Saturday, August 31, 2019

Journal of Occurrences

During the time that Boston was under seize and the British soldiers controlled the American colonies Samuel Adams took a stand and used the â€Å"Journal of Occurrences† to influence the retraction of the British soldier and start a revolution in Colonial Boston by showing how media can play a big role and also influence society with propaganda. Samuel Adams was a writer and publisher of the â€Å"Journal of Occurrences† also know as â€Å"Journal of the times† and â€Å"Journal of Transactions in Boston. † The â€Å"Journal† sprung up after the arrival of the British soldiers in the colonial town of Boston.Oliver Morton Dickerson compiler of A Journal of the Times in the book Boston under Military Rule points out the arrival of the British soldiers â€Å"So we now behold Boston surrounded at a time of profound peace, with about 14 ships of war, with springs on their cables, and their broadsides to the town! † (1). The initial approach of th e British soldiers would spark red flags in any colony especially if approached with war ships which would raise questions to why they are actually there. As John K.Alexander author of â€Å"American Revolution Politicians† points out â€Å"As Adams predicted the soldiers caused more difficulties and tumults than they stopped (68). † The presence of the soldiers and the many problems they caused provided Adams and his fellow Whigs ample material to fashion propaganda (Alexander 68). The first issue of the â€Å"Journal† appeared in the October 13 New-York Journal and covered the period from September 28 through October 2 (Alexander 68). There for after the New-York Journal had an installment of the â€Å"Journal of Occurrences. Samuel Adam was a skillful writer even before the Journals were produces but he used them as an opportunity to speak out against the soldiers and the British government as a whole. â€Å"The Journal of Occurrences† â€Å"focused on the many grievances that grew out of the military presence in Boston (Alexander 69)† and William M. Fowler, Jr. author of Samuel Adams Radical Puritan point out â€Å"in issue, dated 13 October 1768, the authors claimed that everything contained in its pages was strictly fact (90). All of the events in the Journal lacked evidence or proof of the incident, while also never mentioning names, which in today’s media would be considered unacceptable and most likely wouldn’t be published. â€Å"The first was the incalculable ham being done to the innocent citizens of Boston by despicable soldiers (Fowler 91). † There where claims of soldiers beating citizens in the streets â€Å"a tradesman on his way home had a thrust in the breast with a bayonet from a soldier (Fowler 91). â€Å"On another occasion when a household hearing the cries of two women in the night, who were rudely treated by soldiers, tried to come to their aid, he was knocked down with a musk et and much wounded (Fowler 91). † Later claims from the north end of Boston bought chargers of rape against a soldier who escaped (Fowler 91). â€Å"This was tabloid journalism at its sensational best (Fowler 91). † The second themes that were found in the Journal were the other agents of the king mainly the commissioners of the customs.During the colonial times it wasn’t uncommon for political figures to use their power to get what they wanted but they couldn’t stop the Journal from being printed. â€Å"With their near vice regal authority, the commissioners could act outside the normal structure of colonial government (Fowler 91). † â€Å"Not loathe to use their power to reward friends and punish enemies, the commissioners were an easy target for the Journal (Fowler 91). † Nearly every issue discredited both of the law and the enforcement officials (Fowler 91). In the pages of the Journal Bostonians were always innocent; the commissioners were always guilty (Fowler91). † This media tactic helped influenced most of the colonial people regardless of whether it was true or not the Journals caught the attention of the common people. As Rodger Streitmetter author of Mightier than the Sword points out â€Å"Adams conceived of what became America’s first systematic gathering and distributing of news- a precursor of today’s Associated Press (10).The articles and issues of the â€Å"Journal of Occurrences raised the tension between citizens in Colonial Boston and soldiers in the British Army â€Å"The descriptions of improper behavior by British troops became popular readings- as the blood pressure of the colonists continued to rise (Streitmetter12). † Six months after the attitude toward the soldier grew so outrageous that even the British officials caved in and realized that the presence of four regiments were making things worst instead of helping. In August 1769 the British officials decided t o withdraw the troops. Adams and his journalistic strategy had triumphed magnificently (Streitmetter13). † The â€Å"Journal of Occurrences† then ceased operation after â€Å"It had produced some 300 individual entries one for each day during the ten months that British troops had been stationed in Boston (Streitmetter13). † In our society today the media has a big input on our society as it did during the 18th century. The Journals â€Å"were effective in ridding Boston of unwanted British soldiers and in gaining support for Adams and his radical notions (Streitmetter13). It’s amazing that the people in colonial Boston never questioned the stories they read in the Journals but embraced them and took them for truth without in solid proof of the account. Thou you would think truth would be considered a factor, propaganda and writing for the audience help the â€Å"Journal of Occurrences† influence colonial Boston society. â€Å"As propaganda the Jo urnal was a phenomenal success (Fowler 92). The papers were produced in Boston and printed in New York. The stories of the Boston â€Å"incidents were produced in papers such as the Pennsylvania Chronicles and was sent through all the colonies and even spread to the London papers.All in all the Journals not only influenced the people in colonial Boston but when stories of the town were spread it influenced America. â€Å"Bostonians were brave and stoic citizens defiantly standing in defense of the rights of all Americans (Fowler 92). † The â€Å"Journal of Occurrences† stories helped in the retraction of the British soldiers while giving the citizens of colonial Boston means to stand up and fight against the stationing of British soldiers in their city, overall staging a revolution in Boston as well as showing how media along with propaganda could affect society.

Friday, August 30, 2019

An Effective Classroom Teacher Essay

I believe that with being a teacher comes great responsibility. A teacher will leave a lasting impression on their pupils, they should be free from any prejudice and treat children as individuals by respecting their backgrounds, religion, disability and race. I am extremely concerned about becoming an effective teacher and many factors contribute to this. This essay will highlight my areas of concern and how my initial thoughts have developed during my placement. My areas of concern include planning and executing enjoyable lessons. They also include the strategies I observed the teacher using to mange behaviour in the classroom which is essential for the smooth flow of the day. Confidence is a factor which I feel improves every time you teach, and if lessons are well planned and subject knowledge is secure a teacher would automatically begin to feel confident. I am also concerned about classroom organisation and the implementation of routines. I observed many examples of set routines which the school follow, this is the responsibility of the teacher to enforce and then keep consistent. These are all attributes or responsibilities of an effective teacher and this essay will explore them and discuss possible ways of improving or developing them. I have also included my experience regarding assessment and the importance of identifying strengths and weaknesses to become an effective teacher. Finally, I have included some experiences of my university education which has helped me to identify my areas for concern. I feel that being an effective teacher should involve valuing, gaining and giving respect to the children. I was concerned how this could be achieved. I saw fantastic examples on my school placement which I hope to adopt myself. Every morning the teacher would give the children time to settle on the carpet and instead of talking amongst each other, they would in turn talk to the teacher and the rest of the class, often about issues which were concerning them or something exciting that happened over the weekend. The teacher made sure every child had a chance to talk no matter how trivial. She showed genuine interest in them and never let them feel insignificant. I really admired the teacher for this. I initially thought it was just a nice way to start the morning however, after thinking about it so many strategies are involved and learning taking place. The children develop confidence in talking in front of the class; they are sharing their thoughts and feelings, and learning how to express themselves. The bond of trust is being formed between pupil and teacher. Finally, it is good strategy for managing behaviour. Children learn to listen to each other and they also learn patience and turn-taking. † The most effective teachers frequently involved the whole class in discussion and were skilled at doing this, which was not necessarily whole-class teaching as such.† (Dean, J. (2001) p.39)  Therefore I feel that it is extremely important to value a child despite race, gender, religion or disability. And to truly show an interest in them and respect their thoughts and beliefs. I feel that I established a good relationship with the children and they felt comfortable around me. This is where I felt I was effective in my teaching. All this contributes to being an effective teacher. Mortimore et al. (1988) found that effective teachers gave rewards rather than punishments, as punishments had a negative effect on learning. I observed a great deal of this on my school placement which I quickly adopted. Unwanted behaviour was often ignored until absolutely necessary, whereas good behaviour was praised quickly and an example made of it to the rest of the class. This practise worked, I saw the class react quickly try and act the same way to please the teacher and me as a student teacher. I feel that an effective teacher should have implemented a classroom routine and then to keep it consistent. An arrangement of getting things out and putting away can be made with children. All the children can be given a responsibility of taking care of a small area of the classroom. Places for resources, books etc should have a permanent place and be clearly labelled to enable the children to tidy up efficiently. I also noticed that the class teacher had seated the children in rows on specific places on the carpet. Bennet and Blunder (1983) found that children got more work done when sat in rows. I found that this is an effective classroom management strategy. There are no arguments of sitting next to friends or lack of space. The children know where they sit and with one glance, the teacher can see who is missing and spot ant disruptions. The children were seated on the table in groups according to ability. Independent work was often completed on the tables, however, the child were always given the chance to discuss ideas with each other before asking the teacher for help.

Thursday, August 29, 2019

Addressing Women Vulnerability in Refugee Camps through the Provision Dissertation

Addressing Women Vulnerability in Refugee Camps through the Provision of Household Energy - Dissertation Example This paper stresses that energy resources can be referred to as acquisitive possessions. Hence, holding a right to use such ‘valuable assets’ might help in substantially reducing the vulnerability of households based in refugee camps. The fact that energy helps in meeting several vital days to day needs of households, such as cooking, carrying and storing water, processing food etc, is undeniable. The households which receive adequate energy, for instance in the form of cooking stoves, for such activities are able to effectively manage their resources in a much better fashion and hence contribute towards poverty eradication, in a small yet substantial way. This essay makes a conclusion that Energy is acknowledged one of the most indispensable contributors for supporting the livelihood of people living in IDPs or refugee camps. At the most fundamental level, provision of energy facilitates the availability of cooked food, clean drinking water, and heat (for protection against cold weather). However, the significance of provision of energy has never been acknowledged and established extensively as a vital necessity along with food, clothing, and shelter, within the refugee camps. An in-depth evaluation of various reports in this regard, such as the United Nations High Commission for Refugees, for instance, reveals that a majority of needs of people living in displaced settings or in refugee camps are related to household energy including cooking, lighting, heating etc.

Wednesday, August 28, 2019

Controlling Extraneous Variables in Research Coursework - 2

Controlling Extraneous Variables in Research - Coursework Example They do it based on the rational analysis and past occurrence. After spotting the extraneous variables, they can be regulated through grasping a variable steady. Another way of controlling the extraneous variables is through building a consistent environment and system to ensure that all variables are equal in every condition. Researchers have also embarked on random assignments where a group of researchers takes part in the same research. In random research, different researchers or groups are assigned to perform the task where a mathematical theory is applied to conduct the research. Â  In the article, a hypothetical construct has been identified as an extraneous variable, it is not seen directly. However, there are dimensions that have been formed to help learn hypothetical constructs in a more systematic way. Researchers use different techniques to address the issues related to the extraneous variables such as standardization that is mostly used in survey analysis. Researchers also ensure those extraneous variables are kept the same for all the research parts. It also requires the researchers to be aware of the extraneous variable especially throughout the design phase and be able to control it. Balancing the variable across the research stages also reduce the chances for the influence of the research by an extraneous variable. The balancing enables comparison between the research groups and stages.

Tuesday, August 27, 2019

Integrating Ethics into Practice Essay Example | Topics and Well Written Essays - 250 words

Integrating Ethics into Practice - Essay Example The two concepts keep me in my toes as a business professional. Going concern keeps my eyes set on the ultimate goal as a professional to always keep the business functional and viable. All other concepts will become nil if the business will stop its going concern. Costs tests my acumen as a business professional because it determines how well I keep this within a controllable limit to keep the business operational and profitable and sustain it as a going concern business. The 11 FASB concepts which are money measurement, Entity, Going concern, Cost, Dual aspect, Accounting period, Conservation, Realization, Matching, Consistency and Materiality sets the guidelines of the ethical practice of an accounting professional and a business person. This serves as the standards of the Generally Accepted Accounting Principles (GAAP) whereby financial statements that are prepared by a business should conform

Monday, August 26, 2019

The Age of Enlightment Essay Example | Topics and Well Written Essays - 750 words

The Age of Enlightment - Essay Example The history reveals that Britain remained the most flourishing point for the movement as provided with new, energetic and leading views at that time. The independence, susceptibility to change and flexibility of Britain helped in the development of this movement from a small struggle to a more powerful and unite movement of great thinkers of that era. The key enlightenment figures, which Porter discusses about the most, are Locke, Newton and Hume. The other leading figures which influenced the thoughts and perceptions of people of their times involved Kant, Hobbes, Arouet, Rosseau, Wollstonecraft and so on. The goal of the Enlightenment thinkers was to help people in developing the ideas which were reasonable and logical although new and completely different from the older ones. Their aim was to change the human beings’ current state in order to make the world a better place for whole of the humanity rather than certain groups. They believed more in reason than in beliefs and concepts which were adopted from predecessors or current society. They emphasized on reasoning and rejected the older norms of superstition and emotional thoughts. They proposed intellectual understanding and concept of modern sciences to expose certain realities about life, world and nature. They proposed to sue science and logical modern ideas to solve issues and influence the nature. They offered to increase human wealth using scientifically rich ideas but not to compromise humanity for the sake of increasing wealth and gaining power. They emphasized on the goodness of men rather than superstitious ideas about the bad instincts. The Enlightenment thinkers emphasized, greatly on the power of individuals. They developed and strengthened the concept of individuality as a way out to their limited life circle. They provided with a concept of a person as a powerful figure of society rather than groups relying on each other without any personal opinion or efforts placed in order to chan ge their present and future life. The emphasized on public discussions and called for actions which were strong as per the reasons supporting them. The Enlightenment thinkers were greatly opposed and criticized for years. Their philosophies and ideas were opposed by romantics of the era as they felt that their ideas were against humanity or moral values of unity. Another distinct feature of the Enlightenment thinkers was their views on religion. Their concept of God was different in a fashion that He created a masterpiece in the shape of the universe but they do not believe in any further changes or miracles from Him anymore. According to their view, God has created the world and left it on us to understand it, make changes for the rest of the time we stay here. There are many veiled secrets in the universe which human beings are created to find out and make this world a better place for their lives. Their religious views diverted towards finding the reasons behind everything in the world. Their faith lies in the fact that everything in this world is created for a reason and human being can discover those reasons by struggles and new ideas. Their belief is that human beings can find out ways to understand the nature and change the course of humanity by continuous struggle, careful assessment and an enthusiasm for a change. Newton’s strive led to the discovery of Laws of physics and the

Sunday, August 25, 2019

Providing Shelter For AIDS Orphans Case Study Example | Topics and Well Written Essays - 1250 words

Providing Shelter For AIDS Orphans - Case Study Example An 'orphan' is defined by the United Nations as a child who has 'lost one or both parents'. Around 14.8 million of these children live in sub-Saharan Africa. Out of this number, UNICEF reports that â€Å"almost a million children in Zimbabwe have lost one or both parents to AIDS†. These children go through thorny conditions to survive. This is so because Zimbabwe as a country has a serious economic problem. According to the World Bank, The government of Zimbabwe faces a wide variety of difficult economic problems as it struggles with an unsustainable fiscal deficit, an overvalued official exchange rate, hyperinflation, and bare store shelves. In such a poor country where able-working adults even find it difficult to make earns meet, one can image what happens with innocent AIDS orphans, who are orphans by no fault of theirs. As regional bodies like UNICEF and World Food Program try to go to the aid of AIDS orphans in Zimbabwe with food relief, one area that still remains distr essed is the program of accommodation for AIDS orphans in Zimbabwe. In Kenya and Tanzania, the African Development Foundation has funded farm projects, secondary education and housing for AIDS-affected families. Perhaps, it is time for AIDS orphans in Zimbabwe to have such a relief with the provision of shelter. This project seeks to lay emphasis on AIDS orphans in the rural areas in the South West of Zimbabwe. About two-thousand AIDS orphans will be provided with decent shelter across twenty communities in South West Zimbabwe. ... About two-thousand (2000) AIDS orphans will be provided with decent shelter across twenty (20) communities in South West Zimbabwe. The Logical Framework Document Narrative Summary Objectively Verifiable Indicators - OVIs Means of Verification   -MOVs External Factors (Assumptions) Development Objective To provide shelter for 5000 AIDS orphans in South West Zimbabwe When the over 3000 AIDS orphans are reunited with their families and 2000 AIDS orphans admitted into orphanages to be built Information on progress of work shall be resourced from project managers who will keep project progress log Immediate Objective AIDS orphans in South West Zimbabwe will be protected from open air whether with the provision of shelter directly constructed by the organization and by reunion of orphans with their extended When the living conditions of over 5000 AIDS orphans become improved with the provision of decent shelter through family reunion or admission into orphanages to be established. Inform ation on progress of work shall be resourced from project managers who will keep project progress log AIDS orphans in Zimbabwe are prone to health problems and are de-motivated to go to school because they do not have access to good shelter. Outputs (Results) 1. Provide 20 communities in South West Zimbabwe with decent accommodation 2. Re-unite over 3000 AIDS orphans in South West Zimbabwe with their extended families 3. Provide shelter for 2000 AIDS orphans in rural communities in Zimbabwe 1. Establish through new construction and rehabilitation of existing structures, 40 orphanages across 20 communities in South West Zimbabwe 2. Identify extended families of over 3000 AIDS orphans who are homeless and talk over the families to reunite with

Saturday, August 24, 2019

CSFs, Benefits and Barriers during the Implementation of ERP in the Dissertation

CSFs, Benefits and Barriers during the Implementation of ERP in the Security Forces Hospital Program (SFHP) from the Management Perspective - Dissertation Example This paper aims to determine how the Security Forces Hospital Program (SFHP) in Saudi Arabia can successfully implement and maximize the benefits of the Enterprise Resource Planning (ERP) system. Aside from providing a short background on SFHP and the need to consider implementing ERP system, this paper will summarize the research aim, research objectives, research justification, research scope, summary of relevant literature, proposed research methodology, research ethics, and strategies that will be use in collecting data. The implementation of ERP system within a hospital setting is unique due to the fact that healthcare organization such as the case of a hospital is often divided into heterogeneous functional areas (i.e. Human Resources, Financial and Cost Management, Patient Care Management, and Clinical Management among others). To give the readers a better understanding of this subject matter, this study will first discuss what ERP is all about followed by identifying the hospital management benefits associated with the use of ERP system. Although the process of customizing the development of ERP will enable the healthcare administration of SFHP to incorporate specific hospital rules in the system, the implementation of ERP systems can lead to the development of organizational conflicts.... healthcare professionals, the SFHP will be able to deliver safe and high quality health services to the local people (Security Forces Hospital Program 2012b). To integrate internal and external information that are useful in making necessary business and management decisions, the ERP system involves the use of information technology (Bidgoli, 2004, p. 656). Although implementing ERP system can be useful in terms of integrating the hospital management system of SFHP, there will always be some challenges associated with the implementation of ERP system. Considering the future business benefits associated with the process of investing on the customization of ERP systems, this study will carefully examine how the development and implementation of ERP systems could further improve the quality of medical services provided by the healthcare professionals who are currently employed at SFHP. Research Aim This study aims to identify the CSFs and to examine the benefits and barriers and difficu lties related to the possible implementation of ERP at SFHP. Research Objectives In relation to the research am, the following objectives will be used as a guide throughout the completion of this study: 1. To conduct a literature review with regards to the critical success factors (CSFs), benefits and barriers of a successful ERP implementation; 2. To determine how the SFHP can maximize the benefit of implementing a newly customized ERP system; 3. To establish if these CSFs exist at SFHP; 4. To identify potential benefits and barriers to a successful ERP implementation at SFHP; and 5. To provide a list of recommended actions when managing the barriers to a successful ERP system. Research Justification This is a shortage of ERP studies in Saudi. Despite a long list of management benefits

Quality management Assignment Example | Topics and Well Written Essays - 1250 words - 1

Quality management - Assignment Example constitute an organization’s stakeholders. Any of these variables has the potential to affect or be affected by the actions of an organization or project. For instance, when aligning goals management should ensure that there is an investor value proposition which can attract and satisfy investors. In the same way, only if the program involves buyer value, it can attract and retain its customers. However, the value attributed to each group can add to the overall success of the business only if reciprocity ensured. If the suppliers do not keep a favorable stance, the company cannot meet its customer needs in proportion to the customer value. This is the context when a business management has to demonstrate its ability to align the stakeholders. When a firm offers high quality products to its customers, it should also ensure that its suppliers are also treated with fair price. Obviously, a profit driven organization tends to fail in this regard. As Jeston and Nelis point out, one of the primary steps of any project is the ‘identification and analysis of the project stakeholders’; and this analysis involve understanding the leadership styles, stakeholder position in the organization, their personal drives etc (264). Stakeholders possess a significant role in the progress of the business. For instance, meeting the expectation of the stakeholder in a responsible manner is important. Every organization or company has its own goal or target; and completion of such strategy always assures company’s and stakeholders’ prosperity. Theories of Cornell University are the perfect examples for this as it always focuses on three aspects such as â€Å"understanding expectation, measurement and accountability† ("Stakeholder Alignment Model"). Economic growth and achieving targets are always the two pillars of a strong business firm. There are numerous hurdles to overcome in order for achieving a common goal. First of

Friday, August 23, 2019

Econometrics Essay Example | Topics and Well Written Essays - 750 words - 2

Econometrics - Essay Example d) Assume that you run a regression with 223 observations. The dependent variable is ‘annual salary’ and there are 3 independent variables ‘work experience in years’, ‘education duration in years’ and ‘number of employees in company’. The regression yields following result for the variable ‘number of employees in company’: e) A researcher wants to find out whether age has an effect on how happy people are. The researcher runs a regression with the dependent variable ‘happiness score’ (0 to 10 with 10 being extremely satisfied) and the independent variable ‘age’ (in years). The modelling results show that age is not significant. You also have a look at the residual plot (shown below). Please explain why the residual plot indicates that the regression generated by the researcher is misleading. Discuss what relationship you expect between age and happiness. Outline how you could work this into the initial regression model and hence, improve it (10 marks). From the analysis of the residual below it can be observed that the residua are symmetrical. The residual also have constant variance. This means that the assumption of constant variance is fulfilled. We therefore expect a significant relationship between the age and happiness. To improve the initial regression model, we would ensure that other variables that influence the happiness are introduced into the regression model. f) You want to know whether people with higher incomes are happier. Your friend has run a survey in their company and run a regression on the data. The dependent variable is ‘happiness score’ (0 to 10 with 10 being extremely satisfied). There is only one independent variable: ‘monthly income’ (in  £). Your friend sends you the gretl output of the regression via email. Unfortunately, the file got corrupted and only the critical F-value is legible (see below). Using this output, show that ‘monthly income’ is indeed highly significant (provide

Thursday, August 22, 2019

Consumer behaviour Essay Example for Free

Consumer behaviour Essay Understanding consumer behaviour has taken the attention of researchers and companies due to their relevance for business success (Jones et al 2000). How is consumer satisfaction related with their loyalty has been likely the most important issue in consumer behaviour for ensure a long-term success in a marketing strategy (Pappu et al 2006). The literature and researchers suggest that there is a strong relation between product satisfaction and brand loyalty, but always highlighting their relation as a unidirectional relationship. In other words, product or service satisfaction has a direct relationship with loyalty, but loyalty has not a significant dependency with satisfaction (Oslen 2005). In other words, brands can have satisfied customers; nevertheless, that does not mean loyal customers in the future (Oslen 2005). In addition, the literatures also suggest that there is a link between loyalty and profitability thanks to repurchase behaviour (Dick Basu 1994; Anderson et al 1994; Rust et al 1995). All these positive consequences are possible if managers consider in their strategies concepts such as consumer satisfaction and customer loyalty to build strong relationships based on trust and commitment (Dick Basu 1994). All these concepts are totally useful to take a lot of opportunities in the wine business. Its features as a business mix between products and services, its challenging competitive environment and its complexity for products evaluation, make the wine business completely dependent of these concepts. Hence, this essay will discuss what is customer satisfaction and why is relevant for a business success in a long-term. Then, it will do the same with customer loyalty concept making a special attention in the differences between customer satisfaction and customer loyalty concepts. Furthermore, to have different viewpoints about loyalty, also it will be discussed an important argument against loyalty known as â€Å"double jeopardy effect†. After that, this essay will offer two approaches of how is calculated customer profitability due to their significance in managerial marketing decisions. Finally, it will be explained how are linked satisfaction- loyalty-profitability and its consequences to the wine business. Customer satisfaction is very important to a business success in a long-term (Jones et al 2000; Pappu et al 2006). There is a wide range of arguments to support why customer satisfaction is so relevant for future performance of many companies. For example, satisfied customers are stronger against competition marketing campaigns, also they are less sensitive to the price and might be more loyal to the brand than unsatisfied customers (Dimitriades 2010). However, satisfaction is not the only step that wineries have to give to archive their goals with their clients. There is a big differentiation between satisfaction and loyalty, and a deep understanding of each concept might be essential for businesses with a strong association between products and services like the wine business. Nowadays, the wine business has been recognized as one of the most competitive business due to its small margins and large supply. In addition, the changing wine business environment has forced wine producer to use strategies focused on consumer preferences (Kimpakorn Tocquer 2011). All these factors have become critical for wineries that want to have a differentiation against their competitors and satisfy their customers. According to aforementioned, several authors are defined and studied customer satisfaction and their loyalty due to their relevance in a long-term, but their definitions vary according to the purpose of the study (Oslen 2005). Nevertheless, The American Marketing Association (AMA), is the most respectful professional association for individuals and organizations who are leading the practice, teaching, and development of marketing worldwide, and they defined customer satisfaction as follow: 1. The degree to which a consumers expectations are fulfilled or surpassed by a product. 2. The post-purchase evaluation of a consumer action by the ultimate consumer or the decision maker. The beliefs, attitudes, and future purchase patterns; word-of-mouth communication; and legal and informal complaints have been related to the post-purchase satisfaction/dissatisfaction process. (American Marketing Association 2012) Therefore, for those wineries that are looking for a differentiation, satisfied customers might be a good alternative. As it is possible to see, according to the definition of AMA, everything is related with consumer’s expectations and how companies exceed it or not. In addition, the post-purchase process will determinate their attitudes and beliefs to the brand. In this line, a satisfied customer is a potential ‘promoter’ of the brand through word-of-mouth and could be a very profitable if companies understand their needs and wants. Moreover, Anderson and Sullivan (1993) explain that are two factors as antecedents of satisfaction, expectations and perceived quality (Anderson et al 1993). This means, the evaluating process will depend on how were built these expectations and the quality perceived. Furthermore, the authors sustain that these antecedents will have a different weight in the process depending on how complex is evaluate the product. Consequently, it might be more relevant manage customer satisfaction when clients are familiarized with the product. On the contrary, when the product is complex or difficult for evaluating, expectations are more relevant (Anderson et al 1993). So, these findings challenge the wine industry due to wine is not an easy product to evaluate. In other words, it is not enough produce just a good quality wine, but also it is manage customer’s expectation as a part of their job to obtain their satisfaction. Wineries that already exceed customer’ expectations, now are looking for keeping their attention and future preferences. Is here when loyalty becomes an important and relevant goal for those wineries that passed the first step, create a long-term relationship with their customers. Many conceptualizations of customer loyalty can be found in the literature (Donio et al 2006). The importance of create profitable relationship with customers is so relevant that many authors have dedicated their studies to understand it. What is customer loyalty and why it is so significant to the future success of a business are the key questions. The main recurrent argument in the literature is capturing a new customer is much more expensive than delighting existing one (Dick Basu 1994). As we discuss before, satisfaction in the wine business is more related with customer expectation, but once exceeded these expectations, is essential start to thinking in how to build a sustainable relationship with customers in the long-term. Dick and Basu (1994) defined loyalty as follow: â€Å"The strength of the relationship between an individual’s relative attitude towards an entity (brand, service, store, or vendor) and repeat patronage† (Dick Basu 1994) So, Dick and Basu (1994) suggest that there is a link between the strength of the relationship and the individual’s relative attitudes toward a brand, which it determinate a possible future purchase. Now, it is not clear yet how these attitudes work and are built. To explain this, Dick and Basu (1994) explain three different approaches of customer loyalty. First, loyalty as an attitude toward a brand, second, loyalty expressed as a pattern behaviours, and third, buying moderated by individual attitudes (Dick Basu 1994). Understanding these three views are very useful for appreciate deeply what is customer loyalty. The first approach is viewed as positive attitudes toward a brand. This means, a good past experiences generated a commitment with the brand. This is measured asking people how much they like the brand or if they will give any recommendations. The level of these feelings and recommendations will measure the level of commitment with the brand and future purchases (Dick Basu 1994). In other words, any marketing campaign that reinforces positive attributes toward the brand is working on enhancing these positive attitudes. For instance, Coca-cola and its marketing campaign of happiness or Harley-Davidson and their ‘unique sound’ and ‘style’ of motorcycles, both are campaigns that enhance positive attributes toward the brand. However, this definition is not quite verifiable for buying of ‘low-risk’ (Dick Basu 1994). The second definition, loyalty expressed as pattern behaviour, defines different kind of customers. Those called ‘monogamous’ that means one hundred per cent loyal to a brand and the others as ‘promiscuous’ that means loyal to a category of products more than a specific brand (Dick Basu 1994). So, under this definition loyalty is more like a propensity to buy a brand into a category of products than feelings of commitment with a particular one. In deed, there are evidences that show people who declared them self as satisfied or very satisfied and in the next purchase they buy another brand. For example, In the UK, Oglivy Loyalty Centre found that, although 85% of automotive customers declared them self as satisfied, only 40% bought the same brand, and of packaged goods customers who identified a favourite brand, the 66% had bought another brand recently (O’Malley 1998). Finally, the third approach, buying moderate by individual attitudes, links the behaviour with customer’ attitudes. Dick Basu (1994) interpret behaviour as the act of buying plus the attitudes created for that act. As attitudinal dimensions Dick and Basu (1994) give three steps, ‘customer satisfaction’, ‘customer trust’ and ‘customer commitment’. These three steps would be the antecedents of customer loyalty. In simple words, people will buy something with expectations created by advertising, background, social environment, etc. Then, post-purchase, they will create several attitudes according to the process of product evaluation. Consequently, these attitudes will generate satisfaction if these expectations were exceed it. Once satisfaction is obtained, people might develop trust in that brand and a possible desire of commitment. Hence, according to this third definition, we can see a deeper process behind customer loyalty and a better explanation of how to manage it. It may say, to build customer loyalty is not enough create a relationship through a loyalty scheme, gifts or create email lists and send emails for communicating promotions and activities. Loyalty is much more complex than that, first, it is necessary obtain customers trust for building a compromise with them (Dick Basu 1994). Then, once customers take commitment, it is possible to speak about loyalty. As an example, this is similar to marriage. First, there is a period where people know each other (trust), then, people who really want to make a compromise for building something in the future get engaged, and finally, during the marriage, the couple works everyday to remember their votes and keep their loyalty through time. In marketing, seems to be the same pattern, companies that want to create strong relationships based on trust, first, they must gain it. Then, companies have to build a commitment with those customers that are profitable for them and, finally, find the way to develop their loyalty, remembering why they took this preference in the past. Small brands have a double goal, increase their market share and their popularity to defeat the double jeopardy effect. In the literature it is possible to find a very common, but unknowing phenomenon called, Double Jeopardy (Ehrenberng et al 1990). This phenomenon, presented in business is cited as one of the most common arguments against loyalty explaining the repurchase behaviour as a consequence of the brand size in the market. Ehrenberg (1999) explains this phenomenon as follow: In any given time period, a small brand typically has far fewer buyers than a larger brand. In addition, its buyers tend to buy it less often. This pattern is an instance of a widespread phenomenon called double jeopardy

Wednesday, August 21, 2019

Mission And Vision Statements Commerce Essay

Mission And Vision Statements Commerce Essay We hear the words vision and mission every day, but what do this words really mean and how are they different from each other. To understand this question we have to look at the larger purpose of defining these words and how to apply their meaning to ensure that everybody who comes into contact with the company knows the organizations overall purpose and its primary objectives. The prime function of the mission and vision internally is to define the key measure or measures of the organizations success and its prime audience is the leadership team and stockholders. If we look at the Mission and Vision of a company in more detail we see that the mission is what an organization does, its action and we should think of the MISSION as managing with greatness and strength and improving everything on a daily basis. The VISION however is leading with inspiration and courage, being obsessed with future possibilities and to be positive about change. It creates that momentum of growing anticipation about the future, where change is seen as a step closer to that ideal picture of whats coming next. In opposite where a mission is a companys action the vision is what an organization would like to see happen as a result of the action taken as specified in its mission and looks forward (5 10 Years from now). The need for a Vision and Mission Statement Companys starts as nothing but an idea in someones mind and then turn into a physical reality. In order to get others actively working towards creating that physical reality, they must be able to see the vision; therefore, you must be able to see your own vision and know how to convey it. It is a desired future and can help to guide all stakeholders in the company who accept and understand it. As a shared vision it can be a great tool for building a sense of belonging and community in the company. However, if it is not shared it could result in employees who dont believe in the company and wont give their best effort.. Vision Statements also define the organizations purpose in terms of how they belief things should be done.) It communicates both the purpose and values of the organization and gives direction to emplyees about how they are expected to behave and inspires them to give their best. Shared with customers, it shapes customers understanding of why they should work with the organization. The vision should describe the desired future of the company as clearly as possible in terms of things such as: Demographics Shape, size and boundaries Markets, industries and clients Key partnerships and relationships Products and services People and work Competitive advantage Values Ates a picture of what leaders want the organisation to be in time and assist to align people and create a shared understanding for decision making.   This promotes awareness and understanding and will enhance the ability of people to make decisions appropriate to the achievement of the vision.   The goal should be to spread this understanding as widely as possible to create a shared understanding. Building out the vision creates a clearer strategic framework and give guidance for strategic development decisions.   Leaders should constantly be translating the vision into strategic initiatives, tactical actions and operational priorities that make it easy for all the people in the organisation to perform their work in such a way that it drives the entire organisation to the point where the vision becomes reality.   Strategic priorities may then be identified and decisions may be made.  Ã‚   Tactical decisions can also be made according to the strategic framework, underpinned by the strategic priorities.   Operational priorities may then be aligned with the tactical decisions at the appropriate time.   At the same time, leaders doing strategic, tactical and operational work must be able to keep their eyes on the guiding star of the vision. Not only does this approach align and focus leaders, it allows leaders at all levels to align and focus their people in pursuit of a consistent goal, with a clear understanding of why certain things are happening, what, when, where and how they are happening and what their own particular roles are.   This promotes focus, integration and co-ordination and creates an environment in which people can be empowered to take true ownership of their work. Next we take a look at the mission of a company. A Mission Statement defines the organizations purpose and primary objectives. Its prime function is internal to define the key measure or measures of the organizations success and its prime audience is the leadership team and stockholders. It should be well defined, so it can guide your business planned actions. It is important for any organization to spend time figuring out what their vision and mission are so that all parties involve understand what is expected of them. This insures that everyone is moving in the same direction. Taking the necessary time to assess these is critical because a company should be a body with many - parts, but only one mind. In a way, a mission is also a motivational aspect of a vision: it defines why the vision matter? and implies a set of governing values or principles. Much of what motivates and inspires people to make meaning and take action is contained in this why aspect. It also defines why it all matters to employees, contractors, partners, and management the internal customers. As a mission reflects human motivation, hopefully it helps people feel good, maybe even to feel inspired, about it. It must be kept current and alive. Strategic planning process: Steps involved Strategic planning is the core function in any company. Without a strategic framework the company will never know where it is going or why they are going there. However, there are many different models and steps available for the strategic planning process of a company and depend on how the specific company wants to implement it. One approach is summarized below. Agree on a strategic planning process. In this step all key role players should be present and should involved the following: An understanding of what strategic planning is and how it is done; Discuss its potential value to the company, in terms of providing a common vision and mission; Consider the costs of doing strategic planning, and what might need to be given up in order to develop a plan; Consider whether it will be a long-range plan or whether it may best focus on a short-term plan; Agree upon a process and establish responsibilities for the various steps in the process Set up a strategic planning committee and choose Carry out an environmental scan. This helps provide an understanding of how the organization relates to its external environment. The scan usually includes an external component identifying and assessing opportunities and threats in the external environment and an internal component assessing organizational strengths and weaknesses. This process is often referred to as SWOT: strengths, weaknesses, opportunities, and threats. Identify key issues, questions, and choices to be addressed as part of the strategic planning effort. This may mean specifying strategic issues or questions that the organization should address, and setting priorities in terms of time or importance. Define or review the organizations values, community vision, and mission. Be sure there is consensus on why the organization exists, what goals or outcomes it seeks to achieve what it stands for, and whom it serves. 5. Develop a shared vision for the organization. In some strategic planning efforts, a vision for the organization is developed after a vision for the community has been. 6. Develop a series of goals or organizational status statements which describe the organization in a specified number of years assuming it is successful in addressing its mission. It is usually a short step from the vision to goals sometimes the statements describing the vision are essentially goal statements. It is extremely valuable to transform the vision into a series of key goals for the organization, preferably in the form of status statements describing the organization. 7. Agree upon key strategies to reach the goals and address key issues identified through the environmental scan. The major emphasis should be on broad strategies, including current and new program, advocacy, collaborative, or other approaches. These strategies should be related to specific goals or address several goals. 8. Develop an action plan that addresses goals and specifies objectives and work plans on an annual basis. Once the longer-term elements of a strategic plan have been developed, it is time to ensure a specific work plan to begin implementation. 9. Finalize a written strategic plan that summarizes the results and decisions of the strategic planning process. There is no set format, but be sure to include the outputs of each major step. 10. Build in procedures for monitoring, and for modifying strategies based on changes in the external environment or the organization. Be sure progress towards goals and objectives and use of strategies is monitored regularly, with strategies revised and annual objectives developed yearly, based on the progress made, obstacles encountered, and the changing environment. Resources Grant Freedman (2009) Leveraging the organisations vision to align leaders and unlock the organisations potential [Online] Available from: [Accesed 26 January 2010] Elizabeth W. Gordon Vision Mission Purpose What Does It All Mean [Online] Available from: [Accesed 26 January 2010] Carol Humphries (2005) Vision and Mission: Seven Suggestions Why You Need Both [Online] Available from: [Accesed 26 January 2010] The Business Improvement Package What should the vision address [Online] Available from: [Accesed 26 January 2010] Daniel Robin Vision, Mission and Values:Management Tools for Building a Better Workplace [Online] Available from: [Accesed 26 January 2010] Carol Humphries Vision and Mission: Seven Suggestions Why You Need Both [Online] Available from: [Accesed 26 January 2010] Emily Gantz McKay. Based on materials originally prepared for use with SHATIL, the technical assistance project of the New Israel Fund. Modified for the National Council of La Raza, and further modified for MOSAICA, May 1994 and July 2001. Strategic planning: a Ten-Step Guide [Online] Available from: [Accesed 26 January 2010] Janet Shapiro Strategic Planning Toolkit [Online] Available from: [Accesed 26 January 2010]

Tuesday, August 20, 2019

Perceptions And Attitudes Towards Hiv Health And Social Care Essay

Perceptions And Attitudes Towards Hiv Health And Social Care Essay Since the first reported case of HIV/AIDS in 1981, the disease has had a devastating effect on all components of our society and has become the most deadly infectious disease epidemic in recent times. The disease is seen as a threat to the stability of entire nations and regions affecting the most productive members of the society. HIV/AIDS has become a global phenomenon, however the disease is most pronounced in developing countries particularly Sub-Saharan Africa. The spread of the disease has reached pandemic proportions in most parts of the African continent (WHO 2007). The numbers of people infected with HIV keeps on increasing particularly among the young people. The estimated number of persons living with HIV worldwide in 2009 is 33 million. African continent alone had 22.5 million of the worlds estimated 33 million people living with HIV/AIDS (UNAIDS/WHO 2007). UNAIDS estimates showed that young people under 25 accounted for about 45% of all new HIV cases (over 6800 people become infected with HIV everyday) in adults in 2007. The disease continues to ravage Sub-Saharan Africa and it remains the most serious of infectious disease that challenges Africa. The leading cause of death in Sub-Saharan Africa is HIV/AIDS (Tanaka, Kunii, Hatano Wakai 2007). It is true HIV/AIDS continues to spread among the population of urban communities in Rwanda, with its heavy toll on the 15 49 year age groups, who constitute the economically productive sector of the countrys economy. Kanombe and Muhima Districts are urban communities in Kigali City Province, which has seen increase in the spread of HIV/AIDS. Urban districts are part of the worst HIV/AIDS prevalence in Rwanda. As at 2006 it had prevalence rate of 5.1% far higher than the rural average of 2.1 the same year. Rwanda is among the ten countries in Africa most severely affected by HIV/AIDS. The country is facing a generalized epidemic. National estimates indicate that in 2006, the adult prevalence rate is in the range of 3.1% among the general population (WHO 2007). Behavioral data serve as an early warning system and provide information to guide program design and evaluate interventions. In addition, the data provide information that can explain HIV prevalence trends. Prevention supports of donor agencies and the government have been working assiduously to curb the HIV/AIDS epidemic but there has not been any considerable decrease in the prevalent rate within Kigali City Province. A critical question here is; what could have accounted for this? Prevalence in 15-24 years group shows an increase trend though efforts have been made to slow down the spread. Young female adolescents are vulnerable and may be influenced into high-risk behaviors. The gab between male-female percentage regarding condom use in Rwanda is 40.9 and 19.7 respectively (WHO 2007). The aim of this study was to investigate the knowledge, perceptions, and attitudes of adolescents towards HIV/AIDS in order to institute meaningful preventive measures for the control of HIV/AIDS in Kigali City urban community. The findings of this study can be added to the existing body of knowledge on HIV/AIDS in Kigali City Province and in Rwanda as a whole. The findings of this study will help policymakers and healthcare professionals to develop adolescent centered, all-round and intensive programs that will curtail the spread of HIV in the province. 2. LITERATURE REVIEW 2.1 HIV/AIDS Definition HIV is the short form of Human Immunodeficiency Virus, the virus that causes AIDS. (Levy. 1993). AIDS is an abbreviation for Acquired Immunodeficiency Syndrome. Simply put Acquired Immunodeficiency Syndrome (AIDS) is caused by the human immunodeficiency virus (HIV), which destroys the cells in the human body that combat infections. Dr. Samuel Border, formerly at the National Cancer Institute in the United States of America, reminds us the history of HIV/AIDS. He said In June of 1981 we saw a young gay man with the most devastating immune deficiency we had ever seen. We said, we dont know what this is, but we hope we dont ever see another case like it again (WHO 1994).On 5th June, 1981, AIDS was first reported in Los Angeles, California. (Centers for Disease Control 1981). According to Broder S 1984 cited by Katrak 2006, the Human Immunodeficiency Virus type 1 (HIV 1) was discovered in 1983 as the root cause of Acquired Immunodeficiency Syndrome (Katrak 2006). Kahende (2001), in his thesis viewed HIV/AIDS as a cause as well as a symptom of underdevelopment. Its long incubation period makes it hard to predict the social and economic effects it may have on households and national development as a whole. The disease mostly affects individuals in their prime between the ages of 15 to 49 years and sizable number of those in this category will have major social and economic effects in the long run (World Bank 2007, International Development Committee (IDC) 2001). The United Nations International Labor Organizations (ILO) report in Akukwe (2006), suggest that a minimum of 26 million people worldwide living with HIV/AIDS are in the workforce with at least two-thirds of them living in Africa. The consequence of this is that the labor force in Africa will be in jeopardy in the near future. The disease has an incubation period of about 8 years and someone infected with the virus could infect many other people (Kahende, 2001). This means that a person infected with HIV may not show any noticeable symptoms until between 8years t o 10 years when the bodys immune system can no longer withstand the HIV virus. During this time many more persons will have become infected [around 6800 new infections per day at present) USAIDS (2007)]. This creates continuing rolling burden and a vicious cycle of illness and deaths which effects could be perilous to the affected countries. This makes AIDS much more dangerous than other diseases since diseases without incubation periods can be easily identified and treated (Kahende, 2001). Cure for HIV/AIDS has not been found yet, however, anti-retroviral therapy can prolong the lives of individuals living with HIV/AIDS (Akukwe 2006). This therapy is however currently expensive and not available to majority of infected people in sub-Sahara Africa (Fry 2007). 2.2 Rwanda Country Profile 2.2.1 Rwanda History Rwanda is a small, landlocked country in Central Africa with 9.7 million and a high population density (368 people per sq. km). Rwanda became independent in 1962 after colonization by Germany (1899) and Belgium (1919). In 1961 its monarchical government was formally abolished by a referendum and the first parliamentary elections were held. Political turmoil over the sharing of power and access to opportunities resulted in explosions of ethnic violence which have marked much of the recent history of the country. A civil conflict pitting the Hutu-led government against the Rwanda Patriotic Front (RPF), a Tutsi-led rebel movement, culminated in genocide, between April and June 1994. About 800,000 people were massacred by the army and the extremist Interahamwe militia. The RPF overthrew the regime in June 1994. While the country is currently at peace, Rwandans continue to struggle with the legacy of genocide. National reconciliation is a long-term endeavor that has the full commitment of the Government and the support of the international community. The Rwandan Government has undertaken significant measures to consolidate reconciliation including the continuation of the demobilization and reintegration project for ex-combatants and a model of democratization focused on a decentralized administration (World Bank 2009). 2.2.2 Economic and Social Progress Rwanda has made remarkable progress since the 1994 genocide and civil war. Peace and political stability have been re-established, reconciliation efforts are continuing, and democratic institutions and processes are being strengthened. Poverty and social indicators have also improved. Rwanda has been able to maintain overall macroeconomic stability and implement extensive reforms which have contributed to a strong growth performance. Rwanda is on track to achieve several of the Millennium Development Goals  (MDGs): MDG 2 on universal primary education; MDG 3 on gender equality; and MDG 6 on HIV/AIDS and malaria. Net primary enrollment is currently 95 percent, with 97 percent enrollment of girls. However, low completion rates and poor quality of basic education show that there are still major challenges to meeting MDG 2. HIV prevalence is estimated at about 3 percent with female infection rates (3.6 percent) substantially higher than those of males (2.3 percent). Rwanda is also on track to achieve the targeted reduction in malaria incidence (World Bank 2009). 2.3 Adolescents and HIV/AIDS Adolescence is one of the most captivating and complex transitions in the life span. It is a period of tremendous adjustment for children and parents. As children transition from childhood to adulthood, they undergo many physical, emotional and behavioral changes. These changes include; very fast physical growth, the rise of reproductive sexuality, new social roles, growth in thinking, feelings and morals. The sequence of pubertal changes is relatively predictable and consistent; however, their timing is extremely variable (National Academies Press 1999, 1-2.). Nearly 50% of the worlds population is under 25 (UNFPA 2003). The threat of HIV pandemic to young people cannot be over emphasized as UNAIDS estimates showed that young people under 25 accounted for about half of all new HIV cases in adults in 2007 and more than half of them still lack accurate and comprehensive information about how to avoid exposure to the virus (USAID 2008).The indication that less than 40% of young people globally have accurate and comprehensive knowledge about HIV (UNGASS indicator 13) is unacceptably low and consequently worrisome. Previous studies done in USA (DiClemente, Zorn, Temoshok, 1986; Bhattacharya, Cleland, Holland, 2000),Nepal (Mahat G Scoloveno 2006) and Turkey ( Savaser 2003) where adolescents in those studies knew of only sexual route of transmission. There is the need to step up HIV/AIDS education among the youth particularly in Sub-Sahara Africa where various cultures frown at sex education among adolescents. Young People between the ages of 15 to 24 accounts for 30% of all people living with HIV/AIDS (UNSAIDS 2001). The disease keeps on spreading especially among young people making it even harder to control. The HIV/AIDS epidemic remain invisible to both young people and the society, people usually carry the disease for years without their knowledge. As a result, the epidemic is spreading among young people at an alarming rate. In sub-Sahara Africa, the situation looks gloomier. More than half of sub-Saharan Africa have generalized HIV/AIDS epidemic, this means 5% or more of the young people are infected (UNAIDS 2000). The youth constitute one-fifth of the worlds population and nearly two-fifths in the developing countries populations (Population Reference Bureau (PRB) 2000). All hands must be on deck to reverse the trend in order to salvage our youth from the scourge of HIV pandemic, the future looks bleak if current situation must be allowed to continue. Young people have been designated as a group at high risk of acquiring HIV/AIDS due to their involvement in sexual experimentation and the use of recreational drugs. Vulnerability of young people to HIV/AIDS can be attributed to physical, social, economical and psychological features of adolescents (Offer, Ostrov, Howard, Atkinson, 1988, 270 Senderowitz, 1995). Socially and economically, most adolescents are dependent and inexperienced therefore, they are unable to protect themselves from infections, and have less access to health care than adults. Again, young peoples vulnerability to HIV/AIDS increases as result of cultural practices that shape their behaviors. Adolescence is a stage where young people establish their sexual identities, in doing so they are faced with pressures from society as well as their peers. 2.4 Adolescents knowledge, attitudes, perceptions and prevention of HIV/AIDS HIV/AIDS has caused indescribable suffering to millions of people world wide. The fight against the scourge and epidemic of HIV/AIDS is and continue to be one of the biggest challenges facing the world today. The impact of the disease touches on the lives of the global community in different predictable and unpredictable ways. Though the severity of the crisis is obvious, biochemical and pharmaceutical development of vaccines continue to have limited success; current drugs available can suppress the virus but they do not cure HIV infections or AIDS (The National Institute of Allergy and Infectious Diseases (NIAID), 2009).Therefore, promotion of prevention strategies needs to be intensified in order to halt the spread of HIV. It is now a common knowledge as reported in many studies that Transmission of human immunodeficiency virus (HIV) via sexual contact is the most common(UNAIDS 2002) and accounts for 75 to 85 percent of all infections(Royce, Seà ±a, Cates, Cohen, 1997). Over the past two decades, rates of infection with sexually transmitted diseases have continued to increase among teenagers. Roscoe and Kruger (1990) in their article titled Late adolescents knowledge and its influence concluded that although adolescents knowledge of HIV transmission might have improved over the past few years, their risk-related behaviors remain unchanged. This, no doubt can be linked to Adolescents sexual behavior and knowledge, attitudes, perceptions towards HIV/AIDS. Numerous studies have been done on adolescents sexuality, knowledge, attitudes, and/or behaviors relevant to AIDS in order to improve the over all sexual behavior of adolescents. It is important at this point to consider such surveys of adolescents. A random-sample surveyed by Strunin and Hingson (1987) of 860 adolescents, 16 to 19 years of age, concerning their knowledge, beliefs, attitudes, and behaviors regarding AIDS indicated 70% were sexually active (having sexual intercourse or other sexual contact) but only 15% of them reported changing their sexual behavior because of concern about contracting AIDS, and only 20% of those who changed their behavior used effective methods. Several prominent studies showed high engagement in unsafe sexual behaviors such as sex with multiple partners, sex with unknown persons, as well as negative views about condom use, and a low rate of behavior change even after learning about HIV/AIDS (Buysse, 1996, Gray Saracino, 1989). This corroborates the suggestion that a moderate to high knowledge level of AIDS may not be a predictor of safe sexual behavior practices (Gray Saracino, 1989). However, a study conducted by Roscoe Kruger, (1990) of 300 late adolescents suggests that one-third had altered their sexual behavior as a result of fear of the disease. Available Research on the effects of beliefs of susceptibility to AIDS indicates that adolescents and adults who report high perceived risk for AIDS practice safer sexual behaviors, whereas those who perceive low risk for contracting AIDS report practicing unsafe sexual behaviors (Gray Saracino, 1989 Villarruel, A.M., Jemmolt, Howard, Taylor, Bush, 1998). Youth Education and prevention programs have been used as the primary means of decreasing rate of HIV infections among adolescents, it can be summed up in three letters ABC(A=Abstinence, B=Be Faithful, C=Condoms). Barnett and Parkhurst (2005) have described abstinence as the best followed by faithfulness to one partner and condom use as last. Anytime ABC is mentioned Ugandan situation comes to mind, in 1991, the government, opinion leaders and the people of Uganda had the courage to change the attitudes and behaviors that were spreading the HIV. A Harvard study in Uganda finds HIV rates drop 50% within eight years. The study credits abstinence education in reducing HIV/AIDS in Uganda (Trafford 2002). Again, it has been argued that condoms have about 10-13% failure rate in preventing pregnancy and 10-20% failure rate in preventing HIV for several reasons. Museveni (2004) in his commentary on HIV titled Behavioral Change Is the Only Way To Fight AIDS cited Uganda as being excellent in this direction; it has successfully managed to bring the seroprevalence rate from 18.6% to 6.1% using just social vaccine (behavior change), approximately 70% reduction. Molomo 2008, National coordinator of NACA(National Action Committee on AIDS) said behavioral change is the responsibility of the individual and not the community. He explained the latter could provide enabling environment within which the former can effect behavioral change. Attitudes, beliefs, and/or intentions have been described by many theories as proximal determinants of behavior. Consequently, changes in attitudes toward abstinence and condoms, and Perceptions of personal risk or susceptibility to HIV should be the main goals in any HIV/AIDS prevention program. 3. AIMS AND OBJECTIVES OF THE STUDY The aim of this study is to investigate the knowledge, perceptions, and attitudes of adolescents (15-24) towards HIV/AIDS in order to institute meaningful preventive measures for the control of HIV/AIDS. Ultimately, the study will provide information on appropriate intervention methods necessary for preventing HIV/AIDS among adolescents in the community. 3.1 Research Questions With respect to the theme of our research, the following research questions shall be addressed: 1. What knowledge do adolescents in Kigali City Province have about HIV/AIDS? 2. What are the perceptions and attitudes by adolescents towards HIV/AIDS preventions? 3. Which preventive method(s) do they use? 4. Do they perceive any risk of contracting/getting HIV/AIDS? 4. RESEARCH METHODS AND DATA SOURCES Qualitative research approach will be used to address HIV/AIDS prevention among adolescents. Qualitative methodology or deductive approach according to Pope and Mays (1995) is used to explore, interpret or illustrate the actions and/or subjective experiences of research participants. In other words qualitative research tends to give a comprehensive data about human observations, thoughts and feelings; it tries to establish meaning from human life experiences. As the focus of our study is to investigate the knowledge, perceptions, and attitudes of adolescents and young adults towards HIV/AIDS and its prevention, a qualitative approach will allow the participants to express their feelings and experiences genuinely (Punch 1998).

Monday, August 19, 2019

Orestes An Innocent Hero Essay -- essays research papers

Orestes: An Innocent Hero   Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Throughout time there has been a universal question that does not yet yield a universal answer. All people have a different view on whether or not it is right to avenge the killing of another, through the death of the killers. In America during this day and age, it is the obligation of the court system to decide whether or not a murderer should be put to death. Most of the time, the criminal is sentenced to a prison term, but when a judge decides to issue the death penalty there is usually an uproar among the people. Does the court now become a murderer along with the convicted felon or is the court an innocent body. Is it a hero who is looked upon as the hand of justice or just another bad guy? In the trilogy of “The Oresteia,'; we come across a similar situation. When his jealous wife Clytaemnestra and his cousin Aegisthus kill Agamemnon, the king of Argos, it is up to his long lost son Orestes, to avenge his death. To the people of Argos and the house of Atreus, Orestes was an innocent hero in yet another chess game played by the gods.   Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Deep into the first story of “The Oresteia,'; better known as “Agamemnon,'; Cassandra, who has been cursed by Apollo to be a seer who will never be believed, envisions the death of Agamemnon and herself. It is in this vision that she sees an avenger who will come about and bring justice to the murdered victims, “ We will die, but not without some honor from the gods. There will come another to avenge us, born to kill his mother, born his father’s champion. The gods have sworn a monumental oath: as his father lies upon the ground he draws him home with power like a prayer.'; ( Aeschylus. The Oresteia U.S.A.: Penguin, 1975.) This vision proves to be very important when speaking about the innocence of Orestes and his heroism as well. Before the incident even takes place, we know that the gods have destined Orestes to avenge his father’s death. During this period of time, when the gods were on your side, you were doing the right thing! An other way to prove Orestes innocence is through the god of sun, song, and prophecy, better known as Apollo. Early on in “The Libation Bearers'; Orestes puts his faith in Apollo. He declares: “Apollo will never fail me, no, his... ...it brings Orestes home.'; (Aeschylus, 172)   Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  As we move on in “The Libation Bearers';, Electra, like the leader and his chorus, also looks to Orestes as a savior or hero. As she sits at the grave of her father Agamemnon, Electra prays to Hermes, god of the dead. She prays for “the one, who murders in return!'; (Aeschylus, 182) Later on in her prayers she says, “ Rekindle the light that saves our house!'; (Aeschylus, 183) and “Raise up your avenger, into the light, my father – kill the killers in return with justice.'; (Aeschylus, 183) All of these prayerful statements refer to one; Orestes. As the trilogy comes to a climax, Orestes finally acts out his revenge and it is not until the end of his trial that his destiny is fulfilled.   Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚   At the end of the trilogy, the jury was split fifty fifty, and in another proof of innocence the tie breaking lot thrown by Athena was in favor of Orestes. He was officially proven innocent. Once more in Greek mythology, human beings were used as pawns in a godly game of chess; but at least this is one of those times when an innocent hero emerged.

Sunday, August 18, 2019

A Line in the Sand - Original Writing :: Papers

A Line in the Sand - Original Writing A line. A simple, one-dimensional mark. It may be the edge of a square, the shortest distance between two points, or markings on the road. Lines, gentlemen, are boring yet useful tools in life. Right? Wrong! There is one line I would like to tell you about. If you were seen stepping over this line, it would result in your death on the spot, no questions asked. This is a line drawn in the sand. This line has caused the largest population movement ever witnessed by humankind. Upon construction of this line, 3.5 million people had to move from one side and 5 million from the other. There are estimates that more that 20 million people were left homeless after the construction of this line. Who said lines were boring, not me! However, it runs deeper than that. Not only did people have to move, more than one million people were butchered on the construction of this line. The positioning of this line has been the cause of three wars: three bloody brutal wars. Now can I ask you, who in the right mind would make such a line as this? They would have to be mighty inhuman to draw a line that would kill a million people. But in the end, all they had done, was to draw a line in the sand, just a line in sand†¦nothing more, nothing less So where do you think this line is? Between Israel and Palestine†¦no Between North and South Korea†¦no. Between the former north and South Vietnam,†¦wrong again. The line, gentlemen was drawn in the state of Punjab, in 1947, in what was then undivided British India. The line created and separated Pakistan from India. Ancient India, which gave us modern numbering system, which gave us steel, which gave us surgery, was destroyed by a line in the sand. Culture and civilisations spanning thousands of years were split apart by a line in the sand. A country was shattered†¦.shattered by a line in the sand. Fifty-five years on and the trade of insults from leader to leader

Macbeth - GUILTY :: essays research papers

This was an oral presentation, in which I prosecuted Macbeth. I received a grade of A-, however was told that it was my actual presentation rather than my essay that stopped me getting a higher grade :) Ladies and Gentlemen, I will be brief. You have heard the testimonies and seen the evidence; it is now time for the fate of Macbeth to be decided. Today you have met scores of witnesses testify, under oath, the defendant’s entirely good and honest character, and have pondered as to how the King of Scotland could commit such atrocities. However, unmistakable evidence opposes such testimonies and proves beyond reasonable doubt that the defendant Macbeth killed his King, Duncan the II of Scotland, his life-long friend Banquo and Lady Macduff and her children. Over the last six months we have seen Macbeth degrade from a fearless and heroic warrior to a murderer, a conscious villain who felt extreme guilt after killing his King out of pure greed and ambition. His servant, as testified, overheard Macbeth express his guilt to his wife on the night of the murder: â€Å"I am afraid to think what I have done; Look on ‘t again I dare not.† Following his crowning at Scone, King Macbeth hired three assassins to murder his long-time friend Banquo, in order to protect his crown. It was after the murder of Banquo that Macbeth then turned into an unmerciful, non-repentant tyrant. This man, once heralded a hero, became the bane of Scotland and his people. The defense has tried to manipulate facts to persuade you that Macbeth is not to blame for these murders and has placed responsibility for these deaths on everyone from Lady Macbeth to the witches, who occasionally conversed with the accused. You have heard testimonies of the three witches, who told us of their encounters with Macbeth. What sort of man would associate with such evil beings, and most of all, believe the nonsense they foresee? The witches did not directly influence Macbeth to assassinate his King, they only speculated as to what the future may hold and these predictions ignited his overwhelming ambition to become King. These associations with the witches bring serious doubts to the goodness of the defendant’s character. Speculations that Lady Macbeth is responsible for Duncan’s murder have been made by the defense. But blood found on this cloak hidden in Macbeth’s quarters proves without doubt that it was Macbeth who actually committed the murder.

Saturday, August 17, 2019

6 Negative effects Of Eating Fast food Essay

1. Junk food has an extremely high power density. About 65 percent greater than a standard diet as well as twice up to recommended wholesome diets making us eat a lot more than we or else would. Energy density describes the quantity of calories a product of meals contains with regards to its pounds. Foods having a high power density mistake the brain’s manage systems with regard to appetite, that are based exclusively on part size. 2. British researchers in the Medical Investigation Council Human being Nutrition Center and also the London College of Cleanliness and Exotic Medicine possess determined which repeated consuming at McDonald’s or even KFC or even Burger Full, people may gain weight and be obese. The reason being fast food not just contains a lot more calories compared to traditional meals, but is also prone to undermine regular appetite manage systems. 3. By eating a large Mac as well as fries, your body consumes almost two times as many calories while you would should you ate exactly the same weight associated with pasta as well as salad. Junk food restaurants give food to the being overweight epidemic through getting individuals to eat a lot more calories than they require through continual advertising. See more: Basic Economic problem of Scarcity Essay 4. McDonald’s, KFC, and Hamburger King menus items utilizing nutritional data in the fast meals restaurants’ Internet sites, found that after we consume high power density meals, we don’t slow up the portion dimension so all of us get much more calories than we want. Our present society offers a fragile innate capability to recognize foods having a high power density. Food consumption is evaluated by how big the part, yet an easy food dinner contains a lot more calories than the usual similar sized part of a wholesome meal. The summary is we all have been being misled into eating an excessive amount of food. 5. Individuals get body fat eating normal portion dimensions, but because the food includes a high power density, people put on weight. In evolutionary conditions, the human being appetite was created for low power density meals. In other areas of the planet where these food types are nevertheless the nutritional staples, being overweight is practically non existent. Our physiques were in no way designed to handle the higher energy thick foods consumed within the West. That’s a major reason fast meals in adding to the main rise within obesity. 6. Another truth is that junk food may accelerate people’s danger of blocked arteries that can result in heart episodes. Researchers in the Veterans Administration Clinic in Bay area have demonstrated that the certain kind of fat, known as oxidized body fat, can speed up the accumulation of plaque within arteries.

Friday, August 16, 2019

Nutrition and food science: energy balance

Nutrition in general is a concern for adolescents, who are entering a stressful, confusing, and sometimes frightening time of social, emotional, and physical development. Healthy diet and regular physical activity help children and adults feel better, learn and work more effectively, and avoid developing a variety of risk factors for disease. The key to weight control or weight management is keeping energy intake (food) and energy output (physical activity) in balance; that is energy balance. Read also: Domestic Activities and Chemicals When you consume only as many calories as your body needs, your weight will usually remain constant. If you take in more calories than your body needs, you will put on excess fat. If you expend more energy than you take in you will burn excess fat. The relationship of energy balance to body weight can be summarized by the following equations: Energy Intake = Energy Output = Weight Maintenance Energy Intake > Energy Output = Weight Gain Energy Intake < Energy Output = Weight Loss Weight management means keeping your body weight at a healthy level. Regular exercise and a healthy diet are a must when it comes to controlling your weight. A weight management plan depends on whether you are overweight or underweight. Many people mistakenly believe that they only â€Å"burn calories† when they exercise. In fact, your body is burning calories all of the time (yes, even when sleeping!). Calories are used to keep basic body functions going, to metabolize the foods you eat, and to do any form of physical activity. Exactly how many calories people need varies, depending on such factors as gender, current body size, activity level and body weight goals a wise choice to achieve a healthy weight. A safe, tried-and-true method for long-term weight loss is to reduce calories by decreasing portion sizes when people tend to eat. When trying to lose weight or hold steady at a desired one, there’s no need to turn to the latest â€Å"diet† or outcast your favorite foods. Small changes to your diet and exercise routine can make a big difference. A healthful eating plan can include all your favorite foods if they are in reasonable amounts and balanced out with daily physical activity. Aerobic physical activity, if no health prohibitions, will assist in increasing muscle tissue and also in burning calories. However, care should be taken not to exercise more frequently and more intensely that is required for good health or to compete well. Physical activity should be balanced with diet to maintain a desired weight. Experts have come to believe that this approach of weight management is reasonable and promising. No proven side effects, however, success of weight efforts should be evaluated according to improvements in chronic disease risk factors or symptoms and by the adoption of healthy lifestyle habits, not just by the number of pounds lost/gain. But if you are over 40, have been inactive for some time, suffer from shortness of breath or weakness that interferes with daily activities, or suffer from a chronic condition, you should consult a physician before you begin any effort to reduce your weight or increase your activity level. Education may be necessary for an understanding of energy balance and basic nutrition principles. REFERENCE Atkins, R. (1981). Dr.Atkins: Nutrition breakthrough. New York, U.S.A: Bantom Books.            

Thursday, August 15, 2019

Compare Tom Regan, Carl Cohen and Peter Singer in Terms of Animal Rights

Animal rights are one of the most controversial issues today. There has been endless debate about whether or not animals have rights. Philosophers attempt to come up with the moral conclusions by taking in account the many different standpoints and presenting their related arguments. In his essay â€Å"The case of animal rights†, Tom Regan, a professor of philosophy at North Carolina State University, defends his view that the center of our moral concern should not bring the suffering on animal as well as treating animals in a certain way. In other words, we should treat animals as if they are our property. We should only use them to benefit us and hurting them is an action that is not morally justifiable. In addition, in his article â€Å"All Animal Are Equal†, Peter Singer, an Australian philosopher, has many points which show us that we have responsibilities to protect animal rights. Singer’s argument in his essay gives us a great support to the argument that Reagan trying to discuss in terms of morally equal. In contrast, â€Å"The case of the use of animals in biomedical research† by Carl Cohen, a philosophy professor at University of Michigan Medical School, although he agrees with Regan’s idea in terms of moral rights as well as practices that essentially involve harming animals are morally unjustified, he strongly supports for the use of animal in medical research, and scientific experiments to avoid risking human lives. â€Å"The case of animal rights†, â€Å"all animal are equal† and â€Å"The case of the use of animals in biomedical research† introduce to us a new thinking about treating animals. In his essay, Tom Regan points out theories are deficient in animals. The author discusses â€Å"Indirect duty view† which humans should recognize that animals should have the same rights as humans and they have the duty to uphold these rights. Besides that, Regan states in the â€Å"Contractarianism† that humans have rights and can protect their rights under the terms of the contract they signed. However, he indicated that animals have no rights because they cannot sign the contract. We humans should have direct duties to all animals. Even the views including â€Å"Indirect duty view,† â€Å"Cruelty-kindness view,† and â€Å"Utilitarian view† fail to protect animal rights, he promotes the right view, which is the inherent value view. The author states that all individuals, including human and nonhuman animals, who are experienced the subject of life, should have equal inherent values and equal rights while being treated with respect. In addition, Peter Singer agrees with Regan that all animals are morally equal, at least with regard to their suffering. Peter Singer argues the point that animals and humans should be granted â€Å"equal consideration. Granting equal consideration means that humans and animals do not need to be treated exactly the same way, but that they need to be treated in an appropriate manner. Singer believes that suffering is â€Å"the vital characteristic that gives a being the right to equal consideration†. If all beings are able to suffer, animals should be treat ed with consideration equal to humans in most circumstances. Moreover, in his essay â€Å"All animals are equal,† Peter Singer points out the case for women's rights and refers to similar arguments of animal’s rights. Since animal’s rights were absurd, the argument for women's rights must be mistaken. In contrast with both Regan and Singer’s views, Carl Cohen gives us strong evidences to demonstrate his standpoints why animals have no rights. He claims rights only exists within a community of moral agents who can make moral claims against each other and just human can exercise moral judgment. He thinks we must at least treat animals humanely, but this does not mean we need to treat them as if they have rights. He also compared the differences between animals with brain damaged persons, senile or young in terms of the ability to make claim which is essential to being a person. That’s why these people are still part of our moral community, but animals are not. Moreover, he strongly supports to the increasing in the use of animals for medical experiments. He agrees that we actually need to increase the number experiments to avoid risking human lives because the increase in longevity , decrease in pain , the significant numbers of lives saved , the quality of human life all depends on such those research or experiments.

Wednesday, August 14, 2019

James Jarvis Essay

In Alan Paton’s Cry, the Beloved Country there is two protagonists, Reverend Stephen Kumalo, and James Jarvis. Both characters play significant roles to the story but James Jarvis’ situation is noteworthy and inspirational. James is an influential, dynamic character because his opinion dramatically changes upon reading his son’s manuscript. A series of events influences James to shift his mindset into the mindset of his son. An analysis on James Jarvis’ changing mindset reveals that his son’s manuscript, realizing his shortcomings, and Reverend Kumalo are all things that cause him to change drastically. When James’ son, Arthur, dies he visits Arthur’s home and finds his incomplete manuscript. When reading his writings, James finds that his son would have risked anything to help other people, and ended up doing just that. Although James is hurt by the fact that Arthur writes about his parents in a negative way â€Å"..But of South Africa I learned nothing at all.† (207), James takes the criticism and improves from it by continuing his son’s battle. James discovers that his son researches tremendously on the problems of their society, and was seeking help in the development of the social structure in South Africa. Arthur’s house contains hundreds of books and â€Å"†¦between the books there were four pictures, of Christ crucified, and Abraham Lincoln, and the white gabled house of Vergelegen, and a painting of leafless willows by a river in a wintry veld.† (176) From these pictures of Jesus, Lincoln, the gabled hose, and the leafless will ow discloses the symbolism that Arthur admires. Jesus and Lincoln were men of action; they showed love for their friends, and at the same time, their enemies. These two men suffered and died for their beliefs, the same way Arthur did. A water willow represents freedom, therefore, it can be concluded that the painting of the leafless willows represents a loss of freedom for the blacks in South Africa and how Arthur wants to gain their freedom back and help them get equal rights. When his son is shot and killed, James gets to finally know and understand him and his values. â€Å"Jarvis filled his pipe slowly, and listened to the tale of his, to this tale of a stranger† (172). James reads his sons speeches and understands his country’s segregation, relieving him of his ignorance. This comparison enables James to better understand his son and realize how concerned and devoted Arthur was for a change in humanity. After James discovers his son’s views, James starts to realize his shortcomings, and realizes that the problems of others and not only of his own. James begins to help the minority. Since his son’s death and the acquaintance of Stephen, James donates 1000 pounds to the African boy’s club. Jarvis is not just giving the money as a gift; instead he gives the money to the club because he knew the club would improve the country’s condition. Using his son’s views again, James decides to do something about Kumalo’s village, which is falling apart. He sends milk for the children, an agricultural expert, and builds a church for Ndotsheni. James builds the church because the current church in Ndotsheni is old. James and Stephen both live in the farming areas of South Africa, share the love for the same land, and what is in their lives. They each have a son of whom they consider a stranger but after they lose their sons, they begin to understand them. They both learn the problems in South Africa through their sons, and after realization, they both try to do something to improve the social, and racial differences which plague Johannesburg. Both men are strong but James Jarvis has to be the strongest for his ability to take his son’s death the way he does. Instead of being an irate, cruel, sorrowful man; he picks up where his son left off. It’s realistic that James can be forgiving to Stephen even though he is the father of Absalom, the boy who killed Arthur Jarvis. James Jarvis reacts this way because he doesn’t want anyone else to experience the same thing that happened to him; instead he wants to fix the problem before it occurs again. When his son is shot and killed, James finally gets to know and understand him and his values. â€Å"Jarvis filled his pipe slowly, and listened to the tale of his son, to this tale of a stranger† (172). He reads his sons speeches and understands his country’s segregation, relieving him of his ignorance. James Jarvis was a dynamic character that changes throughout the novel. The representation shows how South African problems educated James Jarvis, and turned him into an understanding, and influential man. If Arthur Jarvis had never been killed, James Jarvis would’ve not been educated by his son’s writings or by Stephen Kumalo.

Tuesday, August 13, 2019

Coral Eugene Watts Essay Example | Topics and Well Written Essays - 2000 words

Coral Eugene Watts - Essay Example Approaching the age of twelve, he started visualizing the torturing and killing of girls and young women. When he reached his teens he started stalking girls and there is a popular perception that he is believed to have killed his first victim before the age of fifteen. He was not a very good student and often received failing grades. He had also suffered a lot of harassment at school. During his eighth standard, he suffered from meningitis accompanied with extremely high temperature; which further affected his studies and he was unable to cope up with his class fellows. It is still not clear if this was the consequence of his brain damage or the persistent sleep problems that he faced after his illness. He was also having violent dreams in which he was trying to kill women, but these could not be considered nightmares because he enjoyed them. At the age of 15, he felt an urge to fulfill his dreams. During his psychiatric assessment, he admitted that he felt better after having one of those violent dreams. Coral finally graduated from high school in 1973, despite his poor result. He was brilliant in sports and found this an adequate way to release his built-up aggression. After graduation he got a football scholarship to Lane College in Jackson, Tennessee. He got expelled only three months later on the charges of pestering and mugging women. He was also mix up in the atrocious murder of a female student but could not be convicted because of lack of concrete evidence. He was also arrested on the allegation of the sexual assault of Joan Gave aged 26 on June 29, 1969; while en route on his paper delivery and sentenced to a mental hospital in Detroit, the Lafayette Clinic. Upon evaluation he was found to have been enduring from a mild mental retardation. He had an I.Q. of 68 and has delusion thought processes. He was released from the Lafayette Clinic five months later. He worked for nearly a year at the Detroit Wheel Company as a mechanic. He then

Monday, August 12, 2019

Book review( Leadership tool kit) Bryn Hughes Essay

Book review( Leadership tool kit) Bryn Hughes - Essay Example Hughes’ observes that leaders should explore motives and outline key result areas amongst other things. In essence, Hughes does not only dwell on ethical leadership, but also on professional competence in leadership. He seems to affirms strongly that leadership is God chosen and should be treated with the seriousness and responsibility it deserves. Hughes sees leadership as a state of mind of a person who is visionary and spiritual. He also sees leadership to be defined by sound character. The author also analyses that good motives of a leader should be to share with other so that they can achieve together as a team. His understanding of motives is leadership is also pegged in Bible teachings on leadership. He analyses in various ways that proper motives are the key drivers for any success as a leader. One may see that although he focuses on doing the right thing from the Biblical context of righteousness, his leadership tools also blend well in the context of organizations in the contemporary societies. One may also note that when Hughes explains the concept and the relevance of motives to Christian leadership, he also captures on the teachings of Jesus about what constitutes sins. Jesus on His part observes in the Bible (Mathew 5:28) that whoever has looked at a woman lustfully has committed sex with her. One may say that it is in this regard that Hughes focuses and emphasizes on good motive. Although he does not dwell on the subject with very specific examples, it is understandable that anything that does not constitute God’s will is morally wrong for Christian living. This way, he observes, leaders are able to improve themselves as individuals and improve their teams. The author emphasizes that Christian leaders are should work hard towards acquiring these skills in contemporary society. In order to achieve this, the author rightfully recognizes that there is a need to identify key result areas. Hughes offers that leaders should have the drive and the desire to achieve. They do this through a display of effort in the various areas that they have identified as areas of need. When there is a strong desire to take or accept responsibilities, then a leader is on course. Leadership that is concerned about not just tasks to be completed but also demonstrates which tasks is preferable. Hughes seems to assert that proper leadership would involve being efficient at allocated tasks through proper facilitation and motivation (Hughes, 2002, p. 34). The leader should demonstrate a high morale through involvement with his/her team. This is observable through proper coordination. Other key result areas include being supportive, participative and directive. Churches can enhance leadership by training leaders at various levels to be supportive in their various involvements. Sometimes things not work out as expected. Hughes offers that leaders should support others especially by recognizing the effort put into it. Most importantly, they s hould offer support on various tasks on progress as might be necessary. It is also important that leaders acquire skills through actual participation in the various areas of involvement in the church leadership. While working in their teams, the author also offers that there is a need for leaders to be trained to be visions creators. Visionary leaders are capable of come up with new ideas that will help in goals setting and eventual action plan.