Discussion 1 Essay Example | Topics and Well Written Essays - 250 words - 2

Discussion 1 - Essay Example It would also involve gathering of insects, eggs or even hunting birds and animals (Andersen & Taylor, 2011). These activities require women to have sophisticated knowledge on trapping skills, fishing and even root and tuber searching. Tools such as digging sticks, bows, knives and fishing nets are used in the activities mentioned above. Women are also involved in cultivation of crops such as tubers, roots and even grains in gardens using ordinary hand tools such as hoes. The status of women has been impacted negatively because they are not empowered. In the societies above, women are required to stay close to their homes to take care of the children. They are required to bear children and work hard to provide for them. Therefore, they stay around homesteads and dig in the gardens around them. In this context, the women are home makers and cannot explore distant areas like their male counterparts. This situation has made women be left out in contributing to economic development within the foraging and horticultural based societies. This has resulted to women spending much of their time in gathering, hunting and taking care of the family. The situation above is being experienced in developing countries such as those within Asia. In such societies, women would even bear many children so that food procurement becomes easy because such a step would increase the labor force. On the other hand, their American counterparts contribute to economic development of their nation. In fact, most of them spend most of their time working and would even earn more than their husbands. Here, women have fewer children that they can easily manage, and this allows them to focus on their careers. To the American women, food is not a problem, and they do not spend much time in accessing it. In such societies, processed food is used, and it requires them to buy it, and present it for consumption. This brings out the difference between

Macroeconomics Essay Example | Topics and Well Written Essays - 3000 words

Macroeconomics - Essay Example The level of GDP increased from trough to peak by around 10.2 percent between the year 1981 and 1988, which states that the recovery was strong after the recession. Also after the 1990’s recession there was a sharp increase in GDP growth level. However it is evident that there is a long recovery period after the 2008 global financial crises of UK’s economy. When compared the recovery from all recession periods, it is evident from Figure 2 from the case that recovery from 2008 recession has been protracted and has the deepest fall in GDP growth levels in the year of 2008 recession. The period of Great Moderation that lasted from 1993 to 2007 was faced with smooth growth, low unemployment and low inflation. During this period economy grew to around 5 percent until it was faced with recession in 2008. There are a number of factors that can be attributed to a fall in UK’s saving ratio between 1993 and 2008.It is visible from figure 15 from the case that saving ratio fell to lowest 1.7 percent by the end of 2007.The graph also denotes fall in saving ratio over the years 1993 to 2008. Interest rate in the UK’s economy was low from 1993 that further fell to 3 % in 2003 as seen from figure 12 from the case. This meant that credit was easily available to borrowers at a cheaper cost and savers were not ready to delay consumption and instead save for lower return on savings. Low interest rates and low inflation acted as a disincentive to save. At same time housing prices were rising, which leads to wealth affect and people were ready to borrow and spend more. This wealth effect made people more confident to spend as they knew that value of their property was rising. This is could be seen in figure 13 where there is a sharp rise in average UK housing prices from 1993 to 2007, more than tripling over the 15 year period (Tejvan, 2008). Easily available credit during this period had encouraged more

Major Causes Of Information Systems Failure Information Technology Essay

Major Causes Of Information Systems Failure Information Technology Essay What are the major causes of information systems failures. What strategies can organisations take to face the challenges and ensure the success. An information system project according to Ewusi-Mensah (1997) is any information technology project intended to meet the information processing need of an organization. In Critical issues in abandoned information system projects, Ewusi-Mensah(1997) stated that information system projects implementation requires collaboration of Information system staff that deploys and educate on the use of the software to drive the project, end users and management. It is a group-oriented activity organized and executed in teams and therefore subject to the unpredictability of group dynamics, interactions, coordination, and communication ( Ewusi-Mensah ,1997). An information system is a set of elements (people, data, and procedures) working together to provide useful information (Senn, 1990, p8). Also, information system (IS) is any set of information technology and peoples activities using that technology to backup operations, management, and decision-making (SEI Report, Glossary ). In a wider sense, the word information system is often used to refer to the relationship between people, algorithmic processes, data and technology. Therefore, the term is used to refer not only to the information and communication technology (ICT) an organization uses, but also to the way in which people interact with this technology in support of business processes (Kroenke, D. M. 2008). An information system consists of computers, instructions, stored facts, people and procedures. A systems failure occurs when a system does not meet its requirements or when the level of discontentment with a system increases to the level that there is no enough provision to sustain it. Â  Information system project failure may be as a result of its inability to meet users requirements and/or overruns pertaining to budget or completion time (Yeo, K. T. 2002). Studies have shown that many failed projects are over budget, some by as much as 189%. May, L (1998) in Major causes of software failure stated that only one-sixth (16.67%) of projects are finished as schedule and within budget. An information system failure can cause financial loss, commercial embarrassment, loss of customers and revenue streams, sanctions and the loss of staff morale or stakeholder allegiance in an organization. Examples of system failures includes an alarm system that fails to sound when pressed, an automated door that fails to open and close on its own accord on approach, ammunition that detonates pre maturely, and other similar conditions. This article discusses the causes of information system project failures and strategies organizations can take to face the challenges and ensure success. The Standish group (1995) in (Yeo, K. T. 2002) classified project outcome as Type 1, Type 2 and Type 3. According to the group, 16.2%,52.7% and 31.1% of projects fall into Types 1,2 and 3 classes respectively. A successful project classified as the Type 1 projects are those that were successfully implemented within the stated time and budget with all required features and functionality specified. The challenged projects classified as the Type 2 projects are those that suffer budget overruns and/ or program slips thereby failing to completely achieve its goal even though they are completed and operational while Type 3 project classified as the Impaired projects are those cancelled or abandoned at some point during the development cycle The Standish group (1995) in (Yeo, K. T. 2002). Technical failure may not necessarily be the cause of project impairment, lack of adoption of a technically faultless Information system project by end users or corporate management consequently resulting in its lack of use or underutilization denotes failure (Yeo, K. T. 2002). From this view point, Information system is said to be a socio-technical system. Land and Hirschheim (1983) described an information sys tem as a social system that uses information technology. This can be explained in the sense that as a technical system, a system that fails in an organization can be successfully implemented in another organization while as a social system an Information system can be successfully implemented in an organization while the implementation of another information system can result in failure (Davies G. B. et al, 1992). Information System as a type of socio-technical system The mediating concept between actions and technology is refer to as information systems.(Beynon-Davies P. 2009). The technical system dimension consists of both operational and functional features. The operational features apply to the technology(effectiveness of the hardware or software as well as the friendliness of the technologys user interfaces) while the functional features relate to the performance relative to expected functionality . Technology as a component of the technical system refers to hardware, software and other related technology. This pertains to the functionality of the system, whether it is up or down when a person needs to use it. User interfaces refers to the link between the human user and the software/hardware technology (input screens, output screens, paper input forms and paper output reports). Error rates in the transfer of data from one medium to another and the time that users require to become familiar with the system all constitute indicators of performance of the implemented system while Information requirements as a technical system component refers to the ability of the Information system implemented to give new capabilities than the one being replaced. Careful study of the organization to know its information need is essential ( Davies G. B. et al). The social system refers to the features of organizational setting which exist in an organization even as people enter and leave the organization. The components of this system include; acceptance/rejection of the technical system, theories in use, measures of performance to expectation and the developmental process of the system. Rejection or underutilization may be based on the premise that the introduction of new technology is instrumental to deskilling or job loss (Davies G. B. et al, 1992). Characteristic features of Information system project Information system projects are capital and labour intensive usually requiring a huge sum of money to implement. Its failure can cause a huge financial loss to an organization and therefore there is need for adequate planning before its implementation to ensure that desired expectations are met. An information system is a type of socio-technical system which is critical to the survival and well-being of companies. As a result, the right technology must be deployed and the end users educated on its use and benefits. Also, Brooks in Ewusi-Mensah (1997) stated that IS projects are conceptual in nature (i.e. it is pure thought stuff which is invisible and unvisualizable). In addition, there are certain risks and uncertainties such as large project size, unfamiliarity with the new technology and unstable information requirements associated with projects that are difficult to assess prior to the start of the project. IS projects as stated earlier are group oriented requiring members from different backgrounds and therefore require a high degree of coordination and clear lines of communication to ensure success Ewusi-Mensah (1997). Reasons for Information System implementation To increase productivity in order to maintain competitive advantage To enhance business operations through the re-engineering of an organisations processes Changes in activities of an organisation or in the nature of the organisation. Technological Changes can lead to new production processes or using alternative materials in the manufacturing process Classification of system failures There are four major categories of Information system failure according to Lyytinen and Hirschheim (1987). The categories are as follows; Process failure: this occurs when an Information system project cannot be developed within an allocated budget and/or time schedule. The project development results in overspending in both cost and time. Correspondence failure: this occurs when the objectives and goals of the systems design are not met. Interaction failure: this is attributed to the level of end-user usage or adoption or acceptance of the implemented information system. User attitudes, data packets, user satisfaction and the degree of adoption are measures of usage of information system usage. Expectation failure: this is the inability of a system to meet its stakeholders requirement, expectations or values Another classification of failures according to Ben Meadowcroft in Why Systems fail is; Hard ware design/specification error Software developmental error: this is error due to imperfect software development as a result of inadequate test run of the program and poor user interface among others End user error: this arise a result of inadequate training and/or user resistance. Majors causes of information systems failure Unclear goals: lack of well defined project goals and objectives which is key to the success of any IS project development. There is also need to state clearly the information need of an organization and also the adoption process before attempting to introduce an information system(Lucas in Davies G. B. et al 1992) Improper reporting structure/Miscommunication: since the development of large IS projects is the work of a team drawn from diverse groups of people with responsibilities to ensure the projects success which includes IS staff, end users and senior management, there is need for the establishment of clear lines of communication and well defined lines of authority and responsibility among team members. Communication in project teams is essential to sort out dispute concerning requirements of design decisions among project members (Curtis et al 1988). Inept/incompetent leadership: Poor management of the project and lack of good leadership responsible for coordination and control, measurement of progress and making of vital decisions at different phases of the project. Poor technology base or infrastructure: lack of adequate technological base needed for successful implementation of the kind of systems development being considered. According to Land in G. B. Davis et al, the distance between the existing system and the replacement system is essential for the success of an information system. Poor project management: this has to do with inadequate measurement system to measure progress and equally identify potential risks in time to mitigate them. Lack of technical competence: the technological know-how of information systems staff is very vital to the success of IS projects as lack of familiarity with an information technology new to the IS staff is contributory to IS project failure. If a user is improperly trained then the likelihood of them making major errors is increased due to their lack of knowledge of the system. Failures by reason of lack of training should not be regarded as an error due to the individual operator as is likely with a poorly designed user interface, but as a mistake by the management. Scope creep: projects excessively grand in scope usually have higher risks and higher complexities and therefore more prone to failure. Scope is the initial blueprint of an implementation plan. Faulty hardware faulty hardware can bring about serious system failure. This factor is then again an essential one that should be given due consideration together with the more common software errors. Faulty hardware should be taken into thought when designing the systems in order to try and reduce the impact of the failure. Hardware failure is not as likely to occur as software faults but can be as damaging. Poor selection decision of project team members: the project team composition is also vital for the success of the information system project. Strategies organisations can take to ensure success of information system projects. Firstly, to ensure success of information system projects there is need for a clear and well defined IS goal. Every member of the IS project management team as well as stakeholders should know the specific information requirement of the organization as well as how to go about satisfying it. This is important to guide the information requirements phase of the development process. Failure in this area will lead to fragmented efforts and lack of focus in assembling facts to guide the rest of the development (Curtis et al 1988). Secondly, the selection of competent and qualified staff to serve as members of IS project team is very vital for successful project implementation (Brooks, 1981). Team members should be those with real prior experience and who are equally familiar with the technology being deployed. Improved training of the end users will significantly reduce system failures and improve the integrity of data stored on the computer systems. The project team should consist of the most successful people of the organization (Nah et al, 2001). Lockheed Martin, a leading aeronautical group, stated that one of its keys to success was assembling a team capable of making and executing changes required (Stedman, 1999) Also, the imposition of structure on the developmental effort of the project helps to guide it to successful completion. It involves the division of the project into phases which helps the project team realize what deliverables for each stage are and to know the extent to which they have been met. It is also important that clear lines of authority, communication and responsibility among team members be drawn. This is important since the team members are drawn from diverse units. Selection of competent leaders who will ensure that proper management and control practices are adhered to and enforced in the implementation process of an Information system is vital. Adequate safeguards and oversight by management is necessary to ensure technical personnels compliance with accepted industry standards for reporting and dealing with problems uncovered in any phase of system development. The leader should be one with both application-domain knowledge and software knowledge. There should also be regular periodic meetings to discuss the systems development effort. A successful implementation of a project is only attainable when high-level executives possess a strong commitment to the project (Davenport, 2000). Senior executives at Farmland Industries demonstrated its support to project team members by providing financial incentives to motivate the project team members. The technological infrastructure available in a company needs to be critically assessed to determine it is adequate to support the kind of system development that is to be implemented. Care should be taken not to embark on IS project development until management have the assurance that the companys technological base is adequate. Assurance from the Management Information System management should be taken to reduce the risk s and uncertainties associated with system development works. There is need for the maintenance of scope. The ability to maintain scope is related to planning and this is attainable for companies both small and large. Geishecker (1999) stated that Colgate-Palmolive Company itemised scope maintenance as a contributory factor to their success. The roll out approach for the implementation of the information system project is a very important consideration under scope maintenance. There are two approaches namely the big bang approach and the gradual (phased) rollout approach. Both approaches have their prons and cons. Oil giant Chevron attributes a phased roll out to the successful implementation of an information system project. Home Depot has also successfully implemented several modules of an Information system using the phased roll out approach (Mearian, 2000). Phased roll-out approach though more expensive and usually taking longer time, offer reduced business risk (Davenport, 2000). Internal readiness/training is also vital for the successful implementation of an information system project. The most common failure factor recorded was that of readiness for change. All employees must be trained on the new system in order to prevent underutilization of the system. Also managers must understand the implication of the system and the changes it will cause. If managers are not in agreement or cooperation, then there will be no eagerness or buy-in and this may result to resistance or lack of adoption of the new system (Davenport, 2000). Planning/development /budgeting are necessary for the success of an information system project. Planning should be intimately identified with maintaining scope during an implementation. Ineffective planning results in cost overruns and development delays. Home Depot, Lockerheed Martin and Mead Corporation are examples of companies attributing success to planning. As stated earlier, many projects especially failed ones are over budget, some as much as 189 percent. Adequate testing of the system is a key element for the successful implementation of the system. It is reported that Gillette Company withstood five months of severe testing procedures before their successful go-live date (CIO, 2000). Also, Eastman Kodak was able to complete what at the time was the largest implementation on record as a result of testing (PR Newswire, 2001). Whirlpool Corporation attributes inadequate testing as its single reason for unsuccessful and costly implementation. The company gambled on its testing program by cutting down the amount of time needed to test run the new system before implementing it in a bid to meet deadlines Conclusion The goal of this was to identify the major causes of information systems failures and strategies organisations can take to face the challenges and ensure the success? Towards this goal different articles and journals were examine. The project team compostion, management support , internal readiness of the employees, existence of technolgical infrastructure able to support and sustain the new system to be implemented, well defined goals which is in line with the organizations goal, adquately tested system, clear and well defined reporting structure and good leadership are all vital ingredients to ensure the successful implementation as well as utilization of a newly deployed information system. It is to be noted that even though a system technically faultless, underutilization as a result of lack of full acceptance or understanding of how to adopt the information system for day to day operation amounts to failure of the information system. For this reason, the management must enlighte n the users of the deployed information system on the need for the change as well as attached benefits. Finally, though appropraite measures should be put in place to prevent failure of the information system project, they may still occur; but when they occur, a system failure analysis which is an investigation to determine the underlying reasons for the nonconformance to the system requirement in order to identify the causes of nonconformance equally recommend appropraite correction measures. This is because failure could have benefits expecially in relation to learning,especially in understanding the developmental process of a system and steps to take to prevent failure of future Information System development projects. Word Count = 2,932 REFERNECES Mearian, L. (2000), CEO: SAP installation caused problems, ComputerWorld, Vol. 34 No. 48, p. 20. Nah, F.F., Lau, J.L. and Kuang, J. (2001), Critical factors for successful implementation of enterprise systems, Business Process Management Journal, Vol. 7 No. 3, pp. 285-96. Ben Meadowcrof, Why Systems Fail. http://www.benmeadowcroft.com/reports/systemfailure/ Beynon-Davies P. (2009). The language of informatics: the nature of information systems. International Journal of Information Management. 29(2). 92-103 CIO (2000), Does ERP build a better business?, 15 February, pp. 114-24. Davenport, T. (2000), Mission Critical Realizing the Promise of Enterprise Systems, Harvard Business School Publishing, Boston, MA. Geishecker, L. (1999), ERP vs best of breed, Strategic Management, March, pp. 63-6. Land, F. and Hirschheim, R. Participative Systems Design: Rationale, Tools and Techniques, Journal of Applied Systems Analysis, Vol. 10, 1983. Lyytinen, K. and Hirschheim, R. Information Systems Failures A Survey and Classification of the Empirical Literature, Oxford Surveys in IT, Vol. 4, 1987, pp. 257-309. May, L. (1998), Major causes of software project failure, Crosstalk, July. The Standish Group. The CHAOS Report (1995), 1995. http://www.standishgroup.com/chaos.html.

Integrated Pest Management :: essays research papers

Integrated Pest Management Integrated pest management (IPM) is a recently developed technology for pest control that is aimed at achieving the desired control while reducing the use of pesticides. To accomplish this, various combinations of chemical, biological, and physical controls are employed. In the past, pesticides were all too often applied routinely whether needed or not. With IPM, pest populations as well as beneficial parasite and predator populations are monitored to determine whether the pests actually present a serious problem that needs to be treated. If properly and extensively employed, IPM might reduce pesticide use by as much as 50 percent, while at the same time improving pest control. If this goal were achieved, the environmental problems would be minimized, and significant benefits would result for farmers and society as a whole. IPM coordinates economically and environmentally acceptable methods of pest control with judicious and minimal use of toxic pesticides. IPM programs assess local conditions, including climate, crop characteristics, the biology of the pest species, and soil quality, to determine the best method of pest control. Tactics employed include better tillage to prevent soil erosion and introduction of beneficial insects that eat harmful species. Many pests that are attached to crop residues can be eliminated by plowing them underground. Simple paper or plastic barriers placed around fruit trees deter insects, which can also be attracted to light traps and destroyed. Weeds can be controlled by spreading grass, leaf, or black plastic mulch. Weeds also may be pulled or hoed from the soil. Many biological controls are also effective. Such insect pests as the European corn borer, and the Japanese beetle, have been controlled by introducing their predators and parasites. Wasps that prey on fruit-boring insect larvae are now being commercially bred and released in California orchards. The many hundreds of species of viruses, bacteria, protozoa, fungi, and nematodes that parasitize pest insects and weeds are now being investigated as selective control agents. Another area of biological control is breeding host plants to be pest resistant, making them less prone to attack by fungi and insects. The use of sex pheromones is an effective measure for luring and trapping insects. Pheromones have been synthesized for the Mediterranean fruit fly, the melon fly, and the Oriental

Kimberly McCullough

Kimberly McCullough Colorado Christian UniversityCollege of Adult and Graduate StudiesBUS-301A, Business FinanceProfessor MurphyApril 18, 2018 Analyzing Your Financial RatiosIn Chapter Case â€Å"Question 1. I will provide, the current ratio measures a company's ability to pay short-term obligations. The quick ratio of S;S, which is an indicator of a company's short-term liquidity. be sure to show your work in calculating the ratios including the ratios of the company. (In Chapter 3, page 8, Finkler, S. 2017). When it comes to their financial planning at S & S Air, Inc their financial manager will be able to understand. In Chapter Case 1, with S&S Air, Inc. with this business working capital management they must work with certain banks about their contribution to their goals and their success in their business. S&S Air, Inc.2016 Income Statement S&S Air. Inc.2016 Balance Sheet Light Airplane Industry Ratios Capital Budgeting The case study presents two corporations (A and B) with different revenue values and expenses as well as variable depreciation expenses, tax rates and discount rates. When it comes to my mom and dad's business applying suitable expenditure controls to ensure that investments outlays conform with. When it comes to capital budgeting my parent's business they are determining the viability to long-term investments on purchase or replacement of property. (Dlabay, L. 2008, Chapter 3, pg.12-13)Ratios and Financial Planning at S&S Air, Inc.†Calculations Chapter Case â€Å"Conch Republic Electronics†Conch Republic Electronics is a midsized electronics manufacturer located in Key West, Florida. The company president is Shelley Conc, who inherited the company. When it was founded over 70 years ago, the company originally repaired radios and other household appliances. Over the years, the company expanded into manufacturing and is now a reputable manufacturer of various electronic items. Before launching a new series, the company need to go through the following steps as to ensure a smooth production of this new series. 1.1 10 Steps Before Launching New ProductsAs a business grows the question of the introducing new products/services arises. Launching new products/services means taking risks and managing change. Growth and change must be managed at the same time as on-going business operations. Maintaining momentum is challenging for small businesses with limited resources. (Mayo, H. 2017). QuestionsWhat is the payback period of the project?What is the profitability index of the project?What is the IRR of the project?What is the NPV of the project?All the cases are Excel-based?First, The Cost of Research & Development Second, for them to calculate networking capital for the next first two years their new smart phone company their smartphones prices generate erosion cost (negative side effect) to the existing smart phone. The loss from the total revenue of existing smart phone. The net incremental revenue of new smart phone is equal to the total revenue of new smart phone minus the total revenue loss from the existing smart phone.The Revenue Loss of Existing Smart Phone Comes from Two Parts.Part one: the sales units will be reduced, and the original price revenue on these sales unites will be gone (the sales units of the existing smart phone will fall by 30,000 units per year, and the price of the existing smart phone is $380 per unit). Part Two: In Conch Republic Electronics finding of the sensitivity of change in quantity of the remaining units will be sold at a lower price (the price of the existing units will have to be lowered to $ 210 each), and the price difference is a source of revenue. Take First Year for Example: The calculation of net incremental revenue of the second year is like the first year. Starting from the third year, there is no revenue loss of existing smart phone attributed by the new smart phone, because the production of the existing smart phone is terminated. The incremental revenue is just the revenue of new smart phone. (Brigham, E. 2016, Chapter 5 pg. 9-10)Third, when it comes to In Conch Republic Electronics cost they had to take their profitability and their credit worthiness. As a smartphone company they know that knowing the cost of capital it can make better decisions on its future investments and other such financing options. (Midgley, K. & Burns, R. 1997) The calculation of net variable cost of the second year is like the first year. Starting from the third year, there is no variable cost decrease of new smart phone. The net variable cost is just the variable cost of new smart phone.Four, when it comes to Conch Republic Electronics company they have to consider regarding asset acquisitions in other investments brought. Because it is a smartphone company calculating the fixed cost is just new smart phone's fixed cost. Chapter Case â€Å"Stephenson Real Estate Recapitalization† In this report I will be discussing the work in an AJD real estate office from different aspects: Market surveying, the standard operating procedures that be followed in the market, suggestions to improve the work of AJD office. (Huber, W. 2009, Chapter 5, pg. 10-12)1.2 Definitions:Real estate is â€Å"Property consisting of land and the buildings on it, along with its natural resources such as crops, minerals, or water; immovable property of this nature; an interest vested in this; (also) an item of real property; (more generally) buildings or housing in general. Also: the business of real estate; the profession of buying, selling, or renting land, buildings or housing. It is a legal term used in most of the formal deals in this field. (Davis, M. 2012, Chapter 5, pg. 2-10)†Stephenson Real Estate Recapitalization†In order for Stephenson's Real Estate recapitalization they have to effectively recapitalizing the companies by increasing the proportion of debt in the capital structure. Since Stephenson is an all-equity firm with 15 million shares of common stock outstanding, worth $35.20 per share, the market value of the firm is $528 million (= 15 million shares * $35.20 per share). Stephenson's market-value balance sheet before the announcement of the land purchase is:Because of the purchase, the firm's pre-tax earnings will increase by $27 million per year in perpetuity. These earnings are taxed at a rate of 40%. Therefore, after taxes, the purchase increases the annual expected earnings of the firm by $16.2 million {($27 million) (1 – 0.40)}. (Peiser, R. & Hamilton, D. 2012) Therefore, the net present value of the land purchase is $19.6 million.After the announcement, the value of Stephenson will increase by $19.6 million, the net present value of the purchase. Under the efficient-market hypothesis, the market value of the firm's equity will immediately rise to reflect the NPV of the project. Therefore, the market value of Stephenson's equity will be $547.6 million (= $528 million + $19.6 million) after the firm's announcement.Assessments and Measures Direct Versus Indirect Measures of AssessmentThe difference between direct and indirect measures of student learning has taken on new importance as accrediting agencies such as WASC have required the use of direct measures to be the primary source of evidence. Indirect measures may serve only as supporting evidence. (Linneman, P. 2010)Embedded and Add-On AssessmentEmbedded assessments are tasks that are integrated into specific courses. They usually involve classroom assessment techniques but are designed to collect specific information on program learning outcomes. (Claus, F. 2009)ConclusionWhat I have learned? This subject gave me an overview of key marketing concepts and techniques as they apply in a variety of organizations and in both conventional and online environments. Also, this subject helped me to develop my knowledge and understanding of the core role of marketing in determining the growth potential.ReferencesRoss, S., Westerfield, R., & Jordan, B. (2017). Essentials of Corporate Finance (9th ed.). Dlabay, Les (2008) Business Finance (1st Editio) Finkler, Steven (2017) Finance & Accounting for Nonfinancial Managers (5th Edition) Book – Softcover Mayo, B. Herbert (2017) Basic Finance: An Introduction to Financial Institutions, Investments, and Management Brigham, F. Eugene (2016) Fundamentals of Financial Management (14th ed.) Publisher: Cengage Learning Huber, Wait (2009) Real Estate Finance – (7th edition) Davis, Maria (2009) Accounting for Real Estate Transactions: A Guide for Public Accountants and Corporate Financial Professionals 2nd Edition Peiser, Richard & Hamilton, David (2012) Professional Real Estate Development: The ULI Guide to the Business Linneman, Peter (2010) Real Estate Finance & Investments: Risks and Opportunities Clauss, J. Frances (2009) Corporate Financial Analysis with Microsoft Excel Midgley, Kevin & Burns, G. Ronald (1979) Business Finance and the Capital Marketn.

Artificial Birth Control Essay

Artificial birth control methods have been used for thousands of years. The hieroglyphics of ancient Egyptians show a figure of an Egyptian male wearing a device around the penis to help prevent pregnancy during intercourse. And there are other cultures which use condoms made of linen or animal intestines. Until now, historians and researchers are still debating on whether the condoms are for ritual purposes or not. â€Å"Artificial Birth Control† is most commonly heard in relation to religious teachings on family planning. Many sectors especially religion encourage the use of natural family planning as opposed to artificial birth control because they believe that using artificial contraception is opposite to God’s will. But there are also non-religious people who preferred not to use artificial birth control for personal, ethical or medical reasons. Artificial birth control can be defined as any product, procedure or practice that uses artificial or unnatural means to prevent pregnancy. Barrier methods such as condoms, Intra uterine Devices (copper), diaphragms, cervical cap, and sponge, hormonal methods such as the pill, IUDs (hormonal), and emergency contraception. There are also injections, spermicides, and surgical sterilization procedures such as tubal ligation and vasectomy which are all considered to be artificial birth control methods. This paper includes the different types and examples of artificial birth control and their advantages and disadvantages. Condoms A condom is a device made of fine rubber (latex). It avoids unwanted pregnancies and sexually transmitted diseases (STDs), including AIDS and HIV. The use of condoms is one of the easiest, most reliable and effective methods. But one should take few precautionary measures before using it; they must ensure that it is not torn or ruptured and that they are using it before the expiry date. For a male condom, the man covers his penis with a condom during sexual intercourse in order to prevent the sperm from entering the vagina. A female condom is also made if fine rubber (latex) that when used it must be entirely aligned to vagina. The two types of female condom are the FC or FC2 female condom and the VA w.o.w. Condom Feminine. The FC female condom is a 17 cm (6.5 inches) in length. There is a flexible ring at each end. At the closed end of the sheath, the flexible ring is inserted into the vagina to anchor the condom in place. While at the open end, the ring stays outside the vulva at the entrance to the vagina. The VA w.o.w. Condom Feminine when not stretched is around 9 cm (3.5 inches) – though it is very elastic. It has a rounded triangular frame at the open end and a sponge inside the closed end, which helps to hold the condom inside the vagina. Condoms are easily obtained, cheap, very effective, it protects against sexually transmitted disease, and it possibly reduces risk of cervical cancer. But it interrupts the foreplay, it reduces sensitivity for both or either partner, it requires great care, and it sometimes causes allergy. Intra uterine Devices (IUD) – Copper IUD is a birth control device made of soft plastic and has the shape of the English letter T and is placed in the uterus. It is a long-term method that prevents pregnancy for 3-5 years. Copper is wound on the lower part and on the tip of the T are the two threads. With the help of the threads, women can check if it is inserted properly. Copper T does not create any problems during copulation and it can be used immediately after childbirth. But unlike condoms, it does not protect the user from AIDS and other sexually transmitted diseases. Diaphragm Diaphragm is a thin rubber dome with an elastic and flexible rim. It is inserted into the vagina and fits over the cervix that is hold in place by vaginal muscles. The diaphragm holds spermicide in place over the cervix; spermicide kills sperm and prevents fertilization. Diaphragms are 86-94% effective as birth control. It is cheap, the female partner is the one that takes the responsibility, there is no interruption during intercourse, there is no loss of sensation for either partner, it reduces of bacteria related STDs, couples may feel less inhibited when the woman is menstruating, and pre – malignancy and cervical malignancy are reduced. But it is uncomfortable to insert and remove from vagina, it requires a doctor to fit and check it, it requires preparation, some male partners are aware of the cap and may not like it, there is no protection against viral conditions such as herpes simplex or HIV, it sometimes cause allergy, and it cannot be fitted before first intercourse, if there is a vaginal septum or utero-vaginal prolapsed. Cervical Cap Cervical cap is a device inserted into the vagina that fits over the cervix to blocked the sperm from entering the uterus and prevents fertilization. After intercourse, it should be left in place for 8 hours. Cervical covers are 84-91% effective at preventing pregnancy for women who have never given birth and 68-74% effective for women who have given birth. Cervical cap can be inserted many hours before sexual intercourse, it is easy to carry around, it is comfortable to use, it does not alter menstrual cycle and affect future fertility, and it may help the user to better know her body. But cervical cap does not protect against HIV or AIDS, it requires a fitting in a clinic, it is difficult to insert or remove, it can be dislodged during sexual intercourse, and there can be possible allergic reactions. Birth Control Sponge The birth control sponge is made of plastic foam that contains spermicide. It is soft, round, and about two (2) inches in diameter. It has a nylon loop attached to the bottom for removal and it is inserted deep into the vagina before sexual intercourse. The sponge avoids pregnancy by keeping sperm from joining with an egg. The sponge may cover the cervix and blocks the sperm from entering the uterus or it can continuously release a spermicide that keeps the sperm from moving. The birth control sponge can be carried in pocket or purse, it can’t be felt by either partner, it has no effect on a woman’s natural hormones, it does not interrupt sex play, and it can be used during breastfeeding. But it may be difficult for some women to insert or remove the sponge, it may cause vaginal irritation, and it may make sex too messy or too dry because sponge requires too much liquid. Contraceptive Pills Most hormonal birth control methods contain the hormones estrogen and progestin, although some contain progestin only. Hormonal contraceptive pills work by preventing females from ovulating or releasing eggs from their ovaries each month, and by thinning the lining of the uterus to keep a pregnancy from implanting. Without an egg to be fertilized by sperm, pregnancy cannot occur. Contraceptive pill is a very effective birth control but there are also side effects like significant mood swings and decreased libido. Intra uterine Devices (IUD) – Hormonal Hormonal uterine devices sometimes called Intra Uterine Systems were first introduced in 1990. It releases levonorgestrel, a progestogen, and may be used for five years. Hormonal Intra Uterine Devices do not increase bleeding as inert and copper-containing IUDs do. Rather, they reduce menstrual bleeding or prevent menstruation altogether, and can be used as a treatment for menorrhagia (heavy periods). The use of Intra Uterine Systems results in much lower systemic progestogen levels than other very-low-dose progestogen-only hormonal contraceptives; they might possibly have some of the same side effects like loss of libido, possible cervical cancer, vaginal infection, anxiety and nervousness, and pain in lower abdominals. Emergency Contraception The emergency contraception is also known as the morning-after pill. It is a safe and effective way to prevent pregnancy after unprotected intercourse. It can be started up to five days or 120 hours after unprotected intercourse. The hormone in the morning-after pill prevents pregnancy by thickening a woman’s cervical mucus and by thinning the lining of the uterus. The mucus blocks sperm and keeps it from joining with an egg which could prevent pregnancy by keeping a fertilized egg from attaching to the uterus. Injections Injections are 99% effective that is scheduled every 3 months. Depo-Provera ®, one of the two types that are now available, contains progesterone that is similar to what the body produces. It prevents release of the egg from the ovary and causes changes in cervical mucus and the lining of the uterus. The second one is the Lunelle ® which contains two hormones like the pill, so it has the same side effects as the pill. Spermicides Spermicides can come in different form like cream, gel, foam, film, and suppositories. Most spermicides contain nonoxynol-9 which is a chemical that kills sperm. Spermicides immobilize and kill the sperm before they are able to swim into the uterus. To be effective, the spermicide must be placed deep in the vagina, close to the cervix. Creams, gels, and foams are squirted into the vagina using an applicator. But spermicides are more effective when used with another method of birth control, such as a condom or diaphragm. Spermicides are only effective for an hour, not all women can use it and some have an allergic reaction to the substances. Sterilization Sterilization is a form of birth control and all the procedures are meant to be permanent. For females (Tubal Ligation), a minor operation that blocks a woman’s fallopian tubes, the tubes that carry the egg to the uterus; female sterilization works by blocking the egg from reaching sperm. For males (Vasectomy), requires minor surgery on the scrotum to cut the vasa deferentia, the tubes that carry sperm. This operation keeps sperm from mixing into the semen when men ejaculate. Without sperm, fertilization of an egg cannot occur and pregnancy is prevented. Sterilization provides permanent birth control, allows sexual spontaneity, requires no daily attention, does not affect pleasure, and it is also not messy. But it does not protect against sexually transmitted infections, including HIV/AIDS, it is not immediately effective, it requires minor surgery in a clinic and a possible regret if the couple wish to have one or more child. References: http://www.avert.org/female-condom.htm http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Intrauterine_device http://www.tarahaat.com/health_ABC.aspx http://www.livestrong.com/article/201512-types-of-artificial-methods-for-family-planning/ http://www.modernmom.com/article/what-is-the-meaning-of-artificial-birth-control http://www.ehow.com/facts_5004780_what-meaning-artificial-birth-control.html http://www.fwhc.org/birth-control/diaphram.htm

Medieval Music Essays - Medieval Music, Chants, Catholic Music

Medieval Music Essays - Medieval Music, Chants, Catholic Music Medieval Music Music of the Middle Ages made great advancements through the centuries, which many are still evident today. The Christian Church effected the development of music greatly during the middle ages. The first major type of music of this time was chanting. ?The early Christians inherited the Jewish chants of synagogues.?(Bishop-324) Chants didn?t have constant rhythm, every note was about the same length. They had only one melody ,usually in the major key of C. All the singers sang the same notes together, this is called monophonic. Chants became an significant part of the church service, they were sung throughout the mass. These first chants were just sung by the congregation, later on choirs took over. ?Roman Chant became known as Gregorian chant after Pope Gregory I, the great, who may have composed some of the melodies and who actively encouraged an orderly, ritualized use of music by the church.?(MS Encarta-1) He also supported the schola cantorum, a singing school, to teach boys how to chant. During the ninth century many musicians began to use more than unaccompanied melody. A new type of chant was formed called organom. Organum was two octaves of chanting simultaneously. ?Organum was important to the history of music, because it was the first step toward the development of the musical texture known as polyphony (multipart music) the extensive use of which is the most distinctive feature of Western music.? (MS Encarta-1) Around the twelfth century Organum was mostly being developed in France, but the English did have their own version called gymel. If musicians were to chant many pitches at the same time, they needed a more accurate musical notation. Before this, the notation being used wasn?t precise at all. ?Music notation was originally merely a set of small marks, a sort of short hand, written above the words to indicate the rise and fall of the voice and changes in emphasis, without specifying the duration of the notes or the exact pitch.?(Bishop-325) The new way of writing musical notes was black squares and diamonds attached to little poles on a staff of four or five lines, very similar to how we write music today. Music, during the fourteenth century, made great changes in style. ?The new style was called ars nova (Latin, ?new art?) by one of it?s leading composers, the French prelate Philippe de Vitry. The resulting music was more complex than any previously written, reflecting a new spirit in Europe that emphasized human resourcefulness and ingenuity.?(MS Encarta-2) De Vitry also invented the earliest version of the time signature, making it easier to play and write more complicated patterns. Ars nova composers began to repeat the same patterns of either one or more voice parts, usually from Gregorian chant, throughout the piece. Over that they would put other melodies making it polyphonic. ?Nonreligious, or secular, music was composed by wandering poets who sang of chivalry and courtly love in the twelfth and thirteenth centuries.?(Comptons-1) Some of these musicians made a living of singing, others did it for the enjoyment. These singers, Troubadours and Goliards, didn?t have a wide range of singing styles. Over 2,000 of these songs have been written and saved in old documents made after the twelfth century though. ?The musician of the early Middle Ages seems usually to have been minstrel either resident in a large establishment or traveling from establishment to another, singing the lays and sagas to his own accompaniment.?(Montagu-19) Musicians were needed to support other types of entertainment as well. Acrobats would perform to music, just like jugglers, and dancing bears. Poor workers didn?t have much to do for entertainment except for music. They would tell stories to music or have people sing while they danced. They probably sang while working together too, like a type of sea chantey. Even though they were enjoyed by many people, musicians were still considered a very low class. Many of the first instruments of the early Middle Ages were taken from the earlier Roman Empire, or from other cultures around the world. One string instrument used a lot was the lyre. ?It is possible that the lyre was carried into northern Europe from Constantinople during the late Roman Empire, for many of the Byzantime armies, especially the Imperial Bodyguard, were recruited from the northern peoples.?(Montagu-13) During the early medieval times it was played by plucking the strings with a plectrum or fingers,. Later in the tenth century bows became more popular and the lyre was also played with one. The

How Colombias Improved Business Environment has Led to Increased Foreign Investment and Economic Growth

How Colombias Improved Business Environment has Led to Increased Foreign Investment and Economic Growth Introduction Business environment refers to conditions that are not controllable but are encountered in the process of undertaking a business activity. Such conditions are determined by factors that range from politics, territorial economies and regulations. Foreign investment in a country, on the other hand, refers to the capital that is brought into a country from another country with the aim of acquiring control of business enterprises in the recipient country.Advertising We will write a custom research paper sample on How Colombia’s Improved Business Environment has Led to Increased Foreign Investment and Economic Growth specifically for you for only $16.05 $11/page Learn More Economic growth is the increase in a country’s productivity level which is indicated in the country’s increased gross domestic product. Economic growth is the primary increase in produced goods and services in a country. This paper seeks to discuss the relation ship between the business environment in Colombia and the foreign investments and economic growth. The paper will look at the improved business environment in relation to the economic changes that have resulted from such changes. History of Colombia’s economy The history of Colombia’s economy is characterized by features that had negative impacts on the economy. Events such as political instability and illegal businesses were some of the factors that hindered economic growth in Colombia. Political instability in the country can be traced to the middle of the twentieth century after the assassination of the country’s president in the year 1948. This sparked a lot of violence in the country thereby disrupting activities including economic activities. The country was then majorly under military government following a coup in the year 1953 until a movement called â€Å"the national front† assumed power in the year 1958 (Infoplease 1). It was after the end of the movement’s rule in the year 1974 that Colombia started recovering from its economic recession that was a result of political stability. Illegal businesses that involved drugs and crude weapons however picked its roots after the 1970s to again pose new threats to the country’s economic growth. Rebel groups also established centers in many parts of the country lead enhancing violence thereby undermining economic growth. Such instabilities specifically discouraged foreign investments in the country (Infoplease 1). Improved business environment Some of the significant reforms that were undertaken by the country were done in the year 1996. Reforms such as â€Å"Colombia’s market-opening measures, its implementation of the Uruguay round commitments and its six year effort at sound macroeconomic management† (world Trade 1) were some of the features that contributed to the shift that was realized in the country’s economic growth (world Trade 1). These moves actually linked the country’s economy to the international market thereby diversifying the country’s trade to being in line with globalized aspect of economics. The results of these moves saw the liberalization of the Colombian market system leading to â€Å"lower tariffs, fewer non tariffs measures and a number of market access commitments in professional and financial services† (world Trade 1). Reduction or total elimination of tariffs in an economy has a direct impact of facilitating international trade together with its resulting benefits.Advertising Looking for research paper on business economics? Let's see if we can help you! Get your first paper with 15% OFF Learn More When tariffs are reduced, for example, the cost of importation or exportation of commodities across a country’s boundaries is reduced. Consequently, raw materials are easily accessed from their cheap sources and finished products are as well easily sol d at any market that can yield the maximum profits to producers. The overall result is that producers will be more willing to operate in a territory where trade limitations are minimized. The steps that were taken to reduce tariffs, therefore, had the potential to positively influence the country’s economic growth. The 1990 policy review specifically improved the level of the country’s participation in international trade (world Trade 1). The reform also led to the enactment of a new constitution by the country that provided further reforms that were favorable to business. Another review was also undertaken in the country in the year 1993 with special interest in strengthening small scale domestic producers in the country. Steps that included, â€Å"subsidized loans, debt recovery or support, price support and stabilization mechanisms, marketing arrangements and modernization subsidies† (world Trade 1) were affected. These moves were specifically aimed at motiva ting Colombians to join the private sector in contributing to the country’s economy. A reform in Colombia’s trade policy that was undertaken in the year 1990 was significantly felt in the country’s economy. Following the reforms, an almost steady growth has since been reported in the country. Such growths have also been reflected on the inflation in the country that realized a reducing effect after the year 1990. It is reported that the country’s inflation rate reduced from over thirty percent in the year 1990 to below twenty percent in a span of five years (world Trade 1). Though the reform process which started in the year 1990 was meant to create a favorable environment for commercial activities, it was not primarily based on making economic policies in the country. One of the steps that were identified to be necessary in facilitating business was the enhancement of security and political stability that was still challenged by the presence of rebel gro ups and other groups that dealt in drugs. A sufficient economic base was being sought to ensure the country’s economic stability by reforming structures that were identified to be supportive to a business environment.Advertising We will write a custom research paper sample on How Colombia’s Improved Business Environment has Led to Increased Foreign Investment and Economic Growth specifically for you for only $16.05 $11/page Learn More This was particularly because the country had survived economic crises not because it had a strong economic basis but just because it was able to avoid economic strains. Political reforms that included the steps of enacting a new constitution was thus part of the trade reform process. A solution was therefore to be sought by curbing the problem of rebel groups that had been a burden to security in some parts of the country (Aviles 3). As part of the reform agenda in the Colombian economic environment, the reform process in the year 1990 as was undertaken by the government also included privatization of some sectors in the economy. Service proving sectors such as the â€Å"banking and telecommunications† were for example privatized (Holmes, Pineres and Curtin 42). Such privatization was meant to bring the competitiveness in the industries for better service provision as compared to the governments’ provisions which are normally based on ensuring service provision. Such efficient provision of services that are supportive of business activities was therefore a positive contribution to the business environment. Following the authority that was granted to the then Colombian president, Gaviria, over economic reforms, the president instituted a lot of changes in economic policies that ranged from international trade policies to domestic policies. Apart from measures to reduce tariffs that were imposed on international trade activities, the president also reduced non tariff barriers t o international trade. Other economic reforms that were instituted at the time included â€Å"reduction and rationalization of reserve requirements, freeing of most interest rates, abolition of exchange controls, reform on labor legislation, relaxation of control over foreign direct investment† (Holmes, Pineres and Curtin 42). All these measures liberated the ground for conducting business by reducing governmental control measures that restricted business operations. Reducing the level of control over foreign direct investments, for example, had the potential of increasing the inflow of investment capital into the country which in turn would be translated into the country’s increased productivity level. Other measures such as reduced control over sectors of the economy such as financial sector also provided the opportunity for a free market, in such sectors, that was then only dependent on the market forces of demand and supply. With these direct economic reforms, the country expected to increase its level of importation, its technological knowhow as well as operational efficiencies (Holmes, Pineres and Curtin 42).Advertising Looking for research paper on business economics? Let's see if we can help you! Get your first paper with 15% OFF Learn More Though with subsequent side effects, the country succeeded in increasing its level of exports at the international market. Immediate increase in foreign direct investment was also realized following liberalization of interest rates. As a result of capital flow into the country, wage rates were triggered to rise thus increasing the incomes of individuals who found employment opportunities (Holmes, Pineres and Curtin 45). According to Edwards, the move to stabilize the country’s economy involved massive retrenchment by the Colombian government. As part of the reform agenda, reduction of government’s expenditure was a necessity in the realization of this stability. As a result, the inflation rate in the country was significantly reduced at the expense of increased unemployment rate. However, the business environment was enhanced as a result of the economic stability that was attained. The country has since then depended on the reforms that were made in the country in the period between the year 1990, 1993 and 1996. No further significant reforms have been made by subsequent governments (Edwards 84). Following the reforms that were instituted, modalities and formalities of processes involved in starting and running a business in Colombia have been made easier. Processes of obtaining formal necessities as well as undertakings of business processes have been simplified in terms of the short time durations that are taken. Most of applications only take one day to be processed by relevant bodies (Doing Business 1). The reforms that were taken by Colombia government have enlisted the country as one of the best in terms of investor protection. Rating that relates to investor confidence has also favored the country with indications that investors can easily put their long term investment capital in the country without much worries over risk factors. Consequently, foreign direct investment in the country has, for example, greatly increased to about four time s its level in the year 2003. The changes that were undertaken by the country in the name of reform policies therefore had positive impacts in improving the country’s economic environment in terms of business activities. This as a result reflects increased productivity levels and a potentially attractive environment for foreign investment (Proexport 1). Foreign direct investments and economic growth in Colombia As Colombia underwent political, legal and economic reforms in the early years of 1990s, a lot of changes were realized in the country’s operational systems. Economic issues that were deemed to be critical to the country were, for example, included in the country’s constitution that was enacted during that time period. One of the provisions of the enacted constitution stipulated that â€Å"the government will promote the internationalization of the economy and the economic, social, and political integration with Latin America and the Caribbean† (Go mez 13). The internationalization of the economy required the removal of barriers to forms of international trade that restricted foreign investors to the country’s market. The government was thus able to undertake measures of enhancing foreign investments and trade. Regional integration of the country with its neighbors was also a step to promoting good relations that could then be reflected in economic relations in countries that traded with Colombia. The next constitutional provision was that â€Å"foreigners have the same civil rights as nationals† (Gomez 13); this established a leveled ground under which everyone would be treated. The country then totally abolished regulations that were put to govern foreign direct investments into the country (Gomez 13). Following the measure to promote foreign direct investment in the country, investors yielded to the incentives and consequently resources were directed into Colombia. Significant increase in the level of foreign direct investment has been reported in the country over the past years with a direct proportionality being realized with respect to gross domestic product. Such investments have increased the country’s productivity level. The Colombian economy has in the past been registering improvements with an increasing trend in per capita income in general consideration of the country’s economy. Contrary to the condition prior to the 1990 reforms when foreign investment was majorly felt in the mining industry, diversification has been implemented occurred and foreign investment is currently significantly experienced in a variety of sectors that include â€Å"manufacture, finance service, electricity, and telecommunications sectors† (Melo 6). Prior to the liberalization, about sixty three percent of the country’s foreign direct investment was directed to the mining industry with the remaining percentage being shared among other industries. Currently, finance and manuf acturing sectors commands forty one percent of the country’s foreign direct investment (Melo 6). Change in direct investment in Colombia It is important to note that the changes were not with respect to fixed foreign investment but an increase in investments in other sectors of the economy. The overall impact of the liberalization was therefore increased participation in the sectors of the Colombian economy that induced efficiencies in productivity thus contributing to the country’s increased productivity level (Melo 6). The increasing trend of foreign direct investment in Colombia has continued to grow since then. A comparison between data in the year 2000 and the year 2008 for example indicated an increasing trend. Stock value of foreign direct investment was for instance sixty seven billion dollars in 2008 and grew to seventy four in the year 2009 reflecting the increasing trend that has over the past been realized (Betancourt 1). Conclusion Columbia was faced with a history of political and economic instability. It however struggled to establish its political stability in the 1980s. Economic environment of the country was left behind as the world moved to a globalized market system. Economic transformation was then undertaken in the country during the 1991 reform process that liberalized the country’s market creating a favorable business environment. As a result, direct foreign investments with corresponding economic growth have been realized in the country. Aviles, William. Global Capitalism, Democracy, and Civil-Military Relations in Colombia. New York, NY: SUNY Press. Print. Betancourt, Miguel. Inward FDI in Colombia and its policy context. Vale Columbia Center, 2011. Web. vcc.columbia.edu/files/vale/documents/Colombia_IFDI_updated_Nov_10_2010_final.pdf Doing Business. Ease of doing business in Colombia. Doing Business, 2011. Web. doingbusiness.org/data/exploreeconomies/colombia#starting-a-business Edwards, Sebastian. Colombia. Par is, France: OECD Publishing, 2011. Print. Gomez, Julian. Foreign direct investment in Colombia. Georgian, 2011. Web. http://digitalcommons.law.uga.edu/cgi/viewcontent.cgi?article=1017context=stu_llmsei-redir=1#search=%22trend+in+foreign+investments+in+colombia%22 Holmes, Jennifer., Pineres, Sheila and Curtin, Kevin. Guns, drugs, and development in Colombia. Texas, TX: University of Texas Press, 2008. Print. Infoplease. History. Encyclopedia- Colombia, 2011. Web. infoplease.com/ce6/world/A0857443.html Proexport. Improved business environment. Proexport Colombia, 2011. Web. investincolombia.com.co/why-colombia/improved-business-environment.html World Trade. Colombia: September 1996. Trade policy reviews, 2011. Web. wto.org/english/tratop_e/tpr_e/tp39_e.htm

A World Without Sound Essay Sample

â€Å"I don’t want to be bothered by noise. I’m tired of hearing atrocious things. † I do non kick anymore†¦ good. about noise at least. I am now deaf. I see smiling faces but can non hear laughter. I am able to feel concern and fright. but no longer can I hear someone’s calls and shrieks. Spoken discourse differs from written because one is able to set up emotionally the way of the conversation through voice. The inflexion of one’s voice can alter the signifier of the words to show peculiar properties. â€Å"She talks a batch. † can be said with a somber tone because it is factual. If it is said with backtalk. person finds the girl’s gabbing to be an irritation. Life has non changed drastically. Most of what I did as a hearing individual I am able to make now. but I miss â€Å"smaller things. † I miss telling takeaway over the telephone and waking up to birds peeping. I even miss being awoken by the Sirens on exigency vehicles tardily at dark. I am non entirely in this silent universe ; everyone is deaf. Everyone has fallen victim to a awful virus. No 1 is certain as to how or why the virus came approximately. The deafening virus is viewed both positively and negatively. I find comfort in sharing my experience with friends. household. and even aliens. Everyone throughout the universe is confronting a similar state of affairs: life without sound. Deafness has ever existed ; there are audile instructors and address healers that have been educated and trained to help persons sing partial or entire hearing loss. Unfortunately. the universe population outnumbers these persons. and they. excessively are deaf. Hearing AIDSs and cochlear implants are available. excessively. to help with hearing loss. However. to keep these devices can be dearly-won. and in the instance of cochlear implants. invasive surgery is required. Documented every bit early as the 5th century B. C. in Plato’s Cratylus. groups of deaf people have used gestural linguistic communication: â€Å"If we hadn’t a voice or a lingua. and wanted to show things to one another. wouldn’t we try to do marks by traveling our custodies. caput. and the remainder of our organic structure. merely as dense people do at nowadays? † Sign linguistic communication is defined as a linguistic communication that uses manual communicating and organic structure linguistic communication to convey significance. Sign linguistic communication may affect at the same time uniting manus forms. orientation and motion of the custodies. weaponries or organic structure. and facial looks to show the speaker’s ideas. Sign languages exhibit the same lingual belongingss and use the same biological abilities. as do unwritten linguistic communications. Persons are propelled to increase their cognition. accomplishments. or understanding because of uncertainty. wonder. incomprehension. and uncertainness. In both noisy and tongueless universes. explicating inquiries is necessary because it may take to an reply that solves one’s larning demand ( s ) . and she may oppugn farther while unwraping more cognition and greater apprehension. Six indispensable inquiries to inquire when seeking cognition and apprehension are â€Å"who. † â€Å"what. † â€Å"where. † â€Å"when. † â€Å"why. † and â€Å"how. † â€Å"Who† is concerned with what or which people were affected/involved. â€Å"Where† is concerned with the location/position of a individual. event. or object. â€Å"When† refers to a clip or circumstance. â€Å"What† asks information to stipulate something. â€Å"Why† asks for what ground or intent did an action/event return topographic point. â€Å"Howà ¢â‚¬  Tells in what mode something occurred. Like a relentless five-year-old kid oppugning his female parent. we must neer halt inquiring â€Å"why. † It is a simple inquiry. but can be the most hard to inquire. As we mature. we stop oppugning and merely accept replies or conditions. and travel frontward with our lives. Asking â€Å"why† stimulates our heads. In our deaf-and-dumb person universe. we must foremost inquire. â€Å"Why are we deaf? † Was the virus inflicted upon the universe so we could break understand what is like to be handicapped in order to be more understanding? On the other manus. is the Earth being punished? It is hard for us to inquire â€Å"why† because we are excessively accustomed to routine. Deafness has forced me to interrupt my modus operandi. go motivated. and more originative. I have become cognizant of other attacks of communicating and diversion. I can no longer keep an unwritten conversation with a friend while sipping a cappuccino ; alternatively. we must utilize manus gestures in order to pass on. I do non pass my eventides in forepart of a telecasting set since I have to read captions ; I now prefer busying my clip with reading. throwing Frisbees. or playing tennis. We. excessively. must inquire one another â€Å"why. † Not merely does â€Å"why† function as a footing for group treatment but it will promote others to oppugn their ain modus operandis or milieus. By inquiring others â€Å"why. † we may larn how others are get bying with their newfound hearing loss. Having an unfastened forum will non merely be curative but may reenforce oppugning everything like we did as kids. Asking â€Å"when† something happened or will go on is of import when informing an person or a group. but when life in a tongueless universe. the inquiry is least of import because no 1 is certain when our hearing will be restored. We must non brood on our hearing loss ; if we do. it may do isolation and depression. I keep reminding myself. and others. we are valuable. Our focal point should be on educating one another about status. If we do non oppugn. we do non larn ; hence. we do non derive greater apprehension of a belief or construct. The most basic ground for inquiring is so we get replies. I am incognizant as to how long this worldwide hearing loss will prevail. but I intend to garner every bit much cognition so I can understand my hearing loss and aid others. excessively. By oppugning what has occurred. it allows me to be more accepting of my hearing loss and helps me to keep an unfastened head. Through the treatment and inquiring of hearing loss. I am bring outing implicit in frights and limited beliefs. therefore opening myself to all that life has to offer.

Describing two works of art Essay Example | Topics and Well Written Essays - 250 words

Describing two works of art - Essay Example The picture itself is revealing almost all striking colors that catch the eye of the viewers. I think the artist has successfully conveyed the message that one should live a life full of joy in order to be happy, as well as to spread happiness among others. Poppy Fields by Zhang Huan is one of the most attractive artworks of recent times. The artwork features a wide range of colors on an oil-on-linen painting. If we look at Poppy Field No. 5 by some distance, four main colors catch the eye, which include teal, pink, lilac, and faded red. The artwork looks like as an abstract art if we look at it from some distance. However, from a closer look, tiny faces and skulls become visible. The meaning of the artwork as expressed by the artist is birth, illness, senility, and death of humans. I personally think that the meaning being conveyed through this artwork as described by the artist does not appear in the mind of every viewer. For example, to me it looks like conveying that every person in the world has a different internal color which becomes evident with the display of different

Homosexuality, prejudice, and discrimination Essay

Homosexuality, prejudice, and discrimination - Essay Example I agree with Mohr that antigay stereotypes are a means of reinforcing gender roles in society. Since time immemorial, homosexuals are a minority in society. The traditional gender roles came about because the majority of members of society and who are either male or female. Since homosexuality is not the norm, no role has been defined for it except that it breaks the norm. The antigay stereotypes are thus means to reinforce the traditional gender roles in order to â€Å"normalize† the situation and not change the norm. It is precisely these types of thinking that explains the violence against and harassment of homosexuals. People through time for concepts of right and wrong, which become the accepted norms. Although in existence since the history of civilization, homosexuality has always been not freely manifested, even by the homosexual themselves which also reinforces the notion that being homosexual is abnormal, until the present time that more and more homosexuals have gathered the courage to publicize their sexual orientation. Because for a long time, the view of homosexuality is that it is an abnormality and publicized incidents highlight negative aspects, violence against and harassment of homosexuals has resulted. 2. That something is descriptively moral (or immoral) does not make it normatively moral (or immoral). What is the relevance of this point to homosexuality? According to Mohr, the prevailing definition of morality is what is normative or prescribed by society according to its values which consist of mores, norms and customs. This ways of defining morality is what has brought about the contention that homosexuality is immoral because it violates mores, norms and customs. ... However, Mohr contends that something descriptively moral or immoral does not make it normatively moral or immoral. By this he means that even if something can be described as moral or immoral should not automatically be prescribed as moral or immoral. As an example, he used slavery. For many years, people did not see anything immoral about slavery, perhaps because it had some beneficial aspects to it for both slave and master. However, today, slavery is no longer considered moral, especially after societies realized that the practice of slavery violated basic human rights. This example can be plotted against the issue of homosexuality. Not because the prevailing values seem to categorize homosexuality as immoral, it does not make actually immoral. Therefore discriminations against homosexuals is out of place and also violate of human rights. 3. How does Mohr respond to the argument that homosexuality is unnatural because it violates the function of the genitals, which is to produce babies Why does Mohr believe that sexual orientation is not a matter of choice How is this point relevant to the issue of discrimination Are there moral arguments against homosexuality that Mohr has overlooked or not done justice to Mohr uses a number of arguments against the view that homosexuality is unnatural because it violates the function of the genitals. He starts by using biblical references. He says the bible does not univocally condemn homosexuality, therefore homosexuality is not against God's will. And even if the bible does condemn homosexuality, in a democratic society, religion should not be used as justification for its condemnation. On the grounds that homosexuality should be condemned as unnatural, Mohr argues that

IP Internetworking Assignment Example | Topics and Well Written Essays - 1500 words

IP Internetworking - Assignment Example It also concerns with ensuring that the wide area network at Houston is in a position of accommodating the traffic in the entire network. Whereas using static addresses has its advantages, the biggest downside is high administrative demands even when minor changes occur in the network. To cater for this, the new phase will use dynamic addressing system so that the hosts acquire Internet protocol automatically. As a result, this lowers the administrative overhead. The virtual local area network is from the departments available in XUM. Consequently, the VLANs are sales vlan2, finance vlan3, human resources vlan4, research and development vlan5, default vlan1 and management vlan6. The creation of the VLAN at XUM results from the departments available. Therefore, there are four data VLANs namely sales VLAN2, finance VLAN3, human resource VLAN4, Research, and development VLAN5. In addition, a native VLAN is the default VLAN1. Furthermore, there is a management VLAN VLAN6 that gets IP addresses to enable the management to manage the switch. It has been possible with remote control tools that allow management to ssh or telnet the switch through the management VLAN. To allow for communication of personal computers on similar VLANs but separated by a switch or a number of switches, a trunk link now exists between the switches. The manager sets the range of virtual local area networks that can communicate via the trunk link (Ahmad, 2002). Trunking is the best method. It was in comparison to creating physical relationships of various VLANs among the switches. In this case, between one switch and another there would have been six links, which would have wasted twelve ports. Further, it means that each of the individual links has different port numbers that make their management extremely difficult in case the network expands to accommodate twice or more the number of VLANS already existing. Use of dynamic trunking protocol has enabled

Christian Church in the Middle Ages Essay Example | Topics and Well Written Essays - 1000 words

Christian Church in the Middle Ages - Essay Example The church influenced the way people think. The advent of the church began upon the fall of the Roman Empire. The Catholic Church was the only source of moral authority during the middle ages. The head of the Catholic Church at the time was, just like today, the Pope. Members of the church believed that the Pope represented Jesus spiritually on earth. Under the Pope were cardinals, archbishops, bishops and local priests who were in direct contact with the populace. The pope and the archbishops only presided in important occasions. Normal services were the obligations of the local priest under instructions from the Bishops. The major role of the church during the middle ages was to fulfill the spiritual need s of the followers. Priests gave instructions to peasants and the people living in towns in the faith. They also served important purposes in comforting the members when they are in trouble. When members of the church lost a loved one, the priests would be there to console with the families and ensure an organized send off. According to the church, everybody is a sinner, whether male or female and Christian s could escape the wrath from God by believing in Jesus. They would receive eternal life in heaven through doing good and fully participating in the sacraments. Apart from the spiritual leadership role, the church performed many secular roles. The church owned land and Christians contributed to the wealth creation of the church through tithes. Tithes were a portion of the members’ earnings that they gave to the church. Through canon laws, the church had its court to matters relating to justice. Except the monarchs, the church had authority over the secular leaders. The pope had the power to excommunicate kings and other secular rulers who attempted to challenge him. Some members of the Christian community during the middle ages dedicated their lives to serving God and they became Monks and Nuns.

Oil in North America Annotated Bibliography Example | Topics and Well Written Essays - 1000 words

Oil in North America - Annotated Bibliography Example This short article is a review of a much longer book on the subject of the American strategic petroleum reserve which was first created after the first oil crisis of 1973-1974. Van Doren acknowledges the factual account of what happened following the decision to create such a reserve, but his review focuses mainly on the political dimension of oil policies in the United Sates from the mid-1970s until the present day. Successive presidents adopted varying strategies, sometimes using government resources to fill up the reserve, and sometimes halting this process when deficits in the budget squeezed their ability to spend freely. The impact of the Kuwait war is mentioned, and specifically as a brief interlude when the reserve was actually used up partially, and although there was an immediate drop in the price of oil , Van Doren comments that this was probably not connected with the use of the strategic reserve.

Organizational behavior ( UAE company ) Research Paper

Organizational behavior ( UAE company ) - Research Paper Example In the first year of operation, Emirates Airline started its flights in Karachi. It started its European operations to London in 1987. After 3 years, the company was able to double its operations thereby allowing it to grow at annual rate of 25%. The revenue of the company today is approximately $11.8 billion annually. It employs approximately 36,000 employees. Moreover, the number of international passengers between 2009 and 2010 was approximately 25.9 million (Reportlinker, 2012). The number of flights that the company is able to reach per week is approximately 2400. The goal of this paper therefore is to discuss the behavior of Emirates airlines by studying its PETS and SWOT analysis. These will help to identify the various problems that are facing the organization today. Moreover, they will help to explain why the events are happening today. It will analyses the challenges by adopting the OB theory of X and Y. It will also discuss the leadership personality traits and the conflic ts within the industry. SWOT analysis Strengths Emirates Airline flies to six continents in the world. In this perspective, it is able to cover approximately 100 cities. In the Asian continent, the company has a market share of approximately 39 percent (Free Swot Analysis, 2012). Moreover, it is a state owned corporation thereby boosting its financial base. Moreover, it lies in between east and west Asia thereby allowing the company to boost its market share significantly. Weaknesses There is open competition in the country which has allowed other competing businesses to venture in the market. Moreover, the company is faced with a dire need to improve its performance in all the regions around the world in order to increase its market share. In addition, the company does not pay its labor sufficiently thereby limiting its productivity. Opportunities Since Emirates Airline has joined the global airline alliance, it should focus on areas such as Disney Land which is attracting internat ional communities to use Emirates Airline as their first choice. This has strengthened the company’s operations globally. Threats Since Emirates Airline is owned by the state, it is heavily affected by the policies that the government implements. Moreover, since different types of labor are required to cope with different types of aircrafts, it becomes difficult for the company to meet the demands of the employees without any conflicts. PEST Analysis Political The political scene in the Asian pacific has been favorable in 2000s. As a result, most of the countries are making agreements which have facilitated trade within the region. These agreements have opened up opportunities for the company (Articlesbase, 2012). Economic The United Arab Emirates economy has been advancing at a consistent pace thereby increasing the overall income of the country. As a result, the revenue per capita has grown significantly thereby allowing the people in the region to make use of air transport . As a result, Emirates Airline has noted a steady growth in the recent years (Articlesbase, 2012). Social Emirates Airline conducts its operations in an area that has a large number of employees. Most of these employees do not demand high compensation. In this case, there is a huge difference in labor costs with countries such as the US. In this case, the company has been able to boost its profits significantly. However, many employees are becoming aware of their

Oil in North America Annotated Bibliography Example | Topics and Well Written Essays - 1000 words

Oil in North America - Annotated Bibliography Example This short article is a review of a much longer book on the subject of the American strategic petroleum reserve which was first created after the first oil crisis of 1973-1974. Van Doren acknowledges the factual account of what happened following the decision to create such a reserve, but his review focuses mainly on the political dimension of oil policies in the United Sates from the mid-1970s until the present day. Successive presidents adopted varying strategies, sometimes using government resources to fill up the reserve, and sometimes halting this process when deficits in the budget squeezed their ability to spend freely. The impact of the Kuwait war is mentioned, and specifically as a brief interlude when the reserve was actually used up partially, and although there was an immediate drop in the price of oil , Van Doren comments that this was probably not connected with the use of the strategic reserve.

Acquisition Strategy Essay Example for Free

Acquisition Strategy Essay In today’s market it is very important for company’s to remain competive in order to maintain an edge over its competitors. The days that a company can rely on its reputation to continue making profits are gone. Today, everyone is looking to save money by buying less expensive items like economy brands, considering that the diffrences between the two products are similar and the features that are not offered are of little value. This will make a consumer buy the less expensive item. Like consumers, companies are also looking to save money and maximize profit. One way of doing this is through acquisition strategies. Combining the operations of two companies is a very good option for companies that are looking to stregnthening the company’s competincies and competitiveness, this will ultimately open new market opportunities (Gamble/Thompson, p. 119). The benefit of this type of strategy, unlike alliances, they do not go far enough for the resources needed and a very important factor, ownership. In the following paragraphs, I will give two examples of two different companies in different industries and explain how they will stregnthen their market position through acquisiton, to include resources and competive capabilities. The first example I will use it Wells Fargo Co. results from the acquisition of Wachovia Corporation. During the economic crisis Wells Fargo Co. acquired Wachovia Corp in a bail out to keep the bank from going under. At one point Wachovia was Wells Fargo’s competitor. After the acquisiton it made Wells Fargo a banking giant absorbing its competion. Earnings from that acquisition have earned Wells Fargo Financial Co. a 21% earnings since the acquistion, reporting record profits. This acquistion has allowed them to gain market share, this was mostly created by winning new customers. Mortgage loans was the top earner and low rates and prices of homes falling to record lows has allowed the company to grow even in these tough economic times. Additionally, the acquisition of Wacovia Corp. moves Wells Fargo as the second largest bank, second only to Bank of America. The strategy has allowed them to acquire a larger share of the financial market. The second company I will discuss is DuPont Nutrition Health and Applied BioSciences acquisition of Danisco Corp. Once a long time partner of DuPont, is a very good and proven company, is a good fit because of their proven market science business and offers clear synergy for them. The acquisition will make them the clear leader in industrial biotechnology with inovations in global challenges in food production and fossil fuel. This effort will position the company ahead of all rivals addressing dramatic growth in human population in the years to come. Danisco is well established company that has research and application capabilities. This will create a more cost efficient operation of the combined companies. The applications do not need to be duplicated, meaning their buying power will increase, administrative functions do not need to be replicated, and will further create more cost savings by downsizing. This acquisition will also allow them to enter new product categories, for example 65% of Danisco’s revenue comes from specialty foods, product substitution items such as sweetners and enablers. This will allow them to enter renewable materials and addressing food needs. In conclusion, I have discussed Wells Fargo Co. , and how their acquisition of Wachovia Corp has allowed the company to gain a larger geographic coverage has helped it create a more cost efficient operation by allowing to cut overhead costs by elliminating duplicate processes. Second, DuPont Nutrition Health and Applied BioSciences acquisition of Danisco Corporation has allowed DuPont has made them the clear leader in industrial biotechnology with inovations in global challenges in food production and fossil fuel.

Hybrid Model of Crisis Intervention Case Study

Hybrid Model of Crisis Intervention Case Study Frances Roulet The assignment: (3-4 pages) Provide an analysis of the crisis depicted in the Case Study in this weeks Learning Resources. Explain how you would apply the Hybrid Model to the crisis in the Case Study. Integrate Maslows model into your evaluation and explain how you did so. In 1972 a military infantryman flew home alone from Vietnam. When he arrived in his hometown, San Antonio, TX, no one was there to greet him. His return was not communicated to his family, and his wife was at work in the mayor’s office while his six-year-old daughter and 10-year-old son were at school. Feeling confused and without family, friends, or military support, he took a bus to a nearby stop and walked the remainder of the way home. He searched out two guns in his home and asked his neighbor if he could borrow her car. He then left to pick up his children at school and walked into the school firing at faculty and students. Several teachers and students were gunned down. He found his two children, took them, and left for the San Antonio mayor’s office to find his wife. At that time he left his children in the car, re-loaded his guns, and went into his wife’s office, again firing his guns and apparently killing several individuals including a number of counc ilpersons, police officers, and the mayor. You are a Professor of Counselor Education and Supervision at a university in San Antonio, TX. Apply the Six-Step Model of Crisis Intervention for responding in this community. Case study: Vignette. Analysis. In the Case Vignette No. 1, the soldier had been deployed back to his hometown in San Antonio, Texas. Hoge, Lesikar, Guevara, Lange, Brundage, Engel, Orman, Messer (2002) explained that researches conducted after military conflicts, deployment stressors and exposing soldiers to combat were considered risks factors of mental health problems, including post-traumatic stress disorder, [PSTD], major depression, substance abuse, impairment in social functioning and in the ability to work and the increase use of health care services. In this case, although there is insufficient information about the infantry soldier; and, we do not know if he faced directly combat, this soldier and part of his comrades were exposed to danger, injuries and death on a daily basis. Although not everyone exposed to violence or traumatic events may develop PTSD, factors, such as, the intensity of the trauma and proximity to the circumstances can increase the propensity of developing the disorder (Phillips, LeardMann, Gumbs Smith, 2010). According to Phillips, LeardMann, Gumbs Smith (2010) when a person is exposed to combat, and have constant threats of death or witness to it, serious injury or witness to it become significant risk factors for screening positive for postdeployment PTSD among soldiers as well as, violence exposures prior entering the infantry. Hoge, Castro, Messer, McGurk, Cotting, Koffman (2004) explained that soldiers and marines presented new onset PTSD after returning from combat several months later. These investigators explained that in their study a 7.6% was revealed with probable new onset PTSD. In the Case Vignette No. 1, he definitely was presenting new onset symptoms for PTSD because he felt confused, alone without support and no communication. There is a probability that he might have been impacted and presented symptoms of PTSD before being deployed to Vietnam, and returned traumatized with his experience in Vietnam. The infantry soldier of this case, was impacted, and presented symptoms of PTSD apparently before being deployed to Vietnam, and returned even more traumatized with his Vietnam experience. These same investigators explained that one study was conducted before the military operation with Iraq and Afghanistan and they discovered that a 6 of all US military service personnel on active duty received treatment for mental disorders each year (Hoge, Castro, Messer, McGurk, Cotting, Koffman, 2004). Based on my analysis, this case has greater risk for developing a combat related psychological disorder, not to mention criminal charges for hurting and killing innocent people. And, at his return, he found out that there was no communication was done before his arrival, no family member’s to receive. Phillips, LeardMann, Gumbs Smith (2010) explained that when a person is exposed to combat, and, have constant threat of death or witness to it, serious injury or witness to it become significant risk factors for screening positive for post-deployment PTSD. Hybrid Model to the crisis in the Case Study TRIAGE ASSESSMENT FORM: CRISIS INTERVENTION CRISIS EVENT. Identify and describe briefly the crisis situation: The identified male is a Vietnam infantry soldier rushed in emergency during morning hours. There were direct witness to several traumatic events and victims of a shooting. Some of these traumatic events were: The lost of coworkers, friends and neighbors of the community. The impact of an extreme loud noise impacting their physical being. AFFECTIVE DOMAIN Identify and describe briefly the affect that is present. (If more than one affect is experienced, rate with #1 being primary, #2 secondary, #3 tertiary.) No. 1. Feeling of fear and anxiety: The victims remain with a high level of fear that could be badly hurt or killed. After being a direct witness to the whole event of shooting and seeing people he knew from the community and how they were falling and dispersing. The victims may present a possibility of not being able to remember details of how they managed to escape from the traumatic event. No. 2. Feeling of being confused: Feeling confused of what happened or not being able to comprehend the traumatic event. No. 2. Feeling of guilty: Feeling guilty of running away from the event when they could of helped a neighbor, friend or co-worker. No. 2. Feeling anguished when speaking of the traumatized events. No. 2. Feeling sad. No. 3. Anger feelings completely repressed. Affective Severity Scale Circle the number that most closely corresponds with client’s reaction to crisis. 1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8 9 10 Moderate Impairment à ¢Ã¢â‚¬ ¢Ã‚  7 Affect may be incongruent with situation. Extended periods of intense negative moods. Mood is experienced noticeably more intensely than situation warrants. Affects may be obviously incongruent with situation. BEHAVIORAL DOMAIN Identify and describe briefly which behavior is currently being used. (If more than one behavior is utilized, rate with #1 being primary, #2 secondary, #3 tertiary.) APPROACH: Direct witness to several traumatic events, such as the scene of bodies of people around the victims. The tendency of the victims is running as far as they can from the traumatic and noxious event. AVOIDANCE: Victims may not want to avoid meeting new friends in order to develop and maintain a social circle. And, also may avoid having the opportunity of a new relationship. IMMOBILITY: The victims may constantly be re-experiencing the traumatic event of Vietnam. Their spontaneous memories of the traumatic events, recurrent dreams about the mornings where he was exploded the attacks, that killed several people and injured others were rushed that same morning. They might present flashbacks of the dramatic and traumatic events of the morning. The victims explained especially when they turn around to see what had happened. And, they see others being abused and terrorized. They immediately remember the traumatic event and they keep seeing more people dead. Then, they begins feeling scared and non trustful from all people that surrounds them. They present a prolonged distress. Behavioral Severity Scale Circle the number that most closely corresponds with client’s reaction to crisis. 1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8 9 10 Moderate Impairment à ¢Ã¢â‚¬ ¢Ã‚  7 Behaviors are maladaptive but not immediately destructive. Behaviors are difficult to control even with repeated requests. Behavior is becoming a threat to self or others and increasingly difficult to control. Ability to perform tasks necessary for daily functioning may be noticeably compromised. COGNITIVE DOMAIN Identify if a transgression, threat, or loss has occurred in the following areas and describe briefly. (If more than one cognitive response occurs, rate with #1 being primary, #2 secondary, #3 tertiary PHYSICAL (food, water, safety, shelter, etc.): During the escape from the shooting, and although they do not recall how they managed to escape or how they managed to get to the opposite side of the affected area, they suffered deprivation of safety and medical and psychological attention for several minutes. According to Gilliland (2013) the transgression, threat, loss or the three may be perceived as an association to whatever the person physical needs are. ___1___ TRANSGRESSION ___1____THREAT ___1____LOSS PSYCHOLOGICAL (self-concept, emotional well being, identity, etc.): They present a persistent and distorted sense of confusion or guiltiness of not able to help others. They may present arousal when presenting sleep disturbance, hyper-vigilance during the following weeks. ___1___ TRANSGRESSION ___1____THREAT ___1____LOSS SOCIAL RELATIONSHIPS (family, friends, co-workers, etc.): Some of the victims may have lost friends, family members, and neighbors when they were forced to run for their lives in order to continue living after the traumatic event suffered. They may markedly diminished interest in activities, such as their social life and interpersonal relationships. Gilliland (2013) explains that the disturbance, regardless of its triggers causes clinical significant distress and at times impairment in her social interactions and capacity to work. ___1___ TRANSGRESSION ___1____THREAT ___1____LOSS MORAL/SPIRITUAL (personal integrity, values, belief system, etc.): They might questioned their spiritual believes, or may want to see a representative of their religious community in order to feel reassure their spiritual believes ___1___ TRANSGRESSION ___1____THREAT ____1___LOSS Cognitive Severity Scale Circle the number that most closely corresponds with client’s reaction to crisis. 1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8 9 10 Moderate Impairment à ¢Ã¢â‚¬ ¢Ã‚  7 Client’s perception and interpretation of crisis event may differ in some respects with reality of situation. Intrusive thoughts of crisis event with limited control. Problem solving and decision-making abilities adversely affected by obsessiveness, self-doubt, confusion. Client experiences recurrent difficulties with problem-solving and decision making abilities. Problem-solving and decision making abilities minimally affected. Client’s perception and interpretation of crisis event substantially match with reality of situation. DOMAIN SEVERITY SCALE SUMMARY Affective à ¢Ã¢â‚¬ ¢Ã‚  7 Cognitive à ¢Ã¢â‚¬ ¢Ã‚  7 Behavioral à ¢Ã¢â‚¬ ¢Ã‚  7 Total à ¢Ã¢â‚¬ ¢Ã‚  21 Developmental Ecological Assessment Approach. Stage of Psychosocial Development. In this particular case, the developmental psychosocial stages of all the victims were working class adults in their working environment and during normal working hours. And, school students in an early morning studying period hours of a regular weekday. References Hoge, C., W., Castro, C., A., Messer, S., C., McGurk, D., Cotting, D. I. Koffman, R., L. (2004). Combat duty in Iraq and Afghanistan, mental health problems, and barriers to care. New England Journal of Medicine, 351(1): 13-22. Hoge, C., W., Lesikar, S., E., Guevara, R., Lange, J., Brundage, J., F., Engel, C., C., Orman, D., T. Messer, S., C. (2002). Mental Disorders among US military personnel in the 1990s: Association with high levels of Health care utilization and early military attrition. American Journal Psychiatry, 159: 1576-1583. James, R. Gilliland, B. (2013). Crisis Intervention Strategies. (7th Edition). Belmont, CA: Brooks/Cole, Cengage Learning. Phillips, C. J., LeardMann, C. A., Gumbs, G. R., Smith, B. (2010). Risk factors for posttraumatic stress disorder among deployed US male marines. BMC Psychiatry, 10(1): 52. Vogt, D. S., Tanner, L. R. (2007). Risk and resilience factors for posttraumatic stress symptomatology in Gulf War I veterans. Journal of Traumatic Stress, 20(1): 27-38.