What the word success means to me Essay Example | Topics and Well Written Essays - 500 words

What the word success means to me - Essay Example Being a teenage mom, who have yet to finish high school, meant unemployment. Not completing high school can lead to a life full of hardships for both myself and my child; given that high school diploma is the usual requirement in any job, and usually it is the low-skill, low-compensation ones (Cooper 4). It had been a struggle to joggle time, mind, and body between motherhood and teen hood. Though growing fast had been the consequence of my actions, I had opted to do the opposite. Taking things slow and learning to absorb every experience as if I had been reborn. This is one of the few hurdles I managed to be triumphed. I have decided stop sauntering my way through life. It had dawned on me that the fun is not about the catching; instead, it is in the chasing that one feels to be the true meaning of success. I achieved one goal after another and have never failed to push myself further until I have gotten a degree in statistics. As my hands firmly grasped my diploma and the tiny hands of my child, I now take every step with a grin on my face, knowing I can conquer anything. I had conquered everything before. My views in life are now clearer than ever. My steps begin to be more precise. Now I have goals in my mind that will commence my journey (and the journey of my child) to a better life. John Wooden once said: The thrill of the chase, of not knowing what is going to happen next, the what-ifs, and the endless possibilities that come with it excite me, fuel me to go on and continue to improve my life. Once I realize I have achieved a goal, I immediately strive to set new heights to reach to get that same thrill over and over and over†¦ Others consider success as an upshot wrapped up in many costly things; however, I consider that success coincides with striving and vigorous efforts, that is, with meaningful living. The moment a person decides to open his or her eyes, breathe, and face

A Proposed Health Promotion Campaign Against Obesity Assignment

A Proposed Health Promotion Campaign Against Obesity - Assignment Example The factors of the accessibility of junk foods and the trend of â€Å"supersizing† meals, not to mention the availability of high caloric foods of low nutritional value but are highly appealing to children because of its rich taste are mainly responsible for them getting less physically fit (Buchholz, 2005). Also, the environmental progress of eradicating some parks and natural playgrounds for children to build buildings for industry and residences may not benefit the physical health of children due to the fact that they have less access to locations where they can expend their excess physical energy (Frieden, Galvez. & Landrigan, 2003). However, the most common cause of the decrease in physical activity of children is that technology has made it easier to fall into a sedentary life. Children are more than adequately entertained by the multitude of choices on television shows, internet sites, computer games, etc. Nowadays, most children are homebound, engrossed in computer games, watching videos, surfing the web for hours, etc. Children find less need to play outside because there are a lot of available conveniences and entertainment indoors for them. Hence, playing games, running around, climbing trees, bicycling, etc. are slowly becoming activities of the past. Physical exercise for these children is not given much priority anymore. Many parents enroll their children in dance classes, sports, etc. just for them to have physical activity. Obesity in children has been on the rise and one factor is lack of physical activity. Experts agree that the combination of the availability of energy-dense processed foods and lack of physical activity may be the culprit of obesity. The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) provide data that suggest that the number of children attending daily physical education classes declined from 18.3% in 1995 to 12% in 2001.

Critical analysis of a Charitable Organization

Critical analysis of a Charitable Organization The reality of poverty in several communities around the world is quite inescapable. Admittedly, varying types of government in every country is doing their best to fight the negative pull of poverty and socioeconomic struggles of communities, yet, a number are still at ends with their finances in daily living. At this point, other sectors in society steps in to support other areas that the government can no longer substantially support. According to Shelley (n.d.) the economic structure of Australia consists of three sectors: private, public, and non-profit. The public division is said to be primarily controlled by the government, where duties are performed by way of services offered through taxation policies and user fees. On the other side, private sectors are chiefly governed by market competition and economic gains of individual and collective assemblies. On the last section, nonprofit organizations neither fit the above descriptions. As it is, this is the category that lives of f from the charity of the concerned public, either from private citizens, to private companies, and even the government pitches in to help. In review, one of the reputed nonprofit organizations based in Australia is CARE Australia, which is run on both community and international level. With its founding origins dating back to 1945 in United States, the said charity organization had found its roots across the oceans in Australia on 1987. Now, it is already serving more than 20 neighboring countries in Pacific regions, and extends towards Africa. With a mission to serve impoverished communities, regardless of race and nationality, the said organization had set forth a number of empowering campaign programs to provide support (socially and economically), as well as offer emergency international aid when needed. Free from religious and political affiliation, CARE Australia is a charity institution that seeks to concentrate on the plight of women and young girls, as they believe that these groups are integral for successful and sustainable communities worldwide (Anon., 2009). In this paper, the internal structure and managem ent conditions of the charity organization, CARE Australia, will be put into analytical perspective, where its leadership status and functions are reviewed, and probable resolutions to conflicts can be identified. Organization Profile The relative significance of charity organizations as the third community sector is indispensable. According to Palyvoda (2006), charity groups are beholden, not only in delivering public service to the poor and needy, but also in influencing other societal sectors to contribute with such altruistic pursuits in relevant service areas. In relative settings, most organizations take up a number of structural form and decisions-making process. Fuetchmann (n.d.) pointed out that for an organization to be legally accepted as a formal one, it must be incorporated first, and at best, possesses considerable properties in tax-free institutional status. In perspective, one can safely assume that an organization, even a nonprofit one, is liable to establish a formal structure in management. Henry (1998) listed the basic members in organizations, including board members, chief executives and funders (cited in Cornforth, 2001, p.13). The former two groups are the ones at topmost level, where they decide the movement of the organization, while staff within the organization simultaneously moves to perform the plans formulated by various management departments. As clarified by Gaist (2009), a well-managed organization should promote a structure that defines how each member should achieve their roles in, where decision-making activities are marginalized between the board, management officers, and the staff. As such, governance in the organization should be consistently delineated and followed-for organizational goals to be realized. Such responsibility falls primarily on the board of directors, which encompasses more than the obligation to manage the organizations, but should provide direction, efficacy, and accountability as leaders in the group (Angelini, 2005). With the power to appoint executives and committee officers, the board of directors is indeed influential in decision-making and general operations in organizations (Levrau, 2007). In such appeal, the importance of str ucture and role distinction is crucial for the survival of every organization. In application, CARE Australia, as a considerable charity foundation, adopted an organizational structure that is more of a corporate type. As illustrated in Figure 1 (please see Appendix A), the charity institutions is mainly governed by an organizational board, and their decisions are collaboratively translated through the Chief Executive Officer (CEO). As further observed in the diagram, the charity board is aided by several subcommittees, and are altogether supported by an advisory council. In horizontal line, the CEO takes on the responsibility of monitoring and managing the different organizational departments: international operations, international programs, fundraising and communications, and corporate services (Anon., 2009). In more ways, the foundation appeared to adapt a formal structure that is top-down in direction, from highest hierarchical officers down to administrative staff and volunteers. As discussed earlier, governance mainly falls on the shoulders of the board members, although discussions and negotiations are rendered between the board, the subcommittee members, and executive directors before any concrete decisions are cemented. In CARE Australia, there is a collaborative type in planning and decision-making aspects. As predicted, directors in the board look out for overall condition of the organization, where they approve, monitor, and evaluate program performance. At their side, advisory council supports and reinforces the decisions of the board, where they act as representative counsels, in lieu of community members. On the other side, subcommittees report directly to the board, where they enact on decisions the board formulated, yet, are of equal consultation with the board members in reaching the goals of the organization (Anon., 2009). Lastly, the various staff and teams are instrumental in the whole operation of the organization, as they set forth the wheels in making a reality the plans and programs formulated and agreed upon at upper management levels. The line for decision-making depends, thereby, on the organizational structure they maintain. Corporate Structure: Pros and Cons The structure of CARE Australia is quite complex in framework, where this type of governance by the board may yield both positive and negative outcomes. The board of directors, as identified by Collin (2005), serves as mediating body between organizational management and stakeholders, where the latter can communicate their desires through association with the board. As a charity organization operating on international scale, CARE Australia caters to numerous stakeholdersconcerned public citizens in Australia, institutional sponsors from both government and private associations, and targeted impoverished communities (Anon., 2009). This clarified, the more influential stakeholder is revealed, where its power lies in parallel with the mission of the team, community empowerment, making public communities the real stakeholders in such organization. At this point, local community stakeholders hold the influencing power on the broader scale, while government and private institutions remain in the background-silent partners in the achievement of program goals and organizational missions. This delegating principle at the base level of the hierarchy is quite effective, for it promotes supportive delegation where needed-at the community level. As indicated in earlier discussions, the board in CARE Australia adopts the role as approval body, evaluator of strategies and project performance, as well as regulating body in balancing the executive and management functions of the other members in the organization. In theory, the board may take the form of stewardship perception, where they are independent in function, or it may adopt shareholder dependency practice, prioritizing shareholders condition above that of the organization (Collin, 2005). In relation, CARE Australia appeared to emulate the former view, where organizations mission and goals are topmost priority. By doing so, it indirectly adhere to stakeholders community development. Significantly, the board is quite active in its encompassing role, beyond passive rubber stamp appeal, as it dynamically engages with subcommittees and advisory group, contributing to well-directed activities in the organization. Their leadership is more participative in construct, as the board monitors those at lower ranks in delivering services to communities. As such, there is mutual collaboration with locals in area programs, as staff management directly deals with community citizens, in line with the mission of the organization and the goals of formulated projectsdecentralizing leadership management assures accountability, and transparency in both financial and operational progress (Anon., 2009). Accountability is delegated in lower management, but the board still holds control, ensuring that no dead spaces in function can occur between the planning and implementation stage of community programs. Yet, such notion may not be as idealistic as it appears. The problem with this functional structure is that it projects excessive staff innovation, leading to loss of corporate identityà ¢Ã¢â€š ¬Ã‚ ¦(and) stagnation in individual regions (Clark, 1991). Continuous monitoring and strong commitment to the organiza tion may counteract the negativity brought by this type of organizational structure. Current Organizational Conflict The governance with the board may appear to be running smoothly, with defined organizational structure, and clear margins on the roles that all members have to maintain. Yet conflicts may arise in two patterns: disagreements between the board and management department, and the rise of too much professionalism in volunteer-based charity groups. On the first case, Anne-Line, Annick, and Marc (2009), admitted perceptions may differ among the members of the top organization level, especially in terms of policy set-ups, management planning and financing, as well as settling disputes within organizational network. As the board in CARE Australia seemed to promote the participant leadership style, relegated staff channels can have their say; however, this can also be a potential pitfall, in some ways. Clark (1991) placed emphasis on the possibility that staff compromise may lead to nonconstructive values, where lower ranked personnel may consequently guard substantial decisions that they thi nk may negatively impact projected plans, inhibiting creativity in promoting harmony. Aside from staff hesitancy, ambiguousness on the nature of staff and higher authority relation may lead to discontent and lack of organizational motivation. Collin (2005) identified the motivations that drive individuals in organization: need to belong and instinct to duty. The former denotes loyalty the group, while the latter is more individualized, where outcomes depend on self-perceptions on how to perform ones duty. The resolution with the first organizational dilemma on disagreements and inhibiting obligations is by enacting on these two motivations. Internal control within the organization must be strengthened, possibly through enhancing communication lines between board members and executive directors, and in worse scenarios, the former can either remove or compensate the latter management (Levrau, 2007).By projecting governance that is loyal to the cause of the organizations mission, above self-interest, commitment can also be stabilized between the top and lower management. With regard to increasing professionalism in nonprofit organizations, the danger with this value in governance can be targeted on too much administrative work, where groups can lose focus on the charity work itself. Admittedly, CARE Australia hires individuals with excellent professional qualifications, and even allots part of the resource funds in maintaining the efficiency of the said management teams. From the board members down to management staff, each one boosts a professional status that belies the strength of sustainable governance in the association. Yet, such technical competency in management is not sufficient in sustaining a good organization, as performance on the social and emotional level are said to be of equal importance in the progress of organizations (Anne-Line, Annick, and Marc (2009). As such, interrelationship should not suffer in the face of excessive administrative competence. Again, lines of communications should be kept open, where everyone is given the cha nce, one way or the other, in airing their constructive views and concerns through the right channels. Social association, then, is quite substantial and must therefore be incorporated within the informal lines of organizational structure. Promoting this can be quite tricky, as individual differences can get in the way. In resolution, everyone should be judiciously encouraged to adapt strong commitment towards the goals and mission of the organization, and policies must be ratified to accommodate behaviors that promote mutual collaboration between staff personnel and their superiors. The solution should work both ways, where those in authority should identify with the management committees, broadening their perspectives to allow for wider staff opportunities in rendering unified projects and services, while professional staff should know how to properly express their ideas and concerns in hierarchical procedures. Again, well-defined organization structure can aid in such pursuits. Summary and Conclusion Summarily, structure and functional roles in a charity organization relegate important parts in the development and progress of an organization. As the third sector in Australian society, and even in other societal regions, the existence of charity organizations are said to fill the gaps in community services that the government had not been able to perform due to a number of reasons. In altruistic sense, such roles in fighting the rampant case poverty and related societal issues are the main goals of such nonprofit groups. Although they may differ on the priority groups they may focus on, most are founded on the belief that they can be instrumental in easing the struggles of impoverished citizens in the community level. In order to deliver services in an efficient manner, organizations must have an internal network that is both stable in structure and function. To fulfill such requirements, most charity organizations adapt a corporate type of governance, where it commonly comprised of the board, executive directors, the staff management, and the stakeholders on the side. Although the stakeholders do not take active participation in actual operations, most of them primarily fund the organization, providing the necessary resources in order to sustain programs and projects, all the while the community stakeholders take precedence in the organization, where their conditions are the main concerns the organization deals on. These concepts are summarily adapted in CARE Australia, where added appendages included the advisory council and the subcommittees, where the delegation process promises faster results and efficient delivery of projected services. Yet, it seemed that the benefits reaped from such conceptual structure and functions can also be the crux for conflicts to arise. For one, decision-making may be marginalized between the board and executive management, yet, disagreements may arise when motivations between the two bodies may differ. At this point, self-interest may get in the way towards belongingness and harmony within the group. Another problem observed in the full organizational development is the excessive administrative professionalism that the teams assume. In the first place, such sector is more on volunteer works, where charity works are the primary focus. Technical expertise can somehow affect the social and emotional unilateralism in the organization, where it may threaten the stat us of community projects. At this point, dilemmas can be traced back to administrative conformity against social relations, where the latter is stifled as part of the organizations policies-removing opportunities to reach out in local community degrees. As these problems are identified, one can assume that no matter how compact and defined an organization is, there can still be problems along the way. As counteract measures, all members of the organization must be aware on where they stand in the hierarchal structure, with their roles are clearly defined, and they should know the directions they will be taking. To arrive at such situation, competence in technical and social levels must be tempered with open lines in communication from the top management and down to staff at the fields. In such means, existing and potential problems can be identified and resolved before it had time to fester and destroy organizational harmony. Preventive measures, then, is the best way to manage orga nizations such as CARE Australia, ensuring their sustenance for longer service provisions.

AIDS :: Free AIDS Essays

AIDS Invades Rural America   Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  AIDS has been a problem in the United States for many years now. However, many people view victims of AIDS as homosexuals or drug users; this is no longer the case. AIDS is now being spread through teenagers in rural America. Many problems have arisen from the increasing number of victim in smaller America cities where hospitals and doctors are not able to provide suffienct treatment because of a lack of funding and experience. Also, the young adults that have no contracted the virus are victims of emotional and verbal abuse, because small-town America is not used to dealing with the AIDS virus. AIDS has made it’s way into rural America and the people do not know how to cope with the new face of Aids, the hospitals do not know how to treat the patients and the cites have a huge financial burden.   Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  The new face of AIDS is very hard for many small towns to understand. Jamestown, in northwest New York State, is the newest town in which one man, who was infected himself, succeed in infecting many teenagers with AIDS one at a time. According to officials, more than ten young women in Jamestown and surrounding villages had tested positive for the AIDS virus. â€Å"This new face of AIDS is not only young, female, and heterosexual; increasingly it is also rural† (Brownlee 1).   Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã¢â‚¬Å"There are greater amounts of support are related to higher numbers of coping strategies and a stronger likelihood of reporting a parent's cause of death as AIDS. It was noted that female adolescents reported more coping strategies than did male adolescents† (Dillon 1999: 183). Preventing the contacting of AIDS is one of the many steps today’s teenagers need to be taught in school. Children need to be taught abstinence programs. Abstinence programs are the best method of teaching children safe sex and not condoms. Stuart Berman believes that all abstinence programs are promising and should continue to be funded (Berman 1999: 1486)   Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Using condoms gives adolescents a feel of security, which they should not have. Condoms give a sense of illusion, whereas, through condoms people are still able to contract AIDS and STD’s. â€Å"Suggestions for intervention include providing information about the illusory nature of some protective strategies and a focus on failing to protect oneself from STD’s† (Thompson 1999: 38).   Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã¢â‚¬Å"In rural counties across the nation, and especially throughout the South, AIDS cases are on the rise, sometimes at an alarming rate.

Argumentative Essay Essay

For many years, the importance of English has increased because it has became a very common language all over the world. Owing to this situation, there are lots of argumentative topics which are about the power of English. One of them is about the medium of instruction at Turkish universities whether it should be English or not. First of all, the definition of the English as a medium of instruction can be made. Haagen – Schà ¼tzenhà ¶fer & Mathelitsch (n.d.) explain that, â€Å"English as a Medium of Instruction is a †¦ bilingual teaching – method. The main idea of EMI is to combine the conventional instruction of content – area subjects with †¦ a foreign language is used as a ‘tool’ for communication in different subjects† (p.1). In addition to this explanation, this type of education at Turkish universities can be very beneficial for students. Therefore, the medium of instruction should be English at universities in Turkey. Opponents of this argument claim that the English as a medium of education is not beneficial for students in some cases. They argue that this type of education causes two main problems which are misunderstanding problems and economical problems. Firstly, in Turkey, there is a common belief that if the educational language is English at universities, it can lead to not understanding of the courses very well due to the departmental technical jargons. For example, in engineering department, because of the English educational language, student may have some difficulties in their technical courses. However, this view is highly debatable. In the beginning of the university education, there is an English proficiency exam which tests the students’ level of English for being appropriate to the departmental technical courses. After this exam, for students who fail this exam, there is a preparatory year and the aim of this year is to prepare students their courses and to increase their level of English. Secondly, the opponents claim that, in English medium of universities, the fee of instruction can be a problem for poor students because it is higher than the other universities’. However this idea is open to debate. For poor students, there are lots of scholarship opportunities. Governments, universities and some big companies are ready to give some scholarship to poor students for rescuing them from their economical problems. Therefore, the high fee of  instruction is not a problem for poor students. English medium universities provide some advantages to students in some areas. Firstly, they are very useful for students in the most important field which is education. When the medium of education is English at universities, students have an ability to search in foreign sources. Therefore, their search area will expand and they can use the foreign sources in their researches. According to Economy Department of Istanbul University (n.d.), the English medium of instruction has lots of benefits for students. For example, in the English medium of instruction students get the chance to access and use the worldwide resources. Furthermore, this educational style makes it possible to enhance reading and comprehension skills and writing in English (p.1). Moreover, this educational style gives to students a chance to be educated in other countries. For example, many universities have Erasmus program which is the student exchange program between different countries’ universities. To ap ply this program the most important thing is knowing English. Due to the English medium universities, students already know English. Hence they have an opportunity to apply this program and to be educated in different countries. Secondly, English medium of instruction also provides some economical advantages to students. Thanks to the English medium of education, students do not have to spend any money to learn English. For instance, according to TOMER (n.d.) which is a famous and qualified foreign language course, the cost of the specific purpose foreign language courses is 576.00 TL. In addition to this, in this language course, there are speaking classes and their cost is also 350.00 TL (p.1). If the medium of instruction is English, students do not have to pay these high costs for learning English. Therefore, it gives an economical advantage to them. Furthermore, this educational style is useful for students when they find and apply a job. In Turkey, knowing English is very important quality for applying any job. Most companies want from their applicants to know English very well. If the medium of education is English, this increases the chance of finding a good job. Not only in educational and economical field, but also in social and business life, the English medium of education at universities is useful for  students. Firstly, in social life, it gives to students some advantages. For instance, students may gain a chance to live abroad because when they graduate from English medium of universities, their level of English will become high. Therefore, they will not any language problems when they live abroad. Furthermore, it is also beneficial in social relationships. If students know English, they have an opportunity to communicate and have friendship relation with foreign people or students. Hence, their social environment can expand. For example, at METU there are many foreign students and Turkish METU students have a chance to have foreign friends and communicate with foreign people. Secondly, this educational style has some advantages in business life. For instance, to work for international companies, English is very important because it is the common language in the world. If the graduates know their subjects in English very well, they automatically have a chance to work in these companies. Therefore, being a graduate from English medium of universities is a very significant advantage for students. Moreover, it gives to students an opportunity to have business life in foreign countries. For instance, lots of METU graduates maintain their business life in foreign countries. Being a graduate from METU whose educational language is English gives them to this chance. All in all, in Turkey, if the educational language is English at universities, students gain lots of benefits from it. These are about their education, economy, social, and business life. When these benefits are thought and examined carefully, the importance of English for students can be obviously seen. Because English is the today’s global language and it gives lots of advantages to students, the medium of instruction should be English at universities. REFERENCES Bà ¶là ¼mler: Ä °ngilizce Ä °ktisat: TanÄ ±tÄ ±m. (n.d.). Retrieved from http://www.istanbul.edu.tr/iktisat/bolumler.php Course fees. (n.d.). Retrieved from http://www.tomer.ankara.edu.tr/english/index.html# Haagen-Schà ¼tzenhà ¶fer, C. & Mathelitsch, L. (n.d.). English as a medium of instruction in science-teaching. Retrieved from http://www.fisica.uniud.it/girepseminar2001/CS06/HAAGEN_03_FINAL.pdf

The Characteristics of Partnership

Partnership is one of the most popular types of enterprise in Vietnam. A partnership is an unincorporated association of two or more individuals to carry on a business for profit. Many small businesses including retail, service, and professional practitioners, are organized as partnerships. Like the other types, partnership contains its own features and characteristics which help to differentiate itself from the others. First of all, in terms of the number of partners, there are no less than two partners who are joint owners of the company and carry out business.In addition to general partner, there may also be limited partners. General partner is required to be individual and will be liable to all obligations of the partnership with his entire property, while limited partner will be liable to debts of the partnership only to the extent of their capital contributed to the partnership. It should be pointed out that there are restrictions on the rights of general partners. General part ner cannot be sole proprietor or general partner of another partnership, unless otherwise agreed by remaining general partners.Besides, general partner is not allowed to act on his own behalf or on behalf of other persons in implementing the same business activities of the partnership for the benefit of himself or other. Also, general partner is not permitted to transfer a part or whole of his capital contribution to others. It is necessary to mention that a partnership will be given legal status from the issuing date of the certificate of business registration and that partnership is not entitled to issue any type of securities. The next characteristic of partnership is limited life.The life of a partnership may be established as a certain number of years by the agreement. If no such agreement is made, the death, inability to carry out specific responsibilities, bankruptcy, or the desire of a partner to withdraw automatically terminates the partnership. Every time a partner withdra ws or is added, a new partnership agreement is required if the business will continue to operate as a partnership. With proper provisions, the partnership's business may continue and the termination or withdrawal of the partnership will be a documentation issue that does not impact ongoing operations of the partnership.Unlimited liability is another feature relating to partnership. This is the prominent feature of partnership that the liability of each partner is not limited to the amount invested but his private property is also liable to pay the business obligations. Partners may be called on to use their personal assets to satisfy partnership debts when the partnership cannot meet its obligations. If one partner does not have sufficient assets to meet his/her share of the partnership's debt, the other partners can be held individually liable by the creditor requiring payment.There must be agreement between the parties concerned. This is the most important characteristics of partn ership. Without agreement partnership cannot be formed. But only competent persons are entitled to make a contract. There are some provisions contained in the partnership agreement. These are determined clearly before the commencement of business. But it differs from business to business. These documents may be written or oral. But it must be written so that disputes may be settled according to the provisions of agreement.Moreover, in terms of capital contribution, it is stated that general partner and limited partner are required to make capital contribution fully and promptly as committed. General partner who does not make capital contribution so fully and promptly that cause losses to the company must compensate for those losses. If a limited partner does not contribute capital fully and promptly as committed, deficiency in the capital contribution will be considered as his/her debt to the company; in this case, such a limited partner may be expelled from the partnership by a dec ision of the partners’ council.By contrast, with a full capital contribution, partners will be granted a certificate of capital contribution. Another characteristic that belongs to partnership is the division of profits or losses. It is not essential that all the partners must share the losses also. There may be a provision in the partnership deed that a particular partner or partners shall not bear losses. The profit is arrived at after providing for salaries to the partners and interest on capital, if agreed and stated in the agreement.That last but not least feature of partnership is about the business management. Firstly, it is specified that all general partners are entitled to act as legal representative of the partnership in carrying out business activities. Any restriction applicable to general partners in relation to conducting day-to-day business activities of the partnership will be effective to the third party if this party is informed. Secondly, general partners will agree on division of their duties in relation to management and running of the company.If a business activity is carried out by several partners, the decision will be adopted on the principle of majority. Additionally, the partnership will not be liable to any activity that is conducted by general partner and outside the scope of business activities of the partnership, unless otherwise agreed by the partners. Thirdly, the partnership can open one or several accounts with a bank. The partners’ council will appoint one partner who is required to deposit and withdraw money from those accounts.Lastly, chairman of the partners’ council, director or general director of the partnership is obligated to: manage and run the day-to-day business operation as a general partner; convene and organize meetings of the partners’ council, sign decisions of the partners’ council; make arrangement of business activities and coordination between partners, sign decisions p romulgating internal rules and other working regulations of the partnership, retain fully and honestly all accounting books, invoices and other documents in pursuant to the laws, act on behalf of the partnership in working with state authority, play the part as a plaintiff or defendant in lawsuits or other commercial disputes as well as other duties as stipulate in the company charter.

Investigating Education through Research (IETR) The WritePass Journal

Investigating Education through Research (IETR) Introduction Investigating Education through Research (IETR) IntroductionLiterature Review Methods and findingsApplied researchData interpretation and analysisConclusionReferencesRelated Introduction This report reviews the article Every Child Matters written by Straker and Foster (2009) and explores the need for multi agency collaboration in the ‘children’s workforce’ within an English multi disciplinary child based setting. to ensure that the   ECM outcomes are met consistently through efficient in service direction   of staff at multi tiered levels. This paper argues that if the outcomes of ECM are to be met, that staff working within these areas must work collaboratively. It is anticipated that only by   receiving appropriate and effective multi-agency training that consistency and continuity of the broad ECM aims can be achievedSome elements of this article are applicable to my UMP in that the function of ECM broad aims relate to inclusive/inclusion and inclusivity for all children and young people. Some authors represented in this article will be appropriate and significant to my research and may be used as underpinning and reinforcement to my main policy Special Educational Needs Disability Act (SENDA). The assessment criteria used to evaluate this journal article are: Context/significance of the research report Has the significance of the article been explained and justified? Methods/methodology used Have different research methods/methodologies been used effectively? Ethics Has good ethical practice been facilitated prior or during the research? Veracity /process of the research How reliable are the findings? Influenced by ever changing political issues, Government structures, cultural values and economic factors the authors translated policy guidelines into practical solutions using qualitative methods of research and underpinning citations from multiple theorists to evaluate the level of understanding, participation and clarity of the five   Every Child Matters (ECM)(DfEs,2003) broad aims. Every Child Matters: Change for Children (ECM) (DfES, 2003) is a legislated  Ã‚   initiative set up by the Government with the intention of ensuring that every young person regardless of circumstance or environment   is to be given the underpinning they require to: be healthy; stay safe; enjoy and achieve; make a positive contribution; and achieve economic wellbeing. (ibid) Every Child Matters went on to propose a framework of desirable outcomes for children which might form the basis of common assessment systems, shared working practices, and, above all, shared goals for childhood professionals (DfES, 2003: 9). A year later, the Government legislated, in the Children Act, 2004, to: create integrated children’s services departments by combining education and child and family social care functions; Bring these new services together with health and other childhood services by establishing children’s Trusts locally; Develop a set of shared working practices across these services and increase the mutual understanding and common skills base of childhood professionals. Submitted to Manchester University(no date) Dyson et al. This paper argues that there are flaws  Ã‚   identified by  Ã‚   researchers and theorists. Sloan (2006,12) states (t)o date there continues to be tensions and rivalries between agencies about their professional knowledge, roles and specialisms. The loss of agency specialism and the responsibilities that go with this are potentially traumatic for professionals going through the transition from single agency to multi agency work (Anning et al. 2005,72). Straker and Foster (2009) argue that as well as training and the ECM agenda, there are issues surrounding professional identity and differentiation. This is substantiated by Macdonald, (1995,35) It challenges, to invoke Bourdieu’s notion, the various folklores which are attached to different professional arenas and hence seeks to force open social closures which different groups of workers try to uphold as they defend their professional and personal identity (cf Macdonald,1995,35 cited in Straker and Foster 2009) The content, research methods and findings of this article will be evaluated within this document.. Content The evaluation criterions for this review are: Has the significance of the article been explained and justified? Have different research methods/methodologies been used effectively? Has good ethical practice been facilitated prior or during the research? How reliable are the findings? The significance of the article is to establish the level of clarity of the ECM broad aims and multi agency collaboration within children’s services departments. Every Child Matters: Change for Children (2004) identified flaws in the effective protection of children from some departments. These concerns are further backed up by the Bercow   Report   [2008] which also   pinpoint   five major ideas – problems  Ã‚   that require   rectifying   to enable adjustments   and enhancement   to develop. The recommendations   Ã‚  from this report are gathered under these five themes: Communication is crucial Early identification and intervention are essential; A continuum of services designed around the family is needed; Joint working is critical; and The current system is characterised by high variability and a lack of equity. (ibid) Straker and Foster’s review clearly identifies the focus of the research and the points the paper seeks to address. The methods of research were identified as being via focus group and semi structured   interviews. The mixed personnel samples were discussed and their purpose was explained. Ethical considerations were identified and appropriate protocol was evident in text.   The study findings and results were clarified with recommendations for future action.   The researcher concurs with the findings of ECM(2004) and the Bercow Report (2008) from reading associated literature Victoria Climbie’ Report by Lord Laming (2003)and from media coverage regarding failings of services responsible for the care for children.e.g. The case of baby P . Reform is essential to ensure no repetition of these failings. Ethical considerations for focus groups are the same as for most other methods of social research (Homan 1991). When selecting and involving participants the researchers must ensure that full information about the purpose of contributions is given. Implications of appropriate ethics consideration was contained in the written body of this text. It should be stated that none of the participants were known to the researchers prior to these interviews and focus groups, and that, in order to maintain anonymity, participants are identified by letters (Cohort 1) and numbers (Cohort 2) throughout the below discussion. Straker Foster   (2009. P.124) Honesty and keeping the contributor enlightened about the expected  Ã‚   outcomes of the exercise is   apparent within the paper. Good practice prohibits candidates to be pressured into communicating information, there was no implication of this in the article. Ethical considerations to be aware of in a focus group situation are the processing of confidential material and sensitivity to the feelings of each contributor. Clarification of how contributions will be used and shared by personnel involved in the exercise must be   established   prior to the activity. Confidentiality must be a focus to be communicated to the group as a priority this avoids any sensitive material being leaked. Analysts have a duty to conceal data from the participants This paper indicates that pseudonyms were used. This complies with the principles of British Educational Research [BERA]. According to Hammersley and Traianou,(2007)commonly recognized ethical principles include harm, autonomy, privacy, reciprocity and equity. If social research is to remain of benefit to society and the groups and individuals within it, then social researchers must conduct their work responsibly and in light of the moral and legal order of the society in which they practice. They have a responsibility to maintain high scientific standards in the methods employed in the collection and analysis of data and the impartial assessment and dissemination of findings.[SRA   2003, 13]. Literature Review A literature review outlines the scope of the subject area, trends, themes and prior research that demonstrate awareness of work carried out on the issue/topic   covered. The article sets out to explore the need for multi agency collaboration within the ‘children’s workforce’. The   aim to pilot and assess the overall understanding of policy interpretation in this area. The effectiveness of training to inform and guide these agencies to a joint, collaborative service with less overlap. The literature review was initially wide including general texts such as ECM,(2003), Children’s Workforce Development Council (2007), Victoria Climbie’ Report by Lord Laming (2003) and Reid, (2005,13). The focus then narrowed drawing on the comments of Allnock et al.(2006,35-7), Atkinson et al.(2007) and Moran et al, (2006) then finally focussing on the topic aims. Issues surrounding multi agency collusion are not new. The potential benefits have been discussed repeatedly by Government reports e.g. DfEE (1999) and Atkinson et al.( 2002), Atkins, Jones and Lamont (2007) Bloxham (1996) and Payne(1998) all agree that there are possible advantages of shared Practice. The review of literature by the authors suggested anticipated problems with strategy implementation resulting in inconsistencies and overlapping of roles across childcare teams to meet the broad aims of the ECM –Change for Children policy,(2204). Allnock et al. (2006,35-7) in summing up the research within this document identifies the need for more clarification of role where there is full coverage for all areas without overlap. The focus therefore was for the implementation of strategies that addressed Government policy consistently. The literature review within this article is appropriate; references display deepness and wideness which is clear and concise. Several appropriate references were used in the introduction which gives a broad understanding of policy, statute and the need to work in collaboration to meet the desired outcomes of the ECM: Change for Children (2004). This literature review is good as it gives a wide overview of the subject, informed analysis of findings, identified variables and offered recommendationsfrom the findings. The spotlight on content and relevance is evident. Critique and collaboration of other policy is also discussed within the paper.   The authors state clearly that other theorists and participants concur that it is a ‘two way street’ where united collaboration will only take place when all Government partners and child care professionals share the same ethos, receive appropriate guidance and training and communication is effective . Straker and Foster’s, (2009) could have used the recommendations from the Bercow Report to evaluate and substantiate their own findings. The literature review concludes by identifying that whilst training has been identified as being a potential asset it is still sporadic this may be due to resisting the opportunities, lack of vision to move with changes or basically that it is not available to certain sectors or personnel. Different sectors within this subject are identified as requiring further investigation these are those that require professional identity (clarification of role) and differentiation (what the role involves for the individual).It is also identified that through ECM professional development and training that these obstacles could be overcome. Methods and findings Research is defined by two categories qualitative and quantitative Qualitative research is drawn from many sources. This is primarily  Ã‚   due, as Lancy (1993) points out, to the fact that â€Å" topic, theory, and methodology are usually closely interrelated in qualitative research[p.3].† Both research methods used   Ã‚  in this journal article were qualitative. Qualitative methods are helpful not only in giving rich explanations of complex phenomena, but in creating or evolving theories or conceptual bases, and in proposing hypotheses to clarify the phenomena. (Shwartz, 2000). Quantitative research examines the variables of statistical information. This type of research uses controlled systems in order to prove or disprove a theory. Basic research is primary this type of research is information or data from a chosen subject that requires further explanation or clarification with the intention of gaining more clarification and understanding. The results are not immediate or short term. On one hand there is research which is qualitative with no scientific element in the experiential perception, it is the questioning why in the humanistic sense and the other which is more analytical and questions the relationship amid irregulars being qualitative and /or quantitative research to prove or disprove a hypothesis. However debate between researchers remains as to what is valid research. Applied research Applied research communicates outcomes on multiple layers. This type of research scrutinizes issues in genuine context the aim being the provision of a realistic resolution which usually comes from fundamental  Ã‚   study in this case Every Child Matters: Change for Children[ECM] [2004]. Applied research can capture why policy accomplishment is delayed or suspended.   The example being the variables of policy interpretation, policy understanding and what trainees   want   their learning experience to be and how to implement changes in the workplace. This is clearly identified within the reviewed journal article. Primary research consists of interviews and eye witness accounts etc. Which are taken from   observational methods. Whereas secondary research could use books, Government documents etc. This method uses the findings of others for the advancement of knowledge.   Secondary and primary research is effective when used together   as it shows variety   and veracity of information and data. The article reviewed used both methods to give weight and impact to the research thus providing depth and breadth. The researchers aim was to build an accredited, tiered pathway of training. The nature of the research and the distinctive challenges of shared vision and leadership for the Children’s Service workforce is very diverse in its makeup. There were observed identified differences in this pilot research. Straker and Foster (2009) research set out to answer the questions on the effectiveness of ECM aims within children’s services, the implementation within different tiers and multi agency training. The chosen research methodology was focus group ; strength of this method is the ability to inform many people in a limited time a weakness of this method is cost and time constraints. Semi structured interview encourages two way dialogue but the interviewer must be articulate and confident; this can a weakness if not. The framework of the questions from both research methodologies cited above was to establish how far the rhetoric   of ECM and the effect of translation over the m ulti faceted children and family service. The sampling strategy was opportunistic 3 cohorts of participants from various fields working within children’s services. Opportunistic sampling allows new strands of information to be pursued allowing the length and width of research to be explored.(Journal of Mixed Method Research January 2007 1:77- 100). The piloting of research is to establish reliability and validity in this case by asking the same questions to different cohorts. It is the tool to measure the level of knowledge or participation in an subject in this instance ECM and multi agency collaboration and training. Researchers will sometimes see if the measure yields different scores for two groups who are expected to differ in the construct. Harter and Pike (1994). Social enquiry when correctly executed can result in effective results for all, this type of research is grounded foundation to build on for the benefit an enhancement of the subject/s being studied. Social enquiry is predicated on the belief that greater access to well grounded information will serve rather than threaten the interests of society. Nonetheless, in planning all phases of an inquiry, from design to presentation of findings, social researchers should consider the likely consequences for society at large, groups and categories of persons within it, respondents or other subjects, and possible future research. [SRA 2003, 17] Focus groups allow the collating of data from personnel at various levels within educational settings the diversity of their backgrounds   and   their original outlooks allow the researchers opportunity to obtain information   from varying perspectives and backgrounds. With an individual survey or interview, a respondents input will be limited to the ideas and issues that he/she thinks of at the time of the session. The only prompts to trigger these ideas are the specific questions on the survey   and/or the comments from the interviewer. In a focus group participants benefit from the ability to build on each others ideas and comments, typically providing more extensive input than would otherwise be possible. In contrast to written or online surveys and phone interviews, focus groups present the possibility of observing nonverbal   behavior. Wiesenfelder,(no date) Focus groups are particularly useful when there are power differences between the participants and decision makers or professionals, when the everyday use of language and culture of particular groups is of interest, and when one wants to explore the degree of consensus on a given topic (Morgan Kreuger, 1993).   Kitzinger (1994) argues that interaction is the crucial feature of focus groups because the interaction between participants highlights their view of the world, the language they use about an issue and their values and beliefs about a situation. Interaction also enables participants to ask questions of each other, as well as to re-evaluate and reconsider their own understandings of their specific experiences. Stavrou, (2002) states that it is useful in qualitative research as unreconstructed logic   Ã‚  or the inflexible   science of reasoning and is used to understand what is real: the quality , meaning, context or image of   reality in what people actually do, not what they say they do [as in the collection of quantitative data] Stavrou, [2002]. Although having many benefits alongside other investigation methods limitations are evident. The researcher, or moderator, for example, has less control over the data produced (Morgan 1988) than in either quantitative studies or one-to-one interviewing. This gives little control leaving a predominantly open ended outcome with an unpredictable   predetermined conclusion. A predicted outcome is not the aim of a focus group the diversity of the subjects within the group prohibits this.   More positively, focus groups may pose some difficulty in assembly. Obtaining a representative sample may be a challenge as focus groups may not be an option for certain   members of personnel. Such as people who have confidence issues, the less eloquent, those with speech delays or learning difficulties. The authors of the journal article did not indicate that the above was an issue for the participants taking part but if this were the case the reviewer would have expected the choice of research method to accommodate the diversities within the sample. To address some of the weaknesses of a focus group supporting research strategies were implemented. Semi structured interviews are focused two way conversations that are used to give and receive information. This method is conducted with an open framework which differs from a questionnaire where questions are formulated prior to the interview starting. The research methodology of semi- structured interview commences with generalized questions or topics   Key themes explored include roles and responsibilities, their perceptions of the ECM agenda, and its impact on their practice as well as their relationships with other agencies. Straker Foster(2009. P.124) This then forms the basis of a more specific line of questioning which does not require forward planning. In effect this gives the researcher ‘’carte blanche’’ to create most of the questions during the process giving the interviewer the opportunity to probe so allowing depth of detail or the opportunity to discuss delicate/conflicting issues 1-1’’ Wengraf (2001.P.194-5) Semi structured consultations may be recorded by prior agreement in compliance with the  Ã‚   ethic code. This affords more accuracy if supported with notation as back up.   The latter ensures that all questions are addressed and if   Ã‚  there are mechanical glitches there is supporting evidence. The disadvantages of this research method are concluding the interview through visual clues e.g. closing books tidying up papers which may hamper the flow of the process thus turning the interviewee off . Wengraf, [2001. 11] as above states that ending an interview appropriately can lead to the emergence of a whole new area of information. A further pitfall of this method is that the transcribing and analysis of data can prove time consuming and the opportunity to get side tracked with anecdotes and generally inappropriate information is a possibility. In any research the   Ã‚  first questions that you should ask are: Has this been done before? Does these data already exist? If so, is there value-added in doing this again? Rand, [2009, 16]   Whilst these methods offer breadth and depth my opinion is that it would be easy to keep to the structure as other information may come up that could side track the research event. The principle of   the research was the exploration of need for multi agency collaboration within children’s services. The research focused on three sets of personnel working within different branches of the children’s care framework, ethical considerations were followed and informed consent was documented as being obtained. The sample used was diverse in its make up ranging from junior tosenior management levels. The desirable model of practice was taken from the ECM, (2004) shared goals. The article included semi structured interviews and focus groups to establish the levels of understanding and participation within their specialism. The methods chosen proved to be limited and the sample size although diverse in makeup was small which may hamper the overall picture of awareness in this field of enquiry. Data interpretation and analysis The authors of this journal article identified that whilst there was marked amount   Ã‚  of similarities in opinion     within the groups   any disparity in opinions was thought to be as a result of the lack of clarity of ECM   outcomes and   involvement therein, this is underpinned by relevant references from Annig et al ; Sloan( 2006) .The researchers in this study identified that participant’s roles and responsibilities varied considerably and this determined the responses of the individual groups. The article therefore implies that other tiers would benefit from the knowledge and understanding of their peers roles within the sector. Multi-channel collusion: Happens at dissimilar tiers: information transmitted to personnel from different disciplines; co-operation and joint working on a case-by-case basis;   co-ordination and formalised joint working; coalition at the level of joint structures; and integration of organisations   merging to create a new identity Horwath and Morrison, [2007]. The findings   of the research agrees with Horwath and Morrison, [2007]. The diversity of the groups and the differing tiers gave depth and breadth of insight into the levels of participation and understanding of   the ECM framework. The study ranged from a wholly positive attitude from cohort one to cohort two, who whilst still positive did feel confident in highlighting negative and problem areas. Cohort three displayed a an eclectic mix of groups one and two. It was interesting to view     the responses of the individual groups even though each sample group was mixed   in level   academically and professionally the responses in group 1 and 2 were on the whole identified as being   positive. Disparities were identified in group 2 due to gaps [they felt] in understanding of the ECM framework for some employees this was proving problematic. The dynamics in group 3 was a mixture of positive   and negative responses/comments in line with the other two   groups sampled. The same comments from individuals during the tasks was encouraging, the mention of shared values, the understanding of other professional roles   and a feeling of belonging as a result of this training exercise was a positive step . Conclusion The research concluded that key issues that emerged were communication, leadership and consistency in practice. Communication is considered to be of paramount importance in promoting the awareness of knowledge and the clarification of the work that other agencies do.   Leadership was defined as being a multi tiered facet which has the ability to empower, promote a shared vision and purpose. This was acknowledged as a being a strength in shared collaboration only when colleagues were willing to change and adapt practice  Ã‚   to new agendas. Whilst the participants in the focus group acknowledge the needs of effective communication, good leadership in order to work collaboratively interpretation of the outcomes of ECM and overlap of role still appears to be problematic areas.   Problem areas were also identified, these included lack of consistency in practice, the inability for some employees to move forward with new ideas and policy directives, lack of clarity in job descriptio n and poor perception. These findings are reasonably founded as other researchers early in the article indicate similar findings and are broadly reiterated by others participating in this research. These findings are presented in the form of statements that identify the participant by pseudonym but highlight the accurate job title. Many sources of appropriate documentation were used to support this journal article. Theory is used to embed and underpin throughout the article. The literature used created a chronological picture of policy and the multi strand approach to addressing the issue of lack of clarity and cooperation within children’s services. The description of research participants and levels was appropriate to enable the reader to establish the reasoning behind the research that was to be identified. Ethics guidelines were documented as being followed appropriately. Some reinforcement of ethical paperwork in the appendices would have been useful. Policy and practice mis- match is identified as an ongoing concern across the children’s services sector. This exercise has identified the focal characteristics of focus group and semi structured interviews research methodology, with emphasis being on the interaction and oscillation of participants which only qualitative methods of research can facilitate. Participants who do engage in focus groups often obtain value from the experience but realistic deliberation of time consuming focus group situations from the researchers point of view could be daunting. Lack of chance to complete the required elements involved within the allotted constraints can be a deterrent. The process of these types of research can be more collaborative than other forms of study and can be an empowering process for participants and an exciting challenge for social researchers wanting to gain a different perspective on their field of interest. (Harrell and Bradley 2009 cited in Rand, 2009) The initial questions identified earlier in this article have been answered and reasoning behind the findings has been discussed. The theory was used to substantiate the outcomes from the article. References Article Pros Advantages and Disadvantages of Qualitative Research Methods Article Pros.com./php?Andrew Schwartz Accessed 5/3/11 articlesnatch.com/Article/Advantages-And-Disadvantages-Of-The-Qualitative-Research-Methods/208266 accessed 14/11/10 dcsf.gov.uk/bercowreview/docs/7771-DCSF-BERCOW.PDF accessed 29/10/10 dcsf.gov.uk/everychildmatters/about/guidance/dutytocooperate/accessed 24/10/10 DfEs,(2003) Every Child Matters. Cm. 5860 (London: The Stationery Office). DfES (2003a) Every Child Matters. Cm. 5860 (London: The Stationery Office) Every Child Matters-Change for Children. (2004) Homepage . everychildmatters.gov.uk/accessed 5/3/11 Gibbs, A. (1997) Social Research Update University of Surrey Issue 19. sru soc.surrey.ac.uk/SRU 19 html   accessed 5/3/11 Hammersley, M. and Traianou, A. (2007) Ethics and Educational Research. London: TLRP. tirp.org/capacity/rm/wt/traianou/ accessed 5/3/11 Harrell,M. AND Bradley,M. (2009) Data Collection Mehtods: Semi Structured Interviews and Focus Groups.rand.org/pubs/technical_reports/2009/RAND_TR718.pdf accessed 14/11/10 Harter and Pike, (1994) cited in Lodico, G. Spaulding, D.T., Voegtle, H. (2010) Methods of Educational Research from Theory to Practice. San-Francisco: Jossey-Bass Homan R (1991) Ethics in Social Research. Harlow: Longman Horwath, J. and Morrison, T. (2007) Collaboration, integration and change in children’s services: Critical issues and key ingredients, Child Abuse and Neglect, 31, 55-69. evidencnet.pbworks.com/Developing-the-workforce-for-practice-in-integrated-children%E2%/80%99s-services accessed 5/3/11 Kitzinger J. (1994,1995) ‘The methodology of focus groups: the importance of interaction between research   participants’, Sociology of Health 16 (1): 103-21. soc.surrey.ac.uk/sru/SRUU19.html accessed 5/3/11 Lancy,D.F. [1993]. Qualitative research in education: An introduction to the major traditions. New York: Longman. Manchester University(no date) Dyson et al. education.manchester.ac.uk/research/centres/cee/publications/Fileuploadmax10Mb.136260.en.doc Mixed Methods Sampling: A Typology with Examples, Journal of Mixed Method Research January 2007 1:77-100 Morgan D.L. (1988) Focus groups as qualitative research. London: Sage Morgan and Kruger, (1993) Social Research Update. ( no date)Issue 19 University of Surrey. soc.surrey.ac.uk/sru/SRUU19.html Morgan D.L. and Kreuger R.A. (1993) ‘When to use focus groups and why’ in Morgan D.L. (Ed.) Successful Focus Groups. London: Sage. Kitzinger, (1994) Social Research Update.  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚   ( no date) Issue 19 University of Surrey. soc.surrey.ac.uk/sru/SRUU19.html Qualitative Report, (1995) Vol. 2: 3. nova.edu/ssss/QR/QR2-3/shank.html accessed on various dates Social Research Association ethical guidelines thesra.org.uk/documents/pdfs/ethics03.pdf accessed 7/11/10 Social Research Update issue 19 University of Surrey   Soc.surrey.ac.uk/sru/SRUU19html accessed 5/3/11 SRA,(2003,17) research.shu.uk/ethicsethinicity/docs/newdoc/LearnedSocietiesReviewdraft.pdf Stavrou, S. (2002) Youth Delinquent Surveys: A Methodology Paper unhabitat.org/downloads/docs/1845_23210_Aki_methodology_paper.pdf   accessed 27.11.10 Straker, Katherine Foster, Rob [2009] ‘Every Child Matters: Every challenge met?’ Journal of Vocational Education Training, 61:2, 119-132 Wengraf, Tom (2001). Qualitative research interviewing. London: Sage. Wiesenfelder, H. (no date) What are the Benefits of Focus Groups. ehow.com/about_5042427_benefits-focus-groups.html

The Capitals of the 50 U.S. States

The Capitals of the 50 U.S. States The following is a complete list of the state capitals of the fifty United States. The state capital in each state is the political center of the state and is the location of the state legislature, government, and governor of the state. In many states, the state capital is not the largest city in terms of population. For example, in California, the most populous state of the United States, the state capital of Sacramento is the fourth largest metropolitan area in the state (the three largest are Los Angeles, San Francisco, and San Diego.) The data below are from the United States Census Bureau. State Capitals Alabama - Montgomery Population: 200,602 (2015 estimate)Education: 31.4% have a bachelors degreeMedian Household Income: $43,535 Alaska - Juneau Population: 32,756  (2015 estimate)Education: 37.8% have a bachelors degreeMedian Household Income: $84,750 Arizona - Phoenix Population: 1,563,025  (2015 estimate)Education: 26.5% have a bachelors degreeMedian Household Income: $46,881 Arkansas - Little Rock Population:  197,992 (2015 estimate)Education: 38.5% have a bachelors degreeMedian Household Income: $46,409 California - Sacramento Population:  490,712(2015 estimate)Education: 29.3% have a bachelors degreeMedian Household Income: $50,013 Colorado - Denver Population: 682,545  (2015 estimate)Education: 43.7% have a bachelors degreeMedian Household Income: $51,800 Connecticut - Hartford Population: 124,006  (2015 estimate)Education:  15% have a bachelors degreeMedian Household Income: $29,313 Delaware - Dover Population: 37,522  (2015 estimate)Education: 28.4% have a bachelors degree   Florida - Tallahassee Population:  190,894  (2015 estimate)Education:  47.6% have a bachelors degreeMedian Household Income: $45,660 Georgia - Atlanta Population: 463,878  (2015 estimate)Education: 47.1% have a bachelors degreeMedian Household Income: $46,439 Hawaii - Honolulu Population: 998,714  (Honolulu County, 2015 estimate)Education: 32.5% have a bachelors degreeMedian Household Income: $73,581 Idaho - Boise Population: 218,281  (2015 estimate)Education: 39.1% have a bachelors degreeMedian Household Income: $49,209 Illinois - Springfield Population: 116,565  (2015 estimate)Education: 34.9% have a bachelors degreeMedian Household Income: $48,848 Indiana - Indianapolis Population: 853,173  (2015 estimate)Education: 27.6% have a bachelors degreeMedian Household Income: $42,076 Iowa - Des Moines Population: 210,330  (2015 estimate)Education: 24.7% have a bachelors degreeMedian Household Income: $46,430 Kansas - Topeka Population:  127,265  (2015 estimate)Education: 27.5% have a bachelors degreeMedian Household Income: $41,412 Kentucky - Frankfort Population: 27,830  Ã‚  (2015 estimate)Education: 25.5% have a bachelors degreeMedian Household Income: $40,622 Louisiana - Baton Rouge Population: 228,590  (2015 estimate)Education: 32.7% have a bachelors degreeMedian Household Income: $38,790 Maine - Augusta Population: 18,471  (2015 estimate)Education: 23.2% have a bachelors degreeMedian Household Income: $38,263 Maryland - Annapolis Population: 39,474  (2015 estimate)Education: 45.7% have a bachelors degreeMedian Household Income: $75,320 Massachusetts - Boston Population: 667,137  (2015 estimate)Education:  44.6% have a bachelors degreeMedian Household Income: $54,485 Michigan - Lansing Population: 115,056  (2015 estimate)Education: 25.1% have a bachelors degreeMedian Household Income: $35,675 Minnesota - St. Paul Population: 300,851(2015 estimate)Education: 38.6% have a bachelors degreeMedian Household Income: $48,258 Mississippi - Jackson Population:  170,674  (2015 estimate)Education: 26% have a bachelors degreeMedian Household Income: $33,080 Missouri - Jefferson City Population: 43,168  (2015 estimate)Education: 33.2% have a bachelors degreeMedian Household Income: $47,901 Montana - Helena Population: 30,581  (2015 estimate)Education: 44.8% have a bachelors degreeMedian Household Income: $50,311 Nebraska - Lincoln Population: 277,348  (2015 estimate)Education: 36.2% have a bachelors degreeMedian Household Income: $49,794 Nevada - Carson City Population: 54,521  (2015 estimate)Education: 20.4% have a bachelors degreeMedian Household Income: $50,108 New Hampshire - Concord Population:  42,620  (2015 estimate)Education: 35% have a bachelors degreeMedian Household Income: $54,182 New Jersey - Trenton Population: 84,225  (2015 estimate)Education: 10.7% have a bachelors degreeMedian Household Income: $35,647 New Mexico - Santa Fe Population: 84,099  (2015 estimate)Education:  44% have a bachelors degreeMedian Household Income: $50,213 New York - Albany Population: 98,469  Ã‚  (2015 estimate)Education: 36.3% have a bachelors degreeMedian Household Income: $41,099 North Carolina - Raleigh Population: 451,066  (2015 estimate)Education: 47.6% have a bachelors degreeMedian Household Income: $54,581 North Dakota - Bismarck Population: 71,167  (2015 estimate)Education: 34% have a bachelors degreeMedian Household Income: $57,660 Ohio - Columbus Population: 850,106  (2015 estimate)Education:  33.4% have a bachelors degreeMedian Household Income: $44,774 Oklahoma - Oklahoma City Population: 631,346  (2015 estimate)Education: 28.5% have a bachelors degreeMedian Household Income: $47,004 Oregon - Salem Population:  164,549 (2015 estimate)Education: 26.9% have a bachelors degreeMedian Household Income: $46,273 Pennsylvania - Harrisburg Population:  49,081(2015 estimate)Education:  18.4% have a bachelors degreeMedian Household Income: $32,476 Rhode Island - Providence Population:  179,207  (2015 estimate)Education: 28.6% have a bachelors degreeMedian Household Income: $37,514 South Carolina - Columbia Population: 133,803  (2015 estimate)Education: 40.1% have a bachelors degreeMedian Household Income: $41,454 South Dakota - Pierre Population: 14,002  (2015 estimate)Education: 33.2% have a bachelors degreeMedian Household Income: $52,961 Tennessee - Nashville Population:  654,610  (Nashville-Davidson balance, 2015 estimate)Education: 35.8% have a bachelors degreeMedian Household Income: $46,758 Texas - Austin Population: 931,830  (2015 estimate)Education: 46% have a bachelors degreeMedian Household Income: $55,216 Utah - Salt Lake City Population:  192,672 (2015 estimate)Education: 42.1% have a bachelors degreeMedian Household Income: $45,833 Vermont - Montpelier Population:  7,592  (2015 estimate)Education: 52.5% have a bachelors degreeMedian Household Income: $60,676 Virginia - Richmond Population: 220,289  (2015 estimate)Education:  35.4% have a bachelors degreeMedian Household Income: $41,331 Washington - Olympia Population: 50,302  (2015 estimate)Education: 43.4% have a bachelors degreeMedian Household Income: $52,834 West Virginia - Charleston Population: 49,736  (2015 estimate)Education: 39.3% have a bachelors degreeMedian Household Income: $48,959 Wisconsin - Madison Population: 248,951  (2015 estimate)Education: 55% have a bachelors degreeMedian Household Income: $53,933 Wyoming - Cheyenne Population:  63,335 (2015 estimate)Education: 27.7% have a bachelors degreeMedian Household Income: $54,845 Edited by Allen Grove.

Caretaker Government Sysytem Must Not Be Banned

Caretaker Government System must not Be Voided from the Constitution In the year 1996, under huge political pressure from the major opposition party the Awami league, the then government ruled by Bangladesh Nationalist Party (BNP) introduced the caretaker government system in Bangladesh constitution by making the 13th amendment. The summary of the amendment was that the head of the Caretaker government will be called the Chief Adviser and will be selected by the President and the main objective of the caretaker government will be to create an environment in which an election can be held in a free and fair manner without any political influence of the outgoing government. After the amendment was made in the constitution, an election was held under caretaker government the same year and Awami league won the election. Justice Muhammad Habibur Rahman was the chief adviser at that time and led the election. However, after two long term gaps, in 2008, when Awami league again became the government of the country, since then they are trying to demolish the 13th amendment from the constitution. From my point of view, caretaker government system must be voided from the constitution of Bangladesh as the present government is strong enough to conduct a peaceful and fair election, the Election Commission is very sure about giving clear and acceptable results and there would be no mishaps regarding elections as there would be more law enforcement people working and law implementation. In 40 years of independence, Bangladesh has experienced the leadership of a few but major political parties. However, the matter of regret is that the existing political parties which successfully gained the trust of people could not gain the trust of each other. It is one of the sole reasons of introducing the caretaker government system in the constitution of Bangladesh. The cause is, as a lack of trust in each other, the political parties do not want to have the national election under the rule of another political party. Noted Jurist Barrister Rafiqul haque in a press briefing clearly stated, â€Å"Holding the national election under a neutral caretaker government is a must for Bangladesh as both the major political parties do not have the trust in each other. † He said, â€Å"The country’s political situation will be more volatile if the caretaker government system is dropped from the constitution. † It is ironic that political parties who brought in the caretaker government provisions in the constitution in 1996 to ensure free and fair general elections have rendered the system controversial over the years. As the major political parties do not have faith in each other, the caretaker government system is the only option for conducting a clear and peaceful election. If we look into the political history of Bangladesh we can see that whenever a parliamentary election has been hold by a political government and under its Election Commission, there was always a question of transparency and acceptability of election results. In one hand, where the present chief Election Commissioner, Mr. ATM Shamsul Huda is deliberately saying in every press briefing, â€Å" We are able to conduct a fair election and publish a authentic result†, the past few incidents regarding ‘Municipal and Union election’ shows the story of other hand. There have been enormous reports published in newspapers regarding ‘Municipal and Union election’ which have taken place very recently that the Election Commission’s authorized persons have intentionally made the persons winners who were the supporters of the present government. Reports in the newspaper mentioned about places like Narayangonj, Bikrampur, Gopalgonj and some other also. If in ‘Municipal and Union’ elections, these types of incidents took place then surely the National parliamentary Election held under this Election Commission will be nothing but a stage show. At present, the whole statements of the Chief Election Commissioner have become self-contradictory. They are saying something in front of the public and doing something else behind. If this election commission conducts the National parliamentary Election, definitely the countrymen will never have fair and authentic results of the election and it will cause a number of disastrous incidents. Therefore, a caretaker government is immensely needed for fair and acceptable results in the elections of Bangladesh. The statement made by our Home Minister ADV. Sahara Khatun regarding our law enforcement departments was that the Police is doing a great job. According to her, the police is successfully controlling all the mishaps and doing no arm to the people. What about the people who speak on behalf of the people? On the strike of 10th July 2011 for caretaker government, called upon by the opposition parties, all the people of Bangladesh and people all over saw how opposition party’s chief whip Jainal Abedin Faruk was almost beaten to death. He was pulled vigorously in the streets by the police. When he tried to save his skin and ran, all the police on the scene ag ain got all over him and started to kick him and beat him with sticks. The intellectuals, the civil society all mentioned it as a disgrace to the country’s reputation. Here lies the story of our police force and the government when the opposition party is speaking on behalf of the people for caretaker government. This is truly unexpected and in a way this incident violates the democratic rights of a country. Another story of success I would like to write about is the opposition parties of our country, who are now speaking highly in support of caretaker government. For re-establishing the caretaker government system, the main opposition parties are now calling on strikes every now and then. Undoubtedly, they do it on behalf of the people and for the betterment of country’s political future and condition of people. However, they forget what common people go through when everything is closed. Day laborers, whose earning depends on a day’s work, cannot manage the necessary items for their families. 24 hours strike means, the country is fully closed for 24 hours. This includes market of common goods too. As a result, the prices of commodities rise up, making it beyond the reach of the hard life of common people. The two stories of success which I mentioned above are not supposed to take any support of any political parties. The main reason was to state that in every way these two incidents are unexpected and disgraceful for the country’s political history. The point is all these stories leads to the cause of one thing and one thing only and that is re-establishing the caretaker government system. Therefore, in order to minimize these kinds of incidents caretaker government system must be re-introduced. In Democracy, all in all there is truly no place for systems like caretaker government. However, the fact is, our country has gone through so much political instability and crisis that none of the political parties have any positive attitude and support for each other. M. Abdul Latif Mondal, former secretary, said that people will remember how Awami League agiated for introducing the caretaker government system in Bangladesh with relentless ‘Hartals’. Now, they are just turning their back to it and want to do the national election under their supervision. They did not even try to give any solid reasons why they want to demolish the system of caretaker government. The Supreme Court in suggestion clearly stated that for the sake of ‘peace’ and public interest, elections ‘may’ be held under the 13th amendment for the next two terms. Sadly, the government did not bother to take the suggestion. Dr. Kamal Hossain, renowned law maker of the country commented it as a sign of insincerity and political opportunism of the present government. All these actions of the ruling party sent the opposition parties to the brink where they have no choice but to stand up for reasons. In addition, the inexplicable hurry to do away with the caretaker government, even though the next election is two and a half years away, raises questions and doubts about the government. The caretaker government system was formed in Bangladesh only to conduct the election by 90 days. It has no power to bring any change in the constitution nor, to change the laws of the country but to do the normal daily works of the government and maintain the protocols. Therefore, for the sake of public trust and a transparent election, the caretaker government system must go on. As a democratic country, every political party in Bangladesh along with the people has the right to say for or against any issue of the country. Therefore, if the major political parties, intellectuals are opposing the decision of government regarding voiding the caretaker government system from the constitution of Bangladesh, it has to be re-considered again. It does not have to be a one-sided decision by the government as it is a matter of a country’s political future and stability. Therefore, the caretaker government system must be continued for a peaceful and fair election, for clear and satisfactory results of the election and for minimizing unexpected incidents. References Karim Tariq A. (January 2007). Bangladesh at the Crossroads. United States Institute of Peace. http://www. usip. org/files/resources/sr181. pdf M. Abdul Latif Mondal (December 23, 2004). Political Parties and Non-party Caretaker Government. [Electronic version]. EBSCOHost. Dr. Kamal (March 22, 2011). Caretaker Govt. should stay. Daily New Age. Hasan Ur Rashid (April 9, 2011) Do we need a caretaker government? Editorial. The Daily Star. Barrister Rafiqul Haque (April 22, 2011), in his own words [television series episode]. Tritio Matra. Channel I. http://www. banglapedia. org/httpdocs/HT/C_0041. HTML

The measurement tecniques of Particulate Matter2.5 (PM2.5) Essay

The measurement tecniques of Particulate Matter2.5 (PM2.5) - Essay Example An earlier research has shown a relationship between hydrogen and a trace element (ANSTO, 2003). For analyzing these suspended particulate matters, these particles have to be collected as per a standard procedure and thereafter have to be investigated. For analyzing the nature of these suspended particles especially PM2.5 various analytical techniques are used. Analytical techniques such as particle induced X-ray emission or particle induced gamma ray emission; IR spectroscopy and gas chromatography are used for finding the elements, inorganic compounds and organic compounds respectively (Measurement methods, 2007). In the present study a literature search has been carried out to study the impact of bushfires on our environment and the examples of Australia and Singapore bush fires has been covered. A brief introduction of PM2.5 has also been covered. A few analytical instruments utilized by the various environmental protection agencies have been studied with respect to their advantages in bushfires. The through principles of the instrument techniques were also studied and a conclusion of the study has been made. The most common measurement in air quality is the concentration of suspended particles in it and is reported as the PM index. ... PM10 (where the total concentration of all particles having diameter less than 10 m) are being monitored by various government agencies in many countries such as US, Canada (Baird, 2005). Many government agencies are also looking for monitoring fine suspended particles having diameter less than 2.5 m, as these are within the respirable range and can penetrate deep into the lungs. US EPA specification for PM 2.5 US EPA National Ambient Air Quality standards (NAAQS) have set standards for particulate matter PM2.5 and PM10. For PM2.5 it has set an annual average of 15 g/m3 with a 24 hour standard of 65g/m3 and for PM10 an annual average of 50 g/m3 with a 24-hour standard of 150 g/m3 (ANSTO, 2003). A short term US EPA NAAQS standard for air borne particulate matter is given in Table-1. As many countries still do not have their own specifications for PM2.5, most of the countries follow US EPA guidelines. Sampling of Particulate Matters: It is really difficult to collect a representative sample especially from a bushfire. However the sample should be collected from multiple locations so that the analysis gives more prcis and meaningful results. The sample collected from different part can either be mixed or separate analysis can be carried out. There are various methods involved for collecting particulate matters. A few methods are summarized below. a) Filter cups: Filters are the simplest way of collecting particulate matters. Aerosol sample is passed through a set of filters at a controlled rate so that a specific particulate matters are collected through a specific filter. These filter papers are cellulose, glass fiber, teflon or a combination of materials (Thompson, 1998). b) Cyclones:

The cost of capital Assignment Example | Topics and Well Written Essays - 750 words

The cost of capital - Assignment Example Another problem which may appear by considering the cost of new debt as the hurdle rate is the difficulty of quantifying this cost because debt is often not traded, and also yield to maturity is not available because there is no market price for the debt. Moreover, in the case of bank loans, the interest rates may be subject to reconsiderations over the life of the new investment due to changes in firm’s financial statements or general deterioration of its financial condition. So, it would not be in the interest of shareholders to not take into account all this issues when considering capital budgeting decisions. Furthermore, considering this approach of taking into account only the cost of new debt used to fund the investment, it would be a disproportionate allocation to the new investment, which would result in overestimating the shareholders wealth. The cost of capital should play an important role in the committee’s work and in their decision making process. This committee must decide the best alternatives to finance the firm, at the minimum cost of capital in order to maximize the shareholders’ wealth (Reilly & Brown, 2002). This concept is also related to capital budgeting because the cost of capital is an opportunity cost, a hurdle rate used for comparison with rates of return and also a discount rate used for evaluating projects. Estimation of the cost of capital is a central issue for investment decision making. If a firm is investing in projects with rates of return higher than the cost of capital, the firm has created value, whereas if the firm is investing in projects with rates of return lower than the cost of capital has actually destroyed value. An increase in the capital budget of the firm determines an increase in the WACC due to the following reasons. If the new investment is financed by issuing new equity, this involves additional flotation costs,

DHL Research Paper Example | Topics and Well Written Essays - 1500 words

DHL - Research Paper Example All the operation of the firm is based on this segmentation strategy of the company. The company believes to segment and operate their business based on buyer behavior which gives a more accurate approach for DHL to satisfy their customers. The first segment is dominated by the price and the supply chain capacity of the customers which aligns with the administrator producer coding metric. The second segment is driven by performance reliability. This integrates with integrator administrator coding metric and the third segmentation of DHL is based on highest value based attributes like customers interaction, innovators of supply chain. Then each segment is further controlled by collaborator, perfectionist and price zealots approach (Coltman, Gattorna and Whiting, 2010, p. 16-18). Focus Strategy Focusing a particular market is done by any company with mainly three techniques. Porter’s Generic Strategy acts as a very important tool for the company to identify the focus strategy to follow for the business. The below figure shows a Porter’s Generic model- Figure 1: Porter's Generic Model (Source: Botten, 2007, p. 264) The focus strategy adopted by DHL is differentiation strategy. It differentiates its services from the competitors with their focused approach towards the specific customers with their uniqueness in service for them. By the improvement of the infrastructural development the company is providing remote location services which many of the competitors are not able to offer to the customers. Selected market segment gets benefits from the company with their focused differentiation strategy. The company mainly focuses on the mid level and the smaller business units for their businesses and offers service benefits to the niche segment of the market with their customized approach. This customer centric approach of the company gives greater flexibility for the customers to adopt their service and at the same rate provided by other companies in the market. Key success metrics The key success factor of any company depends on its adaptive capability with the changing environment. The change in the trend of consumer behaviors and the market trend are needed to be analyzed by the company to maintain a sustainable position in the market. DHL main success factors can be referred as the changes in the company’s strategy due to changes in the market trend with its market fragmentation due to competition and saturation at particular market. The changing taste of the customer also forced the company to implement customer centric strategies which matched with the customer preferences from time to time (DHL-a, 2011). The sector approach of DHL is the main reason for the success of the company. The growth in each sector of Retail, Consumer, Technology, Automotive, Health care and others have constantly influenced the company to implement strategies to suit the need of the market. The sector oriented logistic system is another reason for success of DHL. The business of the company sector wise in the year 2011 is shown in the figure below. Figure 2: Sector wise business of DHL in Q1 2011 (Source: DHL-b, 2011, p. 33) SWOT analysis In order to understand the position of the company it is very essential for the firm to understand its strength, weakness, opportunity and threats in the market. Strength The strong brand name is one of the major reasons for the success of DHL in the long run of their business process. The quality standard

Organizational Behavior 2 Essay Example | Topics and Well Written Essays - 1500 words

Organizational Behavior 2 - Essay Example offering competitive salary, free lodging, free food, etc.), it will be easier on the part of the HR manager to satisfy the higher needs of each employee. Unlike the Maslow’s hierarchy of needs, expectancy theories are not focused on satisfying the individual needs of each employee. Depending on the kind of rewards employees could receive from a business organization, the theory of expectancy suggests that employees will be motivated given that their efforts at work could contribute to the business success (Denhardt, Denhardt, & Aristigueta, 2002, p. 162). Similar to expectancy theories, the use of goal-setting theories also requires the HR managers to pay back employees’ efforts through attractive rewards (Denhardt, Denhardt, & Aristigueta, 2002, p. 165). In general, the main purpose of goal-setting theories is to increase the work expectations of each employee. Since a higher goal setting increases employees’ work motivation, the overall productivity of each employee is also expected to increase. The equity theories are based on â€Å"social exchange† (Denhardt, Denhardt, & Aristigueta, 2002, p. 165). Given that each employee is happy in their work environment (i.e. no conflict with other employees, fair working policies, etc.), there is a higher chance wherein employees will exert an effort to convert the organizational goals into a reality. When we talk about fair working policies, it means that the contribution of each employee to the success of the company should mean higher rewards as compared to the rest of employees. To be able to motivate employees, I assume that a realistic and fair monetary reward is necessary to satisfy the basic needs of each employee. Basically, when the financial needs of a person is not met, that person would either look for another job that offers higher salary or search for another part-time job. It means that the person becomes less loyal to his/her first

Information Technology- Information Retrieval Annotated Bibliography

Information Technology- Information Retrieval - Annotated Bibliography Example In this article, Chowdhury, Gibb and Landoni assess the ease at which a group of users is able to access information from a given source. This article is supported by a quantitative analysis conducted on users to support the necessity of considering uncertainties in the design of an information system. This article is useful in my case since it justifies the need for conducting studies on information retrieval and the possible risks involved. This article is a documentation of the development in the computing industry and the strategies implemented in adapting to changes in the field. Liu, McMahon and Culley describe the processes that led to the development of SDR technology. In the article, the authors explain the reasons behind development of the information retrieval (IR) technologies, such as incompatibility of files between the traditional and modern systems. This paper justifies the existence of the SDR in the engineering filed and its purpose in information retrieval. This article provides information on the challenges that led to the development of a better-structured information retrieval system. According to Tu and Seng, works involving IT technologies in the education sector is one of the fastest growing ventures. The article in question represents a collection of ideas from comprehensive studies in the information technology filed. The article by Tu and Seng is an attempt to congregate information on the information retrieval subject with considerations to current operational systems. The intelligence gathered exposes the need for continued studies in the information retrieval field. This article is useful in my study for it shows that perfection in the information retrieval subject has not yet been attained, there exists challenges. The article presents an exhaustive tutorial on the basics of applying information retrieval techniques to acquire useful information on a