre. The students may be leaving the learning environment and looking for work and the Job Centre will have the advice and information that they need. d)Promoting Appropriate Behavior i) Having a preventative strategy is a good way to promote appropriate behavior in a lesson. Be prepared and waiting for the learners in the classroom so you can take control of the space and organize it as you wish. Getting the student’s attention with an interesting starter activity shows that you are in control of the class. Present the aims and objectives and share the session plan explaining the purpose and reason for studying it. When planning a lesson ensure there is plenty of variety as students are more likely to behave well if they are stimulated and are not bored. You should have realistic expectations of your class for example, don’t expect a room full of teenagers to sit still through an hour-long power point presentation quietly. ii) Decide for yourself what rules and procedures would create a good atmosphere in your class and will maximize learning. Explain that you want an effective, fair and happy classroom and discuss the rules with the class. There will be rules that are non negotiable for example regarding safety or turning up on time but be prepared to negotiate and compromise to get commitment on others. Encourage the learners to contribute to the rules and procedures. Students are more likely to adhere to rules they have been instrumental in creating. Consider asking the class to devise their own rules and if you reject a popular suggestion be prepared to explain why to justify your decision. The aim is to get the students onboard with the rules and procedures and see them as their own; they will then see them as worth keeping and enforcing. iii) It is important to develop a good rapport with the students as this creates a more positive attitude towards the teacher and to learning. It will also turn the classroom into a co-operative team and reduce antagonism. Get to know the students on a personal level, learn their names and use them. Learn something about each student like what they like to do in their spare time, their hobbies, interests or work and refer to it in conversation. These small details will make the students feel noticed, valued and liked by the teacher and therefore more co-operative. (PETTY 2006)

Universal Acceptance of Hamlet by William Shakespeare Essay -- Hamlet

Universal Acceptance of Hamlet by William Shakespeare The tragedy and situation in the play ‘Hamlet’ has been commented on as ‘universal.’ Audiences of many different cultures can enjoy ‘Hamlet’ even though it is set in an alien culture to them. The reasons for this are that many people can relate to the play, they feel that they are living though a profound experience, even if nothing in the plot of Hamlet has ever happened to them. The experience of ‘Hamlet’ is not restricted to the plot and its characters. A large factor in this universal acceptance is that the main character, Hamlet, around whom the entire play revolves, is realist and ‘universal’ himself. In this Hamlet is merely a reflection of aspects found in all men, he is a symbol for how any man would act given the situation. If he reacts the way you would react, that makes him a very easy to relate to and sympathetic character. This does not mean that Hamlet reflects the common man and his action, or Rosencrantz and Guildenstern would be more probable ‘universal men.’ Hamlet reflects what the common man wishes and feels he could do if he were given the chance. Hamlet is 'superhuman' in this sense. He is able to find the strength to act though his tragic situation with out giving in to easier ways and temptations along the way. Rosencrantz and Guildenstern are more common man than universal, for though they have loyalty to Hamlet as they have been his friends for many years, they still have their own ambition. (Gertrude) â€Å"Your visitation may receive such thanks As fits a king’s remembrance†¦ (Rosencrantz) by the sovereign power you have of us,†¦ (Guildenstern) Heaven make our presence and our practices Pleasant and helpful to him! [Hamlet]† (Act1, Scene2) They make a choice, and like Judas, they make the ‘wrong’ one. They do not stand strong and faithful to Hamlet, but act on King Claudius’s behalf, in hope of recognition. This is a ‘common’ man’ action, to take the favorable route on the behalf of personal interest. Hamlet’s main appeal is that he is trapped into a cycle, but he takes the noble and faithful action to affront the situation, leaving no doubt to the audience that he is in the right. Though Hamlet is in a sense 'superhuman,' he is still human and easy to relate to for he does have flaws. He is not the shining hero riding in on a white horse to save the day, he... ...ample Hamlet forgives Laertes, yet kills him. Therefore Hamlet can not give punishment without commit crime. As a result the cycle starts again, against Hamlet this time. The crime is committed, and the ‘Commits the crime and must suffer for it’ role acts again. Hamlet is forced into the cycle over which he can have no control. In being the punisher Hamlet must also be punished. In this Hamlet may symbolise an aspect that many people feel, that they are locked into cycle that they cannot escape. Hamlet is therefore a symbol of the ‘universal man.’ He does not reflect the common man’s actions and deeds, but what the common man could possible do if given the chance. He represents the inner strengths of humanity, the virtues that they are capable of achieving. Yet he still remains truly human, making mistakes and being unable to escape the greater cycles and powers that exist. Hamlet may not reflect every man that exists, he reflects a part within them that exists. Hamlet is not the common man, but this is not due to his sovereignty, education, manners or upbringing. It is due to his ability to access his inner strength and do the right thing, even when the odds are against him.

Agricultural Policy and the European Union :: Political Politics

Agricultural Policy and the European Union Discuss the relative merits/demerits of an agricultural policy oriented to price reform rather than one based upon structural reorganisation "The common market shall extend to agriculture and trade in agricultural products. 'Agricultural products' means the products of the soil, of stock-farming and of fisheries and products of first-stage processing directly related to these products....The operation and development of the common market for agricultural products must be accompanied by the establishment of a common agricultural policy among the Member States" (1) >From the beginning of the European Union, EU policy has given emphasis to the agricultural sector. To this end, a Common Agricultural Policy (CAP) was established in 1963. (2) Provisions for this policy were made in the Treaty of Rome. The aims of this policy were to increase agricultural productivity, to ensure a fair standard of living for the agricultural community, to stabilise markets and to ensure reasonable prices for the consumer. (3) This is unusual in the context of the Treaty of Rome which provided for free trade and movement of resources. Agriculture was ill-adapted for this approach. Protection was given, not only by customs duties, but also by a variety of agricultural policies. This essay will discuss the merits and demerits of a the pre-1992 CAP with its emphasis on price reform, in comparison with the post-1992 CAP which was oriented to structural reform. It cannot be denied that there were merits of the pre-1992 price reform policy. There was a bountiful food supply with an increased variety and quantity of food. Farmer's yields increased, particularly the large farmers. Producers were protected from the external market due to community preference and, therefore, domestic agriculture could develop. There were also spin offs in food production. Although some of the policies created good returns for farmers, the demerits of said policies far outweighed any advantages they had. The core-periphery divide was widened, quantity became more important than quality and consumers had to pay higher prices. Agricultural practices caused damage to the environment and international trading relations were strained. Until 1993 the EU rarely supported farmers by paying them direct subsidies from the taxpayers. (4) Instead the 30 billion ECU (and often more) was spent in the buying up of surplus commodities at minimum official prices and was also used to pay subsidies to traders to sell surpluses on the lower-priced world markets. (5) During the 1960's the price system was devised. The first problem with price policies is that of fluctuating and differing exchange rates. "Green Money" was the first solution to be developed to counter the problem of differing exchange rates.

Social Work Student

In this essay I will discuss how I feel that I have developed personally and professionally as a social work student during the first level of the degree course. I will do this through examination of reflective accounts recorded during the placement learning opportunity. I believe that the use of reflection has been very significant in enhancing my personal skills and learning about my own values. I also believe that the course has instilled me with more self awareness and has given me a better understanding of how I am perceived by others.I have learned that through anti oppressive practice, social workers are able to promote inclusion by challenging discrimination and inequalities. In this essay, I will examine the methods, tools, and techniques that I have learned to date. I will conclude by discussing my particular learning needs and plan for the remainder of the course. As part of this, I will consider my learning style and the necessary methods I will utilise to bridge the lear ning gaps. As well as benefiting from the academic aspects of the course, I believe that the work placement has been hugely significant in my personal and professional development.During the placement learning opportunity I was based with a social worker in a small unit attached to a hospital. The unit specialises in palliative care services to patients and carers who are affected by life threatening illnesses. I was also fortunate to have the opportunity to liaise with many other agencies that were in some way related to the organisation. During the first year of the course I have become more aware of the importance of personal and professional development.I agree with Thompson (2002), who states that the development of personal and professional skills is fundamental to becoming a competent social worker and making the transition from student to practitioner. Therefore professional development is essential to social work students and practitioners to increase and revise their knowl edge and skills. Attention must be paid to enhancing our abilities to ensure progression occurs on a professional and a personal front. It is important that individuals develop professionally.Taylor emphasizes this (2010, pg 66) by quoting that ‘students or qualified  practitioners cannot solely rely upon personal experience’. He continues with ‘we need to develop our professional knowledge, otherwise conducting our practices solely upon personal experiences will run the risk of bias’ Professionally, I feel I have matured by transferring skills from previous employments to my present role of student. Throughout my working career I have had experience working in nursing and palliative care. Although these are loosely related to social work by virtue of being in the healthcare industry, when I embarked on the course, I didn’t feel that I had the necessary experience to draw from.However, I have progressively grown to realise that there are indeed som e key skills that I have be able to transfer and apply to this social work degree course and in the placement. I believe that another area of improvement in my professional development is my understanding of principles and key concepts in social work practice such as poverty, social exclusion, and accountability. I have a much deeper comprehension of values including empowerment, rights, respect, confidentiality and honesty. I am able to integrate them into all aspects of social work training and am highly aware of the issues surrounding conflicting values.I am much more familiar with the Codes of Practice for Wales (2003) as a result of identifying them and relating them to practice. In relation to professional development, it is also suggested in the Codes of Practice (2003) that as social care workers, we must ‘undertake relevant training to maintain and improve knowledge and skills to contributing to the learning and development of others’. During my work placement period, I was involved in meetings with many different people working in different streams of the organisation. Additionally, the work placement has also helped me understand how multi-professions collaborate.This has helped me start to appreciate the diversity of a social workers role. From a professional perspective, I also believe that the ECDL training courses have been very beneficial. I envisage that the day to day work of a social worker will involve the use of software such as Microsoft Word for reports etc. I also believe that a basic understanding of software such as Microsoft PowerPoint will be very useful for creating professional presentations. The academic aspects of the course will hopefully prepare me for the professional demands of social work as my knowledge gradually builds over the remainder of the course.In addition to this, self reflection, planning, self evaluation and academic learning such as lectures, essay writing, work placement, will help me succeed in b ecoming a responsible, assertive social worker. As far as my personal development is concerned I feel that there has been a marked improvement in my contribution to discussions and debates. Although some of the subject areas discussed have been extremely challenging, such as issues related to children, I feel that over the year I have started to feel that I have a lot more to offer as my understanding of the subject matter has increased.I feel better placed to question and challenge other people’s opinions on ethical matters and am also far more confident when having to make presentations to the group. I also feel that advancements in my personal development are vital. Thompson (2002, pg66) discusses the importance of it, ‘it is just as important as professional development. Learning provides us with a basis for personal growth and development by facilitating and encouraging self awareness. It also helps us to promote self esteem and a positive self image’.As a s tudent, I understand that I am responsible for my own personal and professional development in conjunction with the material delivered on the course. It is important that I continue to improve my standard of practice by embracing all types of learning opportunities available. Social work is a profession that continues to change and develop rapidly Trevithick (2002). Social workers are involved with individuals who are often in situations where there is high risk, complexity, stress, uncertainty and conflicts. Analytical skills and knowledge are required to assess and make judgement in these situations.Legislation and research is constantly changing and it is imperative that social workers are well informed of any modifications. If we don’t develop personally and professionally and do not keep pace of these changes we will increasingly become more and more out of touch with the reality of clients lives and therefore less equipped to undertake our duties (Thompson 2009). Reflec tion has been described as being central to good social work practice, but only if action results from that reflection (Horner 2007). Having the ability to reflect appropriately and effectively is a vital component to developing professionally and maturing personally.Reflective practice is imperative because practitioners have important roles and the decision we make about service uses should be thoroughly thought through. Reflection helps us to minimise risk and to prevent adopting ‘off the peg’ solutions to practice (Thompson 2009). Reflection supports developing our knowledge and learning from the errors of practice. We can develop ways in which we can empower individuals, be anti discriminatory and have anti oppressive approaches to practice. Interrogation of our actions will provide us with critical feedback and help us assess and evaluate our learning, ultimately enhancing our practice (Oko 2008).Schon (1991) as cited in Adams et al (2009) breaks down the notion o f reflective practice. Firstly, reflection-in-action involves reflecting as the action proceeds. This will evidently help us to identify new aspects of the situation and thinking them through while proceeding with the action. Secondly, Schon writes about reflection-on-action which involves considering what and why something happened after the event has occurred and the importance of translating this information into knowledge (Knott and Scragg 2010).Reflection is a tool that has allowed me to articulate knowledge from theory in a more meaningful way. I recognize that reflection does not always provide answers but does lead to new understanding. It has helped me challenge the reality of theory whilst on placement and through actual experience. An example I can demonstrate this with is that in social work theory, services should be needs-led as opposed to resource-led (Trevithick 2002). However in reality, resource constraints that operate in some local authorities make this unrealist ic. In reality demands far exceed the supply.Reflecting back on the experience of the placement and working in palliative care, at times I did feel quite tense and despondent. I had not worked intensively in those settings for some time and in some ways it was a relief as the placement came to an end, not to be discussing death, diagnosis and prognosis. I often questioned how my practice assessor managed to achieve goals and practice effectively whilst dealing with such emotive cases. There was one occasion when chatting with a service user who had had a terminal diagnosis, she became quite open and frank about her prognosis.I didn’t feel that I was fully prepared for her to start discussing her prognosis with me. Whilst, I felt very uncomfortable having the conversation I did remain professional and controlled. I was concerned that she may become distressed or that I would not manage the situation appropriately. Looking back on this experience, I am much more aware of the im portance of reflecting upon emotions and hopefully this will help me to manage emotive situations appropriately in future. Self awareness is a way in which we are able to explore our own personalities, traits, beliefs, inclinations, values and tendencies (Oko 2008).It is important that we are aware and are able to observe ourselves and the image that we portray to others. Without effective self awareness skills I am not going to be conscious of the ways in which I influence people and the signals I indirectly transmit. Self awareness will also allow me to build upon areas of strength and identify areas that may need addressing. Unless social workers are able to be aware of areas of vulnerability it is likely that they will be unable to react and respond to the service user objectively (Taylor 2008). Whilst on placement I encountered a service user’s son who was a substance misuser.I have previously worked in a drug rehabilitation centre and my experiences of the center were n ot good as I was threatened and intimidated on many occasions. Whilst observing the situation on placement I quickly became annoyed and frustrated by him. At the time, I felt that he was selfish bearing in mind his mothers terminal illness. I found myself thinking about my job in the rehab center which brought back uncomfortable memories. I did not write or discuss this with my practice assessor as I didn’t want to dedicate any time thinking about such negative experiences.On reflection, I now understand that it is my responsibility to confront such issues otherwise I will not successfully continue as a competent social worker student. I am aware that this encounter triggered an inappropriate reaction and I am committed to resolving these issues. Lishman 1994 as cited in Trevithick (2000) pg 84 states that failure to be self aware and confront such issues will lead to ‘falling into pockets of distress that will lead to inattention, poor listening and inappropriate actio ns’.I am able to see the connection between self awareness and managing prejudice, discrimination and oppressive practice. I am aware that I did not have a great deal of empathy for particular groups in society and before the course started admittedly I did feel that certain individuals in society may have contributed to the crisis’s that they found themselves in. I felt that these citizens did not require prioritization or merit support and guidance from a care service as I felt that there were other more deserving individuals.I have grown to understand that my judgments and thoughts were unjustified. By being more self aware and using reflection, I am able to be clear of my own values and how they may shape my practice. As I progress, I feel that by working with these groups of people that I will to grow to understand how and why individuals find themselves in these situations. I will continue to strive to develop my knowledge and hopefully as I progress, I will take time to educate myself and learn more about human behaviour. Whilst on placement, I was unaware of any form of oppression or anysignificant injustice issues. Dominelli (1996) pg states that ’anti oppressive practice is a form of social work practice which addresses social divisions and structural inequalities in the work that is done with people whether they are users (‘clients') or workers. AOP aims to provide more appropriate and sensitive services by responding to people's needs regardless of their social status’. Reflecting back I recall a situation that occurred with a service user who was terminally ill. He had expressed a wish to die at home.Whilst visiting the gentleman with my practice assessor, a community healthcare professional was present. It became apparent that the professional was eager for the service user to be admitted into hospital. She portrayed a negative image of being nursed at home and persistently pointed out the problems that she envis aged. I personally felt that this was because there would be a lot more pressure upon her workload to care for him and make the necessary calls throughout the day. It later became apparent that the community professional were experiencing difficulties with staff sicknesses.This was his final wish to die at home and in my opinion she was using her authority to influence him to be admitted for her own benefit. I believe that her workload pressured her to do this. He was disadvantaged, very poorly and with very little to strength to debate this issue with her. At the time, I didn’t connect this to oppressive practice where the other professional exercised inappropriate use of power. I am now more aware of issues surrounding continuing healthcare and funding. I now feel that I am much more alert to these issues and in the future I would question other individual’s actions.Anti oppressive practise begins with understanding myself and aspects of society were oppression is em bedded. As a social work student, I will strive to value and promote every human being and their rights to be respected. I will attempt to work towards combating oppressive practice by acting as an advocate and practice methods of inclusion. I will try to ensure that I do not contribute to such acts and will become more aware of social divisions, power differences and the relationship between the myself and service users (Adams et al).As part of my progression as a student, I have identified many areas that I need to address and expand upon during the remainder of the course. In order to successfully address these learning needs I have studied a learning model established by Kolb (1975). He suggests that there are four types of concepts that are needed to be effective learners. These include concrete experience, observation and reflection, abstract conceptualisation and active experimentation (Knott and Scragg 2010). I will attempt to adopt his hypothesis to make the learning proces s a more straightforward procedure.The main learning needs I have identified are firstly developing my understanding of theories and acknowledging the importance of the role that they play in practice. Initially I was apprehensive about making links but now I feel more confident as I approach the next stage. I wish to relate and recognize the connections between significant theories and social work thinking and practice and problem solving. I will achieve through this through lectures, reading and from practice on the level 6 placement. I also wish to become more aware of issues surrounding children and young people.More specifically, a deeper understanding of safeguarding issues and the legislation and policies related to this that shapes and guide social work duties. This will be achieved through lectures, learning actual legislation from books, documents and through placement (if this is the area in which I am allocated). I would also like to become more aware of social work in t he Welsh context and familiarise myself with cultures in Wales. The overall picture of the Welsh population is older, poorer and in worse health that the entire UK (Scourfield 2008).I want discover why this is the case and how it impacts upon social work practice. I also wish to learn more about different identities and ethnic groups living in Wales and develop a better understanding of the use of languages and how these compare to other regions in the UK. I also think it is important that I build upon my existing knowledge of the Codes of Practice for Wales (2003), and have the ability to instinctively relate them to practice. This will achieved through lectures, reading literature and hands on learning whilst in practice.In addition to trying to adopt the Kolb learning method, I completed a questionnaire to establish what type of learner I was. After reading Honey and Mumford (1995) literature I was not able to categorise myself into one particular learning style or preference but was able to relate to aspects of all categories. My knowledge and skills will develop with experience over the forthcoming years. I will take full advantage of placement to maximize my learning. I will try to become more observant of others by studying them.I will try to adopt good techniques and practice when I identify them and also to learn from bad practice. I will attempt to make the most of tutorials and supervision particularly in the discussion of emotive, stress and management issues. Additionally, I will try to develop and improve my reflective. To conclude it can be stated that personal and professional development is an essential part of social work practice. Due to the complex nature of social work and the diversity of human behaviour, it is imperative that students and qualified practitioners continue to progress alongside an ever changing society.Reflection is an important catalyst to support social workers in enhancing their practice. I am much more self aware and f amiliar with adopting anti- oppressive methods of practice. Whilst I am pleased with my progression to date, I am fully aware that I have many unmet learning needs which I hope to address throughout the remainder of the course. I am enthusiastic about the journey ahead and look forward to learning the skills that will enable me to launch my social work career.

Butternut

How to Collect Seeds and Plant Walnut / Butternut Now is the time to collect walnut and butternut seeds for planting this fall if you know how to identify them. Remember, after harvesting seeds, keep them moist for the entire time you store them - never let them dry out! They can also be planted the following spring. Husk or No Husk In theory, you can plant the seed with the husk. That is what nature does and seems to work okay. Still, you would be better served if you prepare the seed and husk or completely remove the hull. You can pour boiling water over the husks and let them soak overnight. Plant the soaked hull and seed the next day. Hulling Removing the husk increases the germination rate of walnut and butternut seeds but can become a big job if you have a large volume. There are mechanical hullers you can rent or purchase. The best way to de-hull small seed batches is to refrigerate in plastic bags for two or three weeks and until the husk turns black. The hull will wash off with a water hose under high pressure. Extended storage can drop the germination percentage if not done correctly so try to plant the seeds this fall (preferably the day after hulling). Preparing Seeds Most experts agree that the seeds will do just fine without scarification. Some say that the natural temperature cycle through the winter gives the seed the cold it needs but others recommend refrigeration for 3 months and planting in the spring (stratification). Planting Plant the nuts in an open area at a depth of one to two times their thickness. Mulching will help as you do not want the seed to freeze. Chicken wire over the planted seeds will deter digging rodents.

Lifes What Ifs

Lifes What Ifs Free Online Research Papers Planning and budgeting for lifes normal living expenses, i.e.; food, utilities, housing, medical insurance, and transportation, is fairly simple. It is the little what ifs that can run the train off the tracks. Getting on board with a budget is great as long as it is realized that Murphy could buy a ticket and jump on the train anytime. This is the first step in planning for the unexpected. Life throws out many challenges and being prepared is on of the most important things in having a budget. Irregular bills, such as; the ones due every six months, or the ones you can not predict, need extra planning for. Unexpected expenses like; auto repair, need of a new lawnmower, a roof that needs repair, an unexpected disability, or losing your job, can be devastating. (Unexpected Expenses Derail the Debt Reduction Train, 2008). While planning a budget it is besgt to list any irregular and unexpected expenses that may occur. Setting up a separate fund for Christmas and birthdays is a good idea also. This will help to keep from using credit to get gifts. (Unexpected Expenses Derail the Debt Reduction Train, 2008). Setting prioritiesin your budget will also help to pay what has to be paid first and you can see what is left for the what ifs. As lifes little unexpected occurences happen it is best to take as many precautions as possible. The best way to prevent a bad situation is to set up a fund fot the worst scenario. This fund is called the emergency fund. It needs to have at least three to six months necessary living expenses in it. The fund should be put into an accessible account in case an emergency does arrive. (How to Prepare for Lifes What Ifs, n.d.). If, after a budget has been set up, it looks like there is not enough to put into this fund, then revisiting avenues to cut back is wise. (Unexpected Expenses Derail the Debt Reduction Train, 2008). Being financially prepared will help in securing your credit score. In case of job loss, it could mean the difference in obtaining a new job, obtaining a new residence, or being accepted on a credit application. Having and managing a personal budget is one of the most important things to be done in lifes little what ifs. Research Papers on Life's What IfsTwilight of the UAWThe Project Managment Office SystemNever Been Kicked Out of a Place This NiceBionic Assembly System: A New Concept of SelfBook Review on The Autobiography of Malcolm XHip-Hop is ArtMind TravelGenetic EngineeringPersonal Experience with Teen PregnancyInfluences of Socio-Economic Status of Married Males

Advanced Word Formation Charts for ESL Learners - A

Advanced Word Formation Charts for ESL Learners - A Word formation is one of the keys to success for advanced level ESL learners. Advanced level English exams such as the TOEFL, First Certificate CAE and Proficiency use word formation as one of the key testing elements. These word formation charts provide the concept noun, personal noun, adjective and verb forms of key vocabulary listed in alphabetical order. Word Forms Concept noun Personal noun Adjective Verb absenteeismThe rate of absenteeism is rising in middle and high schools. absenteeWell send the absentees notes from the meeting. absent-mindedThe absent-minded professor wandered into the wrong classroom. to be absentUnfortunately, Ill be absent from class on Friday. accountingCan you take care of the accounting on this project? accountantIll need to ask my accountant for advice on this business deal. accountableDo you think we should hold everyone accountable for their mistakes? accountI think we should open a new bank account. accusationThe lawyer rebuffed the accusation and stated his case. accuser / accusedThe accuser should always try to understand the motivations of the accused. accusingHes an accusing figure in the company and needs to go! accuseDo you really want to accuse him of bribery? achievementThe victory was an amazing achievement. achieverAchievers tend to be outgoing people who dont mind making mistakes. achievedHis achieved status at the company was due to his work ethic. achieveShes achieved many things in very long career. addictionDrug addiction is a huge problem for many people around the world. addictThe addict struggled with drug abuse for many years. addictive/addictedYoull find that many addictive drugs are opiates. to become addictedA number of students have become addicted to so called study drugs administrationThe administration has made many mistakes over the past eight years. administratorThe head administrator will take your questions. administrativeAll administrative tasks are taken care of by human resources. administrateWe should use a third party to administrate our accounts. admirationShe showed a lot of admiration for her help. admirerHave you ever had a secret admirer? admired / admiringThe admiring young man stood and gazed. admireI enjoy going to the museum to admire fine art. advertisementThe advertisement was very entertaining. advertiserWe need to find an advertiser to help pay for expenses. advertisedThe advertised medicine didnt work as expected. advertiseHave you ever advertised your products online? adviceI think you should take his advice. adviserIm going to see my adviser next week on campus. advisoryThe advisory committee decided to postpone the decision. adviseWhat would you advise me to do? aggravationIve certainly had my fair share of aggravation. aggressorThe aggressor was caught and thrown into jail. aggravatingShe has an aggravating backache. aggravateI aggravated my brother with my remarks about his wife. agitationI felt a lot of agitation when I heard the news. agitatorThe agitator was taken to jail by the police. agitatedThe agitated citizen screamed at the reporter. agitateBe careful to not agitate the situation with your remarks. analysisThe analysis of the situation is very interesting. analystThe analyst was very expensive, but necessary for our case. analyticalHe cast an analytical eye on the situation. analyseDo you think you could analyse the evidence? antagonismShe felt his antagonism was misplaced. antagonistThe antagonist made a convincing case against the hero. antagonisticHer antagonistic attitude got her into trouble at work. antagonizeYoull be sorry if you antagonize them. arbitrationThe arbitration went on for three weeks. arbitratorThe arbitrator in the case made a decision. arbitraryI think he made an arbitrary decision that be ignored. arbitrateThe judge will arbitrate the case. assassinationThe assassination stunned the nation. assassinThe assassin was caught within three days. assassinatedThe country wept over the assassinated president. assassinateMost people could not assassinate anyone. authorizationI gave him complete authorization on the project. authorityHes an authority in his field. authoritarian / authoritativeHer authoritarian approach scared the students. authorizeCan you authorize this request?

Management Essay Example | Topics and Well Written Essays - 1250 words - 7

Management - Essay Example Traditionally Management was considered a process of leading and directing all or part of an organization, often a business, by deploying and manipulating resources. It was also defined as a process of getting things done through people. (Dabbah, R. 1999 p,15). The old traditional ways of managing are not applicable now. The old management practice was established on the assumption of human limitations as a basis for organizing. This assumption is so pervasive that it can be found in almost every aspect of conventional managing. Consequently it over-bureaucratized organizations. (Dabbah, R. (1999 p.15) In the new knowledge-driven economy, people have become organization’s most important asset. Well-trained and motivated people play important role in the development and execution of strategies. A Company needs people who can deliver. (Dabbah, R. (1999 p.16) Literature Review Contemporary management theories help to understand the changing nature of today’s organizational environments. These theories emphasize following points Managers should make a decision keeping in view all aspects of the current situation and act on those aspects that are key to the situation at hand. While managing organization look at all the resources such as raw materials, money, technologies and people. All these resources may be mobilized and utilized to achieve desired objectives. Management is not limited to business management only. Management is the specific and distinguishing organ of all organizations. The task of the manager is to lead people. And the goal is to make productive and specific strengths and knowledge of each individual. (Harris, P., Lock, A., & Rees, P. (Eds.). (2000)) Organizational Structure Organizational structure provides the basic template for the continuance of an organization's culture; i.e., norms, values, philosophies, and informal activities. Organizational culture provides both the organization and its members insight into "how things are done around here" If the current organizational design is "wrong" for the change, then either the desired change should be modified or the organizational structure should be redefined. Successful organizational change depends on more than simple cosmetic or surface changes; it requires changes at the core of the organization. Management's responsibility within an organization is to continually carry out three management functions: 1) planning; 2) controlling; and 3) organizing. Planning involves defining organizational objectives and developing the methods and resources by which they will be accomplished. Controlling is the process of developing, implementing and using feedback systems that provide continuous information on the success of all system elements that have been put in place in order to achieve the organizational goals. Organizing is the activity of designing and deciding upon the most appropriate organizational structure for achieving the organization's goals. Management of a Maritime Organization A maritime organization for example shipping company should have to operate in, and be responsible to, a number of different external environments. Let us take example of a leading international shipping company and analyze the proposition in given in above statement

Project Sponsorship and Leadership Research Paper

Project Sponsorship and Leadership - Research Paper Example Invigilation means the keeping watch over an individual with a sole purpose of preventing him or her from committing a fraud or crime (Singleton, 2010). The difference between interrogation and interviewing is that whereas suspects undergo interrogation witnesses are interviewed in order to gather relevant information. The other difference is that interviewing is done in a friendly environment whereas interrogation is conducted in a tense and uncomfortable environment which compels the suspect to give full truth he or she knows concerning a particular case. In addition interrogation is an art to be learnt but interviewing is not an art. In a fraud documents can be altered through modification, replacement of figure or other characters in order to change the particular script to convey different information. Alteration can also be done by crossing of characters in a voucher or any other document in order to deceive any reader of a particular document (Singleton, 2010). Hiding of assets can be in form of stashing cash in safes within residential homes, it can be in the form of giving extra payments to the creditors, reporting of less income especially on taxes due and buying of items that do not attract much attention. The forensic examiners and the accountant’s cal obtain needed data from the back-up database of particular information in case the hard copy has been destroyed or the soft copy hacked (Singleton, 2010). One of the benefits of strong interviewing and interrogating is that the interviewee and suspect are compelled to give the required facts within a short –span of time. The other advantage is that quality information is given to the interrogator and interviewer. The interviews involving frauds in financial statements and tax returns are handled differently because they involve huge amounts of cash and they are usually of hi-tech nature. Interviews c on be done on phone, through the virtual system especially when the interviewer and

Discussion Paper - Green Meetings Task Force Report Essay

Discussion Paper - Green Meetings Task Force Report - Essay Example Every sector of the event industry, is supposed to develop comprehensive environmental policies coupled with a strategy, in order to implement the environmental policy. There should also be constant communication between the management staff and auxiliary staff, regarding the stipulations of the environmental policy. Additional minimum measures include- recycling used products, purchasing environmental friendly products, performing routine maintenance checks on emissions, creating energy management programs to reduce energy consumption and generally avoiding wasting resources. Some suggestions put forward by the Council are easy to implement, such as- ensuring that all employees are properly informed regarding the measures of environmental sustainability, recycling and using biodegradable products. However, some of the measures are very difficult to implement. Such measures include- curbing the emissions of vehicles and using alternative fuel vehicles. The measures needed to be implemented, to create a sustainable environment, are very costly. The measures require a lot of capital to be implemented. Additionally, the measures require enormous support from the government. However, there is no political will from the government. These are some of the obstacles that may limit the implementation of the measures. The issue of environmental sustainability has been a hot topic globally. Therefore, I wish to ask a few questions regarding its possibility- Are the minimum measures adopted adequate? Have we reached a point of no return regarding

Republican vs. democratic views on a problem Essay

Republican vs. democratic views on a problem - Essay Example Democrats generally tend to take a more short-term approach to fixing the economy. When individuals in the nation are hurt by a weakened dollar or other negative environmental events, democrats begin looking toward ways to stabilize the lifestyles of the majority of citizens in the nation. Republicans support the efforts of corporate in the event of economic problems. This support would generally come in the form of business tax breaks and other economic incentives, designed to stabilize the health and wealth of the contemporary businessperson. Adam Smith, a renowned 18th Century economist, believed that strengthening the economic position of companies creates a trickle-down effect through jobs creation and social improvements. Smith further suggested that companies maintain no other responsibility other than to build a profit so that society can reap the benefits of better products. Republicans appear to believe strongly in the theories proposed by Adam Smith, as each time the nation faces an economic struggle, the Republican Party begins searching for new methods to boost the strength of the publicly-traded (Wall Street)

What is a Shaman Essay Example | Topics and Well Written Essays - 250 words - 1

What is a Shaman - Essay Example There are three basic concepts of Shamanism. The first concept of shamanism is the belief that animals, plants, water and rocks all have spirits which have to be respected and cared for by the human race (Michael. 59). The second concept focuses on personal responsibility and involves the belief of Buyan which can be related closely to Karma. The concept states that taking responsibility of one’s action is mark of an upright individual. The third concept advocates for balance. It states that balance is an important aspect that maintains harmony in the environment, within an individual and the community at large. In shamanism, a Shaman is approached when things get out of balance within the community, homestead or an individual (Michael. 59). The concepts of shamanism help in the understanding of the link between the living and the spirit world. The first concept portrays this notion through the use of a Shaman as a mediator between the living and the spirit worlds. The second concept advocates for personal responsibility which is an important aspect in human beings as it promotes self actualization in an individual thus creating positive thinking towards development as well as other life responsibilities such as management of the environment, promoting a peaceful existence in the community and respecting the human race. The third concept promotes a balance in natural and anthropogenic factors thus creating a harmonious environment (Michael. 62). Harmony is an important entity in community build-up as it is used to create a social capital which is required for communal development. It also maintains peace in the

Republican vs. democratic views on a problem Essay

Republican vs. democratic views on a problem - Essay Example Democrats generally tend to take a more short-term approach to fixing the economy. When individuals in the nation are hurt by a weakened dollar or other negative environmental events, democrats begin looking toward ways to stabilize the lifestyles of the majority of citizens in the nation. Republicans support the efforts of corporate in the event of economic problems. This support would generally come in the form of business tax breaks and other economic incentives, designed to stabilize the health and wealth of the contemporary businessperson. Adam Smith, a renowned 18th Century economist, believed that strengthening the economic position of companies creates a trickle-down effect through jobs creation and social improvements. Smith further suggested that companies maintain no other responsibility other than to build a profit so that society can reap the benefits of better products. Republicans appear to believe strongly in the theories proposed by Adam Smith, as each time the nation faces an economic struggle, the Republican Party begins searching for new methods to boost the strength of the publicly-traded (Wall Street)

An Organizational Culture. How Does It Affect The Decision And Essay

An Organizational Culture. How Does It Affect The Decision And Outcomes Of The Organization Can Organizational Culture Be Changed - Essay Example There is also no single definition of culture and it only involves assumptions, adaptations, perceptions, and learning that use symbols, language, ideologies, rituals, and myths in creating its beliefs, values and expectations. In a business setting, organizational culture is the shared philosophies, ideologies, values, assumptions, beliefs, expectations, attitude, and norms that knit the organization together. All of these interrelated psychological qualities reveal a group agreement, implicit or explicit, on how to approach decisions and problems or how things are done in a specific organization. It manifests in behavioral norms, hidden assumptions, and human nature, each occurring at a different level of depth within the organization. Studies have showed that organizational cultures are influenced by national cultures. Organizational culture differs not only from one business or industry to another but also from one country to another. In fact, industry and business culture are im mensely influenced by national cultures. The dimensions of cultures between countries were categorized by Hofstede. Hoftstede formulated a cultural assessment tool whereby dimensions of one’s cultural strength can be assessed by assigning a scale ranging from 0 to 100 in the five cultural dimensions. This tool of Hofstede is a popular tool among managers who would like to understand another culture apart from their own. The five cultural dimensions of Power Distance, Individualism, Masculinity, Uncertainty Avoidance, and Long-Term Orientation; Hofstede’s five dimensions of culture in details are; Small vs. large power distance – This refers to how a society handles inequalities and the extent to which the less powerful members of organizations and institutions (like family) accept and expect that power is distributed unequally. Individualism vs. collectivism  Ã¢â‚¬â€œ Behavior towards community. The degree to which individuals are integrated into groups or are expected to look after themselves and self-actualize. Masculinity vs. femininity)  Ã¢â‚¬â€œ Behavior and roles distributed according to gender. (This dimension is often renamed by users of Hofstede’s work to Quantity of Life vs. Quality of Life because one of the notable findings in the IBM studies revealed that in ‘masculine’ cultures, people (whether male or female) value competitiveness, assertiveness, ambition, and the accumulation of wealth and material possessions whereas in ‘feminine’ cultures, people (again whether male or female) value relationships and quality of life. Weak vs. strong uncertainty avoidance – This refers to the level of need for structure. Cultures with low uncertainty avoidance tend to accept risk and change and prefer implicit or flexible rules and guidelines. Long vs. short term orientation – How much society values long-standing, as opposed to short term, traditions and values. Cultures with high long-te rm orientation place strong importance on family, discipline and social obligations These varying organizational cultures affect the decision and outcomes of the organization in manner that it dictates or sets the phase on how things should be done in an organization and how should manager approach the workforce considering the prevailing culture. A positive culture is often cultivated by management to be able to increase the productivity of the organization while keeping the people happy which reinforces further the positive and cohesive organizational culture. A positive organizational culture benefits the business enterprise because of its higher productivity outcome. When organizational culture is positive, people are motivated and get things done faster not to mention that

Population Change And Resource Cousumption Essay Example for Free

Population Change And Resource Cousumption Essay Introduction The Islands of the Caribbean has for centuries been enticing to travelers and a major tourist destination. The islands are very famous and popular for their stretches of beaches with soft sand and the easy life that the island offers. The islands are located at the south east region of North America towards the Eastern side of Central America. The Caribbean consists of over 7, 000 islands. The islands are a chain that is 2, 500 miles long and over 160 miles wide. These islands have enclosed the Caribbean Sea. The islands support a very exceptional diversity of ecosystem. These however have been endangered by water pollution, human encroachment as well as deforestation, McGranahan, G., S. Lewin, (1999). The map below shows the islands of the Caribbean. The Caribbean Population change The population in the Caribbean has been growing tremendously. It is approximated that the population has increased by 85% for the years between 1970 and 2001.This is approximately an increase from 285 million people to around 528million people. Over this same period, the annual population growth rate has fallen from 2.5% to 1.5%. This is largely attributed to urbanization, factors to do with social development and improved programs of birth control, Leakey, Richard and Roger Lewin, (1996). The majority of the population in the Caribbean is more concentrated along the coastline where the land terrain is gently sloping. Consequently the high population, along the Caribbean coastline can result to high pollution of the water supply by the facilities for sanitation which more often than not will be located close to the water sources. The figure below shows the population size in the Caribbean islands by country. Pos Country Population 1 Â  Cuba 11,382,820 2 Â  Dominican Republic 9,183,984 3 Â  Haiti 8,528,000 Â  Puerto Rico (United States) 3,955,000 4 Â  Jamaica 2,651,000 5 Â  Trinidad and Tobago 1,305,000 Guadeloupe (France) 448,000 Martinique (France) 396,000 6 Â  Bahamas 323,000 7 Â  Barbados 279,000 Â  Netherlands Antilles (Netherlands) 183,000 8 Â  Saint Lucia 161,000 9 Â  Saint Vincent and the Grenadines 119,000 Â  United States Virgin Islands (United States) 112,000 10 Â  Grenada 103,000 Â  Aruba (Netherlands) 99,000 11 Â  Antigua and Barbuda 81,000 12 Â  Dominica 79,000 Â  Cayman Islands (United Kingdom) 48,000 Â  Bermuda (United Kingdom) 64,000 13 Â  Saint Kitts and Nevis 43,000 Â  Turks and Caicos Islands (United Kingdom) 26,000 Â  British Virgin Islands (United Kingdom) 22,000 Â  Anguilla (United Kingdom) 12,000 Â  Montserrat (United Kingdom) 4,000 Source UNEP, (2000): Access to water in the Caribbean Water access in the Caribbean is insufficient. This is more so in the rural areas and among the poor population. By the year 2004, it was approximated that at least 9% of the Caribbean population or 50m million people had inadequate access to the supply of water, Shiklomanov, (2000). In addition it was also approximated that 132 million people translating to 23% of the population had inadequate access to sanitation. The accessibility of water supply still remains unpredictable to date considering the financial constraints of the local and central government in the Caribbean and the inadequate finances in the service providers sector. The Caribbean islands have over the years greatly caused water pollution due to poor sanitation. Â  For instance, in the Caribbean, only an approximate 50% of the population can be able to access the sewer system. This is quite alarming; with emphasis on the fact that even the existing sewer systems are not at most instances functioning properly.26 percent of the Caribbean population uses other different sanitation forms like septic tanks and variety of latrine types. The lack of fresh water in the Caribbean can be attributed to the problems of inadequate resources in the forms of finance and human capital. However, demographic and physical factors also contribute in that; there is a shortage of a base for natural resources and limitation of surface areas, Hopfenberg, Russell and Pimentel, David, (2001). For instance, there is limited space for fresh water, arable land, and convectional sources of energy and mineral resources. The Caribbean is also vulnerable to natural disasters, which compromise the availability of the water recourses within the islands. Types of Caribbean water use In the Caribbean, water is used both for domestic purposes and economic use. The water is used especially in the farming of bananas and cotton among other crops. The use of water per capita in the Caribbean varies from one country to another. It is also different in the various urban areas, rural areas. It also varies depending on the numbers of people with public taps, house connection or even where there lacks an improved water source. It is estimated that in average the water use in the urban areas is approximately 240liters per capita every day. This level of water use is as high as the water use in the United States. It is also two times higher than water use in Central Chile. The Quality of Water The quality of water in the Caribbean is poor even to those people that can access it. This is clearly indicated by the intermittent water supply within the countries in the Caribbean. There is also very low pressure of the water and in fact, the drinking water is of low quality. M. Wackernagel, M., Manfreda C., and Deumling D., (2002). However, there is some difference on water qualities some of the countries and cities, some of the cities and countries have good quality water and a consistent supply and are on par with the water quality and supply in the developed countries. Inspire of the high amounts of rainfall received in the Caribbean islands, the availability of fresh water is quite a big problem. The island commonly goes through severe shortages of fresh water. This is especially so because of the limited storage capacity for storing water to be used during the dry periods. Â  It is not possible to construct large water reservoirs since the land resource is scarce. More over, the heavy down pours accompanied by very steep topography, soil that is easily eroded, river channels that are short, all can contribute to heavy siltation of the water reservoirs reducing the capacity of water storage even further. In the Caribbean, people often depend on ground water though only limited quantities of this important resource is available. The fact that the islands in the Caribbean are surrounded by salty water makes fresh water unavailable even from underground sources. Water problems and the potential solutions in the Caribbean The lack of access to quality safe water The problem of water safety in the Caribbean can be solved. This can be done through the desalination of the sea water that surrounds the island so that there is a constant supply of quality and fresh water. However, this would call for the use of high technology which is very costly and expensive. The technology may not be available in the Caribbean but it would be a good solution to the water shortage in this area. In the recent past however, the Caribbean has improved in terms of water access, for instance it is estimated that water access has increased from 33% of the people in the year 1970 to an approximate 85% in the year 2000.This then implies that almost seventy seven million people are still lacking the supply of water in their houses. Lack of Access to Sanitation Sanitation is very important to any healthy population; a proper sanitation system should be put in place to ensure that the waste from the Caribbean island is disposed appropriately. Since most of the people live along the coastline, the sewer systems should be located away from these areas to prevent or even stop polluting the surrounding water sources, Kurlansky, M. (1992). Â  For example, a large portion of the population uses septic tanks and latrines, the rest of the people do not have safe access to sanitation. Some of the people in the Caribbean use underground water resources and this can be contaminated by poor sanitation facilities. Failure to treat sanitation waste In the Caribbean, only the sewage and waste of at least 14% of the homes gets treatment from the local plants. The rest of the waste finds its way down to rivers, oceans, lakes and the aquifers at located underground. This is a health hazard and risks the aquatic life within the region. It has the potential to damage the ecological system. To curb this problem, all the sewage and related waste should be treated with the available sanitary plants. More of such facilities should be put up to immediately stop the waste from draining to the water bodies. This way the available water sources will be clean and free of contamination. Service provision The authority of provision of sanitation and clean water rests in the hands of either the national or regional companies or the municipalities. Consequently, the municipalities that are larger have established municipal or even inter-municipal utilities for the public use, Ron N., (2006). The finances from these utilities are kept separately from the larger finances of the cities. This has caused misunderstandings and mismanagement of the public facilities. The system should be streamlined so that there is no confusion in the provision of the utilities and that efficiency and effectiveness is maintained. It should be cleared up on the roles and responsibilities of the various authorities that mange and regulate these essential utilities. Ground water Lack of water reservoirs in the Caribbean call for the use of under ground water sources. These sources do not have enough water supply but they help to put the water problems at manageable levels. However, the ground water is threatened by pollution and over exploitation, Kurlansky, M. (1992). The available aquifers have been over used or polluted by the agricultural activities and mining. The under ground water sources should be taken care of and at all cost not be polluted. The aquifers are of utmost importance in the Caribbean and the government and other non-governmental organizations should come to the aid of these resources. Population control The population in the Caribbean is over concentrated within the costal areas. The resources within this coastal region are over stretched and very vulnerable to pollution and over use. Â  Efforts should be done to see that the population is evenly distributed or that the facilities and especially sanitation in the over populated areas increased. By over stretching the facilities to beyond the possible limits, the Caribbean is putting the future of its population’s health at a risk, Rogozinski, J (1999). Conclusion The Caribbean is a fascinating series of island with a lot of economic activities especially tourism. The islands however are faced with a population problem and the scarcity of quality and clean water sources. Most of the available sources like the underground aquifers are over used or even polluted. The sanitation facilities within this region are very wanting and a lot has to be done to keep water problems at a distance in these very attractive islands, Shiklomanov, (2000). Â  References Rogozinski, J (1999): A Brief History of the Caribbean, New York Kurlansky, M. (1992): A Continent of Islands: Searching for the Caribbean Destiny, Addison-Wesley Publishing Ron N., (2006): The Little Green Handbook: Seven Trends Shaping the Future of Our Planet, Picador, New York Wackernagel, M., Manfreda C., and Deumling D., (2002): Ecological Footprint of Nations Hopfenberg, Russell and Pimentel, David, (2001): Human Population Numbers as a Function of Water Supply, Environment, Development and Sustainability Shiklomanov, (2000): Appraisal and Assessment of World Water Resources, Water International UNEP, (2000): Global Environmental Outlook, Earth scan Publications, London, UK Leakey, Richard and Roger Lewin, (1996): The Sixth Extinction: Patterns of Life and the Future of Humankind, Anchor, McGranahan, G., S. Lewin, (1999): Environmental Change and Human Health in the Caribbean, Stockholm Environment Institute, Stockholm, Sweden

For and against the use of vaccination

For and against the use of vaccination I am no longer trying to dig up evidence to prove vaccines cause autism. There is already abundant evidenceà ¢Ã¢â€š ¬Ã‚ ¦Ãƒ ¢Ã¢â€š ¬Ã‚ ¦This debate is not scientific but is political (Ayoub, D. (2006).Using your knowledge of immunology, discuss the arguments for and against the use of vaccination. Vaccination has become an extensively useful strategy for the prevention of infectious disease and continues to be one of the most successful health interventions and remains one of societys best healthcare investments (ref). Never in the history of human progress, wrote the pathologist Geoffrey Edsal, Has a better and cheaper method of preventing illness been developed than immunisation at its best (ref). The mainly ambitious aim of vaccination is eradication of the disease. This has been achieved for smallpox; the eradication of polio is being attempted and there has been a dramatic downward trend in the incidence of most of the diseases against which vaccines are currently used. The incidence of the invasive disease Haemophilus influenza, which causes bacterial meningitis in children has decreased in the United States of America by an impressive 99%, sby introducing the vaccine in 1988 (ref). Children born in the U.S. are fully vaccinated from the age of 1 years old to adolescence, saving approximately 33,000 lives and an estimated 14 million infections (ref). However, as long as any focus of infection remains in the community, the main effect of vaccination will be the protection of the individual against the disease (ref). The success of a vaccination programme relies not only on the development and use of vaccines themselves, but also on an understanding of the epidemiologic aspe cts of disease transmission (ref).Vaccination aims to prime the adaptive immune system to the antigens of a particular microbe so that a first infection induces a secondary response. The principle of vaccination is simple; to induce a primed state so that on first contact with the relevant infection, a rapid and effective secondary immune response will be mounted, leading to prevention of disease. Vaccination depends upon the ability of lymphocytes, both B and T cells, to respond to specific antigens and develop into memory cells, and therefore represents a form of activity enhanced adaptive immunity (ref).In 1999, the Centres for Disease Control (CDC) and the American Academy of Paediatrics (AAP) requested that vaccine makers should remove a organomercury compound called thiomersal from vaccines (ref). This was phased out of the United States of America and European vaccines, except for some preperations of influenza vaccine (ref). The CDC and the AAP decided that there was no harm in exercising caution, even if it did turn about to be unwarranted, however the actions sparked confusion and controversy which result in the diversion of attention and resources away from the efforts to determine the causes of autism (ref). Child vaccines which contained the thiomersal was alleged to contribute to autism (ref), however in 2004 the Institute of Medicine (IOM) committee rejected any causal relationship between autism and thiomersal-contain ing vaccines (ref). However the incidence of autism increased steadily despite the removal of thiomersal from childhood vaccine (ref). thiomersal exposure has not been accepted as a factor in causing autism (ref). Immunisation safety is a real concern because all vaccines may cause side effects. Both healthcare workers and patients need reminding that immunisation is an induced controlled stimulus to the immune system, so therefore some adverse reactions can be expected. Most of the reactions however, are transient and mild. Immunisation safety concerns have existed since the day of the first available vaccine. Since the introduction of Jenners cowpox vaccine, the benefits of saving children from tragic outcomes of common diseases outweigh the risks of perceived adverse events following immunisation. Immunisation safety concerns are different from concerns about other medical interventions because they are administered to generally healthy individuals and the tolerance of adverse events following immunisation is subsequently lower compared to adverse events following medication for an existing illness (ref). The success of immunisation programmed depends on the public confidence in their safety despite the side effects vaccines may cause. Concerns about immunisation safety often follow a pattern: a medical condition is suggested as an adverse effect of the vaccination, then a premature announcement is made of the alleged effects which then results in several years to try and regain the publics confidence in the vaccine (ref). Vaccination in the United Kingdom became widespread in the ear;y 1800s after the work by Jenner (ref). Vaccination acts were brought in to force to encourage vaccination and it was made mandatory that all infants in 1853 were vaccinated (ref). Refusal to have the vaccinations received the highest penalty resulting in a prison sentence (ref). The relationship between the British State and its citizens significantly changed, causing a public backlash. In 1867, a law extended the requirements to the age of 14 years old, however, opponents focused in 1898 on it causing an infringement of individuals freedom, which resulted in a law allowing for conscientious objection to compulsory vaccination (ref). Compulsory vaccination policies at various times provoked opposition from people who believe that the government should not be infringing on individuals freedom to choose what medications they take, even if this increases a risk of disease to themselves and others (ref). Some vaccine critics claim that public health has never had any benefits from vaccination (ref). They argue that any reduction on communicable diseases, which were rampant in conditions where overcrowding, poor sanitation, poor diet and an almost non-existent hygiene existed, reduced due to the changes in the conditions excepting vaccination (ref). Others dispute that vaccines only give a temporary immunity and therefore boosters are required, whereas those who have survived the disease develop a permanent immunity (ref). Children who have survived diseases such as diphtheria go on to develop a natural immunity which will remain longer than any immunity developed by the vaccination (ref). Some critics argue that the benefits of reducing the mortality rates among the general population outweigh all health risks associated to older or weaker adults (ref). Vast improvements have been made to public health (ref). Despite vaccines causing side effects and immunisation safety is a real concern, public attention shifts away from the risks as the success of the immunisation programme increases (ref) and the incidence of disease decreases (ref). However health authorities are finding it challenging to preserve public support for the vaccination programmes (ref).The rate in diagnosis of autism has had a worldwide increase (ref) , driven by the broadened diagnostic criteria and increased awareness concerns have been fuelled that vaccines might cause autism (ref). Theories for this alleged association have mainly centred on the measles-mumps-rubella (MMR vaccine (ref). however, studies in biology and epidemiology have failed to support these claims (ref). The MMR vaccine in the United Kingdom was the subject of controversy, when a paper was published in The Lancet in 1998. The paper written by a Gastroenterologist Dr Andrew Wakefield et al, reporting a small study of 12 children, whom mostly with autism spectrum disorders with sudden onset after administration of the Vaccine (ref). During a 1998 press conference, Andrew Wakefield suggested that it would be safer to give children the vaccine in three separate doses rather than a single vaccination. This suggestion was never supported by the paper and subsequent peer-reviewed studies failed to find any association between the autism and the vaccine (ref). In 2001 and 2002, the controversy grew momentum. In 2001 26% of family doctors felt that the government had failed to prove that there was no link between autism and the MMR (ref). By 2002, over 1257 stories were published (ref). The confidence in the MMR fell as a result of the scare, from 59% to 41% (ref). A survey of 366 family doct ors in the United Kingdom in 2003, reported that 77% would recommend giving the child the MMR vaccine, even if there was a close family history of autism (ref). In the same study an extremely small number, 3% of the family doctors thought that autism could sometimes be the caused by the MMR vaccine (ref). A similar survey (ref) found that confidence in the MMR had been increasing over the previous two years (ref). Most of the UK National Health Service doctors only had the combined vaccine and those who did not want to give their children the combined vaccine had to pay for the separate vaccines or not vaccinate their children (ref), which added to the controversy of the MMR. Tony Blair, who was the Prime Minister at the time, strongly supported the vaccines stating the vaccine was safe (ref mmr vaccine). However, on several occasions Tony Blair would refuse on grounds of personal privacy whether his son had received the vaccine, in contrast the now immunised (ref), The risks of children catching the disease while waiting for the full immunisation coverage decreases with the administration of the combined vaccine instead of separate vaccines (ref). The combined vaccines two injections cause the children less pain and distress, rather that the six injections required by the separate vaccines, and there is the likelihood of some being delayed or missed due to extra clinic visits (ref). Vaccination uptake had significantly increased in the UK when the MMR became available in 1988 (ref mmr vaccine). Health professionals have heavily criticised media coverage of the controversy from triggering a decline in vaccination rates (ref mmr). MMR vaccination compliance dropped significantly after the controversy began in the UK, from 92% in 1996 to 84% in 2002. In 2003, in some London boroughs, it was a low as 615, which is far below the rate needed to avoid an epidemic of measles (ref). The incidence of the three diseases increased significantly in the UK (ref). 56% cases of measles were confirmed in the 1998, this increased over the years and in 2006, 449 cases were reported in first five months of the year (ref)m and the first death since 1992, these cases occurred in children who were inadequately vaccinated (ref). In 1999, cases of mumps began to rising after years of very few cases and by the year 2005, there was a mumps epidemic with nearly 5000 notifications in January 2005 alone (ref). Disease outbreaks also caused casualties in nearby countries. In Ireland an outbreak in 2000 resulted in 1500 cases and 3 deaths, all as a result of the decrease vaccination rates following the MMR controversy (ref) Measles was declared an endemic in the UK in 2008 for the first time in 14 years. A population of susceptible children who would spread the disease was created following the low MMR vaccination rates (ref). MMR vaccination rates amongst English children have remained unchanged in 2007-08, a level to low to prevent another serious measles outbreak (ref). It later emerged that Andrew Wakefield had not informed the medical authorities or colleagues that he had received funding from litigants against vaccine manufacturers (ref). Wakefield has been heavily criticised for instigating a decline in the vaccination rates and medically (ref) especially on the way the research was conducted ethically (ref) The Sunday Times in 2009 reported that patient data was manipulated by Wakefield and misreported the results in his 1998 paper, creating the appearance of a link between autism and the MMR (ref). A systematic review of 31 scientific studies by the Cochrane Library in 2005 concluded that there is no credible evidence to support any links between Autism and the MMR vaccine, and that the MMR is necessary in the prevention of disease with carries the potential rick of complication and even death in some cases (ref). The report also highlighted that the lack of confidence in the MMR has damaged public health and that the design and reporting of the safety outcomes was largely inadequate (ref). Ensuring the safety of vaccination is a major component of the national immunisation programmes of most countries. A major part of this effort is surveillance, and scientific studies about the possible occurrence of adverse events following immunisation. Although a number of vaccine safety studies is increasing, this is not in response to any evidence about the true safety of vaccines, but in response to the increasing number of new vaccines being used and the complex nature of these vaccines. A number of vaccine safety studies have been conducted or are in progress, some in reaction to the climate of concern, some carried out proactively and others as part of ongoing surveillance. However, because the number of safety-orientated studies is increasing, one should be aware that this fact in itself could contribute to the concern. The internet has increasingly become a powerful means of international communication and an almost inexhaustible source of information, capable of playing an influential role in both the positive and the negative sense. It represents a direct and efficacious tool to spread a positive message and to stress the health benefits, economic attractiveness and safety of vaccination. However, inaccurate, misleading or simply wrong information regarding potential side effects or dangers of vaccination spreading through the internet exacerbates worries about vaccine safety and may cause parents to postpone or refuse vaccination of their children. A wide range of issues concerning vaccine safety is being taken up by anti-vaccination groups as well as by other groups whose concerns may reflect local customs, or religious, political or other beliefs. Anti-vaccination lobbies have also understood the possibilities of the internet can be exploited and could strengthen their means to campaign against vaccination. This is demonstrated by the occurrence of a multitude of specific websites heavily relying on emotional appeal while proclaiming a message that undermines the benefits of vaccination. Vaccine scares continue to have an impact on immunisation coverage. To respond to this challenge, there is a need to develop vaccine communication strategies that provide a balance between evidence-based information and advocacy and lobbying activities. Furthermore, compiling independent, international reviews of vaccine safety issues is required, together with relevant statements from authoritative neutral expert groups. This should be done within a strong international collaboration, with direct, early and clear statements agreed on by authorities and other key parties, preceding public communications. Creating a positive environment for immunisation can be achieved by supporting evidence-based information thus repositioning the importance and value of vaccines and vaccination. This will ultimately ease the task of health care decision makers, especially in developing proactive communication strategies to deal with crises that have a potentially negative impact on vaccine coverage, and consequently on the health status of children. Loss of public confidence in vaccination is one of the greatest threats to public health and must be addressed by local, national and international bodies, pooling resources, to prepare for possible issues that might be taken up by anti-vaccination groups or the media. The health care community should actively promote, and personally recommend, the benefits and safety of vaccination in language that is readily and easily understood by the targeted audience.

Analysis of Lord of the Flies by William Golding Essay -- Lord of the

Analysis of Lord of the Flies by William Golding William Golding’s Lord of the Flies is a sordid tale about a group of kids who are stranded on a deserted island after their plane crashes. The story is set during the Atomic War and plenty of references are made to the fact. However, the real key to the story lies in the role of Beelzebub, Lord of the Flies. Beelzebub has a central role in the story as he represents the Beast, or evil, that dwells within all humans. The Beast cannot be hunted and since it dwells within all humans, humans are all guilty because mankind is sick. The destruction of mankind is a point that Golding makes apparent often in this novel. He establishes early on that Beelzebub is a force within all humans that drives them to destroy and maim. In the story the central emblem of the story lies in the dead airman. The boys mistake him for Beelzebub and basically begin to worship him. In fact, the most effective portrayal of Beelzebub appears early in the novel in the form of the dead airman. The parachute carries him through the night to the top of the mountain, where his body is entangled in the trees. It is in the way in which he is hung that makes it appear as if he was sitting on a throne of some sort. Sam n Eric first come upon it and are scared to death at the mere sight of it. However, when the whole group returns to the site the horrific monstrosity bewilders them. In this quote from the book it clearly states the group’s actions. â€Å" Behind them the sliver of moon had drawn clear the horizon. Before them something like a great ape was sitting asleep with its head between his knees. Then, the wind roared in the forest, there was confusion in the darkness and the creation lifted its head, holding toward them a ruin of a face. â€Å" The experience alone accelerates the deterioration of the already weak civilization of the group. The experience brings young Jack to committing himself fully to the newfound dark religion. (Johnston, 126) Beelzebub was the cause for accelerating the destruction of the boys. He was not the outright cause. The Atomic War generated the novel; it was the sole reason that brought the boys to live on the island in the first place. It is in this sense that the boys only duplicated the adult society that had been crashing down around them while they were part of the civilized world. Golding uses the dead airman... ...the outside world, all humanity was lost. The boys were sick with power and evil, much like the world outside the island. War had corrupted their very souls and they had become savages in order to appease the devil that dwelled within. As humans we cannot escape evil. Beelzebub dwells within every human soul and it cannot be hunted or driven away. Mankind is sick and guilty for giving into these sins. However, mankind is not lost. Through the use of reason and civilized means we can escape the grasp of Beelzebub and its dark reign of anarchy. Beelzebub served as a means of destruction in the story. He accelerated the boys fall of grace. Although the boys failed that does not condemn mankind. Hope is offered through the story in the form of a young, epileptic name Simon. Simon stood for the weak that fought with the nature of reason rather than with a bloodthirsty rage. Mankind needs only to look at Simon’s example as a guide of how to do it. Reason and virtue will always conquer over rage and violence. Wars are not the answers to every global conflict. Every war we have, we have to pass on to our children. In the end mankind is saved by the nature of reason not the use of war.

Americas Zoos: Entertainment To Conservation Essay -- essays research

America's Zoos: Entertainment to Conservation   Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  The children run ahead, squealing with delight. Their parents lag behind holding the children's brightly colored balloons and carrying the remnants of the half-eaten cotton candy. The family stops to let the children ride the minitrain and take pictures together under the tree. They walk hand- in-hand toward the exit, stopping first at the gift shop where they each splurge on a treat to remind them of the day's adventure. Although this may sound like a typical scene from the local amusement park, it's actually the city zoo. All that forgotten was walking from cage to cage watching the anxious animals pace back and forth in their closed-in prisons (Hope, 1994). Their cages feel cold and desolate. The concrete floor provides no warmth and the atmosphere is sterile. The animals do not appear very happy in this closed-in environment. Just who are these anxious animals? They are the common everyday animals any child could name: the bears, the tigers, the elephants and the monkeys. What about the rest of the world's unique creatures? Hundreds of species are endanger of becoming extinct, and conservation is in need. Extinction is a permanent issue. The treatment of all our animals and their rights is important as well. As concern for the world's animals becomes more prominent in the news, our zoos rise up to meet the challenge. Animal's rights and their treatment, regardless of species, have been brought to attention and positive movements made. While the number of endangered species grows, zoos attempt to do their part in conservation. Both in and out of the park, zoos and their scientist do their best to help these species. Efforts out in the field within the United States as well as other countries are currently in progress. The question lies in the worthiness of these efforts. Is the conservation successful? Are these efforts being done for the right reasons? Will zoos remain as a form of family entertainment or will the enjoyment of the patrons become unimportant? While it is obvious that things are changing, the eventual goals might not be so clear. As the concern shifts from entertainment to conservation, the zoo's efforts are examined, both in the park and beyond, and their motives judged.   Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  As cities became more and more urbanized, it was harder to st... ...zations on my own, imagine how much more knowledgeable the public will be as a whole on these matters. Both education and species conservation are gained. Honestly, many members of the human population may not realize what life is truly like out in the wild. Nature has been difficult for many animals and these scientists are trying to rebuild what Mother Nature, in combination with the human race, has almost destroyed. The role has shifted, but I believe that the motives have also changed considerably. The concern of the patrons will always be a factor, but with so many people worried about the animals, they are not forgotten. Perhaps if the general public, meaning those who do not have the privilege of visiting these zoos becomes more informed about the work, less questions will be raised about this transition. Personally, I cannot differentiate the one who suffers in this arrangement. The animals' rights are looked after, the public becomes more aware and the endangered numbers of many species are strengthened. If the children still squeal, the animals are safe and measures are being taken to help Earth's creatures, I would consider the venture successful and applaud it as well.

Learning and cognition paper Essay

Learning as it is commonly used is defined as the acquisition of knowledge, skills, behavior, preferences and understanding from experiences, whether real, induced or vicarious. Technically, however, learning is used more broadly by the psychologists, making it almost impossible to give it an exact definition. What can only be done is to describe it in terms of phenomena to which it can or cannot be applied. For example, psychologists say that learning need not be correct or adaptive, or it does not have to be conscious or deliberate (Hill, 1980). This process is not limited to humans. Animals, and even machines may also undergo this process, although each individual’s learning processes follow different learning curves. The role of behavior in an individual’s learning process is best explained by Bandura’s Social Learning Theory. This theory posits that individuals learn by observing, imitating and modeling other individuals’ skills, behaviors and attitudes, in relation to the outcomes of such skills, behaviors and attitudes. The information gathered from these behaviors, skills and attitudes then, are interpreted, consciously or unconsciously to determine whether such behaviors, skills and attitudes would be serve some future beneficial purpose (Learning Theories Knowledgebase, 2009). In other words, people use these behaviors and its consequences as guide for their subsequent behaviors. 2. What are the two different types of learning? The two types of learning usually examined by psychologists are classical conditioning and operant conditioning. Classical conditioning is the type of learning wherein a reflexive response is evoked by a stimulus (stimulus B) which is different from the stimulus (stimulus A) that originally evoked such reflexive response (Learning and Conditioning, 2009). For example, a person had very fond memories of his/her 10th birthday which was held at restaurant A. When asked what his/favorite restaurant is, that person would immediately blurt out restaurant A. In this example, the positive feeling brought about by the memories of the person’s 10th birthday had been transferred, or rather, had been extended to the place where the person’s birthday was held. The other type of learning is called Operant conditioning. This is the type of learning wherein punishment causes the weakening or non-reinforcement of a non-reflexive behavior, and reinforcement strengthens a non-reflexive behavior. Unlike classical conditioning, in operant conditioning, an individual has more control. Meaning, presentation of a stimulus does not necessarily mean that a certain reaction will be evoked. In order to receive a certain reinforcement, an individual must behave in certain manner (Learning and Conditioning, 2009). One example of operant conditioning involves a professor’s attempt to improve his students’ attendance. To do this, he made a rule that students who obtain a certain number of absences will have an automatic one-point deduction in their final grades. Although he said nothing about any reward for full attendance, the threat of lower grades forced the students to limit their absences. 3. What is the relationship between learning and condition? Provide a specific example. Jean Piaget’s theory of cognition lays out 4 stages of cognition that is experienced by children as they progress. From the sensorimotor period when the child’s cognitive system is still limited to his/her motor reflexes, the cognitive system will develop to preoperational thought wherein a child acquires representational skills especially in mental imagery and language. The third stage is the concrete operations wherein the child acquires an ability to take another person’s point of view. Lastly, although, not everyone reaches this stage, a child becomes capable of logical and abstract thinking (Sandwell, 1995). Learning as defined earlier refers to the acquisition of knowledge, skills and behavior based on experience. Note that the definition involves the world acquisition. Naturally, for an individual who learns and therefore undergo the process of ‘acquisition,’ he/she should have the capacity to acquire. This is where cognition comes in. Assuming that Piaget’s theory is indubitable, each individual must necessarily be in one of the four stages. It is the individual’s ability or capacity as described in each of the four stages that limits the knowledge, skills or behavior that such individual can acquire or learn. An individual who is still in level one of Piaget’s cognitive development cannot be expected to reason out with a person who has already attained a Doctorate degree since his/her cognition is limited to motor skills. Such individual cannot also be expected to understand or learn Algebra because such requires logic and therefore the skills attained in Piaget’s fourth stage. References Hill, W.(1980). Learning: A survey of psychological interpretations. Taylor and Francis: USA. Learning and Conditioning. (2009). Alleydog. Retrieved 26 April 2009 from http://www. alleydog. com/101notes/conditioning. html. Learning Theories Knowledgebase (2009). Social Learning Theory (Bandura) at Learning-Theories. com. Retrieved April 27, 2009 from http://www. learning-theories. com/social-learning-theory-bandura. html Sandwell, J. (1995). Piaget’s stage theory of development. Retrieved 26 April 2009 from http://penta. ufrgs. br/edu/telelab/3/piaget%27s. htm.