How The Internet Will Help Mechanics Essays - Coupes, Muscle Cars

How the Internet will help mechanics My report is on how the Internet will help auto and diesel mechanics. There are many ways in which the Internet can help auto and diesel mechanics. I have a couple of reasons here. I have E-mailed two people. The first is Fred Schumacher. He has been an auto and diesel mechanic for 40 years and also owns his own shop. The second is from two people at the same E-mail address the one is Dean Stoops, and his son-in-law. They both have auto mechanic experience. First, let us talk about Fred. Fred says the following; firstly The Internet will make it easier to find the hard to find parts. Another reason is that you can go into the chat rooms and talk to some of the more experienced mechanics. Third is that you can find jobs, because people are always looking for go diesel mechanics. Fourth is you can go straight to the business that make the equipment. Some examples are to Mack, Caterpillar, and Detroit manufactures. Fifth is you will also be able to learn which tools are needed to perform certain jobs and to get diagnostic equipment that is necessary. It is also possible to get education over the Internet. Examples are you can find information about new ways of doing things, and updates on trucks. Finally the Internet will replace manuals in the future. That will be because you can go to the Internet and look at a picture of the part you need. This will save you time. Next, we will discuss Dean and Chad. Dean said it is a good source of technical information. You can go to a page like Mortec.com and get a whole bunch of casting numbers for just about ever Chevy small block ever made. The second thing that they have is their immediate tech updates available. Third you can down load directly from a car computer back to the manufacturer. Finally you can order parts worldwide. I am aware that you can get access to complete catalogs on the Internet without getting the catalog. Some of the companies I go to are Summit, Jegs, and JCWhitney. And these companies have chat rooms and information help. And you can also buy used parts at places like Classifieds2000.com for the your special needs. I believe that the Internet will make it easier for the mechanic that is pro or shade tree. And that some times the manuals get old and either they don't want to buy the book or don't have the time. The Internet will save time and money. This is some of the information you can get online for diesels are as follows: You can go to the Cummins Engines home page. Wounch you are there you can click on an icon of parts and service. You can follow the links and get to an area where parts locator for the whole world. You can chose the country you want and click on it. Go to the city and state you want and chose what type of equipment it is for. Then a screen comes up that has the dealers and what they sell that are in the area. You can find information on auto is as follows: I went to the Chevrolet home page. Where it gave me an option of what I want to look up I went to Chevy Cars. Then I chose the option of Camaro. It brought up a picture of an old 69 Camaro and a new one. I went to product information and went to specs. There it told me every thing about the engine dealing with pistons and valve train. I am doing my evaluation on Cummins Engines. It was very through. It talked about everything from auto to on highway. There was links to find anything I ever want to know about Cummins Engines and then some. There was also information about stuff put in the news. It is an extremely good place to go to. When I get my own shop I will visit there a lot.

The Economics of Ketchup

The Economics of Ketchup Free Online Research Papers Ketchup is the most widely used condiment in the United States. It can be found in 97% of all kitchens, a showing matched only by salt and pepper according to Gidman (2010). Ketchup has been popular in the United States for nearly 200 years and today is consumed by 93% of the population. According the NPD Group, a market research firm, 56% of ketchup is consumed on three main foods: Hamburgers, hot dogs, and French fries which remain the most eaten foods for kids and adults, according to a Survey of National eating Trends (2010). Heinz is the king of ketchup It claims 60% of the ketchup market. Heinz ketchup has more than doubled their sales and volume of its nearest competitor Hunts. Hunts is the second major ketchup brand which is followed by a smaller market share of various generic, private labels and gourmet ketchups. Del Monte has the smallest market share of these top four ketchup categories (2010). Heinz was founded in 1869 by Henry John Heinz, the Heinz brand rules the ketchup market with registered sales of $267.1 million in 2005. ConAgra, the maker of the second place Hunt’s Ketchup, trailed behind with a 16 percent. Del Monte barely made it with a 5.3 percent of market share falling behind the private label and gourmet brands that held a 17 percent. (Gidman, 2010). However in 2008, a blind taste test of 20 ketchup brands was conducted and 35.8 million tons of ketchup was consumed at this taste testing in Toronto, Canada. In search for a favorite, Hunt’s ketchup ruled the contest with â€Å"Best Overall Ketchup with America’s Choice Tomato Ketchup as first runner up. Heinz followed the contest in second runner up and Best Healthy Ketchup as third. Ketchup has become more competitive since its creation and will continue to be more competitive in the future due to the growing demand and need. Despite the failed brand extensions and competition from more culturally influenced condiments, Smith does not see a decline in the ketchup category coming anytime soon and he looks to local food markets as proof. Many gourmet food stores carry at least 15 different types of ketchup and these are not the basic three brands (2010). Restaurants are also serving fresh ketchup, which they make themselves, which shows ketchup to be an exciting field that hasn’t grown stagnant. Furthermore, there is an international market for the ketchup. Ketchup is being used on everything from pasta, rolls, meatballs, fishballs, etc. There is a change according to the local need. For instance, Kraft Foods, produced a paprika flavored ketchup for the European market. (2010). With this international appeal, ketchup is gaining notoriety in the mark et place. While the food industry is growing overall, sauces have managed to out perform the whole lot, according to a new report from Mintel International Group, Chicago, on the U.S. ketchup market. This accounted for nearly $3 billion in sales in 2001 with a strong continual growth over these past few years. With inflation-adjusted growth averaging 3.2% annually over the past five years, ketchup sales are well ahead of the overall food price trend, which is closer to 2.5%. Ketchup sales have grown an average of only 1.5% per year. Thus, the industry has been successful in increasing prices. Tomato Ketchup is one of the demanding condiments of fast food industry. It is mainly used with burgers, chips, French fries and even as a base for other sauces. With its evolution in 18th century, the ketchup has changed from thin and watery liquid to thick tomato sauce. The global tomato ketchup market is growing at a rapid pace due to changing food habits of the people in developing nations, easy availability and its taste enhance properties. Tomato being the major ingredient of tomato ketchup provides various anti aging and health benefits to the consumers. With the presence of a very small number of large international players, the tomato ketchup market is highly fragmented with a high share taken up by the local companies. It is also in great demand as more and more families are forced to eat meals at home during these difficult economic times. References (2008). Taste Test: Ketchup (Epicurious). Message posted to epicurious.com/articleguides/everydaycooking/tastetests/ketchuptastetest Gidman, J. (2008, December). Your Chance (Ketchup/Heinz/Hunt’s/Del Monte/ConAgra/Condiment/brandchannel.com). Message posted to randchannel.com/features_effect.asp?pf_id=450 Villas-Boas, M. J. (2003, May). The Ketchup Marketplace: Retailer, Manufacturer, and Individual Consumer (), Message posted to http://groups.haas.berkely.edu/mareting/PAPERS/VILLAS/ket5-2003.pdf Research Papers on The Economics of KetchupAnalysis of Ebay Expanding into AsiaMarketing of Lifeboy Soap A Unilever ProductDefinition of Export QuotasTwilight of the UAWPETSTEL analysis of IndiaGenetic EngineeringHip-Hop is ArtBionic Assembly System: A New Concept of SelfThe Effects of Illegal ImmigrationResearch Process Part One

Logistics and supply chain management Essay Example | Topics and Well Written Essays - 1500 words

Logistics and supply chain management - Essay Example Vulnerability of organisational logistics process and SCM resilience Analysis Vulnerability in organisational logistics processes needs to be tackled to make business functions lean, flexible and responsive. Companies are immensely dependent on each other and are vulnerable in increasingly integrated supply chains. The time and relationship dependencies are significant to manage vulnerabilities (Svensson, 2002). The time and relationship dependencies between two companies in the supply chain network can be described through the interactional model of Hakansson. Dependence of companies cannot be easily constructed until their functioning is performed to check their assumed time and relationship dependencies towards their suppliers and customers. The functionality process of the dependence construct has turned a bit with the research performed by Hammarkvist et al. (1982)) and Mattsson (2000)). There have been five dependency dimensions identified by Hammarkvist et al. (1982)), which a re: 1. Technical Dependence. It happens when two companies sell compatible products and adjust their business functions with each other in technical way. ... 3. Knowledge Dependence. It is related to the communication process between two organisations, gaining from the strengths and weaknesses of each other. This interaction helps in finding ways of resolving issues. With regard to this dimension, we can say that Seal Honey used this dependency appreciatively by engaging supermarkets as point-of-sales and realised increased sales. 4. Social Dependence. It is related to increased communication between two companies because of individual level contacts. It means that social environment and increased compatibility level between the executives of two companies create an impact on their business functions. Again, Seal Honey was able to use its contacts to sell its products through superstores and leverage from this dependency. Economical/Judicial Dependence. This is related greatly to the formal written format of depending, entered into by the companies themselves to strengthen their dependence of business functions in the economical and judic ious way. Case studies on both the companies do not indicate that they have entered into any such formal contract with their suppliers to comment on this dependency of the Seal Honey and Fresh Mart (Svensson, 2002). Mattsson has added two extra dimensions to the list of Hammarkvist et al.’s, namely: 1. Market Dependence. It is related to a company’s reputation and ranking that might have a positive impact on the other company’s reputation and ranking. It can also enhance the brand value of the other company in the market. Of course, both the companies are leading players in grocery market and dependent on market forces to a great extent as dealing in perishable goods. 2. IT Dependence. When the two companies follow the same IT

Reflection on IMRD research paper Essay Example | Topics and Well Written Essays - 250 words

Reflection on IMRD research paper - Essay Example The research could be conducted with more people as respondents in order to acquire more idea regarding the topic. However, in future, by considering the factor of time management, the research could be conducted more broadly. Though time was sufficient to complete the paper but it consumed a considerable amount of time to conduct the research. It can be stated that by emphasizing upon the factor of time management, the research could be conducted in more detailed way and certainly it would help to bring certain changes while writing future papers. In order to write the paper 2, the peer reviews as well as the in-class activities helped and supported me by a significant level. Moreover, the written comments made by the instructor also assisted me in order to improve the writing of the paper. The comments from the instructor was generally based upon the guidelines about writing a particular paper which ultimately made me more positive as well as enthusiastically guided me towards writing the paper. There were a number of invaluable comments that were received from the instructor. These include appropriate writing guidelines, conception regarding time management and adequate working circumstances that supported me to complete the paper

Management and interpersonal relations Essay Example | Topics and Well Written Essays - 1500 words

Management and interpersonal relations - Essay Example It would not happen overnight, and thus I shall find ways and means to get the tasks reach the finished stage with acumen and intellect, shown by the employees themselves. The management part derives its basis from a number of factors, most significant of which remain the controlling, organizing and leading tenets. The management domains depend a great deal on how leaders are able to re-collect themselves after they had had a difficult time coping up with the employees which have not produced results. What this means is the fact that management comes of age and tells the employees what exactly is required of them, and how they shall go about delivering results with a sense of purpose and hard work on their part. Hence an understanding of the management premise is all the more significant in the time and age of today because employees are giving in their best and producing results that are based on the long term, and finding solutions which bring value towards the business realms. It is always a wise proposition to make sure that business entity remains supreme so that success is managed easily by the employers and the employees in the long term scheme of things. It would settle quite a few scores as far as management’s competition levels are concerned. My philosophy of interpersonal relations are such that these depend a great deal on how the human resources management and the top management in combination with one another depict the aspect of bringing in a change which is for the betterment of the organizational environment in the long range scheme of things. Interpersonal relations always come to the fore whenever a prospective employee wishes to join an organization. He would like to know what kind of environment exists within the organization’s realms and what the organization is doing to make sure that the employees remain cordial and jovial in each other’s company. This is important because interpersonal relations always seem to bring a positive or a negative connotation for the sake of the organization in the long range scheme of things, and is the marked difference between how prospective employees would like to come to terms with such companies in the future. It also speaks highly of the business entities wh ich are renowned for their working conditions and the ones that are not so famous for having the best possible relations amongst its employees (Hayes, 2002). The need is to have the best possible interpersonal relations within an organization’s realms so that people become attracted in joining it within the future. The interpersonal relations are always deemed as significant for any business enterprise because it sets the basis for organizational growth and harmony across the ranks. It makes things easier within an organization because the employers know that their employees would not start fighting with each other, instead they will remain calm and contented with what they have and how they will achieve success for not only their own selves but also for the end goals and objectives that the organization has set for its own self. This is a very quintessential aspect because it is being spoken about more and more in this day and age. Hence my understanding of the philosophy of interpersonal

Structure And Properties Of Ibuprofen

Structure And Properties Of Ibuprofen Ibuprofen, which is a member of the propionic acid group of Non-steroidal anti-inflammatory, drugs (NSAIDs). Ibuprofen is a racemic mixture of [+]S- and [-]R-enantiomers. Ibuprofen contains contains a stereocenter in the ÃŽ ±-position of the  propionate  moiety. Studies shown that [+]S -ibuprofen was the active form and it showed activity in both in-vivo and in-vitro. Ibuprofen is white to off-white in colour and occurs as a crystalline powder, with a melting point of 74 ° to 77 °C. It is practically insoluble in water, but readily soluble in organic solvents such as ethanol and acetone. Ibuprofen has a pKa value of 4.43 ±0.03 and an n-octanol/water partition coefficient of 11.7 at pH 7.4. The chemical name for ibuprofen is ( ±)-2-(p-iso-butylphenyl) propionic acid. The molecular weight of ibuprofen is 206.28. Its molecular formula is C13H1802. Mechanism of action The major action of Ibuprofen and all other Non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs and is the inhibition of the cyclooxygenase enzyme or the COX enzymes and hence inhibiting the synthesis of prostaglandins. These cyclooxygenase enzymes catalyse the reaction of synthesis of prostaglandins and thromboxanes from arachidonic acid, which in turn is synthesized from phospholipids by the action of the phospholipase enzyme. The prostaglandins and thromboxanes are then responsible for the synthesis of various inflammatory mediators. There are two types of cyclooxygenase enzymes namely, cyclooxygenase enzyme-I (COX-I) and cyclooxygenase enzyme-II (COX-II). COX-I is a constitutive enzyme which is released in most of the body tissues including the blood platelets. COX-I performs a house-keeping role in the body and is involved in the tissue homeostasis. Whereas, COX-II is present in the inflammatory cells and is responsible for the production of prostanoid mediators, which are responsible for inf lammation, pain and fever. Therefore, inhibition of the COX-II leads to the anti-inflammatory, anti-pyretic and analgesic activity of ibuprofen and whereas on the other hand, inhibition of COX-II is responsible for the unwanted effects of ibuprofen in the gastric mucosa and on platelet aggregation. In 2002, a study reported that, ibuprofen selectively inhibits a new variant  of the  COX enzyme that was totally different  from the  then known two variants of cyclooxygenase enzymes, the COX-I and  COX-II. This iso-enzyme is now referred as the COX-III enzyme. Study also showed that this COX-III enzyme was only expressed in the  brain and  in the  spinal cord. Its exact  mechanism  and actions is still poorly understood, but future research  may provide  further insight into how it works. A study on rats has shown that administration of ibuprofen increases the  bioavailability of serotonin (5-HT) in rats and evidence for a similar mechanism  in humans was also found. Chronic ibuprofen doses in rat showed down-regulation of central 5-HT2A receptors and  an increase  in the  number of serotonin transporter proteins. In 2006, a study showed that ibuprofen is converted to N-arachidonoyl phenolamine, or AM404, a compound known as an endogenous cannabinoid reuptake inhibitor and it indirectly activates the  CB-I cannabinoid receptor, resulting  in analgesia. This activity was proven through the  induction of a CB-I receptor antagonist  which  resulted in the  reversal of the  analgesic action  of ibuprofen. Pharmacokinetics Absorption Ibuprofen is well absorbed from the gastro intestinal tract. The peak plasma level of ibuprofen is reached within 1 to 2 hours. It was shown in a study that absorption of ibuprofen is faster in fasting conditions. Food affects the rate of absorption of ibuprofen but the extent of absorption remains unchanged. The study also showed that, ibuprofen when administered with food delays the time taken for peak plasma concentration by approximately 30-60 minutes. Distribution Ibuprofen like the other agents of its class is highly protein bound. It was found in a study that about 90-99% of ibuprofen was protein bound at a concentration of 20 µg/ml and this binding was non-linear. The volume of distribution ibuprofen changes with age and fever conditions. Studies reveal that febrile childrens less than 11 years old have volume of distribution approximately 0.2 L/kg, while adults have volume of distribution approximately 0.12 L/kg. Metabolism Ibuprofen is extensively metabolised in the liver to form inactive metabolic compounds. Ibuprofen is mainly metabolised by glucoronidation reaction. A study showed that majority of the ibuprofen dose was recovered in the urine as hydroxy phenyl propionic acid (25%) and carboxy propyl phenyl propionic acid (37%) metabolites. Elimination Ibuprofen and its inactive metabolites are rapidly and completely excreted by the kidney. About 95% of the administered dose of ibuprofen is eliminated in the urine. The elimination half-life of ibuprofen is in the range of 1.9 hours to 2 hours. Pharmacological activity Ibuprofen has the following pharmacological actions on the biological system Antipyretic effect Analgesic effect Anti-inflammatory effect Antipyretic effect A normal body temperature is regulated by a centre in the hypothalamus that ensures a balance between heat loss and heat production in the body. Therefore, the hypothalamus maintains a normal temperature of the body and thus it acts as a thermostat. When there is a disturbance in this hypothalamic thermostat, temperature of the body set by the hypothalamus is raised, fever occurs. Ibuprofen and other Non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs reset this rise in the temperature. It regulates various temperature regulatory mechanisms such as dilation of superficial blood vessels, sweating etc. to reduce the temperature. Ibuprofen and other NSAIDs do not affect the normal temperature. Ibuprofen and other NSAIDs are thought to act as antipyretic agents by inhibiting the prostaglandin production in the hypothalamus. During an inflammatory reaction, the bacterial endotoxins cause a release of a pyrogen-IL-1 from macrophages. This release of pyrogen stimulates the generation of E-type prostaglandins in the hypothalamus, this in turn causes the elevation of temperature. There are evidences that prostaglandins are not the only mediators of fever, hence ibuprofen and other NSAIDs may have some alternate mechanisms for their antipyretic activity which is not yet known. Analgesic effect Ibuprofen is mainly effective against pain associated with inflammation or tissue damage. This is due to the inhibition of prostaglandins that sensitise nociceptors to inflammatory mediators such as bradykinin. Therefore ibuprofen is effective against pains that are associated with increased prostaglandin synthesis. Their ability to relieve headache may be related to the inhibition of the vasodilator effect of prostaglandins on the cerebral vasculature. There are some evidences that ibuprofen have a central effect by an action mainly in the spinal cord where it inhibits the COX-III enzyme. This action of ibuprofen is not yet clearly known. Anti-inflammatory activity Many chemical mediators are released when there is a stimulus of an inflammatory and allergic response. This response leads to vasodilation, increased vascular permeability, cell accumulation, etc., which are produced by several mechanisms. Furthermore, different mediators may be of particular importance in different inflammatory and allergic conditions. Ibuprofen reduces mainly those components of the inflammatory and immune response in which mediators produced by COX-II enzyme action plays a significant part. The components inhibited by ibuprofen are vasodilation, oedema and pain. Ibuprofen has no effect on those processes which contribute to tissue damage as in chronic inflammatory conditions such as rheumatoid arthritis, vasculitis and nephritis. Uses of ibuprofen Ibuprofen is used to treat a wide range of illnesses such as headaches, backache, menstrual cramps, dental pain, neuralgia, rheumatic pain, muscular pain, migraine, arthritis and athletic injuries. Ibuprofen is also used to reduce fever and to relieve minor aches and pain caused due to common cold or flu.   In a recent study, it was found that ibuprofen was effective in the treatment of Alzheimers disease when given in low doses over a long period of time. A study also showed that ibuprofen is associated with a lower risk of Parkinsons disease, and ibuprofen may help in delaying and prevent it. . Adverse effects of Ibuprofen Ibuprofen appears to have  the  lowest  incidence of adverse  drug  reactions  (ADRs)  when compared to all other  non-selective  NSAIDs. However, this only holds  true  at lower doses of ibuprofen. Common adverse  effects of ibuprofen with the gastrointestinal tract include nausea, dyspepsia, heartburn, gastrointestinal ulceration and bleeding, diarrhoea, loss of appetite, stomach pain. Effects on central nervous system include headache, dizziness, fatigue and nervousness. Hypersensitivity reactions include skin rashes, itching. In very rare cases ex-foliative dermatitis and epidermal necrolysis has been observed. Infrequent  adverse  effect includes- oesophageal ulceration, heart failure, hyperkalaemia, renal impairment, confusion,  bronchospasm, and  salt and  fluid retention [11] Photosensitivity Like the other agents of the NSAIDs,  ibuprofen has also been reported to be  a photosensitising  agent.[12][13]  However, this only rarely occurs with ibuprofen and  it is considered to be  a very weak photosensitising  agent  when compared with other members of Non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs. This is because the  ibuprofen molecule contains  only a single phenyl moiety and  no  bond  conjugation,  resulting  in a very weak chromophore system and  a very weak absorption spectrum  which  does not reach  into the  solar spectrum. Cardiovascular risk Ibuprofen has been reported to elevate the  risk  of myocardial infarction,  particularly among  those taking chronically  high  doses of ibuprofen [14] Risk in pregnancy Studies have  found an increased risk  of miscarriage  with the  use of ibuprofen in early pregnancy; however, there are no thorough findings in  this association.  There are also  concerns  that drugs such  as ibuprofen may interfere with implantation of the  early foetus, although a clear risk has not been established. When ibuprofen is used as directed in the  first  and  second trimester of pregnancy,  it is not associated with an increased risk  for birth defects. However, ibuprofen is generally not used  during  pregnancy because there are concerns  with their  use during  the  third trimester. Ibuprofen Overdose Ibuprofen is the most commonly and widely used Non-steroidal anti-inflammatory agent all over the world. Since, ibuprofen was licensed as an over the counter drug, ibuprofen overdose became a common phenomenon. The most common symptoms of ibuprofen overdose are unsteadiness, blurred vision, ringing in the ears, gastrointestinal, nausea plus vomiting, diarrhoea, stomach pain, probable loss of blood in intestinal areas or stomach or both, headache, agitation, drowsiness, incoherence and confusion etc. Sometimes more serious symptoms are also noticed in some victims, such as seizure, gastrointestinal bleeding, metabolic acidosis, respiratory depression, hyperkalaemia, tachycardia, atrial fibrillation, coma, hepatic dysfunction, renal failure, cyanosis, and cardiac arrest etc., however these symptoms are very rare. The  severity of symptoms varies with the ingested dose  and  the  time elapsed. However, individual sensitivity also plays  an important  role. Generally,  the  symptoms observed with an overdose  of ibuprofen are similar to the  symptoms caused by  an overdose of other NSAIDs. Doses of ibuprofen below 100 mg/kg are less likely to produce any toxic effects. But doses of ibuprofen above 400 mg/kg are considered an overdose and can result into any of the above consequences.

Archetypal Shame Society Essay examples -- German Literature Heroic Ep

Archetypal Shame Society Certainly one of the greatest works of German literature to date, Das Nibelungenlied is arguably the finest example of the heroic epic in all of Western literature. Ostensibly, Das Nibelungenlied is a story of deception, betrayal, and vengeance interwoven with themes of fate and the relationship between love and despair. The poet reproaches the main character, the queen Kriemhild, for her selfishness in sacrificing the lives of thousands of loyal knights to exact her revenge on those who betrayed and murdered her husband. However, underlying the story of Das Nibelungenlied is a tacit critique of its hypothetical society, which itself closely resembles the society of the poet’s audience. Hence, the poet intends to effect discourse amongst his audience regarding the political state of its society, and indeed this theme is even recapitulated in the very act of the epic’s reception. The premise for the poet’s political theory of the Nibelungenlied society is the same as that of English philosopher Thomas Hobbes in his essays on the state of nature and the social contract. Hobbes believed that man, in his natural state, was driven by the primitive impulses of desire, aggression, fear, and most of all, survival. For the most part, the lives of uncivilized men were short and brutish. Thus, to protect themselves from each other and external threats, men entered into a social contract, in which they created an entity with authority to rule and power to defend. Nevertheless, this agreement is hardly a solution to the problem of man’s natural aggression towards his fellow man; it merely glosses over it. Perfect evidence of the Nibelungenlied society glossing over natural aggression are the knightly exhibi... ...ext has to be such that the audience member learns nothing new about himself or herself in his or her self-conscious reflection of that text. In this way, the audience member realizes the society of the epic is analogous to his or her own. There are natural urges that man has, such as aggression, for which the state will provide suitable outlets. However, one must be wary that during the sublimation of these natural urges, one does not neglect to recognize the implications of these urges, because it is these impulses that drive and form our societies yet at the same time threaten their existence. To be sure, an audience listening to a reading of Das Nibelungenlied might well be a sublimation of adventure-seeking or intellectual stimulation, but whatever it is, if it sustains the society, it should never be glossed over, for it may also destroy the society it serves.

Cross-Culture Analysis on “Outsourced”

Due to Western Novelty’s Outsourcing scheme, Todd Anderson is sent to India. Upon arrival, Todd has completely no idea of what territory he is stepping into. With the lack of awareness of the Indian culture, he first falls victim to a taxi driver’s trickery, has to literally â€Å"hop† on a train and although he is offered a seat on the â€Å"can-packed† train carriage by a boy, but in return he has to offer up his lap for the boy to sit on. On first sight, Todd experienced a culture shock from the manifest culture of India (Sathe, 1985) that attacked his own â€Å"core† and starts to form judgments about this seemingly dirty and primitive country. The initial contact with a new culture gives rise to cultural differences and Todd finds himself struggling with them. This is the result of the differences in cultural dimensions. The first dimension contrasting India and Todd, would be Collectivism versus Individualism. Individualism refers to how much a person is self-centered and free from control; Collectivism refers to how the overall group’s interest is placed above an individual. (Hofstede, 1980) Using scores from the GLOBE project, India scores a high 5. 92, much higher than the USA’s score of 4. 5 on the collectivistic scale where higher refers to more collectivistic. (House et al. 2004) Todd, originating from the US, is characterized as an employee who only has to worry about himself, does not involve himself with other employees. In the first scene, employees from the US have a very big private space to themselves and the boss Dave has an even more private enclosure. The office space reflects the culture of individualism from the US. However, in India, we see that employees interact with each other more frequently, such as Asha helping out with employees and smaller desks for closer working conditions. Even the supervisor’s desk lacked privacy due to the missing glass, which Todd makes a big fuss about and showed closeness between the employer and employees. It is apparent that the employees in India have a more collectivistic corporate culture and this affected Todd’s individualistic values and beliefs. However, later in the film, Todd’s individualistic personality slowly evolves into a collectivistic one as he immerses himself into India’s culture and changed his leadership style. This showed during the incident when there was flooding, Todd and the staff members worked together as a team and Todd even asked his neighbour to help with the power connections to benefit the group’s goal. What Todd went through during his immersion in India’s culture is called Primary Socialization (Berger & Luckman, 1967) where he learned India’s culture through living with Puro’s Aunt and socializing with the locals. Without the change in Todd from an individualist to a collectivist, the business could not have been as motivated or productive or achieved its goal. Power distance is the extent to which power is unequally distributed in a collective. A higher power distance score reflects high unequal distribution of power. From the GLOBE scores India has a higher power distance than the US (India = 5. 47; US = 4. 88) (House et al. 2004). In the movie, the Indian employees show a high power distance because they treat their superiors with respect. This could be seen in the actions of Puro. When he was reprimanded for the first time, he did not end up in an extreme debate with Todd regarding the high level of the MPI. On the second incident, when he was scolded, he was very apologetic and was thoughtful to bring clean food for Todd. This showed Puro’s deep reverence for the leader of the office. Another example was how the employees did not ask about better working conditions and accepted whatever Todd had dictated on them from the start until much later. However, when compared with the way Todd talks to Dave, the barrier between him and the superior is thin. Todd can express his thoughts and freely rebut Dave with his own opinions – such as calling Dave â€Å"corporate slimeball†, arguing over the MPI or the freight of company products. The language used through the communication between Dave and Todd sounds too casual to represent a high power distance. The impact power distance had on Todd was great because he had to change his casual methods, as seen during the accent classes, to exerting his leadership on the employees. However, the Power Distance between Todd and Dave did not change. The humane orientation of India ranks much higer than the US according to GLOBE project (India = 4. 57; US = 4. 17) (House et al. 004) The business in India does show a more humane style of working such as Asha caring for the employees, Puro caring Todd by taking him into his family circle and even caring for his well-being such as bringing him clean food. This dimension also affected the business when Todd finally changes his style of leadership. His humane orientation changes from a negative, sulky manager who lashes out at every opportunity he can to a more encouraging manager who becomes a positive influence to the employees. However, throughout the film we see that Dave does not seem to care about the employees in India or even those who were outsourced right from the start. The carefree words he used when he wanted to fire his US employees tell us that he was more interested in cutting the costs of employment and his position as boss rather that the futures of the employees. This impacted the business in India later when he continued to cut costs further by bringing the business to China. Additionally, Dave keeps bossing and pushing Todd around, first sending him to India, giving him a hard time over his contract and even tried to send him to China. We have already established that India tends towards a collectivist culture and the US an individualist culture. Hence, different dimensions will require different motivational and leadership patterns. An individualist culture has both the employee and employer trying to make communal decisions that will benefit both parties, while in the collectivist culture, the reliance on the leader to have the whole group involved is much greater. (Thomas, 2003) The cultural dimensions of India affects the way things are done in the corporate Indian office and Todd has to see them. Earley (1993) also proved a relationship that collectivist cultures would show more work motivation and productivity. Using Vroom’s Motivational theory, there lies a central theme of Expectancy Theory. From there we can identify different motivational factors in the film. Expectancy theory is based on of deciding how much effort should be put into a job for an outcome. The process of Expectancy Theory has 3 components – Effort, Performance and Outcome. Among these 3 components, there are 2 expectancies. First is the Effort to Performance expectancy that is the belief whether making effort will lead to an expected success. The second is the Performance to Output expectancy that is how much value of the reward of the outcome. (Vroom, 1964) What the expectancies mean is that if a person believes that a certain performance will lead to a desired outcome, they will then input effort that will produce the required performance to achieve the outcome. In the middle of the film, this theory can be applied when Todd decided to introduce an incentive programme for employees. The programme allowed employee discounts for western novelty products. Additionally, as part of the motivational process, he gave an edict that whoever improves the Minutes Per Incident (MPI) for the day would get their pick on merchandises from their best sellers of their products. This is the work of Expectancy theory taking place – with the new incentive programme, the employees clearly know what performance will lead to a desired outcome, hence they will instinctively put in effort to achieve the performance required. Whereas for Todd, his outcome is to leave India and the performance is to bring the MPI to 6. 0. Hence his effort component will require him to comply with the collectivist culture of the Indian branch to achieve the outcome. Thus we see that their performance component to achieve a 6. 0 MPI is the same, their effort and outcomes are different because of differing roles, and individual goals. These differing roles and goals can be attributed to the differing individual needs. We can also apply Herzberg’s Motivation-Hygiene Theory to the film. His theory suggests that satisfaction and dissatisfaction are two separate dimensions instead of two extremes of one dimension. (Herzberg , 1968) His hygiene factors refer to external factors such as factors outside an employee’s job that influences him. These are ‘dissatisfiers conditions’ – if they are present, the worker is neutral; but if absent, the worker will be dissatisfied. In the film, after the Day of Holy, Todd acknowledges his mistake of trying to run the Indian branch as an American office and asks how he could change the way the office is run. Suggestions include bringing family pictures to work, allowing them to bring what they want to the office as long as it doesn't get in the way of work, and wear whatever they want to work including ethnic clothing. We can tell from the employees’ faces that without proper working conditions, they were dissatisfiers to their productivity and after Todd had acknowledged change, it put a smile to their faces. For Todd’s position, when he first arrived in India, the working conditions were a total dissatisfier because the working conditions were different from his usual ones, especially because the place was in a rural lace and even animals were in the office. The culture shock resulted in him becoming difficult in the workplace such as scolding Puro a few times. However, later on in the film, other hygiene factors such as the build up in relationships between the characters helped overpowered his original hygiene factors. The second factor from Herzberg is the Motivation f actor that is intrinsic in nature. These include interesting work, responsibility or career advancement. If they are present, the worker will be satisfied, but if absent the worker remains neutral. Asha did not want to sign up for the incentive programme, and from her other actions and words, we can assume that her motivational factor was the work itself, or a career advancement – when she took the initiative to act as supervisor on the Day of Holy and acting as a supervisor when they setup the office on the roof. Todd also promoted her to be the future assistant call manager. For Todd, it was after the Day of Holy where he became motivated to take on the challenge and responsibility of the business. We can also use McClelland’s Learned Needs Theory, to spot other motivational differences between the characters. The Learned Need Theory states that there is three major needs that influences people’s behaviour – need for achievement, power and affiliation. (McClelland, 1966, 1985) The need for achievement relates to individuals who want success or failure. This can be identified with Dave who’s only concern was himself, maximize the company’s profits by outsourcing the lowest cost possible services and neglecting the benefits of others. This need for achievement can also be identified in Todd when he first arrives and is only concerned about himself and forcing the MPI down to 6. 0. However, he then realized that to achieve this, he has to had establish a reputable presence in the company which is the second need in the Learned Need Theory. The need for power relates to achieving reputation, and control over others. We might only see this through Todd in the later part of the movie whom starts to understand his position in India and makes the best of it by being the best manager possible and trying to win over the employees. But this was still done so that he can leave India when the MPI reaches 6. 0. So Todd achieves this by gaining respect from his subordinates by introducing an incentive programme. Todd knows that by introducing the programme, it will motivate him further. The need for affiliation relates to establishing relationships with others. This is seen in Asha who helps employees every now and then in the film. Asha’s needs are also different from other employees, as she does not want any of the incentives outlined by Todd. Rather she establishes relationships between herself, the employees, Puro and Todd. This need is also manifested in these three characters because of the collectivistic corporate nature of the Indian branch. The relationship between the three characters deepens throughout the movie because they realized they were in the same boat and they had to achieve a common goal together, which becomes a shared need. To sum up, the film showed us how our protagonist, Todd, developed his cultural intelligence (CQ). The distinct cultural differences between India and US, the contract between Todd and Dave left the protagonist with the uncontested choice to stay put and that had in effect, supported his development of cultural intelligence. Todd had went through the stages of CQ development – Reaction, Recognition, Accommodation, Assimilation and Proactivity (Thomas 2003) Not only did he learn about and adapt to the new culture, he had also learned that he had to alter his corporate processes to make the business work. At the end, when Dave recommended Todd to move to China, he declined probably because Todd knew how hard it was to change and adapt to a new culture. References: Berger, P. and Luckmann, T. (1967) The Social Construction of Reality. New York: Doubleday. Earley, P. C. 1983) â€Å"East meets West meets Mideast: Further Explorations of Collectivistic and Individualistic Work Groups,† Academy of Management Journal, 36 (2), 319-48 Herzberg, F. (1968) â€Å"One more Time: How Do You Motivate Employees† Harvard Business review, Jan-Feb Edition, 53-62 Hofstede, G. (1980) Culture’s Consequences: International Differences in Work-Related Values. Beverly Hills, CA: Sage. House, R. J. , Ha nges, P. J. , Javidan, M. , Dorfman, P. W. , and Gupta, V. (2004). Culture, Leadership, and Organizations: The GLOBE study of 62 societies. Sage Publications: London. Javidan, M. , Dorfman, P. W. , de Luque, M. S. , and House, R. J. (2006) â€Å"In the eye of the beholder: Cross-Cultural lessons in leadership from Project GLOBE. † Academy of Management Perspectives, 20(1): 67-90. McClelland, D. C. (1966) â€Å"That Urge to Achieve† THINK Magazine. McClelland, D. C. (1985) Human Motivation, Glen vview, IL: Scott, Foresman. Sathe,V. (1985) Culture and Related Corporate Realities. Homewood, IL: Irwin. Thomas D. C. , Inkson K. (2003) ‘Cultural Intelligence: People skills for Global Business’, Berrett-Koehler Publishers Vroom, V. H. (1964) ‘Work and Motivation’, New York: Wiley. 331p.

The Gifted

Not all of us can do great things. But we can do small things with great love. † Mother Teresa A day of extending the service of love was once again showed by the grantees to the children of orgy. Barras, Stop. NIH. It was a day full of happiness that the grantees, though they didn't have expensive things to share, and fancy gifts to give, didn't fail the children experience the feeling of being loved through sharing with them the Joy and laughter that no amount of money could ever buy.It was a day of fun when the renters conducted several activities in cooperation with the Christ the King College- College of Teacher Education Graduating Class of 2013. The KC-CITE together with the grantees of Cassis Development Foundation had an outreach program exclusively for the students of Barras Elementary and Secondary Schools. The grantees were able to show their spirit of generosity not Just by sharing largesse to the learners of Bray. Barras but also by giving them knowledge and under standing of things that are still alien to them, giving them awareness of the scholarships offered at Christ the KingCollege, most specifically the Cassis Development Foundation, and of course sharing with them a barrel of laughs. Just looking into the eyes of those children, their eagerness and enthusiasm of pursuing their studies and the realization by themselves that cried how unfortunate they were not to do so because of financial instability made the hearts of the grantees moved†¦ And this was the highlight of their visit on that place. Subsequently, the only thing that emanated to the grantees was to open the gates for them by sharing with the learners the idea that both sides share the same sentiments specially before.The grantees disclosed with them their past stories before they became grantees, the grantees wanted the learners to understand that in every problem there will always be a solution, that there is always a chance for the unfortunate, and a hope to those who believe. The UDF grantees gave inspiration to the learners to not lose hope but fight instead to whatever circumstances they may be facing for life is sometimes cruel but it can yield the sweetest thing if one learns how to look into its positive side. The outreach program did not Just wake up the hearts and minds of the people in orgy.Barras but it also rough them enlightenment unto which path to go through and it was really an honor that the Cassis grantees were also a part of that realization in their lives. Through the grantees' initiative of uncovering their life stories for the sake of giving the students the encouragement and motivation to continue to the course of their lives through educating themselves, truly they presented their being of a teacher with Franciscan values with them. The grantees believe that they can make a difference through commencing with simple things, thus, according to Napoleon Hill, whatever the mind can conceive and believe, it can achieve.

The gap in outcomes between people of different education levels

The gap in outcomes between people of different education levels People with different educational levels have different lifestyles and enjoy different privileges. Higher levels and longer durations of education have many impacts on individual personal skills, life preferences and personal characteristics. For example, In the process of schooling, a person develops critical thinking, good communication skills, high self esteem, awareness and confidence.Advertising We will write a custom article sample on The gap in outcomes between people of different education levels specifically for you for only $16.05 $11/page Learn More Although most these skills are not taught in class, they broaden ones experience and skills hence one can manage his time and resources effectively, and can be in a position to make appropriate decisions in life. Therefore, as individuals-under the same background- go up in the academic ladder, their level of nonpecuniary benefits such as happiness, mental health and social life increase proportionatel y. Consider the case of the competitive employment industry. The employers look for the most trained or qualified persons to assign or award a job. Therefore, the level of schooling affects the chances of being unemployed, type of employment and the position for which an individual is employed, which has a direct impact on personal income. Since the levels of achievements and successes are mainly measured based on financial status, long-term unemployment and low incomes are considered total societal disgrace. Moreover, long-term unemployment and low incomes linked to depression and low self esteem, which in turn affects the mental health of individual. As a result, a college graduate is likely to be employed or have a better job than a college dropout or high school dropout, and hence the graduate is less likely to suffer from depression and poor mental health. Why it is difficult to identify the causal effect of education on outcomes. Quantifying the nonpecuniary benefits derived f rom schooling is very important. However, it is quite difficult to exactly single out or isolate one or two factors in order to establish a causal relationship between schooling and nonpecuniary benefits. Factors such as family background, genetics and perseverance are very beneficial and influential to schooling. For example, two different students with diametric parenting systems or financial backgrounds are subjected to totally different schooling outcomes.Advertising Looking for article on education? Let's see if we can help you! Get your first paper with 15% OFF Learn More The two students will undergo different schooling methods and environmental conditions, exposure and associatively. Similarly, twins with different genetic makeup will also have different educational outcomes. In addition, it is true that the levels of incomes increase with the levels of schooling. Higher incomes in turns bring about more nonpecuniary benefits. This present a difficult y in measuring precisely the amount of pecuniary benefits that can be solely tied on schooling. For example, consider a CEO of a multinational corporation. It is hard to tell if his advanced methods of socialization are purely determined by his schooling level or his financial status. Methods that Oreopoulous discussed Schooling is important as it helps an individual to develop both knowledge based skills, and Critical thinking and social skills that enables individuals to be ethical, adjust to new situations and to able to analyze and solve problems. Thus, under the product efficiency model, Schooling provides a suitable environment for individuals to develop multitasking techniques and effective time management skills. However, the ‘allocative efficiency model’ views schooling as a means of equipping individuals with more skills for decision making. Twin and Sibling Studies are adopted to minimize the effects of prior social–economic success and genetic interfe rences that may bias the estimation of nonpecuniary benefits of schooling. The studies show that an extra year of schooling results in more nonpecuniary benefits. In Natural Experiments in Schooling involves alteration of policies that have net effect on cost of education without loss of benefit or value. An additional year of compulsory schooling, tuition, boarding in school, creation of a school in given locality affects both pecuniary and nonpecuniary benefits.Advertising We will write a custom article sample on The gap in outcomes between people of different education levels specifically for you for only $16.05 $11/page Learn More Outside the labor markets approach compares the levels of pecuniary benefits arising from schooling different schooling levels, before and after conditioning income. From this method, one can conclude that the benefits of schooling are reflected proportionally in marriage, parenting techniques, personal health, long-term behav iors, personal preferences, development of trust and the overall quality of life.

Reflections of what happened in early childhood center of early Essay - 3

Reflections of what happened in early childhood center of early childhood education in NZ - Essay Example Reflections of what happened in early childhood center of early childhood education in NZ He flipped through his own portfolio and when he found what he was searching for, he called out â€Å"Sydney!† Finally I got what he said. He was trying to tell me that he drew a picture of his sister Sydney and was saying that she is tall. Analyse It takes a lot of patience trying to understand what a young child is trying to communicate because their language skills are not yet developed. Hence, their pronunciation of words may still be unclear. Failing to understand what a child is trying to say may sometimes make them frustrated and altogether stop attempting to communicate. I was so conscious of this when I was talking to L and was worried that my inability to understand him might result in negative consequences. I am aware that patience and sensitivity are important professional responsibilities for a qualified teacher to have to support the development of children’s language and communication skills. Theories In the Teachers’ Council Fit to be a Teacher cr iteria, there is an item that applied to the anecdote I just had with L. A teacher will interact with learners (students),and should at all times maintain high standards of sensitivity and compassion, to recognise and respect others as individuals and to care for the learning of those who are disadvantaged and those with learning difficulties (The Teachers Council "Fit to be a teacher" criteria )  ) Children use language for many purposes (Otto, 2010) such as telling stories that may be real from their own experiences, or contrived from their imaginations; directing stories; expressing pride; obtaining help when needed; sharing experiences in varied social settings; and developing conversational skills. However, teachers should be more patient with toddlers who are still developing their language skills and may have difficulty in doing so. Dismissing them from their attempts at communication will discourage them from trying again, but showing encouragement by giving one’s full attention will motivate them to find more ways to communicate their id eas. It is essential that toddlers get to be engaged in conversations no matter how little they may say. Piaget and Vygotsky, key people in the study of language and thought, believe that development will not take place unless children engage in rich, meaningful conversations with others. In doing so, they internalize language to more complex thinking (Neuman & Roskos, 1993). Act I have to always keep in mind that every child has the right to be heard. With toddlers who are in the process of developing their language skills and identities, they need more patience in being understood. I will encourage them to speak by giving them my full attention, looking for non-verbal cues to help me understand what they are trying to communicate. When they are successful in expressing their ideas, I shall gladly praise them to show that their attempt at communication was appreciated and considered a success, worthy to be celebrated. References Neuman, S. B., & Roskos, K. A. (1993) Language and li teracy learning in the early years: An integrated approach, Harcourt Brace Jovanovich, Fort Worth, TX, pp. 27-31, 34-61. Otto, B. (2010). Language development in early childhood (3rd edition). Upper Saddle River, NJ: Pearson. The Teachers Council "Fit to be a teacher" criteria, Retrieved on May 20, 2011 from http://kiyaana.co.nz/Teachers%20Council%20Fit%20to%20be%20a%2

Economy of Hong Kong Research Paper Example | Topics and Well Written Essays - 2750 words

Economy of Hong Kong - Research Paper Example Hong Kong has played a crucial role not only in Asia’s economic system but also linked to the western. British successfully prospered Hong Kong’s economy and several impacts has brought into through this development which could be said as a path to Hong Kong’s Modernization. The role of Opium War in Hong Kong’s economic development During the start of the 19th century, Hong Kong did not show any indication that it would later become a world trade center in Asia. The country was way beyond in terms of economic development. Unlike today, China was not interested into foreign trade so Hong Kong dwelled mostly on farming and fishing. This did not last until British ocean-going ships discovered Hong Kong as useful for â€Å"unloading and loading cargo to be barged up the Pearl River to Canton† (Liu). During that time, there was a trade imbalance between the western countries and china because china had more to offer than it needed in return. Because of the on-going trade imbalance, the British had to think of ways to prevent it. One of the solutions that they thought of is to illegally import opium to China. Opium was used for medicinal purposes in China toward the end of the 15th century (Tho’Mas). It was used to cure dysentery, cholera, and other diseases. However, it was in 1729 when the Chinese imperial government had found out of the detrimental effects of opium smoking. The opium sale had been banned since 1729 and its importation had been illegal until 1820 (Liu). The British saw this as an opportunity to offset the trade imbalance. According to Liu, the illegal opium trade thrived in Canton where they imported 40,000 chests of opium to China annually. The British and the US have made a good fortune in this illegal trade. "This illicit massive transfer of wealth from China, one of the world's richest and largest economies at the time, played a key role in financing the economic development of Europe and North America in the 1800s." (Liu) As the British continue the opium trade, the Qing dynasty ordered to stop the Opium trade by assigning troops in Canton and demanded that the British troops turn over their opium contraband. More than 20,000 chests of opium were surrendered by the British after six weeks (Liu). This happening encouraged British traders to occupy since