Monday, September 30, 2019
Poverty and Education Essay
Poverty has been defined by many authors as the total absence of opportunities that go with high levels of illiteracy, hunger, malnourishment, lack of education, physical and mental ailments, social and emotional instability.            Poverty is characterized by chronic shortage of political, economic and social participation, leading individuals to feel socially excluded preventing access to the benefits of social and economic developments and hence limiting cultural development and diversification (UN Chronicle, Dec 2000 by Ramon Osiris Blanco). Reasons for poverty are diverse with main factors being social and individual conditions. The social conditions is tied intrinsically to the political and economic realms as it is the administrator of power who regulates the distribution of resources and services, creating controls which bring about inequalities that are some times found in land distribution capital infrastructure, markets, and information or consulting services or any other fields that bring about differences inhuman development. In the individual conditions inequality translates to limitations in access to services such as portable water, education recreation, public hygiene and health.            In United States of America just like any other part of the world, poverty has contributed to poor levels of education among poor students. For instance poor students end up attending sub standard schools where the pupil – teacher ratio is not ideal, these s schools have poorly trained teachers thereby compromising the standards of education.            Poverty in education has historically been an issue in relation to American schools. In the 1980s it was known that impoverished children were less likely to succeed in education and that something had to be done to alter this situation for the poor. It is as a result of this that many political leaders and other administrators, both in the past and presently came up with policies aimed at addressing the problem of poverty in relation to education. Hillary Clinton in her contribution suggests that changes in policies for poor children must include changes in the educational system: something she claims to have been struggling to accomplish for the past 35 years. Change of system would not achieve much if those policies already in place are not fully implemented. As National Ministries agrees with Clinton’s ideas, stating that the elimination of No Child Left behind (NCLB) Act would be an asset to achieving this goal. It is actually a matter of good will and seriousness by the leaders in addressing this issue rather than changing the systems. Although NCLB act has been in place for quite some time it has not achieved its objectives: the country has the highest number of young poor citizens’ compared to other developed nations.           Barrack Obama on his part, believes that changing education for the poor must begin with changing financial aid for college students in order to provide assistance for impoverished students in need of higher education. This is practical, and this view is supported by Hillman, who also contends that the current administration has done nothing to alter life for the impoverished and that education should be President Bush’s main focus as president. Obama’s view is also supported by the fact that poverty stricken students in poor states have been faced with unequal distribution of resources such federal aids. A report released in 2006 on this issue revealed that the poorest states were being shortchanged by policies aimed at distributing federal aid to public schools. It further reveals that wealthier states were receiving more federal aids (http://technocrat.net/d/2006/12/27/12662).  Other than distributing resources to poor students as supported by Obama, there is also further need to consider who is actually needy and able to excel in academics.            Kotlowitz suggests, through his research, that the young children struggling to succeed in school must be the target of social concern because in the early years it is when children will determine whether or not education is of value in their lives. This viewpoint makes it clear that each of the candidates and researchers that have presented ideas about poverty and education have completely failed to understand that it is not that further educational reform is needed; it is that support for current reform policies must be supported if impoverished children are to realize the benefits of education. Democratic presidential candidate Hillary Clinton argues that children living in poverty in the United States is a â€Å"moral outrage†(para. 2). Clinton focuses on the issue of poverty in her campaign through several different perspectives, to include education, health care, housing, hunger and abuse. In relation to education Clinton states: [In Arkansas] I started a special program for mothers of pre-scholars to get their kids ready for kindergarten, and also worked on reforming the state’s rural health care system, which helped many poor families and their children. As First Lady, I pushed the effort to expand Head Start and help create Early Head Start. (para. 5)            National Ministries agrees with Clinton that the issue of poverty must be addressed through several avenues in order to assist impoverished youth. In 2005 National Ministries elected to narrow down their focus, however, on education and the unfair standardized testing program created through the federal No Child Left Behind Act due to their belief that NCLB does not consider that impoverished children traditionally score lower on tests that other youths (â€Å"Advisory†para. 6). Consequently, according to National Ministries, NCLB is an ineffective program that hinders the educational success of the poor and action is needed through state and federal governments to end the negative impact that NCLB has on children.            The history of NCLB begins with a report commissioned by President Ronald Reagan on the state of American schools. The report, entitled â€Å"A Nation at Risk,†concluded that the American educational system was in horrendous shape, impacted by inadequate learning programs, ineffective teachers and low expectations for students (â€Å"Nation†). The panel producing the report called on federal and state authorities to address these issues because of the declining test scores of students in order to ensure that students of today were prepared to be productive members of society tomorrow. Despite the federal monies that were then placed into education the educational systems of the nation did not heed the advice of the panel and no significant effort was made to reform public education completely throughout the ’90s and the presidency of Bill Clinton. It was not until 2001 that George W. Bush signed into law the No Child Left Behind Act that mandated educational reform and provided for consequences if all children were not equally educated despite their socioeconomic class (â€Å"No Child†). The legislation forced teachers and administrators to realize that lowering standards for any students meant lowering expectations, goals and opportunities and that impoverished students were being overlooked and cast aside. It is interesting to note, however, that Clinton speaks of her massive progress in educational reform while first lady and that National Ministries argues that standardized testing does not take into account the inabilities of poor children. The fact remains that massive educational reform was not realized until the Clinton’s left office and that standardized testing completely opposes the notion that poor students cannot learn, as indicated in the report â€Å"A Nation at Risk†, which states: Our recommendations are based on the beliefs that everyone can learn, that everyone is born with an urge to learn which can be nurtured, that a solid high school education is within the reach of virtually all, and that life-long learning will equip people with the skills required for new careers and for citizenship. (â€Å"Nation†)            Nevertheless, despite the passage of NCLB into law in 2001 Lazarus contends that President Bush, speaking at the United Nations in 2005, discussed poverty and the need to create a global environment in which â€Å"the burden of poverty†¦is lifted†¦permanently†from the poor (para. 1-2). Bush was speaking of economic change and the need for nations to come together to address the concern for the impoverished. However, according to Lazarus, Bush should have been considering how he could alter the nation’s educational system in order to ensure that children in the United States had the skills to be competitive in the globalized marketplace and potentially advance into higher education (para. 5). It is evident that the call of Lazarus for educational reform in 2005 completely missed the reality that NCLB was signed into law in 2001. Devarics discussed the appointment of Barack Obama to the Senate Education Committee, stressing that Obama appeared to have two chief concerns regarding education. These concerns included Obama’s focus on increasing Pell Grant funding provided by the federal government for college students and creating â€Å"innovative districts†that offered an alternative to traditional education (para. 7-12). Hillman supports the notion that methods must be altered by the government and society for aiding impoverished students in their pursuit of higher education (para. 3). Hillman begins his article by stating that of the 14 most impoverished states 11 of them are located in the South, meaning that southern children are more inclined to â€Å"be left behind†than their northern counterparts (para. 2). Yet, Hillman continues by stating that the most effective approach to assisting these students is to ensure that they have access to a college education and that funding, as well as programs, must be changed in order for a higher education to be a reality for the impoverished. The argument for equality in higher education is important, however, Kotlowitz contends that by the age of ten the identities and beliefs of children are being formed, which will influence every aspect of the child’s interaction with education and the social order (ix). The view of Kotlowitz is significant because he spent two years investigating the lives of two male youths at the age of 10 that were struggling with poverty and the impact that poverty had on their lives and decisions. The journalistic evidence of Kotlowitz, therefore, provides evidence that changing education must begin for youth is those children are even to consider the possibility of advancing on to college. Conclusion It is evident in the research that multiple ideas exist regarding poverty and education in the United States. Clinton, Lazarus and the National Ministries speak as though no reform related to education has occurred in the past few decades and that this issue must be addressed. Obama and Hillman conclude that in order to assist the poor with education increases in federal Pell Grants should be created. Yet, what each of these arguments fails to realize is that federal mandates on educational reform were created in 2001 through NCLB. These mandates are being called unfair and unsuccessful by some and ignored by many others.  Additionally, these mandates force those within the educational system to alter their educational programs specifically for the poor, including young children who are just beginning to make decisions about the rest of their lives. There is no question that the views expressed in the research completely overlook the fact that no program for addressing the needs of the poor in education will ever be successful if those in authority fail to support it, or even attempt to try it for the benefit of those concerned. Consequently the viewpoints expressed by all but Kotlowitz do not fully concentrate on the issue of poverty and education; rather they misrepresent this concern to the American people intentionally and with only political gain in mind. It is clear that there have been good policies in regard to education in the US, but such have always not been implemented. There have also been programs on grants to both rich and poor states in support of educational institutions, but distribution of them has for long been clouded in controversy. The only way that education among the poor citizens in the US can be uplifted is through outright implementation of all policies relating to education in good will. Works Cited â€Å"Advisory Group Meeting Refines Public Education Emphasis for Children in Poverty Initiative.†National Ministries. 2005. 23 Mar. 2008 . Clinton, Hillary. â€Å"Hillary Clinton: Child Poverty†. Care 2. 2008. 23 Mar. 2008 . Dervarics, Charles. â€Å"U.S. Sen. Barack Obama Joins Education Committee.†Diverse Education. 2006. 23 Mar. 2008 . Hillman, Nick. â€Å"Majority of Southern Public School Children Live in Poverty.†Sharing Witness. 2007. 23 Mar. 2008 .Kotlowitz, Alex. There Are No Children Here. New York: Doubleday. Lazarus, David. â€Å"Education Can Crush Poverty†. San Francisco Chronicle. 2005. 23 Mar. 2008 . â€Å"Nation at Risk: An Imperative for Educational Reform, A†. U.S. Department of Education. 1983. 23 Mar. 2008 . â€Å"No Child Left Behind†. United States Department of Education. 2008. 23 Mar. 2008 . UN Chronicle, Dec 2000 by Ramon Osiris Blanco Poverty biggest factor in unequal education in United States, available at: http://technocrat.net/d/2006/12/27/12662, assessed on April 6, 2008
Sunday, September 29, 2019
Beach Burial Essay
Kenneth Slessor was an Australian poet and war correspondent who wrote Beach Burial, Slessor sailed for Britain in May. This influenced him to write poems about the horrific war stories that he had seen while being in many countries overseas. Beach Burial is a 5 stanza poem the goes in depth of the Burial in North Africa. Beach burial by Kenneth Slessor Beach Burial is able to be a lament poem with the use of the ‘convoy of dead sailors’ and the focus on an individual ‘unknown seaman’, this gives the poem power as it clearly shows the lack of ceremony at their burial. This idea interests me because in our society today, death is given huge respect and a large amount of the ceremony goes into someone’s burial. I also think that everyone deserves a burial no matter if there was no time or no space In the poem soldiers go off to war in North Africa at El Alamein and gradually soldier become unknown sea men. Kenneth Slessor makes this powerful message using figurative language such as the onomatopoeia which brings the horrendous conditions to life, this is done with â€Å"sob and clubbing of gunfire†, this exaggerates the poem, because he uses everyday things into the sound of gunfire and the grief that comes after it. In the third stanza, Slessor use somewhat of a metaphor with driven stake of ti de wood, in order for us to see that the soldiers who fought for our country are merely like a piece of drift wood in the sea. This shows how the soldiers were treated in when they died at war. As there was no place for them so they dropped the brave service men in the water with â€Å"bewildered pity and they lose their identity. This brings a message to everyday life now as to this day we still honour people that fought at war and died for our country and that we should still honour the people that fight wars now to this day and what they do to keep us safe, out of harm’s way. This also suggests that the dead soldiers in 1940 should have got proper burial rather than dropping them of a ship and someone quickly â€Å"burring them in shallow burrows.
Saturday, September 28, 2019
Daytime Bakery Company Essay
To the above named defendant: Daytime Bakery Company            Take notice that: On January 31, 2007 at 9:00a.m., in the District Court, Greendale, Georgia, if an answer is not filed, the court may be asked to enter judgment against you as set forth by the complaint. A copy of the complaint is attached. If you do not agree with the complaint then you must either: Go to court, located at 149 Blooms Street, Greendale, Georgia at the above date and time and file an answer stating any legal reason you have why judgment should not be entered against you, or File an answer with the court before that date and time. If you file an answer, you must give or mail a copy to the Plaintiff’s attorney who signed the complaint. If you do not file an answer or appear at the hearing, then the court may enter default judgment against you for the relief requested in the complaint. Michael Monroe Attorney at Law 522 Law Office Lane Georgia, CO 805111 352-121-5152 FAX: 352-111-5322 monroepractice.com monroeatlaw@aol.net June 13, 2007 Anthony Craig Manager, Albuquerque Flames P.O. Box 1123 Northville, Albuquerque RE:     Demand for Compensatory Relief Dear Mr. Craig: I am representing one Randy Offerdahl who is seeking for compensatory relief from your professional football team, Albuquerque Flames. My client claims that he was denied the opportunity to try out as a kicker for the team on the unfair grounds of his having epilepsy. My client is complaining the said discrimination and is claiming that he would have made the team and earned a $300,000.00 contract had he been given the chance. My client has played against 40% of the current Albuquerque Flames team members during his college football career, and claims that he can hold his own against them. This letter serves as a demand for compensatory relief in the amount of Fifty Thousand Dollars ($50,000.00) to be paid in certified funds no later than June 30, 2007. This amount and any future correspondence should be sent directly to the undersigned. I trust that you will consider this option seriously so as to avoid additional attorney’s fees should this issue remain unsettled by the administered deadline. You may have your attorneys contact my office regarding any questions that you might have. DISTRICT COURT COUNTY OF GREENDALE, GEORGIA COURT USE ONLY Plaintiff: John Evans  v.  Defendant: Daytime Bakery Company Roger H. Wilder Case No.: 00CV1003         Div: 8           Ctrm: 3 Attorney for the defendant 503 Law Office Lane Georgia, CO 805123  352-134-5851 FAX: 352-134-5821 rogersfirm@aol.net Registration #: 1141 ANSWER               The defendant, Daytime Bakery Company, by and through its counsel, Roger H. Wilder, for its answer states and alleges as follows:  1.    The defendant is well aware of Ordinance # 115 and is in full compliance with its statues.  2.    The defendant admits the allegation that the sidewalk outside Daytime Bakery Company has not been shoveled for the past four (4) days prior to the plaintiff’s accident.  3.    The defendant claims that despite of this, salt was consistently being applied on it on a daily basis in order to prevent any accidents as in compliance with Ordinance # 115.   AFFIRMATIVE DEFENSE  1.    The plaintiff’s own carelessness caused his accident.  WHEREFORE, the defendant hopes that the plaintiff recovers nothing by reason of his Complaint and that his Complaint be dismissed.  Defendant’s Address: P.O. Box H, Carlton Ave. Greendale, Georgia 18941-0508  Respectfully Submitted:  _________________________ Roger H. Wilder #1141 Attorney for Defendant  DISTRICT COURT COUNTY OF GREENDALE, GEORGIA COURT USE ONLY Plaintiff: Kim Latros  v.  Defendant: Officer Harry Davis Roger H. Wilder Case No.:       Div:              Ctrm: 503 Law Office Lane Georgia, CO 805123   352-134-5851 FAX: 352-134-5821 rogersfirm@aol.net Registration #: 1141 COMPLAINT              The plaintiff, Ms. Kim Latros, by and through her counsel, Roger H. Wilder, for her complaint against the defendant alleges as follows:  1.    Plaintiff is a citizen of Georgia, residing at 1511 Greenwood Street, Greendale, Georgia. The incident occurred in the state of Georgia, County of Greendale.  2.    The defendant is an office of the Georgia Police Department  3.    On June 8, 2007, the plaintiff’s car was pulled over by the defendant supposedly because the car’s license tags were expired. When the plaintiff got out of the car and checked that the tags were not expired, the defendant placed her in handcuffs, read her her Miranda rights, and placed her under arrest for carrying a concealed weapon. The defendant brought her to Georgia Police Department, all the time ignoring her admonitions that she had a permit for the weapon which she was able to produce later on.  4.    The plaintiff has since the incident, suffered from psychological trauma because of the defendant’s actions.  Note: Middle Portion of Document Intentionally Missing  WHEREFORE, the plaintiff prays for judgment against defendant in an amount to be proven at the time of the trial, including psychiatric bills, emotional damages, and costs in filing this suit, interest from the date of commencement of this action, expert witness fees, attorney’s fees, and for such other and further relief as to this Court may seem just and proper.  THE PLAINTIFF DEMANDS THAT THIS ACTION BE TRIED BY JURY  Plaintiff’s Address: 1511 Greenwood Street, Greendale, Georgia Respectfully Submitted: _______________________ Roger H. Wilder #1141 Attorney for Plaintiff
Friday, September 27, 2019
A Study on Total Quality Management and Lean Manufacturing Assignment - 1
A Study on Total Quality Management and Lean Manufacturing - Assignment Example These include quality control measures, selecting the best machines for production, maintaining higher levels of security, being potent in project management and proper maintenance of tools and equipments among other strategies. This paper addresses the case evaluation of Toyota and Total quality management by looking at the TQM methodologies and tools, some of the steps that were required in developing TQM at Toyota, how it was implemented at the company, how it worked, TQM criticism and finally how the company responded to the new plan of management. Total Quality management (TQM) is a management structure that mainly intends at improving production standards by using the already existing organs, for example, quality control (Besterfield, 2011). It is organized into four levels; Plan, Do, Check and Act, which is commonly abbreviated as PDCA. At the first level, Plan, there is identification of an issue, could be a challenge or a problem with all the relevant information concerning it not leaving out the problem,s main cause. It then develops further to the Do level where possible solutions are looked into. These further progresses into checking where the concerned parties do data comparison before it moves to the final stage where recommendations to the problems are done (Rawlins, 2008). Toyota motors is one of the companies that has successfully implemented Total Quality Management to ensure high quality products that serves their clients with contentment hence leading to success of the company, including the success of the soc iety. These refer to an accurate system used to justify a state of event or situation, which can be used in data analysis and, in turn, lead to accurate decision-making. Some of the tools and methodologies that are employed by TQM are the management tools, quality control tools and the improvement cycle, which is commonly referred to as PDCA (Besterfield, 2011). In ensuring that the production level at Toyota
Thursday, September 26, 2019
Using Lean Six Sigma to Improve Hospital based, Outpatient Imaging Article
Using Lean Six Sigma to Improve Hospital based, Outpatient Imaging Satisfaction - Article Example Therefore, the paper focuses on improving the service of the imaging department and brings into consideration the expectations of patients regarding the hospital. Unlike any commercial business, where greeting the customer and asking him to pay another visit soon, shall be considered good, such is not the case of the healthcare industry. In order to create an experience in the mind of the patients, service has to be personalized and focused. Previously, the hospital had wrongly focused on the process, procedure, safety and time to deliver the service; however, recent analysis suggested that customer satisfaction is about the consistency in the smooth conduct of the process as well as behavior of the staff. In order to ensure that Methodist achieves its objectives, it has decided to adopt a process that involves six sigma approaches and includes steps that are Define, Measure, Analyze, Improve and Control. Moreover, the customer satisfaction is the function of the service that is delivered to outpatients; therefore, the department has decided to pay special attention to these patients. Furthermore, the hospital uses Press Ganey service to assess its patient’s satisfaction.... The volume modality table seems to confirm the strategy of the hospital as outpatients seems to be the most frequent user of the machinery as compared to others while their share is approximately 50% in the case of Ultrasound, MRI and nuclear medicine. Thus in order to measure the performance in achieving those objectives, a more focused approach was laid down by reviewing the past data of outpatient imaging. The data revealed that the customer’s satisfaction has a very strong correlation with the time that the patient has to wait after being called down to testing area. Thus, based on this finding, a research was conducted that also confirmed the earlier finding. Therefore, the process was redesigned in order to improve efficiency in the system such that the lagging time shall be minimized. This was initiated by forming the workflow of all the four areas involved in the process which includes scheduling, registration, imaging and specific modality. However, more important in this regard was the communication regarding the appointments that were made with the patients since the time can be interpreted in more than one ways, while there used to a background noise that made communication difficult. In this regards, the email system was proposed as the solution to the problem. The most important part is the process of registration which used to take a lot of time due to its complex nature, such was simplified. Further, the outpatient was not being focused upon, as inpatient was being prioritized more over to outpatient regardless of the condition of the patients. To ensure further patient satisfaction, he will be communicated and briefed about the time the tests will start and details related to it. In case, he is late then he can be
Professionalism in Education Essay Example | Topics and Well Written Essays - 1750 words
Professionalism in Education - Essay Example According to the report findings learners usually move into the education sector with a difficult historical background regarding their formal education, prompting some of them to view it as the last resort prior to dropping out of education and training completely. This paper highlights the notion echoed in the Wolf Report that learners consequently require the most profound and excellent teaching for making sure that they stay on track and have the ability to make wise decisions while taking the right subsequent stages to protect their future of continuous employment.As the discussion stresses it is important that every form of learning programme, such as apprenticeships go along with the best methods of teaching, learning as well as the assessment of the outcomes that are considered appropriate. Generally, teachers need to display their confidence in their existing learners by nurturing them for future endeavours in the education sector. Such initiatives begin with the provisio n of the highest quality training and assessment possible with the intention of building a solid foundation of skills, as they develop their careers progressively. In line with FE, the significance of constantly good or exceptional training, together with the highest quality of assessment methods, results in the most successful learning outcomes, making it a more substantial form of provision. The UK government has tried to execute a form of professionalism by statute in the past decade on the further through advancing nationwide occupational standards for teachers.
Wednesday, September 25, 2019
Friedrich Nietzsche Research Paper Example | Topics and Well Written Essays - 2000 words
Friedrich Nietzsche - Research Paper Example While German Expressionism was expressed in a wide variety of artistic formats, today it is most recognized for its appearance within film. This essay considers the historical background of German Expressionism and also analyzes it for its deeper meaning within German Expressionist films, arguing that German Expression demonstrated a nihilistic concern with industrialization and modernization. Background While Expressionism was an art movement that had become popular in Europe during the early part of the 20th century, in Germany it took on a particularly unique approach. While this is because of a variety of reasons, one of the primary reasons is because the German filmmakers did not have the financial backing Hollywood films had so they began developing their own unique style. In considering German Expressionism, it’s clear there are a number of thematic elements that exist. In these regards, it’s been noted that frequent German Expressionist themes involve insanity, betrayal, and intellectual topics. It is perhaps for this last reason that the art movement remains so prevalent a concern within University environments. While German Expressionism was confined to a set period within German art history, its influence has been extended well beyond this early 20th century period. With Nazi’s taking power in Germany, making German Expressionist filmmakers migrated to the United States and influenced filmmaking. Slowly German Expressionist techniques took hold in American cinema and developed into film noir. Today noir remains a prominent element in Hollywood cinema. In addition, to film, it’s also been argued that German Expressionism emerged in architecture. In these regards, it’s argued that the sharp angles and contrasts of film also articulated into architecture. Indeed, German Expressionism seems to equally represent these concerns. From the opening credits it’s easy to see how American critiques could have confused Th e Cabinet of Dr. Caligari (1919) as cubist. The slanted and oblique patterns with the actors and directors names placed on top of them seem to represent a multitude of perspectives. Analysis While it’s been noted that German Expressionism largely developed as a response to Hollywood films, one must also consider it in relation to the meaning behind the artistic style. In these regards, many researchers argue that parallels between the German Expressionism and deep German nihilistic anxiety with industrialization are evident (Elsasesser, 2004, p. 72). In one of the most famous German Expressionist films, the Cabinet of Dr. Caligari this is highly evident. The film begins with an iris-in of Francis in the asylum. One notes that the concern with insanity is a major theme of German Expressionism. It is also oddly appropriate as with the darkness closing in the iris seems to represent a telescopic view of his troubled soul. In fact, the film makes use of editing to cut to the deep focus set-up that features Jane walking toward the camera and then back to the dark and troubling iris surrounding Francis. We initially find Caligari registering his somnambulist for the carnival. He seems somewhat out-of-place in the well-lit setting and the mise-en-scene. even positions him well-below the registrar, almost as if the registrar represents the established governmental authority that Caligari is attempting to replace. The
Tuesday, September 24, 2019
Nucor Corporation Case Study Example | Topics and Well Written Essays - 2000 words
Nucor Corporation - Case Study Example Generically, a value strategy is the pattern of decisions and actions that constitute the firm's overall approach toward providing realizable net value to customers. A value strategy inherently involves all parts of a firm's functional and organizational strategies that provide value realized by customers or require sacrifices by customers (see Appendix Table 1) Nucor follows a four-part growth strategy to increase its production capacities and quality that improve product quality. This strategy: "involves new acquisitions, new plant construction, continued plant upgrades and cost reduction efforts, and joint ventures" (Thompson et al 2008 p. C 115). Despite the use of strategic management process and content models, many managers fail to maintain or improve their firm's competitive position. The new globally competitive context requires that top management alter its current predispositions toward certain stakeholders and financial performance measures and refocus on continuously improving net customer value. "By 1985, Nucor had become the seventh largest steel company in Alnerica, with revenues of $758 million. With 18 plants having the capacity to produce 25 million tons of steel annually, 2006 revenues of$14.8 billion, and net profits of$I.8 billion" Thompson et al 2008 p. C-113). These changes suggest new strategic management processes and new strategy content paralleling those in current models. All firms have a value strategy, but few have completely conceptualized and clearly articulated value as the basis for competing. In fact, many firms are more competitor-oriented than customer-oriented. As a result, many managers are more familiar with their firm's competitive strategy than its strategy for improving customer value. Some inadvertently compromise net customer value either by producing products/services perceived to be of low quality or by requiring excessively high sacrifices of customers. Ironically, the most competitive firms are the customer-oriented, not the competitor-oriented firms. In financial terms, "new plant construction and boosting tons sold from 11.2 million in 2000 to 22.1 million in 2006" (Thompson 2008, p. C114). The uniqueness of Nucor is the synergistic combination of low cost and differentiation that may come with a value-based strategy is a direct result of managing critical systems that contribute to value. For Nucor, the acquisition process is limited to broadening the product line is erroneous (Nucor Corporation 2008). Many other business goals can be fulfilled by acquisition. These include strengthening the company's financial position, procuring the services of one or more key personnel or new executive talent, obtaining land, buildings, and equipment for expansion, stabilizing cyclical or seasonal types of business, avoiding concentration in a government-regulated area of industry, acquiring the technical skills of highly trained scientists, and many other critical elements in business which determine growth and success. The process of acquisition, then, is one that ought to be considered by the management of any enterprise as its plans for growth are executed (see Appendix Table 3, 4). Acquisition is one way to be considered in achieving the complete set of defined objectives. And many companies have found it a very satisfactory way. Annual report shows that acquisition strategy allows the company to achieve a steady growth and increase its
Monday, September 23, 2019
647 W7 assign Project Monitoring Essay Example | Topics and Well Written Essays - 1000 words
647 W7 assign Project Monitoring - Essay Example The third stage responds to any issues or problems detected. The fourth and final stage is outbound communication, keeping people aware of what has happened in the project†(p. 295). For the implementation of mobile application, project proponents are assumed to have undertaken the first stage, which is the collection of information for the current project status. Given that everything stipulated in the implementation phases have been completed, except for integrating thw NLMS to the students’ mobile devices, the information needed to be collected are the access points (mobile numbers of the students) to link their devices to the university’s database. After securing this critical metric, the mobile application with access credentials would be activated, as planned (second stage). Under the third stage, there should be a period to be allotted to address any concerns, issues, or problems related to implementation of mobile application. If any student complaints of the inability to access the site, then, appropriate measures should be undertaken to correct this. Finally, an official memorandum should be issued by the Project Manager to all students, faculty members, support personnel, and the board of directors to communicate that multiple phases, including the mobile application, has been undertaken and is currently duly working according to plans. Another method to communicate the results would be through a formal report to the board of directors or through project status meetings (Kendrick, 2003). The progressive case study was an effective method to inculcate theories from the required textbook to practical applications, using GU as the simulation for real-life scenario. The case study was structured in a strategic manner to enable students to focus on needed concepts, depending on the topic areas that should be imbibed as consistent with the learning objectives of the course.
Sunday, September 22, 2019
Memorandum Example Essay Example for Free
Memorandum Example Essay In contrast the Royal Hawaiian’s Monarch room is located on a beachfront area of the hotel on the ground floor. The same floor holds the main lobby, restaurant, terrace area, and entrance to Waikiki beach. This would be cause for distractions and noise while meetings are going on. See Fig. 2 below for ground level floor plan. [pic] Fig. 2 Ground Floor, Royal Hawaiian Ben Armstrong2March 21, 2012 Location Residing on the west side of Oahu, the Ihilani Resort is located in Ko‘Olina, home to both residents and tourists alike. The private lagoons, marina, and golf course provide a country/villa feel in the atmosphere surrounding the hotel. With no traffic or loud city noises, the convention can be held in peace. It is also a change of scenery for those who have been to numerous conferences and meetings in Waikiki. Although the Royal Hawaiian is known for it’s bright pink exterior, it is located in the heart of Waikiki. Being surrounded by a mile-long shopping center, the hotel is always busily buzzing with tourists and locals alike. Since the HFIA convention hosts locals from our islands, shopping would not be such an attraction but more of a distraction. Dining The in-hotel dining choices for the Ihilani consists of 2 formal dining restaurants, an in formal all day restaurant, a poolside patio, and a bar. The Azul restaurant features Italian dine-in cuisine while Ushio-Tei serves an authentic Japanese buffet and entrees. Both restaurants are rated highly for their atmosphere and customer service. The Royal Hawaiian features Azure, a dine-in restaurant the overlooks the ocean with both an inside and outside terrace. Being in open-air, there would be no room for small talk with all the action happening around. Although they are also a four-star restaurant like Azul and Ushio-Tei, dinner is a way to debrief from long conventions and meeting hours. Parking A covered parking lot is provided for guests staying at the Ihilani hotel. Key card access is needed to get into the parking lot, assuring guests that their cars are safe. The lot is also connected to the meeting area for those not staying at the hotel. The convenience of having a gated parking lot puts stress aside for the convention goers. Valet service is provided at the Royal Hawaiian for a price. Another parking structure is located off-site from the hotel, but at the shopping center instead. The other parking garages located in Waikiki do accept overnight stays but are at least a 10-minute walk from where the convention is being held and a minimum $20 charge. This causes confusion and problems for those just attending the convention. Ben Armstrong 3March 21, 2012 Conclusion As you can see, the Ihilani resort is a prime candidate to be considered to host the HIFA regional convention this year. It’s location separates itself from the rest of the conventions going on at the same time and focuses on the main purpose of our gathering. By utilizing it’s secluded meetings room we also enhance the importance of our assembly. Please e-mail me at [emailprotected] com with any questions or details you have. We anticipate a great turn out this year, and look forward to working with you to host a successful convention.
Saturday, September 21, 2019
Grapefruit Interactions with Drugs
Grapefruit Interactions with Drugs What is Grapefruit? Grapefruit, a relative newcomer to citrus clan, has a fascinating history. It is a large orange berry with a thick rind. It is the belief of the most botanists that grapefruit is a naturally occurring accidental hybrid between pomelo and orange. It is believed that, although its appearance is very much different from an ordinary grape, the name ‘grapefruit’ was used because they grow in clusters, and these clusters may seem as large yellow grapes. The original belief was that, the grape fruit is a kind of a pomelo. (1) But in 1837, James Macfayden, separated grapefruit from pomelo, in his Flora of Jamaica, giving it a botanical name, Citrus paradisi. After its hybrid nature was genetically identified, the botanical name was altered to Citrus X paradisi. (1) Nutritional value Grapefruit, like most of the other citrus fruits, is a great source of vitamin C, which helps the immune system. It is advantageous for the fight against, from simple cold to, asthma, rheumatoid fever, osteoarthritis, cancer, heart disease and stroke. (2) Lycopene, which gives grapefruit its red and pink colors, is a carotenoid phytonutrient, with high anti-tumor ability. Also lycopene has the highest capacity among the common dietary carotenoids to fight free radicals. (2) According to the availability of the content of phenolic compounds in the grapefruit juice, it is ranked among the highest in food products of antioxidant activity. (2) Limonoids, another phytonutrient in grapefruit, promotes the formation of glutathione-S-transferase, thus minimizing the tumor formation. Pectins, a form of soluble fiber in grapefruit is useful against the progression of atherosclerosis. (2) Also, the grapefruit juice increases urinary pH value and citric acid excretion, and significantly reduces the formation of calcium oxalate stones, thus minimizing kidney stone formation. (2) Naringenin, a flavonoid concentrated in grapefruit, helps to repair damaged DNA, especially in human prostate cancer cells. 8-oxoguanine-DNA glycosylase and DNA polymerase beta, enzymes are induced by Naringenin, which are useful in DNA base excision repair pathway. (2) Although the nutritional value of grapefruit is highly commended and proved, around a decade ago, scientists found that the availability of oral drugs can be severely reduced by grapefruit food products, especially grapefruit juice. The cytochrome P-450 3A4 system, in the intestine, which is facilitates the first pass metabolism in many drugs, can be inhibited by grapefruit. Also in the brush border of intestinal wall, there are P-glycoprotein pumps. They transport many of the substances used by cytochrome P-450 3A4. This system is also inhibited by grapefruit. Inhibition of both these systems can be dangerous. Because of these, knowledge and awareness of these interactions is massively important. These interactions can lead to severe effects and these interactions can occur very commonly as most of the times, both the drugs and grapefruit food products are used together at breakfast. (3) Mechanism of interaction Cytochrome 3A4 is a member of cytochrome P-450 enzyme system. In the endoplasmic reticulum of cells all over the body, it can be found. It is a heme-containing large multigene family. As oxidative bio-transformation of different exogenous and endogenous substances occurs in liver and intestinal wall, cytochrome P-450 is abundant in those places. In the apical brush border of enterocytes, P-glycoprotein can be found. It is a membrane transporter and a member of adenosine triphosphate binding cassette (ABC). Once lipophilic drug is taken into the enterocytes, it is pumped back into the lumen by P-glycoprotein or metabolized by cytochrome P-450 3A4. These actions limit the oral delivery of many drugs. With the intake of grapefruit juice, cytochrome P-450 system is inhibited, thus pre-systemic metabolism of drug is decreased and bioavailability of the drug increase. (4) Grapefruit juice causes massive reduction in translation of these enzymes from its m-RNA. However the transcription of m-RNA from DNA is not affected. Grapefruit also promotes the deterioration of these enzymes. These actions together, massively decline the cytochrome P-450 activity in a quick and irreversible manner. A decline of 47% of total levels of cytochrome P-450 3A4 levels can be seen within the four hours of grapefruit juice ingestion. With this decrease, increased bioavailability of the drug can be maintained for about a day. Even after that, for some time, 30% of its effect is still there. (5-7) Some studies indicate that effect on grapefruit juice on cytochrome p-450 3A4 system and P-glycoprotein system are controversial. Means grapefruit juice can activate the P-glycoprotein pumps in vitro in a way (9). This could result in massive efflux of drugs back into the lumen. This is believed to be the cause for diminished bioavailability of some particular substrates, or sometimes this can neutralize the effect of reduced cytochrome P-450 3A4 activity due to ingestion of grapefruit juice. However Digoxin, a prototypical P-glycoprotein substrate, is found as one of the substrates in P-glycoprotein pump, which is not affected by grapefruit juice (8, 10). By both inhibition of function and, down-regulation, grapefruit juice inhibits the function of P-glycoprotein pumps. Example: increased bioavailability of cyclosporine with the grapefruit juice. This is believed to be a result of P-glycoprotein inhibition, other than cytochrome P-450 3A4, since the increase of bioavailability, produced by reduced enterocyte cytochrome P-450 3A4 concentrations, are tend to differ than the obtained results (8). MRP2 (multi-drug resistant protein 2) an associated P-glycoprotein efflux protein, has also shown its inhibition of action, with the ingestion of grapefruit juice (11). In spite of all the acquired knowledge, researchers still further investigate the grapefruit and drug interactions. In vivo effect of grapefruit juice on P-glycoprotein is an area believed to be needed to investigate further more. OATPs or organic anion-transporting polypeptides also said to be potently inhibited by grapefruit juice. In the small intestine, they are involved in the process of apical to basal transport of drugs (8, 10, and 12). The knowledge and conclusions obtained with the studies carried out in vitro cytochrome P-450 3A4 inhibition by grapefruit, the likelihood of these interactions happening in a natural way (the ingestion of grapefruit food products) can be predicted. It is also believed that the reported ethnic differences and the activity of the cytochrome P-450 3A4 could be because of the dietary differences, such as consumption of grapefruit. All in all, because of the potential of grapefruit and grapefruit related food items to interact with drugs, intake of grapefruit should be carefully monitored, in order to maintain necessary drug concentrations within the body of a patient, within the therapeutic windows. Phytochemistry Another aspect that the researchers are still thoroughly studying on is knowledge about active constituents in grapefruit juice in the molecular level, which can interfere and act on P-glycoprotein pumps and cytochrome P-450 systems. Although these studies are not extensively studied or completely proven, they indicate various molecules that take part in the drug interaction process. Flavonoid glycosides such as naringin, naringinin, hesperidin, neohespiridin, narirutin, quercetin, and didymin are some of substances responsible. Also, sesquiterpen and furanocoumarins (such as 6,7-dihydroxybergamottin) are also responsible (3, 14-16). Naringin is the most abundant flavonoid contained in the grapefruit juice. Also the flavonoids in the grapefruit exist as glycosides. After ingestion, the actions of intestinal flora convert these to sugars and aglycones. These compounds can inhibit the cytochrome P-450 enzymes. Theoretically, it is believed that electron rich polyphenolic nature of these compounds is responsible for that. Most studies show the in vitro effect of these compounds on cytochrome P-450 enzyme system. But in vivo, researchers have not yet completely proven or identified their effects on cytochrome enzyme system (17). Naringinin, which is a metabolite of naringin, has a higher activity in vitro, although naringin has no visible effect. This leads to a complication and some suspicion among researchers that flavonoids may not be the main active substance in grapefruit, which is responsible for the whole drug interaction dilemma. Even though with all these debates, due to very high concentration of these compounds in grapefruit juice and the fact naringin is present only in grapefruit among the fruits in citrus clan, quest for flavonoids still continues. Recent researchers are mostly focusing on furanocoumarins. Main furanocoumarins are bergomottin and its derivative 6,7-dihydroxybergomottin(DHB)(18). Debates still going on about the extent of effect these compounds on interaction mechanism certain studies have shown that DHB and, to an average amount bergamottin are vital contributors of grapefruit-drug interaction process (18, 19). In one particular study, furanocoumarins, DHB and four others, mixed and tested. The inhibitory potency on cytochrome enzyme systems declinedeven when any one of these compounds taken out from the mixture, not just DHB. That created a complication. There are even studies supporting that perhaps DHB and bergomattin may not be the primary compounds in the inhibition process (20). With all these facts this idea also still in the process of intense research and suspicion. Drug-Grapefruit interactions Amiodarone and anti-hypertensive drugs 1,4-dihydropyridine calcium antagonists are used mostly for patients with angina pectoris and also for patients with essential hypertension. They are lipid soluble drugs, metabolized by cytochrome P-450 3A4 in vivo, and grapefruit juice can affect its bioavailability. Intensive study and research began with the effects of grapefruit juice with felodipine, another calcium channel blocker and an anti-hypertensive drug. It was found that when grapefruit juice is ingested, oral bioavailability of these drugs can increase by 112% (21). Furthermore it demonstrates that intra-venous pharmacokinetics of felodipine remains without a significant change with the grapefruit juice ingestion (21). Also the interaction frequency gradually increases with the increased grapefruit juice ingestion. Because of these reasons, it is recommended that interval of 2-3 days between administration of felodipine and ingestion of grapefruit juice. The elderly specially should be warned about this situation. Amioderone is used for cardiac arrhythmias. It is converted into N-desethylamioderone by cytochrome P-450 3A4. With the ingestion and interaction with grapefruit juice, N-desethyl amioderone production inhibits almost completely, with an overall decline in side effects produced by amiodarone (8). Furthermore benzothiazepine calcium channel antagonist diltiazem, nisoldipine, verapamil, ACE inhibitors like enalapril and aptopril also said to have effect with grapefruit juice interaction. Benzodiazepines and CNS drugs Midazolam is a drug of benzodiazepine class used for acute seizures for inducing sedation and in insomnia. Certain studies have proven that grapefruit juice has a great effect on first-pass metabolism, which reduces the metabolism efficiency badly and increase its bioavailability (22). Clinical importance is that especially for the patients with cirrhosis of the liver, intestine metabolism of cytochrome P-450 3A4 is vital. So the ingestion of grapefruit juice has to be avoided. Another use of midazolam is in pediatric dentistry. Oral midazolam is very commonly used for this. There have been incidents that because of the bitter taste acquired with the administration of oral midazolam, patients tend to take sweetened food items, sometimes grapefruit. If grapefruit was taken in after administration of oral midazolam, blood plasma midazolam levels can increase and patient may tend to have exaggerated seduction time. Triazolamand clozapine are some other drugs that can also affect. Antimicrobials Indinavir is commonly used to treat HIV in highly active antiretroviral therapy. It is a protease inhibitor. There are reports showing that ingestion of grapefruit juice can delay indinavir absorption with the increase of gastric pH, but it does not affect systemic bioavailability (23). It is believed, because primary metabolism may not take place in the intestine. Saquinavir is also another drug used for patients with HIV. It is also a protease inhibitor. It is shown that the ingestion of grapefruit juice can increase the bioavailability of saquinavir (24). Although it increased the bioavailability, the clearance of the drug won’t change. This could be an indication that inhibition of cytochrome P-450 3A4 is affected. Theoretically, because of the dose dependent nature of the saquinavir, it is possible that effectiveness can increase with the inhibition of cytochrome P-450 3A4. Artemether an anti-malarial drug, also shown its increasing oral bioavailability, when grapefruit juice is ingested. But its time dependent reduction of bioavailability does not affect by grapefruit (25). This could indicate the importance of cytochrome P-450 3A4 in the pre-systemic metabolism. Quinine, a natural drug used in broad range of aspects, seemed to be does not affected by grapefruit juice. It is because it is primarily metabolized in the liver. (Where inhibition of cytochrome P-450 3A4 with grapefruit mainly effect on the gut)(8) Its low clearance is also helpful for this. Furthermore in antibiotics, clarithromycin, show increased time for reach for its peak concentration, but pharmacokinetics seemed to be unaffected (26). While abendazole, an anti-parasitic, shows an increased bioavailability with the ingestion of grapefruit juice (27). Chemotherapeutics Cyclosporine is a widely used immunosuppressant drugs, used in organ transplants. Studies have shown that cyclosporine and its metabolites both show rapid increase in their concentrations in plasma, when grapefruit juice was administered (28). Anti-histamines and serotonin analogues Cisapride is a drug that increases the motility of the upper GI tract. It is a serotonin receptor agonist. Studies have shown that cisapride systemic bioavailability gradually increases with the administration of grapefruit juice (29), because of the inhibition of cytochrome P-450 3A4. Therefore it’s advisable, that the patients who are taking cisapride, especially with a risk of cardiac arrhythmias, should avoid drinking grapefruit juice. Terfenadine, anti-histamine, also show increased system bioavailability when grapefruit juice is taken in (30). This also play an important role, because in an electrocardiogram, increased systemic levels of terfenadine can prolong the QT interval. Statins and cholesterol-lowering drugs Simvastatin, a cholesterol lowering drug, also shown increased serum concentrations when grapefruit juice is taken (31). Also its active metabolite simvastatin acid levels and HMG-CoA reductase inhibitors also increase. Active metabolites of the grapefruit juice, Bergamottin and Naringenin are said to be responsible for this. It is also carried out from the inhibition of cytochrome P-450 3A4 and thus limiting the first pass metabolism in small intestine. Lovastatin, another cholesterol reducing drug said to have same effects as simvastatin, when the grapefruit juice is administered. Serum concentrations of lovastatin and its active metabolite lovastatin acid seem to be elevated. By the same mechanism, prevention of first pass metabolism in the small intestine by inhibiting cytochrome P-450 3A4. Conclusion Because of the vast difference of effects given by grapefruit-drug interactions, and its effects on pharmacokinetics, physicians should be vigilant about the whole procedure. And also warn their patients about the possible consequences which can happen in a drug-grapefruit interaction. Patient-to-patient variability, mostly the age of the patient, should be thoroughly remembered. And the elderly should be warned especially as they are more prone to the grapefruit-drug interactions (8). Also the knowledge about these interactions can be used for the advantage of the physician. Example: to lower the dosage. Still, because all these are mostly in a research level and safe procedures should always be followed as patients safety is the top priority.
Friday, September 20, 2019
Assessment Aims in Science Lessons
Assessment Aims in Science Lessons Discuss, evaluate and reflect upon the aims of assessment for learning in primary science, and consider strategies that may be employed to identify children’s strengths and weaknesses. Show how assessment information can be used to monitor children’s progress in science, and inform and develop quality teaching and learning. Introduction: Science became a core subject for primary schools in 1989 with the introduction of the National Curriculum. Primary Science has a broad agenda, an important element of which is the development of ‘scientific literacy’ in the population (Howe et al., 2005, p.5), the scientific understanding that should be part of everyone’s education. Teachers have a responsibility to ensure that children’s experiences in primary science are positive ones so that more children will undertake post primary science subjects. Assessment for learning, an important element of primary science, has come to prominence in educational policy because of its perceived potential to underpin lifelong learning (Black et al., 2006, p.120). Described as a teaching strategy of very high leverage (Howe, 2004, cited in Marshall Drummond, 2006, p.133), assessment for learning allows teachers to track pupil learning and progress and plan quality teaching using appropriate strategies. Aims of Primary Science Teaching: Children have many ideas about the world and how it works before they come to school and experience science in the context of their everyday lives, for example most children will have some knowledge about plants and animals, or will understand that a lolly melts. The most important aim of primary science is to foster children’s appreciation of the world around us, to encourage a close observation of our physical environment, and to develop an understanding of how different aspects of it are related (Howe et al., 2005, p.6). Views about science have changed in recent decades with a recognition that transmission modes for teaching in science are not appropriate (Gray Bryce, 2006, p.171). A constructivist view of teaching science has been adopted which recognises that children learn best when they are able to construct new ideas and concepts from existing ones. In order to teach primary science effectively, teachers must have a sound subject knowledge and an appropriate understanding of these constructivist theories (Traianou, 2996, p.828). Key Stage one children, for example, learn a lot about science through play and ideas must be rooted in experiences that are meaningful to them. Effective learning in science cannot be facilitated by providing children with facts and information because: Facts unrelated to concepts that children already have are meaningless and therefore of no use to them. Children use their own ideas to construct understanding. While they may be able to recall answers, understanding only evolves out of their own experience. (Harlen Jelly, 1998, p.26). Science is very much a process based subject in which learners develop their understanding of things around them by using and developing process skills (Harlen Qualter, 2004, p.133). Effective assessment in science should be reflective of this by being an ongoing process in the classroom. The Primary Science Curriculum: One of the main ideas in the National Curriculum is that of scientific enquiry which is seen as learning about ‘ideas and evidence’ and three stands of ‘investigative skills’: ‘planning’, ‘obtaining and presenting evidence’ and ‘evaluating’ (Howe et al.,2005, p.8). Each strand consists of a number of processes which are to be taught through the subject areas of ‘life processes and living things’, ‘materials and their properties’ and ‘physical processes’. A practical approach to learning in science is vital for primary school children. The teacher’s role as learning facilitator centres on creating a rich and stimulating learning environment, allowing children to explore and test their ideas. At every stage in the science process, language skills can be developed to assist the learning of science and vice versa (Sherrington, 1993, p.206).Assessment begins from the beginning an d it is useful to start science teaching with an activity to find out what children know about a topic before beginning teaching, paying particular attention to the language children use.. Assessment in Science: Assessment is a process of deciding, collecting and making inferences or judgements about evidence of children’s learning and skills (Harlen Qualter, 2004, p.121). One of the main conclusions arrived at by the Children Learning in Science Project (CLISP) is the importance of establishing whether children have any misconceptions about scientific concepts and addressing these before moving on. Effective assessment is therefore crucial for primary science as pre-conceived ideas can have an adverse effect on learning. There are two main areas in assessment, formative and summative. Formative assessment, an ongoing process for the teacher, provides immediate evidence of learning and should be used to inform planning for teaching. Gathering information about learning and giving feedback while it is in progress has been seen as a crucial aspect of teaching since the Task Group on Assessment and Testing (TGAT) report was published in 1988 (MacGilchrist et al., 2006, p.84). It has a number of strengths because of its focus on learners and how they learn. Summative assessment is generally administered to gather evidence of learning at the end of the teaching period. It has often been criticised as failing to take a holistic view of the learner. A comprehensive science programme will incorporate both elements but the formative assessment will be of most use to the teacher on a day-to-day basis. The Purposes of Assessment: Assessment is a statutory requirement for teachers. Section 3.2 of the Requirements for Qualifying to Teach has a range of requirements in respect of monitoring and assessment, among them that teachers ‘monitor and assess as they teach, giving immediate and constructive feedback to support pupils as they learn. They involve pupils in reflecting on, evaluating and improving their own performance (TTA, 2002, p.11). Assessment enables teachers to ascertain how effectively children have been learning in science. It has a number of aims including: To help children’s learning by identifying what they are making good progress with and areas in which they need further support. To summarise achievements at certain times. (Harlen Qualter, 2004, p.124). This has important implications for primary science teaching in light research suggesting that children have many misconceptions in respect of scientific concepts. Harlen and Jelly have reported that misconceptions in science arise from: Attributing an effect to a particular feature and not having an understanding that a number of factors may be operating. A lack of awareness that there may be more than one explanation. Not understanding science vocabulary. Insufficient opportunity to test ideas and discuss findings. A lack of access to alternative ideas that might provide a better explanation. (Harlen Jelly, 1998, p.24). Effective assessment can address this by being an integral part of activities, with teachers constantly seeking information that enables them to support learning and give appropriate feedback. The teacher can then diagnose learning responses and needs, and note the progress that is being made (MacGilchrist et al., 2006, p.85). Formative assessment methods have received attention in recent years, being more suited to achieving the goals of: Learning with understanding Understanding learning highlighted by the Assessment Reform Group as being crucial in the aim to equip learners for a place in a rapidly shrinking world and changing society (Assessment Reform Group, 2006, p.8). Methods of Assessing Children’s Progress in Science: A substantial amount of learning in science occurs outside school, being accessed through field trips, zoos, science museums etc. (Braund Reiss, 2006, p.214). Because of this teachers must have a range of ways of gathering evidence to assess pupil learning and understanding and be able to use this as the basis for subsequent teaching. Methods that the teacher can use include: Observing children as they work- the teacher can gauge learning by listening to the ways in which children work their way through an activity, with particular attention to their use of scientific vocabulary. The language used by the children is a very good indicator of their understanding. Open-ended teacher questioning gives children opportunities to express their ideas and develop them. Research shows that where correct scientific language is taught, children develop more accurate scientific concepts (Sparks-Linfield Warwick, 1998, p.128). Studying children’s work in relation to a task – drawings, reports and written work. For this to be most effective, it is important that the task requirements are clear. For example, if the aim is to assess children’s understanding of the structure of a flowering plant, it is important that the children are not simply asked to draw a flower, but that the task requires the parts to be labelled or indicated in some way. Administering tests related to the learning activity. Having a plenary session where the children can talk about what they think they have learned from a task or activity. Involving Children in the Assessment Process: Central to formative assessment is the idea of involving children in their learning. Black and William found that self and peer assessment in children as young as five was successful in raising achievement (Black William, 1998). The effectiveness of involving children in the assessment process stems from an understanding that children learn most effectively when they have opportunities to build new ideas on existing experiences. For this approach to be successful, it has to be carefully planned for by the teacher. The children need a clear understanding of the learning intentions of a lesson to be able to assess if they have achieved them. The teacher must be very explicit, particularly in relation to processes within science. If it is not clear that the learning intention is process based, children tend to focus on their answers rather that the methods used for obtaining them. Harlen Qualter point out that when children understand what they should be doing and how well, they are in a position to share in deciding the next steps to be taken (Harlen Qualter, 2004, p.179). This approach does not suggest a lack of rigour in terms of assessment, the ultimate decisions in the management of which are teacher directed. Assessing Children’s Process Skills: Children use the process skills they have developed when they engage with tasks. Teacher observation is very important here but it is important for teachers to be aware that some types of behaviour are more indicative of learning than others and to be able to differentiate between them. The teacher needs to consider what would indicate that a child is employing a particular skill, for example observation. In this case the teacher might look for evidence of the child paying attention to detail, really exploring an object. The degree to which a particular skill is being employed will also be different for older and younger children. With younger children it is most important to develop positive attitudes to science and to give children opportunities to be scientists through access to a range of science equipment and to nurture correct use of scientific vocabulary. Using assessment to improve learning in science: Evidence gathered by the teacher must be used to make judgements regarding the effectiveness of the learning. This process can be enhanced by discussion with the children. Harlen and Qualter have identified three reasons for using assessment to help learning in science: Knowing what ideas learners bring to new experiences and how these ideas develop during their activities is central to learning through enquiry. Using assessment as part of the teaching means that information can be collected about progress towards goals. If activities provide opportunities for skills, understanding and attitudes to be developed, then they also provide opportunities for these to be assessed and for the information to be used to help learning. Widely accepted theories of learning emphasis the role of learners in constructing their own understanding, the constructivist approach. Formative assessment involves children in recognising where they are in progress towards goals and in the decisions about what their next steps are and how to take them. There is firmly established evidence that when the key components of formative assessment are practised, levels of achievement are raised. (Harlen Qualter, 2004, p.132). Assessing Children’s Ideas in Science: Children have many ideas about science when they start school. It is important to establish what these are and plan teaching accordingly. Discussion is extremely important in primary science and teachers must create a climate in which children can express ideas with confidence. Keogh and Naylor have pointed out the importance of this: If we want children to ‘think out loud’, to be creative in their thinking and to argue about alternative possibilities, then we need to provide the kind of learning environment in which they feel comfortable to do that. They need to know they can make mistakes or give wrong answers and still feel good about themselves. (Keogh Naylor, 2004, p.18). Scientific language should be introduced when appropriate and in contexts that allow children to develop an awareness of the different meanings that words may have in everyday and scientific contexts. Using Assessment to Inform Teaching: Children’s ideas, whether in oral or written form, often give an indication of experience or skills that are lacking. This is an important consideration when planning teaching. When children are displaying a lack of experience, it is necessary to provide experiences for them. For example, organising a trip to the local park to investigate living things. Children often have ideas about science which may not reflect reality and can be difficult to change. In this case it is necessary to scaffold and model alternative explanations for children. It is important that teachers use assessment information and evidence to address any misunderstandings or misconceptions that children may have. The strength of formative approaches to assessment is that difficulties can be addressed in the short term before misconceptions are too well cemented. Conclusion: The Government believes that primary education is about; ‘Children experiencing the joy of discovery, solving problems, being creative in writing, art and music, developing their confidence as learners and maturing socially and emotionally’ (DfES, 2003, p.4). Discovery and problem solving are central to science teaching and an effective programme for assessment can be used to facilitate this by enabling teachers to plan and devise lessons accordingly. Research has shown that implementing the essential features of formative assessment in classrooms leads to gains in achievement that are greater than those of equivalent groups where formative assessment is not practised (Harlen Qualter, 2004, 137). Marshall Drummond have pointed out that assessment for learning demands a high degree of organisation in the classroom if it is going to help pupils become independent learners (Marshall Drummond, 2006). It is essential that teachers feel sufficiently confident in respect of subject knowledge pertaining to science and plan interactive lessons for children that mirror the interactive nature of assessment for learning. In science learning children must begin with what they know. The teacher must therefore employ a range of strategies for gathering this information and must apply it to subsequent teaching. This can lead to quality teaching and learning in science and to positive experiences for children and their teachers. References: Assessment Reform Group (2006) The Role of Teachers in the Assessment of Learning. retrieved from www.assessment-reform-group.org – 18.01.07. Black, P., McCormick, R., James, M. Pedder, D. 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San Diego:HighText Publications. Cheney, A., Flavell, H., Harrison, C, Hurst, G. Yates, C. (2002) Thinking Through Science. London: John Murray Publishers Clarina R.B. Koul, R. (2006) The Effects of Different Forms of Feedback on Fuzzy and Verbatim Memory of Science Principles. British Journal of Educational Psychology. 76, 259-270. Coles, M., Gott, R. Thornley, T. (1988) Active Science: Teacher’s Guide. London: Collins Educational. Department For Education and Skills (DfES)(2003) Excellence and Enjoyment. London: DfES. Driessen,G., Smit, F. Slegers, P. (2005) Parental Involvement and Educational Achievement. British Educational Research Journal, 31, 4, 509-532. Gray, D.S. Bryce,T. (2006) Socio-Scientific Issues in Science Education: Implications for the Professional Development of Teachers. Cambridge Journal of Education. 16, 2, 171-192. Harlen,W. (2001) The Teaching of Science in Primary Schools. London: David Fulton Publishers. Harlen, W. Jelly, S. (1998) Developing Science in the Primary Classroom. London: Longman. Harlen, W. Qualter, A. (2004)(4th edition) The Teaching of Science in Primary Schools. London: David Fulton Publishers. Hollins, M. Whitby, V. (1999) Progression in Primary Science: A Guide to the Nature and Practice in Key Stages 1 and 2. London: David Fulton Publishers. Howe, A., Davies, D., McMahon, K., Towler, L. Scott, T. (2005) Science 5-11: A Guide for Teachers. London: David Fulton Publishers. Jenkins, E.W. (2006) School science and citizenship: Whose science and whose citizenship? The Curriculum Journal, 17, 3, 197-211. Keogh, B. Naylor, S. (2004) Children’s ideas, children’s feelings. Primary Science Review, 82, 18-20. Kennedy, J. (Ed.) (1997) Primary Science: Knowledge and Understanding. London:Routledge. Layton, D. (1973) Science for the People: The Origins of the School Science Curriculum in England. London: Allen and Unwin. Lunn, S. (2002) ‘What We Think We Can Safely Say†¦Ã¢â‚¬ ¦.’: Primary Teachers Views on the Nature of Science. British Educational Research Journal, 28, 5, 649-672. MacGilchrist, B., Myers, K. Reed, J. (2006) The Intelligent School. London: Sage Publications. Marshall, B. Drummond, M.J. (2006) How teachers engage with assessment for learning: lessons from the classroom. Research Papers in Education, 21, 2, 133-149. Mintzes, J.J., Wandersee, J.H. Novak, J.D. (2005) Assessing Science Understanding: A Human Constructivist View. San Diego: Elsevier Academic Press. O’Hear, P White,J. (1993) Assessing the National Curriculum. London: Paul Chapman. Osborne, R, Freyberg, P. (1991) Learning in Science: The Implications of Children’s Science. Auckland: Heinemann. Qualifications and Curriculum Authority. (QCA)(2000) Standards at Key Stage 2: English, Mathematics and Science: A Report for Headteachers, Class Teachers and Assessment Co-Ordinators on the 2000 National Curriculum Assessments for 11 Year Olds. Rubie-Davies, C., Hattie, J. Hamilton, R. (2006) Expecting the Best for Students: Teacher Expectation and Academic Outcomes. British Journal of Educational Psychology, 76, 429-444. Sherrington, R. (1993) Science and Language in R. Sherrington (Ed.) ASE Primary Science Teachers’ Handbook. Hemel Hempstead: Simon and Schuster Education. Sparks-Linfield, R. Warwick, P. (1998) Use of Language Across the Primary Curriculum. London: Routledge. Summers, M. (1994) Science in the Primary School: The Problem of Teachers’ Curricular Expertise. The Curriculum Journal, 5, 2, 179-193. Sutton,C. (1992) Words, Science and Learning. Buckingham: Open University Press. Task Group on Assessment and Testing (1988) Report. London: DES. Teacher Training Agency (TTA) (2002) Qualifying to Teach: Professional Standards for Qualified Teacher Status and Requirements for Initial Teacher Training. London: TTA. Traianou. A. (2006) Teachers’ adequacy of subject knowledge in primary science: Assessing constructivist approaches from a socio-cultural perspective. International Journal of Science Education, 28, 8, 827-842. Tymms,P. (2004) Are Standards Rising in English Primary Schools? British Educational Research Journal. 30, 4 ,477-494. Von Secker, C. (2004) Science achievements in social contexts: Analysis from National assessment of educational progress. Journal of Educational Research, 98, 2, 67-78. Ziman, J. (2000) Real Science: What it is and What it Means. Cambridge: Cambridge University Press.
Thursday, September 19, 2019
Analysis of The World of Wrestling by Roland Barthes Essay -- The Worl
Analysis of The World of Wrestling by Roland Barthes Roland Barthes's essay on "The World of Wrestling" draws analogically on the ancient theatre to contextualize wrestling as a cultural myth where the grandiloquence of the ancient is preserved and the spectacle of excess is displayed. Barthes's critique -- which is above all a rewriting of what was to understand what is -- is useful here insofar as it may be applied back to theatre as another open-air spectacle. But in this case, not the theatre of the ancients, but the Middle English pageant presents the locus for discussing the sport of presentation, or, if you prefer, the performance of the sport. More specifically, what we see by looking at the Harrowing of Hell -- the dramatic moment in the cycle plays that narratizes doctrinal redemption more graphically than any other play in the cycle -- as spectacle offers a matrix for the multiple relationships between performance and audience and the means of producing that performance which, in turn, necessarily produces the audience. Â Â Â Â Â The implications of the spectacle could sensibly be applied to the complete texts of the cycle plays, and perhaps more appropriately to the full range of the pageant and its concomitant festivities. The direction of pseudo-historical criticism, especially of the Elizabethan stage, certainly provides a well-plowed ground for advancing the festive and carnivalesque inherently present in the establishment and event of theater. Nevertheless, my discussion here is both more limited and more expansive: its limits are constructed by the choice of an individual play recurrent through the four extant manuscripts of what has come to be called the Corpus Christi plays; its expansion is expressed through a delivery that aims to implicate the particular moment of this play in the operations of a dominant church-state apparatus, which is, ostensibly, a model of maintaining hegemony in Western culture. The Harrowing provides a singular instance in which the mechanisms of control of the apparatus appear to extend and exploit their relationship with the audience (i.e. congregation). The play is constructed beyond the canonized operations of the sacred, originating a narrative beyond (yet within) the authorized vulgate; it is constructed only through church authority yet maint... ...thorizing. It seems we are not merely to claim, as Hardin Craig does, that the plays are "a theological intelligence motivated by structural imagination that lasted from age to age in the development of a great cycle of mystery plays." Instead, we should interrogate the multiple dimensions of artistry and artificiality of the play; our task is to ask how these plays operate as a performative moment coming directly from the dominant arms of orthodoxy while still being influenced by the severely limited mass culture. We may find, then, at the center of the controlling mechanisms of the church-state apparatus, the necessitated desire for community that even Satan validates and proclaims: Â Â Â Â Â Â Â Â Â Â Nay, I pray the do not so; Â Â Â Â Â Â Â Â Â Â Â Â Â Â Â Vmthynke the better in thy mynde; Â Â Â Â Â Â Â Â Â Â Or els let me with the go, Â Â Â Â Â Â Â Â Â Â Â Â Â Â Â I pray the leyffe me not behynde! The desire, of course, extends past Satan's plea, for the homogenized desire of the congregation ultimately -- which is in history written and yet to be -- is directed toward a different answer from Jesus: one that affirms salvation and again confirms the church's orthodox pageantry of performance. Analysis of The World of Wrestling by Roland Barthes Essay -- The Worl Analysis of The World of Wrestling by Roland Barthes Roland Barthes's essay on "The World of Wrestling" draws analogically on the ancient theatre to contextualize wrestling as a cultural myth where the grandiloquence of the ancient is preserved and the spectacle of excess is displayed. Barthes's critique -- which is above all a rewriting of what was to understand what is -- is useful here insofar as it may be applied back to theatre as another open-air spectacle. But in this case, not the theatre of the ancients, but the Middle English pageant presents the locus for discussing the sport of presentation, or, if you prefer, the performance of the sport. More specifically, what we see by looking at the Harrowing of Hell -- the dramatic moment in the cycle plays that narratizes doctrinal redemption more graphically than any other play in the cycle -- as spectacle offers a matrix for the multiple relationships between performance and audience and the means of producing that performance which, in turn, necessarily produces the audience. Â Â Â Â Â The implications of the spectacle could sensibly be applied to the complete texts of the cycle plays, and perhaps more appropriately to the full range of the pageant and its concomitant festivities. The direction of pseudo-historical criticism, especially of the Elizabethan stage, certainly provides a well-plowed ground for advancing the festive and carnivalesque inherently present in the establishment and event of theater. Nevertheless, my discussion here is both more limited and more expansive: its limits are constructed by the choice of an individual play recurrent through the four extant manuscripts of what has come to be called the Corpus Christi plays; its expansion is expressed through a delivery that aims to implicate the particular moment of this play in the operations of a dominant church-state apparatus, which is, ostensibly, a model of maintaining hegemony in Western culture. The Harrowing provides a singular instance in which the mechanisms of control of the apparatus appear to extend and exploit their relationship with the audience (i.e. congregation). The play is constructed beyond the canonized operations of the sacred, originating a narrative beyond (yet within) the authorized vulgate; it is constructed only through church authority yet maint... ...thorizing. It seems we are not merely to claim, as Hardin Craig does, that the plays are "a theological intelligence motivated by structural imagination that lasted from age to age in the development of a great cycle of mystery plays." Instead, we should interrogate the multiple dimensions of artistry and artificiality of the play; our task is to ask how these plays operate as a performative moment coming directly from the dominant arms of orthodoxy while still being influenced by the severely limited mass culture. We may find, then, at the center of the controlling mechanisms of the church-state apparatus, the necessitated desire for community that even Satan validates and proclaims: Â Â Â Â Â Â Â Â Â Â Nay, I pray the do not so; Â Â Â Â Â Â Â Â Â Â Â Â Â Â Â Vmthynke the better in thy mynde; Â Â Â Â Â Â Â Â Â Â Or els let me with the go, Â Â Â Â Â Â Â Â Â Â Â Â Â Â Â I pray the leyffe me not behynde! The desire, of course, extends past Satan's plea, for the homogenized desire of the congregation ultimately -- which is in history written and yet to be -- is directed toward a different answer from Jesus: one that affirms salvation and again confirms the church's orthodox pageantry of performance.
Wednesday, September 18, 2019
Sustainability Essay -- Environment Human Nature Papers
Sustainability Sustainability is a term frequently used by our leaders (and planners) but is often not questioned or defined. The root word sustain implies that it means making something last. However, what does it really mean to sustain something and what is it that we are talking about sustaining-- nature, our environment, our world? These are all very abstract terms themselves. Around the time the term sustainability arose, scientists had discovered a series of threats to our environment and viewed these as a major problem to the endurance of human population. The question then became: "How can we sustain humanity in today's world?" The American Heritage dictionary defines sustain as "supplying with necessities or nourishment," which addresses the key point of sustainability: what are the necessities to ensure that human will be around for future generations? Another way to look at it, which is suggested in the publication Caring for the Earth (a joint publication of the IUCN, UNEP, and WWF-I) i s that sustainable development means "improving the quality of human life while living within the caring capacity of supporting ecosystems." It is perhaps important to note that this definition suggests that the quality of human life can only be improved if it is done with careful attention to its impacts on the environment both natural and social. A practical approach to sustainability does not place responsibility on one sector and not the other. The goal for all agencies and groups affecting society should be to work simultaneously toward the common vision of sustainability. This allows the various sectors to work effectively within their respected areas of expertise and spheres of influence, but specific to the purposes that ea... .... New York: Bantam Doubleday Dell Publishing Group Inc., 1983 Elkington, John. Cannibals with Forks: The Triple Bottom Line of the 21st Century. New Society Publishers, Stoney Creek, CT, 1998 Hawken, Paul. The Ecology of Commerce: A Declaration of Sustainability. New York: Harper Collins, 1993 Hawken, Paul and L. Hunter and Amory Lovins. Natural Capitalism. Boston: Little Brown and Company, 1999 Hodgkinson, Virginia, and Richard W. Lyman. The Future of the Non-profit Sector. San Francisco: Jossey-Bass Publishers, 1989 O'Neill, Micheal. The Third America: The Emergence of the Nonprofit Sector. San Francisco: Jossey-Bass Publishers, 1989 Shumacher, E.F. Small is Beautiful: Economics as if People Mattered. New York: Harper & Row Inc., 1973 Shuman, Michael H.. Going Local: Creating Self-reliant Communities in a Global Age. New York: Routledge, 1998
Tuesday, September 17, 2019
Business Plan for Toy Shop
BUSIENSS PLAN FOR TOY SHOP BUSINESS PLAN KIDZONE TOY STORE Submitted by: Ajit Mangarulkar Vishwanath Patil Piyush Borde Kunal Dalal Yogendra Bhosale Rahul Tayade Overview of the Industry INTRODUCTION The toy industry mainly concentrated in and around the metropolitan cities of New Delhi and Mumbai in India, is characterized by small-scale establishments. Of late, the toy industry has been internationalized. The application of new materials and technologies have added value to the variety of the toys. Today, the use of toys is unlimited.They are used for decorations by adults and for education & play by children. Toys are also being used for entertainment and child development. Plastic toys, along with soft toys (mainly dolls) and board games, make up about 80% of the Indian market in value terms. The change that is discernible is the decline in Importance of board games (other than puzzles), which involve play by a group of children. Those in the trade argue that, with smaller family size today and the growing incidence of both parents working, there is little scope for board games, which families used to traditionally play together.The emphasis these days is much more on toys, with which a child can play on his/her own. Market Dynamics of the Indian Toy Trade The Indian toy market exhibits some of the characteristics common to any toy market while others have uniquely the Indian character. Individual toys have a short life cycle. There is a constant need for novelty. Consumer tastes change rapidly. Resurrection of old toys does not work – a new content has to be added or altered. These rules, in general, apply to most toy markets internationally. In addition, the Indian market has its own angularities.Toy sales in India have well defined seasonal patterns coinciding with the festival season. Generally, the time period from July to November is the high season with temporary surges in some States in December & March. Toy selling in India often involves se lling to 3 individuals simultaneously, namely the child, who will use the toy, the mother, who is concerned with safety, space to play, etc. and the father who controls the purse strings. The market is also highly price sensitive. This trend has been reinforced by the entry of large-scale imports of cheap and novel toys from China.These have mostly been unbranded, of low priced and indifferent quality toys. The past decade has seen the Indian toy industry making quick strides in terms of production and exports. At present, India produces a wide range of toys, namely plastic and mechanical activity toys, plastic and soft dolls, stuffed toys, board games, puzzles, educational games and toys, metal toys, electronic toys and games. It is estimated that the toy production in India is around INR 5. 50 billion in the organized sector and INR 12. 50 billion in the unorganized sector with nearly 20% annual average growth rate.There are more than 3000 units in the small-scale sector including large number of units in the cottage sector. Some large/MNCs’ toy units like the Mattel, Lego and Funskool are also present in India. With international quality toys available in India now, the average spending on toys has increased substantially and this process is supported by an increase in disposable income at the customer end. Introduction â€Å"To every child, presenting a toy creates a special attachment between the two. †We intend to satisfy the needs of the children mainly aged below 10yrs. y having an â€Å"KIDZONE†as a part of organized retail, catering to almost all the trifling requirements of kids. Service will be one of our main focus areas wherein we intend to have a â€Å"play n feel the toys†zone attracting the kids to enjoy with toys. This facility will give a real feeling of amusement to children, hence attracting the kids and parents towards it. Thereafter we will also provide a babysitting facility for parents shopping throughout the mall and in the meantime the trifling needs of babies will be taken care of.Secondly, we will focus on disintermediation of procurement channel by directly sourcing the finished products from the toy manufacturers mainly from China & other manufacturers from India. Most importantly we are looking forward to revolutionize the toy industry by having merged quality with fun wherein all the safety issues would be taken care ensuring the source of playfulness not becoming a hysterical item. Above all our long term goal is to make our retail outlets as a brand name well recognized in toy industry and increase the organized retail market share in toys segment.Management Team Vishwanath Patil – Ajit Mangarulkar – Piyush Borde – Yogendra Bhosale – Kunal Dalal – Marketing Plan SWOT Analysis Strengths: Our business would impart touch & feel factor to the child We would impart child caring facility in our store where the parents can leave their child and go for shopping which will in turn lead to sales by having child for more hours in shops & can be addicted or fascinated to any of the toy Large & Growing Population (Market Size data to found out) – Age group between 0-8 years Maximum Loyalty towards shopDemonstration Effect Higher Margins due to large imports from China, Hong Kong & other countries Wide range of products to choose Fewer bargains for the products Increase in disposable income of middle class Weakness Emotional attachment towards toy which leads to non repetitive buying Price sensitivity market Safety Issue in terms of lead contain, sharpness of toys etc Individual toy have shorter life cycle & consumer taste changes rapidly Opportunity Untapped organized sector which consists of only 10% of total toy industry. Better support from governmentDemand for Educational toy in the market Threats Due to large expansion of Mall Culture, there is increase in competition from the players Big Fish with deep pockets will able to sell products at competitive price (Entry of global brands) Marketing Mix The marketing mix is often summarized as the four P’s – Product, Price, Place and Promotion. Product The type of product that would be placed in the store will be dependent on the age group. During the initial period the store would cater to age group of from the day child is born to 8 years.The later as the store expands and capital is generated the store would cater to toys catering to people with age more than 8 years and toys for adult. The product that will be defined within age group is as follows 0-24 months: Teethers, squeaks, Tomy, balls, soft toys, baby education toys and others. Photos of some of products are given below. 2 years to 4 years: puzzles, cars, Helicopters Photos of some of products are shown below 4years to 6 years: Magic tricks, electronic cars and helicopters, electronic gadgets and toys of film stars and other famous personality, famous cartoon character, Barbie & others.Photos of some of products are shown below: 6years to 8 years: Tricycles, Bicycles, and other ride on toys. Apart from that the musical toys and electrical operated toys will also be placed in the shelves 8 years to 10 years: Board room games, chess and other family games would be the major attraction The stuffed toys and Plush toys would be all time major attraction towards the customers. The above mentioned is only a part of whole list of offerings offered by the store. The main unique selling proposition would be the Indian touch in toys.We will also try to procure the toys of famous personalities –all time legends like Shahrukh Khan from film industry, Dhirubhai Ambani from business, Narayan Karthikeyan from F1 racing like all the famous personalities in their respective fields will be incorporated as toys. The toys projected in any of Bollywood and Hollywood industry will also be major attraction for the customers. We will try to innovate and help suppliers to also make customized product if possible and thereby increasing the revenues.The key to business will be continuous innovation in all product ranges. Price: The price of the product sell in the shop will depend on the sourcing and also the total cost of procurement. In the initial years of opening of shop we will not be having competitive pricing but the prices would be at par with other competitors in the market. After years of experience in the business and due to strong hold with the suppliers, we will be having a bargaining power with the suppliers and will try to sell product at lower prices compared to competitor.We will be having Lowest Prices in the Town in one of product everyday to attract as many customers as possible. Moreover the product would be selling at par with our costing, so we won’t be able to generate from the product sold at lowest prices. The whole list of prices with the name of the product is attached in the annexure 8. Place: The majority of the product would be procured from China and also some of the product would be procured from India itself. The main source from India would be Chennai, Noida and Mumbai. The sourcing from China would be in terms of imports via sea route.The cost of procuring of the product is already been included in the financials. The time for procurement of goods would be taking near around 28 days from the day of placing of order from China and the procurement from Chennai or Noida will take maximum four days and from Mumbai it would take one day lead time. The toys would be stock in the store itself; there won’t be any special storage place or another location of the toys. The toys would be readily available to the customers on demand if stock is available. Promotion:The less effort would be required in terms of promotion as the store will be located in Thane East But still promotion will be required to create a buzz in the city which would be carried out be two means. 1) Print Ads in local newspaper. As maximum people in Maharashtra are habituated of reading of local newspaper, so the ads would be given in local newspaper on repetitive basis. The ads will also be given in other non local newspaper but frequency of ads would differ in both the cases. 2) Advertisement would be carried out in radio stations. Continuous announcement would be given in all leading radio stations like Radio Mirchi and Big FM. ) Distributions of pamphlets would also be one of the marketing strategies for carrying out promotion. As in the initial period it is not possible to be present in all the malls, so distribution of pamphlets in all the malls will be carried out on weekly basis. 4) All this promotion will in turn lead to Word of mouth marketing 5) In later stages of business the viral marketing will also be carried out. OPERATION PLAN Location The location selected for opening an outlet is THANE (Maharashtra). Thane is the largest city in the state of Maharashtra and the The city is witn essing a major construction boom and population increase.A rising centre of education, information technology and scientific industries, Thane remains the cultural and commercial heart of Maharashtra, and much of western India. The main reason behind selection of this city is the city is developing stage & we witness tremendous opportunity in the coming years. The real estate boom will be going to come in the city so we don’t won’t to miss the opportunity to be there within couple of years. The reason for selection of the city is its proximity to MUMBAI. The proximity to the city will help in reducing the transportation cost and increasing overall efficiency and savings in operations.Type of Building The location of the shop would be in the shop in Thane (East). Amount of Space The amount of space needed would be around 2000 sq feet of area which would be more or less compared to any retail chains. The amount of space needed would be targeted in malls in the basement n ear around the entry of Reliance and Big Bazaar shops. We targeted the basement due to its cost effectiveness. The shop would be lease for 5 year period for the initial purpose and then if needed would be bought out. The general lease rental of the area in Thane (East) is around Rs. 30000 per month. Other DetailsThe business hours of the shop would last from 10am to 10pm as major. We see the timings to be getting extended at weekends. Moreover the timing would be subjected to the change. Lead Time The main source of supplier would be from the Shantou in China and from Shanghai in China. The other supplier from India would be the Hanung toys in Noida, Mattel Inc. in Chennai and also the Funskool India Ltd in Chennai. The cost of transport of freight from China to India ranges from 428 USD to 600 USD depending on the date of ordering. The other cost of transportation from Mumbai to Thane would be around 2000 INR.The cost of procurement of consignment from Mumbai to Thane would be is 3 000INR and from Delhi/Noida it is around 8000 INR. So the lead time if calculated to import from toys from China would be around one month and from procurement from India only it would take around one week from farthest place i. e. Chennai in India for procurement of toys. Sales Estimation Due to prime location of the shop in the malls we expect the sales to be reaching high in the weekends and also in the festivals. This figure comes from the fact that out of 15000 people visiting Thane East daily on an average, around 82% are parents and remaining are youth.So out of 82% of total population we average that around 35% of parents would be with child who comes for the shopping. As mentioned that we shall be a unique adventure in the shop as a playing area specially allotted for the kids to play with the toys which ever they want out of majority of samples placed in playing area. The other advantage is that the child would be taken care of specially trained employees and all this pack age would come for free. We expect the shopping time taken by any parents would be around 1 hour.So we provide facility for parents to leave their child to play in the shop and if they want they can buy the toy. We rely on the fact provided by the doctors that one hour is enough for a child up to 6 years to get addicted with the toy. Hence as a child gets addicted to play with the toy, they would force parents for purchase of same toy. We only expect 75 customers to get converted out of minimum 1500 people visiting per hour (which is around just 5% of total customers visited in the mall. ) The other occasion for increase in the sales would be the festivals and also the Valentine’s Day for the youth.The shop target customer is up to 14 years but due to presence of Splush toys and also teddies and fur toys which stand attraction for the youth, so we expect the sales to increase in valentine day. Personnel In order to manage the day to day operations we along with three partners have decided to keep the following personnel for smooth operations. In order to reduce our fixed expenses we have restricted ourselves to six employees in the initial three months of our operations. However with time and requirement we shall keep increasing the strength. Number of employees: * Store Facilitators-02 Store Manager-01 * Housekeeper-01 Financial Details Projected start up cost Projected start up cost| | Security Deposits Monthly RentSalary to StaffPurchase of ToysFurniture and StationaryReserved| 100000 30000 20000250000 50000 50000| Total Start Up Cost| 500000| Sources of Fund 50% fund from Partners50 % fund from State Bank of India| 250000250000| Total Fund Raised| 500000| Projected Balance Sheet Liabilities| Rs. | Assets| Rs. | Capital| 500000| Furniture ComputerStockCash DepositeCurrent assets| 50000 20000250000 50000100000 30000| Total | 500000| Total| 500000|
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