Saturday, August 31, 2019

Research critique part 2 Essay

Quantitative Research Critique This is a quantitative study research critique of the research study conducted by Lisa M Black PhD,RN,CNE, Tragedy into Policy: A Quantitative Study of Nurses Attitudes Toward Patient Advocacy Activities. The findings from this research study was used in the state of Nevada to protect nurses when reporting unsafe conditions in patient care practices, thus providing a safer work environment where nurses can feel safe when speaking out where patient safety is in jeopardy from unsafe care practices. Protection of Human Participants The benefits of this study were the creation of legal protection for whistleblowers in the state of Nevada. There were no risks to any participants’ safety for this study. Informed consent was not needed as retuning the completed survey was viewed as consent to be included. All participation in the study was viewed as voluntary. Approval of the survey tool was obtained from the University of Nevada, Reno prior to beginning data collection. (Black, 2011, p. 29) Data Collection The dependent variables in this study are the registered nurses licensed to practice in the state of Nevada; the independent variable was the Registered Nurses’ Workplace Support for Patient Advocacy Activities Study Questionnaire.(Black, 2011, p. 29) Data was collected through the developed questionnaire that was sent to 1725 registered nurses with active, current licensure and residing in the state of Nevada at the time of the survey.(Black, 2011, p. 29) The author provided no rationale for using the chosen data collection method, I would assume that this was the most cost effective and best way to maintain privacy for all respondents. The surveys were sent out using the United States Postal Service on September 8, 2008. (Black, 2011, p. 30) The respondents were asked to complete the survey by one of two methods, filling out, and returning the paper survey via US postal service or by completing it online. All responses were accepted through October 31, 2008. (Black, 2011, p. 30) After distribution of the questionnaire respondents were given the time period listed September 8, 2008 through October 31, 2008 to respond to the survey either written or online. (Black, 2011, p. 30) Data Management and Analysis A priori power analysis was performed and established that a minimum sample of â€Å"405 respondents would be required to detect a medium effect size.†(Black, 2011, p. 29) In order to determine if the study sample was â€Å"demographically representative† of nurses in Nevada, the demographic data was compared to the data from the 2004 National Sample Survey of Registered Nurses from Nevada. (Black, 2011, p. 29) Reliability testing of the survey tool â€Å"demonstrated a high degree of internal consistency.† (Black, 2011, p. 30) No statistical software was mentioned in this study. Other than the reliability testing performed, the survey results were calculated with a total of 564 valid responses collected this represented 33% response rate. (Black, 2011, p. 30) Response number varied from item to item as most participants left one or more items blank. (Black, 2011, p. 30) I felt this study was a reliable source of information concerning legislation protecting whistleblowers from workplace retaliation. According to the priori power analysis the minimum sample necessary of 405 respondents was required; with 564 valid responses received the minimum sample size was met. (Black, 2011, p. 29) The limitations that are identified in this study were, the sample size was considered to be small, even with the randomly chosen sample there was a potential response bias, and due to the nurses who have negative work environments may be more likely to complete the questionnaire than those with a more positive one. (Black, 2011, p. 33) This created the potential for inflated representation of the frequency and severity of these experiences. (Black, 2011, p. 33) This is the reason for caution when applying the findings to nurses outside of this study. (Black, 2011, p. 33) The survey tool did not allow for differentiation of different types of unsafe situations or different levels of retaliation. (Black, 2011, p. 34) Interpretation of survey questions may vary from one respondent to another. (Black, 2011, p. 34) This research study was presented in a logical easily understood manner with explanation and definition of findings and limitations. The findings of this study to were used in the creation of a law protecting nurses reporting unsafe patient care practices in acute care facilities and free standing offices and clinics in Nevada. The creation of this legislation helps create an environment for nurses to carry out† their moral imperative to prevent harm to patients whenever possible and to report potential or actual causes of harm† to protect patients.(Black, 2011, p. 35) There were no suggestions for future research. There was suggestion for changes in workplace environments encouraging openness in communication and especially in cases where patient safety is a concern. (Black, 2011, p. 35)

Friday, August 30, 2019

Psychological Causes of Depression

Psychological Causes of Depression The actual causes of depression are still unknown today but there are a few theories that could help explain them. It is widely believed by psychologists and scientists that all mental disorders are brought about by a complex correlation of psychological, biological, and social factors. A serious loss, chronic illness, relationship problem, work stress, family crisis, financial setback, or any unwelcome life change can ignite a depressive disorder (Psychologyinfo. om). Depression is a serious disorder in the United States and has only become more prevalent among individuals as their lives become more stressful and overwhelming. One theory for the cause of depression is the bio-psycho-social model of causation and is the most commonly recognized theory for the cause of disorders such as depression by professionals. As stated earlier, it consists of a complicated correlation of psychological, biological, and social factors.This can be caused by fluctu ated levels of hormones, which would explain why many people first experience depression during puberty. (Grohol, 2006). The exact causes of depression are vast and unknown. Some types of depression have been found in families from generation to generation, which may possibly suggest that it can be inherited (Grohol, 2006). With that said, major depression seems to be present generation after generation, in some families, but not with a frequency that suggests clear biological causes.Furthermore, it also occurs in people who have no family history of depression (Psychologyinfo. com). This is also found in people with bipolar disorder. A study on family members that belong to particular families of each generation that develop bipolar disorders, has found that those with the illness have a somewhat different genetic makeup than those who do not have the disorder. Nonetheless, not everybody with the genetic makeup that is subjective to bipolar disorder will contract the disorder.Addit ional factors such as stresses at home, work, or school, are also involved in the disorder’s onset (depression-guide. com. , et al. ). An assortment of psychological factors appears to play a part in the susceptibility to these unrelenting types of depression. People who have low self-esteem, are not optimistic, and readily overwhelmed by stress, are prone to depression (Grohol, 2006). More than likely, these psychological factors are completely accountable for other forms of mild and moderate depression, particularly reactive depression.Reactive depression is generally diagnosed as an adjustment disorder during treatment. Social learning factors also demonstrate why psychological complications appear to occur more regularly in family members, throughout generations. For example, if a child is raised in a pessimistic household, in which discouragement is frequent and encouragement is not, the child will establish a vulnerability to depression as well. (Psychologyinfo. com. , et al). Recently, researchers have found that physical changes in the body can be paired with psychological changes as well.Medical ailments such as a cancer, Parkinson’s disease, stroke, heart attack, and hormonal disorders can bring about a depressive illness. This can result in the ill person to feel unconcerned with their health and be unwilling to further care for their physical needs. In addition, any stressful change, financial problems, relationship problems, or serious loss can activate a depressive affair (Grohol, 2006). Depression is a serious growing problem in the United States.Modern science and research is slowly helping to further decipher the disorder to help slow its growth. Over 9. 2 million Americans have major or clinical depression. At an economical standpoint, depression is a major problem and needs to be accounted for, with an estimated $30. 4 billion spent annually on depression related treatments, medication, and diagnostics. Surprisingly, the World Health Organization estimates by the year 2020, depression will be the number two cause of, â€Å"lost years of healthy living,† worldwide.As our populations keeps rising and our economy worsening, we can only hope that Psychologists help diminish the illness of depression. References â€Å"Cause of Depression: different causes of depression. † Depression Treatment, Medication, Help, Symptoms: Anxiety Attacks Depression Test, Types, ADHD Causes. Web. 14 Nov. 2009. . â€Å"Causes of depression. † Psychology Information Online. Web. 14 Nov. 2009. . Grohol, John M. â€Å"The Causes of Depression | Psych Central. † Psych Central – Trusted information in mental health and psychology. 6 Dec. 2006. Web. 14 Nov. 2009. .

Thursday, August 29, 2019

Retail Services in China Research Paper Example | Topics and Well Written Essays - 2000 words

Retail Services in China - Research Paper Example In the raising of high transaction expenditures due to market imperfections, it is normally cheap for multinational corporations (MNCs) to do their businesses in new marketplaces by their inner business structures as opposed to depending on the markets. Derived from a case study of Coca-Cola’s entry option into China, this study tests the applicability of internalization assumption to revealing the entry choice of Coca-Cola Company into China. This theory discloses the financial rationale, which was main reason of Coca-Cola’s transformations in their entry choice as it changed from franchising to joint ventures (JVs) with significant local investors, and more currently to the combination of franchising and JVs. When a multinational corporation or company (MNC) gets into new markets, it is fairly costly for it to do business activities owing to high transaction expenses (Mok, Dai & Yeung, 2002). These expenses take in the ones arising from the problems of opportunism, uncertainty, small share of market agents and limited rationality (Williamson, 2002). Williamson (2002) quarreled that the transaction charges of executing, implementing and writing contracts through the market exceed the expenses of internalizing the market. The matter is further exacerbated when the business transactions comprise of multifaceted contractual incidents (Williamson, 2002). Therefore, it seems that an MNC will opt to set up wholly owned subsidiaries (WOSs) to cope with market defects (Williamson, 2002). Except for the choice of WOSs, there are other frequently used modes, as well, like joint ventures (JVs). Anchored in various studies of Coca-Cola in China, this study assesses the usability of the internalization theory to elucidate the entry mode option of MNCs in China. Coca-Cola in China has been considered as the study firm for numerous reasons. First, it is the globe’s largest cola manufacturer and one of the prime MNCs (Williamson, 2002). Secondly, the corporation has a fairly long history of venture in China, since 1979, when financial reform was executed under the de facto management of Deng Xiaoping. Thirdly, going through intense rivalry from its close opponent, Pepsi-Cola, as well as a strange and extremely versatile market environment, Coca-Cola’s skill, accomplishment and endurance, in securing a huge market share, in China, makes up a motivating case by which effects might be studied for the comprehension of MNCs’ entry into the Chinese market through creating equity joint ventures (EJVs) (Mok, Dai & Yeung, 2002). Fourthly, there are just two significant earlier studies on Coca-Cola’s operation in China: PU-TU-USC (2000) and Nolan (1995) (Mok, Dai & Yeung, 2002). Rooted in an encompassing survey of the company’s bottling plant in Tianjin, Nolan (1995) did the initial comprehensive study of the micro-economic effect of just one Coca-Cola plant in the country. He argued that the firm’s business structure, in general, has encouraging effects on the labor development, product markets and rising capital in China. This study corresponds to another large-scale research done by a team of economists at Tsinghua University, Peking University and the University of South Carolina (USC) (PU-TU-USC, 2000) (Mok, Dai & Yeung, 2002). Derived from an input-output model, the three institutions estimate that the financial effects of Coca-Cola’s venture, as well as recurrent operation, comprising of the downstream (distribution) and upstream (suppliers) business associations, in the Coca-Cola business structure, in China, formed an overwhelming 414,000 jobs, 1.2 billion yuan of tax payments and 21.7 billion yuan of output in 1 998 (PU-TU-USC, 2000; Mok, Dai & Yeung, 2002). Regardless of this priceless information brought out by the above studies, there is no precise literature giving theoretical foundation for the entry mode option of Coca-Cola in our concerned country (Mok, Dai & Yeung

Wednesday, August 28, 2019

Entreprise Information Systems Essay Example | Topics and Well Written Essays - 1000 words

Entreprise Information Systems - Essay Example In business there are different types of organizations depending on the type of business that is offered. It is always good for a business leader to have a look at the forms of business organization and find out the best organization. The types of the business organizations can be the sole proprietorship, partnership and the business of corporation. For one to find out the best business organization, he or she can find it by the kind of tax offered in the business, the legal issues that are in the business, and the personal and financial concerns that are in the business. The sole proprietorship can be a one person working in a business and this is the most form of business in the world. In the sole proprietorship, there are both the advantages and disadvantages which affect the business either directly and indirectly. For example, one of the advantages is that the capital or the start up cost needed for one to start up a business is very easier. On the other side, the form of business has unlimited liability and there is limited life in the business. In the partnership form of business, two or more people are involved in the business. The business can be either small or be larger and it may include the accounting firms. In the partnership, there are still categories like the general and the limited liability business. Its advantage is that the business is very easy to form while it has unlimited liability. The third form of business is the corporation type of business. This is a business that is limited in number which gives a legal business motive. The business form has an unlimited life that is very commercial while the business has so many business regulations t hat offend most of the business leaders and workers. These are activities that are mainly created in order to achieve a certain goal or organizational specific. They are achieved by working on a number of operations that happen within the business. While working on the operations to find

Tuesday, August 27, 2019

W1 Disc Strategic Management of Technology and Innovation Essay

W1 Disc Strategic Management of Technology and Innovation - Essay Example In an article entitled â€Å"Managing Technological Innovation – Opportunity Recognition and Conflict Management† written by Agarwal (2010), the other provided two guidelines for strategic management of technology and innovation through market analysis and creative thinking. This is consistent with the guidelines discussed by White & Bruton (2011) who emphasized the need to be â€Å"proactive rather than reactive† (p. 26). The assumption of a proactive stance is analogous to the proposed conducting of a market analysis to â€Å"create the need for innovation† (Agarwal, 2010, p. 4). Likewise, as revealed, â€Å"there was some creating thinking that led to the emergence of IT† (Agarwal, 2010, p. 4). The encouragement of creative thinking is one of the crucial motivational tools that managers could instill as part of assessing the strengths of weaknesses of the organization’s work force, which is a necessary element in strategic management. The advice of Agarwal (2010) corroborates the managerial guidelines expounded by White & Bruton (2011) to manage technology and innovation

Monday, August 26, 2019

Managing through information (finance exam) Essay

Managing through information (finance exam) - Essay Example However, the major point of concern is the Gearing Ratio, which has dramatically increased from 0% to 36.1446% in a year due to the long-term loan, this increases the risk of investment, and in addition the Dividend Payout Ratio has also decreased from 40% to 21.28%, which is a bad signal for the shareholders. In 2008 no interest had to be paid, but in 2009 interest also needs to be paid from the reserves, thereby reducing reinvestment into the company. Johnsons Ltd. should focus upon clearing the debt as early as possible, and clarify to the investors that it is for the betterment of the company. Furthermore, it should try to reduce the gearing ratio by increasing ordinary shares, either through new issuance or issue of bonus shares. Financial ratios aid in analyzing, controlling and improving the performance of a company, it also helps in attaining loans from banks, it can provide sufficient information to analyze the liquidity and performance of the firm, and points out the areas requiring improvement. However, ratios have certain limitations as well, for larger companies it is difficult to make comparative analysis as it becomes extremely complicated, firms set their targets at average instead of following market leaders, hampering the efficiency of the company. The major drawback of ratio analysis is that it does not account for inflation and therefore can mislead the managers. Apart from inflation, seasonal variations can create distortions in the results as well, furthermore many valuations used in the ratios such as depreciations, inventory, bad debts etc are approximates and can thus affect the end result. The user of these ratios must know how to differentiate between wrong results and should be capable of adjusting to various situations (Besley and Brigham, 2008, 68). It is obvious from the calculations that none of the three proposals is good, since they give fewer profits than the current system, Proposal A

Sunday, August 25, 2019

Position paper Lobbyists Research Example | Topics and Well Written Essays - 750 words

Position Lobbyists - Research Paper Example Efficiency and competence of his policy is a disputed issue because one group favors his economic policy specifically for inflation, while another group critically claim his policies as useless for the governmental system in the US. In this paper, we shall discuss the perceptions of two lobbyists, one in favor in and another one against the Reagans policies. The first lobbyist supported the economic decision of the inspiring president (including reduction in social and domestic marketing spending, with the increase in military spending) and emphasized on income tax reduction. Being an optimistic lobbyist, I believe that Reagans policies were appropriate with respect to the situations of the United States, where inflation has been badly influencing each aspect of citizens lives. Inflation victims were suffering from severe financial crisis along with the entire administrative system of the US (Alan & Davis, 2004). Additionally, his economic policies seem to be implemented with trust in the kindness of human nature especially at the corporate level. In the United States, it seems as if everyone is running fast to earn bread and butter and regulate other life processes (Magazzino, 2010). Major reason behind an Americans hurdle is that to handle tax and other needs together. Reduction is tax worked as an important beneficial change in the r egulation system that made citizens to pay only 28% rather than 70% in taxes. Further, lobbyist pinpointed that tax reduction will result in more financial advantages, and moneymaking chances will increase (Magazzino, 2012). Eventually, businesses will flourish and new employment opportunities facilitate new professionals to gain money and fame in the growing sectors. On the other hand, second lobbyist presents his arguments against Reagans policies that also included reduction in government spending and money supply intended to control inflation. Being an honest citizen and lobbyist I believe that a presidents policies

Saturday, August 24, 2019

Early American history 1450 to 1820 Term Paper Example | Topics and Well Written Essays - 750 words

Early American history 1450 to 1820 - Term Paper Example The Columbian exchange refers to the movement of people, their belongings, plants, animals, and diseases from Europe to America after Columbus’s discovery of America. Such a drastic change in environment and ecology adversely affected the Native Americans making Columbus exchange one of the reasons of the prosperity of Europeans while a reason of downfall for the Native Americans (Brogan, 2001). Another important happening during this period is the French and Indian War which was fought during the late 1750s. The war was very much significant as it would determine the future and stability of North America. The French and Indian had an upper hand in terms of organization and strategy and this is the reason for their domination during the initial years of war. Seeing their colonial allies getting defeated, the British soon jumped into the battle and the tides turned in favor of the Americans. Even though the British eventually won the struggle for freedom, the struggle never rea lly ended because the Native Americans wanted freedom also from their colonial masters (Brogan, 2001). The tension between the British and the Americans increases which ultimately erupted into an open conflict referred to as the American Revolution. The most important event during this time period, as regarded by the historians is perhaps the American Revolution. The American Revolution which started in the year 1763 shattered the foundations on which the Old America was established and provided the idea of a United States of America. The American Revolution was a fight against the monarchy and aristocracy and the public openly stood against the English rulers. Even though initially the revolution was a struggle to overthrow the colonial system, it grew into something much more fundamental and important to the American community as a whole. The American Revolution provided the foundation of a unified America in which all the states fought for a unified cause (Bailyn, 1992). The valu es instilled in the participants are still there and are looked up to as an inspiration as America could not have achieved its current stature without this Revolution. For a long time the British had exercised their superiority and domination over the over the Americans, intercepting their ships and searching them. In 1812, the Americans waged war on the British. It was through this war that the Americans got their national anthem even though the war did not end decisively. A treaty was formed soon after the battle, the terms of which made it look more like a cease fire (Brogan, 2001). The war was not only important because the national anthem was composed during it but also two future presidents of the country began their political careers during this war. The start of the eighteenth century marked many important developments in the economic sector of the country. The most important of these is the market revolution. The market revolution is the name given to the series of steps ta ken by the steps to develop transportation within their respective cities which ultimately provided easier and greater access to markets. This proved to be very beneficial for the economy which boomed during this period (Brogan, 2001). The beginning of the eighteenth century also witnessed some ‘revolutionary’ changes in the political system of America. Jefferson became president in 1801, bringing

Friday, August 23, 2019

Milton Friedman and Edward Freeman Assignment Example | Topics and Well Written Essays - 750 words

Milton Friedman and Edward Freeman - Assignment Example Its responsibilities of providing employment, avoiding pollution, and doing away with discrimination are crucial (Friedman). Friedman asserts that those businesspersons who talk this way preach pure socialism. As such, they are puppets using the intellectual forces to undermine the basis of a free society. In this paper, I will seek to develop arguments based on the thoughts of Milton Friedman and Edward Freeman and establish who is right among the two of them. Milton Friedman Can a business be socially responsible? With reference to the discussion and arguments brought forward by Milton Friedman, only notable people who believe that a business has social responsibilities due to their lack of rigor and analytical looseness. Further explanation indicates that, only people who can have social responsibilities, not businesses. Presumably, a corporation is an artificial person for who can have artificial responsibilities (Freeman 234). However, even in this vague sense, business as a who le, cannot have social responsibilities. Social responsibility facet as a doctrine comes due to sharp relief when trade unions use the doctrine to justify wage restraint (Friedman). The conflict of interest appears naked in this context and clearer when there is a question to trade union officials to subordinate their member’s interests in order to pave way for a more general purpose. Therefore, as officials of the trade unions, they have a social responsibility towards the business, which is to make profits. Additionally, Friedman puts across a challenge when it comes to exercising the will of social responsibility. He expounds that, the hardship or difficulty of exercising social responsibility demonstrates, without a doubt, one of the greatest virtues of private competitive enterprise. Due to this difficulty, social responsibility forces people to take responsibility for their own actions, which in turn makes it difficult for everyone to exploit others for selfish and unse lfish purposes (Freeman 236). This implies that, people can do well, but only for personal expense. Since discussion regarding social responsibility focuses much on corporations, most of arguments concern corporate executives or individual proprietors. In an enterprise that is free, a corporate executive, as an employee of a business owned by other people, has a responsibility to the business owners. With that respect, the main objective of the corporate executive is to carry out the business activities in accordance with the employers’ desires. Generally, this will mean that he has to make as much money as possible while upholding the basic rules of the society. The society embodies these rules into either the law or the ethical custom. Edward Freeman With regard to Freeman’s thesis, managers have a duty towards stakeholders following the concept that managers have a fiduciary relationship with the stakeholders. Stakeholders refer to those segments of people who have a claim or stake in the firm. In order to drive the point with specific intrigue, Freeman incorporates the role of the management as the agent of the stakeholders, employees, customers, local community and suppliers. Using these agents, Freeman argues that a business should care for consumers and employees (Friedman). Thus, every group of the firm’s stakeholders must receive equal treatment and participate fully in determining the future of the business as

Reflective portfolio Essay Example | Topics and Well Written Essays - 1750 words

Reflective portfolio - Essay Example Personally, I opted to volunteer with the National Society of clean Air (NSCA) organization. It is an organization that enhances the protection of environment, and advocates for clean air in the world. Its main objective is to see reduced pollution of land, air, water, noise and other harmful contaminants. In my entire time of volunteering, I was able to create a significant impact on various communities through the creation of awareness on the importance of keeping our environment healthy. Communities in which I served were able to understand the importance of vegetation cover and disposing of wastes in an environmentally friendly manner. The planet is contaminated and without any environmental efforts to return to its natural state then people will perish over time. Our environment is suffering from the impacts of global warming. There is a need to reduce the amount of green house gases emitted into the air through the adoption of cleaner production technologies and increasing on t he vegetation cover. Evaluating the contribution of volunteering in meeting the organization objective Support from volunteers and organization leadership are fundamental in the success of an organization (Warner et al 2011, p.391). Without the two, then successful movements in sentiment transformation in various levels such as political, personal or professional cannot thrive. In order for the continual culture of improvements environmentally, volunteers at the community level are an essential commodity. Volunteers are effective in providing adequate service and remarkably efficient in reducing the organization spending costs. They always offer their services free of charge (Levine & Agostino 2010, p.711). However, because of their increased numbers, organizations have not been able to accommodate them. Non-profit organizations such as National Society of clean Air have been able to utilize skilled volunteers in meeting the needs of the community and meet its goals and objectives. Volunteers in environmental organization have been at the forefront advocating for Natural resource management (Measham &Barnett 2008, p.538). They are tasked by the organization to pass information to the community on the importance of managing their resources effectively. This is through the development of brochures that have information on natural resource management and holding campaigns where communities are able to air their views. The interaction between the community and volunteers enable an organization to identify loopholes that exists and come up with strategies that can enable them fix the problem. Through volunteering, the volunteers have been able to acquire necessary skills that make them sell like hot cake in the job market. Some have become environmental activists. They advocate for policies that will enhance the improvement and point fingers at those organizations that are not operating in an environmental sound manner. The volunteers in the organization involve th emselves in activities such as botanical specimen collection to enhance their understanding of ecology. They also involve themselves in monitoring and evaluation programs. This develops their mind in criticizing where things are not right. Through the volunteers, the organization has been able to achieve its aim of protecting the environment and ensuring that the air individuals’ breath is clean. Through sensitization, the community and other stakeholders have

Thursday, August 22, 2019

State Versus Federal Power to Regulate Immigration Essay Example for Free

State Versus Federal Power to Regulate Immigration Essay According to the U. S. Census Bureau, the foreign-born population in the United States tripled in the past four decades and currently totals about 37 million, or nearly 12 percent of the total population. What authority do states have with respect to immigration matters? For decades, the power to regulate immigration has been considered a federal power. However, in recent years Congress added a new provision that allows local law enforcement to directly enforce immigration regulations through the United States Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE). This provision is the Immigration and Nationality Act, and it is our basic federal immigration law. Causing many debates amongst community members, immigration has created a sense of an overwhelming presence of new lifestyles, cultures and ethnicity groups throughout America. The large number of new immigrants to this country creates a lifestyle that does not fit well with the once dominant group. In many cases, residents seem to be lobbying for stricter laws and enforcement. Alabama and Arizona’s immigration laws provide the framework for examining state power. With the Supreme Court ruling for over a century that federal government has the ultimate power of ruling immigration, they have ruled that any state or local law that attempts to regulate immigration is in violation of the Supremacy Clause of the U. S.  Constitution and is preempted by federal law. (Guizar, 2007) I have found that those powers are based on the Commerce Clause, Naturalization Clause, Migration and Importation Clause and the War Power Clause of Article I of the US Constitution. Sejal Zota, the author of â€Å"Do State and Local Immigration Laws Violate Federal Law? † , states that there is no general answer for this question, for the analysis varies across different areas of regulation. Her article provides a general framework to determine whether state and local laws relating to public benefits, housing, and employment may be preempted by federal law. Also, she touches on the topic of civil rights laws that may be violated by laws establishing English as the official language of our country and free speech. With a hope for future cases concerning regulation of immigrant housing and employment, we will not truly know the answer to the largely questioned thought, and hopefully what is to come to the future will bring clearer direction.

Wednesday, August 21, 2019

How Does The Concentration Affect Osmosis?

How Does The Concentration Affect Osmosis? Diffusion is the net passive movement of particles atoms, ions or molecules from a region in which they are in higher concentration to regions of lower concentration. Diffusion is important process that occurs in human body example of one of many types of diffusion which occur in the human body is gas exchange at the alveoli- oxygen from air to blood, carbon dioxide from blood to air. [5] Osmosis is the diffusion of fluid through a semipermeable membrane from a solution with a low solute concentration to a solution with a higher solute concentration until there is an equal concentration of fluid on both sides of the membrane. [1] Diffusion and osmosis is an example of passive transport. Passive transport is a movement of substance across a permeable membrane without added energy. The difference between osmosis and diffusion is that; diffusion can take place without a membrane whereas osmosis only takes place across a semi permeable membrane. Osmosis only involves movement of water across a permeable membrane. Osmosis is much slower than the rate of diffusion. Osmosis is a passive transport of water whereas diffusion is a passive transport of solutes. [7, 8] A permeable membrane is a membrane that allows all types of molecules or ions to penetrate through it; it lets everything go through it such as salt. [6] Whereas a  semi permeable membrane  is a membrane that allows let only solvents, like water, to pass through it. It is a membrane that will only allow certain molecules through it. In general oxygen, food and water are allowed to enter; waste products are allowed to exit and harmful substances are kept out. It doesnt let large soluble pass through it. [2, 3] Osmosis is the main way water is transported in and out of cells in the human body. The areas of high concentration of water molecules are called hypotonic. Hypotonic solution has a low concentration of dissolved substances. Areas of low concentration of water molecules are called hypertonic. Hypertonic solution has a high concentration of dissolved substances. During osmosis, water molecules naturally travel from hypotonic areas to hypertonic areas. Water molecules travel from hypotonic areas to hypertonic areas because this process equalizes the concentrations of water and dissolved substances. [4] This is example of osmosis in human body, Salts and minerals from water are transferred in the body through osmosis. Water flows through the plasma membrane of cells and due to osmosis concentration of water, glucose and salt is maintained inside the body. [9] Active  transport  is when dissolved molecules move across a cell membrane  from a lower to a higher concentration. In active transport, particles move  against  the concentration gradient and therefore require an input of energy  from the cell. The energy used to absorb the molecules comes from respiration. In humans, active transport takes place during the  digestion  of food in the small intestine. Carbohydrates are broken down into simple sugars such as glucose. The glucose is absorbed by active transport into the villi, to be passed into the bloodstream and taken around the body. [10] http://www.bbc.co.uk/bang/images/446251/osmosis.jpg [11] Diffusion[12] http://www.phschool.com/science/biology_place/biocoach/images/biomembrane1/Tonic2.gif [13] Apparatus: Potato chip: This will help me justify if osmosis is occurring. I have used potato chip to help me justify if osmosis as it is a semi-permeable cell. The length, width and mass of all the potato chip used in the experiment are to be kept same. Scalpel and a chopping tile: The scalpel will be used to cut all the potato chip to the chosen length and width. The chopping tile will used to place the potato chip while being to reduce damages to the work area i.e. cutting of work place while cutting the chip. Electronic scale: Electronic scale will be used in my experiment to measure the mass of potato chip during the experiment. I have decided to use Electronic scale rather than a spring balance to weigh the potato chip because using electronic scale means that my results are accurate as electronic scale has measuring units ranging from grams- kilograms. My results will also be precise as the electronic scale measures the weight of something to 2 decimal places. The results obtained from a spring balance will not be precise; the results will also not be accurate as parallax error could occur while reading the data. The use of balance is necessary in the experiment because I will need to calculate mass of the potato before and after during the experiment, so that I can calculate reliable percentage difference in mass. Distilled water: This will be used to preserve the potato chip .I have decided to use distilled water rather than water because it is an isotonic solution and using distilled water to preserve the potato chip means that the potato chip wont be affected by outside factors; therefore making my results reliable. Ruler: Ruler will be used in my experiment to accurately measure the width and the length of the potato chip; to make sure that they are all same size. I have decided to use a ruler marked in units of cm and mm so that my results will be precise as the potato chip cutting will be even and of the same size. Filter paper: This will be used in my experiment to blot the potato chip once it has been taken out of the sucrose solution; I will blot the potato chip in order to absorb excess water from the potato so that there is as little water molecules in the potato; doing this will help me measure the true value of the mass of the potato and make my result more accurate. Labels: To make sure that the experiment run smoothly, each agar plate that is being utilised in the experiment will be labelled. Labels will be used in my experiment so that the potato chip in a solution can be easily identified. Labels will help me find the concentration of a particular solution. Labelling the agar plates will prevent confusion, and reduce anomalous results. Sucrose solution: I will need a sufficient number of concentrations. This is so that I can easily show anomalies and trends in my results in order to draw an accurate conclusion. Sucrose solution will be used in my experiment as this will help me to figure out if osmosis is occurring. The aim of my investigation is to see how the rate of osmosis is affected by the concentration of the sucrose solution so I will be using different concentration of sucrose solution. Measuring cylinder: Cylinder will be used in my experiment to measure the amount of sucrose solution. I have decided to use a measuring cylinder rather than a beaker to measure the amount of sucrose solution because it is made to +0.5ml or -0.5ml where as a beaker is made to +3ml or -3ml. Using measuring cylinder will mean that there will be a high level of accuracy in my results. Using cylinder will mean the amount of concentration on each is accurate. Agar Plate (6): Agar plate will be used in my experiment to hold the sucrose solution and the potato chips. The agar plates will be labelled to prevent confusion and this will reduce chances of anomalous results. For e.g. If I were to add a sucrose solution with a concentration of 0.1 on to a agar plate but believed I had picked a sucrose solution with a concentration of 0.2, the results produced would contain error and would be anomalous. I have also decided to use an agar plate. Using a test tube could possibly result in potato chips leaning on the sides and decreasing the chips surface area. Therefore, I have decided to an agar plate rather than a test tube to carry out the experiment Stop watch: Stopwatch will be used in my experiment to record the amount of time the potato chip has been placed in the solution. Stopwatch watch will be used so that the timings of the experiment are accurately followed, and that the potato is removed from solution at the correct time. This way, the experiment remains fair. Health and Safety: Healthy and safety procedures are very important while carrying out the experiment: Scribe: Scribes will be used in the experiment to cut the potato chips, but could cause fatal injury if treated carelessly. Scribes are dangerous; they are sharp and could cause wounds. You should not walk in the lab carrying a scribe. Scribe shouldnt be placed at edge of the table which could result in injury if it falls off. Wear goggles- It is important to wear goggles to protect our eyes from any spills that could happen. In case of sucrose solution getting into your eyes, immediately flush eyes with water. It is also recommended to wear latex gloves as they are thin, see through and will not create difficulty for you while doing the experiment. Latex gloves will create a barrier between the substances and your hand. Wearing gloves protects our hand form the irritation which could be caused by sucrose solution. Wearing goggles and latex gloves will mean that there is maximum skin protection and minimises chances of irritation from substances coming in contact with the skin. People with sensitive skin are more likely to be affected if the solution gets spilled on their skin. Hands should also be washed after doing the experiment. Carry out the experiment standing- It is important to carry out the experiment standing, so that there is less chance of injury happening to you. If something happens, i.e. Sucrose solution spills, you can quickly move from the area. Positioning of equipment- Acids and Alkalis should be kept in a position where they are not likely to fall or spill. It shouldnt be kept at edge of the table. Equipment such as measuring cylinder which is made out of glass could fall and break easily if placed inappropriately, i.e. edge of the table. Broken pieces of glasses are hazard, it could easily cut someone. It is also important to put the beaker which contains the concentration of solution accordingly so that there are no spills; spills in the work area is an hazard, people could easily slip. Work area: Working area must be kept clear, there should be no baggage lying on the floor which could cause people to trip over, it is a hazard. Hazards in work place could lead to injury. It is also important not to run around while carrying equipment, equipment such as scribe could cause injury to yourself. Factors: Independent variable: The independent variable in the experiment is the concentration of sucrose solution. I will be changing the concentration of the sucrose solution to see how it affects osmosis. Dependent variable: The dependent variable in the experiment is the mass of the potato. I will be measuring the mass of the potato before placing it in the solution and after they have been placed in the solution. The mass of the potato after they have been placed in a solution is a continuous variable. Controlled variable: The controlled variable in the experiment are: Experimental room: The temperature affects the rate of a reaction because the greater the temperature, the greater the heat. There will be a higher rate of osmosis in the cell membrane because particles in the solution will be moving quickly due to temperature change. Water molecules will gain kinetic energy which increase osmosis. Higher temperature could also cause the cell membrane to denature, the water molecules in the solution could also evaporate. The temperature at which the experiment is carried out must remain constant in order for an experiment to be a fair test and my results to be reliable.  I would conduct the experiment in the same room to make this factor constant. Type of cell: Permeability of potatoes can differ, if I use potato chips with different level of permeability, the amount of solution going through will not be the same. I will be using potatoes with same level of permeability. Surface area of the chips: It is important to keep the surface area of each potato the same in the experiment. Potato chips with higher surface will mean that osmosis occurs faster, because more of the potato is available for reaction. Time: In order to find out how concentration affects osmosis. The amount of time which the potato will be left in a solution should remain constant. Having a potato chip in a solution for longer time will mean that it will have a greater chance to carry out osmosis than the other chips. This will mean that my experiment will become an unfair test; I will be using a stopwatch to keep this factor constant. Volume of concentration used: The volume of concentration used in the experiment needs to remain constant to make my experiment a fair test. If this factor wasnt kept constant then the amount of water molecules on the agar plate would be different and will be varying the rate of osmosis because there will be higher probability of water molecule diffusing through the permeable membrane. I will be keeping this factor constant by using a measuring cylinder which has a measuring accuracy of +0.5ml or -0.5ml. Hypothesis: I also believe that when the chip is placed in a dilute concentration of sucrose solution, it will gain mass and become rigid. The concentration of sucrose solution will have more water than the inside of the chip. This will result in water moving from the solution to the chip. The chip will gain mass as water goes in to the cell. The chip will become turgid and strong. I also believe that there will be a stage in the experiment where the potato will neither gain nor lose any mass. This will occur because the potato chips will be in an isotonic solution. The concentration inside and outside of the potato will be the same so no osmosis will be occurring. I believe as the concentration of the sucrose solution increases, the mass of the potato will decrease. During osmosis substances move from an area of high pressure to an area of low pressure. Therefore, when a chip is placed in a concentrated sucrose solution, it will lose mass because the chip has a higher concentration of water than the sucrose solution. The sucrose solution in which the potato is kept will have will be concentrated and will not have much water. Water will move out from the chip and the cell becomes flaccid. Sugar molecules in the sucrose solution are too large to go through a semi-permeable membrane so water moves out during osmosis. The permeable membrane only allows solvent through it, the solute (sugar molecules) cant go through it. Preliminary test I have also carried out a preliminary test to see if there were any changes to be made in the final experiment. Preliminary method: I collected all the equipment needed for experiment. I made sure that I labelled the six agar plates that I used in my experiment to reduce confusion and minimise any chances of anomalous results. I measured the length of the potato; the width of each potato chip was same. The width of each potato chip to be used in the experiment was same. I measured the length of each potato chip using a ruler to make sure it was equal. Using potato chips with same length and width will result in all chips having mass but I measured mass of each chip rather than assuming the mass to be the same. If the mass had been different due to inaccurate measuring of length and width, I would change the length and width and measure the mass again. Then, I measured the mass of the potato using an electric scale. I also blotted the chip before measuring it to get an accurate value. I also waited 5 seconds after placing it on the scale to ensure that the figure displayed on the scale was not fluctuating. I poured †¦ m3 of a particular concentration of the sucrose solution into the agar plate using a measuring cylinder. Then, I placed the chip in a labelled agar plate with the correct concentration for 5 mins. I then took out the chip from the solution and blotted the chip with tissue paper to absorb any excess solution off the potato. I measured the mass of the potato after it was placed in the solution to figure out if it gained or lost mass. I carried out three repeats for each concentration to make sure that my results were reliable Then, I repeated step 3-7 for all the concentrations to be used in the experiment. Graph Analysis: During the experiment, I placed a potato chip on different concentrations of sucrose solution. We can see that as the concentration increases the mass decreases. During 0.5. Mass is acquired this cud be due to inaccurate measuring. From the graphs it is clear that there is coherent negative correlation the independent variable and the dependant variable. As the concentration increases, the percentage difference decreases. As the concentration increases from 0 100 the percentage change in massdecreases from †¦Ã¢â‚¬ ¦. My results are reliable and accurate; it shows a strong negative correlation. All the concentrations have small range bars, indicating that the results are accurate and can be relied upon. However, results: 0.1m, 0.9m, and 1.0m all have large range bars suggesting they are unreliable. Ultimately, there is a connection between the concentration and the percentage change in mass Evaluation: I used an electronic scale to measure the mass of the potato during the experiment. The results given by the scale were precise but while measuring the chip during the experiment, there was a zero error. The scale showed mass of 0.04g when there was nothing placed on it. The scale was also free of water or any solution which could have caused the scale to show mass. The zero error present on the scale could have been the cause for anomalous results in the preliminary experiment. I also placed the chip in the solution for 5 minutes; I believe the time isnt long enough for osmosis to take place. Changes made from preliminary In my preliminary, I used five different concentration of sucrose solution, to find out if concentration affects osmosis. I have now decided to use nine different concentration of sucrose solution, ranging from 0% to 100%. I have done this to make sure that there will be a range of results which I can draw a conclusion from. I also placed the chip in the solution for 5 minutes; I believe the time isnt long enough for osmosis to take place. I believe perhaps a longer time would enable osmosis to take more effect. I will be putting the chip in the solution for 10 mins in my final experiment to increase the osmotic activity. Final experiment method: Final experiment results: *All data in the results are given correctly to two decimal places. *The difference in mass is worked out by the increase/decrease in mass, divided by the original mass and then, X 100. For example, The difference in mass for the concentration 0% is worked out by: (1.81-1.71) X 100 1.75 This is 3.43%. Graph analysis: The graph depicts a negative correlation. As the sucrose concentration increases (the independent variable), the change in mass of the plant tissue (the dependant variable) decreases. Evaluation: I would pick the chip from the distilled water by tweezers rather than hand. I will tweezers to pick it because this will mean that the potato chip doesnt make contact with skin, and no moisture will be absorbed by the chip form the potato. Moisture from skin could affect the mass of the potato. However, using tweezers to pick the potato, I could be damaging the chips cell which will have an effect on the results. I also used an electronic scale to measure the mass of the potato chip during the experiment; the use of electronic scale to measure the potato chip meant that my results obtained are precise as it gave figures to two decimal places. I think my result were also accurate because using an electronic scale meant that no parallax error occurred. If I were to use a spring balance to measure the chip of the potato, parallax error could occur. However, using an electronic scale could have resulted in systematic and zero error which could change my results significantly. I have also made sure that while measuring the chip, there was no zero error occurring. Zero error could have been the possible reason for anomalous results in the preliminary experiment. I have made sure that the scale displayed 0.00, in order to get an accurate value of the chip and to make my results reliable. It was also very hard in my experiment to make sure that each chip had a same surface area. The chips could possibly have different surface area. Although, we too care while measuring the length and width to make sure the difference of surface area between chips was minimal. I would also like to use a ruler with even smaller increments, such as tenth of millimetres to make sure that the length and width of the chip is very accurate. Despite the fact the chips could have different surface area; other controlled variables were kept the same throughout the experiment so my experiment can be considered reliable. I also carried the experiment three times for each concentration, doing this improves the reliability of the experiment. Doing three repeats for each concentration also increases reliability of the results. I also used concentration of solution ranging from 0%-100%, I believe I have used sufficient amount of concentrations to draw a conclusion. If I were to repeat the experiment, I would change the concentration in the experiment by 5% rather than 10%, this will allow me to work with a range of results. There could also be a human error in my experiment. For instance, I could have blotted one of the chips with filter paper more than the other; this would have resulted in a lower mass of the chip while weighing it. Human error could have been the reason for anomalous results. Other reasons for anomalous results could have been due to: Inaccurate measurements of the sucrose solution Systematic/ zero error while weighing the chip Pipette I also waited 5 seconds after I place the chip on the scale to measure it, so that the figure was settled. I also used an agar plate to ensure that potato chips were not touching the sides. The range of concentrations I used in the experiment are sufficient enough to Even though, I chose 10 mins prior to 5 mins for my real experiment, I would still like to change the time, I would make the time to 30 mins. This time would allow the process of osmosis to occur fully. Therefore, allowing me to collect clear data which shows the true difference made by each concentration. I would also consider using a precise, accurate and better weighing scale to measure the mass of the potato. Even though, the scale was accurate and precise. The weighing scale was constantly fluctuating which didnt allow me to get an accurate reading. I would like to use a scale which doesnt fluctuate and has higher level of precision- it should be able to measure to 3dp. This would also make my experiment and the results obtained reliable. Conclusion: Error bars The error bars have quite a small range. This means that my experiment is reliable. The error bars are not far apart; this implies that the results have been recorded in a similar way. This also tells us that the controlled variables such as, type of cell have been maintained throughout the experiment. Skills for Effective Management | Reflection Skills for Effective Management | Reflection Introduction Effective Management Skills There are a number of skills which are required for sake of effective management instead of a magical formula. This abet in getting the continual learning process in an easier and effective manner. If there is a proper management style being followed then one would be able to get the best leadership style being followed. Thus, few things are always necessary which are helpful in giving positive results in end. Some of the skills are; To be your ownself. Building an effective management style. Have some clear standards. Should be able to give feedback openly Always create an environment of trust Try to encourage staff Maintain regular meetings with staff. Set targets for every month. Examine all issues timely. Always admit your own mistakes Going along with all of these there is a need to understand the three major effective manager skills areas which are being observed. They are named as task execution, the wonderful commercial insight and proper people skills. There is a competence being maintained in all of these three then it would become a bit easier for sake of people to manage things and get beneficial results through their small acts. (Andrew, F. 2009) i) Task Execution When there is a talk about the task execution then it is clear that execution of the complex tasks and getting the proper management of projects is quite helpful. This is not only helpful in getting efficient operations done properly, but along with that it also abet in doing the planning, organizing and considerate kind of monitoring of the performances. Through that strong results focus can be attained in a particular manner. It gives the sense of urgency which is almost one of the biggest necessities for sake of those people who are thinking of getting the time pressures faced in an easier manner. EFFECTIVE MANAGEMENT SKILLS IN THREE DIFFERENT AREAS TASK EXECUTION COMMERCIAL INSIGHT PEOPLE SKILLS ii) Commercial Insight This commercial insight is necessary for sake of getting a competitive edge. This can be beneficial as this emphasizes efficiency. Whether there is a need to talk about private sector or the government sector managers both can get benefited through it. Best thing is that, proper kind of setup is ascertained for sake of profitability or some times for return on investment as well. Many managers used to get strategic thinking ability through it. That abet in giving focus over the right tasks. Through them there is a chance to get an addition to most value. In a commercial insight proper planning skills are helpful in prioritizing different combinations of some abilities which are a proper mean of understanding financial aspects smoothly. Almost every kind of resources can be allocated through it at their disposal wisely. iii) People Skills There is integrity to foster trust. That abet in getting an emotional intelligence in a successful manner. This gives some kind of empowering, elegant coaching, some what motivating and a number of developing people catalysts easily. There are different ranges of tasks which can get a good facilitator easily. This is known to be people skill option, through which people can acquire effectiveness in their communication and tremendous kind of good listening skills as well. Skills Required For Effective Management Thus, there is always a need to have effective, efficient and positive kind of attitude towards management. This use to abet in getting wonderful results in future. Thus, two main types of skills which are required for the sake of an effective management are known to be; Personal Skills Professional Skills If an individual is able to make the excessive usage of both of these skills, then there might be some end results in the form of positive, progressive and spectacular results as well. There is a need to know how management differs from leadership. Management means to execute task effectively and efficiently and to achieve goals by utilizing all resources available for particular project or goal. However, leadership defines new directions or promotes organization. Leadership defines goals and resources but management utilize all resources to achieve goals set by leadership. Effective Management Skills For effective and efficient manager it is very important to have skills in three areas: People skills, Commercial insight and task execution. Many Managers seeks or get training how to strengthen in different areas but best managers have all 3 management skills. Task execution means to execute task with proper planning and also monitor performance of the task. In task execution strong focus remains on results and complex tasks are executed through efficient operations and monitoring. Skilled people manager create trust and the exciting intelligence to deal with different people fruitfully. Managers adopt strategic approach and focus on return on investment and profitability. Managers always tried to add more value in their product and utilize all resources according to output. Example of A Managers Effective Three Personal And Professional Skills Let me describe the importance of an effective management and different kinds of skills through the help of an example; Lets us consider that Mr. XYZ is having three types of personal and professional skills. His personal skills use to include interpersonal skills, communicative and self motivated person. Where as his professional skills use to include leadership, innovative strengths and disturbance handling skills as well. Thus, let me tell you that how these three kinds of skills might be helpful in determining the whole process and achieving success at the end of this process. Firstly, If there would be any kind of decision making, then through the help of innovative, adaptive, communicative and supportive skills, the manager might be able to handle the whole process. Not only that, but also there would be some positive results would be seen in it. Secondly, one thing which is necessary to be kept in notice that, if MR. XYZ is able to deliver his professional skills through the help of his personal skills, then there might be some different kinds of impacts being seen during the management processes. Let me list down some of them Successful process Easy communication Proper working Timely completion of work No Quality compromises Effective Leadership Efficient control Trust worthy working Value of manager would definitely be increased Chances of promotions Improvements might also be seen Thus, all of these seem to be proof that, if there is a proper usage of skills of an individual then there might be different kinds of results being seen in it. Methods To Improve Personal And Professional Skills Following are the methods through which one is able to improve the personal and professional skills; 1) Giving proper audits and assessments about things what they already know or necessary to be known to get some learning development plan option in an easier manner. 2) Learning and giving acknowledgement to personal development for sake of professional realms 3) Understanding the qualities 4) Relevant theoretical constructs formulation Answer #2 Personal Skill Audit Personal skills which are being inhibited, which are discussed earlier, they are as under interpersonal skills communicative skill self motivated Thus, if we make out audit of these personal skills then we might be able to get the result that all these three kinds of skills are positive and helpful in achieving a number of goals in life of a person; there are different approaches which are found over there. (Bob, J Michael, K. 2004) Firstly, interpersonal skills of individual are able to make different kind of information flow, between two people. These skills seem to be advantageous in nature, as one person is able to tell that what is the desired concern? Secondly, communicative skills are helpful in making communication in case of personal and professional life. Because of these skills, the confidence level of a person is very high. He or she might be able to convey message easily, with out any kind of lose of control. Thirdly, self motivated means that an individual is able to increase enthusiasm and motivation in other people as well. This can be made possible only because of supportive attitude which is being created because of self motivation. Thus, if there is always a carrying of these kinds of skills, then their directed usage might be helpful in getting success, in personal and professional life as well. They are helpful in making learning through them. How Main Theme Of Learning Program Have Impacted On My Work Role From the above discussion it is clear that there is a specified kind of impact which is being made over the work role. That is helpful in giving proper kind of differentiation in oneà ¢Ãƒ ¢Ã¢â‚¬Å¡Ã‚ ¬Ãƒ ¢Ã¢â‚¬Å¾Ã‚ ¢s own personal skill. Along with that they would be helpful in having a direct or indirect impact over the interpersonal and professional skills. Thus there are a number of benefits which are being attained through it; There is a higher level thinking skills development being made possible Interaction and familiarity with things were made possible. Increase in self esteem took place Enhancement of satisfaction occurred Promotion of the positive attitude all enhanced oral communication skills got a certain development There is an improvement in the social interaction skills Some kind of the active, apparently involved and definitely exploratory kind of attitude developed. There is an encouragement in the diversity of understanding which took place Safe environment learning took place. Improvement in self management skills took place Usage of constructivist approach become easier now The atmosphere of cooperation becomes a bit easier to be understood. Development in the interpersonal relationships occurred. Generation of the stronger kind of social support system took place. Promotion of some kind of innovation becomes visible. Skill building techniques and the practicing techniques were being analyzed frequently. All of these aspects are helpful in determining the corrective steps towards work. This seems to be positive as this helped a lot in giving a smooth kind of motivation along with the pre-determined kind of approach. One of the best thing about it is that there are positive results which are always determined through it. They seem to be perfect in its collaboration because of the innovative results which they used to give through it. These skills are not only helpful in giving a personal development but also there are some positive changes which are being seen in professional purposes as well. All of these aspects are key factors which are known to be derivatives of functional development of a person. Strengths Weaknesses At The Start Of Program Thus, if there is a need to make the impact short defined then strengths and weaknesses at the start of programs and end of program might be helpful. They would tell us that, which type of improvements, were being made. Let me describe you about them one by one. Strengths; Here is a list of some of the strengths mentioned below; Higher self motivation Devotion towards achievement of work/Success Best kind of techniques and tactics usage at different places Communicative skills Weaknesses; Multiple weaknesses were being felt, at the start of this program i.e. Less abilities to maintain stress Implementation of successful plans Thus, both of these strengths and weaknesses are those which were being determined at the start of this personal development process. Strengths Weaknesses At The End Of Program Thus, there were a number of improvements being felt at the end of this process. Reason behind this might be that, this is a special kind of learning program, which is being designed in order to teach a manager that how he or she might be able to make a distinction of their own work from the other people. Let me list down a number of strengths and weaknesses in this aspect. Strengths Increase in knowledge Techniques for handling a situation Improvement in handling stress in different conditions Determination of goals/ objectives and plans Know-how that how a successful goal achievement can be made Improvement in personal and professional skills Chances of improvement with in organization and outside an organization Weaknesses Still there is a need of more learning, so that processes of successful attempts can be made fastly Need to cope up with numerous time frames, of a number of cycles linked with working. Answer # 3 Personal Development Plan When there is a need to discuss the personal development plan then there is a need to know that there is a reflective record of management experience which is helpful in setting up the objectives and plans to meet goals. The personal development plan is as follows; First of all there is a need to do an understanding of some of the current required goals. These include the organizational as well as personal goals. Secondly this would be helpful in getting proper plan out. Through that there is a necessity of planning categorization being made. This is helpful in giving future positive results, which needs to be analyzed. After that getting the proper analyzing there is an option to get the implementation, monitoring and reviewing as well. This whole plan out would be helpful in getting the proper kind of end results Needs to understand current required of goals (Organizational Personal) Plan outs Need to make categories of planning Analyzing of Plans Implementation Monitoring Reviews End Results Personal development planning helps to attain potential and it helps to identify skills gaps and growth areas. In good Personal development planning you can do planning easily and promote your business further. In personal development plan employee enhances existing skills or knowledge and develops ground-breaking skills or expertise in its field. Identifying and Targeting the Dates For Monitoring And Reviews There is a need to make identification and targeting of dates for actions or goals being determined. This is because of numerous benefits which are associated with targeting dates. Thus for that purpose, let me give you some kind of tips, which might be effective in nature First of all, there is a need to make a note down of all goals Know about their importance Assign dates Dates should be assigned according to the time spam, which it might be taking while its completion process Make an overview of process Make timely check out, while processing of whole ongoing process Keeping in notice, if there is a need to make corrective actions at any step. Thus, all of these might be helpful because of the fact that, at the end of process, there might be some successful achievements. It is the duty of a manager, to keep proper check according to assigned dates. Thus, in end, I would like to include that, the end results of this ongoing process are almost beneficial in every aspect. As it is made through special categorization. But three main aspects linked with it use to include; Achievement Learning Visible change All of these three aspects are beneficial and part of fruitful results. Thus, they would only be ascertained if there is none kind of neglections or mistakes being taken in achievement of goal process. Short Term, Medium Term Long Term In order to determine goals the basic objective is to make strategy or make an analysis of financial statements of company. Thus, while talking about shot term goals of company, we would be able to know that, the current short tem goal can be to determine that what are the different problems being faced by company, what are their causes, and how they can be fixed while remaining in a certain boundary? Where as, medium term goals of a manager, use to include two basic aspects. First one is that if there is a need to make some changes, then how manager should adopt change with in organization? What are the reasons to change and how this change can be implemented so that company can make progress? This seems to be an open declaration for making strong decision making rules. These can be adaptive for sake of employees and company regulatories as well. (Ingham, J. 2007) Thirdly, the main thing is long term goals of an organization; they use to include effectiveness, efficiency and tactics for earning of profits. The better a manager is able to make some differentiation, wonderful might be the results seen because of it. Company would definitely be able to make benefit out of time factors. These can be analyzed from end results of these kinds of goals, actions and planning.

Tuesday, August 20, 2019

Distinctive Contribution Of A Feminist Methodology Sociology Essay

Distinctive Contribution Of A Feminist Methodology Sociology Essay This paper examines the distinctive contribution of a feminist methodology in social science research. The Introduction outlines both the historical and future perspectives. The paper is then divided into two distinct parts (1) Feminist Research What this means in terms of social science research, the methods used together with the challenges and choices involved. Concluding with the epistemological issues raised by doing feminist research (2) considers the different perspectives and critique of conventional research. This illustrated by appropriate case study examples. Most researchers in sociology tend to agree that there is no single distinct feminist methodology. There is more a collective consciousness that was born from feminist movements in the 1960s and 1970s where a group of women talked openly, developing a mode of inquiry that challenged the conventional norms of research. These women collectively became known as feminists and enlightened individuals that formed a new bas is for knowledge. Although the original works were conducted outside of an academic setting, it soon became apparent that there was a lack of feminine representation in mainstream sociology or social science. (Devault 1996). Over the last 25 years female sociologists have made significant advances in pushing back the prejudices against women and in general interpreting the workings of society. Feminism was essentially born from a movement and a belief in resolving gender inequalities. Within the general claims to male dominance in social theory, three challenges have emerged (i) the criticism against that of female knowledge and its inability to demonstrate adequate work that illustrates scientific or unbiased knowledge. This resulted in feminists coming under scrutiny in order to demonstrate abilities to rationalise knowledge, perform verification, subjectivity and freedom from political bias. Secondly, how different influences shaped womens lives. Examples cited included that of cultural divisions, social divisions and power relations (Caroline RamazanoÇlu 2004). The danger here is one of stereotyping and simply branding women as one gender that provides a uniform result. The third challenge intertwines that of knowledge and gender whereby in essence women are taken for granted. In 1987 Sandra Harding (Harding 1987) provided insight into the difference between that of Method, Methodology and Epistemology. She equated Epistemology to that of a theory of knowledge with the objective of answering specific questions. Further, that there are two distinct epistemologies namely that of a Feminist empiricism and a Feminist Standpoint. The empirical part is that where a response is provided to bias and traditional responses (Harding 1987). Whereas, standpoint refers to a specific feminist opinion founded upon an explanation of knowledge. In order to understand and complete a feminist standpoint the reader needs to become more involved with the intellectual and political struggles that a womens experience is built upon Sandra Hardings views on Standpoint Epistemology focused more on the concepts of objectivity. Harding advocated a new concept of strong objectivity, as opposed to that of the weak concept which she referred to as objectivism. She stated that objectivity must contain all social values and interests from the research that is carried out. She was aware that certain social values could adversely impact the research and cause potential distortions. As such Harding viewed traditional research concepts and objectivity as the denial of cultures best beliefs (knowledge), whereas the new version fully embraces both political and historical origins. Harding believed that her new theory holds validity, particularly from the feminist standpoint i.e. women are part of an oppressed group and as such they approach research problems in a less arbitrary way. They are more likely to evaluate theories that might otherwise be overlooked or denied by more traditional concepts or viewpoints. Harding states that that the standpoint has a substantial foundation in the empirical experiences of women and although this may not constitute a foundation of knowledge, nevertheless it does create a more diverse contribution leading towards increased objectivity. (Stanley 1990). Historically the most common expression of female action has been associated with that of liberation and the emancipation of women. This has ranged from the concept of radical insistence, to clarifying the purpose of research and ultimately to transformation in terms of political action. It was Maria Mies that proposed feminist research should be consistent with the overall political goals and aspirations of women. Hence, there needs to be a full integration of social and political; action appropriate to the emancipation of women. (Mary Margaret Fonow, Beyond methodology: feminist scholarship as lived research 1991). FEMINIST RESEARCH Feminist research can essentially be defined as research conducted by what has become known as feminists, essentially drawing upon experiences of women in what is perceived as a male dominated world. The objective of research is based the creation of useful knowledge in order to make added contributions by different perspectives of thought. Feminism is based upon a praxis of women sharing the same agenda with men and overcoming the struggle relative to gender, race and class. The foundation of this was really built in the 1980s. Feminist research has since become more focused on how the lives of women have become materially altered by men and the development of strategies in order to resist this process (Mary Maynard 2005). Feminist research in general terms has had a lack of agreement to what precisely defines feminist theory and practice. As such there is not really a single unifying theory. It was Patricia Maguire (Breyton 1997) that offered the premise that feminism is (i) An understanding and belief that women face some form of oppression (ii) A commitment to understand female oppression and exploitation in all of its forms (iii) A commitment towards elimination of all forms of female oppression. (Breyton 1997). FEMINIST METHODS IN SOCIAL SCIENCE RESEARCH: Feminist methods may have four main objectives: (i) the ability to uncover and overcome types of bias in research (ii) The ability to detect and create social change (iii) a concept or method to illustrate human diversity (iv) An acknowledgement of the credentials and position of the researcher. In order to create social change any method must include and respect the participants as change agents. The method needs to acknowledge diversity and that not all women see the social world in the same way e.g. the method approach to interviews and inquiry that explore the experiences of different religions. (Sprague 2005)i.e. evidence has been presented to support theory presented. Feminist studies use both qualitative and quantitative research techniques, although qualitative research is more readily used. The term methodology relates to more of a process of how to conduct research i.e. what you need to select, empirical study of what to observe, what to measure and how to conduct analysis. The method id more related to the precise technique of carrying out the study. (Sprague 2005) A common assumption has been that methodology and epistemology are identical. This has created a relatively narrow technical approach towards carrying out and conducting research. The concept of methodology essentially opens the way for conducting choice i.e. the implications of what we should do and how we might do it. It facilitates questions on data collection and assimilation. As such methodology paves the way for critical reflection and creativity within the social sciences. THE CHALLENGES AND CHOICES: Feminist researchers have taken very different approaches to the adoption of methodology. As such they have adopted differing means to the acquisition and validation of knowledge. This has tended to lean towards a more scientific and evidential base of presenting knowledge. This has avoided the more serious challenges of refuting feminist research and rejecting it on the basis that it contains no scientific method. The example being the study into child abuse, as such it never becomes a clear cut case but contains many complex shades of grey and is nearly always disputable. In many situations feminist researchers are particularly vulnerable in this regard. (Caroline RamazanoÇlu 2004). In current terms it is important to recognise that a large number of women are employed in science, engineering and academic positions. As such they offer a diverse range of opinions on a wide range of subject matter. The female positions tend to have two distinct types of focus (i) that engaged with the sciences and (ii) that focused upon society. Researchers have emerged from former marginalised groups and as such have had a profound way of changing the pattern of inquiry and thought process. There are still those however that holds the opinion that feminism is a threat to the objectivity of science. Sandra Harding pointed out that if all knowledge is socially constructed it will pose a major threat and challenge to science. For example with most scientists the notion that their views of the natural world are subjective is counter to their professional training. (Wyer 2008) It is important to note that the feminist researchers have made a significant impact over the last thirty yea rs. This has included a significant contribution to methodologies in the social sciences; particularly responding to the challenge of how women have been silenced in both society and research. The feminists have obtained significant success in bringing about social change and creating a degree of equity in both professional and personal lives. Whilst much of the success has been in the first world countries, there still remains a significant challenge for women in the third world and those emerging economies. In particular the native women of Africa, the women in the Islamic communities and others in the emerging countries like India and China. LEADING CONTRIBUTIONS: Early contributions in the 1970s were made by feminist sociologists that include the likes of Marcia Millman and Rosebeth Moss Kanter.  [1]  They made a number of suppositions in sociology that focused on issues or problems with existing use of sociological methods. In essence they objected to how assumptions to sociological theories manifested themselves. They challenged the empirical views of male sociologists and demonstrated a new vision as seen purely from the female perspective. (Harding 1987). The researcher and author Carol Gilligan  [2]  [In a different voice: Psychological Theory and Womens Development] agreed the point that conventional theorists are wrong to dismiss the wisdom of women on grounds of lower maturity. Gilligan asked that we listen to women in their different views and not try to compartmentalize them but credit women for the significant contributions over many disciplines in the sciences and the arts. (Harding 1987). Evelyn Fox Keller  [3]  had completed a great deal of ground breaking work that exposed sexual bias in the sciences. She predicted that women needed to be careful in rejecting concepts of objectivity and rationality as they would not be regarded as the icons for creating a new frontier but were more likely to be doomed and marginalized outside of the political mainstream. Fox herself later found herself in the dilemma of having to choose between feminism and science. Fox stated that the more we questioned methodology the greater it generated papers on epistemology and as such methodology became an end-in-itself. (Winnie Tomm 1989). Maria Mies  [4]  (McDonald 2004)concluded that the quantitative survey method is itself not free from androcentric bias, further there is a contradiction between the prevalent theories of social science, methodology and the political aims of women (McDonald 2004). Meis argued that if we revert to these old traditional concepts they will again be turned into instruments of repression new wine should not be poured into old bottles (McDonald 2004) One of the most influential people in the field of standpoint epistemology was that of Dorothy E Smith. Smith is famous throughout the world as a developer of theories and as such she has advanced the academic position from a feminist standpoint. Smith developed theories and concepts around the subject matter of gender and particularly that of the ruling texts of man. She advocated that many texts were compiled from the male perspective and as such were responsible for defining gender. She further advocated that such rules written by men determined the rules of society and defined the way in which we live and conduct our lives. Amongst the books that Smith referenced were the US Constitution, The Holy Bible and the Communist Manifesto. Smith stated that the rulings defined in many of these books were completely opposite to the manner in which women conducted their lives today. Such obsolescence creates the way for transformation of thinking and revision in these areas. Ryan B Johnso n (Johnson, Standpoint Epistemology Summary 2010). EPISTOMELOGICAL ISSUES OF FEMINIST RESEARCH: Epistemology of feminist research broadly refers to the value of knowledge or the scientific method applied in order to conduct the research. An example being that of empirical or qualitative research. One of the important issues relates to the variation between quantitative and qualitative techniques in feminist research. The historical association that exists between the two research methods have been documented; however the logical associations remain debateable. As such feminist methodology cannot be firmly anchored to either camp of quantitative or qualitative style of research. Gilligan  [5]  pointed out that qualitative research represents the voice that is most consistent with female research values. Equally the researchers often use the perspective of a different voice, this being done in order to provide the distinction between that of a male opinionated voice. The female voice seeking to be far more evident in defining in the definition of connection and relationships. Mies stated that because women have been well versed in repression they have greater objectivity than men in this subject area. This is evident when they are involved in researching exploited groups. In essence women have more empathy and are able to better understand the important issues in a different light or perspective. (Janet Holland 2010). There is also the concept of stereotyping all women as feminists. Many female researchers have been primarily trained in traditional qualitative methodologies and despite the fact that they may have alternate or other views are most likely to revert to the traditional methods of carrying out research. Psychologist Laurie Rudman has completed research that has changed the views on negative stereotyping of women. Rudmans research found that negative stereoptypes of women are very widespread and even include educated young women. Her research further substantiated that strong independent women have satisfying romantic lives and their men are happy too as opposed to the widely held convention that feminists are man hating harpies (Branson 2007) SUMMARY PERSPECTIVES Female researchers have made a number of distinctive contributions to feminist methodologies in social science research. It remains questionable however as to whether a distinct feminist methodology exists, rather it is an approach to which female researchers have enlivened the debate by bringing fresh perspectives and valuable new insight, thereby challenging traditional methods. There have been some outstanding contributions to social science research from leading female researchers Goelting and Fernstermaker,  [6]  1995; Orlans and Wallace, 1994 and Thorpe and Laslett, 1997 are to name but a few. (DeVault 1999) Many sociologists agree that the original feminist movement had a core objective of changing the method of consciousness that was historically rooted in concepts of empirical research. Women became more aware of an alternate base for knowledge and the concept of introducing the womens experience into the methodology deployed. The early movement thereby highlighted the omission of this perspective. In addition, the group highlighted the racism that was faced by African/Americans in the USA and how white women had an advantage in obtaining academic research jobs. From these early beginnings female researchers have learnt to respond to the issues in social sciences and improve the overall field of inquiry. The female approach has been compared to that of excavators (DeVault 1999)where female researchers have been used to identify gaps or missing components in research or that which has been ignored. The unique voice of women often lends itself to a more empathetic approach to those delicate research areas i.e. child abuse, drug or substance abuse, juvenile crime etc. This often results in a more holistic and complete enquiry than would otherwise have been obtained from the traditional male dominated approach. (DeVault 1999). The emancipation of women in social science would provide women with an increased knowledge of their own social circumstances within society. Any feminist methodology therefore needs to be grounded in objectivity in social science. The feminist movement, in achieving liberal values, must not itself become an instrument of repression against the male community. As such the concept goes beyond methodology to more of a process of transformational change and make research more inclusive and objective. Feminist research is therefore aimed at the liberation of women. In achieving these objectives they increase the base of knowledge and add value to the overall method approach in social research and inquiry. (Mary Margaret Fonow, 1991). All the decent people, male and female, are feminists. The only people who are not feminists are those who believe that women are inherently inferior or undeserving of the respect and opportunity afforded men. Either you are a feminist or you are a sexist/mi sogynist. There is no box marked other.- Ani DiFranco. (M. P. Johnson 2005). 3406

Monday, August 19, 2019

School Days are the Happiest Days of your Life? :: Creative Writing Examples

School Days are the Happiest Days of your Life? When I was given this assignment, my initial reaction was this is easy! Half an hours writing- homework complete. Fifteen minutes later I find that it is incredibly difficult to sort out the jumble of thoughts, memories and feelings, that are fighting each other in the race to be the first to blot this pristine white page.(melodramatic, but true) I suppose I could take the easy way out, and write that looking back; my school days were happy, carefree days. The sun always shone. I had no real worries. Friends were plentiful and life was all about, fun, fun, fun. Well I could, but that would entail not being completely honest. I mean, certainly a not immodest percentage of school, (compared with life today) was carefree but by no means all of it. My over-riding recollections of school are the memories of never quite fitting in; the never quite making it into the 'in crowd.' Not that I wanted in, you understand. I wanted to be different (not another lemming) just not so different that I stood out. I blame my mother for that mentality for she drummed it into us all. If I spoke the usual refrain," but all my friends are her response was always." if your friend stuck her hand in the fire- would you do it too?" Well the answer to that was no, and when you said so, mum would smile and say," of course not love, you have your own mind. You're not a lemming; don't be afraid to be different." I was left feeling proud of myself for being 'different', but oh God, I still wanted that denim jacket, or those Adidas trainers, or to stay out for that extra half an hour; or the myriad of other 'things' that would have enabled me to fit in. Money was always tight when I was at school. With four kids to buy for - I feel mum used the lemming story no us, just so she wouldn't have to say "I can't afford it." At school, every deficit, both real and imagined between you and the 'in crowd' made you insecure. It could be your haircut, shoes or even just the number of pleats our gym skirt had. (Mine had none.) Plain skirts were cheaper. Positive Body Image, or lack of it in my case, was a major problem. I went through school convinced that I was fat and ugly. Fat!? I was only 81/2 stones! I would kill to be that weight again - and as for my

Sunday, August 18, 2019

The Trail Of Tears :: essays research papers

The Trail of Tears, was it unjust and inhumane? What happened to the Cherokee during that long and treacherous journey? They were brave and listened to the government, but they recieved unproductive land and lost their tribal land. The white settlers were already emigrating to the Union, or America. The East coast was burdened with new settlers and becoming vastly populated. President Andrew Jackson and the government had to find a way to move people to the West to make room. President Andrew Jackson passed the Indian Removal Policy in the year 1830. The Indian Removal Policy which called for the removal of Native Americans from the Tennessee, North Carolina, South Carolina, and Georgia area, also moved their capital Echota in Tennessee to the new capital call New Echota, Georgia and then eventually to the Indian Territory. The Indian Territory was declared in the Act of Congress in 1830 with the Indian Removal Policy. Elias Boudinot, Major Ridge, and John Ridge and there corps accepted the responsibility for the removal of one of the largest tribes in the Southeast that were the earliest to adapt to European ways. There was a war involving the Cherokee and the Chickasaw before the Indian Removal Policy was passed. The Cherokee were defeated by them which caused Chief Dragging Canoe to sign a treaty in 1777 to split up their tribe and have the portion of the tribe in Chattanooga, Tennessee called the Chickamauga. Chief Doublehead of the Chickamauga, a branch of the Cherokee, signed a treaty to give away their lands. Tribal law says "Death to any Cherokee who proposed to sell or exchange tribal land." Chief Doublehead was later executed by Major Ridge. Again there was another treaty signed in December 29, 1835 which is called The Treaty of New Echota. It was signed by a party of 500 Cherokee out of about 17,000. Between 1785 and 1902 twenty-five treaties were signed with white men to give up their tribal lands. The Cherokee would find themselves in a nightmare for the next year. In 1838 General Winfield Scott got tired of delaying this longer than the 2 years he waited already so he took charge in collecting the Cherokee. The Cherokee were taken from their homes and their belongings. The were placed in holding camps so none would escape. The Cherokee were to be moved in the fall of 1838. The journey did not occur in October, 1838 because of bad weather. They were now supposed to move 13,000 Cherokee in the spring of 1839 a distance of eight-hundred miles. The Cherokee were fed on meager rations and suffered malnutrition. They were badly clothed for the spring

Comparing and Contrasting Euclidean, Spherical, and Hyperbolic Geometri

When it comes to Euclidean Geometry, Spherical Geometry and Hyperbolic Geometry there are many similarities and differences among them. For example, what may be true for Euclidean Geometry may not be true for Spherical or Hyperbolic Geometry. Many instances exist where something is true for one or two geometries but not the other geometry. However, sometimes a property is true for all three geometries. These points bring us to the purpose of this paper. This paper is an opportunity for me to demonstrate my growing understanding about Euclidean Geometry, Spherical Geometry, and Hyperbolic Geometry.   Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  The first issue that I will focus on is the definition of a straight line on all of these surfaces. For a Euclidean plane the definition of a â€Å"straight line† is a line that can be traced by a point that travels at a constant direction. When I say constant direction I mean that any portion of this line can move along the rest of this line without leaving it. In other words, a â€Å"straight line† is a line with zero curvature or zero deviation. Zero curvature can be determined by using the following symmetries. These symmetries include: reflection-in-the-line symmetry, reflection-perpendicular-to-the-line symmetry, half-turn symmetry, rigid-motion-along-itself symmetry, central symmetry or point symmetry, and similarity or self-similarity â€Å"quasi symmetry.† So, if a line on a Euclidean plane satisfies all of the above conditions we can say it is a straight line. I have included my homework assignment of my definition of a straight line for a Euclidean plane so that one can see why I have stated this to be my definition. My definition for a straight line on a sphere is very similar to that on a Euclidean Plane with a few minor adjustments. My definition of a straight line on a sphere is one that satisfies the following Symmetries. These symmetries include: reflection-through-itself symmetry, reflection-perpendicular-to-itself symmetry, half-turn symmetry, rigid-motion-along-itself symmetry, and central symmetry. If we find that a line on a sphere satisfies all of the above condition, then that line is straight on a sphere. I have included my homework assignment for straightness on a sphere so that one can see why a straight line on a sphere must satisfy these conditions. Finally, I need to give my definition of a straight line on a hyperbolic... ...h other along a third line, l. Then to consider the geometric figure that is formed by the three lines and look for the symmetries of that geometric figure. Then we were asked what we could say about the lines r and r’. I have provided my notes that include an outline to this proof for all three surfaces so that one can see the conclusions that we made as a class. We found that on a Euclidean plane parallel transported lines do not intersect and are equidistant. For a hyperbolic plane we found that parallel transported lines diverge in both directions. Finally for a sphere we found that parallel transported lines always intersect.   Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Using all the above material, we can see that there are many different similarities and differences when looking at a Euclidean Geometry, Spherical Geometry, and Hyperbolic Geometry. Using my artifacts will help one understand many of my conclusions about these three surfaces. This essay was an excellent opportunity to reflect on my growing understanding of these three surfaces. I hope you, the reader, can benefit from my conclusions and gain a better understanding of the similarities and differences of these three surfaces.