Applying Behavioral Theory to an Innovative School-Based Program for Preventing Underage Drinking and Impaired Driving

Edwena Corley African American Future A Review and Analysis of the American Journal of Health Studies’ Article Applying Behavioral Theory to an Innovative School-Based Program For Preventing Underage Drinking and Impaired Driving Diane Everett September 24, 2012 The article yields to the dangerous reality that underage drinking is a problem. The article further notes that it is also met publicity that peaks and shifts throughout decades.Currently all drunk drivers are being targeted on a national scale, but teen driving is not being addressed head on as it had been previously. One model and theory, the transtheoretical model and the social cognitive theory, were presented within the article in an effort to explain why underage drinking takes place and also why adolescents who have been drinking, regardless of whether or not they are intoxicated, believe that they are able to function and drive at the same rate and with the same control as when they are sober.They also present solutions at interpersonal and community levels. The interpersonal level of change seeks to alter peer influence and the community level promotes positive behaviors such as abstaining from alcohol and denounces negative behaviors such as drinking and driving. The latter is generally presented in the form of real life scenarios. Price et al. (2009) notes that alcohol is the premier drug of choice for adolescents, with the onset of underage drinking occurring, on average, around age 13.In 2001, 13% percent of high school students reported operating a vehicle on one of more occasions after or while drinking alcohol, and 31% reported being a passenger to a peer who had been drinking. These statistics are startling but not as much as the following facts derived from that same year: 3,608 drivers between the ages of 15 and 20 were killed and an additional 337,000 were injured in car crashes. Approximately 25% of drivers between the ages of 16 and 19 who are killed in crashes were legally intoxicated.Peer pressure, the liberal attitudes that parents possess toward underage drinking, and also the concentrated levels of alcohol advertising campaigns have been identified as roots causes of underage drinking. Some parents believe it is acceptable if their children and their friends drink as long as they are purchasing the alcohol for them, and are monitoring their use of the substance in home (Price et al. , 2009). The article mentions a program known as Shattered Dreams sought to weed out the issues or variables that influence underage drinking.The data gathered from this program was used to bring about awareness and offer solutions. The transtheoretical model that the authors propose for the execution of combative solution to the issue of underage drinking and driving has five stages: pre-contemplation, contemplation, preparation, action, and maintenance. The precontemplation stage deals with the subject being in denial about their problematic behavior, while in the co ntemplation stage the subject realizes that a problem exists, however they have not yet begun to take steps toward correcting the issue(s) at hand.The preparation stage acts a mile marker because it is suggestive of the subject actually making a conscious decision to change their problematic behavior by utilizing their newly acquire skills and continuing to learn new skills that are conducive to more effective and continuous change. The action stage speaks for itself, as the subject then begins to put into motion the new behaviors that will replace the negative behaviors. Maintenance, the final stage of the transtheoretical model, focuses on consistency (Price et al. 2009). Teenagers, more than any other group of people believe that they are invincible, which is why underage drinking and driving is an issue; it is also why sexually transmitted diseases spread rapidly throughout high schools, and why teenage pregnancy is continuing to spiral out of control. Teenagers are often in den ial for multiple reasons; the primary reason being not wanting to feel vulnerable. The admittance of fault makes an individual feel as though they are inferior of someone or something.Admitting that one’s underage drinking is an issue could also mean no longer bring viewed as cool or part of the in crowd, because peer pressure plays a huge role in teenage social interactions. To overcome denial still does not mean that one is ready to go forth in terms of discontinuing their drinking, or drinking and opting to find a designated driver. The ultimate goal of the teenager should be to abstain because they have yet to reach the age of maturity in their state where if they would then be lawful to purchase alcohol.When an underage driver decides to abstain from alcohol altogether because they are aware that it is a crime, they must also realize that drinking and getting behind the wheel of a motor vehicle is hazardous to themselves, and also anyone else with whom they share the roa d. When applying the transtheoretical model to underage drinking and driving, precontemplation occurs when the underage person realizes that they are endangering the lives of many, but they still drink due to both obvious and unforeseen reasons (i. e. peer pressure and/or undiagnosed depression).If the adolescent suffers from depression that is unfounded to a healthcare professional, they may choose to participate in other problematic behaviors which cause them to be further engulfed in a lifestyle that will prove to be even more complicated to change. The contemplation stage may be reached when something monumental transpires, such as a close friend dying in a car accident because they too chose to drink and drive. This stage brings about a sense of urgency to change, be it brought on by fear or a true desire to change.Whatever the matter, the individual will benefit if they are willing to take the steps to help themselves. When undergoing the preparation stage the at-risk adolesce nt may seek help from a parent by asking them to set up an appointment with a therapist, depending on the severity of the alcohol related behaviors. If the drinking has reached a very reckless stage then the adolescent may meet with their parent and a healthcare professional to discuss being admitted to an institution. The action stage would consist of the teen actually going to a session of therapy.Furthermore, if the therapist proposes that the client also attend alcoholic anonymous (AA) meetings, they would be wise to attend as it compliments their treatment. If the teen is aware that they need to be in an alcohol treatment facility they would follow through with their plan to be admitted on their admit date. The most important part of the action stage is the maintenance stage because they go hand in hand. Attending only one therapy session and one AA meeting will not help or heal the issue. To be consistent with one’s treatment insures far more belief in oneself to abstai n for newly introduced reasons.The maintenance stage within an alcohol treatment facility is both simple and complex in nature. While in the facility the professionals house therein will see to it that mandatory sobriety is maintained, but the tricky part is remaining abstinent upon one’s release from the institution. The way that the social cognitive theory (SCT) fits into this model is simple. It climbs through all of the stages, rearranging the social aspects of it and calling for a sense of initiative in maintaining self-efficacy. According to Bandura (1986) and Price et al. 2009) social cognitive theory (SCT) assumes that people, their behavior, and their environments interact continuously and that specific mediators facilitate behavioral change. Thus if peer pressure is the root of underage drinking, then modifying of social spheres is necessary, but due to the self-efficacy aspect, it is the prerogative of the subject or adolescent to denounce troublesome friendships a nd establish new healthy ones. It is in no way possible to undergo treatment and continue to hang out with peers who drink and drive.Even if the new-found abstinent teen continues to act as a passenger to the intoxicated party, they may lose their lives in a fatal accident as a result. The specific mediators that are to encourage the behavioral evolution of the subject would be the aforementioned healthcare professions, parents, or a combination of both. While drinking and driving will more than likely continue to be a problem the ages, the best way to tackle it is to bring about a sense of enlightenment and urgency among teens.This has been done through preliminary findings that are indicative of improved student awareness of the risks and consequences of underage drinking and driving and suggested that students' expectations about alcohol use were less positive after participation in the program (Price et al. , 2009). Furthermore, other programs, in certain states and school distr icts across the nation vehicles that have been involved in drunk driving accidents have been approved for placement outside of high school, on the lawn or next to the signage While some students view it as a scare tactic, it is proven to work for others.The students who are unfazed by it, perceive it as a prop, but the horror is that those same individuals who do not accept the change that is imperative to protect their family, friends and ultimately themselves will more than likely end up dying in one of those cars; thereafter their vehicle or the vehicle of their victim being placed outside someone else’s school. The overall goal of this article was to urge helping professionals to bring to light the issue of underage drinking and driving but approach it as hinting that the student involved have an issue and leaving them to evolve on their own.This is because teenagers generally warm up to positive behavior faster and are more apt to accept participate in said behaviors, if they believe it was their idea, versus it being forced upon them.Bibliography Price, M. A. , Salazar, C. I. , Villarreal, C. L. , Guerra, C. M. , Villarreal, R. , ;amp; Stewart, R. M. (2009). Applying Behavioral Theory To an Innovative School-Based Program For Preventing Underage Drinking and Impaired. American Journal of Health Studies, 24(1), 223-231. Retrieved from EBSCOhost.

Under the Sea

One very hot summer day I went scuba diving in the ocean. It was so beautiful under the water. There were so many different kinds of fish, plants and other sea creatures. My favorite was a purple octopuses, a school of color full sea horses and of souse the most magnificent sea turtles. They were huge. One of them was even 3 times my size. I was so fascinated about the beauty of the sea, I lost track of time. As I was wondering around I suddenly came across a hidden city. In the middle of the entrance it looked like a board hanging with a name written on but, I could not make out the letters due to many years of fading.It was Like the city called me closer. As I entered the city I saw so many different kinds of tumbled down houses. There was small ground level ones and big double storage one's. I stumbled across what once was the mall. I absolutely loved It. I wish I could have been part of this magnificent city. Yes, It's true, everything was under water and old but It was so fascin ating. I wonder what happened to the people. At the very end of the city there was this gigantic palace. The king probably lived there. I decided to go and Investigate. As I swam in I was amazed. It was so beautiful in there and it was almost like the time Todd still.A faded red carpet welcomed me and at the side's there was statues which ended at the throne. Obviously I sat down. After pretending to be the Queen, I wondered through the palace. Each room had a different theme. Suddenly I heard a beep, it was the gas tank telling me I only had a few minutes of air left. I really did not want to go but I had no choice. On my way out I took a souvenir to remember this place. When I got home I told everyone of this hidden city, but no one would believe me. Looks like the city of wonders (that's what I called it) did not want to be found. Under the Sea One very hot summer day I went scuba diving in the ocean. It was so beautiful under the water. There were so many different kinds of fish, plants and other sea creatures. My favorite was a purple octopuses, a school of color full sea horses and of souse the most magnificent sea turtles. They were huge. One of them was even 3 times my size. I was so fascinated about the beauty of the sea, I lost track of time. As I was wondering around I suddenly came across a hidden city. In the middle of the entrance it looked like a board hanging with a name written on but, I could not make out the letters due to many years of fading.It was Like the city called me closer. As I entered the city I saw so many different kinds of tumbled down houses. There was small ground level ones and big double storage one's. I stumbled across what once was the mall. I absolutely loved It. I wish I could have been part of this magnificent city. Yes, It's true, everything was under water and old but It was so fascin ating. I wonder what happened to the people. At the very end of the city there was this gigantic palace. The king probably lived there. I decided to go and Investigate. As I swam in I was amazed. It was so beautiful in there and it was almost like the time Todd still.A faded red carpet welcomed me and at the side's there was statues which ended at the throne. Obviously I sat down. After pretending to be the Queen, I wondered through the palace. Each room had a different theme. Suddenly I heard a beep, it was the gas tank telling me I only had a few minutes of air left. I really did not want to go but I had no choice. On my way out I took a souvenir to remember this place. When I got home I told everyone of this hidden city, but no one would believe me. Looks like the city of wonders (that's what I called it) did not want to be found.

Critical Analysis of The Apology of Socrates by Plato Essay

Socrates was an orator and philosopher whose primary interests were logic, ethics and epistemology. In Plato’s Apology of Socrates, Plato recounts the speech that Socrates gave shortly before his death, during the trial in 399 BC in which he was charged with â€Å"corrupting the young, and by not believing in the gods in whom the city believes, also being a busybody and intervene gods business†. The name of the work itself is not mean what it is appeared; here, Socrates is not apologizing, but merely speaking in defense of his beliefs and actions – the word apology is used in the context of its original meaning. During this apology, Socrates attempts to explain himself and the decisions that led to his action, educating his audience in the philosophical questions he chooses to pose. Socrates does not try to avoid death in the trial; instead, his goal is to enlighten the public for the last time before his own passing. Socrates was always fascinated with the solving of questions, both big and small; his approach was to use the Socratic method of inquiry, wherein he would break the problem down into several questions, and then systematically find the answers to each question in order to find the larger answer. It was a methodical and practical approach to show his ultimate quest for seeking the true knowledge. He says, â€Å"His wisdom is truly worthless†; this is indicative of his unending search for more and more knowledge (Apology 23b). According to him, philosophy starts by admitting that you are ignorant of the truth, which is what he does here. It is with this approach to philosophical questions and dilemmas – the use of Socratic irony – that Socrates chooses to engage with his audience and demonstrate why he did what he did. The Socratic method of dialectical investigation utilized arguments to try and determine ethics and truth. Two techniques were primarily used by Socrates: first, he would create a hypothesis, and then he would investigate any potential conflicts with that hypothesis. Assumptions and presumptions would be challenged in order to discover what was true. Socrates focused on valuing thought above all else. His primary method was asking questions, developing hypotheses, and testing them to see if the evidence supported them. Socrates, for the most part, values the integrity of society, and feels as though a group of people coming together to form a community should be respected by honoring the social contract. At the same time, there are aspects of the self that are more important than a communal whole, and a society must be made up of individuals that follow the principles shared by the whole. One should not be forced to behave in a manner inconsistent with their beliefs; an ideal society is comprised of individuals who may all subscribe to the different philosophies but are able to listen and except others idea the same time. As Socrates mentioned in the text that a person should be judge by what he have down, not by his behavior. It is only then that justice can be really served. Socrates’ approach to the trial is admirable; instead of expressing panic or desperation at the prospect of his life ending, the man instead maintains his calm and simply, effectively explains his position. He presents himself as the ideal philosopher, being unwavering in his justification for his actions and wishing to inspire his audience. Using his own use of figure of speech and his Socratic principles, he breaks down discussions he has with characters such as the Delphic oracle, Meletus, and more to expound his ideas. The beginning of Socrates’ argument relies on the aforementioned acknowledgement of Socratic irony – the most philosophical man is the one who admits his ignorance, and is able to point out the ignorance of others. When the oracle of Delphi told Chaerephon that no one is wiser than Socrates, he chose to go on a journey to deal with this paradox; he knew he was ignorant, so he could not be wiser than everyone else. To that end, he questioned politicians, poets and craftsmen, it coming to the ineffable conclusion that none of them knew what they were talking about either. At that end, Socrates claims he began to see himself as a representative of the oracle’s words; instead of pretending to know a great deal, he chose to profess his ignorance and be honest with himself about it (23e). To that end, he was able to act as himself and maintain his integrity. During the trial, Socrates holds everyone else to the same standard; when he talks about Meletus, his accuser, he calls him out on not actually caring about what he professes to care about – namely, the charges against Socrates. Through the trial, Socrates has proved not only Meletus do not care about the matter he mentioned in the charge, also he has no idea what is he talking about either a lot or a little, Socrates cleverly seduced Meletus go into his trap, by using the anger that Meletus hold against Socrates. Because obvious there are some much better answers for Meletus to answer. Socrates had very specific ideas regarding what constituted ‘the good life. ‘ To him, the most important value a person has is virtue, and the good life is spent looking for the Good. This was known as the love of wisdom. Socrates had little regard for worldly affairs, and the material or pleasurable things that many people might consider to contribute to ‘the good life’; instead, he thought that the best thing to do in life is to â€Å"pursue the love of wisdom,† instead of â€Å"money, and reputation, and public honor† (Apology 29d-30b). He defended this by living the philosophy, and emphasizing certain virtues that were purported to be the best things that humanity could offer itself. By avoiding the search for wealth and instead growing as people, Socrates attempted to build a community of better individuals. Socrates firmly believed that a higher order should be followed when conducting one’s life; whenever divine authority conflicts with human authority, one must follow divine authority first. â€Å"Gentlemen, I am your grateful and devoted servant, but I owe a greater obedience to God than to you; and as long as I draw breath and have my faculties I shall never stop practicing philosophy† (Apology). He feels he has a duty, as a philosopher, to constantly question and examining the world around him to find answers, since his professed ignorance frees him from pretending he already knows said answers. All of these arguments comment heavily on the charges against Socrates; in essence, people hated his questioning and argumentation, as well as the perception that he was insulting those whom he was interrogating. Socrates lamented the focus on material wealth and power, at the expense of eschewing internal exploration and philosophy. â€Å"Are you not ashamed that you give your attention to acquiring as much money as possible, and similarly with reputation and honor, and give no attention or thought to truth and understanding and the perfection of your soul? † (Apology). Here, he is condemning his audience (and the people of Athens) for not working toward the greatest good, which is the study of self and the world around them; this is the reason for his interrogating, and the very thing they are punishing him for. If he has to be irritating and annoying to his peers, so be it; he will not stop until he improves the lives of the people he lives with, â€Å"and all day long I will never cease to settle here, there and everywhere, rousing, persuading, and reproving every one of you† (Apology 30e). This is a bold statement that proves his use of his defense to educate the people of Athens as to their own problems. In his second speech, after the jury voted guilty, He provided his version of penalty that he thinks he deserves. Obvious there could be a better way to persuade the jury, unfortunately it is not how Socrates wants it to down. He keeps denying the penalty and showed no respect to the jury. The conclusion to his action is Socrates knows the life he will have will never be the same, and if the life is not turn out as he wanted, then it is not worth to living. He believes what he does is the best life for human being, and he was tried to teach the audiences a lesson. He notes that it might have been possible for him to save his life by begging the court’s mercy and appealing to them. However, he did not do this; this was not out of ignorance or ineffectiveness in his approach, but he wanted to be honest and truthful about his opinions – namely, that the jury and those who were charging him were afraid of his criticism. To Socrates, it is better to die as an honest man who is unafraid of his convictions than to live having sacrificed them. Because of that, he wants to make an example of himself to the jury, proving a life lived honestly is one which brings greater peace. In his final argument, when the jury votes to execute Socrates, he regarding his impending death plays into his central thesis. According to Socrates, there are two kinds of death: death as annihilation (you go to sleep and feel and experience nothing more) and death as transmigration (where you have a soul which goes somewhere else). Definition is defended by Socrates; the annihilation should be looked forward to like you would finally going to sleep, and transmigration would simply allow him to talk to other great figures like Homer and Odysseus and learn from their wisdom. Again he use this argument to reiterate his central idea, such as people think they know about death but they actually not, and people needs keep examining, questioning, until the end of their life. In the end, Socrates even wishing his enemy well; he feels that, if you are a good man, you have nothing to fear in the life or the afterlife. He does not begrudge or hate his accusers and merely wishes to teach others to place the human good over the materialism and that corrupting his peers. His last words are, â€Å"Well, now it is time to be off, I to die and you to live; but which of us has the happier prospect is unknown to anyone but God† (42a). After all Socrates is one of the best philosophers in the human history, unfortunate he is fail to enlightening the most people in his age, the method of his is full of satirize, harsh, and direct to the sensitive position of people’s mind, it may solve the â€Å"problem†, but come with huge consequence. However, he understood it, he knows what he have down, may someday bring him to the trial even death, the determination of him pursuing the goodness is unparalleled. Even many people thought his ideas is incomprehensible, and he said in the text that he is not a good citizen, still he is as good as a human being can be. After I read the Crito, his death sentence, to him, was the unfortunate but understandable result of living in a society that oversaw its peers. Despite his innocence, and the belief that the Athenian government was in desperate need of change, he still abided by its rules; he believed that one can change the system from within, but you must still adhere to the decisions that society makes. In conclusion, Socrates’ defense at the trial, portrayed in Plato’s Apology, was simply another platform by which he sustain his philosophies about the virtue of thinking, self-improvement, and acting as a part of a greater whole of civilization. He was punished and put to death for asking too many questions and corrupting the young, when in fact he was simply wishing to point out the ignorance of his peers (which he also shares). The principle of Socratic irony, wherein people are most philosophical when they admit they know nothing, was something that Socrates was trying to get other people to admit; despite their professed knowledge, they truly were ignorant, and so they were learning nothing by not reconciling this attitude. While the trial did not save his life, Socrates did not care – his intent was to show people the true meaning of living a human life, as well as demand greater examination of themselves.

Internet law Essay Example | Topics and Well Written Essays - 3500 words

Internet law - Essay Example Jurisdiction remains largely an issue with regards to internet transaction because of the intrinsic characteristics of the internet and those who uses it5. The European Union recognizing the borderless nature of internet commerce that may affect its member nations have created a body of law through the European Economic Area. Ratified and agreed on in May 1997 the European Union directive6 has provided a framework for trade in order for member states to enact similar laws that would complement the laws enacted by other European Union members that would address in part e-commerce or transactions consummated over the internet. The caveat however is that this body of laws remain enforced and effective within the European Economic Area only. For its part the United Kingdom has enacted the Consumer Protection (Distance Selling) Regulations 20007 in response to the European Union directive that covers mail order, telephone sales and other distance selling business strategy. The regulation mandates that the seller provide its potential customers with detailed information that would include the main characteristics of the goods; the price, including any taxes and delivery costs; payment arrangements; guarantees and where to address complaints about the goods. In retrospect the provisions of the law supplements the weakness of distance selling as against actual face to face commerce8. In actual face to face commerce, the buyer has the luxury of inspecting the product up close and personal. The buyer in these instances also has the benefit of taking possession of the item after he has paid all that is required to gain ownership of the item. In internet transaction or e-commerce the actual possession of the item being bought except for some items will take days if not months after the buyer has paid what is due the seller9. The following are the protected rights of e-consumers under the distance selling regulation for sellers and buyers that are both within the jurisdicti on of the European Economic Area. Unless otherwise agreed the sale and delivery of goods should be completed within thirty days. If in case the goods ordered are not available, e-consumers have the right to a refund provided that it is done within thirty days. E-consumers are also entitled to return goods within seven days from receipt and refund less the cost of carriage for items within limits10. It should be noted however that there are exceptions to this rule normally perishable goods, custom-made-goods and dated goods such as journals and publications are exempt for refund. Buyers also have the right to cancel payments for goods that have been ordered through fraud. The logic of this provision is to protect the interest of both seller and buyer in cases where losses are likely to occur because items are either unique that no other buyer will get it or items have become useless due to spoilage11. Due to the increased efficiency and convenience experienced in using the internet t o transact business more and more people gravitates towards this mode of commerce because of the ease and comfort it provides its users. The drawback however of internet transaction is the increased risk for fraud and the difficulty of recovering the money used in the transaction not to mention the prosecution of the culprits responsible12. Thus, the government fully supported an accreditation scheme for internet traders named â€Å"

Storm Over Everest (May 13, 2008) short essay ethical system analysis

Storm Over Everest (May 13, 2008) short ethical system analysis - Essay Example A team was hired to be a guide in an expedition in one of the highest mountains on earth. Near the summit, passed the mountain’s death zone, one of the clients passed out. Everyone in the team is too weak to carry the client; they are almost running out of time, and a storm is already on its way. In addition to the weak client, the most experienced leader and the weakest climber is also in their weakest state, and is already showing signs of High Altitude Cardio Edema (HACE). The team only has one injection of Dexamethasone (Dex), which will slightly help only one of the three weak people to ease his or her pain. Each person in the team is left with one tank of oxygen, which is only good for four hours; however, the steep descend will take the team six hours. It is up to a member to decide to stay with the client or continue to descend. In the Kantian perspective or in ethical formalism, good will is the only thing that is good. Good actions done out of good will, whatever the results may be is a moral act, and whatever you do wrong, even with a good result is still not moral (Pollock, 2012). In the scenario above, the other members must continue to descend to camp. You should stay with the client who had passed out in order to look after him or her. The Dex must also be injected to the client who had passed out because he needs it the most. In the utilitarian perspective, an act must consider the whole and not just an individual. In this system, it is allowed to harm a person or a small part of the whole for the goodness and benefit of the remaining or bigger parts (Pollock, 2012). In the scenario above, if the utilitarianism ethics is used, the client who had passed out and the weakest climber must be left behind by the team for a lesser burden on the other members. This action will allow the others to descend faster and will also be able to maximize their oxygens. The Dex will also be injected to the most

Research proposal Essay Example | Topics and Well Written Essays - 1500 words - 3

Research proposal - Essay Example 78). Despite the widely acceptance, some scholars have opposed it, raising the arguments that it does not capture the entire sources of social influence especially among youths and the predicators it defines are not usually sufficient either (Bouzigard & Saidel 2010). For detailed understanding, studies should always be theory based. In this analysis, the theory of planned behavior was adopted as the theoretical framework to enhance the understanding (Ajzen 1991, p. 201). This theory asserts that when a person has a strong positive attitude, his/her subject norms will be stronger and the perceived control over the behavior will be greater; the intention to perform a particular behavior will be high, leading to involvement in that particular behavior. This theory is related to the influence students undergo in Saudi Arabia, leading to smoking instances (Kobus 2003, p. 36). Due to peer pressure, innocent students usually backslide and consequently follow the meek behaviors of their colleagues. Non-smoking students finally get themselves smoking. Most students in Saudi Arabia associate smoking with tobacco and not other substances. This is the reason why the government declared Saudi Arabia a free tobacco nation in 2000 (Garner & Alty 2005). In some instances, teachers smoke before their students, leading to poor role modeling (Connolly 2001, p. 31). Students from smoking families who also see their teachers smoke will have the courage to participate in advertisements designed to promote its consumption amongst the youths (Higgins & Conner 2003). The study aims to highlight how smoking affects behavior of students and the negative impacts it brings. Records from world heath organizations indicate that between 1999 and 2008 smoking amongst young people started between the ages of 13–15. Another set of data collected between 1999 and 2009 indicates that smoking prevalence ranges between 2.4% and 37%. The findings point

Early Civilizations Essay Example | Topics and Well Written Essays - 750 words

Early Civilizations - Essay Example The example of China and Mesopotamia vividly portray that geographical location and climate in different parts of the world 'caused' similar traditions, economic, social and political development. Geographical location and environment determined the nature of both societies and their activities. In China (during the Shang and Han Dynasties) and Mesopotamia (Sumerian period) agriculture was the main activity and the core of economy. This issue remained a central one in both civilizations: for some, it remained crucial to the maintenance of an 'enduring' national home: and for others, it represented a fundamental obstacle to the creation of more accommodating and cosmopolitan cultural order. China and the Mesopotamia had similar climate and soil conditions, but lacked water resources and irrigation systems. Irrigation was also associated with urbanization, which, in its turn, led to development of crafts and trade (Ebrey 34). Both civilizations developed unique rural culture and values, traditions and art based on the cults of Sun and farming. For instance, the remarkable features of the Shang Dynasty (began about 1600 BC- 1046 BC) and the Sumerian period (5th to 3rd millennia BC), were cultural identity, self-centeredness, unique philosophy and literary traditions explained by the fact that both civilizations were separated from the rest of the world. The civilizations competed effectively against the culture and values of outside world as an organizing principle in the unique identity. During the Han Dynasty and the Hammurabi period, both civilizations culturally and mythically were also deeply centered (Oppenheim and Reiner 34). The historical continuities which composed the culture of the Han Dynasty were pronounced, especially compared to their European states. Not only has the Han Dynasty (within its own borders) largely escaped the worst catastrophes of modernity, at the same time relations between the Asian nations and the overarching state have been relatively stable. Similar processes were typical for the Hammurabi period (Ebrey 27; (Oppenheim and Reiner 38). It is possible to say that environment influenced the development of similar laws and regulations accepted by these civilizations (the Code of Hammurabi and the Code of the Han dynasty which gained the recognition of Confucianism). During the Hammurabi period and the Han Dynasty these civilization expanded their geographical territories with military campaigns. The Han Dynasty established the Silk Road while Hammurabi established trade relations with neighboring states. Environment influenced the quality of life and city developments, architecture and art; they built sophisticated buildings and established written forms of communication (Oppenheim and Reiner 39). In China and the Mesopotamia people had similar views about the world and nature, state organization and philosophy. As the most important, a religion had a highly complex subject which had an impact on culture in three different ways: socialization, influences which shape behavior in a particular social setting and individu al orientations to life (Ebrey 87). In sum, environment had a crucial impact on the development of early civilizations and caused the development of similar economic activities and world views. Unique views and art were nothing more than a response to the environment and climate. Religion played an important role in lives of

Train Wreck and Cholorine spill Case Study Example | Topics and Well Written Essays - 1250 words

Train Wreck and Cholorine spill - Case Study Example The tragic accident caused the death of nine people and displaced more than 5,000 from their residences, thus permanently altering the community. Although the eventual death toll was surprisingly low, the study shows that locals’ response to the emergency situation had significant gaps and it also emphasizes on the need to transform major organizations’ practices especially in handling hazardous materials. This case study, therefore, seeks to evaluate decision making processes in regard to no-notice evacuation during emergency situations, as well as, determining long-term effects of the chlorine disaster on organizations dealing with transportation. Overall, the case study attempts to highlight the necessity for improvement of evacuation procedures and recovery of transportation (Dunning & Oswalt, 2009). There are several specific issues emerging from the chlorine spill case study. For instance, operation concepts of rail transportation emerged, like the importance of keen train control, as well as, installation of automated warning technologies. The other outstanding issue in the study was the local community’s lack of information about emergency procedures to adopt in case of a chlorine spill, despite the fact that the hazardous material was transported across the town each day. The public’s need for transportation to their jobs following the evacuation was also a principal concern and so was provision of documents about transportation infrastructure, in order to foster recovery. Overall, evacuation concerns were the most outstanding in this case. For instance, locals did not know whether to seek shelter or completely leave the town, they also had no information about the safest routes to follow, or the best way to behave and collaborate with emergency workers, in or der to avoid being affected by the hazardous material. The

Vicarious responsibility and uk law Essay Example | Topics and Well Written Essays - 4000 words

Vicarious responsibility and uk law - Essay Example ssing in details if there can be a convincing argument to justify the boundary English law sets between acts of employees for which the employer is liable and those for which the employee is liable. Personally, I think that the argument is two- way -traffic for instance, there is a convincing argument for there is a justifiable distinction highlighted which clarifies what the employer ought to do in order not to be held responsible. Therefore the employer just needs to read in between the lines to make sure that he plays save at all times. On the other hand, it can be said that there is no convincing argument given the fact that some concepts in the law states that the employer can be held responsible even though the employee is no longer working in the premises. To start with, there are so many employers who have little awareness that they can be liable for a range of actions or omissions which are committed by their employees especially in the course of their employment. These actions comprises of violent, bullying, discriminatory act, breach of copyright, being liberal and bullying among others. In addition, it is possible that the actions can be taken against the employer for the behaviors of even the third party the like of the clients and customers if they are controlled by the employer. Therefore there is a convincing argument because the law clearly stated the relationship or the link between the employer and the employee which makes the employer liable for the omissions or behaviors of the employee. On that note, when it comes to vicarious liability one can only have one key question which is whether the employee was acting in a personal capacity or in the course of their employment? More so, it is possible to also ask if the employ ers’ liability ends with the dismissal of the employee from the organization or if the employee leaves the organization. Nevertheless, the law states that actions can be taken against the employer even though the employee

Central Bank Term Paper Example | Topics and Well Written Essays - 1750 words

Central Bank - Term Paper Example The highly potential and naturally gifted part of the world does not have any central bank. Here in this essay a suitable structure for the proposed central bank will be provided in detailed fashion. The study will also analyze the point of similarities and dissimilarities between the proposed central bank of GCC and European central bank. The essay will also incorporate various arguments for supporting and opposing the proposed central bank. It means the essay will follow a critical analysis. The study will describe the various functions and objectives of the proposed central bank in GCC region. The essay will encourage significant detailed analysis in every section of the essay. The essay will follow a step by step approach which will be highly suitable with the topic of the study. At the end of the essay a suitable conclusion will be drawn. The first step after the decision to form a central bank is taken is to decide on the organizational structure of the central bank. To decide on the proposed structure of the new central bank the organization structure of the central bank of the member nations of the GCC can be taken as an example. If we look at the structure of the central bank of other banks belonging to some member nations of GCC, we find that the central banks of different countries follow central organization structure. All the organizations are headed by board of directors. Under the board of directors come the governor and deputy governor. The deputy governor is helped in his duties by a team of directors who look after different functions and departments of the bank. The figure below shows the structure of the central bank of Qatar as a particular example. While designing the structure of the central bank for the GCC the structure of ECB can serve as a good model. ECB as an organization is made up of three major decision making bodies 1. Governing council: The apex decision making

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Health care - Essay Example 2. There are policies that have been designed for lowering the medical expenditures, due the rising costs that are resulting to projected federal deficits over the few decades. There are expansion difficulties experienced in expansion of the health care insurance. Moreover, the elevated medical expenses are crowding out in private coverage resulting to decreased employment of low wage and secondary earners. Therefore, these issues can object the effort of entrepreneurs to venture into the field of health care. In this case, the health care system is not acting optimally concerning the legal structure, since there are no policies aimed at can facilitate venture of the entrepreneurs. In conclusion, the paper has explored issues related to the venturing of the entrepreneurs into the field of health care systems through innovation, though, there are numerous hindrances identified and the most significant one being lack of the legal structure to support their efforts. Therefore, the health care system presents a compelling opportunity for entrepreneurial spirit, but there is no legal

Describe Dispositional and Situational Factors in Explaining Behavior Essay Example for Free

Describe Dispositional and Situational Factors in Explaining Behavior Essay Describe the role of situational and dispositional factors in explaining behavior Both situation and dispositional factors play a significant role in people explaining behavior. (in that they guide the judgment on both our actions and people’s actions. ) Attribution theory, known as how people interpret and explain behavior in the social world, is closely related to these two factors. People tend to attribute behavior depending on their roles as actors or observers, known as the actor-observer effect. Milgram’s study (1963) investigated the role of situation and dispositional factors in participants explaining their own behavior. Nine out of twelve participants completed the task under the researcher’s authoritative guidance. The participants considered the task unethical so they attributed their negative behavior to the researcher’s guidance instead of the dispositional factor, such as their personality. When people explain their own behavior, they tend to attribute it to situation factors such as the interference from the authority. Zimbardo et al (1973) conducted an experiment in Stanford’s prison to investigate the role of actor-observer effect. Participants were assigned with either the role of prisoners or the role of guards. In the experiment, both the guards and prisoners were very dedicated into their acting roles. Most of the prisoners obeyed the guards because the guards imposed violent behavior to the prisoners. It is found that the prisoners believed and attributed the guard’s violent behavior to the guard’s dispositional factor. When people observe other’s behavior, they usually attribute it to dispositional factor such as personality. Therefore, with the knowledge of the prison as a simulation, the prisoners still obeyed the guards like they were real guards who always acted violently. People usually attribute their behavior to situational factors when they perform the behavior. Whereas, people attribute others’ behavior to dispositional factor when they are the observers.

Competitive Enviroment Of Mobilink Telenor

Competitive Enviroment Of Mobilink Telenor At the achievement of 100 million customers PTA has released interesting figures. A very obvious trend shows enormous growth of mobile density. Mobilink, Telenor and Ufone are currently giving each other a tough challenge, Warid and Zong are also increasing their market share and in upcoming days the overall cellular environment will be facing more challenges. Though existing mobile operators are using aggressive and innovative methods of marketing to increase the consumer count, the issue faced is the rivalry. The competition between the stakeholders is also challenged by the newer investments making it essential for old players to know their methodologies and to preserve their market share. Mobilink is a prime example of companies facing this challenge. A large number of users were gained by aggressive strategies of Telenor and that helped Telenor to establish in a lesser period. However, next inline challenge for any giants is to retain what they have gained and always keep their strategies aligned with new methods of marketing. 1.2 SCOPE OF THE PROJECT: The major scope of my thesis is to analyze Telenor and Mobilink telecommunication companies on following three aspects, organizational standards/policies, competitive behaviors and the customer behaviors. I have analyzed their business and marketing strategies by examining their advertisement war and marketing tactics. 1.3 RESEARCH METHODOLOGY: I have used the following research methodologies in writing this thesis: Going through Mobilink and Telenor websites. Collected information from Mobilink and Telenor Employees. Obtained research papers from Mobilink and Telenor. LITERATURE REVIEW 2.1 TELECOMMUNICATION SECTOR IN PAKISTAN: Marketers are foreseeing promising potential in future growth in the telecommunication industry on the basis of the previous 5 years that have shown a rapid and enormous growth in this sector. Government of Pakistan is taking serious interest in the expansion of this industry and funding for the growth and it has a firm belief that this sector will provide quality services to the general public of this country. 2.2 SWOT Analysis: SWOT is basically a method to evaluate an organizations environment. It stands for Strengths, Weaknesses, Opportunities and Threats. It is widely used by the marketers to do an investigation on key issues exist in an organization. It divides the aspects in two halves; one is the external aspect that covers up the opportunities and threats, while the internal aspects are the strengths and weaknesses of a business. It is quite easy to adopt and it helps in identifying the main apprehensions and tries to infuse their remedies in the marketing objectives. 2.2.1 Strengths: Strengths are the attributes that adds up value to a company and make it stand out among other because of the customers positive attitude towards those attributes. Strengths include the specialties in marketing tactics, new and innovative products and services, quality of their internal and external processes, and the market value of that business venture. 2.2.2 Weaknesses: Weaknesses are the negative attributes of a business and it majorly indicates the loose holes in marking techniques. It also indicates the poorly managed internal and external processes, bad management, bad fame because of low quality products and services and lack of innovative ideas. 2.2.3 Opportunities: Opportunities can be best illustrate as the new options that can make a business more strong and open up ways to grab new markets by the use of new technologies, market trends, or by implementing innovative ideas for earning huge revenue and strengthening the businesss position in the competitive market. 2.2.4 Threats: Threats are the upcoming disasters that can make a businesss position fragile in the market place. These can be the lower prices offered by a competitor, better and innovative products and services offered by a competitor, new rival emerging in the market, etc. 2.3 MARKETING MIX: Marketing Mix are 4Ps of marketing study, which includes product, place, promotion and price but for the industry of services, it is taken up to the next level that embraces physical evidence, process and people. This concept gives the marketing professionals the flexibility to alter the current offers they have for their customers and make new innovative offers by manipulating these 7Ps. 2.4 CONSUMER BEHAVIOR: For any business, the behavior of the customers and their buying patterns are of great importance. A customer buying behavior is precisely classified in the following four aspects. This classification helps in creating new products and services and identifying potential customer. The first and foremost aspect is the Cultural background of the customer that includes its attitude and thinking directions that roots down to the core values its family and society make up of. Another aspect is the Social factors that strongly reflect in its choices and decisions; it is basically about the social environment it possesses because it truly affects a persons mind set. Third aspect is about the Personal Characteristics that includes the social and economic status, personality, age group and intrinsic uniqueness. Last but not the least aspect is about the psychological Characteristics that comprises of the insights, motivation and way of approaching towards different things. All of the above fac tors influence the decision making of a buyer. 2.5 CONSUMER BUYING DECISION PROCESS: Marketing professionals use different tactics to study the purchasers mind and make strategies to use this information in improving the sales of their products or services. There are several things that are running up in the purchasers mind at the time of purchasing; these things are the information available to the purchaser, the alternatives, acknowledgement and his personal preferences. 2.6 SEGMENTATION: The identification of purchasers in a market place who owns similar necessities and acquires identical manners is called as segmentation. 2.7 TARGETING: After the completion of segmentation, marketing professionals picks up a segment of market place to keep it in focus. 2.8 MARKET COVERAGE APPROACH: Organizations put together their planned strategies to attain specific targets and mile stones and as the time passes by, these planned strategies are altered by keeping in mind the growing needs of in-focused markets. The in-focused market is a deposit of purchasers who have recognizable needs and these needs are recognized by companies to offer new products and services for benefiting the market. There is an approach called as market converge approach that facilitates an organization to construct the right strategy for its in-focused market. We can divide the market converge strategies into three broad categories: Undifferentiated strategy: this strategy states that a company provides undifferentiated products to customers at lower cost after identifying their needs. Differentiated strategy: this strategy states that a company provides a product that is profitable and full fills the need of a certain segment of market. The product is actually differentiated on certain factors that include its features, prices and availability but the quality of the product should be maintained at a reasonable level. Concentrated strategy: this strategy states that a company brings up a product after identifying the gap in the marked which was not earlier identified, the most money-making strategy is positioned marketing. 2.9 POSITIONING: Positing is about valuing a products position within the market and it is done after segmentation and aiming a customer class. Positing depends on the perception of the person who is evaluating a products position and it always varies and so does its results. MOBILINK 3 INTRODUCTION OF MOBILINK Mobilink has started its operation being the subsidiary of Orascom Telecom .Currently is the market giant in Pakistan Telecommunication industry because of having the leading number of subscribers which exceeds 31 million and its still increasing day by day. Mobilink is a market ruler in terms of its expansion. Mobilink is so delighted on taking initiative as a cellular service provider. Mobilink is the so delighted to provide high-tech telecommunication solutions to its privileged customers nationwide. Mobilink puts forward exclusive and specially designed packages to its customers nation wide having diverse needs, it includes all type of subscribers like individuals, business personals, and corporate tariff plans. Mobilink offers Postpaid and prepaid tariff plans to its privileged subscribers. These solutions are competitive and balanced packages in the current fierce market competition. It also offers various Value Added Services. Mobilinks strongest point is its far and wide coverage that covers 9000 regions and localities inside the country and over 130 other countries worldwide for international roaming services. 3.1 Products Mobilink is offering two different types of tariff plans, one is Jazz that is offered to the masses of the society of all classes and it is better for keeping control on cellular expenses. Prepaid service has so many different packages for different type of users. While, the other service that is Indigo is for society that can afford to pay monthly bills. It has a wide range of packages for different type of users and they are based on the level of usage of the service. 3.2 Value Added Services Info Services Home SMS Translator Call / SMS Blocking Power Tools Info Services Reverse Auction SMS Filter SIM NIC Services Package Info Service SMS Search Islamic Portal Holy Sayings Kisan Service My PowerTools 3.3 Sales Tactics Mobilink also led the way up for opening up franchises nationwide and it has over 500 franchises which provide different services to its customers. Mobilink has over 800 sub dealers too that help it in expanding its network and quality services. The basic idea behind opening up a franchise is to provide help to its customers that are encountering any issues or problems in the communication service. Franchises also provide facilities for bill payments, sales, etc. Mobilink has hired proficient personnel who are dedicating working for providing help and support to Mobilinks privileged subscribers. 3.5 Mobilink Core capability: Research and development is always a core competency for every service providing organization that wants to compete in the fierce market war and Mobilink has it all as well as its employees. Mobilink takes pride in its hardworking and proficient professionals that makes it a market leader by dedicatedly working for its growth and integrity. The research and development department always takes part in launching new products and services for the sake of its customer and Mobilink knows who to keep its customers bind and pleased. It launches innovative products and services to the market that adds up its value, like the recently launched Jazz Jazba. 3.6 Operational Targets To lift and improve market share: Mobilink is trying to lift and improve its market share by investing in various other business like wireless solutions and broadband internet offers. It is putting up efforts in not only sustaining its current market positions that possess almost 40 % market share as well as trying to increase it. Mobilink is keen in making up a positive image in its subscribers mind and wants to increase its horizon from telecommunication industry to other businesses as well. It has offered infinity click service for Karachi people and also organizing different activates for making things better at both ends. To keep its position of having largest customers: Mobilink wants to keep the title of having largest number of customer nationwide and for keeping this pride, it has to bring fresh and exciting offers for keeping its customer satisfied as there are other service providers are also in the market like, ufone, warid, Telenor and zong; all of these companies are providing their services on cheaper rates than Mobilink and that is the main point of concern for this market giant. Workers Growth and development: Mobilink takes great pride in its reliable and skilled workforce that is the main reason behind its success. Mobilink values its employees and always tries to improve their technical and interpersonal skills by proper training, recruiting and evaluating current employees by appraisals. Mobilinks HRM department is effective and keen to grab the best professionals from the market place and make them real treasure for the company. 3.7 Business Strategies at Mobilink There are three most important functioning strategies: Commercial Strategy Production Strategy Operational Strategy Commercial Strategy Commercial strategy focuses on the overall range of products and services which actually in total encompasses the companys product line, different methods and processes through which a company interrelate its products to its business. Early mobilink only focused on its internal expansion but due to increase in competition they have changed their strategy and now working with other telecomm companies for example Mobilink started to work with Citi bank, Atlas Bank and KASB for the online bill payment system. Production Strategy Mobilink production strategy focuses on putting together its profitable products hence maintaining and strengthening its business position which will also benefit them in the long term. To continue its production Mobilink has always worked with its research and development department to distinguish its product from other competitors on the basis of network simplicity, as compare to its competitors. Mobilink has created their product and services unique through: Promotion/Advertisements Mobilink have an enormously impressive marketing team who designs and promotes its packages and services by keeping in mind the variations in consumer behavior of customers. Mobilink has been advertising and promoting its offerings through different media like Electronic media. Promoting its new products through Print Media like glossy magazine, tabloids and Billboards. They have nominated different sportsmen and celebrities as their brand ambassador. 3.9 Operational Strategy As the cellular companies continue to launch new services and products, they are implementing new and innovative strategies to beat their competitors. Most of the companies has started to focus on low cost strategy, by offering cheaper rates they comprise on service quality, on the other hand Mobilink stands firm on its quality service strategy, they dont comprise on quality at all, this is also the reason that its rates are on higher side but its loyal customers understand and appreciate Mobilinks efforts to maintain the quality management hence they dont switch to other companies. 3.10 Mobilink Infinity Mobilink introduced Wimax wireless technology which doesnt need any telephone lines or any kind of cables to connect to the work internet. Mobilink Infinity fulfils the requirement of a user who wants to access the internet with fast speed and unlimited downloads. Mobilink Infinity is available in different packages for the home users. A subscriber either can use a dongle or a modem to connect to internet. CORPORATE COMMUINCATION SOLUTIONS Mobilink Infinity introduced several last mile connectivity solutions for corporate user and organizations through which high speed connectivity can be achieved. These solutions include wireless solutions, microwave solutions, VSAT, Optical fiber and xDSL. Currently Mobilink has the state of art optical fiber network being commissioned across the country covering all the regions and cities of Pakistan. MOBILINK GENIE: Through Mobilink genie a user can pay bills through Mobilink connection. This solution is designed to comfort the lifes of its users by saving their time. You can pay your utility bills as well as Mobilink bills through this package from anywhere and anytime. 3.12 SWOT ANALYSIS OF MOBILINK Strengths à ¢Ã¢â€š ¬Ã‚ ¢ Its main source of power is the foundation of its robust, indispensable and balanced marketing strategy, which is proposed to fulfill the needs and requirements of its customers. à ¢Ã¢â€š ¬Ã‚ ¢ Mobilink has been generating high revenues in past years which enable them to invest heavily to improve its infrastructure, technology and research and development areas. à ¢Ã¢â€š ¬Ã‚ ¢ First Mover advantage. First company to launch GSM service in country à ¢Ã¢â€š ¬Ã‚ ¢ At present Mobilink has the largest market share, they have the most cellular users in the country also their revenue earnings are highest as compare to other companies. à ¢Ã¢â€š ¬Ã‚ ¢ Mobilink was first to launch the Blackberry services in Pakistan and currently they have the most users of this service. à ¢Ã¢â€š ¬Ã‚ ¢ Mobilink is the first cellular company which launched the mobile services in the northern regions of Pakistan. Weaknesses à ¢Ã¢â€š ¬Ã‚ ¢ Even though Mobilink is covering whole country but still its rates are on the higher side, because of this particular matter Mobilink lost their share values in previous years. à ¢Ã¢â€š ¬Ã‚ ¢ Mobilink has been less investing and focusing on the Advertisement as compare to its competitors, this is one reason which can harm them in future as their customers will start switching to other networks. à ¢Ã¢â€š ¬Ã‚ ¢ It has been found that Mobilinks network is usually busy in densely populated areas. à ¢Ã¢â€š ¬Ã‚ ¢ PTA has fined Mobilink twice because of its bad service and user complains. So they need to stress on giving improved services to its existing users rather on development of its network. Opportunities à ¢Ã¢â€š ¬Ã‚ ¢ Mobilink can expand and extend their existing share by targeting young generation as Ufone and Telenor has been doing, they can also introduce new packages for old age people, but these packages must be introduced keeping in mind the pocket of every targeted segment. à ¢Ã¢â€š ¬Ã‚ ¢ Mobilink can use their brand name and image to target new customers as well as retain their existing users for this they need to implement innovative promotion techniques. à ¢Ã¢â€š ¬Ã‚ ¢ By working on CRM system Mobilink can enhance its relationship marketing procedures which will benefit them to achieve their goals. Threats à ¢Ã¢â€š ¬Ã‚ ¢ The new entrant Zong has come up with very cheaper rates due to which cellular consumers especially youngsters are shifting to Zong. à ¢Ã¢â€š ¬Ã‚ ¢ Telenor is now offering better postpaid packages and services for business and high class users. à ¢Ã¢â€š ¬Ã‚ ¢ Current price war between all cellular companies might result in a situation when only brand images and names will be important for new cellular user. 3.13 BCG Matrix I have examined Mobilinks products and services through BCG Matrix. Following are the main products: à ¢Ã¢â€š ¬Ã‚ ¢ Mobilink Indigo à ¢Ã¢â€š ¬Ã‚ ¢ Mobilink Jazz à ¢Ã¢â€š ¬Ã‚ ¢ Mobilink Blackberry Services Cash Cow Mobilink Indigo is the cash cow for Mobilink. Likewise Mobilink Blackberry services help Mobilink to generate good amount of revenue as it is mostly use by business class. Star Mobilink Jazz is the star for the Mobilink, this is one package whose users will keep on growing. Question Mark Jazz one, Jazz easy, club red are question Mark for Mobilink because more or less similar packages are also offered by its competitors. Dog At present no product or service of Mobilink comes under the dog category. TELENOR 4.1 INTRODUCTION OF TELENOR: Telenor is basically a Norway based telecommunication service provider and it has a major place in telecommunication industry worldwide. Its operative in quite many countries around the globe. Its main operation office is in Islamabad and main regional offices are in Karachi and Lahore. Telenor has expanded and increased massively since its founding and has achieved several objective to meet its goal. They have currently 24% market share with more than 23 million users. They are among the top cellular companies around the globe, Telenor has been investing hugely to improve their infrastructure so that they can reach every remote location of the country. 4.1 Organizational Principles: Produce trouble-free resolutions People at Telenor have a great interest in producing simple, easy and hassle free solutions for their customers. Their motto is to make peoples life easy and simple by providing quality services. Maintain Promise People at Telenor always put their best efforts to get the work done. They believe in producing the best possible solutions for their privileged customers. They never sacrifice over quality to provide solutions and offerings. Keep moving Telenor have the best resources to deliver the goals. They make every effort to bring energy to the work they get done. Every product they create appears better and finer. They are always keen and eager about everything that is related to their trade and subscribers. Social endurance Telenor has people that are quite familiar with the area they are operating and they love being gelled up with the local society by respecting and valuing their social and moral values. They never compel a uniform strategy globally but they actually wish to gel up with the local people anywhere they operate. Telenors main operational approach is to expand their market value by capitalizing on its subscribers all over the world and to increase the companys efficiency and out but by integrating work efficient and advanced marketing techniques with diverse business ventures. The focused chief points are as follows: Buildup their rank as a global cellular provider Telenor is very keen and eager to position themselves as the top and largest mobile operator not only in Pakistan but also. They have been collaborating with other top mobile operators in order to seek new ideas and strategies so they can strengthen their operations and ability of producing better services. To reach every remote area Telenor is keen enough to renovate their operations in all the remote regions. Their presence in every part of the country will make them a bigger operator. By establishing an integrated communication they can support and give value to their users in a better and efficient way. Worldwide harmonization Telenor intelligently use its worldwide harmonization program for grabbing the local market in mobile operational services. It assure its control by this using this program and take advantages. In current cellular market condition it has been very important for operators to come up with effective strategies also being aware of other strategies which are used by their rivals. Giving value addition to customers through offering cheap packages and value added services. 4.5.1 Production Strategy Customers are the main focus of attention for Telenor, everything they do, make, forecast is for their valuable customers. Telenors business strategy entitles its customers to grow and increase their interest and loyalty with Telenor. Their strategy, vision and mission is a representation of the social values of its customers, these are the main factors which differentiate them for others. To achieve its vision and goal Telenor has always come up with exceptional business strategies which are essential in helping the local culture and getting to the already forecasted plans and goals. Moreover a top serving management makes it easier for the bottom management to accomplish all these typical issues and task. Telenor doesnt sacrifice the ethical rules and regulation in order to implement its business strategies. All the international ethical procedures are adopted and applied with strict monitoring; they have a very strict code of behavior for all the employees. 4.5.2 Telenor strategies: Telenor achieves its motives and goals by implementing following strategies: Societal Commitment Telenor is always keen to perform all the social obligation that are important and they strive to purpose valuable products and services to various sects worldwide and they want to take part in socio-economic growth of the region and they take it as their responsibility and trying to improve it by all means. Delivering best Quality Telenor is more than a service carrier for the societies it serves and has become an essential part of their business thus contributes to the economic growth. Since Telenor buys so many products and services itself to serve its customers. To ensure that best services are provided to customers, Telenor ensures the quality of products and services it acquire from market. The standards of services we commit to our customers are what we demand from sellers and service providers, serving our business. Partnership: Coalition and responsiveness is quite important with other organizations either public or private institutes. Education and exploration Starting up, holding up and running exploration programs with education session and other competitions. Administering specific Processes Telenor organizes different events, including seminars, sessions and conferences related to the fields in which Telenor is operating. Fulfilling Commitments They always fulfill their commitments and if its not the case, they are always present to help and lead others. Vibrant Being vibrant is being energetic and having a passion for excellence and achievement. Inventive Being inventive is all about innovating new and amazing services and products that can bring up maturity to the organization. Accountable Being accountable is all about keeping promises and being committed and devoted to work that can lead to a good reputation and market good will. 4.6 Forecasted targets Aspects 2010-11 2014-15 Telenor share 24% 45% Market saturation 11% 35% Income share 9% 35% Impulsive Brand Awareness 22% 85% 4.8 Consumer Oriented Approach: Basically segmentation is done for dividing a market in various segments and then identifying need for every portion. It is necessary for researching and finding gaps and opportunity and it can help in keeping track of the progress too. Telenor has a subscriber oriented approach and it wants to give top priority services to its subscribers. It has divided the market into different segment for the ease. Comparison of Mobilink and Telenor : Feature Mobilink Telenor Product Maturates Mature Growing Share 40% 24% Exposure 1100 cities 900 cities Brands Jazz, Octane, Indigo TalkShawk, Telenor DJuice Marketing function Outstanding Standard 4.9 Approaches for Segmentation: As Telenor have various departments and divisions responsible for their products hence they have diverse and unique segmentation strategy for their each product and service, moreover they have different strategy even for the promotion programs split. They always pay more attention on their loyal customers. Efficient and effective market surveys and researches are done in order to get the customer feedback then the total market needs and potential is analyzed and calculated finally in the end buying power of consumer is analyzed for each n every segment. Telenor has an assorted segmentation strategy and a different marketing program is build up for each market segment. Telenor is always very concerned about its privileged customers and because different people look for different settlements and their needs for services always vary. A level of markets potential is approximated for each segment and it helps in setting targets and designing different strategies and making policies for increasing the sales. 4.10 Approaches for Pricing: Telenor approach for pricing is very simple; they started by targeting the young generation. Because of the tough competition every Telecom company have to be very flexible in their pricing approaches and offerings. You can lose your customers very easily and cheaply if you are rates are not up to the standards and needs of consumer Cellular companies keep on launching new packages with best and revise prices so that their customers remain stuck to their products and services Launching of Djuice and TalkShawk are the excellent examples of how Telenor targeted the youngsters, as the young generation is more price sensitive as compare to business Telenors follows the simple standard business models while creating their pricing strategies. They have come up with best offerings; every now and then they are launching more exciting and cheap packages for their customers. One example of this is their current Persona package which fulfils the demand of a business and corporate user. 4.11 Approaches for Promotion: Telenor approach and idea for promoting and advertising of it products and services is completely different from other cellular companies. They are using every possible available medium of communication to communicate with their targeted customers. Their main focus and goal regarding promotions is to become the top cellular company of the country by increasing their market share along with providing them the value they deserve 4.12 Media Advertising: In todays television channels boom advertising plays an important role to represent and pass the message of a service provider to its customer. Through advertsising telenor has been easily hitting the factors which affect the consumer decision making process. In current cellular media war Telenor has managed to retain its value by appropriate advertising strategy by selecting countries famous personalities in their promotion campaigns. 4.13 FUNCTIONAL ORGANIZATION SYSTEM Availability: For Telenor, production is about offering a vast variety of packages and it is working quite well in providing amazing and innovative packages with high-tech facilities Telenor is leading the market in providing quality high-tech services and making them available for everyone. Business Centers: Telenor has it business centers and sales service centers in major cities for all the technical and non technical queries. These centers provide facility to the subscribers fo

The research approaches adopted and methodology

The research approaches adopted and methodology The aims of this paper are evaluate the research approaches adopted and methodology used in assigned research reports. Moreover, reflect and point out the strengths and weaknesses of reports. Social research is a scientific study of society and it purposes are exploring, describing or explaining the social phenomena. Thus, there are major methodological approaches which are quantitative approach and qualitative approach. Firstly, according to Alan Bryman (2008), the quantitative research can be construed as a research strategy which emphasis the quantification in collection and analysis data and involves a deductive approach to the relationship between theory and research which the accent is placed on the theories testing. Moreover, it has incorporated the practices and norms of the natural scientific model and of positivism in particular and there is an external, objective, social reality (or entity).Objective reality exists beyond the human mind (researcher). Secondly, qualitative research can be construed as a research strategy which emphasis in the words in collection and analysis data and involves an inductive approach to the relationship between the theory and the research which emphasis is placed the generation of theories. Thus, it has rejected the practice and norms of the natural scientific model and emphasis on individuals interpret the social world. There is no absolute external, objective, social reality (or entity) which is constituted by how the human mind (researcher) perceives, thinks, interprets or experiences about it. Furthermore, the most common methodologies within the social research include experiments, survey, in-depth Interview, participant observation Part 1 Youth-this research aims to investigate the factors conductive to the success of young people growing up in low-income families and exam the factors that help them to their lives from failure, poverty and social exclusion. It also identifies a range of indicators and necessary conditions for the positive development of them. Thus, evaluate the way which the functions of service participation, friendship networks and various family factors support them in different areas. Youth-the research focus on the effects of service participation, friendship networks, and family support on developmental outcomes in a study of young people from low-income families in Hong Kong. In this research, there are three research hypotheses as follow, firstly, a young person who has received vocational training, services provided by social workers or other helping professionals will have greater opportunity for positive development despite his/her deprived family background. Secondly, a young person who has better friendship networks will have a greater opportunity for positive development despite his/her deprived family. Lastly, a young person with better family support will have a greater opportunity for positive development despite his/her deprived family background. Youth-In this research report, it used the survey research. According to Earl Babbie (2008), the survey research is the popular social research method which is the administration of questionnaires to a sample of respondents selected from some population and it is appropriate for making descriptive studies of larger population. Thus, the questionnaires can be administered through the self-administered questionnaires, face-to-face interviews or telephone surveys. For this report, the research used the quantitative survey of 405 young people recruited from the schools and integrated youth service centres in Hong Kong. Furthermore, as the researcher investigates the factors based on the youth development indicators which are according to the scholars, therefore, this research study used the deductive analysis which is a form of reasoning in conclusions are formulated about particulars from general or universal premises. Youth-In this report, researcher used the survey as the tool in social research. According to Babbie (2008), the survey includes a question which is either open-ended or close-ended and employs an oral or written method for asking these questions. The goal of a survey is to gain information from the selected group and the result is used to investigate the social phenomena. Thus, in this report, a quantitative survey of 405 young people from the low-income families was conducted to explore the factors relevant to their development and success. Also, the respondents were between 17 to 21 years old -the critical age range from teenage transit to young adulthood. Therefore, the result can investigate the factors conductive to the success of young people growing up in low-income families and exam the factors that help them to their lives from failure, poverty and social exclusion Youth-In the findings of research report, over a half of the respondents were female, their average age is 18.33 years and around 55% are completed senior secondary education and 36% has matriculation qualification. Also, most of the respondents are students at the time of the data collection. For the family background of respondents, most of their parents are low educated and employed, living in public housing and low-income. Thus, the result showed that receipt of social work service has positive effects on academic achievement, work performance and mental health. In Addition, the data demonstrated that the size of friendship networks had a significant positive impact on work performance and showed that having more friends with better educational achievement, high employee status and positive social experience contributed to pro-social behaviour. Finally, it evaluated the prediction of youth development resulting from various factor that parents material status had significant posi tive effect on respond ents financial adequacy and their social behaviour. Part 2 Youth-In this report, it is used the quantitative approach as the research methodology and used the survey as the tool in the research. As the researcher set the quantitative survey and hypothesis for given topic, the answer of respondents should be present in numerical. Therefore, in quantitative approach, the data collection is easier to summaries, analysis and measurable because the answer for respondent converting to numerical format. However, there is some weakness of quantitative approach. Firstly, since the respondents recruited from the school and integrated youth centers, some of the youth may not be counter as the respondents (e.g. Hikikomori).it implies that the survey research represents the least minimally appropriate to all respondent and it is often appear superficial in coverage of complex topic. Secondly, the validity of quantitative research is heavily rely on the sampling because most of the quantitative research used survey as the tool, in this report, researcher only recruited 405 youth people as the respondents for investigate the factors conductive to the success of young people growing up in low-income families and exam the factors that help them to their lives from failure, poverty and social exclusion, compare to the large population of the youth group, the result cannot be representing for the group. Moreover, the quantitative research is inflexibility caused the study design is standardized, it would be unaware the new variables importance. As the researcher focus the study on testing the hypothesis and indicate the several factor, the research should be neglect the other factors which related to the positive development of the youth. Part 3 Youth-The study just mentioned the respondents are recruited from 13 secondary school and 18 integrated school located in different districts, however, It has blurred to explain the method for sampling the agency for data collection. Moreover, the definition of the factors of service participation and social capital are undefined. For example, there is no illustration of the positive social experiences in the friendship network, the term seems to be obscure .Also, since the research has targeted the respondents between 17-21 years old which is the critical age range in the transitioj to young adulthood,and the time that is chart Reference Babbie, Earl R. (2007), The practice of social research, 11th ed. Belmont, CA: Thomson Wadsworth Crotty Michael (1998), The foundations of social research: meaning and perspective in research process, London: Sage Publications Bryman Alan (2008), Social research methods, New York: Oxford University Inc

The Use of Symbolism in The Lottery by Shirley Jackson Essay -- Lotter

The Use of Symbolism in The Lottery by Shirley Jackson In "The Lottery," Shirley Jackson uses symbolism to make us aware of the pointless nature of humanity regarding tradition and violence. The story starts off on a beautiful summer day in a small town. The author describes the day as very euphoric but strikes a contrast between the atmosphere of the town and the atmosphere of the people gathered in the square. The atmosphere is subdued, where the children are "gathered around quietly." The black box is the central theme or idea in the story. It symbolizes at first some type of mystery, but as we read the ending we realize that it is synonymous with doom. Someone's fate lies in an inanimate object, the black box. We do not always enjoy change, even if it might prove beneficial to us. The box is symbolic of our loathing of change; it is old and splintered showing that we cling to what is familiar rather than change and it also symbolizes the traditions of the community. No one in the little town questions the origin of the black box, but accept it as an intrical part of their lives. There is always discussion of people getting a new box, but no one ever really goes through with it. "Everuy year, after the lottery, Mr.Summers began talking again about a new box, but every year the subject was allowed to fade off without anything's being done". The lottery itself is symbolic of the paradox of the human psyche between compassion on one hand and the thirst for violence and cruelty on the other. An example of this is when the children are enjoying a break from school, playing and being children, and suddenly they are being joined by "rational" adults in stoning a mother to death. It appears that tradition has blinded these people in an irrational way, making them unable to think of a reason why this possibly should not be happening. When forced with the possibility of death, human nature in all its complexity, comes down to one instinctive urge, that of survival. When Tessie was in no danger she was gossiping with the other ladies and even encouraged her husband to go and pick a piece of paper. When Tessie wins the lottery; she pleads for another chance and screams for mercy. She demands that her daughters take their chances as well, which is indicative of regression toward our ... ...in. They chose this method of sacrifice in order to yield themselves from the responsibility and burden of murder. Even though the towns lottery has lost all traditional value the sacrificing has held steadfast. As it says in The Lottery ? although the villagers had forgotten the ritual and lost the original black box, they still remember to use the rocks.? This quote means that even though their tradition has gone off course they will always hold to their beliefs about sacrifice. To summarize they held true to their beliefs because of apprehension. So tradition has subconsciously made the community unaware of their horrible actions. The citizens of the village are not afraid of change. They are afraid of what change will bring. The present community has never known a year without the lottery or depleted crops. They fear if they if they disband from the traditional sacrifice their crops will fail. Also their warm safe homes will fade away and the dampened caves that have become so fictional to them will appear to be realistic problems. Works Cited: Jackson, Shirley. "The Lottery." The Lottery. New York: Popular Library, 1949.

How Television Affects Society :: essays research papers

How Television Effects Society.â€Å"The only activities Americans spend more time doing than watching television are working and sleeping.† With this in mind, it is understood that television plays a major role in the statistical majority of most Americans. Society reflects what is shown on television in a multitude of various areas. Three of the major areas in which television affects us are in behavior, moral values, and social standards. All throughout life, youths have found some way to rebel against authority. In the 50’s, boys rode on motorcycles and greased their hair back. In the 60’s, they let their hair grow down to their â€Å"who-ha† as they denounced their government. In today’s day and age, we find our youth killing each other and denouncing God. A prime example of television’s responsibility for this matter would be the mass coverage of the Columbine shootings. In a personal individual survey I conducted, close to 100% of the people said that they had never before seen or heard of any school shootings before the Columbine incident. Now that the constant round the clock news coverage of Columbine has concluded, there is been well over seven more reported incidents of school shootings that will probably never reach the amount of coverage that Columbine got because school shootings are no longer a novelty. Do you wonder why these kids did what they did? It is because of the amount of violence that is now being shown all across the news. In one weeks worth of time of watching the ten o’clock news, I have seen blood drenched war victims give A.B.C news anchors their last words before slipping into a coma. Five days ago, a neighborhood gang interrupted a high school student’s routine walk home by beating him to within an inch of his life. When he was asked if he would reveal the names of the assaulters, guess who was bedside with a camera to capture the swollen faced expression of the student? Ne wscasters are overstepping their boundaries for the mere purpose of sensationalism, and death has lost its shock value. A technique used by many in the television business to assure mass audience attention is to just make everything brief. The deceit in this technique is that it provides constant stimulation through variety, novelty, and action. In this aspect, television has become a virtual narcotic drug. In this, we the viewers are the junkies.

Cmis102 Assignment 1

CMIS102 Homework Assignment 1 (Worth 13% of your grade) Problem definition: Calculate the usable area in square feet of house. Assume that the house has a maximum of four rooms, and that each room is rectangular. A. Problem Analysis – Following the directions in the assignment, clearly write up your problem analysis in this section. This program will compute the area of a house that has four rectangular rooms. Output is the value of the total area (total_area) of the house and is to be calculated by area/length/width input (A1, A2, A3, A4, L1, L2, L3, L4, W1, W2, W3, and W4) variables declared as float variables.The program will utilize the standard mathematical formula of obtaining area of a rectangle: A = L*W. As well, the formula will be coded in the program as Area=length*width (A=L*W) respectively for each room. L1 = length of first room, as float W1 = width of first room, as float A1=L1*W1 L2 = length of first room, as float W2 = width of first room, as float A2=L2*W2 L3 = length of first room, as float W3 = width of first room, as float A3=L3*W3 L4 = length of first room, as float W4 = width of first room, as float A4=L4*W4 B.Program Design – Following the directions in the assignment, clearly write up your problem design in this section and comment your pseudocode. Raptor software will be used in designing and testing this program. The three fundamental tasks of creating a program will be incorporated: 1) Input Data: Use of Raptor to add Input and Assignment symbols will allow user to input data when running the program. The Main and Input_Data modules will heavily use the Input and Assignment symbols in Raptor. In the Input_Data_module, variables will be assigned and declared.As well, the Main module will execute the entire program by calling the completed sub-charts. 2) Calculate formula: Use formulas to attain total_area of the house by calculating area of each of the four rooms. total_area = A1 + A2 + A3 + A4 to get the sums of all are as we must calculate the formula for each room A1 = L1*W1 A2 = L2*W2 A3 = L3*W3 A4 = L4*W4 3) Obtain Output: The program will display the result of total_area from process and calculation in the previous two steps. The design of the modular program will be created in Raptor and the design will look like this: Main module:Comment: â€Å"This program computes the total area of a four bedroom house in square footage. Call Input_Data_module Call Calculations_module Call Output_Data_module End Input_Data_Module: Write â€Å"Length of first room† (L1) Write â€Å"Width of first room† (W1) Write â€Å"Length of second room† (L2) Write â€Å"Width of second room† (W2) Write â€Å"Length of third room† (L3) Write â€Å"Width of third room† (W3) Write â€Å"Length of fourth room† (L4) Write â€Å"Width of fourth room† (W4) Call Calculations_module End Perform Calculations module: Declare A1, A2, A3, and A4; as floatSet A1 = L1*W1 Set A2 = L2*W2 Set A3 = L3*W3 Set A4 = L4*W4 Set total_area = (A1+A2+A3+A4) End Output Data module: Write â€Å"The total area of house is:† + total_area End C. Program Comments and Test Data – Following the directions in the assignment, include your test data and expected results in this section. Table 1. Include your test data table here TEST RUN OF DATA INPUT INTO PROGRAM Room#:| Input: Length & Width (in feet)| | Expected Output: Footage of house (in feet)| | Test Run 1| Area of Rectangle 😠 A=L*W| Room 1| L=10, W=5| | 50=10*5|Room 2| L=10, W=5| | 50=10*5| Room 3| L=10, W=5| | 50=10*5| Room 4| L=10, W=5| | 50=10*5| | Total Area=A1+A2+A3+A4:| 200 sq ft. | | Test Run 2| Area of Rectangle 😠 A=L*W| Room 1| L=12, W=6| | 72=12*6| Room 2| L=12, W=6| | 72=12*6| Room 3| L=12, W=6| | 72=12*6| Room 4| L=12, W=6| | 72=12*6| | Total Area=A1+A2+A3+A4:| 288 sq ft. | | Test Run 3| Area of Rectangle 😠 A=L*W| Room 1| L=20, W=10| | 200=20*10| Room 2| L=20, W=10| 200=20* 10| Room 3| L=20, W=10| 200=20*10| Room 4| L=20, W=10| | 200=20*10| | Total Area=A1+A2+A3+A4:| 800 sq ft. |

Learning Team Reflection Essay

Alan Litchman and Laura B. Trust, Co-Presidents of Finagle a Bagel, own a bagel business in Boston (Parrino, Kidwell, Bates, 2012). Alan and Laura met in business school and after gaining business experience in other industries they purchased the bagel business with the intent of growing it as much as possible. They have two primary target markets: 1) retail stores and 2) wholesale accounts with large institutions. In this paper, we will briefly discuss a few of the strategies they used to manage their working capital. The owners of Finagle a Bagel were tired of working for other people so they decided to buy one new business. They have used several financial concepts to manage the financial accountability of their small business. They have controlled costs from the beginning of the process to the delivery of the product, as well as the administrative costs. Other items that have been highlighted are the management of cash flow, payback, and the schedule of cash entries, which has allowed the company to pay its debts. They have established a good relationship with the banks in order to negotiate the time frame for payments and rate. Suppliers are also a key success factor for the company, as the payment terms are negotiated to match the flow cash. The company’s focus is to maintain its financial management so that the business may grow and return large profits. The Finagle a Bagel also has a policy of recognizing the hard work of their employees. The owners believe that managers and employees are responsible for the success of the company. Together, the company is growing in a sustainable and financially healthy way. According to Alan Litchman, when making any investment, first one has to understand what the demand for the new product is going to be, and what kind of product can be made with the new equipment (Parrino, Kidwell, ba tes, 2012). Alongside his wife, Mr. Litchman explained how important it is to understand the company’s performance and opportunities to better apply capital investment in the company. They both explained, in their own words, the importance of setting up strategies and planning before putting a new product on the market. The couple also spoke about debt. Laura Trust said that debt is ‘a necessary evil’ and sometimes taking debt has its benefits if compared to finding capital through other means, such as pursuing a partner (Parrino, Kidwell, Bates, 2012). In this case they did not want to take a venture capital partner because the owners wanted to have authority  when making business decisions, thus avoiding ‘working for someone else’ (Parrino, Kidwell, Bates, 2012). This shows that the owners prefer a business structure like a sole proprietorship. Lastly, the fact that interest rates have been dropping for small business also supported their decision to take on debt to invest in the company. The couple is very educated when making business decisions, as they understand that even when a company has financial resources, the business gains more by obtaining financial resources from banks with small interest rates, while allowing the resources they have to generate dividends with higher interest rates. This is generally called borrowing ‘cheap money’ (Investopedia, 2014). Finally, credit is also discussed. They mentioned trade credit, which is the amount of time given to pay back vendors for the products bought. The longer the term, the better, as it allows time to receive revenue before having to pay the debt. This is another very important recommendation on how to properly use cash flow and avoid taking on debt. Overall, Alan Litchman and Laura B. Trust demonstrate a thorough understanding of how to manage their capital so that their small business continues to grow and increase their net profits, despite economic challenges in the community and the country. References Investopedia. (2014). Cheap Money. Retrieved from http://www.investopedia.com/terms/c/cheap-money.asp Parrino, R., Kidwell, D., Bates, T. (2012) Fundamentals of Corporate Finance, (2nd Ed) John Wiley & Sons Inc.