Legacy, a Humanely Resourceful Beast free essay sample

I am no ordinary child; I am a sleeping beast underneath waiting to wake and change the world as done within this child. I’ve lived a life of honor and morality. I’ve accomplished many things and pursue a career in Human Resources. In which, I brood because of the culture of life’s eerie and dim-witted customs and companies and overlooked regulations. As I tread this road awaiting the right time to create a legacy by positively affect companies. I discover a chronically lethargic physical state, but the mind is far-traveled. In this mind, a voice is irate with its physical condition. A drowsy, heavy-eyed beast that desires slumber after its brain has acquired knowledge. This is how companies are being seen, lethargically feeble. To believe that you should slumber whilst your brain desires work is a ludicrous stipulation for any entity. Discovering a weary body, may become a route that ensues when the brain commences its deliberation. We will write a custom essay sample on Legacy, a Humanely Resourceful Beast or any similar topic specifically for you Do Not WasteYour Time HIRE WRITER Only 13.90 / page A slumbering erudite is incongruent, which is like a deplorable conundrum, a leader who is a liaison between unconstitutional adults that hold the unwarranted customs of politics and those who you call peers, which the leader would call insubordinates, who do not condone with the rules and laws of a deficient educational corporation guarded with capitalist views that support team based behavior. Which contradicts the purpose of testing that requires one’s own mind and poses moot inquiries in times of creativity. Producing low scores is not the outcome of stupidity, it demonstrates the difference between those who are one tracked minded versus those who comprise of immense convoluted inventiveness and are ready to pounce against multitudinous canvases pending their creativity. Leaders do not overseer the humility of their hearts, they follow what they feel is respectable and moral. For belligerence is not to be fooled with, it is the key to a lurid reputation. It was not legislated that leaders must follow political outlooks. Politics are creating platforms for idiots in society. As the brain works inside this heavy-eyed beast, the aversion to the politics of excuses stating why an individual is out of regulation is a justifiable reason as to why I may be spurned at the notion of injustice, the glibness behind liberty and its misunderstood definition of ‘Freedom.’ Time to catalog the hearts of humility and chart the minds of creativity to watch those intellectually artistic people vehemently announce their presence in this world because it is time for those to transpire a forbearing fact: communion. The virtuous peace and love we all deserve while interlocking our diminished deeds with our over looked lopped sins, for the reason that time has no date; which, to legislate a more palatable and ardent conundrum for those oblivious bastards is essentially right but, with much apathy, is politically wrong. It is in these very reasons that foundations fail, people are unemployed, overworked, and tired. Management, administration, and superiors who have a title but none of the necessary skills for improvement are causing negative economic landslides. Issues have arisen and superiors are overlooking what needs to be fixed, but this heavy-eyed beast that slumbers whilst his brain works is beginning to become annoyed at the injustices and mistreatment of policy, rules, and under trained superiors that have not any principled sense. This beast has slept long enough and evaluated and analyzed more information than needed. It is time to begin change like the beast has done within himself. This beast has awoken and is ready to be The Humane Resource for more effective, efficient, fluent, and productive companies. Time!

News Corp Media Giant essays

News Corp Media Giant essays News Corp is highly involved in many facets of the media but I will focus on the film industry, their cable channel holdings, and their Satellite distribution networks. All these parts are a major part of News Corp but the satellite companies allow them to more News Corp owns many companies world wide that are involved in the film industry. Some of the US companies that are owned by News Corp are 20th Century Fox, Fox Searchlight Pictures, And Blue Sky Studios. 20th Century Fox Is the Flagship of News Corps Film Holdings. In the last year they were nominated for many academy awards and won several for the movie Master and Commander. They are also responsible for such new movies as Girl Next Door and Welcome to Mooseport. Another part is Fox Searchlight Pictures, which was started in 1994 to give new and up and coming filmmakers a venue to enter the industry. They are responsible for such movies as Slums Of New York, Banger Sisters, and One Hour Photo. Blue Sky Studios is a company that specializes in computer generated animation. They were acquired in 1997 to give the Fox studios an in into this new market of feature length computer animated films. This acquisition paid off for them with the hit Ice Age. Another part of News Corp is their cable networks. A large part of this division is the Fox Sports Networks. This network of sports channels includes many regional sports networks, the Speed Channel, the Outdoor Life network, and the Golf Channel. They plan to start a new nationwide sports channel to more closely compete with ESPN. In 1996 News Corp started the Fox News channel, a Hard nose Pulls no Punches, news source that right now has a larger market share than its competitors CNN and MSNBC. News Corp Also has many othe...

Learn the French Verb Conjugation for Attraper

Learn the French Verb Conjugation for Attraper In French, the verb attraper  means to catch or to pick up. What if you wanted to say I picked up? Then you would need to conjugate the verb into the past tense, which is either jattrapais or jai attrapà ©. There are, of course, other conjugations for  attraper  which French students will want to know. A quick lesson in transforming it to match the present, future, and past tenses will help. Conjugating the French Verb  Attraper Attraper  is a  regular -ER verb. This means that its relatively easy to conjugate because it follows a prescribed pattern. Once you learn which endings to use, you can apply that knowledge to similar verbs such as  attacher  (to attach) and  blesser (to hurt). In order to find the correct conjugation, use the chart and pair the subject pronoun the I, you, we, etc., or in French  j, tu, nous   with the appropriate tense for your sentence. For example, I catch is jattrape and we will pick up is nous attraperons. Subject Present Future Imperfect j attrape attraperai attrapais tu attrapes attraperas attrapais il attrape attrapera attrapait nous attrapons attraperons attrapions vous attrapez attraperez attrapiez ils attrapent attraperont attrapaient The Present Participle of  Attraper The  present participle  of attraper  is a verb, but it can also act as an adjective, gerund, or noun when needed. To make this change, we simply replace the -er  with -ant  to form the word attrapant. Another Past Tense of  Attraper You have two options when using attraper  in the past tense. One is the imperfect and the other is  known as passà © composà ©, which is more common and a little easier. In order to use the passà © composà ©, you will need two elements. First, is the appropriate conjugate for  avoir,  which is an  auxiliary verb. Second is the  past participle  attrapà ©Ã‚  and this does not change with the subject pronoun. As an example, to say I picked up in French, you will use jai attrapà ©. In a similar fashion, we caught is nous avons attrapà ©. Notice how the  ai  and  avons  are the conjugates of  avoir. More  Attraper  Conjugations When you are starting out, feel free to concentrate on the present, future, and past tenses of  attraper. As you dive further into French, you may also find a need for some of the following verb forms. You will find the subjunctive and conditional useful when the action is suspect, in question, or uncertain. The passà © simple and imperfect subjunctive are primarily found in formal writing. While these are not common, its good to at least be able to recognize them and associate them with  attraper. Subject Subjunctive Conditional Pass Simple Imperfect Subjunctive j attrape attraperais attrapai attrapasse tu attrapes attraperais attrapas attrapasses il attrape attraperait attrapa attrapt nous attrapions attraperions attrapmes attrapassions vous attrapiez attraperiez attraptes attrapassiez ils attrapent attraperaient attraprent attrapassent One final verb form is helpful to know and that is the imperative. This is used in direct requests and demands and theres no need to use the pronoun here. Instead of tu attrape, simplify it to attrape. Imperative (tu) attrape (nous) attrapons (vous) attrapez

The Grade I Deserve In This Course Essay Example | Topics and Well Written Essays - 500 words

The Grade I Deserve In This Course - Essay Example Oftentimes I recognize that fellow students participate in classroom lectures and complete their homework not out of a genuine intellectual interest, but out of a desire to merely achieve a high grade. While I commend their standards and commitment to success I believe such an approach is not effective in gaining the greatest benefit from the course. During this course I have made my greatest effort to digest and appreciate the course material in a way wherein I would truly understand its deeper meaning and implication, both for the content as well as for improving my English writing skills. It follows that while others may appear to have outwardly been more involved in the course, I believe that my commitment and intellectual involvement are very high in terms of my own abilities, as well as relative to other students in the course. In examining the extent that I accomplished the goals of this course I believe I was highly successful. In these regards, I greatly improved my writing and linguistic abilities. I recognize my improvement in the increased ease I feel writing documents that in the past would have taken me a significant amount more time. Another element of my improved understanding is that I have increased my critical thinking skills. I believe that one of the central challenges of the course was approaching difficult or dense material and gaining a deeper understanding of this material’s central arguments. In the process of engaging with this challenging material I found that I began to develop increased strategies for tackling things that previously I would have simply ignored. I believe that these increased critical thinking skills, as evidenced both in my improved English writing and comprehension abilities, are perhaps the greatest things I gained from the course. Taking the cumulative impact of the previously articulated examples,

Types of birth control for women Essay Example | Topics and Well Written Essays - 500 words

Types of birth control for women - Essay Example The choice that most women make depends on their health, how frequent she copulates and whether she whether she wants children. Lifestyle plays a big part in the choice of birth control methods. On the contrary, contraceptives vary in their effectiveness to prevent birth control to women. Possible side effects play a crucial part in how women choose their birth control methods. The types of birth control methods are abstinence, natural methods and methods that prevent unwanted pregnancies.Women can decide to abstain from sexual activities as a method of birth control. It is the best method for women who want to control unwanted pregnancies and protect themselves from STI. On the other hand, natural method helps women in birth control to prevent the pregnancies by copulating during their safe days. Safe days are the days during their menstrual cycle when they can copulate without getting pregnant. Women who use this method have to be certain of the menstrual cycle. The method is commo n for women who are in a stable relationship but do not want to have a baby. The method prevents birth control but does not stop the women from being infected with sexually transmitted diseases.Women are administered with injections that prevent their bodies from releasing eggs into the ovaries. Women also attach a patch on their body that boosts hormones into the bodies of women to regulate the release of eggs in the ovary. Other methods of the same kind include vaginal ring and birth controls pills.â€Æ'

A Strategic Analysis of Apple Essay Example for Free

A Strategic Analysis of Apple Essay Apple Inc. is an American based multinational corporation. It focuses on designing, selling and producing consumer electronics, software and personal computers. Its main product lines are; the iMac, iPhone, iPad and the iPod. Founded in 1976 by Steve Jobs, Steve Wozniak and Ronald Wayne. Since then Apple Inc. has been one of the most innovative and competitive organisations in the technology industry. There have been significant ups and downs in the history of Apple. Throughout this, it kept its legacy of introducing new technology to the market. It is believed that over a hundred countries use Apple’s products. Boston Consulting Group (BCG) ranks the company as the most innovative company for the last 8 years running. It is important for an organisation like Apple to remain competitive in the industry for its survival. Apple has been working extensively to introduce new products and ideas since its inception. Apple has transformed its business segment over the last decade. This began with the launch of the iPod in 2001, increasing profitability and creating growth. Apple further enhanced their profitability by expanding the operating segment, launching the iTunes store, and more recently through the acquisition of ‘Beats’. NPD Group (2012) found 63% of digital downloads run though Apple. The major turnaround occurred in 2007 when the company launched an Internet enabled smartphone (The iPhone). This started the golden era of  profitability and technological expansion for Apple. Apple has penetrated most of the developed countries, and even reached saturation point in Europe with its high end products including iPhone and iPad. It is yet to make a significant impact in the developing countries including China and India, which has around 36.8% of the worlds population. The research firm IDC (2013), found Apple’s market share for androids in China was only around 7%, below Samsung and Levono Group. 1.2 Research Aims Alfred Chandler (1962) defined strategy as The determination of the basic long-term goals of an enterprise, and the adoption of courses of action and the allocation of resources necessary for carrying out these goals.† In order to analyse the firms’ strategic position we will further this research into three sections. The first, looking at the impact of the environmental factors. This will be done using a PESTEL analysis, as well Porters’ Five Forces model. Secondly we will consider the strategic capability of Apple by using a SWOT analysis. Finally analysing Apple’s innovation and internationalisation strategy in more detail. Concluding by offering recommendations for Apple and its competitors. 2. Environment Analysis 2.1 PESTEL Analysis It is important for every organisation to identify the impact of environmental analysis on its business operations. Apple is currently operating in more than 100 countries, meaning external factors have a significant impact upon the company. Identification and constant monitoring of these factors is important to minimise the effect they have on Apple. 2.2 Political Apple Inc. Form 10-K (2013) stated that approximately 63% of the Apple’s revenue comes from countries other than America. Thus the political  environment of various countries will significantly impact the revenue of Apple. The current political unrest in Crimea and the annexation to Russia from Ukraine could affect Apple’s sales, due to USA and Russian relations. In 2013 Apple sold approximately 1.6 million iPhones in Russia making it an important market for Apple. It is important for Apple to continuously monitor this situation in respect to their sales in Russia. China is now the worlds largest market for smart phones with 26.5% of all smart phone shipments, Forbes (2012). As shown below. For Apple to enter the Chinese market, a joint venture must be set up with a Chinese partner. This led to Apple joining with China Mobile. Apple’s market share has grown by 1% in the last quarter of 2014. This has led to Apple now being the 5th largest vendor of androids in China. 2.3 Economic The analysis of the global economy is of vital importance. During a period of recession such as the one just seen, disposable income falls, and unemployment rises. Apple’s product could be seen to be a luxury product, where quantity sold declines as income falls. This may lead to a fall in sales for Apple. However, during the recent recession Apple’s sales increased. Asymco (2011) Report below: The graph shows how Apple maintained continual growth in revenue over the ’09 period and onwards. Although its product may be seen as luxury, Apple managed to differentiate its product from competitors, and so created an increased demand. Additionally, with a depreciation of the dollar, the purchasing power of parity in foreign countries improves, and so Apple’s products become relatively cheaper. This led to an increase in international sales. 2.4 Socio- Cultural Factors The social life of an individual has significantly changed over the past  decade due to the revolution brought by a rapid expansion of social media such as Facebook, Twitter, and LinkedIn. These social media networks have their own applications on iPhone. This gives users both business and consumers, a good medium to communicate with friends, family and business contacts. Apple has shaped modern culture by doing such, and this has increased demand for its product. Furthermore, Apple has entered the media market by the commercial linking of consumer products, with the iPod and through the launch of iTunes. This made a significant impact on 12 to 35 year olds using such products to enhance their social lives. 63% of digital downloads occur through iTunes, which gives Apple a dominant position in this market. By staying up to date with the changes Apple can increase its demand for both product. 2.5 Technological Technological factors are instrumental to the success of Apple. As one of the leading innovators in a technological industry, Apple must stay at the forefront of new developments. Steve Jobs was well aware of this: ‘Innovation distinguishes between a leader and a follower,’ (The innovation secrets of Steve Jobs, 2001.) This led to Apple’s first steps, transitioning from a computer manufacturer to a leading technology company. This occurred through the iPod and more recently the iPhone and iPad. There was an awareness to develop new products as well as operating systems, which made the total range of compatible products attractive to consumers. KPMG’s Technology Innovation Survey (2013) found that the US is most likely to find a disruptive breakthrough in technological advancements, contrary to beliefs a few years ago. However, China is close behind, with 24% of the votes believing China will see the next disruptive breakthrough in innovation. Either way, Apple must be very aware of what competitors are producing. If they do not utilise advancements in production or ICT revolutions they will be left behind. 2.6 Environmental There is now a greater awareness on a global scale to reduce emissions and become more environmentally friendly. Laws and regulations in United States have changed and this has made manufacturers responsible for recycling their waste. For this purpose Apple has established domestic recycling facilities which will help the Company to recycle its waste in United States and to follow the rules and regulations. Apple has communicated its willingness to adopt a green production process in order to protect the environment. This may enhance its credibility in the local and international markets. Apple Website (2014) ‘We want to leave the world better than we found it.’ We aim to ‘create not just the best products in the world, but the best products for the world.’ Clearly Apple are making conscious steps to lead the way in becoming a green company, and to mold with the changing views of the population. 2.7 Legal Apple operates in more than 100 countries and the legal environment faced by the technology giant is of utmost importance. Apple has filed various lawsuits in court for violations of intellectual property rights (IPR) . Protection of IPR and patents will significantly impact revenue and future profitability. One of the most famous cases is where Apple won a $1.05 billion lawsuit against Samsung, showing the importance of the Legal system in the US. Furthermore, Apple is subject to international laws, policies and procedures. To compete in the Chinese market, Apple has ventured with China Mobile. Apple must continuously work alongside laws and regulations to maintain its brands equity. Operating in such a vast number of countries increases revenue, but leads to the arduous task of keeping up to date with all laws in all countries. 3. Porter’s Five Forces Michael Porter developed this Five Forces model, which is used as a tool for companies to analyse business strategies. The use of the forces can determine the intensity and the attractiveness of the industry, reflecting the profitability of the industry. 3.1 Threats of New Entrants If market entry is easy, and barriers to entry low, then the competition in a market will be much greater. There are a number of factors which limit the ease of entrance. In the PC and mobile phone industry, the market has high levels of competition, and so threat of new entrants isn’t high. Apple has managed to gain very high levels of brand loyalty with its customers. Apple emphasise RD and product innovation, which satisfies consumer demands. Apple also benefits from economies of scale, linking its production of different goods and services together. Finally, Apple has set up manufacturing plants in China where the labour and costs of production are cheaper. These factors all create high barriers to entry for new competition. Therefore, the main threat is between existing competition developing products to match that of Apple, and not from new entrants. 3.2 Threats of substitutes The more similar a substitute is to an Apple product the less power Apple has. This reduces Apple’s ability to charge higher prices. In the Mobile phone, PC, and Tablet industry there is a huge variety of products available. This puts Apple under constant pressure. For example, Apple’s flagship device, the iPhone, has rivalry from various smartphones, such as Samsung’s’ Galaxy S4 and HTC. The major reason for Apple’s success is due to its superior quality of product, along with brand recognition. This has made Apple the most valuable smartphone brand (The Worlds Most Valuable Brands Forbes. 2014). Apple must endeavor to maintain this brand loyalty to reduce the threat of substitution and charge to premium price for the products. 3.3 Supplier Power Apple has a few key suppliers for some of its components, such as Foxconn. Foxconn could use this fact to their advantage, and exhibit higher  bargaining powers. Apple uses its rival Samsung to produce the chips for their iPhone’s. This reliance on Samsung gives them great deal of bargaining power. Supplier power is slightly reduced due to the sheer size of Apple’s business, enabling them to force lower prices by buying in large quantities. Over the years, Apple has developed unique alliances with suppliers helping to streamline the supply chain. Alliances with music partners and software companies such as AT T has helped to increase the revenue base of the Company, without increasing the powers of suppliers. Steve Jobs was a known to be a control freak, and focused on reducing the bargaining power of suppliers from the use of vertical integration. 3.4 Buyer Power The bargaining power for most Apple consumers is low. Apple fanatics are willing to pay premium prices for Apple goods. In the case of the Mac laptops, the price is almost double of that of its rivals. Consumers are willing to pay this for both the name and the superior quality of the product. The vast number of Apple consumers has reduced their power to lower the price of Apple products. Apple’s goal should focus on reducing the consumers bargaining power. It has tried to do this by developing products specifically for consumers needs and wants, enabling them to charge a higher price. Griffin Consulting Group (2012) find that there are high switching costs for customers who want to change software or hardware which again reduces the bargaining power of customers. 3.5 Rivalry between Competitors The PC and Mobile industry is very competitive, with a large number of similar sized firms. Rivalry in this industry is seen by; aggressive pricing, rapid product innovation, intensive marketing, and after-sale services (Forbes Website, 2012). This is used to add value to the product. Apple tries to differentiate its product from its competition. It implements a focus strategy, only developing a few products and targeting them for the need of the customer. Steve Jobs was quoted saying this: People think focus means saying yes to the thing youve got to focus on. But thats not what it means at all. It means saying no to the hundred other good ideas that there are. You have to pick carefully. Im actually as proud of the  things we havent done as the things I have done. Innovation is saying no to 1,000 things, (Apple Worldwide Developers Conference, 1997). For example, iPhone’s are targeted to consumers rather than businesses. Macintosh computers are targeted to creative professions such as designers and photographers. By doing this Apple has stayed competitive in a highly rivalrous market. 4. SWOT Analysis Apple The SWOT analysis of Apple will be used to evaluate the strategies with respect to its strength weaknesses opportunities and threats. Apple needs to further strengthen its strategies in order to attain benefits from the opportunities that exist in the environment. Below is the SWOT matrix, followed by a more detailed analysis of a few key points. Strengths Customer Loyalty Leading Innovator Strong Financial Performance Brand Reputation Retail Stores Strong Marketing Team Patent And IPR Protection Weaknesses High Price Incompatibility With Different Operating systems Decreasing Market Share Long Term Gross Margin Decline Opportunities High Demand Of iPad and iPhone iTV launch Application Processors Growth of Phone and Tablet Market Acquisition Of Smaller Firms. Strong Growth of Mobile Advertising Market Increasing Demand for Cloud Services Threats Technology Changes Increase In Supplier Prices Foxconn Workers’ Pay Levels Price Challenge From Samsung Android OS growth New Competitors. 4.1 Strengths Apple has won the award for being the leading innovator in the world BCG (2013). Apple’s core competency has helped it to establish itself as the most innovative company in the last decade. The fact that the RD expenditure of Apple in the year 2013 was approximately $4,475 million, which is approximately 30% of its total operating expenditure. Thus it is evident that the amount of RD expenditure helps the Company to remain leading innovator in this technology industry. By being the leading innovator, Apple has established a strong base of loyal customers. ‘Once Apple always Apple,’ is the phrase which is used by the customers of Apple and there is always strong interest and demand at new product ranges. The expansion of Apple into other product categories like iTV and other media will further increase customer loyalty. Apple expects its existing customers to use iTV, which will be more technologically advanced than its existing products. A strong marketing team has made Apple products famous among its customers. Last year it spent $933 million on advertising Forbes (2014.) Through the marketing of the products it is able to sell at a higher price compared to its competitors. Due to these factors the brand reputation of Apple is immense compared to its rivals, such as Microsoft and Samsung. Forbes (2013) valued Apple at $104 billion, whereas its rivals Microsoft and Samsung had brand values of $56.7 and $29.5 billion respectively. This shows the strength of Apple with respect to brand reputation and this is helping Apple  to increase its revenue and profitability over all these years. Apple controls its retail distribution by exclusive sales from its own network. Apple stores provide a higher quality customer service experience. Knowledgeable staff helps the customers, who increase the brand equity and thus increases the sales for the Company. They average Apple store size has increased by 3,000 square feet to 10, 500 square-feet. The average revenue per store of this is $50.2 million, Fox Business (2014). These stores are one of the best when it comes to sales per square feet, and this is a great strength for Apple. Finally, Apple is currently the leading company with a market capitalisation at the end of the fourth quarter of approximately $504 billion. This is due to the strength of their financial performance over the past few years. Apple’s cash balance is approximately $14.25 billion and their Balance Sheet shows an asset base of $207 billion in 2013, from Ychart (2014). Apple is therefore in a strong position to respond to most competitive threats. 4.2 Weaknesses One of the major critics about Apple products is that it is much more expensive than other comparable devices in the market. Fierce competition in the consumer product market is a disadvantage for Apple, as consumers can choose similar lower priced products. As well as this critics dislike the incompatibility with different operating systems. Products, particularly desktop and laptop computers manufactured by Apple only use its own operating system and thus the software and hardware are interdependent on each other. Critics argue consumers would rather buy products from various vendors, which is possible with Windows’ products. Apple computers are dependent on the growth of Apple’s OS, which could prove to be a disadvantage. If technological growth is limited then this will affects Apple’s ability to increase its market share in different industries. The market share of Apple has decreased over the past few years due to Android’s growing popularity, as it is a free operating system. It was  estimated that in 2014 the market share of Apple in smartphone industry would remain at 14.9%. Now it is expected to decrease to 14.4% in the year 2018, due to growth in the sale of the Windows’ phone. Thus it is important for Apple to improve on its technological advancement, including making more innovations with its operating system. More exclusive Apps on Apple could improve market share for Apple. Finally there has been a long-term gross margin decline for Apple. The major reason for the decrease of Apple’s margin is the increase in its cost of sales. In 2012 the gross margin was around 44%. This has significantly decreased in 2013 to around 38%, and thus shows that Apple needs to decrease its cost of goods in order to increase the gross profit margin in the long term. 4.3 Opportunities IDC (2014) found that 87% of connected device sales by 2017 would be from tablets and smart phones. Apple with its own product has the capability to produce and innovate technology in this sector to increase its market share. Apple has launched iPad mini 2 and the demand has been increasing for this tablet. Samsung has launched its Flagship smartphone S5 during 2014, and hence people are eagerly waiting for the new generation of the iPhone 6. This will considerably help it to further increase its market share and revenue over the next year. One of Apple’s opportunities is to increase its diversity of products through acquisitions. In the last 18 months alone Apple has acquired over 24 companies Tech Crunch (2014). Most recently acquiring Beats for $3.2 billion from Dr. Dre. There are a lot of new firms in the technology market, which are developing new products and features, which Apple can acquire. Due to the fact that these are patented features, Apple can get them through external acquisitions. Apple’s ability to purchase or negotiate will help to continue its long-term growth. A future revenue stream, which Apple has tried to utilise, is the increasing  demand for cloud services. IDC (2014) predicted that IT cloud services will reach $46.4 billion in 103, expected to increase to over $107 billion by 2017. This equate to a compound annual growth rate of 23.5%, fives times that of the industry. The Cloud based services offer huge potential revenue stream for Apple. Finally, Apple’s iTV product is a major innovation, to its product range and will support the Apple TV, which will help its penetration into the TV market. Furthermore, this will also diversify the portfolio of the Company and will further increase revenue and profitability along with the brand equity in the technology industry. 4.4 Threats Apple manufactures its products with the help of Foxconn. The wage level of Foxconn workers has tripled in recent years. This has led to rising costs for Apple. Further still, Samsung has asked Apple to pay more of its processing chips in its iPhones. The reliance on these suppliers has meant a rising cost level for Apple. Apple needs to identify more suppliers of processing chips, which should help it to decrease the overall costs. This in turn will improve their profitability and reliance on other companies. The technology sector is experiencing rapid technological changes. This puts Apple under severe pressure to launch new products and features with new devices. Inability to do such will lead to failure. Apple over the years has introduced new products and services, which is helping it to stay ahead of its competitors. Soon it will face fiercer competition and innovation is key for survival. Apple is facing a threat from the Android’s rapid OS growth. The free operating system for smartphones Android is the most widely used operating system. Approximately 80% of the smartphones shipped in 2013 were based on Android. Therefore it is important for Apple to further increase the innovations by introducing new features in their operating system. This will help to maintain or grow their market share in years to come. 5. Apple’s Strategies When considering the strategies that Apple had adopted it is important to consider how these strategies arose and the direction in which it moved the company. This is key in determining how the company can now move forward and pursue new goals. Apple was found to be the leader in innovation for the last eight years running by Boston Consulting Group. When considering how Apple has become the company it is today, it is vital to talk about the innovation strategy that Steve Jobs implemented, and now more recently how, Tim Cook is moving the company forward. In this section we will also look at the use of a diversification strategy, which was implemented at the same time. The last strategy covered is an internationalisation strategy adopted by Apple. 5.1 Innovation Strategy Freeman and Soete (1997) defined innovation as the ‘The first commercial application or production of a new process or product.’ It involves the conversion of a new knowledge into a product or services and then the implementation of this. It can take two different forms; technology push, or market pull. The former is created by new knowledge and understanding from technologists or scientists. The latter is caused by the pull of consumers in the market, leading to innovation. Before Steve Jobs turned Apple around John Scully decided that cost leadership strategy was vital. He did believe in a differentiation strategy as well, however he failed at differentiating Apple’s products from the leading rivals. This led to Steve Jobs taking control of the company and redefining the direction of Apple. He believed that innovation was the key to success. The industry was driven by low prices and expanding capabilities, so Jobs decided to innovate and at the same time differentiate Apple’s product from the market. In 2001 this with achieved with the revolutionary new product of the iPod. This allowed music to be stored on a  small device holding thousands of songs. From here, iTunes was developed. Compatibility between this and other software allowed the iTunes store to become highly profitable. With Apple growing rapidly, Steve Jobs continued with this successful strategy. The advertising campaign ‘think different’ developed in 1997 has been at the core of Apple’s strategy. By being highly innovative, he achieved extremely differentiated products and ideas from their rivals. The iPhone was just this, and by being the first smartphone it has left competing androids in its wake. From one innovation to another, Jobs set up the App store allowing applications to be downloaded to a phone. This vastly increased the range of activities that this smart phone could do. More recently with an economic downturn the need for a cheaper Mac like product was developed, which could target consumers in a slightly lower price range. This led to the creation of the iPad. This was an example of consumer pull innovation Apple has used. Finally, the iCloud which is a highly innovative product, allows customers to sync all Apple products using a network called the Cloud. This has been crucial in reducing the ability of consumers to switch between products, giving Apple the power to charge premium prices. This is an example of technology push innovation, an area Apple has specialised in. Most companies adapt to external environment and change strategies accordingly. Apple changed and drove these external factors. Focusing on innovation and by creating fashionable designs, Jobs changed socio-cultural factors, instead of adapting to them. The iPhone, iPad and iPod created a change in the culture, and the design of these was appealing, as well as technologically advanced. This has been a key factor in Apple’s Success. 5.2 Internationalisation Strategy Rui et Al (2008) defined internationalisation strategy as ‘The process by which a firm sells its good and services outside of its domestic market. They do this by both technology and managerial capabilities.’ Apple’s products are used in over a hundred countries. It is clear that Apple has  used an internationalisation strategy to its advantage by dramatically increasing its consumer market. In fact 63% of Apples revenue comes from outside of America. The product iPhone in Europe has almost reached saturation point. Apple’s internationalisation strategy is a Global one which standardises its products. The only modification is the power source. Apple’s engineering design and manufacturing is now controlled by one source, which is where it differentiates from its competing computer manufacturers. Apples engineering and design developers come up with ideas for products in the US, but then two large IT solution brans, Foxconn and Invetec manufacture this product. Manufacturing occurs in China and this is due to lower labouring costs. The use of this internationalisation strategy has been influential in driving costs down and so improving profits. More recently Apple has targeted the Chinese market with the release of the iPhone 5C. Apple has been working to extend its market share in the Chinese telecom industry, which is the world’s biggest telecom market with a subscription base of more than 1.01 billion in the mobile phone industry. This shows the potential significance of the Chinese telecom industry. A large market share of this industry would mean a significant increase in its profitability for Apple. Apple started to concentrate in the Chinese smartphone market in the last few years and have seen significant increase in its revenue from this market. According to the Annual Report of Apple for the year 2013, the revenue from the Chinese market has increased from 7% of its total revenue in 2011 to around 15% of Apple’s total revenue in 2013. This shows how significant an increase from the Chinese economy could be for Apple’s future. In accordance with the needs of the Chinese consumers, Apple identified innovation was needed to develop a new product for this market, and so launched the iPhone 5C. Apple also succeeded to negotiate a partnership with China Mobile, which is the number one operator in the Chinese telecom market with over 760 million subscribers. This has given a huge advantage to Apple, as now it will be working with China Mobile to increase its market share and eventually increase the profitability of the Company. Apple has established strategic alliances with a lot of mobile operators around the world, but  this is one of its best deals due to the sheer size of China Mobile. 6. Conclusion 6.1 Recommendation The ability of Apple to stay innovative and to keep its brandy loyalty is key to maintaining its position in the market. Many of Apples own products are substitutes for older products such as the iPod. Other smartphone competition such as Samsung and HTC are growing rapidly and rivalry is increasing in the market. The ability of competitors to catch up, and potentially develop products more advanced than that of Apple is a real concern. There have been fears that Apple is becoming less innovative. Forbes (2014) ranked Apple as the 79th most innovative company, and argues that their methodology for calculation was more detailed than that of BCG. Competing companies should look to exploit this weakness. Samsung and HTC should look at investing heavily in RD in order to release more and more sophisticated products. This would undermine Apple and its core strategy, allowing for huge potential revenues to be gained. To do this Apple’s competitors would need to advertise heavily in order to reduce brand loyalty to Apple. For this reason, Apple should continue to invest heavily in their marketing team. Apple have tried to diversify their product line, but at the same time have created products which are profitable in their own right, such as iCloud and iTunes. At the same time it has created its own ecosystem where their products interlink between each other. The use of this reduces the consumer’s ability to substitute. Apple should focus on maintaining and developing this route. The use of the iTV is a positive sign of Cook identifying this opportunity. The recent acquisition of Beats for an approximated $3.2 billion, Guardian (2014), may be an indication of a change or expansion of Apple’s strategy by  Tim Cook. Apart from the headphone product, the expansion in the media market compliments the iTunes library of videos and music. This creates an ongoing revenue stream for apple, and opportunity to expand its growing sector of loyal Apple customers. Finally, one main concern for Apple is sourcing of its components. With the increasing wages of Foxconn employees Apple should look to increases its suppliers. Or, Tim Cook should follow Steve Jobs view on this, and look at continuing the vertical integration to avoid reliance on others, and so reduce supplier bargaining power. 6.2 Conclude Since 2001 and the launch of the iPod, Apple has had an era of unbelievable growth and profitability becoming the most valuable brand in the world. Clearly without Steve Job’s and Tim Cook forging a clear and strong strategic platform this profitability would not have been sustained. The internationalisation strategy has been a huge success with levels of revenue from outside the US in the billions. A focus on continued innovation and the use of rapidly developing countries such as China and India will determine the future of Apple. 7. Bibliography Apple, (2014), ‘environment / our-progress’ [online] Available at: http://www.apple.com/uk/environment/our-progress/ [Accessed 2 May. 2014]. Asymco (2011), ‘Apples Growth Scorecard for Second Quarter 2011.’ [online] Available at: http://www.asymco.com/2011/07/20/apples-growth-scorecard-for-second-quarter-2011/ [Accessed 2 May. 2014]. Chandler, A. (1962). ‘Strategy and structure: chapters in the history of the industrial enterprise.’ 1st ed. Cambridge: M.I.T. Press. CNN Money (2012). What’s eating Apple? The analysts weigh in. [online] Available at: http://tech.fortune.cnn.com/2012/11/14/apple-shares-fallen-wall-street-analysts/ [Accessed 27 Apr. 2014]. Extreme Tech (2014), ‘Apple acquires Beats for $3.2 billion, confirms Dr. Dre’ [online] Available at: http://www.extremetech.com/computing/182158-apple-acquires-beats-for-3-2-billion-confirms-dr-dre [Accessed 2 May. 2014]. Forbes (2012), ‘China Now the World’s Largest Smartphone Market,’ [online] Available at: http://www.forbes.com/sites/ericsavitz/2012/08/30/china-now-the-worlds-largest-smartphone-market/ [Accessed 2 May. 2014]. Forbes (2013), ‘IDC 87% Of connected Devices Sales by 2017 will be Tablets and Smartphones’ [online] Available at: http://www.forbes.com/sites/louiscolumbus/2013/09/12/idc-87-of-connected-devices-by-2017-will-be-tablets-and-smartphones/ [Accessed 2 May. 2014]. Forbes (2013), ‘Is Apple The world’s most Innovative Company (still)?’ [online] Available at: http://www.forbes.com/sites/susanadams/2013/09/27/is-apple-the-worlds-most-innovative-company-still/ [Accessed 2 May. 2014]. Forbes (2014), ‘The World’s Most Valuable Brands’ [online] Available at: http://www.forbes.com/powerful-brands/list/ [Accessed 2 May. 2014]. Forbes (2014), ‘Who Spends More on Ads- Apple or Microsoft? Another Lesson in Quality vs Quantity’ [online] Available at: http://www.forbes.com/sites/ycharts/2012/08/02/who-spends-more-on-ads-apple-or-microsoft-another-lesson-in-quality-vs-quantity/ [Accessed 2 May. 2014]. Fox Business (2014), ‘Apple’s Retail Stores Key To Tech Giants Success’ [online] Available at: http://www.foxbusiness.com/industries/2014/01/27/apple-retail-stores-key-to-tech-giant-success/ [Accessed 2 May. 2014]. Freeman, C. and Soete, L. (1997). ‘The economics of industrial innovation’. 1st ed. Cambridge, Mass.: MIT Press. IDC (2013), ‘PC Outlook Falls As Market Increasingly Looks to Tablets, According to IDC’ [online] Available at: http://www.idc.com/getdoc.jsp?containerId=prUS24129913 [Accessed 2 May. 2014]. IDC (2013), ‘Record Smartphone Shipments Grow the Market 38.8% in the Third Quarter of 2013, Making Way For A Strong Holiday Quarter, According to IDC’. [online] Available at: http://www.idc.com/getdoc.jsp?containerId=prUS24418013[Accessed 2 May. 2014]. IDC (2014), ‘IDC Cloud- An IDC Four Pillar Research Area’ [online] Available at: http://www.idc.com/prodserv/FourPillars/Cloud/index.jsp [Accessed 29 Apr. 2014]. KPMG (2014), ‘Technology Innovation Survey 2013’ [online] Available at: http://www.kpmg.com/SK/en/IssuesAndInsights/ArticlesPublications/Documents/Technology%20Innovation%20Survey%202013.pdf [Accessed 2 May. 2014]. NPD Group (2013), ‘ After 10 Years, Apple Continues Music Download Dominance in the U.S’ [online] Available at: https://www.npd.com/wps/portal/npd/us/news/press-releases/the-npd-group-after10-years-apple-continues-music-download-dominance-in-the-u-s/ [Accessed 2 May. 2014]. Rui, H. and Yip, G. (2008). ‘Foreign acquisitions by Chinese firms: A strategic intent perspective.’ Journal of World Business, 43(2), pp.213226. The Boston Consulting Group (2014), ‘The Most Innovative Companies 2013’ [online] Available at:

Federal Reserve Open Market Operations Essay -- Economics Fed Market

Federal Reserve Open Market Operations SUMMARY The Federal Reserve's operating strategy for implementing monetary policy involves interest rate targeting through open market operations. The Federal Reserve does not utilize reserve requirements or the discount rate as part of this strategy. Open market operations involves the buying and selling of securities in the open market, in order to influence reserve balances. By manipulating reserve balances, the Federal Reserve can control the price of reserves in the market. The price of reserves is known as the Federal Funds rate. The Federal Funds rate is the interest rate banks charge each other for lending and/or borrowing reserve balances. This paper will discuss how the Federal Reserve implements a strategy of interest rate targeting through open market operations. Part I Introduction The Federal Reserve Bank is the central bank of the United States. In 1913, Congress created the Federal Reserve System to provide stability to the financial and monetary system. The Federal Reserve Bank (from here on, referred to as the "FED") has four main functions. They conduct monetary policy by influencing money supply in the economy, in order to maintain full employment, price stability, and promote economic growth. They regulate and supervise banking institutions to ensure the safety and soundness of the U.S. financial and banking system. The FED also provides financial and banking services to the U.S. Government, the public, and to financial institutions. And lastly, the FED maintains stability in the financial system by reducing systemic risks that may arise in the markets. The Federal Reserve System is made up of the Board of Governors and twelve regional Federal Reserve banks. The Board of Governors consists of seven members who are appointed by the President of The United States, and must be confirmed by the Senate. All seven governors are members of the Federal Open Market Committee (FOMC), and each vote on the conduct of open market operations. The network of twelve regional banks performs various functions, including; operating a nationwide payments system, distribution of currency and coin, supervising and regulating member banks, and serving as banker for the United States Treasury. The Federal Open Market Committee (FOMC) is a major part of the Federal Reserve... ... Trends - The Funds Rate Target and Interest Rates - September 1999. http://www.stls.frb.org/docs/publications/mt/1999/cover9.pdf - 12-13-99 Â · The Dwindling Power of Rate Cuts. http://www.nytimes.com/2001/10/03/opinion/03wed1.html October 3, 2001. Â · Another Rate Cut From the Fed. http://www.nytimes.com/2001/12/12/opinion/12wed2.html December 12, 2001. Â · Hess, Diane. 2001. Fed Paints Real Rates a Deeper Shade of Red. http://www.thestreet.com/markets/taleofthetape/10005186.html December 11, 2001. Â · Task, Aaron L., 2001. Cutting Spree May Dull Fed's Blade. http://www.thestreet.com/markets/aarontaskfree/10003583.html November 06, 2001. Speeches: Â · Meyer, Laurence H., 2001. Remarks by Governor Laurence H. Meyer. Before the National Association of Business Economics. The Federal Reserve Board. November 27, 2001. Â · Greenspan, Alan. 2001. Testimony of Chairman Alan Greenspan. Before the Joint Economic Committee, U.S. Congress. The Federal Reserve Board. October 17, 2001. Â · Greenspan, Alan; 2001. Testimony of Chairman Alan Greenspan. Before the Committee on Financial Services, U.S. House of Representatives. The Federal Reserve Board. July 18, 2001.

EMA: Professional learning: reflecting and planning. Essay

I have been a qualified childcare worker since 1997 and thoroughly enjoy the work that I do, however I feel that it’s only since October 2013 when I started my E100 The early years: Developing practice course that I have have truly developed as a practitioner. I have more knowledge and understanding about what I carry out with the children and the reasoning behind it. Throughout this EMA I plan to analyse the way in which I have developed as a practitioner during the past year. Currently, I work in an extended day care establishment in an urban area of Glasgow. There are around currently 120 children attending on a daily basis and around 85% attend on a full time basis. Our establishment operates 50 weeks a year and is open from 7:30am until 18.00pm. There is currently 35 staff ranging from Head of Centre, Depute head of centre, team leader and child development officers. There are 4 main playrooms, 0-1 room, 1-2 room, 2-3 room and a 3-5 room. I work within the 1-2 year old ro om and there are 12 full time children with 4 full time staff, working on an 1:3 ratio. The curriculum framework that we use is the Pre Birth to Three: Positive outcomes for Scotland’s children and families. The Pre Birth to three curriculum framework aims to give Scotland’s children the best possible start in life. It’s based around four key principles: Rights of the child, Relationships, Responsive Care and Respect. It aims to improve and also enhance our evidence based practice by building on our own knowledge of current research and our work with babies, young children and their families. There are nine features which have been identified to put the key principles into practice. These are Role of Staff, Attachments, Transitions, Observation, planning and assessment, Partnership Working, Health and Wellbeing, Literacy and Numeracy, Environments and Play. All of these key principles and features of practice are interrelated and interdependent. (Learning Teaching Scotland 2010) Part of my job is also about being responsible for my own professional development. If I have a particular interest in a subject that I feel could develop my knowledge further then I need to source all the information possible and carry out what’s needed. Peter Moss in chapter 18 of reader 2 offers his own views on  an alternative direction for childcare workforce. He pursues the the idea of a democratic and reflective professional, instilled with a number of core values and working in an integrated, inclusive and democratic childhood centre. (Moss,P. 2008) I can see where Peter Moss is coming from in his views as I believe that young children are more likely to learn more from individuals who are knowledgable and well trained and who also enjoy the job that they do. Reflecting on practice is an extremely important aspect of professionalism in all areas of the early years section. Reflective practice involves interacting with, responding to and making links between theories, frame works, literature, policy and practice. It’s seen as a collaborative process of learning, growth and development. It also gives us the opportunity to provide opportunities to discuss issues productively. We nowadays live in a time of rapid change in terms of how childhood is thought of and experienced. This now means that we have to question our actions at every given opportunity as well as the need for a deeper understanding of learning and development. Reflective practice involves what Donald Schon called ‘reflection in action and ‘reflection on action’. (Schon, 1983). I believe this to very true on a day to day basis as there are certain experiences that will change during the course the activity itself and at other times there are experienc es that you would change if they were to be done again. I’ve noticed a change in my practice over the last year. I feel as though I have a better understanding of why I do what I do. An example of this is regarding Attachment theories. They have always been of interest to me but over the last year I’ve found myself having a clearer understanding of how these theories work! John Bowlby highlighted the significance of young children establishing a strong emotional attachment to a significant adult and the influence that it can have on them as they develop their own relationships during the years. (Bowlby,1958) I always thought I had understood this theory but on reflection from research I’ve done during my time on the the E100 Developing Practice course i realise that perhaps I didn’t have a full understanding of  it. I now know that a secure attachment is vital when working with young children.This is something that John Bowlby believed in as he suggested that babies have a predisposition to stay close to their caregivers. When I am settling a New child into the playroom I will work very closely with both children and parents as I now realise that it is vitally important for me to provide an environment that allows for both space and sensitivity to enable the child to gradually settle into the nursery environment. I feel that part of my role when introducing children into the room is to alleviate any fears that the their parents/ caregivers may have. Mary Ainsworth worked closely with John Bowlby and she believed that a secure and nurturing setting could also help children to develop and maintain a sense of confidence and self esteem. I believe this to be true and I always try to ensure that the relationships I have with the children and families are very positive thus enabling the children to to learn and be happy. I learned that that children can also form emotional attachments to their parents or caregivers. It is through the work of Bowlby and Daniel Stern in study topic 5 that I now understand how crucial it is for me to establish a safe and secure emotional attachment to the children and parents that I look after as this is vital for their emotional Wellbeing. We now operate a Key-worker system and I believe this allows me to form a close bond with the children and parents. I find that when the children in my key group are happy and secure with not only me but the environment around them that this then brings out a secure confident side of the children. I know this as my observations show me that they are more willing to explore and try out new experiences. The Pre-Birth to Three document that I work with highlights that responsive and caring adults are essential for babies and young children to develop and thrive. Practitioners must be aware of attunement which means having the skills needed to enable them to tune in to babies and young children. This determines needs by close observations of the sounds, movements, expressions and body language displayed. We already know that babies are born ready to make connections with the outside world and we must be ready to read these signs in order to develop the skills needed to interact with the wider community. This is something that I have at the forefront of my mind whenever I am working with the children. I am an avid believer that providing a calm and safe but also challenging and stimulating  environment which always offer flexible, individualised and consistent routines is the key to promoting positive relationships and attachments. Another way in which my practice has developed over the year is that I am now have a deeper understand of how the curriculum is used and how the young children I work with learn and develop. The Pre Birth to Three curriculum was brought out in 2010 and before I started the E100 Developing Practice course I only have a very simple understanding of how it worked not only with my practice but wasn’t really sure how it benefited the children that I work with. I realise now that it is a vital document for me within my everyday practice. I recognise now not only the impact but also the importance of my work on children’s lives and future life chances. for me the curriculum framework sets the context for a high quality care and education and seeks to identify key features that both support and promote evidence based approaches. It’s visible for me to see now that the children’s learning is based on a fundamental understanding that there are lots of factors that s hape children’s development. Some of these factors can include relationships, environments, health, family and community. Within the playroom that I work we make sure that every child is treated as an individual, and all experiences that are provided are suited to each child’s individual needs. I work with a similar age group with the of the Bud Room in The Lark Children’s centre (Open University, 2013) and in TMA 03 I noted that our young children are encouraged to be as explorative as possible and whilst they are doing this we are supporting and scaffolding their learning by providing these opportunities for exploring and an example of this would be a painting activity. We would be encouraging the children to explore the Textures and properties. (Stewart. 2013. TMA03) On reflection we observe that the children do get a lot out of this as they are being treated as individuals and encouraged to explore at their own pace thus encouraging them to develop their own schemas. Schematic play is of huge interest to me. Schemas have taught me so much about how children develop and learn over the l ast year. â€Å"Schemas are patterns of behaviour that are linked through a child’s current interest and which form the basis of exploration and play for young children†. (Lindon, 2007, pg124) Schemas were first introduced by Jean Paiget and his work has been further developed by Christmas Athey during the 1980’s and in Study topic 3 The research discovered that repeating a sequence of like for like physical actions will support brain development. The age group that I work with tend to follow a transporting schema. (Athey, 1990). Our children often show interest in moving objects around the room in various ways. An example of this would be using cars to move building blocks around the room or using household utensils to move jigsaw pieces. This is something that fascinates me as before starting the E100 developing practice module I was very much a person who would almost insist in children keeping items in set areas, whereas now I see the benefits that it brings for children to freely transport these items all over the playroom and my role is to ensure that the learning environment and resources promote many schemas and this is crucial in facilitating childrenâ€⠄¢s exploration and discovery of their world. This links to my next area of reflection. I have leant a huge amount on environments. Environments play a huge part in the success of children’s learning. ‘Children learn from, and adapt to, their environment as they build a sense of self esteem from the attitudes and values from significant people around them. Adults who are affectionate, interested, reliable and responsive help young children to develop a sense of trust and positive self image’. (Learning teaching scotland 2010 pg 65) During my time researching environments in learning during my time on the E100 developing practice course I now have a deeper understanding in my role as a staff member.its fundamental for me to create an environment where the children’s natural curiosity is harnessed. It’s essential for us as early years practitioners to work closely with families in promoting a suitable ethos that incorporates respect for the rights of the child, interest and family values. I can now also see that it’s vital for me to be not only knowledgable but also to an ex tent inspirational, having these factors in place allows a high quality standard of early education to take place. Most babies and young children are sensitive to the moods of the people around them and I believe that they can pick up on staffs emotions for example relaxed, stressed, tense, happy. Our young children look for verbal and non verbal communication signs. I alway ensure that that my demeanour gives out the signs of respect value and love. in study topic 10 developing  positive learning environments I learned that I matter what type of space you work in wether it be a shared premises or a converted classroom it is essential to ensure that the area is child-centered. It is vital for us as practitioners to be seen to be promoting a positive enabling environment. In an indoor environment I feel that it’s essential that the area is warm, safe, secure and spacious given children the opportunity to explore independently. It should also reflect the changing needs of the child, for example in the room I work in the children are learning to walk and as they become more confident in their ability I can provide extra challenges for them to take their abilities further. By doing this I know that I am responding appropriately and positively to children’s needs an d preferences. With regards to an outdoor learning environment it has to be remembered that as much emphasis should be placed on outdoor learning and the learning indoors. By doing this I can now see that I’m ensuring that children are given the opportunities to be involved in experiences that promote a sense of wonder, discovery and challenge. Before I started the course we very rarely went outside with our young children but now there is a significant change as to some suggestions that I made at a room meeting. I mentioned that research suggested that ‘being outdoors has a positive impact on mental, emotional, physical and social Wellbeing. (Learning teaching scotland 2010 page 68). And as a result of this we are now using our outdoor area several times a day. Our garden now contains a variety of items that benefit the children. We have herb gardens, musical instruments and even a mud kitchen.this small change in our attitude to outdoor play shows me that I now have a much clearer idea of how important it is for me to have a significant emphasis on developing an enabling environment Throughout this module I’ve reflected on how I have seen the importance of environments can enable learning and promote Wellbeing and I’ve also had the chance to look in the roles of relationships and partnerships in children’s learning. It’s been steep learning curve for me to evaluate my practice and also the theory behind it. It’s down to reevaluating my practice that it’s now inspired me to take my learning further. Do you want to belong to a profession that works to transform how a  particular body of knowledge is understood and practised with different communities? (Campbell and Page, 2003, pg 282) Campbell and Page have argued that this transformative approach to being a professional is integral to reflective practice. It is with this drive and commitment to professionalism that I have set myself short, medium and long term goals for the future. I have 2 short term goals and they both are essential for taking my learning onto the next level. Passing the E100 module involve me taking the time to read all essential course materials , reflecting on my practice throughout the year and passing all TMA’s. Better time management is next on the list. I’ve struggled with this over the last year, working full time, running a home and the joys of having a two year old has been hectic but by working out a really tight schedule for all things important in my life will give me the time and energy needed to focus on my next steps. The medium term goals I’ve set myself are challenging, but I know I can achieve it. I’ve enrolled on the E105 professional practice in the early years. In order for me to complete and pass this course I will need to continue evaluating my practice, and present evidence of developing knowledge, skill and expertise against core professional development. My 2nd medium goal is a work based challenge. I’d like to work with more outside agencies. I’ve had very little chance to develop a ‘community of practice’ approach within my everyday practice due to the age group and needs of the children I work with. In order for this to happen I will need to move to another age group and room within the nursery that have the opportunity work with multi agencies. This would enable me to be part of a shared ‘community of practice’ and be able to reflect and improve practice on a better level. My long term goal is to complete theQ51 course, BA (Honours) Early Years. I plan to study this course over the next 5 years. After the compulsory modules I’ll then go onto a more complex stage which is dependant on the setting I work in. I will achieve this degree with sheer hard work, focused study skills, good time management and continuing to be a reflective practitioner. ‘ We need a new type of worker for these services: a worker who can combine many tasks and work with the whole child and her family: a worker who is a reflective practitioner, able to think and act for herself, rather than a technician trained to do as she is told; a worker on a par with the teachers in terms of training and employment conditions.’ (Moss, 2003, pg.5) This statement  highlights for me, the job description that we must adhere to nowadays as early years professionals. Education is constantly evolving and will continue to do so for a very long time. We need to be aware of changes and implement them into our everyday practice whilst always remembering that each child is individual. Each child deserves the best possible start in life and it’s by constantly reevaluating and changing our practice through reflective learning that will enable this to happen.

Anselms Ontological Argument Essay

St Anselm (1033-1109) fame rests on his belief that faith is prior to reason: â€Å"I do not seek to understand that I may believe, but I believe in order to understand. For this I also believe- that unless I believed, I should not understand†. Anselm employed his powers of reason in order to establish, by rational argument, the existence of God (Ally 2010:62). Anselm’s ontological argument When we are really thinking of something (and not merely uttering the associated verbal symbol), that thinking is our understanding (2010:63). Of course, we need not understand that it exists, for we may be thinking of something which we believe does not exist, or we may be thinking of something of whose existence we are uncertain (2010:63). But in any of these cases, if we are thinking of something, if we understand it, then it, and not something else, is in the understanding (2010:63). This point applies to our thoughts of anything including God (2010:63). However, in the case of God, we are thinking of a unique thing, for we are thinking of the greatest thing conceivable, the being â€Å"than which nothing greater can be conceived†( Stumph & Abel 2002:107). Now if a being exists in the understanding alone, it cannot be the greatest conceivable thing, for a being that exists in reality as well as in the understanding would be greater (2010:63). Consequently, since God is the greatest being conceivable he must exist in reality as well as in our understanding (2010:63). Or, to put it another way, if the greatest conceivable being exists in the understanding alone, then it is not the greatest conceivable being- a conclusion which is absurd (2010:63). Gaunilos objections Do we in fact have an idea of an absolutely perfect being? This was the question posed by Anselm’s contemporary, Gaunilo, who noted that the sceptic who is not convinced of God’s existence would not grant Anselm’s assumption that people have an idea of a most perfect being (2010:63). To this Anselm could have replied that he was not trying to convince sceptics that God exists, but to provide Christians with a rational understanding of Christian truth (â€Å"I do not seek to understand that I may believe, but I believe in order to understand†- Anselm 1987:225). In any case, he would have aintained that he could prove that people have an idea of a perfect being (2010:63). Anselm actually argues that we have various experiences of â€Å"degrees of perfection†- for instance, we experience some things as better or more beautiful than others (2010:64). We can make this kind of relative judgement only because we have a standard of comparison: the idea of absolute perfection (2010:64). It will be seen that the argument here turns on the question how can a finite mind transcend and reach an understanding of an infinite object? 2010:64). What a finite mind feels to be an intellectual grasp of an infinite object may be only an emotive response (2010:64). One ought to remind oneself of the need to distinguish between emotive understanding and the kind of meaning needed for philosophical communication (2010:64). So, although â€Å"most perfect being† has a powerful emotive meaning, has Anselm actually provided this phrase with of a meaning that enables us to discuss â€Å"the most perfect being† philosophically and unemotionally? (2010:64). Is existence indeed an added perfection? That is, is a being that exists necessarily greater (more perfect) than one that does not exist? (2010:64). Allowing that people have an idea of a most perfect being, does it follow that a being corresponding to this idea must exist? (2010:64). Anselm’s assumption is that existence is indeed an â€Å"added perfection† (2010:64). If existence is not an added perfection, there is no contradiction in allowing that the most perfect being exits only as an idea (2010:64). Just because I am thinking of a being, thinking of it as the greatest conceivable being, and thinking of it as existing necessarily, does not provide any evidence that there is actually such a being, for the thought of a necessarily existing being is one thing and necessarily being is another. Conclusion What is significant about Anselm’s attempt to prove God’s existence using reason alone is that it demonstrates the possibility of a distinct contrast between faith and reason (2010:65). Questioning such proofs inevitably raises issues about the relation between faith and reason (2010:65). Even in an age of faith, human beings could not get on without using their reason (2010:65). Clearly, they need to know where reason is appropriately used and where it should be set aside (2010. 65). They need a logical decision process that shows what a valid proof is (2010:65). If this decision process discloses that certain articles of the Christian faith cannot be proved, then they need a theological doctrine that shows how faith and reason are related at the point where reason leaves off and faith takes over (2010:65).

Weldon v. Dunn essays

Weldon v. Dunn essays When reviewing the case file in question, I have found that one of the most important things to be taken into consideration when trying to decide injury cases is the fact of foreseeablilty. When Weldon seated the customer into the chair, she was well aware of the fact that the chair was not operating properly. In reference to the second allegation of the chair being to close to the manicure table, this as well is a foreseeable danger. When the inspector came to inspect the premises, the manicure table was in the same place and was not deemed unsafe. The third issue has a touch more credibility. The fact that Ms. Weldon injured her back during the course of her workday needed to be researched more in depth. Upon being accepted into the school of cosmetology, Weldon received an Admissions Information pamphlet. In this reading, it clearly states the following: Disadvantage of Cosmetology Careers Cosmetology is a physically and mentally demanding profession that requires dexterity and patience. There is always the possibility of chemical allergies, foot, leg and back problems After reading this statement, the possibility of any injury, including injury to the back, is imminently clear. This in turn disavows the third and final claim made by Weldon. Thus in conclusion I feel that all responsibilities of the accused should be waved. The injury to the employee was brought forth not due to the negligence of the company, but in turn by herself. She read the Admissions Information before signing on for the job, releasing Dunn of being held responsible on all accounts of work related injuries. ...

Language and society Research Paper Example | Topics and Well Written Essays - 1000 words

Language and society - Research Paper Example Cultural diversity has brought in different ways through which people interact and communicate to each other. In our informal and formal interactions, we use various titles to show honor to our colleagues, to identify gender and to recognize the marital status of an individual. Different cultures use titles differently due to difference in the languages that we use. Various titleshave been used for many years in Anglophone cultures to show gender and marital status. Other languages, e.g. French, also use equivalent formsof these titles to show gender. The main concern is how the different languages use various titles to show gender and other aspects of the human life such as education, respect in the society, marital status and so on. This paper investigates this matter in a more elaborate way since it uses data from various cultures, does comparison of these data to find if there exists any differences in how the world uses titles. It therefore uses both practical and theoretical ap proach to this matter. The Anglophone cultures have widely used titles to indicate marital status and gender.The general title for men is ‘Mr.’, while for women it is ‘Mrs.’ for those who are married and Miss for the unmarried. These terms have a long history since their use started in the olden days (Buxton, 2014). This shows how sexism is seriously emended in this culture and how it stresses on women’s marital status. The same case exists around the world in other cultures. Let us take for example the Portuguese language, which uses the following titles: The main question is whetheruse of these titles mark marital status. In the history of the Portuguese culture, marital status did not bring in name changes, i.e. women did not adopt their husband’s names. This phenomenon has changed over the recent past since nowadays women do adopt the names of their husbands. At the same time, women

Practical Application of the Ethical Decision-Making Manual for Essay

Practical Application of the Ethical Decision-Making Manual for Helping Professionals - Essay Example This model focuses on ethical strategies within an inter-professional context, so that it attempts to provide guidance for ethical dilemmas that may occur across the helping professions, such as education, nursing, social work, law and medicine (Steinman, Franks Richardson & McEnroe, 1998). This paper shall review the complexity of ethical decisions that are at times required by teachers within elementary, middle and high schools. Firstly, a brief outline of five ethical principles considered necessary for all ethical decision-making models shall be provided. Secondly, the model of Steinman, Franks Richardson and McEnroe shall be detailed. Next, applications of the proposed ethical decision-making model shall be presented, as relevant to ethical considerations within the school system. Finally, a conclusion shall synthesize the main points of the paper to highlight the importance of ethics to schools. School staffs continually experience situations that could be considered ethical dilemmas, in which they are required to apply confident and strong decision-making abilities (Strike, 1997). As such, for school staff to behave in a manner that is considered ethical, it is necessary that they also be responsible for their behavior, as the two are interdependent concepts (Strike, 1997). Essentially, school staffs are expected as educational leaders to continually develop the ability and capacity for reflection on their behaviors and choices to determine if they have acted ethically. Although many of the numerous decisions teachers and other schools staff make throughout a single day may not immediately appear to have ethical implications, contemporary Western societies are experiencing a rapid advancement in technologies, increases in litigations, and an increased emphasis on issues of social protection, all of which are relevant to the conduct of school staff. Additionally, at a local level, educational institutions are more and more are required to adopt standardized assessments of student achievement, and to be aware of issues of equal opportunity across genders, ethnicities and physical/cognitive abilities (Strike, 1997). Another ethical consideration relevant to the school includes the evaluation of teachers' performance (Messer, 2001).Ethical decision-making models tend to be based on five over-riding moral principles (Kitchener, 1984 as cited in Bradley and Hendricks, 2001). Kitchener (1984) determined that these five principles formed the basis of the concepts that comprise any ethical decision (as cited in Bradley & Hendricks, 2001). The five moral principles are: 1) Autonomy - each individual is acknowledged to have a freedom of choice. In regards to school staffs, they have the right to make their own decisions that align with theirpersonal philosophies, whilst also recognizing that they are responsible for theirdecisions, and that this responsibility requires assessment of the effects of one'sactions on others. The rights of autonomy extend to students, and school staffs are