International Essay Example | Topics and Well Written Essays - 1000 words

International - Essay Example The strategy of the company is easy and simple to follow that is to allow the continuous growth of the product by continuous revolution and invention at the same time maintain equilibrium between the activities of different region and product lines. The short term performances are more preferred and long term performances are not neglected at the cost of short term performance. Nestle gives priority to providing quality products to everyone, irrespective of their location, needs and throughout their lives. Nestle runs on the decentralized system which means each country is responsible for the sale of products individually and does not depend on the main headquarters The motto of Nestle is to â€Å"Think globally- acting locally† which means that their products are made by keeping the whole world in mind but also interacts with the consumers at regional level (G, 2009). Corporate social responsibility is a concept of management in which companies incorporate societal and environmental apprehension when dealing with stakeholders and the operations of the business. Corporate social responsibility also known as CSR is the method with which the company achieves equilibrium between the environmental and economical sectors, in other words this is known as the Triple Bottom Line Approach. Along with this the company also responds to the stake holders and share holders expectations. If one wishes to promote the CSR within a company it is also important to review the company’s needs and their capacity to incorporate CSR in the company so that it does not affect their economic feasibility. If CSR is properly incorporated within a company then it gives the ability to the company to gain several advantages like increased in flow of investments, higher sales and profit ratio, systematic human resource base, a better and much improved image of the brand a nd development of good reputation, the ability to make good decision

18-6 Assignment Example | Topics and Well Written Essays - 750 words

18-6 - Assignment Example By drawing the sample of fifty cards, I did not get a defective deck since I did not pick any joker or king cards which were theoretically assigned the value of a defective card. Thus, it is my reasoned opinion and line of thought that the deck that I did chose from the shuffle of cards was not defective to that extent. The second draw that I with replacement has a defect since I got a king thereby meaning that the permutations that I did with the previous set of cards could not be repeated. This is to say that the cards that I drew on the second ruffle gave me a defective result since I got a king card which we theoretically assigned the value of a defective score or card. I did not get 25% of each suit because the sample given which are 13 did not represent the whole population which is given as 52. There were variation in the number and types of cards selected resulting to less than 25% number of suits chosen. Therefore, about my sample I have a bad deck since I am unable to choose 25% number of suits. When using a single sample a proportion of 0.192 is obtained. For example, 10/52 gives as 0.192. Therefore, a single sample does not give a clear representation of the population since its proportion is less as compared to the population it represents. Also, when comparing average sample to a single sample, the average for the 10 sample gives a greater proportion than the single sample. On the other hand, average sample gives a good representative of the whole population since its proportion is closer to the population. It is not possible to get 25% of each suit because the sample proportion is small. Also, when we repeat with 5 samples, the outcome will be the same. The conclusion is that, it is difficult to get 25% of each suit when using fewer samples. Therefore, the higher the number of samples used the higher the chances of getting 25% of each suits. 10/52 gives 0.1923 or 19.23%, 26/52 gives 0.5 or 50%, 51/52 gives 0.9808 or 98.08% and

Global Warming Poses Threat to Ski Resorts in USA Essay Example for Free

Global Warming Poses Threat to Ski Resorts in USA Essay The American west is marvellous, it is large with grand landscapes and mountains reaching to the sky . The plains unfold to the horizon and the vistas present an unimaginable panorama. Just like any where else in the world, water is an essential element to life here but it is scarce hence creating the wests vulnerability. Precipitation is generally low and cannot support agriculture it is for this reason that agriculture is only possible through irrigation. This precipitation is not only scarce but scarcest in the summers when it is mostly needed but falls disproportionately and mostly in the mountains in the winter. The only saving grace is that in winter it precipitates as snow and stays as snow packs throughout the winter. It is on the basis of these weather patterns that the winter sports tourism is established. This industry has served as the main economic driving machine of the west and other other areas for decades. However, changing climatic patterns and global warming has emerged as a serious threat to the existence of the winter sports industry. Projected increases in average global temperatures due to increases in green house gases in the atmosphere has been incriminated in widespread glacial and white cap decreases, ocean level rise and warming but most importantly in the reduction of snow cover and the decrease in the duration of winter tourism. The unpredictability of the future and the climate sensitive nature of winter sports tourism has led to many initiative aimed curbing the increase in green house gases and consequently making snow available. Introduction Compelling evidence suggests that global climate has been on a progressive change since the industrial era and is projected to continue over the 21st century and beyond. Global warming and climate change is an unequivocal phenomenon. Global mean temperature has been on the increase with an approximate increase of 0. 760 C between 1850-1899. the same increase has been found between 2001 and 2005. This means that global predictions of temperature bear a 90% probability (IPPC. Climate Change and Tourism, 2007). These increases in average temperatures are a direct result of human activities that increase the concentrations of green house gases in the atmosphere. The extent of these discernible human influences have also extended to other climate change aspects such as temperature extremes, changes in wind patterns, continental average temperatures and ocean warming. The same is applicable to the widespread glacial and white cap decreases coupled with warming of the ocean surface temperatures, the result is a sea level rise of approximately 1. 8mm yearly from 1961-2003 and approximately 3. 1mm yearly from 1993-2003. The resultant effect of biological response in ecosystems and species diversity presents an unpleasant scenario and these statistics are recorded in virtually every continent. It is projected that the probability of increase in global temperatures will further accelerate green house gas emissions at the present or above the present rates. The prediction pushes overall global temperature rise by 1. 80C -4. 00C. Assuming that the atmospheric concentrations of green house gases are stabilized, the warming effect would still continue due to the levels of green house gases from past emissions and the consequent thermal inertia of oceans. The biological response would also be extrapolated to future centuries even if the levels are stabilized at the present concentrations today. The discernible manifestations worldwide will be hot temperature extremes, extreme heat waves, heavy precipitation, peak wind speeds and precipitation in tropical cyclone events and an additional heavy precipitation associated with increases in tropical sea and surface temperatures. Together with these climatic changes extra tropical storm tracks are projected to shift towards the poles. All these changes together with the decreases in show cover will continue into the future. The economic and environmental risks are unfathomable and would effectively impede nations strides towards the achievements of sustainable developments. However, there is hope that if precautions and measures are taken to reduce green house gases today the high costs of environmental and economic destruction and disruption can fairly be mitigated. This calls for lifestyle changes, economic policies and regulations and international efforts that not only help reduce the causative agents of climate change and global warming but also foster adaptation and mitigation measures to meet the challenges of climate change. Climate change and Tourism Climate change, especially global warming has grown to be a pivotal issue in the development and management of tourism. The relationship between the environment, climate and tourism sector is currently a highly sensitive economic matter. Climate change is increasingly driving tourism development and decision making, changing tourism destinations and even tourist tastes. Tourism sector remains a non negligible contributor to climatic changes. GHG emissions from transport and accommodation must be reduced in accordance with international standards. Tourism sector cannot address the challenges of climatic changes themselves and in isolation but they can only do this in the context of sustainable development and the broader international development agenda. Tourism and the sustainability of tourism destinations is dependent on climate variability. The length and the quality of seasons as well as destination choice and the level of tourist spending are all determined by climate change. Climate change and winter sports Winter sports constitute a very source of income and the reliability of snow is a key element in the touristic offer. Skiing and snowboarding are the most common forms of writer sports but others such as snow hiking and cross-country skiing also depends on the reliability and the availability of enough snow. Mountainous areas are always very sensitive to climate change hence less snow, melting permafrost, receding glaciers and extreme events such as landslides. Additionally climate change shift mountain fauna and flora. These effects pose a direct threat to ski resorts in the United States. Lower earnings in winter tourism will only serve to exacerbate economic disparities that exist between the alpine regions and the more developed urban areas. These changes will also increase the risk of only skiing at high altitude up the mountain. If this was to happen there would be an intense concentration of sports activities in certain regions as well as further putting pressure on the environmentally sensitive high mountains. The extrapolation of the effects of global warming on winter tourism extends to the viability of the mountain cable way companies that use the availability of snow as a prerequisite for their financial stability. Without snow or enough snow the profitability of the ski industry is impossible. The absence of snow in the mountains will be like having a summer without a sea. The variability of the winter season with response to climate change will deny the winter sports industry the right levels of snow at the right time. These forecasts are a necessity in planning for trips at shorter notices especially the weekends (Rolf Burki et al, 2003) Studies undertaken in Canada, Australia, New Zealand, Australia, Switzerland and the United States to establish the impact of climate change on the tourism sector show severe implications especially to the winter sports industry. While some regions with high technological advances like adaptation strategies (artificial snow making) will maintain their tourism, others unable to adapt the expensive technologies will lose out. These transitions in business volumes will not only be driven by limiting snow levels but also the fact that skiers respond flexibility to snow conditions. During a snow poor season, 49% of skies are most likely to change to a resort that is fairly more snow reliable, 32% would reduce the frequency of skiing and only 4% would give up the sport. Coupled together with the fact that climate change has a direct effect on the number of ski days, those unable to adapt to expensive technologies will be disadvantaged and pushed out of business. (Rolf Burki et al, 2003). Snow resorts not concentrated in snow reliable high altitude areas will be forced to withdraw from the market because of decreasing levels of snow. For transport industries that will offer access to high altitude areas (sometimes higher than 200m) business prospects will be good due an expected increase in skiing at the high altitudes. The effect of this will be quantitative expansion of the high altitude skiing resorts hence eliciting a negative environmentally feedback effect caused by disruption of the ecologically sensitive high altitude mountain regions. Presently, this expected expansion to high altitude areas has been the theme of many concept studies that influence the opening up of High Mountain (Breiling and Charamza, 1999) It is for these effects of climate change that during a recent campaign in Portsmouth, N. H, Barrack Obama the Democratic Party presidential candidate reiterated that there is need to address the urgency of global warming on the ski industry. He said that global warming is not a future problem but a present one. This problem has made New Hampshire to have shorter sporting seasons and people are losing jobs. He further reiterated that residents of North America ski areas together with their customers should work hand in hand to change their energy spending. habits and resort to green technology if they were to prevent climate caused melt-downs (Laura Bly, 2007) Resorts have started investing in sustainable seafood practices, local food supplies, biodiesel powered snow cats and embracing the use of more energy efficient snow making equipment. To achieve this, campaigns on global warming and discounts are being offered to guests who come in hybrid cans. What is even more impressing is that resorts have taken the challenge of campaigning for these changes as well as acting as advocates for intergovernmental change. Effects of global warming have also been reported in Burlington Vt. The city is usually carpeted in December but unfortunately changing climatic conditions has created a mild situation where snowfall is meager just an inch thick. The temperatures are becoming warmer and fewer trails open. However, these fears have been allayed by the optimism of the meteorological department prediction that the season will progress as Christmas approaches. According to Michael Berry; president of the National ski Areas Association, the potential impacts winter recreation, the mountain ecosystem and the way of life of residents in these areas cannot be ignored. Global warming has a direct and profound effect on the ski business as it depends solely on the variability of weather. To drive this process of change, the association has adapted a policy to regulate and control climate change. The reduce, educate and advocate approach was adopted to help in the fight against global warming. Key in the policy is a call to ski resorts to work towards the reduction of green house gas emissions individually and collectively, educate the public and guests on the potential impacts of climate change to writer sports industry and be the advocate in pushing for institutional and regulatory changes aimed at curbing greenhouse gas emissions (Michael Berry, 2007). To this end almost half of the 59 ski resorts, who have purchased renewable energy credits or utilized green energy for their lifts and other facilities are 100% green powered hence reducing carbon dioxide emission by 427,596,000 pounds an equivalent of planting almost 17 million trees. Customers are encouraged to offset their emission and work towards increasing green energy use in their home. Generation of renewable energy through on site solar projects or micro hydro power projects and wind energy has greatly increased with Jimmy Peak Mountain Resort in Massachusetts installing the first wind turbine powered ski area in August 2007. Resort vehicle fleets are now using alternative fuels like biodiesel, they also provide or promote car pooling or mass transit use. Ski resorts are being built using green building techniques and retrofitting existing facilities all with the aim of saving energy. Though an outreach program called â€Å"Keep Winter cool† millions of people have been educated on global warming and encouraged to institute lifestyle changes to help curb global warming. Specific Impacts of Global Warming on Winter Tourism . Snow The financial viability and stability of the winter sports tourism industry solely depends on the availability of sufficient snow. Less snow pack is caused by higher average temperatures, on the other hand if there are extremely low temperatures at night then it follows that there is likely to be an average increase in daytime temperatures. In both cases the resultant effect is less mountain snow cover and a reduction in the duration of cover. (Stephen Saunders et al, 2005). This means that recreation will be shortened and the snow will be slushier. The big difference to earlier situation where snow cover was considerably reduced is that, the capital intensity of the winter sports tourism will be considerably high. When this is analyzed in the context of profits from ski dependent businesses, taxes from local and state governments, the financial prospects of industries in the winter tourism sector look bleak. However, the most important link between climate change and mountain tourism is less snow and, as a consequence, less earnings in ski tourism. Glaciers Statistics all over the world point to the fact that there is a general retreat of glacial cover all over the world. Taking Switzerland as an example, since 1850, the Swiss glaciers have lost slightly more than 25% of their surface. If this was to continue in the future, by 2030, approximately 20% to 70% of the total Swiss glacial cover will disappear. This is a real problem for the ski industry not only in Switzerland but across the world as ski tourists will resort to other countries with snow availability. The effect of this trend will be putting more pressure on the existing ski facilities as well as acting as an incentive for investment in high altitude areas. Permafrost Melting of permafrost due to global warming makes mountain areas vulnerable to landslides. Transport facilities such as the mountain cable way stations, the lift masts and buildings become instable. Them costs incurred in bracing and anchoring such buildings when permafrost melts are extremely high. Hiking and climbing in these areas is also made more dangerous hence the loss of revenue due to potential risk of injury like rockfall or other health outcomes. Despite of cries over decreases in snow levels in the future, there is a possibility of winters with heavy snow like that of 1998/1999 that brought a great deal of losses in the winter tourism industry. The avalanche winter destroyed mountain cable ways, ski-lifts and chair lifts. The expenses incurred on sow clearing and the overall loss incurred was in excess of US $ 130 million. Adaptations for the future ski industry should therefore inculcate these historical weather unpredictability patterns in improving the industrys financial viability. Adaptations and Strategies Used by the Tourism Industry to Mitigate Against the Impacts of Global Warming All tourism representatives at political,organizational, entrepreneurial or operational level have been in the forefront in pushing for adaptation strategies to curb climate change and help mitigate the potential effects of global warming. The experiences that project what is going to come in the future are prevalent today and is widely accepted that snow deficient conditions will determine whether winter tourism will remain a viable economic activity. To achieve this a multi sectoral framework that consists of the National Ski Areas Association(NSAA), Natural Resource Defense Council (NRDC), the federal government through the Senate Environment and Public Works, state stakeholders and other non governmental civil society organizations have developed a Climate Change policy aimed at reducing the concentrations of green house emissions. Ski resorts have been encouraged to adopt safe and efficient energy usage through the exploitation of renewable energy resources. It is this concerted effort in mitigating climate change challenges that also saw the support and endorsement of McCain/Lieberman Climate Stewardship Act to spearhead the fight against global warming. Specifically these attempts will help stabilize the US$ 5 billion mountain resort industry that currently offers employment to 165,000 people. Despite the existence of facts that predict radical effects in the industry, some argue that climate change issues are very exaggerated and politicized by science and the media. They argue that even though the effects could intensify problems in the industry, the majority of resorts in medium and high altitudes will be barely affected. Discussions should yield strategies that take into account the accuracy of statistical data disseminated on climate change and critically analyze the potential consequences. These issues should further be analyzed with reference to the global competition in the winter tourism sector. The facts that accrue from these forums should then be integrated in the construction of artificial snow flaking facilities, extend existing ski runs. Opening of high altitude ski resorts (2000-3000m)should be guided by the potential ecological effect. Climate change should not only be viewed as a negative challenge to winter tourism but also as a catalyst to drive radical structural adjustment and change. These developments should take into account the present risks and opportunities as well as foster development that is in line with the strive for environmental and socio economic sustainability. This will create a highly competitive market where customer preference is not only driven by snow availability but by the efficiency of service in some very high end but smaller less extensive resorts. Such top resorts will offer attractive offers for skiing tourists and hence reduce attention on expansive developments with less attractive offers. Artificial Snow making This is an ubiquitous strategy that is widely employed to mitigate the risk of climate change. Since its inception in 1953 at the Grossingers Resort in New York, it has grown to become the principle in the ski industry with an approximate 95% of the resorts engaged in the strategy. Its success has mainly been driven by its invaluable superior nature that offers a complete substitute to natural snow fall as well as making it possible to extend skiing durations(Daniel D. D. McGill, 2007). However, this technology is heavily dependent on temperature and is only effective in cases at low temperatures. Technological advances has seen the reduction of labor costs through the use of snow guns operated by computers. Snow making utilizes vast volumes of water and therefore the availability of water must be guaranteed for efficient blanketing of a large resort. Weather Derivatives. These are weather risk management tools structured to enable ski resorts make appropriate and informed decisions. They can be structured on snow fall temperature according to the customers specifications. Other factors that can be utilized to mitigate the effects of global warming include r4evenue diversification, cloud seeding and marketing to insulate the resorts against variability of weather by enabling them to maximumly capitalize when the weather is excellent. Conclusions Climate change and global warming remains will continue to remain key challenges in the winter tourism industry especially the ski resorts. Less snow, less glaciers and extreme weather events such as landslides are the key determinants of the future viability of ski resorts. Strategies instituted to meet the challenges of climatic change and mitigate the impacts of global warming can never be successful if implemented in isolation. It is commendable fact that the skiing industry has adopted sustainable building techniques,inculcated green principles and technology in their operations among others. These precedents are admirable but we have to admit that when taken in the global context, these measures do very little in stemming the worrying tide of global warming whose effects are felt indiscriminately. Global warming is a worldwide problem and therefore all the measures undertaken by the tourism industry must be in line with national and international guidelines that aim at reducing greenhouse gas emissions. In the future, tourist developments will not only be evaluated and judged with respect to their environmental or socio-economic compatibility and viability but they will also be assessed with respect to the climate-compatibility angle.

Criticism of Action Research

Criticism of Action Research The use of action research in higher education is growing (Mertler, 2006). Action research involves a systematic inquiry wherein educators can utilize their knowledge as practitioners to change and improve educational practices (Kemmis, 2009; Craig, 2009). By systematically and intentionally studying problems within the educational community, they not only contribute to knowledge production but to meaningful reforms as well. Action research is defined as a reflective process of progressive problem solving led by individuals working with others in teams or as part of a community of practice to improve the way they address issues and solve problems (Riel, 2010). The aim of action research is to understand practice and to articulate a philosophy of practice which improves practice (McCutcheon Jung, as cited in Herr, Anderson, Herr, 2005). As a research design, action research is relatively new. Despite its recent popular application, there is still debate on where action research real ly falls as to its nature of inquiry (Ary, Jacobs, Razavieh Sorensen, 2009). Some research experts associate it more with the qualitative tradition, while others assert that its concrete application in research has showed that it relies more on quantitative inquiry (Burns, 2007). However, literature would suggest that action research possesses certain overall characteristics that are different from other research approaches. These are: Problem-solving is highlighted in the scientific study (Pine, 2008; Koshy, 2005; Methodological tools are not rigid and can be modified to suit the demands of the research situation (Cooke Cox, 2005); The research is process is cyclical (Schmuck, 2006; Riel, 2010); There is leaning toward practitioners as researchers (Mertler, 2006; Walter, 2009); No great attempts at objectivity are intended (Kock, 2005); The inquiry has a social dimension (Walter, 2009, IISD, 2010). What sets action research apart from other research approaches is its cyclical nature. This means that as a research method, it proceeds through a chain of steps repeatedly. Unlike traditional research, action research does not end upon the determination of findings and the formulation of conclusions on the contrary, this sparks a renewal of the research process. Hence, action research follows what Riel (2010) calls progressive problem solving (see Figure 1). In the entire research process, there could be multiple cycles and multiple foci of the study. In one research cycle, an action research proceeds in five general steps: 1. identifying an area of focus; 2. Developing an action plan; 3. collecting data; 4. analyzing and interpreting data; 5. reflecting (Herr, Anderson, Herr, 2005, p. 15). Beginning with the identification of the problem, the researcher/s come up with research questions and identifies the type of data needed. Types of data involved in action research can be quantitative or numerical, qualitative or descriptive, but usually both (Creswell, 2005). After data collection, the researcher/s interpret and analyze data. Conclusions are the drawn followed by a period of reflection which researchers engage in to be able come up with another plan of action to improve practice. This goes on until the problem identified is solved or objectives are met (Koshy, 2005). Another important characteristic of action research is that it is value-laden. It rejects neutrality and instead, situates its inquiry in a setting where there are conflicting values or power differentials. It challenges traditional notions of power and values and investigates a problem by analyzing day-to-day realities of the people or community involved. Still another important characteristic of action research is its reflexivity. Reflexivity is essential to action research because it aims to interrogate and examine received proposals for change or improvement by analyzing who benefits of actions implemented in the end (Craig, 2009). Since the foundation of action research by acknowledged pioneer Kurt Lewin, several approaches have emerged and albeit similar in purpose, differ in method and steps toward inquiry (Craig, 2009). Reviewed are three action research methodologies that have been used by researchers in higher education and other disciplines to come up with solutions to pressing problems: practical, participatory, and teacher action research. A discussion of advantages and disadvantages of action research is also discussed. Practical action research Practical action research focuses on a specific research question with the aim of improving practice (Schmuck, 2006). This is sometimes referred to as practical-deliberative action where the researcher (an outsider) collaborates with practitioners in identifying research problems, its causes, and possible forms of intervention. Kemmis (2009) defines it as action research which sharpens individual practical reasoning (p 76). Problem identification is done after dialogue between research and practitioner until consensus is reached. In this sense, the end of practical action research is to improve practice through the application of the personal wisdom of the participants (Grundy, as cited in Pine, 2008, p. 76). Practical action research was influenced by Lewins research within organizations which relied heavily on group dynamics, field theory, and T-groups. While practical action research works toward the improvement of practice, it takes a conservative stance and works in reforming the status quo without addressing power structures or differentials. Practical action research is also a vehicle toward generating practical knowledge (Manfra, 2009). Supporters of practical action research believe that practical knowledge is the most important form of knowledge in teaching (Koshy, 2005) and that the focus of action research must be on teachers issues and problems because they produce knowledge helpful to them in redefining their profession. Practical action research is more concerned with examining real classrooms and real schools (Manfra, 2009, p. 2). In the context of higher education, practical action research aims to help teachers become better practitioners. Because Conducting research has helped teachers we know to consolidate new knowledge, learn about new issues, and develop new teaching methods and strategies (p. 176). Proponents of practical action research emphasize the practicality of action research for teachers as they strive to become better practitioners. Since practical inquiry is more likely to respond to the immediacy of the knowledge needs teachers confront in everyday practice and to be foundational for formal research by providing new questions and concerns, (Cochran-Smith Lytle, as cited in Mertler, 2006, p. 43) practical action research is deemed to be the more authentic methodology for education practitioners. There are criticisms on the authenticity of practical action research (Kemmis, 2009). Some have accused practical action research as straying from the unique spirit of action research because it was influenced by techniques and inputs of outsiders (Pine, 2008). In effect, it ran the risk of research questions being externally formulated and issues which were not reflective of real sentiments and problems of practitioners (Kemmis, 2009). Practical action research is often associated with testing the effectiveness of practices or the applicability of findings conducted elsewhere to local settings. While in general, these studies may contribute to the improvement of practice, practical action research becomes vulnerable to being exploited to legitimize reputations of outsiders reputations than being applied meaningfully in practice (Ary et al., 2009). Participatory action research (PAR) While practical action research is deliberative in purpose, participatory action research takes on a more emancipator role. Traditional research seeks only in the investigation of phenomenon whereas the critical analysis is entrenched in PAR. While practical action research only describes classrooms and schools, PAR is more concerned with how to change structures and in the transformation of society. PAR promotes emancipatory praxis in the participating practitioners; that is, it promotes a critical consciousness which exhibits itself in political as well as practical action to promote change (Grundy, as cited in Manfra, 2009, p. 4). A primary aim of PAR is to transforming educational theory and practice toward emancipatory ends and thus raising fundamental questions about curriculum, teachers roles, and the ends as well as the means of schooling (Cochran-Smith Lytle, as cited in Manfra, 2009, p. 5). As a result, PAR has two overarching objectives (Cooke Cox, 2005): Knowledge production and action for the benefit of a group of people through study, research, education, and sociopolitical action. Empowerment of people by enabling them to construct and use their own knowledge. The key elements in PAR are participation and action (IISD, 2009). These elements are the foundation of the PAR method. With action, research entails beyond merely seeking information but having that action factor that enables positive change. With participation, research should be a participatory process with equal and collaborative involvement groups or communities of interest. Hence, unlike practical action research, PAR does away with process consultancy or the use of outsider experts going into communities and examining, theorizing, and proposing solutions for problems (Kemmis, 2009). The research topic, questions, and solutions must emerge from the communities themselves. Practical action research is not intended to be participatory because the aim is generally extractive; meaning, researchers retain power over process. PAR on the other hand, seeks at empowering the community of interest by opening up the entire research process to their participation. Practical action research is collaborative and is not shy on taking outside partners in planning, data gathering, and data analysis phase. PARs research goals are politicized and aims to illuminate on how social, economic, and political constraints affect the marginalized and powerless sectors in society (GDRC, 2009). Teacher action research Teacher action research is research that is done by teachers for themselves (Johnson, as cited in Mertler, 2006, p. 72). This type of action research enables teachers to make their own classrooms, their methods of instruction and assessments the focus of the study in order to inform and improve practice. Teacher action research benefits teachers by allowing them to understand their work better and from there, come up with ways to improve their effectiveness in the classroom. As a teacher-centered approach to action research, teacher-action research acknowledges first and foremost that the teacher is the most knowledgeable person when it comes to conditions on the ground and recognizes their expertise in carrying out research for the improvement of educational processes and outcomes. There are several motivations for adopting teacher action research: This approach respects and gives significant to the position of the teacher about the problems and issues at the classroom level. Simply put, it acknowledges the teacher as a local expert who has more knowledge about classroom issues than outside experts or consultants (Mertler, 2006). By acquiring data about their own classrooms and practices, teachers are better situated to reflect upon them and are in a better position to implement policies or measures that will enhance their effectiveness. Teacher action research is a feasible way in improving instructional practice and enhancing the intellectual environment among educators. Educators are uniquely positioned to evaluate the classroom situation, implement plans of action, and evaluate them afterwards (Creswell, 2005). Methods, data collection, and analysis The three forms of action research do not differ in their methodology but in the assumptions made and participants worldviews that influence the choice of methodology to be used in implementing the action research (Grundy, as cited in Manfra, 2009). The method of action research involves four general stages of collectively 1) planning, 2) acting, 3) observing and 4) reflecting. This phase leads to another cycle of action, in which the plan is revised, and further acting, observing and reflecting undertaken systematically to work towards solutions to problems whether of a practical or emancipatory nature. Action research accommodates all types of data collected through various techniques. Action research even considers it important to collect multiple measures on the variables of interest in a given study. It allows and in fact, encourages the researcher to triangulate the collected data for greater research credibility. There are four main categories of data collection in action research (Craig, 2009; Mertler, 2006; Cooke Cox, 2005): Observations recorded through fieldnotes or journals to describe in detail what is seen and heard. Interview data through interviews or surveys. Existing documents or records such as lesson plans, student portfolios, school newspapers, minutes of meetings, attendance records, etc. Quantitative measures such as ratings, checklists, tests, or scoring rubrics. Data analysis in action research occurs beginning data collection and afterwards. Most quantitative researchers begin analyzing data after all data is gathered. Qualitative researchers begin analyzing data at the start of the data collection process. Action research combines both processes. Johnson (as cited in Mertler, 2006) suggests that as you collect your data, analyze them by looking for themes, categories or patterns that emerge (p. 87). Analyzing data allows other foci to emerge and influences the research on what other data to look for. Data analysis is not really as exhaustive or as complex in action research as it is with traditional research. However, action research lately has been influenced to adopt more quantitative analysis in order to establish integrity and credibility in the findings. Coding, content analysis, and other qualitative forms of analysis are sometimes buffered with inferential statistics to boost credibility (Sagor, 2005). Critique of action research Action research is applied, empowering, collaborative, democratic and emancipatory. Unlike other research methods, it offers practical solutions toward positive change in practice and in society. It also has its flaws. Its disadvantages include: Subjectivity. One of the main criticisms of action research is that when left unchecked, results are laden with subjectivity (Kock, 2005). There is a tendency for the researcher to be over-involved to the extent that personal biases come into play in the analysis of the findings. Vulnerability to pressure. Another risk factor in doing action research is that the researchers are often subordinates in an organizational setting. When the researcher is an insider in an organization, power relations and differentials may complicate the conduct. Researchers might be pressure or coerced to alter the findings to suit organizational objectives (Noffke Somekh, 2005. Time consuming. The cyclical research process in action research is aimed at understanding and action. The initial research question is rough and may be refined thereafter depending on initial findings. Critics of action research question the fuzzy methodology in action research and the equally fuzzy answers that it gets (Walter, 2009). The redefinition of the research question and the refining of methodology takes time, making the entire research process time-exhaustive and complex. In particular, PAR is inherent undefined in terms of end date. There is no clear timeline when the research is stopped because technically, it stops only upon the resolution of the problem. In terms of knowledge production, PAR is unpredictable and is unlikely to be included in referred journals or get competitive funding (GDRC, 2009). Proposed action research process Despite acknowledged weaknesses, action research is still a viable tool among education leaders in influencing change within the organization. I propose a collaborative teacher action research to enhance professional identity of mid-career faculty leaders through mentoring activities. Enhancing the professional identity of teachers is important especially as they transition into later leadership roles. Like any organization, teachers need to be part of an active and supportive community to guide them in the process of transition. Some teachers in my local setting are ill-prepared to take on leadership roles. Mentoring has been found to improve self-awareness, skills in collaboration, leadership skills, sense of community and commitment to the teaching profession. Since this is a collaborative teacher action research, I will find other teacher-researchers willing to work with me to address the problem of leadership preparation among mid-career educators. We will need to establish understanding about action research as a way to improve leadership capabilities among teachers. Since this is a collaborative research, workload and responsibilities will be divided through consensus and everyone will be a co-researcher to the project. The research action process will proceed in eight steps (Mertler, 2006): Identify the problem (lack of leadership preparation among mid-career teachers) Gather information (done through informal interviews) Review related literature (research on possible solutions) Develop a research plan (meet with co-researchers and come up with a plan) Implement the plan and collect the data (through questionnaires, interviews) Analyze the data (content analysis, descriptive statistics) Develop an action plan (plan a mentoring strategy to solve the problem) Share and communicate results

Technology Advances Enterprise-Wide Planning Essay -- Technology Busin

Technology Advances Enterprise-Wide Planning Enterprise resource planning (ERP) systems utilize internal and external management information across an entire organization (Alshare & Lane, 2011). This systems embraces finance/accounting, manufacturing, sales and service, customer relationship management, and many more. The ERP system uses an integrated software application that helps the system to become automated. Its purpose is to facilitate the flow of information between all business functions inside the boundaries of the organization and manage the connections to outside stakeholders (Alshare & Lane, 2011). ERP systems typically include the following characteristics: a complex system that operates in real time without relying on periodic updates, a common database that supports all functions, a consistent model throughout each module and installation of the system without much hassle and development (Wixom, Watson & Werner, 2011). In 1990 Gartner Group first carried out the ERP as an extension of material requirements planning and ERP came to represent a larger whole, reflecting the evolution of application integration beyond manufacturing (Alshare & Lane, 2011). By the mid–1990s ERP systems addressed all core functions of an enterprise. Governments and non–profit organizations also began to employ ERP systems. The ERP systems experienced rapid growth in the 1990s because the year 2000 problem and introduction of the Euro disrupted legacy systems. Many companies took this opportunity to replace such systems with ERP. This rapid growth in sales was followed by a slump in 1999 after these issues had been addressed. The ERP systems, in the beginning, focused on automating back office functions that did not directly af... ...eed to take this into consideration. In the deployment presented in this paper, we have achieved ROI in both R2R control and FDC related to the early deployment phases. The APC technical and business models will allow organizations to complete the remaining phases, and migrate into new areas such as fault prediction and APC incorporation with yield management. References Alshare, K. A., & Lane, P. L. (2011). Predicting Student-Perceived Learning Outcomes and Satisfaction in ERP Courses: An Empirical Investigation. Communications of AIS, 2011(28), 571-584. Wixom, B. H., Watson, H. J., & Werner, T. (2011). Developing an enterprise business intelligence capability: The norfolk southern journey. MIS Quarterly Executive, 10(2), 61-71. Moyne, J. (2009). A blueprint for enterprise-wide deployment of advanced process control. Solid State Technology, 52(7), 35-37.

After Cancer Essay -- Long Term Effects Medicine Medical Papers

After Cancer Twice a day, an email full of support, encouragement, and information arrives in the inboxes of the 370 members of the Long-term Cancer Survivors mailing list. The topic of discussion is often the â€Å"late effects† of cancer treatment. One member’s recent posting is titled â€Å"Why?† â€Å"Why, after being in remission for years, am I so angry and depressed that my personal relationships are falling apart?† the cancer survivor asked. The answer is the psychosocial late effects of cancer treatment. Late effects of cancer treatment appear long after the catheter is removed, weekly blood draws cease, and the wigs are tucked away in the back of a closet. A cancer survivor may leave weekly trips to the cancer clinic behind, but late effects can linger for years afterwards. Kathy Steindorf, 43, of Wisconsin, was diagnosed with Hodgkin’s Disease at 38. Four years after entering remission, she began having nightmares that jolted her from sleep to sheet-soaking sweats. â€Å"I woke up from the nightmares with a cold fear,† she said. â€Å"I came to a point where I didn’t want to die, but just wanted to be dead.† Jan O’Daniell, 45, of Texas, hid in her church’s bathroom during mass after being diagnosed with cancer for the second time. â€Å"I didn’t want anyone to know how upset I was,† O’Daniell said. â€Å"I didn’t think I was allowed to be depressed.† Joy T.*, 28, of Illinois, dropped out of high school three years after completing cancer treatment. â€Å"I was so bitter and cynical,† Joy T. said. â€Å"I thought there was no point of going to school if I could just die tomorrow.† Steindorf, O’Daniell, and Joy T. didn’t realize their psychological distress was related to their cancer experience — they had survived, after a... ... â€Å"The first session she asked, ‘This is the first time you’re coming to therapy?’† Joy T. said. â€Å"She told me [my anxiety] was totally normal — I got to talk about a lot of things.† Several years after she dropped out of high school, Joy T. earned her GED. She recently completed her bachelor’s degree in science and healthcare leadership. Steindorf opted not to see a therapist — instead she takes an anti-depressant and leans on her family for support. â€Å"I’m very involved in church and my support circle is awesome,† Steindorf said. Steindorf is thankful that her doctor recognized that she was experiencing psychosocial late effects, but believes other cancer survivors and their doctors don’t pinpoint the problem soon enough. â€Å"Survivors have to know about this — how sad is it if a survivor leads a miserable life after surviving cancer,† Steindorf said.

Are We Free Within Society Essay

One can never be completely free within society. Society places demands and forms what people do and even what they think and feel. In order to survive in society people must conform to what is acceptable, this is not freedom. Further constraints are placed on members of society because of gender, race and class differences. True equality can never exist, and therefore neither can freedom. One of the most powerful things contributing to conformity in society is persuasion. All sorts of ideas and ways of living are forced upon all members of society. Persuasion is everywhere, turn on the TV, read a magazine, use a computer, drive along the highway, read a newspaper, just opening your eyes and ears is enough to be made aware of society’s views. Whether you choose to go along with them, or reject them, they are still affecting you. There are differences between males and females and their freedoms in society. However contrary to the popular belief that society affords more freedom to males than to females, I believe the opposite. I think in the current society paths have been paved for females where they now have just as many opportunities as males and even beyond. Society seems to be more accepting and protecting of women’s freedoms than men’s. It is no longer acceptable to view women as inferior to men. However in social situations it is still custom for men to cater to the women, such as opening doors, and paying the bill. Women’s choices and actions seem to be more accepted, such as style of dress and career choice. It is acceptable in society for women to dress feminine or masculine, it is acceptable to be timid and weak, or loud and strong, it is acceptable to be a housewife or have any career. All of these things are encouraged. However, the same is not true for men. It is not nearly as socially acceptable for a man to dress feminine, or to be weak, or to not have a career. More freedoms are awarded to women in our current society as they are more protected and their choices more accepted. Many countries outside the US have considerably less freedoms and even more class and gender barriers. An extreme example of this is women in Afghanistan where women are treated as sub-humans, fit only for household  slavery and as means of procreation. They basically have no freedom whatsoever. They are deprived of the right to an education and the right to work, they aren’t even allowed to show their faces in public, but must cover themselves from head to toe. This demonstrates the extremely different societies and freedoms that go along with them throughout the world. An understanding of sociology can increase your freedom. Just opening your eyes and being aware of your surroundings and the workings of society allows you more freedom to your own thoughts and feelings. Society is constantly pushing you to conform to its standards, but if you are aware of what is going on then you are more able to make your own decisions regarding what you agree with and what you do not. It may not be possible to completely free yourself from the barriers of society, but with an understanding of sociology and that extra insight into the workings of society, you can increase your freedom and individuality.