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Thursday, September 3, 2020

Differences Between Actor Network Theory And Social Construction Sociology Essay

Contrasts Between Actor Network Theory And Social Construction Sociology Essay Here are barely any contrasts between Actor Network Theory and Social development of innovation that I found from different investigators perspective. To begin with, I might want to write down the fundamental contrast between Actor arrange hypothesis and the hypothesis of social development of innovation. Entertainer organize hypothesis (ANT) thinks about both specialized determinism and social determinism, for example it doesn't stay by the possibility that innovation shapes the general public or the general public shapes the innovation (latour, Reassembling the social: a prologue to on-screen character arrange hypothesis, 2005). Social Construction of innovation (SCOT) hypothesis follows the thoughts that innovation is risen up out of the social communication of social gathering, which can be called social determinism. (Klein, H. K. Kleinman, D. L., 2002) Both of these speculations include members in procedure of forming the system or in molding the result, known as Actors. Entertainers associated with ANT are people and non-people which are dealt with similarly as division between the two are troublesome, as it can't be said who assumed the significant job. (latour,1997). The on-screen characters associated with SCOT are the Relevant Social gathering which incorporates individuals having a similar enthusiasm for molding the mechanical ancient rarity (Bijker, Hughes, Pinch, 1989). On-screen characters in ANT should perform continually to keep the system streaming with no slack or hick up. SCOT doesn't follow a severe rule on the exhibition of the on-screen characters or the gatherings. In the event that a specific pertinent social gatherings association or impact is not exactly the other gathering, all things considered it just gets a couple of changes in the result of the mechanical ancient rarity. (Klein, H. K. Kleinman, D. L., 2002 ) Talking about the point of these speculations, ANT is progressively about how the systems are framed as opposed to why they are shaped. It doesn't anticipate the result of the socio-specialized relic anytime. These substances are known as go betweens where the contribution by the entertainers can't foresee the result; rather it duplicates or erases the info/object going through system known as tokens or semi objects. (Wikipedia) Whereas SCOT shows how the social encompassing which incorporate RSG and different entertainers offer ascent to a specific ancient rarity. Directly from the earliest starting point the result is anticipated or chosen. It acts progressively like a moderate not at all like ANT. It doesn't generally make a difference if there are changes that come through in the social encompassing while at the same time fabricating the relic, the recently accepted thought of the result would even now continue as before. (Klein, H. K. Kleinman, D. L., 2002) In the event that we study ANT cautiously, the entertainers engaged with it are protests as well as a relationship of different components which self comprises a system. To resemble a solitary point entertainer, these components are streamlined or Black boxed. That implies the system on-screen characters are available to new thoughts and their substance can be reexamined (Gidding, 1999). Reconsidering the substance doesn't exist in SCOT. It restricts the impact of the RSG once the interpretive adaptability starts to progressively decrease. This makes it arrive at the explanatory conclusion, along these lines the elective thought of another plan is wiped out. (Klein, H. K. Kleinman, D. L., 2002) Following the on-screen character, this technique in ANT recommend that the entertainers set their system and the constraints of the system without anyone else. Entertainers in ANT can make their essence independently felt by different on-screen characters (Tatnall Burgess, 2002). As talked about before, entertainers can be thought of as a discovery, which has numerous on-screen characters concealing one behind other. So essentially all the on-screen characters can be found at one spot or it tends to be said that all the entertainers structure a solitary point on-screen character and this impact is known as Punctualisation (latour, Reassembling the social: a prologue to on-screen character arrange hypothesis, 2005). At the point when a similar strategy is contrasted with SCOT, on-screen characters are followed who are applicable to the innovation and that may prompt another entertainer who is likewise pertinent to that innovation. The procedure is proceeded till no new entertainers s pring up. This makes the translation go to a conclusion. Both of these hypotheses have a positive and their very own negative side. The greatest downside of SCOT is that it overlooks the impact of the innovation after it has appeared by social determinism. The mechanical curio may have been created for a specific reason. However, it is difficult to expect the end-clients to utilize it the manner in which it is assume to be utilized. All things considered, it implies that the impact of the innovation after is has appeared from a social determinism strategy, is gradually forming the general public in its own specific manner. That takes us back to innovative determinism. (Klein, H. K. Kleinman, D. L., 2002) As we probably am aware RSG takes care of the specialized issues, looking for arrangements, and so forth. We don't have the foggiest idea who chooses the which gathering are important social gathering and with the equivalent the social intrigue. It neglects to incorporate the gatherings that have no voice and furthermore the gatherings that will be influenced by the aftereffects of mechanical change and furthermore the gatherings that have been stepped down and rejected (Prell, Christina, 2009). It likewise neglects to clarify the conditions where one of the significant social gatherings genuinely differs to either to the structure or mechanical framework or antique, and so on. There is no clarification on how the hypothesis would deal with the differences of the gatherings. Numerous evaluates has called attention to on a similar shortcoming of hypothesis that it depicts all the social gatherings on a similar level or sharing equivalent position or force. There is a slight shortcoming with the interpretive adaptability once it arrives at the conclusion. It doesn't think back for additional translations later on. (Hard, 1993) On-screen character arrange hypothesis treats people and non-people equivalent. It has been contended by numerous pundits that by what means can a non-human be allocated to be an organization. For instance, an innovation must be recognized in light of the fact that we separate it from human entertainers. Advancements don't represent themselves nor do they exist outside of procedures of human supposition. Logically talking there is no such non-human entertainer to be portrayed by ANT. Subterranean insect expect that all entertainers, which incorporate the two people and non-people, are equivalent inside the system, and have a similar force. This leaves no space for power shakiness is left. Along these lines the force battles inside the system. Insect contextual analyses prompts a great deal of futile portrayals that appear to be inconsequential. (Shave Spicer, 2005) Another significant disadvantage of ANT it gets hard to follow the on-screen characters as the specialist would need to get into the profundity of the theme for examining a specific case without knowing where they will lead. As the entertainers are dark boxed, the scientist is following just a single on-screen character and would not know whether it would open up further conceivable examination. One of different shortcoming about ANT is that the entertainers, ANT requires both the on-screen characters to perform continually to keep the system streaming. Regardless of whether one comes up short, the entire framework comes up short. (learning-hypotheses, 2008) Discussing the quality of SCOT, one of the in addition to purpose of SCOT is the way it defeats one issue by finding a superior method to receive the innovation. For instance. Bike. There was a great deal of discussion on the security and the manner in which it was manufactured or looked. Yet, at that point, the in the long run they embraced it due to the way that they were quick when it came to speed. They neglected the issue by relating it to another better in addition to highlight the innovation. To consider it, day's end we (people) are the once who are going to utilize the innovation. So doesnt it bode well that we shape the innovation the manner in which we need it? In light of our application we can shape the innovation, SCOT is something that does precisely the equivalent. Not at all like ANT regardless of whether one if the on-screen characters neglect to play out, the result of the framework or the mechanical antique doesn't fall flat. All things considered that specific en tertainer or the gathering will have less impact during the time spent creation the antiquity. (Bijker, Hughes, Pinch, 1989) Entertainer arrange speculations fundamental quality would be the manner by which it defeats both social and specialized determinism. This bodes well in a manner in light of the fact that in a specific creation, it is difficult to state who assumed the significant job, people or non-people. For example, let us take the case of how the PC appeared. On the off chance that we view it, the innovation results from human and innovation. The specialized part of the PC is accomplished by the specialized group which thusly is affected by the social foundation. In this manner, what is by all accounts social is somewhat specialized and what is by all accounts specialized is halfway social. (latour, Reassembling the social: a prologue to on-screen character organize hypothesis, 2005) Following the entertainers may have been scrutinized on account of ANT however it has its own positive side as well. When contrasted with SCOT, it doesn't need to move toward every single entertainer of the equivalent revelant gathering. In ANT all the entertainers go about as a solitary point on-screen character which can be found operating at a profit box. (Gidding, 1999)

The Weather And Climate of Southeast Region of the United States Term Paper

The Weather And Climate of Southeast Region of the United States - Term Paper Example This paper focuses on that the Southeastern United States alludes to the area toward the eastern piece of the Southern United States. It is one of the most thickly populated territories of the USA. The zone comprises of the accompanying states; Georgia, Alabama, Florida, North Carolina, South Carolina, Mississippi, Virginia, West Virginia , Tennessee, and Kentucky. In this locale, the State of Florida has the most elevated populace while Mississippi has the least. The atmosphere of this locale is significantly warm and moist, portrayed by long sweltering summers and short time periods. The territory gloats of huge money crop estates because of its atmosphere and great soil. This report on the climate of the southeast area of the United States was accumulated because of a progression of exercises. To begin with, the area was recognized and geologically presented. Second, research was done and information gathered structure different sources as demonstrated in the references. In conclusion, a point by point conversation of the components of climate and atmosphere in the district was done, both intermittent viewpoints just as those occasions that happen day by day. This exploration will help in the comprehension of the antagonistic components of climate, for example, storms and the length around which they happen with the goal that departure and other crisis procedures might be begun in acceptable time. It has likewise distinguished the negative impacts of human exercises on the earth, for example, contamination, its consequences for the climate, and atmosphere of the southeast area of the United States, and conceivable answer for this problem.... can be depicted as of the warm and sticky subtropical atmosphere type. The temperatures get sweltering during summers, with recorded high midpoints of 90 Â °F in urban communities like Charleston. Joined with wet tropical breezes, summers here are blistering and moist. Winters then again register cooler temperatures, highlights of a tropical atmosphere with wet summers and bright dry winters. Because of the topographical area of this locale, it encounters times of substituting sun oriented radiation offering ascend to various seasons consistently, the significant periods of concern are accordingly summer and winter. The climate during summers is described by high temperatures averaging 90 Â °F and rainstorms in the nights. Likewise, summers observer early in the day ocean breezes that get a cooling impact. There are likewise incidental tropical violent winds. Unexpectedly, winters are cold with temperatures plunging as low as 39 Â °F in Tallahassee. Easterly breezes blowing at thi s period help keep the temperatures moderate during winters and the Gulf Stream likewise adjusts cooler air rolling in from the east and the upper east. Notwithstanding its tropical area, freezes are frequently seen in the district during winters. The most reduced recorded temperature during winter was - 2Â °F in 1899 Wind, Fog, Precipitation, and Snowfall In the district, northerly breezes by and large blow over the Panhandle and from the west over Jacksonville. During summer, the breeze design comprises of easterly breezes blowing southwards and southwest breezes in the northern locales. The greatest breeze speed recorded was at 100 bunches during Hurricane Andrew (Wind Mapper, 2013). With respect to haze, the Southeastern USA encounters hazes in winter. The absolute number of thick haze days at whatever year, with perceivability less that

Saturday, August 22, 2020

Capstone Essay Example | Topics and Well Written Essays - 500 words

Capstone - Essay Example Qualities â€one of its significant qualities is its notoriety for high-caliber, mechanical advancements, and magnificent client care. This capacity to use new innovative thoughts into something valuable for business and particularly engaging customers is exemplified by its catchphrase of â€Å"Think Different† which was the individual saying of its organizer Steve Jobs. The individuals at Apple, Inc. had proceeded with this inheritance as it wandered into new zones of purchaser hardware. As it were, Apple, Inc. is a genuine case of the learning association as appeared by its adaptability and nimbleness to continually re-imagine itself (Schermerhorn 2010) to react to different dangers like the ascent of Samsung from South Korea and in a few pending patent claims still in the courts. Shortcomings †a key shortcoming of Apple, Inc. is it is being seen as exclusively the result of the sheer power of will of Steve Jobs and who is gone because of malignant growth, there are some waiting questions whether his replacements can proceed with his heritage of advancement and thoroughly considering of the container, in a manner of speaking. This organization had progressed well without Steve Jobs at the top yet its future isn't guaranteed as it keeps on engaging numerous new contestants to an effectively stuffed industry. Openings †the organization can go into vital coalitions with its rivals so it can all the more likely snatch piece of the overall industry and abbreviate the period in carrying another item to the market. It is a procedure received by the quicker and nimbler Samsung when it aligned itself with Apple, Inc. in the beginning periods of the advanced cell industry yet has since gone separate ways and now overwhelmed the worldwide market for this hand-held gadget. Apple, Inc. can additionally fix its hold on the very good quality tablet advertise by going into business concurrences with retail chains like what it did with Starbucks for its huge music inventory to make new interest for its items (Ireland et al.,

What to Write a College Essay On - Essay Writing Tips For Beginners

What to Write a College Essay On - Essay Writing Tips For BeginnersWhat to write a college essay on is an issue that's likely to come up during freshman year, especially if you're an English major. Whether you're writing for a college-level test or for an essay in a college-level course, writing assignments of all kinds are often the first step in your educational process.The Internet can be a good resource for researching topics, but it can also be a good way to read about writing tips and tricks. Most online sources also provide writing tips for beginners. One of the first things to keep in mind when writing a college essay on your own is to stay as objective as possible.Obviously, your writer's instinct will likely guide you to a particular topic and/or subject matter. However, keep in mind that there are some specific aspects to writing a college essay on your own. In fact, you will want to consider the following: what will be most important to you, who your audience is, what you know about your subject matter, and how much time you have to spend writing. Even though the topic you choose is likely to be more personal than if you were using a computer program to write a paper, it's still important to consider your audience.Writing a college essay on your own will allow you to ask questions of those who will be reading your work. It will also allow you to see how other students are approaching similar questions they'll find in the paper. You may be surprised by the responses you receive.For many students, writing a college essay on your own requires a certain amount of self-assurance, both personally and academically. This is particularly true if you have not been very effective at outlining your ideas before starting to write your paper.If you're a writer, you're probably aware that the structure and organization are key to learning to write well. There is no better way to learn how to organize your thoughts effectively than writing them down first. Taking t he time to write your essay first is also a good way to research and think about your paper.It's often helpful to write down what kind of material you know, such as a specific topic of research. This helps you organize your ideas and put your names to the material you know. Often, students tend to put too much thought into a particular topic when they should instead be focusing on doing their research.Of course, when you're just starting out in college writing and in the early stages of your education, it's easy to be caught up in the details of your writing projects. It's important to remember that the greater your focus is on your writing, the more efficiently and effectively you will produce your written work. Simply by planning ahead, reviewing the topics you plan to cover, and writing out your ideas for your paper, you'll find that your writing improves and your grades improve.

Friday, August 21, 2020

Essay plan Debussy Free Essays

Brief framework of the strategy you plan to utilize and a review of the works goodness mean to focus on: close with a ‘hooking sentence’ which connects to the initial passage of the shopping center body of your article; these connecting sentences ought to be given all through to offer attachment to your exposition Section 2: (Debussy) Introduction to Debussy. Quickly examine subtleties IEEE; when, where conceived. Brief diagram of other prominent works before Prelude Other authors of comparative style maybe whom propelled Debussy His Freshness in setting and connection to music Area 3: (Prelude) What was Debussy motivation for Prelude Mallard (writer music dependent on) Symbolism The point of view behind Prelude Section 4: (What made Debussy introduction such a significant bit of work for the time) The flute theme itself, tonality and advancement or need off Orchestration and how this was novel for the time (Instruments, multiplying of woodwind part etc†¦ ) Tonality Direct relationship with the content reflected in music The Golden segment Area 5: How Debussy was at the cutting edge of Modernist music What components of his melodic Ideas were so interesting and ‘Advanced’ for the time How were different authors of the time Influenced by Debussy and specifically by the introduction Itself How did Debussy utilization of tonality, structure and organization create after preface In different arrangers works How did they create In Debussy different works Section. We will compose a custom exposition test on Paper plan Debussy or on the other hand any comparative subject just for you Request Now The most effective method to refer to Essay plan Debussy, Essays

Marketing Course Evaluation Essay Example | Topics and Well Written Essays - 1500 words

Showcasing Course Evaluation - Essay Example In like manner, I have discovered that organizations ought to imitate fitting brand names and estimating techniques so as to upgrade the discernment, inspiration and item mindfulness that assume a noteworthy job in the buyer purchasing process. In its push to achieve a serious edge, Lockheed Martin Aeronautics Company has left on converging with different organizations in its push to showcase items, for example, C-5, C-130 and C-141. Similarly, the organization copies even market framework for instance at one time it supplanted F-117 with F-22 dependent on the customers criticism. Activities that I expect to take to remain current in my field incorporates, post graduate course in Project Management, Six Sigma Black Belt Certification (CSSBB) just as bosses degree. So as to improve the estimation of this course to the working grown-ups, it is fundamental for instructors to assign sufficient time for hypothesis exercises just as reasonable meetings. What's more, advertisers ought to be prepared on the best way to utilize web 2.0 as a significant showcasing apparatus. Presentation In the contemporary world, firms have imitated various systems to stay serious and hold their clients. Through the direction of the advertising directors, organizations have copied perspectives, for example, legitimate marking, successful item situating and valuing just as limited time systems. ... that I have picked up Target Markets One of the aptitudes that I have picked up from the course is that for an organization to be fruitful, it needs to focus on specific clients. Being one of the significant advertising procedure, target showcasing as a team with the advertising blend that incorporate value, item, advancement and cost is basic particularly when firms are planned for growing their client base. Market situating and division The course has additionally presented me to item situating. This involves the procedure through which advertisers make a picture or the character of their items on the brains of their customers. One of the indispensable targets of a powerful item situating is that it makes a solid client mindfulness in this manner creating rehashed buys prompting high deals. Then again, showcase division includes grouping of the clients dependent on at least one attributes (Kotler et al, 2010). Thusly, firms can distinguish gatherings of clients with comparative nee ds. Instances of market division that this course brought me into incorporate geographic division, segment division, psychographic division, division as indicated by advantages and events just as social division. Interfacing with clients Building client worth, fulfillment, and dedication Through the course, I had the option to increase satisfactory abilities on the most proficient method to manufacture client esteem by improving a positive relationship particularly by guaranteeing that associations address the issues looked by the purchasers in a convenient way. What's more, to guarantee that the shoppers are fulfilled, it is basic to give quality items that address their issues (Paliwoda et al, 2009). One of the significant methods of improving client dependability is by making a positive organization client

Saturday, June 20, 2020

The Missing Hand Disconnection in Of Mice and Men - Literature Essay Samples

In Of Mice and Men by John Steinbeck, the characters’ hands represent all that is wrong with the men and their society. Lennie’s paws, Candy’s missing hand, and Curley’s gloved limb, the characters’ pathology reveals itself in ways that are more telling that any written description could offer. From the moment of his first appearance, the metaphors that Steinbeck uses to describe Lennie compare him to an animal. He drags â€Å"his feet a little, the way a bear drags his paws† (2). Lennie has hands, but he doesn’t use them, choosing instead to drink from the water in the clearing â€Å"like a horse† (3). When he does dip a hand into the water, it is to wiggle his fingers so that the water splashes (3). None of this is particularly noteworthy until George takes his own turn to drink at the pool. In contrast to Lennie, George uses his hands to cup some water and â€Å"drink with quick scoops† (3). Lennie ignores t he use of his hands, giving up the role of human to act more like an animal. Steinbeck uses this disuse of the human hand to characterize Lennie as something less than human.He continues this idea with the other denizens of the ranch. When Candy first guides Lennie and George to their new quarters in the bunkhouse, Steinbeck directs the reader’s attention to his work clothing and the broom that he carries in his left hand (18). This is only a prelude, however, to the revelation that Candy is missing his right hand. When he points with his right arm, what emerges from his sleeve is a â€Å"round stick-like wrist, but no hand† (18). Steinbeck calls further attention to the missing limb when he describes Candy’s movement so that he can take the can that George hands him: â€Å"The old swamper shifted his broom and held it between his elbow and his side while he held out his hand for the can† (18). Candy’s missing hand is the most impo rtant detail about him, one that Steinbeck repeatedly emphasizes in his descriptions of the man. This serves to characterize Candy as a man who is not whole, both literally and figuratively. Candy is missing a hand, but he is also missing life. He has no relatives (59), and his offer to buy into the ranch with George and Lennie is evidence of his loneliness. Candy has money in the bank, but he has nothing to spend it on, and no one to share it with. His missing hand is symbolic of all that he is missing in life. He is desperate to reach out to someone, but, ironically, he cannot connect with those around him. This idea continues to descriptions of Curley, evident even before George and Lennie meet him for the first time. Candy describes Curley as â€Å"handy;† someone who’s â€Å"done quite a bit in the ring† (26). Steinbeck also includes the detail regarding Curley’s left hand, the one that the new husband is â€Å"keepin’†¦soft for his wife† (27). As with Lennie and Candy, Steinbeck characterizes Curley almost exclusively in terms of his hands, specifically in the way that he uses them to create conflict with others. Curley boxes with his hands, and even though he might think of the Vaseline on one hand as the mark of a lover, he uses that supposed love for his wife as an excuse to attack others. This pathology of the missing hands allows the author to comment upon society as well. These men are missing hands because something has taken them away. Through society’s misunderstanding of Lennie’s mental condition, it has removed his humanity. Candy has lost his hand in a work-related accident, and his status seems indicative of an aging population who has no one to take care of them, and no means of independent living. Curley has succumbed to a twisted ideal of what a man should be, lost in society’s requirement for him to aggressively assert his masculinity at every oppor tunity. In characterizing these men, Steinbeck is sounding a warning about the dangers of treating people as only parts of themselves, rather than considering the whole. Steinbeck characterizes a group of men who are each missing something important. The hand that each man lacks means more than just a physical imperfection. Instead, these literal and figurative missing limbs demonstrate the men’s emotional distance, even when what each of them wants is a connection to someone or something. Each of these men is missing a hand in some way, and missing a connection to other humans that could have been their salvation.

Thursday, June 11, 2020

Effects of Corruption on E-Commerce - Free Essay Example

EFFECTS OF CORRUPTION ON E-COMMERCE (VERSION 1) CORRUPTION: Corruption has crippled Nigeria to fully maximize her potentials, Nigeria has seen drop in educational standard, healthcare, basic and social amenities. This is because most of the funds budgeted for the greater good of the economy have been misused for individual greed by our leaders and people elected in public offices. Corruption is the dishonest and illegal behaviour exhibited especially by people in authority for the personal gain (transparency.org). The growing corruption in Nigeria can be traced to people holding power at the federal, state and local government levels. Ruzindana, (1999) emphasises that corruption in Africa is a problem of routine deviation from established standards and norms by public officials and parties with whom they interact. He further more identified bribery, private gain and non-existent workers (also known as à ¢Ã¢â€š ¬Ã‹Å"ghost workersà ¢Ã¢â€š ¬Ã¢â€ž ¢) as the different types of corruption facing Africa. Corruption generally in Nigeria is a social problem that has attracted the interest of many scholars. However, corruption and its effect on e-commerce have experienced little attention in the country. E-COMMERCE Until 1998, Nigeria had only few dial-up e-mail providers and a few internet service providers (ISPs) operating on slow links in the country. Present ISPs provide online advertising opportunities, internet banking securities and Very Small Aperture Terminal (VSAT) services. E-commerce growth in Nigeria is slow but steady, the vast improvement in telecommunication services in the country as illustrated by explosion of subscribers and users of Global System for Mobile communications (GSM), it is further underscored by a surge in private telecom operators (PTOs) offering à ¢Ã¢â€š ¬Ã‹Å"Fixed wireless serviceà ¢Ã¢â€š ¬Ã¢â€ž ¢ which offer data and voice transfer. The introduction of e-commerce service is held back by lack of public awareness on how to use the technologies. However, there has been a rapid growth in electronic cash transfer services such as western union, MoneyGram and Travelex in recent years. Electronic banking is one area of e-commerce that has proven successful in Nigeria. Virtually all banks in Nigeria offer online, real-time banking services. Moreover, banks that cannot offer these services are increasingly losing their customers are offered the flexibility of operating an account in any branch of their bankà ¢Ã¢â€š ¬Ã¢â€ž ¢s network. Even though the Nigeria government has taken progressive steps in recent years to aid online buying and selling (E-commerce) surmountable challenges still remain that is killing e-commerce in Nigeria. Most of the points to be discussed if critically explored have a link to corruption, in the sense that corruption has eaten so deep in the country ranging from individuals to government officials. à ¢Ã¢â€š ¬Ã‹Å"Yahoo Yahooà ¢Ã¢â€š ¬Ã¢â€ž ¢ syndrome: Man y young Nigerians attribute this to lack of employment and tangible jobs to keep them busy, therefore, they involve themselves in the what is known as à ¢Ã¢â€š ¬Ã‹Å"yahoo yahooà ¢Ã¢â€š ¬Ã¢â€ž ¢. à ¢Ã¢â€š ¬Ã‹Å"Yahoo Yahooà ¢Ã¢â€š ¬Ã¢â€ž ¢ is an online type of fraud where mostly young men look for a way of getting hold of peopleà ¢Ã¢â€š ¬Ã¢â€ž ¢s master/credit card details to use in purchasing goods online without the ownerà ¢Ã¢â€š ¬Ã¢â€ž ¢s consent. The perpetrators of this crime spend long hours at the cyber cafÃÆ' © surfing the net with the aid of a software to crack into peoples accounts. Some even go to the extent of using charm to avoid been caught by the necessary authorities. The most recent one around now is employment fraud. I almost fell for one recently when I saw a job advert online for the Nigerian Navy. After clicking the web link that says à ¢Ã¢â€š ¬Ã‹Å"click here to applyà ¢Ã¢â€š ¬Ã¢â€ž ¢ I was taken to another page where I was supposed to pay for a vouc her/pin to complete the application. However, over the years, the practice of the Military related jobs has always being for job seekers to walk into a bank and pay for the voucher/pin, but for this particular one the instruction was to pay online. I tried it, followed through the whole process, input my card details and pin, fortunately for me the bank I use had network issue so the transaction couldnà ¢Ã¢â€š ¬Ã¢â€ž ¢t go through, it was later that I found out it was a scam and the Nigerian Navy did not officially advertised the job on its website. We can all imagine how many poor job applicants would have fallen prey of that fraud act. Lack of dependable online payment gateways: while things are getting better as regards e-commerce in Nigeria in the sense that in the last decade a lot of online businesses have been launched (konga, jumia, slot, etc) however, dependable gateways are hard to come by. à ¢Ã¢â€š ¬Ã‹Å"Interswitchà ¢Ã¢â€š ¬Ã¢â€ž ¢ and à ¢Ã¢â€š ¬Ã‹Å"etransactà ¢Ã¢ ‚ ¬Ã¢â€ž ¢ are the two major companies used as online payment platform in Nigeria. However, I think some banks are gradually joining the à ¢Ã¢â€š ¬Ã‹Å"partyà ¢Ã¢â€š ¬Ã¢â€ž ¢. Lack of trust: People find it difficult to trust each other; also so many people do not trust new technologies. For example, my mother has never used an Automated Teller Machine (ATM), simply because she believes she cannot hold the poor machine responsible for any error/crime committed. Similarly, I was also having a chat with a friend of recent who narrated her uncleà ¢Ã¢â€š ¬Ã¢â€ž ¢s ordeal. While the uncle was in the UK on vacation from Nigeria, he got an alert on his phone from his bank in Nigeria that a transaction was just made (huge amount of money) on is account, immediately he flew back home went straight to the bank for an explanation on how and why such transaction took place on his account without him authorizing it, lo and behold, the bank could not give any reasonable explanation about th e transaction, did not of course refund his money back saying it was due to the customerà ¢Ã¢â€š ¬Ã¢â€ž ¢s carelessness. What I am trying to say in essence is that lack of trust in people and machines that facilitate e-commerce is a contributing factor to how corruption affects e-commerce in Nigeria. Reliable Power supply: Lack of reliable power supply in the country has contributed greatly to those factors that have crippled so many businesses and e-commerce activities in Nigeria, this is because the people in charge of the power sector are greedy and due to political reason have just decided to neglect the power sector. You can imagine the president of Nigeria making some allocations to fuel and service the generator servicing the à ¢Ã¢â€š ¬Ã‹Å"presidential villaà ¢Ã¢â€š ¬Ã¢â€ž ¢ in the last budget. This is just to show how serious the power issue is. We can all try to imagine the state of a countryà ¢Ã¢â€š ¬Ã¢â€ž ¢s e-commerce or businesses in general where power supply is not stable. The recent presidential pardon granted to Diepreye Alamieyseigha the former governor of the oil-rich state of Bayelsa by President Goodluck Jonathan who was convicted for money laundering and other serious corruption offense in 2007 has questioned the transparency of the President Goodluck Jonathanà ¢Ã¢â€š ¬Ã¢â€ž ¢s administration. The decision undermines anti-corruption efforts in Nigeria and encourages impunity. This decision also proves to future companies or individuals looking at investing in Nigeria that the country is still not very safe thereby affecting the growth of e-commerce in country. The problem of e-commerce in Nigeriaà ¢Ã¢â€š ¬Ã¢â€ž ¢s is not just corruption, but failure to put in place mechanism or infrastructure that will make life easy for the citizens to work and live well in the society. Nigeria need good energy distribution, good roads, overhaul postal system, good communication networks and other social amenities, Nigeria would have been a good market place for e-commerce activities in Africa but reverse is the case. *************************************************************************** Effects of Corruption on E-commerce (VERSION 2) Introduction: In almost all developing countries of the world, commerce dominates their economic activities. Even the industrial activities are based mostly on commerce. In Nigeria, the productive/manufacturing sector is still highly dependent on import and export. The manufacturing companies rely heavily on raw materials from abroad while the primary productive sector merely produce raw and semi processed materials meant for the overseas market and consumers. Nigeria produces crude oil in abundance and almost about 90% of it is exported with very little meant for the local refineries. In very sharp contrast, more than 80% of the refined petroleum products consumed in Nigeria are imported. From the foregoing, the importance of commerce cannot be over emphasised. Comm erce is the most vibrant of all the economic activities in Nigeria. In the world today, Information Technology has made trade transactions very easy. At the comfort of oneà ¢Ã¢â€š ¬Ã¢â€ž ¢s home or/and office, commercial transaction can take place within the twinkle of an eye. The magnitude of commercial activities taking place in Nigeria and rapid development that has taken place in the field of information technology makes it imperative to probe into the possible effects that corruption can have on e-commerce. Whatever the situation, corruption scandals and allegations of dishonesty have great impact on commercial activities in Nigeria, high level of corruption could also impact upon economic performance in Nigeria, e-commerce inclusive. Corruption has serious effects on e-commerce in many ways. The price and marketability of any product or service is determined significantly by the local cost of production. On the other hand, the cost of production is influenced greatly by the level and magnitude of corruption in the system. The level and magnitude of corruption affects the cost of all the factors of production which in turn affects the demand and supply of products and services covered by e-commerce. If the cost of raw materials is increased because of the incidence of over invoicing, the eventual cost of production and selling price of the finished product or service will be high. In the final analysis, the high price will affect the volume of trade involving the product or the service. That being the case, if such product or service is under e-commerce, there will be a major impact. Money laundering is a form of corruption and it affects e-commerce in all manner of ways. Monies that are laundered are not monies worked for or genuinely earned. Such monies are spent in a way that the level of liquidity in the economy will increase and artificially the prices of products and services on which the money is spent will increase. In fact, lose money i n the segment of the market dealing in those products or services will give a wrong signal of a high demand which in turn will increase prices. Definitely e-commerce will be affected, since money laundering will have effect on the forces of demand and supply. In most developing countries, goods and services produced, marketed and consumed there are approved or certified. The process of certification or approval is often laden with corrupt practices, such that at the end products or services will affect e-commerce. In most cases because the cost of bribing the officials to grant certification is taken as part of the cost of production and also because the quality of the products and services in the long run will be discovered to be poor, there would be low demand for it. This will lead to a lot of distortions in the e-commerce market. There is also a wide spread of misappropriation of public funds in Nigeria, just like some other countries in Africa. This massive misappropriati on of public funds affects e-commerce. The demand and supply tilt towards the goods and services consumed by those that have been involved in the misappropriation of public funds. The increased demand will act as an incentive for producer to increase the quantity of such goods and services consumed by the few super rich people while those consumed by people who have no access to this misappropriated public fund as neglected. The poor perception and attitudes of the people generally towards corruption and how poorly the government and all relevant agencies and institutions are handling cases of corruption has eroded peopleà ¢Ã¢â€š ¬Ã¢â€ž ¢s confidence and this has serious negative impact on e-commerce. E-commerce is still at very low pace in Nigeria majorly due to the effect of corruption. If one party places an order and expect the other party to mail or supply the goods before payment is effected, the supplying party would be weary that he may just supply goods to an individual he may not be able to trace eventually. On the other hand, if the order is backed with payment, the person who places the order will not be sure the supplier would supply to specification and to his/her satisfaction. I was having a chat with my dad recently, and he took me way back into the 60à ¢Ã¢â€š ¬Ã¢â€ž ¢s when Nigeria did not have a colour lab for printing pictures. All pictures printed then were all in à ¢Ã¢â€š ¬Ã‹Å"black and whiteà ¢Ã¢â€š ¬Ã¢â€ž ¢, however, if you want it printed in colour one needed to send the film to the United Kingdom (UK), it will printed in colour and sent back to Nigeria after which you now send the payment over to the UK. Over time, the transaction was stopped/cancelled by the UK government which I reckon was due to fraudulent activity of Nigerians not paying after receiving their pictures back. Also the corruption in the country which does not spare the judiciary makes seeking redress in law court a tortuous exercise. In some cases, justice i s to the highest bidder and when it is not, the road to justice is long and winding. A simple civil case on a contractual agreement may take years and by the time judgement is delivered, the compensation is not restorative enough. The generality of the people that are involved in e-commerce do not see any reason or have any urge to keep accurate record of all transactions. At times, it can be due to ignorance and at times it is deliberate and intentional. Whatever be the case, the overall effect is to evade paying the required tax revenue to the appropriate government. The government that is in position to develop or encourage e-commerce through enactment of favourable policies and law may then not be interested. On the other hand, if people would pay taxes as appropriate, the government can encourage e-commerce which is still in its infancy in Nigeria. REFERENCE Akintola, K.G., Akinyede, R.O. and Agbonifo, C.O (2011), à ¢Ã¢â€š ¬Ã‹Å"appraising Nigeria redness for Ecommerce towards achieving vision 2020à ¢Ã¢â€š ¬Ã¢â€ž ¢, IJRRAS, 9(2) Sherah Kurnia and Fei Peng (2010). Electronic Commerce Readiness in Developing Countries: The Case of the Chinese Grocery Industry, E-commerce, Kyeong Kang (Ed.), ISBN: 978-953-7619-98-5, InTech, Available from: https://www.intechopen.com/books/e-commerce/electronic-commerce-readiness-in-developing-countriesthe-case-of-the-chinese-grocery-industry https://www.transparency.org/news/pressrelease/20130314_transparency_international_calls_on_nigerian_president_to_rescind https://www.transparency.org/whatwedo?gclid=CLDnjKChmbgCFVMbtAod7S0AfA

Monday, May 18, 2020

Augustine s Confessions And St. Paul Essay - 1979 Words

In Augustine’s Confessions and St. Paul’s First Letter to the Corinthians, both authors discuss the relationship between fleshy temptation and the purity of the spirit. The Confessions is Augustine’s writes of his extensive search for truth and conversion to Christianity, as he struggles against fleshy temptations and his soul to find rest in God. Augustine’s writes of a constant struggle to reconcile between the dualistic notion of the flesh and spirit with a nuanced understanding of flesh. On the other hand, St. Paul’s Letter to the Corinthians calls for a unified community as a body to the Christian community. He writes of the significant bond one can have between the soul and Christ. The writings of Augustine and Paul are separate. Augustine explores of revelations of Christianity through his mistakes and encounters with people. On the other hand, Paul derives his understanding of the word from the life of Jesus. Paul is an advocate of Jesus, as he relays the gospel of God to the people to become one with God. Augustine’s Confessions and St. Paul’s First Letter to the Corinthians, address the relationship between fleshy temptation and the purity of spirit in two different perspectives. Augustine explores the meaning of a devout Christian as an dualistic battle between the body, temptations of evil, and the soul, desire to be pure. Whereas, Paul deduces that the body of Christ is a unity of all followers of Jesus, and the soul is a spiritual bond with God. ThroughoutShow MoreRelatedSaint Augustine s Life Of Augustine1679 Words   |  7 PagesSaint Augustine The Life of Augustine Augustine was born in North Africa in AD 354 in the city of Thagaste. His father, Patricius, was a pagan and his mother, Monica, a devoted Catholic who relentlessly prayed for her son s salvation. Saint Augustine of Hippo wrote Confessions between AD 397 and AD 398. He is regarded as a great theologian, philosopher, and one of most prolific Latin author s of many works. Augustine was schooled at Tagaste and Madaura and later at Carthage where he became interestedRead MoreReasons For St Augustine s Conversion2016 Words   |  9 Pageswith spirit. St Augustine Biography Info Augustine of Hippo was born on November 13, in AD 354, in Thagaste (modern day Souk Ahras, Algeria), and died on August 28, in AD 430, in modern-day Annaba, Algeria (then known as Hippo Regius). It was in the latter city where he was named Bishop 35 years prior to his death. It is a challenge to encapsulate renowned personalities, and with St. Augustine, this task is even more difficult (Augustine of Hippo). A theologian and philosopher, Augustine dithered betweenRead MoreThe Council Of Nicea ( 325 )2116 Words   |  9 PagesHistory of Christianity by Todd Bush August 20, 2016 Saint Augustine, one of the best scholars of the early church, portrayed the Trinity as practically identical to the three sections of an individual: personality, soul, and will. They are three unmistakable viewpoints, yet they are conjoined and together constitute one bound together individual. The purpose of this research paper is to further emphasize, highlight, and defend St. Augustine’s conclusion that the Holy Trinity is one God existingRead MoreWho Gregory Boyle s Tattoos Of The Heart1873 Words   |  8 Pagesfollower of Jesus Christ would have had. I think that leading by example is a much more effective way of reaching out towards people who are not as knowledgeable about God during those times, and even during the modern times now. According to Gerard S. Sloyan in the one of the publications of The College Theology Society, A World More Human, A Church More Chrisitan, â€Å"A generation of undergraduate students has appeared which is seemingly disinterested in the entire theological venture, whether markedRead MoreSt. Augustine s Confessions Essay1885 Words   |  8 Pagesexamined in the stories, Genesis, as God creates human beings to live amongst his other creations but to have free reign over the land, the Romans Corinthians, as even Jesus’ faith was to put to the test, and it is deeply explored in St. Augustine’s Confessions. Furthermore, the compatibility of faith and reason is seen in The Book of Matthew as Jesus travels the lands of Israel blessing them with his own faith. Faith and reason would not be attainable if it weren’t for our triune God subtly givingRead MoreLeibniz and the Problem of Evil3712 Words   |  15 Pagesuniting Christian Confessions; particularly he tried to find common ground for agreement between Catholics and Protestants.1 Although Leibniz had enjoyed a life in the public limelight, his popularity declined at the end of his life. He died in obscurity in 1716, and his 1 Frederick Copleston, S. J., A History of Philosophy, Vol. 4, (New York: Continuum Int’l Publishing, 2003) p.265 funeral was attended by his secretary only.2 His main works include Monadology, Philosophers Confession, PrinciplesRead More A Theology of Fly Fishing Essay3186 Words   |  13 Pagesdivine inception. As the Genesis author summarizes, so should we: â€Å"God saw everything that he (sic) had made, and indeed it was very good†(Gn 1:31a).1 I interpret the above to mean that divine establishment imbues all of creation with holiness. Paul Tillich writes, â€Å"...holy objects are not holy in and of themselves. They are only holy by negating themselves in pointing to the divine of which they are mediums†(Tillich 1951: 216). That is to say, everything has a quality beyond the purely materialRead MoreBeyond the Problem of Evil Essay6495 Words   |  26 PagesGod is the paradigm of goodness, then it would seem that we must modify our conception of his power. However, Christian orthodoxy remains unwilling to modify its conception of Gods goodness or his power-- thus, the persistence of the problem. St. Augustine was fully aware of this problem and spent much-- perhaps most--of his philosophical energy attempting to come to terms with it. In *De ordine*, he writes: Those who ponder these matters are seemingly forced to believe either that Divine ProvidenceRead MoreFdt4 Task 2 Essay5696 Words   |  23 Pagesthe Lamb o f God, who was slain that we might be redeemed.† (Packer, 1996). The third belief of the LDS faith that I am going to talk about is the belief that Joseph Smith restored the church to the earth. Joseph Smith was a young boy in the 1800’s that was trying to figure out what religion was true. They believe that Jesus and God appeared to the fourteen year old Joseph Smith as he was praying in the woods outside his home. They believe that God and Jesus Christ told him that there was no trueRead More T.S. Eliots The Wasteland Essay3278 Words   |  14 Pagesmay not be what they need, nor do they consider why it is they feel they must do these things. Through studies in Sigmund Freud’s psychoanalytic perspective on human drives, the various Christian theories of Mark Jordan and Kirk Bingaman, and Jean-Paul Sartre’s atheist existentialism, a movement that demands that a person take control of their actions, the character’s actions can be understood. It is through these tales of misplaced hope that the motives of the characte rs, and the reason they feel

Sunday, May 17, 2020

Why John Locke is the Greatest Philosopher of all Time

Why John Locke is the Greatest Philosopher of all Time John Locke was a British philosopher and physician who lived from 29th August 1632 to 28th October 1704. He is one of the most outstanding of enlightenment thinkers, who explained many of the ideas that affect human life in today’s society. He is widely known as the father of classical liberalism, because of his emphases on liberty of persons by, restricting the authority of the government Jenkins and John (18). He is also regarded as one the first imperialist in Britain because his pioneer work on imperialism theory, a theory in epistemology that asserts that knowledge comes only from sensory experience. He is equally important when studying the theory of the social contract, which†¦show more content†¦His view on exempting papists and atheist from religion freedom has been severely criticized (Jenkins and John 35). Theory of value and property According to Locke the word property can be viewed from two perspectives; narrow and broad. Property is broad in the sense that it covers a wide range of human interests and aspirations, while on a narrow perspective property refers to material goods. From his argument property ought to be viewed as a natural right derived from labor. Locke further argues that property should be used to produce goods that are beneficial to human society and that ownership of goods and property should be based on the labor used in producing the goods. Locke believes that nature produces goods of little value; therefore, labor must be exerted to increase the value of the goods. This means that goods the society gets from nature are of less significance unless combined with labor during the production process, so without labor goods are of no value, because goods derive their value from labor. According to Locke, for one to own property they must apply labor in the production of that property, lock summ aries the theory by saying that property comes before the state, a claim that Karl Max criticizes in his social theory (Locke 101). Locke also believed that as much as labor creates property, it does not dictate limits of property accumulation.Show MoreRelatedThe Inspiration of the Declaration of Independence1203 Words   |  5 Pagesinfluenced one of the greatest founding fathers, Thomas Jefferson, to create such an important document in our American history. To really understand what influenced Thomas Jefferson, we must understand some of the men who inspired him when creating this document. Its also important for us to understand the philosophies these men went by, and why Thomas Jefferson wanted incorporate their philosophies in his grand ideas. We also need to understand what was happening at the time when the DeclarationRead MoreComparison between Two Political Thinkers and and their Understanding of Private Property1464 Words   |  6 Pagesthemes and topics. When studying political theory, it is important to recognize the philosopher behind the written work, and comprehend why they reflect the political beliefs that they do. This paper will compare and contrast two of the most noted and influential political thinkers and their understanding of private property. The first theory is found within the work of English philosopher John Locke. Locke strongly supported the concept of private property, and believed that the only reasonRead MoreJohn Locke s Theory Of Classical Liberalism1132 Words   |  5 Pagespoint in almost every society, because setting a principle to define one s possessions is an important aspect in citizen’s lives. This is why the majority of countries contain some form of property rights. In broad terms, property is defined as a thing that someone possesses. Throughout many years the definition of property has changed, and many philosophers have been able to address the different variations of property. Today, the definition of property is complex and contains many sub-definitionsRead MoreThe Enlightenment Impact On Western Society973 Words   |  4 Pagesbrought about by many great philosophers and scientists of the era when they began to question many long-standing beliefs such as the rights of the individual and the structure of power. Instead of solely relying on authority or religion t o answer questions about humanity, they turned toward logic and reason as their guides. In doing so, many arrived at conclusions that radically changed thinking across Europe. Their findings emphasized the rights of the individual, equality of all, feminism, and new perspectivesRead MoreThe Enlightenment And The American Revolution2027 Words   |  9 PagesThe Enlightenment and the American Revolution Everyone knows the story of how America came to be. It was similar to David versus Goliath, the American colonists against the potent England. England at the time of the Revolution, boasted the largest and most powerful fighting force in the history of the world. The Americans were rebellious country-cousins who wanted freedom from what they regarded as a capricious and tyrannical paternal England so they could govern themselves. The result was AmericaRead MoreEnlightenment During The French Revolution1423 Words   |  6 Pages Enlightenment during The French Revolution: Two of the Greatest Eras Working Together Without Knowing Molly Dauk Honors World History Mrs. Bartosik May 5, 2017 The Enlightenment and the French Revolution, two of the most enriched periods of history, probably never to be left out of the history books. The French Revolution was influenced greatly by the Age of Reason. The Enlightenment period took place over about three-hundred years, whereas the French Revolution took place for onlyRead MoreEssay on What is the Function of a Social Contract?1637 Words   |  7 Pages What is the Function of a Social Contract? Philosophers have been concerned with the theories of a social contract for thousands of years. Plato mentions the concept in Crito and in Republic. These theories have stemmed from the concept of justice and for our society to be just. I will look at the works of Thomas Hobbes, John Locke, Jean Jacques Rousseau and finally with John Rawls after which a overall view into the function of a social contract can be derived as well as any problems with theRead MoreThe Function of a Social Contract1676 Words   |  7 PagesWhat is the Function of a Social Contract? Philosophers have been concerned with the theories of a social contract for thousands of years. Plato mentions the concept in Crito and in Republic. These theories have stemmed from the concept of justice and for our society to be just. I will look at the works of Thomas Hobbes, John Locke, Jean Jacques Rousseau and finally with John Rawls after which a overall view into the function of a social contract can be derived as well as any problems with the theory(s)Read MoreJohn Locke And Rousseau s Impact On Western Political Development1593 Words   |  7 PagesDave Licause Early Modern European History Dr. Jason White 4 December 2015 Locke and Rousseau The Enlightenment saw many great thinkers, but maybe no other individuals had a greater impact on Western political development than John Locke and Jean-Jacques Rousseau. Locke and Rousseau, at the core of their arguments, believed that mankind creates a social contract within society. However, Rousseau and Locke differ in their exact view of the social contract, but both agree that some individual rightsRead MoreComparison Of Hobbes And Locke s State Of Nature1641 Words   |  7 PagesThe state is oppressive and was created to exploit people. This essay will examine why the state is needed, two states with different political views, how it impacts individuals as well as looking at the political views from two philosophers of social contract theory. Both Hobbes and Locke’s theory will be applied to Poland and North Korea. This first section provides a general discussion of the Hobbes and Locke’s state of nature and how it relates to individuals. According to Lacewing (2008), the

Wednesday, May 6, 2020

Diverse Interaction Fosters Collaborative Learning

Diverse Interaction Fosters Collaborative Learning Constructivism is an educational philosophy with many faces, however it primarily emphasizes on the social and cognitive abilities of the learner. A constructivist view on learning is where students share their experiences and knowledge in order to learn from another. Humans derive knowledge from previous knowledge, yet the teachers must conduct an environment that facilitates the learning process. It is a method of learning where the learner is active and makes sense of the world through external interventions. More importantly, educators that use collaborative learning to build morale and social skills collectively, contribute to the enhancement of student teaching (Hernandez, 2012). Theorists Jean Piaget, John Dewey and Lev Vygotsky were educational scientist who are responsible for the current way lessons are taught globally (Pass, 2004). Piaget, a psychologist, focus of constructivism has to do with the cognitive abilities of the individual and how they construct their own knowledge (Lam, 2011). Piaget is well known for the cognitive observational learning stages of the individual. Vygotsky is known for his sociocultural theory who designed the Zone for Proximal Development (ZDP) where students begin internalizes concepts. The Zone for Proximal Development is a key example of how constructivism uses collaboration to build knowledge through scaffolding. These philosophers make up the different parts of constructivism.Show MoreRelatedHow Diversity Influences Teaching Styles And Classroom Relationships1160 Words   |  5 PagesWenzlau LDR 822-0500 Grand Canyon University October 5, 2016 How Diversity Influences Teaching Styles and Classroom Relationships Today’s educational environmental landscape is a cornucopia of diverse students, with diverse backgrounds, cultural norms and values that influence their learning and relationships to teachers and other students. Today’s teachers face the need to consistently focus on ways to better prepare and serve these students in the classroom. Many of these students may comeRead MoreLeadership And The Development Collaboration1146 Words   |  5 PagesLeadership and the Development Collaboration In any collaborative environment, an open-line of communication is a critical factor. Communication is a two way interaction of listening and speaking in turn. One speaks while the other listens for true comprehension is a key factor. One must get an understanding before the vision can be implemented within any leadership role. The presence of collaboration in schools are the result of principals, educators, parents, and administrative leadership in workingRead MoreImpact Of Diversity On Campus Impact On Academic And Social Effects1413 Words   |  6 Pagestranscend ethnocentrism, generating suitable behavior in one or more cultures, and respecting other cultures. Language learning may not be sufficient for culture learning but it is an integral part of the ability to communicate with people and make the culture acquisition. IC competence is critically important for U.S institution population to be culturally aware of service learning, which may be the solution to connect language and culture. Not only connecting but also provides the opportunities forRead MoreCultural Competence And Academic Development959 Words   |  4 Pagesdemographics in California is becoming more and more socioculturally diverse. In the field of education, interactions with varying cultures is inevitable. Hence, to become an effective school counselor, it is essential to have sociocultural competence. Cultural competence refers to having an understanding of the different cultural experiences of individuals other than your own. It is a mindset of having effective interaction with others regardless of cultural beliefs or demographic membershipRead MoreLearning Based On Diverse Needs And Experiences928 Words   |  4 Pagesbe, and the moral value. As a teacher I understand how students differ in their approaches to learning based on their diverse needs and experiences. Due to these diverse needs and experiences, I will use a variety of communication techniques to foster inquiry, co llaboration, and supportive interaction in and beyond my classroom. There are four key areas that are essential to consider when teaching a diverse group of students; 1) the abilities of learners to learn, 2) the impacts of discrimination,Read MoreCounselor Educators : Service Learning858 Words   |  4 Pageseducators incorporating service learning. Counselor educators are called to prepare students with the necessary knowledge and skills to work with diverse clients. In addition, counselor educators are charged to create structured opportunities for self-discovery, self-reflection, and understanding of values, skills and knowledge (Moss, Gibson, Dollarhide, 2013). However, counselor educators are often challenged to go beyond the classroom to help student work with diverse communities and increase theirRead MoreTraining For A Safer Health Care System1172 Words   |  5 Pagesinnovations are influencing education strategies and specifically advancing the domain of health profess ional education. Simulation is becoming more popular as a means to provide innovative learning experiences and foster understanding of didactic content, as well as offer an avenue for students to refine their collaborative practice skills. The Institute of Medicine (IOM) in its report, To Err is Human: Building a Safer Health Care System, recommended simulation training as a teaching strategy that canRead More My Philosophy of a Constructivist Mathematics Education Essay1285 Words   |  6 Pagesgenetic epistemological constructivist model. This allows the student to scaffold their learning through cognitive processes that are facilitated by teaching in a resource rich and collaborative environment (Thompson, 1994, p.69). Constructivist learning Constructivist learning in mathematics should endeavour to encourage students to â€Å"construct their own mathematical knowledge through social interaction and meaningful activities (Andrew, 2007, p.157).† I want students to develop their ownRead MoreInstructional Leadership : The Implementation Of Strategic Planning Concepts Regarding Quality Instruction Essay1539 Words   |  7 Pagessupporting educators with the intention of generating effecting learning environments drives instructional leadership. More specially, creating learning platforms were all students can learn regardless of ability levels is an essential component of instructional leadership. The ability to differentiate instruction combined with the incorporation of a variety of educational tools and resources aids in the development of effective learning environments. More importantly, instructional leadership requiresRead MoreEffective Teaching Strategies Essay1404 Words   |  6 PagesReflection Item Two: ‘Adapting the curriculum and effective teaching strategies’ Question: Discuss in detail ways that teachers can set up the learning environment in order to maximise teaching and learning, and the advantages and disadvantages that belong with such implementation. In our teaching careers, the biggest achievement we can make; is to succeed in creating a supportive environment which nurtures the emotional, physical, social and intellectual developmental needs of each and every

Han China Essay - 858 Words

In the Classical Period, though miles apart, both Imperial Rome and Han China had parallels and differences in methods of political control. The two civilizations both used the aspects of religion and belief systems to attain political influence over their subjects, but had differing methods to reach this goal. Standardization and cultural unity was a key factor in both civilizations regarding political control, as was expansion and growth of trade. The systems of belief of both Han China and Imperial Rome were quite different. Rome began with a polytheistic religion but later converted to Christianity, a monotheistic religion, with the arrival of Constantine. Constantine united all of the Roman Empire under Christianity. People began†¦show more content†¦China had been composed of clashing groups of people with differing languages and cultures since the Warring States Period. Shi Huangdi established the first empire of China, the Qin, and creates uniform systems of weight, measurement, and coinage; a uniform law code; regulations regarding the lengths of axles on carts; and a common system of writing to unify the people of China. After the Qin Dynasty fell, the Han Dynasty adopted the systems of standardization used by the Qin. They were able to build roads, expand in population and size, and take part in trade due to a culture made of common, uniform systems. While a common system of writing was established in the Ha n Dynasty, it was controlled by the elite class so that no one else could outdo them in education and overtake their positions of control. In the Roman Empire, Diocletian created a series of reforms as emperor which controlled prices on goods, which was set in a standard system of money. Latin language and religion were other examples of standardized aspects of Roman society. Standardization was critical in both civilizations because both the Han and Romans controlled such a vast, diverse empire, and they had to have a common means of communication and commerce across the regions. Standardization allowed the civilizations to expand and flourish while keeping certain aspects of politics under governmental control. Both Han ChinaShow MoreRelatedThe History Of Han China1112 Words   |  5 PagesThough the people of Islamic belief are scattered throughout China, the greatest concentration of Muslims reside in the autonomous region of Xinjiang. This region is distinctly non-Han in its ethnic composition, since the Uyghurs account for nearly 75 percent of its population; the cultural makeup of this region is comprised of Turkic language and beliefs in Islam (Clarke and Hayes 3). However, the influx and growth of the Han Chinese population in Xinjiang has created a language barrier in whichRead MoreThe Unification Of China And Han Dynasty873 Words   |  4 Pages The unification of China was under the dynasties Qin and Han. There were formed schools of thought called Confucians, Daoists, and Legalists. These school of thoughts worked to bring political and social stability to China during the rule of the late Zhou dynasty which were chaotic years. Legalist principles and imposed centralized imper ial rule were adopted by rulers of the Qin and Han dynasties. Political stability was the foundation of economic prosperity for the Han dynasty. There was a searchRead MoreEssay on Traditions of Qin Han, China652 Words   |  3 PagesTraditions of Qin Han, China The Qin dynasty created the first unified Chinese empire. They did this by utilizing a legalistic approach to government. The Qin believed that the nature of mankind is inherently evil and only through a strict code of laws with severe punishment could the government achieve reliability and stability. Because the emperor feared the people and the inherent rights and privileges established with the teachings of Confucus, he ordered all books on Confucianism burnedRead MoreROMAN EMPIRE AND THE HAN DYNASTY IN CHINA1441 Words   |  6 Pagesï » ¿ROMAN EMPIRE AND THE HAN DYNASTY IN CHINA Rodrick Carter HIEU 201 Liberty University 29 November 2014 Roman Empire and the Han Dynasty in China The Roman Empire and Han Dynasty in China are two kingdoms that, despite the geographical difference between them, managed to achieve great success and failure in equal measure. Both were characterized by imperial dynasties that were headed by the emperors and they held large territories. Both of these kingdoms faced various challenges afterRead MoreThe Han Dynasty : A Golden Era For China1287 Words   |  6 PagesDecember 12, 2015 The Han Dynasty The Han dynasty was a golden era for China. It saw the greatest land confiscation of the nation’s history and economic success. In this paper I will be focusing on the structure of the national government, the monopolizing of iron and salt, the Yumen Pass and the Yellow Turban rebellion. Join me as we take a trip back in time to visit a time in Chinas history that is highly revered. Even though the Qin dynasty was seen as barbaric and brutal, the Han did implement someRead MoreDifferences in Ancient Rome and Han China944 Words   |  4 PagesHan China and Classical Rome When comparing Han China and Classical Rome, many political, geographical, and religious similarities can be found, though many differences are also prevalent. Though Roman and Han political structures both emphasized bureaucracies, they came to them quite differently. Through copious amounts of expansion, both societies spread culture and earned money, though expansion was eventually their downfalls. Their religions differed immensely, with Rome emphasizing polytheismRead MoreA Comparison of the Decline of Han China and the Roman Empire917 Words   |  4 PagesA Comparison of the Decline of Han China and the Roman Empire The decline of China and Rome both shared similar economic strife in that they were both subject to barbarian and nomadic invasions, therefore having to spend large amounts of money on frontier defense; however, they differed in that the Han Empire collapsed in part due to the high taxes imposed on the peasant class resulting in a large peasant rebellion, such as the Yellow Turbans, while in Rome tax collections was in danger ofRead MoreCompare and Contrast Han China and Rome Essay987 Words   |  4 Pagesvastly different, their start from a lowly seed and craving for water and sunlight to survive unifies them. Such is also true with the Han and Roman empires. While key differences may be present, their social structures, influencing religions, and causes of collapse unify them. Society cannot exist without a unified social doctrine, as is true with both the Han and Roman empires. While there may be vast differences between them, at their roots is the same thing, a structure built on family. InRead MoreThe Silk Road During The Han Dynasty Of China1484 Words   |  6 Pageswas not until the second century BC that Europe and Eastern Asia interacted in a significant way. What is known as â€Å"The Silk Road† was established during the Han Dynasty of China, it was a network of trade routes that created a link between these two regions during this ancient world (ancient.eu). Though these routes have history prior to the Han Dynasty, this is when many historians see the routes in full practice. This time during the second century BC was crucial in the connection of these separatelyRead MoreComparing Classical Athens and Han China Essay1599 Words   |  7 PagesAthens and Han China were major and distinctive. The background information, government, val ues of the individual, and art of each society show how differently each empire developed. Within the background information of both Athens and Han China you can automatically notice evident differences between the two. The first document shows the maps of both empires side by side. The Han Empire is isolated and much bigger than Athenss city-state Attica, which is a mere 50 miles long, while the Han Empires

Adoption and Success of ABC Samples †MyAssignmenthelp.com

Question: Discuss about the Adoption and Success of ABC . Answer: Introduction Activity Based Costing (ABC) refers to a particular method of costing that helps the business organizations in the identification of all the costing activities in the companies so that they can assign indirect costs to the manufactured products (ker zyapici, 2013). In the recent years, it can be seen that companies all over the world have started to adopt the method of ABC for their business organizations. However, some specific factors are there in the companies that influence the adoption of ABC. It is important for the companies to consider those factors as the success of ABC largely depends on them. Discussion In the recent years, it can be seen that ABC has become most popular in most of the countries all over the world. As per Abdallah Li, (2008), the main reason is that it is easy for the organizational managers to implement the process of ABC in order to find the costs of the company. Thus, it can be seen that companies prefer the implementation of ABC over the method of traditional costing. In the business organizations, ABC works in two stages. In the first stage, managers use to allocate the overhead costs into different cost pools based on their activity based on cost classification. In the second stage, the managers use a series of cost drivers in order to allocate the overall costs in the product lines (ker Ad?gzel, 2016). In this context, it needs to be mentioned that the traditional costing method is fully based on payroll of the employees and thus, it create obstacles for the mangers in measuring the performance of the employees. This is one of the reasons that lead to the a doption of ABC in most of the business organizations all over the world. In spite of the growing popularity of ABC all over the world, management of some of the major corporations are facing difficulties while using ABC. Thus, it can be understood that certain factors in the organizations lead to the success or failure of ABC (Abdallah Li, 2008). The major success factors for ABC in the companies are the assistance of top level management; effective integration between ABC and various organizational strategies like Just-In-Time (JIT), Total Quality Management (TQM) and others; establishment relation between ABC and the process of performance evaluation of employees; adequate training and development activities for using ABC; availability of organizational resources for the implementation and running of ABC and others (Abdallah Li, 2008). At the same time, certain factors lead to the failure of ABC in the companies. They are lack of transparent purpose of the business; lack of commitment from the top level management reading the implementation of ABC; delegation of authority in ABC; the resistance from employee as well as the management to bring change in costing method; poor design of ABC model and others. In this context, it needs to be mentioned that due to the above mentioned factors, the implementation of ABC failed in t he Bank of China (Abdallah Li, 2008). Organizations all over the world use different approaches to measure the success of the implementation of ABC in the companies. However, most of the companies use two major approaches or methods to measure the success of ABC (Allah Rahmouni Charaf, 2012). As per the first approach, organizational managers use single or multiple items to measure the success of ABC. In this approach, the use of single item has been criticized as it has failed to measure the overall success of ABC in the companies. For this reason, organizational managers have started using multiples items or variables for measuring the success of ABC. In this context, the assistance of ABC in decision making can be used as there are many instances where the organizational managers have used information extracted from ABC for making effective organizational decisions (Allah Rahmouni Charaf, 2012). As per the second approach, the success of ABC is measured based on the measurement of success in each step of the project . In this particular approach, the progress of each activity is measured for the completion of the second stage. As a result of this approach, the organizational managers can actually ensure the success of the whole project based on each step of the project. Thus, it can be seen that companies uses these two approaches for measuring the success of ABC. However, it needs to be mentioned that there are many other approaches to measure ABC success (ker zyapici, 2013). Every business organizations all over the world have to follow certain steps at the time of implementing the system of ABC in their companies. It is important for the companies to implement ABC in the effective and efficient basis as the success of mostly depends on the success of the each level implementation of ABC. It can be seen that there are a total of six stages in the implementation of ABC in the companies (Byrne, Stower Torry, 2009). The first stage is Initiation. In this particular stage, the analysis of feasibility of the adoption of ABC in the companies is done. This particular process ensures that the ABC implementation is done as per the nature and business operations of the companies. The second important stage is Adoption (Drury, 2013). This is a crucial stage in ABC implementation. In this stage, the amount of resources required for the implementation of ABC is determined. The third stage in ABC implementation is Adaptation. In this stage, the analysis of ABC is don e based on some of the key factors like the activities of the firm, various cost drivers and others. In this stage, the information of ABC is available, but they are not used for decision-making and other purposes (Byrne, Stower Torry, 2009). The fourth stage is Acceptance. In this stage, ABC is considered as a model or project that the top level management uses for decision-making. The next important stage is Routinisation. This is considered as a normal part of the management information system that the upper level management use in order to make effective business decisions. The last stage in ABC implementation is Infusion or Integration. This is the last stage of ABC implementation where the system is integrated with the organizational financial system. These are the six major stages of ABC implementation. In this context, it needs to be mentioned that Australia is one of the countries where the vast use of ABC can be seen (Byrne, Stower Torry, 2009). In United Kingdom, there are some major motives that work as the prime reasons behind the adoption of ABC in the companies. Majorly, companies switch to ABC as the current costing system fails to deliver the required important information to the companies for various purposes. It can also be seen that the companies move to ABC as it is required for them to update their current costing system (Al-Omiri Drury, 2007). Sometimes, due to the unreliability of the existing costing system forces the companies to implement ABC. The use of traditional costing system sometimes fails to align with the changing manufacturing environment of the companies. However, ABC can be well aligned with the changing manufacturing environments of the companies. ABC is consisted as one of the most sophisticated costing system and this is one of the reasons companies are opting for the implementation of ABC. A major aspect is the cost regarding the running of the costing systems. Companies have to bear high co sts in case of traditional costing system. However, the adoption of ABC costs the companies less while running the system. High level of synchronization can be seen between the accounting system of the companies and ABC (Al-Omiri Drury, 2007). Thus, it can be seen that all the above mentioned reasons lead the companies for the adoption of ABC for their manufacturing operations. There are certain behavioural and organizational factors in the business organizations that are associated with the success application of ABC (DraÃ… ¾i? Dragija, 2012). In most of the business organizations, organizational people ABC as the most appropriate tool for the calculation of product cost at various level of production. However, it has been seen that most of the companies failed to apply the various techniques of ABC for their costing purposes. This is because of some organizational as well as behavioural factors in the companies. Employees of most of the companies are reluctant to accept the changes in their companies and thus, they cannot happily welcome the introduction of ABC as their new costing system. In addition, sometimes companies get little support from upper level management for the application of ABC as their prime costing system (Senthil Bte, 2010). These are the major behavioural and organizational factor that leads to ineffective application of ABC. Conclusion From the above discussion, it can be seen that most of the companies all over the world are adopting ABC as their costing system. This is because ABC helps the companies in taking effective business decisions and the system is easy to implement. The above study also shows that companies use two major approaches to measure the success of ABC. It can also been seen that the companies follow six major steps at the time to implement the system of ABC in their companies. References Abdallah, A. A. N., Li, W. (2008). Why Did ABC Fail: at the Bank of China?.Management Accounting Quarterly,9(3). Allah Rahmouni, A. F., Charaf, K. (2012). Success of ABC Projects in French Companies: The Influence of Organizational and Technical Factors.Cost Management,26(6), 12. Al-Omiri, M., Drury, C. (2007). Organizational and behavioral factors influencing the adoption and success of ABC in the UK.Cost Management,21(6), 38. Byrne, S., Stower, E., Torry, P. (2009). Is ABC adoption a success in Australia?.Journal of Applied Management Accounting Research,7(1), 37. DraÃ… ¾i? Lutilsky, I., Dragija, M. (2012). Activity based costing as a means to full costingpossibilities and constraints for European universities.Management: Journal of contemporary management issues,17(1), 33-57. DRURY, C. M. (2013).Management and cost accounting. Springer. ker, F., Ad?gzel, H. (2016). Time?driven activity?based costing: An implementation in a manufacturing company.Journal of Corporate Accounting Finance,27(3), 39-56. ker, F., zyapici, H. (2013). A new costing model in hospital management: time-driven activity-based costing system.The health care manager,32(1), 23-36. ker, F., zyapici, H. (2013). A new costing model in hospital management: time-driven activity-based costing system.The health care manager,32(1), 23-36. Senthil Velmurugan, M., Bte Wan Nahar, W. N. A. (2010). Factors determining the success or failure of ABC implementation.Cost Management,24(5), 35.

System Parameter Identification Elsevier

Questions: 1. Offer an example, real or imaginary, of firms in each of the following three situations. Thoroughly explain your examples with numbers.1a The firm created Added Value by increasing Customer Willingness to Pay1b The firm created Added Value by reducing Supplier Opportunity Cost1c The firm increased Customer Willingness to Pay, but failed to create Added Value.2. How can a firm that finds itself on the losing side of network effects survive? Requires one paragraph. 3. Explain why it is important for managers at all levels to be involved with decisions regarding the use and implementation of information system. Include discussion regarding what happens when they are not involved. Provide examples to support your statements. Requires a minimum of two paragraphs.4. What is the difference between classic information goods and information-intensive goods? Requires first defining both classic information and information intensive and then describing the differences please provide examples.5. The fact that information has had to rely on a physical carrier limits its ability to behave accordingly to its inherent characteristics and created a trade-off between richness and reach. Please explain this Richness and Reach Trade-off. Requires a minimum of two paragraphs.6. What is the difference between Business and Systems integration? Define Business Integration and define Systems Integration and then explain the difference with examples.7. Explain the ch anges in recent years in society, especially with regard to in technology usage, as it relates to the steady increase in; available computing power, available storage capacity, and improved networking technology. Include examples of both what has happened and what these trends suggest for the future.8. What is required for the successful design and implementation of an Information System? Requires two paragraphs.9. What are some key implications that stem from the notion of systemic effects and the fact that Information Systems exist in an organizational context? Requires two paragraphs.10. Please draw the socio-technical system diagram to show the components of information systems and the interaction among the components, and define a third-order information systems and organizational change?11. Imagine the following scenario: You manage a table restaurant in your town. You have been asked to implement wireless table ordering using portable wireless devices. This is clearly a situa tion where you need to design an Information System. Use the framework we have introduced in class to identify the most important components that will make up such Information System (be specific to the example of the restaurant).12.What are the three levels in the hierarchical organizational perspective? Identify the three levels and identify an information system that would assist with decisions and the work processes at the level, please include the reason you chose the information system.13.How does the process perspective help solve the problems associated with the hierarchical and functional perspectives? Describe the three perspectives and then answer the question.14.List and describe two advantages of Open Source Applications. 15.List and describe the three principal characteristics of Enterprise Systems. Answers: 1a. The consumers are willing to pay to the industry that has been produced or created of any shape or kind. For instance, making a cake involves supplier opportunity cost of $11 and firm cost is around $12 and the company fix price of cake of $18. Therefore, customers would will to pay $20. Therefore, value would be created of $9 in transformation process. 1b. Decreasing supplier opportunity costs would help in incentive creation for suppliers in order to supply the required resources for few amount. For example, increasing the production of paper by 30% would decrease the supplier opportunity costs by 15%. 1c. For example, the firm would be earning zero value added if the competitors charges less price on product and providing other beneficial such as gifts, coupons, etc. 2. The firm can be on the losing side if the products are made less valuable by the users. The people can make use of particular products more often which makes difficult for the firm to survive with the products as it leads to congestion. For example, if large numbers of users make use of internet then it can affect internet speed and utility of the users would decrease and will directly impact on service provider (Chen, 2013). 3. The role of managers is effective in the process of information system as they can provide strong guidance that may be related to network security and would be effective in coordinating entire technology operations. Moreover, they would be possessing required skills and experience regarding information system implementation. For example, if managers are not included then the management would find difficult in installing system and ensuring security of the system. 4. Classic Information good is that good that is valued for the message that it holds and product is digitized. For example, a book having short stories, pieces of music in CD, etc. Information intensive goods are related to information for developing product and services and making it available in the market. For example, book retail firm, telephone, etc (Nakahara and Sasaki, 2013). 5. Richness is comprised of the information that is reliable, secure, bandwidth or level of information, information customization to a sole buyer and interaction between seller and buyer. Therefore, rich information is developed which can be used for making strong decision. Further, reach trade-off relates with the people that take effective participation in exchanging or sharing information gained from richness. 6. Business integration is employed in order to make appropriate sync of information technology and objectives and cultures of business. System integration is a process that helps in combining the component subsystems into single systems so that business process can be streamlined. 7. The usage of technology has increased at tremendous pace. The people have started making more use of computer for transferring online message through e-mails and many industries install tracking system for effective management. For example, one person can store all their details in the computer with highest security. Moreover, the use of technology will used at higher rate in coming future (VojtaÃÅ' sÃÅ'Å’, 2013). 8. The information system expert is necessary for design and implementation of system. They can provide valuable information about systems pros and cons. On the other hand, the firm may require feasible hardware and software for the development of system. 9. The key implication is that systemic effects are involved in making interaction of information technology with other important components. Moreover, if changes are made in the component then it can have affect or impact all others. The information system is involved in organization in the form of computer system or any other monitoring device (Wang, 2013). 10. The third-order is effective in enhancing the process of the business by implementing information system in different departments. Therefore, it brings positive change in the organization performance. 11. In mobile application, the element will be users, designers and managers for developing feasible and useable app. In database, the elements will be technical platform, development tools and process system whereas in wireless table ordering, the elements would be order deliverables, workflow and communication with the users. 12. The three levels are corporate level strategies, business level strategies and functional level strategies. The directional IS would be feasible for first level, production monitoring system for second level and operation management system would be useful for the third level. These system would help the organization is gaining better productivity and higher performance. 13. The process perspective would be useful in combining the key process and activities of the company so that higher value can be provided to the consumers. The three perspectives are strategic improvement, process extension and market extension. 14. The application is secure as it can be accessible by everyone. Moreover, people can fix the bugs whenever they acknowledge one. Furthermore, quality will be improved and higher benefit would be received from technology in real time (Nakahara and Sasaki, 2013). 15. The three characteristics of Enterprise systems are: Integration: The data can be integrated and can be transferred with highest security. Adaptability: The member of an organization would develop capability to follow the norms and rule and be flexible to organizational change. Best practices: Enterprise system would help in ensuring best practice with the industry and ethical behavior among employees (Nakahara and Sasaki, 2013). References Chen, B. (2013).System parameter identification. London, UK: Elsevier. Nakahara, M. and Sasaki, Y. (2013).Quantum information and quantum computing. Singapore: World Scientific. VojtaÃÅ' sÃÅ'Å’, P. (2013).Information modelling and knowledge bases XXIV. Amsterdam: IOS Press. WANG, F. (2013). WMO Information System: Beijing Global Information System Center.Bulletin of the American Meteorological Society, p.130121120822004.

Tuesday, April 21, 2020

The Ballerina Bullfrog Catcher free essay sample

I have had the great and unlikely honor of growing up the only girl in a family offive children. Being the only girl has many good points. Clothes,toys, games, sports equipment and anything else I could possibly want piled up inmy house Christmas after Christmas and birthday after birthday. I whined andcried until I got my way, throwing fits in stores and causing many embarrassingscenes which worked every time. Any organization or club I wanted to join, I wasin, and those I didnt want to be in, I wasnt. Having to play sports with onlygirls was different for me but it didnt stop me from joining. I wasDaddys little girl, his obvious favorite. My brothers despised mefor getting all the new toys and never being blamed when they got hurt or we didsomething wrong. Never the girly type, I didnt sit home brushing mydolls hair all day. We will write a custom essay sample on The Ballerina Bullfrog Catcher or any similar topic specifically for you Do Not WasteYour Time HIRE WRITER Only 13.90 / page If I wanted treats, my mother would make them no need foran Easy-Bake Oven for this young female. The only girl among fourbrothers and all their friends every day, playing with a tea set and Barbiedolls? I dont think so. I did what any six-year-old who expected attention woulddo. I became a tomboy with no intention of ever being anything butone. For the first 12 years of my life I thought of nothing but sports andthe next time I would get outdoors. My brothers and I spent every day with theneighborhood boys. We played football during the day and caught bugs aftersundown. Summer days were spent at creeks catching tadpoles and cooling off aftera long game of home-run derby. I always enjoyed being one of the guys andcouldnt imagine myself any other way. But, my mother could. One crispNovember morning my mother decided it was time I learned how to be a girl. Thiswas the worst day of my life. I got in the car not knowing where we were going.After a while we stopped at a rest area where my mother did the most dreadfulthing ever she made me put on a dress. She knew I would never leave the housein one. After ruining dress after dress when I was younger, my mother decided itwould be cheaper to allow me to wear pants every day, which left only specialoccasions for dresses, and then I would usually have a battle wound toounladylike to show. I used all the tricks I knew to fight offdresses. This time my mother was prepared and in the end, she won. Iwhined and begged: couldnt I at least wear my sneakers? My mother gave merepeated denials and, except for yawning, my mouth was shut the rest of the trip.When we arrived at a big gray building, she walked me inside, signed me in, andleft. Then the torture began. For the next eight weeks these women taught me, anda small group of other girls, the necessities, as they called them.To me, it was two and a half hours I could have been on the basketball court orplaying football. My first day of these classes was also my first day in dressshoes, and our first lesson was walking the runway. I gave new meaning to theterm catwalk as I stumbled and turned my ankles with every step. Atthe end of the runway, I turned to walk back, but I went a little too far andkerplunk I fell off the edge. The other sessions went much the same,except for the falling that was a one-time show. After our last session, I wasmore than ready to go home. When all was said and done, I had learned how tobrush my hair to make it shine just right and how to place my fork on the tablewhile I chewed my food. I knew exactly how to paint my nails oh-so-delicately. Ofcourse, I never used any of these skills, and soon forgot them. I wasdetermined to stay a tomboy forever. In high school, I realized that allthe other girls interests were beginning to be different from mine. I awokefreshman year and the reality of my gender struck me all my friends were girly,and I wasnt. I painted my face with make-up every morning and got stares from myclassmates when they saw me in a skirt I had legs. Previously my legs had onlybeen seen in basketball shorts, or when I tore a hole in my jeans. Whendating became a topic, I knew it wasnt for me. I knew all the things guys did; Iknew what Monday night football was really like, and I knew the thoughts thatwent through a boys mind. Considering how well I knew them, I wondered how anygirl could hope to find romance in the middle of that smelly bunch. It all seemedlike a waste of time, but I figured someday I might understand. The onlygirl in a family is overprotected, and so my father controlled practically everyaspect of my life. If I wanted to go anywhere or do anything, my father had toknow the who, what, where, and when, especially if members of the opposite sexwere involved. The middle of freshman year I decided I would givedating a try. My first date proved quite an experience. My father is a hunter,and so it is normal for him to come into the house dressed in camouflage carryinga shotgun or bow. For my first date, however, this was one scary sight. When a64 man filled the doorway, my date saw him as one who was hunting his prey. Theglare my father was giving would have been enough to scare away my date if hedhad the courage to move. To my father this glare was not enough, the threateningIf-you-touch-my-daughter speech was needed, too. Theseexperiences were only the beginning of the rest of my life. I have outgrown mytomboyishness and now see myself as the only daughter, not just one of the guys.I still often take advantage of my situation, using it to get my way. My tacticshave changed, though, from throwing fits to talking calmly, but the results areidentical. My childhood ways still shine on the basketball court or while playingfield hockey, but I havent caught a bug or bullfrog in years. My uniqueplace in my family as the one girl among four brothers has been an honor and ablessing. Growing up in this situation, Ive had the best of both worlds.