Immigration and Asylum Law Essay Example | Topics and Well Written Essays - 3500 words

Immigration and Asylum Law - Essay Example In Singh it was held members states were not entitled to apply their own national immigration laws so that an alien worker from another member state who legitimately exercised the right of free movement of workers in another member state. If national laws could be applied, workers who were EU nationals could not avail themselves of the right to freely move and work within the EU.5 The UK’s European Communities Act 1972 as amended by the European Union Act 2008 (hereinafter EC Act) ensures that the UK cannot apply its immigration policies and laws in a way that compromises the EU’s law relative to facilitating the free movement of workers within the EU. ... Article 8 provides for respect for one’s family and private life.7 Article 14 of the Convention provides that confers upon minors the right to Convention rights and forbids discriminatory treatment on the grounds of nationality.8 The Convention rights became a part of UK law by virtue of the Human Rights Act 1998, Section 1.9 Moreover, Section 2 of the Human Rights Act 1998 directs UK courts to interpret national laws in a way that gives effect to Convention rights.10 Therefore the effects of Articles 8 and 14 on the UK’s immigration policies were observed in Zhu and Chen. In this case it was obvious that a pregnant Chinese mother deliberately immigrated to the UK with the intention that her unborn child would be born in the UK and obtain the right to remain in the UK in the long term. However it was held that, only in extraordinary circumstances would a national exercising the rights of free movement of workers in the EU would be regarded as an abuse of the law. If the acquisition of those rights were conducted in ways that were legitimate it would not be regarded as an abuse of the laws.11 The ECHR can also compromise the UK’s decision to deport illegal immigrants. Guiraudon and Lahav explain that by virtue of Articles and 8 of the ECHR, immigrants can challenge deportation orders by member states.12 As observed, Article 8 relates to protection of private and family life. Article 3 relates to protection from cruel and unusual treatment and punishment. In this regard, Article 8 may be successful in challenging an expulsion order where the adult subject to a deportation order has a child in the UK or a member state who was born in the host state. By applying Article 8, the ECJ previously ruled against the execution of an expulsion

Temporary Assistance to Needy Families Program Essay Example for Free

Temporary Assistance to Needy Families Program Essay The Temporary Assistance to Needy Families (TANF) program was a direct response to overhaul the image of welfare programs. In 1996, it replaced such programs as Aid to Families with dependent Children (AFDC), the Job Opportunity and Basic Skills training program (JOBS) and the Emergency Assistance Program (EA). The objective of TANF was to implement useful policies from the previous three programs and present an effective welfare plan based not only on needs but presentation of policies that involved job preparation and improving conditions for work and a stable marriage (About TANF). The goals of this program are further summarized including assistance to needed families so that the children can be cared for at homes, promotion of social opportunities, prevention of out-of-wedlock pregnancies and encouraging the maintenance of two parent families. To achieve its objective, the US government adjusted the system to be administered through various State, territories and tribal agencies instead of a direct supervision by the Federal government. The primary reason for such a decision was to distribute the program funding in a more effective manner and hold each regulating body responsible for fulfilling the objectives of TANF. For this very purpose, the TANF Bureau was formed which comprises of five separate divisions including a Division of State TANF Policy dedicated to role out policies and guidance; Division of State and Territory TANF Management to provide technical assistance; Division of Data Collection Analysis that deals with the statistical analysis of the collected data; Division of Tribal TANF Management which deals with all aspects of tribal matters pertaining to the program and TANF Bureau Regional Program Units that provides technical and management links between the State and other administration blocks. Difference in Policies What differentiates this welfare program for its predecessors is the fact that TANF ends the open ended requirement of AFDC for automatic assistance but instead provides grants based on work requirements for a majority of recipients. It also initiates a time limit for the distribution of grant in order to stop the otherwise ineffective distribution and dependence on State’s funding. Under a unified umbrella of policies, TANF has implemented different policies to better answer the critics of welfare system by designing new rules for qualification and introducing time constraints to prevent future generation from such grants by helping them gain financial freedom. Almost every aspect of old system is challenged by proposing new policies for child care, legal immigrants, food stamp program and Supplementary Security Income. While TANF is not a perfect program but it will not be an oversimplification to state that the wide ranging implications of introducing new and useful policies are much better than the previous stand-alone program. Although, it should well be recognized that TANF is basically just another system of a perceived welfare State that is America but it definitely provides future policymakers a model for improvements in the existing TANF and related welfare programs. Benefits One of such benefits under TANF is eliminating homelessness for people who are in desperate need. It is important to note that most participants who used to get homelessness assistance in previous programs without restrictions are not eligible under TANF. For a person to take such assistance, TANF requires that the benefits allotted to a participant must be designed to deal with crisis situation and it must only be for four months. Such rules provide credence to the idea that the State funds will not be over utilized by mass and if work conditions improve for homeless people, they would be able to better equip themselves after four months. To critics, it must be evident that TANF do provides legislations where certain people are indeed eligible for long term ongoing assistance with the housing that can extend beyond five years but it too instructs participants to actively involve in work and assign their child support rights to the State. These provisions are in exclusion to the other basic requirements for TANF. There are numerous States and related agencies that have successfully implemented the homelessness program to allow their residents settle down. Almost half of the States are providing short term assistance to people needing short term rental assistance, support for a solution to eviction and utility shut off (Jennifer, 2001). These also include emergency housing shelters as well as temporary shelter. Looking objectively into such type of assistance we can draw conclusions that the State is supporting the idea of a true welfare State by not relying on using welfare money solely for homelessness but instead distribute grants to a variety of aspects that may not have a stigma of welfare related to them. Drawbacks On the contrary time limits and such constraints do provide sustenance to the cause of TANF but it is clear from several studies including the of Urban Institute that there is a constant need for regular upgrading of the program. According to the statistics, more than 50 percent of the participants who have received welfare in the past are now working in low income jobs without any benefits at all. Still more concerning are figures which indicates that most of the parents who received funding and were able to find work have now been laid of due to the economic recession and high unemployment rates. This act has resulted in their ineligibility to receive any more funding from the program for another five years (Temp Assistance). Therefore, the committee recommended that there should be a clean long term extension of the prevailing laws so that families in need of welfare should not only be depended on welfare but rather be able to support themselves in the long run. Official Public View of the success of TANF Some of the States such as District of Columbia are trying to establish a coherent program by involving public in its annual budget meetings. Such a meeting took place in March 2009, where members of the public provided their opinion on how to better administer the funds. From the public remarks, it seems that there is a wide held belief that any welfare should not just be a temporary relief but supplement the future of the participant. The director of Human Services which oversees the DC TANF program was of the view that their TANF program should bring the people in workforce and support them to be self sufficient before taking them off welfare (Greg). His remarks were coherent with the level of TANF assistance and funds didn’t rise with inflation which has made it difficult for the participants to support their children. The committee further states that the State budget didn’t take into account COLA which has resulted in less aid than actually perceived. Experts now believe that the Personal Responsibility and Work Opportunity Reconciliation Act PWRORA that was introduced in 1996 is becoming a success but such a success can only be retained with constant evaluation and new policies (Turner J). In a testimony before congress in 2002, Jason Turner, responsible for domestic policy making at Heritage Foundation pointed out there was an urgent need to strengthen work requirements because the participants at that time were able to receive full funding without actively engaging in their quota of work. He insisted that the policies be made more stringent by requiring participants to come to work and cash be distributed based on the actual hours worked and not the perceived time. Furthermore, he provided evidence that the budget of TANF program can be reduced to 10 percent without disrupting all the useful funding. Such recommendations by public representatives is a clear indication of the theories as presented by social scientists who want to see a true Welfare State based on the principles of equality and opportunity. In a series of reports published by the Urban Institute, the authors proclaim that TANF’s emphasis on work has improved results for million of families but there is a need for a long term broader perspective on the issue. One such study extol the Program benefits only if Congress can reauthorize the implementation of the new policies that has made it difficult for some hard to serve groups to take full advantage of the program structure. It points out the fact that the most common employment barriers for individuals who stay on welfare or leave without work are poor health lack of recent work experience and access to higher education. The numbers provided were three years after PWRORA initiation but provided staggering figures constituting almost 35 to 50 percent of the program participants being affected (Loprest Zedelewski). Program Implementation It is a fact that various territories and tribes can not only participate in the program but are eligible to run it on their own management principles. While it is true, another report by Urban Institute submitted to the Department of Health and Human Service concluded that there were several factors which were feasible for the implementation of TANF in the tribal areas. Such factors included improvement of TANF objectives and outcomes, extension of tribal self determination, enhanced program coordination and improvement of reputation and image (Just Harvest Publications). On the other hand, it also concluded that costs, staffing problems, risk of new program and communication with State and Counties were barrier to the acceptance of such a program. The TANF is definitely a step towards realizing the goal of a true Welfare State where meaning of welfare is not imbedded in perceived images nor attributed to poor class. While it is true that there are shortcomings in the program but such limitations can adequately be addressed by constant debates, changes in policies and regular reauthorization of TANF. In his book, The Assault on Social Policy prominent social scientist William Roth describes a well balanced welfare program as the one that only provides a limited support thus promoting a desire to work (Roth, W: p. 64). In fact such a policy would have been appreciated by Michael Katz who was a fervent supporter of a welfare plan which doesn’t’ portray beneficiary as a recipient of welfare but instead someone who has the right to receive aid to support their families.

The Rejection of Vedic Sacrificial Ritual in Indian Culture :: India Culture Religion Papers

The Rejection of Vedic Sacrificial Ritual in Indian Culture My intention in this piece is to explore the development of the concepts of brahman and atman in ancient Indian culture. I intend to examine the role of the Upanisads in Vedic society and to investigate their abandonment of Vedic sacrificial ritual. I contend that the writers of the Upanisads turned towards a mystical path away from society in order to explore a viable alternate way of living that did not involve sacrificial ritual. Although the only record we have of this shift in thought is a set of philosophical discourses, I suggest that this was not solely an intellectual move. Rather, there were emotional reasons as well as logical reasons that these groups of people moved away from Vedic society in pursuit of brahman. This was a slow process that evolved over many years and although it did not banish sacrifice from Indian culture, it laid the foundation for later non-violent religious movements in India. In attempting to apply Rene Girard and Gil Bailie’s theory o f acknowledgement of the victim to an ancient Indian phenomenon, I intend to show that the Upanisadic rejection of Vedic sacrificial ritual was a significant move away from the sacrificial system upon which humanity relies so heavily. Vedic Sacrifice: Maintenance of the Universe The sacrificial system of ancient India was founded on a worldview that placed humanity in an allegorical relationship with the divine realm. The physical world of humans was seen as a smaller, mirror image of the greater world of the gods. The fundamental role of religion was to assign and perform the appropriate rites to maintain proper order in the universe. The gods required regular offerings and appeasement. Thus, a relationship with the gods required maintenance that was provided by the sacrificial ritual. Fire ceremonies and the ritual giving of offerings to the gods were common practices for the Aryan tribes that invaded the Indian sub-continent in approximately 1500 BCE. [1] Their simpler, private offering ceremonies eventually evolved into the more codified, communal, elaborate sacrificial rituals of classical Vedic culture as this new society began to grow and change. Fire itself was of central importance to this civilization and all of these rituals focused around the offertory fire. It is logical, then, that the Aryans eventually personified the fire itself and deemed it divine.

Educational Goals and Philosophy Essay -- Education Teaching Teachers

Educational Goals and Philosophy As a child, playing â€Å"school† occupied most of my time. My younger sister and I taught a bedroom full of stuffed animals and filled in imaginary names in our old school books. From the bad bears and loud bunnies to the good puppies and smart kittens, each stuffed animal possessed his or her own personality. The thought of teaching never entered into my mind when I was asked, â€Å"What do you want to be when you grow up?† Uncertain about the career field that I desired to pursue, my decisions depended upon the topics that held my interest at the time. Paleontology was the first career I decided on, then marine biology. In high school, it was mandatory that I select a career cluster in which to expand my knowledge; I chose architecture and interior design. Up until my senior year of high school, my educational goal for the future consisted of attending an architecture program at a college or university, but my mind was changed again when I developed a senior research paper and project. The topic of my paper and project was â€Å"ministry,† giving me the opportunity to teach the youth group at church and help with the younger kids during a worship service. My youth minister taught me a few teaching techniques and strategies that also broadened my interest i n teaching. Numerous experiences have influenced my decision to become a teacher. One summer I was privileged to get to go to Myrtle Beach and lead a backyard bible school for Pre-K and K aged kids at a family campground. Crating unique ways of teaching kindergarten kids with short attention spans challenges the teacher, forcing me to use my imagination. In search of opening up a Canadian child who... ...the future students are different from earlier ones. In today's classroom, kids can operate a computer while their teachers cannot, thus limiting computer access learning for students. Although they are unfamiliar with computers, many teachers are learning from their students, and are using online services to expand the learning process in the classroom. Another article explained that many of today's schools are requiring computer certification for their teachers. If teachers cannot keep up with the technology that kids are "playing" with, they will not be able to effectively teach the children of tomorrow's generation. Teaching is not just about Reading, Writing, and Arithmetic; it is the desire to make a difference in at least one child's life. By giving a child a chance at life, a teacher is giving the world a chance to become a better place.

A History of the American People

This plan that has been created to increase the level of history education in the United States sounds good. Both books that have been picked out for discussion are excellent choices that describe the history of the United States. In a reading group type of environment, there can many factors that interest the readers. It can all come down to the font of the text or something as simple as the front cover. Based on what the books have to offer though, my recommendation takes into account both parties, the readers and the teachers (being the NCHE). The teacher’s side of the party would want to offer text the accurately describes the history of the United States without leaving important facts that have changed the way the United States has formed. The readers would prefer a book with text that draws their attention and keeps it throughout the whole book’s length. I will go into detail about each book that has been chosen and describe what the main point of the context is. I will first begin with Paul Johnson’s A History of the American People. Johnson begins talking about history in the Preface. Johnson explains how he grew up learning Greek, Roman, and English history. Johnson was never taught about American history while receiving an education, whether it was his family teaching him or Oxford, American history never came up. He began to learn the History of the United States after Oxford. He first began to learn of the history of the United States though his research for his books. He wrote: A History of Christianity, A History of the Jews, Modern Times: the World from the Twenties to the Nineties, and The Birth of the Modern: World Society, 1815-1830. Johnson covers over 400 years of history in his book. He writes in a manner where he aims to make his writing readable, and wants to present the facts fully. Johnson states in the preface that â€Å"Such a fact-filled and lengthy volume as this is bound to contain errors. If readers spot any, I would be grateful if they would write to me at my private address: 29 Newton Road, London W25JR: so that they may be corrected; and if they find any expressions of mine or opinions insupportable, they are welcome to give me their comments so that I may weigh them. † This shows how Johnson is involved in what he writes and is open to change which is what makes a writer. Johnson begins his book stating that â€Å"The creation of the United States is the greatest of all human adventures. No other national story holds such tremendous lessons, for the American people themselves and for the rest of mankind. † This statement is coming from a man who first learned the history of the Greeks, Romans, and the English and then the United States history. This is a bold statement to make as the beginning of the book. It can either continue to attract the audience of the book or push them way because it makes it sound as if the entire book will contain pride in the United States and seem bias. The book is based on three questions that he asks in the first page â€Å"First, can a nation rise above the injustices of its origins and, by its moral purpose and performance, atone alone for them†¦ The second question provides the key to the first. In the process of nation-building, can ideals and altruism-the desire to build the perfect community- be mixed successfully with acquisitiveness and ambition, without which no dynamic society can be built at all?†¦ Thirdly, the Americans originally aimed to build an other-worldly ‘City on a Hill,† but themselves designing a republic of the people, to be a model for the entire planet. Have they made good their audacious claims? Have they indeed proved exemplars for humanity? And will they continue to be so in the new millennium? † Johnson relates the book to those three questions throughout the book and relates his facts with them. Johnsons ends the book having answered the three questions that he presented in the beginning. â€Å"It is appropriate to end this history of the American people on a note of success, because the story of America is essentially one of difficulties being overcome by intelligence and skill, by faith and strength of purpose, by courage and persistence. Johnson finds the Americans are â€Å"problem-solving people† which he argues is shown throughout the history of the United States. Johnson ends the book highly supporting Americans and shows his support. There are many supporters of Paul Johnson’s book. â€Å"Paul Johnson’s A History of the American People is as majestic in its scope as the country it celebrates . His theme is the men and women, prominent and unknown, whose energy, vision, courage and confidence shaped a great nation. It is a compelling antidote to those who regard the future with pessimism. – Henry A. Kissinger. The New York Times Book Review positively reviewed the book, â€Å"Arresting contentions and pieces of fascination oddball information†¦. The book also offers a rare opportunity to witness someone trying to make sense of all 400 years of American history and to discover what ‘tremendous lessons’ it holds for all Americans and ‘the rest of mankind. ’† I understand why Paul Johnson’s A History of the American People made it as a finalist to be taught to the group of Americans in order to increase of knowledge of United States history. The book was even â€Å"dedicated to the people of America— strong, outspoken, intense in their convictions, sometimes wrong-headed but always generous and brave, with a passion for justice no nation has ever matched. Now to explain Howard Zinn’s A People’s History of the United States. This book begins with attracting the audience with the cover. The color chosen for the letters on the cover include blue and red and white which in the present time represent the United States. The title of Howard Zinn’s book includes three keywords, People, History and United States. The three keywords are the central topic of what Howard Zinn talks about in A People’s History of the United States. Unlike Johnson, Howard Zinn jumps straight into facts about the beginning of the history of the United States. Johnson started with his main point in the first page but Howard Zinn begins with the history of Columbus, the Indians, and Human Progress. Howards Zinn’s main point is found on the title which allows him to begin with the history of the United States versus beginning with a opening statement like Paul Johnson did. What Howard Zinn does differently than Paul Johnson is his method of summary. Paul Johnson seems to become more involved in his summaries gives more detail and a certain subject matter and overlooking other events. Howard Zinn writes a short summary on his events and talks a little about everything. Howard Zinn gives the history of the United States without sympathizing for those who were negatively affected and does not set out the real loser and winner. † My point is not to grieve for the victims and denounce the executioners. Those tears, not anger, cast into the past, deplete our moral energy for the present. And the lines are not always clear. In the long run, the oppressor is also a victim. In the short run (and so far, human history has consisted only of short runs), the victims, themselves desperate and tainted with the culture that oppresses them, turn on other victims. † Howard Zinn will does not want make it sound as if a certain group won in the past and will not explain the failures which is what historians now call history. Howard Zinn explains this to his readers before continuing on with the book. He warns the readers of his style of writing and explains that he will not manipulate facts to seem other then they should be. Howard Zinn writes towards the ending of the book on the title. â€Å"As for the subtitle of this book, it is not quite accurate; a â€Å"people’s history† promises more than any one person can fulfill, and it is the most difficult kind of history to recapture. I call it that anyway because, with all limitations, it is a history disrespectful of governments and respectful of people’s movements of resistance.

Ingres, Jean- Auguste-Dominique essays

Ingres, Jean- Auguste-Dominique essays Art has been through many changes through as early as the middle ages to the renaissance to the French Neoclassism. Artist began to practice and show their skills to the world. The successfulness of an artist is greatly determined on how much people (wealthy individuals) hired and loved their work. Ingres, Jean-Auguste-Dominique is one of them. French Neoclassism painters were largely influenced by trends in late 18th-century Europe. However, the French Revolution inspired a unique brand of Neoclassism realism that was a strong force in French paintings. Painting nude women portraits of the history of art were popular during this period. Portraits were very expensive to commission so the only people who could afford it were the wealthy and rich people. Ingres, Jean-Auguste-Dominique, was a French painter, who was a leading figure in the neoclassical movement. Ingres was born in Montauban in the South of France on August 29, 1780. He demonstrated great talent at an early age for music and drawing and received his first instruction from his father. His father was also an artist but an unsuccessful sculptor and painter. Ingres prepared himself and entered the studio of neoclassical painter in Paris. Ingres learned to draw from his sculptor father before attending the Academy of Art in Toulouse, from 1791. In 1797 he entered Jacques Louis David's studio in Paris. He won the Prix de Rome in 1801 for his painting The Envoys from Agamemnon. The Grande Odalisque the painting that Ingres painted was a picture a women nude lying in bed. In my opinion the picture was very detailed and the skin tone of the women had different shades of skin color, the lines are blended into the picture and every line that he did was a shadow. The lightness comes from the left side while the other side is dark. In this painting he uses dark colors for the background the curtains and the bed. The womens body has shadows on her. The amazing thing about...

Doubting Leads to Success Essay

Doubting Leads to Success Essay Doubting Leads to Success Essay Doubting leads to success "Concerning the things that can be doubted" is an attractive poem because I can sense how the writer feels and what he treats the doubtful matters like what I do when questioning. The writer wants to expresses his feelings about some matters he doubted. Confused and frustrated,the writer reflected on whether the opinions were true or false regarding to the issues which others consider to be obvious. At the end of the poem,the sentence "Everything is uncertain" strongly expressed the writer's dilemma. I choose this work because I thought few students are willing to question matters now. But the writer did. A strange phenomenon around me made me confused when I was studying in China. I found the students were not questioning when they learned some new issues. They just made a note and took it for granted that all our teachers said were right. It could not be worse that a student should lose the critical thinking skill. Fortunately, when reading the poem, I fin d that the writer doesn't give up questioning, even though he gets stuck. Just like the writer, we may feel frustrated and uncertain. But it's not an excuse for us to accept issues without questioning. Questioning the matters even though there might be 99% chance that Yu 2 they are correct, will likely help us to obtain the goals we pursue. Just like the writer does. He questions the simple universal truth, the earth and the sky. It is novel to say that there is no earth and no sky. But if we do not have the courage to doubt or we do not take actions to prove our question, how can we know? Bravely doubting the matters that can be questioned may lead us to succeed. Looking back through history, all the great figures in both science and politics have the courage to doubt the theories or opinions, which were considered as truth and assumed a solid foundation in peoples' minds for a long time. This questioning allows people to take proper action and make change, which can improve our w orld.It was Columbus's courage to doubt the long time existed opinion that the earth is flat that made him sailed out to explore beyond the horizon. Also it is Roosevelt 's courage to doubt the economic liberalism widely applied at that time in America that helped him to come up with the Roosevelt New Deal. Consequently, questioning the matters that is obvious or the authority is not a crazy behavior. Don't hesitate to carry out the question you were not pretty sure. It is the spirit of doubting that makes us live better, though nobody wants to trap into thinking without any help. But if we can get over it, we may become a better person than we expected. Questioning happens first in mind,if we don't take action to test our

Wallace v. Jaffree - School Prayer Silent Meditation

Wallace v. Jaffree - School Prayer Silent Meditation Can public schools endorse or encourage prayer if they do so in the context of endorsing and encouraging silent meditation as well? Some Christians thought this would be a good way to smuggle official prayers back into the school day, but courts rejected their arguments and the Supreme Court found the practice unconstitutional. According to the court, such laws have a religious rather than a secular purpose, though all the justices had different opinions as to why exactly the law was invalid.​ Fast Facts: Wallace v. Jaffree Case Argued: Dec. 4, 1984Decision Issued: June 4, 1985Petitioner: George Wallace, Governor of AlabamaRespondent: Ishmael Jaffree, a parent of three students who attended school in the  Mobile County Public School SystemKey Questions: Did Alabama law violate the First Amendments Establishment Clause in endorsing or encouraging prayer in schools if it did so in the context of endorsing and encouraging silent meditation as well?Majority Decision: Justices Stevens, Brennan, Marshall, Blackmun, Powell, OConnorDissenting: Justices Rehnquist, Burger, WhiteRuling: The Supreme Court ruled that an Alabama law providing for a moment of silence was unconstitutional and that Alabamas prayer and meditation statute was not only a deviation from the states duty to maintain absolute neutrality toward religion but was an affirmative endorsement of religion, violating the First Amendment. Background Information At issue was an Alabama law requiring that each school day to  begin with a one minute period of silent meditation or voluntary prayer (the original 1978 law read-only silent meditation, but the words or voluntary prayer were added in 1981). A students parent sued to allege that this law violated the Establishment Clause of the First Amendment because it forced students to pray and basically exposed them to religious indoctrination. The District Court permitted the prayers to continue, but the Court of Appeals ruled that they were unconstitutional, so the state appealed to the Supreme Court. Court Decision With Justice Stevens writing the majority opinion, the Court decided 6-3 that the Alabama law providing for a moment of silence was unconstitutional. The important issue was whether the law was instituted for a religious purpose. Because the only evidence in the record indicated that the words or prayer had been added to the existing statute by amendment for the sole purpose of returning voluntary prayer to the public schools, the Court found that the first prong of the Lemon Test had been violated, i.e., that the statute was invalid as being entirely motivated by a purpose of advancing religion. In Justice OConnors concurring opinion, she refined the endorsement test which she first described in: The endorsement test does not preclude government from acknowledging religion or from taking religion into account in making law and policy. It does preclude government from conveying or attempting to convey a message that religion or a particular religious belief is favored or preferred. Such an endorsement infringes the religious liberty of the nonadherent, for [w]hen the power, prestige and financial support of government is placed behind a particular religious belief, the indirect coercive pressure upon religious minorities to conform to the prevailing officially approved religion is plain.At issue today is whether state moment of silence statutes in general, and Alabamas moment of silence statute in particular, embody an impermissible endorsement of prayer in public schools. [emphasis added] This fact was clear because Alabama already had a law that allowed school days to begin with a moment for silent meditation. The newer law was expanded the existing law by giving it a religious purpose. The Court characterized this legislative attempt to return prayer to the public schools as quite different from merely protecting every students right to engage in voluntary prayer during an appropriate moment of silence during the school day. Significance This decision emphasized the scrutiny the Supreme Court uses when evaluating the constitutionality of government actions. Rather than accept the argument that the inclusion of or voluntary prayer was a minor addition with little practical significance, the intentions of the legislature that passed it was enough to demonstrate its unconstitutionality. One important aspect to this case is that the authors of the majority opinion, two concurring opinions, and all three dissents agreed that a minute of silence at the beginning of each school day would be acceptable. Justice OConnors concurring opinion is notable for its effort to synthesize and refine the Courts Establishment and Free Exercise tests (see also Justices concurring opinion in ). It was here that she first articulated her reasonable observer test: The relevant issue is whether an objective observer, acquainted with the text, legislative history, and implementation of the statute, would perceive it is a state endorsement... Also notable is Justice Rehnquists dissent for its effort to redirect Establishment Clause analysis by abandoning the tripartite test, discarding any requirement that government is neutral between religion and irreligion, and confining the scope to a prohibition on establishing a national church or otherwise favoring one religious group over another. Many conservative Christians today insist that the First Amendment only prohibits the establishment of a national church and Rehnquist clearly bought into that propaganda, but the rest of the court disagreed.

Investigation of the causes of failure of Lehman Brothers with special Dissertation

Investigation of the causes of failure of Lehman Brothers with special reference to agency problems - Dissertation Example This research study mainly focuses on answering the question related to possible agency problems that were instrumental in the failure of Lehman Brothers. It also evaluates other possible reasons of its failure. The research study was conducted through a literature review and the case study research method. The report relies primarily on secondary research, making use of the existing literature from various articles, journals, and newspapers. The findings of this study suggested that agency problems played a significant the fallout of Lehman Brothers with the company managers involved in taking several risky investment decisions, less on behalf of the owners of the company and more in the interests of top management. The high amount of incentive compensations offered to the top executives encouraged them to resort to such business strategies. Apart from the failure of risk management control within the company, its complex organisational structure and the adverse impact of global financial crisis also played a role in the collapse of Lehman Brothers. This research study can thus be helpful in conducting further research on agency problems that can arise in other business organisations worldwide. It can be helpful for companies to develop various means to overcome such problems, leading to more sustainable and less risky growth and development. Table of Contents Tables and Figures 2 Chapter I: Introduction 3 1.1Rationale of the Study 5 1.2Aims and Objectives of the Study 6 1.3Research Questions 6 Chapter II: Literature Review 7 2.1 Subprime Crisis 7 2.2 Agency Theory 8 2.3 Agency Problems 9 2.3.1 Contracts 11 2.3.2 Incentive Contracts 12 2.3.3 Management Discretion 13 2.3.4 Evidences Related to Agency Costs 13 2.4 Causes of Failure of Lehman Brothers 14 2.4.1 Complex Organisational Structure 16 2.4.2 Valuation Issues 17 2.4.3 Risk Management Issues 17 2.4.4 Sarbanes-Oxley Act 18 Chapter III: Research Methodology 19 3.1 Type of Research Method 19 3.2 Data Sources 19 3.3 Case Study Research 19 3.5 Research Design 20 3.5.1 Construct Validity 20 3.5.2 Internal Validity 21 3.5.3 External Validity 21 3.5.4 Reliability 22 Chapter IV: Findings and Analysis 22 4.1 Secondary Research Findings 22 4.1.1 Lehman Brothers and its Organisational Structure 22 4.1.2 Lehman Brothers’ Financials 23 4.1.3 Executive Compensations 24 4.2 Findings 25 4.3 Analysis and Discussions 25 Chapter V: Conclusion 26 Works Cited 28 Tables and Figures Figure 1.1 24 Figure 1.2 25 Chapter I: Introduction The financial industry worldwide experienced a great shock with the event of the bankruptcy filing by Lehman Brothers on 15 September, 2008. It is considered to be one of the largest filing of bankruptcy by any organization in United States. This significant incident occurred in the midst of

Transgender and Intersex Terms and Questions (responses) Assignment - 1

Transgender and Intersex Terms and Questions (responses) - Assignment Example A standout amongst the most entrancing things I found is the creators depiction of how individuals see themselves in their inner consciousness. The creator utilizes the MÃ ¶bius Strip, a level lace wound once and afterward joined end to end, which demonstrates a band and ants slithering along a topological riddle - the ground dwelling insect can ceaselessly go on this strip while never getting anyplace. Despite the fact that this book has what added up to 473 pages, the genuine perusing part is just few pages, with the rest gave to the creators careful notes, in which her grant and exploration are clear. When you wade through the exploratory and specialized language one finds that this is an intriguing and vital examination sexing of the body book in the social order. How would we think about sex and sexuality as a component of an improvement framework, and what particularly do we mean nature? Notwithstanding the extent to which we know about sex, there is still a considerable measure we do not think about our sexuality and how it forms in a singular, instead of on a widespread

Business ideas Essay Example | Topics and Well Written Essays - 1500 words

Business ideas - Essay Example Imam (Muslim priest) or a Muslim scholar who would serve as a Consultant to ensure that the clothing style that will be made by the company is appropriate for Muslim women. This is critical because the competitive advantage of the company is its ability to serve a certain niche with a cultural and religious overtone. The company cannot afford to make a mistake especially during its initial phase because when it will lose its credibility in that segment either by mistake or ignorance, it is already doom to fail because Muslim women are its sole market. Know-how on what are appropriate clothing designs for Muslim women. Fabrics to sew or create such design. Employees who have knowledge and expertise in sewing Islamic high fashion clothes. Capital to start and operate a business. Being culturally and religiously correct does not mean that people has to dress dull. The Islamic high fashion clothing line that will be introduced by the company in the market will be stylish but culturally and religiously aligned with the dressing prescription of Islam for women. Customers will the center of the business. Such, the business will take the pain to consult Muslim scholars about the appropriateness of the clothing line in addition to the effort of making the clothing line stylish and comfortable. The channel of establishing customer relationships and distribution shall be highly selective since the target market is highly specialized. Marketing efforts in establishing customer relationship will only be limited to Islamic communities where the target markets are concentrated. Since the proposed business is targeted towards a market with a high disposable income, the channel of distribution will also be situated in high street fashion retail stores to make the product appropriate to the status of its market. The idea of putting up a clothing business that caters to a specific market has a very good chance of success provided that it will be done right. The

(See the information which I have uploaded) Essay

(See the information which I have uploaded) - Essay Example A firm must bring about certain efforts which are geared up to make it sound, look and eventually feel different from the rest of the lot and in the long run, have a selling proposition in it and in its products that help it in winning the customers time and time again. It is significant to understand that having the most sought after employees and workers in the market is necessary since they will give the most productivity in the toughest times possible. (Cappelli, 1999) From a truly organizational standpoint, the current needs in the training regimes require the employees to get themselves acquainted with the ever changing role of Information Technology and the like within the business quarters as well as learn for their own betterment the different mechanisms through which they can make use of the business processes and management activities in a steady and quick manner. (Egan, 2001) They need to align themselves with the advanced technological applications and that too in a quick way because the corporate world of present times is on the move. The training needs are required within any organization since the same would ensure that all the employees understand what they are doing and there are as such no hiccups in the office place so to speak. It is a fact that the workers must know what the end goal for the business is like and on what parameters success is measured as far as the top management of the organization is concerned. There must be uni son in their working mechanisms so that they are all on the same wavelength no matter how trying or tough the circumstances turn out to be. (Varey, 2001) Service marketing and management has remained the key for a long time, especially within the contexts where the same offers a creative edge over other service organizations – the competitors in essence. From an office standpoint, there are certain instances when it is best to choose different people for the various jobs that are

Reigious Toleration Essay Example | Topics and Well Written Essays - 1000 words

Reigious Toleration - Essay Example Jonathan Spence’ presentation of Emperor Kangxi’s views on religion articulates in English the thought processes and rationale given by Kangxi to justify his policies. Emperor Kangxi is one of the great kings of the Qing dynasty that ruled China for several centuries. Under Emperor Kangxi’s rule, the kingdom reached unprecedented expansion of territory and power. It is assumed that the audience for this retrospective lecture is all the subjects of his empire as well as foreign diplomats, merchants and missionaries. Defined narrowly, Emperor Kangxi’s policies toward Western religious missionaries are generally intolerant. But his rationale for taking certain decisions in this regard are well thought out and well expressed. One of the worries expressed by the Emperor is how foreigners, especially from the West, who visit China for temporary reasons – either commercial or cultural or religious – are a drain on the spirit of authentic Chinese tra ditions. He feels that such visitors leave China exploited of wealth and culture. As he reasons it out to the Christian Missionary Charles-Thomas Maillard de Tournon: â€Å"Hereafter we will permit residence in China to all those who come from the West and will not return there. Residence permission will not be granted to those who come one year expecting to go home the next – because such people are like those who stand outside the main gate and discuss what people are doing inside the house. Besides these meddlers there are also those out for profit, greedy traders, who should not be allowed to live here†. ... As he reasons it out to the Christian Missionary Charles-Thomas Maillard de Tournon: â€Å"Hereafter we will permit residence in China to all those who come from the West and will not return there. Residence permission will not be granted to those who come one year expecting to go home the next – because such people are like those who stand outside the main gate and discuss what people are doing inside the house. Besides these meddlers there are also those out for profit, greedy traders, who should not be allowed to live here† (Kangxi 639). The emperor’s strict stance toward de Tournon and his ilk is quite legitimate when one considers the fact that the latter actually tried to prohibit converted Chinese Christians from practicing local Chinese customs or assimilate Chinese language phrases in Biblical renditions. Seen in this context, Emperor Kangxi’s stance is a protest against religious intolerance that his people have suffered under the decrees of the papacy. So, while outwardly stringent and intolerant, Emperor Kangxi’s position is actually fair and balanced. Galileo Galilei’s makes an impassioned defence of scientific advancement in his letter to the Grand Duchess Christina of Tuscany. Written in 1615, this letter captures the essence of the perennial battle between religious fundamentalism and scientific discovery upsetting the dogma. It is important to remember that Galileo was a religious man. He never saw his controversial scientific discoveries as subverting or disproving the Christian faith. Instead, he saw as part of the conscientious Christian mission to promote scientific enquiry alongside following the Christian doctrine. He quotes the words of St. Augustine’s views on truth and epistemology to back up his own position. Moreover,

(See the information which I have uploaded) Essay

(See the information which I have uploaded) - Essay Example A firm must bring about certain efforts which are geared up to make it sound, look and eventually feel different from the rest of the lot and in the long run, have a selling proposition in it and in its products that help it in winning the customers time and time again. It is significant to understand that having the most sought after employees and workers in the market is necessary since they will give the most productivity in the toughest times possible. (Cappelli, 1999) From a truly organizational standpoint, the current needs in the training regimes require the employees to get themselves acquainted with the ever changing role of Information Technology and the like within the business quarters as well as learn for their own betterment the different mechanisms through which they can make use of the business processes and management activities in a steady and quick manner. (Egan, 2001) They need to align themselves with the advanced technological applications and that too in a quick way because the corporate world of present times is on the move. The training needs are required within any organization since the same would ensure that all the employees understand what they are doing and there are as such no hiccups in the office place so to speak. It is a fact that the workers must know what the end goal for the business is like and on what parameters success is measured as far as the top management of the organization is concerned. There must be uni son in their working mechanisms so that they are all on the same wavelength no matter how trying or tough the circumstances turn out to be. (Varey, 2001) Service marketing and management has remained the key for a long time, especially within the contexts where the same offers a creative edge over other service organizations – the competitors in essence. From an office standpoint, there are certain instances when it is best to choose different people for the various jobs that are

Each paper is on cultural relativism on the writings provided below Essay

Each paper is on cultural relativism on the writings provided below - Essay Example This fact cannot be denied that people believing in traditional healing systems will not go for biomedicine if they have firm believe in their culture and folk medicine procedures. Their beliefs should be respected and they should not be imposed that they must use the medicine that has no linkage with their culture. Even they should be facilitated with knowledge of their culture so that they can be provided with sufficient provision of needed support. AIDS is not a small or negligible disease as it keeps the capacity of killing a person. This disease is quite common in Africa and people make use of traditional or fold healing systems to get rid of this disease. It is essential for our researchers to make use of cultural herbal medicines and other ways of supporting people to get rid of their disease to facilitate the patients of AIDS with medicines that are not only biomedical but also traditional. Medical anthropologists have researched the topic of AIDS by keeping social and cultur al aspects in view and state that the disease cannot be understood well without understanding the environment and culture of people involved. The writers Singer and Baer (2007) use a term bioculturalism to define the linkage between biology and culture and according to their view, interaction between cultures and biology can be seen well by studying health and illness. AIDS as a disease can be well understood by gaining knowledge of the culture of the people as culture informs us about explaining, sensing and experiencing about pain. Biomedicine cannot be successful for any diseased person until and unless, the culture, political status and environment, all are not well understood. Sexually transmitted disease such as AIDS involves cultural beliefs and practices. According to Singer and Baer (2007), â€Å"disease expression is shaped by cultural values, beliefs and expectations† (12). Therefore, the notion cannot be negated AIDS as a disease in various parts of the world can be best understood, explained and cured by means of understanding the cultures of people. Culture plays a major part in giving value to its followers and also provides people with fighting against diseases in their own constructed and reliable manners. References Singer, Merrill and Baer, Hans A. (2007). Introducing medical anthropology: a discipline in action. Boulevard: Rowman Altamira. Ethnomedicine: The Worlds of treatment and Healing Ethnomedicine can be defined as a term that circulates all the kinds of traditional medicines and its study whether the medicinal procedures are well documented or not. However, the medicinal study and procedures that come under the title of ethnomedicine are well established and people rely on them from centuries due to which, they are well reputed. The writers, Singers and Baer in their book, â€Å"Introducing Medical Anthropology† give the description of ethnomedicine as something that has â€Å"transcended multiple cultural boundariesâ € , which means that ethnomedicine has got so much repute that culturally, it is well-liked in nearly all cultures. The writers use the term ethnomedicine against the term biomedicine, which can be defined as study of medicinal procedures and medicine that is adopted globally. Ethnomedicine also called

Criminal Justice Essay Example for Free

Criminal Justice Essay In my essay I will explicate how the various aspect of criminal justice relate to one another as well as why it so important in society. Criminal Justice refers to the facet of social justice that concern violators of criminal law. The community interest within the criminal justice system demands the apprehension and punishment of law violators (Schmalleger, 2012, pg. 7). The concept of criminal justice is that someone or persons accused of crimes are innocent till proven guilty though the proof is overwhelming. The three major elements of the criminal justice system are the police, the courts and the correctional facility and everyone play a major role within the criminal justice system. These processes involve a series of steps starting with a criminal investigation and ending with the discharge of a convicted offender from correctional supervision. The primary element of the criminal justice system is law enforcement. Police are public agencies whose functions are to take care of order within the community, manage crime by implementing the criminal law, and supply accommodations. They assist the prosecution by getting proof compulsory to convict an offender in court. Within the policing method the subsequent problems are dealt with: the crime, initial contact either with the victim or the suspect, investigation, apprehend and custody. The second element is that the court system. This is where the person charged with committing a criminal offense has their case determined by a judge or jury. Its within the court system where justice and truth prevails. Its the prosecutors’ job to ascertain his or her case. The defense is there for the offender and therefore the judge is there to stay order on each side. Within the court process charging, preliminary hearing perceiving of whether or not or not an arraignment or grand jury hearing, bail or detention, plea negotiations, trail/adjudication and sentencing takes place. Lastly is the correctional facility. At Tallahatchie County Correctional Facility we’ve been told that our agencies purpose is to up hold the penalization that was imposed by the court, to rehabilitate, and maintain safety. Whether public or behind the fence, we must maintain safety. During this stage its determined whether or not you go home or to jail, parole/probation or house apprehend. These agencies process suspects, defendants, and convicted offenders and are interdependent insofar because the selections of one agency have an effect on different agencies. The importance of criminal justice system in our society goes without verbally expressing. If you take a glance around without those systems in place crime rates would be at an all-time high. Applied to society, criminal justice is the system that guarantees fairness and equal treatment to any underneath its guidance. The agencies directly or indirectly associated with the criminal justice system have an effect on everything that transpires in our everyday lives. Law enforcement ascertains that laws are being obeyed; judges ascertain that people who transgress the law are penalization fairly and attorneys ascertain that everybody has a voice in a court of law. The components of the criminal justice system are the police, courts and corrections. All of these components have on common goal and that’s to protect society from crime and criminals. Our criminal justice system plays a vital role in ensuring that this is done. Without our criminal justice system it would be like the quote from Dr. Martin Luther King; â€Å"Injustice anywhere is a threat to justice everywhere†.

Slow Learners In Malaysia Education Essay

Slow Learners In Malaysia Education Essay Abstract- Current trend indicate that learning through the use of application and courseware had become important teaching method. However, it is different case for slow learners. As most schools slowly adapting the more effective teaching method, they cannot keep up with the flow. Even though there are courseware developed for the slow learners, the courseware is far from fulfilling their specific needs. Statistic shows that in a US typical classroom there will be 3 or 4 slow learners. In areas of poverty and many low-income urban areas, the children per classroom who could be characterized as slow learners might be twice that number. The characteristic of the slow learners are often described as immature in relations, find it difficult to solve complex problem, work very slowly, can easily lose track of time, unable to perform long-term goals, and have poor concentration skills. However, they are very good with hands-on materials. This paper will present the development of coursewa re made to teach English for the slow learners. Keywords-component: courseware; slow learners; English; Introduction Background Slow learners are no longer rare cases in Malaysia. However, they are not categorized as people with special needs. Some might confuse the slow learners with dyslexia. However, both terms are different. Dyslexic will have difficulties in learning to read and write despite having same learning process and effort with others. For slow learners, they do not do well at schools or task that require extensive reading, writing, and mathematic but they perform great outside class especially in hands-on tasks. They will need extra time in completing the tasks given. Because of their characteristics, slow learners are always left behind as they cannot catch up with the learning process gone through by other kids. Even though new technology has been developed to enhance learning process, they are left out because it is not suited for their learning needs. This project is intend to enhance the English courseware specifically for the slow learners in way that will serve their learning needs which is different from other kids. The courseware will be focus on non-linear techniques to make it flexible and more conducive for the slow learners. As there is not much of courseware developed for slow learners, the product of the project will significantly bring the learning process for the slow learners into new level and brighten the hope for them to learn like normal kids. Problem Statement Teaching slow learners isnt same like teaching normal kids. Teaching them require different methods and approaches because of their characteristics. As learning process moving on taking advantage of computers and internet, slow learners are left behind because there are no specific learning applications for them that will suit their needs especially in critical subjects such as Science and Mathematic. There are lots of courseware in the market out there but it is too little in numbers and it is far from perfect. This new courseware to be developed will be a great tool for teacher to teach English to the slow learners because it will enhance whats already in the courseware and make it better. Objectives and Scope of Studies Objectives The objective of this project is to enhance the current English courseware from Mohd Izzat Helmi Bin Yahyas English Courseware for Slow Learners project and will be specifically designed for the slow learners so that the learning process will suit their needs. Because of their characteristics, the courseware will need careful designation.. The courseware will enrich English learning process which already in the current courseware and make it more interactive and flexible. Scope of Studies The project will involve the study of slow learner behavior and courseware development. The result of the study then will be analyzed to develop and enhancing cognitive skills training that will be integrated with the courseware so that the target to teach slow learners can be achieved. Target group of the courseware will be primary school student in Standard 4 to Standard 6 (10-12 years old). The courseware will be developed as a game to teach General English. Literature Review Game-Based Learning Marc Prensky (2003) says that since Pong is introduced in 1974, the unique expertise that game designers have honed to a superfine edge is player engagement: the ability to keep people in their seats for hour after hour, day after day, at rapt attention, actively trying to reach new goals, shouting with glee at their successes, determined to overcome their failures, all the while begging for more. Along with the new technology that had been developed in recent years, games had become more than just entertainment, it had evolve to become the medium of learning. In Digital Game-Based Learning (Prensky, 2001), explain that children nowadays are different from previous generation where they grow up with digital technology and their minds are changing to accommodate the technologies with which they spend more time. From there, it is clear that most children nowadays from different gender, ages and social groups spends most of the time with video games. Many experts see the values in video games as a medium of learning. Its true that this children love games more than schools but their attitudes toward games is the attitude of the learners; passionate, cooperative, and actively involve in problem-solving. Research by Zyda (2007) argue that computer games are an engaging medium for learning, since games can stimulate cognitive processes such as reading explicit and implicit information, deductive and inductive reasoning, problem-solving, and making inferences from information displayed across a number of screens To define game based learning will be quite complicated because there are several different opinion on the matter. Kirjavainen(2009) define game-based learning as field of research and game design based on observations that play, structured or unstructured, conditions the human brain for transformation and learning. Wee Hoe Tan(2008) defines game-based learning as form of learner-centered learning that uses electronic games for educational purposes. However, the concept of game-based learning is still the same; the use of game with the defined learning outcomes for the purpose of learning. Kasvi (2000) lists the seven requirements for effective learning environment as: Provide a high intensity of interaction and feedback; Have specific goals and established procedures; Be motivational; Provide a continual feeling of challenge, not too difficult to be frustrating nor too easy to create boredom; Provide a sense of direct engagement on the task involved; Provide the appropriate tools that fit the task; and Avoid distractions and disruptions that destroy the subjective experience. Kasvi (2000) suggests that computer games fulfill all of these requirements and believes that they satisfy them better than most other learning mediums. By looking at how the Western world had utilized game as learning module in classroom, it proves that the statement is true. R.V. Eck(2006) explain that games like Civilization, SimCity 4, Cruise Ship Tycoon, and Roller Coaster Tycoon had already been implemented in classroom. People might be skeptical at first glance. All these games have prove them wrong. For example, in Roller Coaster Tycoon students build roller-coasters to different specifications, which is what engineers should do. By extending the gameplay with basic learning process like calculus physic knowledge, it will make a valuable learning experience. Slow Learners in Malaysia In Malaysia, dyslexic children had begin to receive attention when MyLexics, a courseware to help the dyslexic learn basic Malay language is introduced (Haziq, 2009). However, its a different story for the slow learners. In fact, there are cases reported where slow learners are left behind in the classes (NST, 2008). Cases like this shouldnt happen because even though they are weak in study they are definitely very good in other aspects. Even worse, One in every three juvenile delinquent in integrity school in prison or detention centers displays learning difficulties including being slow learners. (The Star, 2008) Many believe that if these youth not identified and helped will cause them to end up as criminals. Most of them tend to drop out of schools and vulnerable to negative influence because of the problem they facing. Overcoming the Weaknesses Research by LearningRX(2006) argue that weak cognitive skills are the cause of learning disabilities such as dyslexia and slow learning. Important skills such as concentration, perception, memories and logical thinking are not as good as other normal people which make reading, writing, and thinking more difficult. However, this weakness can be improved through specific training and testing. Mel Levine (2008) explain that how Kitty Hawk Elementary School in North Carolina America had implied School Attuned Program using the Neurodevelopmental Profiles where all students with different cognitive skills can learn. Lisa Galleli, a teacher at Kitty Hawk describes her management plan for one such students as He had significant graphomotor weaknesses with spelling and writing. But he really shined in his social skills and that made all the difference in the world. He was also good at math and problem solving. We use his strength who keep him motivated with success while tackling his writing problem. The result had proved that it is not impossible to overcome the weakness. Neurodevelopmental Profile is researched and synthesized by Mel Levine and his colleagues consist of 8 constructs that are: Table 1: 8 constructs of Neurodevelopmental Profiles Attention This includes the ability to concentrate, focus on one thing rather than another, finish tasks, and control what one says and does Temporal-sequential ordering Whether its being able to recite the alphabet or pushing a response button on Jeopardy, being able to understand the time and sequence of pieces of information is a key component of learning. Spatial ordering The ability, for instance to distinguish between a circle and square or to use images to remember related information Memory Even if people are able to understand, organize, and interpret complex information at the moment, their inability to store and later recall can dramatically affect their performance. Language Developing language functions involves elaborate interaction between various parts of the brain that control such abilities as pronouncing words, understanding different sounds and comprehending written symbols Neuromotor functions The brains ability to coordinate motor or muscle function is key to many area of learning, including writing and keyboarding. Social cognition One of the most overlooked components of learning is the ability to succeed in social relationship with peer pressure. Higher-order cognition This involve the ability to understand and implement the steps necessary to solve problems, attack new areas of learning and think creatively. By realizing that every human have some strong functions and some weak ones, Mel Levine found that it is possible to describe each individuals unique mix of strength and weaknesses. Using the right method in developing the courseware and the right approach for the slow learners, it is not impossible that this courseware will be definitely help them. Formative VS Summative Evaluation In order to gather data for the enhancement of the courseware, an assessment need to be done. There are two methods to be used; formative evaluation and summative evaluation. According to H.L Roberts(2009), formative evaluations also known as developmental or implementation evaluation assess what works and what does not work about a particular activity or project as it is happening. It is used to assess the value of a project as it is taking place to determine how it can be improved. The method use in formative evaluation is the same like other assessment which include survey, interview or data collection. This type of evaluation relies on qualitative data that is how participants felt about the process as well as quantitative data, such as charts or test scores. Formative evaluation typically involves a small group of users and participants in the project being evaluated. Participants in formative evaluations look not just at the goals of the process and whether those goals are achieved but also at the process itself and where that process is a successful one or not. Even though this type of assessment is quite complex, there are benefit in it. It allow early identification of potential problem in the subject of assessment. Moreover, it can be a good way of gauge the user perception on the subject because it rely on user feedback. As for summative evaluation, Fox Valley Technical College(2007) describe it as process that concerns final evaluation to ask if the project or program met its goals. It is cumulative in nature. It concentrates on learner outcomes rather than only the program of instruction where the aim is to determine the users mastery and understanding of information, concept, skill or process. Ongoing summative assessment represents important tools for monitoring the progress across time. There are various method of summative assessment such as demonstration, licensing, internship, portfolio or clinical. Summative evaluation is typically quantitative, using numeric scores or letter grades to assess learner achievement. In a sense, it lets the learner know how they did and how good they are However, theres more to it. By looking at how the learners did, it helps to know whether the product teaches what it is supposed to teach and how efficient it is. Here the courseware will be using formative evaluation method. By using formative evaluation, the current English courseware functionality can be assessed to find out whether its working to perfectly or not.. Even if the courseware is working properly, it wont fulfill its objectives if the user (in this case student) dont like it or having problem in using it. By using formative evaluation method, user feedback can be recorded and area of improvement can be found. In conclusion, formative evaluation method will assess the courseware from two perspectives; the courseware functionality and user feedback. Both will greatly help in the enhancement process of the current courseware. Methodology Throw-Away Prototyping The methodology chosen for the project would be Throw-Away Prototyping. Dummy prototype, which is presentational only will be developed. Thorough analysis will be done before first dummy prototype is developed to ensure the prototype have enough details representing real working system. From there, the dummy prototype will be shown and tested with the user to get feedback and identify additional requirement. The next prototype will be developed until it really visualize real working system. When it is ready and all issues are resolved, it will be implemented as fully-functional system. Figure 1: Throw-Away Prototyping Planning The planning phase is the crucial one in developing the project. First thing to be considered is how the project will be developed. For that, the Gantt Chart for the project is build so that each project milestone during the one year of the project can be tracked. Other than that, research is made to find suitable tool to be used for the development of the project. As the project intended to enhance the current courseware, research also made to identify suitable test subject to try the current courseware. Initial Analysis During this phase, the test scenario is developed and interview as well as questionnaire is build to get data from the target school. Data is gathered as much as possible which also include slow learner syllabus in school and from there thorough analysis is done. The purpose is to identify strengths, weaknesses, area of improvement and what to be done for the enhancement process. Prototype Building After all analysis has been done, the design of the courseware begins. A sketch is done to get the overview of new courseware to be developed. The sketch will gone through refinement to integrate the content and multimedia elements (animations, flow of information, etc). The details of the design will be recorded. After all details completed, the development of the prototype begin. When the dummy prototype is complete with all required features, it will then tested at the school to find whether it visualize all the issue that should be addressed. If further refinement is required, the dummy prototype will continuously be build until all requirements is complete. Implementation After all requirements had been fulfilled and the dummy prototype is really visualizing the courseware, it will be declared to be complete and real working courseware will be implemented. Research Methodologies To get all the information required, two research methodologies will be chosen that are: Interview: An interview is conducted with the respective teacher of the school. A test scenario will be deployed to the student using the current courseware along with the interview. This is part of formative evaluation that will test the functionality of the courseware and gauge the user on how they use the courseware. The objective is to identify the strengths and weaknesses of the current courseware and find the area of improvement. Questionnaire: The interview and questionnaire will be done with the respective teacher to gain in depth details of how slow learners learn and gain all relevant data which will be reference in developing the new courseware. Result Discussion Requirement Gathering Interview In the way of gathering data required for the enhancement of the English courseware, an interview is conducted with Pn Khadijah, Coordinator of Special Education for Sekolah Kebangsaan Sultan Yusuf who is also the English teacher for Special Education Department. Using the current courseware made by Mohd Izzat Helmi B Yahya, a test scenario is deployed where the goal is to identify the strengths and the weaknesses of the courseware so that the result found can be implemented during the development of new English courseware. The test scenario will verify the conditions and steps taken in using the courseware sample to get the result for further analysis. Three slow learner students from Sekolah Kebangsaan Sultan Yusuf take part in the test scenario. Below are the details of the three students: Respondent 1 A 12 years old boy and is preparing for his UPSR next year. He falls into the category of normal slow learner. His performance in the class is very good. He has the basic skills of using computer which make him able to use the sample courseware properly. Respondent 2 A 12 years old boy. He falls under the category of slow learner and Syndrom Down. He has the basic skills of using computer which make him able to use the sample courseware properly. Respondent 3 A 7 years old boy. He just started his school early this year. He is the most challenging student because he falls under the ICU slow learners category. Moreover, he doesnt have basic skills of using computer which make the test scenario more difficult to be performed. The purpose of choosing these three students is to observe how different categories of slow learners make use of and react to the courseware. Basically, all the student use the courseware in the same way depends on their knowledge and skills about computer. Below is the summary of result from the test scenario done with all three students. Table 2: Summary of test Scenario Result No Simulation Date Action and Data Expected Result Actual Result 1 12 Apr 2010 Launch the courseware interface Courseware interface appear successfully 2 12 Apr 2010 Launching topic 1 Topic 1 launched successfully 3 12 Apr 2010 Launch Learn from topic 1 menu Learning module appear successfully 4 12 Apr 2010 Checking audio for topic one Audio working successfully 5 12 Apr 2010 Checking synchronization of audio and visual flows. Audio and visual is synchronized Flow of audio and visual is too fast 6 12 Apr 2010 Click the button Play Again for topic 1 learning module Audio and visual replay 7 12 Apr 2010 Launch Exercise for topic 1 Exercise launched successfully Exercise for Topic 3 about colors appear 8 12 Apr 2010 Performing exercise about numbers Exercise done successfully Exercise cannot be performed because exercise for colors appear 9 12 Apr 2010 Click the button Play Again for topic 1 exercise Exercise can be redo Exercise appear is not for topic 1 10 12 Apr 2010 Launching topic 2 Topic 2 launched successfully 11 12 Apr 2010 Launch Learn from topic 2 menu Learning module appear successfully 12 12 Apr 2010 Click and hover on the images of the body parts Audio and visuals working to describe the images Audio working only if cursor is hovered on the image. When image clicked, nothing happened 13 12 Apr 2010 Launch Exercise for topic 2 Exercise launched successfully 14 12 Apr 2010 Drag the words into the respective body part Words dragged successfully Because there are some input of the exercise not in the learning module of topic 2, student get confused easily 15 12 Apr 2010 Click the button Play Again for topic 1 exercise Exercise can be redo 16 12 Apr 2010 Launching topic 3 Topic 1 launched successfully 17 12 Apr 2010 Launch Learn from topic 3 menu Learning module appear successfully 18 12 Apr 2010 Click and hover on the images of the color. Audio and visuals working to describe the images Audio appear when the image is clicked. When it is hovered nothing happened 19 12 Apr 2010 Launch Exercise for topic 3 Exercise launched successfully 20 12 Apr 2010 Dragging each color into the respective jar. Each color dragged successfully 21 12 Apr 2010 Return to courseware interface from any point of the courseware Courseware interface appear successfully Other that that, Pn Khadijah says that , the teaching syllabus and method are different from the mainstream syllabus. They use preschool syllabus in their learning modules However, if they show good performance the teacher will prepare them to be in national examination like UPSR. More information about the interview will be explained in the next section below. Questionnaire In order to get in-depth details of requirements of the courseware to be developed, interviews and questionnaire is conducted with the respective teachers of the schools. This is important because not all required data can be acquired through the test scenario assessment. The teacher answering the questionnaire is Pn Khadijah, Coordinator of Special Education for Sekolah Kebangsaan Sultan Yusuf. She has years of experience in teaching slow learners especially in English subject. Pn Khadijah is given the overview of the current English courseware and then she is given the questionnaire. Below is the result of questionnaire answered by the teacher: Data Analysis From the interview and questionnaire conducted with students and teacher of Sekolah Kebangsaan Sultan Yusuf, there are several issue should be addressed about the current English courseware and also what can be improved for the courseware to be developed: Flow of audio and visual must be synchronized and not too fast because slow learners couldnt catch up if its too fast For unknown reason, exercise for Topic 1 that should cover about numbers is replaced with exercise from Topic 3 which is about colours results in having two exercises about colours and the absences of exercise about number. The instruction is different than what can be done in the learning module. For example the instruction of topic 2 says to click the image to hear the audio. But instead, the audio only appear when cursor is hovered on the image. Nothing happened when it is clicked. Input of the exercise should be the same as what it appears in the learning modules to avoid confusion for slow learners. For example, the input of the exercise for topic 2 includes the stomach part even though it is not taught in the learning modules. Input of learning modules shouldnt be more than 5 in a topic because slow learners could easily forget what they learn if theres too many input. Slow learners in Malaysia are familiar with the Malaysia English. Using U.S English or Britain English in the courseware would confuse them. Students especially kids like learning using computer. Slow learners are not excluded. So the courseware to be developed must be visually attractive. Proposed System Architecture Figure 2: Proposed System Architecture The courseware will integrate use suitable multimedia elements that will support interactive learning environment either for the use at school or at home. This will make the learning process will be more engaging and entertaining. The courseware will consist of 3 modules primarily developed for students of Standard 4 to Standard 6. All this modules will be developed based on learning syllabus for slow learners from Sekolah Kebangsaan Sultan Yusuf. After the application is launched, students will be accessing the courseware interface. To ensure the flexibility of the learning process, students will be given freedom to choose which module they want to use. After each module there will be exercise that will test the students understand of the current topic. However, students are free to choose whether they want to do the exercise or not. If they dont want to do the exercise, they can proceed to next module or return to the courseware interface to choose other modules. In addressing that slow learners cannot cope with too much input at a time, each module will consist of two parts. This will enable the students to enrich their learning without taking too much input at a time. They have the freedom to choose which part they want to use in a module. The three modules are: Numbers, Reading Skills, Body Parts. Module 1:Numbers The first module will teach the students the foundation of recognizing numbers. The first part will teach about how to identify ordinal and cardinal numbers and whats the difference about them. The second part will teach the student how to differentiate between odd numbers and even numbers using the same modules in current English courseware with enhancement made on it. Module 2:Reading Skills This module is intended to enhance the reading skills of the students.. The activity in the first part will be focus on matching picture. Each time a picture from two sets of pictures will be shown to the student and from there the students will be asked to match the picture with the picture from the set which is not shown. The second part will focus on matching letter and words. The concept will be the same like in the first part. Module 3:Body Parts This module will teach the student the foundation of identifying body parts. The first part will teach the student about main body parts in general. The second part will teach the student specifically about parts on head The tools chosen for the development of the project will be Gamemaker 8. The reason to use this tool is because it is easy to be used compared to most of other tools. It allow the user to use collection of freeware images and audio for starters like the author to make a game looking courseware which will encompass on drag-and-drop action using the mouse. This tool will be used along with other tools like Adobe Photoshop CS3 and Macromedia Flash where necessary to make the courseware more interactive and rich. Conclusion Current English courseware is using basic concept of combining audio with visual in the teaching. Even though, it is still not perfect. There is lots of area for improvement can be made for the courseware. The authors project will take the opportunity to make enhancement on the courseware to maximize its potential. The new courseware to be developed will be more interactive and rich while in the same time addressing the issue of current courseware. With assistance from various parties such as the authors supervisor, Miss Elaine, teachers of Sekolah Kebangsan Sultan Yusuf as well as other people, this project will succeed. Acknowledgement The current courseware mentioned in this paper is developed by Mohd Izzat helmi B Yahya where his work had been base for the authors English courseware developed for slow learners. Here the author also would like to thank Ms. Elaine Chen Yoke Yie as the supervisor for the project, Pn Khadijah, Coordinator of Special Education for Sekolah Kebangsaan Sultan Yusuf, and all other parties who had contribute to the project whether directly or indirectly.

Awakening1 Essay examples -- essays papers

Awakening1 THE AWAKENING The contrast between an urban and a tropical setting represents the awakening that the protagonist experiences in Kate Chopin's classic novel, The Awakening. At Grand Isle Edna becomes conscious of her restrictive marriage in a male dominated society. Her awakening originates with her experiences at Grand Isle but fully develops upon her return to the city, where she completes her transformation from her roles as wife and mother to an independent woman. The setting at the beginning of the novel is the Grand Isle, a popular Creole island resort. The reader first sees Edna returning from the beach, with the sea disappearing on the horizon, and the mood of a lazy summer day permeating the scene. This idyllic environment is soon interrupted by her husband Leonce's characteristically stuffy and disapproving reaction to his wife’s activities: "You are burnt beyond recognition". Leonce views his wife as a "valuable piece of personal property which has suffered some damage". Swimming at mid-day, Edna has endangered her respectability in a society where women may be judged by the color of their complexion. Yet Edna does not seem ruffled by society’s expectations or by her husband's callous remark. Instead she focuses on the summer warmth, her companion, Robert Lebrun, and swimming, where she is free both physically and emotionally. Edna’s habit of removing her wedding rings before entering the water underscores and sym bolizes her temporary escape from the ties of matrimony and the bonds of convention. While vacationing at Grand Isle, Edna is surrounded by mother-women "who idolized their children, worshiped their husbands, and esteemed it a holy privilege to efface themselves as individuals and grow wings as ministering angels". Unlike these women, Edna does not wish to submerge her own identity and freedom in her role as a wife and mother. At one point, her husband claims that she is a negligent and irresponsible mother and orders Edna to tend to their sick child, believing this duty to be a "mother's place." Uncharacteristically, Edna appears bewildered and distraught after her husband's outburst. "An indescribable oppression, which seemed to generate in some unfamiliar part of her consciousness, filled her whole being with a vague anguish". She begins to suspect that a deeper relationship is possible between a man and a w... .....got into her blood and into her brain like an intoxicant" (124). As Edna continues to separate herself from the traditional roles of women in her time, Chopin distinguishes the main character from those around her through the use of symbolism. At her dinner party, Edna reigns as the confident, self-assured hostess, described by the author as a jeweled goddess emerging from the sea. "Venus rising from the foam could have presented no more entrancing a spectacle than Mrs. Pontellier, blazing with beauty and diamonds at the head of the board" . Kate Chopin's utilization of the setting in The Awakening is essential to the character development of Edna as she escapes the restrictions of Creole society to become an independent woman. Symbols and images are mirrored and intertwined in the two settings. This repetitive pattern underscores and expands the reader’s understanding of Edna's enlightenment. But in fact, the most dramatic change in the novel occurs during the transition from Grand Isle to New Orleans. In this story, Chopin's use of setting proves to be an effective complement to her vivid imagery throughout the novel, and to the symbolism of renewal and rediscovery.

Corporate Crime Essay -- Legal Issues, Fraud

conventional criminals. For example an individual that steals bread from a supermarket to feed his/her child if convicted would go to prison or have to pay a fine that they cannot afford. However on the other hand an individual that commits corporate fraud and cons people out of millions of pounds when convicted may have to pay a monetary fine. This is typically not a problem for them as they are not committing crimes due to being in the cycle of deprivation. Usually they commit offenses because of greed. One would question whether the policies and laws are fair when dealing with conventional crime versus corporate crimes? Again this brings us back to the question as why such crimes lightly prosecuted. The sophistication of these crimes makes them difficult and expensive to investigate and prosecute because they are time consuming, labour intensive and financially expensive. For example, if a police officer occupies his/her time on fraud their overall performance would be considered as being poor, in terms of costs and benefits. Thus usually resulting in these sorts of crimes being ignored and no one being prosecuted for the offence. Due to the general invisibility of fraud there is less politicians or media pressure for police officers to deal with these crimes. For this reason fraud is regarded as low priority in most police forces. Also White collar crimes and corporate crimes usually are lightly prosecuted because the politicians do not want to bring it to light therefore there is less media attention and thus seen as being less serious and as the price paid for capitalism. Pearce and Tombs (1993) in their explanation of the disastrous release of toxic gases from the carbide factory in Bhopal, India in 1984 claimed the p... ...w and also in comparison to conventional crime. As both crime surveys and victim’s surveys do not give a clear and full picture of the true extent of crime. Police officers have to develop and become trained computer experts to be one step ahead of corporate criminals in this era of technology and computers where illicit activities occur on a more grand scale (global) and not just in the local neighbourhood. It can be concluded that this debate of why white collar crimes and corporate crimes are lightly prosecuted in comparison to conventional crimes will not end here, however one feels that due to advancement in technologies white collar crimes and corporate crimes will be on the increase thus government need to make policies and create harsher punishment in order to prevent and deter any companies committing these offenses in the near future.

Foreign Market Entry Essay

9. How will entry into a developed foreign market differ from entry into a relatively untapped market? Marketers face many issues in the decision making process in order pursue the many different possibilities concerning foreign and domestic markets in terms of expansion and structural change. These companies seek ways to improve capital by expanding into different markets, investing, and enhancing the quality of life with their products in foreign markets and the pursuit of such a move could either be adverse or positive to the company in nature. Initially, there are steps taken and research conducted by the company to ensure the route they area attempting to take will prove to have a positive return, just as long as their plans are in tune with, or along the same lines as, the market they are attempting to interact. As stated in the text â€Å"Comprehensive decisions must be made regarding key strategic choices, such as standardization versus adaption, concentration versus dispersion, and integration versus independence† (Cateora, gilly,graham 306), this means both sides must have cohesion prior to the decision making process to ensure the products, or services, offered have a positive reaction to the culture they are attempting to attract. Among other issues faced by the companies the opportunities presented by outside or foreign, markets are not always in sync with those of the companies, for example, as the text states â€Å"it may be necessary to change the objectives, alter the scale of international plans or abandon them. One market may offer immediate profit but have a poor long-run outlook, while another may offer the reverse† (Cateora, Gilly, Graham 313), this shows the primary difference between developed markets and undeveloped markets because where the resources are lacking within an untapped market they strive and do not provide speed bumps and hinderances within a developed market. The difficulties that lie with conducting business within an undeveloped market further extend also due to the primary issues faced dealing with a well developed market, those challenges include cultural and physical distance due to the â€Å"difficulties of doing business across time zones† (Cateora, Gilly, Graham 313), and these difficulties have been wholly defined and extensively pacified within a developed foreign market. Since there must be a gain from expanding to these foreign markets, the companies work in attempting to unify with the needs of the market to support the expansion may at times exceed the benefits gained. The problems within an undeveloped foreign market could prove too unpredictable to be able to support such a move by an outside source attempting to gain access into the market, among other issues to include foreign investment, and tariffs the expansion could be more costly than it is beneficial. 12. The text discusses stereotypes, ethnocentrism, degree of economic development, and fads as the basis for generalizations about country of origin effect on product perception. Explain each and give an example. Country of origin effect is described as the â€Å"influence that the country of manufacture, assembly, or design has on a consumer’s positive or negative perception of a product (Cateora, Gilly, Graham 363), essentially it is the realization of the products country of origin and the consumer’s translation of the revelation in terms of continued support of the products or services. This realization leads into the generalizations mentioned within the text these generalizations aslo allow the consumer to pass judgement based on their primary ideas or assumptions of the country of origin which are generally bias and culture based either negatively or positively motivated. A stereotype is a common image or judgement of someone or something, as noted within the text, these images are â€Å"formed by experience, hearsay, myth, and limited information† (Cateora, Graham, Gilly 363), generally an idea or bias o forced upon another. Since Most consumers have an idea or notion of other people in other countries these notions have a tendency to find ways to define their products as well, but the ideals and cultures shared within another country could oppose those of others that may not want to support the sell of their products and services. Stereotypes become important within consumer markets because consumers may want to know where and how their products are being manufactured. This also blends into the idea of ethnocentrism where one may believe their culture is superior to another and decide that foreign products have no place in their country and this can influence the opposition of outside products and services. Some stereotypes also have a overall perception of products and services because of where they come from and the premise of what they represent in terms of industrialization and developing, most developing countries have stereotypes against them because of this. This is the practice of dividing similar products into an â€Å"ours† versus â€Å"theirs† circumstance where the home country depends and sides with locally manufactured products and services. Fads are typically products that tend to be in the now and have no home of origin, they simply come and go with time. These stereotypes all have implications concerning generalizations about country of origin simply because every consumer has an opinion on where and how the products and services come about. These opinions become a part of the product life cycle because they determine the positive and negative outcomes of theses products within different regions. Cateora, Philip R., Mary C. Gilly, and John Graham. International Marketing. 14th. New York: McGraw-Hill/Irwin, 2008.

Religious Experience Essay

Religious experience is seen as a non-empirical occurrence which means it does not depend or can be verified through observation or examination. Majority of people believe it’s supernatural. It is also seen as an experience to make a person aware. Certain religious people believe who have had the experience has drawn them into a deeper knowledge/ awareness of god. Most importantly it is seen as the experience itself is not a substitute for the divine but a vehicle that is used to bring people closer to the divine. It is also known as unique and cannot be shared with anyone. 3 Types of characteristics of religious experience * Vision * Conversion * Mystical experiences Visions: is when an individual believes they’ve seen or heard something supernatural. There are three ways in which an individual can experience this. An intellectual vision brings knowledge and understanding such as a revelation from the almighty god. An imaginary vision is where something that strengthens the faith is seen with the mind eye. Corporeal vision is where the figure is externally present. Examples of this is st Bernadette who was 14 years old, who had a few visions but the visions started off her seeing a figure which didn’t speak to her but then later on the figure begun to speak which was known as virgin Mary gave her a set of instructions saying that the spring water at Lourdes had healing power and that a chapel was to be built on the site. Numinosity : this word was given to describe the sense of a an awesome power, but feeling very distinctly separate from it. Rudolph otto used this so called term