Primary and Secondary Socialization Essay

Introduction Socialization is the communication or interaction process in which the norms and values of a culture are learnt, whereby the individual gains knowledge to adapt his or her behavior to that of a social group (Groenman et al., p.202). It is significant to re-emphasize the idea of interaction in the above definition. Where there is interaction, influences are reciprocal and socialization is not merely a one-way process. Parents discover from children just as children do from their parents. In the same way, teachers learn from pupils, heads of departments from students, etc. The socialization process is not restricted to the uncomplicated social skill required in contacts with others. Within the idea of socialization, a difference is made between primary socialization and secondary socialization. Body Primary socialization is a technical term signifying the practice whereby norms and values are obtained (and by the way, has nothing to do with the nationalization of industry or going out to parties). Primary socialization is an exchange of communication between infant and others, but in the first instance, and for quite a time thereafter, it is an exchange in which information in dominates: if we know who we are, it is because, a long time ago, beyond the reach of the conscious recall, other people told us (Jenkins, p.64). Primary socialization is the realm of categorization, and sets patterns for our receptiveness to being categorized in the life that follows. As a child or as an individual, I had always been dreaming of achieving a higher status or class in the society. I always sought perfection in the things that I do, and really did my best to achieve it. Sometimes, because of this quest for perfection, I tend to see the faults or errors in things, as well as in my personality. As such, I began to question the way I was raised (in a positive manner) and asked my parents how they took care of me while I was a baby. My mother recalls that she always had to play classical music for me and kept watching scientific and political news or documentaries. She also told me that she lectures about being a role model in the society while I was still in her womb, before she went to bed. Primary socialization may be informal and it may denote the elementary education that takes place mainly inside the family circle. The explicit gender roles and behaviors are primarily learned at home. When I was a child, I remember myself being curious as to what my parents were doing. I noticed that my mother usually takes care of the laundry, cooking (including the preparation of the dining table), washing of dishes, cleaning the house and planting of small plants, flowers and herbs. My father on the other hand, busies himself with the repairs in the house. He fixes or repairs the busted electric bulbs, leaking water pipes, clogged sink, damaged roof and whatever appliances which were not properly functioning. At first, I thought that these tasks were only performed in our home. However, by observing my grandparents, our neighbors and my classmates’ parents, I learned that generally, most of the males performed the tasks which my father was doing, while most of the females were doing the tasks which my mother was doing. As such, I began to understand and realize that someday, I’ll be doing tasks which are similar to the tasks done by my father. On the other hand, I had the idea that my sisters would be, someday, doing the same tasks which my mother was doing. In primary socialization, a developing child learns what behavior is â€Å"usual†, â€Å"right† or â€Å"natural† according to the norms that are present in the group in which he grows and it may be in an informal manner. This course of action points to the child’s adjustment to social life, whereby the child develops from an instinctual being to a competent and disciplined social actor who has learned to take the expectations of others into consideration. Upon growing up, emulating my father, I was able to have similar voting habits like him. During my childhood days, he was able to tell a story about his childhood life, where he usually faints in a difficult situation or get asthma instead of expressing anger. Somehow, I noticed that I am expressing the same ways of being ill as my father. I had a fight with a schoolmate once and the last thing I remember was I was already resting in a bed in the school clinic with an oxygen mask. I was not hit or physically attacked, however, the pressure or idea of getting into troubled rushed in my head causing me to panic and faint (in addition to the point that I had asthma during my childhood days). Fainting during a fight was embarrassing for a guy like me and I had to search books in order to cure which I thought before as an â€Å"incurable disease of fainting†. From my father and from the books, I learned that my response or the behavior which I exhibited earlier was normal and that it happens to most of children who are in the same situation as I do. After learning this, I was able to develop self-confidence and learned to protect myself against other children’s insults during that time.   Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚   Primary socialization can also be formal, as in a school where a child is trained or educated the norms and values of those running the school (Tuckett, 2001, p.15).   Recalling the past, I learned that as long as I am doing things which are right (based from school laws and regulations), I do not have to fear my perpetuators and that I have the right to argue my ideas. Somehow, I was able to strengthen my mental and emotional abilities and soon after, my social life had gained a favorable position in the school. I was also able to gain the respect of my teachers and some school administrators. Because of this respect, I told myself to study harder and see to it that I excel academically. Education became really important to me that I devoted most of my time studying and learning things from the book, as well as from my teachers. Primary socialization includes, for example, the learning of language, the learning of relatively controlled behavior, and the learning of the ability to give and receive trust (things which I have learned from my parents or within my family). This form of socialization takes place in primary groups, for example, a family. A primary group is often defined as a group with close and diffuse relationships. The group members know each other as whole persons, and their relationships are close and emotional, although not necessarily free of conflicts (Furseth and Repstad,   2006, p.115).   Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚     In addition to primary socialization, sociologists also consider of a secondary socialization process which functions all through a person’s life. As a new member of a medical school or of a particular medical â€Å"firm†, or as a visitor to his fiancà ©e’s parents, an individual may be socialized formally (as when a new recruit to an undergraduate society undergoes a beginning ritual or when a new patient in hospital is formally admitted to the ward).   Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚   Just like in primary socialization, secondary socialization can also be informal, by gradually attuning himself to the subtleties of meanings and actions in the new situation. The way in which recruits to occupations in medicine, the law, the army, sociology, or the administrative grades of the civil service are socialized so that they come to think, act as, and indeed â€Å"are† doctors, barristers, officers, sociologists or permanent secretaries, is a special form of secondary socialization termed professionalization.   Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚   Due to my profession, I learned to practice the professional ethics or exhibit the behaviors which are expected from a person of my status. In addition to this, it seems as if society often keeps an eye to the things which I did. My performance and my achievements (as well as some failures) were often noted by other people (especially our nosy neighbors) which made me learn or understand that I have to perform better and show a better performance. It also made me perform actions which conforms to the norms of the society and see to it that I do not violate any law which the society has set in my path.   Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚   The norms and values that exist within social groups are maintained by processes that sociologists conceived of as social control. Again, social control goes on informally as well as formally. Informal processes range form the uncomplicated fact that is generally easier to get along in a social group if deviance from norms, in what has been regarded as both a profound and a trivial demonstration. In addition to this, the concept of secondary socialization is used to illustrate groups characterized by more targeted and restricted social relations in, for example, in schools, in the office or the place where I was assigned to work in and volunteer organizations where I belong. Again, secondary socialization often takes place in secondary groups, mainly outside the family circle, which provide more limited knowledge and skills that are used to fulfill specific social roles. In these groups socialization is generally more formal, even if secondary groups also offer a great deal of informal learning. Besides receiving instruction on how to do their job according to the work description, just like when I was a newcomer in the office, I had to learn, for example, where to sit during the lunch break, in order to keep up with the role they have been assigned.   Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚   Sometimes secondary and primary socialization are in conflict. This may occur in situations. This occurred when the secondary socialization in my peer groups introduced me to sub-cultural norms which were incompatible with the norms which present in my family through primary socialization. However, often more fundamental socialization processes are carried through from primary socialization into secondary socialization. One such instance, pertinent to my profession was gender socialization. Franzini et al., (1978, p. 313-314) illustrate how modeling and conditioning influences are brought to bear on young people, both within the family (primary socialization). Boys and young men (where I am included) learn to be more dominant and aggressive, and aspire to â€Å"male† occupations such as business, engineering and the sciences. Girls and young women learn to be more passive and nurturant, and aspire to â€Å"female† occupations such as teaching, social work and nursing. In this area, there is a difference between sociology and at least some disciplines within psychology. Some schools of psychology have emphasized the effects that primary socialization have for our choices later in life. Several sociologists will argue that socialization during the adult phase has a great effect. This view will allow us to claim that not only do parents socialize their children, but children also socialize their parents. For example, may religious parents have changed their views on issues such as marriage and morality, especially cohabitation and homosexuality (observed from the siblings of my neighbors), and the agents of socialization have often been their own children. Conclusion   Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚     Socialization is the communication or interaction process and can be categorized as primary and secondary socialization. Primary socialization implies the practice whereby norms and values are obtained, and can be learned formally or informally. Primary socialization consists of the learning of language of relatively controlled behavior, and of the ability to give and receive trust within the family circle. Secondary socialization on the other hand is learned outside the family and usually in schools and workplaces. Just like the primary socialization, secondary socialization can be acquired formally and informally. Primary and secondary socialization may sometimes be in conflict, where the norms and values learned in schools and in the workplaces are different from those learned within the family or inside the house. References FRANZINI, L. R., LITROWNIK, A. J. & BLANCHARD, F. H. (1978) Modelling of sex-typed behaviours: effects on boys and girls. Developmental Psychology, 14, 313-314. FURSETH, I. & REPSTAD, P. (2006) An Introduction to the Sociology of Religion, England, Ashgate Publishing Limited. GROENMAN, N. H., SLEVIN, O. D. A. & BUCKENHAM, M. A. (1992) Social and Behavioural Sciences for Nurses, Edinburgh, Campion Press Limited. TUCKETT, D. (2001) An Introduction to Medical Sociology, London, Routledge.      

Pittsburgh – the Most Livable City!

Towns and cities have a long history. In the ancient world cities were developed in a number of regions and for a variety of reasons and motivation from religious to political views. The first true cities are sometimes considered to be large settlements where the inhabitants were no longer simply farmers of the surrounding area, but began to take on specialized occupations, and where trade, food storage and power was centralized (Gracias, par. 1). An ancient Greek philosopher, Plato, has once said, â€Å"This City is what it is because our citizens are what they are†. A city is a home for hundreds of people and is shaped by decisions, views and knowledge of those people. These days when we look up in the dictionary for the word city it is defined as a center of population, commerce, culture, and a town of significant size and importance. However, with each day cities worldwide grow, improve, and change simultaneously. Based on the technological globalization cities are moving toward becoming the centers of knowledge and learning. In fifty years from now, we will no longer view cities simply as an inhabited place of greater size, because 21st century is taking the meaning of a city to a whole new level. We will face new intelligent cities, which use technology and communication to create more efficient ways in terms of competitiveness, innovation, environment, energy, utilities, governance, and delivery of services to the citizens. Each city within our country is competing to attract more population, build a remarkable reputation and become number one. This year Forbes Magazine, the online magazine for the latest business and financial news and analysis, recognized the city of Pittsburgh as America’s Most Livable Cities for the second time (Levy, 1/2). However, as always there are many controversies about what it means to be the most livable city. Well, majority would think that livability would have to do with finding a good job. However, the word livable by itself means suitable for living. So the question is, what criteria does Forbes magazine establishes to define livable. According to the magazine it examined America’s 200 largest cities and used the following five points of data to determine the top cities: growth in income, unemployment rate, crime, cost of living, art and leisure (Levy 1/2). If you have never been to Pittsburgh, you may wonder about why in the world it was named the most livable city? Maybe twenty years ago there was nothing significant about Pittsburgh, but now there are many thriving high-tech firms that continue to form and make their mark (Florida 13/14). There are signs of life in the social and cultural environment as well. The region’s immigrant population has begun to tick upward, fed by students and professors at the universities and employees in the medical and technology sectors (13/14). There’s no doubt that Pittsburgh is one of the most livable and industrially advance cities in America. Each city possesses a unique historical and geographical background, which is what makes it significant and gives the city its sense of identity. Pittsburgh is a city known for its culture, history and accessibility. Named after William Penn the elder, the 18th century British Prime Minister, Pittsburgh was once the heart of America’s steel industry, its notorious smog earning it the nickname â€Å"hell with the lid off† (Owen, par. 1). In the late 19th and early 20th centuries, the city was home to many of America’s most successful â€Å"robber baron† industrialists, including Andrew Carnegie, Henry Clay Frick, and the Mellon brothers, as well as Henry John Heinz, the founder of the Heinz food company. In the 1970s and 80s, the city transformed its economy following the collapse of the steel industry with the healthcare and several respected universities now key employers (par. 1). In the 19th and 20th centuries, wealthy businessmen and nonprofit organizations donated millions of dollars to create educational and cultural institutions (â€Å"Pittsburgh,† pars. -5). As a result in this rich legacy of community investment and involvement, the city has built the foundation of the rich cultural and artistic environment. The 14-block Cultural District is unique and is home to the world-renowned Pittsburgh Symphony Orchestra, Pittsburgh Ballet Theatre, Pittsburgh Opera, Pittsburgh Dance Council, PNC Broadway Series, Pittsburgh Public Theater and the new August Wilson Center for African American Culture (pars. 4-5). Few cities can compare to this vibrant Cultural District alive with live theater, art and numerous restaurants. Its famous son is probably Andy Warhol, who is celebrated in an impressive museum on the city’s North Shore. The museum has achieved worldwide recognition for devoting large-scale installation art. Therefore, throughout the city and the region, galleries and museums offer everything from the cutting-edge to the classics (pars. 4-5). The entertainment is endless and the quality and variety are outstanding and fantastic. Pittsburgh has launched a multitude of programs to diversify the region’s economy away from heavy industry into high technology (Florida, 3/14). It has rebuilt its downtown virtually from scratch, invested in a new airport, and developed a massive new sport complex for its professional sport teams because of its long sport history and dedication. Pittsburgh’s football team, the Steelers, who play to a packed stadium on the Ohio River, are another example of success, and were the winners of the 2009 Super Bowl, while the ice hockey team, the Penguins, won the 2009 Stanley Cup (3/14). Indeed, Pittsburgh’s art scene, job presence, safety, and affordability make it the most livable city in the country, according to measures studied. Compared with many large cities, home prices in Pittsburgh are more affordable (Powell, par. 1). Recent surveys indicate an average home price in Pittsburgh of ranging from about $110,000 to $162,000 for a single family home, which is about 40% below the national average price (par. 1). The housing market is relatively stable despite a national subprime mortgage crisis, and Pittsburgh added jobs in 2008 even as the national economy entered a significant jobs recession. This story of regeneration was the inspiration for President Barack Obama to personally select Pittsburgh as the host city for the 2009 G20 Summit (Owen, par. 1). Pittsburgh’s strong university presence with over a dozen colleges or campuses helps encourage its livability. Because Pittsburgh is one of the largest college cities it in general has a younger, more educated and consumer-oriented population. One of its famous universities is Carnegie Mellon, one of the world’s leading centers for research in information technology (Florida, 2/14). Right down the street from Carnegie Mellon campus, is located the University of Pittsburgh, which has a world-class medical center. Pittsburgh attracts hundreds of millions of dollars per year in university research funding and is the sixth-largest center for college and university students on a per capita basis in the country (2/14). Another factor enhancing Pittsburgh’s livability is that area residents face very little risk of encountering a natural disaster, such as an earthquake, hurricane, wildfire, or tornado compared to other cities (â€Å"Improving,† 1/1). Pittsburgh is also a great place to raise a family, based on income growth over the past five years and the current unemployment rate (â€Å"Pittsburgh,† par. 6). Therefore, the city is more livable if a family’s income goes further. Pittsburgh is as well ranked among the top 10 metropolitan areas in the nation for climates favorable to business expansion (â€Å"Pittsburgh Law,† pars. 4-5). The city is one of the most industrially advanced based on technology, retail, finance, and medicine (pars. 4-5). What I mean by industrially advance is that the city is home and headquarters to major global financial institutions, including PNC Financial Services, PPG Industries, U. S. Steel, H. J. Heinz Company, CONSOL Energy, Google Corporation, and others (pars 4-5). â€Å"Our City has come a long way and I’m thrilled that Forbes. com has once again recognized Pittsburgh’s unique position as a City that truly has it all – entertainment and affordability, but most important, safety and jobs,† Pittsburgh Mayor Luke Ravenstahl said (â€Å"Pittsburgh Ranked†, 1/1). It’s important that we look to these ratings as an opportunity to not only tell our good story and attract more people and businesses to Pittsburgh, but to roll up our sleeves and work on getting even safer, creating more jobs, and being more livable (1/1). † The word â€Å"livable† carries the connotation of a place being suitable for a living. The Forbes magazine defines livable by establishing certain criteria that the city must satisfy to be recognized as America’s most livable city. Pittsburgh has outranked all 200 cities nationwide and was honored to stand out as a powerful example of what is a livable city and how to create new jobs and industries while transforming to 21st century economy. No one is claiming that Pittsburgh is a perfect city. It’s simply livable and beautiful. There’s no doubt that Pittsburgh is on the map when it comes to arts and culture , income growth, stable unemployment rate, low crime rates and average costs of living . However, there’s more about Pittsburgh than just statistics and rankings. Some people may perhaps enjoy Pittsburgh simply for its marvelous fall season. Where the nights get shorter, the wind blows brisker, and the trees shed their green, making way for coral, mustard, and flame. As you walk through dozens of neighborhoods of every stripe and character you discover that Pittsburgh feels like home. Rolling hills, wooded glens, dog walks, and unbelievable views of the sky can make you forget about all that reading you have to do for school or work. All the lists and web articles in the world can’t convince you that Pittsburgh is the most livable and perfect place, but a visit here just might.

How the Write the UC School Application Essays 2015-2016

The University of California (UC) system comprises many of America’s best public universities. Indeed, schools from the UC system are six of Admissions Hero’s top 20 public colleges. All of the major UC schools have strong programs in STEM (Science, Technology, Engineering, and Math) fields, and the flagship schools (UCLA and UC Berkeley) also have extremely competitive liberal arts, business, and arts majors. Luckily for high school seniors who already have ridiculous amounts of work on their plates, students can apply to every UC school with a single application consisting of only two essay questions (note that UCs don’t use the Common App). Because the application allows for 1000 shared words total between two prompts, there is a bit of strategy involved as to the length of each essay. If you have a stronger or more detailed answer for one of the prompts, it is okay to write more for that essay but ideally, you should devote roughly 550 words to that essay and 450 to the other one. Under no circumstances should you have one essay longer than 600 words and the other one shorter than 400 words—balance is key. Despite the fact that UC schools place a strong emphasis on students’ raw scores and quality of extracurricular activities, the essays are still important for students looking to study in the Golden State. Admissions Hero is here to help – let’s take a look at each prompt. Note: this year’s UC app is essentially identical to last year’s. We’ve updated this year’s post only slightly to reflect new trends in admissions. Read last year’s post here . Describe the world you come from — for example, your family, community or school — and tell us how your world has shaped your dreams and aspirations. (1000 words for both prompts combined) This essay addresses many of the themes that the prompts for the Common App do, and since the UC schools do not use the Common App, you don’t have to worry about any overlap with those essays. This prompt is really asking you to talk about some of your major influences and your interactions within a group. You can certainly use your family as the base for your essay, but you should be careful to really dive deep down into your personal feelings and motivations (as opposed to getting caught up talking mostly about your family members). Many applicants choose to write about their family, though, which means that your essay will have to be extremely well written or delve deeply into your unique personality in order to separate from all of the other applicants covering similar themes. Writing about your school can be a good strategy if you attend a school that has an economically and racially diverse student body. However, if you attend a competitive school with mostly affluent students, it might be difficult to write an essay that will play well with admissions counselors. Writing about a more nuanced and specialized community, perhaps related to some sort of hobby or extracurricular passion, gives you an opportunity to really show off unique and distinctive elements of your personality. For example, you could write an essay about how your participation in the Model United Nations officer corps inspired you to pursue an education and career in international relations. Alternatively, you could discuss how your participation in several online forums for World of Warcraft inspired you to study computer programming so that you can build a â€Å"crowdsourced† video game in the future. So long as you are able to write a detailed and distinctive essay, pretty muc h any type of â€Å"world† that you come from is fair game. The only exceptions are communities that are defined simply by personal traits (and not interaction) such as race or sexual orientation. Since these are personal qualities, an essay on these topics is best saved for the second prompt. Tell us about a personal quality, talent, accomplishment, contribution or experience that is important to you. What about this quality or accomplishment makes you proud, and how does it relate to the person you are? (1000 words for both prompts combined) Unlike the first prompt, this essay can be far more personal, and you really shouldn’t detail your participation or membership in a group or community unless it you have achieved something substantial in it (save such topics for the first essay). As we mentioned before, this prompt could be a place to address intrinsic qualities such as challenges dealing with your race or sexual orientation. You have some leeway as to how you want to approach the discussion of the quality, but be sure to discuss why it makes you proud. That pride can result directly from the quality itself, or indirectly from actions that you have taken or experiences you have had as a result of a personal trait (such as dealing with racism or experiencing gender discrimination). You can also discuss an achievement in an extracurricular activity, however ideally you should write about a different one if you used an extracurricular activity for the first prompt. The â€Å"achievement† doesn’t be some sort of award or high achievement; it just has to be something that provides a compelling platform to discuss yourself. In fact, the most personalized descriptive stories often can arise from seemingly mundane achievements. For example, an essay written about your victory at the state tennis championships can obviously be impressive, but an essay discussing your pride at working for three years to rise from fifth to fourth singles on the tennis team and how the work you put into that made you value persistence can be just as good. The key is to make sure that you can point to specific character developments that arose from your achievement, no matter how small. With these tips, you should be well on your way to writing the perfect UC Supplement. Best of luck from the Admissions Hero team! For more help, feel free to check out last year’s post on How to Tackle the UC Essays or reach out to work 1-on-1 with one of Admissions Hero’s trained college essay specialists .

Research proposal Literature review Example | Topics and Well Written Essays - 1750 words

Research proposal - Literature review Example Please note that blue instructions (in italics) should be deleted and replaced by the appropriate entries. The word guides are a maximum. The proposal should include a list of references and a timescale plan. 1. Proposed Title Give a clear and succinct title, indicating the problem area around which the research will be undertaken. To identify the issues in electronic banking transactions 2. Background or Rationale of the Project Include a description of the background to your project. Explain why you have chosen the topic - give both academic and personal reasons. Answer the following questions: Why do you feel this research project is necessary? Such a project is necessary to gather more insight in the topic of internet banking as a whole and particularly in the security issues related to the e-transactions. What is the problem or issue that needs sorting out? The financial services in the field of electronic commerce are rapidly advancing with Internet banking being in the forefro nt of it requiring many developments and implementations regarding a comprehensive security practices. For the field of Internet banking, the real issue is regarding the security which is hampering this field as effect methods are still not in place that can provide the users of Internet banking an authenticate and remote environment. This has given rise to the possibility of cloning the identities of the Internet banking user which arises the issue of procedures and practices that could minimize this issue. Why are you interested in the project? What has aroused your curiosity? Given the present scenario of the advanced technologies been used in setting up security requirements placed by the regional, national and global Internet banking system, still users are not confident enough to carry out e-banking transactions. If this is the case, then the question arises that why is Internet banking becoming more and more popular amongst the users if security issues lie within the system o f Internet banking. This curiosity and interest has given me a direction to further my research in the issues of security in Internet banking transactions. How will your project add new knowledge to the field? Since not much research has been conducted in this field, particularly in creation of secure pathways for transactions, the security framework recommended in this research can provide a direction for present and future framework for secured Internet banking transactions. Max. 250 words 3. Preliminary Review of the Literature Give a brief critical review of the literature within your topic area and justify the need for your research. Don’t forget to give a list of key references used (a minimum of 6) - use the Harvard Referencing Style. Answer the following questions: What research has already been carried out on your topic area? Many different researches have been carried out on the topic where different authors have discussed the security issues as well as provided fra meworks for security practices. This topic is popular because of the growing impact of Internet on all businesses particularly in the banking industry where services are now provided online for the convenience of the customers. According to Jamwal and Padha (2009), Online Banking Association conducted a survey where security was rated the top issue in online banking by the member institutions. According to Zin and

Case Analysis and Recommendation Research Paper

Case Analysis and Recommendation - Research Paper Example The issue started on 11 March 2008, when Shared refused to participate in a GSD sponsored event to attend to a family obligation. Haydar though, his direct supervisor, did not express objection of any sort but reported the matter to Sahib beyond Shared’s knowledge. For the following four weeks, Shared was denied of assignments upon Sahib’s instruction. Nevertheless, when he approached Haydar, Shared was advised not to get troubled by the setup. On 06 April 2008, Shared was summoned, without prior notice, to the office of the Employees Relations’ Head on account of the aforementioned recommendation. This was the only time Shared was informed of the presence of a disciplinary proceeding in which he is the main concern. Tasks in the Accompany Services department were assigned verbally, and partakers are chosen randomly by the division’s director. The same involve planning, arranging and executing detailed programs of visiting business delegations. The departm ent also arranges for a number of other services including security escorts, transportation, and logistics. On the date in question, Shared was not notified of his supposed participation until a few hours before the event. Shared also explained that the red marks on his attendance record were duly sanctioned—notice of late appearance and leave of absence were filed properly. Further, he suggested verifying with his colleagues that he is always within the workplace the entire shift. Shared criticized the action taken by his superiors, and pointed out that he should have received a verbal or written warning before the case is even initiated. The Discipline and Grievance committee investigating Shared’s case knows that both Haydar and Sahib can be held legally responsible for such an unethical procedure. The action taken does not comply with the rules and regulations of the GSD and the Department of Civil Services. Even so, Shared does not want to impair his relationship with his superiors as this may directly impact conditions at work. On 20 April 2008, two separate meetings with Haydar and Sahib were requested by the chairman of the committee. Sahib turned down the request on grounds that the written recommendation was not his doing, while Haydar argued that he did not know about the existing organizational policies, and proposed that the case be terminated as if nothing happened. A case where the main problem is not accurately identified will not be resolved as a whole. There are always sub problems that coexist with the main problem; and at times, without thorough analysis, these are confused with the other. In effect, the proposals intended for resolution are subsequently regarded as ineffective when in fact it is the preliminary procedure that brought about the failure. From this scenario, it can be established that Shared has nearly been a victim of unethical disciplinary practices at work. There are several aspects in the company system that prove ineffectual, thus employees have low morale and do not display confidence in the administration. The Civil Services Department asserts the existence of rules and regulat

THTR 201 Production Response Essay Example | Topics and Well Written Essays - 500 words

THTR 201 Production Response - Essay Example Mr. Darcy is not an easy man to love and at first is graceless and stiff making Elizabeth to be prejudicially inclined to make unwarranted observations towards him. The development of this love and attraction between Darcy and Elizabeth commences with the refusal by Darcy to have a dance with Elizabeth, which would be followed, later by Elizabeth’s passionate refusal to his initial proposal at a wonderfully wet rainy scene. Though female characters dominate the play, there are strong performances by males as shown by the sycophantic Mr. Collins and the commanding and all-powerful Mr. Bennet. Mr. Collins shows in the play that all the six women from Bennet’s household will be under his command and mercy as he stands to inherit the entire estate which makes the senior Mrs. Bennet to try and find means of safely marrying off their other daughters. My three favorite characters are Elizabeth, Darcy and Mrs. Bennet as they clearly give credence to the name of the play, which is pride and prejudice. Elizabeth and Darcy are very quick to judge someone else and are proud emphasizing the human natural instinct to judge quickly on the first impression. Both the eventual two lovers have strong negative first impressions of each other and people in general and it becomes more fun when they get over their pride and come together at the end of the play. Mrs. Bennet is equally my favorite character as having known the character of Mr. Collins; she endeavors to ensure that her remaining five daughters have the best in life and would want them to be safely married off. These characters of being proud and prejudicial to others also apply to me as in most instances, I have always been proud and make perception of people even before knowing them. The major theme in the story â€Å"Pride and Prejudice† is love as it is a courtship between Elizabeth and Darcy and these two have to overcome numerous

Human Resource Practices within Kelloggs Term Paper

Human Resource Practices within Kelloggs - Term Paper Example This leadership style is cemented by the fact that the organization employs participative theories (Northouse, 2007, pp. 65). This means that the leader works hand in hand with the rest of the team working in Kelloggs to ensure its success. Discussions are made with participation from everyone in the company as long as the issue affects those particular people including the subordinate staff members. This theoretical involvement ensures that employees are not side lined and decisions affecting them made without their input and even consent. Evidence of using participative theory combined with democratic leadership style is indicated by the high number of managers in Kelloggs who work together to make Kelloggs as successful as it currently is, Working as a team and involving each other has created tighter bonds between them and this is evident by the way they stand together instead of blaming each other in case of any negative publicity such as scandal or lawsuits. When the employees are included in the decision making and allowed to participate in major deals in the company, they gain ownership of the organization and hence not only work for the purpose of earning their salary but they are motivated to mould the company and make it better than their competitors. Such ownership and motivation makes the employees aim to increase their productivity, reduce their turnover rate and they engage in all manner of performance enhancing activities including bettering their knowledge and education through trainings and seminars. All these has worked to make Kelloggs maintain a competitive edge in the food industry and continue expanding their products and countries of operation to over 35 countries worldwide and several hundred cities all over the world as well (Rogers, 2008, pp. 87). With participative theory being enforced, the majority of the decision is delegated to the different teams

Masculinity as a Prerequisite of Traditional American Heroism Essay

Masculinity as a Prerequisite of Traditional American Heroism - Essay Example Considering the traditional American view of heroism, as brought forth by the novel ‘The Big Sleep’ by Raymond Chandler and the film ‘The Maltese Falcon’ directed by John Huston, masculinity is a prerequisite. In the early way of thinking, male characters were seen to intervene on the behalf of the feminine ones (Cohen 1). This view has been portrayed in several early documented resources. Looking at Raymond Chandler’s novel, ‘The Big Sleep’, General Sternwood makes an intervention for her two daughters, Carmen and Vivian. Sternwood seeks the help of a private investigator, Philip Marlowe to intervene in an attempted blackmail against Carmen by Arthur Geiger, a bookseller (Chandler 10). He is further tasked with the responsibility of establishing about the whereabouts of Rusty Regan, Vivian’s husband who has since disappeared. The heroic characters in the entire incidence are masculine individuals. The case presents a situation whereby the feminine are not considered heroic. This presents a situation whereby the chances of having an ultimate masculine hero to be too high while their counterparts with very slim chances. The main role in the traditional setting of movies has shown a predictable pattern of masculine heroes. ‘The Maltese Falcon’, is a movie that reve als an iconic private investigator, Sam Spade dealing with three complicated individuals, all these people are working to obtain the Maltese falcon. The man is expressed as witty and capable of finding solutions. Despite losing his co-investigator, Spade gets to the length of conducting his independent investigations. Spade is systematic in his conduct and ends up unearthing several truths about the incidences surrounding the deaths of Arthur and Thursby. He successfully confronts law enforcers. The police question him concerning the murder of Archer and Thursby. These murders occur on the day when Miss Ruth Wonderly was meant to meet Thursby, while Archer had accepted to follow her in an effort to get her sister who had gone missing. The Falcon is a highly coveted treasure and attracts interests from different persons. Spade finds himself at the centre stage of all this despite the incidences surrounded by murder and suspicion. Spade was suspected by Archer’s wife to have ki lled him in order to inherit her, but he got out of the loop. Joel Cairo enticed him with $5,000 fee to find the falcon, he further pointed spade his gun as a threat so that he could look for it in the office. Spade was not cowed, he knocked Cairo down and when he was in his right mind he considered hiring Spade. His masculine power is shown when the movie shows him bringing Cairo down, this sends a message that the ultimate hero is a person with unmatched muscle power. Throughout the film, Spade appears bold, unshaken and cunning. He is a man whose heroism has been expressed by the treatment he gives to other characters and the prowess he depicts in handling every incidence. Masculine characters in the Chandler’s novel depict some higher level of accomplishment. Marlowe is a man capable of engaging in investigations reliably. He is able to track the behind the scenes pornographic activities in Geiger’s bookshop. In this scene, it appears the source of the blackmail is the involvement of Carmen in pornographic activities. This incidence shows a situation where feminine characters are used for the benefit of the masculine ones. In the bookstore, the role of a

Love and Sex Relationship Essay Example | Topics and Well Written Essays - 750 words

Love and Sex Relationship - Essay Example Sexual relationship between man and woman before marriage: ethical or not Within the context of love and sex relationship, sexual relationship between man and woman before marriage is unethical because it leads to a number of problems in future life. For instance, one cannot prove that sexual relationships ultimately lead to marriage in future. If a partner is in search of temporary relationship, the other partner is forced to face the consequences. If one considers that marriage is related to sexual purity of the partners, sexual relationship between man and woman before marriage is unethical. If one is not pure, one cannot blame others. Nicotera opined that â€Å"After sharing all that there is to share before marriage, it is believed that young couples get bored with each other soon after marriage because they did not leave anything to imagination or delay any satisfaction† (172). From a different angle of view, sexual relationship before marriage increases the scope of bor edom in future life. On the other side, difference in opinions related to sexual relationship before marriage is deeply influenced by cultural difference. In an underdeveloped society, laws and regulations related to marriage may be strict. In this situation, sexual relationship between man and woman before marriage is unethical. Within the context of developed societies, sexual relationship before marriage is considered as the best possible way for the partners to know each other in a different way. Still, one can indulge in a love affair without sex because it does not force him or her to feel regret. Virginity: important to men or women One can see that virginity is important to men and women because men and women are equal. If one considers that virginity is important to women, one is trying to devalue the status of womenfolk. To be specific, marriage is an agreement between equal partners and virginity is applicable to both the partners. If a man is so cautious about his partne r’s virginity, he must realize the fact that the same is applicable to him also. Klein stated that â€Å"In the case of the Middle East, early marriage appears to be corollary to the emphasis on female virginity; the earlier the marriage, the less likelihood that the girl will lose her virginity before marriage† (60). If an individual is ready to accept marriage as an important agreement or social contract between the partners, virginity is important to both the partners. So, within the context of love and sex relationship, one can see that virginity is important to men and women. On the other side, most males expect that their partners must be cautious about their virginity. But most males are not aware of the fact that their female partners can question their status on virginity. The women folk who are in favor of sexual independence and individual freedom are not in favor of virginity. From a different angle of view, virginity of men and women is a controversial top ic which can be evaluated according to individual difference. Still, virginity should not be considered as the most important aspect of marriage because trust and cohesion between partners is most important. Teenage sex

Jazz History-1 Essay Example | Topics and Well Written Essays - 500 words

Jazz History-1 - Essay Example As a drummer myself, I can attest to the difficulty of creating unique ways of rhythm within a song. Max Roach’s style of drumming was visibly influenced by the style of Kenny Clarke, an early bebop drummer at Milton’s Playhouse. However, even though Clarke’s style was certainly innovative, Roach made a few changes to the method. Roach made bebop drumming more melodic and more polyrhythmic (Larson 133). In the 1940s, the jazz scene was changing in the wake of the War. Bebop had officially begun in New York, centered around Milton’s Playhouse, where Kenny Clarke was already playing when Max Roach began. Rather than keeping time with the bass drum, as was traditional at the time for swing drummers, Roach switched to time-keeping on the ride cymbal. This had the effect of making songs seem lighter and more propulsive. In addition, Roach freed his hands for more extravagant rhythms that ultimately defined his style as a bebop drummer (Mathieson 126-9). During the 1940s, Roach played with a number of the most recognizable names in the bebop scene. Most notably, he played in the Parker/Gillespie quintet in 1944 and in the Parker/Davis quintet in 1947. This brought Roach the fame and recognition he deserved, keeping rhythms and times for world-renowned trumpeters. But even as conventional bebop declined in popularity coming into the 1950s, Roach co-led a quintet named after him and Clifford Brown, forming one of the most noteworthy hard bop groups of the decade, incorporating such names as Sonny Rollins and Sonny Stitt between 1953 and 1956 (Larson 133). Roach’s influence would live on in his recordings which still influence countless drummers to this day. A more critical look at Roach’s biography reveals a number of interesting musical influences on his style. By 10, the young Roach was drumming in gospel bands, and, immediately after graduating from high school, he was already playing

Jonathon Livingston Seagull Essay Example for Free

Jonathon Livingston Seagull Essay 1. The fictional book, Jonathon Livingston Seagull written by Richard Bach, sold over a million copies during its debut in 1970 and stayed on The New York Times Top Ten list for 38 weeks in a row. The story focuses on Jonathon the seagull’s passion for flying and his belief that there is more to life than scavenging for food. Bach explores the idea that there is more to this life than what meets the eye and the extreme satisfaction you receive when doing something you are great at and have a passion for. 2. The setting of this story takes place on some sea shore where thousands of seagulls live. The sea shore setting described in the book really helps to paint a picture of what Jonathon and this flock of seagulls experienced daily, â€Å"It was morning, and the new sun sparkled gold across the ripples of a gentle sea.†(Bach pg 3) 3. Jonathon Livingston Seagull is the protagonist in this story with his strong drive and persistence to be different from the flock and to be his own seagull. The antagonists in the story are the Elders of the flocks of seagulls because they are very closed mined leaders and they force Jonathon and other seagulls to be outcast from society and ban them to a life of isolation and despair. Chiang was an Elder Gull that taught Jonathon very specialized flying techniques and improved his skills and taught him things about life. When Jonathon was outcast from the gull community everyone in the community thought that Jonathon was a reckless and irresponsible seagull, so when Jonathon finally returned to the community and everyone saw how amazing his flying skills were they changed their minds and many of them asked to be taught by Jonathon himself which was breaking the gull community law, This is an example of foil characters. â€Å"His thought was triumph. Terminal velocity! A seagull at two hundred and fourteen miles per hours! It was a breakthrough, the greatest single moment in the history of the flock, and in that moment a new age opened for Jonathon Gull.† (pg 16-17) 4. The plot of this story is a traditional plot type. The story ends with the last words of his Jonathon’s teacher, Keep working on love. Through his teachings, Jonathan understands that the spirit cannot be really free without the ability to forgive, and that the way to progress leads for him, at least through becoming a teacher, not just through working hard as a student. So, if any seagull believes that it is free to do what it wants to, it becomes Jonathan the seagull, for whom, possibilities were endless. Every law is an illusion. Once we become conscious of this, our existence gets a new meaning. a. The biggest conflict was Jonathon going against the norm of the seagull community and ultimately getting expelled from the community for his irresponsible acts. â€Å"For his reckless irresponsibility†, â€Å"Violating the dignity and tradition of the Gull family.† (pg 24) b. The situation at the end where Jonathon returned to the breakfast seagull flock was sig nificant because it demonstrated forgiveness and compassion. These gulls hated Jonathon and wanted nothing to do with him and yet he still had the courage to forgive them and even teach them how to fly like he does. â€Å"You have to practice to see the real gull, the good in every one of them, and help them to see it in themselves.†(pg 89) 5. -This book was definitely one of the more inspiring books that made me think out of the box that I have read in quite some time. For example, I really liked one of the messages that implied that if you want to have a fulfilling happy meaningful life you need to stop following the crowd and make your own path even if there are consequences. If you find something that you are good at and enjoy doing stick with it and master it and watch how it will shape you life. -This story uplifted my spirits and motivated my behavior change in several ways. For example, Jonathon Livingston Seagull is a great example to me because not only does he go against the norm and try to learn everything about his passion in life, he also learns forgiveness and compassion for the other seagulls of the community and wants to teach them how to live a wonderful life. I have noticed in my life that I am most happy when I have found something that I love to do and also when I am helping others find that same thing or serving them in some manner and I think Jonathon mastered this aspect of true charity. â€Å"You have to practice to see the real gull, the good in every one of them, and help them to see it in themselves.†(pg 89) 6. In conclusions the book had both strong and weak contributing factors. The strong factors were that it had a very unique, interesting story line that kept the reader interested enough to keep reading. Bach also used implied messages of inspiration and important values in this life which in my opinion was very cool and had a strong plot. Some of the weak factors were that the book almost needed to be read straight through in one sitting to really get the message and make sense. It was not very challenging to read which could be good and bad. The setting was not very descriptive, it basically just took place either in the air or on the sea shore. I think the proper age group for this book would be late high school students and college students and even young adults. Richard Bach impacted me by creating a plot and story line that delivers a messages that anything is possible in life as long as you want it enough and practice at it thus, I am now interested in making some changes in my life. Works Cited Back, Richard. Jonathon Livingston Seagull. New York: Scribner, 1970.

Greek Mythology Essay Example for Free

Greek Mythology Essay The Greeks believed that the earth was formed before any of the gods appeared. The gods, as the Greeks knew them, all originated with Father Heaven, and Mother Earth. Father Heaven was known as Uranus, and Mother Earth, as Gaea. Uranus and Gaea raised many children. Among them were the Cyclopes, the Titans, and the Hecatoncheires, or the Hundred- Handed Ones. Uranus let the Titans roam free, but he imprisoned the Cyclopes and the Hundred- handed Ones beneath the earth. Finally, Gaea could not bear  Uranuss unkindness to the Cyclopes and the Hundred-Handed Ones any longer. Gaea joined Cronos, one of the Titans; and together, they overcame Uranus, killed him, and threw his body into the sea. Aphrodite, goddess of love and beauty, later rose from the sea where Uranuss body had been thrown. Now Cronus became king of the universe. Cronos married his sister, Rhea, and they had six children. At the time of Cronoss marriage to Rhea, Gaea prophesied that one of his children would overthrow. Cronos, as he had overthrown Uranus. To protect himself, Cronos swallowed each of his first five children Hestia, Demeter, Hera, Hades, and Poseidon immediately after birth. After the birth of her sixth and last child, Rhea tricked Cronos into swallowing a rock and then hid the child Zeus on earth. Zeus grew up on earth and was brought back to Mount Olympus as a cupbearer to his unsuspecting father. Rhea and Zeus connived against Cronos by mixing a noxious drink for him. Thinking it was wine, Cronos drank the  mixture and promptly regulated his five other children, fully grown. Then Zeus and his brothers waged a mighty battle against Cronos and the other Titans. Cronos and the Titans were defeated when Zeus ambushed them with the help of the Cyclopes and the Hundred-Headed Ones, and they panicked and retreated. Cronos and the Titans were imprisioned in the Earth where their fighting still causes earthquakes from time to time. Zeus and his brothers and sisters went to live on Mount Olympus, where they ruled over the earth.

Summary of the Somali Language

Summary of the Somali Language Amal Mohamed The Motherland   Ã‚   The place where scientist believe all humans came from is now inhabited by Middle Eastern and North African descends, Somalia. Somalia is a country in the horn of Africa but what makes their culture different from the American culture or any other is that its made up of homogenous people with the same religion, language, ethnicity, and culture. Despite the fact a Roman Catholic cathedral being located in the Somalia capitol Mogadishu, Somalia is a completely Muslim country that follows the teaching of Islam. Islam came to Somalia at a time when Prophet Muhammads companions sought refuge across the Red Sea in the Horn of Africa to escape the prosecution they faced for being Muslim. It is believed that Somalis adopted and accepted the teachings of Islam way before any other Muslim or Arab country did. Islam had been part of the Somali society for more than 1400 years. Majority of the Somali people are Sunni Muslims except for the few who are Sufis. Somalia being a Muslim country and following the teachings of Islam the Sharia Law is used on daily basis,(Quora) Islamic sharia or Islamic law is the religious legal system governing the members of the Islamic faith. It is derived from the religious precepts of Islam, particularly the Quran and the Hadith. The term sharia comes from the Arabic language term sharÄ «ÃƒÅ Ã‚ ¿ah , which means a body of moral and religious law derived from religious prophecy, as opposed to human legislation. Many Somali scholars have remarkably defined the route of Muslim learning and practices throughout the Horn of Africa, the Arabian Peninsula, and furthermore, producing numerous important Islamic figures over the centuries. Uthman bin Ali ZaylaI of Zeila whom is Somali being amongst them. (Ethnomed) Almost all Somalis are Sunni. The religion has a much more comprehensive role in life than is typical in the Americas or Europe. Islam is a belief system, a culture, a structure for government, and a way of life. Thus in Somalia, attitudes, social customs, and gender roles are primarily based on Islamic tradition. For example, the Islamic calendar is based on the lunar month and begins numbering from the year Mohammed arrived in Medina; both this and the Julian calendar are officially recognized and used. In Somalia religion whole big part of the country. The Somali languages is mixed with Arabic, English, and Italian. The language spoken in some many country including Ethiopia, Kenya and Eritrea and further into the North Africa. The three main language the spoken in Somali is Benaadir, Maay, and Northern or Northern-Central. Maay Maay language mainly spoken in Digil and Mirifle (Rahanweyn) clans in the southern of Somalia. (The refworld, Somalia) the southern Somali clans, stated that Maay Maay is a language spoken by clans in the inter-riverine area between the Shabeelle and the Jubba rivers (23 Sept. 1998). The clan families in this area are mainly the Rahanweyn and the Digil but there are also other groups who speak Maay Maay, such as many Bantu villagers along the Jubba and Shabeelle who may not have Somali clan affiliations. The associate professor further stated that due to recent migrations, there are certainly Maay Maay speakers in other parts of Somalia (ibid.). The Benaadir is the 2nd popular language in somila. Benaadir i s usually spoken in Mogadishu (the capital city in Somalia) The Somali ethnicity come from Hamitic people but have Cushitic culture. They are divided into two main clan the Samaal, which includes the Darod, Isaaq, Hawiye, and Dir clan groups the Saab, which includes the Rahanweyn and Digil clans and other smaller clan groups thats not popular. The (Samaal) A Samaal clan kept count of the generations between living members of the group and the ancestor for whom it was named; the greater the number of generations (which often implied substantial internal segmentation into sub clans or lineages) the greater the clans prestige. The sab is the Swedish and they live in the west of Somalia. You dont see them much in t north of Somalia. The Saab language is way different them the Samaal. They usually speak the old language and they are not much of them in the city.       The Somalia culture is way different then the American culture and any other because the Somalia culture is influenced by the religion, Islam. The religion has big influenced in clothing and food. When it comes to the clothing, most Somali dress in adherence to Islamic principles. The Men wears clothe that must cover from neck to knee, and women must be covered from neck to ankle in non-form-fitting clothing. Married women may additionally wear a head scarf /or a shawl (Culture of Somalia). Most Somali speak the Somali language and Arabic because of the influence of Islam, The Quran is writing in Arabic thats why they must learn how to read and write Arabic. (Blog Entries) The Somali practice Muslim holidays, such as Ramadan, the month of fasting to celebrate the revelation of the Quran; Id al-Fitr; the First of Muharram, when an angel shakes the tree of life and death; Maulid an-Nabi (a celebration of Muhammads birth); and Id al-Adha, which commemorates the story of Abraham and his son Ishmael (Shurgin, 2006). When it comes with the engagement, somalin ladys get arranged marriage and they get marry at young age 15 or 16. Marriage is highly valued in the Somali culture and if a woman is not married by the age of 16 she is bringing bad luck to her family. Same sex marriages are not allowed by law. You can get killed by the same sex marriage. (Somalia culture) Marriage traditions in Somalia indicate that in times when a marriage is arranged without consent of the couple, the woman may refuse the marriage if she gains her mothers support. To avoid this situation, the father or male relative of the woman may try to formalize the union without telling the family. Arranged marriages in Somalia can also take place through the conversation of women between sparring tribes, which is viewed as closing a peace agreement. In the American culture the man would ask the father of his girlfriend for her hand in marriage. If the father approves and says yes, then man will propose to his girlfriend. http://countrystudies.us/somalia/38.htm http://www.nationsencyclopedia.com/Africa/Somalia-ETHNIC-GROUPS.html http://www.everyculture.com/Sa-Th/Somalia.html https://ethnomed.org/culture/somali/somali-cultural-profile http://www.bradleyfarless.com/culture-clash-small-town-american-vs-somalian-immigrant-culture/ Works Cited Feature: March/April 2017. Feature: March/April 2017 EthnoMed. N.p., n.d. Web. 09 Mar. 2017. N.p., n.d. Web. Somalia Ethnic Groups. Encyclopedia of the Nations. N.p., n.d. Web. 09 Mar. 2017. Somalia Samaal. Somalia Samaal. N.p., n.d. Web. 09 Mar. 2017. Somalia. Countries and Their Cultures. N.p., n.d. Web. 09 Mar. 2017. Somalia History, Language and Culture. World Travel Guide. N.p., n.d. Web. 09 Mar. 2017.

Euthanasia and Futile Care :: Euthanasia Physician Assisted Suicide

Euthanasia and "Futile Care" Imagine visiting your 85-year-old mother in the hospital after she has a debilitating stroke. You find out that, in order to survive, she requires a feeding tube and antibiotics to fight an infection. She once told you that no matter what happened, she wants to live. But the doctor refuses further life-sustaining treatment. When you ask why, you are told, in effect, "The time has come for your mother to die. All we will provide is comfort care." Sound far-fetched? It's not. It's already happening. Just as doctors once hooked people up to machines against their will, now many bioethicists advocate that doctors be permitted to refuse life-sustaining treatment that a patient wants but that they deem "futile" or "inappropriate." Alarmingly, hospitals in California and throughout the country have begun to implement these "futile-care" policies that state, in effect: "We reserve the right to refuse service." Medical and bioethics journals for several years kept up a drumbeat advocating the implementation of medical futility policies that hospitals -- for obvious reasons -- don't publicize. The mainstream news media have generally ignored the threat. As a consequence, members of the public and their elected representatives remain in the dark as "futilitarians" become empowered to hand down unilateral death sentences. Indeed, futile-care policies are implemented so quietly that no one knows their extent. No one has made a systematic study of how many patients' lives have been lost or whether futile-care decisions were reached according to hospital policies or the law. The idea behind futile care goes like this: The patient wants life- sustaining treatment; the physician does not believe the quality of the patient's life justifies the costs to the health institution or the physical and emotional burdens of care; therefore, the doctor is entitled to refuse further treatment (other than comfort care) as "futile" or "inappropriate." Treatments withheld under this policy might include antibiotics to treat infection, medicines for fever reduction, tube feeding and hydration, kidney dialysis or ventilator support. Of course, physicians have never been -- nor should they be -- required to provide medical interventions that provide no medical benefit. For example, if a patient demands chemotherapy to treat an ulcer, the physician should refuse. Such a "treatment" would have no medical benefit. But this kind of "physiological futility," as it is sometimes called, is not what modern futile-care theory is all about.

Moral Dilemma of Atticus in To Kill A Mocking Bird Essay examples -- e

In Harper Lee's novel To Kill A Mockingbird the protagonist Scout face offenses by others because of her father's justice for defending an African American in court. Scout Finch lives with her brother Jem, and their father Atticus, in the sleepy town of Maycomb during the Great Depression. As Atticus, the father of the protagonist faces the moral dilemma in chapter 29-30 of the incident with Bob Ewell. Atticus moral dilemma will reveal his character and his beliefs. Bob Ewell attempted to hurt Atticus children in order to get revenge on Atticus for defending the African American who was accused of raping his daughter in court. Atticus has a hard time of choosing whether to tell the town that Bob Ewell died of an accident, or his son or Boo Radley killed Bob Ewell. Atticus is a famous lawyer in Maycomb and he believes in legal justice. Atticus learns what had really happened from Scout?s explanation of what she had seen, and heard when Bob Ewell attacked them while walking back from the school play. He understood that Bob Radley killed Bob Ewell in order to save Jem?s life. Atticus does not want to send Boo to court for the fact that Boo saved his children?s life. When Scout and Jem got their BB guns they wanted to shoot the mockingbird, when Atticus said, Well, It?d be sort of like shootin? a mockingbird, wouldn?t it He explains that it is a sin to shoot mockingbirds because they do not harm us. Boo Radley is just like the mockingbird he stays inside and does not harm others, instead he saves Atticus children. Sending Boo to court would be like shooting a mockingbird. That is a sad house? he always spoke nicely to me, no matter what folks said he did. Miss Maudie Said. When Jem and Scout talks about the reasons Boo is... ...Scout, I couldn?t go to church and worship God if I didn?t try to help that man. Atticus would help a man if it is the right thing to do, he does not consider what people think of him, he will only be bothered if does not help, then he is going against his moral beliefs. Atticus shows his beliefs, truthfulness, and justice. Atticus moral dilemma of weather Bob Ewell died by accident, or Boo killed him in order to save Jem?s life, or Jem killed Bob in self defense has became the decision that he must face in order to tell the town what had happened. Atticus must go against his moral belief to save his children and Boo Radley. Atticus real character will be soon through his dilemma. He loves his son and he does not want Boo to go to court for saving his son. In the sleepy town of Maycomb Atticus has immense dilemma that will follow him for the rest of his life.

Columbus?s Arrival :: Christopher Columbus Essays

Columbus’s Arrival A lot of people would agree that Christopher Columbus was the founder of and first to discover America. On the other hand, people have come to the conclusion that Christopher Columbus was the worst thing that could have ever happened to America. This is the question were trying to find, would it have been better if he never even discovered this unexplored continent? Through all of my research and interviews I’ve come to this conclusion. There are to many good and bad arguments dealing with Columbus, too many to even make my own decision but here are a few things that other people in my generation have to say. Before Christopher Columbus came, life in this unexplored territory was vast and extremely empty except for the native Americans that inhabited a few separated acres of this continent. They were here before anybody they had discovered Cuba, the west coast and even the Pacific Coast of California. Life was plain and simple for the Natives, they had adequate amounts of food and water they had treatments for almost all diseases they were just fine and dandy except for the occasional tribal war over land. Soon that life was about to change and all credit is given by most to Christopher Columbus.   Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã¢â‚¬Å"First of all he never even reached America, he landed in Cuba. Second he, not personally, was the reason for thousands of Native Americans deaths†. Indigo Rodriguez. â€Å"He brought over so many diseases that there really was no chance for the natives to survive.† Cort Zimmerman. His arrival brought so many horrific things but the one that really caught my attention from what people said was that of the forcing of the Christian religion on the natives. The Spanish (Columbus), came over with a mentality of, our religion is the only one that will lead you to heaven so either you convert or we’ll kill you.   Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã¢â‚¬Å"I’m sorry to say this but if things didn’t happen the way they did, society and religion wouldn’t be as prosperous as it is today. We could still be learning how electricity works if it weren’t for him†¦ This county might not even of turned out Democratic, the Russians could of got here first and actually of prospered with a communist society.† Dimitri Boyd. I asked people of what they thought of science and evolution and the response from a majority was that of â€Å"I’m all for it, I wouldn’t have such a cool car if it wasn’t for science. Columbus?s Arrival :: Christopher Columbus Essays Columbus’s Arrival A lot of people would agree that Christopher Columbus was the founder of and first to discover America. On the other hand, people have come to the conclusion that Christopher Columbus was the worst thing that could have ever happened to America. This is the question were trying to find, would it have been better if he never even discovered this unexplored continent? Through all of my research and interviews I’ve come to this conclusion. There are to many good and bad arguments dealing with Columbus, too many to even make my own decision but here are a few things that other people in my generation have to say. Before Christopher Columbus came, life in this unexplored territory was vast and extremely empty except for the native Americans that inhabited a few separated acres of this continent. They were here before anybody they had discovered Cuba, the west coast and even the Pacific Coast of California. Life was plain and simple for the Natives, they had adequate amounts of food and water they had treatments for almost all diseases they were just fine and dandy except for the occasional tribal war over land. Soon that life was about to change and all credit is given by most to Christopher Columbus.   Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã¢â‚¬Å"First of all he never even reached America, he landed in Cuba. Second he, not personally, was the reason for thousands of Native Americans deaths†. Indigo Rodriguez. â€Å"He brought over so many diseases that there really was no chance for the natives to survive.† Cort Zimmerman. His arrival brought so many horrific things but the one that really caught my attention from what people said was that of the forcing of the Christian religion on the natives. The Spanish (Columbus), came over with a mentality of, our religion is the only one that will lead you to heaven so either you convert or we’ll kill you.   Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã¢â‚¬Å"I’m sorry to say this but if things didn’t happen the way they did, society and religion wouldn’t be as prosperous as it is today. We could still be learning how electricity works if it weren’t for him†¦ This county might not even of turned out Democratic, the Russians could of got here first and actually of prospered with a communist society.† Dimitri Boyd. I asked people of what they thought of science and evolution and the response from a majority was that of â€Å"I’m all for it, I wouldn’t have such a cool car if it wasn’t for science.

Daimler-Chrysler: Post Merger News Analysis

1. The merger was expected to result in synergy from which attributes of each organization? With the merger, both profitable automobile companies, will have the opportunity to benefit from the potential of each other. They had both identified opportunities to increase sales, to create new markets for both while being able to expand their markets in new countries, to reduce purchasing costs and to realize enconomies of scale. The synergy would drive to product integration and ensure sharing of innovation, knowledge, technologies and ideas.At the time of the merger, Daimler Benz had close to 1% of the American Market, which Chrysler could aid them with this problem. Chrysler also wanted to enter into the European market, which Daimler Benz could help sell Chrysler products at their distribution centers in Europe. Mutually, the two companies expected to exploit on retail sales, purchasing, distribution, product design and research and development. And last but not least, Chryslerâ€℠¢s Dream Team was an attribute that could be beneficial to the merger. It could work as an innovative addition to Daimler Benz to help them find ways to expand a limited Daimler Benz market. . What were the issues/problems encountered after the merger. One of the main problems with the merger was the cultural clash between management and work styles. Even thou they had fairly equal number of members of the board of management, the integration efforts lacked between the Americans and the Germans. They clearly had differences in management styles, processes, cultures and work styles, which resulted in an abyss between the two. Other issue encountered was the mocking and thought from Daimler Benz that Chrysler was low quality and poor in technology.This rejection reflected in a tangible manifestation of the growing separation when Daimler refused to offer Chrysler vehicles at their distribution centers for fear of ruining their image. This had been an essential key in planning for Chry sler to enter into the Europe market. Although they were clear that strict guidelines segregated the Daimler and Chrysler brands, synergies were expected from joint administrative functions, market research, vehicle and spare parts logistics, and wholesale operations. With this rejection, this wasn’t happening. They needed to work upon effective communication and overcome their cultural differences. . What went well with the merger? Although this companies underestimated the level of cultural difficulties they had to face in order to be successful, and in 2001 the merger resulted in the biggest lost in German business history, the beginning of the merger was well received by the public. Over the first years, the share price from DaimlerChrysler rose significantly, indicating that the public speculated that this merger could be good for all parties and the new company would be considered to have the potential to revolutionize the automobile industry.Also, management at the top level agreed and was on board to making the merger be successful. Management starting sharing plants and parts as to saving huge amounts of money. Furthermore, management agreed on cutting expenses such as fixed manufacturing cost and material costs. By the nine-month period, net income and revenues had increased 12 per cent. Operating profit had improved by 15 per cent. Clearly, the results are attained were higher than expected, therefore, this were some beneficial aspects of the merger. . Discuss the historical background that has most influenced Germany. It is said that countries, much like individuals, are influenced by their experiences. Therefore, one could say that the most influential historical events that have affected Germany and transformed the country to what it is today are: 1) its role in the first and second World Wars, 2) related periods of extreme inflation, and 3) the â€Å"economic miracle† phenomenon of the post-WWII reconstruction of what was then West Germany.Every single one of these circumstances has had huge impact in German’s character in general: in the way Germans reason and behave. One example is how due to the hardships associated with wars, the fear and uncertainty, and the economic challenges of inflation, that Germans tend to be really risk averse, skeptical about organization and order, prefers security and structure and are way perfectionists. They are really focused when they want to achieve something and take pride on a job well done and highly performed. All this istory from 1914’s until present day have taken part in shaping Germans to what they are today and their beliefs. 2. What are some of the cultural dimensions that have shaped German management? Some of Hoftede’s and GLOBE cultural characteristics and dimensions are discussed in the reading to help explain the significant elements in the German culture that have shaped their management. The most significant elements in the German cult ure are: their high levels of uncertainty avoidance, assertiveness and individualism, and low levels of humane orientation and power distance.According to Hofstrede, Germany’s power distance scores a 35. It is highly decentralized, which is supported by a strong middle class. They believe in a flatter organizational structure. A very good example is their welfare system. A direct and participative communication and meeting style is common, control is disliked and leadership is challenged to show expertise and best accepted when it’s based on it. Another dimension is individualism. Germany scores a 67 on the Hofstede scale making it one of the most individualistic countries in the world.In Individualist societies people are supposed to look after themselves and their direct family only. They are not team-oriented but rather task-oriented. They are better at following rules than managing personal relationships and being perceived as kind or nice. Germans are also honest to a fault about an individual’s mistake, but will give that individual a fair chance to learn from those mistakes as well. Another important dimension is that which indicates if a society is driven by competition, achievement and success: masculinity/femininity.According to Hofstede, Germany scores a 67 on the masculine/feminine scale, therefore is considered to be a more masculine society. Germans tend to value competition and high standard of quality. Are considered to be perfectionists and a highly trained workforce. Managers are decisive and assertive. Due to the hardships and uncertainties of war and economic struggles, Germans score a 65 in terms of uncertainty avoidance and risk aversion. This means German leaders prefer deductive approaches to planning and thinking. Germs like to be told what to do therefore; a systematic verview has to be given in order to proceed. This deductive way of thinking coupled with the low power distance, results in Germans to prefer compe nsating for their high uncertainty by strongly relying on expertise. And last but not least, Germans have a low Long Term Orientation, scoring a 31 on the Hofstede scale. Germans prefer quick results as well as a social pressure to keep up with the competition. In terms of management, Germans are impatient for achieving quick results and attain better and faster products than the competition. Germans do take pride in a job well done.All these cultural dimensions take part in defining and shaping German management and leadership. 3. Discuss in detail the leadership framework in Germany. The German culture focuses a great deal on the importance of knowing business unlike Americans that focus more on self-knowledge, cultural awareness and business acumen. German leaders are more specific and concentrated in a certain area (â€Å"Fuhrung durch Fachwissen†). They are usually prepared to focus and in a specific subject matter since their power base of leaders is in their expertise rather than experience.It is known that German leadership strives on competency and expertise. As a result, German managers tend to be less able to develop effective visions for their organizations. Their fundamental mode of operation is that â€Å"Deliver Quality and your business will succeed. † They are well known for their organization and management but lack skills as innovators. In this way, Germans struggle to expand their businesses in creative and innovative ways. Also, German leader does believe in communication, which is to be very direct and straightforward.Germans desire a very structured framework in that each person should have clearly stated goals and objectives that will work for the overall success of the organization. For this reason, German leaders act as role models rather than bosses. They are very hand-on and translate their goals into actions hence, participate in the work processes (â€Å"Stellvertreter†). They are not team-oriented and are hig h in uncertainty avoidance therefore makes German leaders to lack flexibility and difficult to them to cope with today’s fast-moving global business environment.The current economic challenges Germany faces forces German leaders to focus on three critical areas upon improvement: 1) revise and asses in a broad non-technical manner, 2) focus on vision and attempt to take greater risks and set more visionary strategies, and 3) develop more well-rounded leaders with the strategic and interpersonal skills side. 4. Knowing more of the culture in Germany and the US, discuss the steps you would have recommended to the management to prevent the cultural issues for the Daimler Chrysler merger.The cultural clashes amongst USA and German cultures were the hardest thing to put together and make it work, which caused the merger to fail. As a result of the differences, the perceptions of both companies and their communication and understanding were never fair and transparent, causing tensio n and problems between the two. By making assignments and decisions fair across the board, the cultural differences could have been assuaged through increased communication channels and meetings.A clearer task description matrix could have been beneficial in the understanding of who was in charge of what and should consult whom. Since the beginning, it was sort of a game of putting and taking out people from job positions along with resignations. Their differences in management styles, processes, and cultural work styles, amongst other differences should have been discussed since the beginning and reaching a consensus was needed. For example, the problem caused because Americans did not want to use weekends to fly on or out for weekly meetings.This is the type of problem that could have been evaded with better communication, planning and understanding of each other’s cultural preferences and work styles. Another aspect that affected the merger and should have been evaded was their goals and expectations of the merger. None were clear and discussed before the merger. A thorough plan and goals should have been discussed previous unifying. It was not clear how both would help each other achieve what desired. There was not a concrete plan. ————————————————-

Education Opens Doors

â€Å"Education opens doors†. Do you agree? I strongly agree that education opens doors. Education provides us with the opportunity to learn new skills and to meet new people in order to share ideas and discover and develop new concepts. For people, it opens up a world of opportunities, reduces the burden of disease and poverty, and gives greater voice in society. For nations, it opens doors to economic and social prosperity, spurred by a dynamic workforce and well –informed citizenry able to compete and cooperate in the global arena.Education can be the difference between a life of grinding poverty and the potential for a full and secure one; between a child dying from preventable disease, and families raised in healthy environments; between orphans growing up in isolation, and the community having the means to protect them; between countries ripped apart by poverty and conflict, and access to secure and sustainable development. The education and skills we acquire affe ct all aspects of our lives.They have a decisive influence on our ability to find and keep a job, our capacity to take part in society, our social status and self-esteem, our family relationships and our ability to help our children through school. Better educated and more skilled people are more likely to be in work, earn more and contribute more productively to the local economy and community. Knowledge and skills provide individuals with their surest route into work and prosperity, helping to eradicate the causes of poverty and division in society.Education must also recognise that for particular minority groups other factors including discrimination, contribute to underachievement and compound its effects. Today, the value of education, in general, is highly underestimated. Education has minor as well as major purposes. However, the importance of education is quite clear. Education is the knowledge of putting one’s potentials to maximum use. A human being is not in the pr oper sense until he is educated. The importance of education is basically for two reasons. The first is that the training of a human mind is not complete without education.Education makes man ideas have background and supporting facts to whatever theories he has. We are capable of making sound decisions when we have resourceful information. When you are exposed to different ways of thinking and other perspectives, you are more likely to make a decision based on some forethought. And the second is that only through the attainment of education, are we enabled to receive information from the external world; to acquaint us with past history and receive all necessary information regarding the present.Without education, it is as though we are in a closed room with just one window to look out of and one door. Education is a great tool for our self enhancement. It gives us a sneak peek at the cultures and values of the world. Subjects like history, politics, religion and humanities can make s us much more accommodating, sympathetic to other cultures, race and religion resulting in a better bond among international communities.By learning about others values make us able to perform at our best latter in our life contributing to sound political, business related or economic decisions; it also gives us the readiness to work internationally or even locally in a diverse work force. Math and science classes give us the more than just a few basic skills to run the accounting of our life. Math and its deeper studies can help us to becoming good engineers, architects or accountants. Science and its deeper studies can lead us to contribute to the advancement of technology in the new millennium.In conclusion, education fills up the empty ignorant minds to bring about positive changes, which affect individuals, society, nations and then the world as a whole. Until we learn we don't know the benefit of learning; until we achieve knowledge we don't realize how ignorant we were. The world without education would be a world full of disorder. Therefore, to be successful in this life we must carry on the pursuit of enhancing our skills and knowledge through the virtue of education. That is why I want to study medicine in order for me to have a better future and more opened doors.

Pamphlet analysis Essay

The purpose of this film pamphlet is to influence and persuade as much people as people to watch the film. The pamphlet also briefly describes what the film is going to be about. This pamphlet attempts to do these things by visual, layout and language features to achieve its purpose. A visual feature that helps to achieve its purpose is colour which is all over the film pamphlet. Colours may be used to create a feeling or mood depending on the context. In this particular film pamphlet, the colours have been put together to establish a romantic feel. The two most obvious colours on the cover of the film pamphlet are the orange of the title and the red of the chilli. These two colours are clearly creating a romantic sense. The tone of the title is quite light and that helps emphasise the feel of the advertisement for the title is called A Touch of Spice. Having a light tone makes it seem as though the title was written out with orange spices and supports the word touch in the title which means a small amount in this context. The large chilli on the front of the cover is highly saturated. The red on the chilli is of a high degree of purity and that helps the advertisement gain the attention of consumers and also creates a romantic feel in this context. Red in this ad can be seen as an allusion because red is a very popular colour on Valentines Day [http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=l43rqt12KcE] which is seen as a very romantic day where many people buy cards and flowers and even plan special occasions for the ones they love. The many colours on this pamphlet achieve their purpose by creating a romantic feeling or mood and that will hopefully lure many people who like romantic films to watch this particular film. Another visual feature that helps to achieve its purpose is the font sizes and writing style of the text on the film pamphlet. Font sizes and styles can be used to help create a sense or mood by doing things such as looking if as though the writing were done in blood, this would create a sense of horror or danger. The title A Touch of Spice on the film pamphlet is the most large and clear because of its background. The title is usually in the largest font and in this case, it is no different. This is used to hopefully gain the attention of the consumer to come and watch the film or pick up the pamphlet. The title is written in a very natural way so it makes it seem as  though someone had put some spices on a table and written the titles out with their finger. It is quite cleat that the font is not times new roman because there are lines that are sticking out of the letters which creates the effect that to make it seem as though as if it were written. By having the title in such a way it creates a mysterious and exotic feel. On the back of the film pamphlet, there is a small section of writing where it is obvious that it is in a foreign language. The small section in a different language almost guarantees that the film will be from another country. Using this technique, it will be able to attract as much viewers as possible who like foreign films and in turn achieve its purpose. A very effective technique on this particular film pamphlet would be the logo. A logo can be used to help the advertisement gain the attention from consumers such as the Sony logo on one of their products. The logo on their product would tell the consumer that the product was at a very high quality because of their reputation. On this particular film pamphlet, a logo or badge has been put in the corner of it saying that is was the no.1 film at the Greek box office for an amazing 7 weeks. This would assure many viewers that the film would be good because of its great performance in Greek. The logo achieves its purpose by hopefully building a good reputation, which the quotes on the back of the pamphlet also do, so it is able to lure as much viewers as possible to watch the film. A language technique that is used on this particular film pamphlet is repetition. Repetition is often used to help send a message across to a viewer and help them to remember the message that was put across. Repetition is ubiquitously found on the cover of the film pamphlet. The theme of spices and food is found all over the cover of the film pamphlet in simple sentences. Cinnamon is bitter and sweet, just like a womanA beautiful, touching romance that will leave you craving for moreSalt is used as needed to spice up ones lifePepper is hot and scorches, just like the sunAll of these sentences, which are all found on the front cover, refer to a theme of spices and food and then link the food to another subject such as a woman or life. The  repetition on this film pamphlet is attempting to reinforce the title A Touch of Spice which emphasises the fact that the film is a romantic film and would leave them craving for more. The repetitive messages of spices and links to romance would have been received by the viewer and so achieves its purpose so enticing them to come and watch the film. Another language technique used on this film pamphlet is adjectives. Products and services are usually described with adjectives to hopefully appeal to consumers to purchase the product. In this particular case, adjectives are not used to describe the film itself but to describe other things which the film is relating to. The film pamphlet compares spices to things such women. Cinnamonis better and sweet just like a womanPepper is hot and scorches, just like the sunBoth of these quotes contain adjectives to describe spices and link them to romantic themes. The second quote links pepper to the sun where they say both are hot. This creates a sense of passion and exoticness to viewers so they understand that this film is a romantic one. Another language feature that is used to help the film pamphlet achieve its purpose is persuasive language. Persuasive language helps to convince consumers by using powerful and effective language to hopefully get people to buy the product. On the back of the film pamphlet, there are four quotes from people who seemed to have watched the movie and enjoyed it. A film of international standards and genuine emotionis undoubtedly one of the best gastronomic movies I have seen.an intensely moving experienceAll these quotes are the reviews or opinions of those who have already watched the film. The people who created this particular chose these reviews because it is their opinion that the film is of a very high quality. By getting the message through to the consumer that the film is actually good, more people would be interested to watch the movie so the film pamphlet has achieved its purpose. A layout technique which has been used on this film pamphlet is text boxes. Text boxes are usually used in ads to help make the ad easier to read and to  help all of the text to stand out. For this film pamphlet, there are many text boxes because there are many sections of text on the back with equal importance. On the back of the film pamphlet, there are many quotes which praise the film and the advertisers would have wanted to make sure that the viewers did not miss that section. The blurb is also in a text box and that is where the creators of the film give their own description of the film and where they give their own praise. Boxes have not been only to help text to be read more easily but also for images to stand out. Since there are many pictures on the back cover of the film pamphlet, they can be made more easily seen and recognised if they are in boxes. Text boxes have been effectively used in this film pamphlet to help important information to be unmissed and easily read and that is how they achieve their purpose. The film pamphlet is created to help attract as much viewers as possible to watch their movie. The film pamphlet attempts to do so by using visual, language and layout techniques to help inform people that the film is of a high quality so they can persuade as many people as possible. bibliography: pamphlet 1994

Human Resource Information Systems

INTRODUCTION Office automation has become a reality. Stand-alone personal computers are universally used for word processing, and spread sheets have become the workhorses of office life. As a result, electronic records are being created virtually everywhere in the world. Wherever computers are used to carry out a function records are being generated. Records provide the primary evidence of how the functions of public administration are carried out. They are the building blocks of accountability.In a growing number of organizations human resources are now viewed as a source of competitive advantage. There is greater recognition that distinctive competencies are obtained through highly developed employee skills, distinctive organizational cultures, management processes, and systems. Increasingly, it is being recognized that competitive advantage can be obtained with a high quality work force that enables organizations to compete on the basis of market responsiveness, product and servic e quality, differentiated products, and technological innovation.The effective management of human resources in a firm to gain a competitive advantage in the marketplace requires timely and accurate information on current employees and potential employees in the labour market. With the evolution of computer technology, meeting this information requirement has been greatly enhanced through the creation of HRIS. A basic assumption is that the effective management of employee information for decision makers will be the critical process that helps.A HRIS is concerned with activities related to employees and potential employees of the organization. Because the human resources function relates to all other functional areas in the business, the HRIS plays a valuable role in ensuring organizational success. Some of the activities performed by the HRIS are workforce analysis and planning, hiring, training, job and task assignment and many other personnel related issues (Stair R,2006,241). TH E EVOLUTION OF HRISIn the 1980s, office automation began to appear on the landscape, and HRIS were developed as a special category of office automation systems (OAS). At first it seemed the emphasis was on developing systems as cheaply as possible. The replacement of people with software was seen as the main advantage. Rather than have HR managers maintain extensive employee records, data-entry technicians would enter data once into a system and update records as necessary. Today, however, HRIS would be more accurately viewed as a hybrid of several classical types of information systems.Along with OAS capabilities, current HRIS include features of transaction processing systems (TPS), decision support systems (DSS) and communication systems. HRIS may comprise stand-alone software for any of the primary areas of use for information systems in HR management. These areas include employee record management, compensation and benefits, recruitment and retention, training and development, performance appraisal, and promotion and succession planning.It became evident as HRIS took hold in the corporate culture that a quality HRIS could provide valuable information to the organization in managing one of its most valuable assets: the organization’s human resources. As top management began to put pressure on HR managers to use HRIS, it was becoming clear that by collecting and processing more and more information in a timely manner, the value added was in the use of the data in decision making and not in the actual system used for collection and storage.This evolution has resulted in firms being able to leverage HRIS for administrative and strategic competitive advantage. WHY THE NEED FOR HRIS IN HUMAN RESOURCE MANAGEMENT Using HRIS gives firms several benefits. They include the following: †¢Providing a comprehensive information picture as a single, integrated database; this enables organizations to provide structural connectivity across units and activities a nd to increase the speed of information transactions. Increasing competitiveness by improving HR operations and management processes †¢Collecting appropriate data and converting them to information and knowledge for improved timeliness and quality of decision making †¢Producing a greater number and variety of accurate and real-time HR-related reports †¢Streamlining and enhancing the efficiency and effectiveness of HR administrative functions †¢Shifting the focus of HR from the processing of transactions to strategic HRM †¢Reengineering HR processes and functions Improving employee satisfaction by delivering HR services more quickly and accurately TYPES OF HUMAN RESOURCES INFORMATION SYSTEMS Although there are multiple classifications of computer-based systems, these the most basic types of systems that are most readily applied to the HR context and for use within an HRIS Transaction Processing Systems: Managers need systems that keep track of the elementary activities and transactions of the organization such as payroll, sales, receipts, cash deposits and the flow of material in an organization. Transaction processing system provides this kind of information.This is a computerized system that performs and records the daily routine transactions necessary to conduct business such as employee record keeping and payroll. This type of system is used as operational level and at this level tasks, resources and goals are predefined and highly structured (Laudon K, 2012,76). When using a transaction processing system for payroll processing, a payroll system keeps track of money paid to employees. An employees’ time sheet with their number of hours worked per week is an example of a single transaction.The system also supplies data to the business on employee payment history for insurance, pension and other benefit calculations to the firms human resources function. The overall aim of this system is to improve transaction speed and accurac y, improve efficiency in the processing of daily business transactions, automate routine transactions and reduce transaction costs Management Information System: This type of system serves the level of middle management and provides managers with reports on the organizations current performance.This information can be used to monitor and control the business and predict future performance. This system summarizes and reports on the company’s basic operations using data from the transaction processing systems. The basic transaction data is compressed and usually presented in the form of reports that are produced on a regular schedule and many of these reports can today be found online. Management information systems serve managers primarily interested in weekly, monthly and yearly results.These systems are also used to answer routine questions that have been specified in advance and have a predefined procedure for answering them as opposed to sophisticated mathematical models o r statistical techniques (Laudon K, 2012,77-78). The main focus of this system is to provides key data to managers, supports regular and on-going decisions as well as provides defined and ad-hoc reporting. Decision support systems: In contrast to management information systems this system supports more non- routine decision making. They focus on problems that are unique and rapidly changing.For which the procedure for arriving at a solution may not be fully predefined in advance. Although this system uses internal information from both the above systems they often bring in data from external sources such as prices of competitors (Laudon K, 2012, 78) These systems use a variety of models to analyse the data and are designed so that users can work with them directly. The systems main concern is to provide interactive managerial decision making, support forecasting and â€Å"what-if† analysis and support business simulations.It can be used to assess staffing needs, analyse the l abour market and assess employee skills Executive support systems: Helps senior managers address questions like what will the employment level be in five years? They deal with non-routine decisions requiring judgement, evaluation and insight because there is no agreed procedure for arriving at a solution. This system presents graphs and data from many sources through an interface that is easy for senior managers to use.These systems are designed to incorporate data about external events such as new tax laws or competitors but they also use summarized information from internal management information systems and decision support systems (Laudon K, 2012, 80). The primary focus of this system is to provide aggregate high-level data, to helps managers with long term planning and support strategic direction and decisions. It can be used to assist HR managers with succession planning which means having a systematic process where managers identify, assess and develop their staff to make sur e they are ready to assume key roles within the company.Enterprise resource planning systems: are used to integrate business processes in human resources as well as manufacturing and production, finance and accounting and sales and marketing into a single system. Information that was previously separated into many different systems is stored into a single comprehensive system where it can be used in many different parts of the business. Managers are able to use firm-wide information to make more precise and timely decisions about daily operations and long term planning as well as share data across functional boundaries (Laudon K, 2012, 81).ADVANTAGES AND DISADVANTAGES OF HRIS SYSTEMS Widespread Access Traditionally, records and archives have been created and maintained in paper form as physical objects. Their physical state limits access to a specific time and place: only one person can use a record at one time and only in one physical location. Producing multiple copies is expensiv e and time consuming, requiring access to photocopiers or printers. Duplication also leads to confusion about which of many versions of a document is the official record.Electronic records, on the other hand, can be shared widely and they can be accessed and used by several people at the same time, even if they are in different places. In environments where resources are scarce or distances are great, the ability to provide access to information without the boundaries of time or space can dramatically improve service, increase information sharing and enhance operations. In some countries, for example, the ability to share an electronic record among government offices in different parts of the country saves money and time.Copying and mailing or faxing documents across thousands of miles can become prohibitively expensive and can slow down operations and delay decisions and actions. But even in some less developed countries, governments today are installing computers in community outp osts in rural, underdeveloped areas so that people in the area can keep abreast of government activities and world events. Flexibility HRIS enhance flexibility in the creation, storage, use and management of information and records. In a paper environment, records are created, received and filed in one office, and they accumulate in one place.Electronic records can be stored remotely or on CD’s or flash discs, allowing people to share records and use their information resources more dynamically. Because so many people in an organisation can have access to electronically stored records at the same time, they can carry out their duties without being hindered by a lack of information. They also have better access to more up-to-date information, since they can access data such as electronic records on employees or databases directly. Efficiency and EffectivenessThe use of information technologies improves information handling and allows for the speedy retrieval of records and inf ormation through electronic search facilities. As a result, policy makers can make informed decisions quickly and efficiently, contributing to the effectiveness of the organisation. Further, when the retrieval of records and information happens swiftly and decisions are made on time, the image of the organisation improves as it is seen to be reliable, capable and responsive to the needs of its clients or the public.Certainly, if someone knows where records are stored, whether in paper or electronic form, he or she can retrieve them in good time, but too often knowledge about where manual records can be found maybe held by only one person in the organisation, and if he or she is not available then access to records is delayed. And once the volume of records reaches a certain point, no one person can ‘remember’ where everything is. Well-designed HRIS will facilitate easy retrieval of electronic information, improving the speed and quality of service.Economic Benefits In t he paper environment where records are physical objects, their accumulation requires ever-increasing amounts of space, including office space, shelves, filing cabinets and storage boxes. Several staff members may be needed to carry out routine procedural work such as filing documents and retrieving boxes. Through the use of new technologies, organisations are able to economise in terms of storage space, as HRIS can store large volumes of data and records in a small physical space.Database management systems, electronic mail systems, web and multimedia software programs are all good examples of information technologies that can store far more information than traditional paper records storage systems. In a well-managed organisation, it is also possible to manage staff resources more effectively. Much of the day-to-day work of filing and retrieval will be done by officers throughout the organisation as part of their daily routine, leaving time for other staff to participate more activ ely in activities such as appraisal.General Business Opportunities The professional image of an organisation can be enhanced by improved information flow, and the organisation may be able to take on more complex work because it is more efficient and cost-effective. HRIS can improve communications, reduce the loss of essential information, speed up the completion of projects and increase public awareness of the organisation. The use of technologies also exposes organisations to communities outside of their normal client base, locally, regionally, nationally and internationally.Auditing Capabilities Well-designed records and document management systems also allow an organisation to regulate and oversee actions and decisions. Many HRIS include mechanisms to maintain audit trails, encouraging more accountable record keeping and promote compliance across the organisation. HRIS Disadvantages An HRIS also can be a problematic for small businesses in which some employees must wear many hats . If your company isn’t big enough to have a dedicated human resources technology specialist, consider outsourcing.Some of the disadvantages of an HRIS involve human error during information input, costly technology to update your system and malfunctions or insufficient applications to support your human resources needs. There is a demand for computer and technology specialists with general information technology knowledge, and finding a qualified specialist with human resources functional area knowledge can be difficult. With such a demand, your cost to hire an HRIS specialist may be far above the average salary for a computer technology specialist.The cost per-hire for another employee in a specialized field may be a stretch for some small businesses. CONCLUSION It is obvious as we move into the 21st century that data will drive an increasing number of business decisions and strategies. HRIS is an excellent example of an area where businesses can capitalize not only on admi nistrative cost savings, but also on leveraging a strategic advantage through information gathering, processing, and sharing.Despite certain potential pitfalls, it appears that HRIS are now today’s cutting-edge software for effective human resources management. We are only now beginning to realize the potential not only within the HR function, but organization-wide. What was once a future vision is reality and HR managers should jump aboard immediately. If they do not, the train is about to pick up speed rapidly, and they will be left behind. |