Employee voice Essay

‘Employee voice’ suggested by Geoff Armstrong (cited in Armstrong,2001) in the recent issue of Industrial Participation Association (IPA) Bulletin, historically meant collective bargaining, and that this ‘chosen method of joint regulation became a straitjacket inhibiting the very things we needed to be doing to win and keep customers! ’ Win and keep the customers because feedbacks and suggestions came from the employee who deals with the customers every day of their work. Companies are able to get the facts from how the customer complaint about their product and to what satisfies them. The word ‘voice’ was popularized by Freeman and Medoff (cited in Freeman & Medoff, 1984) who argued that it made good sense for both company and workforce to have a ‘voice’ mechanism. This had both a consensual and conflictual image; on the one hand, participation could lead to a beneficial impact on quality and productivity, whilst on the other it could detect problems which otherwise might ‘explode’. Dundon et al (cited in Dundon, 2004;MC Cabe & Lewin, 1992; Wilkinson et al,2004). The four principal strands of the thought or forms of ‘voice’ that are available to employees are: an articulation of individual dissatisfaction; existence of a collective organization; a form of contribution to the management decision-making; and as a form of mutuality in the organization. In the articulation of individual dissatisfaction, the employee aims to address a specific problem or issue with the management that is usually presented in the form of grievance procedure or ‘speak up’ program. An opportunity for employee representatives – union or non-union – to communicate the views of the workforce to managers either through partnership or collective bargaining is the form of collective organization. As a form of contribution to the management decision-making its purpose is concerned with improvements in work organization and efficiency more generally, perhaps through quality circles or team working. It is achieve by a dialogue with employees providing ideas to improve the organizational performance. The last form is the mutuality in organization in delivering long term viability for the organization and its employees, often through joint consultation, collective bargaining and or partnership. In an article by Sharon Shinn (2004,p 18), The Maverick CEO, he asked Ricardo Semler that if business students were reading a case study of Semco what was the valuable lesson they would they take away and he answered that, â€Å"the main lesson is that freedom is a prime driver for performance. † Through my research I believe that all of the employees’ benefits from ‘employee voice’ just revolve around Semlers’ idea. When an employee has the freedom to express himself it empowers him to decide the courses of action that must be done to achieve a certain objective of the company according to his ideals in work and life in general. When one has the freedom to say what for him is wrong or right it gives him the dignity of not only a worker of the company but someone who can make a change and influence people on top for the better future of the company. A sample of the ideal is displayed in Semco where employees can vote to veto new products or new product ventures. At Semco, (cited in Samler, 2004) â€Å"workers approve their own bosses and people only attend meetings if they think the meetings are important. It works because of peoples’ self-interest. Nobody wants to stay in boring meetings or work for bosses they didn’t choose. † Furthermore, â€Å"of course, you can make people come to meetings and look alert, but it’s more difficult to get them to perform what was decided at the meeting. We want people to follow their instincts and to choose as bosses people they respect – even if they don’t like them. This often happens at Semco. † ‘Employee voice’ can be channeled between union and non-union voice. Comparison of benefits between union and non-union voice has been noted. (cited in Freeman and Medoff, 1984) argued that only union forms of voice would result in voice benefits for workers and management. The reasoning behind this argument is that without a union to ensure fair treatment and an equitable distribution of the fruits of success, individuals lack the incentive to pursue public goods. Union voice promotes ‘independence’ unlike direct voice mechanisms’ where its effectiveness is challenged in their capacity to transform the power relations in an organization due to lack of sanctions for non-compliance, collective power and access to independent sources of advice or assistance, non-union voice mechanisms are more susceptible to managerial influence and control (cited in Golan,2009; Terry,199; Wilkinson et al, 2004). On the contrary, non-union or direct voice has been also argued to be superior to union voice for 2 reasons: first, barriers between employers and employees can be disintegrated by dealing directly with employees rather than through an intermediary (cited in Bryson, 2004; Storey, 1992); and second, direct voice allows managers to better respond to the heterogeneous interests of workers (cited in Storey,1992). Another distinct benefit of ‘employee voice’ is evident in the ‘monopoly face’ of unionism, whereby unions seek to restrict the supply of labor to the irm in pursuit of higher wages and benefits. In a general point of view because of the ‘employee voice’ managers give more positive responses to employee needs, greater levels of control over the work process and increased influence over job rewards. In relation with the benefits that can be gained by employees’ through ‘employee voice’ the said firms that practices this kind of system have a lot to gain out of it. One important factor that affects the companies’ profitability is its labor cost. Voice is considered important, in their classic work on US trade Unionism, (cited in Freeman and Medoff, 1984) post it that it is theoretically possible for trade unions to enhance the productivity of firms because they provide voice to workers. They argue that union voice can be productivity-enhancing where voice costs are lower than the costs of dissatisfied workers quitting, and lower quit rates encourage firms to invest in human capital, resulting in a more skilled and productive workforce. In union voice it may also reduce the transaction costs that employees face, for example, by enforcing and monitoring contracts (cited in Booth, 1995; Kaufman, 2004; Kaufman and Levine, 2000). The company of Semco is a great example of this, (cited in Shinn, 2004) Semler and a radical management team completely upended traditional business theory at Semco, doing away with conventional organizational charts while allowing employees more and more freedom to choose what products they would work and how they would produce them. Many employees were eliminated by job reconstruction or left because they couldn’t handle the turmoil. But those who remained became passionate about Semco and their place within it. At Semco they also believe in continuous growth and development so (cited in Samler, 2004) â€Å"people at Semco, by setting their own timetables and workloads, are more apt to take time out for learning. † He said that there were also sabbaticals, and a system whereby people can diminish and increase their work weeks by arrangement with their teams. They also have Retire-a-little where people can take a day, or half-day, off every week, to do what they would when they retire. Because of such changes, (cited in Semler, 2004) noted that it have raised Semco’s revenue from a $35 million to $160 million in the last six years. In addition, (cited in Shinn, 2004) Semler is deeply involved in promoting a workplace where freedom and flexibility is celebrated that he established a school in Sao Paolo practicing his values. (cited in Samler ,2004) â€Å"the school is in place and has started enrolling two-to-ten year olds. We want to change things at the starting point. At this school, our kids determine the rules and makes decisions ever week at a school meeting. We don’t want to holler and point fingers at kids. They are perfectly able to settle disputes and regulations alone. We do sit in to facilitate, when they want. † Furthermore, â€Å"at the Lumlar Institute, which runs the school, we develop a mosaic technology to teach free children effectively, something that the educational world knows nothing about. Since our kids are obliged to be in school but not in class, it behooves us to interest them – and we do. Children are already staying 1. 84 times longer at our school, out of free will, than at other schools in the system. After defining that there were two system of ‘employee voice’ which are non-union (direct) and union, in addition reviewing the benefits of implementing ‘employee voice’ to both the employees and company, Australia seems to place more importance to non-union voice that than union voice. Result from the studies of researchers proves that, for example, AWIRS (the Australian Workplace Industrial Relations Survey) shows that only 16% of work places were there employee representatives on boards in 1995. (cited in Morehead et al, 1997; 506-67). Moreover non-union of employee representation was not institutionalized as they are in EU (European Union). With the Decline of Union membership, with 22% of employees now being unionized (and only 17 percent in the private sector), there is a growing ‘representation on gap’ for employees’ with some academic experts arguing that works councils could fill that gap. (Knudsen & Markey, 2002). However, there seems little political will to progress this issue at the moment, with major interest focused on the recent Work Choices Legislation, rather than a broader discussion of work place governance. Thus, it appears that for the most part, participation in Australia will remain a matter for the firm rather that a broader social issue and its extent will be largely governed by management strategy and enthusiasm for the various direct participative approaches. Pyman et al (2006) In practical sense, the effectiveness of employee voice in Australia workplaces is dependent on a plurality of arrangements, that is multiple, mutually reinforcing channels. While achieving this is likely to present challenge for employers, employees and unions, the findings to do highlight the significance of labor- management interaction and thus the value of a union-employer partnership approach predicated on mutual benefits. Such an approach is seriously threatened by the recent changes embodied in the Work Choices Act 2005. This legislation unequivocally privileges direct or non-union representative voice mechanisms, while undermining union voice and multi-channel voice arrangements.

Value chain and globalization Essay

Introduction The process of corporate life is always a sea change and sometimes there are high tides and sometimes are quiet times. Day to day companies are faced with new challenges, whether it be a consolidated organization or a small business just starting, always emerging issues that affect their behavior and their performance. Owing to the consequences of an impressive development of technology and globalization that we are living in this age. Nowadays are faster changes, new challenges threaten seriously survival of organizations, new foreign competitors, mobilization of capitals, difficulties in retaining human capital and changing technologies are elements that require managers to be prepared for change and have ability to motivate employees in order to have continuous renewal. â€Å"Micro and small enterprise dominated industries have been both threatened and provided with advantages as a result of dynamic trends related to globalization† (Kula et al., 2006). Value chain is not on ly to implement new management models that ultimately prove to be only uncertain. However, management of change consists of take advantage of changes in business environment for the interest of the organization. That is why companies should not only be flexible, but also managers should develop a keen sense to anticipate change; therefore companies will be able to achieve to be at the forefront. According to Porter (1998) â€Å"Activities provide the bridge between strategy and implementation. When strategy was defined in terms of broad positioning concepts, a clear separation between strategy and structure was meaningful and useful.† Innovation is everywhere and organizations that are not renewed will hardly be able to survive. Firstly, it should be noted that the purpose of this essay is that I want to explain what is the value chain, its impact to the companies and the impact of globalization to the value chain. Afterwards, I will explain the following seven major issues have had significant impact of globalization on the value chain. History of the value chain and consisting First of all, the value chain is a theoretical model to describe the development of the activities of a business generating value to the final customer. The value chain was described by Michael Porter. He defines the  value as the sum of the perceived benefits customer receives of low costs to acquire and use product or service â€Å"Value is the amount buyers are willing to pay for what a firm provides them. Value is measured by total revenue, a reflection of the price a firm ´s product commands exceed the cost involved in creating the product.† (Porter 1998). At the same time value chain is essentially a form of analysis of business through which a company is split up into their constituent parts, and we can seeking to identify sources of advantage. Simultaneously, it is creating the competitive advantage that is achieved when company develops and integrates activities of its value chain less expensive and better differentiated than their competitors. Therefore value chain of a company is formed by all its added value generating activities and the margins they contribute â€Å"Competitive advantage in regard to products and services takes two possible forms. The first is an offering or differentiation advantage. I f customers perceive a product or service as superior, they become more willing to pay a premium price relative to the price they will pay for competing offerings. The second is a relative low-cost advantage, which customers gain when company ´s total costs undercut those of its average competitor† (San Miguel, 1996). Sometimes change times in business can generate fear, but beyond fear, managers must generate within their companies the ability to bring about change. When it comes to making changes to the companies and this usually means the introduction of new procedures, staff or ways of working that directly affect those around the organization: employees, shareholders, suppliers, customers. Therefore managers have two options to deal with the changes. The first option is intimidated by the changes and remaining still or the second option is to understand what is going on, develop strategies and implementation to deal with change. â€Å"Competitive Advantage provides the architecture for describing and assessing strategy, linking it to company behavior, and understanding the sources of competitive advantage. It provides the foundation needed to go deeper.† (Porter 1998) According to Kula (2006), Globalization is a process by which people, companies, goods and services, capital and information and ideas are exchanged across international boundaries, is shaping opportunities for growth and poverty reduction in developing countries. In the current context  of globalization, the trend toward merging business grows increasingly harder. Therefore, it is very important to cooperation of all employees of organization in a chain and they sharing common vision for business quickly translate into success factors. Where employees are involved to this vision therefore they will be more productive and more collaborative mechanisms bind them to other actors in the chain, the greater the chance of survival and progress towards economic development processes. Moreover, companies tend to compete with other companies in the same country and in the same way, companies of the same country tend to compete with companies in other countries a cause of globalization. Therefore, competition among global companies are strongly and should possess highest level of professional competence and for this reason heads of companies should know as renew companies every day to produce high return. A good example about this information is the competence between Procter and Gamble and Unilever; both are global companies and both offer similar products. In the case of my country; In Mexico are both companies each one have both have large factories and corporate offices; the number of employees is large and both have many processes to manufacture both products, as well as quality and administrative. CEO ´s of each company must be updated on how to improve processes in each part of the business, the should evaluate the process and trying to reduce as many error s and waste in order to offer the best products and the best price cheaper for the end customer. So also promote more featuring your product compared with the rest of their competition, as to promote values, social responsibility, brand linkage and sometimes prizes and raffles. Another key point, managers of big companies know that linking brand starts when people are young children and this is why, one of their main sector of society are children. Because marketers know that if a child comes to impregnate a brand in in their childhood, they will take for all their life and therefore they will transmit to their offspring in the future. I see this reflected in my case, since I always prefer to drink Coke when I am eating and I never liked Pepsi since my childhood, this is because since my childhood always drank Coca-Cola by the influence of my mother. To date I still drink coke, this is an example of how a global company that has implemented the value chain in their structural processes relevant their product has made in my life. â€Å"For a firm to achieve superior  differentiation, it must utilize the best mix of resources in creating value for its customers. In order to prioritize its processes as sources of differentiation, a company must determine what attributes of each process enhance customer value† (San Miguel 1996). Conclusion In addition, to doing this research, I could find relevant information about the significant role that is playing the value chain into companies. The purpose of the essay is to provide assessment the role that could be obtained in business when is used the value chain process in the different departments of a company. The administration of change is of great importance, since it allows control of the transformation process. but in most organizations even greater challenge is managing change so that through leadership can attack low productivity, motivate the actions needed to alter behavior in a meaningful way and make the change take root in infusing culture and values ​​of the business. It is of primary importance that business leaders must be updated and catch up on new models and theories about management, change and value chain. To be able to compete with the variety of existing competitors in business territory. In Conclusion, there is no possibility that organizations can achieve competitive goals, if the people who are not found suitable from the point of view of training and attitudes, to carry on. In essence, organizations today emphasize the ability of leaders to manage their staff. Therefore, people will go to those who can prove they have the will and capacity to meet their needs, enhancing their strengths and improving their skills. Thus man becomes the protagonist of the success of any business strategy. References: San Miguel, J, 1996, Value chain analysis for assessing competitive Advantage. Institute of Management Accountants. Canada. Staying competitive in the global economy (2008) Secretary-General of the OECD

Coaching as a Strategy in Employee Development Essay

Coaching as a Strategy in Employee Development - Essay Example This paper illustrates that employee development was not considered as an integral part of the management practice but rather as a tertiary process aimed at increasing the productivity of the employees. However, this misconception is what led to the underperformance of many organizations. Employees, from a management perspective, should not be seen as instruments of assisting an organization to increase revenue. Employee development is defined as the process or the initiative that an organization takes in increasing the performance of an employee through the available techniques. During the recruitment process, organizations often strive to get the best talent for the specific job description. However, the emerging trends in business have made it necessary for new and existing employees to undergo frequent skills upgrade so that they said employees can be abreast with the developments and the emerging trends in management. Being aware of the changes in an organization is what sets th e organization apart from the rest of the competing firms. Effective management processes also add to the value of the organization by increasing productivity, enhancing business operations and maintaining growth and sustainability of an organization. Employee development mainly involves other activities; training, mentoring and action plans. In previous years, the term coaching was used to refer to a negative attribute. From a general perspective, coaching referred to the need for additional skills but the meaning was contextualized to infer inability. However, the modern society, have embraced the practice of employee development, has come to accept the concept of coaching has to have immense benefits to an organization. In this context, coaching is undertaken in order to increase the productivity of the employees through greater skills and performance. From a management perspective, coaching is seen as the practice of developing the skills and capabilities of an employee in speci fic job areas.

African American Culture Essay Example | Topics and Well Written Essays - 2750 words

African American Culture - Essay Example (US Census 2003-7).This has been stated to be a continuous climb in educational attainment for African-Americans in recent decades: Almost two decades ago this figure was only 63 percent for this age group and in 1980 it was 51 percent. (US Census 2003-7)..The current figures also show that 14% of the Afro-Americans e 25 and over, have a bachelor's degree or higher. (US Census 2003-7). That proportion has risen since the 1990 census, when 11 percent of African-Americans age 25 and over had a bachelor's degree or higher. (US Census 2003-7).And the current percentage has almost doubled since the 1980 census, when the figure was 8 percent. The age group of 25 and over, with in African Americans having a graduate or professional degree is 5 percent and it was 4% in 1990. (US Census 2003-7).The estimated work life earnings of the modern educated African are $2.5 million which are the estimated work-life earnings for full-time African-American workers with an advanced degree. (US Census 20 03-7)... (US Census 2003-7). Thus it can be gleaned that the Educational standards have been improving in African American population.(Jackson 2008)It shows that the modern African American population has started to take more interest in education and more and more African Americans are graduating from the different universities through out America, and the percentage increase in African American literacy has gone up as well.(Jackson 2008) For African-Americans, more education means higher career earnings: those without a high school diploma would earn less than $1 million during their work life, increasing to $1.0 million for workers with a high school education and $1.7 million for those with a bachelor's degree. (US Census 2003-7) Historically this minority was largely suppressed in terms of education and learning opportunities.Racist attitudes locked the doors of opportunities for these enslaved people and even after they gained freedom the minority ignored education as a tool for survival. (Jackson 2008)They lacked the right of suffrage until the advent of the democratic trend of Civil rights and liberties and initiatives like the American Creed during the early 1940's by Gunnar Myrdal.It was indeed Myrdal who wrote in his book famously (quoted in Jackson 2008) The ideals of the essential dignity of the individual human being, of fundamental equality of all men, and of certain inalienable rights to freedom, justice, and a fair opportunity represent to the American people the essential meaning of the nation's early struggle for independence. . . . These tenets were written into the Declaration of Independence, the Preamble of the Constitution, the Bill of Rights, and into the

A Rammstein Concert Essay Example | Topics and Well Written Essays - 1250 words

A Rammstein Concert - Essay Example The concert was organized in Roy Wilkins Auditotium in plain air, and I remember we had bought tickets man days ago to be able to attend. Hundreds, not say thousand people were gathered, to attend something of modern German culture. I remember I rather had good surprise; nothing was unexpectedly in a bad way, and the concert was given at Roy Wilkins Auditorium. Then I had a seat for the whole time. The concert was generally as I had expected, but much more intensive and lively. So, it was the first 20th of June 2009, when I really got to know from close the modern German culture, by a band that had set up all electronic instruments perfectly: Guitars, drums etc, and they were all dressed in shiny leather costumes, that matched to the light on the stage and made them more ‘’bright’, and impressive in terms of appearance But when also they started playing, they gave the impression of true professionals, reproducing German culture in the best way possible. The lights on the stage had flash, and some tricks that enhanced the attention of the crowd more, by really enhancing the quality of the concert as a whole. It was a splendid concert that day: Exactly same scenery as one would expect, from a band of beginning of 21st century. Lovers of the past decades also, such as 60’s and 70’s, could equally get satisfied, since the whole atmosphere included something of that era indeed! There were too many people gathered over there, and the stadium was full. Same pictures as that time, thus many little children with their parents had joined, and also may adults, who wanted to experience something new and exceptional!. The team was wonderful, not just a live band but indeed an Alive band in all means. The singers were singing too lively... This "A Rammstein Concert" essay gives a full and bright review on one of the concerts of this band. It was a splendid concert that day: Exactly same scenery as one would expect, from a band of beginning of 21st century. Lovers of the past decades also, such as 60’s and 70’s, could equally get satisfied, since the whole atmosphere included something of that era indeed! There were too many people gathered over there, and the stadium was full. Same pictures as that time, thus many little children with their parents had joined, and also may adults, who wanted to experience something new and exceptional!. The team was wonderful, not just a live band but indeed an Alive band in all means. The singers were singing too lively and in a very good mood, as this kind of cheerful music requires. The whole band was in harmony, and managed to imitate many other well known teams of music of the last decade, or the last two decades! The band was well organized, giving out and offering t real German music, of quality! It was homophone in all terms; all members seemed to participate in equal terms thus make a perfect symphony, and coordination. When the singer sang on his own, it seemed that all the rest of members were singing also, while they were just playing. The public was enthusiastic! Little by little all people participated in their own way, and everybody, was paying too much attention, by looking constantly towards the band, although this kind of music does not require such thing, like theater and cinema.

Project Design Constraints Research Paper Example | Topics and Well Written Essays - 500 words

Project Design Constraints - Research Paper Example Given the design requirements of flow chambers of the heart, the material chosen for the design of the heart flow chambers has to meet a load of requirements. For instance, alumina as a biomaterial, has to sustain high fluid resistance. Additionally, it has to be economical, and avoid stiffening. The material also has to have good thermal conductivity. The fact that the human body happens to be one of the greatest corrosive surroundings for foreign materials means that the material used to make the flow chambers have to be able to sustain the corrosion from the active enzymes, at the human body temperature. Additionally, caution has to be reserved to guarantee that the material used is not poisonous to the human body. A composite design is proposed; in which the porous synthetic grafts are improved in terms of biocompatibility. Polyester textile can be coated using cross-linked protein. Studies of different kinds of proteins such as collagen, gelatin, elastin, and albumin have been c onducted. There is no ideal material yet, to use in making of prosthetic heart valves. This is because the different available materials like titanium, or stainless steel, polyester, alumina, or pyrolitic carbon have faults in one way or another. When each one of them is used by itself, the patient has to go through long anticoagulant therapy. An example of a design that can be used is the asymmetric design of the natural human heart coined by Gianni Pedrizetti and Vukicevic of Trieste University.

Wk 4 lab Essay Example | Topics and Well Written Essays - 250 words

Wk 4 lab - Essay Example Justice for Davis and fair trial for Lewis and Karel.The splashing of whisky into Davis eyes was willful and intentional. But would the court treat alcohol as a weapon other than firearm? (California penal code section 245).Would it produce great bodily harm. If the answer is yes, then this is a felony charge with a sentence of up to 4 years and a fine of up to $10000, and not the $100000 compensation demanded by Davis.A compensation would preempt prosecution if they settle out of court. The use of violence on Davis by Karel leading to arm dislocation is a simple battery and can be charged as a misdemeanor or a felony. (California penal code section 242-243).There was body contact which led to injury, although no weapon was used. We can also contend that Lewis was a first offender with no record of violent temperament. We would also need to establish whether Lewis and Karel were intoxicated during commission of that offence, such that, we can argue on temporary insanity occasioned by intoxication. Even if these offences were committed in Malcolm parker’s premises, he is not the assailant and when push comes to shove, the assailants should be arraigned, charged, and sued for compensation and

Personal statement Essay Example | Topics and Well Written Essays - 1500 words

Personal statement - Essay Example I am emotionally stable, responsible, and mature in looking at various perspectives of human behavior. I have developed the skill to deal effectively with people from all walks of life. By recognizing that listening skills are critical, I became more sensitive and compassionate to others, especially those who need understanding and emotional strength. I developed good communication and writing skills. The courses I took during my years pursuing a degree in commerce developed my leadership skills and analytical skills enabling me to critically analyze problems and opt to choose the most appropriate solution. I am extremely patient and persevering recognizing the fact that most psychological treatments of patients take considerably long periods of time. The skills I have developed in giving attention to details, being analytical, having leadership skills, being patient and persevering, and being theoretically equipped to understand patterns of behavior and mental processes would assist me in future

The Genetics of Autistic Savants Essay Example | Topics and Well Written Essays - 2000 words

The Genetics of Autistic Savants - Essay Example For one to fall under the classification of a genius, he or she had to attain at least 140 points in the IQ test (Lykken  N. D). Concurrently, there were individuals who, for example, could do rare things such as quickly identifying a particular date of a historic event after reading vast reminders on history once. Others could engage any musical composition after just a distinct introduction to music. These were rare cases and the people who displayed these abilities had characteristics such as lessened aptitude and were dependent on other people for sustenance and general care. Psychologists and researchers classified such populace in a group referred to as autistic savants. It is crucial to note just like Lykken’s indication that autistic savants are remarkable individuals but they are not geniuses. However, their abilities display that the brain can have an outstanding feature such as autism. In Lykken’s report, it is keen to note that children with autistic condi tion behaved in peculiar ways such as showing no interest in their fellow humans’ behavior and actions. Subsequently, they failed to copy various traits like communication and socialization hence poor communication among other characteristics. In 1943, as noted by Trachtman’s â€Å"Background and history of autism in relation to vision care†, Leo Kanner was the first individual to make observations of autistic behavior (Trachtman, 2008). He made a detailed report on the same and renamed the behavior as autistic other than childhood schizophrenia, as it was previously termed. In 1944, Asperger, another distinguished scientists, made similar observations on the same behavior and published his findings in a German-language Journal. It is crucial to note that in Asperger’s report, he described children having milder behavioral disorders on comparison to Kanner’s description on the same ideologies. Recognition, understanding, and communication formed th e triad of deficiencies that children who had autism faced. Autism, since its discovery, has been a condition with peculiar traits and a difficult to find treatment. However, there were various treatments used in earlier years, and they included the use of tranquilizers, LSD, and developmental remediation. Autistic savants, according to Lykken’s report are outstanding individuals who through their characters display a crucial fact about the structure of the brain (Lykken, ND). The topic, â€Å"The genetics of autistic savants†, is of considerable importance, especially in the medical world (Connor, 2010). This is according to Connor in his article, â€Å"Autism and genetics: A breakthrough that sheds light on a medical mystery† (Connor, 2010). Connor explains that scientists have linked autism to DNA thus adding more information as to the causative of the behavioral disorder. In relation to Connor’s article, the link between DNA and autism disorder was a mystery; hence, the topic under focus is important as it tries to explain if the discoveries are linked the cause of autism disorder to DNA (Connor, 2010). In addition to this, the literature review will tend to display the future of autism and DNA. Status Currently, with reference to â€Å"National Institute of Child Health and Human Development†, autism is a neurobiological development disorder that prevails throughout a person’

I need a professional CV and cover letter Essay Example | Topics and Well Written Essays - 750 words

I need a professional CV and cover letter - Essay Example time I have spent living in different places around the world, resulting in the invaluable work and personal experiences which I have had, I have been researching companies of interest that I feel would be a good fit for my professional interests. With my strong language skills in both English as well as Arabic and the working knowledge that I have of conversing in French, I am confident that these skills, along with my background in; sales, journalism, and theater work, that I have amassed a solid level of experience that would be of great benefit to the workplace. I realize you will need to know a bit more about me in order to consider me as suitable candidate; for this reason, I have enclosed my resume for your review as the first step in the application process. I trust you will find my early experience to be a strong indicator of what I would contribute as a skilled, hardworking addition to your work

Emotional, Behavioral, and Physical Disabilities Essay Example for Free

Emotional, Behavioral, and Physical Disabilities Essay The education of students who have emotional and behavioral disorders, physical disabilities, health impairments, or traumatic brain injuries can be a difficult and challenging task if proper teaching strategies are not put in place. It is also important to for these students to gain self-advocacy skills and for teachers to teach the other students understanding, respect, and how to respond appropriately to the students with disabilities in their class. Another important aspect of the education of special needs students is an individual education plan (IEP). It is important to understand each individual disability before a teacher can properly determine the best teaching strategies. The education of students with emotional behavioral disorders is interfered because of an inability to build and maintain relationships with peers or teachers, an inability to learn, exhibiting inappropriate behavior and feelings, constant unhappiness or depression, and unreasonable fears about school (Clayton County Schools Special Education Department, 2012). Emotional behavior disorders in children are caused by environment, heredity, or both (Anjeh, D. , 2007). The education of students with physical disabilities is also more difficult. Physical disabilities are broad categories that include many conditions such as muscular dystrophy, missing limbs, spina-bifida, and cerebral palsy. There are many different causes of physical disabilities. Physical disabilities make it hard for children to more around and to control their voluntary motor movements (Anjeh, D. , 2007). Health impairments also cause issues related to a student’s education. Health impairments can limit a student’s alertness, vitality, and strength. Often health impairments cause a student to have extended absences, inability to attend a full academic schedule and/or inability to attend to tasks for the same length of time as peers (Clayton County Schools Special Education Department, 2012) A traumatic brain injury can also affect a student’s educational performance. A traumatic brain injury is an injury to the brain caused by an external physical force. These types of injuries can cause impairments of judgment, problem solving, sensory, motor ability, memory, cognition, thinking, physical functions, and speech (National Association of Special Education Teachers, 2006/2007). The most common cause of traumatic brain injuries are caused by motor vehicle or bicycle accidents. Other causes include being shaken, falling, sports related injuries, and gunshots. Traumatic brain injuries can cause physical, cognitive, and/or psychosocial-behavioral/emotional impairments (Anjeh, D. , 2007). Teachers can try many different strategies to help students with the above disabilities. These strategies are often beneficial for the regular student as well. Lash (2000) suggests that to help a student to concentrate better or pay attention a teacher can reduce distractions in the work area of a student, divide the student’s work into smaller sections, having students summarize the teacher’s instruction, and using verbal or non-verbal cues. Because short term memory is often affected by a traumatic brain injury a teacher can repeat or summarize the information needed frequently. The teacher can also encourage the student to use note cards, calendars, or planners. The use of mnemonics may also be helpful to the student. A teacher could provide students with traumatic brain injuries additional time, checklists, schedules, outlines, and other organizational materials. When teaching students with emotional and behavioral disorders the teacher must remain sensitive to these student’s issues. First the teacher must identify the behavior and its cause. Lewis, Heflin, DiGangi (1991) found that the best approach is to pinpoint the specific behavioral problem and apply data-based instruction for remediation. Remediation should include encouraging new behavior in place of the bad behavior and using positive reinforcement (Algozine, Ruhl, Ramsey, 1991). Extra training in social skills is also important. Teaching strategies for the physically impairment deal with the provision of certain accommodations and making learning as well as the learning environment accessible. Some strategies include giving the student extra time, reducing the amount of furniture in a classroom, and training staff on the health care needs of the student. The removal of physical barriers, elimination of social barriers, participation in extracurricular activities, inclusion in sports and leisure time activities are all strategies teachers can use with students with disabilities. Some students may require many visuals while other may require added audio. To improve a disabled students self-esteem and self-advocacy the student should be allowed to assume responsibility for their own learning which will improve their self-concept, feeling of belonging to the school, and success at school. A focus should be placed on teaching the student the skills necessary for taking responsibility and showing initiative in making decisions about their own instruction. It is also important for the teacher to help the disabled student’s peers to understand, accept, and include their peers with disabilities (CSWD, 2002). Inclusive classrooms can be helpful because they enable disabled and nondisabled students to discover the similarities they share and to accept each other’s unique traits that they have (Kliff Kunc, 1994). As school communities become increasingly diverse, it is more important than ever that teachers, administrators, parents, and students work together to create a tolerant school climate where each student feels safe and valued. IEP meetings are an important part of a disabled student’s educational process. Present at the meeting were the student’s father, the special educational teacher, and a member of the staff that is responsible for any financial related issues that may come into play. The meeting began with a brief introduction and signing of an intake sheet. The special education teacher reviewed the child’s present academic levels and discussed reading comprehension and fluency improvements. A copy of all testing scores was provided to those present. The father discussed worries that his child is shy and the need for social skill training. Moving the child to an inclusive classroom was discussed but it was decided to wait for this transition for the beginning of the next school year due to the child’s need for routines. Lastly it was determined there would be a short meeting scheduled for the end of the school year to determine classroom placement for the following school year.

Development of a Learner in a Hospital Setting

Development of a Learner in a Hospital Setting Clinician To Educator Nurse Additional skills and requirements Making the transition from clinician to educator is an exciting step in a nurse’s career. Clinicians considering the transition should be familiar with the role of the nurse educator (Culleiton Shellenbarger, 2007, pg 254). A nurse educator should also understand and illustrate teaching-learning skills. This paper will discuss briefly how to facilitate learning and the development of a learner in a hospital setting. In a staff educator setting, the educator will be educating new and experienced nurses. Nurse educators must have the capability to convince the learners of knowledge and expertise they have. In addition, the expectation would be to engage in administrative work, participate in scholarly research, and have collaborative professional associations (Role transition: Clinician to Nurse Educator, 1). The transition from clinician to nurse educator requires an understanding of learning theories that will create meaningful learning experiences (Learning theories learning styles, 2008, 1). According to the online readings there are some key learning theories. One theory is behaviorism in which we learn by the concept of conditioned response to stimulus, for example in a telemetry unit, the expectation is the nurse can recognize EKG strips and differentiate between heart rhythms. Tele nurses do not know this information as new grad nurses, however from our everyday learning we learn to recog nize certain irregular heart rhythms and we expect to see certain signs and symptoms. The nurse educator directs the thought process of the learners in accordance to their own experience (Learning theories and learning styles, 2008, 2). As the nurse educator in the role of behaviorism, we have a source of knowledge that shapes, supervises and directs the thought processes of learners in accordance to their own experiences (Learning theories, 2008, 2). When dealing with constructivism, the nurse educator is a facilitator who helps learners acquires knowledge and figure out solutions to problems. The educator teaches in sequences of events that are relevant to the knowledge (Learning theories and learning styles, 2008, 2). Both one of these theories can be used in the teaching-learning process and individual learning styles are a reflection of the individual preferred way of learning. As the nurse educator transition into their new role, a curriculum needs to be formulated, if not already done by the institution, identify expected program outcomes, develop competency standards, choose an appropriate, varied, and engaging instructional strategies to deliver the content. In addition, the nurse educator continues to evaluate and re-evaluate the different learning styles, learner needs, learner abilities and achieve desired learning outcomes and objectives (Identifying learning needs, 2008, 2). How does the nurse educator know the learners are getting the expected information? In staff development, evaluation of learning outcome can include a pre and post multiple choice exams. For example, most hospital residency programs last approximately 3 months with classroom studies and floor orientation with an experienced nurse. During classroom studies, the nurse educator follows a curriculum, delivers the content, provides hands on with equipment such as temporary pacemakers, group case studies, dosage calculations and a final test along with a program evaluation form filled out by the learners which can identify for the nurse educator what worked well and what did not. This will continue to help the nurse educator transition into their role from the clinician role. Regardless of the setting, using appropriate assessment and evaluation strategies is important to the learner and learning goals. It is also important to utilize evaluation data to improve the teaching-learning process (Learning outcome evaluation, 2008, 2). In addition, effective communication with the learners’ and co-workers along with networking with other nurse educators/mentors is essential for the growth development of both nurse educator and learner. In conclusion, making the transition from clinician to nurse educator may be an excellent option with new opportunities to mentor future generations of nurses. Successful nurse educators will be able to demonstrate teaching-learning skills. References Culleiton, A.L., Shellenbarger, T. (2007). Transition of a Bedside Clinician to a Nurse Educator. MEDSURG Nursing, 16, (4), 253-257. South University (2008). Learning theories and learning styles. Retrieved July 14, 2008, http://myeclassonline.com.

Further Study Local Or Abroad Education Essay

Further Study Local Or Abroad Education Essay According to our topic, further study local or abroad, journal by Mazzarol. T. and Soutar G. N. explain in detail, why we are choosing this topic, demand for education particularly higher educational, has traditional been driven expectation of its ability to raise the economic and social status of the graduate. For people in less development country limited access to education in their own country lead to a significant rise in the number of international student studying oversea. Between 1960 and 1970, the average growth in the inernational students flows was around 9 percent, and continued about 6 percent from 1970 to 1980 (Hughes, 1988). While there is some evidence of a slowing in the overall flow of international students during the 1980s and 1990s (Kemp, 1995), a global industry has been created. The global pattern of international flows may be experience by a combination of push and pull factors that encourage to study eversea. Push factors operate within the source country and initiate a students decision to undertake international study. Pull factors operate within a host country to make that country relatively attract to international students. Some of these factors are inherent in the source country, some in the host contry and other in the students themselves. In the other hand, Bakalis S. and Joiner T. A. (2004) said, encouraging students to undertake part of their study abroad is likely to not only enhance a students employability but also assist in developing important life skills. Plus, also identify some of the factors that may be associated with students participation in tertiary study abroad programmes, by investigating some of the reasons that may be explain the absence of a strong culture that values international study experiences. Againts this background, note that previous studies attempting to explain the participation of students in study abroad programmes have not considered the difference in personality dimensions of students participate, and those who do not. They argue that students who have personalities characterized by perceptivity to diversify and change are more likely to participate in an exchange programme compared who do not participate. Conclusion, this two authors give us brief description about why we are choosing this topic, study local or abroad and what might be the factors and the reasons for the students to continue study abroad or stay in their home country. As our own, we discovered that culture, cost and employer perception will be another factors that attibute to the decision to further study local or abroad. Problem Statement Recent trends have seen an upward surge in the number of students further study outside of their country. This research is to determine the specific factors that influence study abroad decisions by students. Beside, this research is done to discover which one is better,pursuing inside or outside of the country. Statistical analysis will indicate the decision to participate is influenced by several factors. The research will also discover the effects of a study abroad programme on students in term of personal growth and career development. Not even that, it also touch on the cost involve as the students decide to further study outside of their own country. By this study, the student will be able to experience on how to interact with the foreignersand it will directly affect their future career in what ever directions. The research will find out, does personal growth in term of emotional maturity, empathy, flexibility is one of the factor that student will consider and do this factor r eally benefits them. In addition, this research is to discover whether students will get intelectual development in term of critical thinking, problem solving, when they are in the foreign country. The research will find out whether the study abroad programme improve their cultural understanding or they want to improve their career prospects, or they are pursuing study outside their regional country because of joining their friends which also participate in such programmes. Furthermore, this study will also discovered that if the students participate in study abroad programme,whether it shows any significant difference in global perspective and cross cultural cosmopolitanism. Based on the  Open Doors 2009, the international student annual mobility report issued by the US Embassy in year 2008, there was a 9.5% increase in the number of Malaysian students who enrolled in the United States, up from 5,428 students in the 2007/08 academic year. In year 2009 worldwide  Open Doors  report shows that the total number of international students at colleges and universities in the United States increased by 8% to an all time high of 671,616 for the 2008/09 academic year. Moreover, Malaysia is ranked as 21st among other countries sending students to the United States with 5,942 having enrolled for the 2008/09 academic. This show United States remained a top destination for Malaysian students who wanted to study abroad due to the quality and prestige associated with an American degree. Research Objective 1.2.1 To determine the most important factor that effects their decision to study abroad or locally. 1.2.2 To determine the least important factor that effect their decision. 1.2.3 To examine the relationship between the factor and the decision to further study abroad or local. 1.3 Scope of The Research The title of the research is further studylocally or abroad, which one is better. Therefore, our respondent of this research is among UiTM students. The dependent variable for our research is culture, cost and employer perception. Besides, the independant variable is further study local or abroad. 1.4 Significant of The Research The important of the research to the study is, it helps the student to see the pros and contras of furthering study abroad or local. In addition, the students are able to make a right decision whether to go for abroad or local. The importance of the research to the university is, the university can identify the best factor that influenced the students decisions on furthering studyabroad or local. It will also allow a university to know whether they provide with a good service to studentscompare on what international students expects from them. The important of the research to the country is, it helps the country to know whether most of the students chose to go for abroad or locally. It also helps the country to know what is the most important reason that influences the students decision. Moreover, it also helps the country to know whether the level is on the same league with other country. 1.5 Key Term/ Concepts 1.5.1 Further:Contribute to the progress or growth of 1.5.2 Study:To apply ones mind purposefully to the acquisition of knowlegde or understanding of (a subject). 1.5.3 Abroad:A foreign country or country in which to live or travel(John le Carrà ©) 1.5.4 Local:Relating to a city, town, or district rather than a larger area which is not broad or general. CHAPTER 2 LITERATURE REVIEW 2.0 Introduction This chapter provides a review of the literature on the topic Further Study Abroad or Locally. Section 2.1 explain on the and benefits and advantages of studying abroad. Section 2.2 is on Factor Influence Study Abroad. Section 2.3 is about barriers study abroad. On the other hand section 2.4 explain on advantages and benefit studying locally. Section 2.5 about barriers studying locally and lastly section 2.6 explain factor influence study locally. Section 2.7 provide the conceptual framework. Finally 2.8 is identifies the Hypotesis of the study. 2.1 Literature Riview 2.1.1 Benefits and Advantages of Studying Abroad According to Chesterton G. K. (1986), the journal is about the benefit a student can expect from joining a study abroad programme. The teaching style in the classroom will be different, so the student will be forced to develop their own ability to learn. The lifestyle and social rhythm within the walls of the university or educational center will be different, forcing the student to expand their social skills in order to get assistance from tutors, teachers assistants, school staff, classmates, as well as to make friends among their peers. While the students personal development will pay dividends immediately after their return in the form of higher social standing, and increased scholastic productivity from their improved cognition, the student will also derive much benefit from the expansion of their communication abilities later. They will develop their character and achieve a new degree of self-reliance. It is important to note that while cultural exploration goes far beyond loca ting foreign counterparts, and extends deeper into matters of language usage, the arts, social relationships, alien religious observance and geopolitics will produce an impossible to remove impression on ones character and a lasting sense of self-confidence. In conclusion, the student can get lot of benefit by furthering abroad. According to Hammer M. R. (1997), the journal is about culture and benefit that student get when they choose to further abroad. Choosing to go for abroad give they access to intercultural competence, knowledge of other cultures an awareness of the dignity and worth of every human being plus respect for cultural differences. Furthermore, it increases their intercultural friendships as the time spent with people from other cultures upon their return to their own country are more. Significantly it lowers their level of anxiety or discomfort around other cultures, and leads to a significant increase in intercultural competence, especially for students who began the program with a polarized view of other cultures. Next, the benefit is foreign-language speaking ability anxiety around other cultures and the social networks. In addition, they gain the ability to act as a responsible global citizen increase in students knowledge of the host culture, moves students forward dramatically in thei r spoken fluency in the host countrys language. In conclusion, the student will learn lot about culture and gain some benefit from it. According to Dwyer M. M. (1999), the journal is about benefit of study abroad. Furthering abroad good in term of personal growth, 97 percent said studying abroad served as a catalyst for increased maturity, 96 percent reported increased self-confidence, 89 percent said that it enabled them to tolerate ambiguity, and 95 percent stated that it has had a lasting impact on their world view. Findings also show that study abroad leads to long-lasting friendships with other. In addition it give intercultural development, 98 percent of respondents said that study abroad helped them to better understand their own cultural values and biases, and 82 percent replied that study abroad contributed to their developing a more sophisticated way of looking at the world. The experience of living and studying in another country was so eye-opening. Lastly study abroad ignited interest in a career direction pursued after the experience, compared to 60 percent of non-intern respondents. In addition, 83 per cent said that it allowed them to acquire skill sets that influenced their career path, compared to 75 percent who did not intern. In conclusion, students choose to further abroad for better understanding their own culture value. According to Peters C. K. (2000), the journal is about competitive advantages.Competitive advantages over students who never venture abroad to study, including improved foreign language skills and a more cosmopolitan. Furthermore, they gain international perspective plus greater tolerance for other opinions and ability to think more originally. In addition, they see more than one perspective on an issue, greater self-reliance and self-confidence plus more comfort with complex situations. In conclusion, there are advantages and disadvantages of furthering abroad. According to Yu A. H. et. al (2004), modelling the effects of the study abroad programs om college students. Studya abroad programs facilitate improvement in five education outcomes, learning, culture immersions, personal growth, foreign interaction and career development. Plus, they also believe foreign environment helps students learn how to cope with phsychological and physical changes . In conclusion , the implications is languange learning effects, the focus of much research on study abroad outcomes are not the only significant results from such programs yet cultural immersion and carrer advancement should be more focusing on. According to Dwyer M. M. (2002), the journal is about conventional wisdom in the study abroad field has held that more is better; that is, the longer students study abroad the more significant the academic, cultural development and personal growth benefits that accrue. The study was designed to measure the longitudinal correlations between specific program features language study, housing choice, duration of study, enrollment in foreign university courses, participation in an internship or field study, among others and a variety of student outcomes. Long-held beliefs that studying abroad for a full year has more significant and enduring impact on students were supported by the data of this study. While it has been long believed that study abroad changes peoples lives, little evidence exists to explain what kinds of tangible changes occur and for how long. This study shows that study abroad has a significant impact on students in the areas of continued language use, academic attainmen t measures, intercultural and personal development, and career choices. In conclusion, the age-old premise that more is better holds true when it comes to the duration of a study abroad experien. According to Farrell P. and Suvedi M. (2002), studying abroad in Nepal, understanding impact on students lives. The valued outcome of study abroad is to help the individual acquire a deep understanding of another culture, and to begin appreciate and develop empathy for people who are different, plus there will be an impact on the intellectual, international perspectives, cross-cultural interest and personal development students.They also revealed three areas of significance, language proficiency appeared to increase substantially, a greater interest in international affairs and a large increase in their level of knowledge about the host country. Finally , students study abroad will experience higher level of self-confidence and sociability , also they will learning about cultural sensitivity, social and professional polish , wider personal horizons and improved career opportunities for students. They believe students who adapted quickly to new people , places and situations, were abl e to communicate and think critically. According to Wang B.C.Y and Bu.N. (2003) attitudes toward international careers among male and female Canadian business students after 9-11. The advantages of study abroad are personal growth , exciting new life experiences and travel opportunities , plus , family factor appears to weigh more in education decisions. In conclusion , students who have at least one of their parents travelling internationally for work are more likely want to study outside from their country , next, the more languages they can speak, the more likely they thinking about study abroad because they confidence in their ability to interact effectively in foreign environments . Lastly, students who have foreign friends are also interested in study abroad than who do not, this might be because socializing with them can be a various learning experience which increases curiosity toward foreign culture and decrease anxiety about them. According to Sheila J. Curran (2007), why must need to student further study abroad and it is a way to gain critical career advantage for each individual itself. There are multiple benefits accrue to those who spend significant time in another country and also a significant proportion of students see the experience as an important part of their college. Everybody knows student likely to have fun, but when we think about study abroad as a way to gain critical advantage we will find that all foreign experiences are not created equal in the minds of employer. Therefore, employer were looking for graduate who can communication as well as writing, know the important of cross cultural understanding and an appreciation for different point of view and also it make student gravitated in demonstrate maturity, initiative, and creativity. According to S. Chan (2009). Further study abroad is not learning alone but the total experience that lures our student to foreign shores. In 2009, statistics review that there are already 23000 Malaysian students currently studying in Australian institutions of higher learning, over 13000 in the United Kingdom (UK) and another 6000 students in the US. There are biggest reasons for going overseas to complete their tertiary education is to enhance their employability prospect. In the other hand, going overseas may help a student built his self-confidence. The multinational companies also may prefer candidates from foreign universities who had perception that student exposed to different nationalities and cultures and also there better communication, interpersonal skill and enabling them to cope better in a matrix organization. According to Ingraham. P. (2004) the journal is about the idea that study abroad is deeply beneficial and important for undergraduate students. However there is a relative scarcity of systematically gathered qualitative and quantitative information that assesses the impact of study abroad. In their study, they have outlined six goals for studying abroad including to facilitate students intellectual growth, contribute to students professional development, accelerate students personal growth, develop students skills for relating to culturally different others, enhance students self-awareness and understanding of their own culture and also contribute to the internationalization of the students home department, college, or university. Other than that, they also discussed that studying abroad to have an impact on students intellectual growth (including both academic performance and language learning), personal growth, intercultural awareness, and professional development. In conclusion, t he research should help to understand the type and amount of learning that takes place in study abroad. According to Tammy O. (2004), the journal is about advantages of study abroad in term of career goal. Some choose to go abroad to increased interpersonal skills and a broadened understanding of international business practices. It also because employers view study abroad favorably and believe study abroad experiences develops highly-desirable skills for career advancement. People believe having a study abroad experience is beneficial in increasing ones career opportunities. In addition, employers consider interpersonal skills the most important qualification for a potential job candidate this study assumes that a positive study abroad experience will lead towards a favorable international dimension in a given career. These dimensions would include a positive outlook on working in an international capacity plus the development of skills useful to international business, and entry into a career with international involvement. In conclusion, students believe that study abroad experience is beneficial to them in term of career opportunity. According to Ozturgut O. (2007), the journal is about benefits of studying abroad for students in higher education. The benefits were discussed in three different categories. First one is Knowledge Transfer where knowledge in normal disciplines is more frequently and rapidly transferred from one country. Second, International Education and Research provides an understanding of different cultures regarding their socio-cultural, political, economic, and educational systems. Third benefit is Border-crossing communication and discourse where learning and research in an international setting is one way of experiencing different views, which will then broaden ones horizon and promote global perspectives as a leap forward in students developing critical and reflective thinking skills. In the article, he also cited from Carlson et al. (1991) that the students participate in study abroad programs to improve their cultural understanding and to improve their career prospects. Other than that, v arious academic, financial, and other personal reasons affecting the number of students participating in study abroad programs and their choice of target country were also discussed in the article. All in all, it is explained through this study that study abroad programs have benefits to both institutions and individuals. According to the Bott J.P. (2008), the journal is about benefit of furtheringabroad to humanity. Students studying abroad put a positive face on the nation. The student will recognize that they are in fact an representative representing their home country and should act accordingly, Even if the student does not have any understanding of the foreign policy or pop culture and cannot answer questions well, it is only natural that they very presence abroad will have a humanizing effect and lead to a more favorable impression of their country provided they are respectful of, and interested in the host country, its people and customs. The student has the opportunity to create lasting good will by showing similar respect in return, because such accord is rarely exchanged between members of differing castes or status within those societies. The cumulative effect of such good will, leads to further exchanges of ideas, trade and peace. Students studying abroad tend to carry with them youthful idealism and will tend to speak out against injustices and violations of their mores. In conclusion, furthering abroad give big impact to the student original country. According to Gonyea R.M. (2008) the impact of study abroad on senior year engagement . Students who study abroad expect to expand their perspectives on world affairs, understand diverse cultures, acquire languages and gain maturity and self-awareness. The effects of study abroad will be increased interest in global issues, better skills in other languages and personal growth such as independence, social confidence, sensitivity toward people from other countries and more interested and self-assurance in continuing global travel . They also believed that study abroad program are often constructed and assessed . Plus , students with higher grades, better educated parents and strong engagement in the first year of college are more likely to participate in study abroad . In conclusion, those who participated in study abroad program significantly higher levels of engagement in two forms of deep learning(integrative and reflective) and in diversity experiences . Study abroad participants al so reported more gains in personal and social development than their peers . Based on The Star dated on 23rd October 2010 by Eugene Mahalingam, the news is about studying abroad versus locally. Choosing study abroad has its own benefits and disadvantage. Studying abroad requires a huge financial support because most of the country in the oversee cost of living is higher compare in Malaysia. Foreign graduates are more expert in English and have better thinking skills. They are more mature and independentthan local graduates. On the good side student with foreign qualification are more preferable among the employer compare student with the local qualification. Moreover the education standard offered in overseas is far better because education concept in Malaysia more towards academically-driven. According to Lisa C. (2004), the journal is about global awareness . It was defined by four categories which intercultural awareness is about students in the abroad group were generally more aware than their peers at home of varying national and cultural perspectives. For personal growth and development, students abroad reported developing a greater appreciation for the arts than those on campus. In addition, the awareness of global interdependence was about those who travel may develop greater sensitivity towards other world-views. Lastly is functional knowledge of world geography and language is about daily challenge of trying to communicate in an environment where they were at a distinct verbal disadvantage. In conclusion, the students who spent the month abroad were more confident in their levels intercultural awareness and functional knowledge than their peers who remained on campus. News from Bernama dated Dec. 21, 2012, stated that Malaysians Government will handle the programme to Malaysian student who study abroad to expert in their mother language. The programe would be held on during semester break in cities referring to region and continent, said by Dr. AwangSariyan. The collaboration with KPM establish syllabus where bring benefit as well as advantages gained from the programme. This would ensure Malaysian student did not outdate to learn basic and advanced knowledge and information which regards to the mother tongue. Besides that, the planning already approved and currently update by Deputy Prime Minister, Tan Sri MuhyiddinYassin. Therefore, Malaysian students are able to enhance their knowledge which regards to national language. 2.1.2 Factor Influence Study Abroad According to Aminuddin Mohsin (2011) Private Company was allocated RM 8.13 mil for its scholarship programme for this year. This can be conclude as factor that influence individual itself to continue studies, whether locally or abroad which is scholarship given. The private company which is Maxis recognized that, it is importance to them further studies where education is the most important to develop human capital and factor of culture, technology and innovation we will easy to adapt then.Morever, while the company focusing in given scholarship there directly support our government in helping eligible individual gain access to their tertiary education. According to Mazzarol T. and Soutar G. N. (2001), push-pull factors influencing international student destination choice . For people in less develop countries, limited access to education in their own countries led to significant rise in the number of international students studying overseas. Other factors influencing the selection of a country study destination have been a commonality of language, the availability of science and technology-based programs and the geographic proximity of the home and host countries. In conclusion, other factors that motivating the student of their decision to study abroad are personal recommendations, cost issues, the environment , social links and overseas course was better than local plus the local environment also influences the attractiveness of a host country. News from Bernama dated Dec 11, 2012 which attracts Malaysian students to study abroad is Indias Government provide financial scheme in academic year 2013-2014(Study offer in India under self-financing scheme, 2012 ). This be very attractive news where Malaysian student able to study abroad with help from Indias Government. The news will give opportunities to candidates who interested to further study in medicine, dentist, pharmacy and engineering. Application form can be obtains directly to Level 28, Menara 1, MontKiara. For further information and enquires can be through official website Indias Government. The information include course related, duration of each courses, expenses incurred, flight schedule, and etc. the application form need to be the hands of Indias Government before 31 March. This is because the form will take another 6 month before the result will out. There are many stages to process the application form. Therefore, end result only will be out on September 2013. In conclusion, Indias Government provide financial assistant to those who interested further studies there. News dated Oct 10, 2012 from Bernama which related to mechanism that can be reason why wants study abroad. This is because Pahang Chair will provide financial scheme to those interested in programme stated in University of Yarmouk in master and doctorate programme. Recently, Pahang MenteriBesarDatuk Seri Adnan Yaakob made agreement in memorandum of understanding (MoU) with President Prof DrSutan Abu Orabi in Amman. IKIP International College who owned by Pahang Foundation make another one step ahead compared to other colleges, where made agreement with universities from oversea. With this, IKIP International College will be known to other countries and make the colleges level same as other oversea universities. Besides that, this be place where can interchange information and knowledge with others. Also can generate new ideas and bring improvement to Malaysia when the respected student coming back their hometown. The student not only knows culture there as well as lifestyle that adop ted here. Cross culture can happened with or without notice about it. The relationship can increase the level of understanding each other. In conclusion, financial scheme provided by Pahang Chair give benefits to students in many ways. Accorrding to Nattavud P.(2003), the choices of international education were investigate in order to improve marketing strategies. Interpersonal influence and recommendation from family members are among the important sources of information and encouragement for complicated services like international education. The flows of students internationally result from a combination of push and pull factors. There are four basic choices prior to studying abroad which is the choice of country, city, academic course and of university. The studies indicated the chronological order of choice of country, city, academic course and then university. Otherwise, there are five factor familial influencing factors which is finance, information, expectation, competition and persuasion on choices of international education. All of five choices of international education, familial influencing factors have stronger impact on the decision to study abroad, choice of country and city than choice of academic pr ogram and university. The study conclude that the different level of education perceived the influence of the family in the different way and the need for international education and the decision-making process of each group of student are dissimilar. According to Gray B. J. (2003), the journal is about five main brand positioning dimensions which are environment, reputation, graduate career prospect, destination image and cultural integration. This positioning dimension can be summarized as a universitys learning environment which talk about excellent staff, facilities and research resources while the reputation is about the brand name, achievements and high standard of education that student can get. Next, graduate career prospects will talk about graduates employment prospects and expected income that the student might get as a student that graduate from that university and employers views of that university graduates. In addition destination image also is one of the reasons of making a decision, which it covers, political stability, safety and hospitality. Lastly, student will consider cultural integration where it related to religious freedom and cultural diversity. This is to ensure that they can adapt with that place. In co nclusion, these five main brand positioning dimensions give big impact on student decision. According to Bakalis S. and Joiner T. A. (2004), the participation in tertiary study abroad programs, the role of personality. The main obstacle apart from cost which been menti

Prohibition and the Birth of Organized Crime Essay examples -- America

Prohibition in the United States was a measure designed to reduce drinking by eliminating the businesses that manufactured, distributed, and sold alcoholic beverages. The Eighteenth Amendment to the U.S. Constitution took away license to do business from the brewers, distillers, vintners, and the wholesale and retail sellers of alcoholic beverages. The leaders of the prohibition movement were alarmed at the drinking behavior of Americans, and they were concerned that there was a culture of drink among some sectors of the population that, with continuing immigration from Europe, was spreading (â€Å"Why Prohibition† 2). Between 1860 and 1880 America's urban population grew from 6 million to more than 14 million people. The mass of this huge increase found itself toiling in factories and sweatshops and living in horrible social conditions; getting drunk was there only highlight in life. Prohibition is the legal ban on the manufacture and sale of intoxicating drink (â€Å"Temperance, Prohibition, Alcoholism† 1). The term also denotes those periods in history when such bans have been in force, as well as the political and social movements condoning them. This method of liquor control was most often aimed at preventing alcoholism and thus removing a social, physical, and economic harm from society. Many Americans, religious leaders, and political leaders saw alcohol as the key to all that was evil, a curse on the nation. Significant numbers of people believed that the consumption of alcoholic beverages presented a serious threat to the integrity of their most vital foundations, especially the family (â€Å"Prohibition† 846). In the 1600's and 1700's, the American colonists drank large quantities of beer, rum, wine, and hard cider. These alcoholic beverages were often safer to drink than impure water or unpasteurized milk and also less expensive than coffee or tea. By the 1820's, people in the United States were drinking, on the average, the equivalent of 7 gallons of pure alcohol per person each year (â€Å"drinkingprohibition† 1). As early as the seventeenth century, America was showing interest towards prohibition. Some people, including physicians and ministers, became concerned about the extent of alcohol use (â€Å"There was one...† 1). They believed that drinking alcohol damaged people's health and moral behavior, and promoted poverty. People concerned about alcohol use u... ... begun in 1934, succeeded in helping alcoholics (â€Å"History† 3).   Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Prohibition failed to improve health and virtue. Prohibition was supposed to be an economic and moral godsend. Prisons and poorhouses were to be emptied, taxes cut, and social problems eliminated. Prohibition did not achieve its goals. Instead, it added to the problems it was intended to solve and supplanted other ways of addressing problems. The only successors of Prohibition were bootleggers, crime bosses, and the forces of big government.   Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  The Prohibition of alcohol was probably the most senseless Amendment in the history of the United States of America. Everyday people were forced to change their penchants of drinking alcoholic beverages. But only a minority really quit drinking, all the others became criminals. Any violator of the liquor law had the fear of getting caught. And some of them were arrested and convicted just for drinking alcohol. The illegal liquor business, caused by Prohibition, was the start of organized crime in the USA. Many politicians and other officials in all positions became corrupt and criminal. This state remained even after the repeal of the liquor law for a long time.

Graduation Speech: Show the World Your True Self :: Graduation Speech, Commencement Address

There was a time when I dreaded going to high school. During the weeks before I started my freshman year, all I could picture were mazes of hallways and classrooms, unfamiliar faces of students and teachers, and upperclassmen who loved to torture frightened freshmen. Fortunately, my visions were exaggerated. I soon got into the swing of things in high school. I figured out which teachers really did give you detention if you were late to class, which classmates were safe and those I didn't want as my lab partners. I began to find my place in the school, as well as everyone else's place there. By October, I knew who was who and what was what. In November, everything changed. I was diagnosed with Hodgkin's lymphoma, a cancer of the lymph nodes. I went through chemotherapy, lost all my hair and missed 40 days of school. Most people didn't know I was sick. My teachers helped me keep up in class, my friends were as supportive as they could be and I wore a wig to hide my bald head. It was at this point that I dreaded going to school again. I didn't feel like I fit in anymore. I had lost my place, and didn't know how to find it again. Ironically, the one thing about myself that I was most ashamed of helped me to fall back into place. Towards the end of my treatment, in a small burst of bravery, I decided to stop wearing my wig. I declared I didn't care what people thought, that I didn't want to hide anymore. But inside I was very scared. How would people react to a bald girl? But despite my doubts, one Monday in April I came to school with only a baseball hat covering my baldness. I had never had so many people stare at me before. They tried to hide it. I could tell they didn't want to be rude -- they just couldn't help themselves. I didn't say anything, mostly I just looked at the floor. That's what I did until the end of the day when one girl blurted out what I'm sure everyone else was thinking, but was afraid to say, "So why did you shave your head?" You can imagine my reaction to that one. But, oddly enough, after that one question, things were easier. Over the next three years, I became a typical high school kid again.

Exporting Rubber Products to China

The manufacture of rubber based products such as industrial tyres, tubes, auto parts and components has been a part of Sri Lanka’s economy since the early 1930’s. As one of the largest rubber producing countries, Sri Lanka produces different types, forms and grades of rubber as well as rubber based products for export markets. China accounted 0. 45% of total exports from Sri Lanka to the world, but on the current trend it’s optimistic that China will increase the potential items of exports from Sri Lanka such as rubber products, tea, spices and confectioneries and seafood. China’s demand for rubber was expected to rise 8. % tonnes in 2010 to reflect strong growth in the country’s auto sector. The development of the auto industry is the main driver for the development of market for rubber products in China. The development of highway construction and transportation industry will drive the demand for tyres, engineering rubber products and other rubber products. China consumes 16% of the world’s natural rubber. China has already become the world’s largest rubber consumption than any other country, estimated statistics illustrate China’s top rubber consumer’s position will not be shaken in the period ahead. In recent years, the world’s major rubber companies such as Goodyear, Bridgestone, Michelin and other tire companies have entered China, mass production of export products. As the emerging economic super power, China led solid foundation for the exporters of rubber products by creating potential market opportunities due to its sustained high growth in exports of rubber. Many opportunities are available on improving trade with China considering the strength of the cordial relationship maintained between the two countries by continuous dialogue and trade agreements on mutual understanding. It is reasonably appropriate to commend the trade relationship between the two countries considering the fact its historical relationship and the monumental development in China who will indisputably become the giant in trade & industry during this century. China’s membership of Asia Pacific Trade Agreement (APTA) would provide Sri Lanka access to one of the largest markets in the world. It was becoming more important as it gave Sri Lankan exporters access to the emerging giant economies in the world such as China, India and South Korea. Rates of utilization of key trade deals such as the Asia Pacific Trade Agreement (APTA) and South Asia Free Trade Agreement (SAFTA) were low by Sri Lankan rubber exporters. It might be due to exporters are not obtaining certificates of origin from the department of commerce, exporters are not aware of the Free Trade Agreements (FTA) or the importer is not presenting it and getting duty concessions. It’s important to improve exports to China because the potential market for the rubber based products is enormous. Sri Lankan exporters should make aware of the preferential trade terms between China and Sri Lanka and utilize them in the best possible way to develop the export of rubber products. Recently, Sri Lankan Government has used trade policies which would further their foreign policy objectives such as building strong relations with China. Despite Sri Lanka rubber industry being adversely affected by this world crisis, Sri Lanka was able to recover the lost market share and offer its natural rubber at a highly competitive rate under these trade agreements. China commenced import of rubber from Sri Lanka in 1951 even before agreements became effective. China extended a remarkable sense of generosity to the people of Sri Lanka in becoming the principal importer of rubber from Sri Lanka. Although exports under APTA have grown, it was still only about 50 million dollars worth of goods to China, Korea, India and Bangladesh with about 1,800 certificates of origin issued by the commerce department. Natural rubber and rubber products are one of the main products exported under South Asia Preferential Trading Agreement (SAPTA) and Asia Pacific Trade Agreement (APTA). Under SAPTA also total Sri Lankan exports remains modest. While the Free Trade Agreements do not eliminate import tariffs on rubber, it would facilitate to ensure stable cost and supply for China suppliers. The agreement can encourage Sri Lankan exporters to set up distribution offices in China and sell directly to downstream manufacturers in the country. Southeast Asia is the largest source of rubber in the world, particularly Indonesia, Thailand, Vietnam and Malaysia. All of these countries are huge competitors from the Sri Lankan perspective. The quality of output from the region is good and stable as well. China, on the other hand, is the largest global manufacturer of tires and China requires at least 60% of natural rubber used for the industry is currently sourced overseas. There would be a potential market not only for rubber products but also for natural rubber for the exporters of Sri Lanka. China's rubber market has maintained rapid consumption growth and booming growth patterns remains unchanged. If Sri Lankan rubber producers seek the markets available in the world such as China and build international competitiveness in the industrial rubber products, it would help Sri Lanka to raise national income and create jobs in the particular sector. Rubber industry helps to utilize underemployed labour resources because it needs intensive labour resource and it is also kind of forest rehabilitation. Sri Lanka could shift from exporting of long lived forest products to relatively short lived forest products such as rubber. Sri Lankan rubber products manufacturing industry could achieve remarkable progress with the use of novel technology and sophisticated production facilities. In tandem with the increase in rubber consumption in China, the corresponding increase in the volume and value of exported rubber products has grown significantly. Factors of rapid growth of China’s rubber consumption * Rapid economic expansion As China is at present stage of heavy industrialization there’s a vast need of rubber based products for the appliance manufacturers, automobile companies and various other industries. Major economic indicators such as Gross Domestic Product (GDP), Industrial Production annual growth rate, Fixed Asset Investment Growth Rate and annual growth rate of China demonstrate the potential opportunities available in China. * Automakers have been strong. There’s a rapid growth in vehicle production with the improvement of people’s income levels, middle class expansion of automobile consumption. * Dramatic increase in the road traffic Expansion of the economic output, the acceleration of urbanization, domestic and foreign trade and enhanced standard of living has increased the road traffic significantly in China. Considerable increase in road traffic is a direct stimulus to the major rubber product, industrial tyres. RECOMMENDATIONS AND CONCLUTION 1. It ‘s necessary for private sector to develop and add more value on their rubber based products so as to improve their competitiveness in the Chinese markets as well as to make the best use from the abundant natural rubber in Sri Lanka. * In order to improve their competitiveness, producers of rubber products should develop and enhance their human resources skills, improve their production process to be more efficient and produce higher quality rubber products. In addition, Sri Lankan firms should focus more attention on research and development (R&D) to enhance and upgrade their products to be a higher quality in order to meet product standards and requirements in China. * The most important fact is that producers, suppliers and related institutes (Research Institutes, Testing laboratories and so on) should hold hands to form a cluster in order to help and support each other in the integrated supply chain. 2. To improve the quality of rubber products to export to China, the producers should study and possess good understanding on China’s compulsory standards and recommended standards. 3. Before exporting to China, the exporters should study and have a good understanding of the current situation in the Chinese rubber markets, the transportation and logistics system in China, regulations and other related policies of the Chinese Government and China’s commitment in the WTO as well as China’s FTA agreements with Sri Lanka. 4. Be cautious of selecting business or trade partners, and select one with potential and credibility. The exporters should emphasize on building close relationships with their Chinese partner to allow for smooth business operations. Connections are one of the most important business customs in China and other social and cultural aspects include joining a meal together and gift giving using two hands as it demonstrates sincerity and intention between two parties. The system of Chinese networking is heavily focused on personal relationships. . The Government of Sri Lanka should encourage public and private sector to add more value on natural rubber, which are abundant in Sri Lanka in order to produce processed rubber products by financially supporting the rubber industry, providing technical and other assistance, developing the human resources, conducting more researches on rubber products as well as encouraging rubber producers to improve the quality of Sri Lankan rubber products to meet the required standards in oreign markets, particularly in China and other foreign countries. 6. The Sri Lankan Government should financially support and establish the research and testing laboratories as well as Sri Lankan researchers and specialists to improve the production processes and upgrade higher standards of Sri Lankan products, including the equipment, machinery and innovation to produce new hi end products. . When taking into consideration fundamental factors such as size of economy, size of population and size of domestic market, it seems that Sri Lanka is not in a position to compete with China. Therefore, its necessary to adapt strategic approaches to co exist with China, particularly to be part of China’s economic growth rather than to explicitly compete with China. Therefore, we suggest the Sri Lankan Government to implement the â€Å"Rise with the Dragon† strategy, in terms of trade and investment in order to be part of China’s production and consumption processes. The export of rubber products to China would be economic growth driven international business to Sri Lanka. As Rubber fall under the main export categories of Sri Lanka, we have a potential of developing the quality of rubber products and there’s a vast opportunity exists in China for Sri Lankan Rubber Products.

Bio Lab Report Crime Scene

On Saturday morning of the 24th of October, there was report by an employee of a homicide incident on 4011 N. Central Eave, Phoenix, AZ. University Center building on the 3rd floor of Arizona State University. The victim was describe as a 24 year old Caucasian female, by the name of Kelly; who works as a programs coordinator for Arizona State University. The victim was working late hours as usual on a Friday night, she was on her office cubical.The body was found laying on the floor in front of her desk chair, the body was facing up with three bullet wounds on her body; the action of the shots were one in right shoulder, right hip, and middle of the stomach. Observations found in the crime scene were the chair was knocked over, the victim was facing up instead of facing down. There were bullet holes in the wallboard as well as the cabinetry and biological stains of the victim. Information gathered about the victim she appeared to be talking to her mother while the incident happen, an d it was not unusual seen her work late at night.Also, there was some information about five suspects that might have been involve in the homicide. Licensee Scale S. Microbiology Professor, at the time of the murder he stated he was looking for money from students so he could buy another pint of beer, and was wearing blue t-shirt and jeans. Daffy Patrick D. Microbiology Lecturer, at the time of the murder he stated he was drinking at Hooters and was hearing a blue button down shirt and black pants.Olson John P. Biology Professor, at the time of the murder he stated he was at an all night Chinese buffet, and was wearing blue flannel shirt and Jeans. Hutchins Jason O. Chemistry Lecturer, at the time of the murder he was teaching Chemistry 101 lab, and was wearing a blue polo shirt and Jeans. Waffle Debra A. Lab Technician, at the time of the crime scene she stated she was preparing for Microbiology 206 lab, and she was wearing blue lab coat and khaki pants.The homicide case is under i nvestigation, once there has been examine the pieces of hair, fabric, and blood samples from the suspects, it will be determine who was the murder of the victim. Methods and Materials The investigation began by first collecting evidence from the crime scene and suspects. This includes fingerprints, hair and fiber samples, along with blood samples. Along with these, a bullet was found at the crime scene, which was added to the list of evidence. Fingerprint Testing To collect the fingerprints from both the suspects and the crime scene, the print lifting technique was used.This method included using a fingerprint wand and powder to dust the fingerprints on the object, and then putting adhesive tape over the latent prints to â€Å"lift† the fingerprints' image. The adhesive and fingerprint were then transferred to a backing card to be examined. To analyze the prints, a magnifying glass was used to determine if the prints pattern was an arch, loop or whorl. The fingerprints examin ed are a type of biological evidence. Fingerprints Suspect Arch Loop Whorl Daffy x HutchinsLicensee Olsen Waffle We then compared these fingerprint patterns with the fingerprint collected at the crime scene, which was a loop. Metallurgy Next, the bullet found at the crime scene was tested using metallurgy. The bullet was a type of physical evidence. To determine what type of metal the bullet was made of, the densities of the three standard metals in the tool kit had to be determined. To measure the metal's mass, an electronic scale was used while a water displacement was used to measure the volume. From these measurements, the density was calculated (D=MN).The mass, volume and density of the metals in the kit were lactated as follows: ; Aluminum o Mass = 8. 27 g Volume = 4 ml = 2. 07 vim Density = MN Copper Mass = 57. 1 g Volume = 7 ml Density = MN = 8. 16 g/ml o Mass = 37. 95 g o Volume = 4 ml o Density = 9. 49 g/ml As stated before, to find the volume for all the measurements, wat er displacement was used. By this, the change in the water level (measured in ml) in the graduated cylinder was measured before and after each metal was added to determine its volume.For the bullet, it was determined that: o Mass = 12. 9 g o Volume = 2 ml o Density = 6. 45 g/ml Because the bullet was silver, it was determined that it was not made of copper and u to the fact that density wasn't similar to aluminum, it is likely that the bullet was made of steel and maybe another metal. Fiber and Hair Testing The next pieces of evidence that were analyzed were hair and fiber. The hair samples are a type of biological evidence while the fibers are a type of physical evidence.For these samples, microscopy was used, which allowed the researchers to examine and identify the fine features of each. The tables below include the collected data. Hair Color Features Brown Short, smooth Blonde Short, split Black Short, wiry Evidence Fiber Texture Blue Woven, denim-like Pink Tight, cylinder-like Tulle Wispy, feather-like Tulle and wispy/feather By comparing the evidence found at the crime scene to the samples collected from the suspect, it narrowed the possible suspects down to Olsen and Waffle since both of their fibers were found at the crime scene.Blood Testing The last task was to examine the blood samples collected from the suspects to the blood found at the crime scene. The blood samples were a type of biological evidence, but chemical reactions were used to determine the blood type. â€Å"Anti-A Serum,† â€Å"Anti-B Serum† and an â€Å"Anti-Re Serum† were used to test what type of blood he samples were and if they had an Re D antigen. Three drops of each suspect's blood, along with the blood collected at the crime scene, were placed into three different wells of a clean blood typing plate.Three drops of each serum were added to the three different wells and then stirred until they either reacted or remained inactive to the serum. A way to tell if the blood reacts to the serum is if it results in agglutination, or clumping. The results are listed in the table below. Suspect Reagent ABA-Re Blood Type Anti-A Serum Anti-B Serum Anti-Re Serum A+ Because some of the blood tests didn't react with the serum, the researchers had to SE the blood type information provided in the suspect's profile and then determine how the blood would have reacted if the tests worked properly.Analysis: Fingerprint Testing: After analyzing the data from the crime scene and the suspect sheets provided some educated assumptions can be made as to the possible perpetrator. The prints found at the scene of the crime had a loop configuration. Considering Licensee has an arch configuration, and Hutchins has a whorl configuration, they were ruled out as potential suspects. The suspects who possessed prints similar to those found at the scene were as follows: Daffy, Olsen, and Waffle.