Principles of supporting business events Essay

Principles of supporting business events Section 1 – Understand how to support the organisation of a business event 1. When organising a business event, describe the range of support activities that may be required. You will have to organise a venue, depending on type of event get appropriate size, make sure venue is available for particular dates, depending on location check transportation and accessibility get appropriate equipment for different types of presentations, what types of gadgets, will be or not needed some hearing aid, depending on size of venue and event. Arrange speakers, food and drinks : that will depend on how long the event is, will it be just few hours or all day or perhaps few days. Make sure range of food available, for example vegetarian or diary free. Send invitations, advertise the event, get documentations, licence and insurance cover if necessary travel and accommodation: that again will depend on type of event and how long it is going to be, for example if the event is international I have to organise things like visas, airport pick up, hotel and arrival to the event itself 2. Complete the table below by identifying two ways of providing support before, during and after a business event. Before During After 1. Invite speakers 1. Meet and greet, look after during the event, distribute documentation. Collect feedback. 1. Analyse feedback, circulating notes. 2. Book travel and accommodation. 2. Offering information, book taxi, deal with lost property, collect informal feedback 2. Contributing to analysing event. Section 2 – Understand the purpose of displaying professional and helpful behaviour whilst supporting a business event and how to do so 1. Explain the purpose of displaying professional and helpful behaviour when supporting a business event. Professional and helpful behaviour will make more efficient and effective event leave external and internal customers satisfied. Always helps to meet people with a smile and asking if you can help with anything, give people clear instructions what is happening for example when breaks will be taking place, how much time will occupy different speakers or activities so keeping everyone informed and as a result resources will be not wasted and people are generally more cooperative towards professionalism. On contrary not been helpful, for example, will create tension within people and lack of knowledge will leave people unsatisfied. 2. Describe ways of exhibiting professional and helpful behaviour whilst supporting a business event. There are few ways to exhibit professional and helpful behaviour. First thing people note, of course, is appearance. It is pleasant to see clean, well groomed people. It gives first positive impression and people’s mind already set for professionalism. Again a smile can do a lot when meeting people, smile means you want to help and ready to help. Smile invites to ask questions and leaves with positive attitude. When listening to a person it is important to keep eye contact as it relaxes people and if you listen attentively people again feel positive and that is exactly what you want them to feel about whole event and experience. Keeping everyone informed and get your job done such as paperwork, materials for event, answer questions, including phone and computer your main aim and recipe for successful event. Section 3 – Understand how to deal with problems encountered when supporting a business event 1. What are the main types of problems that may occur when supporting a business event? You should include at least three different types of problems in your answer. There could be many problem occur during event from very stressful to minor. They all fall into three categories: People problems Equipment problems Process problems 2. Identify possible solutions for each of the problems you have listed in Question 1 above. Possible solutions to event problems: 1. Always remain calm and polite, apologise to attendees if they experiencing a problem. 2. Find out exactly what the problem is and solution and if you can solve the matter, if not identify the colleague that can 3. Take appropriate action or undertake tasks specified by the colleague in charge† 4. Double check everything, use reliable supplies, proven techniques. Check equipment yourself and ask to do so your colleagues. Seek advice from experience people, reviews and other available sources. Remember what kind of problems you had at the previous events. 5. Ask yourself what kind of things could go wrong, what if main speaker doesn’t arrive in time, what if equipment fails etc. Plan what solution to problems could be beforehand. You should always check that problem was solved and make sure it doesn’t happen again.

Cost Benefit Analysis Essay

When operating a business or managing a project, there are many moving parts that need to be discussed, evaluated, and/or implemented. A very effective tool that can help that can help in a business decision or project is running a cost benefit analysis. Running this analysis will help a project manager determine how well, or how poorly, a planned action will turn out (John Reh, 2014). This type of analysis relies on the addition of positive factors and the subtraction of negative ones to determine a net result (John Reh, 2014). When putting a together a cost benefit analysis for a big production company like Bubble Films, it is a big project to own. Having 150 employees spread out into multiple states makes it difficult to get all the information needed. There are many factors when you are dealing with multiple areas of operation to provide an accurate cost benefit analysis. The cost of networking equipment and the power it takes to operate them. The amount of cloud space and the security used to protect it and the power to operate. Once you start operating outside of the office, conducting an accurate cost benefit analysis. With the employees working at home, are they working the full day or a few hours here and there? Do you have to pay for their use of electricity and internet, per diem? Is it more cost effective to put everyone in an office rather than work at home? Many questions have to be answered to create and effective analysis. Cost benefit analysis is a very important tool to use when pitching a new idea or project. This will show the investor, project manager, or CEO’s exactly where their money is going to go and how they are going to make a return. It also helps identify flaws in the budget and whether a company can expand or downsize. References John Reh, F. (2014). Cost Benefit Analysis. Retrieved from http://management.about.com/cs/money/a/CostBenefit.htm

Week 7 Conference Essay Example | Topics and Well Written Essays - 750 words

Week 7 Conference - Essay Example Hemoglobin is the blood protein that transports oxygen (Cohen, 2013). Blood identification process gets referred to as ABO typing. The type of blood one has depends on the presence of blood proteins known as antigens in the red blood cells. The first step involves blood getting drawn from an individual and gets mixed with antibodies to determine the blood type (Cohen, 2013). The blood type gets determined on whether the blood agglutinates with the antibodies. The second step is called back typing where the liquid part of the blood gets mixed with blood that is either type A or B. Blood typing also gets carried out to determine the presence of rhesus factor on red blood cell surface. Jim got triaged in the resuscitation area. The staff present was a physician and two nurses. The physician who can be an M.D or D.O oversees the patient’s condition by conducting tests on the patient. The nurses administer the drugs to Jim as indicated by the physician. Aspirin got provided to Jim to act as an anticoagulant to prevent further clotting if possible. Morphine got provided to relieve pain or discomfort experienced by Jim. Nitroglycerine also gets provided to decrease blood pressure and increase blood flow by opening up blood vessels around the heart (Cohen, 2013). tPA gets provided to break down clots in the bloodstream around the heart. Principles of coronary bypass surgery: bring blood and oxygen to the heart muscle by creating a ‘bridge’ through a healthy artery. The blood passes over the blocked artery to ensure a normal blood flow down the blocked area. A heart attack refers to a situation where there is the occurrence of a sudden blockage in the coronary artery. This causes a stoppage of blood flow towards the heart muscle. This condition damages the heart muscle causing improper function of the heart. Heart failure implies that the heart’s pumping power is lower than normal (Cohen, 2013).

Republic of Irelands economy over the past three years Essay

Republic of Irelands economy over the past three years - Essay Example However, this economic boom started slowing down in 2001, two years later it resumed and then in 2006 it slowed down again. Efforts in this essay will be directed towards the post 'Celtic tiger' years. (O'Kane, 2007) Between the years 2005 and 2006, the government was successful in maintaining economic growth. However, after 2006 to 2008, there was a reduction in the economy and there are numerous factors that caused these increase and reduction. Between 2005 and 2006, the economy hade resurgence because the government dealt with some of the problems the country had encountered before and this was aided by some external factors. At that time, (2005-2006), the rate of economic growth in Ireland was over four percent while other countries such as France, Germany and Italy in the European Union had economic growth rates of between one percent and three percent. Ireland had been struggling with Foot and Mouth Disease at a certain point but this was dealt with accordingly and by 2005 and 2006, the problem had been eradicated thus boosting sales in the primary sector. (Clinch et al, 2008) Another factor that contributed to this economic growth in the first year under analysis could be because of increases in property values. Consequently, there was greater employment in the construction sector. But other external factors also contributed to the high economic growth rate. ... It also produces Apple, IBM, and HP makes. Therefore technology is a crucial factor in Ireland's economy. Ireland was a strong economic partner to the United States; therefore any factors affecting its partnmers were likely to trickle down to the country. Four years ago, the US had experienced the September eleven attacks, but by 2005, this had reversed and led to US' economic recovery. The government also encouraged further investments in industry, science and technology between 2005 and 2006. This was seen by the numerous international firms that have set up branches in Ireland. One such company is Google; others are Intel, Abbott Laboratories and Bell Labs. In line with these developments, the Ireland government decide to establish a body known as Science Foundation Ireland which was formed to assist science bodies in the Republic. The government had created an SSIA savings scheme and funds had matured. Consumers had been cushioned in their expenditure and this boosted growth in the retail sector. (CIA, 2006) But in the years 2006 and 2008, there has been resurgence in economic growth. This could be as a result of a recession in property values. Because of availability of labour and growing demand for homes after the Celtic Tiger years, the Republic started building homes aggressively. By 2006, homes had reached 90, 000 which is almost half of what the UK has yet the ratio of populations between the UK and Ireland is 15:1. This means that by 2007 and 2008, there were excess homes compared to the demand. Rent declined and there was less income coming from that sector. Another factor that led to this decrease in economic growth was the expansion of the European Union. During 2007, Romania and Bulgaria entered

Critical appraisal of company's CSR Essay Example | Topics and Well Written Essays - 3000 words

Critical appraisal of company's CSR - Essay Example Currently, there are over 7000 stores worldwide and employs more than 2.1 people, commonly referred to as associates according to Sam’s policy. The company also has thousands of departmental and discount stores all over the world. The headquarters of Wal-Mart Stores is in Bentonville, Arkansas. The company topped the list of Fortune Global 500 as one of the largest public companies based on revenue. The company publishes a report dubbed the Global Responsibility Report to keep the public informed. The report covers People, profit, and the planet. It informs the general public and customers the progress on various projects as well the earnings made annually. The report all emphasizes on equality and gender diversity in its associates. The company also has an advisory board on Gender Equality and Diversity, who role is to ensure equality and proper gender representation in the gender roles. This has seen an increase in the number of female leaders in the top leader from 23 873 in 2005 to 25,246 in 2010 (Wal-Mart Stores, 2013). As one, the multinational companies, Wal-Mart has adopted corporate social responsibility as one of its core business strategies. The store invests billions of dollars annually in a variety of projects to ensure its customers maintain confidence in the multinational company. From ethical sourcing, hunger relief, school nutrition programs, police and military family support, anti-malaria initiatives and small farmer market access, Wal-Mart stores CSR strategy is all round (Wal-Mart Stores, 2013). The firm engages in ethical sourcing of its associates. Previously, the firm had a court battle for employing underage kids in Bangladesh. As a result, the firm was in the spotlight for the wrong reasons. The firm has taken measures to overcome this negative perception by engaging in ethical sourcing of its employees. There is screening of employees when being hired in addition to practicing gender

The Illusion of Taking Charge Term Paper Example | Topics and Well Written Essays - 750 words

The Illusion of Taking Charge - Term Paper Example The Fifth Discipline withstands this acid test. It has turned theoreticians into practical individuals. Spiritual bent in Senge’s writings is clearly seen. He gives lots of importance to the inner world of the individual, while explaining the limitations of materialists in chasing the secular goals. Learning organization means a progressive organization, a rebel against the traditional methods and willing to learn and move forward. It visualizes the threats well in time and makes use of the new opportunities. It knows value of the empowering approach. â€Å"In his prominent book, The Fifth Discipline, Senge identified some learning disabilities associated with the failure to think systemically. He classified them under the following headings: I am my position" "The enemy is out there" "The illusion of taking charge" "The fixation on events" "The parable of the boiled frog" "The delusion of learning from experience" (1990, pp. 17 - 26) I have been affected by the disability re lated to the illusion of taking charge: How I have been personally impacted by this disability. They say, tomorrow never comes, today it may be too late, do it just now. I am working for an export organization and the issue was about getting my passport ready, as instructed by my Export Manager. The Company has short-listed the names of certain employees and he told me that I was one from the Export Division of the company being considered for a study-tour of some Import Establishments in America. He told me to keep my passport and other papers ready. I presumed that the chance may not be forthcoming soon, and went on postponing my planned visit to the Passport Office. In fact, I had requested one of my friends staying near the Passport Office (the office is about 30 kilometers from our Organization) but did not pursue it effectively. My friend must have forgotten about my request. When, after a fortnight, my Export Manager, enquired about the passport for officially routing though the visa application, with a sorry face I had to tell him that I did not do anything about it. The issue was immediate and my two colleagues left for the foreign tour of three months. With the self-imposed denial of this opportunity, my chances of future promotion in the office were also affected. How the organization that I work for has has been impacted by this disability I believe my failure in this passport episode is my inability to think systematically. I should have acted, the very moment, that I got the information from my Export Manager, for getting the Passport ready. Though my Organization was not affected badly, to some extent its impact was there. I was specializing in export-related issues of the company and my two friends-colleagues who went to USA were not experts in that area, but the Management had to send some representatives. My negligence to carry out the instructions well in time came to the notice of the top management, and naturally they were not happy about it. Senge writes, â€Å"The illusion of taking charge being â€Å"proactive† is in vogue. Managers frequently proclaim the need for taking charge in facing difficult problems.†(p.20)Through this incident, I have experienced the truth of this statement. How was the disability overcome Senge writes, "Generative Learning cannot be sustained in an organization if people's thinking is dominated by short-term events. If we focus on events, the best we can ever do is predict an event before it happens so that we can react optimally. But we

Museums & Heritage in a Globalized World Coursework

Museums & Heritage in a Globalized World - Coursework Example There are so many stakes in Greece building the new Acropolis Museum; being a state-of-the-art museum, Acropolis Museum is likely to boost Greece’s cultural tourism and the number of tourists who visiting the country. A reunion of the Parthenon sculptures in the Acropolis Museum will, in particular, lead to a surge in the tourist numbers in Athens (Elaza 45). The special museum serves to counter some of the arguments raised by the British Museum in its quest to keep the Marbles in London. One of the arguments advanced by the British Museum against repatriating the sculptures is that the Greeks will not provide the greatest care required for the Parthenon sculptures (The British Museum, www.britishmuseum.org). Building the Acropolis Museum can counters this argument as follows effectively. Firstly, the new museum is an outstanding with the best management and curatorial capability (The British Museum, www.britishmuseum.org). As such, it provides such an ideal place to showcase the Parthenon sculptures. Secondly, the location of the Acropolis Museum is such that the museum is close to the ancient monument. Since the architectural design of the new museum’s Parthenon galleries closely fits that of the Parthenon itself, preserving the marbles in this museum would return to the marbles some of their architectural significance. Keeping the marbles in London makes lose this important feature (Acropolis Museum girds for Battle over Marbles, youtube.com) Another argument advanced by the British Museum is that the Parthenon sculptures belong â€Å"to the world.† Consequently, they should be left in London where â€Å"everyone† can get an opportunity to enjoy them. The construction of the state-of-the-art and world-class Acropolis Museum in Athens falsifies the claim that London is the best place for people to enjoy the Parthenon sculptures. It is also safe to

South Korea Leads the Way Essay Example | Topics and Well Written Essays - 500 words

South Korea Leads the Way - Essay Example Another advantage South Korea had over other nation is that their demographics consists of densely populated areas which lower the infrastructure investment required to provide high-speed internet. One of the amazing things about the South Korean case is that the country was able to become one of the leading nation in communication sector in a very short period of time. In 1995 only 1% of the population was online. By 2004 nearly 71% of the population was enjoying internet service in their homes. E-commerce in South Korea generates twice as many sales per capita in comparison with the United States. The gaming industry is one of the profitable and popular business sectors in South Korea. Since internet speeds are so high the new focus in South Korea is providing new exciting services. Innovation has become extremely important in the 21st century. It can be used by businesses as a tool to create new sources of revenue. We are living in a society in which people expect technology to pr ovide them with new products that attract their attention. Another lesson learned from the South Korean case is the importance of cooperation between the private and public sector. The government can provide incentives that lower the cost of doing business for corporations. Another element that allowed the telecommunication sector to thrive in South Korea was the introduction of new companies which created competition. Competition in business creates great benefits for the consumer such as lower prices, better service, and greater variety.

SEC Accounting and Auditing Enforcement Essay Example | Topics and Well Written Essays - 1000 words

SEC Accounting and Auditing Enforcement - Essay Example In this regard, The Securities and Exchange Commission announced charges against three auditors who violated federal security laws. They failed to comply with the U.S. auditing standards in conducting their audits. Among the three audit failures and in their SEC enforcement efforts, the one on WOWJOINT Audits is the most shocking. Wowjoint is a company with its headquarters and operations in and around Beijing, China. Its ordinary shares, warrants, and units are registered with the commission pursuant to Section 12(b) of the Exchange act. The manner in which its audits are conducted makes it the most shocking given the series of the failures and the magnitude of the same. The facts around these audit starts by stating that there was no adequate planning and supervision of the audits as required by the PCAOB Standards. This means that in the first instance the Auditors did not possess adequate knowledge of the firm they were auditing as required by the standards. The second and most s ensitive part of the failure is the fact that the Audit team failed to Test Wowjoint’s Revenue computations and this is again due to Valleau and Epstein’s lack of proper audit planning, failure to design and perform adequate audit procedures and general lack of knowledge of how firms in China operate (Murphy, 2013). Furthermore, there was a failure in conducting enquiry a scenario that resulted into insufficient information. The failure to conduct sufficient inquiry and procedures contravened the Standard AU Section 561. The other critical failure in this auditing procedure was the failure by the auditors to perform adequate auditing procedures to aid in determining the collectability of Wowjoint’s large and long outstanding Accounts Receivables hence a contravention of PCAOB Standard 326- Evidential matter. The ignorance of accounts receivables normally have great impacts on assets most so current. In addition to the above, there was inadequate retention of doc umentation as well as review of the work papers. Al the reasons stated above support the fact that among the three audit failures, the manner in which audit was conducted in Wowjoint is the most shocking (Murphy, 2013). B. Violations in the AICPA Code of Professional Conduct and the NYS Rules The act by the Auditors in Wowjoint’s case has generally gone against the general provisions as prohibited by the Rules of the Board of Regents, part 29-Unprofessional Conduct. Under  § 29.10 Special provisions for the profession of public accountancy, unprofessional conduct shall include all the conduct prohibited by this section. The first violation is the failure to adequately plan and supervise the audit as required by AICPA and the NYS rules. According to this, an accountant is therefore obligated to always disclose material fact concerning financial statements as this makes such statements not misleading (Murphy, 2013). The section further prohibits a professional accountant allo wing a any other person to practice other than a partner, furthermore, the accountant must not at any point issue the use of their name in presentation of reports as this is only accepted for a qualified public accountant or with the approval of the same individual (http://www.op.nysed.gov/title8/part29.htm#cpa). Secondly, the flouting AICPA rules by audit when they failed to Test Wowjoint’s Revenue Computations. The accountant is required to submit working papers at all times. Failure to do so will result into scenarios where the applicability of a requirement is within the documentation and is rendered redundant. Definition as used in paragraphs will as well be impaired concerning what work papers mean, the documentation of such working papers and the time

Cookridge Ltd Essay Example for Free

Cookridge Ltd Essay Inkwell is a Public limited company and was established in 2003, seven years ago by two of its three controlling shareholders, Paul Farnon and Victoria Dawson. Two years ago Anil Gupta bought into the company and joined the board as Finance Director. The company has its head office and warehouse on the industrial estate in Birmingham, where the management team and account department resides, including a large central warehouse. 4.2 The business was set up to offer a part exchange facility online accessible 24 hours a day or physically bring them into one of the 60 shops, and supplies a complete range of re-manufactured inkjet and toner cartridges through nationwide high street shops. Its main competitors are suppliers in the cartridge supplier sector in UK. Its main internal stakeholders are its Board of Directors, being the investors and manager of the organization. Employees, they are the workers of the organization in various departments to run its operations in return for a salary. Its external stakeholders are its: Supplier’s, these are the people that provide the supplies of re-manufactured inkjet and laser toner cartridge after it has been refilled. Customers that pay on cash, order online, or buy at one of the nationwide network of shops. These customers account for 80% of Inkwell Limited revenue. Government of UK, they are interested in the performance of the business in order to be able to collect the taxes on the profit levels. 4.4 The shareholders are still heavily involved in the day to day operations with Paul Fernon as Managing Director with 40% shares with the largest share, Victoria Dawson as Sales Director with 30% shares and Anil Gupta as Finance Director with 30% shares. A qualified Accountant Alex Fox has been employed as the first member of the accountant team that reports to Michael O’Payne but have direct access to the Finance Director as well. 4.5 Inkwell Limited is organized into departments and has an equivalent of 180 employees including  the accounting de partment – see Appendix on page for a structured chart. Analysis and evaluating the system Structure and Function 5.1 The Company Accountant is Michael O’Payne who’s responsible for the running of the accounting department. The first member of the accounts team is Alex Fox with other 5 full time staff. 5.2 The computerized system in the head office is an integrated system which is linked between the different accounting functions. While in other 60 shops they are on a stand-alone basis and data and information are stored separately. 5.3 The different section of the department, its staff and responsibilities: General Ledger and Inventory- Michelle Labelle account clerk. Responsible for entering relevant data into the general ledger, keep financial control over companies inventories. Purchase ledger- Liana Khan accounts clerk. Responsible for liaising with suppliers and other associated transactions. Sales ledger- Greg Morris accounts clerk. Responsible for dealing with customers and other associated transactions. Costing- Alan Cook costing technician. Responsible for dealing with in put costs and other associated transactions. Payroll- Sharon Ward, BA (Hons) is a personnel database and wage clerk. Responsible for preparing monthly salaries and wages for all the employees and all associated transactions and second is to maintain the personnel database. 5.4 The accounting functions in details are: Processing and recording of the financial transactions of the credit customers and credit suppliers of the different sections in the accounts department. Preparation of management information’s on credit sales, credit purchases, costing and payroll associated returns and documents. 5.5 Michelle Labelle in the general ledger and inventory function: Enters all data requiring input directly into company’s cash book and its petty cash imprest system and keep financial control over the company’s inventories. If inventories get above three days’ holding in any shop Michelle has to telephone and get justifications for the variance. 5.6 Liana Khan in the purchase ledger function: Makes sure that all supplier’s invoices and credit notes are entered into the Accounts Payable Ledger, and for Subsequently arranging the payments to suppliers. 5.7 Greg Morris in the sales ledger function Uses a credit reference agency to ensure that potential new credit customers have no history of poor payments. Checks any new customer who applies is always given a line of credit after this trial period. 5.8 Alan Cook in the costing function: Uses a target costing approach, working out what the cost of each component such as ink or plastic, and Supplies management with the monthly basis, and Advises management of variances from target. 5.9 Sharon Ward in the payroll and personnel database function: Operates the company’s two payrolls prepares the pay slips from the rotas prepared by the managers for the staffs. The salaries staffs are paid monthly on the last working day of the month using the Bankers Automated Clearing System (BACS). 6 Review of the accounting system 6.1 Record Keeping System A business needs an effective and manageable recordkeeping system. This is why in the business environment with regulated accounting structures, it is vital that organizations have the necessary records of evidence to support business operations. All transaction is electronically and manually processed to be made available. The necessity to provide access to recorded information is crucial. These are information’s relating to the different accounting function, such as; Purchase Sales Payroll Cash and Banking Record keeping systems are used; To better support the performance of the organization activities and enable better decision making all throughout the structure of the organization. To make sure that information is available for future or current processes, and helps also in the improving and upgrading of the manual or computerized processes. To address any future issues that may arise internally or  externally, such as fraud, lawsuits and other an-ethical accusations. To support the employees in the different functions of the business to be more efficient, productive in the accuracy of delivering the work. Records which are processed and made available are then used to produce other financial reports. Michelle Labelle in the general ledger and inventory function record and process the different inventory, supplier’s data to make available information on: Suppliers Cost prices Selling prices Profit margins Re-order level and quantities The data is used to know the overall cost of inventory, purchase and how much owed to better plan for future costs. Greg Morris in the sales ledger function processes the cash, cheques and other financial data to ensure that information is available on demand for: Customers Selling prices Bad debt Amount customers owed This information is used for different purposes such as; it is used by the debt collection agency for the collections of debt. The use of computerized recording system is more efficient than paper base. This is due to because the use of paper base recording system is more likely to produce errors then having a computerized format that data is just inputted in. Using a computerized system is less costly and time consuming. 6.2 Internal System of Control For an organization to have efficient and effective operation of its activities, internal system of control procedures is used by the management in place to ensure that the organization achieve its goals. This is where policies and procedures come in place to establish an internal control system to maximize the detection of frauds and errors, and to minimize their occurrence also. Existing internal system of control in Inkwell limited are: Supervision of the accounts office by a Company Accountant and Senior accounts member. A staff rota is prepared by the managers to ensure adequate staff coverage for all the opening hours of their shops. An information technology policy exists which sets out rules relevant to securing the computer systems. The computer system throughout the company is password protected. Company cheques are required for authorization by the three directors company accountant and other financial documents for approval. Reconciliation of the purchased stock against recorded inventory level. Purchases duties are segregated to minimize the risk of fraud. A credit rating agency is used to ensure that potentially new credit customers have no history of poor payments. Policy for dealing with non-payment of debt exists, and its state out the actions and procedure. Cheques and cash from customers are kept in office safe until it is banked. Internal control that is missing or can improve is: Company policies and procedures. Disciplinary measure to breach of policy or miss conduct. Management supervision. Segregation of duties Staff Recruitment procedures Staff training and Continual Professional Development. Restriction on accessing of computer systems. Enforcement on Computerize backup of financial documents. Retention and disposal of records throughout the business. Accounting standard and procedures. Risk assessment. Liquidity management. Verification and checks of accounting data. List of authorized access. Checks relating to wages paid out Credit control system. 6.3 Fraud Fraud is the use of deception with the intention of obtaining an advantage, avoiding an obligation or causing loss to someone else or to an  organization; this is the general definition of fraud. It is an unfortunate fact of life and comes in many forms and is recognized as a criminal activity in many countries including UK. Possibility and opportunity of fraud within Inkwell limited is possible due to the internal control is not efficient, efficacious, being deficient and the opportunity of fraud is there for the taking. Fraud covers a wide range of area criminal activity. Common types of fraud are: Theft Dishonestly taking someone else’s property. False accounting – Dishonestly destroying, defacing, concealing or falsifying an accounting record for personal gain or to cause loss to someone else. Bribery and corruption – taking or giving a bribe that might influence the actions of others. Deception – Obtaining property, money, services or evading liability by deception Methods that can be used to detect fraud Fraud can be detected by the experience manager by simple observation and through experience and also through a robust internal control system. Some sigh can include: Employees acting suspiciously – looking shifty and hiding paperwork Employees with higher levels of spending than you would expect from their income Employees working long hours and taking less than the normal holiday entitlement. Employees who have a grudge against the organization. Employees who are known to be short of money. The usage of the internet to for online sale is also at risk of fraud, since customers give Debit and Credit Cards details to pay their debts. Card fraud transaction can be detected by using Business rules. Opportunity and Potential areas of risk of fraud taking place are:  £3000 worth of a particular make of cartridge was unaccounted for during reconciliation of inventory with purchase order. Goods not appearing on the warehouse inventory record. Cash and cheques are entered manually which can be easily be subject to false accounting Complaint’s on wages being underpaid Only one staff operates and have access to payroll system Lack of written instructions Computer are not logged out and locked when not in use. No system in place for warehouse or administrative employees to record and know the time they arrive and when they leave the office The usage of debit or credit card detail by customers over the internet to pay. 6.4 Working Methods and Practices The working methods used in Inkwell Limited are: Computers are attributed to each staff whether part-time or fulltime to work on. The computer systems are run on an integrated network, with all PCs linked to two printers in the department. Every shop has PCs and printers of its own. Microsoft office excel spreadsheets is used in the accounting system for recording of the different data. All computers use Windows Vista operating system and loaded with Microsoft office 2007 consisting of 80-user operating license, and one new computer loaded with Sage Payroll software to unable payroll and personnel system to be run in-house. Internet access is available on every computer with Mozilla Firefox as web browser. Password is used on the computers. Large trade customers are put on a cash-with-order basis for the first three months of business. A credit reference agency is used potentially new customers have no history of bad credit. All cash and cheques are removed from the till, leaving a float of  £50 cash in each for the start of the next day. Staff salaries are paid monthly using the Bankers Automated Clearing System (BACS). Prepared by the wage clerk, signed by the Company Accountant and banked on 24th of each month. The methods and practices can be improved in the following: All 60 computers at the shops operate on a stand-alone system. Excel Spreadsheet being used for recording accounting data. Debt collection agency being used to collect bad debt is expensive. Password used for the computers. The removal of all cash and cheques, from the individual tills are not  practiced. Backing up of computerized data. 6.5 Training Training is essential for every personnel of an organization, as it improve the ability of the staff to perform its work and therefor reducing the amount of errors and hired part time staff used to perform tasks that can’t be done inside the organization. This is why every staff must get the opportunity to continue their professional development and be skilled to perform the task at hand. Inkwell Limited does not have the proper policy and systems in place to encourage employees to be enrolled in a part time or full time course, unless they take it on themselves to address the issue to the management. Benefits of training: Staffs are updated to the accounting standard and regulations. They will be motivated to work and be more efficient due to possibility of a promotion or career opportunity being increased, therefor errors is reduced. Staff will be more skilled to meet the needs of the organization. Professionally regulated staff will be governed by a recognized code of ethics from a professional accountancy body. Will better know how to, manage the time to do the tasks, therefor becoming more flexible and productive. Development of an ethical approach to the work and to employers and clients, acquired by experience and training. WEAKNESSES IDENTIFIED Record keeping system No completion of trial balance, statutory accounts as planned. Window dressing of the accounts. Transaction accounting are not done on a day to day basis Accounting record data entry is not being viewed as apriority by Michael O’Payne and Anil Gupta. Having unusual entries found in the general ledger. Errors may occur in inputting data into the computer. Internal System of Control No proper recruitment procedures in place to hire staff that has dismiss. The existing policies are not fully followed. This includes the Computers information technology policy, with no proper password, and logging off the computer after use. A lack of internal control for detection and fraud prevention Lack of segregation of duties. No proper scheduling back up of all IT systems being followed. No proper security for the shops. No policy for Data protection. No list of authorized personnel to access certain documents. No follow up control in place to the internal controls being followed. No supervision is done to monitor the signing in and signing out in the business. For the 60 shops, computers run on a stand-alone system. No safeguard for the proper security procedures in place/security issues relating to debit and credit cards details over the internet (Identity theft). Fraud Possibility of fraud is high; this may be caused due to: Nothing is done to ensure working practices undergoes a proper way. Inadequate guidance on how to detect and deal with fraud. Low effectiveness of security systems especially the password which does not improved each time is changed and can be guessed easily. A lack of supervision, monitoring and checks of accounting activities and records kept. Debit and Credit cards usage over the internet for customers to pay their debt can be subject to identity theft. Noncompliance to internal control. Unaccounted Cartridge’s worth  £3500, with no record in inventory. Details of transactions being deleted in the database, relating to one-off significant payments. Working Methods and Practices Breach of software and user license for software in use, can bring legal action against the company. No coverage or placement of professional personnel to carry out the work of absent staff. Lack of enforcement of legal requirement trough out the business and working practice is very low due to low standards Liquidity management is very poor. Lack of motivational skills from the directors of the business. No adequate physical controls to ensure the security and safe keeping of the businesses assets so that they do not go missing or are stolen. Working conditions and schedule are not respected by the Directors, having problems prioritizing work Lack of staffs, causing over working of staffs and no coverage or placement of professional personnel to carry out the work of absent staff. Therefor agencies are hired to do the work, which is costly. Job rotation is not practiced in the organization A required computer program needs to be attributed to these functions: Invoicing which is carried out. Data on Excel spreadsheet is manually input. Training More training is needed for operating: Quickcost system Payroll and personal system: Several teething problems experienced with the integrated payroll and personnel database. Need for education is needed for: Professional approach to work. Reliability in terms of competence. How to properly handle a secure credit and debit card transaction. Recommendation Recommendations are done following the various weaknesses identified and mentioned above. Record keeping system The management must ensure that the planned working schedule is followed strictly. If problems meeting the targets occur, it should be communicated to the responsible supervisors so proper action can be taken. Working schedule should be adjusted in so that the review of the payments and all other relating transaction are done earlier so that they don’t have to window dress. Different task must be prioritized by the management, so that conflict does not occur, were task are neglected. Accounting record data entry must be prioritized by the two organization’s directors Michael O’Payne and Anil Gupta. The directors must review the benefits that will be gained. Unsure that the proper records relating to the daily business transaction are entered into the general ledger. Verify the data inputted in the computer to ensure that is correct. Internal System of Control Standard policy and guidelines of hiring staffs should be introduced, pointing out the necessary detailed document that is needed making the  process more transparent and reliable. Staffs should be sensitized of the policies in place and know the importance of respecting them. Setting up a fraud policy which sets out the way to detect and deal with fraud, throughout the different working procedure and practice. Duties should be segregated, by setting up a system, which when combined, could lead to fraud. The existing policy should be re-enforce, so that the record kept on the computers would be backed up on the server regularly to prevent loss of data instead of doing it once a day. Alarm systems should be installed for all the shops of the organization, to better protect the business assets from being stolen. Proper policy and procedures should be introduced. The Data Protection Act should be communicated to all staffs, to better protect the company’s and the customer Data. A list of authorized personnel should be produced and communicated to the staffs. Staff personnel should be put in charge of verifying that all policies in place are being followed. A logging system should be set up to have a record of who comes in the office and at what time. Such system should be monitored to ensure all staff complies. An integrated network should be set up on a server to connect the computers together with proper licensed software. Safeguards should be implemented on the procedure for transaction involving debit and credit card details provided by the customers. A standard and effective Sage Accounting package should be bought to unable: A standard layout of the invoices issued to customers. Enable data to be imported and exported from and to Excel spreadsheets. Enable better detection of errors in the different account ledgers. Fraud To reduce the possibility of fraud and make the internal control system fraud resistant, the various techniques should use: Accounting activities should be supervised on a regular basis. The records and calculation of financial document should be sampled and checked regularly for errors. Make sure that the fraud policy which will be introduced set out the way to detect and deal with fraud, throughout the different working procedure and practice and to make any adjustment necessary. Managers of the various departments should be given areas of responsibilities and answerability to ensure that fraud is kept to a minimum. Value of a business rule management system (BRMS) approach to fraud detection can be implemented. Business rules can be used  to validate various conditions for detecting anomalies that can indicate fraud. Enables institutions to react quickly in their effort to keep pace with fraudsters. Disciplinary measures or penalties should be set up for breaking an internal control or if a staff is practicing fraudulent act. Physical security should be re-enforced, locking up valuable items away, such as cash and cheques. Set up a limit to which a financial transaction should be requiring authorization, by one or more authorized signature. This may range from petty cash or cheques over a certain amount. Doing a regular reconciliation of the accounts to the financial documents to make sure they balance and errors corrected. Management should carry out Risk Assessments as part of the of an effective internal control system. Working Methods and Practices Make sure that all computers use license software in all the shops and departments, monitor that the license are not broken causing legal action to the organization. Adequate number of specialized staffs should be introduced for the coverage of staff that is absent. The business must comply with all relevant External regulations. Such as international accounting standards even government regulation from HMRC. This will aid in raising the standard of working practices. Better management of buying inventory from suppliers. Credit to customers should be reduced. The managers should undergo a management course, to learn how to better manage their business, motivate their employees through training, giving out bonuses, paying for overtime and other incentives. All assets should be recorded and proper management of the assets should be put in place, to know the life cycle. Directors should produce an effective working schedule, reducing the stress on employees. Adequate number of specializ ed staffs should be introduced for the coverage of staff that is absent. Produce an effective rota to unable the staff to rotate to different accounting functions in the organization. A standard and effective Sage Accounting package should be bought to unable: A standard layout of the invoices issued to customers. Enable data to be imported and exported from and to Excel spreadsheets. Enable better detection of errors in the different account ledgers. Training More training should be provided for: Quick cost system Payroll and personal system To ensure that staff has the necessary skills and knowledge to be more effective and reliable in their work, in terms of competence: Staffs Training should be invested in by the management, to better handle the daily tasks. Including Debit Credit cards transactions This should include internal or external training courses for using any newly introduced accounting package. Telephone support lines made available by the software provider. Workshops on the improvement of staffs’ communications skills. Cost benefit analysis Improvement Recommended Cost of Time Benefits Time spent by manager in Training 25 hours Ãâ€" 3 Ãâ€"  £25 per hour Time spent by 5 account staff 25 hours Ãâ€" 5 Ãâ€"  £15 per hour TOTAL TRAINING COST  £ 1875 1875 3750 The work output will be more accurate due to the raise of standard. The organization will appear more professional, more efficient, meanings fewer errors and problems. Cost of hiring new Accounting staffs  £ 192000 The different responsibilities can be segregated and work will be done faster. Setting up of computers on a network Cost of hardware Installation cost  £ 5000 1000 6000 Access to data will be easier which will speed up the work and save time. New accounting Package Cost of the software Installation cost cost of training the staff 10000 3000 3500 16500 Many routine operations will be speeded up, save time and reduces wages bill. 9.2 To carry out a Risk assessment the management will require 2 hours per month. This will discourage and reduce the risk of fraud in the accounting system by identifying the areas of the risk of fraud and then setting up a system in place to detect any possibility of fraud and then deal with it, making the system more reliable. Appendices SWOT Analysis Strengths Record keeping system Using an archiving computer package to store full accounting records. Easy access to past exact copy of company accounting transactions. Sage Payroll software was loaded in the accounts department to enable the new payroll and personnel system to be in house. Excel spreadsheets are used for maintaining the inventory information. Integrated General, Accounts payable and Accounts Receivable set of ledger principal financial accounting system. Internal system of control An information technology policy exist which sets out rules relevant to securing the computer systems. The computer system throughout the company is password protected. A credit rating agency is used to ensure that potentially new credit customers have no history of poor payment. Value of a business rule management system (BRMS) approach to fraud detection benefits: The performance of the rules is high enough to provide real-time detection of anomalies based on several criteria, including multiple sources, transaction values, card-use frequency, merchant and location of the charges. If implemented new detection policies can be activated in hours, instead of months, helping to reduce lost revenue and increase customer satisfaction and provides safety in online transaction.

Impacts of Drug Related Crime

Impacts of Drug Related Crime Within this module the author is going to explore the impact of drug related crime, anti- social behaviour and drug abuse within society. The author is also going to investigate theories that increase the risk of an individual misusing an illegal substance. (Weisheit, 1990)   Moreover how nature vs nurture biological and environmental factors can contribute to drug abuse. This will include areas such parenting skills and the community in which a person lives can play a major role in enhancing the risk factors. (Ungar, 2004)  The gateway model focuses on how an individual will start using an illegal substance and move on to harder illegal substances. Furthermore, by implementing methods this will reduce the risk factors within substance misuse. The author is going to investigate methods and theories for reducing the impact of drug abuse. This will include the governments implementation of the 1998 10 year drug strategy. Moreover, how the drug strategy has progressed over the ten y ear period. (Drugscope.org, 2012) Drug abuse is a major problem within the UK from the individuals personal circumstances to war against organised crime. There are many factors why people initially take illegal drugs. Such as peer pressure, to escape or to experiment but can initially to addiction which can have a massive effect within society. An addict will have to maintain their addiction which will be done through committing petty and serious crimes. (Rasmussen. 200) Such as; shoplifting lifting, burglary and theft as most addicts, cannot maintain full time employment due to not being able to function properly within society. Although, some addicts will start to supply their drug of choice so they now they have a constant supply. Many drug dealers already live within the community to where they sell illegal drugs. This is another major impact within an area in need of urban regeneration as individuals are selling illegal drug on street corners. That is now having a snow ball effect and causing gang culture and ga ng related crimes. As inner city gangs become larger and try attaining additional territory Knife and gun crime is at all time high. (Bean, 2002)   A clear indication of the severity of drug related crime within the UK as it drains  £13.3 billion pounds out of public resources. (Gov.uk 2013) Furthermore, with a rise in anti- social behaviour local residents are feeling alienated and have nowhere to turn within their own communities. Due to being in fear of becoming targeted by local gangs and being attacked in the street our having their home targeted. (Hallsworth, 2005) As the individual drug addiction spirals out of control, family members are going to notice significant changes within their son our daughter. Such as mood swings, electrical items are missing such as ipods and mobile phones. Moreover, an untidy appearance and new friends, because an addict will associate themselves with other users to be able to access drug more frequently. (Harrell and Peterson, 1992) Banduras Social learning theory reinforces this notion and referrers to observational learning and this is done by observing the behaviour of others. The client has been encoding the behaviour of their peers, which have been influential to the individual. The client has encoded this information and later on imitates this behaviour to bond with their peers associated with their drug use. The individual does this without any regard for the own health or safety as suggested by Eysenck and Keane. (2010) Furthermore, the strain on the individuals family would also be a significant impact a s there being labelled within their local community. These actions could inevitably lead to arguments physical abuse and divorce within their home life. As their son our daughter may have been cut off from their own family due to being deceitful and dishonest. A person will initially use cannabis and is the most widely drug available within the UK. As indicated by H.M Government (2010) cannabis is used by more than 22,152,000 in 2009/10 and is classed as the gateway drug. This model was developed to explain how three factors associated with cannabis can lead on to harder substances. Firstly, a cannabis smoker is at a higher risk of using harder drugs than non -users. Second factor relates to how the national framework of drugs works as an individual will normally work their way up from softer drug to harder drugs. However, there are less than 1% of users who started using harder drugs first. The third factor indicates individuals who smoke cannabis more than 50 times a year are significantly at higher risk to progress onto harder illegal substances and is called dose-response effect. (Jrf.org, 2008) There are many factors that have to be taken in to consideration that contribute to an individual self harming with illegal drugs which will include: the biological and environmental factors of the individual. These factors play a significant role in an individuals personal development and are called Nature vs Nurture. Nature relates to the genetic factors in an individuals behaviour. However, genetics only play a small role as there is no actual gene that will make an individual an addict. But if a gene is missing others factors such as genetic and biological aspects that will make an individual more susceptible to drug use. (Fitzduff, and Stout, 2006)  This is because if a gene is not present the protein that controls the function of a physiological structure may not be formed. This is clearly evident within certain diseases however; others are less obvious such as the impact of genes on behaviour can influence and individuals disorders or traits including drug addiction. (Chasno ff, 2001)   Nurture relates to the environment in which the individual has been raised up in. There are many factors which need to be considered that could contribute to drug addiction. Such as the family environment the individual may have not been raised within a stable environment. There may been an indication of domestic abuse, history of substance misuse or criminal activity. If the individual has been brought up in a chaotic environment all increase the risk of substance misuse. (Chasnoff, 2001)   Furthermore, the community in which the individual lives is going to be a major factor. If they live in area with high drug rates, drugs are going to be easily acceptable and peer pressure will be a significant problem to resist. Individuals who lived in areas with no safe place to play or activities for people to engage in. All these factors contribute in a higher risk of substance misuse. (Fitzduff, and Stout, 2006) However, these high risk factors can all be reduced by the individual by having positive peer relationships. By having positive relationships the individual will build their social skills and confidence within society and is done by social learning. Also having self control, being able to assess a situation and realise when to say no. Furthermore by taking part in activities within your local community and continuing their academic studies can contribute to having a positive mind. (Buchroth and Parkin, 2010)   Moreover, by having a stable family environment, the protective factors of the parents all contribute to lowering the risk factors. Such as good parenting skills, communicating effectively and offering their child encouragement and support will also help develop their confidence and social skills. By reducing all of the high risk factors the child will be able to make a positive contribution to society. (Inciardi, and Horowitz, et al.1993)   Substance misuse costs the British government  £373 million pounds every year as they try to eradicate illegal drugs from our UK borders. Furthermore, fighting street suppliers and funding multidisciplinary teams to support service users receive treatment and abstain from their addiction altogether. (Goodman. 2009) The National treatment Agency created the models of care; this is the national frame work for adults in the treatment of drug addiction in England. The model or care was created to help a number of diverse communities all around the country. The services for treatment of addiction first came available in 1998 within the NHS. (H.M Government, 2010)  Furthermore, was part of the ten year drug strategy which is divided into four main categories and include: educating and prevention, support, treatment and counselling for people with substance misuse, using the law to combat the war against drug and fight the supply of illegal substance arriving in the UK. (Drugscope.org.u k 2012)   By 2008 the National Treatment Agency predicted a 100% increase in service users into treatment. In the treatment of substance misuse the services were delivered by Drug Action Teams within local areas. These services are arranged in to four different tiers depending on the service users level of need and mental health issues. Tier one service includes the initial assessment of the client to move onto specialist tiers within the service. Tier one also includes giving advice and information on a range of services such as housing, benefits and vocational qualifications. (Addictiontoday.org 2008)   Tier two services include harm reduction services such as needle exchanges by supplying clean equipment to inject with. Furthermore, advice and guidance and genera support without the need for a care plan. Tier three and four are specialist services for individuals who have a structured care plan. (Goodman. 2009) This can be community based treatment and residential rehabilitation. The bio-psychosocial model is very effective within the treatment of addiction. It focuses on a multiple pathways on how a person became an addict; this model acknowledges treating the person as a whole. It relates to biological, psychological and sociocultural theories within this model. The assessment, diagnosis, treatment planning and interventions all relate to this model. The practitioner will have to take into consideration the biological, psychological and sociocultural factors when assessing the client. (Rasmussen, 2000) In 2008 a review was taken within the drug strategy to target the most deprived areas and those who are significantly at a higher risk and need. By 2005 the government will spend a staggering 1.5 billion pounds on the war against drugs. Since 1998 there has been a major change in the prevention and education in substance misuse as 80% of primary and 96% of secondary schools have it within their curriculum. (Addictiontoday.org, 2008)  Furthermore, within the 2002 drug strategy reducing the supply of drug within local communities is another major priority. There has been a significant increase within the seizures including cocaine and heroin by 53% and 30% since the strategy began in 1998. The 2008 drug strategy aim to reducing drug related crime and how they affect local communities by making available  £100 million pounds. This has been made ready available to strengthen communities by disrupting local drug suppliers and reducing drug related crime. (Strong, and Gossop, eds. 2005) Furthermore, for every  £1 spent on tackling substance misuse a further  £3 pound is saved within the criminal justice system. This shows how effective war against illegal drugs is progressing. (Weisheit, 1990) With a range of interventions to help and support an individual who is in need. The interventions will include; rehabilitation, advice for the client, prescribing and harm reduction. As the drug strategy has developed over the years, the government assesses and reviews the strategy to improve the efficiency of it services within the UK. In 2008 Drug Strategy recorded the lowest level of drug use in over ten years. Gov.uk (2013)   Conclusion As indicated within the 2008 drug strategy for the campaign against drugs to be successful education and prevention are the key strategies. By educating the younger generations of the dangerous effects and the serious harm illegal drugs can do. Play a major factor in reducing the devastating effects drugs have on society. By getting adolescents to say no to drugs, the supply will reduce within communities. This will inevitably reduce drug related crime and anti-social behaviour and will also reduce the substantial costs within the criminal justice system. The police will be able to effectively save thousands of man hours and use their time more efficiently. (H.M Government, 2010)   The nature vs nurture is an excellent theory in examining the biological and significant number of environmental factors that need to be taking into consideration if a person is at risk of substance misuse. However, the bio-psychosocial model is an excellent tool to combat these factors. As indicated earlier this model concentrates on the biological psychological and sociocultural aspects within the model. Furthermore, is widely used within the treatment in substance misuse in tier 3 and tier 4 community based and residential rehabilitation across the country. (Chasnoff, 2001)   However, the fight on illegal drugs is going to be an extensive campaign, as there will always be a supply if there is a need for illegal drugs within deprived areas. On the other hand, the drug strategy is making significant progress in cutting the supply by within communities across the UK with 186,028 drug seizures. Criminal Assets have also been seized worth a staggering  £135.7 million pounds which has gone back into the war in fighting drugs. (Gov.uk 2013)   As within the gateway model suggests that cannabis is the normally the first illegal substance a person will try. Due to cannabis being readily available and regarded as being a less harmful substance. The drug strategy have seized within the UK over a half million plants worth an astonishing  £60 million pounds. This indicates that the drug strategy is effective but at a staggering cost to the tax payer  £20 billion pounds.  £13, 3 billion pounds is on drug related crimes and  £7.3 billion pounds and health iss ues. These are staggering amounts of money which could go into education and the NHS. (Jrf.org, 2008)  

Analysis of Peter Brimelows Thank You for Smoking? Essay example -- S

Analysis of Peter Brimelow's Thank You for Smoking Growing up with a best friend who has been smoking since middle school, I have seen many of the negative effects it has on a person. Football was a passion and way of life for Andy; however, smoking caused him to struggle with breathing while running up and down the field. He would cut down on his daily amount of cigarettes before and during the season, but cutting down was little help for him. Not only was his breathing affected by smoking, but he also had yellow teeth, smoker’s cough, and would get â€Å"the shakes† when in need of a smoke. The essay â€Å"Thank You for Smoking,† written by Peter Brimelow, is far from an influential essay on why people should smoke. Through this essay, he gives many examples as to why â€Å"smoking might be, in some small ways, good for you† (Brimelow 141). A lower risk of developing Alzheimer’s, Parkinson’s disease, osteoarthritis, and different types of cancer are examples of benefits of smoking given by Brimelow (Brimelow 142). Brimelow compares smoking to driving cars because driving also has risks and can be a cause of death. Would you consider that a wise comparison? If he were going to compare smoking to driving, he would be better off comparing it to something along the same lines such as drinking and chewing tobacco. At least these are also optional habits like smoking, where people chose to do it. Very little, if any, good can come from these, whereas driving is a common action in which accidents can happen. Health Issues: Brimelow states in his article â€Å"Smoking seems also to offer subtler health rewards to balance against its undisputed risks† (Brimelow 142). A few of these include a reduced risk of diseases such as Par... .... This is why we have freedom, and everyone has the right to decide for themselves. Works Cited: Action on Smoking and Health. 4 Oct. 2003 http://www.ash.org.uk/html/factsheets/html/fact02.html American Lung Association. â€Å"Smoking and Pregnancy.† June 2003. 5 Oct. 2003. http://www.lungusa.org/tobacco/pregnancy_factsheet99.html Clark, I. L. (1998). â€Å"Thank You for Smoking†¦?† The genre of argument. Boston:Thompson/Heinle. P. 141-143 Kovac, Rachel. "Study Shows Ignorance of Smoking Hazards." Knoxville News-Sentinel (2003) : Lexus-Nexus. 1 July 2003. McFadden, J. Introduction to Toulmin. Lecture. (Sept. 12 & 14). Buena Vista University. Storm Lake, IA. "Pregnancy and Childbirth," Microsoft Encarta Online Encyclopedia 2003 http://encarta.msn.com/encnet/refpages/RefArticle.aspx?refid=761557963&pn=1 ¶=3#p3 1997-2003.

Andrew Jackson Essay example -- essays research papers fc

Andrew Jackson was born in 1767 and died in 1845. He was also the seventh president of the United States. As Encarta Encyclopedia states, Jackson fought his way to leadership and wealth in a frontier society, and his success established a bond between him and the common people that was never broken. Small farmers, laborers, mechanics, and many other Americans struggling to better themselves looked to Jackson for leadership (1). Jackson moved his way up the chain of the military before becoming president. From an idea in Encarta Encyclopedia, Jackson was a Democrat that was also a hermit. The Democrats considered the opposing party, the National Republicans, later known as the Whigs, aristocrats (1). As McDuffie, Piggrem, and Woodworth stated, Andrew Jackson set many principles such as the spoils system, and the expansion of the electorate. He helped spread the electorate system to the west, and expanded it so not only white property owners could vote, but so whites that didn’t own property. All blacks could not vote and were excluded at all costs. (53). Although blacks and women were still left out of the picture, it helped set the basic properties for later on. The way he did it was not the best for common people, but he was still considered a great president by most people. As in Encarta Encyclopedia, three years before Andrew Jackson was born, his Scotch-Irish parents, emigrated to America from Northern Ireland. They had two sons at the time. Andrew’s Father took up farming, and died three days before Andrew was born. The widow Jackson moved her family into the home of a nearby relative, where Andrew spent his days growing up. He learned how to read, and was often called upon by the community to read the Philadelphia Newspaper. (3) Andrew Jackson held many military and other job positions while working his way up through the government chain. As in Encarta Encyclopedia, he started off by studying under Spruce Macay who was a lawyer in Salisbury, North Carolina. He started his own practice in 1787. He then was elected to the U.S. House of Representatives. After one year in the House, Jackson was elected to fill out an unexpected term in the U.S. Senate. He served for over a year and then retired to his private life (3). As Robert S. Summers posted, in Tennessee, Jackson was appointed to judge of the state superior court. He was at that position for a... ...d or supplies. Instead of disbanding as ordered, he led his troops back to Tennessee without a scratch. They called him old hickory because he was a tough as hickory wood. And lastly, Jackson was the only president to have been a prisoner of war. He was thirteen when he joined the South Carolina militia to fight in the Revolutionary War. After his capture, he was ordered to clean the boots of a British officer. Jackson refused, so the officer drew his sword and slashed Jackson across the forehead and arm, which left a scar. This is the story of an amazing man who led the country to bigger and better things. He was a down to earth guy who made good decisions, and was tough and earned everything he got the hard way. Andrew Jackson is a class act that is as tough as an old hickory! Works Cited Jerome McDuffie, Gary Piggrem, and Steven Woodworth. AP History Guide. Piscataway, NJ: REA Publishing â€Å"Jackson, Andrew.† Encarta Encyclopedia. 1999. â€Å"Jackson, Andrew.† Britannica Encyclopedia. 1995. Summers, Robert S. â€Å"The Internet Public Library-Andrew Jackson.† <a href="http://www.ipl.org/ref/POTUS/ajackson.html">http://www.ipl.org/ref/POTUS/ajackson.html. 10 February 2000.

Psychological Profile of Holden Caulfield Essay -- The Catcher In Th

Psychological Profile of Holden Caulfield Part One: The patient is Holden Caulfield, a sixteen-year-old teenage boy. Caulfield's appearance is tall for his age and surprisingly has quite a few gray hairs at the age of sixteen. Holden comes from an upper-middle class family. His family has enough money to support Holden with many luxuries including skates and expensive suitcases. It appears that Mr. and Mrs. Caulfield aren?t there to talk, care, and be there for Holden, which seems to drive Holden away from his family. However, he has an intimate bond with his younger siblings, who embody innocence and youth. The death of his brother Allie has left a large scar on Holden. He has a cherished and intimate relationship with his young and innocent sister, Phoebe. Holden has been to many schools and has been kicked out of many schools. Holden is an intellectual teenager, who refuses to apply himself, and thus goes from school to school. Some of the important and affecting moments in Holden?s life are death of Allie, suicide of a close friend, D.B. ?selling out?, and his summer with Jane Gallagher. Allie, Holden?s younger brother died of leukemia recently and has caused stress upon the patient. Also witnessing the death of once close friend traumatized the patient. The fact that Holden?s friend committed suicide wearing some of his clothing, placed even more strain on the patient. Another factor surround Holden is his brother D.B. leaving him and his family to ?sell out to Hollywood? disturbed Holden. Lastly, the summer he had spent with a close and intimate friend, Jane Gallagher had added fuel to fire, which drove Mr. Caulfield to this institution and require professional help from our clinic. Part Two: The patient, Holden Caulfield, perceives himself a ?madman?. Holden proclaims he is a madman for his actions and thoughts. With the analysis of Holden Caulfield?s description of the weekend leading up to his enlistment of professional care for chronic depression, Holden reveals his thoughts on being convinced he was a madman. One incident from Holden?s description explicitly gives Holden?s view of himself. The incident in reference is his date with Sally Hayes. Holden proposed to Sally to run away to Massachusetts and live together away from the world. In actuality Holden could not tolerate Sally and her ?phoniness?, but he still made the sug... ...hem. Holden Caulfield is capable of recovery, but will require intense work and help. A timeline for his recovery could be anywhere from three months to as long three years. Currently, I believe it will take approximately six months for Holden to fully recover based on his interactions with the staff here at Bergen Pines. When asked by a psychoanalyst about applying himself in school next year, his response was, ?It?s such a stupid question, in my opinion. I mean how do you know what you?re going to do till you do it (Salinger 213). In this response, there are remnants of hostility and anger remaining him Holden, which would make me believe it would take a full year in order for him to recover. However, in Holden?s account it states, ?I sort of miss everybody I told about. Even old Stradlater and Ackley, for instance. I think I even miss that goddam Maurice? (Salinger 214). In this statement, it makes me believe that Holden is already working to return back on the path of sanity, because he lets go of the phony business and outright states he is beginning to miss his friends and the people he met. This is a sign that shows me he is bound to recover as soon as six months.

Choosing hardware and input devices Essay

      Microsoft Publisher Microsoft Word Paint Internet Explorer This table shows all the applications I used to complete my coursework Name of Application Price Main Functions Advantages Disadvantages Microsoft Publisher i 49. 99 The main function of Microsoft publisher is to create websites, documents, cards, almost everything ETC. It is easy to create these kinds of things with Microsoft publisher. It is very easy to create websites cards etc. It takes a very long time to install on the computer. It runs in a very fast speed so it doesn’t need time to load up. It can be very confusing and you need to know how to use it. It has so many design options, about over 1,000 professionally designed templates. You can’t make very precise layouts because it doesn’t have the precise tools. Microsoft Word i 49. 99 The main function of Microsoft office word is to create and also edit text, graphics in letters, reports, and web pages and also email messages. For this it has different functions like formatting text into different styles and formatting the font. Data can be imported from a spreadsheet to this so that a mail merge can be created. It is quite difficult to store data like Microsoft Access. If you get any mistakes it can be corrected so easily. Not everyone will be able to purchase it because it costs too much. The work can be saved so that it could be done at another time. If people start relying on the spell checker they might lose their spelling skills. Internet Explorer You don’t need to purchase it because it is already installed on the operating software. The main function is that people have wide access to the information the want. The other function is that they can communicate, do a bit of shopping, and it can also be used for entertainment. Doesn’t need to be purchased because it’s already installed on the operating software. Some information can be biased and inaccurate. Used for a lot of things E. G. Communication, shopping, gaming E. T. C Surfing the internet too much, can be addictive. It can be accessed by anyone in the world. Illegal sites always occur even if you’re surfing the web carefully. Paint You don’t need to purchase it because it is already installed on the operating software. The main function is to create drawings and to display scanned photos. The other function is to create pictures and diagrams. Doesn’t need to be purchased because it’s already installed on the operating software. It can’t store information in a table like Microsoft Access. You can draw logos, pictures E. T. C Older versions of it cannot open files that are from a newer version. It has a special image function which allows you to edit or change photos. It cannot type in text in different forms like Microsoft Office Word. Alternatives This table show the alternatives of the table above Name of Application Alternative Application The way it works Advantages Disadvantage Difference it would make if I used it Microsoft Publisher Adobe Dreamweaver The main function of Adobe Dreamweaver is to create mainly websites but other things can be made such as cards, magazines etc. Websites can be made much more accurately and much more precise than Microsoft word. It is much more expensive than Microsoft word so it can’t be purchased by everyone. The main difference it makes is that I would be able to work more accurately and create better websites. However it is more complicated than Microsoft publisher so it will be hard to use. Website designers can make changes to the design of a website simply by editing the Dream Weaver template files. It is much more complicated than Microsoft word so it’ll be hard to use. Simple and complex websites can be designed using a point and click method. It takes much longer to install. Microsoft Word Open Office Writer The main function of is to create and edit text, reports, and web pages and email messages. For this it has different functions like formatting text into different styles. The wizard makes it easier for new beginners to use. The wizards appear too much which is distractible. The main difference is that I would be able to create and edit text, reports, web ages and email messages easier and much more accurate. It can connect to any existing database. It is less popular than Microsoft Office Access so not many people use it. You don’t have do buy this but you can get it for free. For some people this could be hard to use because of the extra functions. Internet Explorer Mozilla Firefox The main function is that people have wide access to the information the want. The other function is that they can communicate, do a bit of shopping, and it can also be used for entertainment. It is much quicker and faster than internet explorer. It is not supported by a small proportion of web sites. The main difference is that I would be able to gather information and surf the net much quicker than internet explorer. It has more security on it because it doesn’t let pop ups through at all. With Mozilla Firefox some websites do not display properly. It has more design and looks better than Internet Explorer. Fire fox has to be bought separately if it is to be installed in the computer. Paint Paint. net It works in the same way as paint. But this has extra special features and they work by having a user interface which can automatically know something new directly. There are different versions for different operating software’s. People could get wrong versions and so they wouldn’t work and they would have to buy new ones. The main difference is that I will be able to get help from the online forums If I did not no how to use it. Also if I make a mistake and I realise after a bit, then I will be able to go to that mistake because there is unlimited undos. It has online forums which makes it easy for members to get help from users. Some people won’t understand it because it looks very complicated. There is an unlimited amount of pressing undo. It doesn’t come supplied with computers from before so you have to buy it. Microsoft Publisher It is used for creating mainly websites. Microsoft Word It is used for typing in any kind of information. Internet Explorer It is used for getting information. Ismail Bismillah Paint It is used for creating pictures, drawings, logo E. T. C Input These are the input devices I used to make my work easy. Device Speed Errors that can be made Way to correct errors Keyboard The speed of the keyboard is measured in form of words per minute. It depends if you are a fast typist or a slow one. Many errors can be done whilst typing. For example, when you’re typing very quickly, you can press the wrong key which will change the spelling of a word. Also when you’re typing numbers you can make mistakes. E. g. if you want to type in 786 and your in a rush you can make mistakes like pressing the wrong numbers. (768) The way to correct these errors is to type a lot and you will get use to it so much that you wont get any mistakes. Another easier method is to click on â€Å"tools† then click on â€Å"spelling and grammar†. This will show you all the mistakes and you can easily correct it later. Mouse The speed of the mouse also is measured in the similar way. (Clicks per minute) It depends if you are fast or slow on using the mouse. Many errors can also be made whilst using the mouse. The main error that can be made is that when you are in a rush, you can easily click on something wrong which will take you to a different place. Also the mouse can easily slip when you’re moving it. The way to correct these errors is to use a mouse pad which is especially designed/made for mice. Another way to correct this error is to use the mouse a bit slower and not in a rush. Scanner The speed of the scanner depends on how much data is being scanned. It also depends on what type of scanner it is. Errors can be made using the scanner as well. The main error that can be made is that the paper can be put the wrong way (upside down). Also the paper can sometimes be inserted half way inside. The way to correct these errors is to check carefully which way the paper should be put in. Also the paper should be put in straight and not bent. Keyboard I detected errors in my work by using the spelling and grammar checker to check any spelling mistakes and any punctuation mistakes. To correct the errors in my work I would use the proof reader to correct mistakes that are done in my work. To prevent errors from happening, I typed a bit slower and much more carefully and I carried on looking at the screen to see if there were any mistakes I made. Mouse I detected errors in my work by checking manually if I made any clicking mistakes. To correct the errors in my work I would check manually and make sure that I would click the right thing if something unwanted had been clicked by going back and clicking the right thing. To prevent errors from happening in my work I would make sure that I would buy a mouse pad so that the mouse doesn’t slip and so the wrong thing doesn’t be clicked. Scanner I detected errors in my work by checking manually if all the information has been scanned and also that it is the right way round but not upside down. To correct the errors in my work I would check manually and make sure that if the data is scanned upside down than I would delete that data and I would than scan the data again by moving the data on the scanner the other way round. To prevent errors from happening in my work I would make sure that the data is the right way round in the first place and also make sure that no part of it is covered up. Effects of Inaccurate Data Inaccurate data will affect the system in many ways. Data Effect Way it can be prevented Spelling mistakes (website). If spelling mistakes are made then wrong information might be given out and also the customers will think this agency is not a professional one. To prevent this I spell checker can be used. I can also tell someone to go through it and look at my mistakes. Hyperlinks not linked correctly If hyperlinks are not linked properly then the business will become low because when you click on the link it’ll send you somewhere else or not take you anywhere. This can be prevented by checking the hyperlinks properly and making sure there are no mistakes. Also makes sure checking takes place before advertising. Not changing the colour of hyperlinks If hyperlinks do not change colour then the customer will not no which site he has been to so he will go on that website repeatedly. The way this can be sorted out is that when a customer clicks on the hyper link then it should change colour so the customer does not go on it repeatedly. The best way to stop all the problems is to keep on checking if you have made mistakes. This way all your mistakes will be sorted out. And there won’t be any inaccurate data Validation Validation is to make sure that data which is being entered should be reasonable and allowable meaning that it is something possible but it doesn’t have to be correct. There are a few different types of validations to help reduce the number of errors made by a user: Type check, range check, picture or format check, check digit, field length checks etc. Verification The validation can be used to make sure that when a user types data in the computer and if there are any errors made in the typing then they are reduced. For example if a database was going to be made with mistakes like if a 1993 date of birth was typed and was not true, the computer will not take it as an error if was programmed to let in anything between 1990 and1994. So the results would be incorrect and full of mistakes. This could also be known as Garbage In, Garbage out (GIGO). So that is why validations are important to help make sure that the user knows if there are any errors that have been made when typing data into the computer but it does not help in telling if the data is true or false. Output This table shows the outputs I used. Device Type The way it works Advantages Disadvantages Best place to use it Printers Laser A mirror reflects a beam of laser, and then lays them. A toner is then sprayed onto it. A paper is now pressed onto the toner and is slightly heated so that it sticks firmly on the paper. It prints out very quickly compared to ink-jet and dot-matrix printers It is the most expensive printer especially the colour lasers. The best place to use this laser printer is an office because an office requires a large amount of papers printed in small amount of time and with less noise as possible. It prints out very fast compared to ink-jet and dot-matrix printers Because it is so big it takes up more space than ink-jet printers. It has a high quality compared to ink-jet and dot-matrix printers It is very expensive to repair because of the complex parts inside.

Psychology Paper; How Stress Affects the Human Mind

My topic of choice is stress. My first article informs you about the effects stress can have on your body and what you can do to avoid stress to keep your body healthy. (http://www. webmd. com/mental-health/effects-of-stress-on-your-body). The Effects of Stress on Your Body Stress is the body's reaction to any change that requires an adjustment or response. The body reacts to these changes with physical, mental, and emotional responses. Stress is a normal part of life that happens to you and many things that you do yourself put stress on your body.You can experience stress from your environment, your body, and your thoughts. How Does Stress Affect Health? The human body is designed to experience stress and react to it. Stress can be positive, keeping us alert and ready to avoid danger. Stress becomes negative when a person faces continuous challenges without relief or relaxation between challenges. As a result, the person becomes overworked and stress-related tension builds. Stress t hat continues without relief can lead to a condition called distress — a negative stress reaction.  Read also Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder  (PTSD).Distress can lead to physical symptoms including headaches, upset stomach, elevated blood pressure, chest pain, and problems sleeping. Research suggests that stress also can bring on or worsen certain symptoms or diseases. Stress also becomes harmful when people use alcohol, tobacco, or drugs to try and relieve their stress. Unfortunately, instead of relieving the stress and returning the body to a relaxed state, these substances tend to keep the body in a stressed state and cause more problems. Consider the following: * Forty-three percent of all adults suffer  adverse health effects from stress. Seventy-five percent to 90% of all doctor's office visits are for stress-related ailments and complaints. * Stress can play a part in problems such as headaches, high blood pressure, heart problems, diabetes, skin conditions, asth ma, arthritis, depression, and anxiety. * The Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA) declared stress a hazard of the workplace. Stress costs American industry more than $300 billion annually. * The lifetime prevalence of an emotional disorder is more than 50%, often due to chronic, untreated stress reactions.My second article below, talks about the myths of stress. What we should believe and the other factors of stress that are simply not true or unrelated to stress. (http://www. apa. org/helpcenter/stress-myths. aspx). Six myths surround stress. Dispelling them enables us to understand our problems and then take action against them. Let's look at these myths. Myth 1:   Stress is the same for everybody. Completely wrong. Stress is different for each of us. What is stressful for one person may or may not be stressful for another; each of us responds to stress in an entirely different way.Myth 2:   Stress is always bad for you. According to this view, zero stress mak es us happy and healthy. Wrong. Stress is to the human condition what tension is to the violin string: too little and the music is dull and raspy; too much and the music is shrill or the string snaps. Stress can be the kiss of death or the spice of life. The issue, really, is how to manage it. Managed stress makes us productive and happy; mismanaged stress hurts and even kills us. Myth 3:   Stress is everywhere, so you can't do anything about it. Not so. You can plan your life so that stress does not overwhelm you.Effective planning involves setting priorities and working on simple problems first, solving them, and then going on to more complex difficulties. When stress is mismanaged, it's difficult to prioritize. All your problems seem to be equal and stress seems to be everywhere. Myth 4:   The most popular techniques for reducing stress are the best ones. Again, not so. No universally effective stress reduction techniques exist. We are all different, our lives are different, our situations are different, and our reactions are different. Only a comprehensive program tailored to the individual works.Myth 5:   No symptoms, no stress. Absence of symptoms does not mean the absence of stress. In fact, camouflaging symptoms with medication may deprive you of the signals you need for reducing the strain on your physiological and psychological systems. Myth 6:   Only major symptoms of stress require attention. This myth assumes that the â€Å"minor† symptoms, such as headaches or stomach acid, may be safely ignored. Minor symptoms of stress are the early warnings that your life is getting out of hand and that you need to do a better job of managing stress.My articles presented facts on stress I was unaware of. Such as how a little stress can be good for you, because it keeps you alert and well managed. An individual with too much stress could have quite the opposite effect and become severely depressed and even eventually, lead to death. Another thing I came across is that everybody can have stress; however, everybody deals with stress in different ways. The stress I have most likely isn’t the same kind of stress that my parents have, and that means we all cope with stress with different techniques.The stress that I most often experience has to do with school, work and dealing with my addict mother. From what I’ve read, school and work are some of the most frequent stressors that a person my age has to deal with. However, living with a severe drug addict has increased my stress in work and school exponentially. My articles also explain the negative and harmful effects that stress can have on a person’s body. If someone is too overwhelmed with stress they then start experiencing a condition known as distress.Distress is followed by headaches, upset stomach, elevated blood pressure, chest pains and problems sleeping. When I’m stressed and have a lot on my mind, I find that I have difficulty sleeping. Th e lack of sleep then results in more stress and it becomes a vicious cycle. Also, seeing how people become stressed from being overworked, some people turn to substances to compensate and relieve stress. However, research has shown that substances can worsen the effects of stress tremendously. Substances such as alcohol keep the body in a stressed state and eventually cause more problems.Any form of stress that you may be experiencing should be brought to attention. Covering up stress with medication and not treating the source could be damaging in the long run. The minor symptoms of stress are signs that your life is getting somewhat out of hand, you need to make necessary adjustments for your mental and physical well-being in order to avoid further stress. This is what is recommended anyways, but this is said so much easier than done. It’s insane how many people do not take these precautions and let their lives slip through their fingers.Some Forty three percent of adults s uffer health effects from stress and seventy five to ninety percent of doctor office visits are stress related, and if stress is camouflaged or ignored it can lead to an emotion disorder. Fifty percent of emotional disorders are the result of untreated stress. As I said earlier, everybody experiences stress differently, therefore, not everybody will have the same exact regiment to treat stress as others have. Stress not only affects you, but also affects the people at home and in your work environment. Stress can cause even the closest of relationships to diminish.Stress is also present in your work atmosphere. The Occupational Safety and Health Administration declared stress a hazard of the workplace. Stress costs American industry more than $300 billion annually. Reading several articles pertaining to stress and my knowledge from class has presented me with different outlooks on how to avoid stress and more importantly how to handle stress in every task. By doing so, I can prevent myself from harming my body, mentally or physically. It’s imperative for people to realize that stress is an inevitable factor of life and that there are ways to cope with it.

Potential Of Educational Standards Education Essay

The grounds for the survey were outlined in the prologue. In this subdivision the purposes thereof are explained and a motive for the research is provided. This stage expounds the research methodological analysiss adopted and provides the motive and justification for the pick of research methodological analysis every bit good as a description of the nature and character of action research. The research doctrine is explored and the methods of roll uping informations discussed. I was fortunate to be presented with an chance to develop an educational programme which would ensue in the publicity of four black supervisors to direction places. This led to an exploratory and experimental procedure that addressed the research job: How to plan and present a direction instruction and development programme for people who did non hold the needed educational makings to inscribe for formal direction programmes at a third establishment. This, in bend, translated into the undermentioned research inquiries? Do people without the necessary educational criterions have the possible and the ability to go effectual directors? What cognition, accomplishments and attitudes are necessary to be an effectual director and how are these cognition, accomplishments and attitudes best acquired in a workplace?Research purposeThe purpose was to better my pattern through the design and execution of a non-traditional direction instruction programme. While at the same clip, righting some of the instabilities ensuing from historical political prejudice that had deprived many black people of the chance to carry through their managerial potency and in so making do a meaningful part to four people ‘s lives. It was besides intended to do a part to direction development, concern betterment and socio-economic transmutation.Research aimsIn trying a undertaking of this nature, there were many obstructions and jobs to confront that were both complex and sensitive and I needed a clear apprehension of what I planned to accomplish through carry oning the research survey. These aims would besides hopefully separate this researc h undertaking from â€Å" masqueraded consulting † ( Eriksson & A ; Kovalainen, 2008:204 ) After careful consideration, the undermentioned list of aims were identified for the survey: Investigate premises and patterns that I thought needed to be challenged ; Develop an apprehension of the construct of instruction and in peculiar grownup instruction and how it relates to larning in a workplace ; Explore and experiment with course of study design for a non-traditional emancipatory direction instruction procedure in a workplace ; Implement the procedure and happen possible barriers to implementation in order to better and alter the bing state of affairs ; Bringing approximately positive transmutation ; and Gain professional cognition.Aim of the surveyThe motive to accept the challenge was based on the premise that direction accomplishments and leading behavior can be developed through relevant preparation and expert guided experience and the strong belief that willing and able non-managerial Black employees can and should be developed to travel into direction places. The purpose of the survey was hence to develop and present a feasible and sustainable method of grownup instruction for the development and promotion of four black female supervisors to direction places, by: Locating the programme in values of equality and justness with regard for human self-respect ; Approaching grownup instruction in such a manner that the participants would be involved in their ain acquisition experience ; Identifying the practical deductions of presenting the invention into a specific workplace and implementing the programme ; and Measuring the programme, with peculiar mention to its relevancy to the participants and their alteration in behavior. From the literature reviews discussed subsequently in the survey, there appeared to be a wide consensus that larning and organizational alteration require a scope of development, preparation and acquisition attacks ; that the traditional external class, while moderately effectual as a briefing device for advancing consciousness, is hapless at advancing behavioral and organizational alteration ; that alteration is more likely to be achieved via techniques specifically aimed at peculiar larning marks related to the person ‘s practical undertakings and experience ; and that development, preparation and coaching should, when appropriate, take topographic point as stopping point to the work state of affairs as possible. This meant that for the invention to win the company had to accommodate and aline itself both structurally and culturally to altering fortunes and new attacks, which resulted in the add-on of the undermentioned standards: Involving the whole administration in the procedure, utilizing a systems attack, and turn toing issues of socialization, civilizations, values, attitudes and perceptual experiences.THE SettingThe survey was conducted in a fabrication company in Gauteng, in South Africa. It is the most advanced metropolitan part in the state and the industrial hub. Although it covers less than two per centum of South Africa ‘s entire land mass it contributes more than 50 per centum of Gross Domestic Product and accommodates about one one-fourth of the entire population ( De Beer, 1990 ) . The town in which the mill was situated was populated by preponderantly Afrikaans talking White people and in 1994 was a Conservative Party fastness. Until the early 90s a curfew bell was still sounded at 9pm every eventide to guarantee that the town remained ‘White by dark ‘ . The direction instruction programme was implemented in a fabrication administration. It is a in private owned company that employed about 80 people and had a turnover in surplus of five million Rand per annum in 1994. The fabrication procedure is complicated and labour intensive with most phases of production necessitating a skilled labor force. The chosen trainees were all Black females with formal instruction degrees runing from class 9 to rate 12. Unfortunately even the two ladies with a matriculation certification were unable to derive entry to third establishments as the topics they had completed were non recognised for higher acquisition, for illustration Bible Studies and Agriculture. All of them were loyal employees who had at least 15 old ages of work experience in the company and all were employed in a supervisory capacity. Their elected wise mans and managers were both White males. The Factory / Production Manager had a sheepskin in Production Management and a figure of old ages of production and direction experience. The General Manager had an undergraduate commercialism grade and many old ages of direction experience, but had non been actively involved in the production procedure and was more concerned with the administrative elements of the company. Unlike many research workers who enter new and unusual research environments, I had ready entree to the site and was fortunate plenty to be familiar with the people involved in the research procedure and the workplace scene. This made my entry into the state of affairs comparatively easy as I did non hold to confront the debatable state of affairs of acquiring to cognize the participants or the workplace environment. However, on contemplation this factor created a new set of complexnesss and jobs.RESEARCH APPROACHChoice of methodological analysisI am of the sentiment that given the research involvements, inquiries, purposes and aims of this qualitative survey together with my theoretical position that action research was an appropriate attack. My multiple and frequently complex functions of adviser, facilitator, instructor and scholar, and ‘objective ‘ research worker in the survey were a possible quandary, nevertheless, this was resolved by following an action research methodological analysis. This determination is substantiated by Eriksson & A ; Kovalainen who province that: It is of import to understand that, in action research, there is no large difference between the research worker and the researched group aˆÂ ¦ Often the differences between the research worker and direction adviser diminish and even disappear, as academic research is geared towards accomplishing apprehension of real-life jobs related to concern activities and bring forthing alteration procedures and solutions for the job ( 2008:194 ) Action research differs from conventional or traditional research because as Coghlan and Brannick assert it focuses upon â€Å" research in action, instead than research about action † ( 2005:4 ) . The other distinguishing characteristic of action research is that it does non put the doctorial pupil as research worker in an â€Å" aˆÂ ¦external ‘objective ‘ function but alternatively locates her within the research puting to research whether the rhythms of intercessions chosen really work to alter the debatable state of affairs to which the research job is addressed † ( Greenwood & A ; Levin, 2007 cited in Grogan, Donaldson & A ; Simmons, 2007:6 ) . The experimental nature of the research undertaking besides required an alternate attack to more traditional qualitative research. Eriksson and Kovalainen suggests that â€Å" action research is specifically utile when researching procedure related jobs in organisations, such as acquisition and alteration † ( 2008:199 ) . They further assert that: Action research is thought to be particularly suited when the research inquiry is related to depicting an unfolding series of actions that are taking topographic point over clip in a certain group aˆÂ ¦ Besides, if the research inquiry is related to understanding the procedure of alteration, development or betterment of some existent job, so, in order to larn from it, action research is an appropriate application for research ( 2008:193-194 ) Corey states that the value of traditional research is â€Å" determined by the sum of reliable cognition it adds † , while that of action research â€Å" is determined chiefly by the extent to which findings lead to betterment in the patterns of people engaged in the research † ( 1953:13 ) . This is confirmed by Carr and Kemmis, who assert that â€Å" aˆÂ ¦the testing land for educational research is non its theoretical edification or its ability to conform to standards derived from societal scientific disciplines, but instead its capacity to decide educational jobs and better educational pattern † ( 1986:109 ) .Action ResearchFor some readers the construct of action research will be portion of their pattern, for others it may look a unusual attack to research. As action research does non needfully do a immense difference between research and action, it may give an imprecise and ill-defined feeling of research as a procedure. It can be argued that it is exactly here where action research has its power: when it remains ‘close ‘ to its research objects and is based on mutual activities, when done decently, it can besides authorise its participants, non merely the scientific discipline community ( Eriksson & A ; Kovalainen, 2008:202-203 ) Action Research has been widely used to better pattern in educational scenes ( Carr and Kemmis, 1986:162 ) . It is acknowledged as â€Å" an appropriate research paradigm for educational, professional, managerial and organizational development † ( Zuber-Skerritt, 1996:3 ) and was the merely obvious pick of methodological analysis for this survey. As a methodological analysis action research is based on alternate research paradigms. There is no universally accepted definition of action research in literature and there are a assortment of action research theoretical accounts available. As Nofke asserts there has been â€Å" aˆÂ ¦exceptional growing in the extent of action research patterns † and we should besides be cognizant of the â€Å" aˆÂ ¦proliferation of significances and utilizations of the term action research † ( 1994:9 ) Those of us in South Africa interested in action research recognise that there are contested points of position about what ‘action research ‘ agencies and what patterns constitute it. aˆÂ ¦ It is the acknowledgment of the potency of action research as informed, automatic and transformative action, nevertheless, that holds sway ( Walker, 1988:153 ) . Whitehead and McNiff suggest that most of the action research literature negotiations about bettering pattern, but negotiations less about bettering acquisition as the footing of improved pattern, and even less about how this should be seen as new theory and an of import part to the universe of thoughts. They believe that theory itself needs to be reconceptualised, non as an abstract, apparently esoteric field of survey, but as a practical manner of believing about societal personal businesss and how they can be improved ( 2006:8 ) . The beginnings of action research can be found in the instructions of Marx, Gramsci and Freire who were engaged in altering societal constructions and patterns for the benefit of those who had been oppressed or marginalised by the position quo ( Reason & A ; Bradbury, 2001 ) . Lewin is credited with gestating action research which was so farther developed by Kolb ( 1984 ) , Carr and Kemmis ( 1986 ) and others. Historically Revans ( 1986 ) is its recognized title-holder. Pulling from the work of Jean Piaget, Revans contended that larning â€Å" stems from responsible experience † ( 1982:2 ) , that is, â€Å" all acquisition is the merchandise of action † ( 1982:772 ) . Action research spiral Lewin ‘s action research spiral, is described as follows by Lewin cited in Burgess ( 1985:162 ) : The first measure is to analyze the thought carefully in the visible radiation of the agencies available. Frequently more investigative about the state of affairs is required. If this first period of planning is successful, two points emerge: viz. , ‘an overall program ‘ of how to make the aim and secondly, a determination in respect to the first measure of action. Normally this planning has besides slightly modified the original thought ( Lewin, 1948:205 ) . The following measure is composed of a circle of planning, put to deathing, and reconnaissance or fact happening for the intent of measuring the consequences of the 2nd measure, and fixing the rational footing for be aftering the 3rd measure, and for possibly modifying once more the overall program ( 1948:206 ) . To assist cover with the issues refering the nature of direction development, course of study development and grownup instruction in a structured, yet flexible, mode Lewin ‘s ( 1946 ) action research spiral was used as a theoretical account. Initially, I had non considered utilizing the attack to carry on a research survey but instead to utilize the action research spiral as a theoretical account to help with the design and bringing of an experimental direction instruction programme because of its iterative nature and accent on continual betterment. Lewin ‘s theoretical account specifies a spiral of activities in the undermentioned sequence: Clarifying and naming a job state of affairs for pattern ; Explicating action schemes for deciding the job ; Implementing and measuring the action schemes ; and Further elucidation and diagnosing of the job ( and so into the following spiral of contemplation and action ) . Lewin ‘s coiling recognises the demand for action programs to be flexible. In complex societal state of affairss it is ne'er possible to expect everything that needs to be done and in this theoretical account the deliberate imbrication of action and contemplation allow alterations in programs for action as the participants learn from and reflect on their ain experience. The procedure is summarised in the diagram of an action research coiling below. Upward spiral of bettering practiceFIGURE 1: Action research spiral Beginning: hypertext transfer protocol: //education.qld.gov.au/students/advocacy/equity/gendersch/action.html My apprehension of the action research procedure, based on Lewin ‘s attack, was that action is followed by critical contemplation: – What worked? What did non work? What did we larn? How should we make it otherwise following clip? Once apprehension was achieved, decisions drawn and programs refined or new programs developed so these were once more tested in action. This tied in with the well established larning theory of Kolb and Fry ( 1975:35-36 ) which suggests that persons pass through a rhythm of phases in the learning experience: A period of observation ; A period of contemplation ; A period of conceptual modeling ; and A period of active testing. Therefore the completion of the acquisition procedure will affect several rhythms and may in fact ne'er terminal. Based on the above, I envisaged a procedure where myself and the other participants in the programme developed a program of action ; acted to implement the program ; observed the effects of the action in the context in which it occurred ; reflected on these effects as a footing for farther planning, subsequent action and so on through a sequence of rhythms. This allowed for a flexible course of study that could be modified as the programme progressed and invariably evaluated and altered in footings of its relevancy to the programme ‘s purposes. This initial theoretical account was excessively simple as in world, life does non travel â€Å" along one path at a clip aˆÂ ¦ † ( McNiff, 1988:28 ) and Susman and Evered ‘s ( 1978 ) more complex representational theoretical account reproduced below, better fitted the survey. FIGURE 2: The cyclical procedure of action research Beginning: Susman & A ; Evered, 1978:582-603 in Administrative Science Quarterly This impression concurs with that of Walker ( 1993:107 ) who finds that the attractive force of action research lies exactly in the ne'er stoping spiral of action, contemplation, enquiry and speculating originating from and grounded in practical concerns, where the hunt is non for the right replies but towards â€Å" practical wisdom aˆÂ ¦ in peculiar, complex and human state of affairss † ( Elliott, 1991:52 ) . Lau ( 1998 ) discusses the standards which Checkland ( 1991 ) believes are indispensable for an action research survey to be accepted as a legitimate option to the more traditional methods. These standards served as a guideline to my ain action research: There is a real-world job relevant to the research subjects of involvement to the research worker ; Respective functions of the research worker and participants are defined in the job state of affairs ; Inclusion of an rational model by agencies of which the nature of research lessons can be defined and the method in which the model is embodied ; Researcher engagement in blossoming the state of affairs with a position to assist convey about alterations deemed betterments ; Rethinking of earlier phases by doing sense of the accumulating experience through the declared model and method, and revising alterations ; and Point of issue for the research worker in order to reexamine the experience and to pull out lessons for larning in relation to the research themes and/or definition of new subjects ( 1991:397-403 ) . Action research includes action larning which Zuber-Skerritt defines as: Learning from concrete experience and critical contemplation on that experience, through group treatment, test and mistake, find and larning from one another ( 1993:45 ) .The narrative stating attackHarmonizing to Eriksson & A ; Kovalainen, in action research The research workers have full academic ‘freedom ‘ to utilize any stylistic elements they wish and frequently the descriptive anthropology and narrative signifiers are besides used in composing the action research studies ( 2008:207 ) Based on Elliott ‘s statement that action research workers should utilize a instance survey attack and that research studies should take a narrative signifier based on analytic memos and following a historical format: â€Å" stating the narrative as it has unfolded over clip † ( 1991:88 ) , elements of instance survey scheme were adopted in the experimental research stage and elements from a narrative attack with an ethnographic focal point, were used in the thesis as the manner for documenting the survey ( www.Infed.org/research ) . It is of import to observe that, unlike research workers utilizing other qualitative attacks and methods such as instance survey research or descriptive anthropology who tend to be interested perceivers, in this survey I was an active participant ( Myers, 2008:57 ) . Using elements of a narrative attack to direction and educational research can be described within the context of the post-modern, which gave me the freedom as writer/researcher to be personally present in the text as opposed to being the 3rd individual composing in a inactive voice, the traditionally needed ‘objective ‘ research worker. Dane asserts that â€Å" research is an activity, and an active voice conveys that impression † ( 1990:214 ) , this is substantiated by Van Maanen ( 1988, cited in Sikes & A ; Gale, 2006 ) who suggests that by composing in an active voice ( confessional narrative ) the research worker ‘tells it as it was ‘ instead than following traditional, formulaic and ‘objective ‘ constructions that tell of neat, tidy, elementary research undertakings. The usage of a descriptive narrative of the journey allowed me to capture the socio-cultural scene in which the acquisition occurred and helped â€Å" aˆÂ ¦make expressed some of the inexplicit cognition used to understand and implement the intercession † ( Hoadley, 2002: 2 ) . For most people, storytelling is a natural manner of telling experience, a practical solution to a cardinal job in life, making sensible order out of experience ( Moen, 2006:2 ) . In this thesis I adopted a multi-voiced coverage manner, where the positions and looks of all the participants were incorporated into my narrative. Their voices are actively heard in Phase 7 and 8 where infusions from their written and unwritten informations are reproduced verbatim. On completion of the bill of exchange, this study was given to them to read and formalize and this factor influenced the manner of composing used.RESEARCH DESIGNResearch DoctrineA research worker ‘s scientific beliefs or research doctrine is influenced by the research worker ‘s societal intent or what he/she wants to accomplish in the societal universe and why. Harmonizing to Whitehead and McNiff: A strong relationship exists between what you hope to accomplish in footings of your being as a human being and your ontological, epistemic and methodological premises, which can act upon each other and transform each other ( 2006:24 ) . They besides suggest that: Where research traditions differ is how they perceive the placement of the research worker ( ontological committednesss ) , the relationship between the apprehender and what is known ( epistemic committednesss ) , the procedures of bring forthing cognition ( methodological committednesss ) , and the ends of research in footings of how the cognition will be used ( societal committednesss ) ( 2006:22 ) . Ontology Ontology refers to a theory of being, which influences how we perceive ourselves in relation to our environment ( Whitehead & A ; McNiff 2006:10 ) . Action research aims to lend both to the practical concerns of people in an immediate debatable state of affairs and to the ends of societal scientific discipline by joint coaction within a reciprocally acceptable ethical model ( Rapoport, 1970: 499 ) . This can be seen as debatable in the coverage phase because The boundaries between people begin to fade out, as people see themselves as united in a common enterprise to better their ain fortunes and inquiries can originate about who tells the research narrative, whose voice is heard, and who speaks on behalf of whom ( Whitehead & A ; McNiff 2006:11 ) . A participative and subjective attack to research is hence built-in in action research and as Burr argues, objectiveness is: an impossibleness, since each of us, of necessity, must meet the universe from some position or other ( from where we stand ) and the inquiries we come to inquire about that universe, our theories and hypothesis, must besides of necessity arise from the premises that are embedded in our position † . She continues by stating that â€Å" The undertaking of research workers hence becomes to admit and even to work with their ain intrinsic engagement in the research procedure and the portion this plays in the consequences that are produced. Research workers must see the research procedure as needfully a co-production between themselves and the people they are researching ( 1995:160 cited in Colombo, 2003 ) . Due to my active engagement in the survey, I acknowledge the built-in subjectiveness of this survey every bit good as the impact it has had on both the procedure and the results of this research. As I reviewed my personal diaries and field notes my ain emotional reaction to certain events and people was apparent and sometimes contradictory interior voices emerged, some of these have been included in the text. However, I subscribe to Whitehead ‘s theory of the single ‘I ‘ which is ever seen to be in company with other single ‘I ‘s ‘ , where significances and committednesss flow between lives, and people perceive themselves non as separate entities, though still alone persons, but as sharing the same life infinite as others ( Rayner 2002 ; 2003 ; Whitehead 2005 ) . Epistemology Epistemology ( Whitehead & A ; McNiff 2006:23 ) refers to a theory of cognition, which involves two parts: A theory of cognition ( what is known ) ; and A theory of cognition acquisition ( how it becomes known ) Heron ( 1981 ; 1982 ) suggests that action research implies that cognition includes multiple ways of knowing and that the epistemology of action research should include: Propositional cognizing – based on theories or received wisdom ; Experimental knowledge – gained through the direct brush with people, topographic points or things ; Practical knowledge – gained through the making of things ; and Presentational knowledge – gained by telling our silent experiential cognition into forms. Harmonizing to Carr and Kemmis ( 1986:42 ) instructors ( in my instance a facilitator of an educational procedure ) have professional common-sense cognition. In add-on, they have thoughts about educational theory, a philosophical mentality, and societal and moral theories. Knowledge has the capacity to alter as cognition and thought alterations, hence, on the footing of this reflexiveness or capacity to alter, new signifiers of societal life can be created or reconstructed. Action research is based on the epistemic premise that the intent of action research and discourse is non merely to depict, understand and explicate the universe but besides to alter it ( Reason & A ; Torbett, 2001 ) . Goodson and Walker province that â€Å" the undertaking of research is to do sense of what we know ( 1991:107 ) † and the sense we make is determined by the choice and political relations of our attack. In this survey, a brooding procedure inherent in action research was used for sense-making or doing silent cognition explicit. This sense-making was introduced to the reader through a description of how the undertaking was conceived, what was intended, the rhythms of action throughout the procedure and an analysis of both the intended and unintended results. When reexamining my epistemic stance the remark by Whitehead and McNiff was peculiarly disposed. They province that in action research â€Å" cognition is created, non discovered. This is normally a procedure of test and mistake. Probationary replies, and the procedure itself, are ever unfastened to review † ( 2006:27 ) . Methodological premises Methodologies refer to the manner that research is conducted. I found the undermentioned paragraph from Whitehead and McNiff utile in this respect and the methodological analysis used in this survey has been guided by these premises. Unlike traditional societal scientific discipline, action questions do non take for closing, nor do practicians anticipate to happen certain replies. The procedure itself is the methodological analysis ( Mellor 1998 ) , and is often untidy, haphazard and experimental. Richard Winter ( 1998 ) negotiations about ‘improvisatory self-fulfillment in action research ‘ , where a certain grade of entrepreneurialism is involved ; and Marian Dadds and Susan Hart ( 2001 ) talk about ‘methodological ingeniousness ‘ , where we try multiple advanced ways until we find the 1 that is right for us. We look out for what might be a utile manner forward, and seek it out. One measure leads to another, and one rhythm of action-reflection leads to another. ( aˆÂ ¦ ) Traditional ways of making research offer a completed narrative. Action research workers let their ain narrative evolve. It is every bit much about the narrator as about the narrative ( Whitehead & A ; McNiff 2006:3 0 ) . Ethical considerations Soltis believes that research workers should detect the ‘non-negotiable ‘ values of â€Å" honestness, equity, regard for individuals and beneficence † ( 1989:129 ) . This ties in with one of the purposes of the survey of ‘locating the programme in values of equality and justness with regard for human self-respect ‘ . In pattern this meant being unfastened and honest about the research, its intent and application ; obtaining informed consent from the participants in the procedure and guaranting them of their right to retreat from the procedure at any clip without punishment. It besides meant non harming the company or participants and if possible, go forthing them in a better place. The research procedure and findings were guided by the ethical consideration of protecting participants ‘ individualities and obtaining permission to utilize their personal development diaries and other paperss owned by them, every bit good as obtaining participant proof of this thesis. The purpose of action research is to better and affect. To better meant alteration that was non ever comfy for the participants and throughout the survey I endeavoured to adhere to the ideal that everybody has the right to move, the right to be heard and the right to take.Data CollectionHussey and Hussey province that, â€Å" Whatever the intent of the research, empirical grounds is required. They define empirical grounds as, â€Å" informations based on observation or experience † ( 1997:10 ) . Harmonizing to Eriksson & A ; Kovalainen One of the challenges of action research in comparing with many other ‘research methods ‘ is that information analysis is frequently done collaboratively with the organisation, group of people or community involved. This is to guarantee the intimacy of consequences to the organization/group/community in inquiry. At the same clip, the analysis needs to carry through the ‘academic demands ‘ , therefore frequently including both linguistic communication and tools non known to ‘laypeople ‘ . Therefore, it is of import to add transparence and interlingual rendition of the analysis of the informations to the purpose of intercessions planned and action planning ( 2008:202 ) In this survey, informations based on observation was collected through the usage of elaborate field notes which provided a running history of what happened throughout the procedure and informations based on experience was collected as personal notes in the signifier of a diary which included notes to myself and a record of my contemplations, my feelings and reactions, ego uncertainties and inquiries, choler and defeats, and delectations. Throughout the survey I was punctilious in roll uping and updating the field notes and my diary. Records of meetings and informal interviews and treatments with participants and other stakeholders, every bit good as the emerging directors ‘ personal development diaries entering their phases of development provided extra collaborative beginnings of informations. Each of the informations aggregation methods used in this research undertaking could be considered portion of an overall attack to bettering the quality and cogency of the research informations through an attack known as informations triangulation. This would besides counter the possibility of low dependability.