How Immigration Helps United States - 1600 Words

I’m an immigrant, I moved to this country three years ago, as many legal and illegal immigrants I believe that we help the economy of this country. There are many immigrants in America and they come from all over the world. By no means I want to assume that they have all had my experiences. In my case I’m here on the pursuit of new opportunities, in my mind, or in the way I was raised by my parents, and how am I supposed to achieve my goals is exactly the way they work every day to support our household, is a discontented mind, it is a hard working mind, a mind that always thinks it has to work harder, acquire more knowledge. This is a generalization; they are plenty of exemptions after all it is good to be hard working, it is good to want a better education for your children and to want a better way of living, everyone has the right to pursuit their dreams. I will focus on how immigration helps United States as compared to the mostly held view that it hurts America. The United States has long served as a refuge for people running from politics, economy, natural disasters, who seek to escape hunger, poverty, torture, and the oppression of their human rights in their own countries. In my case my family and I moved here in search for better opportunities. Our country, as a prosperous nation will be always attracting immigrants that are in search for a better life, such as other developed countries like Canada and the United Kingdom. It is often said that our country is aShow MoreRelatedImmigration : How It s Changed And Stayed The Same1727 Words   |  7 Pages Immigration How It’s Changed and Stayed the Same Gilardo Gonzalez Ms.Ferguson Ap US History, Block 4 09/06/15 Immigration has changed a lot throughout the years in American history, not only in laws about immigration, but about places where immigrants came from, and the different races that immigrated. These factors have changed throughout history by shaping the social and economic aspects of the United States. Immigration has changed for the better and for the worse. It has goneRead MoreImmigration And The United States Essay1368 Words   |  6 Pagesthe 21st century, immigration is one of the most controversial and hotly debated topics. Thus, we have an extremely complex immigration process accompanied with extremely complex immigration laws. Consequently, reform to the United States immigration policy is absolutely necessary to continue to help build America into the most diverse nation on the planet. To reform immigration, three topics must be addressed: what to do with illegal immigrants already in the United States, how to stop future illegalRead MoreImmigration: Good or bad?1162 Wor ds   |  5 Pages Immigration: Proud To Be An Illegal Immigrant? Immigration is an important part of the American history, and how the nation was founded. Immigration has allowed for people who have low income and low education to come to America to better their lives for themselves and their families. It has allowed many people to leave harsh, dangerous conditions in search for a better life, which can be found with hard work and determination. These conditions can also be found in the constitution in Life, LibertyRead MoreThe Rights Of Illegal Immigration1690 Words   |  7 PagesJuan Guarintino was a Spanish immigrant who moved here into the United States. Juan worked for General Faucets and Plumbing and loved every minute of his job. There was only one problem that Juan was struggling with in America. Juan Guarintino was an illegal immigrant who had paid someone to smuggle him into the United States and make him a fake visa card. Now, a few days ago, he shot a man for the twenty dollars in his pocket that way he could manage his chronic coca ine problem, but the police haveRead MoreImmigration Helps America Essay1190 Words   |  5 PagesImmigration Helps America Immigration can be defined as passing foreigners to a country and making it their permanent residence. Reasons ranging from politics, economy, natural disasters, wish to change ones surroundings and poverty are in the list of the major causes of immigration in both history and today. In untied states, immigration comes with complexities in its demographic nature. A lot of cultural and population growth changes have been witnessed as a result of immigration. In the followingRead MoreImmigration Law Immigration law is a very interesting area of the law in which one has the1600 Words   |  7 Pages Immigration Law Immigration law is a very interesting area of the law in which one has the wonderful opportunity to help people in great need. In the United States, immigration law refers to the different governmental policies that control foreign immigration to the country. Also, immigration law governs the legal status of people already in the country in matters such as citizenship and permanent residency. The United States maintains strict immigration laws; these laws regulate both the rightRead MoreImmigration And The United States965 Words   |  4 Pages Immigration is a highly controversial and big problem in the United States today. â€Å"While some characterize our immigration crisis as solely an issue of the 11 to 12 million unauthorized immigrants living in this country, our problems extend beyond the number of undocumented people to a broader range of issues. The lack of a comprehensive federal solution has created a slew of lopsided, enforcement-only initiatives that have cost the c ountry billions of dollars while failing to end unauthorizedRead MoreImmigration and Border Protection1394 Words   |  6 PagesRunning Head: Immigration and Border Protection 1 Immigration and Border Protection of Department of Homeland Security Donald Capak Keiser University Immigration and Border Protection 2 Abstract It is my belief that the dissolution of the former U.S. Immigration and Naturalization and Customs Service and the creation of separateRead MoreImmigration Should Be Placed As One Of The Highest Priorities843 Words   |  4 PagesToday in the United States, Immigration should be placed as one of the highest priorities. Many immigrants struggle on daily bases hoping that one day there will be a solution to all their problems. Currently, we may hear suggestions or some ideas of ways to solve immigration problems, but we hope to expect changes soon. Within the United States, immigration has been thought as a plague that is rapidly spreading. Even with how immigration is now currently being addressed, new ways to help improve immigrationRead MoreImmigration Is A Major Controversial Issue1471 Words   |  6 PagesSignature Assignment GOVT 2305 MW 8:00-9:20 Danielle Scheurmann 5-4-2015 â€Æ' Immigration is a major controversial issue in today’s government. Some important matters include national security, the economic weight, escalation in drug and weapons trafficking, and human trafficking. Immigration is both beneficial and detrimental to many people, and our country. In my opinion the foremost concern regarding Immigration is National Security. â€Å"More than 10 million undocumented aliens currently reside

Malaysia Low Cost Medium Housing Free Essays

In this article, the issues and challenges in implementing low medium cost housing in Malaysia under Malaysia’s government plan are deemed as somehow unsuccessful but have helped numerous Malaysians in owning a house. Issues arose for various reasons including those from the local authority, private developers and housing delivery system. There is no proper local authority regulation to evaluate the price of low medium cost housing in Kuala Lumpur. We will write a custom essay sample on Malaysia Low Cost Medium Housing or any similar topic only for you Order Now According to the data collected on table 5, most people who are working at Kuala Lumpur falls under the income category of less than RM1999 a month which is at 32. 7% and they can only afford to pay for a house below RM42,000. There is no possible way for the low income category to own a house in Kuala Lumpur because the price range to own a house in Kuala Lumpur is between RM42,000 to RM 85,000 per unit. Private developers are not interested in building low medium cost housing because of meager benefits like low profitability and no incentives are given. Clearly, the local authorities are not doing a very good job in monitoring the process of constructing new houses. Based on table 3, the planned and completed housing units are mostly not up to par. In fact, the Seventh Malaysia Plan reflected on only a 17. 1% of the targeted units of 110,000 low medium cost houses were completed. Also, there is a clear miss-match between demand and supply of low medium cost housing in Malaysia. Based on table 3, in the Seventh Malaysia Plan, the private sector built 268250 high cost houses more while 10402 low medium cost houses lesser. The primary demand was more on low medium cost houses, instead, more high cost houses were built. Clearly, there would be a vast imbalance on the demand and supply aspect. Also, there were no stern control to be hinged on by the housing delivery system. The low medium cost houses were always property speculators’ choice for them to make investments. How to cite Malaysia Low Cost Medium Housing, Papers

Facilitation Education Skills Practice Development-Free Samples

Question: Explain Facilitation Education Skills Practice Development? Answer: Introduction I was allocated a group with other colleagues, and we assigned a task. We were required to undertake to a discussion where we were supposed to explore the understanding of self. We settled on the Johari Window Model of understanding the self as our model of choice. It was not a large group just five of us, so I expected that we were going to have an easy time. Larger groups are harder to work with considering group dynamics. Ours was a small task group formed to achieve a specific set goal within a specified time understanding of self. Smaller groups are effective since all members of the group can have an opportunity to express themselves and sharing are much more personal and effective. However, this paper focuses on the evaluation and use of Gibbs reflective cycle to analyze the group discussion and the outcome of understanding self as depicted in figure 1. A brief overview of Gibbs reflective cycle According to Wilding, (2010), there are many models that can be adopted in the learning process in all facets of professionalism. The same study denotes that Gibbs' reflective cycle is often preferred as an attractive model that tends to be used in the learning process for group reflection. In his study, Yien-Hua (2016) points out that Gibbs' reflective cycle is often adopted in a systematic evaluation of the strengths and weaknesses of an individual. In support of the analogy, Dye (2011) points out that the framework often uses question in every stage that helps users to carry out a critical evaluation and analysis as each question forms the step that determines the idea that needs to be evaluated in a systematic review, Forrest (2012) points out that the main reason for using Gibbs model in individual reflection is mainly to understand assumptions, ideas, and approaches towards various individual aspects. In other words, Moulster, Ames, and Griffiths (2012) assert that using Gibbs' reflective cycle in understanding is helpful challenging their assumptions and explores different ideas or new approaches towards thinking or doing things. By identifying weaknesses and strengths and taking actions to address the problems, Doody and Connor (2012) denote that Gibbs' reflective cycle helps in promoting self-improvement. On the other hand, Gilbourne (2014) also denotes that the model is essential in linking theory and practice as it combines observing or doing while thinking or applying knowledge. As depicted in figure 1, Clerehan (2013) denotes that the model has description, feelings, evaluation, analysis, conclusion, and the action plan as the six main stages of the model for that are used in directing the analysis. The group discussion scenario Being trained as a professional, every learner was posted in a learning institution for the purpose of the teaching practice. The exercise was to be conducted after three months and every learner to give a report on their experiences during the exercise. Once we resumed studies, we were instructed by our tutor to have a group discussion where we all shared our experiences concerning the teaching practice. As per the tutor, the main reason for the group discussion was understanding self, a topic that puzzled me at the beginning since I was not able to articulate how I could learn about myself in a group discussion. According to Caldwell et al. 2016, having a personal reflection is essential in every professionalism as it enables one to understand their strengths and weaknesses. This statement often formed my point of argument that the best way of understanding self is having a moment of a personal time to evaluate about my behavior, attitude, and response towards various aspects. However, the assignment of having a group discussion was totally a new idea to me as I often believed that in a group discussion, all one can gain is mostly beneficial to the group members. However, I will use the Gibbs reflection cycle as a model of discussion to present the whole outcome of the process. According to Dye (2011), using this model for reflection is often effective as the model is unique and cyclical. It is hence a wider and flexible approach of examining both individual and group value in the process of a group activity. Figure 1: Gibbs Reflective Cycle (Adopted from Dye 2017, p. 303) Understanding self Self-efficacy and self-awareness can empower individuals to unlock their potential and the potential of their organizations and those with whom they work (Caldwell et al. 2016, p.1168). In the course of undertaking the task, a several things began to emerge not just about myself but about almost all of us. I was joining the group for the first time and felt relatively new to them. We all have different characters and personalities, so of course it would be irrational to expect uniform behavior in a group, but still, that is not anything that should hinder a group's operation. Understanding that should guide a group in going about their task with objectivity and focus. Several types of research present groups as entities that possess minds. Research reveals that people see groups as possessing minds. But according to Jenkins et al. (2014), one often needs to employ perceives that appeal to the mind in order to study the mind of an individual away from the group. There is a paradox tha t emerged though. Every individual in the group has a mind of their own and a personality to go with it- that is precisely we were undertaking the task in the first place. But we had not figured this out properly before, so we had not assigned roles to each one as is the practice in most group dynamics. As a result what we had was a group of people and not people in a Group. We asked each other random questions about ourselves basing in the four quadrants of self as designed by the Johari Model for Understanding self. To begin with, I had a very rough idea what the model was all about. So from the outset, I was a little left out in the discussion. A colleague, Jesse, briefly explained to me the approach of the Johari Window Model and I came up to speed. According to Wei-Wen et al. (2012), the Johari Window Model for understanding self-classifies the individual into four quadrants. At the mention of that, I was lost again. I knew then that it was not going to be a smooth ride through the session. people in a group have more mind than a group of people, according to Cooley et al. (2017, p. 694). At this point, I was making the session operate like we were just a group of people. I had not prepared myself beforehand. As a result, I was not able to contribute to the topic as would be expected. I would not participate in the discussion, either by asking quest ions nor answering any. The few questions that were directed at me I made every attempt to deflect so as to hide the fact that I was inadequate and ill prepared. Anyway, we moved on to the discussion since we had to. According to Schroeder et al. (2016), many hands do overlook work. I did not want this to happen but again realized that is where we were. Another colleague, Ricky, noticed I was not taking an active part in the discussion like I would always do. He began to make fun of that. All these issues did not go down well with me. I felt like that was offensive, and soon we were involved in a heated argument.it took the efforts of other group members to put an end to this. I was not willing to admit that I was completely out of place. But I would not admit it. Soon enough the discussion was done with and we parted ways. According to Schroeder et al., 2016, p. 237, individuals tend to claim more responsibility than other group members when working with other group members. It is an element of group dynamics that has been observed in many task groups. On this day I was not able to credit myself for anything. Feelings This discussion group was one like no other. I felt embarrassed that I was not able to make any meaningful contribution in a chart group that was essential to the coursework. According to Schacter et al. (2015), such circumstances can make one feel very inadequate. I was angry at myself as well because I did not take my time before the meeting to prepare myself for the session by reading through the relevant material. Still, I was appreciative to Jesse, my colleague who had been helpful to me during the exercise. He cared to pause from time to time to explain to me the various quadrants of the Johari Window Model and how they applied to us. However, I felt angered by the action of Ricky. He realized I was not able to take part actively in the task but instead of helping me out or just letting it go, he decided to make fun of it. I know it was my entire fault but still, could not help the fact that he made the situation feel worse than it was already. I felt like I needed to blame mys elf for that too. I felt like it was my fault and there was nothing could to change it that caused me a lot of emotional pain. I was not proud of the fact that the whole issue had degenerated into an argument so heated up that it almost resulted in a fight. I felt like we both could have handled the situation better. I hated myself for the eventuality. I had a strong feeling of self-attribution. According to Sharma et al., (2016), the feeling of self-attribution is essential as mediators and moderators of self-therapy. It helps an individual to come to terms with the situation at hand. Evaluation There were a number of good and bad things about the situation. On the whole, I was disappointed and angry. Myself -confidence was on trial. My self-image was destroyed. I was not able to look anyone of my colleagues in the eye again. That was especially daunting for me. It was particularly unwarranted for me to have escalated the issue into an argument. I had seriously underperformed on that day. There is a positive contribution that I would have made if I had taken the time to prepare myself by reading before the session. According to Sharma et al., (2016), what I needed at that point was someone who could meet me at the point where I was and help me improve my engagement in order to improve my success. Every student can shine in class; I felt like when given the opportunity I could also demonstrate my unique abilities and shine just like the rest of my colleagues. On the positive side, the manner in which things happened served to remind me that I was not serious about my studies. I realized that I needed to evaluate and focus on the important things in life which were classwork at the time. Also, I was able to determine that I had a friend in the group discussion group. That was somewhat reassuring. Overall there were important life lessons that I was able to draw from the incident. I believe that it was an opportunity for learning and becoming a better person. Understanding that all persons have different personality traits goes a long way in guiding our day to day relations. Analysis According to Rossiter, Power, Fowler, Jackson, Roche, and Dawson (2011), comprehensive analysis of an individual or group reflection requires a learner to take a two-dimensional approach to this in all facets of the study. Firstly, what would I or we have done to prevent the incident from happening? Then secondly what sense can be made of the incident? In my assessment, there are a number of things that could have helped to hinder the occurrence of this event. I should have taken time beforehand to read and prepare for the discussion session. These are both on the individual capacity and as a group. According to McDougall et al., (2006) p. 43, to the reason why most college professors encourage their students before class is that it helps to maximize learning outcomes. To this end, some instructors prefer to give pre-class reading assignments to be completed by the students before the lesson itself. We as a group should have had a policy like that one. It would make it a must do for us all so as we converge for the discussion it would be a moment where we share ideas. Cornelius-White (2007) also posits that learning depends on prior knowledge. This strengthens the approach of having all students engaged in a group discussion to conduct an in-depth study of the area of discussion before meeting for the same. McGinn et al. (2015) also submit that it is vital to have students read before attending classes. It is also important for every student to learn to engage in collaborative learning. Collaborative learning has been proven by research to be one of the most effective ways to help students to identify their strengths and weaknesses alongside their colleagues and tackle them together (Xiaoqing et al. (2017, p. 28). All students from different cultural backgrounds think differently as evidenced in our discussion task. This should be an avenue for such cultural and personality diversities to converge and build one another as they discover themselves. Therefore, active participation and contribution of the members are necessary to use each ones resour ces collectively and to achieve the successful performance of group tasks (Alden, (2011, p. 17). Also maybe the composition of the group needs to be re-looked at. Aggarwal et al. (2008) also submit that simply assigning students to groups and instructing them to interact with their teammates does not guarantee that students will contribute their best effort to a project; still, it does not promise that the group outcomes will be optimal. According to Gibbs reflective Model for self-awareness, the questions adopted at every stage are essential in evaluating scenarios to determine either self or group strengths, and weaknesses established members according to Dye (2017, p. 844). I started off with most new members in a team- with a small open area because not much was known about me on the first day. One more thing that was evident is the fact that such negative incidences happen to help us discover what kind of people we are and how we react to different circumstances. The whole scenario is as bad as it was still presented a perfect opportunity for me to discover myself and others as well. Looking back there are of course quite some things I would do differently in order to get better results in subsequent group discussions. We recognized the need for all of the members of the group to prepare adequately before the discussions. That is something that if we could have done, we would have had a different engagement. In order to achieve even better learning outcomes, we could have come up with individuals who would lead the group through every session. This individual would be responsible for guiding the other members contributions and relations towards one another. According to Caldwell et al. (2016), it is the moral obligation f leaders to understand and develop the relationships between self-efficacy and self-awareness and help these they work with in understanding and developing these personal qualities. This would be vital to ensure that as we di scover ourselves, those of us who cannot stand up to their colleagues feel protected and respected. This would help avoid eventualities where group members who are not able to measure up for one reason or another are not picked on by the other better-performing group members. Better still I could have sat calmly to the end of the discussion session and pick up the matter with Ricky, and talk it out amicably. Action plan After learning these many vital lessons, I am ready to go into the future a better student and learner. I have purposed to maximize learning outcomes during group tasks by firstly conducting a comprehensive study of the topic area. Secondly, I realize that we all are made differently. Some of us take every slightest opportunity to get at their colleagues even on matters as serious as academics. In future, I think I would not be afraid to let my colleagues know in the unlikely event that it happens again. I realize I would rather own up to the problem and get assistance from colleagues than waffle around and end up not gaining from the discussion session. On the same note, I learned and decided that I would stand up for myself the next time a colleague (like Ricky) takes advantage of the fact that I am inadequately prepared in a discussion session or any other class session. However, I also found out that in so doing a lot of caution should be exercised so as not to heighten tension a nd bring about unnecessary arguments. The required quality when engaging with such individuals is assertiveness and not aggressiveness according to Ahmad (2012). In future it would be important to make such a point in a manner that emphasizes the need to be respected but without becoming aggressive. Conclusion In the process of reflection, we also discovered that adopted Gibbs Cycle as a reflective model is essential as it adopts the use of questions in understanding all the facets of the discussion process. However, there were suggestions that the model is not necessarily moving forward but is a more retrospective process. Among the aims of reflection is improving practice, an aspect that requires us to reflect both backward and forward. Despite the shortfall, the model was a critical individual inquiry procedure in having a self-reflection on the professional components that are vital in professionalism. We all learned that having a regular reflection process helps one to become a perpetual problem solver as it bring new perspectives and insights on the conventional wisdom and status quo while encouraging openness to examine assumptions that are underlying professional practice. References Aggarwal, P., OBrien, C. L. (2008). Social loafing on group projects: Structural antecedents and effect on student satisfaction. Journal of Marketing Education, 30, 255264. https://doi.org/cjtqcm Ahmad, N 2012, 'Using Blogs As A Tool To Facilitate Students' Reflection', GEMA Online Journal Of Language Studies, 12, 3, pp. 939-960, Communication Mass Media Complete, EBSCOhost, viewed 12 May 2017. Alden, J. (2011). Assessment of individual student performance in online team projects. Journal of Asynchronous Learning Networks, 15, 520 Bird, J 2010, 'Continuous Curriculum Review in a Bachelor of Nursing Program: Preventing Curriculum Drift and Improving Quality', Journal Of Nursing Education, 49, 10, pp. 592-595, Education Full Text (H.W. Wilson), EBSCOhost, viewed 12 May 2017. Caldwell, C, Hayes, L 2016, 'Self-efficacy and self-awareness: moral insights to increased leader effectiveness', Journal Of Management Development, 35, 9, pp. 1163-1173, Business Source Premier, EBSCOhost, viewed 11 May 2017. Clerehan, R 2013, 'No plan B: reflection on field observations on Skid Row', Reflective Practice, 14, 2, pp. 157-169, Academic Search Premier, EBSCOhost, viewed 12 May 2017. Cooley, E, Payne, B, Cipolli, W, Cameron, C, Berger, A, Gray, K 2017, 'The paradox of group mind: 'People in a group' have more mind than 'a group of people'', Journal Of Experimental Psychology: General, 146, 5, pp. 691-699, PsycARTICLES, EBSCOhost, viewed 11 May 2017. Cornelius-White, J. (2007). Learner-centered teacher-student relationships are effective: A meta-analysis. Doody, O, Connor, M 2012, 'The influence of teacher practice placement on one's beliefs about intellectual disability: a student's reflection', Support For Learning, 27, 3, pp. 113-118, Academic Search Premier, EBSCOhost, viewed 12 May 2017. Dye, V. (2011) Reflection, Reflection, Reflection. Im thinking all the time, why do I need a theory or model of reflection? in McGregor, D. and Cartwright, L. (ed.) Developing Reflective Practice: A guide for beginning teachers. Maidenhead: McGraw-Hill Education (pp. 217-234). Forrest, MS 2012, 'On becoming a critically reflective practitioner', Health Information Libraries Journal, 25, 3, pp. 229-232, Academic Search Premier, EBSCOhost, viewed 12 May 2017. Gilbourne, D 2014, 'Reflective Practice for Sport Psychologists: Concepts, Models, Practical Implications, and Thoughts on Dissemination', Sport Psychologist, 18, 2, pp. 188-203, SPORTDiscus with Full Text, EBSCOhost, viewed 12 May 2017. Mason, J 2017, 'Are They Thinking Differently: A Cross-Cultural Study on the Relationship of Thinking Styles and Emerging Roles in Computer-Supported Collaborative Learning', Journal Of Educational Technology Society, 20, 1, pp. 13-24, Academic Search Premier, EBSCOhost, viewed 11 May 2017. Mcdougall, D, Granby, C 2006, 'How expectation of questioning method affects undergraduates' preparation for class', Journal Of Experimental Education, 65, 1, p. 43, Academic Search Premier, EBSCOhost, viewed 11 May 2017. McGinn, N, Schiefelbein, E 2015, 'Getting students to read before class: Innovation in a university in Chile', Prospects (00331538), 45, 4, pp. 447-464, Education Full Text (H.W. Wilson), EBSCOhost, viewed 11 May 2017. Mortel, T, Bird, J 2010, 'Continuous Curriculum Review in a Bachelor of Nursing Program: Preventing Curriculum Drift and Improving Quality', Journal Of Nursing Education, 49, 10, pp. 592-595, Education Full Text (H.W. Wilson), EBSCOhost, viewed 12 May 2017. Moulster, G, Ames, S, Griffiths, T 2012, 'Implementation of a new framework for practice', Learning Disability Practice, 15, 7, pp. 21-26, Academic Search Premier, EBSCOhost, viewed 12 May 2017. 'Oncology Nursing Society 37th Annual Congress Podium and Poster Abstracts' 2012, Oncology Nursing Forum, 39, 3, pp. E157-E225, Academic Search Premier, EBSCOhost, viewed 12 May 2017. Patel, E 2016, 'Emotion regulation and self blame as mediators and moderators of trauma-specific treatment', Psychology Of Violence, 6, 3, pp. 400-409, PsycARTICLES, EBSCOhost, viewed 11 May 2017. Review of Educational Research, 77 (1), 113143. Rossiter, C, Power, T, Fowler, C, Jackson, D, Roche, M, Dawson, A 2017, ''Learning to become a better man': Insights from a fathering programme for incarcerated Indigenous men', Australian Journal Of Social Issues (Australian Social Policy Association), 52, 1, pp. 13-31, Academic Search Premier, EBSCOhost, viewed 12 May 2017. Schacter, H, Juvonen, J 2015, 'The effects of school-level victimization on self-blame: Evidence for contextualized social cognitions', Developmental Psychology, 51, 6, pp. 841-847, PsycARTICLES, EBSCOhost, viewed 11 May 2017. Schroeder, J, Caruso, E, Epley, N 2016, 'Many hands make overlooked work: Over-claiming of responsibility increases with group size', Journal Of Experimental Psychology: Applied, 22, 2, pp. 238-246, PsycARTICLES, EBSCOhost, viewed 11 May 2017. Sharma-Patel, K, Brown, E 2016, 'Emotion regulation and self blame as mediators and moderators of trauma-specific treatment', Psychology Of Violence, 6, 3, pp. 400-409, PsycARTICLES, EBSCOhost, viewed 11 May 2017. Sharma-Patel, K, Brown, E 2016, 'Emotion regulation and self blame as mediators and moderators of trauma-specific treatment', Psychology Of Violence, 6, 3, pp. 400-409, PsycARTICLES, EBSCOhost, viewed 11 May 2017. Venkatesh, A 2013, 'A Study on the Revelations of Design Students' Thinking Styles in Reflective Journals', Visible Language, 47, 2, pp. 1-36, Art Full Text (H.W. Wilson), EBSCOhost, viewed 12 May 2017. Wei-Wen, C, Cheng-Hui Lucy, C, Yu-Fu, H, Yu-Hsi, Y 2012, 'Exploring the Unknown: International Service and Individual Transformation', Adult Education Quarterly, 62, 3, pp. 230-251, Teacher Reference Center, EBSCOhost, viewed 11 May 2017. Wilding, PM 2010, 'Reflective practice: a learning tool for student nurses', British Journal Of Nursing, 17, 11, pp. 720-724, Academic Search Premier, EBSCOhost, viewed 12 May 2017. Xiaoqing, G, Huawen, W, Mason, J 2017, 'Are They Thinking Differently: A Cross-Cultural Study on the Relationship of Thinking Styles and Emerging Roles in Computer-Supported Collaborative Learning', Journal Of Educational Technology Society, 20, 1, pp. 13-24, Academic Search Premier, EBSCOhost, viewed 11 May 2017. Yien-Hua, C 2016, 'Experience Of Dormitory Peer Mentors: A Journey Of Self Learning And Development', Education, 136, 4, pp. 437-450, Education Full Text (H.W. Wilson), EBSCOhost, viewed 12 May 2017

Leadership Approach Paper free essay sample

Organizational behavior comes into play to aid management in enhancing their understanding of human behavior within organizations to better communicate, allocate resources, delegate tasks, plan, organize, direct, and control work activities. The main purpose of understanding organizational behavior is to increase leadership effectiveness, motivate workers, and inspire them to work toward a common objective. Although there are many leadership approaches, we will focus on the situational leadership approach. We will analyze the purpose, strengths and weaknesses of the situational leadership approach, and provide an example of how it can be applied to real situations. Situational Leadership Approach As it name suggests, the situational leadership approach states that leaders should use different approaches as situations change. In short, leaders should be flexible, embrace change as it comes, and be capable of adapting to it. The situational leadership approach is a model that was developed by Kenneth Blanchard and Paul Hersey in 1972. The theory states that leaders should match their leadership style to the maturity of followers and to the specific tasks on hand (Lerstrom, 2008). We will write a custom essay sample on Leadership Approach Paper or any similar topic specifically for you Do Not WasteYour Time HIRE WRITER Only 13.90 / page As people within organizations acquire more experience and become more knowledgeable about their job, leaders will need to adapt new leadership styles to keep these people motivated. According to May (2013) the core concept of the situational leadership approach is that â€Å"one size does not fit all†. The best leaders are not only those who have a vision, but â€Å"the most successful leaders are the ones who are able to adapt their leadership styles across a broad range of varying maturity levels readily present within the average organization (May, 2013). † Moreover, using the situational leadership approach suggests that leaders use a mix of other leadership approaches to be effective. According to Phatak (2012), â€Å"The philosophy of a leader should be flexible enough to adapt to situations and changing times. We need a mixture of transactional and transformational leadership techniques to get the job done. The basic idea behind this theory is that one must adapt strategy with changing conditions. † Strengths As mentioned earlier, situational leadership allows for more flexibility. As the world evolves, organizations have to make adjustments to survive. Tomasco (2013) states that with the situational leadership approach, leaders get the opportunity to adapt their leadership style to their followers’ needs. Consequently, as leaders effectively match their leadership style to situations and followers’ needs, work activities will run smoothly, interactions will be more successful, relationships will be built up, and followers will achieve optimum performance. Weaknesses Although the situational leadership approach appears to be the best course of action due to its flexibility, it has weaknesses that one cannot ignore. Phatak (2012) explains that constantly changing strategies with time, a leader will find it difficult to implement new strategies on the go. A long term vision may elude him due to constant changes. † Further, Wile (2013) identifies four weaknesses of the situational leadership approach which are confusion, leadership or management, outside factors, and perception. Indeed, followers may become confused as leaders change a newly implemented leadership strategy as a result of changing conditions. The situational leadership approach is often misconstrued with a management strategy to lead employees to achieve better outcomes. One cannot downplay the impact external factors have on organizations and organizational behavior. Leaders should demonstrate their ability to understand the organization’s external environment and to assess followers’ behavior to implement a leadership approach that will work. Finally, people within organizations have different perceptions and react differently in similar situations. Hence, the situational leadership approach may not give accurate predictions of followers’ behavior. Situational Leadership Approach in Real Life Alan Lerstrom from Luther College did a case study using the situational leadership approach in which he demonstrated how academic advisors can alter their leadership style based on students’ maturity as they advance higher in their studies. Lerstrom applied the Hersey and Blanchard’s model of situational leadership in the case study. The model suggests that effective leaders will adjust their leadership styles in accordance with changing situations and followers’ maturity. According to Lerstrom (2008), Jay, the student in the case study began showing signs of maturity as he better understood the major he wanted to pursue and classes he needed to enroll in. Also, Jay became more confident about his abilities, understood the requirements associated with his major, and was more willing to communicate with the advisor. â€Å"Situational leadership provide theoretical and practical tools that help advisors in understanding changes in the readiness levels of their students, and it suggests patterns for relating to students (Lerstrom, 2008, p. 7). † Conclusion Situational leadership is the approach that states that leaders must be flexible enough to adapt their leadership styles to changing situations, to specific tasks, and to organizational behavior. This study showed that although the situational leadership approach yields positive outcomes it has weaknesses. Thus, it is important to leverage the strengths of the approach to alleviate its weaknesses. For increased effectiveness, leaders will need to use organizational behavior research methods to better understand the situations at hand, their followers’ perceptions, and the organization’s internal and external environments. This method will provide guidance in applying the appropriate leadership style. References Lerstrom, A. C. Advising Jay: A Case Study Using a Situational Leadership Approach. NACADA Journal; Fall2008, Vol. 28 Issue 2, p21-27, 7p May, R. (2013). Basics of the Situational Leadership Model. Retrieved from http://www. businessdictionary. com/article/724/basics-of-the-situational-leade rship-model/ Phatak, O. (June 20, 2012). Pros and Cons of Leadership Theories.

New Nano-Materials Offer Promising Results essays

New Nano-Materials Offer Promising Results essays In many recent studies researchers have found that looking at the microscopic level for new developments in engineering has yielded excellent results. These researchers are beginning to see that materials which are readily available will behave much differently when they are restructured on a nanometer scale. These newly structured materials have applications in nearly every field of engineering, as almost all of their characteristics are altered when they are restructured. Researchers are finding uses for these nano-scale materials in everything from medical uses to the design of super-strength materials to replace steel and other alloys. Although I think it is still very importnat to concentrate on the final product, beginning the manufacturing process at this level will ultimately increase the strength and value of these products. Nanotechnology is not necessarily a brand new field of science, but it has recently received much more attention than other types of research. Originally nanotechnology was meant to help engineers reduce the size of semiconductors and other electronic devices, but it is now being used in many other fields. An article in BioTech Week discusses the use of carbon nanotubes to make new prosthetic joints which function more like a real joint. These tubes, which are less than a 100th the diameter of a human hair, have been around for a while, but it is the new method of forming them that is allowing engineers to put them to use. Researchers in this biomedical field have found a way to attatch DNA to the tubes to make them "self-assemble," making it practical to produce enough of the tubes for widescale manufacturing. Rather than completely make these prosthetic joints from nanotubes, they are still being made of their traditional material, titanium alloy, and then being coated with the tubes. Coating the titanium is allowing bone cells and other human tissues to make a better bond to the surface, thus all ...

9 Celebrities Who Used To Be Truck Drivers

9  Celebrities Who Used To Be Truck Drivers Ever wonder how they started out? Ever sit behind the wheel of your rig and daydream that you could be famous too? Turns out, some of your favorite celebrities got their start as truckers. 1. Charles BronsonHe won a Purple Heart for his work as an army trucker. This actor from The Dirty Dozen, The Great Escape, and Death Wish  also trained to be a pilot. He’s hardwired to operate heavy machinery!2. James CameronThis  director of Titanic and Avatar  got his start trucking, too. The next time you see a semi on the side of the highway, just imagine there’s an aspiring director behind the wheel, working on his screenplay between miles.3. Chevy ChaseAfter medical school and a jazz band,  he  drove trucks before his first big break on Saturday Night Live.4. Sean ConneryTruck driving runs in his blood. His father was a trucker in Scotland before him, so it came as no surprise when the future Bond, James Bond drove 18-wheelers after leaving the Royal Navy.5. Rock Huds onRemember him? He  drove trucks after World War II, before he hit it big as a rom-com star with Doris Day.6. Richard PryorThis funny guy drove trucks both in Germany and at home before breaking out as a comedian.7. Viggo MortensonThis actor, famous for his roles in movies like  Lord of the Rings, Crimson Tide, and A History of Violence,  mostly worked in Denmark shipyards; but even he did a few trucking jobs in his home country before making it big.8. Liam NeesonThis megastar might never have been famous if it hadn’t been for his truck driving school instructor encouraging him to consider acting. He could have spent his best years as a Guinness forklift operator instead of fighting kidnappers on the silver screen.9. Elvis PresleyThe King of Rock n’ Roll himself  drove trucks after high school to make a living. Some say he even got his signature hairdo from the truck driver fashion of the time.So whatever your dream is, don’t forget how many famous men b efore you got it done while on the road.

Lab2 Lab Report Example | Topics and Well Written Essays - 500 words

Lab2 - Lab Report Example The page also provides information about the career path certificates for those who may want to specialize. On the page is other information relating to service courses such as computer software tools and computer programming tools (Lane, 1996). In case a student needs financial aid, he or she can visit the Student Resource Center (SRC), located on the second floor of Building 1, Room 206. The SRC personnel helps students in solving non-academic matters while in the campus or the community. Under life and family, there is support for a wide range of information. The information provided include childcare, where families of the students can enroll their children in child care. Counseling guides students on academic, career and personal needs. Disability resources announcing the resources available for students with special needs. Health clinic provides information on healthcare for students. Housing & Titan Court, advising students on the best and affordable houses they can rent. Multi-cultural center gives information on where students can get best hospitality services. Other information under current students’ resources include employment, transportation, veteran’s services and women’s center (Lane, 1996). Academic advising department provides each student with program advising team. Electronic advisory services such as Moodle. The electronic resources help the students research and discover answers to a wide range of academic and career questions (Lane, 1996). a) The information on this page is varied, though all related to the University of Oregon. It provides links to the various section of the university. For instance, there is information on job openings, maps detailing directions to the University, the office of admissions, blackboard, academics and events calendar. The page also provides links to some institutes of the university like the Institute on violence and destructive behavior. b) The URL opens a webpage

Problem-solving tools and techniques Essay Example | Topics and Well Written Essays - 500 words

Problem-solving tools and techniques - Essay Example For example a son desires to search out an extraordinary present for his grand parents 25th anniversary, but he doesn’t have knowledge of what would suit the best. He brainstorms many gift suggestions to choose a gift that would explain his parents that how much they value for him. Benchmarking is the procedure of deciding who is the most excellent, who places the standard, and what that standard is. For example: In cricket, the victory in five successive World Cup finals declared Australia the benchmark. Groupthink describes one process by which a group can make bad or irrational decisions. In a groupthink situation, each member of the group attempts to match up his or her opinions to what they believe to be the consensus of the group Groupthink, a name created by social psychologist Irving Janis (1972), takes place when a group takes flawed decisions for the reason that group strains escorts to a deterioration of â€Å"mental efficiency, reality testing, and moral judgment† (p. 9). Nominal group technique (NGT) is a prearranged technique for group brainstorming that supports offerings from every person of the group. For example a group of bankers functioning on improving a management account has a clearly organized work manner, and therefore use NGT instead of Brainstorming to come up with the correct format. Intuition is the capability to acquire a logic, image or sense regarding somebody or something. Intuition communicates by signs, thoughts and sentiments. Intuition is present in everyone since his/her birth. For instance, you can be a fine author, excellent listener,  observant, imaginative, responsive, high flier and cultured. You may have a leadership quality ad you may have a quality to take a right decision on a right time. These things are God gifted and help you make

Leadership and Management in Nursing Essay Example for Free

Leadership and Management in Nursing Essay Nursing is a very demanding and dedicated profession and the current shortage is a serious problem at all levels of nursing and is the dearth of leaders among nurses. Leadership and management are essential skills for all qualified healthcare professionals and have a pivotal role in ensuring a delivery of high standards of care. Developing future nurse leaders is one of the greatest challenges faced by the nursing profession, (Mahoney, 2001). The author is currently working as a midwife in one of the big hospitals in Riyadh, Saudi Arabia. The average deliveries per month are 500-600. There are 22 midwives in this unit and there are eight vacant posts for midwives . Due to the shortage of midwives, these professional staffs are subjected to personal and work related stress. Preston et, al. (1981) defined stress as an adaptive response, mediated by individual characteristics or psychological processes. The negative effects of stress could be evident in staff absenteeism, hostility, and aggression. This will impair the provision of quality care and the effective functioning of the organization. (Healy amp; McKay, 1999). The adverse effect of workload and stress in the author’s placement has lead to an alarming high staff turnover. Apparently, the increased workload has affected the staff performances and the quality of nursing care. When the staff feel that they are not cared for, then they find it difficult to care for patients ( Atwater amp; Bass 1994, Lancaster 1999). In this assignment, the author will explore the various leadership styles and their theories and also distinguish the functions between leadership and management. The author will also critically explore the manager’s leadership practice in labor and delivery suite, thus creating a culture of reducing stress. The link of leadership style from the aspect of work, environment, communication, empowerment, delegation, implications, conclusion and recommendations will be discussed further. Leaders are not someone who holds top position but also able to give assistance to others, (Mahoney, 2001). Whereas in my placement, the head nurse, who is the leader, never gives a helping hand during the deliveries. She anticipates the midwives to conduct and manage the deliveries, even though there’s shortage of staff. The nurse manager has to prepare the correct number of staff on each shift with the credentials to do the job and must be aware of the policies regarding overtime, floating from one unit to another. She must form a competent team and manage them to carry out the plan for reaching the goal of excellent patient care. Effective leaders are not merely someone who is skillful but they must acquire good attitudes, (Cook, 2001). The nurse manager must understand the factors surrounding the current situation in the unit and have the knowledge of various approaches to leadership that will help to understand and determine the best leadership approach to create a positive work environment to reduce stress. Leadership is defined as the ability to influence, inspire and motivate a group of people towards the achievement of its goal, (Yuki, 2002). Management is a process of getting things done effectively through planning and organization of services which is one of the basic function of management whereas the leader is an intermediary between work group and the top management, (Marquis and Huston, 2006). The manager uses a formal and rational method whilst the leader uses passions and stirs emotions. Without enabling and empowering nursing leadership, efforts to improve the quality and safety of healthcare will be limited and short-lived, as said by Kelly (2008). For a leader to achieve the goal, she must have the three essential things which are power, authority and influence to act in a way that will stimulate a positive respond from the staff (Tomey, 2009). Leaders will emerge when nurses feel valued and inspired to strive for excellence. They aim to improve patient care via a cohesive work force by focusing on interpersonal relationships between leaders and subordinates, (Malby 1997). A nursing leader should have a distinctive set of personal qualities, integrity, courage, initiative, ability to handle stress, think critically, able to resolve problems without conflicts, skillful communication and must be empathetic. They are not those who control others but they act as visionaries who help staff to plan, lead, control and organize their activities, (Jooste,2004). There are many types of leadership. Autocratic type of leaders are those who make all decisions and expect others to follow without questioning and never seek advice from others, (Sullivan amp; Decker 2005). This situation had made some of the midwives to leave for greener pastures. The current health system has advanced in technology and improved in care giving services (Cook, 2001). The author feels that this leadership style is no longer tenable and fits into the contemporary nursing practice and a consumer responsive culture. Democratic leaders encourage the participant of staff and use a consensus for decision making, (Sullivan amp; Decker 2005) whereas bureaucratic leadership occurs when a leader rigidly adheres to rules, regulations and policies of the organization, (Jenkins and Henderson, 1984). Instead of providing sufficient support and consideration, my nurse manager demonstrates these leadership qualities because she uses rules and policies thus expecting strict compliance from the midwives. . By following the organizational hierarchy’s influence, she puts herself in a high position but never use her power constructively (Masquis amp; Huston, 2006). Due to top management instructions, she adheres to the current policies, making no changes in them but gives verbal instruction and changing policies to her likes and dislikes. This swifts away trust and open communications between the manager and the midwives. Due to unvented stress and high expectations from the nurse manager, the midwives burnout level have been exacerbated . Burnout is a syndrome of emotional exhaustion, depersonalization and lack of personal accomplishment, as said by Maslach amp;Jackson (1981). Reports have proved that in this kind of environment, patient’s safety is at risk (Institute of Medicine, 2004). Participative leadership allows staff to participate in decision making and actively seek out the participation of those involved. This type of leadership allows staff to feel more committed to the goals they were involved (Faugier amp; Woolnough, 2002). The author feels that the head nurse should have these qualities so that the unit will run smoothly, and the staff will be appreciated and acknowledged so that good nursing care can be rendered. Transformational leadership is especially well suited for today’s fast changing healthcare environment where adaptation is extremely important (Welford,2002). It starts with the development of a vision that will excite and convert potential followers, (Outhwaite, 2003). To achieve organizational success, this style advocates for strong leadership qualities and these leaders use motivation in their approach than use rewards and punishment as said by Kouzes amp; Posner (2002). In the author’s point of view, this leadership is proposed as empowering leadership style which well suits in my unit and to be recognized by the nurse manager. According to Bowles amp; Bowels (2002), transformational leaders create a leadership culture for all team members nurturing empowerment, increase their autonomy and open communication for inclusive decision making. The nurse manager takes responsibilities for discussing care related matters with the midwives which makes them to be motivated and work more effectively to contribute to the development and provision of the unit, (Murphy. 2005). The ability of the leader to articulate a shared vision is an important aspect of transformational leadership (Faugier amp; Woolnough, 2002). Another leadership style is transactional leadership which focuses on providing day to day care between leaders and their employee. It aims to maintain equilibrium and harmony by using incentives to enhance staff loyalty and performance (Bass and Riggio, 2006). Laissez faire leadership is another style that leaves the staff alone to work with no directions or facilitations and is a highly risky form of leadership, (Sullivan amp; Decker 2005). Since the author’s placement is labor and delivery, it’s not advisable to have this kind of leader in this unit as it will increase the mortality rate. The high level of burnout and increased workload due to shortage of midwives and less rest days has resulted them to leave. This disequilibrium may trigger the risk of physical and mental health of these midwives. The manager has depleted the nurses basic psychological needs which are rest and sleep and at the same time reducing their self- esteem, as said in Maslow’s theory of human motivation. The leader should explore barriers and identify conflicts when they arise and collaborate with the team and be able to understand the employee’s perspective (Outhwaite,2003). A more effective form of leadership maybe situational leadership where the leader switches the style depending upon the situation at hand and upon the competence of the staff, (Faugier amp; Woolnough, 2002). The nurse manager must be good clinician and have judgment skills to handle any problem that cannot be handled by the staff. By doing so, the staff will listen to her as she guides them. Communication also plays a vital role as this can prevent conflict and smoothes the progress of team building in the unit Calpin-Davies, (2000). A good communicator gives the staff detailed instructions to perform tasks that are necessary to reach the goal. The nurse manager uses a communication book to provide important information to all the staff in the unit, as supported by Sullivan amp; Decker (2005). By reading and acknowledging with a signature, she assures the message has been reached effectively. As a leader, the nurse manager has to be a good listener. It provides the opportunity to receive valuable feedback that is used to avert some problems and resolve others and also giving greater understanding of the issues being discussed. When there are incidences in the unit, the nurse manager gives a listening ear to the staff and tries to solve the problems. She puts aside preconceived ideas or prejudices when listening to staff. Being a leader, the nurse manager delegates some of the tasks to the staff to focus on more complex aspects of running the unit. She delegates the right task to the right person, for example sending and collecting of narcotics by the midwife as these drugs used are cautioned in Saudi Arabia. A good leader fosters a congenial work environment by coaching, praising and training the staff to perform an excellent job and also by conducting continuous nursing education. Supervision goes in the observation of staff and to evaluate in the yearly performance appraisal. The author would recommend that the nurse manager in this unit has to change her leadership style to She should resources for proper quality care Conclusion Today, healthcare environment requires leaders to be skillful and knowledgeable and have strong inspirational leadership qualities across the health care organization. In this millennium, nursing must make a dedicated effort to nurture its young nurses to grow into effective and motivating leaders.

Human Rights in Brazil Essay -- Human Rights Essays

Human Rights in Brazil The population in Brazil consists of 144 million people. Brazil is one of the fastest-growing nations in the Western Hemisphere. Its population is increasing at the rate of about 2 % a year. The constitution of Brazil gives the president tremendous powers. For example, the president may intervene in affairs of Brazil's states. The chief executive may even create new states from existing ones. Brazil has three main ethnic groups-whites, blacks, and people of mixed ancestry. Most of the whites are from Europe. According to the Brazilian government whites make up about 60% of the nation's population, and people of mixed races form about 30%. However, the government of Brazil counts many lightskinned people of mixed ancestry as white. Brazil's ethnic groups generally get along well with one another. Racial discrimination in Brazil if far less widespread than that in many other countries with people of several races. But Brazilians of European descent have had better educational opportunities. As a result, they hold most of the higher jobs in government and industry. Many of the non-Europeans, particularly blacks, have excelled in the arts, entertainment and sports. Brazil's prison system system is in crisis. Four years ago, in its 1990 urban violence report Amnesty International described the prisons as being at breaking point, holding double their official capacity in "inhuman" conditions. Four years later the situation has not improved. In some respects, it has deteriorated. Overcrowding, lack of medical and legal assistance, torture and ill-treatment of inmates and harassment of visitors are endemic. A frightening and rising proportion of prisoners carry the HIV virus. In the Women's Prison of Soo Paulom, around 33% of the inmates are infected with the virus, while in the male prison the figure reaches 27% of the prison population. A study published in 1994 shows that the majority of prisoners are yourn, poor, and black. agroup of inmates in the Desembargador Vidal Pessoa Central Prison of Manaus, Amazonas held a peaceful protest against conditions in es called in military police shock-troops. They reportedly beat the inmates, who had taken refuge in their cells, with batons, as well as hitting and kicking them. Subsequently they locked the inmates in their cells and threw tear gas grenades in after them. For pris... ...cial vulnerability. These constitutional provisions have been further developed in the basic law known as the "Statue for Children and Adolescents." This Statue, enacted in 1990, has been praised by UNICEF as one of the moset comprehensive in the world. Government programs, including the installation of hundreds of Centers for Comprehensive Child Care, address basic needs such as education, distrubution of nutritious meals, health care and the promotion of children's rights. The "Pact for the Children", co-signed by the President of Brazil and 24 state governors, set up a "Plan of Action" which is intended to fully implement the constitutional and legal provisions that provide for protection of children and adolescents. Several fedrral agencies oversee the execution of government programs for children and adolescents designed to give to Brazilian yourth opportunities for a better life, education, shelter, and love. Moreover, as mandated by law, 21 states and 1,654 municipalities have established special Councils for Children's Rights. Several hot-lines are operating throughout Brazil making it easier for children to seek help and report instances of violence, neglect or abuse. Human Rights in Brazil Essay -- Human Rights Essays Human Rights in Brazil The population in Brazil consists of 144 million people. Brazil is one of the fastest-growing nations in the Western Hemisphere. Its population is increasing at the rate of about 2 % a year. The constitution of Brazil gives the president tremendous powers. For example, the president may intervene in affairs of Brazil's states. The chief executive may even create new states from existing ones. Brazil has three main ethnic groups-whites, blacks, and people of mixed ancestry. Most of the whites are from Europe. According to the Brazilian government whites make up about 60% of the nation's population, and people of mixed races form about 30%. However, the government of Brazil counts many lightskinned people of mixed ancestry as white. Brazil's ethnic groups generally get along well with one another. Racial discrimination in Brazil if far less widespread than that in many other countries with people of several races. But Brazilians of European descent have had better educational opportunities. As a result, they hold most of the higher jobs in government and industry. Many of the non-Europeans, particularly blacks, have excelled in the arts, entertainment and sports. Brazil's prison system system is in crisis. Four years ago, in its 1990 urban violence report Amnesty International described the prisons as being at breaking point, holding double their official capacity in "inhuman" conditions. Four years later the situation has not improved. In some respects, it has deteriorated. Overcrowding, lack of medical and legal assistance, torture and ill-treatment of inmates and harassment of visitors are endemic. A frightening and rising proportion of prisoners carry the HIV virus. In the Women's Prison of Soo Paulom, around 33% of the inmates are infected with the virus, while in the male prison the figure reaches 27% of the prison population. A study published in 1994 shows that the majority of prisoners are yourn, poor, and black. agroup of inmates in the Desembargador Vidal Pessoa Central Prison of Manaus, Amazonas held a peaceful protest against conditions in es called in military police shock-troops. They reportedly beat the inmates, who had taken refuge in their cells, with batons, as well as hitting and kicking them. Subsequently they locked the inmates in their cells and threw tear gas grenades in after them. For pris... ...cial vulnerability. These constitutional provisions have been further developed in the basic law known as the "Statue for Children and Adolescents." This Statue, enacted in 1990, has been praised by UNICEF as one of the moset comprehensive in the world. Government programs, including the installation of hundreds of Centers for Comprehensive Child Care, address basic needs such as education, distrubution of nutritious meals, health care and the promotion of children's rights. The "Pact for the Children", co-signed by the President of Brazil and 24 state governors, set up a "Plan of Action" which is intended to fully implement the constitutional and legal provisions that provide for protection of children and adolescents. Several fedrral agencies oversee the execution of government programs for children and adolescents designed to give to Brazilian yourth opportunities for a better life, education, shelter, and love. Moreover, as mandated by law, 21 states and 1,654 municipalities have established special Councils for Children's Rights. Several hot-lines are operating throughout Brazil making it easier for children to seek help and report instances of violence, neglect or abuse.

Intro to University Studies Reflection

Introduction to University Studies Course Reflection Jonatan Damon McCreary-Harris US/101 – INTRODUCTION TO UNIVERSITY STUDIES January 27th, 2013 Deanna Miller Introduction to University Studies Course Reflection I really enjoy commuting via Amtrak train whenever I go to visit my sister in Killeen, Texas. It’s a wonderfully exciting journey that lasts about a three and half days when departing from my home in Baltimore, Maryland. There are stops aplenty along this journey; it goes through: West Virginia, Ohio, Indiana, Illinois, Missouri, Arkansas, finally Texas and my final destination.In the same way, our lives are journeys, each goal successfully attained prompts us to stop, evaluate our course and ensure our present path is in line with our intended destination. What are my long-term professional goals and how do my academic aspirations factor into reaching them successfully? What solutions and tools have been provided in this course, and how will they help me obtai n and reach my life goals? I believe this course has been the beginning of not just my academic experience, my professional career, but my life journey.I began my education journey several months ago with a fierce determination and firm resolve to obtain a master’s degree. I am aware it is a long-term commitment, understood the potential long-term benefits and the rewards of completion essay writers for hire. Charles Huckabee, a writer for The Chronicle of Higher Education, reviews the financial rewards; in an online blog know as The Ticker. He writes, â€Å"Based on an analysis of census and education statistics, the report says Americans who complete a bachelor’s degree have a median income of $50,360, compared with a median of $29,423 for people with only a high-school diploma.Those with an associate degree earn some $9,000 more than those with only a high-school diploma. Those with a graduate degree have a median income of $68,064, about one-third more than those with a bachelor’s degree† (Huckabee, 2012,  paragraph 2 and 4). In summation, higher education generally equates to higher pay. Which, I believe over time, with proper budgeting and planning, and intelligent investments, eventually leads to financial security. Other than the clear financial gains, one must also onsider the skills and lessons taught while pursuing a higher education. It is commonly known that proper communication skills are imperative to academic success. In my opinion, this has been a recurring theme in regards to academia. Furthermore, excellent written communication skills are important due to the audience being unable to rely on important visual (e. g. ; body language, facial expressions, and hand gestures) and helpful auditory indicators to correctly interpret the writer’s intended message and determine the desired tone.The long-term value of excellent academic writing skills are the direct correlations to professional writing. Yes, the aud ience may be different, but the skills acquired are still very relevant and important in the workplace. Through this course I have been challenged to refocus and prioritise my responsibilities and obligations since returning back to college. Of course, with the increased amount of obligations came more stress, and the daunting task of how to deal with the resulting stress.I realised my current processes were inadequate and my stress levels were rising to very unhealthy levels. So, I started with what I knew and chose to incorporate various solutions, suggested by my peers and colleagues, into my time management system. I have always used a calendar to keep myself organised, but this was not effective, so I started to keep a detailed agenda. This is, sort-of, budget for time. This has allowed me to, at any moment, see where I needed to be, what I needed to be doing, and what exactly I needed to accomplish.During which, I felt it easy to get overwhelmed, so, the next order of business was to ensure sufficient time for some sort of physical activity. My preference for maintaining a relatively low stress level is by running, biking, or swimming. I believe that having a solid system of support is equally important. Actively promoting my health and wellness, as well as managing my time effectively, are two key elements that will allow me to achieve success in my educational and professional endeavors.Furthermore, this course has provided me with ample time to perfect my daily routine and time management process. This course has also inspired me to not just consider my personal and professional goals, but also now understand the importance of how to achieve those goals and how integral a well-conceived plan actually is. Moreover, it has impressed upon me how imperative it is to remain steadfast and focused, committed to the actual execution of the determined solution until you have reached fruition. One cannot simply run a marathon, a total of twenty-six miles, only to quit in the last five miles.Goal setting provides much-needed direction and goal planning allows us to clearly understand what is required for us to effectively reach them. It is necessary to remain flexible and open to altering the route to success. Circumstances may change, as they frequently do, and it is often necessary to reevaluate your goals and appropriately respond to the variables at hand. Through proper planning, remaining steadfast to my resolve for excellence, and the overall vision, it is my belief that I can achieve my highest goals.My success in the healthcare field directly relies on my continued pursuit of a higher education and my academic successes (e. g. ; Bachelor’s and Master’s degrees). I have a passion for excellence in the service industry and this is why I chose the healthcare industry. My life goal is to strategically position myself within the healthcare industry, wherein I will have the capacity to touch to and change the lives of other s, for the better on a much grander scale.As of now, I am relegated to lower tiers of the corporate ladder and am limited to working within the perimeters set by my organization. I hope to one day rewrite that game and bring the focus back to, what I’ve penned as â€Å"patient first care†. I want to raise the standards of excellence, in regards to patient care, in my organization. Ultimately, I would like to see them more aligned with that of my own. In order to get there, I must learn academically (obtain a degree) and gain the required professional experience to make this happen. Passion for excellence; excellence in service. † Over the past nine weeks I have grown to enjoy and appreciate the online classroom the collaborative learning environment it provides; I believe the value of such cannot be understated. Along with teaching important self management and critical thinking skills, this style of learning encourages students, as well as instructors, to active ly share their thoughts and questions freely, discuss and clarify these ideas, as well as evaluate others; whereas I may be less versed on a topic, my classmate may be an expert.Each online classroom is, in a sense, a small community or support system that in turn challenges our thought process and promotes personal growth. In order to succeed we, the students, are required to think critically and assume responsibility of our collective learning experience. I am extremely excited to take the knowledge I have learned from this course and apply it to my subsequent courses, as well as my professional career. In summary, Introduction to University Studies has provided me with a clear understanding of the online learning environment and effectively prepared me for future successes.The writing techniques, skills, and lessons taught, including also the resources that the University of Phoenix provides are truly advantageous and will surely help me achieve my long-term educational and caree r related goals. I am grateful for the opportunity to learn from, and with such an incredible group of individuals. I am proud to be a Phoenix! Reference Page: Huckabee, C. (2012, December 19). Analysis Adds to Data Showing the Economic Benefits Of a College Degree. The Chronicle of Higher Education. Retrieved from: http://chronicle. com/blogs/ticker/new-analysis-adds-to-data-showing-the-economic-benefits-of-a-college-degree/53267

Philippine Science Centrum Essay

Student participants learned science concepts from the exhibits and one minute of interaction appeared to have a fruitful learning outcome. Teachers recognized that the exhibits would be useful to their teaching after trying out the exhibits themselves and were certain the visit would help students in their academic advancement. Learning in an informal context through the exhibits can occur and that visits to the PSC are useful. For more than 2 decades, the Philippine Science Centrum presently located in Marikina City has never ceased in offering new features and exhibits year after year. With its internal capacity in interactive exhibit development and fabrication, the PSC has the luxury of producing customized exhibits with locally-sourced materials. Having a ‘hair-raising’ experience with the Van de Graaff exhibit, mimicking the ‘Matrix Move’ at the Wonder House, making an illusion of floating in the air at the Anti-Gravity Mirror, experiencing ‘airlessness’ of the outer space at the Human Gyro, etc†¦are some of the amazing ‘moves’ one will experience at the Science Centrum. To the more than 3 million visitors composed mostly of students and teachers who were engaged and got interested in science through PSC’s exhibits, their experience leaves an indelible mark in their psyche. Post-visit comments, blogs and even press releases attest to the visitors’ educational and entertaining experience at the Science Centrum. How about the other millions of students, teachers and people in all walks of life in the countryside, in the provinces and towns, will they be able to experience the amazing science exhibits in their locality? The Philippine Science Centrum made sure they be given opportunity to be ‘edu-tained’ by the hands-on science modules. As early as 1995, the PSC mobilized its first mobile exhibition, the Adventures in Discovery – Traveling Science Centrum (AIDTSC) to bridge the gap of distance and bring the Science Centrum to the regions. The maiden exhibition in Lapulapu City, Mactan Island, Cebu Province was a blockbuster wherein the AID-TSC no longer found its way back to Metro Manila – it was bought by the City Mayor to be permanently installed in the city and became the centerpiece of the Lapulapu City Center for Excellence. The PSC replicated the 40 science modules of AID-TSC and continued to visit other towns and provincial capitals. Due to unrelenting requests and clamor for month-long exhibitions from various entities in the provinces, the 2nd set, â€Å"Sci-Fun Caravan† was produced and mobilized in 2002. After the successful exhibitions of the 2 mobile exhibitions (from 2002 to 2006) and the assessment that the PSC beneficiaries are larger in numbers at the regions, the PFST Board of Trustees decided to redirect PFST and PSC’s resources to assemble and produce 7 sets of mobile exhibitions starting in 2007. It is also targeted to mobilize 9 traveling sets by 2016 wherein 3 sets will be assigned to each of the three major island-groups of the country: 3 in Luzon, 3 in Visayas and 3 in Mindanao. At the moment, the PSC is right on schedule wherein the 3rd set: â€Å"Science on the Move† was mobilized in 2007, the 4th set: â€Å"Science Works! in 2009, and the 5th set, â€Å"Science Sparks!† was completed and mobilized last year. For the 3rd set, the packaging design of â€Å"pack and go† was introduced wherein the main exhibit is boxed to keep it safe when in transit and its cover when inverted serves as the exhibit stand/platform when in ‘exhibit mode’. The 5th set, aptly known as â€Å"Science Sparks!† deals on energy, electricity and the environment. The 6th PSC mobile exhibition which focuses on Electronics and Communications is now on the initial phase of research and development. It is targeted to be completed by the 2nd quarter of 2014. As the number of PSC’s traveling sets increase, the number of students and teachers ‘touched by the amazing and exciting world of science’ also increases. With 5 sets, the average annual attendance is already at 500,000 visitors. This justifies PFST and PSC’s thrust of exposing and creating interest in science to more students at a ‘faster pace’. From Abra to Samar to Siargao Island and to Lanao del Norte, the mobile exhibitions have already visited 150 towns, provincial cities and capitals with a combined attendance of more than 3.1 million visitors. By 2016, this number is targeted to reach 6 million. Producing the 9 sets of traveling exhibitions is PFST’s top priority but keeping the Science Centrum constantly upgraded with new and exciting interactive exhibits is still a ‘must-do’. The Philippine Foundation for Science and Technology (PFST), a non-profit private organization, manages and operates the Philippine Science Centrum and its traveling exhibitions. PFST is recognized by the Department of Education as a vital partner â€Å"in promoting and developing scientific and analytical thinking among students and promoting quality science education. On the other hand, the Department of Science and Technology recognized the impact of the Philippine Science Centrum by directing its regional offices to install its own Regional Science Centrums. DOST accorded PFST the â€Å"Outstanding S&T Foundation Award† in 1996 and the GAWAD LIDER Award for Exemplary Leadership – Institution Category in 2007. The Philippine Science Centrum received from the Association of Science and Technology Centers based in USA the 2011 Roy L. Shaper Leading Edge Award for PSC’s rapid response and recovery during typhoon Ondoy and as an Outstanding Science Center outside of the United States of America.

Mumbai Call Center

Mumbai Call Center Content1. Introduction2. Investment Analysis2.1 Application from ITSLA2.2 Application from Call Centres for All of Mumbai, India2.3 Application from the IT Manager of Bus Away Ltd2.4 Analysis3. Advantages and Disadvantages for alternatives3.1 Advantages for Application from ITSLA3.1.1 Cost effective3.1.2 Overcome labour shortages3.1.3 Concentration on core business3.1.4 Access to world class solutions3.2 Disadvantages for Application from ITSLA3.2.1 Dependence on vendors3.2.2 Lower morale among permanent employees in otherdepartment3.2.3 Loose control and increase company risk3.3 Advantages for Application from Call centres for All ofMumbai, India3.3.1 Improve a company's focus3.3.2 Human capital and cost effective3.3.3 Legal system3.3.4 Location3.4 Disadvantages for Application from Call centres for All ofMumbai, India3.4.1 Corporate image3.4.2 Problem in accent3.4.3 Cultural and societal differences3.4.4 Control3.4.5 Relationship3.5 Advantages for Application from IT Manager of Bus AwayLtd.3.5.1 Benefit for employee3.5.2 Benefit for employer3.5.3 High quality of homeworkers3.5.4 Better customer service3.6 Disadvantages for Application from IT Manager of BusAway Ltd.3.6.1 Legal issue3.6.2 Tax issue3.6.3Feeling of separation or disassociation among employees3.6.4 Problem of employee4. Recommendation5. Conclusion6. List of References7. AppendixAbstractBus Away Ltd. plans to renew a contract among three applications which are application from ITSLA, application from Call Centres for All of Mumbai, India and application from the IT Manager of the company. This study presents which application was recommended with relevant theoretical knowledge along with guidance for research, reflection and collaboration. Therefore, NPV will be using as a discriminator. Results of this study showed that third application is recommended even second application is the lowest negative NPV among the three application. Thus, this study may help the company to konw which application is the worth to invest and resolve the problems.1. IntroductionBus Away Ltd is considering three applications to provide call centre to deal with customers' bookings and queries which are application from ITSLA, application from call centres for all of...

Battle of Marathon in the Persian Wars

Battle of Marathon in the Persian Wars The Battle of Marathon was fought during the Persian Wars (498 BC–448 BC) between Greece and the Persian Empire. Date Using a proleptic Julian calendar, it is believed that the Battle of Marathon was fought on either August or September 12, 490 BC. Armies Commanders Greeks MilitiadesCallimachusArimnestusapprox. 8,000-10,000 men Persians DatisArtaphernes20,000-60,000 men Background In the wake of the Ionian Revolt (499 BC-494 BC), the emperor of the Persian Empire, Darius I, dispatched an army to Greece to punish those city-states that had aided the rebels. Led by Mardonius, this force succeeded in subjugating Thrace and Macedonia in 492 BC. Moving south towards Greece, Mardonius fleet was wrecked off Cape Athos during a massive storm. Losing 300 ships and 20,000 men in the disaster, Mardonius elected to withdraw back towards Asia. Displeased with Mardonius failure, Darius began planning a second expedition for 490 BC after learning of political instability in Athens. Conceived as a purely maritime enterprise, Darius assigned command of the expedition to the Median admiral Datis and the son of the satrap of Sardis, Artaphernes. Sailing with orders to attack Eretria and Athens, the fleet succeeded in sacking and burning their first objective. Moving south, the Persians landed near Marathon, approximately 25 miles north of Athens. Responding to the impending crisis, Athens raised around 9,000 hoplites and dispatched them to Marathon where they blocked the exits from the nearby plain and prevented the enemy from moving inland. They were joined by 1,000 Plataeans and assistance was requested from Sparta. Encamping on the edge of the Plain of Marathon, the Greeks faced a Persian force numbering between 20-60,000. Enveloping the Enemy For five days the armies squared off with little movement. For the Greeks, this inactivity was largely due to a fear of being attacked by the Persian cavalry as they crossed the plain. Finally, the Greek commander, Miltiades, elected to attack after receiving favorable omens. Some sources also indicate that Militiades had learned from Persian deserters that the cavalry was away from the field. Forming his men, Militiades reinforced his wings by weakening his center. This saw the center reduced to ranks four deep while the wings featured men eight deep. This may have been due to the Persians tendency to place inferior troops on their flanks. Moving a brisk pace, possibly a run, the Greeks advanced across the plain towards the Persian camp. Surprised by the Greeks audacity, the Persians rushed to form their lines and inflict damage on the enemy with their archers and slingers. As the armies clashed, the thinner Greek center was quickly pushed back. The historian Herodotus reports that their retreat was disciplined and organized. Pursuing the Greek center, the Persians quickly found themselves flanked on both sides by Militiades strengthened wings which had routed their opposite numbers. Having caught the enemy in a double envelopment, the Greeks began to inflict heavy casualties on the lightly armored Persians. As panic spread in the Persian ranks, their lines began to break and they fled back to their ships. Pursuing the enemy, the Greeks were slowed by their heavy armor, but still managed to capture seven Persian ships. Aftermath Casualties for the Battle of Marathon are generally listed as 203 Greek dead and 6,400 for the Persians. As with most battles from this period, these numbers are suspect. Defeated, the Persians departed from the area and sailed south to attack Athens directly.   Anticipating this, Militiades quickly returned the bulk of the army to the city. Seeing that the opportunity to strike the previously lightly-defended city had passed, the Persians withdrew back to Asia. The Battle of Marathon was the first major victory for the Greeks over the Persians and gave them confidence that they could be defeated. Ten years later the Persians returned and won a victory at Thermopylae before being defeated by the Greeks at Salamis. The Battle of Marathon also gave rise to the legend that the Athenian herald Pheidippides ran from the battlefield to Athens to announce the Greek victory before dropping dead. This legendary run is the basis for the modern track and field event. Herodotus contradicts this legend and states that Pheidippides ran from Athens to Sparta to seek aid before the battle. Selected Sources Battle of MarathonPersian Wars: Battle of Marathon

MGMT670 Week 4 Conf Assignment Example | Topics and Well Written Essays - 500 words

MGMT670 Week 4 Conf - Assignment Example A second situation in which SWOT analysis would be useful for the company is to evaluate other companies. A few years ago the firm was looking for a strategic to form a marketing alliance. The executive management team of the company utilized SWOT to evaluate the different partner alternatives. â€Å"SWOT chart can help to uncover opportunities that your company is well placed to take advantage of† (Smith, 2006). A third potential application of SWOT analysis is that it can be used to analyze different locations for international expansion. To fully analyze external opportunities an analyst has to monitor the key macroeconomic forces which are demographic-economic, technological, political-legal, social-cultural (Kotler, 2003). The identification of the strengths of a company can be used to formulate plans and operational procedures to improve the efficiency and profitability of a company. The analytics of opportunities can help an organization gain a competitive advantage. Analyzing the threats of a company is crucial to adequately incorporate a risk management plan. It can also help firms mitigate and resolve problems when they occur through proper strategic planning. Our firm should expand the use of SWOT beyond the executive management team in order to take full advantage of the capabilities and reach of this powerful managerial tool. SWOT analysis is a great tool, but it does have its limitations. For instance the use of SWOT does not provide alternative solutions to managers for specific problems. The analysis is too broad base which hinders the ability of a firm to solve specific problems that are hurting the efficiency, productivity, and profitability of the company. Project management requires the ability of the project managers and his team to prioritize specific issues. The use of SWOT does not help the leader

Discuss whether the Johari Window is a useful tool for influencing Case Study

Discuss whether the Johari Window is a useful tool for influencing organisational behaviour - Case Study Example This essay examines the extent that the Johari Window is a useful tool for influencing organizational behavior. The Johari Window is a process where individuals are given a list of fifty-six adjectives and asked to choose give or six that describes their own personality. The subject’s peers also pick out five or six adjectives that describe the subject. Both the subject and their peer’s answers are charted on a grid as a means of demonstrating to the subject the extent that their perceptions match or are hidden from others (Handy 2000). This technique has been implemented as a means of influencing organizational behavior in a number of ways. One of the most prominent ways the Johari Window has influenced organizational behavior is through team building. In these regards, it’s noted that, â€Å"  A team which understands itself - that is, each person having a strong mutual understanding with the team - is far more effective than a team which does not understand each other- that is, whose members have large hidden, blind, and/or unknown areas† (‘johari window ’ 2009). In this context of understanding, specific aspects of the Johari Window grid can be implemented to help group members gain greater knowledge of their coworkers. While direct feedback is oftentimes viewed as caustic and off-putting, the Johari Window allows organizational teams to more functionally provide constructive criticism to team members. As the Johari Window can be used in organizational behaviors, specific aspects of its grid mechanism can be further implemented as a means of improving organizational efficiency. After completing the adjective task the responses are mapped on a four-stage grid that includes an open/free area, a blind area, a hidden area, and an unknown area. As the individual’s results are charted on the grid, organizations can implement these results to target specific aspects of behavior. For instance, a team member that demonstrates

Assignment 2 Example | Topics and Well Written Essays - 2000 words

2 - Assignment Example The company owns over 7 million hectares of land across the Northern Territory and Queensland. The company’s strategy is to operate in diversified agribusiness operations and bring innovation in existing business practices in order to achieve long term gains. ActivEX Limited is an Australian mineral and exploration company that specialises in identifying, acquiring, and distribution of minerals. The company aims to increase shareholders’ value by investing into quality projects including minerals such as gold, copper, cobalt, etc. The company is involved in activities such as drilling, soil testing and mapping, data compilation, and reviewing. Adcorp Australia is a leading advertising agency owned locally and offers services including branding, advertising, creative design, event management, media planning and promotions. a) The monthly returns of the three companies are calculated using the following formula: Monthly return = (Current adjusted close price/Previous adju sted close price) – 1 The historical prices of the three companies are obtained from Yahoo Finance and the individual monthly returns of the three chosen stocks are shown in the appendices section. The period under study was for 61 months ending on Dec 31, 2012. The calculations are made in the MS-Excel spreadsheet application using the above formula to calculate monthly returns. Then the average monthly return is calculated using the Excel function AVERAGE that computes the average of given numbers. The standard deviations of adjusted closing prices are calculated using the STDEV function of MS-Excel. Standard deviation is the measure of risk of investment which measures the stock volatility over a given period of time. The expected return from the stock is calculated using the CAPM (Capital Asset Pricing Model) approach, where there is the concept of Beta. From the above summarised risk-return analysis, it can be said that the returns of all the three stocks are equal since beta is very close to zero but it is positive. This means that investment in either of the companies is safe as it is apparent that the standard deviation of market index (AORD) is more volatile than the chosen stocks. From the theory of risk-return, it can be said that the higher the risk, the higher would be potential return. This is true in case of AORD since the risk borne by the investor must be compensated by higher expected returns. When the individual stocks of the companies are compared to AORD, it can be said that all the three stocks have lower standard deviation or risk associated with investment. This would alternatively mean that the returns from these stocks would be lower due to less associated risk. This can be verified from the expected return that calculates the estimated return from the stock using CAPM. In this study it was found that expected return of AORD was higher than the three chosen stocks due to a higher risk. Also, for the given return, the rational i nvestor would select the stock that is least risky and in this study riskiness of investment is determined using standard deviation. A higher value of standard deviation means that the stock is more risky and vice versa. From the above table, it can be said that Activex Limited is the least risky (the lowest standard deviation among other two stocks) and Australian Agriculture Co. Ltd is the riskiest (the highest standard deviation among other two stocks). b) In order to estimate the beta for each of three chosen

Natural Law Essay

Natural Law Essay The theory of Natural Law was put forward by Aristotle but championed by Aquinas (1225-74).  Ãƒâ€šÃ‚   It is a deductive theory it starts with basic principles, and from these the right course of action in a particular situation can be deduced.  Ãƒâ€šÃ‚   It is deontological, looking at the intent behind an action and the nature of the act itself, not its outcomes. Traditional natural law is based on value judgements, which emanate from some absolute source e.g. Gods revealed word. However the term natural law lacks a precise definition, and there is very little agreement, even among experts or proponents of natural law theory about its application to specific, complex, moral, or legal issues.  [1]   The unwritten body of universal moral principles that underlie the ethical and legal norms by which human conduct is sometimes evaluated and governed. Natural law is often contrasted with positive law, which consists of the written rules and regulations enacted by government. The term natural law is derived from the Roman term jus naturale. Adherents to natural law philosophy are known as naturalists. The major opponent to legal positivism as a conception of the nature of law goes by the label natural law theory. Natural law theory is probably not the best name for this view its a bit of a historical accident that this view in the philosophy of law came to have this name but it is the traditional label.  [2]  And I will not try to displace it here. Aquinas says that the principles of practical rationality-that is, those principles that tell us how to act reasonably-both are Gods law for our conduct and are knowledgeable by nature, even apart from special divine revelation. So the principles of practical rationality are both law and natural, and hence are natural law. Because Aquinas says that human law must be in accordance with reason and he sometimes says that human law must be in accordance with reason and he sometimes says that human law must be in accordance with natural law. The label is unfortunate because there are some writers who believe that the principles of rati onality or morality place a constraint on legality, but who do not believe that these principles of law rationality or morality are God-given law. These writers are called natural law theorists even though they do not, strictly speaking, believe in natural law. There are important objections to be made to Aquinass theory of natural law. O Connor rightly identifies the main one: Aquinas fails to explain just how the specific moral rules which we need to guide out conduct can be shown to be connected with allegedly self-evident principles.  [3]  But the objection that Aquinass account of natural law purposes an illicit inference from is to ought is quite unjustified. What are the principles of natural law? There is a  set of basic practical principles which indicate the basic forms of human flourishing as goods to be pursued and realized, and which are in one way or another used by everyone who considers what to do, however unsound his conclusions; and a  set of basic methodological requirements of practical reasonableness (itself one of the basic forms of human flourishing) which distinguish sound from unsound practical thinking and which, when all brought to bear, provide the criteria for distinguishing between acts that (always or in particular circumstances) are reasonable-all-things-considered (and not merely relative-to-a-particular purpose) and acts that a reasonable-all-things-considered, i.e. between ways of acting that are morally right or morally wrong-thus enabling one to formulate a  set of general moral standards.  [4]   Naturalists believe that natural law principles are an inherent part of nature and exist regardless of whether government recognizes or enforces them. Naturalists further believe that governments must incorporate natural law principles into their legal systems before justice can be achieved. There are three schools of natural law theory: divine natural law, secular natural law, and historical natural law. Divine natural law represents the system of principles believed to have been revealed or inspired by God or some other supreme and supernatural being. These divine principles are typically reflected by authoritative religious writings such as Scripture. Secular natural law represents the system of principles derived from the physical, biological, and behavioural laws of nature as perceived by the human intellect and elaborated through reason. Historical natural law represents the system of principles that has evolved over time through the slow accretion of custom, tradition, and experience. Each school of natural law influenced the Founding Fathers during the nascent years of U.S. law in the eighteenth century and continue to influence the decision-making process of state and federal courts today. Religious studies are flourishing again. Most scholars were convinced that religion definitely belonged to the past and were of interest only to a tiny group of specialists. Today religious studies are pursued by a host of people in a range of departments. Because of the relevance of cultural issues to the contemporary world, religions have moved from the periphery to the very centre of public and academic concern. Their startling resurgence has given rise to the growing number of studies that explore this phenomenon in fresh, new ways.  [5]  Among the many publications that have appeared recently, I would like to draw attention to a volume edited by Mark C. Taylor, which appeared in 1998. Entitled Critical Terms for Religious Studies.  [6]  It describes the field in terms of 22 notions some of them old acquaintances, others new comers from belief to writing. Each article analyses the theoretical value of one of these notions, examining it in a particular religious tradition s.  [7]  Another volume that appeared recently Guide to the study of Religion  [8]  likewise explores such notions as classifications, comparison, and gender 31 notions in all. Examining the concepts in the two volumes. I was struck by the absence of both history and tradition from each; ironically, only modernity has survived. As it happens, though, the essay on modernity by Gustavo Benavides in Critical Terms is not a bad substitute for the two missing.  [9]   In Ireland at present there is certain unease in an increasingly secular culture in relation to its linkages with religion and the law of god. Quinn has also stated that as natural law drew the judiciary into novel fields, and as secularisation broke down the old conventions revealing deep divisions over first principles, it became harder to credibly assert that there was one right way and that the courts were uniquely positioned to identify it  [10]   Despite the problems associated with a disenchanted secular society, there is also the added problem of ascertaining what natural law actually means. It is submitted that, a feature of most of the judicial references to natural law or natural rights under the Constitution is that they assume that there is a general consensus about the identity of the natural law. However, the concept of natural rights has a variety of meanings  [11]   The use of natural law is problematic because in fact there is no general consensus about the identity of the political, moral, judicial and theological theory being named, and there is no guarantee either that the constitution will in some sense benefit by  relying on such a theory. Hogan and Kelly have also stated that, Judicial invocation of such an un-distilled concept of natural law in the context of review presents the obvious danger that invalidation of legislation passed by the Oireachtas might not always be seen to be based on objective, ascertainable criteria  [12]   The difficulty of interpreting the natural law One of the issues often highlighted by opponents of the use of natural law is that it is ambiguous and consequently very difficult to interpret. Von Prondzynski notes, There is a general aversion among lawyers at having to deal with something they cannot immediately define.  [13]  The difficulties with the use of natural law cannot be denied. It has been argued, there are two entirely different kinds of natural law theories  [14]  , one secular and one based on religion. Murphy also noted that, while the state may be Christian, this does little to help define natural law as Christian groupings fundamentally disagree as to what the divine law actually is.  [15]   However, this difficulty is not insuperable and should not be treated as so. It is clear from the constitution and from judicial decisions such as that of Justice Kenny in the Ryan case, that a Christian type of natural law is advocated rather than a secular natural law theory. The issue of what exactly this means and how it can be applied to complex cases is more difficult to resolve. Von Prondzynski believes that natural law in its legal sense, as seen by the Constitution has nothing whatever to do with the imposition on us all of a concise set of religious rules as propounded by the Churches.  [16]   The difficulties of natural law interpretation could be considerably reduced by the construction of some form of guidelines for the judiciary to use. These would help the judiciary to define the natural law and to interpret it accordingly. It is submitted that the use of natural law by the judiciary in the 1950s and 1960s was less contentious owing to the nature of society that existed at the time. Ireland during this period in history was relatively homogeneous in terms of its core values, and as such doing the right thing was not necessarily perceived as being undemocratic when everyone knew what the right thing was. In Ireland at present there is certain unease in an increasingly secular culture in relation to its linkages with religion and the law of god. Quinn has also stated that as natural law drew the judiciary into novel fields, and as secularisation broke down the old conventions revealing deep divisions over first principles, it became harder to credibly assert that there was one right way and that the courts were uniquely positioned to identify it.  [17]   Despite the problems associated with a disenchanted secular society, there is also the added problem of ascertaining what natural law actually means. It is submitted that, a feature of most of the judicial references to natural law or natural rights under the Constitution is that they assume that there is a general consensus about the identity of the natural law. However, the concept of natural rights has a variety of meanings.  [18]   The use of natural law is problematic because in fact there is no general consensus about the identity of the political, moral, judicial and theological theory being named, and there is no guarantee either that the constitution will in some sense benefit by  relying on such a theory. Hogan and Kelly have also stated that, Judicial invocation of such an un-distilled concept of natural law in the context of review presents the obvious danger that invalidation of legislation passed by the Oireachtas might not always be seen to be based on objective, ascertainable criteria.  [19]   One of the main questions therefore that emerge from the debate regarding the use of natural law is the extent to which natural law can provide guidance to members of the court in deciding constitutional issues. It can be taken for granted that in a parliamentary democracy the judicial review procedure as provided for in the constitution is necessary to defend the rights of individuals. Therefore inevitably the burden of defending the rights of individuals against oppressive legislation falls in part, on members of the court.  [20]  Thus while defending the rights of individuals may be a prerogative of the judiciary, one is forced to ask; Can such a prerogative ever be justified by reference to principles of natural law? And if so can such a right ever be justified in overriding the democratic will of the people? The answer is a clear no! While there is widespread acceptance that the task of judges is to interpret the Constitution, during this process it is necessary for the judiciary to rely on the text, without reliance on sources from outside the four corners of the Constitution. Whether or not the judiciary should supplement the text cuts to the very heart of what it means to have a written Constitution, enforced by an independent judiciary, in a democratic state. As such the apparent death of natural law should not necessarily be seen as a bad thing if it results in more consistent, truly impartial, reasoned judgments from the judiciary. Proponents of natural law often argue that the use of natural law far from being a licence for unlimited government and a roving judiciary, natural rights and natural law arguments are the best defence of liberty and of limited government.  [21]  However despite such sentiments, the decision in Re Information  [22]  , like all previous Article 26  references will not be overturned. What the decision in Re Information makes clear is that natural law cannot be relied upon to invalidate any explicit provision of the Constitution, however it is also suggested that it does not address what residual role natural law plays in the constitutional order.  [23]   It would appear therefore that a deep fissure exists between concepts of popular sovereignty and natural law. When push comes to shove the Irish judiciary have preferred the former to the latter. Therefore the politics of normative choice through the democratic process is open and not bounded by fixed notions of natural law.  [24]   The Future of the Natural Law in Irish Constitutional Jurisprudence: Is Natural Law Dead? The future of natural law in Irish Constitutional jurisprudence is currently far from clear. It would appear from the Supreme Court decisions in recent years that for the foreseeable future natural law will not play a significant role in constitutional jurisprudence.  [25]  While the recent demise of natural law has been described as one of the great tragedies of the bitter debate on abortion  [26]  , it would be wrong to conclude that the Regulation of Information Bill 1995 signalled the death of natural law.  [27]  They suggest that the natural law component remains a significant aid to interpretation,  [28]  although it will remain inferior to the canon of harmonious interpretation. Although not dead, natural laws place in Irish constitutional jurisprudence has been radically altered. The doctrine now has a reduced significance in constitutional interpretation and a future growth in stature remains unforeseeable. Its application has led to many difficulties. Howeve r, the use of natural law is  not without benefits and its diminution and potential evisceration by the judiciary may  prove detrimental. Natural law was invoked over an extended period to protect the  rights of citizens not expressly provided for in the constitution, including the right to  bodily integrity, the right to travel, the right to earn a livelihood, the right to privacy  and the right of access to the courts. It remains to be seen if the Supreme Courts  decision will prevent the recognition of further unremunerated rights. Natural law will remain a significant aid in constitutional interpretation, however it is submitted that it will not be as influential as it has been in the past. In order to be really effective, the natural law must have its first home not in the judiciary, but in the population at large and in a constitutional democracy this means in the populace as represented in legislatures. That legislation and not adjudication should be the primary forum for the application of the natural law seems to have been recognized by no less an authority than St. Thomas Aquinas.  [29]  Here it is noteworthy that the application of natural law by Irish judges has largely been in the context of fundamental rights jurisprudence, for it is precisely when the substantive structures and ethos of community begin to break down that legal issues become primarily issues of rights.  [30]  So here the debate over natural law may ironically be a 178 Catholic Social Science Review function of the secularization process itself and suggests the larger question of the extent to which cultural problems lend themselves to judicial answers. Is it a coincidence that the incr ease in the activity of constitutional courts in the realm of personal rights, an increase which visible on a global scale, is taking place in a time of increasing secularization and cultural dislocation?  [31]   Why is it that the natural law doctrine, despite its flaws and inconsistencies, has had such an influence in the history of European thought? Kelsens answer is that natural law satisfies a deeply-rooted need of the human mind, the need for justification. To justify the subjective value judgements which emerge from the emotional element of his consciousness, man tries to present them as objective principles by transferring to them the dignity of truth, to make them propositions of the same order as statements about reality. Hence he pretends to deduce them from reality, which implies that value is imminent in reality.  [32]  This has a comforting corollary: belief in natural law enables a person to obey a civil law, not because he is compelled to do so by the civil power, but because of the laws intrinsic value. But, as we have learned, at the heart of Kelsonss argument lies the contention that value is not imminent in reality. Natural law nevertheless strikes a chord with a long- lasting and deep-seated need felt by mankind the need for certainty, for the existence of truths that are absolute and unchanging.  [33]   For writers down the ages it has been a quality of natural law that it is eternal and universal. Finnis believes that the principles of natural law hold good, as principles, however extensively they may be overlooked, misapplied or defied and however little they may be recognised. They would hold good just as the mathematical principles of accounting hold good even where, as in medieval banking community, they are unknown and misunderstood.  [34]